Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
After more than 25 years with Blacks Real Estate, Andrew Black continues to be a familiar face in Mackay’s residential property market. Andrew joined the agency in 2000, beginning his career in residential property management before transitioning into residential sales. Now a Licensed Real Estate Agent and Sales Consultant, he has spent decades helping local buyers and sellers navigate the Mackay housing market. His long-standing connection with the agency has given him extensive knowledge of the region’s property landscape and changing market trends over the years. Blacks Real Estate said Andrew’s experience across both property management and sales provides clients with a well-rounded understanding of the real estate process, from investment properties through to family homes. Operating from offices in Mackay and Dysart, Blacks Real Estate services residential, commercial, rural and industrial clients across the region. CAPTION: Andrew Black has spent more than two decades with Blacks Real Estate. Photo source: Blacks Real Estate
Read the full story
I’m not sure that Donald Trump would play fair if he were one of the buyers in a multiple offer scenario on a Mackay property. There are clear rules about how multiple offer situations must be handled and, based on recent form, I just don’t think the US president would want to abide by the rules. From what I can tell he doesn’t seem to be a very good sport, not a great loser, and in a multiple offer situation in Queensland real estate there has to be a loser. Take Trump’s conduct during the soccer World Cup, being held in the US, Canada and Mexico. When US star Folarin Balogun received a red card and, as is standard practice, got an automatic one-match suspension Trump was on the blower to FIFA president Gianni Infantino asking for a review. The result was that the US star’s suspension was suspended for one year and he was able to play in the next World Cup game. It seems unlikely that a phone call from leaders of other countries would have resulted in a similar reversal of a decision. But I don’t blame Trump … that’s what he does. He tries to push and shove and shout and bully his way to getting the best deal he can for the United States. You might not like him but he certainly tries to get the best deal he can for his country on the world stage and, no doubt, for himself when it comes to business. It was, however, a bit of a surprise to hear he had made a call to the FIFA president trying to reverse the ban on a US player. What was even more surprising was that his strategy worked. Now I’m not to sure about this and I am just a real estate agent in Mackay who follows other football codes much closer than soccer but that FIFA mob looks a bit dodgy to me. You would have thought there would be a clear response from the FIFA president along the lines of: “Thanks for the call Mr President but you have got to be kidding if you think the independent body governing the world game is going to be influenced by political leaders about who can and cannot play based on our established rules.” Clearly that was not how the call played out and it turns out that there seems to be some flexibility in the rules and how they interpreted based on the person who is making the request. Which brings me to another contentious situation, the multiple offer scenario for properties being sold in Queensland. When it comes to multiple offers and which one is accepted, it is entirely up to the seller. The seller can accept a higher offer, accept a lower offer that might have no building and pest clause or no finance clause, or accept an offer just because that’s the one they like. A client of mine accepted a lower offer on a property last year because the buyer was a young, local woman who was starting off in life and had made the best offer she could. An investor offered about $30,000 more but the seller said, “I’m making good money out of this either way. I want the young woman to have it.” But one thing that is clear is that a real estate agent can’t tell one buyer what another buyer has offered in a multiple offer situation. We have to tell a buyer: “There is another offer on the table so you are in a multiple offer situation and I suggest you put in your best and final offer as you might not get a chance to make another offer.” That’s when some buyers say: “How much is the other offer.” Some buyers can be quite forceful but rules are rules and agents can’t reveal that. Although, if the FIFA president was the agent and Donald Trump was the second buyer there might be some flexibility.
Read the full story
Most small business owners I speak to are not short on ideas, if anything, they have too many. They are trying to keep up with social media, update their website, understand Google, run ads, write emails, serve clients, follow up leads and still actually do the work they are known for. No wonder marketing starts to feel overwhelming. And here is the thing. The problem is not always that you are doing nothing. Sometimes the problem is that you are doing a lot, but without a clear direction. You post because you feel like you should. You boost something because business feels quiet. You update your website because someone told you it might help. You try another platform because everyone else seems to be there. But without a strategy behind it, it can start to feel like you are throwing spaghetti at the wall and hoping something sticks. This is where stepping back can make a huge difference. In most cases, you do not need another platform, another content idea or another person telling you to “just be consistent.” Sometimes, you need to look at the bigger picture. What are you actually trying to sell? Who are you trying to reach? What is working already? What is wasting your time? What should you focus on first? A clear conversation can often save weeks or even months of guessing. Marketing coaching can be helpful for this reason. It gives you space to untangle the mess, ask the right questions and create a plan that feels realistic for your actual business. At Glow Sphere Marketing, this is something I help small business owners with through short, practical coaching sessions, including a 2-hour option for those who want clarity without ongoing support. Marketing does not have to feel so messy. Sometimes you just need someone to help you sort through it.
Read the full story
Some rescue stories stay with you, and Ahsoka and Johnny Cash’s journey is one of survival, strength and an unbreakable bond. Ahsoka was found as the smallest of a litter of six kittens, cold, weak and barely responsive after losing her siblings. Thanks to the dedication of an incredible foster carer who provided round-the-clock care, she defied the odds and pulled through. She is still being monitored for an injured eye but continues to grow stronger every day. Johnny Cash, affectionately known as the “Man in Black”, was found alone at just two weeks old. After being placed alongside Ahsoka in an incubator, the pair quickly became inseparable. While Ahsoka is gentle and resilient, Johnny is bold, curious and full of playful mischief. Together, they have helped each other heal and formed a bond too special to break. These two little survivors are now ready to find their forever home — but only together. If you can offer Ahsoka and Johnny Cash the loving indoor home they deserve, contact Ros on 0403 814 318 and share a little about yourself, your family and why you could be their perfect match.
Read the full story
The Australian Government has earmarked more than $3 million for community infrastructure and signage projects across the Isaac region. The funds will be used towards 18 local assets and existing infrastructure to enhance community wellbeing in the geographically challenging area.
The Australian Government said these projects help to make communities better, from historical preservation projects in Clermont to light replacements at Middlemount’s sporting facilities.
Isaac Regional Council Mayor Anne Baker said improving essential infrastructure plays a pivotal role in local communities.
“This funding will deliver upgrades to pool fencing, historic building rectification projects, lighting replacements and upgrades at local sporting fields plus tourism signage,” Mayor Baker said.
“We will continue to work together towards enabling strong, vibrant, diverse and sustainable communities and look forward to working collaboratively with the Australian Government to deliver the projects that will make a difference in our communities.”
The Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King said getting shovels in the ground on local construction projects was important for maintaining jobs and economic growth in Central Queensland.
“This funding provides a vital boost for communities throughout the Isaac while delivering important projects that will benefit residents for years to come,” Ms King said.
“Every single job that the Australian Government supports makes a difference in our local communities in the coalfields.”
The projects are:
o Upgrade Clermont Swimming Centre car park
o Upgrade Middlemount Pool car park
o Upgrade fencing at Nebo Pool
o Revitalising the Nebo Memorial Hall, administration, library, and Historic Nebo Museum
o Restoring the Pioneer Slab Hut at Clermont Historical Centre
o Pool fence upgrades at Greg Cruickshank Aquatic Centre and Glenden Pool
o Renewing tourism signage around the region
o Copperfield Store rectification project
o Town Entry Statement for Nebo
o Dump point alarm system at Carmila and St Lawrence
o Upgrading recycled water pipeline at Eastern Sporting Fields, Moranbah
o Replace solar lighting at Centenary Park, Clermont
o Refurbish the amenities block at Rose Harris Park, Clermont.
o Moranbah Town Square lighting upgrade
o Light replacement at Middlemount touch fields
o Light replacement at Middlemount netball courts
o Light upgrade at Middlemount rugby league fields
o Footpaths and parking accessibility upgrades at Centenary Park, Nebo.
The 18 Isaac Regional Council projects were made possible through the Australian Government through the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.
This program supports local councils to deliver priority local road and community infrastructure projects across Australia, supporting jobs and the resilience of local economies to help communities bounce back from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Image: The car park at the Clermont Swimming Centre is one of 18 Isaac Region projects to receive Federal Government funding
The wider Nebo community will gather for a weekend of cricket-inspired family fun tomorrow, Saturday, February 4, with a much more important message at the heart of the event.
Six Ducks & a Yarn is a community cricket event providing a day of family fun, entertainment and cricket while raising awareness and funds for mental health throughout the community.
“It’s a charity cricket match to get the community, the rural community, the mining community, businesses, just to reconnect and have a good family day but also to let people know they’re not alone, we’re all here to help one way or another,” said event organiser and Nebo Medical Action Group President Joy Cooper.
The day will feature Super 8 style cricket matches with 10 teams from Nebo, Mackay, Coppabella and Glenden registered.
Cricket legend Michael Kasprowicz will be having a game as well as presenting a guest speech and Bek Andrews and Mango Junction will be partying through the evening with live entertainment.
There are prizes for the best dressed team and best team name on offer plus free kids entertainment including dodgem cars, a water slide and cricket activities provided by Mackay Whitsunday Cricket.
Free camping is also available for those hoping to make a weekend out of the event.
The community has jumped on board with the event, with local groups providing food and drink stalls including Nebo/Sarina Range CWA, Nebo Pony Club, St Lawrence/Nebo Polocrosse Club and Nebo Bushman’s Carnival Committee.
“We’ll also have donation buckets around the area so that we can donate to a mental health charity who can come and help services to our community,” said Ms Cooper.
“It’s just a good weekend for everyone to have fun and get involved.
“Let’s start the year off on a good note.”
The event has been organised by the community with the assistance of Greater Whitsunday Communities, Isaac Regional Council, Queensland Cricket and the Queensland Government through their Queensland Health TRACC program funding.
As part of the funding provided by the TRACC Program, The Nebo Medical Action Group have been able to implement three mental health projects, with Six Ducks & A Yarn being the first.
The second project is the Cowboys Resilience Program, starting in term one, with schools from Nebo, Glenden, Coppabella, Valkyrie and Clarke Creek getting involved.
The Resilience Project delivers emotionally engaging programs to schools providing practical, evidence-based, positive strategies to build resilience and happiness through a combination of presentations, wellbeing journals, school curriculum, teacher diaries and their app.
The third project will be a series of mental health first aid courses in the region, which has already gotten underway with 10 people attending a class in Glenden last year.
“They’re the people that we can call upon to go sit with people and try and put them on the right path or just someone to sit down and have a cup of coffee with,” said Ms Cooper.
A class will be held in Nebo later this year with a date to be announced, aiming to raise awareness and support for mental health in the rural community.
“We all do personally, no matter who we are, have times where we feel lost and we just don’t know where to turn to,” said Ms Cooper.
“If we can put it out there that these are the people that can help you and get those services to come to Nebo, so they feel comfortable in their own community, that’s even better.
Mental health agencies will be present at Six Ducks & a yarn, providing information to attendees on where they can seek support.
“Our main aim is to break the stigma of mental health because it is a serious medical condition but also, we just want people to come and have fun, bring your chairs, be sun safe, there is also free camping available as well … we don’t want people to be on the road late at night,” said Ms Cooper.
WHAT: Six Ducks & a Yarn Community Family Fun Day
WHERE: Nebo Showgrounds
WHEN: Saturday, February 4, gates open at 1:00pm
This is a free community event.
Image: Michael Kasprowicz, who played cricket for Queensland and Australia, is the special guest at Six Ducks & a Yarn, a day of cricket, family fun and mental health awareness
After nine years in Nursing and Midwifery, Amy Kinlyside has taken the next step in exploring her passion for care and compassion.
Nude Aesthetics has been operating in Mackay since November 2022 and offers patients a high level of care and professionalism on their cosmetic journey.
“I’ve always enjoyed making people feel better about themselves,” said Amy.
Nude Aesthetics offers Cosmetic Injectables, PDO threading, IV Vitamin Infusions, IM Booster Shots, Chemical Peels, PRP and Vampire Facials, as well as stocking the best in affordable, Australian made skincare products.
It’s Amy’s friendly, empathetic and compassionate approach that makes her services stand out, always putting herself in the shoes of her patients.
“I like that I’m not just here to perform a procedure,” she said.
“I’m here to get to know the patient as well.
“I’m not here to rush, I make sure my patients are given the chance to talk, make them feel comfortable and listen to what they’re after.
“I know what it’s like to hate needles, so I always try to find the most gentle approach.”
Amy has established a comfortable, friendly and safe environment for patients to share their stories and become their best selves.
Her gentle yet confident touch puts patients at ease, as does her assured and professional approach to discussing procedures.
Amy ensures she is always studying to keep her knowledge and skills up to date with the latest treatments and achieves the best individualised outcomes.
Visit Nude Aesthetics on Facebook and Instagram to find out more about Amy’s services and opening hours.
To celebrate Valentine's Day, Amy is giving away a $250 voucher, with entries closing on February 14 at 12:00pm.
Find Nude Aesthetics Mackay on Facebook or nudeaesthetics_amy on Instagram to find out more and to enter.
Image: Amy Kinlyside is a Cosmetic Injector who cares
As a kid growing up near Sarina, our drinking water came from an old, galvanised iron tank with rust holes plugged with chewing gum.
We thought this was great as we weren’t usually allowed gum. When its perforations gave a colander a run for its money, and no amount of Juicyfruit could stem the flow, we replaced it with a concrete permacrete tank. The joy of the ever-cool water straight from the tap!
When attending school at St Anne’s, we experienced town water for the first time. It was atrocious. A glass of water, sometimes cloudy, if left to sit would result in nearly a centimetre of sediment in the bottom. There was an old tank in a sad state of repairs and drinking from it was forbidden but we would risk the wrath of the Sisters for a drink – mosquito wrigglers and all.
I have drunk from water holes while mustering where swiping away the scum from the top of the water was necessary to get to something that was even suggestive of being liquid. Western bores were so bad that you had to hold your nose to drink!
It is with great pride that I welcome the opening of the Koumala water treatment plant. While Mackay water often wins awards, both Calen and Koumala are at the other end of the scale. Calen has a treatment plant, while until now Koumala did not.
There is a long story to how it came to being, with more than a few fights along the way.
To some who said they did not see the plant as important, I pointed out that their children attended the school as anecdotally, I had heard stories of kids becoming dehydrated after they ran out of water brought from home rather than drinking from the town supply.
While the water may not be as perfect as some would desire, it is a tremendous improvement as the graph shows. Unfortunately, there is only so far you can go until you risk salinity.
Anyway kids, I just hope that after running around at lunch, you can have a drink straight from the tap.
Sometimes the simple things are the sweetest.
How time flies when you’re having fun!
It only feels like it was yesterday that we were unwrapping Xmas presents, eating way too much ham, and sleeping after watching just two hours of cricket on the TV. Fun times.
Right now, as it’s now the month of love, we are getting things set for Valentine’s Day which involves everything chocolate and very expensive dinners without the kids. Enjoy that if you have to organise anything. I hope it goes well. Please don’t ask me for any directions. I’m not the person to ask about love. Honest.
The only thing I wouldn’t recommend you do is anything that could hurt the other person. I’d scrub off skydiving from any list. Same goes for a supercar drive down south. Not the best, in my eyes of course. Also I would say a complete no to a full bodied spray tan experience just as you’re going to wear some white outfit out on this romantic night of nights.
It’s just a thought. You can do whatever you want, but don’t tell me you were not warned.
One other thing that’s happening very shortly is the year of sport in Mackay and the Whitsundays.
This time of the year is when sports have all their sign-on days and the like. Remember council is doing their Sports Expo and Sign-On Day on the 12th, so if you’re keen to play something new, get down there and say hello. I’ll be there on the hockey stand so feel free to ask me for any tips. I’ll write all I know on a postage stamp for you.
Just about every sport in the area will be there. Rugby league, swimming, soccer, netball, table-tennis, AFL, golf, wakeboarding, running, sailing, and more all in the one place at the MECC. Bring the kids along and get involved in a sport that will make you fitter, plus it will give you stacks of new mates too! It’s a double win!
I’ve had a go at a few sports over the years like swimming, table tennis, gridiron, soccer, league and more but I can tell you any sport that you pick is going to be great for you moving forward, and your family. You’ll be more social, happier and more in debt than ever before.
Don’t knock it until you try it.
Let me know how you go.
Before I go, wishing my late Mum a happy birthday for Wednesday just gone. She was an amazing hockey goalie back in the day when the only protective gear they had were rubber gardening gloves, some padding on the knees, and a sharp mouth.
Kids nowadays don’t have any idea how good they’ve got it really do they!
You can join Rob Kidd from 5am weekday mornings on 4MK 1026 AM in Mackay and Proserpine, 91.5FM in Airlie Beach or just ask your smart speaker to play 4MK on iHeartRadio!
If I had taken the Groucho Marx approach when I was offered a job at Gardian I would have made a regrettable decision and missed out on a great opportunity.
For those of you aged under 100, Groucho Marx was part of the famed comedy trio of the Marx brothers.
There is a famous quote from Groucho Marx where he explains why he doesn’t want to be a member of a particular club.
The quote varies depending on the source but it is said to be a letter to the board of the club and it goes something like: “I don’t want to belong to any club that would accept me as a member.” Boom boom.
Seven years ago former Gardian director and real estate principal Eric Rickman took me to lunch at a fabulous bistro-style French restaurant in St Kilda and offered me a job at Gardian.
The fun response would have been to say: “I refuse to join a company that would accept someone like me as an employee.” Using our French waiter’s accent would have been even better.
But I didn’t do that. I wanted to join Gardian and after a quick post-lunch chat with CEO Peter Phillips I was on board and started within a couple of weeks.
There are a number of things that determine whether you are going to enjoy working at a particular company: earning capacity, management support, resources to do your job properly and culture being among the key factors.
Culture is a big one and it needs another column on another day to do that topic justice.
One of the other key factors that determine how you feel about a job or company - and culture helps determine this - is the people that are attracted to, and welcomed by, a particular company. The people you work with.
A good way to work out whether you like them is how you feel when you come back from holidays. I came back from holidays a couple of weeks ago and it was a case of re-engaging with good friends and setting forth together on another year of opportunity in a job we all enjoy doing together.
Whether they are in real estate, insurance or the finance areas, it is good to be back with friends and launching into the 2023 adventure.
There are companies, including some real estate agencies, whose staff compete against each other rather than work as a team and group of friends who want the best for each other and their clients.
I know that if I need a hand with a busy open house, another agent to do a private inspection because I have already got another one at the same time, or another Gardian agent to help find an extra buyer for a property I am selling, my friends and colleagues have got my back.
That’s great for me and great for my clients.
Skip the awkwardness of Valentine's Day with a first date that lets you both get to know each other without Cupid's interference. A casual outing or taking advantage of a holiday deal can lead to a successful rendezvous. From free desserts at a local restaurant to low-key activities, there's a Valentine's Day option for every potential couple.
Organizing the perfect first date can be a challenge, but it's crucial if you want to make a great impression. Dating app Dua.com's relationship expert Valon Asani analysed worldwide Google searches for the most popular date ideas. Here are the top 8 picks:
Bowling - The undisputed winner with 1,640,000 average monthly searches, it offers fun and a laid-back atmosphere with great food and a lively setting.
Mini Golf - A great sports-based option, with 488,000 average monthly searches, it allows for some competition while still keeping things real.
Theatre Dinner - A unique pick, this option brings a touch of class as well as hilarious fun.
Aquarium - A serene and tranquil atmosphere, with 382,000 average monthly searches. While we don’t have one in Mackay, it can be a great option if you’re headed up or down the coast.
Arcade - A throwback location with 364,000 average monthly searches, it's perfect for a 90s/2000s vibe.
Wildlife - Animals are a crowd-pleaser and a trip to a petting zoo or wildlife sanctuary, with 359,000 average monthly searches, can be a great icebreaker.
Museum - A timeless romantic option with 353,000 average monthly searches, it's perfect for art and history lovers. Bonus – it’s a great place to escape the heat.
Karaoke - For those who don't mind being bold, karaoke is a fun option with 291,000 average monthly searches. If you’re not quite that bold, then check out our gig guide for live music options.
Remember, simple can also be best, don't underestimate the appeal of a picnic at the beach, a romantic restaurant or home-made pizza.
Hoping to make a lasting impression, or looking to re-ignite a spark? Humour can be a great way to break the ice on Valentine’s Day.
While these lines may seem cheesy, they can still be a fun way to express your feelings and make someone smile on Valentine's Day. Just be sure to use them with a sense of humour and be prepared for a light-hearted response.
"Are you a magician? Because whenever I look at you, everyone else disappears."
"Do you have a map? I keep getting lost in your eyes."
"Are you a time traveler? Because I can see forever with you."
"Is your name Google? Because you have everything I've been searching for."
"Do you believe in love at first sight, or should I walk by again?"
"Excuse me, but I think you dropped something - my jaw."
"Are you a bird? Because you've got me soaring."
"Do you have a sunburn, or are you always this hot?"
"Do you have a Band-Aid? I just scraped my knee falling for you."
"Are you a work of art? Because you’re a masterpiece."
Australia's newest low-cost airline, Bonza, has officially announced the launch of its flight services to several regional destinations across the country.
As part of a phased rollout, the airline has made available flights to 12 destinations on 15 routes, with prices starting as low as $49 per person, one way.
Starting today Mackay and Whitsunday residents will be able to fly direct to the Sunshine Coast three times a week for as little as $59 one-way.
In addition, there will be two flights a week from Mackay to Cairns and two flights a week from the Whitsundays to Newcastle.
The first flight from Sunshine Coast to the Whitsundays will take off on Tuesday, January 31.
It will be February 14 when the first flight lands in Mackay.
“The wait is over! 2023 is the Year for Allstralia, with low cost air travel to many holiday spots, some of which are relatively undiscovered,” said Carly Povey, Chief Commercial Officer at Bonza.
“It’s time to see more of your own backyard for less!”
“We’re delighted to be delivering on our commitment to make air travel more accessible.
“We promised choice and better connectivity to the regions for less and we’ve been beyond delighted with the support for our mission.
“Today we start making travel a possibility for the many, not the few.
“Forget connecting flights or your bum going numb in the car, Bonza is here to take Aussies from A to B without the C (cost and complexity)”.
So, what are you waiting for? Download the Fly Bonza app and start planning your next adventure today! Don't miss out on the opportunity to explore Australia's hidden gems at an affordable price with Bonza.
Nigel Dalton’s impact on the Mackay community has been immense.
From teaching children road rules, teenagers how to stay safe online or at schoolies, or redirecting disengaged youth from reoffending, Nigel’s work saves lives and makes our community a better place.
For his work as our local Police District Crime Prevention Coordinator and for the considerable volunteer community work he undertakes, Nigel was named the 2023 Mackay Regional Council Citizen of the Year at the Australia Day Awards Gala at the MECC on Wednesday night.
Also recognised on the night was 2023 Young Citizen of the Year Keira Brown.
Keira is an active member and current coordinator of the Valley District Youth Council who volunteers countless hours to run events, fundraise and support her community.
The 2023 Lori Burgess Community Volunteer of the Year is Mackay Riding for the Disabled coach of 30 years Jody Burrows.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the judging panel was blown away by the number and quality of nominations submitted this year.
“Honestly, there were dozens of nominees who the judges felt were worthy of taking home these awards,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Narrowing the selection down was no small task and is a real testament to just what an incredible community we have in our region – there are just so many amazing people doing tremendous things,” he said.
“However, what Nigel has done in our community over the last two decades is remarkable and the judges had no reservations in naming him our 2023 Citizen of the Year.
“Coming from a background of policing in the Royal Ulster Constabulary during the Northern Island conflict where he had friends and mentors murdered, Nigel could easily have become hardened and bitter.
“Instead, he carries a message of forgiveness, kindness and healing that comes across in all his dealings with the community.
“Through his work with more than 8000 school students each year, plus PCYC, Safety Circus, Shed Happens, Neighbourhood Watch, the Mackay Mosque, Street Chaplains and many more, Nigel has helped to make our community safer and instil real trust and appreciation for our local police service.”
Mayor Williamson said there were 173 nominations across all of the eight categories.
“I would like to personally thank the 87 individuals who submitted nominations – and many of them submitted multiple nominations – because without you we couldn’t have these awards and we couldn’t recognise these tremendous community members,” he said.
The full list of 2023 Mackay Regional Council Australia Day Award recipients are as follows:
Image: Nigel Dalton is a familiar face at most community events, like the Disability Expo in 2022, where he is the face of community crime prevention
Sergeant Nigel Dalton is the Police District Crime Prevention Coordinator as well as being an active community volunteer.
Sergeant Dalton has been working in the Crime Prevention office since 2006 and he has shown enormous dedication to the role, often working almost as many hours off the clock as he does in the office. He has implemented a strong education plan for students of all ages, as well as working closely with business and community groups, Neighbourhood Watch members, victims of crime and other like-minded organisations and government departments.
Nigel was awarded the Queensland Police Liaison Officer Award in 2017.
His Police District activities are outstanding, particularly Choices and Safety Circus safety talks across various age groups.
He recently led, created and launched a new assault reduction project “Anger Rage Regret” in the Mackay Police District.
Keira Brown is the current coordinator of the Valley District Youth Council. Keira has been instrumental in working towards the group’s main goals of giving a voice to Pioneer Valley youth, developing leadership and building a regional youth community.
Keira has recently become heavily involved in the YOL1000 initiative and in the initial planning stages of the Young Mayors project. Her feedback and opinions with these projects have been extremely valuable.
She often represents the youth of the Valley at events in Mackay and further afield. She is also a member of her school’s Zonta Club and has been a coach and umpire in club netball for teams younger than herself.
Mackay Riding for the Disabled is a not-for-profit organisation that is fully self-funded by fundraising and donations. It is run fully by volunteers, and one of the longest serving and most committed volunteers is Jody Burrows.
Jody has been a consistent force within this organisation for nearly 30 years. She is the coach that holds the necessary qualifications required to hold the riding lessons.
At a minimum, Jody ensures lessons run every second Tuesday. In all those years, volunteers report that Jody has only ever cancelled lessons once – and that was due to a cyclone.
Alison Richardson is the artistic director and CEO of Crossroad Arts. She is passionate about creating opportunities for people with disabilities who are serious about developing their skills in contemporary performance.
She brings to Crossroad Arts more than 15 years of experience in the inclusive arts, theatre and disability sector. She has held various positions, including Creative Programs Coordinator for Accessible Arts, Creative Director for Beyond the Square at Riverside Theatres and Access and Inclusion Coordinator for Vivid Sydney and Sydney New Years’ Eve. She has also worked extensively as a theatre director and tutor for community theatre companies.
Alison has a pivotal role in offering a rich and diverse arts program to Mackay and she has been the driving force of many outstanding local performance events.
Alison also presents a rich array of workshops and regular activities in our community.
Dr Judith Wake’s life’s work has been focused on preserving, protecting and studying the local environment. Prior to retiring, Dr Wake was a member of CQUni's Land and Water Management Centre and in that role undertook vital research on mangroves in the Mackay district. Since retiring she has continued similar work on a voluntary basis.
For quite a few years Dr Wake has been contributing to the Healthy Rivers Partnership and the Reef Catchments groups. For much of that time, she was a member of the Technical Working Group that provides scientific advice on the assessment of river/reef health. For three years she was chair of that group.
She is a long-time member of Native Plants Queensland (formerly SGAP) and vice-chair of the Mackay group. She is an active member of their management committee and regularly contributes to environmental events they support. She also volunteers with their Propagation Group at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens.
The Pioneer Valley Machinery Preservationist Society is a group that has a strong sense of community. Members are constantly looking after each other. They assist each other to finish projects or find parts, they share transport to shows and events and they are always watching out for members’ health and well-being.
The group is also integral in the preservation of local history. They are actively restoring local farming history and preserving this for future generations at their own cost.
They also educate the community at events and older members are always teaching new members new skills. Younger members who have joined are being taught skills in problem solving, restoration, machinery, fitting, research and more.
Brenda Windsor has dedicated countless hours and kilometres to raise money and shine a spotlight on the child protection work that Bravehearts do. She has run their 777 twice now and intends on doing it again in 2023.
The 777 involves running seven marathons, in seven states, over seven consecutive days. Each time she has had to raise $10k to be able to participate and in doing so has held numerous raffles. She even ran 77.7km (from Koumala to Mackay) to raise funds. She finished this run at Sarina State High School where she was cheered on by all the staff and students.
Brenda volunteers at Parkrun Mackay and has run over 180 events herself, often with her grandkids.
Connor Parish has been racing BMX since he was six years old. To the Mirani High School student, BMX is life, and his goal is to be chosen in the 2032 Olympic team. With a slew of local wins and high placings in regional, state and national competitions, he’s on the right track.
Connor and his brother Aiden recently competed in the Oceania BMX Championships in Brisbane where they qualified to represent Australia at the World Championships. Connor brought home a second (24”) and fourth (20”) at the competition.
The pair then travelled to Nantes, France in July 2022 where they competed alongside 3000 other riders from all over the world and rubbed shoulders with some of their idols. Connor made the semi-finals (24”) and he also qualified for the 20” competition.
Caption 1: Teen Shed Mackay assisted Orange Sky over the summer holidays by cooking breakfast every Wednesday and Friday
Caption 2: Cliff and the team at George St Butcher Shoppe generously donated meat to Orange Sky
Caption 3: Mercy and St Patrick’s College Brekky Van’s services resumed this week. Photos supplied
It’s been a busy summer for some local businesses and community groups, with Orange Sky Laundry expressing their appreciation for the community’s support over the holidays.
The Teen Shed Mackay assisted Orange Sky each Wednesday and Friday morning, doing the breakfast shifts while the Mercy and St Patrick’s College Brekky Van went on school holidays.
The Brekky Van generously donated the food while four to six Teen Shed members cooked and served up breakfast each shift.
“They’re really sad that they can’t keep doing it,” said Teen Shed Mackay Founder Lisa Versaci
“We made some amazing friendships with the disadvantaged people, and they were really, really lovely.
“Our whole thing is trying to get our kids volunteering and out into the community to see that there are other situations besides what they’re going through.
“There should be more places where 12–18-year-olds can volunteer because I feel it’s very important for those kids to see life in a different perspective.”
The Christmas breakfasts were added to with donations from the George St Butcher Shoppe for some added protein on the BBQ.
“Cliff and his team have been great supporters and always make sure that there are snags to go on the barbie!” said Orange Sky Mackay Service Coordinator Lisa Jamieson.
A big shout out also has to be made to the year one’s at St John's Primary School Walkerston for their donations to the Brekky Van of healthy breakfast packs, consisting of cereal, milk and juices.
“These breakfast packs were gratefully received by our Friends to help them out at Christmas, when a number of the support services are not available,” said Ms Jamieson.
Orange Sky welcomed year 10-12 Mercy and St Patrick’s College students back to the Brekky Van this Wednesday, January 25, resuming their regular Wednesday and Friday shifts.
“While breakfast is happening, our washing machines are being kept very busy,” said Ms Jamieson.
“As soon as a load is finished, another one is started, to help ensure that we can get as many loads washed as possible during the shift.”
Orange Sky laundry shifts operate from 7:00-11:00am on Monday, Wednesday and Fridays in Mackay and 9:00-11:00am on Mondays and Thursdays in Sarina.
Each fortnight, a night shift is held on Mondays from 5:30-7:30pm with the next night shift to be held on Monday, February 6.
Caption 1: Mackay and District Turtle Watch created pathways in beach debris to allow turtle hatchlings access to the water at North Wall Beach
Caption 2: A mysterious post with a memorial to a former PM was also found on the beach. Photos supplied
When many returned to the beach after last week’s heavy rain, they were met with large piles of debris, washed up onto the beach in a row as the water reached high tide overnight.
This proved difficult for even the tallest of people to step over, meaning newly hatched turtles wouldn’t stand a chance of traversing the obstacle.
Mackay and District Turtle Watch volunteers and members of the public stepped into action last week in a great display of community effort, making pathways in the washed-up debris at North Wall Beach for the soon-to-hatch turtles to be able to make their way back to the water.
While on their mission, volunteers came across many interesting items washed ashore including a post with a plaque on it.
The plaque reads: “10, Joseph Lyons, 1932-1939”.
The plaque refers to Joseph Lyons, who served as Australia’s tenth Prime Minister between 1932 and his death in 1939.
“I don't know where there is an outdoor display of PMs (except in Ballarat!), but no doubt someone will,” commented one person on Facebook.
“It doesn't look that old. I can't imagine anywhere public this may have come from,” added another.
The post has been placed above the high tide line in the hope that someone will claim it.
Mackay and District Turtle Watch has asked anyone who is missing it to get in touch via Facebook and they can pass on more accurate location details.
What feelings does Australia Day evoke within you?
Is it of pride for the nation you love, or of sadness for the Indigenous who feel that a celebration of the day they coined ‘Invasion Day’ is disrespectful? Perhaps you feel a little bit of both.
For me, it’s an opportunity to reflect on the past and celebrate today. I used the day to learn a little bit about Indigenous culture that I didn’t know previously before enjoying some time at the beach and cooking a BBQ.
Perhaps the biggest controversy for me is when it comes to Australia Day desserts. I’ll admit it, I don’t like lamingtons. See, I said it would be controversial. Secondly, I believe the pavlova is a Kiwi dessert. Ooooh, perhaps the biggest dessert debate of them all! I like to have a laugh over that one.
Another Australia Day tradition I enjoy is attending the Mackay Regional Council’s Australia Day Awards every year. It’s an incredibly inspirational evening to hear about the people in our region who selflessly do so much for the community. Congratulations to this year’s Citizen of the Year, Nigel Dalton, and to all of the winners and nominees who were represented on the night.
Of course, this week was also the week our region’s kids headed back to school. I love to see the juxtaposition of emotions experienced by parents. Some can’t wait for the peace and quiet of having their kids back at school while others mourn the loss of holiday sleep-ins and dread the busy morning rush.
School zones are back to 40km/hr during designated morning and afternoon hours. When you see the signs flashing, slow down and pay attention. A blink of an eye is all it takes for a child to make a fatal mistake.
Amanda
In order to reach their 2030 climate targets, the Federal Labor Government has announced they will force 215 of Australia’s biggest polluters to cut emissions by 5 per cent each year or pay for their emissions output.
“In effect it acts as a tax on families, a tax on businesses and a big tax on regional Australia. It’s Carbon Tax 2.0 and another major blow for the energy industry.”
“Labor is executing drastic climate targets with no consideration for the toll it takes on Australian jobs and household budgets.”
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox has opposed this decision saying that Labor is targeting regional Queensland jobs and inflicting more pain on household bills.
“Labor’s Safeguard Mechanism affects facilities that emit more than 100,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide a year. If facilities exceed this amount, the business will need to buy carbon credits,” Mr Willcox said.
“We have 28 of the high emitting industry facilities in surrounding regions who will be impacted by these mandatory emissions cuts. These are Dawson jobs now put in jeopardy by Labor’s climate targets.
“Leading up to the 2022 Federal election, Prime Minister Albanese and his party promised there would be no carbon tax.
“This is just a fancy name for exactly that.”
Andrew Willcox
Federal Member for Dawson
RACQ CQ Rescue flew 11 missions between Friday and Sunday last week, including the airlift of an injured motorbike rider and two flights to Bowen and two to Clermont on consecutive days for seriously ill patients.
The Mackay-based rescue helicopter has now completed 39 missions in the first 22 days of 2023. RACQ CQ Rescue was tasked by Queensland Health to fly back-to-back missions to Clermont on Friday to transfer two patients to Mackay Base Hospital including a two-year-old child with a serious abdominal condition who was accompanied by their mother.
A patient was also transported from Dysart to Mackay Base Hospital with a cardiac issue. That same afternoon, a woman in her 60s was airlifted from Victor Island, about 48km southeast of Mackay, after being bedridden and alone for two days.
The helicopter landed on the beach at sunset and the medical team walked to the island homestead to treat and administered pain relief to the woman. She was carried to the aircraft, flown to Mackay Airport and transferred to a waiting ambulance to be taken to Mackay Base Hospital.
Overnight Saturday, two patients were also airlifted from Bowen to Mackay Base Hospital. About 10.30am on Saturday, RACQ CQ Rescue was tasked by Queensland Health to airlift a dirt bike rider seriously injured in a crash at Yalbaroo, about 70km north-east of Mackay.
The 47-year-old man attempted to cross a culvert flowing with water on a remote dirt road in the Cathu State Forest, but a concrete slab underneath had dislodged in recent flooding, causing the rider to be thrown violently from the bike.
An RACQ CQ Rescue crewman said the force of the impact would have been like “hitting a wall at speed”.
The unlucky rider suffered injuries including a seriously dislocated hip and had to be relocated out of the water while they waited for the helicopter to arrive. Incorrect coordinates delayed the landing of the chopper at the scene, but it finally touched down on the dirt road about 500 metres from the accident site. The rider was treated and transferred to Mackay Base Hospital in a stable condition.
A helicopter Rescue Crewman was able to assist the local paramedic at the accident scene who was suffering heat exhaustion while tending to the injured dirt bike rider. The crewman drove the ambulance and his colleague back to the station at Calen.
Three training flights for new Queensland Ambulance Service paramedics joining the aeromedical team were also conducted on Sunday around the Mackay region, as well as the airlift of a patient from Proserpine hospital to Mackay.
CAPTION: 230120 Victor 1&2 – RACQ CQ Rescue airlifted a woman from Victor Island at sunset on Friday
230121 Yalbaroo 1-4.jpg – A 47-year-old dirt bike rider was injured in a crash in the Cathu State Forest on Saturday and was airlifted to Mackay Base Hospital. Photo credits: RACQ CQ Rescue
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2026 Mackay and Whitsunday Life Pty Ltd.
