Over the past week, enforcement officers from the State Penalties Enforcement Registry (SPER) have been cracking down on people who refuse to pay their SPER debts in Mackay and the surrounding areas. SPER Enforcement Director Kim Easton revealed that around 13,000 individuals and businesses across the Mackay Whitsunday region collectively owed almost $30 million in unpaid fines and penalties.

Mr Easton encouraged anyone with outstanding debts to contact SPER before officers took enforcement action.

“Our officers are visiting debtors at their home or workplace and those people that refuse to pay their debts will face tough action,” he said.

“This includes having money taken from their wages or bank accounts through garnishment powers or having their cars clamped, seized and sold to meet their obligations.”

Mr Easton also advised that the best way to avoid enforcement action and extra fees was to pay fines on time, and the consequences of not doing so were serious. He revealed that regional enforcement activities were part of SPER's ongoing state-wide operations, which have already led to the seizure of luxury SUVs, hi-spec utes and motorbikes, trucks, boats, trailers, and jet skis from people refusing to pay their debts.

In light of this, anyone having trouble paying for whatever reason was urged to contact SPER on 1300 365 635 to discuss their payment options and avoid enforcement action. Mr Easton reminded people that SPER debts did not go away and would catch up with them if they did not act.

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Megan Warrener started picking up the Mackay Life Newspaper when she first moved to Mackay, flicking straight to the real estate section to look for a house.

After settling into Mackay life, she’s become a regular reader of the newspaper and the inaugural winner of our reader survey, winning $1,000 in fuel vouchers.

Megan finds the paper on a newspaper stand outside a store on Nelson Street every Friday on the way to work, reading it front to back to keep up with news from both Mackay and the Whitsundays.

“It’s good to know what’s on and what’s been happening,” she said.

“There’s no components of the paper that I skip over, I read through all of it.”

“Everyone at work loves getting the newspaper, too, and having a read through and discussing what’s in there.”

Megan moved to Mackay from Moree looking for more opportunities for her 12 and 14-year-old boys.

“Mackay has everything that we need – good sporting opportunities, good schools, work – we’ve found that Mackay has everything we need,” she said.

Megan is the registrar of Brothers Bulldogs Junior Rugby League and weekends are often spent taking the boys to sport or the beach.

“I’m a very passionate footy mum,” she said.

Megan was one of 881 people to complete the Mackay and Whitsunday Life reader survey last year, winning her the $1,000 fuel voucher prize.

She said it’s come at the perfect time, with a drive to Yamba in northern New South Wales for a wedding coming up soon.

Congratulations, Megan, and thanks for reading!

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A miner was airlifted to Mackay Base Hospital after a coal collapse trapped him by the foot at the Carborough Downs Underground Coal Mine last week. The 34-year-old Sarina man was working underground when the incident occurred, causing a significant amount of rubble to fall on him, leaving him trapped.

The miner was freed by a mine rescue team before being treated on site by paramedics. The RACQ CQRescue chopper, with a doctor and paramedic on board, was called to the scene to airlift the patient to Mackay Base Hospital, which was located 288km away. The 3.5-hour task required careful coordination and expertise to ensure the safe transfer of the injured worker.

The rescue helicopter landed at the nearby Poitrel Mine site, where the patient was transported from the underground mine. The man was treated by paramedics on site before being transferred to the chopper, which flew him to the hospital in a stable condition.

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Photo credit: RACQ CQ Rescue

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Caneland Central has a new Centre Manager after Sentinel Property Group appointed Mark Farquhar in the role.

Mr Farquhar has 30 years of experience in retail, having managed medium to large retail assets across Australia and internationally.

He had been overseeing a portfolio of properties across Queensland and NSW for Sentinel and has now relocated from Cairns.

“I am looking forward to closely engaging with customers, retailers of Caneland Central and the community stakeholders of Mackay,” Mr Farquhar said.

“Caneland Central is the premier shopping and lifestyle destination in the Mackay region. The centre dominates the Mackay CBD and is the focal point for retail spending and leisure for the wider region.”

Mr Farquhar said throughout his career he had adopted a tenant/customer centric approach which would continue at Caneland Central.

“The centre management team and I will work closely with the retailers to ensure continued convenience and service is maintained,” he said.

“Sentinel Property Group is also planning numerous exciting initiatives at Caneland Central in the coming months which will benefit both tenants and customers.”

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Mark Farquhar relocated from Cairns where he was overseeing a portfolio of properties across Queensland and NSW for Sentinel

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There is over 5,000km of coastline between the southernmost and northernmost points of Australia and Bailey Seamer is well on her way to walking the distance.

Bailey started her journey at South Point in Wilsons Promontory National Park on May 18, 2022.

She stopped off in Mackay last week after 280 days of walking on her way to Cape York, aiming to reach her destination by July.

“It’s been really rewarding,” Bailey said.

“I’ve done so many incredible things and had so many amazing opportunities in communities, to connect and to pursue that passion of helping with the mental health work going on here in Australia and contribute in a positive way.”

Bailey is raising funds for Black Dog Institute and their ongoing commitment to research, resources and services.

She was diagnosed with bipolar disorder at a young age, her inspiration for the walk coming three years ago when she discovered she was capable of long walks.

“I really struggled to complete things,” Bailey said.

“It was something I felt like I’d achieved.

“I was looking at my future and felt like a lot of doors were being shut on me.

“I just went, ‘I can walk really long distances and I’m pretty good at it – I’m going to do this big walk to show myself and other people with mental illness that it might not be the nine to five conventional lifestyle but there is a life worth living with mental illness that doesn’t have to stop you from pursuing things and achieving things.”

Bailey started the walk alone in the Victorian cold, with a 20km pack, walking as far as she could before stocking up with supplies at the nearest town.

Since reaching Queensland, she’s been joined by a support vehicle, allowing her to walk more freely and smash out 30 to 40kms a day.

She said the walk is a metaphor for life with bipolar and reflects her own personal journey, with good days and bad.

“There’s been days when I’ve woken up exceptionally depressed or suffering from chronic low moods … and then fast forward two hours and I’ve already climbed a mountain,” she said.

“If you believe something’s possible, it is.

Visit wandering-minds.org to follow Bailey’s journey and contribute to her cause.

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Bailey Seamer is walking from the southernmost to the northernmost point of Australia, raising funds for Black Dog Institute. Photo supplied

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Mackay Regional Council’s Animal Management Centre is currently home to a group of lovable animals in need of a furever home. From scruffy terriers to timid tabby cats, there's a furry friend for everyone looking to adopt a new companion.

The centre is open for viewing during the hours of 11.30am -1.30pm, or by appointment, and interested adopters can also check out the pets up for adoption on the Mackay council's website.

These pets are all in need of a warm bed, good food, and plenty of love and attention. If you're looking for a furry friend to add to your family, why not consider adopting a pound pet and giving them the loving home they deserve? Contact the pound on 1300 MACKAY for more information.

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With freshly polished medals attached to his jumper, a new slouch hat atop his head and many a yarn to spin, 101-year-old World War II veteran Raymond “Ray” Wilson is one of Mackay’s oldest veterans.

RSL Mackay Sub Branch recognised Ray last week, renewing his membership and presenting him with his service record, the slouch hat, an Australian flag, a RSL cap and other memorabilia.

“He’s a treasure,” said RSL Mackay Sub Branch President Ken Higgins OAM.

“He’s a much-loved part of our town area of Mackay and district as he’s lived here all his life.

“Ray is one of our last second world war veterans.

“They’re very precious people and we need to respect and admire their sacrifice along with our forefathers before that in the first world war.”

Mr Wilson went to Victoria Park State School in the 1920s, leaving to work in the cane industry before enlisting in the army in 1941 at the age of 20.

He served in New Guinea in the second world war, making the trip on three occasions between 1942 and 1945.

Mr Higgins said Mr Wilson’s compassion and country knowhow came to his aid many times while serving.

“Ray’s platoon were on an operation in New Guinea and they actually got lost,” Mr Higgins recollected.

“They all had a look around … Ray being a bushy from around here, he actually had assessed the situation, had a look at the sun and actually led that crew back to their camp … what a great effort.”

“These stories are going to leave us eventually.

“Once Ray leaves us, they leave us too, so it’s important to get some history.”

Mr Higgins joined the RSL after serving in Vietnam, saying he returned with “a different slant on life”.

“I was roped into the RSL in a country area as soon as I got home and that was over 50 years ago,” he said.

“These sorts of chores with people like Raymond Wilson are really a fantastic part of what I do.

“Ray’s a character.

“He’s got some wonderful, wonderful stories.

“His family love him dearly … Ray’s not alone and this is one of the big problems with veterans these days is that they are left alone, on their own, to fend for themselves and forgotten in lots of cases.

“We’re trying our best in Mackay to solve that problem.

“It’s a job that’s ongoing but people like Ray really rekindle my enthusiasm because he’s precious.”

Mr Higgins urged any other veterans in the community to get in touch with the RSL Mackay Sub Branch at info@mackay.rslqld.net.au.

“If there are any other second world war veterans who want to pass on their stories or their families want to contact us at Mackay RSL Sub Branch, please do so,” he said.

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A 21-year-old Raymond Wilson

Mr Wilson was presented with his service record and other RSL memorabilia

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On February 25, Mackay Northern Beaches police received six reports from victims who had their parked vehicles targeted by thieves.

The reports are linked to incidents in Manning Street, Kidston Avenue, Keim Street and also Old Eimeo Road, all in Rural View.

Police are appealing for anyone who might have witnessed any suspicious behaviour to come forward.

This is also a reminder for vehicle owners to secure their vehicles when unattended, especially in evening and early morning hours, and remove all valuables from inside.

If you witness any suspicious activity, at any time of the day, please report the matter as soon as possible.

Police report numbers - QP2300332768, QP2300332773, QP2300333249, QP2300333286, QP2300333991 and QP2300334298

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Get ready to feast your ears and taste buds, because the biggest music and food extravaganza in our region has just announced a mouth-watering partnership!

The Wisely Wine and Food Day is teaming up with a local family-owned business that's no stranger to keeping things running like a well-oiled machine. That's right, the Wisely Group, known for their industrial asset management expertise, is bringing their community-minded approach to this event and ensuring that it stays free for all to enjoy. With their deep roots in the region and genuine passion for promoting local talent, this partnership is sure to be a recipe for success!

Wisely chief executive officer Chris Bugeja said this was a unique opportunity to expose the business in the community and support one of the Festival of Arts’ iconic events.

“Wisely Group is committed to supporting Mackay’s most significant event of the year and ensuring our local upcoming talent has a future in the arts,” Mr Bugeja said.

“We are passionate about fostering the vibrant community where our employees and customers live and work,” he said.

Mr Bugeja said the Wisely Wine and Food Day also aligned with their strategy to attract more skilled labour to our region.

“The resource industry is strong, but there is a local skills shortage of people,” he said. “So, part of our strategy is to attract talent from the capital cities to relocate to our beautiful region.”

“Large-scale attractions like the Wisely Wine and Food Day certainly help put Mackay on the map for things to see and do.”

Mayor Greg Williamson said council and the Mackay Festivals team were delighted to have Wisely inked in for the next five years.

“Wisely have gone from strength to strength over the last two decades and it’s tremendous to see a local company so passionate about supporting their community,” Mayor Williamson said.

“It was also fantastic to see the Wisely team really embrace this Festival event in 2022, when they dipped their toe in as major sponsor,” he said.

“Their positive feedback was overwhelming and, honestly, gives us a whole new avenue of promotion – 500 Wisely team members, all over Australia, who now have an event in our region that they are VIPs at!

“That sort of wide-spread word-of-mouth is invaluable.”

This year’s Wisely Wine and Food Day is set to be held on Saturday, July 15.

Applications for performers for the event are currently open and can be found on themecc.com.au/festivals.

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Mayor Greg Williamson (left) and Wisely Group chief executive officer Chris Bugeja shake hands on the exciting new Mackay Festival of Arts partnership

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A Pioneer State High School teacher has put the call out, requesting donations of recyclable, reusable and refurbished school materials to send to his home country of Sierra Leone.

Mohamed Johnson-Kanu left Sierra Leone in 2000 and is determined to help his country with basic necessities.

“We’ve been ravaged by war for nearly 10-12 years; maiming and killing people unnecessarily, mutilating them alive,” Mr Johnson-Kanu said.

“I was one of the most fortunate, I survived the Rebel War.”

With the help of a friend, Mr Johnson-Kanu attained a teaching contract in Papua New Guinea, leaving Sierra Leone before his daughter was diagnosed with Leukemia in 2002 and moved to Brisbane for treatment.

“That was the first time we came in contact with Australia,” he said.

Being a physics and maths teacher, Mr Johnson-Kanu’s skills were in high demand getting a job in Middlemount not long after.

His long teaching career also took him to Moranbah, Toowoomba and even Kazakhstan before he settled in Mackay.

“Every year, in all the schools that I’ve been to, they are just throwing books in the bin, chairs, stools, desks,” Mr Johnson-Kanu.

“Last year, I stood there watching, it was raining that day, I felt so bad.

“All of this stuff, our people, the students, they don’t have it.”

Mr Johnson-Kanu rallied some of his students, collected and dried the books and thus started a collection of items he hopes to send back to schools in Sierra Leone.

“I said, ‘I’m going to do something now so that this kind of waste will stop,’” he said.

“My people, the students back home, they don’t have anything.

“They are far behind.”

Mr Johnson-Kanu has contacted primary and secondary schools throughout the region, as well as Mackay Regional Council, requesting school supplies such as textbooks, novels, furniture, computers, filing cabinets and other resources.

He is also hoping to raise money to purchase a shipping container to transport the items.

“The schoolchildren, who are unable to pursue a proper education, would benefit from these donations as these items would give them a second chance at life and better their future and community,” he said.

Anyone interested in assisting is asked to contact Mr Johnson-Kanu on 0418 402 000 or email mjo2123@eq.edu.au.

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Mabinty Marion and Mohamed Johnson-Kanu. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

Mohamed’s primary school in the Sierra Leone village of Gbainty Wallah. Photo supplied

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The Mining and Energy Union (MEU) has voiced the frustration of Queensland mineworkers over the lack of consequences faced by coal companies and senior executives after fatal and serious workplace accidents. The union is calling on the Queensland Government to take action in prosecuting those responsible for these incidents.

MEU launched a campaign last week, urging mineworkers and community members to write to the Minister for Resources and the Minister for Industrial Relations, asking for justice for their fallen colleagues.

"I am tired of trying to explain to the families of our lost members why nobody has been held accountable," says Stephen Smyth, MEU Queensland District President. He adds that grieving families and communities have heard repeatedly that charges are not filed, dropped, or held up indefinitely.

Mr Smyth cites several recent incidents, such as the Grosvenor Mine explosion that burned five miners in 2020, and the deaths of David Routledge, Brad Duxbury, and Graham Dawson, where no one has been held accountable despite findings of wrongdoing.

"It's time for the Queensland Government to take the prosecution of companies seriously whose workers die on the job, as everyone deserves to return home safely from work," says Mr Smyth. He adds that the guidelines for prosecution need to be reviewed, taking into account the need for justice for miners, their families, and communities.

Katrina and Leesh, the daughters of Graham Dawson, who lost his life in a collapsing roof incident at Crinum Mine, are also supporting the Justice for Miners campaign.

They say, "Our father lost his life while working underground. For families like ours, the aftermath of a workplace tragedy weighs on us every day. We support this campaign and urge the government to hold mining companies accountable for death and injury that occur under their watch."

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MEU Queensland District President Stephen Smyth with Leesh Dawson, whose father Graham Dawson was crushed by a collapsing roof at Crinum Mine in 2021

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You may be interested to know that panel repair facilities in Queensland are not required to hold a license, nor are they obliged to undertake post apprenticeship training of any kind.  

In fact, an owner or operator does not have to have a trade certificate.

Here in our facility, we believe that in order to complete a repair we should know how.

We should be able to perform each required operation correctly and safely for our clients and team.

I was asked these two brilliant questions just this week.

“How is it possible to have the same training modules in a current 4-year apprenticeship as those that were in an apprenticeship even 10 years ago, for a Panel Technician?”

What a great question. The simple answer is “it is not possible”.

If we look at the evolution of the motor vehicle in the past 10 years, we have seen some incredible advancements, then we compare that to the changes we have seen in the training modules.

Looking at the big picture there have been a few modules drop out, however not nearly enough to cover the vast array of new learning modules required to understand the way today’s vehicles need to be repaired. These new modules make up an elective components, the most likely way forward will be that individuals will specialise in a particular area. Not all technicians will know how to weld aluminium or know how to work with electric/hybrids. However, these can be completed post-graduation.

“What do you as a business do about that?”

Realistically it is not possible to extend an apprenticeship to five or six years, so as a facility our decision has been to extend training beyond that of our apprentices and into specialised repair training through industry recognised providers.  

As a consumer, a little bit of research goes a long way.  Exercise your right to choose a quality repairer.

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Manufacturers in Mackay can now apply for funding from the Manufacturing Hubs Grant Program's third round, which has $10 million in total funding available over the next two years. The program provides local manufacturers with financial support for business-expanding initiatives, said Glenn Butcher, Queensland Minister for Regional Development and Manufacturing.

Minister Butcher emphasised that the manufacturing sector is competitive, and the grants have been able to help local businesses grow, become more competitive, and create new jobs.

He said, "I’m thrilled to announce another $10 million in funds for the next two years to help even more regional Queensland manufacturers take the next step in transitioning their business to 4.0 technology.

“The manufacturing sector is a very competitive industry and this grant has been able to help a local Mackay business grow, become more competitive and create new jobs,” the Minister said.

Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert praised the program's impact on the local economy.

"We know that our investment has created and supported good jobs and better services for our region," she said.

"This program is just more evidence that our Manufacturing Hubs, which the Queensland Government has permanently funded, are absolutely critical to the prosperity of local businesses."

The MHGP has already awarded more than $13 million to 49 projects across Queensland, including for business development, technology adoption, and skills and training across the state's five eligible regions. To date, the MHGP has committed more than $645,000 in MHGP grants to two Mackay businesses.

The program aims to help manufacturers transition to Manufacturing 4.0 processes, which will enable them to be more competitive. The application process for Round 3 has been simplified to ensure that as many people as possible can access grant funding. Interested manufacturers can contact their local Manufacturing Hub for more information.

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Queensland Minister for Regional Development and Manufacturing Glenn Butcher

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Over the past decade, there have been significant changes for women in industry regarding gender equality and women’s representation. Traditionally, industries like mining and construction have been male-dominated, with few opportunities for women to enter or advance in the field.

With this month’s International Women’s Day focused on clear pathways and inclusive workplaces, Get Real Workwear & Safety is prouder than ever to stock products that are fully gender inclusive and well-fitting to all body types.

Safety workwear and boots have evolved in time to ensure that there are comfortable and well-fitting options for women, particularly as more workplaces have welcomed and supported women’s vital role in industry.

The importance of safety workwear can never be overstated, and it is crucial that women have access to safety gear that fits properly and offers adequate protection. There are a number of differences between men’s and women’s safety workwear and boots, including:

1. Sizing - boots are typically designed with a narrower heel and smaller toe box, as well as clothing for all body shapes

2. Style - women’s safety wear features a more feminine design, with brighter colours and more stylish cuts for confidence

3. Comfort - extra padding and support to accommodate the specific needs of every shaped body

4. Functionality - same safety features, however often with additional pockets for carrying items

While there has been a gradual shift towards equality in non-traditional roles, there’s still work to be done to achieve true gender equality when it comes to stereotyping and bias. However, by offering all-inclusive safety workwear and boots, Get Real Workwear & Safety is helping to set a new standard and advocating for a completely inclusive and supportive workplace culture for women in industry.

Get Real Workwear & Safety - in store and online www.getrealworkwear.com.au

Unit 2, 203-215 Maggiore Drive, Paget

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With a solid foundation in the local community dating back to 1883, Porters Mitre 10 Mackay is raising the roof after being named a finalist in the inaugural Timber and Hardware National Awards.

The local business is a finalist in the category of Retail Store over 2,500 sqm.

The Porters Mitre 10 Mackay City Store was recognised for excelling in the retail category, through their commitment to continuous improvements in store standards and operational excellence.

Since 1883, Porters Mitre 10 Mackay has been serving the local Mackay community with all their hardware and lifestyle needs. The store located in the Mackay CBD features a thriving café, extensive garden centre, wonderful homewares and giftware offering, STIHL Dealership and Mackay’s only Weber Specialist Dealer. Combined with the dedicated paint, plumbing and trade offer; Porters Mitre 10 is really a local one-stop shop.

“The entire team are honoured to have been nominated as a finalist for the inaugural Timber & Hardware National Awards” states Porters Mitre 10 CEO, Hayden Cargill.

“It is wonderful that the hard work of our teams has been recognised at this level.

“It is a privilege to be listed as a finalist against some of the best hardware businesses in the country. It is a true testament to our teams including their hard work and dedication. This award really means a lot,” explained Mr Cargill.

Charles Porter & Sons have been supporting the Mackay & Whitsunday region with building supplies and hardware products since 1883. The company has 13 divisions across 3 buying groups of Mitre 10, Plumbing Plus and Inspirations Paint and service hardware retail, Plumbing supplies, Trade building supplies, Porters Manufacturing Glass and Aluminium and Truss & Frame. Porters has sites in Mackay, Northern Beaches, Glenella, Sarina, Marian, Proserpine and Cannonvale and employs over 200 local staff.

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Porters Team Member at the 2022 Trade Expo

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