A recent fascinating discovery has piqued the curiosity of ocean enthusiasts and marine lovers alike.

Michael DePinto shared a captivating image on the ‘Save Our Northwall’ Facebook page, showcasing a colourful orb washed ashore at Ball Bay. According to Michael, his friend found the intriguing creature floating with the tide, devoid of tentacles.

The image sparked various speculations about the identity of this mysterious ocean dweller. Some suggested it could be a Sea Nettle Jellyfish, while others proposed it might be a Sea Slug. However, the prevailing opinion points towards the creature being a Sea Apple, which is a type of sea cucumber.

The Sea Apple, scientifically known as Pseudocolochirus, belongs to the family of colourful and spherical sea cucumbers found in the Indo-Pacific waters. These fascinating creatures add to the biodiversity and wonder of our oceans, captivating the minds of those who come across them.

While the exact origin and journey of this particular Sea Apple may remain a mystery, its presence on the beach at Ball Bay serves as a reminder of the diverse marine life that thrives beneath the waves.

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Grapevine Group, with thanks to incredible support from local businesses and locals, generated over $11,000 to continue their life-saving role.

Over the month of June, $5 from every large pizza sold at Laffos Bar and Pizzeria at Caneland Central was donated to Grapevine. The funds were raised through the Pizza for a Purpose initiative to support Grapevine’s continuing work towards local suicide prevention training and awareness initiatives.

"Mackay locals are incredibly generous and helped us reach this fantastic total," said Grapevine Group president Debbie Knight.

Laffos Bar and Pizzeria owner Nicole Laffin said that she couldn't be prouder to support this worthy cause.

"We really wanted to help with Grapevine's efforts,” she said.

"We also understand the value of the prevention training so much so that we're organising for our staff to do it and urge other businesses to do the same," Mrs Laffin said.

The funds raised will help keep Grapevine’s life-saving courses running, like the free 3-hour safeTALK training and 1- hour toolbox talks. The free group safeTALK sessions or Suicide Mythbusters toolbox talks can be delivered on-site at workplaces, sports or community organisations. Public safeTALK sessions are also available.

Ms Knight said the community’s support helps Grapevine continue their training and awareness initiatives.

“Without our supporters we would never have been able to get over 6,000 locals through the training programs.

“Getting this many people trained is a testament to how caring the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday regions are,” she said.

For local help or to sign up for free training, download the Grapevine Group app now or go to www.grapevine.org.au

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L to R: Karen Thompson (Bright Light Marketing), Lianne Gee (Caneland Central), Nicole and Mark Laffin (Laffos Bar and Pizzeria) and Debbie Knight (Grapevine Group)

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BUCASIA

At about 3:23am on July 29 a business on Downie Avenue in Bucasia has been broken into.

Entry was gained into the business by using an implement to smash a front glass panel.

The implement was again used to damage a locked cabinet inside the business and cigarette products have been stolen.

Anyone who might have information about this matter is encouraged to contact police as soon as possible - QP2301243597.

NORTH MACKAY

Between 11:00pm on July 23 and 12:00am on July 24 someone gained entry into a business on Harbour Road in North Mackay.

Entry was gained by damaging the locked back door.

Once inside cash and multiple items of jewellery (rings, pocket watches, necklaces) have been stolen.

The intruder/s have left through the front door of the business.

Anyone who might have information about this matter is encouraged to contact police as soon as possible. Police report number QP2301214385.

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A groundbreaking clinical trial is underway, seeking individuals diagnosed with Coeliac Disease throughout the Mackay and Whitsundays.

Spearheaded by Mackay's Coral Sea Clinical Research Institute (CSCRI), this early phase trial is dedicated to investigating the potential of ZED1227 - a revolutionary small molecule tissue transglutaminase (TG2) inhibitor as a promising treatment for Coeliac Disease.

“Patients with celiac disease urgently need appropriate therapeutic options to manage the significant negative impacts of the disease on health and daily quality of life,” said Roland Greinwald, Ph.D., Managing Director Medicine & Pharmaceutics at Dr. Falk Pharma, the company behind this latest advance in progressing a new therapy for Coeliac Disease.

Coeliac disease is an autoimmune-mediated chronic inflammatory condition of the small intestine affecting about 1.4% of the Australian population. The autoimmune disease is triggered by dietary gluten and consumption of foods containing wheat, barley, or rye leads to destruction of the small intestinal mucosa in genetically susceptible individuals, ZED1227 selectively binds to the active state of TG2, and has been designed for the treatment of coeliac disease.

“This is another very important study involving a potential treatment for Coeliac Disease, particularly as the only available treatment for Coeliac Disease remains a gluten free diet,” said Dr. James Daveson, a gastroenterologist and principal investigator for the study at CSCRI.

“CSCRI are particularly excited about how successful we have been in attracting companies to undertake their global studies for Coeliac Disease in the Mackay-Isaac-Whitsunday region given it is the only regional site involved outside of South-East Queensland.”

The study at the CSCRI requires people diagnosed with biopsy proven Coeliac Disease who are experiencing symptoms despite maintaining a gluten free diet for at least 12 months. Participants will need to come in to CSCRI for their visits.

If you are interested in being involved, please contact the research team on 1800 69 27 27 (1800 MY CSCRI), email at admin@coralseaclinical.com or visit the website at www.coralseaclinical.com

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Dr James Daveson - Gastroenterologist and Director at Coral Sea Clinical Research Institute

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changing societal attitudes, supportive policies, and technological advancements, Australian women are making remarkable strides in the business world. In 2023, these fierce entrepreneurs are rewriting the rules and leaving a lasting impact on various industries. We take a look at five inspirational women in business who have blazed impressive paths in business.

Katie Page (Harvey Norman) Net Worth: $80 million; Harvey Norman revenues – $2.547 billion

Named 4th in ABR’s list of “50 most powerful women in business” 2015.

Katie Page, the CEO of Harvey Norman Holdings, has proven herself as a powerhouse in the retail industry. Managing a network of 277 stores in eight countries, Katie's influence extends far beyond her business. She is an active promoter of women in sports, and her advocacy has made a significant impact on female representation in sports leadership roles.

Janine Allis (Boost Juice) Net Worth: (upwards of) $66 million; Retail Zoo revenues – $350 million

Janine Allis' journey from selling juice from her home to building an empire of 550 Boost Juice stores worldwide is truly inspiring. Not only is she a successful entrepreneur, but she is also the part-owner of Retail Zoo, the parent company of Boost Juice, Salsa’s Fresh Mex Grill, Betty’s Burgers, and Cibo Espresso.

Melanie Perkins (Canva) Net Worth: $6.5 billion

Melanie Perkins, the CEO, and Co-founder of Canva has taken the tech world by storm. Canva, an online design and publishing tool, is valued at an impressive $40 billion in 2021. Melanie's vision and leadership have played a pivotal role in Canva's incredible success.

Kayla Itsines (Sweat App) Net Worth: $64 million

In the Times list of “30 most influential people on the Internet” 2016.

Kayla Itsines has gone from being a personal trainer in Adelaide to creating one of the world's most successful fitness apps, Sweat. At just 29 years old, Kayla's entrepreneurial journey is a shining example of leveraging technology to build a thriving business.

Diana Williams (Fernwood Women’s Health Clubs) Net Worth: Turnover more than $75 million/year

In 1989, Diana Williams was a stay-at-home mom in Melbourne when she realized the need for a female-only gym. She opened her first gym in Bendigo, Victoria, and 30 years later, Fernwood Women's Health Clubs has grown to 70 clubs across Australia with 73,000 members. Diana's vision for women's fitness has made her business a phenomenal success.

These five women are just a glimpse of the many remarkable female entrepreneurs in Australia. With their determination, innovation, and leadership, they are paving the way for a more inclusive and dynamic business landscape in the future.

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Janine Allis

Melanie Perkins

Kayla Itsines

Simplified By Local Teacher

A local teacher and business owner has aimed to simplify teaching maths to children with a brand new, innovative approach to times tables.

Nicole Batzloff, AKA Mrs B, has utilised her hands-on teaching experience by designing and trademarking a Sensory Hundreds Chart, an innovation in maths resources she believes will advance children years.

Offering kids the opportunity to “know your times tables in 10 days”, the new times tables method leverages off the multisensory resource to give children an understanding of their times tables, like no other method has ever done in the past.  

“We all know how important times tables are for success in mathematics and for years, we have taught and learned them by rote,” Mrs Batzloff said.

The method still includes a host of traditional and brand-new rote activities but is underpinned with the multi-sensory hundreds chart, providing children a real framework for understanding times tables in a way no other method has ever done in the past.  

Mrs Batzloff employed an often-encouraged hands-on approach to mathematics learning experiences, giving children the opportunity to explore their times tables in a hands-on way.  

She said that not only does it help children fully grasp times tables but also enhances their overall mathematical fluency by combining sensory learning with whole-brain engagement.

The innovation was recently showcased on Mrs Batzloff’s TikTok channel, garnering an astounding 100,000 views within 48 hours.

Visit mrsblearningresources.com.au for more information.

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Nicole Batzloff, AKA Mrs B, has conceptualised a Sensory Hundreds Chart to assist learning times tables

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The Transformative Power of Mentorship

In the tapestry of our professional lives, there exists a thread that weaves magic and transforms dreams into reality. It's called mentorship, and it holds the key to unlocking untapped potential within us.

Imagine having an expert by your side, someone who has walked the winding roads you tread now and emerged victorious. A mentor, a beacon of knowledge and experience, offering guidance and support as you navigate the complexities of your career. The bond between mentor and mentee is more than just a passing relationship; it's an emotional connection, a nurturing embrace that fuels your growth.

Finding a mentor may seem like searching for a needle in a haystack, but fear not, for the universe has a way of bringing kindred spirits together. Seek out networking events, join professional organisations, or simply reach out to someone whose wisdom you admire. Embrace vulnerability and initiate that first conversation, for mentorship often blossoms from genuine connections.

But wait, there's more. Enter the benevolent force of sponsorship - a powerful ally that takes mentorship to the next level. A sponsor is like a knight in shining armor, advocating for your career advancement and opening doors to opportunities you might never have imagined. They see your potential, and through their influence, they pave the way for your success.

How does one find a sponsor, you may wonder? It often begins with excellence in your craft and building a reputation that shines like a beacon. As you excel, your work speaks volumes, and it catches the discerning eye of potential sponsors. But, like mentorship, sponsorship flourishes in the fertile soil of authentic relationships. Embrace networking, engage with influencers, and show genuine interest in their endeavors.

The beauty of mentorship lies not just in the opportunities they provide but also in the reciprocity of growth. As mentees, we absorb the wisdom of our mentors, but in turn, they are invigorated by our fresh perspectives and enthusiasm. Similarly, sponsors find fulfillment in watching their protégés soar, knowing they played a pivotal role in shaping their destinies.

So, my dear dreamers and achievers, embrace the transformative power of mentorship. Allow these guiding stars to illuminate your path and ignite the fire within you. Together, we shall ascend to greater heights, leaving a trail of inspiration for those who follow.

With heartfelt encouragement, Queens,

Shirlz x

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Elevating Cane Farming Through Sustainable Practices

CaneRise brings together the great work of cane farmers and industry in the Mackay Whitsunday region to reduce runoff, and improve soils and water quality in the region.

It’s a new website (canerise.com.au) featuring stories and tools to help cane farmers in the Mackay Whitsunday region grow their productivity through sustainable practices.

Established as part of a Great Barrier Reef Foundation Reef Trust Partnership project, it recognises practices that are working to improve water quality in reef catchment areas.

More than 460 landholders throughout the Mackay Whitsunday region alone have taken part in free Reef Trust Partnership-funded projects over the past few years.

We have seen benefits for farmers—with savings to time and money— as well as benefits to the environment. We now have the opportunity to share this widely through the CaneRise site.

The build of CaneRise responds to research which identified a need to have information about resources for sustainable practices in the Mackay Whitsunday region in one place, that cane farmers can more easily find and access.

The site includes existing tools that can help farmers improve practices, but can often be harder to find. This includes calculators for fertiliser blends and application, tools to support economic decision making, and resources to make data collection and record keeping easier.

It also showcases industry best practice frameworks such as Smartcane BMP and 6 Easy Steps, which many local growers have been implementing and seeing benefits for over almost a decade.

And many of these practical tools and practices come from local farmers themselves. Sarina grower, Ron Gurnett, built a high rise sprayer, modified from a cotton picker. The high rise gives more flexibility in his spraying routine, saving time and money, and improving the land for the future.

Find more stories like this on CaneRise.com.au, and keep up to date with the latest resources and tools by signing up on the website for updates.

Sarina grower, Ron Gurnett

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With property owners getting set for hazard reduction burns in the lead-up to bushfire season, Ergon Energy Network and the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) are urging them to take extra precautions around the power network.

Ergon Work Group Leader Craig Maddy highlighted the dangers of fires getting too close to power poles and other electrical assets when people conduct burns.

“More than a dozen power poles were brought down by landowner’s burns getting out of control last year, bringing down powerlines and cutting supply to entire communities in some cases,” Mr Maddy said.

“In addition to the inconvenience of widespread power disruptions, fallen powerlines can cause serious injury or even death to people and livestock that come into contact with them.  

“Just as troubling is a power pole that’s only partially burnt because it will be significantly weakened and potentially snap during high winds or storm activity without warning.

“So we’re asking any landowners who are about to burn to ensure vegetation is cleared within a five metre radius of the base of a pole.”

Rural Fire Service A/Assistant Commissioner Peter Hollier said taking precautions before and during hazard reduction burns could significantly minimise the risk of damaging property and electricity infrastructure.  

“It is imperative landholders are well aware of their surroundings and remain vigilant to ensure they, their families and properties are safe while conducting any bushfire mitigation work,” Mr Hollier said.

“To minimise the chances of fire damaging power poles and property, I would encourage property owners to trim or clear any long grass, foliage and rubbish around their electricity infrastructure and remain with any planned burns they carry out.

“If your council area is not currently drought declared, dampening the radius with water can also reduce the chances of accidental damage to property.

“Remember, you will need to apply for a free permit from your local fire warden before lighting a fire larger than two metres in any direction.

“For more information around bushfire preparedness head to qfes.qld.gov.au.”

In the event of a fire always dial triple zero.

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By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

A grower’s interest in the sugar they produce doesn’t end when cane is supplied to the mills for processing. Cane Supply Agreements include Grower and Miller Economic Interest clauses, which mean that growers can use the marketer of their choice to forward price their sugar on the commodities-based Intercontinental Exchange (ICE).

Thus, through a cane pricing formula, growers and millers share the risks and rewards.

The arrangement is also enshrined in the Federal Sugar Industry Code of Conduct, and, in Queensland, the Sugar Industry Act 1999. The Code of Conduct, overseen by the ACCC, is a vitally important instrument, maintaining equity and certainty around regulation and expected conduct between growers, millers, and marketers.

The Code was hard-fought-for by CANEGROWERS and the Australian Cane Farmers Association (ACFA), to keep in place the transparent, not-for-profit, industry-owned sugar marketer QSL. The need for a Code of Conduct (CoC) came about as a result of the industry moving into a deregulated environment in the past decade, giving millers a potential added advantage as monopoly marketers. The CoC set out obligations for supply contracts between millers and growers, and on-supply agreements from millers to marketers, maintaining a balance in the marketing of Grower Economic Interest (GEI).

The economic interest split, broadly speaking, is about 70% GEI to 30% MEI.  From there, growers can opt to forward price their GEI out three years at varying amounts according to the certainty of harvest and supply capitalising on current strong prices into the future. Or, they may choose just to keep their pricing in line with the current harvest. Forward pricing is not unique to sugar- other agricultural commodities use the strategy. To that end, growers are making decisions on even a daily basis in an effort to maximise their income.

For the past year, sugar prices have been very strong, climbing up over the $800 per tonne to a recent April high of $842/tonne. It’s a long way from the $350/ tonne on offer in 2020. While prices remain strong, the market has been somewhat fickle of late. There are still opportunities for growers pricing their Production Risk pool if they have filled all of their target pricing. Of course, it’s important to note that while market price is riding high, the price growers actually receive is less.

There are a range of factors that influence sugar price, from the progress of crops and harvests across sugar producing nations like major players like Brazil and India, to Thailand, Australia, USA, EU, Pakistan and Russia. Further influences include ethanol production from sugar, exchange rates, Reserve Bank decisions, free trade agreements, shipping, cost of production (eg: fuel, fertiliser) to name a few.

Even the Russian war in Ukraine is an influence, as it affects fertiliser prices and is a driver OF global food inflation, with mounting pressure on grain supply. The Ukraine has been a vitally important supplier of the world’s grain- used across human and livestock food.

Indicators are that despite that recent bearish behaviour of the market, prices are remaining strong. There remains a high demand for sugar, while countries like India and Thailand grapple with a delayed monsoon, and the Brazilian sugar industry struggles to move sugar from port (where it competes with other commodities like corn) and has had reduced sugar recovered per tonne of cane this harvest, due to harvesting of immature crops.

Locally, CANEGROWERS Mackay wants to see the best for our members’ opportunity to capitalise on the high sugar price. That means getting our full crop away, currently hampered by rain events across July, and by poor mill performance. We can’t do anything about the weather, but millers can invest in their mills sufficiently to have them work reliably and efficiently. CANEGROWERS Mackay grower representatives have been highly vocal with millers in Mackay and Plane Creek on this subject.

The predicament for growers in Mackay and Plane Creek with the repeated rain events and decreased mill performance both this year and the preceding two years, is that it is difficult to make decisions on forward pricing. Forward pricing comes with a risk factor if the grower is not able to get all of that crop away. If any growers do have concerns, we urge them to talk to their marketer rep sooner rather than later to explore solutions.

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Growers can forward price their sugar with the marketer of their choice, based on the Intercontinental Exchange (ICE). Photo credit: Kirili Lamb

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A cohort of 260 Central Queensland high school students took part in the state’s first ever STEM Big Day Out which puts the spotlight on a whole new era of exciting careers for young people in the resources sector.

Students received an insight into the world of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) through a unique program developed by the Queensland Resources Council’s education arm, the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA) and supported by BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA).

The QMEA is rolling out the model nationally with the support of BHP through a program called ARISE, which aims to connect young people with future career opportunities in the resources sector.

Spread over two days and five schools, the initiative will see Year 8 and 9 students working in teams guided by QMEA and BMA representatives to solve a series of real-world puzzles and challenges related to the resources sector.

Moranbah State High School hosted their STEM Big Day Out earlier this week on August 1, which involved the school’s entire Year 8 cohort of 160 students.

This was followed by another STEM Big Day Out on August 2, hosted this time by Sarina State High School and involving 100 students from Sarina, Mackay, Pioneer, and Mackay Northern Beaches state high schools.

Michelle Pole, Principal of Moranbah SHS, said students were excited to be part of this inaugural event, especially on their home ground.

“This is a fantastic opportunity to stir the students’ passion for STEM subjects,” she said.

“The program will foster teamwork, communication and problem-solving skills, and enable students to make connections between STEM subjects and how they’re relevant to future careers in the resources sector.”

Team challenges include solving riddles based on the periodic table to promote critical thinking to increase students’ knowledge of chemical elements.

Along with opportunities to explore pulley mechanics, control robots and engineer machines to consistently select samples, students will have plenty of fun as they harness their creativity and develop analytical and strategic thinking skills.

QMEA’s Manager of Skills and Education, Matthew Heskett, said BMA’s involvement in the program in Queensland added an extra dimension to the STEM activities planned.

“Being able to personally interact with BMA staff will give students a lot of insights into the real-world applications of the skills they’re developing in the classroom,” he said.

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Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal Pty Ltd (DBCT P/L) is making a meaningful difference in the lives of First Nations students at CQUniversity. The company's generous $5,000 donation last year launched a bursary program for Mackay-based First Nations students pursuing the Certificate II in Engineering Pathways course.

Since its inception, the bursary program has been a lifeline for 21 First Nations students, providing essential support to excel in their vocational studies. Levi Fallon, Keegan Zaro, and Xavier Anson-Kissier are among the latest recipients of this initiative.

At a presentation on July 19, the three students each received $500, proving to be a game-changer in their educational journey.

Levi expressed his gratitude, saying, "The money will definitely help me with my transport costs to get to the Mackay Ooralea Trades centre each week and also with the cost of some new PPE."

Keegan shared his appreciation, stating, "This will help a lot. I can buy all the safety gear needed like safety boots and work pants.

“After I complete this course, I want to continue my studies to complete Year 12 and graduate from high school. After I graduate, I want to apply to the Navy and become a Navy Seal as a career."

Xavier echoed their sentiments, adding, "When I have completed Year 12 and graduate from high school, I am hoping to get an apprenticeship as a diesel fitter. I would also be keen to work at Aurizon on the trains."

DBCT P/L CEO, Steve Rae, emphasised the company's commitment to supporting future workers, especially those facing potential barriers to entering the workforce.

"We want to ensure young First Nations people in Mackay who have an interest in trades and engineering have what they need to be successful in this space," he said.

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L-R: Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal (DBCT) Start TAFE Now Bursary recipients Keegan Zaro, Xavier Anson-Kissier, and Levi Fallon with DBCT Public Relations Officer Emilie-Jain Fitzpatrick

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World-class simulation training is helping North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) marine pilots stay at the top of their game more than 950 kilometres from their home ports.

NQBP’s pilotage team joined terminal operators and tug masters to test their limits at the Queensland Government’s Smartship Australia facility in Brisbane using virtually recreated ports of Hay Point and Mackay.

NQBP Acting CEO Belinda Kenny said the port industry collaboration saw stakeholders undertake state-of-the-art shipping simulations over two days.

“Working with Maritime Safety Queensland including the Regional Harbour Master, terminal operators, and towage operators, we explored our operational limitations in a safe environment without any disruptions to trade,” Ms Kenny said.

“This simulation training leads to real-world improvements to our port operations.

“The simulations brought to life the berthing of virtual vessels up to 300 metres in length in all types of weather conditions and loading capacities.

“Navigating ships in and out of our ports is a complex and specialised job. Our pilots handle more than 2,800 shipping movements a year. So, it’s vital to be able to hone their skills alongside port stakeholders,” Ms Kenny said.

“NQBP continues to lead the way in pilot competence and safe pilotage integrating innovative approaches to their professional development including simulation training.”

Smartship Australia Director and Principal Instructor Captain Peter Listrup said modern marine simulation systems played a key role in improving safety and efficiency outcomes for port operations.

“Simulation provides a zero-risk training environment for marine pilots to develop and enhance their piloting skills,” Captain Listrup said.

“Smartship Australia welcomes working with forward-thinking organisations like NQBP.”

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Marine pilots from North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) are staying at the top of their game with the aid of world-class simulation training

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Auto Women

This was established in 2022 by the Motor Trades Association of Queensland (MTA Queensland). It works to provide a supportive environment for women working across the automotive industry to network and grow.

Our vision is to empower women in the Automotive Industry to reach their full potential.

Auto Women is committed to encouraging and empowering women to strive for maximum capacity to achieve success on their own terms. We will provide opportunities for women to connect with like minded professionals to support each other to contribute to their personal and professional development.

https://www.mtaq.com.au/auto-women/

Industry Workforce Advisory

MTA Queensland has been selected as the Industry Workforce Advisory organisation for the automotive industry, reporting directly to the Department of Youth Justice, Employment, Small Business and Training.

The aim of the program is to provide tailored workforce planning assistance to small and medium employers, enabling them to address workforce challenges, diversify their workforces, and support workforce and productivity growth.

This may include identifying recruitment strategies to expand applicant pools and consider underrepresented cohorts such as migrants, skilled migrants, young people, first nations, and/or those with a disability.

The Industry Workforce Advisor role will run from 7 November 2022 to 31 December 2025.

Industry Skills Advisor

MTA Queensland has been selected as the Industry Skills Advisory organisation for the automotive industry, reporting directly to the Department of Youth Justice, Employment, Small Business and Training.

Industry Skills Advisors will engage with employers, small business and industry stakeholders to provide high quality, evidence-based industry advice and intelligence about current and emerging industry direction, regional skills needs and training solutions, job growth and employment opportunities.

The Industry Skills Advisory role will run from 1 March 2020 to 30 June 2023.

https://www.mtaq.com.au/industry-engagement/

Information of additional projects including the Transit Lane School to Work Project is available online: https://autoschoolconnect.com.au/blog-post-2/

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One of the things I like about life is having a range of friendships with people from different age groups and an array of different socio-economic, ethnic and cultural backgrounds.

Life is more interesting when you can have a laugh just as easily with the 90-year-old bloke who lives on the corner, the 21-year-old tattooed pommie hairdresser who is up for a chat while she has a vape outside the restaurant, the 45-year-old miner who is enjoying a Friday night beer at the pub after returning from over the hill or the 60-year-old Maltese cane farmer who is annoyed about too much/too little rain.

The mix of people don’t have to be your best friends, just people you get on with and have a connection with when you see each other.

And it can be pretty much anyone, with the obvious exceptions of Collingwood supporters and politically correct left-wing tyrant bullies with no sense of humour.

But even that isn’t quite true … I have met some quite decent Collingwood supporters over the years.

One of the great things about being a real estate agent is that you have to deal with all types of people. You don’t have to become best friends, but you need to create a connection and get on in a way that allows you to work together to get a deal done.

A friend of mine runs a small business in Mackay. He is what my mother used to call a New Australian. He speaks with an accent and comes from working class roots but he’s got money because he works hard and his business is successful.

He told me that he was pretty much ignored by a real estate agent at an open house recently and he felt it was because the agent assumed he didn’t have the money to buy that particular property. Not true.

I find that one of the most enjoyable aspects of real estate, as in life generally, is coming across a mix of people, ranging from business executives, stay-at-home mums, stay-at-home dads, doctors, truck drivers, artists, mechanics, builders, office workers and teachers to scientists, florists, miners and lollypop ladies.

An agent needs to connect with all of them and take them comfortably on the journey of buying or selling a property.

It is a great advantage if you tend to get on with all types of people, which means you can be authentically yourself and not be forced to pretend to be someone/something different.

That’s almost always the way it plays out for me. And when a politically correct, left-wing, Greens-voting, coal-hating, pillar of today’s cancel culture wants to buy a house I am selling … well, this little agent knows when to shut his mouth and not let his opinion get in the way of a good sale.

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