He retired from Mater Private Hospital Mackay in 2008, but former registered nurse Paul Lanigan has continued his career of caring for people.

This year, Mr Lanigan clocked up a decade of volunteering at the Mater in Mackay, the same hospital where he worked as a midwife and manager of the operating theatres.

Mr Lanigan said helping others came as second nature to him, and during National Volunteers Week (16-22 May), he encouraged other retirees to follow in his footsteps.

“My career with the Mater started in 1979, and I worked my way up to be in charge of the operating theatre,” he said.

“These days, I enjoy volunteering once a week in the office where I can continue to contribute to the running of the hospital in my own little way.”

Mater Private Hospital Mackay Executive Officer Beth Thomas said Mr Lanigan was one of more than 60 volunteers who worked at the hospital.

“Everyone at Mater plays a role in our patients’ care experience, but it takes a special type of person to selflessly volunteer their time, energy and passion to help others,” Ms Thomas said.

“Throughout the year, our volunteers sacrifice hundreds of hours of their own time to fulfil a range of roles in clinical services, pastoral care and fundraising to ensure Mater continues to deliver the very best care to people when they need it most.

“Thank you to those special staff members who, through their personal contributions, make Mater Private Hospital Mackay a better place to visit and work every day.”

Ms Thomas said Mater Private Hospital Mackay expected to recruit six new volunteers this month.

Mr Lanigan encouraged others to give it a go.

“Everyone has different reasons for trying their hand at volunteering,” he said.

“But we all get the same fulfilment and sense of appreciation from doing it.”

Former registered nurse Paul Lanigan has just completed a decade of volunteering with Mater Private Hospital Mackay. Photo Supplied: Mater Hospital

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A Queensland-first trial has brought two state-of-the-art buses fuelled by local sugarcane to Mackay, all aimed at cutting carbon emissions.

The two bioethanol-fuelled buses are set to become a part of the city’s public transport network for a 12-month trial commencing in late May.

The fuel itself is being produced from locally grown sugarcane.

Mackay Transit Coaches began testing of the buses last week, with services scheduled to start later this month once all checks are complete.

Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert praised the benefits of the trial, for both employment and the environment.

“Bioethanol is more environmentally-friendly than traditional fuel used on many buses and I’m so pleased that Sarina based Wilmar BioEthanol Australia will be producing the fuel for the trial,” Ms Gilbert said.

“The new buses will hit the road, in their distinctive design, and I encourage everyone to jump on board.”

Ms Gilbert said this was an important project for the future of public transport in this state and an exciting chance for Mackay to play its part in the state’s commitment to a cleaner, greener future.

The $1.1 million project will build on the Queensland Government’s commitment that every new bus in Southeast Queensland will be zero emission from 2025, with regional implementation to begin between 2025 and 2030.

“This trial has the potential to influence state-wide demand for biofuels as a renewable fuel source for transport,” Ms Gilbert said.

“With Scania’s research indicating these bioethanol buses could reduce carbon by up to 90 per cent compared to traditional fuel, we’ll be watching this trial with excitement over the next 12 months.”

Ms Gilbert thanked Scania, Wilmar, the Department of State Development and BusTech, which built the buses at its Gold Coast facility, for their important roles in the trial.

Mackay Transit Coaches CEO Reagon Forsyth said he couldn’t wait to start using the new buses on the network.

“We’re proud to be part of this project and eager to start giving customers a new experience on the buses,” Mr Forsyth said.

“Together with the Queensland Government, we’re working towards greener public transport in Mackay and this is another step towards that objective.

“We’re thankful for the opportunity to play our part in the trial and can’t wait to see how it progresses.”

The trial is being funded by Scania and the Queensland Government.

Two bioethanol buses will operate in Mackay over the next 12 months in the state’s first trial of the technology

Mackay Transit Coaches CEO Reagon Forsyth refuelling one of the new buses

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Are you good with your hands? Can you turn trash into treasured art?

Mackay Regional Council is inviting expressions of interest from men’s groups to showcase works, craft and creations in next month’s Men’s Health Week Exhibition.

The exhibition will take place in the Jubilee Community Centre from June 13 to June 24, and will feature an opening event on Monday, June 13 at 6pm.  

Last year, the exhibition featured photos, woodwork and hand-man creations, with a focus on activities that “bring positive connection” (the 2021 theme).

This year, it is hoped the submissions will reflect the 2022 Men’s Health Week theme of “building healthy environments for men and boys”.

If you belong to a men’s social group, be that a men’s shed, support group or club, and have something you would like to feature in the exhibition, then council would like to hear from you as soon as possible.

To submit works, collaborate or for more information, contact council’s Community Development officer Tamara Flynn at tamara.flynn@mackay.qld.gov.au

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Mackay Isaac Tourism (MIT) has appointed its new interim Chief Executive Officer and it seems there’s no one more perfect for the job.

Natassia Wheeler will temporarily take the reins, drawing on her vast experience in the tourism industry while the Board recruits a new CEO following Tas Webber’s departure earlier this month.

Ms Wheeler has over 16 years’ experience in the industry, including her time leading Tourism Whitsundays as CEO over the past few years.

She says Mr Webber has left a legacy of dedication and passion and she hopes to build on his hard work.

“Tas has been a force in the organisation driving growth in visitation, length of stay, visitor expenditure, and dispersal to our region,” Ms Wheeler said.

“His leaving marks an end of an era.

“As I am stepping into my role as interim CEO, my main priority is to focus on ensuring consistency and continuity not just for the MIT team but also the MIT members and partners.

“During my time here in MIT, I would like to ensure that the region has a sustainable tourism base that is prosperous and progressive for the years ahead.”

Throughout Ms Wheeler’s 16 years in the tourism industry, she has gained a strong appreciation for the importance of regional tourism and recognises the vital role MIT plays in connecting visitors, tourism operators, and government stakeholders.

In a world where consumers want to travel for good, be closer to nature, attend world class events and enjoy the offerings of intoxicating food and wine, Ms Wheeler says the region has it all.

“There is a lot to love about this beautiful diverse region,” she said.

“Where else in the world would it take just five minutes to the beach and 40 minutes to the mountains?”

The Mackay Isaac region has already seen healthy growth in tourism experiences with the development of wallabies on the beach, the Pioneer Valley Mountain Bike Trail, Wildcat, and the growing event portfolio, and Ms Wheeler says experiences like these give the region a strong opportunity and future.

“As an organisation and community across the Mackay and Isaac areas, we need to work together to not only continue to build more experiences and products but support the ones we have,” she said.

“Tourism brings tremendous economic value to destinations, but it also touches and impacts several industries directly and many more indirectly through tourism spend.

“In addition, tourism is one of the important sources of employment generation in the Mackay Isaac region.”

Ms Wheeler is looking forward to attending the Mackay Beach Horse Races, the Mackay Festival of Arts, and the St Lawrence Wetlands Weekend over the next couple of months.

“One of the things I absolutely love is that the Mackay Isaac events calendar is jam-packed with amazing events,” she said.

Find out more about the diverse events across the region at www.mackayregion.com.au.

Ms Wheeler says the region has a lot to offer, all within easy reach of Mackay’s city centre

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Timber, tools, tea bags, and Tim Tams.

These are a few things you can find in the Seaforth Men’s Shed, along with the friendly, approachable, and skilful men that contribute so much to the community.

The role of the Men’s Shed is to provide a place for men to meet up, have a chat, and develop their skills, whether that be life skills or woodturning skills.

They are heavily involved in the community, donating their time to schools and other local establishments.

Last month, the Seaforth Men’s Shed donated two timber benches to Woolworths Marian.

Kerry Smith of Woolworths Marian says she found the need for comfortable chairs for people to sit on while waiting at the checkouts.

“It was suggested that we contact the Men’s Shed, which we did,” Kerry said.

Owen Clatworthy of Seaforth Men’s Shed said they frequently take donations of timber and furniture for such projects.

“Luckily, we had timber here, but my neighbour, her brother was moving house and wanted to know if we wanted some timber,” Owen said.

“So, we put our timber and the timber he had and ended up making the chairs.”

The exemplary display of community service was just one end of a good deal, with Woolworths Marian providing bread and sausages for an upcoming Men’s Shed sausage sizzle in return.

“They’re awesome, they’ve been very supportive, and Owen especially had rung me quite a few times and asked me what I thought of various aspects,” Kerry said.

“Woolworths are very proud to support them, especially with their barbecues, I know they raise a lot of money through their barbecues, so it’d be really great for the community to support them through that as well.”

You can find the men of the Seaforth Men’s Shed at their next sausage sizzle on June 12 at Bunnings North Mackay.

Camaraderie is another great benefit of Men’s Sheds.

Chris is a member who is travelling around Australia and says the guys at Seaforth Men’s Shed have welcomed him with open arms.

“The guys were really nice and welcomed me in, so I stayed for a little bit and helped them a tiny bit and doing a couple projects myself for my mental health so made me feel welcome,” Chris said.

The Men’s Shed is made up of members from Marian, Ball Bay, Hamden, Seaforth, and Mount Ossa.

The gents come from a variety of backgrounds including the military, surveying, and carpentry.

To anyone considering joining the Men’s Shed, Owen says “do it”.

“Just come and enjoy the company,” said fellow member Sam.

Seaforth Men’s Shed is open 9-12 Mondays and Tuesdays next to the Seaforth Bowls Club and men interested in joining are encouraged to just rock up.

They also welcome donations of furniture, equipment, and tools.

“That’s the idea of the Men’s Shed: discuss things, have a cup of tea, tell some jokes, and mainly just talk,” said Owen

“Men will talk more about their health issues more here than anywhere else.”

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Long-time historian and Mackay Historical Society Member Dr Lyall Ford is launching his new book next Friday as part of the Society’s fifty-year celebrations.

‘Against the Odds, The Life and Times of Frederick Stanley Williams Senior’ will be officially launched at the Jubilee Community Centre at Jubilee Park on Friday June 3 from 11am.

Dr Ford says he’s long had an interest in history which he has turned into a wide portfolio of publications about his family, main roads, health and photography.

“It was when my dad died that I got interested in researching family history and in those days, there was no internet,” he said.

“My mother collected a lot of photographs and stories and newspaper cuttings and all sorts of things in her lifetime, as did her sister, so I had a good foundation of a source of information from them.”

The story of ‘Against the Odds’ begins in the 1870s when Lyall’s mother’s grandfather first came to Mackay and worked as a wharfinger.

His son, who was Lyall’s grandfather, became an accountant before Lyall’s mother became the first female accountant in Mackay.

Dr Ford says his grandfather and other family members were involved in many local organisations and he delves into each of them in the book.

“It’s a family history, and there’s a heap of personal family stuff in there, but I did a history of every organisation that he was involved in,” he said.

These organisations include 4MK, Mackay Golf Club, Mackay Ratepayers Association, Mackay School of Arts, Mackay State School’s Committee, New Settlers League, Rotary Club of Mackay and the Temple Masonic Lodge.

Other well-known locals including Professor Clive Moore and the late Rod Manning, former editor and Walkley Award-winning journalist of the Daily Mercury, have also contributed to the writing of the book.

“Anyone interested in the history of Mackay will find heaps to read in there,” said Dr Ford.

Dr Ford says he’s relieved that this book is finally being launched.

“Especially one like this that took 10 years,” he said.

“I typed every word myself and did all the research myself.”

Those wishing to attend the launch are asked to RSVP to the Mackay Historical Society at mackaymuseum@gmail.com or 07 4953 0002 by Thursday June 2.

The book will be available for purchase at the book launch, through the historical society and through Lyall directly at lyall@taipanpress.com or 0400 772 278.

Dr Lyall Ford has a PhD in History and is launching his newest book next Friday

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A large section of Jubilee Pocket went into complete lockdown last Thursday afternoon when 44-year-old Paul Malcom Henderson, who was believed to be suffering an acute mental health episode, barricaded himself in the upstairs bedroom of his unit on Erromango Drive.

The exclusion zone included 100 metres encompassing Shute Harbour Road, Penticost Street, Cedar Crescent and Jubilee Pocket Road.

The situation began when a mental health care team attended the property to check on the welfare of its inhabitants.

They expressed concern to the Police who attended the property at 11.45am on Thursday, May 18.

It was established that, the Mr Henderson who had barricaded himself inside, was armed with a compound bow and wearing body armour. At this point, he was deemed to be a danger to himself and others.

By 4pm that afternoon, officers had blocked off the entire street and all direct neighbours in the apartment complex were not permitted to return home.

At approximately 6pm, up to 30 officers wearing military clothing had arrived at the scene with semi-automatic weapons.

During the evening, Police smashed windows on the property and drones were deployed to gather better intel.

On Saturday afternoon, police were confident that Mr Henderson posed "no threat to the community, however members of the public are advised to avoid the area and those within the exclusion zone are asked to remain indoors as a precaution."

By Sunday, motorists were allowed to leave Erromango Drive but not permitted to return once they did.

Neighbours, still not able to return to their homes, had now been displaced for the fourth night in a row with nothing but the clothes they were wearing on Thursday afternoon.

During the course of Sunday night, it is understood that fire hoses were used to spray water through the upstairs bedroom.

By the early hours of Monday morning, officers could no longer see Mr Henderson pacing around and, concerned for his safety, they entered the property at 7am making the arrest.

It is understood that he was found exhausted and unable to move.

Over the 5-day period, it is alleged that up to 20 arrows were fired at police and witnesses reported that, during the siege, police sounded a piercing alarm every five minutes.

No-one was injured but damage to emergency service vehicles was sustained.

Throughout the incident, police attempted to talk to Mr Henderson over a loudspeaker and by attempting to call his mobile phone, but at no point did he respond.

He has now been charged with six counts of attempted murder and two counts of wilful damage of police property.

If this incident or any of the content you have read has caused concern or distress for you or your family members, particularly children, please reach out for help and support by contacting:

Lifeline: 13 11 14 or lifeline.org.au

Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 or beyondblue.org.au

Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800 or kidshelpline.com.au

Headspace: 1800 650 890 or headspace.org.au

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The Whitsundays welcomed a host of new Australians to the rank of citizens over the past week at ceremonies in Bowen and Cannonvale.

Seven conferees were officially made citizens at their service at the Queens Beach Hotel in Bowen on Thursday, May 19, and 35 more conferees were welcomed the following Tuesday at the Reef Gateway Hotel.

Officiated by Acting Mayor Mike Brunker, the ceremonies were a special occasion for all involved with family and friends watching on with proud smiles and cries of “Aussie, Aussie, Aussie!”

“Inducting citizens into the Australian community is a very important part of local government,” the Acting Mayor said.

“It’s a very special, important day for them. It’s fantastic – I have people from 22 years ago who will come up to me and say ‘Do you remember me? You gave me my citizenship 20 years ago. People remember them and cherish the days.”

In Bowen, Member for Burdekin Dale Last was a special dignitary on the day.

“It’s always nice to attend these ceremonies. They’re so excited to become new Australians citizens and permanent citizens of Australia, Mr Last said.

“To welcome them as Aussies, and particularly to regional places like Bowen, it’s a great thing.

“I extend my congratulations to all of them.”

Ambre Bougraud – a French expatriate - was just one of the new Australian citizens welcomed in the Bowen ceremony.

“It feels like a beautiful day. I feel privileged to be here and to be welcomed,” she said.

The 35 conferees in Cannonvale were joined by dignitaries including Councillor Al Grundy, Jan Clifford, and Gary Simpson, as well as Acting Mayor Mike Brunker.

Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm was unfortunately unable to attend, but celebrations were still in full swing as the new Australians cut the cake on a life down under.

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A familiar site has returned to the streets of Airlie Beach recently; young travellers with big smiles and backpacks have been trickling into our region, eager to explore and experience our Whitsunday way of life.

Heather Hewitt and Lucy Ball, 19-year-old travellers from Cheshire in the UK, were in Airlie Beach last week and, although they only stayed for two days, the pair said they would definitely be back.

Having arrived in Sydney, they spent time travelling up the coast and met loads of other backpackers along the way.

“We nearly didn’t come to Australia because we thought it wasn’t possible but then the rules changed so we could,” said Heather.

“COVID made us want to travel more after not being able to go anywhere for such a long time and we are so glad we came here; everyone is so friendly.”

Peter Upton, who has operated Backpackers By The Bay for the past 27 years, said that for the last two years they have only seen South American backpackers travel, many of whom decided to stay through the pandemic.

“The Europeans, Americans and Canadians all went home,” said Peter.

“It’s great to see them back again now!”

Julie Telford from Red Cat Adventures said that her charter boat company was also seeing a return of the backpackers.

Having adapted their tours to suit any domestic market, they are now thinking of re-launching their overnight backpacker vessel later this year.

Chief Operating Officer of Tourism Whitsundays, Rick Hamilton said that as international borders have opened The Whitsundays has seen the backpacker market re-emerge.

“Numbers are relatively low at this stage, but we expect this market to grow over the coming months, providing a gap in our job market,” he said.

“We look forward to working holiday makers experiencing our beautiful region.”

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Image: Backpackers Lucy Ball and Heather Hewitt

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Team Willcox: Tom Willcox, Zoe Robson, Andrew Willcox, Jack Willcox,Shannon Willcox, Chris Figg and Raylene Willcox

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Mayor Willcox Wins Seat Of Dawson

Our much-loved Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor will now become the Federal Member for Dawson following a successful election campaign which saw him receive 48,652 (60.4 per cent) of the votes, followed by his nearest contender Labor Candidate Shane Hamilton with 31,962 (39.6 per cent of votes).

Saturday’s election, however, did welcome in a new Labor Government which will undoubtedly prove challenging for Willcox who will now be in opposition.

“Of course it will be a lot harder for me in opposition, I won’t have the ear of the treasurer, but I’m up for the fight,” he said.

“I will still be pushing for what I’ve put forward and I have a list for Labor – I will be holding the government to account, making sure they deliver what they’ve said they will.”

Willcox Takes The Reins

A new face takes the seat of Dawson, with Andrew Willcox replacing George Christensen who held the seat for 12 years, announcing his resignation in 2021 and moving over to One Nation earlier this year.

Despite being new to the position, Andrew Willcox has served as Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor for six years and said he understands the needs of the region, pledging to always put those needs first when representing the Whitsundays in Canberra.

“I believe it’s very important to tell the story of how important this region is,” said Mr Willcox.

“When I go down to Canberra, I will be telling them truth: if you want us to continue delivering as a region, we need the infrastructure and services to support us.”

Since last Saturday’s election win, Mr Willcox said he has been thanking all his supporters and pulling down countless signs.

In the coming week he will be going to Canberra to “get everything set up and get my feet under the table”.

From here, he will wait to receive the parliamentary calendar to see when they will be sitting.

Residing in Bowen, which is the centre point of the electorate, Mr Willcox said he will largely be spending time travelling around his electorate but will still retain the same head office in Mackay.

“Most of the time I’ll be out and about meeting with the community, attending functions, talking to people about what they need and what’s important for them – that’s what I’m all about!” he said.

When asked about important promises made prior to the election he said that Urannah Dam and the Bowen Pipeline are already in the budget but it will be up to the new government as to whether they decide to change that budget.

“The Labor Government have said they support Urannah, providing it all stacks up, I’m sure it will happen.”

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Despite weather that was more suited to ducks than bees, the Jubilee Community Centre was a hive of excitement last week.

In conjunction with World Bee Day, the Choir of the Unheard Voices in Mackay ran an informative ‘Know Your Native Bee Day’ with artwork and handmade creations.

The choir performed for the crowd who buzzed with excitement hearing the premier of an original musical rendition ‘Homage to the Bee’.

Also launched at the event was the ‘Daily Dose of Dazzle’ journal, where more than 50 of the Mackay community’s ‘Wisdom Warriors’ gave their best inspirational advice to spark sunshine into the daily lives of those using the journal.

The journal was created by Tash Tomlinson and Margaret Ross. Tash starts every day with an affirmation and came up with the idea of the journal to spread happiness to others.

“This journal will help you to find your inner sparkle,” Tash said.

“I have worked with Tash whose love of spreading joy and happiness to others ignited a spark in me to capture her ideas,” Margaret added.

“Together we want to bring the energy and passion for the simplistic moments of life into everyone’s heart.”

You can message the Choir of the Unheard Voices on Facebook to order your Daily Dose of Dazzle journal.

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Dr Performs Classical Cello For Dying Patient

A dying patient’s last wish to hear live classical music was realised on Monday by Mackay Base Hospital medical registrar Dr Michael Lam.

Dr Lam, a gifted cellist, performed a range of soothing pieces including Bach's first and third cello suites, Saint-Saens' The Swan and Schubert's Ave Maria for the patient.

The patient had decided to end her treatment for a long-term chronic condition and when she was admitted to hospital with an acute illness, decided she wanted to pass in a dignified and peaceful way.

As part of supporting her through her end-of-life planning, she expressed a desire to hear live music one more time.

Dr Lam, who works in internal medicine and plans to specialise in palliative care, said music and medicine often go hand in hand.

“I've done this many times before and I know that a lot of patients are helped when we do non-medical things to look after them holistically,” he said.

“It's been clear to me for a long time that music has a therapeutic benefit for both patients and staff.”

He said the patient was so appreciative she asked him to play for her again later that day.

“She was really pleased and shared with me her love of classical music. She told me it reminded her of her childhood,” he said.

Prior to training as a physician Dr Lam studied music at the University of Toronto and the Shanghai Conservatory and has toured the world playing cello, piano and flute. He is also a gifted singer and choral conductor.

He believes in using music for reconciliation, as well as in medical contexts – something he has participated in as part of music outreach with the Australian Doctors Orchestra to nursing homes and geriatric / palliative care services

Clinical Director of Medicine Senior Staff Specialist Dr Manjit Pawar was among the staff outside the patient’s room in F2 ward to listen to the music.

“It was spine tingling to hear the beautiful music of Bach with staff and patients stopping to listen as they passed by.

“We could see how at peace the patient was, content and so happy with Michael playing.

“Medicine is not just about using medications and operations to ‘fix’ things, something I think we forget sometimes. Reaching out to our patients as another human is just as important, I will never forget this moment.”

Sometimes, music is the best medicine.

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Image: RIN Awards winners (L-R): Brendan Bishop (Indigenous Business Builders) and Tracey Cuttriss-Smith (C-Res), Ryan Norris from Vayeron, Nathan Corbett from Onsite Training Australia, Resource Industry Network Chair Tim Magoffin, Stephen Mounsey from Mainetec, Scott McDermott from Field Mining Services Group, Howard Nielson from DGH Engineering, John Ryland from DGH Engineering

Resource Industry Leaders Crowned

From a resilience program targeting Year 6 students in Moranbah, to a lean, green mining bucket, the 2022 RIN Awards crowned some of the region’s most resourceful businesses in Mackay last Friday night.

The 2022 RIN Awards recognised the significant achievement and enterprise that local businesses are demonstrating across seven categories including safety, leadership, export, innovation, diversity, community connection, and individual excellence.

Awarding Success In Our Resources Service Sector

RIN Awards team (L-R): Stacey Grech, Kelly Strachan, Jodie Thompson, Dean Kirkwood, Sonia Andersen, Lea Yepes, and Steph Hernandez

Howard Nielson and Dave Hackett from DGH Engineering

Jamie Lee and Ben Shanks

Sonia Andersen from RIN, keynote speaker Richard Yetsenga and emcee Karen Jacobson

Melissa Halliday from BHP and John Halliday from Field Engineers

Moranbah-based training company Onsite Training Australia took out the Connecting in the Community Award for its ‘Leading Our Lives’ program targeting Year 6 Moranbah students transitioning into high school. The judges commented on how business owner Nathan Corbett understood the impact mental health was having on the local high school and his efforts to develop a leadership program where students learnt about self-awareness, understanding and relating to others, how to effectively plan for the future, and dealing with different types of change.

Local METS company Mainetec was awarded for their outstanding approach to innovation with their “Hulk” bucket, taking out the Out of the Box Award. While it may be perceived as “just another bucket”, the judges were impressed with the sustained research, the company’s Mainetrack technology, and data and client engagement, as they continued to evolve their solution.

“Trading Tracks”, a business program developed by C-Res and Local Buying Foundation, took out the Striving for Diversity Award for driving sustainable local Indigenous businesses for the future. While the program is only in its early stages, the judges commented on how it will help all businesses striving to diversify and look forward to hearing about the positive outcomes.

Eighty-year-old project manager Howard Nielson, from DGH Engineering, took out the Standing Out from the Crowd Award for his inspirational contributions to the workplace. The judges said Howard worked with integrity, leadership, patience, and cooperation, as well as having the natural ability to work with anyone he met.

Resource Industry Network general manager Dean Kirkwood said this year’s awards night was a great success with almost 300 people in attendance at the MECC to celebrate the people, the innovation, and the success stories of the resources services sector.

Mr Kirkwood said he extended a big congratulations to all finalists and winners.

“The awards recognise excellence in business and the significant contribution that those businesses make to the regional economy and community,” he said.

“This year’s RIN Awards was a special night and it’s always great to gather as a sector and collectively applaud the businesses doing great things.”

The evening was made even more entertaining with keynote speaker and ANZ chief economist Richard Yetsenga presenting wonderful insights into the economic strengths of our region.

2022 RIN Awards Winners

Out of The Box Award (sponsored by METS Ignited) • Mainetec

Chasing the Foreign Markets Award (sponsored by Trade & Investment Qld) • Vayeron

Safety Foremost Award (sponsored by Diacon Australia) • DGH Engineering

Connecting in the Community Award (sponsored by Local Buying Foundation) • Onsite Training Australia

Champion Culture Award (sponsored by Resources Centre of Excellence) • Field Mining Services Group

Standing Out from the Crowd Award (sponsored by Onsite Safety Training Compliance) • Howard Nielson (DGH Engineering)

Striving for Diversity Award (sponsored by BHP Mitsubishi Alliance) • C-Res/Local Buying Foundation

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The community is rallying to support a young family who has been devastated by the loss of a wife and mother, 31-year-old Casey Munchow.

Casey tragically died when she became trapped in her car submerged by floodwater near Mt Ossa earlier this month.

Friend Natasha Spreadborough set up an online fundraiser to support the family, Casey’s husband Josh and their three children, Dylan 10, Tommy 7 and Evie 2.

Natasha said Casey was all the good you could ever want in a person.

“Casey was one of a kind with a heart of gold, was always there for her friends and completely family oriented.

“Quite frankly, there are not enough compassionate words to compliment this beautiful woman.

“She would do anything for anyone and would never ask for anything in return.

“This has left a massive impact on everyone who had the privilege of being a part of her life and has absolutely rocked the town of Calen.”

Every donation, whether it be big or small, will go such a long way in this unprecedented time and will be appreciated more than words will ever be able to describe.

Donations can be made online: gofundme.com/f/love-and-support-for-caseys-family

Casey and Josh Munchow and their three children, Dylan, Tommy and Evie

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The crafters of the Sarina Fibre Arts Group have pooled their talents to support the Sarina Arts and Crafts Centre.

The group has donated three beautiful quilts which are being raffled to raise funds for the Craft Centre, with $2 tickets now available and drawn on September 17.

One of the quilts is an exquisite creation which was started by the sister of Heather Ruddell, who was a long-time supporter of the Arts and Crafts Centre.

“Heather’s sister became ill and wasn’t able to finish it and gave it to the Fibre Arts for them to finish it,” Sarina Arts and Crafts manager Jenny Costello said.

“The Fibre Arts crafters decided that they would finish it and donate it to the Sarina Arts and Crafts Centre.”

Jennifer said the while it was a club project for the Fibre Arts Group, much of the work on the quilt was done by Celia Gutchslag and Margaret Schwarzrock.

Another prize is a hand-embroidered quilt by the late Dulcie Christensen, which was donated to the Fibre Arts Group by her son Glen. Gayle Tomerini did much of the work to finish it off.

Fibre Arts crafter Val Pearce hand-knitted another prize of a woolen quilt.

Tickets are available at the Sarina Arts and Crafts Centre or from members of the centre and will be sold at Sarina IGA on selected days. The prizes will be drawn on September 17.

By Charlie Payne

Margaret Schwarzrock, Jenny Costello and Celia Gutschlag hold a quilt to be raffled on behalf of the Sarina Arts and Crafts Centre. Photos: Charlie Payne

Val Pearce with her hand-knitted quilt, one of three to be raffled for the Sarina Arts and Crafts Centre

A hand-embroidered quilt by the late Dulcie Christensen, part of the raffle for the Sarina Arts and Crafts Centre

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