Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Mackay father Phil Smith has been recognised on the state stage, receiving the Queensland New Volunteer Award for 2026 for his tireless work raising awareness around asbestos-related disease. Since the passing of his wife Leah in 2024, Mr Smith has devoted himself to advocacy and fundraising through Ride In Shorts For Leah, contributing more than 1,200 volunteer hours and raising over $42,000 to support education and prevention efforts. Leah, who was unknowingly exposed to asbestos in childhood, was diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma at 49 and passed away just over eight months later. Her story has since become the driving force behind Mr Smith’s public mission to warn others about the risks hidden in many Australian homes. Presented at Brisbane City Hall by the Governor of Queensland, the award recognises his ongoing commitment to community awareness and support. What began in the shadow of personal loss has grown into a wider campaign of education, remembrance and prevention, carried forward in Leah’s name. Mackay father Phil Smith has been awarded the Queensland New Volunteer Award for 2026 in recognition of his asbestos awareness advocacy and fundraising efforts inspired by the loss of his wife Leah. Photos supplied
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With nearly two decades at Blacks Real Estate, Peter Francis has built a reputation across Mackay for honest service, strong negotiation skills and consistent results. Joining the agency in 2008, Peter now serves as Director and Sales Consultant, helping vendors and buyers navigate the property market with a focus on professionalism and clear communication. Originally trained as a surveyor at the University of South Australia, Peter later transitioned into real estate, where he went on to achieve national and international recognition, including National Top 20 rankings on seven occasions and a Hall of Fame award during a previous role. Since moving to Mackay in 2004 with his wife Kylie and their family, Peter has become deeply involved in the local community, balancing a busy career with raising five children and contributing to school communities and the Mackay Chamber of Commerce. Known for his calm approach and ability to mediate between buyers and sellers, Peter said building trust with clients has always been central to his work. His long list of repeat clients and referrals reflects the strong relationships he has developed across the region over the years. Blacks Real Estate continues to operate from Wood Street in Mackay and Dysart Garden Plaza, servicing residential, commercial and rural clients across the region. CAPTION: Peter Francis, Director and Sales Consultant at Blacks Real Estate. Photo supplied
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We need to talk about something that happens far too often – black kittens are usually the last to be chosen. Yet they are often the very best companions. These kittens are not just “another kitten”. They are the ones who follow you from room to room like your shadow. Who climb into your lap and stay there. Who greet you at the door like a dog and want to be involved in everything you do. They don’t just live in your home – they become part of your everyday life. Our black kittens are incredibly affectionate – true lap cats who crave human connection. They are confident and curious, often the first to explore and investigate. Playful and cheeky, they are full of personality and mischief. They are also highly social. They will chat to you, respond to you and connect with you. Once they choose you, they are yours completely. And in real life, they are absolutely stunning – with glossy coats, striking eyes, and an elegant, sleek presence that photos simply don’t capture. If you have ever wanted a cat that truly bonds with you, that seeks you out and becomes your constant little companion, come and meet our black kittens. Because once you meet them, you will understand. To register your expression of interest, please contact foster carer Janet on 0423 768 805. Contributed by Mackay Pet Rescue Inc
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There’s a type of exhaustion many women carry that doesn’t disappear with a good night’s sleep. It’s not just physical tiredness. It’s the constant mental juggling. Remembering school events, organising appointments, replying to messages, planning meals, checking homework, thinking ahead, caring for ageing parents, supporting friends, managing work deadlines, and somehow trying to look after yourself somewhere in between. Even during moments of “rest,” many women describe feeling like their brain never truly switches off. This invisible load is something women carry every day, and over time, the body often carries it too. As a women’s and pelvic health physiotherapist, I often see women who come in with symptoms like pelvic pain, bladder urgency, tension, leaking, headaches, jaw clenching, shallow breathing, or a feeling that their body is constantly tight or “on edge.” Many are surprised to learn that stress and nervous system overload can play a significant role in how the body feels and functions. When we’re stressed for long periods, the body naturally shifts into a protective state. Muscles tighten, breathing becomes shallow, sleep can be disrupted, and the nervous system stays on high alert. It’s a helpful response in short bursts, but when the body stays in that heightened state for weeks, months, or years, symptoms can begin to appear. And the pelvic floor is particularly influenced by this. Many people think the pelvic floor only matters during pregnancy or after birth, but these muscles respond closely to stress, posture, breathing, and tension patterns throughout the entire body. Some women unknowingly hold tension through their pelvic floor all day long, almost like clenching their jaw without realising. Over time, this can contribute to discomfort, urgency, constipation, pain, or difficulty fully relaxing the muscles. What’s important to understand is that this does not mean the body is “broken.” Often, it’s a body that has been coping, adapting, and carrying a great deal for a long time. And while exercise and movement are incredibly important, healing isn’t always about pushing harder. Sometimes it’s about creating moments where the body feels safe enough to soften and let go. That might look like slowing your breathing for a few minutes while sitting in the car before school pick-up. Going for a walk without turning it into another task to complete. Stretching before bed. Asking for help. Resting without guilt. Learning how to relax your pelvic floor, not just strengthen it. Small moments matter. Women are often exceptionally good at caring for everyone else while quietly ignoring their own symptoms. But tension, fatigue, and overwhelm are not simply things to “push through” forever. The body has a way of asking for attention eventually. If your body feels tight, tired, or not quite like itself, it may be worth listening with curiosity rather than criticism. Support can make a meaningful difference, whether that’s through movement, stress management, pelvic health physiotherapy, or simply giving yourself permission to slow down occasionally. Because women were never meant to carry everything alone, and the body shouldn’t have to either.
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In a shellebration of conservation, Queensland Transport Minister Mark Bailey has given local turtles a fin-tastic win by expanding the protective boundaries of the Mackay Port to include the North Harbour Wall.
This flipper-friendly decision ensures that Mackay’s turtles will continue to nest and hatch in their coastal haven for generations to come.
Member for Mackay, Julieanne Gilbert, celebrates this decision as a triumph for the local community.
The Port of Mackay, Queensland's fourth largest, plays a pivotal role in servicing the region's mining and agricultural sectors, boasting one of the world's largest bulk sugar terminals.
In October 2022, the State Government began consultation on the master plan for the port, seeking input from the community about how the Port can further drive economic prosperity for central Queensland.
Over the 14 weeks, four community information sessions were held, with over 160 submissions received by the Transport and Main Roads Department.
In response to the community feedback received, the Queensland Government has taken action to protect a Queensland icon, the turtles of Mackay.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads Mark Bailey said that having travelled extensively in Mackay, speaking with the local member and the community, he heard how important it was to protect the turtles that nest and hatch along the North Harbor Wall of the Mackay Port.
“That is why I have added this area to the Port’s environmental protection zone, which will ensure the Mackay turtles have a safe place to call home for generations to come,” Minister Bailey said.
Assistant Minister for State Development and Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said that hundreds of turtles are known to nest and hatch along the North Harbor Wall of the Mackay Port.
“The master planning that is being done is an exciting opportunity for Mackay, bringing with it future development, jobs and prosperity for the Region,” Mrs Gilbert said.
“I am proud to be part of a government that balances the needs of our growing community, while also protecting our beautiful natural environment.
“That is why I welcome the Transport Minister’s decision to protect the Mackay turtles, including the nesting and hatching area in the Mackay Port’s environmental protection zone.”
Minister Bailey said in the coming months he would share future news about the Port of Mackay’s master plan.
Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert is celebrating the Transport Minister’s decision to include the North Harbour Wall of the Mackay Port in the environmental protection zone of the Port to protect local turtles
By Amanda Wright
Steering the course for enhanced healthcare in the region, a fresh chapter unfolds as a new six-member Board takes the helm of the Mackay Hospital and Health Service.
With a diverse array of expertise spanning emergency medicine, business, nursing, and law, these board members herald a promising era of leadership. Their appointment marks a decisive step following the dissolution of the previous Board in November 2022, signalling a renewed commitment to quality healthcare and community well-being.
Minister for Health, Mental Health and Ambulance Services and Minister for Women Shannon Fentiman has announced the new board, which will be led by Helen Darch OAM, an experienced board member in government and not-for-profit sectors.
Membership also includes highly respected emergency physician Associate Professor Dr Luke Lawton, and Head of Nursing and Midwifery at James Cook University Dr Maureen Chapman.
The new board, which will set the strategic direction and oversee the management of Mackay HHS, consists of:
• Helen Darch OAM (Chair)
More than 13 years of Board experience, including with Metro South HHS
• Kerry Maley (Deputy Chair)
A qualified Advanced Social Worker with over 25 years’ experience in community service delivery in the public and private sectors
• Dr Maureen Chapman
Based in Mackay, she completed a Bachelor of Nursing in the US in 1995 and also holds a Master of Nursing Studies and Education Doctorate
• Associate Professor Dr Luke Lawton
Formerly Director of Emergency Medicine at Townsville HHS, Dr Lawton’s experience includes serving as an independent expert witness providing opinions to state coroners’ courts, top tier national health panel defence firms, Crown law, and major plaintiff firms
• Dr Peter O’Mara
A General Practitioner specialising in Indigenous health. He is the past President of the Australian Indigenous Doctors Association
• William Cooper
Mr Cooper has strong governance, legal and finance and board experience across a range of Mackay based organisations and community groups and was named Mackay Citizen of the Year in 2005
Minister Fentiman said the appointment of the new Board is a crucial step forward in driving service improvements and cultural change within Mackay HHS.
“I’m pleased Mackay HHS has been able to attract such experienced, knowledgeable and well-respected people to the Board and I know they will make a positive impact,” she said.
The new board takes over from the Mackay HHS administrator Karen Roach, who was appointed in November 2022 following the dismissal of the previous board.
“I want to thank Karen Roach for her work as Mackay HHS administrator, which has been instrumental in ensuring appropriate governance is in place for the Mackay HHS,” Minister Fentiman said.
“Ms Roach will continue to help with the transition to the new Board as an adviser appointed under the Act for one month."
The establishment of the new Board follows the appointment in June of experienced health professional Susan Gannon as chief executive.
Minister Fentiman also said the new board and chief executive will play a critical role in overseeing the implementation of reforms stemming from the Mackay HHS’ obstetrics and gynaecology review.
A new Mackay Hospital and Health Service board will be led by Helen Darch OAM
Police are seeking the assistance of the public as they investigate a fatal house fire that claimed the lives of the sole owner-occupant and his two dogs.
Emergency services were called to a property on Grant Street at 6:30pm, Saturday, August 19, after neighbours reported flames coming from the building to triple zero.
The body of 59-year-old Mark Gallagher was located inside the destroyed dwelling over 24 hours later once the fire had been extinguished and the property was certified safe for police to investigate.
Mr Gallagher, an employee at a local club, lived at the property alone with his two dogs.
Police investigations have established that he finished work at around about 8:30am that morning and was sighted at IGA West Mackay at 9:30am.
“What police are asking for assistance with is anyone who may have had any contact or seen Mr Gallagher between the hours of 9:30am on Saturday morning and 6:30pm when that fire started,” said Detective Acting Inspector Chris Eaton.
Police believe the fire originated centrally in the dwelling and are awaiting forensic examination results to confirm the cause of the blaze.
“It’s an old Queenslander style house, so when those particular buildings are destroyed by fire, it’s quite difficult to establish and does take some time for our forensic people,” said Mr Eaton.
Mr Eaton said Mr Gallagher had lived in Mackay for some time and was well known in the community.
His next of kin, both locally and interstate, have been contacted.
“We’re really trying to establish, was he at home throughout the course of that day, had he been out, that will just narrow down our time frame and hopefully assist our investigators.”
If you have any information regarding Mr Gallagher, contact Policelink at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or Crime Stoppers at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au or call 1800 333 000.
Quote this reference number: QP2301377124.
A Grant Street property was destroyed by fire last weekend, claiming the lives of 59-year-old Mark Gallagher and his two dogs
Detective Acting Inspector Chris Eaton is calling on members of the public for information. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie
With a passion for client satisfaction, Kate Paton has developed a varied and successful career with Inspire Accounting and Business Services, recently being announced as the firm’s newest Director.
Kate joined the Inspire team over ten years ago, starting as a trainee accountant straight out of school.
Now, at 28-years-old, she is the firm’s youngest Director and has become a driving force, a beacon of inspiration within the firm.
“My team at Inspire are like my family,” Kate said, reflecting on the last decade fondly.
“The development they’ve given me, I don’t think I would’ve got anywhere else, and I wouldn’t have progressed so quickly anywhere else.”
With two children under three years of age, Charlotte and Luke, Kate’s work-life balance is a busy one, but she said she couldn’t do it without the support of her husband, Lochlan, her parents, and the rest of her network.
“I’ve got a big support team, my husband, my parents, everyone who helps out, who I wouldn’t be here without,” she said.
Managing over 150 clients throughout the region, Kate has a talent for mentoring medium to large sized businesses, with expertise in strategic planning and coaching.
She genuinely cares about her clients and wants to help them succeed both professionally and personally, saying the most common issue she sees is clients not getting their accountant involved early enough.
“What we try and drill into our clients is if they’re ever going to do anything or they think there’s a problem, we’re just a phone call away and we’ll try and get on the front foot,” she said.
Contact Inspire Accounting and Business Services on 07 4914 2400 to learn more about their services.
Inspire Accounting and Business Services Director Kate Paton
The stage is set for a celebration of our region’s industry movers and shakers as the finalists of the 2023 Resource Industry Network (RIN) Awards step into the spotlight.
With keen eyes and careful consideration, the judging panel has unveiled an impressive lineup of 17 finalists spanning seven categories. These awards stand as a testament to the unwavering dedication of the local resources services sector and its intricate supply chain.
The Mackay-Isaac-Whitsunday region proudly houses a dynamic METS hub, and the RIN Awards stand as a grand salute to the outstanding contributions that keep the industry, the community, and the region thriving.
As anticipation mounts, the RIN Awards Gala Dinner, slated for September 1st at the MECC, promises an exceptional evening to honour and applaud the individuals and businesses that make our region soar.
The 2023 RIN Awards finalists in each of the seven categories are:
Safety Foremost Award (sponsored by Diacon Australia)
• Aurizon
• Ausgroup Industrial Services (QLD) Pty Ltd
• QCCS Pty Ltd
Connecting in the Community Award (sponsored by Local Buying Foundation)
• Wisely Group
• Field Mining Services Group
• BOQ Mackay
Manufacturing Excellence Award (sponsored by Queensland Manufacturing Hubs Program)
• Torque Enterprises
• Linked Group
• Field Engineers
Standing Out from the Crowd Award (sponsored by Onsite Training Australia)
• Melissa Egan – BOQ Mackay
• Charlotte Nash-Stewart – Field Engineers
• Joseph ‘Joey’ Lewis – Sojitz Blue
Striving for Diversity Award (sponsored by BHP Mitsubishi Alliance)
• Intelics
Champion Culture Award (sponsored by Field Mining Services Group)
• Wisely Group
• Mackay Sugar
• Vex Engineering
Innovation for Export Award (sponsored by Trade & Investment Qld)
• Village National
The finalists reflect a broad range of initiatives around innovation, manufacturing, diversity, community, culture, safety, and individual excellence.
“As an organisation that represents the resources services and manufacturing sectors, we value the effort it takes to submit nominations and we wish everyone the best of luck on the awards night,” Resource Industry Network general manager Dean Kirkwood said.
RIN has secured media personality, journalist, and broadcaster Tony Squires as the keynote speaker for the gala dinner, with comedian Kat Davidson as emcee.
Mackay and District National Servicemen’s Association has donated a massive $17,000 to seven local charities.
The National Servicemen Association of Australia (NSAA) Mackay and District Branch was formed in Mackay in 1996, with 40 former National Servicemen in membership, who were a part of the 1951-1959 National Service Scheme and the 1964-1972 National Service Act.
On Tuesday this week, the NSAA Mackay and District donated $17,000 for local charities, with CQ Helicopter Rescue receiving $5,000, while Meals on Wheels Mackay, Ronald McDonald House Centre, Prostrate Cancer Support Group, St Vinnies Men’s Hostel Mackay, Salvation Army Mackay Corps, and Domestic Violence Resources Services Mackay all receiving $2,000 each.
These donations ensure the continued work of these organisations to the support local Mackay and District residents.
To learn more about the NSAA Mackay and District Branch, contact the Branch on priestfam1937@spin.net.au
The NSAA Mackay and District gifting their donations to seven charities. Photo supplied
Centenarian and Order of Australia Medal recipient, Allan Quartermaine, has encouraged the community to get behind the 81st annual Legacy Week, happening from August 27 to September 2.
As 2023 commemorates a century of Legacy Australia, the former Legacy Mackay President remains a beacon of unwavering support for Legacy Week, an enduring national initiative established in 1942.
The week-long event galvanizes vital funds to underpin Legacy’s mission: caring for the families of Australia’s dedicated service personnel.
Rooted in a promise forged among diggers during WWI to protect and support one another's families, Legacy and its dedicated volunteers, known as Legatees, have upheld this vow for generations.
A living embodiment that age is merely a number, Mr Quartermaine is a staunch advocate for the cause, rallying the community to contribute to Legacy Week's impact.
Over six decades, he has tirelessly championed Legacy's cause, leaving an indelible mark on roles such as Secretary and Chairman of Legacy Sunshine Coast, Trustee of Legacy Brisbane, and President of Legacy Mackay.
Allan's commitment as the organization's longest-serving Legatee endures, as he lends his insights as a consultant to the present management committee.
Allan's journey of service began early, enlisting in the Royal Australian Navy at a tender age of 17.
His responsibilities encompassed perilous minesweeping duties in the Pacific during WW2 before, post-war, his focus pivoted towards community service.
Yet, it's his dedicated work with Legacy that he deems the pinnacle of his contributions.
Legatees and volunteers will be selling badges and other memorabilia at stalls across Caneland Central, Parkside Plaza, Marian, Proserpine and Sarina from August 27 to September 2.
Centenarian, Order of Australia Medal recipient and former Legacy Mackay President Allan Quartermaine. Photo supplied
From much-needed community facilities and retail projects to beautiful family homes and seaside abodes, the Master Builders Mackay & Whitsunday 2023 Housing & Construction Awards showed off craftsmanship and stylish detail in construction.
The best of the best in the building and construction industry were celebrated at the Awards held at the Mackay Convention Centre on Saturday, 12 August.
Fergus Builders dominated the Construction Awards, scooping a third of the awards on offer by taking out the Community Accommodation for Specialist Disability, Aged Care and Nursing Homes, Commercial/Industrial Building from $5 million up to $10 million and Commercial fitout up to $5 million categories. Fergus also won two Housing awards to take its grand total to five, winning the Display Home over $550,000 and Best Use of Steel Frame Housing categories.
Michelle Thompson from Porters Glass & Aluminium was awarded the Women in Building title.
Morris Constructions snapped up the prestigious House of the Year Award for the coastal luxury home, The Coral Sea House.
Paynters delivered a landmark project with the Great Barrier Reef Arena in Mackay, winning them the McInnes Wilson Lawyers Project of the Year, as well as the Best Sporting Facility Award.
Dixon Homes took out the Individual Home from $500,000 up to $750,000 for its Sugarfield Residence in Ooralea.
Master Builders Mackay & Whitsunday Regional Manager, Malcolm Hull congratulated the winners across all 28 categories.
“The spirit of achievement, dedication and exceptional quality of workmanship has inspired our 2023 Housing & Construction Awards program – Shining Bright. This year's projects prove our members are truly innovative and dedicated to building the best for the region.
“This year’s field is diverse, from stunning renovations and beautiful new builds to important community facilities like the TAFE Agricultural Centre and Great Barrier Reef Arena – there’s really nothing Master Builders can’t accomplish.
“It doesn't matter whether they've taken an Award home this year or not. Each of our 2023 entrants is a part of the Master Builders family and helps cement why we're so widely trusted and respected," he said.
BUSSQ Building Super President's Award – Lowcock Builders for Queens Bay Home (Bowen)
McInnes Wilson Lawyers Project of the Year – Paynters for Great Barrier Reef Arena (Mackay)
House of the Year – Morris Constructions QLD for The Coral Sea House (Airlie Beach)
Building the dreams of clients is what has kept Fergus Builders going from strength to strength over their illustrious 40-year history.
Taking pride in designing and delivering high-quality new homes as well as commercial and industrial premises for Mackay and surrounding districts, Fergus Builders’ dedication was recognised at the recent Master Builders Housing & Construction Awards, receiving a massive five awards for the Mackay & Whitsunday regions.
Each accolade clearly highlights Fergus’ diverse capabilities on a wide variety of projects, whether it be display homes, community accommodation or industrial facilities.
A highlight of the evening came from receiving the Display Home over $550,000 award for ‘Palmview’, located in Beaconsfield.
The build was carefully designed to incorporate Accessible Housing requirements and Fergus is proud to showcase the final product.
‘Palmview’ is a homely, generously proportioned and positioned house, with the finishes of the display home proof that Fergus take pride in attention to detail and quality workmanship.
Fergus are frequent contributors to the patchwork of Mackay’s urban expanse, their craftmanship on the South Mackay Community Home project receiving Best Use of Steel Frame Housing and Community Accommodation for Specialist Disability, Aged Care and Nursing Homes awards.
The construction of the home adhered to strict guidelines for disability access that was inspected and approved at design, rough-in and final stages.
A unique challenge then came in the form of the Jaws Facility in Paget, for which Fergus was awarded the Commercial/Industrial Building from $5 million up to $10 million award.
Being over 18 meters from ground level to gutter height, the facility is now one of the highest industrial sheds in Paget.
The height coupled with the proximity of the building to rear and side boundaries meant Fergus Builders had to work closely with the neighbouring premises for access when installing wall sheeting and roof drainage to the factory but, with the support of local suppliers and trades, Fergus Builders were able to deliver this project on time and within the client’s budget.
Fergus’ versatility was again showcased through receiving the award for Commercial fit out up to $5 million.
The timeline of the project was critical to allow the client sufficient time to move out of their current premises and into the new office space by a fixed date.
Throughout the project, Fergus Builders were able to facilitate several design and material changes that allowed the project to be completed on time and offer cost savings to the client without taking away from the design intent of the project.
Fergus Builders has been part of the prestigious Master Builders Awards since 2008 and prove their versatility and dedication year on year.
Celebrating 40 years in 2023, Fergus Builders continually proves itself as a leader in providing buildings of high quality, innovative design, and superb value.
Display Home over $550,000 – Fergus Builders for Palmview (Mackay)
Best Use of Steel Frame Housing – Fergus Builders for South Mackay Community Home (Mackay)
Community Accommodation for Specialist Disability, Aged Care and Nursing Homes – Fergus Builders for South Mackay Community Home (Mackay)
Commercial/Industrial Building from $5 million up to $10 million – Fergus Builders for Jaws Industrial Facility (Paget)
Commercial fit out up to $5 million – Fergus Builders for Mackay Office Fit Out (Mackay)
Fergus Builders received five awards at the recent Master Builders Mackay & Whitsunday Housing & Construction Awards
Mackay Regional Council's free native plant program gives ratepayers the opportunity to add a native touch to their gardens with the ability to receive up to four free plants of their choice per year.
For those in a rural locality, it’s a good opportunity to get top value locally native plants for your creeklines and windbreak areas.
Simply come along to the Mackay Natural Environment Centre at 6 Swayne Street, North Mackay and bring your rate notice and a bag/box to take your plants home.
Open days:
Friday, August 25, 9am to 3pm
Saturday, August 26, 9am to 12pm
Extra plants can be purchased for $3 each (eftpos only) by ratepayers and non-ratepayers.
2023 is already a year dotted with highlights for the Porters Group, as the local family-owned hardware business celebrates 140 years, and Michelle Thompson has just added to the rich tapestry of family history.
A member of the Porter family, Michelle is the Commercial Estimator in the Glass and Aluminium Division, and recently received the Women in Building Award at the Master Builders Mackay & Whitsunday Housing & Construction Awards.
“It’s a really nice honour to be recognised,” Michelle said.
“There are so many women coming through in this industry.
“It’s encouraging to see women in construction across various roles, so it’s really nice to be acknowledged for the part that I’m playing.”
Michelle’s role involves quoting new jobs and following them through the manufacturing stage all the way to installation.
With a willingness to grow and learn within the business, she has earnt the respect of her customers, colleagues, and industry professionals through a focus on building relationships and following things through to ensure positive outcomes.
Michelle’s role comes with variety, collaboration, and innovation, and she loves what she does.
“We can work on anything from day care centres to schools to retail, so no two jobs are the same,” Michelle said.
“Some are smaller, some are bigger, and we work with various different builders locally and from out of town.
“I don’t do my job on my own, I’ve got a really great team that I work with so that makes it easier to do my job.”
Find out more about the Porters Group at www.porterscando.com.au.
Michelle Thompson received the Women in Building Award at the Master Builders Mackay & Whitsunday Housing & Construction Awards. Photo supplied
Dixon Homes is very proud to receive the 2023 Master Builders Mackay & Whitsunday Housing & Construction Award for Best Individual Home from $500,000 up to $750,000. This award and our many other awards in previous years (including Best Display Home, Best Renovation, and other individual home category awards) is testimony to Dixon Homes’ ability to be versatile, on trend and accommodating.
Our team worked tirelessly with our client to design and create this truly beautiful custom designed home, focusing primarily on storage and space for a young family whose desire was to build their forever home. Particular attention was concentrated on materials and products that would have an everlasting appeal and durability. Most importantly, the home was designed to suit our Queensland climate, with the southward facing alfresco which opens up entirely through corner stacking doors to the internal living/kitchen/dining area. The high raked ceilings with fixed windows on the higher points allow plenty of natural light into the living space. Large openings to the bedroom wing of the home and to the media room add to the spacious outcome. There is definitely no shortage of storage throughout the home with large walk-in robes to the children’s bedrooms and massive his & hers robes for the master. The walk-in linen is a bonus along with storage both in media and the children’s retreat. The kitchen and butler’s pantry are what most women dream of with functionality, open to the living area, plenty of light and the centrepiece of the home. A perfect combination of Polytec Woodmatt finish, laminate and stone that are complimented by matt black trimmings.
Alpine Grigio Lappato Tiles were the durable choice of flooring in the entry and living areas with a cosier choice of carpet for the bedrooms and media. Allowing more light and maintaining the on trend look, this house welcomes you with a fully glazed aluminium front entry door.
Although a franchise, Dixon Homes are and have been a family owned and managed construction company in Mackay since 2003. We are proudly debt fee and are quality assured with ISO.9001:2015 management systems for home design and construction.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank Master Builders Queensland, the judges and all the Dixon Homes staff, subcontractors, and suppliers for helping us to achieve this award.
Sugarfield Residence
Oncology nurse and clinical trials coordinator Carli Shaw has cared for hundreds of people in our community during their cancer journeys.
She understands the physical toll the disease takes on not only patients but their families.
What she didn’t understand and wanted to know more about was the impact of what is commonly called ‘brain fog’ or ‘chemo brain’ so she has spent the past four years researching this hidden affliction.
“I’d see all the patients with ‘chemo fog’ and be hearing things like ‘I tell my kids the same things 15 times and now they don’t listen to me’,” Carli said.
“I posed the research question ‘How does cancer-related cognitive impairment after chemotherapy impact daily life?’”
Carli was recently recognised for her efforts, with her paper taking out a top award at the 25th Cancer Nurses Society of Australia (CNSA) Annual Congress in Adelaide in June.
Her research involved interviews with participants from across Australia.
“Cancer patients are trying to figure out who they are, after this shock,” Carli said.
“As a normal individual before cancer, you know who you are.
“Then cancer comes in and you’ve instantly got this brand-new identity that knows nothing.”
While forgetfulness was one of the effects of brain fog, it was just one part of the story.
“Participants have said that they're now the child and their kids are the parents,” Carli said.
“They’re spoken down to because they’re forgetting or getting mixed up with appointments and things.
“Nearly everybody described needing to change their profession or change roles within their profession because they think they couldn’t cope with the cognitive load going back to work.
“And because it's an invisible symptom, they felt the need to justify it or wondering whether they're making it up.
“And it's not something we can do a test on and say yes, this is what it is.”
Though there’s no consensus on what causes ‘brain fog’ Carli said that seeking to recognise and understand the issue was beneficial.
“I thought it was going to be really easy to answer,” Carli said.
“Although this is known, it’s a new area of study and I think it’s the formalisation of what is happening for patients.
“Every participant thanked me for being able to share their story. Quite a few said it had been really cathartic.
“I found it really challenging to hear some of these stories.”
The next step for Carli is to complete her doctorate on the subject and produce a 100,000-word thesis.
“Essentially it will be a case of now here’s the problem, how do we fix it?” Carli said.
Carli was also nominated for a People’s Choice award at the recent Mackay HHS staff recognition event.
Contributed by Mackay Hospital and Health Service.
Carli Shaw has been recognised for standout chemotherapy research
Carli has completed hundreds of interviews with cancer patients, to tackle ‘chemo brain’. Photos supplied
Pioneer Valley’s longest-established educational institution Eton State School celebrated its 140th anniversary in style last weekend, demonstrating that while it may be small in size, it’s big in heart and heritage.
A large gathering of 250 including former pupils from bygone eras and their families flocked to the historic landmark to mark the school’s important milestone.
Visitors basked in the brilliant winter’s sunshine as they took a trip down memory lane – enjoying a school tour, time capsule, performances from current pupils, a fascinating memorabilia room display, cake cutting and delicious afternoon tea and dinner.
Cake cutting featured members of the Burgess and Sutton families who can boast five generations at the school.
Samuel Levi Edward Sutton – known as Ted – was a pupil in the original Eton State School class followed by Edward Thomas ‘Eddie’ Sutton; Leslie Robert ‘Bob’ Sutton; Emily Jane Lette; Sienna Jane Lette and Maggie Jade Lette.
The Burgess family features Madeline Butt (nee Larson), Iris Frease, Margaret Burgess, Nathan Burgess, Justin Burgess, Heath Burgess, Owen Burgess and Rylen Burgess.
Eton State School opened on August 20 back in 1883 with an enrolment of fifty students.
Through the years, the school has remained on the same site.
The school stands as part of a family orientated community with strong beliefs in the role and purpose of education that the school has provided to many students over the years.
It is evident that the community holds the school in high regard with generation after generation of families attending for an education rich in old school values and academic results.
Currently the school has 24 pupils.
Last Saturday’s event proved a resounding success – thanks to the tireless work behind the scenes of a highly efficient organising committee led by School Principal Noel Reynolds, P & C president Shane Cook, treasurer Ellen Cook, Claire Cook, Emily Lette, Kate Mann, Kay Thornton, Ronda Williamson, Margaret Burgess, Joan Ruffell, Ann Lutz and Tamara Cole.
Photo credit: Chris Karas
This sounds like a cliché, but I reckon Father’s Day is every day. I love having kids and being a dad.
Sure, at times they give me the “you know whats”, I wish they would stay away from screens more, and actually listen better … or at all.
Being a dad gives you the excuse of being able to make funny noises and blame it on pets and other people. You can pull a jumper over your head and tell the kids they can’t see you – other dumb stuff like that, just to make your little people laugh.
Moving towards teen years as we currently are, is providing challenges though, the access to online games, purchasing a Nintendo, and YouTube channels have taken over our lives. Switch them off for a few hours and the kids go crazy, but when you tell them 18 months ago you had no Nintendo or laptop, and you managed to find something to do, they seem to forget those days.
And parents, just wondering, is anyone else not a huge fan of pretty much all school work and homework being computer based?
It’s so easy for the kids to have another tab open, that when you walk away, for another window to be opened up, and instead of doing their English homework they’re actually watching Mr Beast give away hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Whatever you do for Father’s Day, whether it’s breakfast in bed, a BBQ, fishing in the boat or just mowing the lawn so you get time to yourself, make sure you enjoy it.
Scotty
Catch the Star breakfast show - Scotty and Rach with Kaley - from 5am, Daytimes with Johnny, Will & Woody from 5pm and the Kyle and Jackie-o Hour of Power from 7pm every weekday!
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