Community News

Makayla Groves And Bianca O’Brien Support Mackay Commercial Property Clients

Makayla Groves And Bianca O’Brien Support Mackay Commercial Property Clients

Makayla Groves and Bianca O'Brien are part of the commercial property team at Blacks Real Estate, supporting landlords, tenants and business owners across the Mackay region. Working as Commercial Property Managers, Makayla and Bianca assist with the day-to-day management of commercial properties, helping clients navigate leasing and property management requirements across retail, office and industrial spaces. Based at the agency’s Wood Street office, the pair work closely with business clients throughout the region as part of Blacks Real Estate’s commercial division. Makayla Groves can be contacted on 07 4963 2522, while Bianca O’Brien can be contacted on 07 4963 2525. CAPTION: Bianca O'Brien works with Blacks Real Estate as a Commercial Property Manager. Photo supplied Makayla Groves works as a Commercial Property Manager with Blacks Real Estate. Photo supplied

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Gooseponds Park Set For Major Upgrade

Gooseponds Park Set For Major Upgrade

Visitors to Gooseponds Park can expect improved access and connectivity, with major upgrade works set to begin on a replacement pedestrian bridge, new fencing and a renewed shared pathway. The project, to be delivered by D&M Composites Pty Ltd, will include replacing the existing footpath between Valley and Hicks streets with a widened 2.5-metre shared pathway, enhancing links to the popular Gooseponds circuit. Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the project is another example of the Queensland Government delivering for the state and supporting important upgrades for the community. “That’s why we made Works for Queensland funding permanent, to back local councils with the funding they need to deliver vital projects like this for their communities.” A new bridge, parallel to Malcomson Street, will be constructed one-metre higher than the existing bridge to provide increased flood immunity. The existing bridge will remain in place while the new one is constructed directly behind it. Some short traffic delays are expected on Malcomson Street. Traffic control will be in place. Pedestrians can detour via Glenpark and Meadow streets while the work is completed. New fencing will be installed and 23 new trees will be planted along Hicks Street. Work is due to take place between mid-June and late September, weather permitting. Mackay Regional Council have said they apologise for any inconvenience caused by the works and appreciate the community’s patience and understanding. Jointly funded by Mackay Regional Council and the Queensland Government. For more information visit www.connectingmackay.gooseponds-park-upgrades Major upgrades at Gooseponds Park, including a new pedestrian bridge, widened shared pathway, fencing and tree planting, are set to improve access and connectivity, with works expected to run from mid-June to late September. Illustrative image supplied.

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Better Roads Ahead For Bakers Creek And Sarina

Better Roads Ahead For Bakers Creek And Sarina

Improved safety, stronger infrastructure and greater resilience are on the horizon for motorists travelling between Mackay and Sarina, with the latest round of Bruce Highway upgrades welcomed as a significant investment in the region's transport network. Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly, said the upgrades form part of the historic $9 billion Bruce Highway funding agreement between the Queensland and Federal governments and will deliver lasting benefits for road users across Central Queensland. Mr Kelly said the Bruce Highway remains one of the most vital transport routes within the Mirani electorate, supporting thousands of vehicle movements each day, including freight transport, daily commuters, tourists, school buses and emergency services. “Roads are consistently the number one issue raised with me by local residents, and that's not surprising when the Mirani electorate contains over 400 kilometres of the Bruce Highway stretching from the Mackay city gates right through to Raglan Creek,” Mr Kelly said. “These upgrades are about improving safety, reducing road trauma and ensuring Queenslanders can get where they need to go safely and reliably.” Mr Kelly highlighted the importance of the Mackay to Sarina section of the Bruce Highway, particularly its role in connecting local communities, industry and freight movements throughout the district. “The Mackay to Sarina corridor is one of the busiest sections of highway in regional Queensland. It supports our agricultural sector, our mining industry via the Port of Hay Point, and the thousands of people who travel this route every week for work and family commitments.” “That's why it is fantastic to see significant investment being directed towards projects such as pavement strengthening at both the northern and southern entrances to Sarina, along with ongoing works at Bakers Creek.” Works at Bakers Creek include bridge resurfacing and repairs to expansion joints, helping improve skid resistance and road performance during wet weather. Mr Kelly said, “Many locals were concerned about the significant deformation that had developed in the road surface at Spider Creek. “The upgrades delivered there, including road widening, wide centre-line treatments and audio tactile line marking, will provide a much safer journey for motorists.” While the investment is a welcome boost for the region, Mr Kelly acknowledged that additional improvements are still required. “For too long, Queenslanders have had to accepted that travelling on the Bruce Highway means dealing with potholes, narrow sections and safety concerns.” “These upgrades are a major step forward, but nobody is pretending the job is finished.” “We will continue advocating for further investment because regional Queensland deserves a Bruce Highway that is safe, resilient and fit for the growing freight and passenger task it carries every day.” “Every upgrade matters. Whether it's a major highway project, a bridge repair or pavement strengthening, these investments help keep people safe and keep our regional economy moving.” For more information on the Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program and Bruce Highway Upgrade Program projects, visit www.yoursay-projects.tmr.qld.gov.au/bruce-highway-priority-projects Bruce Highway upgrades at Bakers Creek and Sarina will boost safety and strengthen a key transport link for Central Queensland motorists. Photo supplied

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Code of Conduct must stay in place

Code of Conduct must stay in place

By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay A decade ago, Queensland Canegrowers was in the throes of a fierce defence of growers’ right to choice of sugar marketer. Now, the industry has been called to consider the future of the Code of Conduct that emerged from that industry debate. Growers retain an interest in the sugar produced from their sugarcane, and in the 2010’s, the industry moved away from a single desk marketer model with new marketers emerging. Some industry players wanted growers to market only through their miller. The situation was resolved through good support from some key politicians of the day – and particularly the then member for Dawson George Christensen – and through some strong and important industry tools including the 2015 “Real Marketing Choice” amendments to Queensland Sugar Industry Act, then at a Federal level in 2017 with the introduction of the Sugar Industry Code of Conduct. The Code of Conduct requires parties to negotiate in good faith, and protects growers’ ability to choose who markets their Grower Economic Interest sugar, and provides access to pre-contract arbitration if negotiations break down. This week, submissions closed in the review of the Code of Conduct, with the Australian Government to consider these and consider whether the Code be allowed to sunset as scheduled on 1 October 2027, or be retained as is, or with changes made. CANEGROWERS is committed to the Code being retained in its current form. In our view, the current Code continues to provide an essential and balanced framework that promotes fair dealing, transparency and workable commercial discipline across the sugar supply chain. The review is intended to examine whether the Code is meeting industry needs and objectives. The Australian Government has described the Code as supporting fairness and transparency in commercial arrangements, and that objective remains as important today as when the Code was introduced in 2017. The underlying market conditions that justified its introduction have not disappeared. In most cane-growing regions, growers cannot simply switch counterparties if negotiations fail. Cane is perishable, harvest windows are tight, and freight economics limit alternatives. In that setting, the Code performs an important public policy function by establishing minimum rules of conduct and a framework for resolving bargaining impasses. Those protections are not redundant; they are fundamental to a fair negotiating environment. Importantly, the current Code is not an excessive or unworkable intervention. It does not remove commercial risk, guarantee outcomes, or prevent parties from pursuing their legitimate commercial interests. Rather, it sets baseline expectations for conduct, transparency and process in circumstances where bargaining power is uneven. In our experience, that balance remains appropriate. The Code provides a disciplined structure for negotiation while still allowing commercial parties to reach outcomes that reflect local conditions and business realities. It is critical that the Federal Government upholds this important industry tool, allowing us to retain the Australian sugar industry’s good reputation as an equitable, stable player in global sugar trade. The Sugar Industry Code of Conduct protects growers’ ability to choose who markets their Grower Economic Interest sugar. Photo supplied

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Track Master Defends National Titles

August 24, 2023

Mackay track cyclist Hamish Wright proved once again that he is a force to be reckoned with at the Australian Masters Track Cycling Championships, held at the Anna Meares Velodrome earlier this month. In the M4 category, Hamish emerged victorious in both the sprint and the keirin events, successfully defending the two national championship titles he had won in 2022. He also claimed a bronze medal in the scratch race, rounding off an impressive performance.

Though no stranger to winning, Hamish’s achievements this year meant more to the veteran racer, who had only welcomed his newborn son into the world 10 days prior to his competition.

“It was certainly an unconventional leadup to nationals compared with other years,” Hamish said.

“The focus the past few months has primarily been on welcoming our son Brydon into the world, so training had taken a backseat, particularly around the time of his birth when my wife and I navigated a new world of 2am feeds and endless nappy changes.

“But it added a new dimension to my determination, I had an extra 8 pounds and 2 ounces of motivation every time I hit the track.”

Hamish said his experience played a large part in defending his two national titles.

“The racing was hard, as you’d expect when you put yourself against the best in the country.

“In the keirin the gold was won on a photo finish, by approximately 1/1000th of a second. It came down to the throw of the bike,” Hamish added.

“In one of my sprint rounds, to progress into the final it came down to another photo finish. Those fractions of a second were the difference between gold and silver or bronze.”

"The level of competition at this year's championships was incredibly high, but that's what makes it so rewarding when you come out on top."

"Every race is a battle, and you have to be prepared to fight for every inch."

Having competed at the World Masters Track Cycling Championships in Los Angeles last year where he won silver and bronze, Hamish said that he’s unlikely to contest the championships this year.

“With a newborn our focus will be on family which gives me the opportunity to relax and work on building a solid foundation of strength and endurance for future goals,” Hamish said.

“I have my eye on competing in France in 2024 or 2025.”

Hamish Wright said his newborn son Brydon was the extra motivation he needed to defend two national masters track cycling championship titles less than a fortnight after his son was born. Images supplied

Hamish Wright (centre) successfully defended his keirin title at the Auscycling National Track Cycling Championships

Hamish Wright in action in the sprint

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Youth Parliamentarians Dig In For First Sitting in Brisbane

August 24, 2023

The region’s Youth Members had their first taste “of our state's democratic process” last week at the annual forum of the YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament in Brisbane.

Newly minted Youth Member for Mackay Lilly Uhr attended the three-day event, taking part in the representation of issues of young people in their electorate while learning about government processes in a mock parliament context.

The St. Patrick’s College student met with the other 93 Youth Members from across Queensland at the April forum, including Sam Rogers, Whitsunday representative, and ex-Whitsunday Youth Member Sebastian Padget, now sitting for Hervey Bay.

At the meeting, Youth Members formed committees and discussed ideas. These committees meet again over the course of six months to eventually distil their ideas into bills, which are then debated in mock sittings at Queensland Parliament House by the youth members during the September–October mid-semester break.

The Youth Member for Mackay, Lily Uhr, said the first session in Brisbane Parliament last Friday was extremely engaging.

“It has been a great way to meet a lot of likeminded and interesting people,” she said.

“The highlights have to be the activities and being in parliament, which was fantastic.”

Ms Uhr is part of the T.O.R.C.H. Committee (Transport, Outreach, Regional Communities, and Housing) and said her group had begun discussing building community up in areas that lost it during the Covid pandemic.

“I think our community itself is disconnected since Covid I would love to see more areas for youth to hang out,” she said.

“We’re also looking into social housing, disability housing, and homeless shelters.

“For me, personally, I’m passionate about disability housing – I play a role in disability sport in Mackay and have met people who have struggled to find housing. That’s why I chose this portfolio.”

State Member for Whitsundays Amanda Camm said she was looking forward to supporting Lily – who lives within her electorate of Whitsunday - Sam, and Sebastian as they commence their Youth Parliament journey.

“This role is critical because youth represent a large proportion of our community and there is a significant amount of legislation that impacts young peoples' lives every day,” Ms Camm said.

“In the past this programme has developed ideas and policy that has become legislation. I look forward to seeing the bills that are debated this year.”

Former Whitsunday Youth Member Sebastian Padget, now representing Hervey Bay, will work on the Regional Development and Manufacturing, Resources, Agriculture, Trade and Investment Portfolio alongside Youth Member for Whitsunday, Sam Rogers.

“In my portfolio, I’m excited to work alongside the Youth Member for Whitsunday, Sam Rogers, who brings a lot of knowledge and enthusiasm to the table,” Mr Padget said.

“The Queensland Youth Parliament’s a great way for the young people in our region to get our voices down to Brisbane.”

The Youth Parliament will work for the next six months before meeting again in September.

State Member for Whitsundays Amanda Camm with Mackay Youth Member Lily Uhr at the recent three-day sitting of the YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament

The annual event sees Youth Members from across Queensland converge at state parliament in Brisbane to distil their ideas into a bill in a mock form of the democratic process

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Jade Joins Olympic Royalty At Nationals

August 24, 2023

Tuesday, April 18 2023, will forever be marked in history for Pioneer Dolphin, Jade Bounden. She described her travels to the Gold Coast for the Australian Swimming Championships for the 50 metre freestyle event as an incredible experience, rubbing shoulders with Olympic Royalty like Shayna Jack, Meg Harris and Emma McKeon to name but a few.

Jade will no doubt be back again next year, stronger again! Jade and her family thanked her club for the overwhelming level of support received from home. We congratulate Jade – her commitment and love for the sport of swimming is admirable.

Contributed by Pioneer Swim Club

Jade Bounden at Gold Coast Aquatic Centre

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Informative Open Night at St Patrick’s College Mackay

August 24, 2023

FOR families looking for their child’s secondary education, St Patrick’s College Mackay is rich in opportunities.

Established in 1929, St Patrick’s has a long history of offering excellence in schooling.

The College will hold an informative Open Night next Tuesday May 2 at their Mercy Campus in Penn Street Mackay from 4pm to 7pm for interested students and their families.

You can view the subject displays, chat to teachers, admire students’ work and join in the classroom activities or even collect College memorabilia as you move between displays.

Students and staff will offer an opportunity to experience learning in a dynamic and exciting environment and to answer any questions about life as a student at the school.

Prospective parents and students who are new to the College are invited to participate in a tour of the facilities and in physical challenges in the Pavilion or collecting stamps for the treasure map.

You can appreciate performances by the College Choir, Band, Drum Corps, Strings, Dance Troupe, Concert Percussion, Handbells and College Ensemble.

Come along and meet the Leadership Team and be there for the Treasure Map prize draw at 7pm at the Pavilion offering first prize $200 City Beach Gift voucher; 2nd prize $100 City Beach Gift voucher and 3rd prize $50 City Beach Gift voucher.

Enjoy the FREE sausage sizzle, tea and coffee, wine and cheese for the adults and there’ll be popcorn and snow cones for sale to support the St Vinnies Committee.

The College is ideally located close to Mackay’s burgeoning Sports precinct with Multi Sports Basketball & Netball Stadium, BB Print Stadium, Junior League Fields, Harrup Park cricket fields, netball courts plus soccer and hockey fields nearby as well as the Paget Business District.

Enquiries (07) 4969 4199.

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Volunteer Expo offers a role to suit anyone

August 24, 2023

ACCORDING to Yvette Jeffs, nothing picks you up when you are down like doing a good deed for those in need.

In Yvette’s case, “those in need” are injured and orphaned wildlife – wallabies, kangaroos, pademelons, possums, birds and other down-on-their-luck natives.

Yvette, a senior carer with the Australian Wildlife Rescue Service, will be bringing some of those rescued animals to the 2023 Mackay Volunteer Expo at the Big Shed in the Mackay Showgrounds.

The expo will be held on Sunday, May 7, from 9am to noon.

“We love the Volunteer Expo,” Mrs Jeffs said.  

“Last year we signed on six new wildlife carers and spoke to heaps of people,” she said.

“We can’t wait to see everyone there again this year and we are always looking for more volunteers.”

Mrs Jeffs said becoming a wildlife carer didn’t require any special skillsets.

“New carers are partnered with a senior carer as a mentor, and we usually start them off with easier animals, like a possum or bird,” she said.

Mayor Greg Williamson said council created the expo as a way to improve community connectivity.

“We can connect more than 700 prospective volunteers with upwards of 50 volunteer-run organisations at this event,” Mayor Williamson said.

“The Volunteer Expo is a sensational opportunity for not-for-profit organisations to showcase the amazing work they do for our community,” he said.

“Likewise, it is a great chance for residents from all walks of life to discover what a volunteer role can bring to their lives.

“If you are new to the workforce, a volunteer role is amazing for upskilling and building a resume, and if you’re new to our region, volunteering is a tremendous way to build a circle of friends.

“For retirees, volunteering is a great way to stay active, socialise and share skills with those who have similar interests.”

Entry to the Mackay Volunteer Expo is free.  

For more information, follow Mackay Volunteers Expo 2023 on Facebook.

The 2023 Mackay Volunteer Expo is an initiative of Mackay Regional Council and is proudly supported by Mackay and Whitsunday Life, ABC Tropical North and Seven Mackay.

Yvette Jeffs (pictured left) and the Australian Wildlife Rescue Service team will be at the 2023 Mackay Volunteer Expo.  The team recruited six new carers at the expo in 2022.

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A Smoother Departure At Mackay Base Hospital

August 24, 2023

Over 100 hours of bed time has been saved at Mackay Base Hospital thanks to the hospital’s newest initiative to improve patient flow and provide a better experience for those who are ready to leave hospital.

The Transit Care Hub (TCH), located on the hospital’s ground floor adjacent to the main entrance, acts as a departure waiting room managed by nursing staff for patients who are ready to head home but may be waiting on medication, transport or documentation.

The TCH opened on March 13, welcoming over 100 patients over that time, and Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) Chief Operating Officer Sharon Walsh said its already proving its worth.

“What we are seeing even in these early stages is that it is providing a better flow of patients out of our acute wards and the emergency department, which means we are freeing up beds for other patients who need our care,” Ms Walsh said.

“On average our patients who are ready to leave us and just need to wait for medication, or a family member to pick them up, are spending about an hour and a half in the TCH, and we’re freeing up about 6 hours a day of bed availability.”

“Those patients don’t need to be in a ward bed, and we can provide a nice area for them to sit and wait,” added Clinical Nurse Consultant Kaylene Chetham.

“For us to be able to do that, it allows the bed managers to be able to move patients from the emergency department to the bed on the ward a lot quicker.”

The Innovation and Redesign Unit was initially tasked with putting together a submission for the Patient Flow Intensive Program, implementing five projects to improve hospital efficiency and patient flow.

“There were a lot of bed-block issues and these projects gave us the opportunity to look at the backend of the hospital and how we can get the flow from the wards to discharge,” said Innovation and Redesign Unit Director Toni Simmons.

“It’s not just one thing that’s going to fix everything, it’s everything working together as a whole.

Other projects to come out of the Patient Flow Intensive Program include digital communication technologies, inpatient telehealth programs, nurse-criteria-led discharge and power plans.

Mackay Base Hospital staff at the opening of the Transit Care Hub, from left, Kaylene Chetham, Seona MacDonald, Chloe McNamee and Emma Hess

Mackay Hospital and Health Service Chief Operating Officer Sharon Walsh cuts the ribbon to officially open the new Transit Care Hub. Also, from left, are staff Emma Hess, Chloe McNamee and Kaylene Chetham. Photos supplied

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Man Stabbed In Ear In Late-Night Mackay Altercation

August 24, 2023

Police are searching for three other people involved in a late-night altercation in the Mackay CBD where a 48-year-old man was rushed to hospital after allegedly being stabbed in the ear.

Emergency services rushed the man to Mackay Base Hospital in the early morning after the alleged incident on Shakespeare Street around midnight on April 21.

Mackay Acting Detective Inspector Emma Novosel said the man had tried to intervene in an altercation involving three persons: two men and a woman.

“He’s made an attempt to intervene and told the male people to leave the female person alone,” Inspector Novosel said.

The man was allegedly challenged by one of the men, who then struck him on the back of the head.

“He has made his way to Dominoes on Shakespeare Street where he sought assistance for his injuries,” Inspector Novosel said.

The man was taken to hospital in a serious but stable condition. Anyone with information is asked to come forward.

Mackay Police are looking for information regarding an alleged midnight stabbing in Mackay

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Mackay Remembers Paul Stanley

August 24, 2023

Mackay Senior Constable Steve Smith has shared a tribute to Paul Stanley, a person well-known across the entire Mackay and Whitsunday Police District, after he passed away in Bundaberg on Thursday, April 20.

Paul’s 15-year-old son, Matthew, lost his life following an unprovoked attack at a party in Alexandra Hills in September 2006.

The tragedy inspired Paul to work in the community sharing Matthew’s story in an effort to reduce violence in the community.

“His presentations were unique, emotional and unforgettable,” Mr Smith said.

In 2007, Paul attended a Violence Prevention Forum held at a university in Brisbane where he met Sergeant Nigel Dalton from the Mackay Police District Crime Prevention Unit.

After hearing Paul’s presentation, Sergeant Dalton immediately sought him out, which was the beginning of many years of long friendship and a great working relationship.

“Paul began travelling to the Mackay and Whitsunday Police District in the same year and worked very hard with police in sharing Matthew’s and his family’s story and as well as relevant messaging in an effort to reduce violence,” Mr Smith said.

“Almost every township in our district was visited over the years by Paul and the Crime Prevention Unit Team.

“He last worked in the district in 2022, in what was an exhausting two and a half week effort travelling far and wide to promote his powerful messaging, which was just as impactful then as it was in 2007.

“From the entire law enforcement community of the Mackay and the Whitsunday Police District and every single person here who ever heard your presentation, thank you Paul.”

Paul Stanley passed away in Bundaberg on Thursday, April 20 from a medical condition. Photo supplied: MyPolice Mackay

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Paddocks Of Opportunity As Growers Seek Workers

August 24, 2023

By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

March unemployment figures showed Mackay at a the very low figure of 2.5%, and well below the Queensland figure of 3.8%. It’s a number that is holding steady.

We stand about six weeks from the start of the crush. For the sugar industry, with its seasonal harvest employment, meeting harvest labour needs is once again an issue.

Every year, CANEGROWERS Mackay runs a campaign to drum up awareness of jobs and training opportunities in sugarcane, and support grower-members to obtain the staff they need, including running Haulout Operator courses to introduce new workers to the industry to the skills and safety considerations they will take to the paddock. Applications close today, so call 4944 2600 to see if any spots are available.

Typically, people who do the course are scooped up, because growers know they have had a good basic training delivered by highly experienced and qualified grower-trainers, and backed-up by a Registered Training Organisation, Axiom College.

It has been good to see the return of backpackers as the world emerges from the covid years, and we have been marketing job and lifestyle opportunities to that group, as well as the growing contingent of younger retirees looking to supplement their income and enjoy the warmer winters and great environment and lifestyle that the Mackay-Whitsunday region offers.

Travelling workers are one option, and we are seeing strong interest from those groups already, but we would like to encourage people who live locally to also consider the crush.

Most haulout driver jobs need only a C-Class licence for the more common tractor-trailer combinations. A HR licence is required for truck operations. Obviously, some experience with farm machinery or trucks would be an advantage, but it isn’t essential. Harvest contractors will train people up. A big up-side is a job that gets you outdoors in a rural setting. The work can give the family income a boost for part of the year, delivering a seasonal balance to work and family life.

If working the cane harvest sounds good to you, then you can either post your own work wanted job on our jobs board or apply for one of the many jobs posted there by CANEGROWERS Mackay members. Positions available right now include four on-four off or three on-five off rosters, there are growers seeking people for weekend work only. Check it out- there may be something there for you! Go to www.mackaycanegrowers.com.au/farmers-notice-board for the web version, replicated on a hard copy board in the foyer of our Mackay office.

There are jobs this crush right across the supply chain. Photo credit: Kirili Lamb

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Property Point

August 24, 2023

Whatever you do for work or business and whatever success you might achieve along the way there is always someone to thank, usually more than one person, who has given you some guidance along the way.

Whether you are a plumber, solicitor, florist, doctor, teacher or real estate agent, someone has helped you and made the path to success a little bit more direct, a little shorter, a bit quicker than it would have been without the help.

Human behaviour varies and there are plenty of people with a level of experience and expertise that could benefit other, less experienced, colleagues but they choose not to.

But then there are the generous humans who view life differently and do what they can to help colleagues achieve success. For them, a colleague’s success is something to celebrate, not something that diminishes their own standing.

I went into real estate about 12 years ago after a career in journalism and it is the sort of job where there is a lot to learn and the learning is largely done on the job rather than in a lecture hall.

I needed to learn a lot quickly and the person who helped, guided and corrected me in those early days was a bloke called Eric Rickman.

Eric had been in real estate for some time when I started and I worked under him firstly at Vision real estate and then at Gardian.

Don’t get me wrong, Eric is one of the world’s great smart arses and if you say or do something stupid you will hear about it.

But once that hilarious opportunity had been exploited and shared with anyone within earshot, he would get on with providing the necessary advice.

I could go on about how Eric helped me with negotiating skills over an offer on a property, winning a listing at an appraisal, creating a pipeline of potential sales, and he definitely helped me with all that and my career has benefitted as a result.

But there was also this: the constant reminder to always do the right thing, the honest thing.

Real estate is tough and sometimes there is a fine line between getting a sale done and it falling through, getting commission for that sale or not getting it.

Some agents fall for the temptation to blur the lines of honesty, twist the truth to get a sale done … or to downright lie and worry about the consequences later.

I like being able to sleep at night and one of the things that worried me when I decided to go into real estate was whether I would be pressured to change, be less honest, in order to succeed.

It was a great relief when I started working under Eric because he was very successful but also as honest as the day is long. There was no trickery, no deceit, no dodginess.

Yes, he would always push to get the best price for his sellers and, yes, he would work hard to keep a deal together when the building and pest report was an absolute disaster.

But it would be done through good negotiating skills, understanding the buyers and their motivations, using the power of persuasion. Always above board.

In the end, honestly leads to trust and trust is currency in real estate. You want to work with an agent you can trust, whether you are a buyer or a seller.

Sometimes what you get from a leader is not something new and dazzling but a confirmation of what you know to be right and a reminder not to sway from the path. That’s leaving a legacy.

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Clermont Residents Welcomed To Visit Mobile Dentist

August 24, 2023

A mobile dental service is coming to Clermont this May and locals are encouraged to make an appointment.

The dental service is hosted through the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) – Queensland Section and offers a range of services including oral health maintenance, x-rays, extractions, and treatment of pre-existing or acute conditions.

The purpose-built mobile facility is a part of the RFDS’ commitment to linking regional communities across Queensland with holistic health care.

The mobile dental service is a pivotal service in the RDFS arsenal, and 2023 “marks our 10th year of operation.”

According to RFDS Chief Executive Officer Meredith Staib, the service, plus the other aeromedical and emergency retrieval services “continues to increase the ways in which RFDS supports those living, working and playing across Queensland.”

“Being able to take such comprehensive oral health services to regional communities such as Clermont saves people having to travel long distances, helping to overcome the barriers that stop people seeking treatment.”

In 2022 alone, the RFDS Dental Service completed 264 clinic stays, with 1,629 patients across over 20 regional locations.

Clermont locals are prompted to arrange a time to see the RFDS Dental team, when they are in town Wednesday, May 3 to Thursday, May 11, with limited times now available.

The RFDS Principal Dentist, Stevie Dilley, who will lead the Clermont stay, said, “while visiting the dentist can be a bit daunting, our RFDS team are not only professionals at oral health, but also in making the experience comfortable.”

Locals can arrange a time to see the dentists calling 1800 002 507.

The Royal Flying Doctor Service Dental van is coming to town, with times quickly filling up. Photo supplied

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Well, here we are. The end of the week, and you know what that means?

August 24, 2023

Well, here we are. The end of the week, and you know what that means? Weekend fun and plenty of it.

Let’s start with our Wintermoon Festival at Cameron’s Pocket. This back to nature camping and social gathering has been going for something like 500 years, and it keeps getting better.

Actually, it wasn’t that long ago that there were a few questions being asked as to what next with the changes in properties up there, but now, it’s all moving forward and this weekend will be the best yet. Music, dancing, crafts, food, swimming, conversations and a love of nature, all in one place. Get your tickets, grab your swag, and have some fun this weekend.

You know what else is on? Put your coffee mug down. Let me tell you.

This Saturday the world premiere of Karen Jacobson’s Misogyny Opus show is on at the MECC. Based on that famous speech by our former PM Julia Gillard. It is a beautiful musical written and composed by Karen and it’s featuring members of the QSO as well.

If you love some great piano and strings, with a great message, get along to the MECC and be entertained.

Another thing that you’ll love this long weekend, yes, it’s Labour Day so you need to celebrate. If you have kids or even grandkids with you, this weekend you will be the Queen or King of the household, even before Charlie gets the big King party in the UK.

Both Saturday and Sunday will be your opportunity to get along to the miniature trains at Muller Park at Ooralea. If you think this is a typo, you are wrong. Both days this weekend is when the little ones can have some fun on these trains and all it costs is gold coins. That’s it.

The volunteers do an amazing job every time and they’ve been doing it for years and years. Just make sure before you head down, make sure the kids have closed in shoes with them and a smile. It’s all on from 10am to 2pm both days. Have fun.

Finally, if you’re unsure what to do around our beautiful district, go and see Al Grundy and his team with Mackay Isaac Tourism. These volunteers will point you in the right direction with anything you want to see and explore around our backyard. You’ll be surprised what’s out there!

Have fun and don’t forget to tell your family and friends to come up and visit. They’ll love it. Maybe they’ll stay forever! We hope so. Have fun.

You can join Rob Kidd from 5am weekday mornings on 4MK 1026 AM in Mackay and Proserpine, 91.5FM in Airlie Beach or just ask your smart speaker to play 4MK on iHeartRadio!

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Positive Pregnancy and Birth Expo

August 24, 2023

The Positive Pregnancy and Birth Expo (PBE) is back for its second year, once again connecting hopeful and existing parents with the service providers that can make their journey through conception, pregnancy, birth and parenthood a smoother and more knowledgeable one.

PBE is a FREE event that showcases and connects women and families with services that can better their experience during pre-conception, pregnancy, birth and post-partum, while highlighting the many wonderful local businesses Mackay has to offer new and evolving families.

This year’s event has grown to 35 local businesses showcasing their services including, but not limited to, doulas, physios, chiropractors, lactation consultants, photographers, fertility and pregnancy yoga specialists, complimentary natural therapies and massage therapists, and many more.

A host of expert speakers will be sharing advice throughout the day on everything from the benefits of yoga and breathwork, to fertility and post-partum mental health.

PBE Founders Kat Bampton and Kiah Muntelwit are both local business owners and mothers who noticed that the services in the region could be working together to better assist women in pregnancy, birth and motherhood.

“We wanted to bring these businesses together to raise the awareness in the broader community that these great services are all here to improve preconception, pregnancy, birth and postpartum for women and families,” Kat said.

“Our expo is here to make a movement toward positive change through exhibiting services to enhance knowledge, education and support when it comes to preconception, pregnancy, birth and postpartum.”

WHAT: Positive Pregnancy and Birth Expo

WHEN: Saturday, May 13 from 9:00am to 1:00pm

WHERE: MECC

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Spine Care Chiropractic

August 24, 2023

Spine Care Chiropractic will have three Chiropractors at the PBE to chat to all who will be attending. One of the Chiropractors, Dr. Maddilyn Brown, will also be speaking at the event about Chiropractic and Pregnancy Care in Room 1 from 11:00am to 11:15am. Spine Care Chiropractic has multiple locations including Mackay City Spine Care, Northern Beaches Spine Care, Coalfields Spine Care - Moranbah, Dysart Spine Care, Coalfields Spine Care - Middlemount and lastly Coalfields Spine Care - Tieri.

Our team of wonderful and knowledgeable Chiro's are passionate about helping people and families feel and function their best. We carefully listen in order to best help you (patient). We will then examine in order to establish an accurate diagnosis. Once we have formulated an accurate diagnosis, we will create a tailored treatment plan to specifically help you (patient) our team will take a holistic approach to helping you heal.

We have many products ranging from dietary supplements, therapeutic pillows, Denner Rolls, foam rollers and many other products. We will be having a call to action as well. We will be offering a $69.00 New Patient special that will only be accepted at the Mackay City Spine Care location.  We are looking forward to meeting everyone.

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Chiropractic Care For Lower Back And Pelvic Girdle Pain In Pregnancy

August 24, 2023

Lower back/pelvic pain is one of the most common conditions experienced by pregnant women, with studies showing up to 50% of all pregnant women will suffer with some kind of lower back pain, and up to 40% of these women will continue to suffer at least 18 months post-partum. Many women find these conditions incredibly limiting in their day to day lives.

Thankfully, there are many options available to help ease these pains and minimise your risk of developing these conditions in the future.

- Keeping up regular exercise.

- Reducing the amount of time you spend sitting or standing still.

- Prescribed exercises and stretches under the guidance of a health professional.

- Heat packs and ice packs.

- Find a team of health professionals who will work with you and your goals.

At Anderson Family Chiropractic Health Centre, our Chiropractors have further training and a specific understanding of the needs of pregnant people, and we use a combination of gentle adjustments, soft tissue therapy, exercise and orthopaedic/at home care to help keep you functioning at your peak throughout every stage of preconception, pregnancy and postpartum.

Come say hi to our team and get your free Spine and Functional Assessment at the PBE and find out how we can help you!

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