Joh McCloy

Boho on the Go

Joh McCloy and her daughter Trephina are a business dream team. Joh owns Boho on the Go, providing clients with meticulously crafted picnic and event experience, styled by Stylist Trephina. Boho on the Go was established in 2018 with a vision to offer a one stop shop that can cater for any event from a minimum of two people to large groups. They take the stress out of event planning, so all you need to do is turn up.

“We are passionate about what we do and bringing a smile to our customers faces is what makes us happy and keeps the business growing,” Joh said. “To transform our customers vision and bring it to life is what we do. We pride ourselves on offering a high standard of customer service with attention to detail and we think about the little things. We create everlasting memories for our clients.”

Joh is the one who will liaise with the clients to organise the event, the venue, platters or food (with the help of other local businesses) and anything else the client may need. She keeps the paperwork in order, updates the spreadsheets, handles customer feedback and makes event run sheets and then it’s over to Trephina, who creates the style based on the communication between Joh and the client and brings their vision to life.

“We both believe in great customer service,” said Joh. “All our clients know they will get value for money, quality hired goods and attention to detail.”

Joh’s clear communication and strong organisational skills help her in business and in life. She juggles Boho on the Go with working casually as a Registered Nurse and being a hands-on Nana to three grandchildren. Her and her husband are avid Harley Davidson riders and retired musicians, performing around the Mackay region as Raw Jam until last year. Joh’s passions are felt throughout her life, no matter where she is or what she’s doing.

Maree Franettovich

founder of CareerForce Australia

Maree Franettovich is the founder of CareerForce Australia, a local business that creates opportunities for individuals and businesses to further grow and develop, in alignment with their purpose. Whether you’re an individual returning to the workforce, starting your career or wanting to progress – they are your personal career guide. This includes from students to executives, both men and women, who are seeking support to navigate their career path. For businesses, if your organisation could benefit from developing your team’s potential and improved business structure, their aim is to give you the support you need as well.

Maree has a longstanding professional interest in regional capacity building, with a passion for business and people. Having applied her professional expertise across a diverse range of industries, including education, federal parliament, tourism, finance, health, agribusiness, recruitment, career development, transport and logistics, Maree is a highly sought-after consultant and board member.

Under the banner of CareerForce Australia, Maree spearheaded Leading Effective Action Program for Women in Regional Queensland (LEAP WRQ) – an initiative to highlight career opportunities for women in Bowen, Clermont and Biloela. Through place-based activities, the program showcases local opportunities and creates positive confidence-building experiences for women who don’t always see themselves with the required skills to achieve the career they want.

The goals for LEAP WRQ are to:

● Develop personal skills and capacities for employment readiness.

● Identify local leaders already present but potentially not recognised.

● Build local networks and create opportunities for work readiness activities.

● Provide tools and opportunities for participants to build connections that work for them.

Nearing completion, LEAP WRQ is well on its way to achieving these goals – thanks to a high level of engagement in these initial communities. Building on this pilot program, Maree intends to broaden the reach of LEAP WRQ to further impact regional communities looking for leadership building and professional development – offering a personalised approach to career guidance.

“Given the right tools, living in a regional area does not need to limit anyone’s opportunities. In fact, as well as having an enviable lifestyle, regional living can lead to even greater opportunities for those who have guidance and ambition on their side.”

Katrina Burt

Cherish Hampers & Gifts

Cherish Hampers & Gifts just celebrated its first birthday last month, and Katrina is proud of how far her business has come through working tirelessly to build strong relationships with local artisans and entrepreneurs.

Katrina works with numerous small businesses to fill her hampers with a diverse and unique range of products. She values the time, skills and passion that goes into her range of quality made stock.

"We have made it easy for customers to create their own hamper on our website. We work closely with them and keep them up to date at every stage of their order,” Katrina said.

Katrina wears many hats in her business, from packer to dispatcher and delivery driver. Her passion for gift-giving comes from her love of making someone's day.

As she explains, "Gratification in my career is knowing that I have helped make someone smile that day.

“I love helping my customers create the perfect gift for their loved one and I especially love delivering those items!"

Katrina is proud to be a woman in business, in a society which has grown to value the work women do in and outside the workplace.

“I am extremely proud of what I have been able to achieve so far with the support of so many others in our region,” she said.

“I am lucky enough to be surrounded by so many kind, hardworking and fearless women and I truly believe we can do anything we set our minds to.

“That being said I am also very lucky to have a supportive husband who has backed me through this entire process.”

Katrina loves seeing the joy that gift-giving brings to people. She also manages to balance her home life with her work, attending her little one's school events while running a successful business.

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Krystelle Lemm

Owner

Rise Up Therapy Support

Unlocking the hidden potential of every child is a lofty goal, but Rise Up Therapy Support is on a mission to do just that.

With a unique approach to Allied Health Services, business owner, Krystelle Lemm, believes that incorporating all therapies into her sessions is the key to unlocking a child's abilities. Her passion for "learn through play" is contagious and her sessions are known for being engaging and fun.

As a mother of three daughters, including one with additional needs, Krystelle understands the challenges parents face when finding services, attending therapies, and applying for NDIS. Despite the difficulties, she finds joy in helping children achieve their goals and watching their faces light up with newfound confidence.

"I touch base with the child's therapists, parents and teachers and plan my sessions to incorporate all the child's needs,” Krystelle said.

As an Allied Health Assistant, Krystelle follows her clients' Speech and Occupational Therapists' plans to help them achieve their goals. For her, the most fulfilling part of her job is seeing the children she works with reach their goals, no matter how big or small.

"Helping children reach their goals, no matter how small or big, it makes me feel so proud,” she said.

“When I have a parent message me to say their child read in front of the classroom for the first time or made a new friend, these are the things that make my heart melt!", she exclaimed.

Krystelle wants to be a role model for her daughters and show them that hard work can achieve anything.

"Showing them the only limitations we have, are ourselves", she said. Krystelle's mother's example of running her own business and raising seven children taught her the value of hard work and perseverance.

Balancing business with home life, Krystelle considers herself fortunate to be able to do what she is passionate about while being there for her children.

"Choose a job you love and you'll never work a day in your life!”

Jennifer Hickey

Tax Store Mackay

Having navigated the ebbs and flows of business herself, Jennifer Hickey has intimate knowledge of the business world, the struggles involved, and how and where to find the wins. As the owner of Tax Store Mackay, Jennifer brings 40 years of experience to a role that allows her to share her knowledge and assist those traversing the business world themselves.

“Financial stress can relate to up to 80% of people’s mental health and how they are feeling emotionally,” Jennifer said. “We want to assist in improving our clients’ emotional health and wellbeing by sorting out their finances, and making sure everything is covered. Then they get back to doing what they do best and that’s their business and time to spend with their families.”

Jennifer has a passion for people and helping them find the balance through automation and efficiency, creating time and peace of mind.

“For me it’s important to be able to invest my knowledge into other’s businesses so they don’t have to struggle like I have in my life to get to this point,” she said. “I aspire to empower and support other business owners as a woman. To give that gift would be a wonderful legacy to have.”

Tax Store Mackay has a holistic approach to their clients, where it’s not just about the numbers. With one-ledger accounting allowing for easy access to accounts and data files, five-minutes-free meetings and the client’s choice of accounting software, Tax Store Mackay has an absolute focus on the client’s needs and goals. Their systems are streamlined, automated and efficient, meaning clients know exactly what to expect and when to expect it, saving time and money. Jennifer says reaching business and career goals is important but a healthy personal life will make that more manageable.

“It’s taken me a long time to prioritise myself,” she said. “I didn’t do it for a long time, so if I can help any business owner realise that sooner their life will be so much better.”

Lauren Neill

Pelvic Floor and Women’s Health Physiotherapist

Women's Health Physio Mackay

As the only Titled Continence and Women’s Health Physiotherapist in the Mackay and Whitsunday region, Lauren Neill is committed to her profession and loves what she does.

She is no stranger to the power of movement and its effect on the female body. Her passion lies in helping women through their pregnancy, postnatal, and pelvic health journey. At Women's Health Physio Mackay, Lauren applies her unique knowledge to empower women to get back to normal function, whether that be day-to-day activities or sports they enjoy.

"I love seeing women improve and surpass their health outcomes,” Lauren said.

“At times, I assist women that are at their wits end with the condition or living with symptoms that they feel too embarrassed to talk to even their GP about, and witnessing the turnaround is a great privilege in my role."

As a woman in business, Lauren believes empowerment means supporting, uplifting, and helping women be the best version of themselves.

“Whether that's a fellow businesswoman, a patient, or a friend, being there alongside them and seeing growth is exciting and rewarding. It's what gets me out of bed each day."

As the first Masters qualified and Titled Women's and Pelvic Health Physio in the Mackay and Whitsunday region, Lauren has a unique set of skills that enable her to provide highly specific care to her patients, and, her thirst for knowledge didn't end there. Lauren decided to become a Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) to further help women through their breastfeeding career.

As a mum to two boys, Lauren acknowledges the impact of the juggle between her personal and professional life.

“Work-life balance is so important as it allows me to be the best therapist at work but also the best mum and wife for my family. It's a tough balance, one I'm still learning to juggle and manage, but I love my two jobs, mum and women's health physio!"

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Rhonda Muller

Nutritional Therapist

ASD Healthy Life

Nourishing the body and mind through a holistic approach is the driving force behind the mission of ASD Healthy Life, a nutrient-focused business founded by Nutritional Therapist, Rhonda Muller. Her 13-year career provides a holistic approach to healthcare and wellness that offers families a wide range of family health and developmental solutions.

Rhonda’s business supports mental health, paediatric special needs, gut health and premature ageing. With her expertise, she delves beyond the symptoms and focuses on the root cause of her clients' concerns, addressing the 'why' to find long-lasting solutions.

“Nutrient therapy is about getting the foundation right; dietary, functional testing, supplementation and activation.  When we create a strong foundation, people start to see and feel real results,” she said.

“I especially love working with young families who are passionate, open and coachable,” Rhonda said.  

“When given the right information, tools and strategies, young children can experience fast results.  It fills my heart when families come to me with a child who is non-verbal, or struggling with behaviour, has skin concerns, or perhaps a very picky eater, to find them thriving only a few weeks to months later.”

Rhonda's point of difference lies in her first-hand experience, which she combines with a professional approach to offer a comprehensive solution beyond the prevailing symptoms.

"When working with new clients, I always address the 'Why?' as I believe it's the only way to get to the root cause," explains Rhonda.

Rhonda's passion for education and helping women overcome burnout, ageing and discomfort propelled her forward.

"The message I needed to share was way bigger than me," Rhonda recalls. "I found my purpose in life...I don't want any other woman or family to go through the same journey I went through."

Unlock the potential of your family's health and well-being with Rhonda Muller and ASD Healthy Life's holistic approach - nourish your mind, body, and soul to thrive, not just survive!

Go to www.asdhealthylife.com.au to schedule your free 30-minute initial zoom consultation.

You are not alone.

Dr Dee Middendorp-Hacking

Bay Massage & Homeopathy

Dr Dee Middendorp-Hacking describes herself as a unique practitioner. At her Peel Street Clinic, she offers Homeopathic Medicine, Injury Management Bodywork, FLIR IR Diagnostics, Natural Therapies, Massage Courses and 1:1 Coaching. But her expertise extends much further than that.

“I love that I can pool all my varied skill sets to offer inspiration, health rectification and transformation to others,” Dee said. “I assist people to step into their superpowers. That's what I love. I ‘fix people’ with my bare hands – magic hands Dr. Dee, my long list of clients call me.”

Dee has been practising in Mackay for 17 years and practising healthcare for over 30. She has a legion of loyal clients who describe her as “one special lady with awesome energy and a nature of nurture”, and “a real one-stop shop for Alternative Medicine that gets results!” She puts passion and empathy into everything she does, knowing that ‘Health is Wealth’.

One of her most recent projects of passion is her upcoming book series, ‘The New Rules of Wellness’, spotlighting Healing and Wellness modalities from a wide cross-section of health experts, practitioners and business owners who lead from the heart, offering them a chance to shine in their super unique inspirational stories. Dee hopes to involve many Mackay authors and practitioners and is inviting those who are interested to get in touch.

Dee is a proud, passionate woman and business owner whose varied hobbies include oil painting, travel, sharing gratitude cards with those closest to her and swimming like a mermaid, literally. She says women in business need to be celebrated.

“Life is tough, but so are they!” she said.  “Behind every woman in business are brave decisions, tireless efforts and the aura of never giving up on themselves. A mentor told me, ‘The only way to achieve one's success is to be willing to help somebody else to their own health and success’. This resonates with me, and I too follow this mantra daily.”

Margaret Dingle

Deluxe Wheelie Wash

Deluxe Wheelie Wash isn't just any ordinary bin cleaning service. It's an environmentally friendly, professional and reliable company that takes pride in leaving every inch of your domestic or commercial wheelie bin sparkling clean. As Margaret Dingle, the owner and manager of Deluxe Wheelie Wash, puts it, "Gotta love hygienically clean, fresh smelling Wheelie Bins.

“Not Just Clean - Wheelie Clean."

Margaret is a multitasking powerhouse. She handles everything from scheduling routes and providing quotes to wearing her hi-vis work clothes and boots to professionally clean her clients' wheelie bins.

"I am the first point of contact receiving bookings and queries, accounts, payroll, scheduling routes for other employees’ day to day jobs, quoting and measuring for large quantity bin cleans and driveway, patio and pool area cleans," Margaret says.

Being a successful woman in business is something Margaret takes great pride in.

"I feel if you have the drive to succeed in any business, you can, by working hard, constantly learning, and educating those around you," she says. Surrounding herself with other successful women who encourage and inspire each other is something that has helped her business flourish.

When she's not busy running Deluxe Wheelie Wash, Margaret enjoys spending time on her boat, fishing, camping, and hiking.

"Another reason why I love our environmentally friendly products so much is that we are not harming the waterways and marine life," she explains.

Deluxe Wheelie Wash is a shining example of a business that knows how to take out the trash! Margaret and her team have a bin-credible knack for providing top-notch cleaning services while keeping it green. Their dedication to cleaning up the environment is truly inspiring - they don't just clean bins, they also ensure that waste and waste water are properly disposed of.

Let Deluxe Wheelie Wash roll up and clean up the mess, one wheelie bin at a time!

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Lucinda Carr and Lisa Brinkies

Mackay Mobile Vets

Getting your pet to the vet for regular check-ups can sometimes prove a difficult or untimely task. The unique mobile service of Mackay Mobile Vets reduces stress for both pets and their owners by providing care in the comfort of their own homes. This allows pet owners to continue with their daily routines while ensuring their furry friends receive top-quality healthcare. With over 25 years of combined experience, you can trust that Dr Lucinda Carr and Dr Lisa Brinkies will work with you to make the best plan for your animal family.

“We reduce stress for both you and your pet by avoiding crying cats in the car, cat boxes and dogs who don’t like the waiting room or other dogs,” said Lucinda. “By coming to your home, you can continue working, let your baby sleep, or do the household chores whilst we ensure your pet gets the care they need.”

Mackay Mobile Vets offers vaccinations, end-of-life care, microchipping, laboratory testing, management of skin disease and arthritis, and conditions you would visit your own GP for. As women in business, Dr Lucinda and Dr Lisa take pride in their ability to create communities and help people. They draw inspiration from a close circle of female friends who are in business, supporting and encouraging each other to take risks and make a positive impact in their respective fields.

“Women empowerment to us means women supporting other women through words and actions and building each other up to better all involved,” said Lucinda.

For Lucinda, her hobbies in baking cakes, interior design and creating Canva designs allow her to tap into her creative side and lose all sense of time. Lisa, on the other hand, would have pursued a career as a Medical Lawyer if not for her love of animals. She thrives on rules, facts, science and Excel documents, which helps her stay organized and focused on both her busy family and her career. Together, they are proof that women can break barriers and make a difference in any field they choose.

Nadine Becker

Ella Bache Mackay

Nadine Becker wants to show her kids that you can be a mum, a wife and a successful businesswoman. She says that becoming franchise owner of Ella Bache Mackay was a steep learning curve, but she’s become a better person because of it. She loves to learn and adapt new skills, takes every opportunity to grow the business and the people within and, ultimately, be the best mum, wife and person she can be.

“I want to show women that you can have it all,” she said.

Nadine became so enamoured with the Ella Bache product that she decided to buy the business in 2018. Her confidence and integrity in the product are evident, and she never struggles to promote the transformative effects of their skincare range. Nadine won the Ella Bache Outstanding Franchisee of the Year Award in her first year of business and has built a team that prioritizes skill, fun and friendliness. Nadine believes that her staff are the stars of the salon, and they are the driving force behind the business's success.

To Nadine, being a successful businesswoman means being an active member of the community. She loves sport, her kids love sport and her and her partner Frank of Key Solutions Group take every opportunity to sponsor sporting teams and events throughout the region.

“Everyone should be able to get a fair go,” Nadine said. “I didn’t grow up with a lot of money. I had to work all weekend at netball umpiring and in the canteen to pay my netball fees. When you support a local sporting team, a lot of the time that goes back to the kids that are less fortunate when clubs have the ability to give bursaries. It could change a kid’s whole life.”

With Ella Bache head office providing new products, innovation and training, the Mackay team can focus on providing absolute care for their customers and community. Nadine's team is trained to the highest standard, and she treats her clients as part of the family.

Bianca Dixon

Say I Do Celebrancy

Marriage Celebrant Bianca Dixon of Say I Do Celebrancy says it might come as a surprise that, back in 2015, she was afraid of public speaking.

“What better way to overcome this than becoming a Celebrant and talking in front of hundreds of people,” she said.

Since joining her local Toastmasters club, developing her networks and following her passion for officiating weddings, Bianca brings a young, fun and modern twist to the weddings of Mackay and the Whitsundays.

“I love my job,” she said. “I get to meet so many incredible couples who are organising one of the most important days of their lives. It’s such a rewarding job and I’m extremely lucky to be a part of someone’s special day.”

Since starting Say I Do Celebrancy in 2018, Bianca has officiated over 80 weddings across Mackay and the Whitsundays, with a particular highlight being a wedding on Whitehaven Beach. She’s had plenty of time and opportunity to hone her processes, ensuring a smooth and efficient day for the happy couple. She’s recently branched out to include Master of Ceremonies services, making sure that guests can enjoy the festivities and the night runs smoothly.  

“My favourite part of a ceremony is just before we start their ceremony,” Bianca said. “They are both usually quite nervous and it’s my job to put their minds at ease and settle their nerves.”

Bianca is also a part of a collective of local celebrants who meet regularly, chat and network and support each other where they can. Bianca says she’s inspired by many women in business both locally and around the world, and she strives to be an inspiration to others, balancing business and family life thanks to a good routine.

“When I have a challenging day, I always bring it back to my why, and that’s my family that motivates me to be the best I can be,” Bianca said. “It’s so important to find what you’re good at, step outside your comfort zone and keep growing and learning.”

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Rebekah Penny

Angry Angler

With a passion for the ocean and outdoors, Rebekah decided to put her work experience in sales, retail, design and management all together and that’s when she released Angry Angler in late 2021.

“I’m a bit of a fashionista and perfectionist,” Rebekah said. “I got over everyone wearing the exact same fishing shirts with the same fish printed on them every weekend.”

That’s when she started Angry Angler, a Mackay-owned fishing apparel line delivering a different and unique range of clothing and accessories that the kids and ladies can wear as well. Bringing a modern and fashionable take to sun safety since 2021, Angry Angler has a focus on being local, with designs, logos and the business’ website all being sourced locally, but scope of going national.

“Since day one, I always envisioned Angry Angler to be a long-term investment with the goal of becoming Australia-wide,” said Rebekah. “Almost 8 months was spent researching and trying out the quality of different companies before I chose one I was happy to work with creating the product.”

Rebekah loves being her own boss, and she’s had the support of her brother, sister and a group of her closest friends who have helped her every step of the way, even modelling the attire for the website.

“We all know how impossible men and photos are,” she joked.

Rebekah said that, given the outdoor nature of the industry and the market, people are often surprised that the business is headed up by a woman.

“To me, women empowerment is the girls that get out there and show the boys up on a day at the reef, or the ones that get out and set up a tent on the weekends,” she said. “Every woman is powerful in some way.”

Between her son, her casual retail job, her business and life’s little curve balls, every day is an interesting one in Rebekah’s life. She loves to relax and reset with a wine at the beach in the afternoons, either by herself, with friends or with her biggest achievement to date, her son.

Andrea Cantwell

Head Honcho

Coffee Service Packaging

Put the jug on and get ready to meet the mastermind behind Coffee Service Packaging – Andrea Cantwell. This powerhouse businesswoman offers an extensive selection of coffee, equipment and packaging options that are sure to stimulate your senses and assist your business.

Whether you're in Mackay, Sarina, The Bowen Basin or Whitsunday areas, Andrea's efficient and friendly team brew up the perfect blend of supplies and service you need. They supply commercial and office coffee equipment, café beverage supplies, Caffénation and custom roasted coffee beans, barista accessories and a huge range of food and beverage packaging lines. Their customers include restaurants, cafes, service stations, and sporting clubs. They are also open to the public – so all can enjoy a great brew.

“We are one of the few businesses to offer coffee machine technician services and we have a huge focus on sustainability,” Andrea said.

As the owner and operator of the business, Andrea is passionate about building connections and relationships with business owners and their teams. She finds it gratifying to see her clients succeed, and her success has meant that she can support her customers in ways that go beyond just providing them with high-quality products.

As a woman in business, Andrea draws inspiration from her mother, who at 80 years of age, is still working with them, connecting with customers, and keeping active. Andrea strongly believes in women empowerment and is inspired by other successful women in her network.

With a passion for our planet, Andrea describes herself as a tree hugger, caring deeply about the flora and fauna in our world. She is excited about introducing a range of home compostable coffee cups and hopes that cafes will take them onboard, sharing the sustainability message with their customers.

www.coffeeservicepackaging.com.au

Photo credit: Leah McLean Photography

Wendy Steindl

Healthy, Clean and Green

Offering environmentally friendly alternatives to everyday products, Wendy Steindl runs a business that she’s proud of. All products sold by Healthy, Green and Clean, offering a better choice for everyday kitchen, bathroom, laundry and out and about items, are either reusable or home compostable, meaning less landfill. Over 90% of products are Australian owned and, where possible, Wendy will support other small local businesses by stocking their products. Healthy, Clean and Green operates as an online shop, usually delivering to most areas of Mackay within 24 hours, and market stall business, avoiding costly overheads and keeping prices affordable for customers.

“I love showing people how making small and affordable changes in their everyday life can have a big impact on their home, health and environment without drastically affecting their lifestyle or budget,” Wendy said. “Gratification for me comes when I help someone see why a common product is bad for the planet and then help them to transition to products that are a better choice.”

Running her business her way, Wendy is proud of what her business stands for and proud of the work/ life balance she’s created.

“I think those things are important for my children to see,” she said. “It’s not always easy and you do have to work hard, but ultimately you can be successful while living the lifestyle you desire.”

Outside of the business, Wendy is a bit of a thrill seeker. Whether it’s riding a bicycle from Townsville to Cairns, climbing the highest single free-standing mountain above sea level in the world, walking on fire not once but twice, skydiving, achieving a green belt in Taekwondo or simply shaving her head, she loves the thrill of an adrenaline-pumping adventure. But she’s also a lover of the simple things: jigsaw puzzles, cups of tea, travelling and hiking. Wendy is passionate about making better choices, living a healthier, cleaner and greener life, within reason, and providing a safer, healthier environment for herself, her family and for the animals to enjoy our planet.

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Embrace Equity

In the spirit of International Women's Day, we're proud to shine a light on the remarkable women of Mackay who have risen to the occasion and become the trailblazers of our community.

These women are our sisters, mothers, daughters, and friends who have each made a significant contribution in their own unique way. They've broken barriers, overcome challenges, and inspired us all to aim higher.

These women are just a small sample of the incredible talent and passion that exists within our community. They are the embodiment of what it means to embrace equity and fight for a more just and equitable world while dedicating countless hours to their passions and professions.

On this International Women's Day and every day beyond, let's celebrate the achievements of these remarkable women and commit ourselves to creating a future where every woman has the opportunity to succeed. Let's #EmbraceEquity and continue to build a better world for all.

FIVE WOMEN WHO CHANGED THE WORLD

Throughout history, women have played a pivotal role in driving progress, breaking barriers, and changing the world.

Marie Curie, the first woman to receive a Nobel Prize, transformed the field of science with her pioneering research in radioactivity. Eleanor Roosevelt, a political leader and activist, championed human rights and helped to draft the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Maya Angelou, an author and poet, used her powerful words to inspire and empower women around the world. Malala Yousafzai, a young activist, has become a global advocate for girls' education.

And we must not forget about Wangari Maathai, a Kenyan environmental and political activist, who was the first African woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize. She founded the Green Belt Movement, an organisation focused on planting trees and promoting environmental conservation, while also advocating for democracy, women's rights, and social justice.

These women have shown us that with courage, determination, and perseverance, anything is possible. Their legacy continues to inspire and empower women today to pursue their dreams, challenge the status quo, and create a better world for all.

Shirlz Russell

Build Your F’empire

Shirlz Russell is a woman on a mission to help other women (and a few good men) build their empires, one property at a time. As the founder of Build Your F'empire, she has made it her ambition to mentor women from all over Australia in successful property investing.

As her way of giving back, Shirlz has created a private Facebook community where women in Mackay and the Whitsundays can support each other, both financially and emotionally.

"I love seeing women empower themselves by taking control of their finances. The confidence that comes from this is so gratifying and beautiful to witness," Shirlz explains.

What sets Shirlz apart is her unique approach to property investing. As a woman in a male-dominated industry, she offers a fresh perspective that many women appreciate.

"I help women to realize the retirement of their dreams through successful property investing," she says.

"I am passionate about inspiring other women to own their shit, the good, the bad and the ugly! Until they do, they won’t be able to move forward and build a healthy relationship with money."

Shirlz has always been inspired by strong women who have shown true resilience and determination to achieve great things. She cites Catherine the Great as someone she admires, respecting her ability to overthrow her husband and name herself Empress.

"She was also wildly insatiable and was clearly a woman that knew what she wanted. I like that!"

As we celebrate International Women's Day, Shirlz Russell serves as a reminder that women can achieve anything they set their minds to, but as a working mother, Shirlz also knows firsthand the struggle of the juggle.  

"If I start to feel the overwhelm set in, I just tap it out, take some deep deep breaths and get on with it."

She is proof that women can indeed build their own 'F'empire' and become successful property investors while also empowering and supporting others along the way.

Katie Fox

Gold Empire Tattoo Barber, FX Clinics and Gold Fox Promotions

Being the owner and operator of the only tattoo and barber shop in the Central Queensland region, Katie Fox says she’s proud of making it as far as she has in a male dominated industry. Katie is a qualified tattoo artist and runs Gold Empire Tattoo Barber on Wood Street, where the talented team of artists have all styles covered including realism, portraits, dark realism, Japanese, fine line, trad, anime, colour and script. Gold Empire has been described as a “very welcoming and professional shop always clean and well organised,” reads one review.

“The staff are always friendly and give off a real family and inviting vibe while remaining professional, some very talented people. Best shop in town I won’t go anywhere else for a tattoo or a fresh cut.”

Katie’s second business, FX Clinics, is one of only two rejuvenation clinics in Mackay offering full body medical grade infrared Red Light Therapy as well as laser tattoo removal, teeth whitening, scalp micro pigmentation and hydrodermabrasion. Lastly, she’s recently Gold Fox Promotions, a hospitality, waitressing and stripping agency.

“Helping people feel good about themselves and transform themselves is my favourite part of all businesses,” Katie said.

Katie has had a long and exciting career dotted with adventure. Before she was a tattoo artist, she lived in England and travelled the country working on world rally cars. She then returned to Australia, embarking on a boiler making apprenticeship before being offered her tattoo apprenticeship. Katie says she looks up to a number of successful business owners, thinking “if they can do it, she can”. She is a staunch believer of following one’s dreams and making it happen.

“Women empowerment to me is going after what you want, whether that’s business related or being a stay-at-home mum and raising a beautiful family,” she said. “It’s being strong enough to do what makes you happy regardless of what society thinks.”

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Last year’s NQ’s Rock’n Country Festival brought people from across north Queensland to the Mackay region to enjoy three days of the best national and local country music entertainers, and 2023’s event is looking even bigger.

The festival announced its first round of artists last week, headlined by country icons and fan favourites Troy Cassar-Daley, Kasey Chambers and Shannon Noll.

Troy Cassar-Daley was only in the sugar city last year with his good mate Ian Moss and will be making the trip twice this year, again with Ian for Legends on the Lawn in May and secondly with a bunch of other mates at NQ’s Rock’n Country in August.

Troy can’t get enough of Mackay and Mackay can’t get enough of Troy’s genuine storytelling and musicianship.

Drawing on the quietude of folk, the honesty of country, the edgy emotions of the blues and the fearless spirit of rock’n’roll, Kasey Chambers has become one of Australia's most popular and acclaimed artists of her generation and will be bringing her decade-spanning discography back to Mackay stages.

Audiences will be screaming at the top of their lungs when Australian music’s everyman Shannon Noll takes to the NQ’s Rock’n Country stage in August, with the legend expected to sing hit after hit.

Rounding out the festival’s first announcement are the Wolfe Brothers, Kaylee Bell, Adam Brand, Southbound xo, Andrew Swift, Catherine Britt and Christie Lamb.

NQ’s Rock’n Country is a supporter of Variety – the Children’s Charity, raising over $40,000 for the children’s charity at last year’s festival.

WHAT: NQ’s Rock’n Country

WHERE: Mackay Showgrounds

WHEN: Friday, August 18 to Sunday, August 20

TICKETS: nqsrockncountry.com.au

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If you’ve ever wanted to become a more comfortable and confident communicator, Toastmasters might be for you.

The Eyeopener Toastmasters Club Mackay are holding a Visitor Day to give people a taste of what they can expect when they join Toastmasters.

Adam Cuskelly has been a member of Toastmasters for around a year, originally joining to improve his public speaking.

“I’m trying to get out and meet more people to improve my speaking and conversation skills,” Adam said.

The club meets fortnightly to discuss a variety of topics and present speeches before being evaluated and shown room for improvement in their presentations.

“Come along, check it out, I reckon it’s really beneficial,” suggested Adam.

“One of the things I like about it is that each of the members have a different life experience and background.

“It’s quite interesting to hear about their stories.”

WHAT: Eyeopener Toastmasters Visitor Day

WHERE: St Paul’s Uniting Church Meeting Room, 21 Macalister St, Mackay

WHEN: Friday, March 10 from 6:45am to 8:00am

CONTACT: eyeopenermackay@gmail.com

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A real estate agent friend of mine recently told me that when he first started in the industry he thought a “sinking fund” referred to the money that had been set aside to deal with apartment buildings sinking or subsiding into the earth below.

He had just started in real estate when he heard other agents discussing the sinking fund at one of the high-rise residential buildings at Mackay Harbour.

My friend probably thought the sand must go pretty deep at the harbour.

I’m not sure what sort of amounts the other agents were bandying about when discussing the sinking fund but engineers don’t come cheap and a disappearing building can’t be easy to fix.

Look at the Leaning Tower of Pisa, now there’s a structure that would need a decent sinking fund. Of course, we could take the Italian approach and let our buildings sink a little bit and turn them into a tourist attraction.

Shortly after my friend heard about the sinking fund for the harbour building, he came across the term again.

This time he was with some agents at one of our modern river-side apartment blocks and, again, they were talking about the sinking fund.

My friend thought, “What the hell is going on with the buildings in this town? Why are they all sinking?”

But the penny soon dropped and he realised he had misunderstood the terminology.  

The good news for Mackay Harbour and riverside unit owners is that a sinking fund has nothing to do with building subsidence and everyone can rest easy.

A sinking fund is the money set aside by body corporate managers, and paid in instalments by the property owners, to cover maintenance, repairs and other work that is expected to be required for the strata title complex in the years ahead.

Money gets set aside in the sinking fund, for example, for when planned painting of a unit complex is required so that owners don’t suddenly have to find tens of thousands of dollars to pay the painters.

My friend’s sinking fund story reminded me that there is a lot of terminology and jargon used in the industry that normal people don’t use and often don’t understand.

I often have to check myself, slow down and remind myself to explain terminology to buyers and sellers when I realise I’m spitting out terminology that ordinary punters don’t come across in their daily activities.

Whether it’s a CMA, a disclosure statement, cooling off period or finance clause, the terms all have a meaning and need to be understood for a buyer or seller to feel comfortable with what’s going on.

It’s part of an agent’s job to explain it all just in case you think the apartment you are buying is in a building that is sinking into the harbour.

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International Women's Day (IWD), held on March 8 each year, is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women's equality.

IWD has occurred for well over a century, with the first IWD gathering in 1911 supported by over a million people. Today, IWD belongs to all groups collectively everywhere. IWD is not country, group, or organisation specific.

In Mackay, the Zonta Club has been celebrating IWD with an annual event for years. Zonta is a leading global organisation of professionals empowering women worldwide through service and advocacy. Zonta International envisions a world in which women's rights are recognised as human rights and every woman is able to achieve her full potential. In such a world, women have access to all resources and are represented in decision-making positions on an equal basis with men. In such a world, no woman lives in fear of violence.

I am very proud to have been a member of this club for over 10 years. We are a passionate and diverse group of women that reflect a cross-section of the community. From young professionals to business owners and retirees, our membership group varies in age, career, lifestyle, background, and experience. We meet over dinner from 5.30pm on the third Tuesday of each month at Ocean International. We’d love for you to join us!

And the question is always asked – what about International Men’s Day? This is also an annual event, celebrated on November 19, to recognise the positive value men bring to the world, their families, and communities. In Mackay, the wonderful Frank Cowell from Shed Happens coordinates this event with a dedicated group of volunteers. The Zonta Club of Mackay also supports this event.

Collective action and shared ownership for driving gender parity are what make International Women's Day impactful. Gloria Steinem, world-renowned feminist, journalist, and activist once explained "The story of women's struggle for equality belongs to no single feminist nor to any one organisation but to the collective efforts of all who care about human rights." So, make International Women's Day your day and do what you can to truly make a positive difference for women.

Cr Belinda Hassan

Mackay Regional Council

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My daughter replied to a text message from me this week, and it made me cry.

If you’ve got teenagers, or had them, you may know exactly what I am about to tell you.

Just so you know, I live alone and my kids have always lived with their Mum, so we get to see each other every now and then, and that’s cool. Their lives come first every time.

That said, I love to know what they are doing and how they’re travelling.

The text message I sent said “Have the best time seeing Harry!” Her reply? “Thank you, heading to the Gold Coast now”!

Sending messages to your kids is one thing, but to get a reply longer than two words is one of the best feelings a Dad can get, and for it to stretch out over nearly 240 characters melted my heart.

My daughter loves music. Absolutely loves it. Just like me at her age.

Over the last few years it is quite apparent that my daughter loves Harry Styles, alongside half of Australia, so when his tour plans came out years ago, she went nuts for tickets, but then a little thing called COVID came along and ruined everyone’s plans, including my daughter’s.

Well fast forward to Tuesday just gone, the delays, cancellations, tears and frustrations were all forgotten about, and the man just called Harry played to the masses of screaming ladies on the Gold Coast and they loved every second of it.

Being in the same room as your idol is a feeling you can never repeat. To be metres away is just next level. I hope to hear all about the show on her return and hopefully more detail in future texts and maybe even face to face conversations, but to know at this stage she got to fulfil one of her dreams just makes me so happy for my daughter.

If you’re a parent, you know how I feel, hey!

I remember the 80’s in Mackay, and going to see all the bands at the showgrounds after school and I know how special the feelings are. Seeing Dire Straits, Split Enz, Mondo Rock, Australian Crawl, Angels, John Farnham and more all on stage just makes life perfect.

I can’t wait to find out who's next on her bucket list. Maybe I should ask her to go to Legends on the Lawn in May. I wonder if she’d be cool with saying hi to Dad in front of her friends. Is that still a thing to do in 2023? Who cares? I wish for those days. One day though…one day.

You can join Rob Kidd from 5am weekday mornings on 4MK 1026 AM in Mackay and Proserpine, 91.5FM in Airlie Beach or just ask your smart speaker to play 4MK on iHeartRadio!

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At Kipara Tropical Rainforest Retreat

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This week when I was running on the treadmill at the gym, I saw a woman doing a fitness class in the next room with her 12-month-old baby in her arms.

I was amazed at how determined she was to continue with her class despite her restless baby demanding her attention.

Instead of giving up, she simply scooped the bubba up and carried on.

The baby was delighted and didn’t even mind the jogs and jostles of her mum working out.

What a hero!

This week we are celebrating International Women’s Day with a special feature that profiles 15 different women in our community from a variety of industries.

I had the pleasure of meeting many of them at the front-page photo shoot earlier this week and I was amazed at how quickly these complete strangers became friends.

Within minutes of their arrival, they were chatting animatedly about their businesses and handing business cards to each other – it had become somewhat of a networking event!

When you see them linking arms in the photo, it reflects this genuine feeling of kinship.

I loved watching this instant camaraderie and it reminded me of our female superpowers – that of love, empathy and connection.  

One other woman I know who brings these qualities to the world in everything she does is my own mother – Jan – who is (as I write this) on her way to the Whitsundays from England.

Thanks for travelling all the way over here by yourself mum, you are my truest role model and I love you so much.

Noons

(my childhood nickname!)

Quote of the Week: “Your graciousness is what carries you. It isn’t how old you are, how beautiful you are, or how short your skirt is. It’s what comes out of your heart. If you are gracious, you have won the game” (Stevie Nicks)

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When Judith Miller Backway was woken by a “big crash” at 3 am, she raced out of her bedroom to find her husband on the bathroom floor in terrible pain.

She immediately called an ambulance to their Cannonvale address and was relieved when it arrived some minutes later.

They rushed him to Proserpine Hospital where it was initially thought to be a heart attack but after further investigation, they discovered he had a Ruptured Aortic Arterial Aneurism.

He was then taken by the RACQ CQ Rescue helicopter to Townsville Hospital where he was treated by a vascular surgeon.

Afterwards, his wife found out that eight out of 10 people who suffer from the same condition do not survive the trip to the hospital.

“We’d like to say a huge thank you to all the medical teams involved,” said Judith.

“Unfortunately, I don’t know their names, but everyone from the paramedics to every doctor, nurse, pilot and the helicopter doctors were just amazing!”

Since the incident, which took place earlier this month, Judith said they found out that this type of aneurism has no symptoms and no warning.

“Most people find out when it ruptures and by then it is too late,” said Judith.

“But you can ask your doctor to refer you for a routine ultrasound which would pick it up and I wish more people knew that.”

Judith says her husband is now doing well and that they have been able to complete their move down to Hervey Bay, but he has been on very light duties.

“He said he’d do anything to get out of the packing,” said Judith.

“But this was a step too far!”

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A four-year-old is lucky to be alive after he nearly drowned at a resort pool on Hamilton Island late last month.

If it were not for the quick-thinking holidaymakers that were first to arrive at the scene, and spent three crucial minutes resuscitating him, then he may have died.

Jason Chivers and his wife, Dr Britt Christensen, who are from Melbourne were holidaying with a group of other families and their own three children when they heard screams.

They turned around to see a mother carrying her child from the pool, he was blue and not breathing.

The mother turned the boy over and tried to smack his back, but Britt, who was 31 weeks pregnant at the time, jumped into action.

They managed to calm the mother down and lay the boy on his back, ensured his airway was clear and then began CPR.

“At first it was not working as there were too many people, but we managed to get everyone out of the way and get the sequence right,” recalls Jason.

“Seeing the child’s chest go up and down – I still see it so clearly today – we have a nearly four-year-old and it was just so much to take in.”

There was a large crowd of families watching, but after about three minutes Jason said he saw a flicker.

“His eyes moved, and we continued CPR and then I saw emotion come on his face, in twitches,” said Jason.

“All of a sudden, we heard a big scream come from the child and I was just waiting to hear his voice so that we knew he had brain function and that’s when he screamed – Mum! Mum! Mum! – and he did a massive vomit of water and then a huge burp.”

A few minutes later the fire brigade arrived and so did the ambulance service.

When Britt got to her feet, she had severe burns on her knees and the family will always remember the traumatic day.

Jason managed to speak to the boy’s mother afterwards and she explained that her son had been wearing his floaty and that she had gone to a sun lounger to get his goggles so they could practice swimming in the deep end.

Somehow, in those few minutes, he had gotten out of his floaty and into the deep end of the pool.

The pool was very crowded at the time and the mother could not see her son at first, but after a frantic few minutes, she found him submerged.

“It’s amazing how quickly they can slip under the water without a noise, in a crowded pool and for nobody to notice,” said Jason.

Fortunately, there is a happy outcome to this incident but it acts as a stark reminder that children need constant visual supervision in the water.

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