Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
A single-vehicle bus crash has sadly claimed the life of one passenger at Gumlu, north of Bowen overnight. According to initial police investigations, at approximately 4pm on Thursday 14th May, a bus with 29 people on board was travelling south along the Bruce Highway from Cairns to Airlie Beach, when it left the roadway and rolled onto its side. Several other passengers were injured and transported to Townsville, Ayr, and Bowen Hospitals. The bus driver, a 70-year-old Mackay man, was transported to Bowen Hospital with minor injuries. As of Friday morning, three patients are confirmed to be in a life-threatening condition with one assessed on the scene and two airlifted to Townsville University Hospital. Multiple people were injured and transported to Ayr Hospital before being airlifted to Townsville University Hospital by Royal Flying Doctor’s Service. There are eight stable patients in Townsville whilst one remains in a stable condition at Ayr. The Bruce Highway has reopened at Gumlu. This tragic accident comes less than two years after a fatal bus crash on the same stretch of the Bruce Highway, which claimed the lives of three women in on June 3rd, 2024. On this occasion, a Greyhound bus with 33 people on board was travelling north along the Bruce Highway, also near Gumlu, when it crossed over to the wrong side of the road and into oncoming traffic. The bus struck a Land Cruiser station wagon travelling in the opposite direction. A 56 year old Townsville woman and two German women aged 21 and 33 passed away as a result of the incident. The 52-year-old bus driver from North Ward was charged with five counts of dangerous operation of a vehicle causing death or grievous bodily harm, but was subsequently found not guilty. Anyone with relevant dash cam vision of incident last night is urged to contact police. Investigations are continuing
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So, what’s going on with the property market? The thing about the property market is that it doesn’t stand alone in its own little world untouched by the drama going on around it. And there is a fair bit of drama at the moment. Let’s get all the dramas to form a conga line and point them out one at a time. First there’s inflation, an annoying factor that adds to the cost of living and affects people’s ability to buy real estate. Right behind inflation, and I mean very close, is its brother in arms/partner in crime/long-time bedfellow, interest rates. Interest rates have been particularly pesky lately as the Reserve Bank pushes them up in an attempt to bring inflation down. The idea is to make housing less affordable so you can make housing more affordable. Then there’s a war in the Middle East. War is very good for business if you are a weapons producer and part of the military-industrial complex but it’s not very good for everyone else. It certainly isn’t good for confidence and housing markets are pretty big on the old confidence factor. So, not good. This particular war has the additional benefit of taking place in the Persian Gulf, where a fair portion of the world’s oil is transported from Middle East oil producers to the rest of the world. The war has created a traffic jam in the Strait of Hormuz, which is restricting the supply of oil, meaning that in a world of demand and supply the price of fuel at the petrol bowser has gone up significantly. Which means our old friends inflation and interest rates give us another wave from the conga line and remind us of another impact on the property market. The conga line of dramas was joined this week by the Federal Budget and its changes to negative gearing, up until now a key driver in property investment and the supply of rental properties. Nothing changes for people who had negatively geared properties up until Budget night. My Pommy colleague Andy Collins, the Sales Manager at Gardian real estate, pointed out after the Budget that there was no way the changes would include investors’ existing properties because too many politicians own investment properties and the pollies wouldn’t do anything to hurt themselves. It’s up to you whether you think Andy is a sniping little Pommy whinger or an astute judge of human nature. Or can he be both? What Andy correctly pointed out is that from now on investors will be looking for properties that provide such good rental returns that they are positively geared, removing the need for negative gearing. That’s where Mackay’s strong rental returns come into it. Investors from southern markets have been active in the Mackay market because of those rental returns. When they can get returns like $750 a week on properties they have bought for $650,000, those southern investors realise Mackay offers better opportunities than the high-priced, low-rent options in their own cities. Andy was suggesting that it is possible that the budget changes will spur even more investment activity in Mackay because the removal of negative gearing makes investments in other markets unviable. I will delve further into the status of the Mackay market in upcoming columns but there are a few initial points to make. There is no doubt that, like every other market, the conga line of dramas has had an impact and given buyers pause for thought. But we are still seeing strong buyer activity and properties selling. As always, the buoyancy of our coal market and the jobs and business it provides will continue to be a driver of our economy and a key factor in the property market. Will the budget changes create an additional spur to our market and bring more investors in or is that conga line going to have a bigger impact? Stay tuned over the coming months.
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With more than three decades of experience and deep roots in the land, Royce Dunn brings unmatched insight to rural property across the Mackay region. Joining Blacks Real Estate in 1991, Royce is a licensed real estate agent and auctioneer, who has spent the past 25 years as Director leading the agency’s rural department. Over that time, he has built a strong reputation for his knowledge across all areas of property sales and marketing, from farmhouses and grazing land to residential subdivisions. Coming from a rural background and operating his own small farm, Royce understands the realities of life on the land, and the expectations that come with it. That lived experience allows him to connect with clients on a practical level, offering advice that is grounded, honest and tailored to the needs of farming families. Known for his straightforward approach and strong work ethic, Royce is committed to delivering results, working closely with clients to navigate the complexities of rural property transactions and achieve the best possible outcome.
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From wildlife caring, to country kitchens or supporting people with disability – a world of volunteering opportunities awaits at this year’s Volunteer Expo! This year’s event is set to be one of the biggest on record, with 55 community, support and other organisations have registered. The Volunteer Expo is being held at the Mackay Showgrounds on Sunday, May 17 from 9am until midday. Deputy Mayor Karen May said volunteering is at the heart of sustainable and supportive communities. “There are so many benefits to volunteering – from the people and organisations being supported, to those who so generously donate their time and skills. It increases community and individual wellbeing and drives positive change in the community,” Deputy Mayor May said. “What’s great about events like our Volunteers Expo is it gives people a one-stop shop to see what’s out there – and it could be something you’d never thought of,” she said. “Feedback from previous years shows how valuable this expo is to our community groups, with one organisation signing up more than a dozen volunteers on the day.” Data from Volunteering Queensland shows that for every $1 invested in volunteering, there’s a $4.70 return to the community. More than 110,000 jobs were created in 2024 through spending on volunteering – with the sector worth more than $117-billion to the state economy. Cr May said volunteering gives people to build on their passions while learning new skills and meeting new people. “It also opens up opportunities beyond the organisation a person volunteers with – it can help build new professional relationships and create new connections,” she said. “Data from Volunteering Queensland shows the overwhelming majority of people (64 percent) volunteer because they want to help others and the Volunteers Expo has dozens of options for people to help others. Entry to the Mackay Volunteer Expo is free. For more information, visit the event page on Facebook
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Visit https://www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/m-p-services-over-the-years to see photos throughout the years
1986 – M&P Auto's Established, Archibald Street [860m2]
1987 – Moved to Satellite Crescent [3539m2]
1990 – M&P Transport Division
1994 – Shipping Containers
1997 – Max Lamb Jnr Joins M&P As Director
2002 – Moved to Spiller Avenue [16,000m2]
2004 – Authorised Duckbill Agent
2005 – First Transportable Building Designed & Built, Terry Seay joins M&P as a Director, Incorporated Company
2006 – First Mobile Crib
2008 – Opening of Rockhampton Depot (3998m2)
2009 – Combo Toilets
2010 – Authorised Teco Agent
2011 – Mobile Crib Rooms to PNG
2013 – Moved to Diesel Drive
2014 – Added Heavy Haulage To Transport Fleet
2016 – First Charity Golf Day, Authorised Tennant Agent
2017 – Authorised Earth Track Agent
2019 – Undercover Shed Extension
2021 – Wheeled Products division expanded, First Solar toilet trailers produced
2022 – Mobile Crib Rooms Added to Standard Hire Fleet
2023 – Largest Supply contract entered into at $4.9m
2024 – Cyclone Block & Log Tiedown System added to Manufacturing, Sales & Hire
2025 – 10th Annual Charity Day Raises 75k in one day, Manufacturing Excellence Award
2026 – 40th Year Milestone Achieved
Every rescue kitten carries a story. Some begin in uncertainty, some in hardship, but all share the same quiet hope… to one day belong.
Then there is Jinx.
Sleek, black, and quietly enchanting, Jinx is the kind of kitten who stays with you. Like many rescue kittens, her early days were not easy, but with patience and care, she has discovered her confidence. Now, her playful spirit and affectionate nature are shining through more each day.
Jinx is curious and clever, happiest when she is exploring her surroundings, watching the world from a sunny window, or settling in close after a burst of play. She is a reminder that sometimes the most overlooked animals—like black cats—have the most to give. Those who open their hearts to them are often rewarded with a loyalty that runs deep.
Each of these kittens is on their own journey, but Jinx shares the same destination: a home filled with understanding, patience, and love.
Because in the end, it’s not just about rescuing animals—it’s about giving them the chance to truly belong. Please contact foster carer Robin 0457 134 750.
Contributed by Mackay Pet Rescue Inc.
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After nearly five decades of teaching, one of Mackay’s most passionate music educators is preparing for a bittersweet farewell as she leads her final ANZAC marching band trip.
Kathryn George OAM has spent almost 49 years at North Mackay State High School, where she helped build the school’s renowned marching band program from the ground up. This year’s Brisbane ANZAC Day March will mark her final major appearance before handing the program to the next generation of staff.
Mrs George formed the marching band in 1992 alongside fellow founding director David Bayliss. Since then, the program has grown into one of the largest single school marching bands in Australia.
She said the program began as a way to extend talented instrumental music students beyond simply playing their instruments.
“It’s a specialised skill and an extension to just playing an instrument, where you actually have to march and hold your position both vertically and horizontally while you’re playing,” she explained.
Over the years the band has performed on some of the world’s biggest stages, representing Australia at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games and the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games, performing at Disneyland and the Los Angeles Independence Day Parade, and even appearing at the Shanghai Tourism Festival.
“It’s certainly one of the largest single school marching bands in Australia,” Mrs George said.
“It’s so unusual – and rather wonderful – that it comes from a little town like Mackay rather than a big capital city.”
This year the school band will again travel to Brisbane with around 90 students preparing for the parade, where they will appear as the first civilian band at the start of the procession before later marching alongside the army contingent marking its 175th anniversary.
Among those helping carry the program forward are former students who have returned as staff members.
“I know it’s in good hands,” she said.
This year’s band will be led by Year 12 drum majors Chloe Waples and Alana Plunkett, who were selected after extensive auditions.
Reflecting on her career, Mrs George said music has always been central to her life and she believes it plays a powerful role in education.
“I’m really passionate about how important music is in learning for students and how it enhances the whole learning experience,” she said.
“It teaches self-discipline and patience. With an instrument you have to work at it… it’s not a quick gratification, but it’s highly rewarding.”
When she retires at the end of the year, she hopes to spend more time with family, including welcoming a fourth grandchild.
And as she prepares the band for Brisbane one last time, she says the milestone fills her with immense pride.
“I’m just so proud of my legacy and that the teachers continuing the tradition have come up through the band themselves.”
“It’s going to be a very bittersweet moment, but it’s something I’ve been preparing for a while now.”
After nearly 49 years at North Mackay State High School, Kathryn George OAM is preparing to lead her final ANZAC marching band. Photo supplied
Dry paddocks and rising costs weigh heavily on Mackay’s cane growers, as El Niño and soaring fuel prices push irrigation decisions to the brink. Photo source: ABC News
In the coming weeks, the 2026 El Niño is forecast to be one of the hottest on record, bringing prolonged dry conditions across the country. Conditions both nation and state-wide are compounding existing pressures, with rising fuel and fertiliser costs, linked to ongoing conflict in the Middle East, placing further strain on already stretched rural communities and amplifying financial stress in drought-affected regions.
Deputy Chairman of Mackay Canegrowers, Brett Leach said that while an extended period of heat and dry conditions may be on the horizon, farmers across the region are already taking proactive steps to prepare, with harvesting expected to begin as early as June.
“Ideally, when it’s a smaller crop like this year, we want to get in and get out as quick as we can,” he said.
“A little bit of rain would be nice, and you want that for the ratooning cane, but you don’t want much winter rain – the last thing you want is wages dragged out, time dragged out. If the mills run fairly well, and it’s dry, we can get the crop harvested.”
However, beyond the impact of El Niño, Mr Leach said growers are increasingly focused on the ongoing fuel crisis and the rising cost of fertiliser, warning the combined pressures are making basic farming decisions far more difficult.
“The biggest concern if fuel costs remain the way they are, is that if you are running diesel irrigation pumps, combined with the cost of water, you won’t be able to afford to turn the pumps on,” said Mr Leach.
“The current world sugar price, the current price of fertiliser, the current price of diesel, on top of high electricity prices, on top of rising water prices: it’s going to make an irrigation decision be ‘only when I have to do it’, to be frank.”
Mr Leach said while he has been able to offset some costs through solar, many growers are not in the same position. With diesel prices sitting between $3 and $3.50 per litre, and irrigation pumps consuming around 120 litres per day, he said daily costs could quickly climb beyond $360 to $420.
“You do that for a week, it’s over $2500. Who can afford that? Then you have water charges. No one is going to turn a pump on for those sorts of costs.”
Mr Leach said there would be a need for practical, on-the-ground solutions to support growers through the current conditions, and while the region has avoided drought on the scale seen eight years ago, he noted that past dry periods had prompted effective responses that delivered real benefits to the industry.
However, Mr Leach warned that a softening sugar price, combined with sharply rising production costs, was placing increasing pressure on growers and threatening the long-term stability of the industry.
“If you’ve got big debt, the last thing you need is more debt. The cruel thing for us in the sugar industry is two or three years ago, we had a chance, where sugar prices were $700 to $900 a tonne, to bank some real money, and we missed it due to poor mill performance. We were not able to take full advantage of that,” he said.
“Last year we cut 500,000 tonnes of standover in Mackay area. If you take a cane price of $50 per tonne, that is $25million out of the pockets of growers in Mackay Sugar area alone. That’s the money you count on to get you over these times.”
Mr Leach said fluctuations are a normal part of the agricultural cycle but warned the current conflict in Iran and the broader Middle East has added a new layer of pressure, driving up the cost of key inputs such as fuel and fertiliser.
“There’s certainly a great deal of angst and uncertainty out there amongst our growers. You can see it in them at meetings. You can hear it in their voices, the worry,” said Mr Leach.
“The government needs to take that into account: though no fault of their own, some people are really in trouble.
We need to make sure that firstly the mental health and physical health support is there and freely available for families. They need it, and they need to be encouraged to seek out that help.”
In previous periods of severe drought, Mr Leach pointed to government support measures that provided a vital lifeline for growers, including access to Centrelink payments and assistance with managing debt. Canegrowers Mackay are now calling for similar support to be introduced urgently, to help farmers navigate the current challenges and maintain the viability of their operations during this severe cost of production crisis.
“It is up to the Federal Government to come to the party and say, “we will make up for the poor decisions made before this” just to help people get over this hump that is no fault of their own,” Mr Leach said.
“Any financial assistance is appreciated. This is not just a situation for the sugar industry, but right across agriculture. If a drought is also factored into this equation for farming regions, it spells disaster.”
Mackay Canegrowers remains committed to supporting the local community through regular branch meetings and by amplifying the concerns of growers. The district office also provides access to vital resources, assisting members in navigating government support programs and connecting them with services such as the Rural Financial Counselling Service.
“The Queensland Cane Growers Organisation is there to speak up for growers. We’ve done this for 100 years, and we will not stop making sure we have their back,” added Mr Leach.
“When times are tough, you need your community around you. Please don’t let problems be your downfall: we will help you find solutions. We are there for growers.”
Every young worker who walks onto a site for the first time brings something we often forget: no bad habits yet.
They haven't learned to skip the pre-start check because the job's running late. They haven't been told to just step over the barrier because "that's how we've always done it." They arrive with fresh eyes and a genuine willingness to learn.
The question is, what are we teaching them?
A few years back, I was on a construction site when a new apprentice asked his supervisor why they weren't using the designated access point. The supervisor laughed it off and said, "We only do that when the safety person’s around."
That apprentice had been on site for less than a week. He filed that away like every other piece of on-the-job knowledge he'd picked up. From that day on, safety became something you practised only when someone was watching.
Right there, in that moment, a habit was formed. Not a safe one. A shortcut. And the lesson wasn't in any induction manual.
This is the part we don't talk about enough. The formal training is usually fine. The inductions get done. The paperwork gets signed. But what happens in the first week on the job, the real stuff, the day-to-day behaviour they see from the experienced people around them, that'swhat sticks.
Young workers are watching everything. They absorb the culture around them faster than any toolbox talk or online module can deliver.
So if we want the next generation to work safely, we must be honest about what we're modelling. Are we cutting corners in front of them? Are we dismissing their questions? Are we treating compliance as something that only matters when someone's watching?
They will become what we show them.
I've seen this done well, too. A rigger with thirty years of experience who stopped mid-job to show a young offsider exactly how to inspect his harness. Not because it was required, but because he genuinely didn't want that kid going home hurt. He explained what to look for, why it mattered, and what could go wrong if it was missed. That young worker still talks about him. That's mentorship. That's how a career-long standard gets set.
The good news is this works both ways. When experienced workers demonstrate genuine care, stop and explain the why, and treat safety as a professional standard rather than a burden, young workers carry that with them for the rest of their careers.
The habits we hand them today are the culture we'll live with tomorrow.
Kris Cotter
Founder: Regional Safety Expo Australia
Director: Synergy Safety Solutions
This year’s pre-season crop estimate for the Wilmar group is up on last year’s total throughput. Photo supplied
Wilmar Sugar and Renewables has locked in its 2026 pre-season crop estimate at 15.19M tonnes for the Wilmar group.
General Manager Cane Supply and Grower Relations Dave Zeller said the pre-season estimate was about 960,000 tonnes up on last year's total throughput of 14.23M tonnes.
The estimated crop is also above the Wilmar group's five-year average of 14.95M tonnes.
The regional crop estimates are:
· Herbert - 4.1M tonnes
· Burdekin - 7.97M tonnes
· Proserpine - 1.67M tonnes
· Plane Creek - 1.45M tonnes
Mr Zeller said start dates for Wilmar’s eight sugar factories would be announced after his team consulted with grower representatives in each region.
Central Queensland grain growers, including those in the Isaac region, will receive support through a $1.75 million program aimed at improving productivity while reducing soil erosion and protecting waterways and the Great Barrier Reef. Photos supplied
Grain growers across Central Queensland, including the Isaac region, are set to benefit from new funding support aimed at strengthening sustainable farming practices and protecting the Great Barrier Reef.
The Crisafulli Government has announced a $1.75 million Grain Sediment Reduction Program, designed to assist producers in improving on-farm productivity while reducing soil erosion and sediment runoff into waterways.
Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly MP, said the initiative is a practical investment in the future of regional agriculture.
“Central Queensland’s grain growers are significant part of our region’s economy, and this program is about backing them with real support to improve their operations,” Mr Kelly said.
“Eligible growers can now access grants of up to $100,000 to invest in on-farm infrastructure that reduces soil erosion and sediment runoff into our waterways.”
Mr Kelly said the program recognises the link between strong agricultural production and environmental care.
“No farmer wants to see their topsoil wash away. These grants will help landholders put practical measures in place to protect their soil, improve ground cover, and ultimately boost productivity,” he said.
“And if those actions also help protect the Great Barrier Reef, that’s a win for everyone.”
He highlighted the importance of the industry locally, noting: “In the 2024–25 financial year alone, more than 244,917 tonnes of grain passed through the Port of Mackay, which shows just how significant this industry is to Central Queensland.”
Funded projects may include contour bank construction and repair, erosion control structures such as grassed buffer strips and waterways, adoption of controlled traffic farming through GPS and guidance technology, and upgrades to planting equipment supporting zero or minimal tillage.
The program is open to eligible producers across the Isaac Regional Council area, along with other Central Queensland local government regions.
Funded projects will focus on proven erosion control and land management practices, including:
The Grain Sediment Reduction Program is open to dryland and broadacre grain and forage cropping producers across eligible local government areas, including:
Mackay residents living with neurological conditions are set to benefit from improved access to care, with the region named as one of eight locations for a new Neuro Wellness Hub under a statewide rollout.
The hubs form part of the Government’s $10.45 million investment in neurological healthcare, aimed at delivering more accessible, community-based support services across regional Queensland.
Mackay will join centres including Townsville, Rockhampton and the Wide Bay region in hosting one of the new hubs, which are designed to complement existing care provided by specialists and general practitioners.
The initiative is expected to benefit more than 1.3 million Queenslanders, providing easier access to support services, information and tailored care closer to home.
Each hub will offer personalised therapies and peer support groups, with services tailored to meet the specific needs of local communities. The model focuses on creating a central, community-based space where people can access a range of supports in one location.
Locations were selected following a detailed needs assessment, taking into account hospitalisation rates, demand for services, the prevalence of neurological conditions and gaps in access to allied health and neurorehabilitation services.
Procurement for the Mackay hub and other locations is set to begin mid-year, with contracts expected to be awarded by the end of June. The hubs are scheduled to be delivered in 2027.
Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls said the rollout would make it easier for Queenslanders to access the care they need.
“The Government is getting on with the job of delivering these Neuro Wellness Hubs while ensuring support is targeted to where it is needed most,” Minister Nicholls said.
“These Hubs will provide a central space for people living with neurological conditions to access the right support, information and services, when they need them.
“By partnering with community organisations, we’re building a more connected system that better responds to the needs of Queenslanders living with a neurological condition.”
The pre-dawn darkness at Finch Hatton carried a weight that was impossible to ignore. Guided by dim streetlights and the distant flash of emergency vehicles marking road closures, a quiet procession of people moved toward the cenotaph. There was no chatter, no distraction, only the steady rhythm of footsteps and a shared understanding of why we had gathered. In that silence, the significance of the dawn service spoke louder than any words could.
When the service began, the stillness gave way to reflection. The words spoken were powerful, grounded in remembrance and respect. To lay a wreath on behalf of the Mackay Regional Council was an honour, made more meaningful by the setting away from the familiarity of the Mackay precinct and into a smaller, deeply connected community. It was a reminder that Anzac Day is not confined to large ceremonies; its spirit thrives just as strongly in quiet regional towns.
What followed was perhaps the most profound part of the morning. Conversations sparked among strangers who, within moments, felt like old friends. Stories were exchanged – some light, some heavy. I recall my conversations with people like Buzz and Bevan, whose openness captured the essence of the day. These were not rehearsed interactions, but genuine human connections formed through shared respect and collective memory. Over an early breakfast at the Criterion Hotel, those conversations continued, unforced and deeply engaging.
It was only afterward, sitting alone, that the emotional weight truly settled. There was an unexpected sense of reluctance to leave, as though departing meant abandoning something meaningful. That feeling, difficult to articulate at first, soon became clear: it was patriotism in its truest form. Not the loud or performative kind, but a quiet, enduring bond, standing shoulder to shoulder with others in remembrance of sacrifice, loyalty and mateship.
Later in Mackay, the scale of the main service reinforced that same sentiment. With a record number of marchers, including more than 7000 children, and crowds lining the streets, the idea that Anzac Day is fading could not have been further from the truth. The presence of Major General Paul Kenny added to the significance, but it was the community itself that defined the day.
From children waving flags in prams to elderly attendees sharing memories of years gone by, the spirit of Anzac Day was unmistakable. It lives on not just in ceremony, but in connection. In the stories told, the friendships formed and the collective act of remembering
Let’s Chat – Council Connect
Residents can catch up with councillors in person at upcoming Let’s Chat - Council Connect sessions held across the region. The next session will be held at Eton Hotel from 5pm on May 5, 2026.
Further details can be found on the Connecting Mackay website.
Greyhound owners and their beloved pets gathered with Nigel Dalton, Member for Mackay, to discuss Queensland’s muzzle laws. Reilly, with Keith and Anne McCollim, Higgins and Liam with Kate Chiconi, Lotti with Lyn Harris, and Pheobe with Lisa Veney. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
A group of passionate greyhound owners from the Happy Greys Social Club recently met with Nigel Dalton, Member for Mackay, to advocate for a review of Queensland’s requirement that greyhounds must wear muzzles in public.
The gathering brought together several owners and their dogs, providing supporters an opportunity to demonstrate the gentle temperament that they say defines the breed.
Under current Queensland legislation, greyhounds are generally required to wear a muzzle in public unless they are recognised through the Queensland Greyhound Adoption Program (GAP) and identified by the program’s green collar. Where council local laws permit, this collar allows GAP greyhounds to be walked muzzle free.
Queensland is widely considered the only Australian state where a broad public muzzling requirement for greyhounds still applies.
Co-founder of Happy Greys Social Club in Mackay, Kate Chiconi explained the group reached out directly to Mr Dalton to begin the conversation.
“Lyn and I are co-founders of the Happy Greys Social Club and between us we wrote a letter and sent it to Nigel Daltons office.”
She said the meeting allowed the Member for Mackay to see the dogs up close.
Ms Chiconi, who owns retired racing greyhounds Higgins and Liam, said the breed is often misunderstood.
“People who know anything about greyhounds know that they are inherently not aggressive dogs,” she said.
“They’ve been trained to chase, not attack.”
She described greyhounds as calm and affectionate companions.
“They are gentle, they’re quiet, they rarely bark, they’re calm, they’re great with kids and good with each other,” she said.
“They absolutely don’t need to wear a muzzle outside.”
Fellow club co-founder Lyn Harris attended with her dog Lotti, who she said came into her life after a difficult start.
“She came from the pound after being dumped in the bush,” Ms Harris said.
“We’ve had her for about five years now and she’s around seven. It’s wonderful that she landed on her feet with us. She’s such a good dog.”
Ms Harris said greyhounds are known for their funny and relaxed nature.
“They do all the quirky things like lying on their back with their legs in the air. They call it ‘roaching’,” she said.
“They sleep for about 18 hours a day after half an hour of exercise,”
She, along with other group members believe the muzzle requirement sends the wrong message about the breed.
“They’re not a dangerous or aggressive breed of dog,” Ms Harris said. “They deserve to be living their best life, muzzle free.”
Mr Dalton said he is now looking into the background of the legislation and whether it remains justified.
“At this stage we’re doing research into why we have these laws in Queensland which say that a greyhound that has raced before has to wear a muzzle in public,” he said.
“I don’t think greyhounds should have that stigma.”
He said dangerous behaviour should be addressed regardless of breed.
“A dangerous dog is a dangerous dog and they should be dealt with under the legislation,” Mr Dalton said.
“But a dangerous dog could be any breed. Why are we just focusing on one particular breed?”
Mr Dalton said the next step is to examine the evidence.
“I want to examine the evidence behind it and see whether or not it’s something we can change,” he said.
While no immediate changes have been proposed, the conversation has prompted fresh discussion around whether greyhounds, often known as gentle giants, should be required to wear muzzles in public after retiring from racing in Queensland.
Tough new laws targeting crime and antisocial behaviour will expand police powers in Mackay’s CBD precincts to help protect local businesses and improve community safety. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
A suite of new laws aimed at tackling youth crime, drug offences and antisocial behaviour is set to roll out across Queensland, with Mackay identified as a key focus area.
The Government has passed the Expanding Adult Crime, Adult Time and Taking a Strong Stance on Drugs and Antisocial Behaviour Bill 2026, introducing tougher penalties for serious offences and expanded powers for police.
Under the changes, 12 new offences have been added to the Adult Crime, Adult Time framework, bringing the total number of applicable offences to 45. The legislation also includes significant drug reforms and the introduction of Designated Business and Community Precincts, designed to help police better manage antisocial behaviour in high-risk areas.
Mackay is one of four priority locations selected for the new precincts, which will allow police to move on offenders and provide greater protection for local businesses, workers and families.
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the reforms would deliver much-needed support to the region.
“These laws are about restoring safety in Mackay and backing our local businesses who have been doing it tough,” Mr Dalton said.
“For too long, businesses across Mackay have been targets of repeat offending and antisocial behaviour, and that has real impacts on jobs, confidence and our local economy.
“Businesses like Kawasaki have unfortunately been frequent targets in the past, and that’s why these stronger police powers and tougher laws are so important.
“Our community deserves to feel safe when they go to work, shop in the CBD, or spend time with their families, and these laws will help make that happen.
“The Government is delivering exactly what we promised — stronger laws, better support for police, and real action to turn the tide on youth crime.”
The expanded list of offences under Adult Crime, Adult Time includes serious crimes such as aggravated assault occasioning bodily harm, conspiring to murder, unlawful stalking and intimidation, riot, indecent treatment of a child under 16, choking or strangulation in a domestic setting, and administering poison with intent to harm.
Alongside tougher penalties, the legislation introduces a new Illicit Drug Enforcement and Diversion Framework, which aims to balance enforcement with rehabilitation by ensuring offenders face consequences while offering support pathways for low-risk cases.
The government says the reforms are already contributing to a decline in crime, with a reported 7.2 per cent drop in the number of victims in 2025, and expects the new measures to further strengthen community safety across Queensland.
With enhanced police powers set to be implemented in Mackay’s CBD and surrounding precincts, the changes are intended to deter repeat offenders, reduce antisocial behaviour and restore confidence for businesses and the wider community.
Photo source: Queensland Police Service
Dysart Police are appealing for public assistance following an incident involving wilful damage and the unlawful use of a motor vehicle at two local businesses on Murphy Street, Dysart, between 1.28am and 2.35am on 19 April.
Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident and have released information in relation to the matter, including an image they believe may assist with inquiries. Members of the public who recognise the person or have any information are urged to contact police as soon as possible.
Officers are also reminding residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour immediately, regardless of the time of day, as early reporting can assist in preventing further offending and support timely investigations.
A 20-year-old Sarina man has had his driver licence suspended after being allegedly detected travelling at 191km/h in a 100km/h zone during speed enforcement patrols on the Bruce Highway at Alligator Creek.
It will be alleged the motorist was intercepted at approximately 7.20am on 24 April while travelling northbound, exceeding the posted speed limit by 91km/h.
The driver was issued a traffic infringement notice totalling $1,919, resulting in the loss of eight demerit points and a six-month licence suspension.
Police have reiterated their focus on road safety across the Mackay Whitsunday district, including remote and high-risk areas, through ongoing enforcement operations targeting dangerous driving behaviour.
Senior Constable Donna Hill, from the Mackay Crime Prevention Unit, said in some cases vehicles linked to high-speed offences may also be subject to impoundment.
The junior playground at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens will be temporarily closed from Wednesday, April 29 until approximately May 9 to allow for scheduled improvement works.
Mackay Regional Council will install a new water sand play unit and a new excavator as part of the upgrade, enhancing play opportunities for younger visitors at the popular riverside parkland precinct.
The closure will ensure works can be completed safely and efficiently, with access to the area restricted during the construction period. Council has advised the public that all other areas of the Botanic Gardens remain open for use during this time.
Once installation is complete and safety checks have been finalised, the playground will be reopened to the community. Council will provide an update when the works are finished and the space is ready for use.
Council has thanked the community for its patience and understanding while the improvements are carried out, noting the short-term closure will support longer-term benefits for park users.
Residents are encouraged to plan alternative play options during the closure period.
Coal haulage between the Vulcan and Moranbah North mines will resume temporarily, with Isaac Regional Council granting short-term approval for Anglo American to transport approximately 20,000 tonnes. Photo source: ABC News
Isaac Regional Council has temporarily reinstated approval for the road haulage of coal from the Vulcan Mine to Moranbah North Mine near Moranbah over an estimated three-week period commencing 27th April 2026.
The original haulage permits were suspended in February 2026 following the Vitrinite companies entering receivership and administration. Isaac Regional Council’s previous decision related specifically to the Vitrinite companies and the suspension of their approvals while the future of the business and its assets was being determined.
Council has now granted a request from Anglo American to retrieve approximately 20,000 tonnes of coal purchased from the Receiver of the Vitrinite companies and currently located at the Vulcan Mine site.
This temporary approval is for haulage to Anglo American only for short period of weeks. It does not reinstate any other approvals, nor does it authorise any ongoing operations by the Vitrinite companies.
Mayor Kelly Vea Vea said Council’s decision reflects that the coal is being removed for a different company.
This is an approval for Anglo American to remove coal it has acquired from the Receiver.
“Council has made it clear to both Vitrinite and Anglo that the same conditions that applied previously will continue to apply, including the payment of road haulage fees.”
The approval restores the conditions of the suspended permits, including approved haulage routes, operational requirements and the payment of road haulage fees to Council.
Council will continue to monitor the haulage operation during the temporary three-week period.
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Dan Peters with his son on ANZAC day. Photos supplied
An Australian Army veteran who served across East Timor, the Solomon Islands and Afghanistan has reflected on his military career shaped by discipline, hardship, mateship and the long, often unseen aftermath of war.
Dan Peters enlisted in 1999 at the age of 19, shortly after finishing high school, driven by a longstanding interest in the military and aviation. He began in the infantry before transferring into the Royal Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, working as a helicopter mechanic after completing trade training and specialist aviation courses in Australia and the United States.
His service took him into some of Australia’s most significant deployments, including Timor in 1999 and again in 2001 to 2002, the Solomon Islands in 2003 and Afghanistan in 2011.
He described his first deployment to Timor as confronting yet influential, marked by both destruction and connection.
“We took time to get to know the community and show compassion on the people of Timor.”
“They were very happy for us to be there and liberate them as an independent country, especially the children,” he said.
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Amid the intensity, he said it was often the smallest interactions that carried the deepest meaning, including engagement with locals and moments of lightness such as servicemen racing children on karts.
“The mateship is the biggest thing that you get from the military.”
Mr Peters has remained closely involved in veteran wellbeing and RSL initiatives across Central Queensland, particularly within the Walkerston Pleystowe RSL sub branch, including leadership roles as Secretary and participation in commemorative and peer connection programs.
He said the transition from military to civilian life can be disorienting, but not impossible with the right support.
“The military is awesome at breaking a civilian down and building them back up again… but when we leave… we don’t know how to adjust back.”
“We just leave and we put on civilian clothes, but we’re still a military person.”
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A significant part of his ongoing advocacy focuses on veteran mental health and recovery programs that use shared experience as a pathway to healing. These initiatives often return veterans to Timor, combining reflection at historical sites with group discussion and storytelling.
“There’s a lot of emotion, a lot of tears, a lot of stories… but people come back feeling refreshed.”
“It’s like they’ve got a whole new outlook on life.”
At the centre of that process is forgiveness, not as erasure, but as a form of inner solace.
“It’s not about forgetting, but more about forgiving… so they heal inside and learn to deal with anger and resentment.”
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Mr Peters said remembrance and honour must extend beyond just one day per year to acknowledge the invisible burden carried by those who return.
“I think we need to remember all service men and women more than once a year.
“A lot of times we remember those who didn’t make it home, but we sometimes forget to acknowledge and appreciate the people that fought and still came home alive, and the scars they still go through because of it.”
Now, Mr Peters spends his days alongside his wife and three children, carving out time for his sons’ cricket matches and continuing his commitment to the Walkerston Pleystowe RSL Sub Branch as Secretary.
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