Hoping to make a lasting impression, or looking to re-ignite a spark? Humour can be a great way to break the ice on Valentine’s Day.

While these lines may seem cheesy, they can still be a fun way to express your feelings and make someone smile on Valentine's Day. Just be sure to use them with a sense of humour and be prepared for a light-hearted response.

"Are you a magician? Because whenever I look at you, everyone else disappears."

"Do you have a map? I keep getting lost in your eyes."

"Are you a time traveler? Because I can see forever with you."

"Is your name Google? Because you have everything I've been searching for."

"Do you believe in love at first sight, or should I walk by again?"

"Excuse me, but I think you dropped something - my jaw."

"Are you a bird? Because you've got me soaring."

"Do you have a sunburn, or are you always this hot?"

"Do you have a Band-Aid? I just scraped my knee falling for you."

"Are you a work of art? Because you’re a masterpiece."

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Australia's newest low-cost airline, Bonza, has officially announced the launch of its flight services to several regional destinations across the country.

As part of a phased rollout, the airline has made available flights to 12 destinations on 15 routes, with prices starting as low as $49 per person, one way.

Starting today Mackay and Whitsunday residents will be able to fly direct to the Sunshine Coast three times a week for as little as $59 one-way.

In addition, there will be two flights a week from Mackay to Cairns and two flights a week from the Whitsundays to Newcastle.

The first flight from Sunshine Coast to the Whitsundays will take off on Tuesday, January 31.

It will be February 14 when the first flight lands in Mackay.

“The wait is over! 2023 is the Year for Allstralia, with low cost air travel to many holiday spots, some of which are relatively undiscovered,” said Carly Povey, Chief Commercial Officer at Bonza.

“It’s time to see more of your own backyard for less!”

“We’re delighted to be delivering on our commitment to make air travel more accessible.

“We promised choice and better connectivity to the regions for less and we’ve been beyond delighted with the support for our mission.

“Today we start making travel a possibility for the many, not the few.

“Forget connecting flights or your bum going numb in the car, Bonza is here to take Aussies from A to B without the C (cost and complexity)”.

So, what are you waiting for? Download the Fly Bonza app and start planning your next adventure today! Don't miss out on the opportunity to explore Australia's hidden gems at an affordable price with Bonza.

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Nigel Dalton’s impact on the Mackay community has been immense.

From teaching children road rules, teenagers how to stay safe online or at schoolies, or redirecting disengaged youth from reoffending, Nigel’s work saves lives and makes our community a better place.  

For his work as our local Police District Crime Prevention Coordinator and for the considerable volunteer community work he undertakes, Nigel was named the 2023 Mackay Regional Council Citizen of the Year at the Australia Day Awards Gala at the MECC on Wednesday night.

Also recognised on the night was 2023 Young Citizen of the Year Keira Brown.

Keira is an active member and current coordinator of the Valley District Youth Council who volunteers countless hours to run events, fundraise and support her community.

The 2023 Lori Burgess Community Volunteer of the Year is Mackay Riding for the Disabled coach of 30 years Jody Burrows.

MACKAY’S LOCAL HEROES

Recognised At Australia Day Awards

Mayor Greg Williamson said the judging panel was blown away by the number and quality of nominations submitted this year.

“Honestly, there were dozens of nominees who the judges felt were worthy of taking home these awards,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Narrowing the selection down was no small task and is a real testament to just what an incredible community we have in our region – there are just so many amazing people doing tremendous things,” he said.

“However, what Nigel has done in our community over the last two decades is remarkable and the judges had no reservations in naming him our 2023 Citizen of the Year.

“Coming from a background of policing in the Royal Ulster Constabulary during the Northern Island conflict where he had friends and mentors murdered, Nigel could easily have become hardened and bitter.  

“Instead, he carries a message of forgiveness, kindness and healing that comes across in all his dealings with the community.

“Through his work with more than 8000 school students each year, plus PCYC, Safety Circus, Shed Happens, Neighbourhood Watch, the Mackay Mosque, Street Chaplains and many more, Nigel has helped to make our community safer and instil real trust and appreciation for our local police service.”

Mayor Williamson said there were 173 nominations across all of the eight categories.

“I would like to personally thank the 87 individuals who submitted nominations – and many of them submitted multiple nominations – because without you we couldn’t have these awards and we couldn’t recognise these tremendous community members,” he said.

The full list of 2023 Mackay Regional Council Australia Day Award recipients are as follows:

Citizen of the Year: Nigel Dalton

Image: Nigel Dalton is a familiar face at most community events, like the Disability Expo in 2022, where he is the face of community crime prevention

Sergeant Nigel Dalton is the Police District Crime Prevention Coordinator as well as being an active community volunteer.

Sergeant Dalton has been working in the Crime Prevention office since 2006 and he has shown enormous dedication to the role, often working almost as many hours off the clock as he does in the office. He has implemented a strong education plan for students of all ages, as well as working closely with business and community groups, Neighbourhood Watch members, victims of crime and other like-minded organisations and government departments.

Nigel was awarded the Queensland Police Liaison Officer Award in 2017.

His Police District activities are outstanding, particularly Choices and Safety Circus safety talks across various age groups.

He recently led, created and launched a new assault reduction project “Anger Rage Regret” in the Mackay Police District.

Young Citizen of the Year: Keira Brown

Keira Brown is the current coordinator of the Valley District Youth Council. Keira has been instrumental in working towards the group’s main goals of giving a voice to Pioneer Valley youth, developing leadership and building a regional youth community.

Keira has recently become heavily involved in the YOL1000 initiative and in the initial planning stages of the Young Mayors project. Her feedback and opinions with these projects have been extremely valuable.

She often represents the youth of the Valley at events in Mackay and further afield. She is also a member of her school’s Zonta Club and has been a coach and umpire in club netball for teams younger than herself.

Lori Burgess Community Volunteer Award: Jody Burrows

Mackay Riding for the Disabled is a not-for-profit organisation that is fully self-funded by fundraising and donations. It is run fully by volunteers, and one of the longest serving and most committed volunteers is Jody Burrows.

Jody has been a consistent force within this organisation for nearly 30 years. She is the coach that holds the necessary qualifications required to hold the riding lessons.

At a minimum, Jody ensures lessons run every second Tuesday. In all those years, volunteers report that Jody has only ever cancelled lessons once – and that was due to a cyclone.

Arts and Culture Award: Alison Richardson

Alison Richardson is the artistic director and CEO of Crossroad Arts.  She is passionate about creating opportunities for people with disabilities who are serious about developing their skills in contemporary performance.  

She brings to Crossroad Arts more than 15 years of experience in the inclusive arts, theatre and disability sector. She has held various positions, including Creative Programs Coordinator for Accessible Arts, Creative Director for Beyond the Square at Riverside Theatres and Access and Inclusion Coordinator for Vivid Sydney and Sydney New Years’ Eve. She has also worked extensively as a theatre director and tutor for community theatre companies.

Alison has a pivotal role in offering a rich and diverse arts program to Mackay and she has been the driving force of many outstanding local performance events.

Alison also presents a rich array of workshops and regular activities in our community.

Environmental Achievement Award: Dr Judith Wake

Dr Judith Wake’s life’s work has been focused on preserving, protecting and studying the local environment. Prior to retiring, Dr Wake was a member of CQUni's Land and Water Management Centre and in that role undertook vital research on mangroves in the Mackay district. Since retiring she has continued similar work on a voluntary basis.

For quite a few years Dr Wake has been contributing to the Healthy Rivers Partnership and the Reef Catchments groups. For much of that time, she was a member of the Technical Working Group that provides scientific advice on the assessment of river/reef health. For three years she was chair of that group.

She is a long-time member of Native Plants Queensland (formerly SGAP) and vice-chair of the Mackay group. She is an active member of their management committee and regularly contributes to environmental events they support. She also volunteers with their Propagation Group at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens.

Community Group Award: Pioneer Valley Machinery Preservationists Society

The Pioneer Valley Machinery Preservationist Society is a group that has a strong sense of community. Members are constantly looking after each other. They assist each other to finish projects or find parts, they share transport to shows and events and they are always watching out for members’ health and well-being.

The group is also integral in the preservation of local history. They are actively restoring local farming history and preserving this for future generations at their own cost.

They also educate the community at events and older members are always teaching new members new skills. Younger members who have joined are being taught skills in problem solving, restoration, machinery, fitting, research and more.

Senior Sports Award: Brenda Windsor

Brenda Windsor has dedicated countless hours and kilometres to raise money and shine a spotlight on the child protection work that Bravehearts do. She has run their 777 twice now and intends on doing it again in 2023.

The 777 involves running seven marathons, in seven states, over seven consecutive days. Each time she has had to raise $10k to be able to participate and in doing so has held numerous raffles. She even ran 77.7km (from Koumala to Mackay) to raise funds. She finished this run at Sarina State High School where she was cheered on by all the staff and students.

Brenda volunteers at Parkrun Mackay and has run over 180 events herself, often with her grandkids.

Junior Sports Awards: Connor Parish

Connor Parish has been racing BMX since he was six years old.  To the Mirani High School student, BMX is life, and his goal is to be chosen in the 2032 Olympic team.  With a slew of local wins and high placings in regional, state and national competitions, he’s on the right track.

Connor and his brother Aiden recently competed in the Oceania BMX Championships in Brisbane where they qualified to represent Australia at the World Championships.  Connor brought home a second (24”) and fourth (20”) at the competition.  

The pair then travelled to Nantes, France in July 2022 where they competed alongside 3000 other riders from all over the world and rubbed shoulders with some of their idols. Connor made the semi-finals (24”) and he also qualified for the 20” competition.

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Caption 1: Teen Shed Mackay assisted Orange Sky over the summer holidays by cooking breakfast every Wednesday and Friday

Caption 2: Cliff and the team at George St Butcher Shoppe generously donated meat to Orange Sky

Caption 3: Mercy and St Patrick’s College Brekky Van’s services resumed this week. Photos supplied

It’s been a busy summer for some local businesses and community groups, with Orange Sky Laundry expressing their appreciation for the community’s support over the holidays.

The Teen Shed Mackay assisted Orange Sky each Wednesday and Friday morning, doing the breakfast shifts while the Mercy and St Patrick’s College Brekky Van went on school holidays.  

The Brekky Van generously donated the food while four to six Teen Shed members cooked and served up breakfast each shift.

“They’re really sad that they can’t keep doing it,” said Teen Shed Mackay Founder Lisa Versaci

“We made some amazing friendships with the disadvantaged people, and they were really, really lovely.

“Our whole thing is trying to get our kids volunteering and out into the community to see that there are other situations besides what they’re going through.

“There should be more places where 12–18-year-olds can volunteer because I feel it’s very important for those kids to see life in a different perspective.”

The Christmas breakfasts were added to with donations from the George St Butcher Shoppe for some added protein on the BBQ.  

“Cliff and his team have been great supporters and always make sure that there are snags to go on the barbie!” said Orange Sky Mackay Service Coordinator Lisa Jamieson.

A big shout out also has to be made to the year one’s at St John's Primary School Walkerston for their donations to the Brekky Van of healthy breakfast packs, consisting of cereal, milk and juices.  

“These breakfast packs were gratefully received by our Friends to help them out at Christmas, when a number of the support services are not available,” said Ms Jamieson.

Orange Sky welcomed year 10-12 Mercy and St Patrick’s College students back to the Brekky Van this Wednesday, January 25, resuming their regular Wednesday and Friday shifts.

“While breakfast is happening, our washing machines are being kept very busy,” said Ms Jamieson.

“As soon as a load is finished, another one is started, to help ensure that we can get as many loads washed as possible during the shift.”

Orange Sky laundry shifts operate from 7:00-11:00am on Monday, Wednesday and Fridays in Mackay and 9:00-11:00am on Mondays and Thursdays in Sarina.  

Each fortnight, a night shift is held on Mondays from 5:30-7:30pm with the next night shift to be held on Monday, February 6.

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Caption 1: Mackay and District Turtle Watch created pathways in beach debris to allow turtle hatchlings access to the water at North Wall Beach

Caption 2: A mysterious post with a memorial to a former PM was also found on the beach. Photos supplied

When many returned to the beach after last week’s heavy rain, they were met with large piles of debris, washed up onto the beach in a row as the water reached high tide overnight.

This proved difficult for even the tallest of people to step over, meaning newly hatched turtles wouldn’t stand a chance of traversing the obstacle.

Mackay and District Turtle Watch volunteers and members of the public stepped into action last week in a great display of community effort, making pathways in the washed-up debris at North Wall Beach for the soon-to-hatch turtles to be able to make their way back to the water.

While on their mission, volunteers came across many interesting items washed ashore including a post with a plaque on it.

The plaque reads: “10, Joseph Lyons, 1932-1939”.

The plaque refers to Joseph Lyons, who served as Australia’s tenth Prime Minister between 1932 and his death in 1939.

“I don't know where there is an outdoor display of PMs (except in Ballarat!), but no doubt someone will,” commented one person on Facebook.

“It doesn't look that old. I can't imagine anywhere public this may have come from,” added another.

The post has been placed above the high tide line in the hope that someone will claim it.

Mackay and District Turtle Watch has asked anyone who is missing it to get in touch via Facebook and they can pass on more accurate location details.

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What feelings does Australia Day evoke within you?

Is it of pride for the nation you love, or of sadness for the Indigenous who feel that a celebration of the day they coined ‘Invasion Day’ is disrespectful? Perhaps you feel a little bit of both.

For me, it’s an opportunity to reflect on the past and celebrate today. I used the day to learn a little bit about Indigenous culture that I didn’t know previously before enjoying some time at the beach and cooking a BBQ.

Perhaps the biggest controversy for me is when it comes to Australia Day desserts. I’ll admit it, I don’t like lamingtons. See, I said it would be controversial. Secondly, I believe the pavlova is a Kiwi dessert. Ooooh, perhaps the biggest dessert debate of them all! I like to have a laugh over that one.

Another Australia Day tradition I enjoy is attending the Mackay Regional Council’s Australia Day Awards every year. It’s an incredibly inspirational evening to hear about the people in our region who selflessly do so much for the community. Congratulations to this year’s Citizen of the Year, Nigel Dalton, and to all of the winners and nominees who were represented on the night.

Of course, this week was also the week our region’s kids headed back to school. I love to see the juxtaposition of emotions experienced by parents. Some can’t wait for the peace and quiet of having their kids back at school while others mourn the loss of holiday sleep-ins and dread the busy morning rush.

School zones are back to 40km/hr during designated morning and afternoon hours. When you see the signs flashing, slow down and pay attention. A blink of an eye is all it takes for a child to make a fatal mistake.

Amanda

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In order to reach their 2030 climate targets, the Federal Labor Government has announced they will force 215 of Australia’s biggest polluters to cut emissions by 5 per cent each year or pay for their emissions output.

“In effect it acts as a tax on families, a tax on businesses and a big tax on regional Australia.  It’s Carbon Tax 2.0 and another major blow for the energy industry.”

“Labor is executing drastic climate targets with no consideration for the toll it takes on Australian jobs and household budgets.”

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox has opposed this decision saying that Labor is targeting regional Queensland jobs and inflicting more pain on household bills.

“Labor’s Safeguard Mechanism affects facilities that emit more than 100,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide a year. If facilities exceed this amount, the business will need to buy carbon credits,” Mr Willcox said.

“We have 28 of the high emitting industry facilities in surrounding regions who will be impacted by these mandatory emissions cuts. These are Dawson jobs now put in jeopardy by Labor’s climate targets.

“Leading up to the 2022 Federal election, Prime Minister Albanese and his party promised there would be no carbon tax.

“This is just a fancy name for exactly that.”

Andrew Willcox

Federal Member for Dawson

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RACQ CQ Rescue flew 11 missions between Friday and Sunday last week, including the airlift of an injured motorbike rider and two flights to Bowen and two to Clermont on consecutive days for seriously ill patients.

The Mackay-based rescue helicopter has now completed 39 missions in the first 22 days of 2023. RACQ CQ Rescue was tasked by Queensland Health to fly back-to-back missions to Clermont on Friday to transfer two patients to Mackay Base Hospital including a two-year-old child with a serious abdominal condition who was accompanied by their mother.

A patient was also transported from Dysart to Mackay Base Hospital with a cardiac issue. That same afternoon, a woman in her 60s was airlifted from Victor Island, about 48km southeast of Mackay, after being bedridden and alone for two days.

The helicopter landed on the beach at sunset and the medical team walked to the island homestead to treat and administered pain relief to the woman. She was carried to the aircraft, flown to Mackay Airport and transferred to a waiting ambulance to be taken to Mackay Base Hospital.

Overnight Saturday, two patients were also airlifted from Bowen to Mackay Base Hospital. About 10.30am on Saturday, RACQ CQ Rescue was tasked by Queensland Health to airlift a dirt bike rider seriously injured in a crash at Yalbaroo, about 70km north-east of Mackay.

The 47-year-old man attempted to cross a culvert flowing with water on a remote dirt road in the Cathu State Forest, but a concrete slab underneath had dislodged in recent flooding, causing the rider to be thrown violently from the bike.

An RACQ CQ Rescue crewman said the force of the impact would have been like “hitting a wall at speed”.

The unlucky rider suffered injuries including a seriously dislocated hip and had to be relocated out of the water while they waited for the helicopter to arrive. Incorrect coordinates delayed the landing of the chopper at the scene, but it finally touched down on the dirt road about 500 metres from the accident site. The rider was treated and transferred to Mackay Base Hospital in a stable condition.

A helicopter Rescue Crewman was able to assist the local paramedic at the accident scene who was suffering heat exhaustion while tending to the injured dirt bike rider. The crewman drove the ambulance and his colleague back to the station at Calen.

Three training flights for new Queensland Ambulance Service paramedics joining the aeromedical team were also conducted on Sunday around the Mackay region, as well as the airlift of a patient from Proserpine hospital to Mackay.

CAPTION: 230120 Victor 1&2 – RACQ CQ Rescue airlifted a woman from Victor Island at sunset on Friday

230121 Yalbaroo 1-4.jpg – A 47-year-old dirt bike rider was injured in a crash in the Cathu State Forest on Saturday and was airlifted to Mackay Base Hospital. Photo credits: RACQ CQ Rescue

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Enforcing laws, investigating reported offences and prosecuting when appropriate takes place on a daily basis with regards to car thefts.

As the Officer in Charge of the Mackay Northern Beaches Acting Senior Sergeant Mitch Benson points out - all car owners have an opportunity to take action which will frustrate the thieves.

Statistics within the Mackay Northern Beaches division show that one in every two car thefts take place when thieves gain possession of your car keys.

As a result, officers will have dedicated time periods when they will perform foot patrols in residential streets and business locations in an effort to find unlocked cars and/or unattended cars with keys still present.

If face to face dialogue is possible, police will talk to the car owners about the likelihood of car theft taking place and how we can disrupt the efforts of thieves who are looking to steal your hard-earned possessions.

Vehicle security information will also be made available - particularly when face to face dialogue is not possible.

If you see police officers walking the streets in your area - day or night - inspecting vehicles, don't be alarmed.

"Our efforts to identify car thieves and hold them to account are still going to take place, we are taking on these targeted foot patrols in addition to that,” Acting Senior Sergeant Benson said.

"By continuing our enforcement efforts, educating the public on crime prevention techniques and reducing the opportunities for car thefts to occur we hope to see fewer car thefts taking place,” he added.

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Captions: Jenna K will represent her region as Mrs Charity Oceania in Perth next year. Photo credit: Marty Strecker Photography

After almost a decade in modelling and pageantry, Jenna K has embarked on her latest challenge.

She will represent her region of Oceania as Mrs Charity Oceania 2023, travelling to Perth next year as a finalist for Charity Pageant Intercontinental.

Jenna described the Charity Pageant Intercontinental as a pageant with a difference.

“It’s just one that has that really great motto of ‘uniting women in service’ and it just really is something to empower women to love themselves and be passionate and to give them a voice to speak with,” she said.

“I just really loved what it stood for, it just really aligned with me.”

Charity Pageant Intercontinental gives contestants from all over the world the opportunity to advocate and fundraise for important causes, with the oceans, self-confidence and breast cancer awareness three causes close to Jenna’s heart.

“I really wanted to represent Oceania because I’m so passionate about the ocean,” she said.

In 2017, Jenna held the title of Mrs Water Australia, a time during which she worked with local Wildlife Warrior teams to help reduce debris in the ocean.

“I’m going to be continuing that, I’m collecting plastics and recyclables and I’m really wanting to get involved in the Mackay turtle association,” she said.

During her time as Mrs Charity Oceania 2023, Jenna will fundraise for the Mackay Hospital Foundation and Breast Screen Mackay, a cause very close to her heart after watching her Nanna survive breast cancer.

“I’m just really passionate about advocating to do the process, get your mammograms, get your checks done because early detection can save lives,” she said.

Another of Jenna’s passions is helping people to love themselves as they are and help them to find their self-confidence.

She plans to do this through her inaugural Beeyoutiful Charity Pageant, to be held on Saturday, March 18 at the Andergrove Tavern.

“I’ve always wanted to put an event together for people to experience some of what pageantry is like, but the extra fun side of it without the interview and public speaking,” Jenna said.

The pageant will consist of a confidence and mindset masterclass in the morning followed by the pageant that evening.

“There’s going to be a lot of people that might enter that have and no exposure to anything to do with modelling or pageantry, so I really want them to feel comfortable before they come back later in the afternoon to showcase what confidence they have established with themselves from the morning masterclass,” Jenna said.

The Beeyoutiful Charity Pageant is open to children and adults ages seven and older.

For more information and to register, go to the ‘Beeyoutiful Charity Pageants’ Facebook page or email beeyoutifulcharitypageants@gmail.com.

Jenna is also available for volunteering opportunities and appearances and hopes to use her platform as Mrs Charity Oceania to help her community.

“The shine and sparkle of the crown and sash draws enough attention, so it’s not about me,” she said.

“I’m just really trying to make a difference and make an impact in the community.”

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“They’re not only bolstering our workforce and making a real difference to our patients today, but they’re building the foundations of medical careers which will serve our community and Queensland for decades to come.”

Caption: Mackay Base Hospital has welcomed 37 intern doctors

A group of 44 intern doctors have joined the Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS), providing a boost to the medical team serving the region.

The intern group includes 37 doctors who are joining the team at Mackay Base Hospital, five at Proserpine Hospital and two at Bowen Hospital.

Interim Chief Executive Melissa Carter congratulated the new doctors on starting their journey in medicine and welcomed them to the Mackay HHS team.

“It’s exciting to welcome first-year doctors to our team and support them as they begin their career with the Mackay HHS,” Ms Carter said.

“They’re not only bolstering our workforce and making a real difference to our patients today, but they’re building the foundations of medical careers which will serve our community and Queensland for decades to come.

“Several of our intern doctors have already spent time with our team as medical students and, after positive experiences, have chosen to come back for the start of their career.

“Regardless of where their careers take them, they will develop strong foundations for the years ahead from the guidance of our experienced, dedicated and highly skilled team of Mackay HHS medical professionals.”

Thirty-two of the first-year doctors are from the Queensland Health program, six from the Queensland Rural Generalist Pathway and six from the Commonwealth-funded Junior Doctor Training Program.

Chief Medical Officer Dr Charles Pain said the interns will benefit from Mackay HHS’s friendly and welcoming atmosphere, its supportive medical culture and their broad exposure to a wide range of clinical cases.

“The interns will gain invaluable clinical experience during their first year as doctors, which will enable them to develop advanced skills as a foundation for their future medical careers,” Dr Pain said.

“Their diverse placements and experience in the MHHS will also help them make an informed choice when it comes to which speciality they wish to pursue in their future careers.

“Last year 21 interns stayed in Mackay HHS for their second year, which indicates to us how much they appreciated Mackay and valued the experience they obtained here.

“Our hope is that by providing excellent training experiences, many of our 2023 interns will also choose to build their future careers in the Mackay region.”

Student Placement Brings Dr Chamberlain Back To Mackay

Positive experiences as a student on placement at Mackay Base Hospital and his desire to become a general practitioner in a regional centre led to Dr Michael Chamberlain choosing to return as an intern.

Originally from Rockhampton, where his mother is a general practitioner, Michael studied at James Cook University in Townsville and returned to Mackay Base Hospital where he previously spent time on student placement.

“Comparatively I knew that this would be a very safe choice and being here just makes the start of my year easier,” Michael said.

“I think knowing that particularly the education support was really good and knowing people seem to be really happy here is what enticed me here as well.

Michael is joined in Mackay by his wife, who is a speech pathologist in private practice.

“Practicing in regional areas is definitely something I want to do long term - we don’t particularly like big cities and I’m less inclined to rural or remote practice, but regional practice is very appealing to me as I really like the lifestyle.”

Though he was exposed to life as a general practitioner through his mother, Michael said he didn’t always want to practice medicine.

“Growing up I didn’t really want to be a doctor, but by the end of my schooling I decided it was probably a good fit and then the more I looked into it, the more I liked it.”

Michael said an important consideration for choosing Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) was the inclusion of general practitioner placement in the internship, which is rarely offered to first year doctors.

“Regional general practice would be ideal for me - you do really get to know the community more than you think and growing up in a regional town with similar size I definitely felt that, and I also really like being able to have a steady patient base,” he said.

“A big drawcard to Mackay HHS was the general practice rotation as it was something that I was pretty excited to do.”

While he is working towards general practice, Michael said he was looking forward to his rotations across all areas and the supportive environment within the Mackay HHS team.

“Everyone seems to be very well supported and happy, so I think I’m most looking forward to practising and learning in a very safe environment,” he said.

“I think another benefit for Mackay studying here and then staying on was that we already had a support network of people not just from the hospital, but also out in the community.

“I’m definitely looking forward to improving my knowledge and getting into a routine.”

Michael added that the Mackay lifestyle was a bonus whether it was heading to Eungella or enjoying a nearby beach or simply gardening at their home.

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Find your perfect shade match at Inspirations Paint's newest store located in the Porters Homemaker Centre at 16 Carl Street, Rural View.

Now servicing the Mackay Northern Beaches area six days a week, the Porters Homemaker Centre is your local DIY home hub with a new store - Inspirations Paint. The experienced and knowledgeable team will provide the best advice for your next DIY home project, including how to choose the perfect shade of white for your home!

Choosing the right white isn’t as easy as it sounds. Furnishings, lighting, and the style of your home can all play a factor in choosing the perfect shade of white for your space.

Cool Whites

Cool whites have a subtle grey, beige or blue undertone. They are a popular choice in modern and contemporary homes and spaces when wanting to achieve a minimalist look.

Popular cool whites:  Dulux Vivid White, Dulux Lexicon Quarter, Berger Ice Fountain, Porter’s Paints Snow White.

Warm Whites

Warm whites create a cosy feel to a room, popular with traditional and country-style homes. The subtle peach, yellow and pink undertones help create an earthy, organic and natural boho feel.

Popular warm whites: Dulux Natural White, Dulux Antique White U.S.A, Berger White Score, Porter’s Paints Lace.

Visit the new Inspirations Paint Mackay Northern Beaches store for the Grand Opening from 8-11am on Saturday 11 February. Share your paint project with the team and together, we’ll make amazing projects happen.

Inspirations Paint Mackay Northern Beaches store for the Grand Opening

8-11am, Saturday 11 February 2023

16 Carl Street, Rural View

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Pic caption:  St Patrick's College Mackay Leadership Team for 2023: Standing L-R: Tracey McLeod (Assistant to Principal Welfare/Administration); Brendan Gunning (Assistant to Principal Mission); Chris Sorbello (Assistant to Principal Students); Janelle Agius (College Principal); seated: Sean Geoghegan (Deputy Principal Senior Campus); Scott McSherry (Assistant to Principal Curriculum) and Adam Skoczylas (Deputy Principal Mercy Campus)

Nearly one hundred and thirty years of combined history will be preserved with the amalgamation of two renowned Mackay educational establishments, St Patrick's College and Mercy College, in 2023.

Both institutions will operate under the one banner of St Patrick's College when the new school year commences this week – signalling the start of an exciting new era.

Boasting a rich history built on the Sisters of Mercy and Christian Brothers, who founded schools in the Mackay region in 1880 and 1929 respectively, St Patrick's – an established co-educational Catholic College - will continue to be committed to Catholic values which are at the core of all the school's learning.  

"This merger marks a significant milestone for two of Mackay's leading educational facilities and will continue to provide a unique experience for students consisting of a dual campus concept," declared St Patrick's College Principal Janelle Agius.

"Our students are encouraged to excel in personal growth and faith development in a learning environment and will continue to specialise in lower and middle secondary years at our Mercy Campus in Penn Street and the Senior Years Campus located in Gregory Street in the city heart," said Mrs Agius.

"We value a broad-based curriculum that allows students to discover new interests and abilities, while focusing on higher levels of literacy and numeracy," she added.

"Our staff work collaboratively with students and their families and challenge students to become active learners, to prepare them for success in a variety of pathways for senior school and beyond. Students are offered many extra opportunities to allow them to become the best person they can be."

A proud Mrs Agius said her staff took satisfaction in fostering an environment of friendship and service, which is so important in developing students to become lifelong learners.

"This collaborative approach to learning is enhanced by the knowledge that in the wider community the College is known for our excellent academic results, community service, sporting successes and cultural achievements," Mrs Agius revealed.

St Patrick's College Vision Statement is fostering the holistic development of students to champion compassion, hope, justice and respect.

The College's Mission Statement is to provide a Catholic education following the example of Catherine McAuley and Edmund Rice.

They strive to be a nurturing community of faith with Christ's teachings at the heart of all that they do; inspire students to be courageous and defend the dignity of all persons; foster a quest for educational excellence and a desire to discern truth plus to recognise each student's uniqueness and dedicate themselves both to knowing them and meeting their needs.

By Chris Karas

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Mackay Police reported that a home on McHugh Street in Rural View was broken into via an unlocked door last week.

An Asus laptop was the only item stolen from inside.

Police said that shortly after the laptop was stolen it was fraudulently used to access the victim's online bank accounts and a significant financial transfer took place.

Anyone who might have information about this matter is encouraged to contact police as soon as possible.

Please refer to the report number QP230099136.

Thieves typically devote much of their time seeking easy entry points into homes - for example, unlocked doors or unsecured windows.

The simplest security measures cause thieves the most frustration. Police are asking homeowners to ensure their homes are properly secured either when unattended or during night-time hours.

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Photo caption: (L-R) Alison Mann, a 2023 CAP participant based at St Paul’s Catholic Primary School Gracemere, with Anthony Greene, Principal and Mentor Teacher Kasey Gilbert

A new partnership between Catholic Education-Diocese of Rockhampton (Queensland) and CQUniversity aimed at building the capability and confidence of pre-service teachers has attracted great interest in 2023 following a highly successful pilot in 2022.

From two successful applicants in 2022, the Career Assistance Program (CAP) has expanded in 2023, with 11 pre-service teachers being appointed to Catholic primary schools across the Diocese of Rockhampton. There are 15 schools in the Mackay region which are included in the Diocese of Rockhampton.

The Career Assistance Program (CAP) is designed to support pre-service teachers in the third and fourth year of their teaching degree, through on-the-job mentoring and coaching.

CAP pre-service teachers have the opportunity to practise and refine the routines and strategies that support well organised, highly functional learning environments and experiences. These might include managing transitions from lunch break to the classroom so that students are ready for learning; arranging students into purposeful groups; asking questions that elicit higher order thinking; helping students regulate their own behaviours in positive ways; assessing student learning ‘on the go’ and responding ‘in the teachable moment’; and providing feedback that supports ongoing learning.

Student and 2022 CAP participant Hayley Wornum said she would highly recommend the program to fellow students.

“The CAP provides a flexibility for learning, through a hands-on approach in a realistic setting,” Hayley said.

For Hayley, the CAP has resulted in a permanent teaching position with Catholic Education at St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School Clermont.

The second 2022 CAP participant is continuing her placement at St Benedict’s Yeppoon while she engages in the final year of her Bachelor of Education Degree with CQ University. CEDR Assistant Director: Teaching and Learning, Carmel Kriz, said “The Career Assistance Program enables Catholic Education to nurture and support pre-service teachers more effectively than a short-term practicum placement, leading to beneficial outcomes for students and families.

“All the research shows us that it is the quality of teaching that makes the greatest difference for learning outcomes of young people. So, we want the very best teachers for our students.”

Mrs Kriz further advised that, “Our CAP allows us to foster high-quality teachers and immerse them in the practices and routines that we need in our teachers and that cannot always be explored fully in an undergraduate education course.”

CAP participants can access up to two years of working in a school community, being coached by mentor teachers, building skills and confidence and gaining a deeper understanding of the knowledge required by a contemporary teacher.

“Our CAP participants have the opportunity to grow in their professionalism on a daily basis. Over time, they build confidence and competence, ‘the mindset, toolset and skillset’ that make for a great teacher.”

Mrs Kriz said the program helps pre-service teachers learn in collaboration with a mentor teacher who supports them in targeted and responsive ways. This is complemented by support from school leadership teams, and professional collegiality and collaboration from the whole school staff.

“We are in a position where we have great belief and faith in our teachers. With that comes the recognition that we need to provide support, over time, in a very safe and nurturing environment. That’s our work, to support teachers to be the very best that they can be. I think our Career Assistance Program gets pre-service teachers off to an amazing start: it is one of the key ways in which we invest in our people,” Mrs Kriz said.

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