Mackay marked International Men’s Day on Wednesday 13 February 2026 at Souths Leagues Club, celebrating the sixth year of the event organised by Mackay Shed Happens.

Proudly sponsored by DGH Engineering and supported by Daly Bay Coal Terminal, the morning recognised the positive impact men make in the community as fathers, colleagues, mates, and role models.

Attendees enjoyed good food, engaging conversation, and guided table discussions on discrimination against men in social services, societal expectations, and the law, while highlighting men’s health, wellbeing, and meaningful connections.

A special congratulations went to Charlie Jones (DBCT), who received a Weber BBQ after winning the door prize at the celebratory breakfast.

Organisers also thanked Member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton, for donating the BBQ, as well as everyone who bought tickets and supported the event.

Photo source: Real Mates Talk & SHED Happens Mackay

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, has today welcomed the decision to re-form the Coalition between the Liberal and National parties, describing it as a vital step in providing Australia with the strong, credible opposition it deserves.

The re-formation of the Coalition follows a period of principled stand-taking by the National Party after the Albanese Government attempted to rush the complex Combatting Antisemitism, Hate and Extremism Bill 2026 through Parliament with only hours of scrutiny.

“I have always stood by my convictions, and my priority has never wavered: I am here to do what is best for the people of Dawson,” Mr Willcox said.

“This wasn't an easy period, but it was a necessary one.”

Mr Willcox said that the deal to re-form the Coalition between the Nationals and Liberals wasn’t just a handshake, it’s a fundamental reset of how the Coalition functions.

“We have replaced unwritten conventions with a formal, written agreement that enshrines the primacy of the Joint Party Room. This means that from now on, the National Party’s voice is locked into the decision-making process at the earliest stage, ensuring that regional concerns are addressed before a final Coalition position is reached.

“By taking this stand, the National Party has secured a more transparent and accountable partnership, one that is built on codified rules and mutual respect for our separate party rooms.

“We have used this time to strengthen our internal processes, and we are returning to this partnership stronger, more united, and more determined than ever.”

Mr Willcox noted that the Coalition is the most enduring and successful partnership in Australian political history, and that its reunion is a clear win for regional Australians who have been hit hardest by Labor’s economic failures.

“Every moment spent on internal party issues is a free pass to a weak and divisive Prime Minister,” Mr Willcox said.

“While the media was focused on the split, I remained focused on the families, the growers, the workers, our retirees and the students who are struggling under the weight of rising inflation and a reckless 'renewables-only' energy agenda that is driving up the cost of everything.

“Australia deserves a government that bridges the gap between the city and the country, rather than one that throws away taxpayer money while families are forced to make heart-breaking cuts to their own budgets.”

As part of the reformed Coalition arrangements, Mr Willcox will return to his role as Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability on 1 March 2026.

“I am eager to get back to work in this portfolio,” he said.

“Our manufacturing sector is the backbone of our sovereign self-reliance, yet it is currently battling unrealistic climbs in energy costs and bureaucratic red tape.

“I will continue to be a fierce advocate for 'making things in Australia' and ensuring our industries have the affordable, reliable power they need to remain competitive on the world stage.”

Mr Willcox remains unyielding in his commitment to the people of Dawson; he will always stand up for the common-sense values of his electorate, regardless of the political noise in the capital.

“Debate is a sign of a healthy democracy, and the Coalition is undoubtedly stronger together.

“We are squarely focused on the future, and we will spend every single day holding this failing Albanese Labor Government to account.”

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, at Parliament House following the announcement that the Coalition has officially re-formed. Photo supplied

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Hi lovely readers!

On the front cover and page 7, you’ll read about our local member for Mackay making national headlines last week after crossing the floor in parliament, voting in support of raising the gag order on current abortion laws.

While this is a sensitive topic, I believe it’s one that needs to be discussed. Everyone should have the right to talk about issues like this, especially our MPs, who are on the frontline representing their communities.

Nigel Dalton took a stand, not only for his personal beliefs but also for those he felt were voiceless – and I believe that deserves recognition.

Whether you’re ‘pro-life’ or ‘pro-choice,’ the fact that he risked public scrutiny to stand for what he believes in should encourage each of us to do the same.

It’s no secret that I am a follower of Christ and hold Christian values and beliefs (as you may gather from my weekly scriptures!), and I find Mr Dalton’s actions, for both his community and his faith, truly inspiring.

These days, we are often told to keep our faith private or shy away from speaking out if something is ‘too controversial’… but I think shedding light on global issues from a Christian perspective is something that could be accepted just like any other viewpoint.

We all have a right to stand up for what we believe in.

May we continue to stand boldly in our beliefs, unafraid and unashamed!

Scripture of the week: “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek.” – Romans 1:16

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The 2025 Christmas season in Mackay saw the power of community generosity on full display, with the annual Christmas Gift Wrapping initiative raising an impressive $72,000. A significant portion of the funds, $53,000, will directly support BMA CQ Rescue, ensuring the local emergency helicopter service can continue its vital work rescuing people across Central Queensland.

In addition to BMA CQ Rescue, the initiative also provided critical funding to Queensland Remote Area Tracking (QRAT) and The Neighbourhood Hub, helping local organisations sustain their important services.

Organisers and participants praised the incredible effort of volunteers, shoppers, and community groups, including ESA Alpha Rho and Caneland Central, whose dedication turned small donations into meaningful support for those in need. From wrapping gifts to shopping for loved ones, every contribution played a role in making a lasting impact.

BMA CQ Rescue expressed gratitude to everyone involved, highlighting how collective action can strengthen the community while keeping essential services operational.

Photo source: BMA CQ Rescue

SES volunteers from Moranbah, Dysart and Clermont hit the water this week, putting their flood boat skills through their paces as storm season approaches.

The hands-on training saw volunteers practising real-life rescue manoeuvres, including navigating mangroves, performing touch-and-go exercises and learning how to safely retrieve a person from a tree without knocking them into the water — a challenge volunteers described as both tricky and fun.

The training highlighted the strong collaboration between Isaac SES groups, with units supporting one another, training together and building lasting relationships.

Every year, around 5,000 volunteers support Queensland communities before, during and after emergencies through the Queensland State Emergency Service. Volunteers respond to a wide range of situations including storms, floods, cyclones, rescues, road and rail incidents, landslides and searches for missing persons.

SES volunteers come from all walks of life, with roles designed to empower people to help themselves and others when emergencies strike. Volunteers are trained in skills such as flood boat operations, chainsaw use, land searches and road crash rescue.

To become an SES volunteer, applicants must be at least 16 years old, willing to give back to their community and able to activate during disasters and emergencies. Volunteers need to work well in a team, think quickly under pressure and be prepared for irregular hours.

Applicants over 18 are required to undergo a criminal history check and hold, or apply for, a Blue Card, with all assessments considered on a case-by-case basis.

Visit www.ses.qld.gov.au for more information!

Moranbah, Dysart and Clermont SES teams were out on the water this week for Flood Boat drills. Photo source: Issac Region SES

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Ground crew volunteers at the Mackay Tiger Moth Museum honed their skills this week, ready for their 52nd year of conducting joy flights in the iconic vintage WW2 aircraft.

Ground crew trainer Stewart Garnham said the crew are there to ensure joy flight passengers have a great experience, but they play a vital role in safety and security as well as keeping an eye on the aircraft.

He conducts the crew training for all volunteers every year, and supervises on-the-job training as experienced members pass their skills on to the newer ones.

“We build a culture of safety where any concerns can be raised by even the most junior members without fear. This is especially important in aviation,” he said.

Museum President Terry Joyce said he is proud of the professionalism shown by pilots and crew in operating the joy flights.

“We are a small team of volunteers, but we work together to care for our passengers and aeroplanes very carefully,” he said.

“Giving our community the experience of flying in these aircraft is a real privilege.”

“Two of our young crew members have recently gone on to careers in the Air Force, and we have three more teenagers now aiming to do the same. The older volunteers are only too pleased to pass on their experience,” Terry said.

Ground crew responsibilities include passenger briefing, safety, airport security, starting the engine manually, refuelling, checking and cleaning the aircraft.

New volunteers are always welcome at the Casey Avenue hangar most Saturday mornings, or make contact through the web site www.mackaytiger.com.au.

Stewart Garnham (right) with ground crew members (from left) Ashton Trott, Museum President Terry Joyce, Clayton Grech and Mark Porter. Photo supplied

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The countdown is on to the Next Gen 2026 Cane Forum, with the event now just weeks away in the Burdekin and Herbert regions on 3–4 March.

Co-organisers Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR) and Aglantis are urging attendees to register, with limited spots remaining — including only five seats left on the dedicated bus from Proserpine, Mackay and Plane Creek.

“The clock is ticking for next-gen farmers, new-to-industry farmers and anyone else interested in the advances in technology, innovation and systems in the sugarcane sector,” Aglantis event spokesperson Luke Malan said.

As Managing Director of Aglantis and co-organiser of the event, Mr Malan said he was excited to help revive a platform dedicated to promoting the future of farming, with a strong focus on practical application.

"This is about giving our nation’s growers real-world examples; helping them to see and pave the way to what the future of sugarcane farming could look like," Mr Malan said.

The forum has attracted significant backing from industry-leading sponsors, reinforcing a shared commitment to the long-term sustainability and profitability of Queensland’s sugar industry.

Mr Malan said the strong industry support had enabled a high-calibre program featuring practical, on-farm demonstrations of automated irrigation and precision agriculture tools.

“Our incredibly supportive sponsors allow the showcasing of advanced agricultural technology, directly supporting the next generation of sugarcane farmers,” he said.

Among the key highlights for 2026 will be smart and automated irrigation systems, offering growers the chance to see efficiency-driven technology operating in real time. Precision agriculture and GPS technology will also take centre stage, with a focus on how these innovations translate into real-world profitability.

Carbon and reef compliance — an increasingly important consideration for emerging industry leaders navigating a changing regulatory landscape — will form a critical part of the discussion.

“Over the past year we’ve seen something powerful happen when farmers are simply given the space to come together. Conversations around dinner tables turn into real practice changes on farm, ideas shared on bus trips sparked new trials and connections made between growers can lead to lifetime friendships,” Mr Malan said.

He said the momentum behind the forum would not have been possible without the Queensland Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and its investment through the RP84 Peer to Peer Farming Groups program.

“Their support backed ‘farmers backing farmers’ — creating opportunities to explore new technology, challenge thinking, and building confidence to adopt practical improvements. We are incredibly grateful to DPI for recognising the value of grower-led learning and for investing in stronger, more connected farming communities across Queensland.”

QCAR Chair Russell Hall said the forum was specifically designed to deliver hands-on, boots-on-the-ground value.

“While we’ll have industry veterans in attendance sharing their wealth of experience, the program focuses on the high-level innovation and practical technology required for modern farming,” Mr Hall said.

QCAR’s Senior Technical Agriculture Officer and event co-organiser Lawrence Di Bella said the event was about bringing the industry together and putting the tools of tomorrow into growers’ hands.

“We could not be more proud or more excited to be bringing this event back to the industry,” Mr Di Bella said.

“By combining high-level innovation with practical field trips, we are making sure our next generation of leaders can see how new technology translates to profitability and sustainability."

The program includes immersive on-farm demonstrations, site visits to progressive farms, and direct insights into how ag-tech tools can improve yield while managing environmental footprints. Attendees will also have opportunities to connect with industry leaders and peers from the Burdekin, Herbert, Proserpine and Mackay regions, as well as experts who can help navigate the complexities of modern farming.

Event schedules and ticket details are available via the Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables and Aglantis Facebook pages or by calling (07) 3496 9555. Tickets are also available at https://nextgen2026.eventbrite.com.au.

Final Call for Registrations for The Next Gen Bus From Proserpine, Mackay & Plane Creek

The final call is out for the sugarcane regions of Proserpine, Mackay and Plane Creek for anyone seeking a ride on the bus from the Central District to Next Gen 2026 Cane Forum touring the Burdekin and Herbert regions. QCAR Central District Manager Sonia Ball said there were five vacant seats at the time of writing.

“We’ll be departing Mackay on the morning of Monday 2 March arriving just in time to book into accommodation and make the pre-forum Meet & Greet at the Ayr Showgrounds that night.”

The bus will be returning on the Thursday morning of 5 March after the two action-packed filled days of the forum (3-4 March) in the Burdekin and Herbert districts. Secure your seat by calling Sonia Ball on 0467 573 321.

1. Luke Malan, Managing Director Aglantis and Event Co-Organiser. Photo supplied
2. Lawrence Di Bella, QCAR Senior Technical Agricultural Officer and Event Co-Organiser. Photo supplied

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This week’s Pet of the Week is Blossom — a beautiful, gentle girl whose sweet nature shines through, even after arriving in care with more challenges than any pup should have to face.

When Blossom first came into care, it was clear she was in pain and discomfort. After several days of pain relief, anti-inflammatories and antibiotics, she is finally starting to feel like herself again. Watching the sparkle return to her eyes and the smile creep back onto her face has been incredibly special for everyone involved in her care.

The good news is that Blossom does not have a broken pelvis, which was an early concern. However, she has been diagnosed with a torn CCL (canine cruciate ligament) — a painful injury that will require careful ongoing management and surgery in the future.

For now, Blossom’s treatment plan focuses on keeping her comfortable with pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication while also addressing multiple infections affecting her eyes, ears and skin. She will begin heartworm treatment and start a carefully monitored nutrition plan to help her gain much-needed healthy weight.

Once Blossom is stronger and medically stable, she will be desexed and will undergo CCL surgery to help restore her mobility and quality of life.

It’s a long road ahead, but Blossom is facing it with quiet bravery — and she is surrounded by a team completely committed to giving her the second chance she deserves: a life free from pain and filled with safety, comfort and love.

Those caring for Blossom have expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported her journey so far, saying every act of kindness has made a real difference.

Anyone wishing to contribute to Blossom’s ongoing treatment can make donations directly to Northern Beaches Vet Hospital under the name Blossom, or via Lucy’s Lucky Tags and Dog Rescue.

Thank you for helping this brave girl bloom into the happy, healthy future she deserves

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Locals are being urged to roll up their sleeves and head to Harbour Beach on Sunday, 1 March for Clean Up Australia Day, as the community comes together to restore the coastline following recent severe weather.

Running from 7am to 10am at the Surf Club, Harbour Beach, this year’s clean-up carries added significance after heavy wet season rains and Cyclone Koji washed large volumes of debris onto the shoreline.

Organisers say plastics, fishing line and other storm-driven rubbish now scattered along the beach pose a serious threat to marine life — particularly nesting turtles and hatchlings that rely on the area’s sandy dunes.

The event is designed to be family-friendly, offering a hands-on way for children and adults alike to learn about environmental stewardship while enjoying time outdoors.

Whether participants can spare half an hour or stay for the full three-hour window, all help is welcomed.

In addition to the clean-up effort, the morning will also feature a Tangaroa Blue ReefClean monitoring activity for those keen to take their involvement a step further.

Budding “citizen scientists” will have the opportunity to learn how marine debris surveys are conducted, including transect monitoring techniques, and gain insight into the growing issue of microplastics along the coastline.

It’s an ideal chance for anyone curious about beach monitoring processes to see firsthand how data is collected and used to support long-term environmental protection.

Organisers encourage residents to bring family and friends and make a morning of it — combining community spirit with meaningful action.

With turtle nesting season underway and coastal ecosystems still recovering from recent weather events, community participation will play a key role in restoring Harbour Beach.

Those wishing to register can do so online via the official Clean Up Australia Day website, register.cleanup.org.au/fundraisers/donnajackson/clean-up-australia-day---mackay-harbour.

Clean Up Australia Day events will be held across the nation. Photo source: Shutterstock

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The Crisafulli Government has announced a sweeping package of legislative reforms aimed at combating antisemitism, curbing terrorist symbolism and strengthening protections around places of worship across Queensland.

The proposed laws, to be introduced in State Parliament this week, are described as strong and decisive measures to ensure Queenslanders can live, worship and gather safely. The reforms form part of a broader safety agenda in the wake of the Bondi beach terrorist attack and respond to growing concerns about antisemitism and extremist behaviour, particularly impacting the Jewish community.

Premier David Crisafulli said the legislation delivers the strongest possible protections to address rising threats.

“We called this out from the beginning, we said we’d act, and through this legislation, we are delivering a strong and considered response,” Premier Crisafulli said.

“This is about drawing a clear line - and stamping out the embers of hatred that were allowed to burn unchecked for too long - to ensure we protect Queenslanders. The Jewish community has been clear: Queensland needs stronger legislation backed by real enforcement to drive out antisemitism, and that is exactly what we are delivering.”

The Bill introduces tougher penalties for offences targeting religious communities. It increases the maximum penalty for assaulting or threatening a person officiating a religious ceremony from two to five years’ imprisonment, creates new offences for impeding or harassing people attending religious services with penalties of up to three years, and establishes a new special case of wilful damage for harm to a place of worship carrying a maximum sentence of seven years.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice and Minister for Integrity Deb Frecklington said the Government was standing firmly with the Jewish community in both words and action.

“We are bolstering protections for the Jewish community, so they know that this Government is doing everything possible to stop the rise of antisemitism,” the Attorney-General said.

“This Bill represents a focused and practical step forward for Queensland. It introduces targeted reforms to ban terrorist symbols and phrases and improve safety around places of worship. Together, these changes reinforce our commitment to protecting communities and ensuring Queensland remains a safe, inclusive state for everyone.”

The legislation also strengthens existing laws around terrorist imagery and slogans. Penalties for displaying terrorist symbols will increase from six months to two years’ imprisonment, and prohibitions will be extended to cover symbols associated with terrorist organisations or state sponsors of terrorism, including the Hamas flag and emblem, the Islamic State flag, the Hizballah emblem and Nazi symbols.

In addition, the Bill proposes a new offence banning the public distribution, publication, display or recitation of prescribed phrases — including “globalise the intifada” and “from the river to the sea” — where done to cause menace, harassment or offence. A maximum penalty of two years’ imprisonment would apply.

President of the Queensland Jewish Board of Deputies, Jason Steinberg, said the reforms would help restore confidence in the community.

“For the past two and a half years, the Jewish community has endured unprecedented levels of hate, intimidation and fear and the reforms send a clear message that antisemitism and hate have no place in Queensland,” Mr Steinberg said.

“Our community greatly appreciates the commitment by the Crisafulli Government to ensure Jewish Queenslanders can live, work and play just like any other Queenslander. This Bill moves beyond words and delivers real, practical protections for our community and for all people targeted by hate.

“This is not only a welcome and necessary step for Jewish people, it is vital for rebuilding the confidence we have lost as hatred has run rampant.”

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Mackay Base Hospital continues to set the standard in cardiac care, with two team members among a select group certified in heart rhythm management worldwide.

Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) Clinical Director of Cardiology Dr Michael Zhang and Senior Cardiac Physiologist Annie Luke are both credentialed by the International Board of Heart Rhythm Examiners (IBHRE), the global gold standard in heart rhythm management certification.

IBHRE Day recognises these cardiac specialists, celebrating their achievements and their impact on the field of heart rhythm management.

Patients requiring complex heart rhythm care in Mackay are benefiting from their expertise and enhanced specialist cardiac care, reinforcing the hospital’s reputation for delivering world-class healthcare close to home.

“These credentials give our regional patients confidence that cardiac care here in Mackay is gold standard and that our level of skill and knowledge is globally recognised,” Dr Zhang said.

“For a regional hospital to have this level of expertise is a real strength and demonstrates to our patients, colleagues and to our peers, both our skills and commitment to excellent care.”

Annie, who has worked in the Clinical Measurements Unit at Mackay Base Hospital for five years, said the certification had strengthened both her professional practice and patient outcomes.

“This certification validates our specialised knowledge in pacing and cardiac device therapy, which is essential for safely caring for regional patients with complex rhythm disorders,” she said.

These achievements place Mackay Base Hospital among a select number of services worldwide with multiple IBHRE-certified practitioners, with Dr Zhang and Annie among just 381 certified specialists across Australia and New Zealand.

Mackay Base Hospital proudly acknowledges Dr Zhang and Annie for their commitment to continuous learning and clinical excellence, with their globally recognised credentials continuing to enhance specialist cardiac care for patients across the Mackay region.

Mackay Base Hospital has strengthened its reputation for world-class cardiac care, with Dr Michael Zhang and Annie Luke among a select group globally certified in heart rhythm management. Photo source: Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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Queensland’s building and construction sector is ramping up pressure on the State Government ahead of the 2026–27 Budget, warning that productivity reform is critical to meeting the state’s growing pipeline of work.

In its Pre-Budget Submission delivered on 11 February, the Master Builders Queensland has called for urgent action to strengthen workforce supply, support housing delivery and create a more stable operating environment for construction businesses.

CEO Paul Bidwell said the stakes had never been higher.

“Our sector is facing what is arguably the most extraordinary pipeline of housing, community, and infrastructure projects our state has ever seen – not to mention those for the 2032 Games delivery program,” Mr Bidwell said.

“To meet this challenge, construction businesses need a stable operating environment. One that supports efficiency and sustainability. That means resilient supply chains for skilled labour and materials. It means flexibility to adopt more innovative and productive ways of working. And it means regulation that is targeted, clear, and doesn’t drag productivity down.”

The submission builds on work already undertaken by the Queensland Productivity Commission, with industry backing several of the Commission’s recommendations and the government’s initial response.

“The upcoming Budget presents a critical opportunity for government to take further meaningful action where it matters most,” Mr Bidwell said.

“To this end, our submission urges a firm focus on funding to support growing our workforce, strategic investment to deliver housing targets, and a whole-of-government focus on rebuilding productivity.”

Latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows new building approvals in Queensland rose 10.5 per cent over the year to December, reaching 41,039 dwellings. While still short of the state’s 50,000-home annual target, the figures outperformed both NSW and Victoria.

Regionally, unit approvals on the Gold Coast surged 58 per cent over the past three months, with Wide Bay, Downs & Western and Central Queensland also recording gains.

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Mackay MP Crosses Parliament Floor To End Abortion Gag

Mackay MP Nigel Dalton has made national headlines after crossing the floor of Parliament to challenge his own LNP’s gag order on abortion debate. Labelled both a ‘hero’ and a ‘rebel,’ Dalton broke party protocol in what he describes as a stand for his personal beliefs.

The motion, in place since 2024, had previously silenced MPs on the topic. Mr Dalton told pro-life activist Dr Howe in an interview on Tuesday, 10th February, that he “regrets” not speaking up sooner, citing “naivety” and a lack of understanding of parliamentary process.

“This is my time to redeem myself… in the eyes of the public, but also in the eyes of God. That’s who I serve,” he said.

Dalton’s move has sparked debate across parties and the community, drawing criticism from pro-choice activists and praise from supporters who say his stance reflects conscience and accountability. Despite the controversy, he remains steadfast, showing the weight a single MP can carry in reigniting public conversation on complex issues.

Conviction Over Compliance

Local MP Acts On Personal Beliefs Despite Backlash

A local MP has been labelled both a ‘hero’ and a ‘rebel’ following backlash from opposing political leaders and pro-choice activists after crossing the floor of Parliament in what he describes as a stand for his personal beliefs.

On Tuesday, 10^th February, Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton made national headlines after breaking with his own LNP party protocols to vote in support of removing the current gag order motion that prevents MPs from speaking on abortion.

The motion has been in place since 2024 under the Queensland Government.

Prior to the election, Mr Dalton agreed alongside other local representatives that there would be no changes to abortion laws. However, he now says he “regrets” that agreement.

In an interview with pro-life activist Dr Howe, Mr Dalton acknowledged he needed to apologise to the community for not taking a stand sooner.

“My regret is that I didn’t stand up earlier… I should have stood up during the campaign,” he said, attributing his earlier silence to “naivety,” and, “not fully understanding the parliamentary process.”

“I’m not blaming anybody for that… that’s my fault.”

Mr Dalton said that once he became aware that Robbie Katter intended to raise discussion around abortion laws, he felt compelled to act.

“This is my time to redeem myself… in the eyes of the public, but also in the eyes of God. That’s who I serve,” he said.

“This is a personal response… this is me getting right with God and the community who voted for me.”

Mr Dalton affirmed his decision was rooted in personal beliefs, rather than politics.

“Whether I’m in a school situation, a business situation or a political situation, I have to stand up for what I believe. My response to this issue was that I had to cross the floor.”

While the issue remains a sensitive topic, his actions have sparked significant debate across the political spectrum and within the wider community. The move has raised questions about why MPs were restricted from speaking on the matter and reignited discussion among advocacy groups on both sides.

Criticism has come particularly from pro-choice activists who argue that abortion legislation should remain centred on women’s rights. Supporters, however, say Mr Dalton’s decision reflects his commitment to conscience and accountability.

Whether viewed as courageous or controversial, Mr Dalton’s decision to cross the floor has positioned him at the centre of one of the state’s most divisive debates, and firmly in the national spotlight.

While opinions remain divided, the move has intensified discussion around parliamentary protocol, freedom of conscience, and the broader abortion debate in Queensland.

At the time of publication, no changes have been made to the gag order. However, Mr Dalton’s stance has underscored the impact a single vote can have in reigniting public conversation on complex viewpoints.

Despite potential political repercussions, he has remained firm in his position, a decision supporters describe as honourable, and critics as contentious.

Cover: On Tuesday, 10^th February, Mackay MP Nigel Dalton crossed the Parliament floor to challenge his party’s gag order on abortion, citing personal conviction, sparking national debate and both criticism and praise. Photo source: Nigel Dalton MP

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A rigorous march has turned into a major win for homeless veterans, with more than $27,600 raised for CASA Mackay through the Just Keep Marching campaign.

Led by 2025 Young Citizen of the Year Murray Macgroarty, the community-backed effort smashed its original target, transforming a personal challenge into real-world support for veterans facing housing insecurity.

The funding, presented by RSL Mackay, will be used to assist veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, helping cover short-term accommodation and other critical supports.

Local service provider CASA said the donation will help fill key gaps, ensuring veterans can access emergency housing and practical assistance when existing options fall short.

The campaign has highlighted the ongoing challenges facing veterans transitioning to civilian life, while showing the power of grassroots community action to deliver real, measurable change.
The donation is expected to provide immediate assistance for vulnerable veterans and strengthen local efforts to reduce veteran homelessness across the region.

RSL Mackay members met with CASA representatives on Tuesday, 10th February, to present the $27,660 donation for veteran homelessness support. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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RSL Mackay Donation Boosts Veteran Homelessness Support Through CASA

RSL Mackay presented a very generous donation of just over $27,600 to CASA Mackay in support of its ongoing work helping individuals experiencing homelessness, following the recent Murray’s Just Keep Marching fundraising campaign.

The funds were raised through an extraordinary community effort led by young cadet and 2025 Young Citizen of the Year Murray Macgroarty, whose long-distance walk captured widespread support and significantly exceeded its original fundraising target.

President of Mackay RSL Ken Higgins said the organisation was committed to ensuring the funds were directed where they were most needed.

“We want to make sure the money went to where it should go to, and that's to veteran homelessness in this area,” he said.

He confirmed the funds would directly support short-term housing needs for vulnerable veterans.

While exact figures are difficult to track due to the transient nature of the veteran community, the RSL estimates there are a number of veterans doing it tough locally.

“I would think there’d be probably 20 or 30 around the area that are coming and going,” he said.

He also highlighted the challenges many veterans face when transitioning from military to civilian life.

“One of the big problems with veterans is the transition from being very comfortable in their environment to now wandering around, and finding it hard to adapt to civilian life,” he said.

Mackay RSL Secretary Georgia-Lee Ricketts, a younger veteran herself, said she understood firsthand how difficult the transition from military life can be.

“I was discharged from the Army after 15 years, four years ago,” she said.

“I know firsthand how difficult it really is to try and find a place in the community once you leave the military.”

She said rebuilding life outside the structured military environment could be confronting.

“At 35 years old, I had to try and learn to live my life as an individual, and it is really difficult.”

CASA General Manager Will Stafford said the organisation was grateful to receive the funding and to partner with RSL Mackay to support veterans experiencing housing insecurity.

“We’re delighted to receive this funding,” Mr Stafford said.

“It was really amazing to follow Murray’s journey — that initial target of $5,000 to over $27,000 was incredible.”

Mr Stafford said CASA and the RSL had worked together to ensure the funds would be used strategically.

“After conversations with the RSL, we’ve got a plan to make this money work for veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness,” he said.

He said homelessness numbers in Mackay had stabilised but remained a significant concern.

“We’ve seen numbers stabilise — we’re sitting around 50 homeless individuals across Mackay.”

“We want to see that number go down.”

Mr Stafford said CASA had supported around 12 veterans in the past three months, and that the funding would allow CASA to fill critical gaps in support.

“If we have a homeless vet or someone at risk of homelessness, we want to be able to ensure the existing framework’s able to support them, and if in the rare instance it’s not, we can use this money to support them in any way we can.”

The donation will help ensure more veterans in Mackay receive timely support, practical assistance and a pathway toward safer, more stable housing.

RSL Mackay presented a generous donation to CASA earlier this week, following Murray Macgroarty’s Just Keep Marching campaign, to support veterans experiencing or at risk of homelessness. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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A 36-year-old East Mackay man has been charged with multiple weapons and drug-related offences following an early-morning police operation in Mackay late last month.

Mackay Tactical Crime Squad officers, with assistance from the Dog Squad, attended a Bridge Road motel in East Mackay at approximately 7.30am on 31 January in relation to a wanted person, declaring an emergent search.

Police allege that during the search, officers located a shortened firearm, ammunition, a quantity of dangerous drugs, and drug utensils.

The man has been charged with two counts of possessing dangerous drugs, including methamphetamine and buprenorphine, along with one count each of possessing a relevant substance (butanediol), unlawful possession of a weapon (shortened firearm), authority required to possess explosives (ammunition), and possessing utensils.

He has been remanded in custody and is due to reappear before Mackay Magistrates Court on 24 February.

Police are urging anyone with information to contact Policelink via the online suspicious activity form at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting, available 24 hours a day.

Information can also be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers by calling 1800 333 000 or reporting online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

Quote reference number: QP2600199545.

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