Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
OPINION PIECE from the office of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox There is no question that immigration into Australia is out of control. The government’s numbers are too high, and standards are too low. A sustainable migration program must consider our capacity to provide housing, healthcare, infrastructure and the essential services everyone relies on, and Australians must come first. But Labor’s decision to target Working Holiday Makers Visa holders is not the answer. These people filling vital gaps in our workforce are not the cause of Australia’s housing crisis. In many cases, they are living in accommodation provided by the very businesses that employ them. The National Farmers’ Federation has made the point that Working Holiday Makers generally stay in hostels, caravan parks or purpose-built on-farm accommodation. Resorts usually have on-site staff quarters. They are not the source of Australia’s housing shortage. So why is Labor making it harder for them to come here, when these workers fill genuine jobs that regional Australia holds? Working Holiday Makers fill approximately one in seven farm jobs nationally and are particularly important during peak agricultural periods, which for Dawson, it is right now! Farmers rely on these workers to plant, pick, pack and harvest the produce that ends up on Australian supermarket shelves. Having run one of Australia’s largest tomato farms, at times Working Holiday Makers made up more than 50 per cent of my workforce. Without them, much of our crop simply would not have been picked in time and rotted in the paddock. Some may say, why not employ the Australians who don’t have a job and are on “the dole”? Can I say, this does not work. Most farmers will employ Aussies over travelling backpackers, but many either don’t want to do the work or don’t turn up after the first day. Who picks the fruit or veggies then? Farmers are already warning that visa delays are leaving them without workers. The NFF says approvals that once took days are now facing processing times of up to three months, and this time frame can be the difference between harvesting a crop or losing it. That should concern every Australian already feeling the pressure at the supermarket checkout. The same problem is playing out in tourism. Across Dawson, Working Holiday Makers are an important part of the workforce supporting tourism and hospitality, particularly in the Whitsundays. They help fill shifts, work in hotels and restaurants, support tour operators and keep businesses running through their busiest periods. They also contribute to the local economy. They spend money on food, fuel, attractions and tours, supporting the small businesses that depend on a strong visitor economy. That is why tourism and business leaders across North Queensland are raising the alarm. They understand what happens when a regional business cannot get enough staff: opening hours are reduced, and services are cut, creating a downward spiral. We do need to reduce migration to sustainable levels. We need stronger integrity measures, and we need to crack down on rorts. But responsible migration policy means understanding which parts of the system are creating pressure and which parts are helping Australia function. Working Holiday Makers are not the problem. They are part of the workforce solution for regional. Australia. People have had a gutful of watching their standard of living go backwards. Groceries, fuel, housing and everyday expenses are already putting enormous pressure on families. The last thing Australians need is another reckless policy that makes it harder to produce food, harder to run regional businesses and harder for tourism operators to find the workers they need.
Read the full storySomeone sold a house in Sydney last week for $9 million less than they bought it for four or five years ago. The sellers had bought the property in Sydney’s eastern suburbs for $29 million and sold it for $20 million in a sale forced by their bank. I imagine the sellers are a little disappointed by the government’s decisions on negative gearing and capital gains tax and feeling pretty hurt by the increased interest rates. Australia’s interest rates are on the rise and are now sitting at levels not seen since 2011. Increased cost of living is hurting people around the country and interest rates are playing into that. But the impact of interest rates is not felt evenly around the country. The far-higher property prices mean people in the major cities suffer much more than regional areas with the rates increase. That is certainly not to say people in Mackay are unaffected by the cost of living; it’s just that the impact of interest rates increase on a $400,000 mortgage is much less than the impact on a $1m mortgage. There are other Mackay-specific factors that are in play when discussing the current housing market. The big factor is the role of coal in our economy. Most of the coal extracted and exported from our region is coking coal, which is used to make steel. The price of coking coal is around $280 a tonne, which is about 50 per cent up. Good activity in the coal market translates to good news for the Mackay economy, as it is an economic engine that other cities and regions just don’t have. Good activity in Bowen Basin flows throughout the Mackay economy; Paget workshops, transport, suppliers and related businesses all benefit. But so do other, non-mining-related businesses as they benefit from the general confidence and spending that goes on. The strong mining activity also means mines need to keep their staff levels up and that means more people moving to Mackay. Of course, Mackay is much more than a coal mining town but if the coal sector is going well those other areas definitely benefit. It is a confidence boost for Mackay people looking to get into the housing market and those wanting to upgrade or downsize. It also means continuing strong demand from people wanting to rent a property and it will be interesting to see what sort of activity that creates from investors. Investors have walked away from the big-city markets because they can no longer use negative gearing on established properties that do not have a sufficient yield to be positively geared. Negative gearing has never been a big thing in Mackay because our prices are lower and rental returns continue to be strong so many investors have a positively geared property. Around the country everyone is nervous about the state of play and the probability of more interest rate rises. But strong coal prices and an economy that is performing well mean Mackay might just be presenting an opportunity for buyers and sellers that doesn’t exist in other parts. I remember when national confidence was flying high and Mackay prices were going up significantly that many buyers were saying “I wish we had bought a while ago when the market wasn’t so hot”. I’m not armed with a crystal ball so I’m not here to tell you what is going to happen but I suspect there is a very good buying window right now for those looking for an opportunity.
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A local Mackay and Sarina based model has created a dress out of newspapers, including Mackay Life, for her upcoming pageant, representing her region and hometown on the runway as she vies for Miss Diamond International in Brisbane. Zoe Place will be competing this weekend in the three-day event, beginning this Friday 2nd October and ending on Sunday 4th October. The young model spent around a month creating her eco-fashion outfit, using old newspapers as the main material and transforming them into a bodice, skirt and flowers. Red elements were also incorporated into the design to give the dress a bold and glamorous pageant feel. Zoe said, “The entire concept was really about taking something that would normally be thrown away and turning it into something beautiful and meaningful.” Her eco-fashion creation will form part of a busy weekend in Brisbane, with the Miss Diamond International event including photo shoots, interviews, an eco-fashion show and the final pageant. Zoe has been preparing for the event by practising her strut and walking, preparing for interviews and getting comfortable in the different outfits she will wear throughout the weekend. Alongside her love of modelling, pageantry has also provided Zoe with a platform to raise awareness about causes close to her heart, including mental health, while fundraising for Beyond Blue. “Pageantry has given me more of a platform to combine my love for modelling with something that is really important to me.” “When I first started, I was more nervous about putting myself out there and worried about what others would think about me – but I’ve changed a lot through my journey in pageantry.” “Pageantry has also taught me that it’s not about how you look on stage. It’s about the person you are when you step off it.” “Every woman has their own unique journey and that journey is something we should all be really proud of.” “To me, it represents confidence, empowerment, kindness, and using your voice to make a difference.” Zoe said she was looking forward to meeting the other contestants, making new connections and creating memories. “I’m definitely looking forward to meeting all the new contestants and making new connections and creating memories that I will carry with me for a lifetime.” While Zoe hopes to eventually move to the city, her sights are set even further afield, with a dream of one day walking in New York Fashion Week. Mackay and Sarina local Zoe Place has created an eco-fashion dress from recycled newspapers, including Mackay Life, ahead of her Miss Diamond International pageant in Brisbane. Photos supplied
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Trends, reels and the endless cycle of always wanting more has quietly bombarded the minds of countless social media users of all ages, but one former Mackay local has made it her mission to help others understand the effects of social media and find practical ways to break free from online addiction. Alexis Zahner is in Mackay over the next week to teach upcoming generations about social media and the effects it can have on the mind, particularly on identity, self-discovery, as well as the marketing strategies that get viewers hooked and influence their decisions. It is something Alexis knows first-hand can be a useful tool, but also a great disruption to authenticity and the world as we see and experience it. Alexis will hold a free meet and greet and book launch today, Friday 2nd October, at 5.30pm at the Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club, where she will give a talk and answer questions relating to her debut book, Real: Reconnecting to Yourself in a World of Likes and Lies. A former Mackay girl, Alexis spent the past 15 years working across business psychology, marketing and media, with her interest in social media influence beginning during her university studies at James Cook University in Townsville. Her own experience as a social media user, travel blogger and influencer eventually led her to question how much of her identity, decisions and values were being shaped by what she saw online. “The tipping point came for me about 3 years ago when I had this feeling that I couldn't separate influence from my own personal decision making,” she said. “I couldn't separate my own likes, dislikes, values, relationships from what I was being exposed to and being influenced by online.” “I found that I needed to take some time away from social media to recalibrate what was important to me and sort of reconnect and come back to myself.” Alexis said she understood the feeling of questioning who you are outside of social media. “I know what it feels like to live a life under the influence of social media and have that existential crisis of thinking to yourself, who am I? What do I like? What's the kind of life I want to live? and struggling to separate myself from influence.” Alexis is particularly passionate about reaching teenagers, who she says are in an important stage of identity development, and will share this message with Mackay high school students during her upcoming school talks. “Teenagers are really easily influenced by social media. So it's a really important age where we start educating them – not just on the mental health repercussions of things like social media and how it shortens their attention span, but how it actually influences who they become.” “If you're asking yourself these questions, it's not your fault. Social media is actually geared to create this impact on you.” Alexis encourages people of all ages to “start expanding beyond what you see on the platform.” “Dare to indulge in the things that you've always been curious about or things you used to love,” she said. “Don't be afraid to put the phone down to let yourself be curious and have fun.” What: Alexis Zahner's 'Real' Book launch When: 5.30pm Friday 2nd October 2026 Where: Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club Former Mackay local and author Alexis Zahner is returning home to share her experiences with social media and her debut book, Real. Photo supplied
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By Cr Belinda Hassan
Mackay Regional Council has launched an exciting new initiative called Amplify Mackay, designed to help local businesses tap into the opportunities created by major events across our region.
As a community, we already know that events bring energy, excitement and visitors into our region. From sporting fixtures and festivals, through to exhibitions, conferences and cultural events, they inject life into our city and create valuable economic opportunities for local businesses.
But Amplify Mackay is about taking that one step further.
The program encourages businesses to align what they already do with major event periods – whether that’s through special offers, themed experiences, promotions, activations or simply creating a welcoming atmosphere for visitors and locals alike. Those offers are then promoted through the Amplify Mackay platform to event organisers, visitors and the wider community.
Importantly, businesses don’t need to spend a fortune or completely reinvent themselves. In fact, one of the strongest messages behind the campaign is that participation can be simple, affordable and effective.
For cafés and restaurants, it might be a themed menu or event-night special. For retailers, it could mean decorating shopfronts, creating eye-catching displays or running a promotion tied to a major event. Accommodation providers might offer transport options, late check-outs or packages for visitors attending events.
There are some exciting events on the horizon that businesses can connect with, including Daly Bay Illuminate, QME, Mackay’s first international Test cricket match, Rhythm and the Reef, AFLW events linked to the Gold Coast SUNS partnership, and the highly anticipated Disney: The Exhibition – A Century of Magic, which is expected to attract strong visitation from December through to May 2027.
One event I’m particularly looking forward to is Daly Bay Illuminate in July, when Wood and Victoria Streets will light up as part of the Festival of Arts. The event encourages businesses to get creative with lighting, displays and promotions, helping transform the City Centre into a vibrant night-time destination.
What I really appreciate about Amplify Mackay is that it recognises major events don’t just benefit one venue or precinct – the benefits can and should flow throughout the wider community. When visitors come here, their experience is shaped not just by the headline event, but by the hospitality, atmosphere and local pride they encounter across our region.
This initiative is about showcasing the very best of Mackay – our creativity, our business community and our ability to work together to create memorable experiences for both visitors and locals. Get onboard at: https://mackayevents.com.au/events/discover-mackay-event-energy.
Let’s Chat – Council Connect
Residents can catch up with councillors in person at upcoming Let’s Chat - Council Connect sessions held across the region. The next session will be held at Seaforth Bowls Club on June 2 at 5pm.
Further details can be found on the Connecting Mackay website.
Community generosity has helped the Habana Rural Fire Brigade upgrade its boggy fireshed forecourt, improving emergency response access and allowing the brigade to move ahead with future improvements. Photos supplied
A wealth of community support has been on full display at the Habana Rural Fire Brigade, with local businesses stepping in to help repair the brigade’s boggy fire shed forecourt.
Brigade representative Maxine Godley said the muddy conditions had become a constant issue for volunteers, with trucks regularly becoming bogged after returning from emergencies.
“Every time the trucks left the shed and returned they were in the bog — muddied and had to be washed down,” she said.
The project quickly gained momentum thanks to the generosity of local companies.
Heidelberg Materials Australia Area Manager Danielle Bree advised the brigade the company was “delighted to assist”, while Steel Force Mackay Branch Manager Rick Biggin offered to supply the steel reinforcing for the foundation.
The concrete pour took place on April 21st, with fire trucks rolling in to complete the long-awaited upgrade.
Mrs Godley said the support had not only improved day-to-day operations but also allowed the brigade to move ahead with another important improvement project.
“The savings allow us to immediately proceed to the next major project — the second roller door at the front of the fire shed to allow our smaller ‘quick response’ fire truck to be first out of the shed and away in an emergency,” she said.
“On behalf of all brigade members and our community we want to sincerely thank these donors for their willing generosity providing assistance to Habana’s Rural Fire Brigade.”
She said the finished result had already made a noticeable difference for volunteers and emergency response efforts, describing it as “a clean and secure forecourt for emergency response and returns.”
Last year's event was a major success, and this year is set to be even better! Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
The 2026 Mackay Disability Expo is here for another year, drawing thousands into the Big Shed at the Mackay Showgrounds this upcoming Tuesday June 2nd.
The event will provide various opportunities for people living with disability, and their carers, with stalls and experts available on the day to help improve quality of life.
Organisers say the expo this year will focus on ensuring people living with a disability can live their best lives.
Mayor Greg Williamson said, “While these are all important aspects of disability support, there’s so much more on offer that can improve quality of life and assist people follow their interests and passions,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Exhibitors like That Place have created a space for people to interact and grow through play with their ‘Dragons on the Spectrum’ program, which is hugely popular,” he said.
“It’s a fantastic example of social skills building, which can greatly build the confidence and life enjoyment of participants.
“Organisations like Sport4All can not only help people with a disability be involved in sport, volunteering and administration, but can help local clubs ensure they are truly accessible.”
The event will include several demonstrations, including an inspiring performance by the Unheard Voices Collective.
The latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows 5.5 million Australians, which is 21 per cent of the population, live with disability, totalling up to 17.7 per cent since 2018.
Of the households where at least one person lived with disability, more than 60 per cent needed assistance with at least one aspect of daily life.
Mayor Williamson said those statistics show the importance of events like the Mackay Disability Expo.
“With an increasing number of people living with disability, it’s vital that our community knows that help is available. And the Mackay Disability Expo is a great place to learn what is out there and how it can assist you or your loved one.”
For more information on the Mackay Disability Expo, visit mackay.qld.gov.au/disabilityexpo
In an interview with Mayor Greg Williamson, Carol Masso said she was happy knowing the people around her felt supported and cared for.
Mackay Regional Council has continued its Legendary Neighbour program, with Mayor Greg Williamson undertaking surprise home visits to recognise residents nominated by their communities for outstanding acts of care and connection.
As part of Neighbourhood Month and Neighbourhood Week initiatives, the program highlights kindness, belonging and the everyday actions that help strengthen neighbourhoods across the region. This year, around 30 nominations were received, with selected recipients presented with certificates acknowledging them as Legendary Neighbours for 2026.
Among those honoured was Carol Masso, who was surprised at her home by Mayor Greg Williamson after being nominated by her neighbour Barbara and members of her local community, who described Carol as someone who consistently looks out for others and ensures neighbours are supported and included.
During the presentation, Mayor Williamson explained the purpose of the program is to recognise residents nominated by their own communities for acts of care that often go unnoticed.
Carol expressed genuine surprise at the recognition, describing it as completely unexpected. She spoke about her approach to community life, saying her focus is simply on ensuring people are coping and not left isolated. She also highlighted the importance of being available when needed, whether that involves checking in on others, offering assistance, or providing reassurance for families who may not always be nearby.
In an interview with Mackay Regional Council and the Mayor, Carol said the greatest satisfaction comes from knowing those around her are supported and secure.
The second recipient, Ian “Stringy” Smith, was also presented with a Legendary Neighbour award following nominations from members of his community. Mayor Greg Williamson acknowledged the strong community backing behind his nomination and the breadth of contributions attributed to him.
Ian was recognised for his willingness to step in wherever help is needed, particularly in situations involving community safety, emergencies and practical assistance across his local area. Those who nominated him described him as someone who notices what needs doing and takes action without hesitation, often going beyond what is asked or expected.
Community members spoke of his reputation as a dependable presence, someone who supports others in both urgent and everyday circumstances.
In an interview with Mayor Williamson, Ian said the recognition came as a surprise, noting that he simply gets on with helping where he can. He described it as something he enjoys, saying that contributing to the community gives him a sense of purpose and satisfaction.
The Legendary Neighbour program continues to highlight the value of everyday kindness and connection across the Mackay region, reinforcing Mackay Regional Council’s focus on building stronger, more resilient neighbourhoods.
Congratulations Carol and Ian!
Following strong community reaction to the proposed repurposing of the Gordon White Library, Mackay Regional Council says it is now exploring alternative options for the future of the facility ahead of next month’s Special Budget Meeting.
The update follows weeks of community discussion surrounding council’s earlier proposal to transfer the majority of library services from the Mount Pleasant site to the new Northern Beaches Community Hub once it opens in 2027.
Mayor Greg Williamson said council had listened to community concerns while also considering budget pressures and the financial impact on ratepayers.
“We’ve had about 800 survey responses and there are about 1500 signatures on a petition from locals, and those responses are mostly telling us what they value about Gordon White Library,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Overwhelmingly, it has been families that have responded and told us that Gordon White is a meeting place for them to socialise and support the early development of their children,” he said.
“With that in mind, we are exploring options around how we can still keep those services that people value so highly and retain a library facility at Gordon White.”
The response comes after residents raised concerns about the future of the library, with many describing it as an important and accessible community space for families, students, elderly residents and people living with disability.
Gerard Carlyon said councillors were currently considering three options ahead of the Special Budget Meeting on June 29th.
“Option one is where we consolidate our libraries on the north side and includes a minimal increase in cost to ratepayers,” Mr Carlyon said.
“It would see us transfer the majority of library services from Gordon White Library to the Northern Beaches Community Hub Library,” he said.
“Option two is a compromise based on residents’ feedback – we keep a library facility at Gordon White and prioritise the services the community is telling us they value most.
“We would then explore models where we could operate all our libraries, including the Northern Beaches, without any major staff increases but with some reduction of service across the branches.
“This would likely include some reduced operating hours and more strategic delivery of programming, but it would reduce the increased rate burden to about $1 million.”
Mr Carlyon said the third option would retain both libraries at full capacity.
“The third model is to keep both services (Gordon White and the Northern Beaches) at full capacity, which would have about a $2.2 million annual impact on rate payers,” he said.
“Our executive leadership team, in conjunction with staff, will work through these models as we approach the Budget Meeting so that councillors can make a decision that best suits the residents of the Mackay region.”
Community feedback on the proposal remains open until June 16th as discussions continue around the future of the Gordon White Library.
The 2026 Mayor’s Charity Ball has raised $67,305.38 for local charities, with funds split evenly between The Salvation Army’s Family Violence Service and The Neighbourhood Hub’s Food Diversion Program. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
A total of $67,305.38 has been raised for local charities through the 2026 Mayor’s Charity Ball, with sponsors and supporters gathering at the MECC Foyer on Tuesday 26th May to celebrate the fundraising milestone and formally recognise the event’s contribution to the Mackay community.
Held on Saturday 2nd May, the James Bond-inspired evening welcomed 373 guests to the MECC for a night of entertainment, glamour and generosity, with funds split evenly between The Salvation Army’s Family Violence Service and The Neighbourhood Hub’s Food Diversion Program. Each organisation received $33,652.69.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the long-running event continues to deliver significant support to local organisations doing important work in the community.
“The Mayor’s Charity Ball has been going since 2013, and during that time we’ve raised over a million dollars,” he said.
“Over $67,000 was raised in that one night at the 2026 Mayor’s Charity Ball.”
“This is one of the biggest ones we’ve had for quite some time, and it exceeded last year by about $10,000.”
“The Mackay community really gets behind things like this, even in economically challenging times.”
“We would like to sincerely thank everyone who attended, donated and supported the event.”
Sponsors were formally acknowledged at the morning tea, where they received certificates of appreciation for their support.
Platinum: Fergus Builders, Daly Bay, BMA, Mickala Group
Gold: Pentacon, Summit, Oral Health & Beyond Collective
Silver: CQ Soil Testing, NQ Bulk Ports
Media Partners: Mackay and Whitsunday Life, 7 News Mackay, Hit 100.3 and Triple M, Bishopp Outdoor Advertising, Tropical Exposure
In-Kind Sponsors: Signarama, Harvey Norman Mackay, Fitness Cartel Mackay, Splash Pool Care, Greg Neill & Son Fine Jewellers, Guzman y Gomez Mt Pleasant
A Mackay family has thanked Kim from Mackay Animal Rescue after she stopped to help following a frightening tyre blowout on the highway near Bowen. Photo source: Shutterstock
A frightening moment on the highway has become a heartwarming reminder of community kindness after a Mackay woman stopped to help a family stranded on the side of the road over the weekend.
Travelling to Bowen with a car full of goods and their baby on board, the family experienced a tyre blowout at highway speed, describing the ordeal as a terrifying experience.
They later shared their gratitude to Kim from Mackay Animal Rescue online, who stopped to check on them and offered support and assistance during the stressful situation.
“Thank you for stopping — not only to check if we were okay, but also for offering endless help and support,” the family shared.
“Your kindness meant so much to our family, and we are incredibly grateful.”
The family said the experience was a reminder of the compassion that exists within regional communities and the importance of helping others when they need it most.
“Moments like this remind us how beautiful our community really is,” they said.
“I always remember the saying: ‘Someone once helped me, so now I will help others too.’ Let’s keep passing this spirit on.”
Hannah McNamara Journalist from Mackay Life Newspaper, Sherie Hensler-Adams Sales Manager from Hinchinbrook Life, Bec Douthwaite Owner and Publisher, Jacob Casha journalist from Burdekin Life Newspaper, Victoria Velton Journalist from Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper, Rachael Smith Life Publishing Group Editor in Chief and Trish Jandt Sales Manager for Whitsunday Life.
Every paper within the Life Publishing Group umbrella is sharing in the glory of another successful Queensland Country Press Awards, where this small but mighty independent newspaper group brought home six awards.
Owner and publisher Bec Douthwaite said she was immensely proud of the team and delighted to see each newspaper thriving within their communities.
“In 2024 Mackay & Whitsunday Life won Best Free Newspaper in Queensland, it’s great to see the momentum continue this year and watch our team shine at state level!”
The team at Life Publishing Group are celebrating this week following one of their most successful years at the Queensland Country Press Awards which were held in the Sunshine Coast over the weekend.
Jacob Casha, journalist with Burdekin Life Newspaper, was announced as Best Young Journalist of the year and also received a silver for Best Single Story by an Individual Journalist.
Meanwhile, Chelsea Ravizza, who writes across all Life Publishing Group papers, including this one, received a silver in the Best Young Journalist of the Year category.
“Young journalists are the lifeblood of regional journalism,” said Life Publishing Group Editor in Chief Rachael Smith.
“We are proud to support the growth of our talented team and thrilled to see two of our journalists bring home awards.
“I would also like to take a moment to commend Mackay Lead Journalist Hannah McNamara who stepped up significantly this year and is one of the most hardworking, dedicated and passionate journalists I know.
“She is a winner too, and we are very lucky to have her on the team.”
In addition to the editorial awards, Life Publishing Group won three advertising awards.
A highlight was receiving gold for Best Print Community Advertising Promotion for the Life Publishing Group Enchanted Garden Charity Event.
A second gold was awarded for Best Locally Produced Print Advertisement of the year and was followed by silver for Best Locally Produced Advertising Campaign of the year.
“We had such an amazing result at the awards again this year. I am incredibly proud of our whole team, and deeply thankful to our designers who always go above and beyond to make our ads look incredible,” said Mackay Sales Manager Jess Clark.
“It was a special moment for me to see one of our community charity promotions win gold for the second year in a row – this particular event was our Enchanted Garden Fundraiser and it holds a special place in my heart because we raised $56,000 for seven regional charities.”
There are more than 60 independent news media publishers registered with Queensland Country Press Association.
“In 2024 we were thrilled to bring home Best Free Newspaper in Queensland,” shared Rachael Smith.
“I still vividly remember our name being called out on the night, it was one of the best moments of my life and I was deeply honoured to celebrate with our team again this year – watching Jacob being acknowledged for his talent and storytelling was a real highlight for the whole team.”
“Over the years we have consistently brought home awards, with this years’ being one of our best hauls!
“For me, 2026 represents a year where we continue to cement our presence within the newspaper community and are seen as high achievers among our peers – this is something I am truly proud of.
“Everyone in the team has contributed to the success behind all these awards and they are a result of us all striving for excellence in everything we do.”
Long-awaited flood-immunity works proposed for Goorganga Plains near Proserpine are continuing to progress following years of flooding and highway closures along the notoriously flood-prone stretch of the Bruce Highway, however some residents say concerns remain about road safety through the area in its current condition.
The proposed Goorganga Plains Floodplain Upgrade forms part of broader Bruce Highway resilience planning aimed at improving flood immunity, reducing closures and strengthening one of Queensland’s most important freight and transport corridors.
The area has long been regarded as one of the Whitsundays region’s most flood-affected sections of highway, regularly becoming impassable during major weather events and cutting access between Mackay and the Whitsundays.
However, local resident Denise Hadley said she believes the current road conditions are extremely dangerous and claims repeated attempts to raise concerns with authorities continue to go unanswered.
“I’m gobsmacked. It’s infuriating, it’s disappointing, and I feel like it’s going to take somebody getting incredibly hurt for someone to listen,” she said.
Ms Hadley explained she had contacted the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) almost daily regarding concerns surrounding the road conditions but claimed she had received little acknowledgement in response.
“It’s really not good enough. You’re [TMR] supposed to make that road safe for everybody,” she said.
Ms Hadley has also contacted the Queensland Transport Minister’s office multiple times and had attempted to escalate the matter further through other government offices.
“I don’t know what has to happen for someone to take this seriously,” she said.
Ms Hadley claimed the road surface was rough and said reduced speed limits and temporary line markings through the area had heightened her concerns.
“It’s disheartening,” she said.
Despite her frustrations, Ms Hadley said she intended to continue pushing for action.
“I will continue to call, and I will continue to be the squeaky wheel,” she said.
“I just want all of those departments to be very aware — and I’ve written this in emails — that if somebody gets hurt out there, it’s on you. You have been made fully aware that there’s something wrong with this road.”
Since first raising her concerns publicly on social media in May 2025, Ms Hadley continues to plead with authorities to investigate the stretch of highway, and has continuously echoed, she will keep campaigning until action is taken.
According to publicly available project information, the proposed floodplain upgrade is intended to improve safety, flood resilience and freight reliability along the Bruce Highway corridor.
Life Publishing Group has contacted the Department of Transport and Main Roads for comment regarding the concerns raised by residents surrounding the Goorganga Plains section of the Bruce Highway, with further coverage to follow next week pending a response from the department.
Guests embraced the “Pretty in the Paddock” theme at this year’s Show Ball, enjoying a glamorous evening of music, dancing, and community spirit. Photo credit: Depicting Dreamscapes
The Proserpine Showgrounds came alive on the weekend as the annual Show Ball brought locals together for a night of music, celebration, and community pride. Embracing the “Pretty in the Paddock” theme, guests arrived in formal attire, filling the venue with colour, conversation, and dance.
Country star Amber Lawrence headlined the evening with a high-energy set that kept the dance floor packed, while local performer Shaun Diver showcased homegrown talent.
Organisers from the Show Ball Committee said the event was a strong success, thanking attendees, volunteers, performers, and sponsors for their support. The night was hailed as a reminder of the region’s strong community spirit and love of shared celebration.
The Show Ball delivered a memorable evening of glamour and music, with locals gathering at the Proserpine Showgrounds for a night of celebration and entertainment.
Guests embraced the “Pretty in the Paddock” theme, arriving in elegant formal attire and creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with laughter, conversation, and dancing. The event provided a welcome opportunity for the community to reconnect and enjoy a night out together.
Headline entertainment was provided by acclaimed country music artist Amber Lawrence, whose energetic performance kept the dance floor busy throughout the evening. Popular local performer Shaun Diver also entertained the crowd, highlighting the strong local talent within the region.
Show Ball Committee member Elaine Riley said the event had been a wonderful success and praised the strong community support shown on the night.
Organisers extended their thanks to all attendees, performers, volunteers, and sponsors who helped make the event such a success.
Guests gathered in Collinsville for the Heart of the Farm Ladies Luncheon hosted by NQ Dry Tropics. Photo source NQ Dry Tropics
Women from across the region gathered in Collinsville this week for the Heart of the Farm Ladies Luncheon, an event focused on connection and wellbeing within agriculture.
Hosted by NQ Dry Tropics through the Landholders Driving Change (LDC2) project, the luncheon featured guest speakers Steph Schmidt from Farm Life Psych and Anika Molesworth from Climate Wise Agriculture.
The event combined inspiring conversations with networking opportunities, good food and plenty of laughs, leaving attendees feeling “inspired and recharged”.
In a social media post following the event, NQ Dry Tropics thanked the guest speakers for sharing their stories and insights with local women involved in agriculture and regional communities.
The luncheon formed part of the Landholders Driving Change project, funded by the Queensland Government through the Queensland Reef Water Quality Program.
Burnout is never weakness; it’s a condition of the strongest performers.
High performers often believe they can operate at 140% forever. They push harder, take on more, solve every problem, carry everyone, and wear exhaustion like a badge of honour. The conscious mind tells them, “Keep going. We’ve got this.” But the nervous system is quietly keeping score.
Burnout happens when a nervous system no longer believes its owner will protect it. It helps to think of burnout as two people living in one body.
The first - your conscious mind - driven, capable and highly productive. It loves achievement, pressure and momentum, thrives on ticking boxes, solving crises and outperforming expectations.
The second - your nervous system - ancient survival system designed to keep you safe and alive, which regulates stress hormones, sleep, recovery, digestion, emotional balance and energy. Unlike your conscious mind, it cares only about survival - not KPIs, outcomes and lists of achievements.
Problems arise when high achievers keep the ‘pedal to the metal’ for a long, long time - never taking their foot off the accelerator long enough for the nervous system to rest and repair. Too much cortisol (stress hormone) builds up for waaaaay too long - eventually, the nervous system stops trusting its human host.
At first, it whispers - poor sleep, irritability, waking at 2am with a surge of adrenaline, emotional overwhelm, brain fog and fatigue that rest no longer fixes. When whispers are ignored – it then screams! The nervous system escalates, starts pulling emergency levers, normal daily functions are near impossible, and the body begins forcing the slowdown the mind refuses to choose. It’s a small break before a complete implosion, telling you to stop right now before you can’t reverse it.
Don’t let your driven employees arrive at this outcome, balancing on the edge of a precipice. Create honest, authentic check-ins with your high achievers, encourage discussions about emotional well-being, and ensure they take time off – without the phone!
Contributed with thanks to Judy Porter, Shiift
Renewable energy projects are generating a lot of discussion across the Whitsundays right now and understandably so.
While for some these projects represent opportunity, jobs and investment. For others, they raise real concerns around visual impacts, housing pressure, roads, agriculture, the environment and what this region could look like into the future.
As Mayor, I want the community to know Council is listening.
This week Council officially launched public consultation on a proposed Community Benefit Agreement Policy for major renewable energy projects in the Whitsundays.
Importantly, this consultation is not about Council trying to approve or push through projects.
The Queensland Government is the assessment manager and decision-maker for these developments not local government.
What Council is trying to do is ensure that if projects proceed through the State Government process, the Whitsundays community has a stronger voice around local expectations, impacts and potential community outcomes.
That includes conversations around roads, housing pressures, workforce accommodation, environmental management, support for local industries, near-neighbour impacts and long-term community infrastructure.
I know there is concern in parts of the community that decisions are already made. I want to be very clear that this consultation is the opportunity for residents, businesses, landholders and community groups to help shape Council’s policy position moving forward.
We also recognise there are existing and previously approved renewable energy projects within the region that are creating significant public interest and debate.
That is exactly why community feedback matters.
Council wants to hear directly from the people who live here, work here and will experience both the opportunities and impacts associated with these projects over the long term.
Consultation is open until Sunday 28 June through Yoursay Whitsunday, with community sessions being held across the region including Collinsville, Proserpine, Cannonvale and Bowen.
I encourage everyone, regardless of whether you support these projects, oppose them, or simply want more information,— to take part respectfully and constructively.
The strongest outcomes for the Whitsundays will come from making sure local voices are heard clearly, fairly and transparently.
The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry has officially released the full program for the 2026 Whitsunday Business Conference, bringing together regional businesses and industry and government representatives for a day focused on practical ideas, future opportunities, and meaningful connections.
The Chamber’s flagship event will be held from 8:30am to 3:00pm on Thursday 27 August 2026 across PCYC Whitsunday and Club Whitsunday in Airlie Beach.
Chamber President Allan Milostic said the Conference continued to evolve as one of the Whitsundays’ leading business events because of its strong focus on practical relevance and regional collaboration.
“This is about bringing together businesses, industries, educators, leaders, and emerging talent to have honest conversations about where the region is heading and how we build stronger businesses together,” he said. “We’re proud to showcase both local expertise and external perspectives that understand the realities of doing business in regional Queensland.”
Chamber Vice President and Chair of the Conference Sub-Committee, Jannah Baker, said this year’s program had been intentionally designed to deliver practical value, stronger discussion, and real-world insights for businesses navigating change and growth.
“The 2026 Conference is focused on practical conversations that matter to regional businesses right now – from workforce and leadership challenges through to AI, business growth, communication, and financial resilience,” Jannah said. “We’ve moved toward a more intensive program format this year, with deeper sessions, more interaction, and speakers who can share real experiences and practical strategies businesses can apply immediately.”
The Conference will open with a plenary session featuring highlights from the Chamber’s Vision for the Whitsundays project, alongside a Rising Stars Panel showcasing local young employees, trainees, and apprentices discussing the future workforce and what they value from the ‘Whitsundays workplace’.
Award-winning media and communications expert Ian Cohen from Cozalive Media will deliver the keynote presentation on building a brand that stands strong under pressure, drawing on decades of experience across major global sporting events, media, communications, and reputation management.
Concurrent sessions throughout the morning will allow delegates to tailor their conference experience across a range of business-critical topics.
Round One sessions include:
Breakout sessions in Round Two include:
The Conference will conclude with an interactive Long Lunch featuring business exhibitor showcases, activations and activities, networking opportunities, and major announcements.
For sponsorship, exhibitor opportunities, or further information, contact the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry
YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament is a program that grants people aged 16-25 the opportunity to represent the issues of young people in their electorate while learning about government processes in a mock parliament context. Photo supplied
Year 12 student Ashlin Styles was recently selected as one of 93 young people aged 15–25 from 500 applicants to take part in the YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament. Ashlin is the student representative for the Whitsunday electorate.
Ashlin attended a three-day camp where she was officially sworn into Parliament and began working within her committee, Justice, Police and Corrective Services (JPACS), including Child Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence.
During the camp, Ashlin had the opportunity to meet various Members of Parliament. As part of the committee, students are developing a bill proposing a new standalone Act to provide better reintegration support for people leaving custody, addressing gaps in areas such as housing and ongoing support.
Through this experience, Ashlin has gained a stronger understanding of how laws are created, along with skills in teamwork, leadership, and representing her community. She has also been placed on the refuting team for JPACS, where she will help review and propose amendments to the bill.
Ashlin will return to State Parliament in September for a five-day parliamentary sitting and is excited to continue developing the bill whilst preparing for the final sessions.
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