Sugarcane is set to take the spotlight at the Royal Queensland Show next week, as CANEGROWERS returns to the Ekka to showcase one of Queensland’s most significant agricultural industries to city audiences.

Hosted in partnership with Sunshine Sugar and Sugar Research Australia, the sugarcane stand has become a crowd favourite in the Ekka’s Agricultural Hall, drawing thousands of visitors each year and proving there's still plenty of curiosity and pride in the industry that helped build regional Queensland.

The stand’s popular virtual reality experience is back, giving people of all ages the chance to step inside the life of a sugarcane farmer – from paddock to harvester to mill and beyond. New high-quality headsets and immersive 360-degree footage will offer a fresh take on the story of sugar.

But it’s not just the industry telling its story. Real growers will be on the stand throughout the week, chatting with visitors, answering questions, and sharing what life on the land is really like.

Visitors also regularly bring their own stories, from childhood holidays in cane country, memories of chewing stalks straight from the paddock, or family connections to the industry. These shared yarns help bridge the city-country divide.

CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens, who’ll once again spend time on the stand this year, says it’s one of the best opportunities the industry has to connect directly with the public.

“When you work the stand, you realise how many people have fond memories or a real interest in sugarcane,” Mr Menkens said.

“They remember the smell, the taste, the sound of cane being cut – and they’re genuinely keen to hear how farming works today. As growers, it’s great to be able to share that first-hand.”

The Ekka stand offers an insight into modern sugarcane farming – clean, green and high-tech and what the industry looks like in 2025.

It’s also a chance to highlight where the industry is headed, with growing prospects in green electricity, biofuels like sustainable aviation fuel, and bioplastics made from cane fibre and by-products, all part of a smarter, more sustainable regional economy.

“The Ekka gives us a voice, and we’re proud to be front and centre again this year,” Mr Menkens said.

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The Mackay and Plane Creek districts' sugarcane harvest season is well underway, and as this edition goes to print, should be hovering around the 25% mark harvested of the crop, give or take.

Each year, the Mackay-Plane Creek region, recognised as one of Australia’s largest sugar-producing areas, contributes to both domestic consumption and export markets, making the progress of its harvest season of considerable economic importance. At the local level, every dollar spent in the sugarcane industry has a multiplier of $6.40 into the regional economy.

As of early August, the harvest season has not been without its challenges, struggling to enter any sort of consistent rhythm: very much been a stop/start affair. Sitting at around 25% in early August is certainly not where we would like to be positioned. If you take into consideration the old rule-of-thumb of being around about halfway through the harvest by Father’s Day, we are highly unlikely to reach that milestone.

There are several reasons for this delay in the harvest: one being the consistent rainfall across the district through the winter period which has resulted in very moist field conditions and therefore contributing to making harvesting operations very difficult and inconstant.  This rainfall has also made planting for the 2026 crop difficult and has condensed the planting window dramatically, putting pressure on all parties involved.

On the operational front, the mills have reported an acceptable level of mechanical downtime so far, aided by extensive off-season maintenance and investments in efficiency upgrades. This is very pleasing to see that after a long-sustained period of poor performance, the efforts of the milling companies to improve is beginning to materialise.  However, transport networks supporting cane deliveries have unfortunately not followed the same trend. They have been the Achillies heel for both the processing and growing sector, resulting in costly long waiting times for harvesting groups as well as lost milling opportunity with cane supply unable at times to keep up with factory availability.  I understand that both milling companies are working away to try to rectify this situation.

CCS is down on the average of previous seasons, primarily due to the volume of standover being processed. By all indications, about half of the tonnage of two-year-old cane has been milled so far. That will continue to impact season CCS.

Looking ahead, weather and factory performance will continue to play a defining role. The collaborative efforts between growers, millers, harvesting contractors and transport operators remains central to continuing to help build momentum and achieve what is the optimum for all parties involved, that being the harvesting of the entire crop in a timely and efficient manner, resulting in better financial returns for all parties involved.

Finally, I would just like to mention that the recent 61st Annual Sarina Show was by all indications was a resounding success.  Certainly, Saturday night’s crowd was exceptional, so well done goes to show President Ron Gurnett and his committee for running such a successful event.  As is always the tradition, a hotly contested show cane competition was run. Congratulations must go to Chief Steward Barry Pace and the show cane team for organising and running the competition.  Well done to all of the winners and we look forward to seeing you again next year! It is wonderful to see grower families having pride in the crops that they grow and compete against their peers.

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The Sarina Show Cane competition team put in a massive effort to bring together another great comp in 2025. From left: Doug and Bronte Pedersen, Frank Jacobs, Mark Hetherington, Barry and Matt Pace, Lily Shaw, Rachael Pace, Aleisha, Tait and Blake Pedersen. Picture: Kirili Lamb

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In the lead-up to the nationally held R U OK? Day on September 11, local suicide prevention charity Grapevine Group is encouraging businesses and community members across Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday regions to stock up on their free Help-a-mate wallet cards – a vital resource listing local suicide prevention services.

The free pocket-sized cards can be ordered directly from the Grapevine Group website. Each card includes a QR code linking to the Grapevine Group app, which provides a more comprehensive directory of local support services. The app also features a one-tap share button, allowing users to instantly send the vital information via text or email to others.

To date, Grapevine Group has printed over 267,000 Help-a-mate cards – more than double the population of the Mackay region. This overwhelming demand highlights the community’s need for accessible, life-saving information.

“Grapevine Group first compiled the list of local services in 2005. Everyone should be armed with this information – it can save lives,” said Grapevine president Debbie Knight.

In support of R U OK? Day, Grapevine is also hosting a free safeTALK suicide prevention training session on Thursday, September 11, from 10am to 1pm at Gordon White Library.

The session is open to the public and aims to equip participants with the skills to recognise and respond to signs of suicidal thoughts. Visit the group’s website to register to this session or enquire about free group suicide prevention training for your workplace, sporting or community group.

All Mackay Regional Council Libraries are designated Help-a-mate Hubs, where individuals and businesses can collect bulk Help-a-mate cards for distribution at their R U OK? Day events.

While the cards are provided free of charge, donations are welcome to support the ongoing work of Grapevine Group.

Offices and workplaces are also encouraged to consider fundraising for Grapevine Group as part of their R U OK? Day activities.

To book training, order cards, download the app, find local help or make a donation, visit: www.grapevinegroup.org.au

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The splash park at Seaforth Esplanade will be temporarily closed for scheduled maintenance from Monday, August 18 to Friday, August 22, 2025.

The planned work includes replacing a foot valve at the base of one of the filtered water tanks, as well as repainting stencils on the concrete surface of the splash pad.

While the splash park will be closed during this period, the nearby playground and public amenities will remain open for everyone to enjoy.

The park is expected to reopen on August 22 once maintenance is complete.

Mackay Regional Council thanks the community for their patience and understanding during the temporary closure.

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The splash park at Seaforth Esplanade will close for maintenance from August 18 to 22, with the playground and amenities remaining open, and is expected to reopen once work is completed. Photo supplied

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The Mackay Art Society launched the 2025 Woollam Art on Show Exhibition with sparkling success on Opening Night last Friday, drawing a crowd of around 240 art lovers, artists, and supporters.

Guests enjoyed a fabulous evening, officially opened by Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson and expertly hosted by MC Rob Kidd from ABC Tropical North. Among the special guests were Nigel Dalton MP and Mark Svendsen, poet, writer and arts administrator of the Regional Centre of the Arts, Rockhampton who joined in celebrating this standout cultural event.

With a glitz and glamour dress theme, the room sparkled with sequins, smiles, and creative flair. Live piano music played by Valerie Dickson provided an atmospheric backdrop adding to the atmosphere.

This year’s judging was entrusted to Ron McBurnie, a respected Australian award-winning artist and educator.

His discerning eye and thoughtful selections added depth and prestige to the Awards. This year marked a new chapter, with the Mackay Art Society hosting the event for the first time - and what a debut! The committee was thrilled with the enthusiastic response from both the public and the artists. The show opened with 250 individual artworks, including works from 27 artists who submitted 43 works from across NSW, Victoria, Tasmania, and regional Queensland. Seven of the award winners came from outside the region, reflecting the national appeal of the exhibition and lifting Mackay’s profile as a thriving centre for the arts.

None of this would have been possible without the generous support of the event sponsors, especially Craig Percival, Managing Director of Woollam Constructions, whose ongoing passion for the arts has ensured the continuation of this popular local event. A special acknowledgement of and sincere thanks must be given to the Mackay Show Association for providing the best possible venue at the 500 Pavilion, Mackay Showgrounds.

“We’re incredibly proud of what’s been achieved,” said Ben Ranson, President of the Mackay Art Society.

“Woollam Art on Show Awards has truly become a premier regional arts event, and this year’s response highlights Mackay’s place as a thriving centre for creativity and culture. We hope we’ve done the artists proud, because they’ve certainly done us proud.”

Feedback from the public was overwhelmingly positive, praising the quality of the artworks, the welcoming atmosphere, and the smooth organisation. Over the course of the exhibition in excess of 30 artworks were sold, an incredible show of support for the talented creatives on display.

Congratulations to all the 2025 winners, including Sharon Drew, who took home the Woollam Art on Show Overall Winner Award for Mangroves meet the Tides.

Jan Cunningham’s ‘Storylines in Karijini Sandstone’ won her the Local Artist Award, sponsored by Gibbs Air. The People’s Choice Award was awarded to Brandon Endelman for his portrait, Gandalf The Light in Darkness.

The full list of winners spans emerging talent, intricate miniatures, and works on canvas and paper.

Organisers of Mackay Art Society sent their heartfelt thanks to every artist, sponsor, guest, and volunteer. It truly showcased a celebration of creativity and the power of art to bring the community together.

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The Mackay Art Society’s 2025 Woollam Art on Show Exhibition opened with a dazzling night of art, music, and community spirit, drawing over 240 guests and showcasing 250 works from across the country in a triumphant debut event. Photos supplied

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Mackay Safety has been nominated for the Expansion into New Markets Award – sponsored by Capricornia Pumped Hydro – at the upcoming 2025 Resource Industry Network (RIN) Awards. The nomination recognises their innovative payroll integration tool within the 4P Forms mobile platform, which is transforming industry data management.

Designed to digitise and streamline critical business records, 4P Forms enables workers to submit timesheets, pre-start forms, service sheets, issue reporting, tasking, supervisor notifications and more directly from the field, even offline. The platform integrates smoothly with payroll dashboards and accounting software, allowing payroll administrators to review and correct data in real-time before import, dramatically reducing errors and saving valuable time.

“We built a secure integration with a payroll dashboard that combines timesheet data from 4P Forms with employee details from the financial system, such as employee type and pay items.

“This integration breaks down the payroll data so the payroll administrator can view it in real time,” said Mick Storch, Owner and Managing Director of Mackay Safety.

“What this allows you to do is, check it all, approve it, and then import it back into the financial system 100% right – with no stress.

“The advantage being it’s universal… a entire business can be completely paperless in the true sense of that – and we’ve done it.”

From its origins addressing compliance gaps on Australian mine sites 15 years ago to evolving into a comprehensive operational tool, Mackay Safety is reshaping how industries capture and manage data.

Key contributors to the project include Karen Trezise (Office Manager), Ben Lewis (Principal Developer), Don Irvine (Managing Director of CQ Exploration), and Mick Storch.

Visit mackaysafety.com.au for more information on this revolutionary app.

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Celebrating Mackay’s Industry Trailblazers

The Mackay Isaac Whitsunday region has never been short on heavy hitters in the resources sector, and this year’s Resource Industry Network (RIN) Awards finalists prove that excellence here isn’t just a habit, it’s a standard.

Among the names stepping into the 2025 spotlight are four standouts already making waves nationally: ALT Industries, with Tristan Turnbull earning recognition in the Standing Out from the Crowd category; Mackay Safety, whose payroll data app innovation has turned heads far beyond Queensland; Gardian, celebrated for its deep-rooted community engagement; and Richglen, a company whose culture-first approach is proving that people are the foundation of long-term success.

They’re joined by a host of other outstanding businesses across seven categories, showcasing achievements in safety, manufacturing, innovation, inclusion, and market expansion. But for these four, the RIN Awards nod is another chapter in stories already defined by vision, resilience, and impact.

RIN General Manager Dean Kirkwood said this year’s finalists are proof of a sector that thrives under pressure.

“Global uncertainty, economic pressures and shifting markets have tested even the most established operators,” Mr Kirkwood said.

“But in true Greater Mackay Region fashion, our sector hasn’t backed down. Instead, it’s adapted, grown, and doubled down on innovation and community impact.”

The winners will be revealed on Friday, 22 August at a black-tie gala at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre, hosted by comedian and television personality Ed Kavalee and featuring live music from The Luke Miller Band. The night promises not just recognition, but a celebration of the values that set the METS and resources sector apart: ingenuity, community, and a relentless drive to improve.

As the countdown begins, all eyes are on the innovators, leaders and game-changers who continue to prove that in this region, excellence isn’t the exception, it’s the expectation.

2025 RIN Awards Finalists

Safety Foremost Award – Sponsored by Diacon Australia
• Ausgroup
• FMS Group
• Aurizon

Champion Culture Award – Sponsored by FMS Group
• Richglen
• Kaefer

Connecting in the Community Award – Sponsored by Local Buying Foundation
• Mackay Women’s Services
• Gardian
• BMA Hay Point Coal Terminal

Expansion into New Markets Award – Sponsored by Capricornia Pumped Hydro
• IQ Solutions
• Mackay Safety
• ALT Industries

Manufacturing Excellence Award – Sponsored by Queensland Manufacturing Hubs
• Jet Engineering
• IQ Solutions
• M & P Services

Standing Out from the Crowd Award – Sponsored by Onsite Training Australia
• ALT Industries – Tristan Turnbull
• Tropical Exposure – Robert Cox
• Glencore – Colin Hoyle

Inclusion and Diversity Award – Sponsored by BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA)
• North Queensland Bulk Ports

Read more about these industry leaders and their inspiring stories in our exclusive RIN Awards feature on pages 23 to 25. Don’t miss the chance to celebrate Mackay’s finest at the gala event on August 22 — a night where innovation, resilience, and community spirit take centre stage.

Event Details

What: RIN Awards Gala Dinner 2025
When: Friday 22 August 2025
Where: Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC), 258 Alfred Street, Mackay QLD 4740
Time: 6:00 pm – Late
MC: Ed Kavalee
Entertainment: The Luke Miller Band
Dress Code: Black Tie
Tickets: Book online at www.rin.org.au

The RIN Awards 2024 was a huge success and organisers are looking forward to celebrating with industry leaders again this year

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With Dual RIN Nominations

At just 24 years old, Mackay’s Tristan Turnbull is redefining chemical safety and compliance in the resource industry, and the country is taking notice. His innovative leadership has earned him not one but two nominations in the 2025 Resource Industry Network (RIN) Awards: Expansion into New Markets and Standing Out from the Crowd.

Tristan spearheads ALT Industries, with his father and business partner John Turnbull, a specialist provider of hazardous goods management, spill response, and chemical compliance solutions. He’s bridging the knowledge and service gap for local businesses, and doing so with global precision.

“He’s only 24 and already leading the charge in an area no one else was touching,” John says.

“He’s created a service that’s now being recognised nationally and internationally.”

Tristan’s journey began humbly, helping with weekend data entry. But his flair for systems and real-world problem-solving rapidly transformed ALT Industries. Today, they support clients across ports, schools, mines, and even overseas in New Zealand, with Great Britain now expressing interest.

“We’re in correspondence with Great Britain… they’ve asked Tristan if he’d be interested in helping them develop what he’s built here,” John says.

Still, regional support remains at the core of his mission.

“People often think they need to fly someone in from the bigger cities… But they don’t realise we’re right here in Mackay,” Tristan says.

“We want to be a one-stop solution. Not a company that yells loud but can’t deliver.”

ALT Industries’ services extend beyond consulting. The team conducts full-site hazardous goods audits, manages digital SDS platforms like Chemwatch, coordinates chemical registers, and delivers hands-on spill kit maintenance. But what sets them apart is their commitment to stay on-site, provide training, and support their clients every step of the way.

“We don’t just give you a report and wish you good luck. We stay on site, train your team, and help implement the changes,” says John.

“We're not here to judge – we’re here to help, and guide our clients every step of the way.”

This people-first approach is filling a void in the safety sector. Many clients are under-resourced, often inheriting chemical management responsibilities without training or support.

“There’s so much anxiety from staff who’ve inherited these roles without the right training.

“We’re here to reduce that fear,” John says.

With plans to launch accredited training and advanced digital tools in future, the father-son team is committed to making chemical safety an accessible, confident practice.

And they’re doing it the right way.

“We’re building all the tools first, so that when we go to market or go global, we’re ready. If we’re going to be recognised specialists, we need to have everything in place and do it right.”

Backed by industry heavyweights like Anglo, Glencore, and Fitzroy, Tristan Turnbull is not just standing out, he’s leading the way.

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Proudly Mackay family-owned and operated, Gardian has been part of the local community for 25 years, and this year, the business has been nominated and are finalists for the Connecting in the Community Award – Sponsored by Local Buying Foundation at the upcoming 2025 Resource Industry Network (RIN) Awards. The category recognises organisations that excel in building meaningful connections with the community and external stakeholders.

Built with the Mackay community at heart, Gardian’s contribution to the region extends far beyond business. The company’s expertise spans Finance, Home Loans, Business and Personal Insurance, Financial Planning, Real Estate Sales, Property Management, and Commercial Sales, Leasing and Management. This broad service offering, combined with a long-term expert knowledge of the local market, has made Gardian a trusted partner for countless residents and businesses.

At the centre of Gardian’s operations is a strong belief that giving back and supporting one another builds more resilient communities. Through volunteering, charitable donations, and hands-on support for tenants, clients, sponsorship of sporting groups, and community initiatives, the Gardian team works to create opportunities and strengthen connections.

Being nominated in the Connecting in the Community category acknowledges Gardian’s ability to align business goals with genuine community engagement. It also reinforces their position as both a market leader and a valued community partner.

“At Gardian, we live by our company value that giving back and supporting one another creates stronger, more resilient communities where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Whether it’s through volunteering, charitable donations, or simply being there for our tenants and clients, we strive to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others while growing together as a team and as a business.

“This commitment to community and mutual support is at the heart of everything we do, guiding our decisions and strengthening the relationships that drive long-term success.”

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Richglen Nominated For Champion Culture Award In Mining

Richglen, a Central Queensland-based company specialising in mechanical, electrical, and structural services for the mining and milling industries, has been nominated for the Champion Culture Award at the 2025 Resource Industry Network (RIN) Awards, sponsored by FMS Group.

Managing Director, Matt Borg says the heart of Richglen is its people-first approach.

“This award represents exactly what drives us – a culture built on connection, care, and continuous improvement. It’s not about a single program or initiative; it’s how we show up for each other every day, whether that’s at a job site, over a Friday lunch, or through the support we provide in tough times,” said Matt.

Being recognised in this category affirms the company’s deliberate commitment to fostering a workplace where employees feel valued and supported.

“You can invest in equipment or systems, but it’s the people and the way they work together that really determine success,” said Matt.

Richglen’s core values of customer service, honesty, integrity, teamwork, work ethic, and innovation are put into practice through regular social events, leadership development, genuine employee feedback, and strong mental health support for employees and their families.

Beyond the workplace, Richglen extends its culture of care to the community by supporting local charities, sports teams, and initiatives such as R U OK? Day and Australian Red Cross Lifeblood Team donations. Each year, the company also awards $10,000 to a local school, demonstrating a commitment that goes beyond business.

“We’re proud of the tangible results our culture has delivered,” Matt said.

“In the past 12 months, we’ve seen high retention rates, a thriving employee referral program, and strong engagement scores in our internal survey.

“Our New Industry Worker Program is helping trade-qualified workers transition successfully into mining, and employee referrals accounted for 29% of all new hires – the ultimate compliment to our culture.

“These aren’t just numbers; they’re proof that investing in people pays off.”

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The latest round of Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank’s Community Engagement Program has been announced – with near $900,000 in community grants, donations and sponsorships committed to groups and projects across the greater Sarina region.

The FY25 program includes 15 community grants supporting everything from school swimming programs, providing local students with lifesaving skills, to vital medical equipment.

Community Bank Sarina also confirmed over 30 sponsorships and several major donations, all reinforcing its commitment to building a stronger, more connected and supported community.

Community Engagement Chair Maree Franettovich said the projects were “wide-ranging but all had a common thread – supporting the people who live, learn, work and volunteer locally”.

“These are the kinds of impact investments that change lives – whether it’s upgrading play areas for local schools, creating more spaces for community connection, or providing training opportunities for young people,” Ms Franettovich said.

“Importantly, this impact is only possible because people choose to bank with us. As a profit for purpose organisation, our local profits stay right here to be reinvested into our community – something we’re incredibly proud to continue 20 years on.”

Community Bank Sarina Board Chair Karen May said it was a moment to reflect on what the region might look like without the direct and significant funding support of Community Bank Sarina.

“Over two decades, $5 million has been returned to the community through community grants, sponsorships, donations and scholarships,” Mrs May said.

“These latest community investments are an extension of that ongoing commitment. When you reflect on the range of support – from schools, hospitals, kindergartens, sporting organisations, community clubs and more – you start to realise the deep impact into the community this support has.

“It’s a privilege to play a part in that, along with my fellow directors, and to stand beside so many local organisations working diligently to make Sarina and the surrounding region an even better place to live, and leave a legacy for future generations.”

Find out more about Community Bank Sarina’s community impact on their social media pages – through Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

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Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank has committed nearly $900,000 in grants, donations, and sponsorships to support projects and groups across the greater Sarina region in FY25. Photos supplied

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A Mackay Northern Beaches State High School student has been recognised on the state stage, earning top honours at the annual Literary Competition hosted by the Independent Education Union – Queensland and Northern Territory (IEU-QNT) in partnership with the English Teachers’ Association of Queensland (ETAQ).

Isabelle Refalo claimed first place in the Years 9 and 10 poetry category for her poignant piece Blood-stained poppy.

Rebecca Cheers, who judged the entries, said the winning entry was a very fine poem.

“I love a poem that takes one idea and turns it for the reader, exploring it from every angle: in this case, a floral metaphor with obvious historical resonance, but one that leaves room for the reader's own interpretations too,” Ms Cheers said.

“I like Blood-stained poppy’s plaintive, ambiguous tone, and the way it feels a bit haunted,” she said.

The Literary Competition was established by the IEU-QNT’s antecedent union in 1959 to encourage literary development and freedom of expression in young people.

ETAQ President Carley Elliott said over 1500 submissions of poetry, short stories and non-fiction prose were entered into this year’s Competition, with all schools providing a high quality of entries for judging.

“Now in its 66th year, the Literary Competition remains the oldest continuing writing competition in Queensland and is open to students and staff in both state and non-government schools,” Ms Elliott said.

IEU-QNT Branch Secretary Terry Burke said the Literary Competition was a great opportunity for students to hone their writing skills and creativity.

“The Literary Competition judges were impressed with the exceptional talent on display this year, with a diverse range of entries submitted from across the state,” Mr Burke said.

“I congratulate those outstanding writers who were awarded prizes and thank all those who entered the 2025 Literary Competition,” he said.

See the attached list of 2025 Literary Competition winners, placegetters, and Highly Commended Award recipients.

List of Literary Competition first place category winners for 2025

Open
• Short story: Anika Blades, Marsden State High School, Waterford West

Years 11 and 12
• Short story: Manling Sun, Kenmore State High School, Kenmore
• Poem: Zeta Vayanos, Cannon Hill Anglican College, Cannon Hill
• Non-fiction prose: Harriet McIvor, All Saints Anglican School, Merrimac

Years 9 and 10
• Short story: Charlotte Guthrie, St Andrew’s Anglican College, Peregian Springs
• Poem:Isabelle Refalo, Mackay Northern Beaches State High School, Rural View

Years 7 and 8
• Short story: Amaia Benedek Escauriaza, Kelvin Grove State College, Kelvin Grove
• Poem: Samantha Brammer, Bundaberg Christian College, Bundaberg

Years 5 and 6
• Short story: Derrick Chen, Ormiston College, Ormiston
• Poem: Derrick Chen, Ormiston College, Ormiston

The Independent Education Union – Queensland and Northern Territory (IEU-QNT) represents more than 17,000 teachers, school support staff, principals and early childhood education employees across Queensland and the Northern Territory.

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Mackay Northern Beaches State High School student Isabelle Refalo has won first place in Queensland’s Years 9 and 10 poetry category for her evocative piece Blood-stained poppy at the state’s longest-running literary competition.

Some of the 2025 Literary Competition judges (L-R) - Rae White, Rebecca Cheers and Antoinette Mizen. Photo supplied

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‘Freedom of choice’ is a superpower in careers, just as it is in other aspects of our lives.

‘Freedom of choice’ in careers give us a sense of control and reduces the risk of feeling stuck.

A lot of attention and energy goes into making those first career decisions. So we don’t feel stuck, it’s important to check in and reflect as we progress through our careers whether our choices are serving our purpose.

‘Freedom of choice’ becomes increasingly important as we progress through our careers (and life) as careers today tend to not follow a traditional linear path – the employment landscape changes and our personal priorities also shift. The more we have our ability to choose, the less we feel stuck and are able to adapt to identify and seize opportunities.

‘Freedom of choice’ in careers is about having the power to choose positions and paths that align with your skills, values and aspirations, rather than being limited by expectations (including your own), circumstances or opportunity.

We need to be active participants in our own careers and regularly reflect on whether our choices are delivering not only on our career aspirations but also on our life priorities. Are you on track or do you need to adapt and/or reset?

For some, the response to this personal reflection may prompt a career shift – potentially a bold move, adapt and reinvent, or equally as satisfying it may be a smaller adjustment to how you work.

Big or small, a career shift can be daunting and it’s useful to do some homework before choosing to take action so it feels ‘right’, rather than blindly jumping to a new path.

Here are some key considerations to assist.

1. Know your why. Identify your reasons, e.g. lifestyle change, to follow your passion. Your why will guide your decisions.

2. Research options (especially if looking to forge a new path). Check out the industry trends, job markets and general economic conditions.

3. Do a personal audit. Identify your current strengths, skills, qualifications, emotional preparedness and any gaps. Do you have what you need, or is some further learning required?

4. Be practical. Do a thorough review of your current circumstances - consider financial readiness, personal and family situation, timeframes and the impact of any changes. Make a plan.

5. Seek counsel from a trusted friend and/or professional advisor. Sound check your options and plans with those who will give you an honest perspective and not just agree (or disagree).

The greatest career superpower is knowing you have a choice — and using it.

Not sure how to progress; 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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Cr Heath Paton

Some fantastic news to report this week with the appointment of the new CEO for Mackay Regional Council.

After an extensive recruitment process, Gerard Carlyon will be coming on board at the end of September. He brings with him a wealth of experience as he joins us from the Fraser coast regional council where he’s currently serving as the deputy CEO.

Mr Carlyon is a personable, approachable leader who cares deeply for his staff and the community. He aims to make council a “delightful” place to work – he wants people to enjoy coming to work each day and wants to engage and listen to staff to make that happen.

Personally, I’ve worked in small businesses my whole working life and it’s that approach to building a community and culture within the workplace that aids not only to staff attraction but also the retention of skilled labour which can be a common obstacle in regional settings.

It’s that passion for community building that aided to the growth of my own business and culture inside it. The skillset created in doing so is one that has put me in good stead carrying out councillor duties on a day-to-day basis, especially listening and communicating with the community. It’s great to have a CEO that puts the same emphasis on community engagement – listening to the community and delivering the projects that are needed for sustainable regional growth.

Mr Carlyon previously held the roles of Director of Community Services and Director of Planning at Mackay Regional Council between 2009 and 2018. Both positions giving a firm understanding and insight into our region’s growth and direction and I think it’s great to have a CEO with local roots who is genuinely invested in our local community and I’m looking forward to working closely with him to help achieve these goals.

Whilst awaiting the appointment of the new CEO, it’s important to note that council has been running as per normal under the watchful and dedicated acting CEO David McKendry’s direction. We’ve been fortunate enough to benefit from his calm and professional leadership during this busy time for council and I would like to personally thank him for the long hours and hard work he has put in.

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I usually talk about the marketing and comms side of branding – what you say, how you show up, the messages that connect with your audience. But today, I’m crossing to the dark side – and talking design (because I guess visuals matter as much as your voice 😉). Specifically: logo suites and style guides.

Because if your brand is still limping along with a single JPEG logo from 2012, this one’s for you. Let’s break it down…

What’s in a logo suite (aka the essential files every business should have):
• Full colour logo (duh, but I’m being thorough here!)
• Mono logo (black on white)
• Transparent PNG (for digital use like websites, email sigs)
• CMYK logo file (for print use like signage, flyers, uniforms)
• SVG or EPS file (so your logo never goes fuzzy no matter the size)
• Facebook profile pic (bc cut off logos on socials = not cool)

What’s in a style guide (aka how to keep your branding consistent):
• Your brand colour palette – with Pantone, RGB, CMYK and HEX codes
• Typography – primary fonts (for headings), secondary fonts (for body copy), and how/when to use them

Note: holy dooley do people go cuh-razy with style guides. If you have a big/complicated brand, then unfortunately you probs do need something more in-depth but if you are like most businesses – then this is what you’ll find you actually use.

So why does this matter? Because your brand is your identity. It builds recognition, sets expectations + (whether you like it or not) helps people decide if they trust you. Design doesn’t need to be fancy – but it does need to be consistent.

And if you don’t have this stuff? Ask your designer. Or ask us.
We love a good tidy-up. Especially when it makes your brand look like it’s got its act together.

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