Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm has stepped down from her role as Minister for Child Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence, in an effort to prioritise her health and wellbeing. The announcement comes a fortnight after Ms Camm returned from six weeks of medical leave following major surgery, with the Whitsunday MP recognising she needed more time to recover. “This has been a considered and deeply personal decision,” Ms Camm said. “Having returned from six weeks of medical leave following major surgery I have come to recognise that my recovery still has some way to go and I need to prioritise my health and wellbeing.” “I sincerely thank the Premier for the opportunity to serve in his Government and for his support of my decision.” Ms Camm added in a presser outside of Parliament house in Brisbane, that the pressures of ministerial work had contributed to her decision to step down. This follows months of intense scrutiny over conditions for children in care and domestic violence prevention funding cuts had reinforced the importance of personal safety, especially in light of the recent attack on Victorian MP Helen Haines. “Public scrutiny and accountability are essential to democracy and to our institutions,” she said. “Harassment, threats, bullying and personal vilification are not and for the past year this has been my experience.” But during her time in the role, Ms Camm oversaw reforms to strengthen child protection, support foster and kinship carers and improve responses to domestic and family violence. Central to her child safety work was the Government’s response to the Child Safety Commission of Inquiry, which delivered 52 recommendations for improving the system. “The landmark Child Safety Commission of Inquiry was the turning point for the Child Safety system,” Ms Camm said. “There is much more work to be done, while early positive signs show we have stabilised numbers in the Residential Care system for the first time.” Her work in domestic and family violence included introducing laws for electronic monitoring of perpetrators to strengthen accountability, alongside her reporting a doubling of calls answered by DVConnect to help more people access support when they needed it. “After sitting with victims of domestic and family violence over many years through opposition and then in the ministry, I’m proud to have been part of delivering change that can help save lives,” Ms Camm said. In a statement following her decision, Premier David Crisafulli praised her work across both portfolios, describing the child safety inquiry’s reform roadmap as her greatest legacy and highlighting improved access to the domestic violence helpline. “I thank Amanda for her service to Queensland firstly as a Shadow Minister and then as a Minister,” Mr Crisafulli said. “Amanda took on an enormous task with a Child Safety system in crisis and a state in need of domestic violence reform. “With her dedication, passion and commitment, she has put Queensland on the road to repair both. “I speak on behalf of the Government, the LNP and all Queenslanders in wishing her the best in her recovery.” Ms Camm will continue serving as the Member for Whitsunday, reaffirming her commitment to the local community. “I remain committed to the people of Whitsunday as their Member of Parliament, and to supporting the Premier and the Government in delivering a fresh start for Queensland,” she said.
Read the full story
By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay A firmly enforced bioethanol mandate, backed by increased local sugarcane production, is essential to strengthening Queensland’s industry resilience, regional jobs, and Australia’s long‑term fuel security. Our region holds enormous potential: not only for producing sugar, but for renewable fuel, energy diversification, and national economic security. Queensland’s sugarcane industry has always been a cornerstone of regional prosperity, but today it stands at a crossroads. Global markets are volatile and input costs are rising, and at the same time, Australia faces increasing pressure to reduce emissions, strengthen domestic fuel supplies, and build more resilient regional economies. A properly enforced bioethanol mandate is one of the most effective tools we have to meet these challenges head on. Queensland already has a mandate in place, but compliance remains inconsistent. When fuel retailers fail to meet their obligations, growers, mills, and regional communities lose out on opportunities that should rightfully be flowing into our local economy. Bioethanol is not a theoretical solution: it is a proven, practical, and immediate pathway to cleaner fuel and stronger regional industries and economies. Countries like Brazil and the United States have shown that bioethanol can reduce emissions, stabilise fuel markets, and create thousands of rural jobs. In these countries, and across the world, bioethanol forms a substantially higher portion of retail fuel sales than this country has embraced. Queensland has the same potential, but only if the mandate is taken seriously and enforced with the consistency it deserves. For Mackay, the benefits are clear. Our region is one of Australia’s most productive sugarcane hubs, with the land, infrastructure, climate, and expertise to support a thriving biofuels sector. Increased demand for bioethanol directly translates into increased demand for sugarcane. That means more cane in the ground, more certainty for growers, and more throughput for our mills, and we all know that milling is a volume game. This in turn supports jobs from the paddock to the processing line. But the opportunity extends far beyond economics. A stronger bioethanol industry enhances national fuel security, reducing Australia’s reliance on imported fuels. At a time when global supply chains are increasingly unstable, producing more of our own fuel is not just smart policy, it is essential. Every litre of bioethanol produced in Queensland is a litre of fuel Australia does not have to import. To seize this opportunity, we must also focus on increasing local sugarcane production. The industry cannot diversify, innovate, or expand into new markets without a reliable and growing supply of cane. More cane means more flexibility for mills, more investment in advanced manufacturing, and greater capacity to produce not only sugar and ethanol, but also bioplastics, green electricity, and other high value products. Growers are ready to meet this challenge. With the right policy settings from all levels of government, including a robust and enforced bioethanol mandate, we can plant more cane, improve productivity, and strengthen the long‑term viability of our region. But growers cannot do it alone. We need government to ensure the mandate is upheld, fuel retailers to meet their obligations, and industry partners to continue investing in innovation and infrastructure. Mackay has the land, the people, and the expertise to lead Queensland’s next era of renewable energy and agricultural diversification. What we need now is the policy certainty that comes from a mandate that is not only written into law but actively enforced. A stronger bioethanol mandate is not just good for growers it is good for Queensland, good for regional jobs, and good for Australia’s fuel future. The time to act is now. Bioethanol can use sugarcane by-products including molasses, bagasse, mill mud as well as plant material. Image: AdobeStock
Read the full story
Marketing strategy boils down to answering four questions: What does your business want? > The goal. Who can help you achieve your goal? > The audience. What do you need to tell your audience so that they can help you achieve your goal? > The message. Where do you need to put your message so that your audience sees it? > The delivery. But how do you actually go about answering those Q’s? Like anything, the broad strokes are more complicated in practice but it’s a good framework to come back to when you’re planning your next marketing activity. Start by drilling down + identifying a measurable goal that you can work towards. Vague + lofty goals are okay, but without a clear way to track your progress, achieving them will be pretty tough. For example, tracking how many enquiries you get + the quote conversion rate can be useful info to have as a baseline. That way, if you do a targeted campaign to attract more work, you can see if it meaningfully pushed the needle in the right direction! Next, really empathise with who can help you achieve those goals. Try to build up a target customer in your head. How old are they? What do they want from your business? What are they interested in? The more specific you are, the easier it’ll be to craft messaging that will actually appeal to that person. Once you’ve defined your goal + who can help you achieve it, you’ve got to tell them how to help you do it. Your messaging should be the key information that your audience needs to know about your business. This is where you focus on not only what your customers want to know about you, but how your business is different to all the others out there. Your messaging should change based on the people you’re targeting. Lastly, the delivery. Where does your target market frequent? Do they use socials? Are they constantly listening to the radio? Do they frequent the pub on a Friday arvo? Once you know where they go, you can start figuring out how to get your message there. While socials are a great option, they’re not the only one. Billboards, coasters, or a flyer that sits on a wall somewhere are all effective options. But if that all sounds like too much effort, you can always reach out + talk to us. We’ll help you figure it out 😉 Taren McAuley
Read the full story
In a statement from the Queensland Resources Council (QRC), it has been reported that more people than ever before in the Greater Mackay region are working in jobs supported by the mining and energy sector, rising by five per cent during the past financial year.
The region, including Mackay, Isaac and Whitsundays is now home to more people directly employed in the resources sector than any other region in Queensland, pushing Brisbane out of the top spot.
The QRC’s latest Economic Contribution report shows the sector now supports around 85,000 jobs in the area, representing almost 80 per cent of total employment.
Speaking from Mackay earlier this week, QRC Chief Executive Ian Macfarlane said the region was a modern-day workhorse for the resources sector and for Queensland.
“The resources sector contributed $18.4 billion to the Mackay region last financial year, representing 91 per cent of Gross Regional Product,” he said.
“This demonstrates how important the industry is to the region’s economy, and likewise how important the Mackay region is to Queensland.
“It’s why we need to continue to attract new investment in new, greenfield resources projects to support continued growth in our sector.
Mr Macfarlane said the State Government’s sudden decision last year to impose the world’s highest coal royalty taxes without consultation had increased the risk profile of investing in Queensland compared to other mining jurisdictions in Australia and around the world.
“There are mine projects literally across the border in New South Wales which are paying much lower royalty taxes than Queensland.
“That’s the reality of being an industry driven by private sector investment, the majority of which comes from overseas.” He said.
Ian MacFarlane said the industry will continue to call on the State Government to reconsider its decision.
Queensland Resources Council Chief Executive Ian Macfarlane
Photo supplied
Local disability support agency, Feros Care, invited the local community to dream and connect at the Mackay Riverside Market this week with a day of celebration to mark the International Day of People with Disability (IDPWD).
At the heart of the Feros Care celebrations was an innovative 'Dream Wall', an interactive display featuring stars and clouds, adorned with dreams and aspirations written by attendees.
The Dream Wall is designed not just as an art installation, but also as a source of inspiration, encouraging visitors to envisage a future filled with possibilities.
Prompts such as work, making new friends, or community engagement are there to spur thoughts about life's potential and encourage everyone to dream big!
Feros Care's dedicated team were on-hand at the market stall to chat to people with disability about their dreams, ideas, and potential community connections.
Their aim is to collect valuable insights and use this data to develop activities and programs that truly resonate with the disability community's needs and desires.
Participants were encouraged to take a photo of their contribution to the Dream Wall, a tangible reminder of their aspirations and the journey towards achieving them.
Feros Care is a partner in the community for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and works towards helping people with disability live healthy, fulfilling and connected lives.
They work with clients to understand what is important to them and connect them to tailored support services to meet their life goals and improve overall wellbeing.
Established by the United Nations in 1992, IDPWD is globally recognised to foster awareness and acceptance of people with disability.
Each year the UN announces a theme to observe for the IDPWD event. The annual theme provides an overarching focus on how society can strive for inclusivity through the removal of barriers for people with disability. This has been occurring since 1992, when the General Assembly announced 3rd December as the International Day of Disabled Persons.
This year's focus is on collaborative efforts towards the Sustainable Development Goals, aiming for a fairer world inclusive of people with disabilities by 2030.
Feros Care were excited to host a day of connection and celebration, fostering inclusivity and understanding in our community.
Celebrate with Feros Care at Bluewater Quay
Photo supplied
.jpg)
131 Army Cadet Unit Sarina (131ACU) held their Annual Ceremonial Parade at Sarina State High School last month.
This is the 52nd year that 131ACU has been operating in the Sarina community and this year, 30 Cadets participated in the ceremonial parade. The cadets put on an amazing display of their skills, dress and bearing to over 90 members of the Australian Defence Force Cadets, special guests and the members of the community.
Congratulations to all of the cadets on completing their years’ training and well done to those who received awards:
Drill and Bearing trophy - CDTCPL Sarah Bradford.
Dress and Presentation trophy - CDT Laila Box.
Best Male Recruit CDT Odin Olesen.
Best Female Recruit CDT Baylee Smith.
Best Junior NCO CDTCPL Rolly Lisle.
Best Senior NCO CDTWO2 Olivia Bradford.
Best Male Cadet CDTCPL Rolly Lisle.
Best Female Cadet CDTCPL Sarah Bradford.
Efficiency trophy - CDTWO2 Olivia Bradford.
John Ratter Shield for Excellence in Command - CUO Luke Wakefield.
Regina Gorton Fieldcraft trophy - CDTSGT Maddi Boucher.
Male Fieldcraft trophy - CDT CPL Caleb Harper.
Best Recruit Shot - CDT Gabriel Hjelte
Best Shot trophy - CDTLCPL Logan Gauci.
The cadets celebrated the end of their training year with an Annual Formal Dinner hosted by the Sarina Sporting and Services Club. Special guests in attendance included the RSM North Queensland AAC Brigade WO2 Andrew Dyer and his wife Sharon, Maree Franettovich and Bob North, and representatives of other ADF Cadet units from 122ACU Mackay, 105SQN Mackay and 80 Battalion.
What’s been happening at 131ACU Sarina in 2023? Participating in the local schools’ and community Anzac Day Services, four field bivouacs, Annual Field Exercise at Lavarack Barracks, and five cadets from 131ACU were selected to represent the North Queensland Brigade at national activities this year.
CDTCPL Caleb Harper represented NQLD Brigade at the National Adventure Training Awards held at Tasmania in April, receiving the coveted Golden Boomerang. Also in July, CDT Patrick Blanch, CDTCPL Sarah Bradford, CDTCPL Rolly Lisle and CDTCPL Jazmen Harmon represented NQLD Brigade at Chief of Army Cadet Team Challenge at Canungra. All of our cadets represented themselves and their Brigade very well and made lifelong memories and friendships to look back on. The cadets pushed themselves and overcame many obstacles mentally and physically! These types of courses really cement the cadets’ training and skills. They show themselves what they are capable of, and build their versatility, resilience and mateship.
Final training to be conducted this year will be leadership training. Cadets who will attend the Brigade Leadership Courses at Lavarack Barracks in December will be preparing for their upcoming courses, and cadets who are seeking to become Lance Corporal in 2024 will complete their course at the Unit.
Australian Army Cadets is a leading national youth organisation, focused on supporting the cadets to become responsible, compassionate and driven members of the community. The training provided gives the cadets the confidence to be their best selves and to adapt to whatever situation they may find themselves in. The organisational structure gives the cadets opportunities and training in leadership roles and teamwork. The values that guide us are based on the Australian Defence Force Values of respect, integrity, excellent, service and courage.
The Officer Commanding Captain (AAC) Amy Bradford would like to invite potential new recruits to an information session and open day at the unit on Friday 2nd February 2024, at the Ted Malone Rural Skills Centre, Breen Street Sarina from 1530-1830. Parents are required to attend from 1730hrs. On Saturday 3rd February from 0800-1200 the cadets will hold a sausage sizzle fundraiser next to Goode’s Butchery Sarina. Come along and have a chat to current cadets and staff and join 131 ACU in 2024! To join cadets in 2024 you must be turning 13 years old and no older than 16. We train overnight on Fridays fortnightly throughout the school terms. There is no joining fee.
If you’re ready to sign up now, email oc.131acu@armycadets.gov.au and sign up online https://www.armycadets.gov.au/find-a-unit/unit?ua=131ACU
Contributed by LT (AAC) Sam Trapp Training Officer 131 ACU Sarina
2023 131 Army Cadet Unit Sarina
The holidays are almost here! End-of-year festivities can be costly, especially considering our cost-of-living increases. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to minimise your expenses. Here are 9 tips to save you money this holiday season.
Yes, even the adults! Asking for gifts you want can sometimes be seen as greedy or entitled – but being clear with what you want or need saves money and waste for everyone.
Getting creative with different ways of gifting can ease the load and make it more fun – such as:
• Set a challenge to each make a gift at home, for example jams, chutneys, cocktail mixes, salts, spices, etc.
• Try Secret Santa or Bad Santa so each person buys one gift at a set price limit, rather than buying for everyone.
• Instead of individual gifts, agree on a group experience or activity to do together as a festive celebration.
Preloved doesn’t have to mean compromising on quality. When looking for gifts, do a sweep of Facebook Marketplace, eBay and local op shops to see if you can snag something secondhand. Particularly when it comes to household goods and appliances, you might be able to find someone selling a brand new or like new product much cheaper than a retailer.
Gift wrap can be wasteful and expensive – and close to Christmas, it can be pretty hard to find too. Instead, get creative with alternative wrapping solutions. Think cloths, tea towels, fabric offcuts, and even newspapers. Plus, it makes your present pile look artisanal and rustic!
This year’s cost of living crisis is unprecedented, and almost everyone is feeling the pinch in some way. One of the most powerful things you can do at times like this is open the dialogue with friends and family. Take away expectations, create a safe space for people to say ‘sorry, I can’t afford that this year’, and come to an agreement that makes everyone feel like they’re being heard.
If you are looking to maximise your savings now and into the future, come in to see the Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Branch team at 37 Broad Street or call us on 4943 2634 to talk about how we can help.
The Year 8 Careers Showcase took place at Catherine McAuley College on 23rd November, with students implementing a reverse format to showcase their work to industry representatives.
The showcase is a part of the Careers and Education Module, based around the Greater Whitsunday Alliance module that was created to encourage students in their future employment endeavours.
Year 8 students put together a ‘career bucket’, a presentation featuring potential jobs they have studied this term that they would be interested in pursuing in later years. Industry representatives had the chance to view these presentations, see the interests of students and have meaningful conversations about jobs they can offer.
The goal of this event was to expose the students to as many job opportunities and career paths as possible, particularly areas in industries that are growing rapidly.
Head of Year 8 and Digital Technologies Teacher, Stacey Austin said it is important for students to make connections in the real world, realising that it’s not far away.
“In grade 10, they might want somewhere to do work experience, some might want to leave and get a trade in Year 11 and 12, it’s just really the first step to making those connections for students,” She stated.
“We want these kids to have the skills to get jobs in the future, so why not bring those jobs here? So they can start seeing straight away, what these [industries] want.”
The Careers Showcase is a stepping stone for students, with the end goal being a varied pool of potential industries for them to explore in the future. The event saw representatives from a host of industries, including mining, agriculture, aquaculture, marine, trades and health.
Stepping stone, not leaving it all to the last minute.
Stacey stated, “We’re hoping to build our bank of industries, so we’ll get more and more people to come, because the goal is to expose them to as many career choices as possible.”
The Year 8’s received valuable advice from industry professionals and were excited to explore the potential awaiting them for the future.
If you would like to represent your industry at the Year 8 Careers Showcase for 2024, email stacey_austin@rok.catholic.edu.au to get involved.
Max Reynolds and Danny Albert
Indiana Strong
Photos supplied
In the heart of Mackay, Endeavour Foundation tirelessly champions the belief that everybody possesses the ability to achieve their dreams and contribute to their community.
Their commitment to building a brighter future for all reflects their unwavering passion for enhancing lives, day by day. They recognise the unique needs of each individual and tailor their support accordingly. Whether it's achieving independent living, finding a fulfilling job, or actively engaging with the community, Endeavour Foundation is dedicated to walking alongside you every step of the way and helping you find the services that are right for you under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
Endeavour Foundation knows that community inclusion is key for people to live their best life, so they've focused on developing homes that are centrally located, close to shops, transport, and services. Supported Independent Living (SIL) is a big step, especially for those leaving the family home for the first time. Endeavour Foundation's caring and committed team makes the change easier by creating a comfortable, familiar atmosphere for you to live in your own place, shared with housemates.
As part of the My Home, My Life initiative, Endeavour Foundation recently constructed a new fully accessible home in Beaconsfield to provide an independent living solution for locals living with disability.
This modern and contemporary home includes safety features such as help buttons in each bedroom, bathroom, and living space; extra-wide corridors and doorways to accommodate wheelchairs; and smart home ducted air-conditioning systems with individual room control. Endeavour Foundation’s new homes meet the Platinum Level of the Livable Housing Australia (LHA) and are built above and beyond what is required by legislation for Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA).
Endeavour Foundation places a strong emphasis on helping individuals build skills and confidence in jobs they love. They offer Supported Employment opportunities at their Social Enterprise – Endeavour Foundation Business Solutions - in Slade Point, where jobs can be tailored to the unique abilities of workers.
Participating in employment with Endeavour Foundation offers people the chance to acquire new skills, be part of a team, and earn an income. If you're 16 or older, you can work in a commercial setting with the support and guidance of Employment Coaches and Production Team Leaders. Employment becomes a gateway for personal growth, job satisfaction, and building lasting connections with colleagues.
Supported Employment, funded through the NDIS, enables people to develop their skills within a secure setting before seeking employment in mainstream workplaces, should they wish to. While many employers would like to hire someone with disability, they often don’t know where to start. Endeavour Foundation makes it easier for employers and employees by continuing to offer NDIS-funded support as people transition to mainstream work and progress in their careers.
By choosing Endeavour Foundation for your business solutions, you’ll receive high quality products and services while helping to provide meaningful employment for people with disability. From confidential document destruction to producing quality timber products, the work achieved at the Slade Point Social Enterprise is changing lives while providing valuable products and labour for local businesses.
Endeavour Foundation is here to unlock potential, remove barriers, and champion inclusivity in the community. Their comprehensive range of services is designed to inspire and uplift, creating a brighter future for all who seek to realise their dreams and aspirations.
The taste of sweet success is on the lips of Sarina Sugar Shed, taking home a gong at the 2023 Queensland Tourism Awards.
Acting Coordinator Adele Lewis said winning silver in Excellence in Food Tourism is a testament to the amazing experiences and products on offer in our region.
“We are thrilled to again be recognised as a premium food tourism experience in Queensland and we sincerely thank not only our amazing team, but everyone who has visited or purchased from us,” Ms Lewis said.
The award-winning facility has Christmas sorted, with hand-made masterpieces such as Asian Style Mango Chutney, Pineapple Sweet Chilli Jam and custom-made gift hampers with 100% locally made products.
And this is without even exploring the extensive alcoholic range of rums and liqueurs on offer, perfect for the adults come Christmas day.
There’s the newly released NOI Lychee Liqueur, NOI Orange & Ginger Liqueur, and even a new Coffee Liqueur.
Sarina Sugar Shed also hosts a range of award-winning tours and experiences.
Take a guided tour of the facility, through the miniature mill and outdoor area, before ending with tastings of liqueur, chutneys, sauces, ginger beer and freshly spun fairy floss.
For those wanting a more personal experience with the distiller, try your hand at the Rum Distillery Tour, a dedicated rum tasting session that covers the entire process.
Run by a team of hard-working staff and amazing volunteers, the award-winning facility showcases the special experiences on offer in our region. Find out more at sarinasugarshed.com.au.
Left to right - Ian Mason (Sarina Sugar Shed - Project Manager), Cr Michelle Green, Teona Cousin (Economic Development and Tourism - Executive Manager), Sarah-Jane Parrott (Sarina Sugar Shed - Distiller), Adele Lewis (Sarina Sugar Shed - Acting Coordinator), Deputy Mayor Karen May.
The Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) has secured bronze for the Business Events Venue category at the 2023 Queensland Tourism Awards.
The award recognised the venue’s excellence across areas including technical capabilities, staff development, catering and customer experience.
Acknowledged as the largest convention centre between Cairns and Brisbane, this state-of-the-art building has the equipment and skilled staff to guarantee successful event delivery.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the bronze award was a testament to the hard work of the MECC team.
“What an incredible accomplishment for our staff to take home the bronze award for Business Events Venue,” Mayor Williamson said.
“To be considered with the many other tremendous business event venues in Queensland, and to come away with the third place, speaks volumes for the efforts and dedication of the more than 70 MECC staff and 170 volunteers,” he said.
“They truly go above and beyond.”
Acting Executive Manager of MECC and Events, Jemma Carey said many factors set the MECC apart, including the innovations and enhancements delivered by the team’s technical department.
“The continuous improvement of our venue’s lighting system has had significant benefits for our clients this year,” Ms Carey said.
“Basic set up for theme lighting in certain areas now takes as little as a few minutes, reducing staff hours and saving our clients’ money,” she said.
“The design and installation of a customised rigging solution also broadened the possibilities for event theming.
“Having innovative equipment alongside skilled staff allows a client’s vision to truly become a reality.
“This award reflects the hard work of our staff – we are incredibly proud!”
This is the second time the venue has placed at the Queensland Tourism Awards. In 2022, the venue was recognised with a silver award in the same category, demonstrating the MECC’s dedication to consistently deliver exceptional events.
The MECC leads the way for regional venues, using the latest available technology, adding high-end projectors, the latest audio-visual technology and world-standard acoustic systems.
“For more than 36 years our building has been recognised as Mackay’s premiere entertainment and performing arts venue,” Ms Carey said.
“From visitors to event planners, the MECC is considered a central meeting point within Queensland, ideal for events drawing a state-wide audience,” she said.
Cr Michelle Green, Jemma Carey (Acting Executive Manager MECC & Events), Andrew Bobeldyk (Executive Manager MECC & Events), Cr Karen May
Jemma Carey (Acting Executive Manager MECC & Events), Margaret Brignone (Volunteer, Friend of the MECC), Madonna Bianchi (Volunteer, Friend of the MECC) and Andrew Bobeldyk (Executive Manager MECC & Events)
After another ground-breaking year for Queensland tourism operators, the Queensland Tourism Industry Council’s Queensland Tourism Awards were back with Mackay businesses bringing home two silver and one bronze awards for the region.
At the 2023 Queensland Tourism Awards, Sarina Sugar Shed won Silver for Excellence in Food Tourism while The FLACKYARD won Silver for Best Tourism Restaurant. Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre celebrated with a Bronze Award in the Business Event Venues category.
Also putting their products under the spotlight as nominees at the state awards were Isaac Regional Council's St Lawrence Wetlands Weekend Event, Friends of the MECC, Country Roads Motor Inn Dysart, Oh Deere Farm Stays and Windmill Motel & Event Centre. All tourism operators completed a rigorous submission process to nominate for the Queensland Tourism Awards.
In the past financial year, Mackay broke its record for annual overnight visitor expenditure, reaching $751.3 million – a 22.5 per cent average increase compared to the previous financial year.
Spend per visitor also increased by 19.2 per cent in the last financial year and over the past three years, visitation has increased by 2.2 per cent to 1.1 million.
Queensland Tourism Industry Council’s Chief Executive Officer Brett Fraser congratulated the region on its success at the awards ceremony following a huge year of record-breaking tourism results.
“Congratulations to Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre for receiving the Bronze award for Business Event Venues,” Mr Fraser said. “This is the second year in a row that they have been named a winner in this category which is a testament to the services they provide.
“Another massive congratulations to Sarina Sugar Shed for winning Silver in the Excellence in food Tourism category and The FLACKYARD for winning Silver in the Tourism Restaurants and Catering Services category.
“It’s great to see so many tourists flocking to Mackay, proving the region is a serious player in the Queensland tourism industry.”
Mackay Isaac Tourism CEO Al Grundy said, "It is so exciting to be at the Queensland Tourism Awards supporting our local businesses who put their heart and soul into making the visitor experience a memorable one every day of the year!
“On behalf of our region and the team, I want to say congratulations, and in our eyes you are all winners.”
The workers and businesses behind these awards gathered at the Cairns Exhibition Centre on 24 November for a night of tropical glamour and recognition for all their hard work in the Queensland tourism industry for the past year.
There were 31 award categories ranging from attractions, events, tour and transport operators, accommodation, restaurants, culture and marketing. Across the 31 categories, 78 operators were awarded including 31 Gold, 26 Silver and 20 Bronze.
Some of the Tourism Queensland Award winners with Queensland Premier Annastasia Palaszczuk
Mackay Isaac Tourism CEO Al Grundy, Deputy Mayor Karen May and Councillor Michelle Green joined representatives from the Sarina Sugar Shed and the MECC in celebrating wins at the Queensland Tourism Awards
How good is Christmas and holidays?
I’ll let you know mid-January, because this year again my family is planning a visit to my hometown of Adelaide.
Driving.
Yes, it sounds crazy, but the key is to have my own transport when I’m back home so we can go wherever we want, whenever we want, without having to rely on my parents having a car available.
The last time we did the drive we made the journey part of the holiday, so each stop was a mini break in itself.
We had a surprise stay at Sea World Resort, a trip to Sea World, and a quick visit to Movie World, further south we had a few days in Port Macquarie where we dropped into the Koala Hospital.
One of the truly great things we did is walk over the Sydney Harbour Bridge, if you’re in Sydney it’s worth doing. An iconic landmark, awesome view and you get to see up close how this amazing piece of engineering was put together.
On our trip back we stayed in a former hometown of mine Orange in NSW and went for a look at Australia’s largest telescope near Coonabarabran. Making the drive part of the holiday is key to making long days in the car bearable.
This trip I’m thinking of a lap or two of Mt Panorama at Bathurst, if you haven’t done this one before it’s amazing. It looks steep on the TV, but that doesn’t do it justice as to how hilly the track is. And if you've got some ideas of things to do in Canberra, I'd love to hear them, because the capital is on the cards too.
The last time we went south we were well and truly ready for home on the way back and did Goondiwindi to Mackay in one day. In total it was over 7000 across three weeks, but I loved every bit of it.
If you’re travelling over Christmas may the petrol prices be low, the days in the car feel short, and the weather just awesome.
Scotty
Ange Postecoglouis a good example for anyone in sport or business or someone trying to get ahead in life - that perseverance, consistency, effort, self-belief, discipline and culture create success.
The Tottenham Hotspurs Manager (coach in our world) has gone from playing football (soccer in our world) for South Melbourne then coaching in Australia, Japan and Scotland before taking over one of the English Premier League’s most famous clubs.
He took over the Spurs after massive success over several years at Celtic in Scotland and arrived at a time when Tottenham seemed to have lost direction. Just before the season kicked off, the Spurs’ most famous player and highest goal scorer, Harry Kane, walked out.
But Ange just did what he had always done. He stuck to the brand of football he believed in, he created a culture at the club where the players believed in him and supported his positive, attacking style of play.
And, with some early success, the fans got on board. I don’t think the fans expected their team to be Premier League Champions this year but they were encouraged by ‘Angeball’, with its attacking intent and were blown away by early season success. They started singing songs about him.
Now Ange’s team won’t be winning the league this year. They are sitting fifth on the table and at the time of me writing this they had suffered several losses in a row. It’s a pretty tough comp that is dominated by a handful of massively rich clubs.
So, I would have thought fifth is pretty good in your first year. The challenge for Ange will be to maintain the level in the second-half of the season.
But he has given hope to fans and brought out the best in his players. And I’ve noted a few things: He doesn’t get too excited about a win (let’s maintain some equilibrium), he keeps it simple and uncomplicated saying he is doing nothing different to any other club he has coached because the philosophy and game style are the same. And he is humble.
So, for me, it all applies to working in business and real estate. Be consistent with your effort, maintaining the standards of communication and other key elements that are vital for doing the best thing by the sellers I work for.
Have a strategy, a game plan that works. A lot of sellers say: ‘you only need one buyer’ and that is true but the key thing is that one buyer needs to see that there is competition for the property, that they are not going to be able to steal the damn thing. The marketing, the data base of buyers, the team work within the agency creates competition.
And you need to work with a business that has a culture of success. One where everyone in the organisation understands what we are there to do. The client needs to be at the centre of everything.
Like Ange’s players, Gardian people enjoy the work but the enjoyment only comes because the work is being done and the results are there for our clients. Oh, and we’ve got a song, too, but we don’t expect you to sing it when we get you a good result.
Contributed by David Fisher
.jpg)
A new knock-out program implemented by the Queensland Government, Active Women and Girls is set to promote gender equity in Queensland's field of sports and recreation.
The $15 million Active Women and Girls Program is aiming to boost sport and active recreation opportunities for women and girls in Queensland. The program will be dedicated to encourage greater participation across all facets of sport and recreation, including playing, coaching, umpiring, volunteering and team management.
The program was launched during the Oceania Rugby Sevens tournament, a qualifying event for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and supported by the Queensland Government as part of its program to secure major events on the pathway to the 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The program is now open to applications, with funding available to be used across a range of focus areas, such as volunteer training, resources and equipment. Creating more participation opportunities for women and girls within clubs, communities and organisations is vital to deliver bigger and better opportunities.
Local clubs, state-level organisations, university-based clubs, and local government authorities can use this funding to deliver top-notch training, events, recognition, high-quality equipment and targeted programs.
There are two categories for eligibility under this program. Local clubs can apply for $7,500 under Category 1, with local government authorities and state-level sport and active recreation organisations having the ability to apply for $25,000 under Category 2.
Applications opened 20th November and will close on 6th March 2024. To apply for funding under this program, your organisation must be registered in the Sport and Recreation Grant Registration Portal.
Applications must be submitted using the online application form Sport and Recreation Grants Portal.
Find out if your club is eligible and apply now!
A statement released by Queensland Police Service informed the public that a 40-year-old Mackay man has passed away, following a truck rollover in Clairview on Monday 27th November.
Initial investigations indicated that at approximately 11.40am, a truck was travelling south along the Bruce Highway when it left the road and rolled. The driver, a 40-year-old Andergrove man, was declared deceased at the scene.
Forensic Crash Unit investigations are continuing.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or call 131 444.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
Investigations into the fatality are ongoing
Photo credit: Queensland Police Service
Let the Children Play Toyshop is your one-stop toyshop, servicing the local community with quality items to encourage imagination and play. The business opened in 2013 and this September they celebrated their ten-year anniversary of operations in Mackay.
Owner of Let the Children Play Toyshop Ally Blines believes in the importance of shopping local. She encourages customers during the Christmas period, to add ‘Mackay’ to the end of their online search when looking for specific products.
Ally stated, “If you make the effort to look, a lot of us local businesses have really good professional webstores. If we've got it listed on our webstore, it will come up.
“People come from Townsville, Rockhampton and even from Brisbane and they say things like, ‘Wow, I can't get these things where I live. How come you've got them in Mackay?’.”
Let the Children Play Toyshop opened during a mining boom in 2013, and within twelve months the industry had collapsed. This was considered one of the most difficult periods for the toyshop, nevertheless Ally pushed through the difficulties and continued the operation.
Covid-19 also created a hard road ahead for the business, with stock reassessment and home deliveries taking place to adapt to the changes. Let the Children Play Toyshop has continued with their home deliveries, free for locals on orders over $100.
Over the years, the business has grown its inventory to cater to infants and toddlers. Let the Children Play Toyshop has also been busy in recent times, updating their selection of board games and puzzles, with an emphasis on adult-style products to entice parents to join in the fun.
Let the Children Play Toyshop have a passion for customer-centric service, taking time to understand the needs of both parents and children and talking them through their options.
Ally stated, “I've chosen toys because I'm passionate about learning and the importance of play. But I think what I've become really passionate about is customer service.”
Find Let the Children Play Toyshop at Shop 2 on 176 Victoria St or visit www.playmackay.com.au for more information.
Owner Ally Blines with her vast array of board games and puzzles
Children can enjoy a hands-on experience at the store
Photo credit: Sinead Porter
The Rug Gallery have been in business for over thirty years, supplying Mackay with high-quality rugs to add comfort and style to our homes.
The family business is owned by Katrina and Peter Hansen, who are a passionate duo striving to meet everchanging needs by offering quality service and one-on-one advice to their customers. With a fantastic range from designer to recycled rugs, the showroom has a wide variety to choose from, or you can order in if you’re in the market for something specific.
The team offer to search for specific rugs you might not be able to source yourself. If you can't find a rug to fit a space in your home or want some mats for your car, caravan or doorways, talk to the team about their custom-made products and overlocking services.
You can even take advantage of the Rug Gallery’s 24-hour ‘try before you buy’ option, to see the rug come to life in your home before making a final purchase.
Katrina stated her main mission in operating The Rug Gallery, “Helping people to make their homes look beautiful, helping someone have the ability to have a home that they want to come home to.”
She went on to say, “If we don't have what [customers] want, or if they want suggestions on things, we're always here to help them out and advise them in which way is the best way to go.”
The Rug Gallery stock quality products from trusted brands like Bayliss, Unitex, MOS International, Hufflett, Italtex and Brand Ventures.
For something traditional that stands the test of time, try rugs made from heat-set polypropylene, cotton, wool, hemp, sisal and jute. Recycled materials for rugs can include PVC, bicycle tubes, denim, fabric and leather. Machine-made rugs are stain resistant, or if you’re looking to spice up your alfresco space, try out the hard-wearing outdoor rugs!
Check out the tips and tricks for taking care of the rugs in your home, browse through The Rug Gallery website at theruggallery.com.au or visit the team at 133 Sydney Street to view their extensive range of products and services.
A vast range of colours and styles at Rug Gallery
Photo credit: Sinead Porter
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2026 Mackay and Whitsunday Life Pty Ltd.
