Mackay region students can take aim at a career at council at the 2023 Mackay Careers Expo.

Mackay Regional Council will exhibit its career opportunities, as well as programs available for post-school studies, at the expo on Thursday, August 3, at the MECC.

For students not sure of what their future holds, a huge dartboard featuring many of council’s potential careers will be at the exhibit for students to take aim at.

Whatever they hit will open a door to a conversation about that role, with plenty of advice and information on hand.

Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said the Mackay Careers Expo was an ideal opportunity for anyone interested in seeking future employment advice, whether they knew what they wanted to do or not.

“Council’s exhibit will highlight the many careers available at council, from accounting to events planning and human resources to grave digging – there’s certainly something for everyone,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Our expert team, including staff who began their careers at council as trainees, apprentices and new graduates, will be available to answer questions and provide a pathway into whichever job is of interest.

“Mackay is great place to live and work, and a career with council offers fantastic work/life balance so you can enjoy the very best our region has to offer,” he said.

Visitors can find Mackay Regional Council at Exhibit 62.

The expo is being presented by CareersEvent.com and will feature a number of further education, training and employment providers.

To find out more visit careersevent.com/event/mackay-event/

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The many employment opportunities available at council will be showcased at the 2023 Careers Expo, being held at the MECC on August 3

Undertake a transformative education experience in a supportive and nurturing environment. Study nursing at James Cook University (JCU), Mackay campus. The Bachelor of Nursing Science has a strong reputation for producing compassionate and highly skilled caregivers who go on to make significant contributions to healthcare.

Learn to assess clients, communicate with people from diverse cultural backgrounds, plan and implement nursing interventions, and manage and evaluate nursing care in this professionally accredited degree.

You’ll discover that the advantages of studying nursing at JCU Mackay extend beyond the classroom. Small class sizes mean you’ll receive tailored learning opportunities and more one-on-one attention. Benefit from practical exposure that ensures you are well-prepared for clinical placements. Work and learn alongside experienced healthcare professionals, gaining invaluable insights into patient care.

What sets JCU Mackay apart is its strong focus on community engagement. As a regional campus, JCU Mackay provides you with unique opportunities to work closely with diverse populations and examine the healthcare challenges rural communities can face. For many students, their rural placements nurture a sense of empathy and instil a commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of the communities they work within.

Ignite your career with a Bachelor of Nursing Science at JCU Mackay today. Graduate with confidence, as JCU is rated five stars for median graduate salary and #1 in QLD for employment outcomes*. There’s a place for you at JCU.

jcu.edu.au/nursing

*Good Universities Guide 2023, UG Nursing.

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Mackay’s first annual Careers Expo is being held next week, offering expert advice from a range of employers and educational providers to make the decisions of school leavers and career-changers a little easier.

Careersevent runs career expos throughout Australia and will be holding the Mackay Careers Expo at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) on August 3, 2023.

The event is not just open to school students but parents wanting more information to help advise their children, as well as experienced workers considering upskilling for their current or next job, making a career change or wanting to transition into a new industry.

A record number of exhibitors will be featured at the expo, enabling visitors to speak with more than 120 highly qualified representatives from more than 85 organisations providing relevant, up-to-date knowledge in the education, training and employment sectors.

Exhibiting companies include universities from across Australia, student accommodation providers, Head Space, the Department Children, Youth Justice and Multicultural affairs, Mackay Regional Council, Glencore, Community Solutions, Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal and Defence Force Recruiting.

Employers and tertiary education institutions from industries such as information technology, biotechnology, aviation, early childhood education, hotel management, healthcare, hairdressing, creative media, performing arts and business education will all be present.

The community-based event will provide attendees with advice on how to apply for courses, the costs involved, financial support options and qualifications required.

“The current economic climate is forcing the community to be aware of the importance of gaining new skills or upgrading their existing skills,” said Event Organiser Hannah Mann.

In response to these conditions, a large number of exhibitors will provide details on current career and employment options, trainee and apprenticeship programs or options for adults to upskill and retrain in the work place.

The Mackay Careers Expo is the one event you cannot afford to miss if you’re looking to take control of your future.

Admission to the expo is free.

For more information, visit careersevent.com and click on Mackay Careers Expo.

Make The Most Of Your Careers Expo

1. Plan your day in advance: Keep an eye out for a full list of exhibitors and seminars and highlight the one’s that interest you most.

2. Take your time chatting with stallholders: Make sure to visit the exhibitors high on your list and ask any burning questions you have – they’re there to help.

3. Consider something new: This is the perfect opportunity to discover pathways you may never have considered before, so be open to them.

4. Be inspired, learn and have fun!

WHAT: Mackay Careers Expo

WHERE: MECC

WHEN: Thursday, August 3, 2023

COST: Entry is free

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Involving squatting, jumping, planking and push-ups, burpees are an often-dreaded exercise, but a local family is asking Mackay to give them a go for a good cause.

2023 is the third year of Harpertastic, a one-kilometre burpee challenge raising funds for Jeans for Genes.

The event’s inspiration and namesake, Harper Flynn, was diagnosed with multiple rare genetic defects at age two, with her family taking the opportunity to make a difference.

“We’ve named it Harpertastic because Harper is just fantastic,” said Harper’s grandmother Christine Joy.

Fundraising began last week thanks to 4MK and Rob Kidd’s Kilometre of Coins, taking place at Mount Pleasant Centre.

“It all goes towards hopefully finding a cure and treatments,” said Ms Joy.

“They’re not going to be able to cure every genetic disorder or cancer out there, but it’s to make life a little bit more normal.”

Ever since Michelle Flynn’s daughter was diagnosed with multiple rare genetic defects at age two, she and her family have become avid fundraisers for Jeans for Genes, the iconic fundraising campaign of helping to find cures for children's genetic diseases.

Now five years old, Harper can’t walk or talk, but lives a fulfilling life thanks to her family, carers and supporters.

“She doesn’t really let her disability get in the way of what she wants to do every day,” Ms Flynn said.

“She’s pretty active and gets around when she wants to.”

Harper became an ambassador for Jeans for Genes, which is when her family decided on a fundraising challenge to “put her name on the map.”

Now in its third year, Harpertastic challenges teams or individuals to complete one kilometre of travelling burpees, and what better way to begin fundraising than with Rob Kidd’s Kilometre of Coins.

4MK set up in Mount Pleasant Centre last Thursday, accepting donations and laying out coins in a spiral on the floor, with all coins collected and donated to Jeans for Genes.

One gentleman even donated an ice cream bucket full of coins he’d been collecting for four years.

“Mackay is brilliant at supporting community causes and supporting each other,” said Harper’s grandmother, Christine Joy, who owns NRG plus Personal Training.

“People just get behind it; you get a bit speechless at times.”

Taking place on Saturday, August 5 on the lawn in front of the Mackay Regional Council building, the morning kicks off with Grayson's Race for Research, a children’s race in honour of Grayson Little who passed away last year from a similar genetic disorder.

The main event then follows in which individuals or teams of 5-8 complete a kilometre of burpees, plus a surprise challenge to conclude the day, with prizes donated by Base Performance & Recovery and Dispensary.

Mr Kidd was asked to emcee the event three years ago and has been involved ever since.

“We (4MK) just love to help in the community,” he said.

“Being on the microphone and yelling and screaming and geeing everybody up, putting a smile on their face, I like doing that.

“You’re having some fun but you’re doing it for a great cause.”

Ms Flynn admits that while she was always aware of Jeans for Genes, she didn’t understand the work they did until Harper’s diagnosis.

“Before being in that environment, you’re oblivious to what goes on, but once you’re in it and it’s happening to you and your family, you just want people to know that they’re not alone out there,” she said.

Visit NRG plus Personal Training on Facebook for the Eventbrite link to register.

WHAT: Harpertastic 1km of Travel Burpees

WHEN: Saturday, August 5, registration from 7:30pm

WHERE: Mackay Regional Council Lawn

REGISTRATION: Eventbrite

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Back row L-R Mount Pleasant Centre Manager Cathy Sullivan and Michelle Flynn. Front row L-R Rob Kidd, Christine Joy, Madison, Hayley and Harper. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

4MK accepted coin donations at Mount Pleasant Centre for Rob Kidd’s Kilometre of Coins. Photo supplied: 4MK Mackay

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Ah, the age-old topics that ignite spirited conversations among Mackay residents – Aldi's arrival and the elusive Mackay Bucasia Road upgrade! We can't deny the excitement of shopping for quirky garden ornaments while filling our carts with BBQ essentials, that joy is around the corner with construction on Aldi underway. As for the road upgrade, it's been a hot topic for years, and it seems like we're finally seeing some action from the powers that be.

The Queensland Government has announced that they're gearing up for planning to improve the Mackay-Bucasia Road. This 11-kilometer stretch holds a special place in our hearts as it connects the bustling North Mackay to the charming communities of Rural View, Bucasia, Eimeo, Dolphin Heads, Blacks Beach, and Shoal Point.

As a Beaches resident myself, I can't help but rejoice at this development. Sure, the traffic isn't quite as chaotic as the bustling streets of Istanbul or LA's freeways, but it could certainly use some improvement to ease those pinch moments in the morning and afternoon. More importantly, safety is paramount, especially when it comes to potential evacuations. And let's not forget about future-proofing as our beloved region continues to thrive and grow.

What is vital, is that no matter where you stand on the issue, we have an opportunity to be heard. Your opinion matters, and the Queensland Government wants to hear from you. Flip to page 5 to get all the details, and as MP Amanda Camm puts it, "Let's build it for the Beaches!" It's time to shape the future of our community, so let's come together and make a difference.

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One of a child’s most prized possessions is their bike, so when Channy Schmidt accidentally left her son Wyatt’s bike at Moranbah’s Bernborough Park after a party, she was relieved to discover someone had found the bike and had posted the discovery to the Moranbah Community Notice Board Facebook group.

“(I) didn’t realise until a friend PM’d me about an ad on (Moranbah Community Notice Board) about it,” Ms Schmidt posted.

“I’ve raced down to the park now but can’t find it.

“Please help us get it back, my little boy absolutely loves this bike.”

The bike was found by Emma Harrison and her daughters, who came across it at the park and shared photos of it throughout social media hoping to reunite it with its owner.

“A big THANK YOU to Emma Harrison and her daughters for thinking to take my son’s balance bike home with you last night,” Ms Schmidt later commented after connecting with Ms Harrison.

“If you hadn’t, we may not have got it back.

“You’re amazing and we can’t thank you enough.

“Be proud, Mumma, you’re raising some amazing children there.

“Wyatt is so happy to have his bike back.

“And thank you for taking the effort to fix his BMX plate back up.”

Community spirit, paired with the power of social media, prevails.

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Wyatt and his bike. Photo supplied: Channy Kacein Brialee Schmidt

Planning is underway to identify future upgrades to Mackay–Bucasia Road to improve congestion, active transport, safety, and flooding impacts.

The $750,000 planning project is funded by the Queensland Government under the Transport System Planning Program. It will identify, assess, and prioritise key deficiencies along the corridor.  

In addition to extra lanes, future intersection upgrades and improved turning movement opportunities will be considered to improve capacity and safety.

Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said, "Mackay–Bucasia Road is the primary commuter and freight route between Mackay and the Northern Beaches.

"The 11-kilometre corridor connects the Bruce Highway in North Mackay to Rural View, Bucasia, Eimeo, Dolphin Heads, Blacks Beach and Shoal Point,” he said.

"Growth in Mackay's Northern Beaches has resulted in increased congestion and safety concerns on Mackay-Bucasia Road.

"This planning project will identify the highest priority for future upgrades between North Mackay and the Northern Beaches."

As part of this planning, the Queensland Government is seeking community input regarding road user experience and potential future upgrades to Mackay–Bucasia Road.

Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said, “the Mackay Bucasia Road upgrades are important for the safety and growth of the Northern Beaches communities.

“It is vital TMR hear from locals who regularly use the road, so future planning meets the needs of the community.”

A business case for the highest priority upgrades on Mackay-Bucasia Road is being developed and is expected to be finalised mid-2024. The TMR website says that submissions will close on August 23, 2023.

For further information and to provide feedback, please visit www.tmr.qld.gov.au/projects

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Have Your Say On Mackay-Bucasia Road

Caption: Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm and Deputy Leader of the Opposition Jarrod Bleijie are calling on the public to have their say on Mackay-Bucasia Road

Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP is calling on Northern Beaches residents frustrated by the congestion on Mackay-Bucasia Road to register their support for upgrades and express their main concerns.

Ms Camm said residents should visit nodelays.com.au to complete a short online form.

“Since the 2020 election I have called on the Queensland Government to address the access issues that have arisen due to rapid growth at the Northern Beaches,” she said.

“We are dealing with long travel times in peak periods, congestion at roundabouts and school zones, and, of course, emergency response issues with the one way in, one way out problem.

“Unfortunately, we have seen very little progress which is why I am asking Northern Beaches residents to register their concerns and call for action.”

Ms Camm said the daily traffic delays in getting to and from work, schools and other city services was no longer acceptable.

“In some sections of Mackay-Bucasia Road there is just one lane in and out servicing a population of about 21,000,” she said.

“Growth in that part of our region is not slowing. In fact, the number of Northern Beaches residents is expected to increase by more than 9000 by the mid-2030s.”

Ms Camm said it was well and truly time to “Build it for the Beaches”.

The Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) is currently taking submissions as part of a planning process and Ms Camm encouraged Northern Beaches residents to also make a submission directly to TMR.

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MRDA Grants 85-Year-Old's Equestrian Dream

By Amanda Wright

Mackay Riding for Disabled (MRDA) recently received a heartwarming request from Nanyima Aged Care in Mirani. Margaret, an 85-year-old resident, had one cherished wish, to ride a horse again.

Margaret's love affair with horses began in her early days in New Zealand's South Island. At the tender age of four, she fearlessly mounted a half draft horse named Dolly using a clever technique: waiting for Dolly to lower her head to eat, she would nimbly hop onto her neck and gracefully slide down when Dolly lifted her head.

Her passion for horses only grew with time, as she galloped into show jumping and became an active member of the local pony club. In her adult years, Margaret even bred Appaloosas, demonstrating her unwavering love for these majestic creatures.

Before her move to Australia, Margaret worked as a Sales Representative for Butlers, a company selling horse supplies like shoeing gear, halters, stirrups, leads, harnesses, bridles, and ointments. Additionally, she generously shared her knowledge and passion for horses by teaching at the pony club and assisting people with disabilities to experience the joy of horse riding.

Upon receiving the request from Nanyima Aged Care, Coach Jody from MRDA knew they had to make Margaret's wish come true. The MRDA team, together with their treasured volunteers, organised a memorable day for Margaret.

With agility and a sparkle in her eye, Margaret mounted Bo-Jangles, one of MRDA's therapy horses, and the reunion was nothing short of magical.

MRDA felt privileged to have played a part in making Margaret's heartfelt wish a reality. The organisation provides therapeutic horse riding lessons for the disabled community of Mackay and the surrounding district.

As Margaret bid farewell to Bo-Jangles, her smile seemed to light up the entire stable. It was a moment of pure connection, proving that dreams never truly ride off into the sunset.

Here's to more dreams coming true, one hoofbeat at a time, and celebrating the little moments that make life a delightful ride.

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Nanyima Aged Care resident Margaret riding Bo-Jangles courtesy of Mackay Riding for the Disabled

Kim McCosker uncovered the simplicity of cooking with her popular ‘4 Ingredients’ series of cookbooks, and the Queensland-based chef visited Mackay last week to share her tips and tricks.

Lucky attendees met Ms McCosker at the Gordon White Library, having a fantastic time and learning lots about cooking with just four ingredients.

After being turned down by every major publisher in Australia, the author self-published her first cookbook ‘4 Ingredients’ in 2007, which went on to become the best-selling self-published book in Australian history.

The initial book has spawned 37 cookbooks, a publishing house, smartphone app, cookware range and television series, making Ms McCosker a trusted household name.

“When I first wrote ‘4 Ingredients’, I thought our target audience would be busy Mums, just like me,” Ms McClusker said.

“I have been astounded by the number of men, students and retirees who have embraced the 4 Ingredients philosophy.”

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‘4 Ingredients’ author Kim McCosker shared her tips and tricks in Mackay last week. Photos supplied: Mackay Regional Council Libraries

Established in the trenches of World War I, Legacy Australia was built on a promise between two diggers; a promise that has been honoured for over a decade.

Legacy Australia has been supporting Veteran’s families since 1923 and in Mackay since 1947, but the branch faces an uncertain future if it doesn’t find more volunteers.

The role of a Legacy volunteer, known as a Legatee, is to conduct welfare checks, either via a visit or a phone call, to the region’s war widows, and to be able to assist them when required.

There are currently 140 women in the Legacy Mackay database and less than 10 Legatees to attend to them all.

“We’re supposed to go and visit those 140 ladies and when you divide that by the number of volunteers, it’s a full-time job and we’re only volunteers,” said President Les Palmer.

“We need people who will take on Legatee positions,” added Secretary Lorrayne Morris.

Ms Morris gains great satisfaction from volunteering for Legacy, saying she feels a sense of pride and accomplishment.

“Talking to the elderly, they’re really lovely to talk to,” she said.

“They’ve got some beautiful stories.”

That’s what enticed incoming volunteer Peter Gibbon, who is involved in the RSL Marian Sub Branch and in discussions to become a Legatee.

“As a volunteer, you talk to the elderly, they are the history of the community here and wider,” Mr Gibbon said.

“They have so many stories that are relevant and they’ve seen changes that nobody else has seen.

“If you’re giving back to the community in this way, with Legacy and other areas, you’ll actually gain so much satisfaction.”

“It’s very rewarding, but it is time-consuming,” added Mr Palmer.

Legacy Australia holds the expectation of at least 20 Legatees to make Legacy Mackay viable, with the branch facing the possibility of amalgamating with Townsville if numbers don’t rise.

“If we can keep it alive, maybe we won’t have to amalgamate,” said Ms Morris.

Legacy Mackay are seeking volunteers of all ages and backgrounds and allow for flexible time commitment, however, recommend the role to those working part-time, the semi-retired and retired.

A blue card is required, and new volunteers will be expected to attend meetings before taking up the role to ensure compatibility.

The team is also seeking volunteers for Legacy Badge Week, which involves two hour shifts selling badges and memorabilia at stalls across Caneland Central, Parkside Plaza, Marian, Proserpine and Sarina.

Legacy Badge Week runs from August 27 to September 2.

Those interested in volunteering can contact Mr Palmer on 0437 451 635 or visit the branch at 94 Nebo Road on Mondays and Fridays between 9:00am and 12:00pm.

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Legacy Mackay President Les Palmer, Secretary Lorrayne Morris and incoming volunteer Peter Gibbon. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

Get ready, rev-heads, for the Bullet Bikes Superstore Motorcycle Beach Races is returning for a day of methanol-fueled, nitrous-induced action.

Promising another unforgettable experience, this year’s event will showcase the best of beach racing where high-octane energy meets the creativity of world-class modifications and unique designs.

The competition is the only one in Australia of its kind and will feature an array of extraordinary race bikes, ranging from modified street bikes equipped with Nob Tyres to powerful 4-strokes boasting side-hanging turbos, as well as the awe-inspiring duel carbureted, fuel-injected, and nitrous-powered 500cc dirt bikes that will take your breath away.

"Beach racing is not just a sport; it's an art form," said event organiser Ann Hand.

"We're proud to host this gathering of fearless riders and their cutting-edge machines.

“The dedication and passion on display are truly inspiring."

Expect fierce competition as riders push the limits of speed and skill, displaying moments of great triumph and heartbreaking setbacks.

With the coveted title of ‘King of the Beach’ on the line, the question remains: will it be claimed by an ingeniously converted street bike hybrid or a heavily modified dirt bike?

An estimated crowd of around 5,000 people from all walks of life are set to experience an electrifying ambiance that will resonate through the mainland.

Whether you're a devoted racing fan or simply curious about the fascinating world of beach racing, this event promises something for everyone. Don't miss out on the chance to witness fearless riders and cutting-edge machines in action!

“It's not just a race; it's an experience like no other," exclaimed Ms Hand.

"We encourage everyone to mark their calendars and join us for this action-packed day of thrills and spills."

For more information and tickets, visit www.motorcyclebeachraces.com.au and prepare to immerse yourself in the adrenaline-fueled world of beach racing.

WHAT: Bullet Bikes Superstore Motorcycle Beach Races

WHEN: Sunday, August 27. Gates open from 8:00am, racing begins at 10:00am.

WHERE: Grasstree Beach

TICKETS: www.motorcyclebeachraces.com.au

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Event Organiser Ann Hand, Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson and Event Organiser Simon Currie. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

Living with disability can be made easier with the right support networks, aids and equipment.

The Mackay Disability Expo, coming up next Friday (August 4), from 9am until noon, will feature a range of both local and out-of-town specialist exhibitors and will be a one-stop-shop for everyone with an interest in disability services.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the expo would be held in the Mackay Showgrounds big shed and would be free and easily accessible to all.

“This event has gone from strength to strength over the last three years,” Mayor Williamson said.

“It’s been tremendous to see it expand from a minor expo held in a community hall to a regional drawcard event,” he said.

“Last year, this event had an amazing atmosphere. There was a real buzz – people were getting some great info from the exhibitors but also taking part and watching some really lively classes from both Crossroad Arts and Groove Movers.”

Crossroad Arts will once again be hosting their ROAR program at the expo, which will be about exploring untapped imaginings through movement, sound and theatre making.

Groove Movers will also be putting on a display of movement and dance for people of all abilities and the Choir of Unheard Voices will be hosting a singing workshop.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the expo started as a way of offering local providers an inexpensive way to showcase themselves while also providing an opportunity for service providers and businesses to network and connect with each other.

“More than 19 per cent of Queenslanders live with some form of disability and more than 10 per cent act as carers, so there was a very real call for an expo of this nature,” he said.

“If you crunch the numbers, that means, in our region, more than 34,000 people could potentially require some level of assistance from the disability sector.”

Coffee and food will be available for purchase at the expo and parking is close, plentiful and disability friendly.

Demonstrations and activities will be held at the following times:

● Groove Movers – 9.30am to 10am

● Choir of Unheard Voices Workshop from 10am

● Crossroad Arts Roar Program – 10.30am to 11.30am

For more information on the event, residents are encouraged to follow Mackay Disability Expo on Facebook or head to council’s website.

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Mayor Greg Williamson with the Groove Movers crew at the 2022 Disability Expo

Police have charged a man after he was allegedly found with stolen weapons in Mackay last week.

It will be alleged between June 20 and 22 a Sarina house was broken into and three guns removed from a gun safe that was secured inside the house.

It will be further alleged on July 17 a South Mackay house was broken into and a gun safe containing firearms was forcibly removed from the house.

On Thursday, July 20, police located a white Holden Cruze with false plates on Shakespeare Street at South Mackay. The vehicle stopped in a shopping centre car park and police stopped behind the vehicle. When police approached the driver and asked him to turn the vehicle off, he reversed into the police car however officers were able to arrest the man and stop him driving away.

Police will allege a search of the ute located six firearms from the South Mackay house and one from the Sarina residence along with a quantity of ammunition and dangerous drugs.

A 26-year-old Mackay man has been charged with two counts each of break and enter, possession of weapons and receiving tainted property (firearms). He has also been charged with three counts of possession of dangerous drug (methylamphetamine, Diazepam and cannabis), and one count each of assault occasioning bodily harm, possess explosives (ammunition) possession of tainted property (cash), receiving tainted property (registration plates) and possession of property suspected of been stolen (tools).

He will reappear in the Mackay Magistrates Court on August 16.

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Stage Two of Thriive Program Builds Confidence

Stage two of the Women in Leadership Thriive program by Regional Development Australia Greater Whitsundays (RDA GW) is now in full swing.

Spearheaded by RDA GW Project Manager, Nic Willis, the program aims to tackle the under-representation of women in leadership roles within regional areas. Through a range of workshops, masterclasses, mentorships from local and regional leaders, and valuable industry networking opportunities, the program strives to empower and uplift aspiring women leaders.

Nic Willis said the program to date has “been a real eye opener”.

“Women at all levels underplay their capacity and capabilities, often feeling that they cannot display their true confidence in roles and tasks.

“The program seeks to support the women involved to stop second guessing their abilities and instead take calculated risks, explore opportunities and above all understand they have the skills and capability to achieve their aspirations.”

Stage one was funded by the Local Buying Foundation (LBF), a BHP-established foundation that supports regional programs facilitating workforce development, innovation and building the industry.

After requests from the stage one participants for continued development and support, RDA GW developed a stage two for the program that will continue to be supported by LBF.

LBF Project Officer Sarah Miotto said that LBF is “thrilled to provide ongoing support” for the Women in Leadership Thriive Program in Mackay.

“After witnessing the success of the initial six-month program, which attracted influential leaders within the community and created demand for continued mentoring and leadership development, the LBF Advisory Committee recognised the value in the continuation of this exceptional initiative.

“This program aligns with the LBF intent and commitment to supporting projects and programs which build regional business communities.”

The twenty-five stage one participants will continue to develop their personal and professional skills in stage two through the program’s workshops and mentoring over the next five months.

To keep up to date with the Women in Leadership Thriive program and RDA GW’s other initiatives, follow them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/rdagw.

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Back Row – Amy Hayward, Cr. Michelle Green, Shannon McKenzie, Debbie Knight, Adrienne Bradshaw, Rebecca Flor, Nikki Wilson, Nicole Bradley, Janine Wood. Middle Row - Kimberley Staffsmith, Roxanne Mackenzie, Amy Finnis, Andrea Davis, Caitlyn Lamont, Rachel Barbeler, Bonnie Davis. Front Row – Nic Willis, Judy Porter (Facilitator)

Community Bank Sarina Supports Education With Scholarships

Fuelling local ambition and empowering educational dreams, Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank took centre stage as they awarded scholarships to three outstanding CQUniversity students at the Ooralea campus presentation this week.

These scholarships are an integral component of the Bank's Community Engagement Programme, embodying its commitment to nurturing local talent and fostering educational and professional growth within the community. By providing essential financial support and unwavering encouragement, the scholarships empower students to pursue their chosen vocations while continuing their studies and contributing to the local workforce.

Offered on an annual basis, the scholarships are open to students in their first year at CQUniversity, offering them the opportunity to apply for either the Vocational and Educational Training (VET) Apprenticeship scholarship or the Higher Education scholarship. This thoughtful selection ensures that aspiring individuals across various fields of study can benefit from the program's support in fulfilling their academic and career aspirations.

The total value of the CQUniversity scholarships awarded in 2023 was $14,000.

Community Bank Sarina Board Chair Karen May said these students shone with their enthusiasm about their studies and staying close to home to achieve their career aspirations.

“We know that students who study and get their trade qualifications and degrees in the region are more likely to stay and work here,” she said.

“Scholarships aren’t just about financial assistance, it’s about helping these students navigate opportunities that arise and connecting them with business and industry, potentially creating future leaders in our community.”

Recipient of a Higher Education scholarship Chloe Paul, said it was a huge honour to receive a scholarship to complete her Bachelor of Agriculture.

“I’ve chosen a Bachelor of Agriculture because of my passion for cattle genetics, and I aim to be well known in the agriculture industry for my contributions to bovine reproduction,” she said.

“It means a great deal to me to have the support from the area that I have grown up in and live in, and this scholarship will provide invaluable support while I complete my studies.”

CQUniversity Associate Vice-President NQ Rob Brown said he was happy to see the long-term partnership between Community Bank Sarina and CQUniversity continue to provide young people educational and networking opportunities.

“Scholarships provide encouragement for students by providing an investment in their future,” he said.

“Since 2012 we have partnered with Community Bank Sarina, and they have continued to tailor their scholarships to keep pace with the business and industry needs in the region.” he said.

VET (Apprenticeship) scholarship recipient, Seumus Andrews, said he isn’t sure which path he will take after he completes his Cert III in Parks and Gardens at North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation, but knows the scholarship will provide plenty of opportunities for growth.

“It was an incredible feeling to be selected for this scholarship and I would encourage other students to apply.”

“A lot of people may think applying for a scholarship is beyond their abilities but there’s no harm in giving it your best shot.”

Brooke Vella is completing an Electrical Apprenticeship at Aurizon and plans to be an Electrical Engineer. She gratefully received a VET (Apprenticeship) Scholarship to help forge this career path.

“I wanted hands-on experience in the industry first and this apprenticeship has been a fantastic way to do so. I want to thank Community Bank Sarina for this opportunity, and I will make the most of it.”  

Community Bank Sarina will open applications for their Sarina State High School scholarships in August, to find out more email executive@sarinacommunity.com.au.

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(L-R) Maree Franettovich, Charmaine Matsen, Cr Karen May (Community Bank Sarina), Seumus Andrews, Chloe Paul, Brooke Vella (scholarship recipients), Ash-lee Johnson (Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce), Rainee Shepperson (Community Bank Sarina) and Prof. Rob Brown (CQUniversity)

(L-R) 2023 Community Bank Sarina CQUniversity scholarship recipients Chloe Paul, Brooke Vella and Seumus Andrews