The Great Barrier Reef’s Unlikely Eco-Engineers

Despite their name, sea cucumbers are not fruits, vegetables or any sort of plant. They’re animals—ancient, slow-moving, wonderfully strange animals that have been cleaning and recycling the ocean floor for millions of years.

Sea cucumbers belong to the class Holothuroidea and are close relatives of sea stars and sea urchins. More than 1,700 species are found worldwide, living on the seafloor from shallow coral reefs to the inky darkness of the deep sea. Many have soft, water-filled bodies and leathery skin, giving them their cucumber-like appearance, but don’t be fooled—this group comes in an extraordinary range of shapes, sizes and colours. Some are only millimetres long while others can reach a whopping three metres.

Like all echinoderms, sea cucumbers have five-part body symmetry, a mouth at one end and an anus at the other. Instead of a hard skeleton, they rely on tiny particles of calcium carbonate called ossicles, which act like microscopic armour. This flexible structure is the reason behind their “squishy” look and feel.

Nature’s Recyclers

Sea cucumbers play a vital ecological role on the Great Barrier Reef. Most are scavengers, sucking up sediment packed with organic material. They digest the nutritious bits—algae, plankton and detritus—and then expel the cleaned sediment behind them. This constant churning of the seafloor is known as bioturbation, and it helps to:

·         recycle nutrients

·         oxygenate the sediment

·         produce calcium carbonate used by corals and other reef builders

In short, sea cucumbers help keep the Reef healthy from the bottom up.

Stranger Than Fiction: Fun Facts

Sea cucumbers boast some of the most unusual adaptations in the animal kingdom:

·         Self-evisceration: When threatened, some species literally eject their internal organs through their anus to distract predators. They later grow them back.

·         Sticky defence threads: Others fire out long, sticky strands to snare would-be attackers.

·         "Butt breathing": Without lungs, they pump water in and out of their anus to extract oxygen using specialised respiratory trees.

·         No eyes, no heart, no brain: Yet they navigate the world using a nerve ring and sensory cells in their skin.

Life and Threats on the Reef

Most sea cucumbers reproduce by releasing eggs and sperm into the water column, letting the currents do the mixing. In cooler regions, some species keep their fertilised eggs inside the body until the young are ready to swim free.

Despite their tough survival strategies, sea cucumbers are preyed upon by fish, crabs and turtles. They also hold significant cultural and culinary value throughout the Indo-Pacific. Known as trepang, bêche-de-mer, namako or balate, they are harvested for food and increasingly farmed in aquaculture systems.

However, many species—including several found on the Great Barrier Reef—are under pressure. Overfishing, both local and global, has driven some populations to dangerously low numbers. Troublingly, several heavily fished species show little sign of recovery, even years after harvesting has ceased.

The Unsung Heroes of the Seafloor

They may not be glamorous, fast or fierce, but sea cucumbers are indispensable to the health of coral reef ecosystems. By cleaning, recycling and reshaping the seafloor, they quietly keep the Great Barrier Reef functioning.

Perhaps it’s time we stop overlooking these humble creatures—and start appreciating them for the remarkable animals they truly are.

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Sea Cucumber. Photo supplied.

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U11s Girls
The U11 Pitties Girls returned to Proserpine High this week, facing the Norths Devils in sweltering conditions and on a thick, heavy outfield that made boundaries hard to come by. Norths batted first after winning the toss, but the Pink Pitbulls were on top from the start.

E. Brazil struck early with a peach of a delivery, finishing with 1-4 from three overs, while F. Gallagher added 1-6 off two. The rest of the bowling attack supported strongly, keeping runs tight and creating run-out opportunities. The fielders backed up well, cutting off potential singles and pressuring the Devils to 75.

In reply, the Pitties stuck to their plan, rotating the strike and contributing across the lineup. E. Brazil top-scored with 10* off 16 balls, hitting the match’s only four, while M. Quod remained unbeaten on 4. The team finished at 60, showcasing grit, confidence, and teamwork.

U11s Boys vs U11s Mixed
New faces debuted in an exciting intratown clash on the newly installed pitch at the junior sporting complex. Boys captain Will W sent the mixed team into the field, and strong batting performances from Harry M and debutant Toby N (16 runs each) set the boys up for a total of 121.
The mixed team battled back, with Nick G, Zayden M, Logan W, and Lukas N keeping the scoreboard ticking. The match came down to the final over, where Liam S smashed crucial runs, securing a thrilling win for the mixed team. PoM awards went to Toby N (boys) and Liam S (mixed team), with special mention for debutants Hudson W and Toby N.

U12s
At Bucasia State School, the U12 Pitties posted 123 against Norths Devils in blazing conditions, thanks to T. Gibbs (25), P. Regan (25*), and N. Aitken (14*). Tight bowling from H. Valmadre (2-25) and a disciplined field effort kept the Devils under pressure, but a last-wicket partnership handed the Devils a narrow win.

U13s
H. Gibbs led the U13 Pitties’ batting with 28*, supported by M. Hope (17*). The team posted 118, then ran through the Souths Sharks’ lineup, with M. Hope claiming 3-4 and contributions from across the bowling attack. Souths were bowled out for 65 in the 16th over, giving the Pitties a convincing win.

U14s
Batting first on the astro, the U14 Pitbulls made 93, with K. Whitty anchoring the innings on 20* and J. Farley hitting 16 off seven balls, including two sixes. Disciplined bowling from H. Camm (2-10) and team fielding efforts restricted the Devils to 83, handing the Pitbulls a hard-fought 10-run victory.

U17s
The U17 Pitbulls dominated at Magpies’ nest, bowling the home side out for 58, with O. Seamer (2-11), M. Pomeroy (2-5), and M. Logan (4-17) leading the attack. Chasing steadily, W. Logan starred with 56* as the Pitties closed on 7-140 for a convincing win.

From debutants to seasoned performers, Proserpine’s juniors showcased skill, determination, and teamwork across all age groups this week.

Contributed with thanks to Danni Green and Brad Wilkinson

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U12s Player of Match - Patrick Regan. Photo supplied

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School’s out across the Mackay region, and for the Class of 2025, the final bell has never sounded louder. Year 12 students have wrapped up exams, celebrations and long-held traditions as they get ready to step boldly into their next chapter.

Last week, Whitsunday Anglican School farewelled its seniors with the annual Walk of Honour — a moment echoed in spirit across the region as students gathered to applaud their graduates.

Now, the Class of 2025 prepares to scatter into apprenticeships, university pathways, gap years and first jobs. Some will chase dreams close to home; others will venture far beyond the Pioneer Valley — but all carry the lessons, friendships and resilience shaped right here in regional Queensland.

Congratulations to the Class of 2025!

Last Friday, the Class of 2025 at Whitsunday Anglican School marked the end of their school journey with the annual “Walk of Honour.” Led by the Mackay and District Pipe Band, the Year 12 students walked through the School gates while younger students and staff looked on, applauding and celebrating their achievements. The tradition offered a memorable farewell for the graduates and a chance for the school community to acknowledge their hard work and dedication.

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Hi lovely readers!

I’m back from my little holiday, and I had such a wonderful time.

Adam and I rolled out of bed last Friday around 4am, grabbed our camera gear, and hit the road up to Cape Hillsborough.

The fog settled over the canefields and mountains, and we just knew it was going to be an awesome day!

Of course, we made a little pit stop at the Farleigh servo to grab some breaky before hitting the road again. Once we arrived, I eagerly hopped out of the car, set up my camera, and raced down to the beach… Adam wasn’t too far behind me, lol.

We spotted four wallabies peacefully hanging out on the beach, and two were quite friendly. They even hopped right up to Adam to check him out!

It was such a cool experience. We’re truly blessed to live here!

In this edition, we’ve included a ‘Discover the City Centre’ feature on pages 19-25, highlighting the best of our region’s local gems, as well as a Gift Guide on page 27 running over this week and next.

This Christmas, I encourage you to check out our amazing local businesses and support local, because after all, that’s what keeps our beautiful region thriving.

Scripture of the week: ‘May your unfailing love be with us, Lord, even as we put our hope in you.’ – Psalm 33:22

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In moments of heartbreak, kindness has a way of shining its brightest — and for one local family, the compassion shown by first responders and medical staff has become a source of comfort during an incredibly painful time.

In a heartfelt message shared with the community, a daughter has expressed her deep appreciation for everyone who helped her father on Sunday.

“On behalf of my Mum, my siblings, and myself, we would like to express our greatest gratitude to the Queensland Ambulance, Care Flight Ambulance, and Queensland Fire personnel who came to help my father, Peter, on Sunday,” she wrote.

“Your care and compassion was above any and all expectations and what you did to make him comfortable was amazing.”

Peter sadly passed away in the early hours of Monday morning, but the family says the support shown to him, and to them, will never be forgotten.

They also extended their thanks to the dedicated staff at Awal Medical, including Dr Awal, Dr Bassan and Dr Tara; the teams at Sarina Hospital and Mackay Base Hospital; and the staff at the Discount Drug Store, acknowledging the care given to Peter over many years.

“You have treated him with dignity and respect even when he was impatient and stubborn,” she shared.

Special thanks were offered to Tari and the “amazing nurses at the Base Hospital”, whose “care, kindness, and compassion… will never ever be forgotten.”

“He is going to be sorely missed, and our hearts are shattered, but knowing that he was treated so amazingly makes it hurt a little less.”

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Last Sunday, the Mackay region came together to celebrate International Men’s Day, recognising the contribution of men in families, workplaces, and the wider community. The event, hosted by Walkerston Rotary at the Mackay Surf Club, offered a thoughtful and informative session focused on men’s health, wellbeing, and the importance of speaking up.

The gathering featured a range of expert speakers who shared valuable insights on physical and mental health. Nigel Thomas from the Heart Support Network spoke on men’s heart health, sharing experiences that resonated with many in the room. Dr Adrian Westcott from the Mater Hospital discussed men’s breast cancer, highlighting early warning signs and encouraging men to seek help without delay. Local GP and cardiologist Dr Adam Hatherly provided expert guidance on cardiac care and offered a broader overview of men’s health. Mental wellbeing was also a key focus, with Joseph Bonanno from Evocativ covering support options and everyday habits that help men stay connected and resilient.

Rob Kidd emceed the session, ensuring a steady pace, clear communication, and opportunities for questions throughout the morning. The event was supported by major sponsor WASPS Industrial Supplies, along with DMD Ag Solutions, Crokers Fuel & Oils Pty Ltd, Dowdens Group Single Transport Services, ACE Physiotherapy Mackay, Zarb Road Transport Pty Ltd, and Mussos Scrap Metal.

Throughout the session, several key messages emerged: men often wait too long to seek help, open conversations can lead to action, and support grows when people show up for each other. Personal stories shared by speakers and attendees helped break down barriers and highlight the importance of discussing both physical and mental health.

Walkerston Rotary thanked everyone who attended and contributed to making the morning meaningful. Resources and contacts for men’s health and wellbeing were offered to those interested, emphasising that support is available for anyone who reaches out.

The event served as a reminder of the value of celebrating men in the community, and Walkerston Rotary looks forward to hosting similar sessions in the future to continue raising awareness and fostering connection.

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Last Sunday’s International Men’s Day event at the Mackay Surf Club brought the community together for an informative session on men’s health, wellbeing, and the importance of speaking up. Photo source: Walkerston Rotary

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Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, says Labor’s humiliating reversal on forcing regional communities onto slower, lower-quality roads confirms what locals have been saying for months: the policy was unworkable, unsafe, and designed to shift costs away from Canberra and onto the bush.

Mr Willcox said he heard the message “loud and clear” from residents right across the Dawson electorate.

“People in Dawson told me bluntly that they don’t want to be slowed down on rural roads that already look like something out of a third-world country. They want roads brought up to standard, not pushed backwards,” Mr Willcox said.

He said the policy had nothing to do with safety and everything to do with cost-cutting.

“This was never about improving safety. It was about Labor avoiding its responsibility to invest in rural and regional roads. They tried cost-shifting, they got caught out, and now they’re scrambling.”

Mr Willcox noted that even Labor MPs publicly criticised the proposal.

“When members of the Government itself are recorded saying it’s a bad idea, you know it’s bad.

Labor can spin it however they like, their own team didn’t believe in it.”

He also made clear that the Albanese Government is dragging its feet when it comes to funding for regional roads.

“This government is showing nothing but contempt for the people who live and work in our regions.”

The Member for Dawson said constituents were rightly furious that the Government ever considered forcing slower speeds as a substitute for proper investment.“You can’t run an agricultural powerhouse on degraded roads.

“You can’t get produce to market, livestock to sale yards or machinery to farms on reduced- standard corridors.

“Slowing everyone down was never a solution; it was an insult.”

Mr Willcox added that the Government needed to stop playing politics with regional infrastructure and start treating rural communities with respect.

“Labor tried to penny-pinch on the backs of rural Australians. They failed. Now they need to recommit to long-term, reliable, fit-for-purpose funding for regional roads, because these roads are the economic arteries of electorates like Dawson.”

Mr Willcox said he would continue to fight for the road infrastructure local communities need and deserve.

“Dawson deserves roads that support our industries, not roads that hold us back.

“I’ll keep pushing until the Federal Government stops cutting corners and starts delivering for the regions.”

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Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox is calling for urgent upgrades to Dawson’s rural roads, urging the Albanese Government to fund the infrastructure regional communities rely on every day. Photo supplied

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Mackay’s sporting future is set for a major upgrade, with the Government committing $23.5 million to Stage 2 of the Great Barrier Reef Arena under the statewide Games On! program.

The funding, now received by Harrup Park, will support the development of a state-of-the-art multi-sport facility designed to become a central community and events hub for the Mackay–Whitsundays region. Once complete, the venue could play host to cricket during the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, cementing its place on the international sporting stage.

The expansion forms part of the government’s plan to build a long-term sporting legacy for regional Queensland. Officials say the upgrades will significantly enhance opportunities across cricket, AFL and grassroots sport, helping to strengthen pathways for athletes at all levels.

To date, 119 projects across the state have been supported through the Games On! program, delivering new or improved clubhouses, changerooms, fields, courts and lighting for local sporting organisations. The government says the program is reversing “a decade of decline under Labor” and ensuring communities feel the benefits of the 2032 Games.

The Great Barrier Reef Arena project is currently in its early planning stages, with design workshops and stakeholder consultation underway.

Minister for Sport and Racing and Minister for the Olympic and Paralympic Games Tim Mander said the upgraded facility would help more Queenslanders get involved in sport.

“As we position Queensland as Australia’s sports capital, we will continue to develop our regional sporting hubs to ensure the benefits of our growing schedule of major sporting events can be shared throughout the State,” Minister Mander said.

“We know that to get more people playing, officiating, volunteering and watching sport, we need to invest in quality facilities that serve the community.

“Stage 2 upgrades will support multiple sporting codes, including training for elite athletes, grassroots clubs and major event broadcasting.”

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said Harrup Park had long been a cornerstone of the local sporting community.

“Harrup Park has been the heart of cricket in Mackay for many years, recently hosting its first international men’s cricket match, which was warmly embraced by locals,” Mr Dalton said.

“The community is excited to see the next stage of this project progress, to create a facility that will support the region’s needs long into the future.”

Harrup Park General Manager Adrian Young said the development would deliver lasting regional benefits.

“We’re proud to work alongside the Queensland Government to bring this next stage of the Great Barrier Reef Arena to life, building on strong foundations to deliver an iconic facility ready to shine on the world stage in 2032 and beyond,” Mr Young said.

"The benefits of this project go far beyond sport. It will bring people together, strengthen community pride and create a lasting legacy that every person in our region can share in.”

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A new era for regional sport is on the horizon as Great Barrier Reef Arena secures $23.5 million in funding (Photo Supplied)

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A burst of colour, creativity and culture has officially shaped the face of the 2026 North Queensland Games, with local student Georgia Thorning announced as the winner of the region-wide mascot design competition.

The contest invited children aged up to 16 to create a brand-new mascot ahead of the Games’ return to Mackay in May 2026. Entries closed at Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre on October 6, 2025, with prizes including $500 cash and NQ Games merchandise for the winning design, and merchandise packs for two runners-up.

Georgia’s artwork – a vibrant version of Pedro the Platypus – captured the community’s imagination. Her design features Indigenous dot patterns across Pedro’s face, tail and shirt, representing the Yuwi people of the Mackay region and the platypus’ connection to Broken River.

After nearly 400 community votes across 10 finalists, Pedro was announced the winner by just four votes.

Georgia said she felt “really excited” to win and was especially looking forward to seeing Pedro transformed into a full-size mascot. She said her aunt encouraged her to enter, and she began sketching ideas on her iPad while staying with her grandmother, who helped come up with the name.

North Queensland Sports Foundation CEO Alexander J. Fisher said the initiative was designed to connect sport and the arts, noting that not every young person becomes a sporting star, but creativity is equally worth celebrating.

Councillor Ash-Lee Johnson praised Georgia’s design for showcasing local culture and the beauty of the Pioneer Valley. The mascot is expected to appear in early 2026, ahead of the Games beginning on May 1.

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Local student Georgia Thorning wins the 2026 North Queensland Games mascot competition with her culturally inspired Pedro the Platypus design, chosen by community vote to represent the Games in Mackay. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Mackay’s Women-Only Triathlon Set For A 2026 Comeback

Ready to turn “I can’t” into “I did”?

The countdown is on for one of the region’s most uplifting sporting events — the Women’s Only Triathlon, returning to the Mirani Swim Centre on 22 February 2026 and proudly supported by North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP).

The event continues to grow each year, built on a simple yet powerful motto: “Together we Rise.”

It’s an invitation for women of all ages, backgrounds and fitness levels to step forward, have a go and discover the confidence that comes from trying something new.

No pressure. No judgment. Just encouragement, connection and community.

The race format is intentionally achievable, making it the perfect entry point for beginners while still offering a rewarding challenge for experienced triathletes:
• 200 m pool swim
• 8 km flat bike course
• 2 km run

Swim aids are welcome, and first-timers are especially encouraged to take part. For younger athletes, the Mini Chicks Triathlon (ages 5–11) brings shorter distances and plenty of fun to help spark a love for movement and confidence in the water and on the track.

For women wanting extra skills or a head start, the Mackay Triathlon Club is also offering its optional 6-week training program beginning January 12, 2026. The squad includes coaching across swim, bike and run, a strength and nutrition workshop, a squad shirt, a free race entry and support from certified TA coaches and past participants. While spots fill quickly each year, the program exists simply to help women feel comfortable and prepared for race day.

Past participants have credited the squad, and the event itself, with changing their outlook on what they’re capable of:

"What an experience! It's safe to say that without this squad, I wouldn't have started my triathlon journey… Anything is possible."

"Hands down the best decision I made this year! Triathlon has given me so much joy. If you're thinking about trying it, this is a great way to do it.... so much support and encouragement."

"This is an amazing opportunity. I've made so many great friends and the coaches are so supportive! If you've ever thought about trying triathlon, this is a great way to do it!"

Whether you're chasing a personal milestone, craving community, or simply curious about triathlon, the Women’s Only Triathlon offers a safe, welcoming place to begin.

Contact the Mackay Triathlon Club for more details

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"What an experience! It's safe to say that without this squad, I wouldn't have started my triathlon journey… Anything is possible."

"Hands down the best decision I made this year! Triathlon has given me so much joy. If you're thinking about trying it, this is a great way to do it.... so much support and encouragement."

"This is an amazing opportunity. I've made so many great friends and the coaches are so supportive! If you've ever thought about trying triathlon, this is a great way to do it!"

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Women across Mackay are being encouraged to take the first step into triathlon with a supportive 6-week training program starting January 12, 2026. Photos supplied

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Mackay welcomed 106 new Australians at a citizenship ceremony last week, celebrating residents from across the globe who have chosen to make the region their home. Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP attended the event, presenting each new citizen with an Australian flag and reading a message on behalf of the Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration.

Mr Willcox said he was pleased to be part of the milestone, noting, “Mackay has welcomed 106 new Australians and I was pleased to be part of the ceremony to officially welcome these people who have chosen to make our region, and our nation, their home.”

Since 2013, the Mackay region has embraced new citizens from 109 different countries, each contributing culture, skills and stories that continue to strengthen the community.

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Photo source: Andrew Willcox MP

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Researchers, clinicians, students and health leaders came together in Mackay on Friday 7 November for the 2025 Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) Research and Innovation Symposium, a forum showcasing research and innovation to improve healthcare and patient outcomes.

Hosted by the Mackay Institute of Research and Innovation (MIRI), the research and innovation arm of the Mackay HHS, this year’s symposium was themed ‘Research. Translate. Evolve’, underscoring the importance of translational research.

From new technology to managing chronic disease, to models of care to support at-risk groups, the symposium featured 16 presentations from researchers from Mackay HHS, local universities and other hospitals and health services in Queensland.

Keynote speaker Professor Eddy Strivens, geriatrician and Director of Research at Cairns Hospital and Health Service (HHS), opened the program with a presentation about co-designing healthcare for aging indigenous populations.

Dr Frederick Graham, clinical nurse consultant (dementia and delirium) from the Princess Alexandra Hospital, in Brisbane, delivered a keynote address about redesigning hospitals for patients with dementia and delirium and outlined his research journey as an academic nurse.

Mackay HHS Interim Chief Executive Sean Birgan described the one-day event as “truly inspiring.”

“It’s been a privilege to witness a number of researchers from diverse backgrounds, sharing their work and their passion for innovation and investigation that is really delivering positive change,” he said.

A highlight of the day was the presentation of the Mackay HHS Research and Innovation Excellence Awards by Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson.

The Bert Sadleir Senior Researcher Award was presented to Mackay HHS staff specialist endocrinologist and Associate Professor Harshal Deshmukh for his research in endocrine and metabolic disorders. Dr Deshmukh was commended for his outstanding track record of publications, invited presentations and successful grant funding.

Mackay HHS senior registrar (Respiratory) Dr Muhammad Nazmi took out the Bert Sadleir Junior Researcher Award for demonstrating strong research engagement in respiratory medicine. Dr Nazmi plays an active role in respiratory clinical trials and is undertaking research in improving respiratory care for renal transplant patients.

The Excellence in Innovation Award was presented to Mackay HHS Director of Clinical Measurements Mary Nunesco for her strong focus towards finding digital solutions to streamline time-sensitive clinical reporting processes to support and drive improved patient outcomes, and her dedication to developing innovative service models to bring care closer to home for rural patients.

The event also featured a Research and Innovation Poster Competition, showcasing projects from researchers and project teams across the Mackay HHS.

Attendees had the opportunity to view posters throughout the day and vote for their favourite as People’s Choice Award.

The winning poster was Staff upskilling to boost participation in bowel cancer screening: Mackay HHS pilot, by Mackay HHS health promotion officer Bree Veivers and clinical nurse consultant Tania Mattinson.

“Congratulations to all of the presenters and award participants,” Mr Birgan said.

“You are the heart of research and innovation here at Mackay HHS and you will shape a brighter and healthier future for our communities by making a difference, a continuing difference."

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Dr Pieter Nel with award recipients Mary Nunesco, Dr Harshal Deshmukh and Dr Muhammad Nazmi.

Mackay HHS Interim Chief Executive Sean Birgan with poster competition winner clinical nurse consultant Tania Mattinson. Photos supplied

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Soroptimist International Mackay (SI Mackay) officially launched the Yarn Against Harm installation last Monday, 24 November 2025, at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens Playground, marking the beginning of the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.

Led by SI Mackay and created with contributions from across the community, the Yarn Against Harm installation became a vibrant and meaningful display aimed at raising awareness, sparking conversation, and showing solidarity with survivors of violence. The installation will remain on display for the duration of the international campaign, from 25 November to 10 December.

The space is wrapped in orange, the official colour of the 16 Days campaign, symbolising hope, determination, and change. As part of the initiative, SI Mackay also arranged for the Sir Albert Abbott Administration Building on Gordon Street to be illuminated in orange, an in-kind show of support from Mackay Regional Council and a striking visual reminder of the campaign’s message.

SI Mackay Member Tanya Williams said the installation reflected the club’s ongoing commitment to advancing the rights, safety, and wellbeing of women and girls.

“Soroptimist International has branches all over the world, and here in Mackay our club has proudly served the community for almost 50 years.”

Throughout the campaign, SI Mackay encourages the community to visit the installation and use it as a prompt for important conversations, from discussing respectful relationships with children to reviewing workplace policies that contribute to safer, more supportive environments.

“Ending violence against women requires all of us,” Tanya said.

“Every conversation, every action, and every commitment matters.”

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Photo source: Soroptimist International Mackay

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Works are due to start shortly to improve access and visitor experience at the popular Tropical Shade Garden.

This much-loved garden, located next to the Botanic Gardens Visitor Information Building, showcases a diverse collection of shade-tolerant plants and is a favourite among visitors.

Works will include footpath improvements, with selected gravel paths being replaced by concrete surfaces and boardwalks.

The project is expected to take several months, with completion anticipated by late February 2026, weather permitting.

The Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens appreciates the community’s patience during this period and looks forward to welcoming visitors back to a more inclusive and enjoyable Tropical Shade Garden.

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Upgrades to the popular Tropical Shade Garden will make the area more accessible and improve visitor experience. Photo supplied

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Pioneer State High School students were given a hands-on introduction to environmental science, cultural knowledge and real-world problem-solving last week when Reef Catchments and STEM Punks Education visited as part of the Healthy Rivers to Reef Schools Program.

Reef Catchments’ Traditional Owner Engagement Officer Robert Congoo said his involvement comes through a partnership focused on “embedding different knowledge systems” into STEM programs delivered across the Whitsunday, Isaac and Mackay region. Throughout the session, he spoke with students about traditional knowledge used in science — from understanding seasonal patterns to traditional medicines, artefacts and the way long-held practices continue to inform modern monitoring.

He also walked students through local environmental monitoring projects carried out with organisations including James Cook University and CQUniversity, covering seagrass, dugong and turtle monitoring, and the importance of identifying the right locations for research.

Healthy Rivers to Reef Partnership Executive Officer Jamie Newborn said the program aims to engage students in STEM by helping them understand “design thinking, the importance of monitoring and data” and the wide range of local career pathways connected to science and the environment. The program has reached about 15 schools in the Mackay–Whitsunday–Isaac region, focusing on Years 6 to 9.

STEM Punks General Manager Christopher Buswell said the workshop is designed to be “very hands on”, allowing students to interact with their local environment, collect data and design water-quality solutions using tools such as coding and Minecraft.

Students also took part in a Lego-based problem-solving challenge, where they had to build and identify objects without instructions. Pioneer students Marissa Harvey and Katayah Collins said the activities helped them understand marine biology, encouraged teamwork and offered a more engaging alternative to textbook learning.

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Pioneer State High School students explored hands-on STEM learning last week through a Healthy Rivers to Reef workshop blending environmental science, cultural knowledge and interactive problem-solving. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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