How MRAEL Is Helping A Local Mum Thrive

Amanda’s journey hasn’t been easy, but she refuses to let her past define her future. With determination and the right support, she’s turning setbacks into stepping stones, creating a brighter life for herself and her son – all thanks to the Parent Pathways program, delivered by MRAEL (part of the IntoWork Group).

“This is the strongest, clearest, most driven, and most supported I’ve ever felt,” Amanda said.

“It’s because I’ve put in the hardwork myself, and I’ve reached out to the right support groups.”

Parent Pathways is a voluntary program designed to support parents and carers of children under six who are not in paid employment and receive a Parenting Payment, Carer Payment, or Special Benefit. The program provides flexible support, with a qualified mentor guiding parents toward personal, training, and career goals.

For Amanda, the support has been life-changing. She has not only gained direction but has also developed a mindset focused on giving back.

“They’re helping me build my future and my kids will also benefit in the long run,” she said.

“To help me, I’ve got to help others and give back to what’s given to me.”

She believes Parent Pathways is a vital bridge for mothers returning to the workforce.

“I think it’s a really good transition for mothers, especially to get back into the workforce. That’s what these guys are all about, which is amazing.”

MRAEL was awarded the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations Parent Pathways contract in the Mackay region in late 2024. The program operates across ten locations, including Mackay, Bowen, Cannonvale, Clermont, Collinsville, Dysart, Moranbah, Nebo, Proserpine, and Sarina.

Since November 2024, more than 100 parents have received vital support, including career guidance, childcare assistance, Allied Health services, transport aid, clothing, financial support, and domestic violence resources.

MRAEL CEO Jason Allen is incredibly proud of the program’s impact.

“Our team is committed to making a positive difference in the lives of parents and carers in the Mackay region,” he said.

“We are dedicated to helping them build more vibrant futures for themselves and their families.”

As part of the IntoWork Group, MRAEL has spent 40 years providing education, training, and employment services across Queensland. Its programs continue to empower individuals like Amanda, giving them the tools they need to thrive.

For Amanda, the future is full of opportunities, and she couldn’t be more thankful for the supports who have guided her through every step.

“It feels like all those wrong doors have just been slammed closed, and all the right ones have been opened – that’s what we need in life,” she said.

Amanda credits much of her personal success to the team at MRAEL, along with her family, friends and church.

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Mackay mum Amanda with Parent Pathways Mentor Patrice Nash

The team: IntoJobs Regional Leader Rebekah Griinke-Nott, MRAEL CEO Jason Allen, Parent Pathways Coordinator Dianne Mooney, Parent Pathways Mentor Patrice Nash, Parent Pathways Mentor Jazz Fabian, Business Admin Trainee Mia Mille.

With determination and the right support from MRAEL’s Parent Pathways program, Amanda along with many others have transformed their hardships into opportunities. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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With Anytime Tours Australia

Discover the beauty of Mackay with Anytime Tours Australia – where each step leads you towards an immersive adventure. Whether you're a visitor or a long-time local, there's always something new to uncover.

Anytime Tours Australia, founded by Vanessa Harrower and her husband Luke, offers a fresh perspective on the region, from fascinating history to vibrant food experiences…Which one will you choose?

“I was on holidays a few years ago and did a tour in another country, and I thought, ‘Why not do this in our region?’” Vanessa said.

That spark of inspiration led to the creation of Anytime Tours Australia, a family-run business dedicated to showcasing the best of Mackay.

“Mackay has so many cool features about it. The more I learn, the more I talk to locals who've lived here their whole lives, and the more I love sharing these stories,” Vanessa added.

From historical landmarks to hidden local favourites, each tour is designed to be immersive and engaging.

"We actually take participants inside. We’ve partnered with some wonderful local organisations to give people access to buildings they wouldn’t normally see from the street.”

Whether it’s exploring the region’s history or indulging in a foodie voyage, every stop has something unique to offer, and while Mackay isn’t yet known as a major tourist town, Vanessa sees its growing potential.

Vanessa notes that locals might just be surprised by how much they still have to explore. Choose from Historical Tours, City Food Tours, or even Private Tours – all designed to be flexible and accessible for all ages and abilities.

“We always test our tours beforehand to make sure it's easy for everybody of all ages to participate in,” Vanessa exclaimed.

Local businesses with accessible venues can become part of this growing experience too. To participate, the business must have ramp access to ensure the tours are accessible to all.

To celebrate their upcoming first birthday, Anytime Tours Australia will be offering exclusive deals…so stay up to date on their socials for a chance to grab a special discount!

Ready to discover Mackay like never before?

Contact Anytime Tours Australia today to book your tour and start your next adventure.

@ Anytime Tours Australia

www.anytimetoursaustralia.com.au

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Representing our community is a privilege that I take seriously, and this past month has been incredibly busy and rewarding. Whether in Mackay or Brisbane, I’ve been out listening to locals, advocating for our region, and working to ensure our communities have the support they need.

One of my key focuses has been meeting with local businesses and industry leaders to discuss the challenges and opportunities they face. Alongside the Minister for Primary Industries, I had the chance to visit Mifsuds Fresh Fruit Barn, Meat on Shakespeare, Lighthouse Takeaway, Mackay Reef Fish, Greater Whitsunday Alliance, and North Queensland Bulk Ports. These conversations are vital in ensuring our region’s industries get the support they need to thrive. I also attended the Cane Grower Industry Forum with Glen Kelly MP, where we discussed the future of agriculture in our region.

Community events are always a highlight, and I was proud to attend the Crime Stoppers Awards, Mater Hospital International Women’s Day Fun Run, and the Sports Super Star Recipients event. Recognising and celebrating the achievements of our community members is important, and I’m always inspired by the dedication of those working to make a difference.

I had the pleasure of visiting Beaconsfield State School, Carlisle Adventist College, St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, and Clontarf Foundation, which is part of Mackay State High School. My visit to Clontarf allowed me to see the incredible leadership and mentoring work being done for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young men.

In Brisbane, I spent three days in Parliamentary sittings, ensuring that our region’s concerns were represented on key issues. I also attended committee hearings on Elder Abuse in Hervey Bay, Maryborough, and Cherbourg—an issue that demands serious attention to protect some of our most vulnerable community members. Elder abuse is a hidden scourge affecting our seniors, and this inquiry focuses on enhancing education, improving reporting mechanisms, and expanding referral options to address the issue effectively. The committee is committed to delivering a comprehensive report on our findings by the end of the year.

Back home, I met with key stakeholders, including the Greater Whitsundays Council of Mayors, Queensland Fire, and Queensland Ambulance for the handover of a new and improved ambulance vehicle to the North Mackay Ambulance Station, and toured North Queensland Bulk Ports' sugar sheds. I also had the opportunity to host Minister for Tourism Andrew Powell, visiting Harrup Park and meeting with local tourism operators, including Tiger Moth flights, the South Sea Islander Huts, and Wake House Australia.

Every engagement—whether a business visit, school tour, or community event—is an opportunity to listen, learn, and advocate for the people of our region. I look forward to continuing this work and hearing more from you about the issues that matter most.

Nigel Dalton MP

Member for Mackay

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Empowering Central District Farmers Ahead Of Crushing Season

Sugarcane farmers across the Central District have been bombarded with invitations to attend what seems like a trillion events over the past couple of months, and this is terrific to see so many organisations and businesses step up to benefit growers and their businesses.

The busyness of this time of the year is not without one good and obvious reason, and that is that, leading up to the start of the season and during crushing, farmers have a far more difficult time getting away from the workplace.

Consequently, QCAR too is throwing its annual QCAR Roadshow into the mix.

We are inviting all our members, all interested parties and stakeholders to come along for our CEO and Information Updates, details below.

Never has there been a more opportune time to learn more about QCAR, your local District Committee and election outcomes and join some of our QCAR team members from the Herbert River and the Burdekin districts.

RSVP is essential for these events, so please phone or text QCAR Central District Manager Sonia Ball on 0467 573 321 or email Sonia.ball@qcar.org.au.

Event details as follows:

Proserpine: Monday April 14 at Hotel Metropole at 5.30pm.

Mackay: Tuesday April 15 at 10am (venue to be confirmed).

Mackay: Tuesday April 15 at Shamrock Hotel at 5pm.

Plane Creek: QCWA Hall at Koumala at 5.30pm

Can’t make it? Let us know, and we’ll make sure you get an update following these events.

QCAR Local District Election Update

In other news, the QCAR local district election nominations have closed, and all nominees are with the Returning Officer for validation.

Once the nominees are approved, QCAR Central District Manager Sonia Ball said QCAR would advise if any elections would take place – so the districts where there are more nominees than positions available.

“In addition, we’ll be providing our members with some information about each of them, keeping in mind it is voluntary for them to provide, to help our members make informed decisions,” she said.

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CDC Jan Meeting CAPTION: The QCAR Central District team is inviting all members, sugarcane farmers and stakeholders to attend their upcoming roadshows across Proserpine, Mackay and Plane Creek, back from left are Deputy Chairman Steve Fordyce, Blair Watt, front from left, Chairman Steve McKeering and Craig Keating (Plane Creek).

Christian Lago: Central District sugarcane farmers are invited to hear QCAR Chairman Christian Lago’s address at the Proserpine, Mackay and Plane Creek roadshow events on April 14, 15 & 16.

Stephen Ryan: QCAR CEO Stephen Ryan will give his annual CEO Update in the Central Region this month. Photos supplied

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R U OK?’s Conversation Convoy is coming to the Whitsundays region, aimed at raising awareness for suicide prevention and offering an opportunity for the community to come together, learn, and show support. The convoy will be parked up on the hill by the Coral Sea Marina carpark, on April 6th from 4:30pm to 7pm.

Matt Stokes of the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network highlights the significance of this event, saying, “It’s a great reminder for our friends, and asking that one important little question.” He continues, “We’re all going through something and asking that question opens up the door for the conversation they need to have.”

The event offers a chance for individuals to learn, engage, and ask questions in a relaxed setting. It will feature a caravan display, presentations, games, free resources, and a BBQ, with hot drinks and a free sausage sizzle available. Families, friends, and colleagues are encouraged to attend, whether to learn how to support others or to seek help themselves.

The R U OK? Convoy is part of a nationwide initiative to equip regional Australians with the knowledge and tools to start vital conversations around mental health. As it’s not always easy to keep the conversation going when someone says they’re not OK, but it could change a life.

Bring along your loved ones or just yourself, grab a free sausage, chat over a game of checkers, watch the sunset and come together to support the message of hope and help in a safe space.

WHAT: R U OK? Conversation Convoy
WHEN: Sunday, April 6th from 4:30pm to 7pm
WHERE: Coral Sea Marina, 1-3 Shingley Drive, Top Carpark

The Conversation Convoy. Photo Sourced: R U OK?'s website

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A Mackay HHS spokesperson has confirmed a significant rise in melioidosis cases across North Queensland this year, attributed to wet weather events. With this increase, individuals are urged to take sensible precautions when engaging in outdoor activities to minimise the risk.

There have been seven cases of melioidosis in the Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) region and there have now been two deaths attributed to the bacterial disease. An elderly woman died in February and the death of an elderly man last week has been attributed to the disease.

There have now been 142 cases of melioidosis across Queensland this year and a total of 21 confirmed deaths.

Taking Precautions

Those working with soil and surface water - especially after high rainfall - can be exposed to melioidosis.

This is a potentially fatal bacterial disease found in ground water and soil and people most at risk of infection are those with an underlying medical condition such as diabetes, kidney or lung problems, those who use alcohol excessively and who are immunocompromised.

Symptoms of melioidosis vary and may include fever, cough, chest pain, difficulty breathing, disorientation, headache, seizures, abdominal discomfort, skin abscesses or ulcerations, joint pain and swelling. The effects can be severe and often require hospitalisation for antibiotic treatment.

To reduce your risk of melioidosis infection:
• wear a mask if you’re using a hose or high-pressure cleaner around soil. This is to prevent breathing in bacteria that causes the disease.

• Wear protective footwear and gloves and wash your skin thoroughly after exposure.

• Avoid contact with soil and floodwaters, particularly after heavy rain.

• Cover open wounds and broken skin with waterproof dressings and wash thoroughly after exposure to soil or muddy water.

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Thirteen local producers were sponsored by Regional Development Australia Greater Whitsundays (RDA GW) and Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) to attend EvokeAG in 2025, the premier global agrifood technology and innovation event held in Brisbane.

Bringing together industry leaders, researchers, and innovators from across the agrifood sector, EvokeAG provided a vital platform for knowledge sharing and cross-sector collaboration.

Attendees explored the importance of funding synergies across the global agrifood supply chain and engaged in discussions on how to collectively navigate complex challenges while developing impactful, future-focused solutions.

RDA GW CEO Robert Cocco said they were proud to be able to assist local producers to take time from their everyday work to attend EvokeAG.

“It’s important to have those at the face of the industry attend events such as EvokeAG, as having access to global insights, new technologies, and potential business partnerships future-proofs their operations and drives our region forward,” Mr Cocco said.

“The ability to collaborate on a national and international scale is crucial in keeping the Greater Whitsundays’ agricultural industry at the forefront of innovation.

“EvokeAG reinforced the importance of industry-wide collaboration in addressing key challenges, from supply chain efficiencies to sustainable farming practices.”

Local producer based in Mackay, Tony Bartolo, reflected on the experience, highlighting the networking opportunities and exposure to innovative ideas.

“RDA GW brought together a fantastic group of producers from different agricultural industries to attend this event, creating an environment full of energy and collaboration,” Mr Bartolo said.

“For the sugar industry, discussions around biofuels were particularly insightful, providing a clearer picture of regulations and the potential for Australian producers to supply or manufacture biofuel locally.

“Additionally, learning about funding avenues for start-up technology was invaluable, offering a glimpse into how innovative ideas can be commercialised to shape the future of agriculture.”

RDA GW remains committed to working with local producers, industry stakeholders, and government bodies to drive regional economic growth and prosperity through innovation and strategic partnerships.

To stay up to date with RDA GW news, visit www.rdagw.org.au

RDA GW CEO Robert Cocco with the RDA GW and GW3 sponsored cohort of local producers at EvokeAG in Brisbane. Photo supplied

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It was a little wet and windy but that didn’t stop the MAD March Twilight Carnival from going ahead on Saturday March 15.  There was plenty of action with 284 Riders travelling from all over the State to compete at MAD BMX Clubs first carnival of the year.

The Mini Wheeler energy was high with 23 riders in this category, these little racers (aged 2-5 years old) know how to have fun and were a definite highlight for the crowd.

‘MM Electrical’ Superclass Men winners:
• 1st Hayden Fletcher (Mansfield Mt Buller)
• 2nd Joseph Costa (Cairns)
• 3rd Zac Hutton (Bundaberg)

‘Pinpoint Property’ Superclass Women winners:
• 1st Ashleigh Gunn (Burdekin)
• 2nd Elisha Nesbit (Cairns)
• 3rd Mackenzie Crocker (Harbour City)

‘Thiess’ Junior Superclass Men winners:
• 1st Matthew Fox (Cairns)
• 2nd Dylan Secher (Mackay)
• 3rd Louis Cauchi (Mackay)

‘Pirtek Mackay’ Junior Superclass Women winners:
• 1st Chelsea Evans (Mackay)
• 2nd Willow Pogmore (Mackay)
• 3rd Gabbi Reichelt (Moranbah)

Special mention to “Local” MAD riders Dylan Secher, Louis Cauchi, Chelsea Evans and Willow Pogmore for their fantastic results in Junior Superclass showing their local knowledge and skills on track claiming Podiums in Junior Superclass.

A huge congratulations to all MAD BMX Riders for your amazing effort on the weekend, representing the club and giving it all on the track, we are very proud of you all

MAD BMX is already looking forward to September when the Club is proud to be hosting the QLD State Championships on September 26th and 27th.

Contributed by Kerry Bolger

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Dylan Secher – 2nd -  Jnr Superclass Men

Louis Cauchi – 3rd – Jnr Superclass Men

Chelsea Evans – 1st - Jnr Superclass Women
 
Willow Pogmore – 2nd  - Jnr Superclass Women

Mini Wheelers
 
Sprockets. Photos supplied

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Last Tuesday, Queensland Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett, invited by Members for Mirani and Mackay, Glen Kelly MP and Nigel Dalton MP, addressed local producers in Homebush about the state’s 25-year Blueprint for Primary Industries.

Appearing at a forum hosted by Mr Kelly and Mr Dalton, Minister Perrett went over the process for the development of the blueprint which is the biggest industry consultation and collaboration in primary industries in at least a decade.

The blueprint will be a 25-year plan to help build the Queensland agricultural, fisheries and forestry sectors to ensure long term prosperity of the industry, and is being developed with farmers, industry leaders, and regional communities to set a long-term strategic vision.

“The goal to increase the value of agricultural production to $30 billion by 2030 was deliberate and shows a unifying position for all relevant government departments to get behind and back, with tangible outcomes,” Minister Perrett said.

"This plan will be practical, deliverable, and built on the collective knowledge of those who work, live, and breathe our primary industries.

“We went to the election promising to return the department to being a valued partner, trusted advisor and enabling force for agriculture, forestry and fisheries.

“The work today has shown we are going to deliver on that promise,” he said.

The Crisafulli Government will work closely with farmers, industry leaders and regional communities to set the strategic vision which will be complimented by 5-year operational plans tailored to meet regional and sector needs.

“Today’s forum was incredibly positive, by having the Minister come here today to listen to the needs and concerns of our producers we’re making sure the communities in Mirani are heard in the development of the Blueprint,” Mr Kelly said.

“Agriculture is an incredibly important industry for the electorate of Mirani, and as a farmer myself I know about various challenges that come along with farming and processing.

“Our producers can be sure that they’ve got a government that will work with them to achieve what’s best for the industry and for the state.”

Critical considerations will include the impact of global megatrends, technological advancements including agtech and diversification, advanced manufacturing, and new international trade opportunities as well as environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations.

“The sugar industry is essential to Mackay, providing jobs and opportunities to the people in town,” Mr Dalton said.

“It’s not just the canefields, but the mills that provide well paid processing jobs for people in and around the city, and we’re committed to making sure that as a government we’re working with them not against them.”

Queenslanders who want to contribute can visit the primary industries 25-year blueprint
engagement hub engagement hub and subscribe to updates on consultation activities.

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Queensland Minister for Primary Industries, Tony Perrett, discussed the state's 25-year Blueprint for Primary Industries in Homebush, focusing on boosting agriculture, fisheries, and forestry sectors, with a goal of reaching $30 billion in agricultural production by 2030. Photos supplied

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In an exciting discovery, a biologist from James Cook University has uncovered a previously unknown species of lizard on the remote Scawfell Island, located just 50km off the coast of Mackay in North Queensland.

Associate Professor Conrad Hoskin named the new skink species the Scawfell Island Sunskink (Lampropholis isla) after discovering it with Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) and Partnerships Rangers.

The newly discovered skink has distinct orange markings on its sides and inhabits rocky, rainforest gullies.

“It is exciting to find a new species in Australia in this day and age, and particularly exciting to find a beautifully coloured species entirely restricted to this paradise of an island,” Assoc Prof Hoskin said.

Scawfell Island, in the South Cumberland Islands National Park, came to fame in 2023 with the naming of a spectacular leaf-tailed gecko also unique to the island.

Assoc Prof Hoskin said surveys on surrounding islands in the South Cumberland Islands National Park failed to find the sunskink and leaf-tailed gecko, making Scawfell a stand-out among Queensland islands for its number of unique vertebrate species.

“A handful of other islands have one endemic vertebrate species, including K’gari, Hinchinbrook and Magnetic Island, but no other island is known to have two until now,” he said.

“So, it's great to know about these special places like Scawfell Island that may be tiny but have really unique wildlife that we can now be careful to look after.”

Now that the skink has been formally recognised, Assoc Prof Hoskin said steps can be taken to help ensure its conservation moving forward.

“Until you discover it’s not on anyone's radar, it takes the discovery and the naming of it before you can start conserving it,” he said.

“We don't recognise any particular threats to them at the moment and there's good numbers. They might be doing quite well now, but anything that's just found in one spot you’ve got to be keeping a close eye on.”

Senior QPWS Ranger for the Whitsundays region Sarah Jordan said it’s important we understand the biodiversity of our island national parks.

“The recent discovery of these endemic species on Scawfell Island highlights the intrinsic value of the island national parks that we manage,” she said.

“Our conservation efforts focus on safeguarding these unique ecosystems against potential threats.”

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A new skink species, the Scawfell Island Sunskink, has been discovered on Scawfell Island, making it the second unique species found there after the 2023 discovery of a leaf-tailed gecko. Photo credit: Conrad Hoskin

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People living with coeliac disease across Central and North Queensland are being sought to take part in two clinical trials of new treatments for their condition.

Dr James Daveson, a gastroenterologist at Mater Private Hospital Mackay, said an estimated 10,500 people living between Rockhampton and Cairns had the disease, which is caused by an abnormal reaction to gluten.

“Coeliac disease can be very debilitating for patients, but researchers are working hard to find new ways to prevent it and reduce its symptoms,” Dr Daveson said.

“Most clinical trials in Australia are run in metropolitan cities and only recruit local participants, but it's important that regional patients have access to innovative therapies too.

“The treatments we are looking at have passed early phase trials and are some of the most advanced clinical trial therapies yet available for coeliac disease.”

Coeliac disease is a chronic autoimmune disease that damages the small intestine and can cause a range of symptoms, including abdominal pain, bloating, fatigue, migraines and even osteoporosis.

The disease affects around one in 70 Australians and is two to three times more likely to affect women than men.

Dr Daveson is seeking adults whose coeliac disease has been confirmed by a biopsy and have been following a gluten-free diet to take part in the trials, which will be run by the Coral Sea Clinical Research Institute based at Mater Private Hospital Mackay.

“These therapies have the potential to treat patients globally,” Dr Daveson said.

“Having local residents involved in the studies mean that if they work, they are working for Australian participants – not just those from overseas who may have slightly different immune responses.”

Participants living in the Rockhampton, Mackay, Townsville and Cairns regions are able to join the trial. The trial sponsors will reimburse travel and accommodation costs.

Dr Daveson said the first trial involved a drug designed to turn off the body’s immune response to gluten, while the second trial aims to help coeliac patients whose symptoms persist while on a gluten-free diet.

An information night will be held on Wednesday 2 April at Harrup Park Country Club, Mackay, with presentations by Dr Daveson and Dr Robert Anderson, a fellow expert in coeliac disease.

To take part in the trials or find out more, phone 1800 69 27 27, visit www.coralseaclinical.com or email elizabeth@coralseaclinical.com.

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Dr James Daveson is a gastroenterologist at Mater Private Hospital Mackay, specialising in coeliac disease research and clinical trials aimed at developing advanced treatments for the condition. Photo supplied

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Delivering with compassion, Member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton MP, recently handed over a brand-new ambulance vehicle to the North Mackay Ambulance Station last Friday on March 21. The event took place at the North Mackay Ambulance Station on Holts Road, marking a significant milestone in the continued improvement of emergency services in the Mackay District.

The new vehicle, a Mercedes Sprinter 419 Van equipped with a single stretcher, replaces an older model, enabling the Mackay District to modernise its fleet and continue providing the highest standard of care to the local community.

Mr Dalton said, “This upgrade is a significant step forward for our emergency services.

“Modernising our fleet not only improves our operational capability but also ensures that our community receives the best possible care when it matters most.”

This handover highlights the continued collaboration between local government and emergency services, reinforcing the commitment to enhancing safety and service delivery in Mackay.

“Investing in modern, well-equipped ambulances strengthens our frontline services and ensures our community receives the care they need when it matters most,” Mr Dalton added.

He also thanked local paramedics for their tireless efforts in assisting those most vulnerable in the community.

“A huge thank you to our hardworking paramedics for their dedication – I’m proud to support the incredible work you do every day.”

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Member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton MP, recently handed over a new Mercedes Sprinter ambulance to the North Mackay Ambulance Station, marking a significant step in modernising the Mackay District's emergency services fleet and ensuring top-quality care for the local community. Photo source: Nigel Dalton MP (Facebook)

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Self defence starts with self protection.

By being aware of your surroundings, having a strong mental attitude and confident physical behaviour, you are less likely to be confronted by a threatening situation.

Knowledge of self defence provides confidence if you are confronted, and techniques to counter the attack.

Self defence has roots within martial arts; however basic martial arts techniques are easy to learn and if practised, combined with the right mindset, will provide you with the confidence and tools to defend yourself if required.

A Women’s introduction to self defence will be held on Saturday 5th April at the Community Hall, 24 Wallace Street Bucasia.

This course will be run by Helle Smith, and is designed to provide an overview of theoretical and practical foundations of women’s self defence. This is an inclusive workshop where Helle will tailor the session to meet your needs, so that you leave the session feeling more confident about your personal safety. All skill levels welcome.

This two-hour introductory course will provide insight into the comprehensive two-day Women’s Self Defence workshop, which Helle will coordinate the weekend of 24 May.

The comprehensive course in May is an in-depth program designed to empower women with confidence, knowledge and skills to protect themselves.

“When it comes to self defence, It is better to have the power and not need it
than to need it and not have it.”  - Kevin Shearer

For information and to book, call 0488 146 644

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Mackay Basketball players have passed the ball to a worthy cause – the Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia.

McDonald’s Mackay Meteors and Meteorettes players Jerron Jamerson and Nikita Van Wyk recently visited the Mackay Base Hospital, partnering with Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia to assist families in need. Their visit underscored the importance of compassion and community spirit, as even the smallest gestures can make a significant impact on those facing challenging circumstances.

Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of seriously ill children and their families through practical care programs. Their vision is to ensure that all seriously ill children can live their healthiest lives.

By taking time out of their busy schedules, Jamerson and Van Wyk not only showed support for a local cause but also demonstrated the power of teamwork beyond the basketball court.

Their efforts truly scored big, proving that when it comes to making a difference, it’s not merely just about shooting hoops…but about making an impact that lasts in the community.

McDonald’s Mackay Meteors and Meteorettes players Jerron Jamerson and Nikita Van Wyk recently visited the 𝑀𝑎𝑐𝑘𝑎𝑦 𝐵𝑎𝑠𝑒 𝐻𝑜𝑠𝑝𝑖𝑡𝑎𝑙 with 𝑅𝑜𝑛𝑎𝑙𝑑 𝑀𝑐𝐷𝑜𝑛𝑎𝑙𝑑 𝐻𝑜𝑢𝑠𝑒 𝐶ℎ𝑎𝑟𝑖𝑡𝑖𝑒𝑠 𝑁𝑜𝑟𝑡ℎ 𝐴𝑢𝑠𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑙𝑖𝑎 to help out families in need Photo source: Mackay Basketball (Facebook)

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Who knew that cuteness could come with such a big personality? Chilee Hope Hong has officially been crowned Mackay Life’s Cutest Baby! With her strawberry blonde curls, sparkling blue eyes, and a charm that’s equally sweet and spicy – this little superstar has a way of winning over everyone she meets.

Born on September 6, 2024, Chilee is now six and a half months old and already ruling the household with her charm. Her three big brothers, Knox (10), Kash (7), and Jett (2), have been head over heels for her since the day she arrived.

“There is definitely never a dull moment in our household,” says her proud mum, Celeste.

So, what’s a day in the life of Mackay’s Cutest Baby like?

When she’s not being entertained by her brothers, she’s keeping up with the latest gossip in her mum’s home salon, watching The Wiggles with great enthusiasm, or supervising kitchen activities from her favourite perch on the bench. And let’s not forget cuddle time with Dad, where she happily sits on his lap while he works away on his computer.

With nicknames like Chilee Girl, Chils, Chil Chil, and even Chilee Pepper, it’s clear that this little lady was born to stand out.

“I don’t do traditional names, so Chilee was the perfect fit,” said Celeste, “Plus I’ve always loved the name, but I had to tweak the spelling.

“She really was that little bit of sweetness and spice our family was waiting for.”

Exciting milestones are just around the corner as Chilee has just cracked her first tooth and is getting ready to crawl any day now.

“She’s always giggling and chatting away, becoming more vocal by the day and doesn’t mind being carried around by whichever brother grabs her first,” Celeste said.

With a personality as vibrant as her name, Chilee Hong is the sweetest new addition to her family, lighting up every room with her beaming smile.

Mackay Life extends our greatest congratulations to little Chilee!

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Chilee already had charm after only a week earthside

Chilee at six weeks old

Chilee is a bright and bubbly six-month-old

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