Erin Ryley, Branch Manager of Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank, left corporate banking and found purpose, leading a local branch that makes a tangible impact in its customers’ lives.

Erin didn’t set out to build a career in banking; she fell into it.

“I started as a teller at 17, and what began as a job quickly became something much bigger,” she explains.

“I realised I loved the pace, the people, and the impact you can have on someone’s financial future. Early on, I had a young male manager who showed me what leadership shouldn’t look like. Instead of being discouraged, I set a goal: I would become a branch manager by 24 – and I achieved it.”

Now, Erin spends her days leading and building strong teams that genuinely help people make confident financial decisions.

“It’s not just numbers,” she affirms; “it’s trust, relationships and community.”

During her years in the industry, Erin has seen banking shift from transactional to relationship-driven. She’s learned that what customers want is authenticity, trust and businesses that genuinely deliver on their promises.

So that’s what she and her teams do; they deliver professional financial services that have genuine local impact, reinvesting profits back into community grants, sponsorships and local initiatives – creating a cycle of support that benefits everyone.

“What makes it special is the shared ownership mindset,” Erin explains. “Customers aren’t just clients – they’re part of something bigger. Every home loan, deposit or account contributes to funding local projects, students, sporting groups and charities.

“It’s banking with purpose – where financial success and community success go hand in hand.”

Erin’s career has taken her all around Queensland, and she managed many branches before settling in Sarina. Her family even recently lived in Seattle, USA, for 2 years – before moving back to the Mackay Region – which she now considers home. Outside her career she spends every moment with family – her loving husband, 3 beautiful kids and her mum – swimming, kicking the footy and walking their 2 dogs.

Looking ahead, Erin sees herself continuing to grow within the organisation and deepening the impact she has on the community she serves.

“I’m passionate about strengthening relationships and ensuring we consistently deliver on what we promise,” she says.

“For me, success is about sustainability – building something meaningful, earning trust, and creating lasting impact for both our customers and our community.”

When asked about the wisdom she would offer future businesswomen, Erin’s advice was clear:

“Self-belief is non-negotiable. If you don’t back yourself, no one else will. Long-term success starts with deciding you’re capable – even before you feel ready.

“Have the courage to set clear goals, to speak up, to walk into rooms where you might feel out of place – and to treat senior leaders as people, not titles. When you stop being intimidated, you start building real relationships.

“And finally, consistency is key. Success isn’t built in big moments. It’s built in the quiet discipline of showing up, following through, and staying focused on where you’re headed.”

What are your top tips for leadership?

Back yourself. Be Intentional. Stay in the room

Describe your personality in three words.

Energetic. Ambitious. Outgoing.

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International Women’s Day is a time for celebration, for much has been achieved to advance and support women in terms of opportunities and choices. It’s also a time to reflect on our personal journey and what really matters.

Are you living life on your own terms, based on what really matters to you?

When we engage with women (and men) on career conversations, the focus is not about jobs, salaries or status, it’s far more simple and directly personal. The big question is -

‘What type of life do you want to live?’

Career is more than work – it’s not only how we spend a lot of physical time, but also the time we spend thinking about work and the associated emotional energy.

When you pause and consider life in the context of career, work becomes more about purpose and meaning and progressing towards your ideal thus impacting your choices.

If we consider life in seasons and relate to career – early career is often about establishing ourselves and gaining momentum, whereas later seasons may prioritise balance. Career is less at fever pitch and the preference may be time with family and friends. For example, from an age demographic, the life we want to live in our 20s may be different to the life we want to live in our 40s.

How can I align my career to build the life I want to live and enjoy my personal definition of success?

Before polishing the résumé or leaping to the next opportunity, pause and reflect on ‘what’s the ideal life you want to live?’ and then ‘how can I align my career to the life I want?’.

Focus on what’s important to you for where you are at and where you want to be. Use your values as a starting point. If purpose and service matter to you, a high paying role with little purpose may eventually leave you wanting. If flexibility is important, then a rigid structure may be suffocating.

If you are clear on your values, you will evaluate opportunities not just by what they offer on paper, but by how they align with the life you want to live.

At CareerForce Australia, our focus is on supporting women (and men) to explore the big questions and chart a Career by Design – choosing the life you want to live. If you would like support with navigating your next steps, visit CareerForce Australia’s website or get in touch.

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With Dani Melville, Women’s Coach From Mackay MMA (Brazilian Jiu Jitsu)

On the mats at Mackay MMA, strength isn’t measured by size or force. It’s built through patience, technique and the quiet confidence that comes from knowing exactly what you’re capable of. For women’s coach Dani Melville, a 2nd stripe brown belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, the sport has become both a personal lifeline and a powerful platform to empower other women to step into their own strength.

For more than a decade, Dani has been immersed in the discipline, helping cultivate a supportive community within Mackay MMA where women are encouraged to try something new, challenge themselves and grow – both physically and mentally.

Interestingly enough, her journey into the sport wasn’t exactly planned.

“I started 12 years ago. I actually took my children in to do judo and accidentally went to the wrong class, and it was a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu class,” Dani recalls.

“From the minute I did the first movement, I just kind of fell in love with it.”

That moment sparked a passion that would shape not only Dani’s life but the lives of many women she now coaches. Today, her entire family trains in the art, including her two daughters, who now assist with children’s classes and help coach the women’s sessions.

Together, they form part of a close-knit community at Mackay MMA, where gym owners Danny and Rozzie Borg have created an environment many members describe as their “second home”.

Within this environment, Dani has become a driving force behind the gym’s women’s program, helping create a safe and encouraging space for women stepping onto the mats for the first time.

While many people associate self-defence purely with physical strength, Dani believes the real lessons run much deeper.

“Self-defence isn't necessarily about winning if you were in a hard situation… it's about being able to survive, not panic, stay calm, stay in your logical brain, and escape.”

The courses introduce participants to practical techniques while also building awareness, confidence and the ability to make clear decisions under pressure.

For Dani, the biggest barrier for many women considering martial arts isn’t ability, but simply taking that first step.

“The hardest part of any class, no matter what it is, is turning up,” she says.

But once they do, women quickly discover a community built on encouragement and mutual support.

And while she mentors many women each week, she says inspiration flows both ways.

“My daughters, very much so,” she says when asked who inspires her most.

“Every single woman that walks through the door is my hero.”

This International Women’s Day, Dani hopes more women will feel empowered to give Brazilian Jiu Jitsu a try. To step onto the mats, challenge themselves and discover a strength they may not yet realise they have.

“Every woman, every man, every child – I 100% think that everybody should do it – especially women.”

Action image – Photo credit: Javier Taveras Photography

On Sunday, 8 March, we will celebrate International Women’s Day – a time to honour the incredible contributions of women across our region. To mark the occasion, we’ve put together a special feature showcasing local women who are making a difference in business, community initiatives, and everyday life. These are the women whose dedication, vision, and leadership are shaping our region for the better.

From business owners and entrepreneurs to educators, community advocates, and creatives, these women are driving innovation, inspiring change, and creating opportunities for others.

What unites them is more than professional success; it’s the impact they have on those around them. Through mentorship, collaboration, and advocacy, they lift others as they climb, proving that leadership is as much about empathy and connection as it is about ambition and results. Their influence can be seen in thriving local businesses, strong community programs, and the countless lives they touch every day.

This feature highlights their achievements and celebrates the diversity of talent and passion among women in our region.

By sharing their stories, we hope to celebrate these women not only for what they do but for how they do it, with courage, integrity, and heart. Their work exemplifies the values of collaboration, community, and empowerment that strengthen our region as a whole.

On this International Women’s Day, we honour these women, celebrate their achievements, and recognise the difference they make in shaping a stronger, more inclusive, and forward-thinking community. Through their dedication and leadership, they remind us that when women thrive, communities thrive.

Happy International Women’s Day!

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Mackay Pet Rescue is calling for urgent community action after a surge in dumped kittens and surrender requests has pushed the volunteer-run rescue beyond capacity, forcing it to turn animals away.

Over the last year, the organisation has been contacted about large numbers of abandoned kittens found across Mackay, while continuing to receive daily requests to surrender adult cats and dogs.

With adoption space full and February traditionally one of the slowest months for rehoming, Mackay Pet Rescue is currently unable to take in additional animals.

Mackay Pet Rescue President Janet Amrbose said repeat dumping was being driven by the assumption that rescues will always intervene.

“We are completely full, and it is heartbreaking to have to say no when animals are suffering,” Ms Ambrose said.

“People assume we can always step in, but we are unpaid volunteers, not an emergency service. That misunderstanding is leading to repeat dumping and putting animals at greater risk.”

The rescue currently has six older kittens aged 14-20 weeks who have received no adoption interest, despite being healthy and ready for homes. Without space becoming available, Mackay Pet Rescue’s ability to take on more animals is dwindling.

“The reality is simple – if you cannot afford to desex an animal, or you are not prepared to care for a pet for the next 15 to 20 years, you should not get one.

“Our priority has to be the animals already in our care. The only way we can help more is if the community takes responsibility – by desexing pets, using the correct channels for strays and stepping up to adopt.”

Community members who are able to help are encouraged to adopt an older kitten now to urgently free up space.

Find out more about Mackay Pet Rescue and their upcoming adoption days at www.facebook.com/MackayPetRescueInc.

Police have released CCTV footage as part of an ongoing investigation into a series of suspicious fires in Andergrove earlier this year.

According to Queensland Police Service, the incidents occurred across January and February at a business on Celeber Road.

Emergency services were first called to the location about 4.40am on 13 January following reports of a fire at the rear of the building. The blaze was extinguished a short time later and a crime scene was declared at 5.40am.

Police said a second fire occurred at the same address several hours before it was reported at about 7.50am on 14 February. The fire had already extinguished by the time officers arrived.

Investigators believe two unknown people were seen in the area at the time, both wearing masks and gloves. One of the individuals was described as wearing a black and white checkered shirt.

A third fire was reported between 4.45am and 6am on 18 February at the same location. The blaze was extinguished shortly after emergency services arrived, causing minor damage to the building.

Police said two unknown people were seen near the fire before running towards Parkview Court.

A fourth incident occurred between 11.50pm on 27 February and 12.10am on 28 February. During this event, the fire spread to neighbouring businesses before being brought under control by emergency crews.

No one was physically injured in any of the incidents.

Police are appealing to anyone who may have information or relevant CCTV or dashcam footage to come forward as investigations continue.

Reference numbers: QP2600076398, QP2600296924, QP2600320229, QP2600392966

Photo source: Bauer Mackay

Two men have been charged following the seizure of more than 9.5 kilograms of methylamphetamine during a coordinated police operation spanning Rockhampton, the Gold Coast and Mackay.

Detectives from the Queensland Police Service (QPS) Crime Command Organised Crime Gangs Group, alongside officers from Central Region, executed a series of search warrants on Wednesday, 25 February 25, as part of an investigation into the trafficking of methylamphetamine across Queensland.

The investigation was led by the Gold Coast Major and Organised Crime Squad, with assistance from the Mackay Tactical Crime Squad and Rockhampton Criminal Investigation Branch.

Search warrants were carried out at a residential address in Reedy Creek, a property in The Leap near Mackay, and after a vehicle interception in Rockhampton. During the searches, police allegedly located 9.5 kilograms of methylamphetamine, 162 grams of cocaine, more than $175,000 in cash, and seized three vehicles — a Toyota LandCruiser, Toyota Prado and a Ford Ranger.

A 40-year-old man arrested in Rockhampton has been charged with multiple offences, including trafficking in dangerous drugs, possessing dangerous drugs, possessing property obtained from trafficking, and possessing items used in the commission of a crime. He is expected to appear in the Rockhampton Magistrates Court on Friday, 27 February.

A 46-year-old man arrested in Mackay has been charged with several drug-related offences, including possession of methylamphetamine and cocaine, possessing property suspected of being proceeds of crime, and breaching an order relating to access of electronically stored information. He appeared in the Mackay Magistrates Court on 26 February.

Detective Inspector Craig Bowman from the Organised Crime Gangs Group said the operation highlighted the importance of coordinated policing efforts.

“Police are working collaboratively across regions and with specialist and frontline officers to dismantle organised crime networks,” he said.

“This investigation demonstrates our continued focus on targeting all aspects of illicit enterprises, disrupting their activities, and ensuring those responsible are brought to justice to keep our communities safe.”

CAPTION: Two men have been charged after QPS seized 9.5 kilograms of methylamphetamine. Photo source: QPS

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By Cr Peter Sheedy

The Mackay Region Planning Scheme helps us manage growth, plan for a sustainable future and guide the way land is used and developed in the Mackay region.

Council resolved to adopt version 4.1 of the planning scheme on December 11, 2024. Details of all planning scheme amendments can be accessed via council’s web site.

In a nutshell, council is the custodian of the planning scheme which underpins the assessment and approval or otherwise for development applications to change the use of land within a designated zone.

Every parcel or group of parcels of land within council’s region of responsibility has a valuation as determined periodically by the Queensland Government.

This valuation is then provided by the Department of the Valuer General to the council with an unimproved valuation.

The unimproved value then becomes the basis of adjusting all property values within similar land use categories for a relevant range of properties.

Rates are levied by council on all land holders as per the annual budget – with different rates for various rating categories – to recover the cost of delivering infrastructure, including maintenance and depreciation, as well as services across the region.

The Planning Scheme is all about managing land uses in a consistent way for servicing the region cost effectively with fairness and equity to all categories of land use.

Policies of the Queensland Government have to be observed and recognised in our region’s planning scheme, which establishes zones for certain uses, minimum sized subdivisions and certain other requirements. We have areas designated in our planning scheme for industrial and commercial purposes as well as rural and agricultural purposes. Good quality agricultural land has been recognised as special and to be protected.

A Planning and Environment Court has been empowered to deal with complaints about decisions on planning and related matters.

Mackay Regional Council has committed itself to programs for economic development and improving liveability, which can at times present challenges needing to be resolved by the custodians of the planning scheme.

As councillors who have all taken an oath of office, we must be conscious of all the potential consequences of our actions and be informed, as best we are able, to decide matters for the best long-term interests of the Mackay region. This is democracy in action.

Let’s Chat – Council Connect

Residents can catch up with councillors in person at upcoming Let’s Chat - Council Connect sessions held across the region.  Details on upcoming sessions can be found on the Connecting Mackay website.

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More than 80 trees will be planted along a popular walking trail, which is also an environmentally significant area.

As part of Mackay Regional Council’s Urban Greening Strategy, semi-advanced native species will be planted at Sandfly Creek, in East Mackay from Monday, 23 February 2026.

Species being planted include the Hoop Pine, which is a signature species in the area and provides height, shade and visual presence, with other species being drawn from the local ecosystem of the area.

More than 60 trees have already been planted this year at Glenfields Park in Glenella.

As part of the Urban Greening Strategy, Mackay Regional Council has set a target of 40 percent canopy cover over pathways and an annual net gain of public tree numbers by 2042.

Increased vegetation not only helps restore and improve ecosystems, but also contributes to urban cooling, increased amenity and improves mental health.

To find out more about council’s Urban Greening Strategy visit Mackay urban greening news at www.connectingmackay.com.au for project updates and stay informed about native plant giveaways, planting projects, activities and events.

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St Patrick’s College Mackay has a long history of offering excellence in education as a Catholic Coeducational College in the Diocese of Rockhampton catering for Years 7 to 12.

Families looking for a quality Catholic Secondary education in Mackay are invited to attend the St Patrick’s College Mackay Open Night being held on Tuesday 17 March at the Mercy Campus in Penn Street, Mackay from 4.00pm to 7.00pm.

Prospective parents and students are warmly invited to join us for an enjoyable and informative evening filled with activities and opportunities. Explore our diverse range of subject displays, chat to teachers about our curriculum, whilst admiring students’ work and classroom activities.

Don’t miss the opportunity to discover valuable information about our vocational and sporting programs. Throughout the evening, you’ll also enjoy dynamic performances from the College Cultural ensembles, showcasing the incredible talent and creativity of our students in captivating live performances.

For those attending there is a Treasure Map prize draw at 6:30pm at the Pavilion offering:

First Prize - $200 City Beach Gift Voucher
Second Prize - $100 City Beach Gift Voucher
Third Prize - $50 City Beach Gift Voucher

Why enrol at St Patrick’s College? St Patrick’s is a partnership between students, staff and parents, providing an environment of learning, personal growth and faith development while recognising students as young adults.

St Patrick’s College holds as its central character the motto ‘Seek and Serve Christ’.

With strong academic, vocational, sporting, cultural and spiritual, programs, St Patrick’s College offers positive experiences for students in a dynamic and exciting dual campus environment.

The College is ideally located close to Mackay’s burgeoning Sports precinct with Multi Sports Basketball and 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.

If you would like more information regarding enrolment at St Patrick’s College Mackay, please visit our website www.stpats.qld.edu.au or call (07) 4994 8700.

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The MADEC Hub in Mackay welcomed the community on Tuesday, 3 March, giving locals the chance to explore the newly renovated John E. Smith Respite Home and the David & Irie Dalrymple Home. The open day, held from 9:00am–12:00pm at 615 Mackay Bucasia Road, highlighted accessible playgrounds and sensory spaces funded by North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation and Variety Queensland.

MADEC CEO Jasmine Lowry said, “We’re incredibly proud to open our doors and share this space with the Mackay community. So many people drive past without realising this welcoming, purpose-built facility is here and available to them.

“This is not just a building, it’s a place for connection, respite, independence and belonging. From the sensory garden to the accessible playground, every element has been thoughtfully designed to create a safe and engaging environment for people of all abilities.”

The event showcased the support these homes provide for people with disability and those transitioning to independent living.

NDIS Manager Edmund McMahon explained, “There are around four bedrooms, so at any one time, we can cater for up to four individuals. We also have two sleepover rooms for staff, so there can be two staff on site at any given time.”

He added, “We provide full support for individuals with physical or intellectual disabilities, ensuring they receive holistic care while they stay here. Not only do we provide accommodation, but we also support residents to access the community, making their stay engaging and exciting.”

Ms Lowry also emphasised opportunities for community involvement, saying, “As a community organisation, we rely on the generosity and goodwill of local people and businesses, including valued partners such as NQBP and Variety Queensland. Whether it’s contributing to a project, volunteering time, or supporting upgrades like the future accessible sensory garden at the David & Irie Dalrymple Home, every contribution helps us continue creating a place where everyone feels welcome.”

The open day offered attendees a firsthand look at the upgraded sensory rooms, gardens, and recreational spaces, reflecting MADEC’s ongoing commitment to supporting Mackay residents with disability through practical, accessible, and engaging programs.

For more information, or to donate, visit www.madec.org.au

One of Mackay’s most popular and picturesque community events is gearing up for another standout year, as interest in run tourism and nature based experiences continues to surge across the region.

The 2026 Mackay Airport Twilight City Run is tipped to surpass previous participation records following the enthusiastic response to the brand new course unveiled last year.

The milestone moment also coincides with Mackay Airport marking ten years as the event’s naming rights sponsor. A newly signed agreement will see the partnership continue through to 2028, further cementing the airport’s long standing support of one of the region’s most loved community events.

Mackay Airport Head of Operations Adrian Miles said the popular event continued to go from strength to strength.

“We are proud to have been the naming rights sponsor of the Mackay Airport Twilight City Run since 2018. This incredible local occasion exceeds expectations every year, and we are thrilled to be committing our continued support.”

Participants enjoyed the updated course, which provided more sweeping views of the Pioneer River, Mr Miles said.

“The Pioneer River is one of the only blue rivers on Australia’s east coast. It’s a spectacular backdrop for the Mackay Airport Twilight City Run, particular at dusk when this iconic event is held,” he said.

“Statistics tell us that Australians are increasingly keen to travel regionally for both running events and nature-based attractions. We’ve combined them in one location, along with a fun and inclusive atmosphere.”

More than 1,100 people are expected to take part in this year’s Mackay Airport Twilight City Run, including participants from across Queensland and interstate. The event on Friday 6 March will raise funds for the Leukaemia Foundation.

Scheduled as a precursor to the Mackay Marina Run, the 5km Mackay Airport Twilight City Run is family-friendly and welcomes all ages and abilities, whether running, walking or pushing a pram.

BMA Mackay Marina Run Event Director Tim Magoffin said the event got bigger and better every year.

“We introduced the new course last year to cater to more participants, because there is such a growing demand,” he said.

“The Mackay Airport Twilight City Run follows a nice, flat track so it ticks the box for so many people; visitors who want to explore a new destination, fitness enthusiasts chasing a PB, families, social and gym clubs, corporate teams or locals simply enjoying the best of their hometown.

“Crucially, it also brings together a like-minded community to raise funds for the Leukemia Foundation, who do vital work across our region. We are grateful for the ongoing support of the Mackay Airport team, and their commitment to our community’s economic growth and wellbeing.”

To register for the Mackay Airport Twilight City Run, visit mackaymarinarun.com and click on the ‘Events’ tab. Entrants will automatically go into the draw to win one of three $500 travel vouchers

Photo supplied

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Students and staff from St Patrick’s College Mackay’s Argos House have kicked off the year supporting the Brekky Van outreach program. Guided by the College’s Catholic values of compassion, hope, justice, and respect, the initiative provides meals and a welcoming presence to those in need. The program runs year-round, with volunteers warmly encouraged to join and help make a difference in the community.

Photo source: St Patrick's College Year 7-12 Mackay

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox MP, is calling for community organisations to lace up their boots and prepare for the 2025-26 Volunteer Grants. With expressions of interest now open, Andrew is looking to support the local legends who keep our region in the winning circle.

These grants, ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, provide the home-ground advantage for community groups to purchase equipment and support the diverse team of volunteers that make Dawson thrive. The program is designed to strengthen our social fabric by backing the people who give their time for the benefit of others.

Mr Willcox said it is time to give our community champions the support they deserve.

"Volunteers are the absolute MVPs of our region: they are the ones who show up early to set the field and stay late to pack it down. However, even the most legendary team needs the right gear to succeed.

“These grants provide a fantastic opportunity for our local groups to upgrade their equipment and ensure their volunteers have the tools they need to perform at their peak."

Mr Willcox said he is looking for entries from every corner of the community.

“If your group relies on the power of people to make a difference, you are a star player in my book."

The 2025-26 Volunteer Grants feature two key categories to help local groups score big:

• Category 1: Communication and Safety. This supports essential IT items such as

mobile phones, laptops, and software to help your group connect better; additionally, it

covers critical safety and operational expenses like insurance premiums and internet

fees.

• Category 2: Community Support and Activity. This category is dedicated to items and

activities that directly benefit specific groups: including children’s development, people

with disabilities, and unemployed locals looking to upskill.

"From language classes to sporting events, these grants ensure everyone has a seat at the table. Whether you are running programs for children or providing vital support for our veterans, these grants are here to help you go the distance."

Expressions of interest for the Dawson electorate will be accepted until 5.00pm, Friday 20 March 2026. To request an EOI application form and a copy of the guidelines, please contact the Office of Andrew Willcox MP via email at Andrew.Willcox.MP@aph.gov.au or visit www.grants.gov.au for further information.

Contributed with thanks to the office of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP

Local legends such as Volunteer Marine Rescue Midge Point and the Burdekin Woodcrafts Association have already demonstrated the value of these grants: proving just how much of a difference this support makes for our regional volunteers.

Mackay Bushwalkers Club staged a Clean Up Australia event last Sunday afternoon.

Equipped with bags, gloves, an empty ute and dump vouchers, a group of eleven club members turned out to lend a hand.

The original plan was to walk across Shellgrit Creek and collect rubbish along the sheltered beach south towards the mouth of Baker’s Creek. However, runoff from recent rain had elevated the water level, prompting the group to put a Plan B into action. Members instead focused on the path from Illawong Beach along the foreshore.

A large amount of driftwood left behind by recent cyclone weather made it difficult to locate rubbish at times, but the group still managed to collect a considerable amount of microplastics with determination. Significant quantities of rubbish were also gathered from the beach, surrounding bushland, car parks and along Illawong Drive, where a surprising number of discarded items were found. Cigarette butts and dangerous glass were particularly abundant in front of the main beach area.

After an initial burst of rain, the weather proved favourable, with a welcome cloud cover throughout the afternoon.

The strong sense of fellowship and involvement in a community initiative made for an enjoyable and rewarding afternoon for those involved.

Contributed with thanks to Coral and Carole from Mackay Bushwalkers Club

Photos supplied