A Sarina distillery and popular tourism destination has been awarded four national awards.

Sarina Sugar Shed distiller, Sarah-Jane Parrott, travelled to the 2023 Australian Distilled Spirits Awards last Thursday and said the whole team were excited with the result.

“We are thrilled to return from the awards with not just one, but four awards,” Ms Parrott said.

“The awards were held in Melbourne, on Thursday, August 3, at a special awards presentation,” she said.

Judges for the Australian Distilled Spirits competition are selected from across Australia and are engaged for their industry knowledge and expertise.

“The Sarina Sugar Shed Aromatic Bitters Chocolate won gold in the cocktail bitters category, the Aromatic Bitters Spiced Orange won silver, the Lime NOI won silver and the Sarina Sugar Shed Liqueur won bronze,” Ms Parrott said.

“The star of the night was the aromatic bitters, which is hand crafted on site at the sugar shed, and is available in two flavours, spiced orange and chocolate.

“The chocolate is infused with cacao nibs, cinnamon and vanilla, with each botanical carefully hand selected, blended and infused to bring out the natural flavours.”

Mayor Greg Williamson said the sugar shed team should be very proud of winning these awards on the national stage.

“It’s an incredible result to enter four categories and bring home four awards,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Sarah started working on the aromatic bitters in February, trialling different ingredients to achieve the ultimate flavour profile and it was released to the public in June, at the Sarina Sugar Shed cocktail book launch,” he said.

“Congratulations to Sarah and the whole team at the Sarina Sugar Shed on this amazing achievement.”

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Sarina Sugar Shed distiller, Sarah-Jane Parrott

The award-winning Sarina Sugar Shed team

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May was the first time in five years that the St Lawrence Recreation Group were able to host the St Lawrence Campdraft, the event making a very successful return.

With 680 first round runs to get through, the campdraft kicked off with the ‘Mark Robertson Earthmoving Maiden Draft’ on the morning of Saturday, May 20.

Events ran across the weekend with competitors, both local and visiting, competing and achieving impressive results.

Six top quality judges were secured for the draft, prioritising the safety of the cattle and competitors all weekend.  

Kerry Wallace, Steve Drury, Jason Wanstall, Bo Hatfield, Don Sivyer and Luke Townsend donated their time and expertise, as did many members of the community in supporting the event.

Competitors drafted four lines of cattle supplied by cattle donors The McGibbon Family – Ametdale, The McArthur family – Mystery Park, The McIntyre Family – Waverly Station and Seamark Pty Ltd – Carmila Glen.  

“A draft cannot run without cattle, and we are enormously grateful to these very generous donors,” the St Lawrence Recreation Group Committee said.

Trucks were also donated by Don Shaw Cattle Transport to transport cattle to and from the draft.

Talented committee member Jessica Cash treated attendees to a delicious smoked brisket for dinner on Saturday night before swapping her tongs for the guitar and entertaining the crowd with some live music.

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Junior Draft placegetters

Encouragement Draft placegetters

Juvenile placegetters

Open Draft placegetters

Adelaide McArthur riding Red

Elise Burston

Committee member Jessica Cash cooking the smoked brisket

Dedicated announcer Dave Armstrong. Photos credit: Aaron Rankin Photography and Jessica Cash

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Despite their vastly different fields of study, three CQUniversity students have been recognised for following their chosen career paths close to home.

Awarded scholarships by Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank in July, Chloe Paul, Seumus Andrews and Brooke Vella all share a dedication to their education and commitment to their community.

The Community Bank Sarina scholarships enable those studying to remain in the region, seize opportunities in the local workforce, and actively contribute to our economy and enrich the community.

Partnering with CQUniversity since 2012, the scholarships have evolved with time to meet the ever-changing needs of local business and industry, to keep students local after their studies.

Chloe Paul, one of the proud recipients of the Higher Education scholarship, expressed her gratitude for the support she received toward 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 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.”

Seumus Andrews, recipient of an Apprenticeship Scholarship, is completing his Certificate III in Parks and Gardens at North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation. Although he is unsure about his career path after finishing his studies, he knows the scholarship will provide plenty of growth opportunities.

“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 is beyond their abilities but there’s no harm in giving it your best shot.”

Brooke Vella is currently undertaking an electrical apprenticeship at Aurizon with the goal of becoming an electrical engineer. She expressed her appreciation for the apprenticeship scholarship that will support her career journey.

“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.”  

These scholarships have proven to be a transformative force for students, empowering them to pursue their dreams whilst making meaningful contributions to their community. Community Bank Sarina's dedication to nurturing local students serves as an inspiring example of the positive impact such initiatives can have on the lives of youth in our region.

Community Bank Sarina scholarships in association with CQUniversity are offered annually, and students can apply for either the Vocational and Educational Training (VET) apprenticeship scholarship or the higher education scholarship.

Community Bank Sarina has now opened applications for the Sarina State High School (SSHS) Senior Schooling Scholarship. SSHS students may request an information pack from executive@sarinacommunity.com.au and submit their application by September 8.

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A group of friends are about to embark on the journey of a lifetime for the second time after ticking off a “bucket list item” last year.

Viv Coleman, Karen Armstrong and Molly Bendle from St Lawrence and Kate Craig from Sarina are the Opal Chicks, a team undertaking the 2023 Variety Bash from Toowoomba to Cairns, leaving on Tuesday, August 15.

Ms Coleman said it had been a lifelong goal to take part in the Bash, which raises funds for Variety, a charity providing support for children who are sick, disadvantaged or who have a disability.

“I’ve never experienced the emotional rollercoaster of being able to see firsthand what we are giving back into communities, families and children who need help,” she said.

“You are crying and you are laughing 10 times a day on the same day.

“The impact that Variety Queensland makes, to see it firsthand, there’s no way to describe the emotions you actually feel.”

Before the Opal Chicks participated in their first Variety Bash last year, Ms Coleman travelled to Adelaide to collect a Holden VN Commodore they’ve named Vinnie.

“There’s four of us girls in the car together and we all work amazingly well together as a team,” Ms Coleman said.

“We have a great time and we try to make the best of our ability to have fun.”

The team has already raised over $28,000 thanks to donations from the community, fundraising efforts and sponsors including Ray White Sarina.

“We’ve had so many donations of gifts and prizes for raffles,” Ms Coleman said.

“The community support’s been wonderful.”

Returning for their second year, the Opal Chicks are excited to reunite with their ‘Bash Family’, as many participants return to the Bash year after year.

“We’re all very like minded people, and having that Bash Family atmosphere, it’s so uplifting and it’s such a wonderful experience,” Ms Coleman said.

“I recommend it to anyone; you need to do it at least once in your life.”

Search Opal Chicks on Facebook to follow their journey or visit www.varietybashqld.com.au/t/boulderopalchicks to make a donation.

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The Opal Chicks held a fundraising Bush Bash Ball earlier this year, pictured here with Richard from Ray White Sarina and Vinnie the VN Commodore. Photo supplied

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By Amanda Wright

Sarina's QCWA Branch marked its centenary with a delightful high tea event that attracted guests and visitors from across the region. The celebration, a nod to the Branch's remarkable century of service, was attended by Mayor Greg Williamson, a representative of Michelle Landry MP, Councillor Karen May, and Maree Franettovich of Community Bank Sarina.

The event, steeped in bygone era charm, treated attendees to an array of freshly baked pastries, sandwiches, cakes, and pikelets. Fine bone china, tiered cake stands, and pristine white tablecloths adorned the setting, transporting guests to the past. Each table was uniquely adorned with vintage aesthetics.

Guests cherished the opportunity to unwind, connect with Sarina Branch Members, and relish the display of nostalgic memories. Attendees were also treated to gift bags containing homemade jelly jams courtesy of Sarina Branch members, alongside a special chocolate from Sarina Community Bank.

The event served as a prelude to upcoming gatherings, including Scone Day on August 11th. Watch out for ticket sales for the much-anticipated Race Day on September 5, details to be revealed soon.

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Award-Winning Shop Up For Grabs

By Amanda Wright

Nestled in the heart of Sarina, Under the Veil, an award-winning bridal shop, is now presenting an irresistible opportunity for a passionate entrepreneur to take the reins of a thriving business. With its remarkable track record and esteemed clientele, this turn-key venture promises the chance to be a part of countless couples' special moments.

Under The Veil has garnered acclaim for its commitment to offering an exceptional and personalised experience to brides-to-be and those seeking formal attire. The attentive and friendly staff create an inviting and relaxed atmosphere, where every bride's individual needs are at the forefront of attention. Your wedding gown, a symbol of your big day's significance, is treated with the utmost care and consideration, ensuring that you look and feel nothing less than spectacular. The spacious showroom boasts a wide selection of wedding gowns, formal attire, accessories, and more.

What sets Under the Veil apart is not just its commitment to excellence, but its well-established client base and industry recognition. With years of hard work and dedication, the owners have curated a loyal clientele that stretches beyond local boundaries. The business comes with a well-stocked inventory and comprehensive financial records, ensuring a smooth transition for the new owner. The industry recognition extends to winning both national and state wedding industry awards, further solidifying the shop's reputation in the bridal realm.

The decision to put this gem of a business on the market is driven by the owners' pursuit of new endeavours. While the current proprietors cherish the business, they recognise that it requires an enthusiastic successor to continue its legacy of exceptional service. A passion for weddings, fashion, and an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction are the qualities that the ideal buyer should possess.

The new owner will have the flexibility to choose between continuing the lease at the current location with an option to extend or relocate the business if desired. The shop has cultivated a local following for formal attire, high school formals, and after-five events.

For the visionary entrepreneur seeking a turn-key business with a successful history and endless potential, Under the Veil stands as an unmatched opportunity. Envision yourself at the helm of a shop that has already etched its name in bridal elegance and excellence, ready to continue its journey of celebrating love and life's most cherished moments. Don't miss the chance to be a part of this legacy; inquire now and step into the world of bridal beauty and splendour.

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Photo credit: Alyce Holzy Photography

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CANEGROWERS Mackay has appointed its new chief, District Manager Michelle Martin.

Michelle comes with a strong background in business and member services, and her appointment follows the passing of esteemed, long-serving CEO Kerry Latter, who lost his battle with cancer in June.

CANEGROWERS Mackay Chairman Kevin Borg made the announcement this week, saying that a long and transparent selection process had been undertaken. Mrs Martin will formally take up the position on Monday, August 7

“We are pleased to announce today that Michelle Martin will take on the role of District Manager,” Mr Borg said.

“She comes with a professional background in building, small business, administration, insurance, and education.

“Importantly, Mrs Martin has been with CANEGROWERS Mackay’s Grower Services for the past two and a half years, and Growers Services Manager since May 2022. In that time, she has had the opportunity to work closely with CANEGROWERS Mackay’s senior management and board, and has developed extensive knowledge of the industry and, with excellent relationship-building skill, has a great rapport with the membership, making her a perfect fit for the role.

“We are confident that she will bring the clear and strong advocacy for our members, and for the sugar industry as a whole, that both the community and our membership expect. We are confident that the organisation will be in good hands.

“On behalf of the CANEGROWERS Mackay Board and staff, we congratulate Mrs Martin and welcome her into her new role.”

Notably, the organisation is transitioning from leadership being nominally Chief Executive Officer, to District Manager, which brings the position more into line with that of other Queensland CANEGROWERS Districts.

“The rationalisation streamlines the Growers Services and District Manager positions, delivering greater efficiency and value to our members,” Mr Borg said.

Mrs Martin said she was honoured to accept the leadership role.

“I am very honoured to be a part of this new chapter for CANEGROWERS Mackay,” she said.

“I have a great team behind me and have been privileged to have been mentored by senior members and management at CANEGROWERS in my time here.

“I will continue the tradition of being a leading and vocal advocate in the industry for our local members.”

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CANEGROWERS District Manager Michelle Martin

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Funding has been secured for the region’s first two sleepbuses, with Safe Sleep Mackay urging the community to rally behind a third.

Two buses will be located in Mackay, one open to everyone and the other pink sleepbus for women and children only, while the third will be located in Sarina.

Lisa Jamieson of Safe Sleep Mackay thanked the community for their support but said $70,000 is still required for the third sleepbus, as well as volunteers to operate them.

“We couldn’t do the fundraising without the community, and we can’t operate the buses without the community,” she said.

“It’s got to be a community effort to get them here and a community effort to sustain it.”

With 20 beds onboard, televisions, toilets, charging facilities and storage, sleepbus promises a safe and restful night’s sleep for those who have nowhere else to go.

“While we all know housing is the ultimate solution, we know it’s not something that’s going to happen overnight but at least these buses give that temporary short-term relief and are that interim solution until something more permanent can be done,” Ms Jamieson said.

“These are all human beings; the majority do not want to be homeless,” added Kayleigh Brewster.

“Life on the streets is not fun, they aren’t out there with no responsibilities having a great time, they’re really struggling.”

Ms Jamieson hopes to see the first two sleepbuses in Mackay by Easter next year, with a third not far behind.

To find out more about donating and volunteering, visit www.sleepbus.org/fundraisers/sleepbusmackay/mackay-needs-a-sleepbus.

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Lisa Jamieson and Kayleigh Brewster of Safe Sleep Mackay. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

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Local homeless support services have shared their gratitude for the support of the region’s youth.

A group of students from Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School (KMG) have been collecting plastic bags and turning them into mats, providing comfort and insulation for rough sleepers.

As part of the Life Skills program, students learnt to crochet, taking strips of plastic bags and crocheting them into mats.  

The crocheted mats provide a reliable, durable, and lightweight sleeping surface for those experiencing homelessness.

The mats were recently donated to Orange Sky who then shared the mats amongst Australian Street Aid Project, CASA and ATSICH for them to distribute to their clients in need.

Students and staff from KMG also raised $310 for Safe Sleep Mackay's sleepbus initiative.

Safe Sleep Mackay has also received donations from Mackay North State School and St Mary's Catholic Primary School where students and staff raised funds to help secure the region’s sleepbuses.  

In other efforts of community support, Pioneer State High School recently collected cans of food, donating around 1,100 tins to Australian Street Aid Project, while St Brendan's Catholic Primary School’s 'Winter Warmer' appeal is currently on, seeing students collect socks, beanies, scarves and travel wipes to donate to Orange Sky.

Orange Sky continues to work with St Patrick's College as they have for the last three years, with the school’s year 10-12 students making and serving breakfast twice a week for those in need.

During school holidays, the tongs are passed onto Teen Shed Mackay, who first took over the breakfast service in the 2022-23 Christmas school holidays and have been back every school holiday since.  

“You can see that the youth of our community are trying to do something,” said Lisa Jamieson of Orange Sky and Safe Sleep Mackay.

“They know that people out there are doing it tough and if we can instill that in the youth, it’s going to make a better community all around.”

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KMG students recently donated sleeping mats and a cheque to support services throughout the community

Mackay North State School was presented with a certificate of appreciation after a donation to Safe Sleep Mackay

Teen Shed Mackay donate their time to cook breakfast for Orange Sky every school holidays

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Sudsy Challenge Returns

Orange Sky is inviting the community to “keep your kit on in support of people experiencing homelessness”.

The Sudsy Challenge tasks people with wearing the same clothes for three days in the month of September to raise awareness and funds for people experiencing homelessness or hardship.

“That’s another call to arms where the community can get involved and take action,” said Orange Sky Mackay Service Leader Lisa Jamieson.

“It’s about giving people an appreciation of what it’s like to be in those clothes.”

Visit www.thesudsychallenge.com.au to find out more.

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Drop In Lounge A Success

Chances Op Shop recently announced changes that will see a greater focus on Australian Street Aid Project’s homelessness support services.

The op shop’s floor space has been minimised, allowing space for a drop in lounge for those in need.

“We realised that there really is nowhere for these people to go through the day, and they needed access to amenities and charging facilities and somewhere safe to be,” said Australian Street Aid Project Founder Kayleigh Brewster.

“It’s worked really well and it’s very well utilised; we’ve had great feedback from people using the space.”

The drop in lounge provides users with amenities, charging facilities, books, desks, couches and a television to be used throughout the day.

Australian Street Aid Project has also employed a part-time Case Worker to assist with accessing drug, alcohol, mental health and legal support services.

“We’re seeing really positive outcomes for some of our service users not necessarily just around homelessness but around other factors that create barriers to housing,” said Ms Brewster.

“People just really like to have a place to be where they’re not asked to leave and where they’re out of the elements; somewhere they can relax, find support, have conversations with people.

“It’s helped us to develop better and more therapeutic relationships with people, spending a little bit more one on one time with them.”

Ms Brewster said Australian Street Aid Project has seen a dramatic increase in service users, with the number of meals dispersed into the community spiking from around 350 meals a week two months ago to over 500 meals a week.

To accommodate the increase in demand, Chances Op Shop will now be open on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9am to 3pm and Fridays and Saturdays from 9am to 1pm, closing from Sunday to Tuesday.

“We’re hoping it will help to increase our revenue which goes directly into the homelessness services so we can create a more sustainable environment and continue providing all those services,” Ms Brewster said.

The op shop is celebrating Super Saturday this Saturday, August 12 to mark the first Saturday opening, with all clothing half price and all other items discounted by 15%.

Australian Street Aid Project has also launched it’s Pay It Forward Meal campaign, asking locals to donate as little as $7.50 to pay forward a meal for their many clients who come in for homelessness assistance.

Visit www.austreetaid.org for more information.

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Australian Street Aid Project Founder Kayleigh Brewster. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

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For Homelessness Week

A monthly barbecue this morning, Friday, August 11, has brought Homelessness Week to a close for 2023.

The annual event is an effort by Community Accommodation & Support Agency (CASA) to draw attention to the issue of homelessness in Mackay while providing information and resources to those experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

“It’s about everyone who is homeless, and that can be rough sleepers, people who are couch surfing, people who live in overcrowded conditions, people who don’t have a secure tenure,” said CASA Manager Lorraine Wirth.

“For people on a low income, people who don't have a rental history, people who might be on a single income or benefit, it’s extremely difficult to get any accommodation.”

Homelessness Week offered the opportunity for the community to come together and share information and resources, including financial and budgeting tips, information sessions, meet and greets, and “homeless hacks”.

In the last financial year, CASA distributed over $470,000 and over 1,000 food vouchers to those in need.

From January 2023 to July 2023, 1,567 nights of accommodation to different people in need.

Ms Wirth said CASA’s services provide outreach, crisis housing, homestay and food services, but more needs to be done for a permanent solution.

“I would like to see more properties, more tenure, more bricks and mortar,” she said.

“Whether it’s social housing, community housing, more affordable housing full stop, anything as long as there are more options available for people.”

Visit www.casamackay.org.au to find out more.

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CASA Manager Lorraine Wirth. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

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Kalyan Youth Service has been providing services to the youth of the region for 38 years, celebrating their birthday at the end of July 2023.

Established in 1985, Kalyan Youth Service offers crisis accommodation, transitional housing, case management and support to those aged 16 to 25 and is the only youth shelter between Rockhampton and Townsville.

The not-for-profit organisation has crisis accommodation for six young people as well as medium-term accommodation units, providing young people with a home environment teaching life skills, cooking, cleaning and work seeking skills.

“The first criteria we look at when making an assessment for young people is their level of homelessness,” said Housing Services Manager Louise O'Brien.

“They could be literally homeless and have no accommodation or they’re at risk of homelessness, they may be residing in an unsafe environment or couch surfing.”

The friendly team of youth workers works with young people on a case management plan, assisting with securing employment, sourcing benefits and addressing their mental health needs to work through any barriers.

“Our role is to work with them to assist with whatever their needs are,” said Ms O’Brien.

“We do try to reunify young people with their families if at all possible.”

In the 2022-23 financial year, Kalyan Youth Service assisted 64 clients, however, were unable to assist 229 young people for a variety of reasons, highlighting the importance of their work in our community.

Monetary donations can be made to the organisation at www.givenow.com.au/youthhomelessness and non-perishable food items are accepted at 4 Goldsmith Street, East Mackay.

If there is any other assistance you think you may be able to provide, contact Ms O'Brien on 07 4951 4352.

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The Mackay Disability Expo was held at the Mackay Showgrounds last weekend and featured a range of both local and out-of-town specialist exhibitors, providing a one-stop-shop for everyone with an interest in disability services.

Crossroad Arts entertained attendees by hosting their ROAR program at the expo, which was about “exploring untapped imaginings through movement, sound and theatre making”.

Groove Movers also put on a beautiful display of movement and dance for people of all abilities and Margie Ross hosted a singing workshop attracting groups of onlookers.

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Photo credit: Mackay Regional Council

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Chrissy Cahill – A1 Sleep Mackay

Sleep is a vital function that allows the brain and the body to recover and recharge, so when you’re not getting a good night’s rest, many facets of your day-to-day life can be affected.

If you have daytime sleepiness, snore, raised blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, have had a stroke or heart attack, or urinate throughout the night, a sleep test can be the key to unlocking a full night of rest; ask your Doctor for a Sleep Referral form to A1 Sleep Mackay.

Chrissy Cahill of A1 Sleep Mackay is passionate about ensuring restful sleep, with over 18 years’ experience in the industry.

Working in healthcare all her life, she was managing a healthcare business in Townsville when she approached a colleague about incorporating sleep into their services. From there, moved to Mackay 10 years ago and continued working in the Sleep industry.

Chrissy started her business in November 2021, rebranding to A1 Sleep Mackay in March 2023.

Operating seven days a week, A1 Sleep Mackay caters for those who are unable to commit to an appointment during the working week and saves the patient time on the travel involved – this is why she added this unique service of “GOING TO THE PATIENT” for the initial Sleep Test, but conditions apply.

A1 Sleep Mackay also offers sleep apnea machine and accessory sales as well as cleaning and servicing of machines and masks.

Her sleep tests are bulk-billed with no out-of-pocket expense to the patient providing they meet the Medicare criteria and she provides all of the above in a friendly, caring, and utterly genuine manner.

Chrissy says the satisfaction she feels when patients feel more rested and energised is why she does what she does.

“Once they go onto the machines, people come back and ask me what I’ve done to them because they feel so alive,” she said.

Chrissy has even brought Victorian sleep lab National Sleep Diagnostics on board who will analyse sleep tests for her, ensuring the people of Mackay get the best treatment possible.

Chrissy operates out of her home at 51 Stroppianas Road, Devereux Creek, not far from Marian in the Pioneer Valley.

Open seven days, you can contact her any time on 0406 996 722 or find A1 Sleep Mackay on Facebook.

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Stepping into the Art of Acupuncture clinic, clients start a journey of healing and growth at the stable and steady hands of renowned acupuncturist Dr Bob Wong.

The initial consult allows Dr Wong to complete a thorough health history and diagnostic exam, so that he may know what areas of the body are a concern and come up with a treatment plan.

The pulse is believed to be closely connected to the meridians and organ system of the body, allowing Dr Wong to have a glimpse into the internal situation of a patient.

He will also conduct Postural Analysis, thermal scan and muscle testing.

He will dissect his client’s posture and alignment, at rest and at movement, to see how their muscles and joints are working together.

Believing strongly in preventive measures, Dr Wong will often recommend lifestyle changes, on top of his recommendations of clinic procedures, including acupuncture, which aids the body in naturally combatting issues.

Treating everything from migraines, chronic pain, Bell’s Palsy, and Pregnancy Care, Dr Wong is uniquely qualified in Chinese Medicines, and has worked across China, America, and Australia.

While not always diagnosing acupuncture as a necessary remedy for all patients, most patients do return to the clinic for Dr Wong and his acupuncture sessions.

Getting to the root of the issue, Dr Wong will ensure to take his clients through the journey of regaining their health.

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