
Three artificial intelligence (AI) initiatives are part of council's new budget to be adopted next week. These initiatives are the latest proactive steps from council to help mitigate significant financial pressures while continuing to deliver reliable, high-quality services to the community. Mayor Greg Williamson said the 2026/27 Budget reflected both the challenges facing local government and council’s commitment to modern, efficient service delivery. “Like many councils across the country, we are facing rising costs and reduced external funding,” he said. “Our focus is on finding smarter, more sustainable ways to deliver services without compromising quality for our community.” Council has seen a startling increase in a costs over recent years, including: An additional $665,000 increase in waste service costs due to reduced Queensland Government Waste Levy Subsidy and higher levy fees. A $1.1 million increase in waste expenses in the previous budget. A $5.92 million rise in depreciation costs this year alone. A $6 million shortfall from decreased Federal Assistance Grants in this budget contributing to a total reduction of more than $27 million in Financial Assistance Grants funding since 2016. An estimated $3 million annual increase in fuel costs. These pressures highlight the ongoing challenge of balancing affordability for residents with the real cost of delivering essential services. To help offset these impacts, council is investing in practical, targeted AI solutions that improve efficiency and reduce operating costs. A key initiative is the introduction of a new after-hours digital assistant, LUNA, which will operate from 4.30pm to 8.30am daily and all weekend from July 1. Replacing a previous afterhours model which used an outsourced, third-party call centre, LUNA will provide consistent, auditable responses using council-approved information. It will improve how afterhours calls are triaged, especially urgent and emergency enquiries, and will allow routine requests to be handled without delays or manual intervention. The transition follows changes in the external provider market and is expected to deliver about $80,000 in annual savings, while maintaining service quality and improving response consistency. Mayor Williamson said this initiative demonstrated council’s commitment to innovation while managing costs. “We’re using proven technology to deliver services more efficiently while maintaining the high standard our community expects,” Mayor Williamson said. Council is also expanding AI use in key service areas to address increasing demand and resource constraints. In Development Planning, automation of high-volume, low-complexity administrative tasks will reduce processing backlogs and allow skilled staff to focus on more complex work. A similar outcome will be achieved by using Agentic AI to enhance internal corporate services, allowing council’s staff to tackle more complex issues. This will help council maintain service levels despite workforce and cost pressures. Mayor Williamson said council was adopting a scalable approach to AI, building on existing systems to deliver improvements across multiple service areas rather than one-off solutions. “This approach ensures responsible and sustainable adoption of new technologies,” he said. “By reducing repetitive manual work and improving consistency, we can better manage costs while maintaining strong governance and oversight.” While efficiencies from these initiatives will be realised progressively, council’s immediate focus is on improving reliability, reducing inefficiencies and supporting a sustainable workforce model. These actions form part of council’s broader commitment to ensuring services remain efficient, accountable and future-ready, even as financial pressures continue to grow. Mayor Williamson said innovation would be key to navigating future challenges. “Innovation is essential to navigating the challenges ahead. By investing in smarter ways of working now, we are helping protect the services our community relies on into the future while putting downward pressure on rate rises.” Photo source: Mackay Regional Council
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Set on the elevated hillside of this 21-acre property, the beautifully crafted, fully airconditioned residence enjoys a breathtaking north-facing 27m x 4.2m covered deck, offering ample room for entertaining or peaceful contemplation while taking in the stunning ever-changing vista. A large covered tiled patio adjoins the deck and living area, creating additional outdoor space overlooking the firepit and orchard. The Property At A Glance Spacious open plan living, dining and kitchen area with central fireplace, opening onto two stunning outdoor spaces Modern galley-style kitchen with stone benchtops, induction cooktop, rangehood, pyrolytic self-cleaning oven and dishwasher Media room with projector, with potential to serve as a fourth bedroom Three generous airconditioned bedrooms, including the master suite with walk-in robe and ensuite Modern family bathroom with shower over bath and separate toilet Laundry with excellent storage and external access Airconditioning and ceiling fans throughout North-facing covered hardwood deck, measuring 27m x 4.2m, with stunning views West-facing 9.5m x 6.5m tiled patio overlooking the firepit and plentiful orchard The home is set within a fully fenced house yard, complete with a secure electric front gate at the road. There is an abundance of water across the property, including four dams, a bore with solar-operated submersible pump (not currently connected), three rainwater tanks with a combined capacity of 62,000L, and town water to the residence. Water is also plumbed to the orchard, stables and other areas throughout the property. Additional features include fully covered walkways connecting the carport to the home, wireless NBN and full mobile signal coverage. Infrastructure And Improvements 7m x 7m carport with electric roller door at the home 14m x 7m high-clearance shed with four roller doors and service trench Adjoining 12m x 6m tool shed Stables and pig pens A lush and abundant orchard with avocados, citrus and tropical fruits, along with a well-established beehive Optional machinery includes a Fiat 750 tractor with slasher and rotary hoe, 2000 SE5 backhoe, Hustler 54" zero turn ride-on mower, assorted tools and other plant and equipment. This stunning property is a true gem in the heart of the beautiful Pioneer Valley, offering the opportunity to settle in, relax and enjoy, or get creative and explore the endless possibilities on offer. Gargett is located in the Pioneer Valley, just 15 minutes from the Finch Hatton Mountain Bike Trail and the beautiful Finch Hatton Gorge. The local Gargett Store is only a short drive away, while the nearest shopping centre is 20 minutes to Marian and 50 minutes to Mackay. It is also an easy drive to the Bowen Coal Basin, Airlie Beach and The Whitsundays, with ample opportunities nearby for fishing, crabbing, prawning and boating. Rates: Approx. $1660 per half year Zoning: Rural Price: $1.6M Block Size: 8.88 hectares (21.75 acres) Builder: Brad Kirkpatrick, 2015
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Makinex Renewables is setting an ambitious target, saving 100 million litres of diesel in five years. In an industry long reliant on traditional diesel generators, the Australian-made and owned company is helping reshape how remote and off-grid operations power their sites. Focused on Hybrid Power Systems, Battery Energy Storage Systems and deployable solar arrays, Makinex Renewables is working with customers to lower fuel costs, reduce emissions and improve operational efficiency, while maintaining the dependable power their operations require. “The 100 million litre target gives us a clear and measurable objective to work towards while highlighting the impact renewable energy solutions can have across industries that traditionally rely on diesel power,” the company said. “It’s a goal that keeps us focused on developing practical solutions that deliver real-world results for our customers.” Designed for businesses operating in remote environments, Makinex Renewables’ modular systems can be deployed as standalone units, integrated together, or incorporated into existing site power setups. The company’s solutions are already delivering measurable results in mining. Following a trial installation, a mine site adopted Makinex Renewables’ Hybrid Power System and additional solar arrays, reducing generator runtime from 24 hours a day to approximately six to seven hours. Since the HPS45 was deployed in February, the site has cut generator fuel use by 125 litres a day, delivering annual diesel savings of around $91,000 and projected savings of $640,000 over the site’s seven-year life. Brad Cliff, Director of Generator Services Australia, said the project highlighted the benefits of continuing to challenge traditional ways of thinking and finding better solutions to longstanding industry challenges. To learn more about Makinex Renewables’ solutions, visit the team at the Queensland Mining and Engineering Exhibition in July.
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Most Reverend Daniel Meagher, the 11th Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Rockhampton, made his first visit to St Patrick's College on Wednesday, beginning the day alongside students and staff at the College's Brekky Van outreach service. The visit provided an opportunity for Bishop Daniel to experience the College's commitment to living its Catholic values through service to the wider community before officiating the blessing and official opening of newly completed building and refurbishment works. During the ceremony, Bishop Daniel addressed those in attendance. “We really are here to pray and bless the students and teachers who will use the buildings,” he said. The redevelopment has delivered contemporary learning spaces designed to support learning, wellbeing and faith formation while reflecting the College's commitment to providing high-quality educational opportunities. Assistant Principal: Mission, Mrs Andrea Crocker, said the occasion was a proud moment for the College community. “We’re finally getting to showcase our wonderful new facilities and the way the hard work of so many different people has come to fruition,” she said. The blessing and opening marked the culmination of years of planning and investment, with the new facilities set to benefit Mercy Campus students for years to come. Photo supplied
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Mines rescue brigades from across Queensland and New South Wales (NSW) will descend on the Bowen Basin this week for the 59th annual Australian Underground Coal Mines Rescue Competition.
Four Queensland teams and four NSW teams will vie for the national title at Anglo American’s Moranbah North Mine on Thursday (October 19, 2023), with the winner invited to an international competition in South America.
Competing for Queensland are Anglo American’s mines near Moranbah, Grosvenor mine and Moranbah North mine, as well as BMA-owned Broadmeadow mine and Kestrel mine – all in the Bowen Basin.
Teams from Newcastle, Hunter Valley, Southern and Western Mines Rescue represent NSW.
The day’s format includes several underground and surface simulation exercises to demonstrate knowledge and the use of equipment in realistic scenarios, including exercises to test hazard awareness, underground search and rescue, first aid and fire-fighting.
Queensland Mines Rescue Service Chief Executive Officer Tim Jackson said numerous competitions were held each year across the mining regions to challenge the proficiency of brigade members’ emergency response and recovery techniques.
“The primary purpose of Mines Rescue is to provide emergency response to the industry in the case of an emergency,” he said.
“Events like these allow the brigades to test and hone their skills in preparation for the unfortunate circumstance where they may be called upon.
“With their skills, experience and teamwork they will, at the end of the competition, be a much better team.”
Moranbah North Mine General Manager Paul Green, who will host the 2023 national event, said these competitions provided an invaluable opportunity to enhance skills and training.
“Mines rescue competitions serve as a vital platform for our industry to highlight critical aspects of mine safety,” he said.
“They reassure our employees and their families that we have highly-trained individuals.
“Beyond recognition, they are a testament to our industry’s ongoing commitment to zero harm and continuous improvement of our capability to respond swiftly and effectively when called upon.”
Mr Green said Grosvenor mine emerged as the state champions at the 2023 Queensland State Cup for Mines Rescue in July, with the Moranbah North team finishing runner-up.
“This friendly rivalry between our sister mines adds a unique dimension to this national competition for me but I commend all teams on their grit in physically and mentally demanding state competitions to get here,” he said.
“Best of luck to all competitors and thank you to all our dedicated volunteers for what will no doubt be a tremendous event.”
Coal Services’ Mines Rescue General Manager Alaster Wylie said 2023 was a significant year for NSW Mines Rescue, having just commemorated the 100-year anniversary of the Bellbird Mine Disaster.
He said the event was the catalyst for change in the industry, resulting in the Mines Rescue Act 1925 and establishment of a mines rescue service.
“Almost a century later, our highly skilled mines rescue brigades continue to play a pivotal role in upholding the standards that contribute to incident prevention,” he said.
“We prioritise safety through the implementation of rigorous work practices and the establishment of robust controls to mitigate the hazards of underground mining.
“Their advanced knowledge and expertise are instrumental in ensuring a safer working environment for all.”
All Mines Rescue competitions are the culmination of extensive planning to create realistic and demanding scenarios that challenge the capabilities of each participating team, ensuring a memorable experience for all involved.
The winners will be announced at a presentation dinner to be held following the competition on Thursday.
The winning team will be invited to represent Australia at the International Mines Rescue
Competition which will be held in Colombia in 2024.
Images from the Queensland Underground Coal Mines Rescue Competition held in July. Photos supplied: AngloAmerican

Celebrating the success of local tourism operators and their contribution to the region’s economy took centre stage at the 2023 Mackay Isaac Region Tourism Awards, held at the Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (MECC).
172 people were in attendance, representing the region’s tourism businesses and industry stakeholders.
Mackay Regional Council Deputy Mayor Karen May said these awards helped to acknowledge those who had been constantly raising the bar in our tourism industry to achieve success in a very competitive industry.
“All of the winners and finalists at this year’s awards are a fantastic example of the exceptional tourism experiences offered in our region,” Cr May said.
“It is these businesses that drive investment into our communities, supporting sustainability and job creation and building on the liveability of the region,” she said.
“We know we are the best place to live and work, and these businesses, through their commitment to building and developing tourism opportunities, are showcasing our region to the world.”
Capping off a successful year for tourism, the Mackay Isaac Region saw record numbers of domestic travel and an increase in visitation for business/events tourism – a new record seen for the region.
Isaac Regional Council Mayor Anne Baker said the tourism awards created a point of difference and helped to boost the profile of our tourism operators as they look to attract more domestic and international travel into the region.
"The Isaac region is one of the most dynamic places for business in Australia due to our major resource, renewables and agricultural industries," Mayor Baker said.
“This record-breaking trend echoes what we see on the ground with increased investment. This is happening despite the headwinds like rising energy prices, inflation and other factors impacting consumers’ wallets and their decision to travel.”
Congratulating each of the winners was Mackay Isaac Tourism Chief Executive Officer Al Grundy.
“The Mackay Isaac Region Tourism Awards exist to recognise the commitment to tourism excellence and celebrate the exceptional achievements of tourism businesses and individuals throughout the region,” he said.
“It is the dedication of businesses and individuals like those we have recognised tonight, that has enabled tourism to firmly establish itself as a key economic pillar to The Mackay Isaac Region’s economy, contributing millions of dollars in investment and creating thousands of jobs.”
Wildcat Mackay
The Flackyard
Cape Hillsborough Nature Tourist Park
Ocean International
St Lawrence Wetlands Weekend
Mt Pleasant Centre
MECC
Oh Deere Farm Tours
Moss on Wood
Comfort Resort Blue Pacific
Rydges Mackay Suites
Sarina Sugar Shed
Murray Gibbs
Friends of the MECC
Amanda Pelagalli
Shamrock Hotel
READ THE FULL MACKAY ISAAC TOURISM AWARDS FEATURE IN NEXT WEEK’S MACKAY AND WHITSUNDAY LIFE – CHECK OUT THE FULL LIST OF WINNERS AND VIEW A GALLERY OF SOCIAL PICS PLUS LEARN ABOUT THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE BUSINESSES!
Photos supplied: Mackay Tourism

A range of employers flocked to the Mackay Job Fair 2023 this week, with the event hosted at CQUniversity and sponsored by IDEAL Placements, Workforce Australia and Local Jobs to offer interested job-seekers a chance at secure employment opportunities.
With over thirty businesses and employment agencies in attendance, the event gave opportunity to students from across the Mackay region, to inquire into a range of industries and career pathways.
The Transition to Work program, guided by IDEAL Placements, focuses on youths aged fifteen to twenty-four to guide them in the right direction.
Working on both short-term and long-term goals, the program assists participants to enter the workforce or commit to further study. This allows access to a skill-set that they may not have received in a typical education setting.
Denzel from IDEAL Placements is a former member of the Transition to Work program and now works as an Employment Consultant and Junior Employee Business Broker.
Denzel stated, “I work closely with Mackay businesses to help them find employment leads and I have a caseload of about thirty [job-seekers] right now, that I work with and manage. I've made about fifteen to twenty local contacts that I can use for my participants for future reference.
“Seeing the outcome of what our participants can achieve is really good to see, I have one of my participants that has three interviews next week.”
Employer Business Broker at IDEAL Placements, Scott McPherson stated, “We just want to make sure we're making a difference in people's lives. So if we can help one or two people to get a full-time job, it's going to make a big difference.”
A substantial factor in getting the event running, was to ensure it was not a costly expenditure for businesses to attend. Scott commented, “With the housing crisis at the moment, the more people we can get working, it’s going to be better for businesses.”
Local Jobs Employment Facilitator, Jodie Ahwang, commented, “A lot of new employees have received at least five or more resumes, and we've had a couple of employers conducting interviews, it's been a really successful day.”
Scott and his team at IDEAL Placements would like to thank CQUniversity for being generous hosts of the Mackay Jobs Fair 2023, and encourages anyone who is interested in a career opportunity to reach out, so IDEAL Placements can further help to make a difference.
Operations Team Member, Arabella Jordan and Employer Business Broker, Scott McPherson at Mackay Job Fair 2023
From Transition to Work to Junior Employee Business Broker, Denzel Bobongie

The Queensland Resources Dust Disease Support Group attended the Seniors Expo this week, with an important message to retired mine workers regarding their lung health.
QRDDSG is a not-for-profit charity providing retired, former and current Queensland mine and quarry workers and their families with guidance, support, and friendship during the health assessment process and in the event of a diagnosis.
It is a long road ahead for the volunteers of this organisation, with a goal to test 25,000 former mine workers. The charity started back in February 2022, and slowly but surely, they have achieved 780 individual tests out of their mammoth goal.
QRDDSG provide assessment forms to check eligibility of their applicants before testing commences. By completing the form, QRDDSG can contact you via your preferred details and help to begin the application process for your free lung check.
Applications are for former coal mine workers only, as existing workers receive periodic health assessments from their employers.
From there, if something is wrong, you will be financially covered to travel to Brisbane for further assessment and treatment.
The charity encourages those who are eligible to receive their free lung check on the HEART5 Mobile Health Unit in November. A thorough lung check detects mine dust lung disease early, so you can get support sooner rather than later.
Eligibility requirements:
- You were a coal mine, mineral mine or quarry worker for at least three years in total over your lifetime, with at least 6 months of your mining experience in Queensland. (Note: You may be asked to supply evidence of your work history, such as pay slips or tax returns)
- You have now permanently stopped being a coal mine, mineral mine or quarry worker
- It has been five years since your most recent assessment
HEART5 Mobile Health Unit is coming to Proserpine on 8th November, and Mackay 9th-10th November.
8 November – Proserpine
9-10 November – Mackay
For more information about Queensland Resources Dust Disease Support Group, contact 0419 646 856 or admin@qrddsg.org.
Mine Dust Health Support Service can be contacted at 1300 445 715 or info@minedusthealthsupport.com
Volunteers of Queensland Resources Dust Disease Support Group at the Seniors Expo

Exodas Pty Ltd commenced their operations in 2001 with just two prime movers. Since then, the fleet has grown enormously, now consisting of approximately 120 prime movers and 260 trailers, with a mixture of both fridge vans and tautliners.
Exodas services the east coast of Australia, running from Brisbane to Mackay and Whitsundays, Townsville, Cairns, Sydney and Melbourne, daily and return.
Specialising in the transportation of produce, refrigerated products, general freight and green life with depots located in Mareeba, Tully, Townsville, Bowen, Yatala and Warnervale.
With a diversified customer base ranging from food wholesalers, tourism operators and produce farmers to carpet wholesalers and more, Exodas believe that customer service and reliability are the key to operating a successful transport and logistics company.
Satisfied customers return to Exodas knowing the business offers a great service at competitive rates, with clients regularly referring the business to those who require the top-of-the-line services. The Exodas team are passionate about safety, reliability and service, striving to live by the company motto – ‘Excellence through perseverance and diligence.’
With such a diverse fleet, the business is allowed to service a variety of customer needs, along with the ability to utilise different combinations for different load requirements.
Exodas can operate with single trailer, B’Double, B’Triple or road train configurations, having just recently completed a delivery of their first 10x40 pallet B’Doubles. These combinations allows them to be flexible and meet varying volumes for their customers.
Is it crucial for customers’ to consider the timeframe for their delivery, as well as the weight, size and temperature required for their freight. Exodas ensure to cover these aspects with their diverse fleet, to ensure quality standards are met and customer satisfaction is guaranteed.
With a new installment of 7 Volvos to the ever-growing fleet and an increasing workload demand, Exodas are seeking drivers for both local and linehaul work. The business strongly believes in providing opportunity and training to willing individuals within the transport industry.
Current job vacancies can be found via Seek or by contacting the employment team by phone on 07 3382 7507 or by email at employment@exodas.com.au
One of many from Exodas’ diverse fleet

Time is running out to apply for the 2024 AgriFutures Rural Women's Award, a program celebrating and empowering the inclusive and courageous leadership of women in Australia's rural and emerging industries, businesses, and communities.
Applications will close on Wednesday, 25 October 2023, at 11.59 pm AEDT.
The Award acts as a springboard, inspiring and nurturing Australian women to harness their skills for the betterment of their industries and communities, while simultaneously unlocking doors to crucial funding opportunities for existing projects and businesses.
Beyond recognition, the Award also provides a pathway for personal and professional growth, offering not only access to vital funding but also a doorway to extensive professional development opportunities and a cherished Alumni network.
State and territory winners are awarded a $15,000 grant generously sponsored by Westpac. Importantly, the program welcomes applications from women across Australia, irrespective of their location.
AgriFutures Australia, Managing Director, John Harvey said AgriFutures are committed to the future growth and advancement of the Award as a means of identifying, celebrating and empowering women.
“If you are passionate about creating impact, innovating, and making a difference in rural and regional Australia, we want to hear from you,” Mr Harvey said.
“By participating in this program, you will become part of a dynamic network of over 350 accomplished women who have been acknowledged for their exceptional contributions to rural industries and rural and regional Australia.”
Emma-Louise Gibbons, the founder of Huds and Toke, is a trailblazing entrepreneur who is passionate about sustainability and reducing carbon emissions by utilising produce grown on farms which can’t be sold and insect protein in her pet treats.
Her dedication to sustainability and innovation has earned her global recognition, including a recent partnership with Krispy Kreme to offer dog-friendly doughnuts in their UK and US stores.
Thanks to the QLD AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award grant, Emma-Louise will be able to purchase highly specialised equipment that can process alternative proteins and ensure all production remains on site at her facilities.
AgriFutures Rural Women’s Acceleration Grant
AgriFutures also runs a program called the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Acceleration grant. While this runs separately, it compliments the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award.
The aim is to provide a leadership and development opportunity to women who are not quite ready to apply for the Award.
Each year, seven Australian women will be granted with a learning and development bursary of up to $7,000 for professional development to enable them to bring their idea, cause, or vision to life.
The Rural Women’s Acceleration Grant is one of many AgriFutures Australia initiatives ensuring our rural industries prosper now, and into the future.
For more information and to apply for the AgriFutures Rural Women's Award, visit our website at https://agrifutures.com.au/opportunities/rural-womens-award/.
For more information on the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Acceleration Grant visit http://agrifutures.com.au/opportunities/acceleration-grant/
2022 Queensland winner Rebecca Bradshaw
Emma-Louise Gibbons

Alison Richardson, the Artistic Director/CEO of Crossroad Arts, has made the decision to leave her role at the prominent inclusive arts organisation. She stepped down from her position on October 13th to return to her hometown of Sydney for personal and family reasons.
The organisation, board and community acknowledge Alison's artistic vibrancy and
advocacy for a more inclusive community through her commitment to the Crossroad
Arts vision of Arts for All. Her work over the years on the many projects and productions established unique relationships and connections within the community and uncovered many untold stories. Alison's dedication to developing meaningful access initiatives was instrumental in raising the profile of Crossroad Arts as a leader of inclusive arts practice.
Some notable highlights of Alison’s time at Crossroad Arts include collaborating with
Brenden Borellini and Georgia Cranko on the recent major production Breathe In, which pioneered multilingual storytelling and new embedded access initiatives. During her time with the company she developed partnerships with Dancenorth (Townsville) and La Boite Theatre (Brisbane) resulting in the annual national contemporary dance and theatre making intensive C.R.U.S.H .
Alison leaves a legacy in the numerous productions and programs developed in collaboration with artists with disability from the Mackay region and beyond. These programs enacted social change and celebrated the wider impact of the Crossroad Arts vision of Arts for All.
Alison reflects on her time with Crossroad Arts and shares a message of farewell to the community;
“Being involved in an organisation such as Crossroad Arts you can’t help but get swept up in the community’s enthusiasm, humour, creativity and genuineness. So to lead such an organisation and play some part in creating that culture has been a real privilege and one that I never took for granted.
“My time has now come to return to my hometown of Sydney but I will always look back fondly at the new connections made, the untold stories shared and the assumptions challenged during my time at Crossroad Arts.
“It has been extremely rewarding and satisfying to see such significant growth, stability, vibrancy and impact the company has enjoyed and I will always live the vision of the company and will be cheering everyone on from the sidelines for a long time to come.”
Brian Tucker, Chair of Crossroad Arts Board expressed the board’s gratitude.
“We will miss her inspiring presence and leadership, but understand and support her need to relocate back to Sydney and the personal nature of her decision.
“The organisation is working through a recruitment process to ensure an exciting and prosperous future for Crossroad Arts”
Crossroad Arts Artistic Director and CEO Alison Richardson

Residents are once again being asked to think about the value of water as we celebrate National Water Week this week (October 16 to 22).
This year’s theme is “United by Water” which encourages everyone to think about the vital role water plays in connecting us all.
Water touches every aspect of development. It drives economic growth, supports healthy ecosystems, and is essential and fundamental for life.
Council’s Director of Engineering and Commercial Infrastructure, Jason Devitt, said council was committed to supplying the Mackay region with some of the best water and water services in Australia.
“This year our water from Nebo Road Water Treatment Plant (WTP) was victorious over NSW’s Shoalhaven, in the WIOA Water of Origin taste test, making it two years in a row of holding the title,” Mr Devitt said.
“This win adds to our winning streak, with water from Marian WTP taking the crown in 2019 and 2021 and Nebo Road claiming the title in 2018 and 2022,” he said.
“We have previously taken out the National Ixom Best Tasting Tap Water competition in 2019 and 2020 and even won silver at the 2020 International Water Tasting Competition in Berkely Springs USA.
“These achievements are a testament to our highly professional team as well as the beautiful river we have right on our doorstep. Council couldn’t get that great tasting water to homes without the fantastic water network and infrastructure that supplies it.
“We all need to ensure we are doing everything we can to conserve this precious resource.
“As always, we strongly encourage residents to sign up to myh2o (myh2o.qld.gov.au), to help keep track of how much water they are using each day, how much it’s costing them and how they can better improve their behaviours around water usage.”
National Water Week is the perfect opportunity for everyone to monitor their water use and think of ways to save.
Some simple water saving tips include keeping showers to four minutes or less, turn off taps when washing your hands, fix dripping taps and only water outdoors every second day before 10am after 4pm.
Mr Devitt said we are also reminded daily of the significant role water plays in uniting us as a community.
“We are lucky enough to be surrounded by beautiful natural waterways - the iconic Pioneer River running through our city and the beautiful beaches that allow access to so many amazing water activities such as swimming, fishing and boating,” he said.
For more water saving tips visit council’s website mackay.qld.gov.au/water.
Alexander Blanch and Brian Woods oversee the day to day operations of the Nebo
Road Water Treatment Plant

The 75th Anniversary Service for the Walkerston- Pleystowe RSL Sub-Branch Inc will be held on Saturday 18th November 2023 in ANZAC Memorial Park, Walkerston.
The Walkerston-Pleystowe RSL sub-branch invites all members of the Walkerston-Pleystowe community to the 75th anniversary of the formation of the sub-branch in 1948.
A commemorative service will commence at 5.00pm, at ANZAC Park in Walkerston.
Dress is jacket and tie, with medals for veterans.

Walkerston’s Mirani High Graduates of 1993.
Last weekend there was a great reunion held at Walkerston’s Duke Hotel.
People came from the north, the south and the west of the country to meet up with each other where they grew up some 30-plus years ago.
The small township of Walkerston welcomed these ‘Scrubby’ kids who graduated from High School in 1993!
Even though many of them, somewhat sporadically, keep in touch with each other via social media; there were lots of ‘Remember when…’ occasions.
Indeed, some reminiscing moments came from right back in pre-school days where many of the long friendships were first formed – carrying through primary school, then onto high school. Some of the young people even went on to attend university together.
Enduring special connections and friendships were formed when these young people from ‘Scrubby’ were small children. This group kept in touch and checked up on each other wherever they may have ended up in this big world…and here they were - back in the familiar, but ever-changing surroundings of years ago - catching up for a few hours face-to-face joined by other school friends.
Reunions rekindle the best of friendships.
Contributed by Bente McDonald
Graduates from Mirani High, class of 1993. Photo supplied

As we lead up to the warmer part of the year, many are left wondering how to prepare their gardens to beat the summer heat. Have no fear, native plants are here!
Bush flowers, wildflowers, natives - whatever you call them, these plants are adaptable, hardy and a perfect choice to create a majestic and authentic Australian garden.
Not only do native plants attract and provide shelter for local wildlife, they stand up to challenging climates and they look beautiful too!
Establishing a native garden starts with considering your site. You will need to check the soil fertility, structure and drainage systems around your property, as well as the climate conditions (sun, wind and shade) of the chosen area.
It is suitable to group plants with similar requirements and study their root systems. Keep in mind that plants growing too large for their location can damage plumbing and sewerage pipes and be costly to remove.
Establishing layers of vegetation in your garden will not only look great, but each layer will provide habitat for different animals.
Leaf litter and mulch are important as habitat for wildlife and to help retain moisture in the soil.
Plants that are local to an area are well-equipped to handle the conditions (soil, rainfall, temperature) and will generally require less attention and perform better.
The following list encompasses non-invasive plants that are best-suited to Mackay’s tropical climate:
Lily varieties, Fig varieties, Mt. Morgan Wattle, Northern Banksia, Australian Wax Plant, Bird’s Nest Fern, Lillie Pillies, Bottlebrush, Golden Penda, Grevillea, Kangaroo Grass, Mat Rushes.
When planted in the right environment, there is minimal need for watering or fertilisation, making natives an easy choice for beginner gardeners or those who prefer the distinctive characteristics of local flora.
Now you are well on your way to creating your authentic Aussie garden!
To find out more about native plants to the Mackay region, visit: mackayregionalbotanicgardens.com.au to find a comprehensive list of our local gardening clubs.

Walkerston Hockey Premiers A3 1965.
B/R Barry Richards, Mark Kelly, Jimmy Evetts, Stephen Renton, Terry Dee, Alan Jorgensen, Johnny Jarrott.
F/R Alwyn North, Kenny Sturdy, Manix Creedy (Coach), John Belden, David Lake.
Photo supplied on the Facebook page ‘I grew up in Mackay’ by Rob Richards

Head to Walkerston’s track cycling velodrome next weekend for FREE, fun, family entertainment.
Mackay Cycling Club’s annual track cycling carnival will be held on Saturday, 28th October, attracting top riders of all ages from across Queensland.
Witness the need for speed across a variety of track cycling disciplines, from the endurance scratch and points races to the fast and furious keirin racing.
Grab a bite to eat from the canteen and enjoy a day of entertainment in Walkerston.
Photo supplied: Mackay Cycling Club

At last week's meeting of the Rotary Club of Walkerston, representatives from the Early Childhood Learning establishments in Walkerston – the town’s Schools, Kindergarten and Day Care Centres – were invited to join club members for dinner followed by each being presented with a bundle of colourful children’s books.
It is a proven fact that early literacy helps young children develop and comprehend a significant vocabulary, confident self-expression, and general reading comprehension - tools needed to become thriving readers and constant learners.
These skills also inspire a love of books and an eagerness to learn.
“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go.” Dr Seuss
Contributed by Bente McDonald
Walkerston Rotary's donation of books displayed in Walkerston School's library
Book presentation at Rotary meeting. Photos supplied
As you get older, everything starts to hurt, I don’t know why, but everything hurts.
Even the simplest of injuries or soreness can lead to another bit of you being sore, and before you know it there’s a chiro leaning over you twisting your body back to where it should be.
It’s a discussion I was having with my near teenage son a few weeks ago, why does everything go wrong with you Dad? My only answer was that when you’re younger like he is, everything in your body is “rubbery”, things go back into place much easier. When you’re a kid you can fall over and you just jump back up and continue on. When you’re over 45, you can sneeze and then your neck’s stuffed for a fortnight.
You also start groaning even just bending over to pick something up, that’s the first sign of the pending age of pain and hurt.
I’ve even thought maybe I should do yoga or something like that to help with flexibility and stretching, but I’m worried I’ll get down for an exercise and not be able to get back up. That’s what happened the other day when my daughter asked me to play a new card game Taco, Cat, Goat, Cheese, Pizza … two rounds in I was in agony needing help to get off the carpet. How embarrassing to “get injured” playing a card game.
Back pain is the worst of it though, lower back pain. It hurts to stand for a long period of time, so you sit, but you have to find the perfect angle so it doesn’t hurt. Then you sit for 10-15 minutes and need to get back up, it hurts to get back up and you walk hunched over for a bit. After a minute or two it feels really good. Five minutes after that you need to sit down again, and the cycle just continues.
In Australia, as you get older, we hear more about breast screening, prostate checks, bowel cancer screening kits sent. Each of those pamphlets sent out or packages for tests should be accompanied by a wheat pack.
Scotty