A Proper Christmas For Growers

By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

It is that time of year again; we are in the lead-up to the most anticipated time of the year, that being Christmas. A time when it is most important to spend time with those people you hold dear. A time of rest, a time of reflection, and most importantly - Santa Claus making his way around the district.

One difference this year is that Santa won’t have to be worried about weaving his way through sugarcane harvesters, haul-outs, and cane train crossings. For the first time in about five years, the harvest in both the Mackay Sugar and Plane Creek areas will have been completed at least 10 days before Christmas Day. This means that people in the growing, harvesting, and milling sectors will hopefully be able to celebrate Christmas at home on the verandah rather than in the workplace, which has been the case over the last few years.

Although this is a positive, of course, it must be remembered this is the result of a reduced crop size in both areas, which takes the gloss off what has been a slightly improved factory performance. That performance has not reached expectations but is an improvement all the same. The problem is that any gains in this sector have been handicapped by massive logistical shortfalls in cane transport. This has resulted in a tremendously difficult and trying year for harvesting contractors in particular, but also the wider industry.

With the crushing season now concluded, Mackay Sugar has recorded a total harvest of 4.76 million tonnes with a seasonal CCS of 13.6. This is surprisingly close to the five-year average considering the amount of standover cane processed, given that standover cane usually lowers CCS levels due to lower sugar content. Plane Creek Mill ended up crushing about 1.332 million tonnes of cane with a CCS for the season of 13.87, which was also impacted by a significant amount of standover cane.

On behalf of Mackay Canegrowers and the wider growing sector, we would like to thank the wider Mackay community for their patience in this past harvesting season. Those of you who grew up in this district have become accustomed to haul-outs on roads and cane trains amongst others. For the newer residents, it is probably a surprise to see a tractor driving down a major arterial road or even through a subdivision, but these are the logistical challenges the industry faces.

We hope that everyone has a restful, safe, and enjoyable Christmas and New Year with those whom they hold dear. We hope that 2026 dawns brighter and more prosperous for all who live in this wonderful wider Mackay region.

There is no doubt that Mackay truly is the Sugar City.

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Plane Creek Harvester parks up after finishing the crushing season for 2025. Photo credit: Jason Borg.

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How Christmas Routines Affect Your Pelvic Floor — And How To Support It

Lauren Neill, Women's, Men's and Pelvic Health Physiotherapist at Women's Health Physio Mackay

Christmas is a wonderful time of year, but it’s also one of the biggest disruptions to our usual routines. Long days, late nights, travel, hosting, extra lifting, more sitting, and less structure can all take a quiet toll on the body. And one area that often feels the impact, without us realising, is the pelvic floor.

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that supports the bladder, bowel, and pelvic organs, and works closely with breathing, posture, and movement. It responds not just to exercise, but to everyday life. During the festive season, however, everyday life looks a little different.

Travel is a big one. Long car trips to see family, flights, or hours sitting around a table can leave the body stiff and compressed. Many people also change their toilet habits over the holidays; maybe holding on longer in the car, going “just in case,” or delaying trips to the toilet while busy or travelling. These small changes can increase pressure on the pelvic floor and contribute to symptoms like bladder urgency, leaks, constipation, or a feeling of pelvic heaviness.

Food and drink choices often shift at this time of year too, which can quietly affect bowel health. Richer foods, less fibre, more alcohol, and not drinking enough water, (especially in the summer heat) can leave the bowels sluggish and stools firmer than usual. When constipation creeps in, straining becomes more likely, increasing downward pressure through the pelvic floor. Supporting bowel health with regular fluids, fibre-rich foods, and responding to natural urges can help keep everything moving more comfortably.

Christmas also involves more lifting than we often realise. Eskies, suitcases, kids, prams, shopping bags, and rearranging furniture for guests all place extra load through the body. When we rush or hold our breath while lifting, pressure increases downwards onto the pelvic floor; particularly if it’s already fatigued or tense.

Add to that the mental load of organising celebrations, caring for others, and keeping everything running smoothly, and it’s no surprise many women feel uncomfortable, sore, or “not quite right” by the end of the festive period.

The good news is that a little awareness goes a long way. Simple habits can help protect your pelvic floor over the holidays. Staying well hydrated supports bladder and bowel health. Taking regular movement breaks during long drives or days of sitting helps reduce stiffness and pressure. Exhaling when you lift, rather than holding your breath, can significantly reduce strain on the pelvic floor. Gentle movement like walking, swimming, stretching, or short resets between events helps your body feel supported rather than overwhelmed.

It’s also important to listen to your body. If you notice new symptoms like leaking, urgency, heaviness, or discomfort, that’s not your body “failing;” it’s communicating. The festive season often highlights issues that have been quietly present under the surface.

As the year wraps up, remember that looking after your pelvic floor isn’t about restriction or perfection. It’s about support. Supporting your body so you can enjoy the festive season with comfort, confidence, and energy — and head into the new year feeling more connected to your body, not at odds with it.

Because Christmas memories are best made when your body feels looked after too.

Pelvic Floor-Friendly Festive Tips1
• Exhale when lifting eskies, kids or suitcases -avoid breath holding.
• Drink water regularly, especially in the summer-heat.
• Include fiber-rich foods tokeep.bowels.moving-comfortably.
•Take movement breaks.on long drives.or travel days.
• Avoid excessive 'just in case' toilet trips.1
• Add gentle movement-like walking, swimming, orstretching.between events.

Lauren Neill
Women's, Men's and Pelvic Health Physiotherapist at Women's Health Physio Mackay

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As Christmas arrives, Life Publishing Group extends our warm wishes to the Mackay community and surrounding regions. This season invites a moment to pause, reflect and reconnect with family, friends and the places that feel like home.

Across our towns and neighbourhoods, Christmas is shaped by small kindnesses, shared meals, community events and the quiet generosity that defines this region. It is a time to celebrate resilience, gratitude and the people who show up for one another throughout the year.

To our readers, contributors, advertisers and community partners, thank you for trusting Life Publishing Group to share local stories that matter. Your support allows local voices, achievements and challenges to be recognised and valued.

As the year draws to a close, may the festive season bring peace, rest and renewed optimism for the year ahead. From all of us at Life Publishing Group, we wish you a safe, joyful and meaningful Christmas, and a bright start to the New Year.

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Mackay Regional Mayor of Mackay, Greg Williamson. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara and photo sourced.

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Community organisations across the Mirani electorate are celebrating a significant funding boost, with a total of $536,000 awarded through Round 124 of the Gambling Community Benefit Fund.

The funding, announced by Member for Mirani Glen Kelly MP, will support a range of local not-for-profit groups, with grants of up to $100,000 helping to cover the costs of delivering essential services, programs and community activities.

The investment is set to strengthen grassroots organisations and enhance opportunities for residents across the region.

Mr Kelly congratulated all the recipients within the Mirani electorate that were successful with their applications.

“There’s some absolute crackers in this round of funding with 10 groups receiving grants for projects to improve what they can provide to the community,” Mr Kelly said.

“These grants are so important to giving our community groups a chance to purchase upgrades, equipment, or help fund events providing levels of funds that are difficult to get through fundraising alone.”

“Walkerston Cricket Club is getting a new mower, and that’s always a great little investment for these clubs, it’ll help them be able to keep those outfields more consistent and provide for a better experience for the players up there.”

Lloyd Blomfield, Secretary of the Walkerston Cricket Club, who received $23,004.12 to install awnings over their walkways said that it will improve wet weather access to the hall.

“Getting the grant money saves us a lot of chook raffles, and allows us to get bigger items that we wouldn’t normally be able to afford.

“As a club we support so many in the community through the teams that play for us so being able to get new equipment helps us to keep that sustainable.

“It’s certainly a Merry Christmas to the groundsman because the money will be buying a new mower to replace our old one that is starting have issues that would have cost the club money to get fixed as well.”

Recipients include:

• Alligator Creek State School P&C – $12,620.35 - Installing a chilled drinking station
• Alton Downs Hall Association Inc. – $9,790.00 - Installing fans and weather protection
• Country United Football Club Inc. – $100,000.00 - Installing a shade structure
• Crediton Hall Recreation Club Inc. – $31,815.28 - Installing a shed and purchasing a mower
• Mackay and District Hack and Pony Club Inc. – $100,000.00 - Facility upgrades
• Rockhampton Water Ski Club Inc. – $82,186.50 - Installing a new dock
• Sarina State School P&C – $82,401.00 - Installing drinking fountains
• C&K Hoey Street Community Kindergarten – $9,573.01 - Facility upgrade
• Walkerston Cricket Club Inc. – $23,004.12 - Purchasing a new mower

To view the full list of Round 124 recipients, and find out more about current GCBF rounds, visit: www.justice.qld.gov.au/initiatives/community-grants.

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Peter Darby, President Rockhampton Water Ski Club, Glen Kelly MP, Minister for Sport and Racing and Minister for Olympic and Paralympic Games, Tim Mander MP on the floating Pontoon at the Rockhampton Ski Club. Photo supplied

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Last Tuesday, the Mackay Bowling Club extended their warm hospitality to 30 residents and carers from Homefield Nursing Home for a delightful Christmas lunch. This heartwarming event was made even more special by having Ruby, founding member and Life member of the club join in the festivities along with Violet another bowler from interstate.  The dedicated efforts of the members, who not only prepared the meal but also served it with grace and care.

The atmosphere was filled with festive cheer as the residents enjoyed the delicious food, lovingly cooked by the members. The lunch provided an opportunity for socialising, laughter, and the creation of cherished memories, making it a truly memorable occasion for all involved.

Such events highlight the spirit of community and the importance of coming together to spread joy and kindness. The Makay Bowling Club's commitment to supporting and uplifting the elderly members of the community is truly commendable, and their efforts in organising this Christmas lunch were deeply appreciated by the Homefield Nursing residents.

All in all, the day was a resounding success, filled with goodwill, festive spirit, and the joy of giving.

The residents left with smiles on their faces and warmth in their hearts, looking forward to more gatherings in the future.

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A joyous celebration was had by all at this years Christmas lunch, hosted by Mackay Bowling Club. Photos supplied

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Hi lovely readers,

It’s officially that time of year!

In the lead-up to Christmas, the stores are crowded, the roads are packed, and our hearts are often fullest when we’re surrounded by the people we love.

You don’t quite realise how much our region is growing until you experience the Christmas traffic!

It’s easy to get caught up in the rush of gift-buying and end-of-year expectations. Sometimes even a little pressure can creep in, so please let this be a gentle reminder to be kind to yourself and give yourself some grace.

We also know Christmas can be a difficult time for some, which makes kindness and compassion towards others more important than ever.

After a recent health scare, (which I’m now recovering well from), I’m especially reminded that gifts go far beyond the material things we can see and touch.

Even just waking up today is a gift!

If you’re spending Christmas alone, or if you’re curious about the true reason for the season, I encourage you to connect with a local church and share in fellowship, because we thrive best when we’re grounded in community.

You don’t have to have it all together to experience the love of God – you just need to be open to receiving it.

Jesus actually teaches us that giving is better than receiving... and what greater gift do we have than the life He has already given us?

2025 has been full of blessings – and lessons – and I can’t wait to see what 2026 holds.

Merry Christmas, and blessings to you all. Stay safe, and I’ll see you in our 9th Jan edition!

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Labor Did

Opinion Piece

Dear Santa,

We know you’re busy this time of year, but down here in Australia, we’re hoping you can spare a moment. Christmas under Labor is looking less like It’s A Wonderful Life and more like The Grinch Who Stole Christmas.

We’ve written our wish list, Santa, the same list Labor promised to deliver when they came down the chimney in 2022. Just like countless kids who wake up on Christmas morning to find socks instead of a shiny new bike, Australians are discovering that Labor’s promises don’t quite match the packaging.

So here it is, Australia’s Christmas Wish List, complete with the reality we found under the tree:

1. “All You’ll Need to See a Doctor Is Your Medicare Card!”

What We Wished For: Free, simple, accessible healthcare, a Christmas miracle for families already counting every dollar.

What We Unwrapped Instead:
• GP visits now average over $50 out of pocket;
• Specialist fees have soared, leaving Australians $117 out of pocket per visit;
• Health inflation has climbed 15 per cent.

Medicare was sold as the answer to cheaper care, yet in Dawson bulk-billing is increasingly rare, there are no Medicare clinics, and families still need their credit cards as well as their Medicare cards.

2. “Labor Will Deliver Cheaper, Cleaner, Reliable Energy!”

What We Wished For: Stable, affordable electricity to power homes, businesses, farms, factories, and schools. The kind of energy system where turning on the Christmas lights does not require taking out a personal loan.3. 4. 5. What Reality Delivered:

Power bills are up nearly 40 per cent; energy-intensive industries are on the brink, and households are forced to choose between running the air-con or affording Christmas lunch.

It is not just about household bills. When energy is unaffordable, everything becomes more expensive:
• Food costs more to grow, refrigerate, and transport;
• Construction costs have exploded;
• Manufacturing has become uncompetitive;
• Small businesses are buckling under the pressure;
• Supply chains pass every extra dollar on to consumers.

Labor’s reckless, ideologically-driven race to renewables, without firming, without planning, and without a realistic path, has created an energy market as unpredictable as a summer storm. Cheap, reliable energy is the beating heart of everything, from making steel to baking gingerbread.

“Labor Will Make Life Easier for Australians!”

What We Wished For: A cost-of-living Christmas miracle, with lower inflation, stable interest rates, and room in the weekly budget for a box of chocolates that is not on clearance.

What Reality Delivered: Inflation remains high, and the Reserve Bank of Australia has held the cash rate for the third time in a row, citing Labor’s reckless spending and mounting inflation pressures.

Mortgages are rising, households are squeezed, and hope for relief before Christmas is evaporating.
• Mortgages are $1,800 higher per month since Labor took office;
• Food is 15 per cent more expensive;
• Housing is 19 per cent more expensive;
• Insurance is 37 per cent more expensive.

Labor’s spending is running at four times the economy’s growth, leaving taxpayers to foot $50,000 in interest every minute on Labor’s trillion-dollar debt. Under Labor, Australia has suffered the biggest fall in living standards in the developed world. Some families now have $33 left after essentials, according to Anglicare. That is not festive cheer; that is a cost-of-survival crisis.

“We’ll Help First Home Buyers With a 5% Deposit Scheme!”

What We Wished For: A realistic chance for young Australians to unwrap the keys to their own home.

What We Actually Got: Higher prices, higher mortgages, and a generation staring down 40-year home loans. Only 16 per cent of homes nationwide are affordable for first-home buyers. In some suburbs in Dawson, just 4 per cent of homes are affordable for essential workers: nurses, educators, childcare workers, the people who keep our communities running.

Labor did not make home ownership easier; they simply gave buyers a bigger mortgage and a Christmas stocking full of false hope.

“HECS Relief Will Ease the Burden on Young Australians!”

A 20 per cent HECS wipe sounds generous until you realise it is funded by more debt, fuelling more inflation, which pushes rents and grocery prices up, hurting the samestudents it claims to help. It is like giving a child a present, then sending them the invoice.

Australia does not want extravagance, just fairness, stability, and the chance to get ahead.

Under Labor, it seems the only one enjoying a very merry Christmas is the tax office.

So, Santa, if you have room on the sleigh this year, Australia has a simple Christmas wish: a
government that lives within its means, so Australian families and businesses can, too.

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Australians are getting a lump of coal in their stocking this Christmas, with no cost-of-living relief in sight. While families are tightening their belts, Labor keeps delivering higher power bills, rising grocery prices, and bigger mortgages, leaving households paying more and getting less. Photo supplied

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If you’re looking to start the year green-fingered, January in Mackay is ideal for planting heat-loving vegetables and tropical plants that thrive in summer conditions.

For vegetables, think fast-growing and resilient.

Tomatoes, capsicum, eggplant, and cucumbers flourish in the tropical heat with plenty of sunlight and consistent watering.

Herbs like basil, coriander, lemongrass, and mint are perfect for adding flavour to summer dishes while being low-maintenance. Beans and zucchini are also reliable summer performers and provide continuous harvests.

Leafy greens like kangkong (water spinach) and amaranth are excellent for warmer months, growing quickly even in tropical humidity.

If you have space, sweet potatoes and pumpkin vines are productive and easy to manage with trellising or ground cover.

Tropical fruit trees and plants also thrive when started early in the year.

Passionfruit, pineapple, papaya, and bananas love the summer sun and can provide a steady yield when established. Mulching around plants helps retain moisture and keeps roots cool, which is crucial during the peak heat of January and February.

Don’t forget companion planting to boost growth and reduce pests—marigolds, basil, and nasturtiums are great allies.

With a little planning, your summer garden can be productive, vibrant, and sustainable, setting you up for a fruitful 2026 from the very start of the year!

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Preparing Your Home For A Bright New Year

The New Year is the perfect time to give your home a fresh start.

After the hustle and bustle of Christmas, a tidy, refreshed space can boost your mood, create a welcoming environment, and even inspire healthier habits for 2026.

Start with decluttering. Clear surfaces, cupboards, and wardrobes, keeping only what you truly use or love. Donate items that are in good condition, and recycle or responsibly dispose of what you no longer need. Decluttering not only frees up space but also makes your home feel lighter and more organised.

Next, consider minor renovations or updates. Even small changes, like a fresh coat of paint on walls, updating door handles, or replacing worn-out cushions, can dramatically refresh a room. Focus on areas you use most, such as the kitchen, living areas, or outdoor entertaining spaces, so you feel the benefits every day.

Lighting can also transform your home. Switch to brighter, energy-efficient bulbs, add a statement lamp, or install LED strip lights under cabinets to create warmth and functionality.

Finally, add finishing touches to make your space feel inviting. Soft textiles, fresh flowers, scented candles, or even a few well-placed artworks can instantly elevate the vibe. Outdoor spaces benefit from a sweep, potted plants, and tidy furniture arrangements.

By decluttering and refreshing your home now, you set the tone for a bright, organised, and energised 2026.

A little effort goes a long way, helping you start the year with a clear mind and a space you’re proud to call home.

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Kids Take Over TV Program Shows Mackay Through Young Eyes

Mackay’s own backyard took centre stage this year, with ten enthusiastic young actors setting out to prove that adventure doesn’t have to come with a boarding pass.

The group spent the month of July rediscovering the region’s family-friendly attractions, inviting the community to see familiar places in a new light.

Experience Mackay Through Young Eyes

From the region’s art gallery and local libraries to live football, lush gardens and the Mackay Festival of Arts, the young presenters showcased the breadth of experiences available right across the Mackay region.

Their experiences will launch to the public this week in the new season of Kids Take Over TV, which is a fun and inspiring online travel series where kids aged eight to 12 become the tour guides.

This unique program showcases the best family-friendly destinations across Australia – through the eyes of young adventurers.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the initiative was a wonderful reminder of the richness of Mackay’s community life.

“Our young people have captured the spirit of Mackay beautifully – from our arts and culture to our sporting fields and green spaces,” Mayor Williamson said

“It’s inspiring to see them enjoying these experiences and helping us to showcase them through a new lens,” he said.

“It’s easy to be complacent when you live in a region for many years, but the beauty of having young people front and centre in this series is that their genuine excitement and joy is contagious.

“It makes you really value what we have in our beautiful region and it also helps us to showcase our region to the rest of Australia in a fun, original way.”

One of the young presenters, Archer Finch was blown away by the experience.

“Being part of this series was like having a burst of excitement inside you!” Archer said.

“I felt so important and it was so much fun,” he said.

Mayor Williamson said the project was about more than just highlighting amazing regional experiences.

“It gave these young stars the opportunity to build friendships outside of school, work together as a team and develop valuable skills in communication, presentation and performance,” he said.

“It was a tremendous confidence boost for many of them, and I don’t doubt that we will see more of these young people on stage and screen in the years to come.”

Kids Take Over TV episodes will feature Artspace Mackay, BB Print Stadium and the Mackay Cutters, The Mackay Region Botanic Gardens, DBCT Illuminate and Mackay Regional Council Libraries.

Episodes will drop fortnightly on Mackay Regional Council’s Facebook page and Youtube during the school holidays and will feature young local presenters Harper Semple, Dustin Persson, Dexter Schembri, Millaa Ellis, Natalie Homewood, Isla Muir, Archer Finch, Jules Gaviglio, Ivy Gould, Madison Kennedy and Brayson Oldfield.

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Kids Take Over presenters from left, Natalie Homewood, Harper Semple, Ivy Gould, Isla Muir, Jules Gaviglio, Dustin Schembri, Archer Finch, Dexter Schembri and Brayson Oldfield, with Mayor Greg Williamson and videographer Matt Ferguson. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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A simple act of kindness has prompted a heartfelt message of gratitude from a local family, after a frightening fall at the Sydney Street Market car park reminded them just how powerful community spirit can be.

The incident occurred when a local woman fell in the car park, leaving her vulnerable and in pain. Within moments, members of the public stepped in to help, offering calm support and practical assistance while waiting for emergency services to arrive.

Strangers stayed with the woman and her husband until the ambulance arrived, ensuring they were not alone during a stressful and uncertain time. Water was brought to help keep them comfortable, and blankets were placed beneath the woman to protect her from the heat of the road as she waited for medical care.

Her daughter later shared a message of thanks, saying the situation could have been far worse without the quick thinking and compassion of those who stopped to help.

“Thank you to the wonderful people who helped my mum today at Sydney street market car park when she fell,” she said.

“Without such wonderful people like those who helped her and dad, stayed with them until ambulance arrived, got water for them and blankets to put under my mum so road didn't burn her, she would have been worse off.”

The woman has since returned home. While she is sore and bruised, she is safe and recovering – a result her family credits in no small part to the kindness shown by complete strangers. In a moment of distress, their care and compassion reflected the very best of the local community.

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Image for illustrative purposes only

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Hi lovely readers,

This is our second last edition of the year, and what a wonderful year it’s been.

Next up is our special Christmas edition which is always a joy to read, so be sure to grab your copy.

Last Sunday Adam and I were meant to celebrate our 1st wedding anniversary… although we both completely forgot until the day after (LOL).

Life has been pretty busy lately, so it somehow missed our radar… but hey, that’s life sometimes!

This past week, I spent a little time in hospital. It’s nothing too major, so please don’t worry about me. Adam always finds a way to make me laugh, even in the toughest moments, so it wasn’t all doom and gloom… and that’s one of the many things I love about him.

While I missed home for a few days, I was incredibly well looked after by the wonderful staff, nurses and doctors at Mackay Base Hospital. Their care and kindness, especially during this busy Christmas period made my stay a positive one, and for that I'm so grateful!

My prayers also go out to the victims and families affected by the recent attacks in Bondi, Sydney. Nobody deserves such harm, and my heart goes out to all who are grieving.

May the peace of God comfort them in this difficult time.

Scripture of the week: "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." – Philippians 4:6-7 NKJV

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Suns Deal Drives Regional Growth

Council has locked in a major win for the region, confirming the extension of its successful partnership with the Gold Coast SUNS Football Club (GCFC) through to 2028.

The announcement follows news of a half-billion-dollar investment in the Mackay region by Certainty Wealth, which includes the proposed development of 1,100 residential lots.

Certainty Wealth Managing Director Damien Gwynne said the company’s decision to invest in Mackay was directly influenced by council’s partnership with the Gold Coast SUNS, highlighting the role the collaboration has played in strengthening the region’s profile and appeal.

“In 2024 we were brought up by the Gold Coast SUNS on a business delegation to explore Mackay as a potential investment opportunity,” Mr Gwynne said.

“We will invest more than half a billion dollars in the region over the next seven years – retirement villages, childcare, commercial centres – and that’s all because of that one business delegation,” he said.

Within 13 months of the delegation, Certainty Wealth are 25 per cent of the way through constructing stage one of the Riverbend estate at Mirani near Platypus Beach.

They have also settled on land at Sarina, which will be a master-planned community with more than 1000 dwellings called The Crossing.

Mr Gwynne said The Crossing would change the face of Sarina.

“It will include residential lots, townhouses, retirement village, childcare centre, retail centres, plus a whole bunch of community infrastructure that will assist the existing residents of Sarina,” he said.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the new agreement reinforced council’s commitment to delivering economic, social and sporting benefits for the Mackay region.

“Since 2019, the partnership has positioned Mackay as a premier destination for elite women’s sport, with annual AFLW matches at the Great Barrier Reef Arena attracting thousands of spectators and showcasing the region on a national stage,” Mayor Williamson said.

“AFL participation in Mackay has grown by 15 per cent during this period, with female participation increasing by 20 per cent, highlighting the positive impact of the collaboration on grassroots sport,” he said.

The renewed three-year agreement will see council continue as Official Partner of the Gold Coast SUNS and Official Gold Coast SUNS AFLW Destination Partner.

Key deliverables of the extended partnership include:

• Hosting one AFLW match annually at the Great Barrier Reef Arena.
• National brand exposure through apparel branding and signage at AFLW and AFL matches.
• The creation of Discover Mackay Week, showcasing the region through SUNS platforms and match-day activations.
• Economic development opportunities via corporate networking events and boardroom lunches with SUNS partners.
• Community engagement through AFLW player appearances, academy camps and grassroots football programs.
• Consumer promotions such as the “Live the Dream” initiative, giving Mackay girls the chance to experience life as an AFLW player.
• Leadership development sessions run by GCFC executives and high-performance staff.

Gold Coast SUNS Deputy CEO Simon Fitzgibbon welcomed the extension which will see the relationship between the organisations span beyond a decade.

“We are thrilled to extend our partnership with Mackay Regional Council. The council has been an influential supporter of our club, in particular our AFLW program, for almost a decade,” Fitzgibbon said.

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Council has extended its partnership with the Gold Coast SUNS through to 2028, a move credited with driving major investment, boosting grassroots sport, and elevating Mackay’s national profile. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Opinion Piece By Andrew Willcox MP

Australia went to bed wounded, and woke up confronting a truth we should never have had to
face.

What unfolded at Bondi was not just an act of violence. It was an act of terror. It was an attack
on innocent people, on a community gathered in peace, and on the values that bind us together
as Australians.

My first thoughts are with the victims, those who lost their lives, those who were injured, and the
families whose worlds have been shattered forever. No words can ease that pain. I also extend
my deepest respect and gratitude to the police officers, paramedics, doctors, nurses,
lifeguards, and everyday Australians who ran towards danger without hesitation.

Among the horror, there was extraordinary courage. Ahmed al Ahmed, a local fruit shop owner,
did not run from danger. He ran toward it. With no thought for his own safety, he tackled an
armed attacker from behind, wrestled the weapon from his hands, and helped stop further
bloodshed. In doing so, it has been reported by media that Ahmed was shot twice and required
surgery, yet his actions likely saved countless lives.

His bravery reminds us of something fundamental about Australia: that decency, courage, and
moral clarity still rise in our darkest moments.

Australia is grieving. Australia is angry. And Australia has every right to be.

This attack occurred as members of the Jewish community gathered to celebrate Chanukah by
the Sea. What should have been a moment of light, faith, and joy was transformed into horror.
We stand with Australia’s Jewish community today and always. Antisemitism has no place in
this country. It never has, and it never will.

But we must also confront an uncomfortable truth. This tragedy was not unimaginable. For
many Australians of Jewish faith, it was feared.

Since 7 October 2023, antisemitism has surged across Australia. We have seen hateful
protests, intimidation outside synagogues, Jewish schools requiring security to function, and
vile slogans shouted openly in our streets. Before the shameful scenes on the steps of the
Sydney Opera House in October 2023, many Australians would have said such hatred could
never take root here. That complacency was a mistake.

The warnings were there. They were repeated. They were ignored.

Leaders of the Jewish community sounded the alarm. International allies sounded the alarm.
Even foreign heads of government warned that failing to confront antisemitism early would only
embolden it. Yet the Albanese Government responded with hesitation, equivocation, and
silence when moral clarity was required.

Hatred does not disappear when it is tolerated. It grows.

Australia is a successful multicultural nation because we share a social contract. We welcome
people from all backgrounds, faiths, and cultures, but we ask something in return. We ask that
people respect our laws, our freedoms, and one another. We ask that grievances from overseas
are not imported and weaponised on Australian streets. We ask that loyalty lies with Australia,
not with extremist ideologies or foreign conflicts.

The vast majority of migrants honour that contract. They work hard, integrate, contribute, and
enrich our country. They are valued members of Team Australia.

But it is no longer honest to pretend that our immigration system is immune from failure.
Under Labor, immigration has surged to levels that are unsustainable. More than 1.2 million
people arrived in Labor’s first term alone, with two million expected by the end of the second.

Housing is stretched. Hospitals are under strain. Schools are full. Infrastructure is lagging.
These pressures affect Australians of every background.

A sustainable immigration program is not defined by volume, but by the values and social
cohesion it preserves.

A successful immigration program does not just count numbers. It enforces standards. It
ensures that those who come here accept equality between men and women, freedom of belief,
freedom of speech, and the rule of law. It does not turn a blind eye to extremism, radicalisation,
or imported hatred out of fear of political backlash.

What we have seen in recent times is a failure to uphold those standards. We have seen people
who reject Australian values, glorify violence, and openly express hatred toward Jewish
Australians. That should never have been allowed to take root here.

Raising these concerns does not make someone racist or anti-migrant. It makes them honest.
Australians are generous people. But generosity without boundaries is not compassion, it is
negligence. A government that refuses to police its immigration system properly, or confront
antisemitism decisively, is not being inclusive. It is failing in its most basic duty, which is to keep Australians safe.

This attack has forever changed our nation. We cannot undo what has been done, but we can
decide what happens next.

We must strengthen laws against hate crimes. We must enforce existing laws without fear or
favour. We must ensure migration settings serve Australia’s interests, not ideology. And we must
say, clearly and without apology, that antisemitism, terrorism, and extremist hatred will be met
with the full force of the law.

Australia deserves leadership that is honest, courageous, and prepared to act early, not issue
statements after lives are lost.

Today we mourn. Tomorrow we must act.

For the victims. For their families. For our Jewish community. And for the future of a nation that
should never have allowed this to happen on its shores.

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Mackay Regional Council has raised concerns after the recently upgraded skate park in Bucasia was vandalised only weeks after the revamp was completed.

The popular community space, praised by residents for its fresh new look, has already been targeted by graffiti — a setback council describes as both frustrating and disheartening for the wider community.

Mayor Greg Williamson says the impact of this type of vandalism isn't insignificant.

"There's the cost to ratepayers for crews to have to go back and fix up this defacing of public assets, but it also means they're being pulled from other jobs and projects," Mayor Williamson said.

"The fact that they are having to go and fix up something that should never have needed to be fixed up in the first place is infuriating.

"Aussie culture is that we we don't dob people in, but this has to stop. If you see it, please report it."

Reports can be made through the Snap, Send, Solve app or call 1300 MACKAY.

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Mackay Regional Council has condemned fresh graffiti at the newly upgraded Bucasia skate park, calling the vandalism an unnecessary cost to ratepayers and urging locals to report any incidents. Photos supplied

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