Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm has stepped down from her role as Minister for Child Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence, in an effort to prioritise her health and wellbeing. The announcement comes a fortnight after Ms Camm returned from six weeks of medical leave following major surgery, with the Whitsunday MP recognising she needed more time to recover. “This has been a considered and deeply personal decision,” Ms Camm said. “Having returned from six weeks of medical leave following major surgery I have come to recognise that my recovery still has some way to go and I need to prioritise my health and wellbeing.” “I sincerely thank the Premier for the opportunity to serve in his Government and for his support of my decision.” Ms Camm added in a presser outside of Parliament house in Brisbane, that the pressures of ministerial work had contributed to her decision to step down. This follows months of intense scrutiny over conditions for children in care and domestic violence prevention funding cuts had reinforced the importance of personal safety, especially in light of the recent attack on Victorian MP Helen Haines. “Public scrutiny and accountability are essential to democracy and to our institutions,” she said. “Harassment, threats, bullying and personal vilification are not and for the past year this has been my experience.” But during her time in the role, Ms Camm oversaw reforms to strengthen child protection, support foster and kinship carers and improve responses to domestic and family violence. Central to her child safety work was the Government’s response to the Child Safety Commission of Inquiry, which delivered 52 recommendations for improving the system. “The landmark Child Safety Commission of Inquiry was the turning point for the Child Safety system,” Ms Camm said. “There is much more work to be done, while early positive signs show we have stabilised numbers in the Residential Care system for the first time.” Her work in domestic and family violence included introducing laws for electronic monitoring of perpetrators to strengthen accountability, alongside her reporting a doubling of calls answered by DVConnect to help more people access support when they needed it. “After sitting with victims of domestic and family violence over many years through opposition and then in the ministry, I’m proud to have been part of delivering change that can help save lives,” Ms Camm said. In a statement following her decision, Premier David Crisafulli praised her work across both portfolios, describing the child safety inquiry’s reform roadmap as her greatest legacy and highlighting improved access to the domestic violence helpline. “I thank Amanda for her service to Queensland firstly as a Shadow Minister and then as a Minister,” Mr Crisafulli said. “Amanda took on an enormous task with a Child Safety system in crisis and a state in need of domestic violence reform. “With her dedication, passion and commitment, she has put Queensland on the road to repair both. “I speak on behalf of the Government, the LNP and all Queenslanders in wishing her the best in her recovery.” Ms Camm will continue serving as the Member for Whitsunday, reaffirming her commitment to the local community. “I remain committed to the people of Whitsunday as their Member of Parliament, and to supporting the Premier and the Government in delivering a fresh start for Queensland,” she said.
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By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay A firmly enforced bioethanol mandate, backed by increased local sugarcane production, is essential to strengthening Queensland’s industry resilience, regional jobs, and Australia’s long‑term fuel security. Our region holds enormous potential: not only for producing sugar, but for renewable fuel, energy diversification, and national economic security. Queensland’s sugarcane industry has always been a cornerstone of regional prosperity, but today it stands at a crossroads. Global markets are volatile and input costs are rising, and at the same time, Australia faces increasing pressure to reduce emissions, strengthen domestic fuel supplies, and build more resilient regional economies. A properly enforced bioethanol mandate is one of the most effective tools we have to meet these challenges head on. Queensland already has a mandate in place, but compliance remains inconsistent. When fuel retailers fail to meet their obligations, growers, mills, and regional communities lose out on opportunities that should rightfully be flowing into our local economy. Bioethanol is not a theoretical solution: it is a proven, practical, and immediate pathway to cleaner fuel and stronger regional industries and economies. Countries like Brazil and the United States have shown that bioethanol can reduce emissions, stabilise fuel markets, and create thousands of rural jobs. In these countries, and across the world, bioethanol forms a substantially higher portion of retail fuel sales than this country has embraced. Queensland has the same potential, but only if the mandate is taken seriously and enforced with the consistency it deserves. For Mackay, the benefits are clear. Our region is one of Australia’s most productive sugarcane hubs, with the land, infrastructure, climate, and expertise to support a thriving biofuels sector. Increased demand for bioethanol directly translates into increased demand for sugarcane. That means more cane in the ground, more certainty for growers, and more throughput for our mills, and we all know that milling is a volume game. This in turn supports jobs from the paddock to the processing line. But the opportunity extends far beyond economics. A stronger bioethanol industry enhances national fuel security, reducing Australia’s reliance on imported fuels. At a time when global supply chains are increasingly unstable, producing more of our own fuel is not just smart policy, it is essential. Every litre of bioethanol produced in Queensland is a litre of fuel Australia does not have to import. To seize this opportunity, we must also focus on increasing local sugarcane production. The industry cannot diversify, innovate, or expand into new markets without a reliable and growing supply of cane. More cane means more flexibility for mills, more investment in advanced manufacturing, and greater capacity to produce not only sugar and ethanol, but also bioplastics, green electricity, and other high value products. Growers are ready to meet this challenge. With the right policy settings from all levels of government, including a robust and enforced bioethanol mandate, we can plant more cane, improve productivity, and strengthen the long‑term viability of our region. But growers cannot do it alone. We need government to ensure the mandate is upheld, fuel retailers to meet their obligations, and industry partners to continue investing in innovation and infrastructure. Mackay has the land, the people, and the expertise to lead Queensland’s next era of renewable energy and agricultural diversification. What we need now is the policy certainty that comes from a mandate that is not only written into law but actively enforced. A stronger bioethanol mandate is not just good for growers it is good for Queensland, good for regional jobs, and good for Australia’s fuel future. The time to act is now. Bioethanol can use sugarcane by-products including molasses, bagasse, mill mud as well as plant material. Image: AdobeStock
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Marketing strategy boils down to answering four questions: What does your business want? > The goal. Who can help you achieve your goal? > The audience. What do you need to tell your audience so that they can help you achieve your goal? > The message. Where do you need to put your message so that your audience sees it? > The delivery. But how do you actually go about answering those Q’s? Like anything, the broad strokes are more complicated in practice but it’s a good framework to come back to when you’re planning your next marketing activity. Start by drilling down + identifying a measurable goal that you can work towards. Vague + lofty goals are okay, but without a clear way to track your progress, achieving them will be pretty tough. For example, tracking how many enquiries you get + the quote conversion rate can be useful info to have as a baseline. That way, if you do a targeted campaign to attract more work, you can see if it meaningfully pushed the needle in the right direction! Next, really empathise with who can help you achieve those goals. Try to build up a target customer in your head. How old are they? What do they want from your business? What are they interested in? The more specific you are, the easier it’ll be to craft messaging that will actually appeal to that person. Once you’ve defined your goal + who can help you achieve it, you’ve got to tell them how to help you do it. Your messaging should be the key information that your audience needs to know about your business. This is where you focus on not only what your customers want to know about you, but how your business is different to all the others out there. Your messaging should change based on the people you’re targeting. Lastly, the delivery. Where does your target market frequent? Do they use socials? Are they constantly listening to the radio? Do they frequent the pub on a Friday arvo? Once you know where they go, you can start figuring out how to get your message there. While socials are a great option, they’re not the only one. Billboards, coasters, or a flyer that sits on a wall somewhere are all effective options. But if that all sounds like too much effort, you can always reach out + talk to us. We’ll help you figure it out 😉 Taren McAuley
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Campaigners of Walk for Yes 2023 assembled at Bluewater Quay on Sunday, September 17 to share stories of unity and reconciliation, before heading off for a walk across Forgan Bridge to show their support of the ‘Yes’ vote in the upcoming referendum.
Mackay for Yes is a growing group of volunteers aiming to achieve a ‘Yes’ vote to support and recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders in the Australian Constitution, which will be voted for on October 14.
Walk for Yes 2023 has received interest Australia-wide, with the main goal of the events being to encourage the public to vote and to garner a wider audience of supporters for the ‘Yes’ option.
In a matter of weeks, the nation will head to the polls, with tensions rising between voters.
The consensus from the ‘No’ party is that there is inadequate information about what ‘the voice’ will achieve, and that it will cause further division and racism in Australia.
The 'No' campaign is ‘Australians for Unity.’ This campaign is led by Shadow Indigenous Australians Minister Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price and Nyunggai Warren Mundine. In May 2023, Price and Mundine merged their respective ‘No’ campaigns, ‘Fair Australia’ and ‘Recognise a Better Way.’
Arguments for the 'No' vote include that the Voice won’t deliver meaningful change for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, or that Sovereignty and Treaty should be prioritised ahead of a Voice to Parliament.
At Mackay’s ‘Yes’ walk, a resident of Mackay and speaker, Rev. Keith McCollim, said he wants to see a positive change brought forward within his lifetime.
Keith acknowledges his privilege and lack of awareness in his early years about First Nations people and their rich cultural connection to Australia.
“What did we learn about the first nations people when we were young?
“Absolutely nothing. Not a thing was taught to us in school.”
Keith said, “If not now, when will it ever be?
“I want to see it in my lifetime, now is the time. I encourage each of you to do what you can to talk to people, dispel the fear and doubt to do with the Yes vote.”
Yes23 volunteer Peter McCallum said, “I’m involved in this campaign to see hope that my children can be proud of what is achieved in this country as a very progressive nation, and I think we are.”
“Although there are some who have self-interest at heart and want to fear and doubt, we are starting to see people recognising those feelings, and want to find out more about why [voting] ‘Yes’ is a good thing to do.
“I think that in the next four weeks, if we are all involved in this campaign, with tens of thousands of Australians supporting, we will shift those views under the weight of the ‘No’ campaign.”
To find out more information about Yes23’s campaign efforts, visit their website at yes23.com.au. For more information on the referendum, visit voice.gov.au.
Michelle McKenzie, Brooke McReynolds, Mary Ann Baillie, Damien Walls, Kay Walls and Joy Walls. Photo credit: Sinead Porter
Margaret Doranti and Linda Campbell
Cath Hore and Ella Hore
Helen Taylor, Andrea Orr and Alexis Brodie
South Sea Islander speakers, Zelda Quakawoot and Seini Willett
Peter McCallum holding up banner to encourage volunteers
Parade of campaigners walking across Forgan Bridge
Strap on your running shoes, because 21Degrees South Multisport Association is about to blaze a trail through the Mackay region! Get ready to sprint into action with orienteering, conquer thrilling adventure races, and navigate the exhilarating world of MapRuns.
Increasing inclusion in real life skills is important, with offerings of navigating and team building skills, the association encourages competition and trying out something new.
21DSMA has hosted a number of different events including orienteering short courses, regular MapRuns as well as assisting at major events like Zach Mach adventure race and Kids Triathlon events.
If you’re looking for some light exercise and a family-friendly day out, consider joining MapRun. The events last 40 minutes and caters to all physical abilities - set your own pace, with full instructions provided.
21DSMA representative Kirsty Mawer explains, “Think of [the event] like Pokémon hunting; navigate the streets to collect points. Only thing is, the map you are given doesn’t have street names, so you need to pay attention.”
These MapRun events are ideal for getting outdoors, meeting new people and gaining new skills.
Kirsty states, “The feedback we get from our newcomers is how much fun they had, despite being a little nervous.
“It is great to hear the excitement of participants when they finish, having found all the checkpoints.”
You can join the fun this Saturday, with MapRun taking place at Quota Park, Binnington Esplanade at 3:00 PM.
With community support, the association looks forward to bringing more exciting multisport activities to the Mackay region.
Come along and join the fun! To find out more information or keep up with events, visit: facebook.com/21degreessouth.
MapRun attendees on their navigation quest.
Winners are grinners - MapRun participants reach the finish line.
A 71-year-old Bakers Creek man has passed away following a two vehicle crash in Yalboroo, on Saturday September 16.
Police said in a statement that the Bakers Creek man was travelling north on the Bruce Highway, on his motorbike, when at approximately 11.45am, a blue Toyota Corolla travelling in the opposite direction turned in front of him.
The Toyota was attempting to turn onto Cathu O’Connell River Road, and the driver and sole occupant, a 28-year-old New South Wales man, was not physically injured.
The Bakers Creek man was transported to hospital, however, was pronounced deceased during the transport.
The New South Wales man is assisting police, and the investigation is ongoing.
An epic new campaign launched by Mackay Regional Council is destined to trigger a wave of pirate costumes and pirate roars across the region.
The campaign is a first for council and will encourage residents to explore their own backyard by completing a treasure trail.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the region has a treasure trove of hidden gems to discover and many locals have barely scratched the surface.
“We’re taking our existing Discover Mackay campaign to uncharted territory, with a treasure trail setting sail across the Mackay region, from north to south and east to west,” Mayor Williamson said.
“The pirate-themed campaign will include 10 mystery locations to be discovered, by solving a series of riddles and clues on the council website,” he said.
“We’re encouraging residents to have a bit of fun, dress up in costume and explore the trail from Saturday, September 23, to Sunday, October 8.
“Each treasure trail location will have a large poster or corflute on display and treasure hunters need to find the sign, scan the QR code and complete any challenges that pop up on each online form.
“Challenges could include taking a photo or video of something, or someone, at the location; answering a trivia question or finding something special.”
Harvey Norman Mackay Proprietor Adam Patuwairua said he was excited to be part of the new campaign.
“We love supporting the local community and what better way than supporting a promotion that gets people out and about to explore the local area,” Mr Patuwairua said.
“Harvey Norman is proud to provide the major prize for the first person or team to complete the whole trail, plus three other digital cameras as an incentive for the community to hit the trail,” he said.
The first-place winner will receive a Canon EOS R100 camera with a single lens kit and two Pixbee PixPlay kid’s cameras, second place will receive a $500 Visa gift card and third place a $350 Sarina Sugar Shed hamper and MECC double pass.
The first 50 people to finish will also receive a Discover Mackay picnic blanket and the best dressed team will score a $200 gift card.
Anyone who completes the trail will go in the draw to win a $300 Sarina Sugar Shed hamper of goodies, including a MECC double pass.
Small rocks painted with a council logo will also be hidden at six of the ten locations.
Anyone who finds one of the rocks and hands it in will instantly win a $50 gift card.
To find out more, or to register for council’s treasure trail, visit mackay.qld.gov.au/trail.
Mayor Greg Williamson and Harvey Norman Mackay Proprietor Adam Patuwairua at the Treasure Trail media launch
Mackay's busiest bus stops at Caneland Central shopping centre are moving, and about to undergo a transformation, promising improved comfort and safety for customers. The State Government's $769 million, four-year transport and roads plan for Mackay Whitsunday is backing this significant upgrade, which the government says ensures job security for Queenslanders.
Local contractor Woollam Constructions has been awarded the tender for stage two of the Caneland bus station, with construction set to commence in September. This development is part of a broader effort to enhance the region's transportation infrastructure.
Stage one, completed in February, focused on improving accessibility with a signalised crossing on Mangrove Road, landscaping works, and a bus laydown area. Now, stage two will bring about a modern 60-meter bus station on Mangrove Road. The new station will provide weather protection, additional seating, and enhanced lighting and visibility for customer safety.
Mackay MP Julieanne Gilbert expressed her satisfaction with the project's progress, saying, "We know how important these bus stops are for locals, which is why it’s so good to see we’re a step closer to getting these upgrades done.
“The new location and improved station will make it safer and easier than ever before to use our buses – which is a big win for the Mackay community."
She added, "The station structure will be enclosed for weather protection, more seating, and improved lighting and visibility for customer safety. This upgrade forms part of the Palaszczuk Labor Government’s $769 million, four-year transport and roads plan for Mackay Whitsunday, supporting good, secure jobs for Queenslanders.
“We’re delivering better services all over the state, helping Queenslanders get home sooner and safer, and spend more time enjoying our great lifestyle."
Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson highlighted the improved facilities, saying, "The new station would modernise our local facilities.
“This station has been designed to meet accessibility standards and provide people using mobility aids and prams with easier access to and from the bus."
Artist impression of the new bus stop at Caneland Central shopping centre
In a ceremony held at the Banksia Scout Den on Fernleigh Avenue, Andergrove, Ayva Grant, a dedicated member of the Banksia Cub Scout group, received the highly regarded Grey Wolf Award on the evening of September 7, 2023.
The Grey Wolf Award is the highest honour achievable in the Cub Scout Section, representing a significant milestone in a Cub Scout's journey. To attain this prestigious badge, Ayva undertook a series of challenging and educational tasks.
Her journey encompassed active participation in nine Cub Scout Activities, including leading seven of them. Ayva also demonstrated her outdoor prowess by engaging in five nights of camping and completing two hikes, each lasting a minimum of six hours. She acquired essential survival skills such as knot-tying, basic first aid, shelter building, fire-starting, and navigation.
In addition to these outdoor adventures, Ayva pursued six personal special interest activities, participated in a Cub Scout Leadership Course, and completed an exhilarating four-hour adventurous journey. One of her hikes was an eight-hour city walk throughout the streets and pathways of Mackay, while her adventurous journey took her on a bike hike from the Port of Mackay to the Botanical Gardens.
Throughout her time in the Cub Scout Section, Ayva eagerly embraced adventurous activities such as abseiling, archery, paddling, water sports, camps, and hikes. She thoroughly enjoyed the camaraderie and learning experiences around the campfire, which included fire building, campsite cooking, games, and captivating storytelling.
The ceremony, presided over by Banksia Scout Dylan Harrison, featured Ayva's parents, Nathan Grant and Cub Scout Leader Maighan Grant, who proudly presented her with the Grey Wolf Award. Adventurous Activities Leader Brendan Ross awarded her the GWA Certificate, and Cub Scout Leader Sarah Harrison presented her with a special gift from the Banksia Group.
The evening concluded with the presentation of badges earned by the Cub Scouts during this term, followed by an energetic game and a memorable closing parade. Ayva's achievement in earning the Grey Wolf Award is a testament to her dedication to Cub Scouts, making her a true inspiration to her fellow Scouts. Congratulations, Ayva!
Contributed by Mary Wallace
Ayva Grant, with her parents Nathan and Maighan Grant presenting her with the Grey Wolf Award
A prominent Mackay charity organisation, Broken Ballerina Inc. are hosting their ‘Be Bold, Be Brave, Be Beautiful’ Ball on Saturday October 7 to raise funds for victims of domestic violence.
The ball will be held at Northern Beaches Bowls Club, event goers will experience a night of fun and fancy dress including a charity auction and local entertainment, all for a great cause.
Break out your best black, white and pink spring cocktail attire for a night of vibrancy and amusement.
Broken Ballerina was formed with an important mission in mind – to make a difference in the lives of victims of domestic violence and disadvantaged people in our society.
Broken Ballerina can help provide referral services and offer support in filing police reports, domestic violence orders and attending court.
The ‘Be Bold, Be Brave, Be Beautiful’ Ball will have Tegan Philpott set to MC the event, with special guest speakers and a performance by local band, Mango Junction.
A smorgasbord menu and chocolate dessert bar by The Chocolate Leaf will be on the cards for lucky attendees.
If you love supercars, you won’t want to miss out on the auction. Items up for grabs will include a limited-edition Seiko watch, signed by the V8 Supercar drivers and a Holden rim signed by Brad Jones, which was part of the very last race of a Holden vehicle.
Raffle prizes will include gift cards, gift baskets, a $1000 voucher from Local Eyes Optometrist and two nights' accommodation in a deluxe room at Pullman & Mercure Brisbane King George Square, included is a breakfast for two and a $120 food and beverage credit at Goldfinch Restaurant.
Other fun auction and raffle items will be disclosed on the night.
Don’t miss out on this exclusive event, with the option to support an outstanding not-for-profit charity that is constantly giving back to our local community.
Mackay and Whitsunday locals' generosity is paramount to the success of Broken Ballerina and enables the continuation of their services - help to be a part of the solution.
Tickets are available from mackaytickets.com.au, or alternatively you can visit brokenballerina-inc.com.au for more information. Donations are tax deductible.
If you have a business ready for an external refresh or an idea for a community activation, then now is the time to connect with council.
Council has two grant opportunities currently open for application, which are due to close on September 30.
The Facade Improvement Grant gives businesses the chance to breathe new life into their building facades, enhancing the vibrancy of the region’s business districts.
The grant covers improvement projects such as painting of facades and exterior walls, restoration of historic buildings, installation of new signage, renovation of entranceways and doors and installation of external awnings, lighting and street-visible windows.
The Activate My Place! (AMP!) Placemaking Grant is about transforming public spaces and bringing communities together, whether it is an art installation, or event celebrating togetherness and cultural heritage.
Council’s Economic Development team are excited to work with residents and businesses to identify projects that will breathe new life into every corner of our region.
To be eligible for a grant, applicants must meet specific criteria outlined in the guidelines, which can be found online at discovermackay.com.au/businesssupport.
Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity.
For more information or assistance in applying, contact the Economic Development team on 1300 MACKAY (622 529) or email business@mackay.qld.gov.au.
The Mackay Base Hospital received an Activate My Place! (AMP!) Placemaking Grant in 2022
to build this Indigenous meeting place and community garden, including a mural by
Indigenous artist Dylan Mooney
In a spectacular automotive extravaganza, the Pioneer Valley Classic Car Club transformed Mirani's main street into a vintage wonderland for their annual event, "Dad's Day in the Valley." With over 100 classic cars, trucks and bikes on display, this year's gathering proved to be the ultimate Father's Day treat.
The event, now in its 12th year, showcased vehicles spanning over a century of automotive history, drawing more than 6,000 people through the gates. From the elegant 1904 Renault to the rugged 1908 WWII truck and even a sleek 2018 McLaren, enthusiasts of all ages revelled in the beauty and craftsmanship of these mechanical marvels.
Not only did "Dad's Day in the Valley" draw car lovers from across the region, but it also served as a heartwarming display of community spirit. The event's unique feature of shutting down the town's main street for the day added to its charm, allowing families to stroll freely among the classic cars. Mayor Greg Williamson presented trophies to the proud owners of the winning vehicles.
Beyond celebrating classic cars, the event had a philanthropic mission. Gate proceeds from the day were channelled toward supporting local charities, this year the major recipient was Special Olympics Mackay. The charity received goods and services valued at $9,300, thanks to the generosity of the car club and the event attendees.
Over the years, "Dad's Day in the Valley" has evolved into a significant annual event. Its success is not only measured by the number of classic cars on display but also by the positive impact it has on the local community. With every passing year, this beloved tradition continues to grow and provide a unique opportunity for families to create lasting memories on Father's Day.
Photo credit: Mad for Media
● You WILL pay more tax
● You WILL lose your land
● This is a land grab; it is not a way forward for the First Nations People
● This WILL divide Australia even further
● $39 billion already spent on Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander programs
● Where has it gone?
● What has been achieved?
● Why are major corporations pushing for a YES vote?
● Why is the government trying to sway your vote to YES?
● If the government says YES, the people should say NO
● Why is the government saying YES when our elders are saying NO?
● The creators of the YES faction are Communists
● The Voice WILL be permanent
● There is no going back, this is NOT a trial run
● Why vote YES to something you don’t fully understand
● Don’t’ be swayed by celebrities pushing the YES vote
● Don’t be swayed by commercial interests with an alternate agenda
● WHY ARE THE NO VOTERS BEING DENIED A VOICE?
This is too important for you to be undecided. The decision is yours but your concerns have not been addressed. Read the actual changes planned for the constitution and you will see it is offering nothing of substance to our First Nations People.
Come and hear from our Birri Gubba Giya senior elders explaining why we must all vote NO.
Bluewater Quay Saturday 23rd September at 10am.
March across the bridge and bring your NO signs.
Contributed by Christine McDonald
Entertain the kids with everything from free art and craft activities, music and live entertainment to getting them outside exploring the Botanic Gardens with the perfect weather as Mackay Regional Council facilities offer a range of activities these school holidays.
> ARTSPACE MACKAY
Decorate a Mandap with colour and crepe paper
Until October 1, 2023
Tuesday to Friday, 10am to 5pm
Saturday and Sunday, 10am to 3pm
Inspired by Zanny Begg’s video work ‘Stories of Kannagi’ on show at Artspace Mackay, we’ve constructed a Mandap (a four-post structure traditionally used in India for special ceremonies) and we need your help to make it a special, beautiful and colour-filled space! This project is for all ages and abilities, so bring your family and use the many colourful crepe-paper streamers and instructions provided to make a variety of beautiful garlands to adorn the Mandap. Free entry, no bookings required. See below for special opening hours by Foodspace Café over select school holiday weekends.
Giant outdoor lawn games
Saturday and Sunday, September 23 and 24, 10am to 3pm
Love playing Jenga, Connect 4 and Noughts and Crosses? Come along and enjoy playing them in jumbo sizes with the family on the shaded lawn area outside near Foodspace while grabbing a bit to eat and a cuppa at the café.
> LIBRARIES
Larrikin Puppets Kids Comedy Puppet Show
Thursday, September 28, 10.30am to 11.15am at Gordon White Library Book tickets
Friday, September 29, 9.30am to 10.15am at Dudley Denny City Library Book tickets
Join us for a colourful and exciting puppet show featuring intriguing characters, songs, skits, jokes, games and live interaction. Puppeteers Brett and Elissa have trained in the USA under puppeteers from The Muppets and Sesame Street and their fast-paced, feel-good performance encourages audiences to talk, play, sing, and dance along. Suitable for children aged 7 years and under and their families.
Puppetry Performance Workshop with Larrikin Puppets
Thursday, September 28, 1pm to 2pm at Gordon White Library Book tickets
Friday, September 29, 11am to 12pm at Dudley Denny City Library Book tickets
An interactive workshop led by Brett Hansen and Elissa Jenkins of Larrikin Puppets who received their training in the USA under puppeteers from The Muppets and Sesame Street. Learn the basic techniques that bring puppet characters to life. Suitable for children aged five to 12 years.
> MECC
MECC Presents: The Sunshine Club
Thursday, September 28, 7.30pm
MECC Auditorium
Set in 1946, the joyful and acclaimed musical The Sunshine Club, tells the story of Aboriginal soldier Frank Doyle, who is just returning home to Brisbane after serving in WW2, to find that, while the world may have changed, the same attitudes and prejudices still exist at home. The Sunshine Club is a gloriously energetic, thought provoking and above all entertaining night of theatre. Book tickets
> MACKAY REGIONAL BOTANIC GARDENS
SELF-GUIDED ACTIVITIES
Tibbles Hunt in the Tropical Shade Garden
Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm during school holidays
FREE, self-guided kids’ activity, suitable for ages four and up. Find Tibbles the gnome and decode his latest message. Pick up your activity sheet from the Visitor Information centre weekdays, 9am to 4pm. Return the completed activity sheets to get your sticker.
Strolling Story Trail – One Remarkable Reef
Until September 22, 9am to 4.30pm
Follow the story of One Remarkable Reef along the trail throughout the holidays. Find the painted reef-inspired rock with ‘YOU WIN’ on the back along the way and return it to Botanic Gardens Visitor Information Centre to win a reef-inspired prize! Suitable for kids of all ages.
Creatures of the Gardens
Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm during school holidays
Discover some of the creatures found in the botanic gardens and surrounding region. Pick up your booklet from the Botanic Gardens Visitor Information Centre, answer the questions along the way and give yourself a sticker at each stop. This free, self-guided family friendly activity is suitable for kids aged seven years and older.
Bocce with a Buddy
Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm during school holidays
Malta Garden’s Bocce Court
Enjoy a game of bocce with a friend on our sand bocce court. Bocce sets are available to hire from Botanic Gardens Visitor Information Centre or bring your own to play. Cost: $5.00 to hire a bocce set.
BOOKED ACTIVITY
Creative container plants
Wednesday, September 27, 10am to 11.30am
Tropical Sun Lawn
Cost: $7/person
Spring has sprung! Get your gardening gloves on and join in to create a container garden with a difference. Reuse your plastic containers to create a decorative, tiered mini garden to attract wildlife or add a splash of colour to your garden. Bring along three plastic containers (eg 1.25L soft drink bottles, 1L milk bottle, yogurt containers, etc) and suitable clothing that might get dirty. Parental supervision is required at all times. Suitable for school aged children with colouring-in activities available for younger children. To book your spot, phone the gardens on phone (07) 4952 7300. Payment is required to confirm your spot.
> MACKAY WATERFRONT
River Wharves Activities
Wednesday, September 27
9.30am to 10.15am: Story Time presented by Let the Children Play at the Pavilion stage.
9.30am to 11.30am: Mackay Libraries exploration stations and First 5 Forever van.
> SARINA SUGAR SHED
Special kids tour of the Sarina Sugar Shed
Saturday, September 16 to Sunday, October 1, 10.30am every day
Adults at children’s prices (bookings essential)
Field of Dreams Parklands, Railway Square, Sarina
(Please note this tour does not include a full tasting of products for the adults)
This fun, interactive session focuses on the kids, with the added bonus of adults being welcome at kids' prices! During the 45-minute tour, the kids will discover the growing and harvesting of the sugar cane and complete a hunt for the critters that live in the sugar cane patch.
> SARINA YOUTH CENTRE
School holiday activities
All events run 10am to 2pm
A variety of school holiday activities are on offer for youth aged ten to 21 years. You must register for a spot and please indicate what day/program you would like to attend. Contact Sarina Youth Centre on 4961 9277 or email sarinayouthcentre@mackay.qld.gov.au.
Monday, September 25: Cooking
Tuesday, September 26: Trivia competition
Wednesday, September 27: Minute to win it - 60 seconds challenge
Thursday, September 28: Movie day
Friday, September 29: Board games - verse your friends
A trusted rural charity, Rural Aid, is encouraging farmers to reach out for assistance as the Bureau of Meteorology officially declares an El Nino event.
The El Nino weather pattern means hot, dry seasons that trend towards drought.
Rural Aid CEO John Warlters said the Bureau’s announcement confirmed many producers’ fears.
“The announcement of the El Nino weather pattern will bring a lot of unwelcome memories to the surface for our farmers, who’ve been anxiously watching land and waterways dry up,” Mr Warlters said.
“We’re encouraging farmers to reach out and register with Rural Aid now.”
Rural Aid offers primary producers a range of assistance measures including financial, hay, drinking water, counselling and volunteer assistance.
“We’ve already seen a huge increase in requests for emergency hay and household drinking water from farmers right across the country,” Mr Warlters said.
“In the past four months, requests to Rural Aid for emergency drinking water have increased by 240 per cent, and our free water tank offer was exhausted in just four hours with more than 95 applications. We’re aiming to deliver another 50 water tanks by the end of this year to meet demand.
“I’m encouraging farmers who are finding themselves overwhelmed to give our rurally-based counselling team a call for a free chat, to make sure they’re in the best possible position they can be to take on the upcoming seasons,” Mr Warlters said.
Primary producers are urged to register online at www.ruralaid.org.au or by calling 1300 327 624.
Rural Aid’s counsellors can be reached at 1300 175 594.
The Queensland Government has said that future generations of Australians will enjoy greater comfort in their homes as well as cheaper power bills thanks to national laws delivering modern building standards.
To balance the needs of homeowners and industry, the State Government has agreed to a phased approach to the National Construction Code 2022, with implementation from October 1, 2023 through to May 1, 2025.
Master Builders has welcomed the delay of the energy efficiency changes to the construction Code, however, is disappointed the Queensland Government is forging ahead with the other significant changes in just over a week.
Last week, Minister Mick de Brenni announced the energy efficiency changes will have an extended transition to 1 May 2024 as the software used to measure energy ratings was still not ready.
While the government has listened to the industry’s concerns, Queensland is the lone state moving ahead with a 2023 introduction of livable housing changes.
Master Builders said the rules were only finalised last week, a little more than a week from the 1 October start date, and there has been a lack of sufficient education and awareness for industry and consumers.
Master Builders CEO Paul Bidwell reiterated that now is not the time to introduce changes that will increase the cost of housing, while the state faces a housing crisis.
“We are disappointed that the Minister didn’t delay the liveable housing requirements, as there is a lack of practical information available to licensed builders and trade contractors on how to implement the changes without incurring significant costs. Changes that commence in just 11 days.
“How can licensees comply with substantial changes to the way houses must be built when information has not been issued to them ahead of the changes commencing on 1 October.”
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A surge in sugar and grain exports have propelled the Port of Mackay to another bumper trade result in the 2022/23 financial year.
North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation Acting CEO Belinda Kenny said the multi-cargo port posted 3.51 million tonnes of throughput, just shy of the record-breaking 3.59 million tonnes set the year before.
“The Port of Mackay has put together back-to-back bumper trade performances, reflecting the strength and diversity of the Mackay region,” Ms Kenny said.
“Over the past financial year, sugar and grain along with fuel imports and break bulk cargo have led the way.
“Sugar, the port’s second-largest trade, was up 8.2 per cent at 1.06 million tonnes on last financial year, and grain, the third largest export was up 14.7 per cent at 342,581 (2022/23: 342,581 tonnes; 2021/22: 298,682 tonnes).”
“Petroleum saw its second-highest year at 1.7 million tonnes (2022/23:1.7 million tonnes; 2021/22: 1.84 million tonnes).”
Ms Kenny said the strong results were only possible thanks to the efforts of the people who worked at the port and across the Mackay region supply chain.
“Across our four ports – Hay Point, Mackay, Abbot Point and Weipa - NQBP facilitated a combined 152.1 million tonnes of throughput,” Ms Kenny said.
“This represents an overall increase in trade of 4.8 per cent compared to last year (2021/22: 145.1 million tonnes).”
“The results reflect the essential role of our government-owned ports to regional jobs and economic prosperity.”
Throughput figures for NQBP’s ports for 2022-23 are now available on their website.
Port of Mackay Trade highlights
• Raw sugar trade best recorded in 15 years (2022/23: 858,277 tonnes; 2007/08: 883,203 tonnes)
• Grain trade surged to an 11 year-long high (2022/23: 342,581 tonnes; 2011/12: 386,324 tonnes)
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