Adding to their awards cabinet once again this year, the team at Accom Whitsundays are thrilled to take home Silver in the Self-Contained Accommodation category at the Whitsunday Tourism Awards.

This is the third year they have achieved an award in this category, receiving the silver award in 2019, a bronze last year and stepping it back up to a silver award again this year.

“It was such a great moment for the team!” said Annette Neil, CEO of Accom Whitsundays.

“It is a nice feeling when all the hard work we have put in over the last year pays off.”

A holiday accommodation provider that specialises in offering clients the full service, from management to booking and housekeeping, Accom Whitsundays are the go-to for vacation homes here in the Whitsundays.

Their professionalism and high-quality service has garnered them with a reputation for smooth and efficient dealings with both guests and investors.

“We are unique in that we offer a complete management service, not just a booking agent,” said Annette.

“We also now have a housekeeping team, and we have an internal quality controller.”

Providing peace of mind for holiday homeowners, Accom Whitsundays ensures that each customer’s investment not only generates a solid and steady income but is also safely looked after as if it were their own.

When asked what qualities they believe Tourism Award judges looked for in their submission, Annette said that they had been driving forwards in marketing.

“Throughout the year we have been constantly implementing new marketing strategies,” she explained.

“And now it has resulted in financial and portfolio growth, and customer satisfaction which is evidenced through our countless positive google reviews.

“I am very proud of all the staff and the wonderful team.”

Accom Whitsundays is part of the broader PRD Whitsunday network and the standards of service, quality delivery and management are aligned across both successful local businesses.

“We are a small team, and everyone in the team has contributed to the success,” said Annette.

“Using each other’s strengths to maximise our potential.

“What is unique is that people outside our team, in PRD Whitsundays, can step in when needed, so we always have someone that has our back.”

Always looking ahead to more success, the team at Accom Whitsundays are excited to enter the awards next year, aiming to bring back the top gong in 2024.

“It would be incredible to bring home gold next year, and we are definitely always aiming for that!” said Annette.

“We are, however, extremely proud to win silver and would like to thank all our industry peers, congratulate the other winners and celebrate our broader tourism industry.”

‍

Priding itself on delivering high quality health food to the Whitsundays, Airlie Health Hub has been recognised for its exceptional sustainable practices, leading the way as Most Outstanding Whitsundays Retailer at the Whitsunday Business Awards.

Held in conjunction with the Whitsunday Tourism Awards, the Whitsunday Business Awards celebrates local businesses and spotlights high achievers.

Owners of Airlie Health Hub, Hayley and Paul Moran said they were over the moon to be acknowledged amongst their peers as one of the industry leaders.

“We were absolutely speechless!” said Hayley.

“Unfortunately, we were unable to attend the awards and were eagerly watching the results through the Tourism Whitsundays Facebook page.

“I can’t begin to explain the excitement that came when we saw our name come up and messages started to come through from friends and industry partners that were at the awards.”

Airlie Health Hub have been operating for 19 months and during that time they have completely revolutionised the local health food retail offering.

“We specialise in Organic and Local health foods, from bulk foods to produce straight from our local farms,” explained Hayley.

“Being a bulk food store, our foods are package free meaning you can get as little or as much as you like.”

Specialising in all things health, the store offers a range of products, from organic food to products for the skin or household cleaning, everything is free from harmful chemicals.

“We stock a large arrangement of organic food, health supplements and eco essentials to help you live a more sustainable life,” said Hayley.

“We live and breathe what our store stands for and I think that helps because the passion comes naturally.”

Every element of the service is designed with sustainability in mind, from the way food items are unpacked to sourcing local products where possible, Airlie Health Hub is dedicated to supporting organic practises which help to rejuvenate the land and benefit soil health.

Every time you purchase a natural or organic item from Health Hub you will also be helping the environment by using a recycled jar or bottle with which to transport your produce home.

Wicker shopping baskets are available to borrow in-store and they supply a collection of donated jars and bottles that can be used to store your purchased goodies.

With over 300 products in stock, you can choose from pantry staple items, dried fruits, nuts, pulses, superfoods, spices, flours, rice pastas and dairy products.

They also stock locally baked artisan sourdough bread, fresh eggs direct from local farms, a range of other pantry items and completely natural cleaning products.

Airlie Health Hub can also help you live a preservative free life by replacing your favourite family food items with equally delicious alternatives.

From peanut butter to confectionary and cereals, they offer organic goodness with taste satisfaction every time.

If you are looking to live a more sustainable lifestyle, you can trust that Airlie Health Hub will offer you the quality products and standard of service aligned with its new mantle, Most Outstanding Whitsundays Retailer of the Year.

‍

Hayley and Paul Moran celebrated their first year in business this January. Photo: Norina Jane

High quality organic health foods delivered in a sustainable setting at Airlie Health Hub. Photos supplied

‍

Quintessential Bowen business, Bowen Fisherman’s Seafood and Bird’s Fish Bar has taken out the coveted Bowen Business of the Year award.

Owner and operator Chloe Bauer was overwhelmed with the award win, especially given this was the first year they had participated.

“This was our first year we entered the awards, and we are ecstatic!” she said.

“And extremely grateful.”

Unsure about what particular aspect of their submission secured the win, Chloe is excited to accept the accolades with open arms.

Steeped in Bowen town history, Bowen Fisherman’s Seafood was established in 1982, and has continued to be family owned and operated.

Undergoing major renovations in 2013, the business expanded, with Bird’s Fish Bar being welcomed into the mix.

“This third generation run business has a deep passion for Bowen, promoting our beautiful area and the seafood industry,” said Chloe.

“Offering a unique dining experience of ‘boat to plate’ that you can’t find anywhere else in the region has been a huge contribution to Bowen Tourism.”

“We pride ourselves on using local produce and supporting small businesses. We are fortunate enough to have direct access to some of the best seafood in the world and have been a strong advocate for the fishing industry. We’re always looking at giving back to the community and are heavily involved with local sporting clubs, community events and supporting local fundraisers.”  

Chloe also wishes to thank the team that guaranteed their win.

“We are incredibly grateful for every single person in our team. We have a passionate and diverse team who I’m incredibly proud of and I genuinely enjoy working alongside.”

‍

Owner and operator of Bowen Fisherman’s Seafood and Bird’s Fish Bar, Chloe Bauer, with the award for Bowen Business of the Year. Photo credit: R Jean Photography

‍

Synonymous with quaint and comfortable perfection, Magnums Accommodation Airlie Beach took out three massive awards at the 2023 Whitsunday Tourism Awards, last Friday night.

Committed to providing a budget traveller with a special experience, Magnums Accommodation Airlie Beach, has become a calling card to all travellers and locals alike.

“Magnums is Airlie Beach’s original accommodation provider,” explained Magnums Accommodation Executive Chairperson, Elizabeth Hackett.

“Magnums Accommodation has been owned and operated by a group of truly committed and experienced tourism advocates. We place great importance on customer service and leaving a legacy for future generations. We are strongly committed to our environment and our community.”

With an extensive history in Airlie Beach, it is no wonder that Magnums came home with three massive awards last weekend.

Coming out top for the Whitsunday Business Awards, Magnums is officially the 2023 Whitsunday Business of the Year as well as Most Outstanding Whitsunday Booking Service.

The high-quality accommodation provider also received a gold gong at the Tourism Awards, having been crowned gold winner in 3 to 3.5 Star Accommodation category.

“The team have worked so hard post-COVID to reinvent ourselves and to be recognised as benchmark operators amongst so many other industry ambassadors. It was just so rewarding!” said Elizabeth.

“Life is a journey, it is our responsibility to ensure that this journey is improved for all who work and visit us at Magnums Airlie Beach”.

“At Magnums, we understand that we can do the best job in the world but without a strong RTO, a committed CEO and Board and a local Council who understands the importance of tourism, we would simply not be here.”

‍

The Magnums Accommodation Airlie Beach team accepting their awards last Friday night. Photo credit: R Jean Photography

From left to right: Dianne Flood, Evelyn Anderson (Executive Manager), Elizabeth Hackett (Executive Chairperson) and Julie Young

Pit Pony Tavern has come home from the 2023 Tourism Awards with the coveted Collinsville Business of the Year award.

Janet Lobegeier, manager of the Pit Pony Tavern was excited to be named winner.

“It is always exciting to have your hard work recognised,” she said.

“Everyone here at the Pit Pony plays a role in making the hotel a successful business.”

However, this isn’t the first time Pit Pony Tavern has been recognised for their outstanding work, being Winner of Large Business in 2016, and Queensland Hotel Association Finalist in 2022.

“The team at Pit Pony Tavern always provides great service clean and affordable accommodation for guests and locals,” explained Janet.

Janet would like to thank the entire team of Pit Pony Tavern for their hard work.

“The whole team plays a role in making us successful from junior kitchen hands, housekeeping to our amazing restaurant and bar staff.”

Having been operating for over 30 years, the initial 25 as Collinsville Town and Country Hotel, and the most recent nine years as Pit Pony Tavern, the Tavern is steeped in Collinsville history.

“We are the only hotel in Collinsville, with 52 accommodation rooms, restaurant and public Bar, and Keno TAB Gaming,” said Janet.

“The hotel had a full refurbishment nine years ago changing its name and identity, and the hotel also has Pit Pony Memorabilia throughout the restaurant, telling the story of the Pit Ponies in mining.”

“Come and take a drive out, stay a night, enjoy great service, and check out the town’s history, at Pit Pony Capital.”

‍

Nigel and Janet Lobegeier from the Pit Pony Tavern. Photo supplied

‍

In a clean sweep this year, Queens Beach Tourist Village has taken out silver in the Caravan And Holiday Parks category.

Owner and operator Jennie Greer was ecstatic at the win.

“It doesn’t matter what colour the award is, we won, and it feels absolutely amazing. We’re over the moon.”

“Of course, this result is because of our amazing staff. We are proud of every single staff member,” Jennie said.

“This award is a testament to the care, dedication, and passion that our staff have, and who make the impact for guests and the park.”

Jennie and her husband Peter took on the park in January 2019 and have since been implanting upgrades and changes to the park, to ensure guest satisfaction and enjoyment.

This was a big part of their submission for the awards.

“We covered everything but particularly the improvements that we have made to the park. We are consistently looking at what can be improved and upgraded in the park,” she explained.

“We also shared our charity work that we have done, particularly with Bowen Country Women’s Association. Not only did our charity work have a great result, but we had a lot of fun doing it. We enjoy putting back into the community, and so many businesses got involved and had fun with us.

“But, if it wasn’t for the guests getting behind us, the charity work wouldn’t have been as successful.”

The park now turns their attention to the 2023 Grey Nomad Awards, where they have been successful for the past few years taking out the Best Grey Nomad Large Caravan Park award.

‍

Peter and Jennie Greer, and Gerry and Mark Tomsett. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

By Amanda Wright

Picture this: a community coming together to champion equal access to top-notch healthcare. In a world where our health knows no bounds, last Thursday marked an extraordinary act of unity, as Mackay Hospital Foundation's Giving Day rallied the masses.

The mission was crystal clear: bridge the healthcare gap and ensure every family's health journey knows no disadvantages based on their postcode.

With the team from Gardian among many individuals generously donating their time, the telethon event commenced at 8am. With coffee and croissants in hand, by 8pm the fundraising target of $70,000 was impressively surpassed, with the campaign reaching more than $95,000, thanks to the passionate community including Giving Day’s ‘matched donors’.

Bridging Healthcare Gaps With Giving Day

Mackay Hospital Foundation’s Giving Day event welcomed Dylan Holmes as its ambassador. Dylan's presence added a powerful, real-world dimension to the proceedings. At the age of 42, and with no prior symptoms, he experienced a sudden cardiac arrest. The presence of a defibrillator at his workplace and the quick action of his colleagues and paramedics were the key factors behind this success story, underscoring the pivotal role that hospitals like Mackay Base play in providing life-saving care.

Dylan acknowledges that his survival on that day was the result of the combined efforts of his workmates at Jennmar Australia, the Queensland Ambulance team who were soon on site and the Mackay Base Hospital’s emergency, cardiac and intensive care teams who provided surgery and follow-up care.

Mackay Base Hospital Cardiologist Dr Dominika Budzbon spoke at the Giving Day breakfast and said that Mr Holmes’ cardiac arrest was caused by very fast and abnormal heart rhythm.

“After a period of stabilisation in hospital, we decided he needs protection from any possible event like that in the future.”

Dr Budzbon explained that Mr Holmes became the first patient in Mackay to receive an implant of a subcutaneous defibrillator (ICD).

“This is a clever and highly programmable processor which recognises dangerous heart rhythms and works out what to do with it,” Dr Budzbon said.

“It is suitable for patients who only need a device to shock the heart, and do not need the support of a pacemaker as well.”

Matched donors on Giving Day, playing a vital role, generously contributed to the cause. Notable contributors included Anglo American and Isaac Regional Council, with additional support from CFMEU, Mackay Base Hospital Auxiliary, Pembroke Olive Downs, Abbot Point Terminal, and Sons of the Southern Cross Motorcycle Club. Adding to this spirit of generosity were other donors, such as Mackay West Rotary Club, M & P Services, and the Austral Hotel, who had pledged their support in advance.

Local radio stations, Star 101.9 and Hit FM, actively joined in, lending their voices to further amplify the event's community appeal. Kristi Algate, General Manager of the Mackay Hospital Foundation, urged the community to embrace generosity and highlighted the importance of making healthcare a universal right, irrespective of regional or rural location.

‍

Matched donors, sponsors and members of the Mackay Hospital Foundation gathered to launch Giving Day with a breakfast at Mackay Base Hospital. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

Mackay Hospital Foundation donors and supporters at the Giving Day Breakfast at Mackay Base Hospital. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

‍

This year, Nell Thomsett’s daughter Millie spent two weeks at Mackay Base Hospital on two separate occasions. If it wasn’t for the Ronald McDonald House (RMH) Family Room, this challenging time would have been more of a struggle.

Diagnosed with a kidney infection, Millie ended up staying five nights in hospital during her first visit. Amidst the difficulties, the Ronald McDonald Family Room at Mackay Base Hospital played a pivotal role in alleviating the burden for Ms Thomsett, Millie, and their entire family.

Nell expressed her gratitude, saying, "It was just amazing. My husband would bring the kids up at night after they had finished work and sport. We were able to eat as a family and spend time together. I was able to see our other two kids, and they were able to see their sister."

In a horror health year for the youngster, she also got appendicitis resulting in the removal of her appendix.

Last week, it was noticed by the pair that RMH was reaching out to the community for donations. Nell says, “Millie popped up and said: ‘Can we go shopping for them, please?’”

The pair filled their trolley with an array of groceries to help families in need, including brownie mix, cooking trays, coffee, snacks and treats and gluten-free items. Nell mentioned that Millie hand-picked everything from the supermarket herself.

The items are stored away until a family comes in to stay and they can use the items.

“The space is run by volunteers who are just lovely, they help you in any way they can. They were very thankful, as the stocks were running low,” Nell added.

Nell and Millie encourage the community to become volunteers or donate towards the Ronald McDonald House charity, who provide a nice place to escape to that doesn’t feel like a hospital.

‍

Millie with her haul of groceries for RMH – Photo supplied

‍

OPINION PIECE

It was a historic day last week, as Australians went to the polls for a vote to change the constitution for the first time since 1999.

The people have spoken, and their collective voice resonates, clear and unwavering. As the referendum on the Voice to Parliament concludes, the result was no, for the voice of the people is a cornerstone of democracy. Every state and territory, except for the ACT, voted no.

It appeared to be a widely understood sentiment that while the nation may not be prepared for this particular step, the will to improve the wellbeing of First Nations peoples remains strong.

My personal opinion was that the Federal Government failed to fully educate the Australian people about what they were voting for. Too many people were confused about what a Yes would mean and there were complex issues muddying the waters. The Prime Minister, or any politician, chose not to appear in our neck of the woods to talk about the Voice and our publication didn’t receive any correspondence from the Federal Government to assist our readers. I think it’s failed marketing to ignore your regional constituents and believe that endorsements by big business or celebrities can influence everyday people into changing the constitution. It’s like asking someone to sign a contract without letting them read it first.

In the wake of the referendum outcome, Beyond Blue Chair Julia Gillard, reflected on the importance of this moment for Australia. First Nations peoples experience significantly higher rates of psychological distress and suicide. Regardless of how we voted as individuals, it is essential to remember that the referendum outcome may be distressing for many. It’s a time to be kind.

The Uluru Statement from the Heart extends an invitation to walk hand-in-hand with First Nations peoples toward a brighter future. Regardless of our individual experiences and views, it is through the values of fairness and respect that we can truly unite as one nation.

Amanda

‍

This month, Orange Sky Laundromat celebrated the OSA laundry services’ six-year anniversary operating in Mackay and Sarina.

The delivery of the service has changed in that time, but the community connections and need for positive conversations has only grown over the years.

The United Apostolic Volunteer Foundation’s mission is ‘Giving Hope, Sharing Grace’, with their members actively committed to giving assistance and compassion to those in need.  

UAVF supports many different groups, suffering does not discriminate and actions speak louder than words. All projects are assessed purely on the foundation’s ability to deliver the relief required, and the team endeavour to undertake projects that enable long term viability, and ultimately independence for those being supported.

The foundation held their Family Trivia fundraising event, to support local charity, Orange Sky, as well as two of their international projects, Ukrainian Humanitarian Aid and Kenyan Children in Need.  

Whilst there was some competitive team spirit for the trivia prizes, the generosity of the community in donating prizes and that of the participants bidding on auction items and other fundraising activities on the day, was phenomenal.

All money raised was donated to the charities, with Orange Sky as a major beneficiary, receiving an eleven thousand dollar donation to support the growth of services in Mackay and Sarina.

UAVF members, Lyle and Alan visited Orange Sky to meet the volunteers, who shared their gratitude for the donation they received.

With appreciation for UAVF for their generous support to the growth of Orange Sky services, Bev, the Trivia Team Captain, presented them with an appreciation certificate.

There is still a growing need for services, but it is something that Orange Sky couldn’t deliver without support from the wider community.

To volunteer, donate or find out more about Orange Sky, visit their website at orangesky.org.au

‍

Orange Sky and The United Apostolic Volunteer Foundation unite to celebrate six years of dedicated service

‍

Meet Nicole Pasquale, Leader in Community Education and Disaster Preparedness

Deputy Group Leader of the State Emergency Service Mackay Regional Unit, Nicole Pasquale, assists with community education and disaster awareness events.

Nicole is a teacher by trade when she is not donning the orange, working for three high schools around the Mackay region.

A couple of years ago, Nicole, alongside her colleagues JoAnn, Brenton and Jody, began an educational video series for their Facebook page to inform the community about preparing for storm season.

Since then, the series has gained major traction. This allowed the team to make videos regularly, with SES groups across Queensland now using the videos to help with their own promotion and community awareness.

“The videos have been received very well. Some have mentioned that they've been able to do things for themselves, which is really good because that's what we're aiming for,” Nicole stated.

Nicole’s favourite videos to film were the originals, when the teams’ acting skills were a little rusty and scripts were a work-in-progress, with blooper reels to enjoy the humour behind serious topics.

The next videos will feature cyclone preparation tactics and information on a new mentorship initiative, allowing volunteers to work with flood boats.

Nicole was a victim of Cyclone Debbie, before she became a volunteer. This event encouraged her passion to give back to the community in ways she couldn’t previously.

“I cleaned up my school, cleaned up my house. I couldn't do any more to help the community because I just didn't have any training to be able to help out that way.

“The skills are things you can put into action yourself, as well as when you're out in the community which is just amazing,” Nicole said.

Nicole has trained in a variety of areas. Her favourite skills she has learnt so far is operating a flood boat and trailer reversing, both in which she had never done prior to her SES training.

Recently, Nicole was awarded a Runner Up plaque for the Ministers Cup in Brisbane, which she was anonymously nominated for.

Nicole’s favourite part of being a member of the SES? ‘Friendship with like-minded volunteers, teamwork, and camaraderie.’

To prepare yourself for storm season, check out Nicole’s work in creating these educational videos at facebook.com/mackaySES

‍

Nicole Pasquale alongside the Public Education Unit

‍

In the latest session of Parliament, Andrew Willcox, the Federal Member for Dawson, delivered an impassioned speech addressing the actions of the Federal Government. His speech primarily centred on the recent ban imposed on commercial gillnet fishing, sparking profound concern.

With frustration, the MP vehemently voiced his worries about the Federal Government's actions, emphasising the detrimental impact on the livelihoods and economic prospects of more than 90 licensed fishermen in the North Queensland region.

Mr. Willcox highlighted the lack of community consultation and hasty decision-making. He pointed out, "In June, a joint media release from the Federal and Queensland Governments declared their intention to ban gillnet fishing with no community input and extremely tight deadlines. This ban is slated to take effect by the end of the year."

Mr Willcox also questioned Parliament about the effects on the communities, detailing that it’s not just the fishermen’s lives who would be negatively impacted.

“As we know, the fishermen operate in a tough environment, out in the sun and out in the salt. So, they need a lot of shackles, ropes, floats, anchors, all those sorts of things. Without this, the chandlery shops are going to go out of business, and the ice producers.

“The boatbuilders, the repairers, they’re all going to go out of business. The outboard sales and service, going out of business.

“When you take the supply out, the price will go up. So, then, we’ll be relying on more imported fish. So, rather than having fish from our pristine waters… we’ll be importing lesser-quality fish, and prices will be skyrocketing!”

Mr Willcox exclaimed that he will “not be taking this lying down” and has written to the Minister for the Environment and Water, Tanya Plibersek, on this issue.

“I’m calling on Minister Plibersek to come to my electorate, do some community consultation, talk to the fishermen, have a discussion, and see how the fishermen fish!”

Mr Willcox also called out the State Government for “this absolute rubbish” about gillnets damaging the Great Barrier Reef stating “these nets don’t go within 60kms of the Great Barrier Reef! It’s just another Labor lie!”

“The wild caught fishing industry is run by professional men and women and has been done for so many generations,” he said.

‍

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox

‍

Prepare to be inspired and empowered at Endeavour Foundation’s Business Solutions Employment Showcase, a remarkable event designed to open doors to fulfilling work opportunities for individuals living with disability. This unique event offers you an exclusive glimpse into the incredible efforts of the Endeavour Foundation team, showcasing their dedication and expertise in various work areas, such as assembly work, document destruction, and even painting of stakes and pegs. It's a chance to witness firsthand the achievements and support available in a supportive workplace environment.

At its core, the Employment Showcase is all about providing individuals with disability a place to thrive, gain support, and find a profound sense of purpose. It's an occasion for individuals with disability to shine, showcasing their skills and abilities across various vocational areas.

Nora, an Endeavour Foundation employee, has dedicated 44 years of her life to the organisation.

Crystal, another valued employee at Endeavour Foundation, is passionately dedicated to her role. In the tagging department, she intricately places strings on tags that serve critical roles in the mining and construction industries. Payne Print, a valued commercial customer of Endeavour Foundation, entrusts the team with this task.

"I feel happy when I'm here," Crystal said. "My workmates keep me smiling because they are funny to talk to." Her feelings resonate with the vibrant, supportive, and enriching environment that Endeavour Foundation creates.

Blackwoods are another organisation who support the Endeavour Foundation.

“Blackwoods has a proud history of supporting businesses within the community and are committed to supporting Endeavour Foundation Industries’, a local not for profit business providing opportunities for people with disability to work, develop skills, earn an income, explore their interest and be involved in the community.”

The Employment Showcase is not only a chance to witness Endeavour Foundation’s Mackay social enterprise in action, but it's also an opportunity for the community and local businesses to explore how they can become part of this remarkable journey. Supported Employment is a beautiful symbiosis, providing local businesses tailored business solutions while creating opportunities for people with disability.

This event unites a community that values diversity, inclusion, and the incredible potential each individual holds.

Join us for the Employment Showcase on October 27th, 2023, from 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM at Endeavour Foundation Business Solutions, 22 David Muir Street, Slade Point. Please call 07 4955 1533 to RSVP.

It's your chance to be a part of this inspiring journey and witness firsthand the work achieved of Endeavour Foundation.

‍

Crystal Love happy at work at Endeavour Foundation’s Mackay social enterprise

‍

Next year Mackay Regional Council will welcome 15 new employees through its doors as apprentice and trainees.

The program is now taking applications for a variety of roles across the organisation.

Deputy Mayor Karen May said the Apprentice and Trainee Intake program offered an opportunity for successful applicants to gain entry level pathways not only into council but the wider workforce.

“Council is a fantastic place to start your career and we encourage people from all walks of life to consider taking on a role in our organisation,” Deputy Mayor May said.

“We have a variety of roles available, from libraries to local laws and horticulture,” she said.

“Our apprenticeships and traineeships often lead to full time work at council and we are very proud to say we have many of our past apprentices and trainees still working here even 10 years later.

“Council prides itself on its apprentice and trainee program as it is vital for long-term workforce planning, helping to transfer knowledge from one generation to the next and building skills and capacity, not just for council but for our community.”

Apprentice plumber Tom Frost said he continued to enjoy his career journey at council.

“Family is really important to me and I enjoy being able to expand my skills and career while still being able to come home every night,” Mr Frost said.

“There are always opportunities to further your career and I enjoy learning and being part of such a close-knit team,” he said.

Former trainee Savannah Vella said council had provided her with a smooth transition into the workforce.

“For me it’s been a great gateway into the workforce from school life – all my supervisors have been encouraging and helpful,” Ms Vella said.

“I strongly encourage anyone considering an apprenticeship or traineeship to apply for one of the council roles,” she said.

The Apprentice and Trainee Intake has a variety of opportunities in a variety of industries, including:

• Apprentice heavy commercial vehicle mechanic.

• Local Laws Trainee.

• Apprentice Electrician.

• Horticultural Trainee.

• Civil Construction Trainee.

• Live Production and Staging Trainee (MECC).

• Warehouse Trainee.

• Information Technology Trainee.

• Surveying and Spatial Information Trainee.

• Business Trainee.

• Library Services Trainee.

• Community Services Trainee.

Council encourages applications from Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people, anyone re-entering the workforce, those from a non-English speaking background, individuals with a disability, impairment or long-term condition, school leavers or an adult worker wishing to change careers or gain new skills.

Applications for the 2024 Apprentice and Trainee Intake are now open, more information on the positions available can be found at Mackay Regional Council - 2024 Trainee and Apprentice Intake.

Applications will close October 19.

‍

2022 Apprentice Plumber Tom Frost continues his career pathway at council today

‍

Samantha Munt, well-known by her title, S.K Munt, is a local Mackay author who has made the Amazon Best-Seller list twice in Australian Fiction, for her collection of local ghost stories in her book, ‘And The Memory Remains’.

By popular demand, S.K Munt is writing a second book and is currently on the hunt for the spookiest ghost stories in the Mackay and surrounding regions.

Samantha has been interested in ‘all things spooky’ since she was a young schoolgirl in the early nineties, spending her time discovering books at Bucasia Primary School and on the mobile library bus.

By grade four, she was hooked on the works of Stephen King. Also an avid fan of Halloween, making haunted houses, watching scary movies and telling ghost stories to her friends.

The older Samantha got, the more she wrote about these stories, describing that her book series has been ‘about 35 years in the making.’

During her research and writing journey for her debut book, Samantha not only encountered her fair share of ghosts but also accrued several more eerie experiences while touring haunted locations.

The reaction from Mackay locals was overwhelming, with the first book a labour of love for Samantha, commenting, “It was always about learning more for me, giving people in our community that love this stuff the way I do, a voice and a sounding board.

“I get a huge rush out of reading other people’s stories, and am so grateful to everyone who has submitted one.”

Samantha has acquired an immense amount of knowledge after writing her first book, surrounding her research and getting her facts straight. She will be expanding her search to outlying regions, such as Coalfields and the Whitsundays.

Samantha stresses that privacy is paramount – besides finding out locations for her own research, it is as confidential as you’d like it to be. Don’t worry about getting in trouble, people resonate with the story more than arbitrary details.

To share your own ghost encounter, you can find Samantha’s page on Facebook titled: ‘And The Memory Remains’ where you can message her privately.

‍

Author of Mackay's ghost stories, S.K Munt

‍