Over 35,000 Teachers Strike Over Extreme Workloads, And Lack Of Support

Queensland classrooms faced significant disruption last Wednesday after more than 35,000 teachers walked off the job for 24 hours, citing concerns over school safety, unsustainable workloads, and deteriorating conditions – concerns they say the government continues to ignore.

Despite official statements from the Department of Education claiming schools would remain “operational” with “limited disruption,” many within the profession and school communities said that painted an inaccurate picture.

“School principals were forced to send the email you received,” one anonymous teacher told community members.

“All schools sent out pretty much the same info, whether they wanted to or not. I know my principal was appalled at having to send the letter dictated to them.”

“Ed Qld are pretending like schools could safely carry on without teachers... There were over 35,000 teachers who voted for this strike. For Ed Qld to say there would be limited disruption with 30,000+ teachers not at school was actually a huge slap in the face, and wasn't even accurate.”

The Queensland Teachers’ Union (QTU) had formally rejected multiple offers from the Department of Education in July, leading to last Wednesday’s state-wide stop-work action. According to the department, the matter was referred to the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission.

While the department maintained that “schools would remain operational” and that “student safety and wellbeing” were a priority, frontline education workers said that assurance failed to reflect the reality on the ground.

Prior to the strike, one local teacher said, “We are actually really worried about the teacher aides and students, especially since one of the reasons we are striking is because of increased workplace violence.”

A teacher aide, who also wished to remain anonymous, echoed those concerns.

“On a normal day it is a stressful job worrying about our and the kids’ safety, let alone a day without teachers there. I really hope most parents considered keeping their kids home.”

The Department’s public messaging around business-as-usual reportedly caused confusion and frustration among some families.

One local mother shared her view on the situation.

“As much as I can empathise with the teachers, I didn't have the opportunity to keep them home. I also work and I couldn’t afford to take leave without pay. Again, not because I don’t respect the teachers. I wish them all the best and hope they gain what they deserve from the strike.”

Another parent was more critical of the official narrative.

“Schools were directed to tell families there would be no disruption. It's all part of the games they’re playing to harm our teachers’ chances of improved conditions and pay.”

At the core of the strike action were what teachers described as unsafe classrooms and impossible workloads. While salary negotiations were ongoing, many educators insisted that pay was far from their main concern.

“It’s not just about pay. Actually, pay is probably the thing teachers are least concerned about,” one teacher said.

“Mostly it’s about safe classrooms and reduced workload — reducing pointless red tape that doesn’t help our kids learn, but rather hinders it.”

Teachers pointed to the mounting unpaid demands they face, such as afterschool staff meetings, report writing and assessment, parent-teacher interviews and stakeholder meetings, and attendance at school camps, often with no overtime or time in lieu

“We earn nothing to go spend an extra 19 'units' of our lives away from our own families — not even a day in lieu,” the teacher explained.

“The government offered us a $100 bonus for overnight camps to try and entice us to take their 2.5% pay rise that doesn't even meet inflation.”

The QTU has reiterated that the strike aimed to push for genuine reform, safer classrooms, less bureaucratic red tape, and proper recognition of the escalating demands placed on educators.

While the Department stated it was committed to achieving a negotiated outcome that values our Queensland state school educators, many on the ground said those words would ring hollow without meaningful change.

“Housing safety. Education safety. Child safety. It’s all connected,” said one teacher.

“This isn’t a day off. It’s a cry for help.”

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Hundreds gathered at the Bluewater Quay and 500 Pavilion last Wednesday as over 35,000 teachers from across the state struck, demanding safer classrooms and better working conditions. Photo source: Rosie Dhumbara Gangalidda (Facebook)

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Panic disorder, or reoccurring panic attacks, can be a debilitating condition which significantly impacts quality of life and two Mackay psychiatrists are keen to explore a potential solution for those willing to join a clinical trial.

Psychiatrist and clinical trial lead Dr Alok Rana says patients describe panic disorder as all-consuming.

“Their life actually goes on hold,” Dr Rana said.

“There are triggers which are outside the house, so they start confining within the house.

“Also, they struggle to drive so they lose their independence as well.

“Some people may struggle to carry on with jobs because the stressors at the job or stressors anywhere in life can bring these panic attacks on.”

Mackay Institute of Research and Innovation (MIRI), the research arm of Mackay Hospital and Health Service, is now recruiting patients between 18 and 65 years of age diagnosed with reoccurring panic attacks for a clinical trial focused on improving symptoms.

The study aims to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of a potential new oral treatment.

“We are using a combination of two medications, which are already used for physical health issues and widely used in the population,” Dr Rana said.

“So we know that these are safe medications.”

Assisting on the trial, psychiatrist Dr Graham Pasternak is passionate about finding treatments that are less likely to cause addiction.

“An interesting thing about this combination drug is that it's not tolerance or dependence forming, whereas if you provide Valium to these people, there can be immediate relief, but long term you develop significant dependence,” Dr Pasternak said.

“And then we see later, addiction and other sorts of co-existing disorders.”

Trial participants will have access to ongoing support from the clinical trials unit throughout the 15-week study period.

It’s hoped the new treatment will prove effective in reducing the frequency and severity of panic attacks.

Recruitment will continue through to December or until participant targets are met.

For information about eligibility and taking part in the trial, contact the clinical trials team on 4885 7561 or email mackay-clinical-trials@health.qld.gov.au

Supplied by Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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Mackay psychiatrists are seeking participants for a clinical trial testing a new, safe medication to reduce recurring panic attacks and improve daily life. Photo supplied

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Mackay Welcomes Launch Of Universal Aftercare Program

A new chapter in suicide prevention has officially begun in Mackay, with the launch of the Universal Aftercare program – a much-needed support service for locals aged 15 and over who have experienced a suicide attempt or suicidal crisis.

Launched last Friday at the Mackay Base Hospital courtyard, the initiative represents a powerful collaboration between Wellways Australia, Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS), and Northern Queensland Primary Health Network (NQPHN). The program has been quietly operating since January, already assisting more than 30 local families through one of the toughest times of their lives.

Funded jointly by the Queensland and Commonwealth Governments, the Universal Aftercare program is free and focused on person-centred recovery. It bridges the crucial gap between clinical care and ongoing community support, helping people re-engage with life in a safe and meaningful way.

Kara McCormack, NQPHN Operations Director for Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drugs, said the program was about “supporting people in ways that meet them where they are.”

“We’re very excited to have this initiative, funded by the state and Commonwealth, that is designed to support people in crisis,” Ms McCormack said.

“What’s most exciting is that we’ve been able to localise it by listening to our community in Mackay and surrounding areas, and building a service that reflects what people here really need.”

This approach is personal for many in the community, including Amy Marklay, a local woman who lost her 17-year-old nephew to suicide and later struggled to get timely support for her teenage daughter.

“It took me three months to get help for my daughter,” she said.

“We were turned away by multiple agencies, because she was ‘too young’ for most services.

“This kind of program would have made all the difference.”

The service offers tailored support in the critical months following a crisis, from building safety plans and navigating services to reconnecting with family and purpose.

Wellways Queensland General Manager Zoe Evans said Friday’s event was more than a launch, it was a shared moment of hope.

“It’s a recognition of everyone who’s walked alongside us to bring this to life,” she said.

“This is about creating safer, more supportive systems for people in distress.”

Mackay HHS Chief Executive Susan Gannon agreed, emphasising the strength of collaboration.

“Universal Aftercare fills a critical gap by offering continuity, care, and connection beyond the hospital walls,” she said.

“It shows what’s possible when clinical and non-clinical services work together.”

Currently, referrals to Universal Aftercare can be made exclusively by Mackay HHS clinical staff, ensuring the service reaches those in greatest need.

As the program expands across regional Queensland, including launches in Townsville and future plans for Cape and Torres communities, leaders say it is just the beginning of a wider cultural shift around mental health support in the regions.

And for Amy, her message to those fighting silent battles is to simply, speak up.

“Don’t be afraid to ask for help… whether it’s a parent, friend, teacher, or doctor,” she said.

“You’re never alone.”

“I’m so grateful my daughter got the help she needs and I just hope others can do the same through this program.”

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Universal Aftercare has launched in Mackay, offering free, local support for people 15+ after a suicide attempt or crisis. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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For the first time in more than 10 years, Mackay will experience the full power and prestige of the Queensland Symphony Orchestra (QSO) when they perform Northern Lights & Southern Stars on Thursday, the 30th of October, at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC).

“This is the real McCoy,” said Andrew Bobeldyk, Executive Manager of MECC and Events.

“Not a chamber group, not a scaled down version, this is the full Queensland Symphony Orchestra, all 55 musicians, right here in Mackay.”

Led by conductor Sam Weller and featuring baritone Jake Lyle, the QSO will deliver a spectacular program ranging from the drama of In the Hall of the Mountain King to the elegance of Ravel’s Pavane for a Dead Princess and the vibrant energy of Chloé Charody’s My Australia.

“This is the first time in over 10 years we’ve had an orchestra of this calibre in our region, and we are thrilled to bring this level of musical excellence to our community,” Mr Bobeldyk said.

The visit also includes Orchestral Adventures, two specially tailored education concerts giving Mackay’s primary and secondary students the rare chance to experience a world-class orchestra up close.

“This is a special opportunity for our aspiring young musicians,” Mr Bobeldyk said.

“Our students in Mackay will be able to experience a world-class orchestra and learn from the best. This could be the spark that shapes a lifelong passion.”

Tickets are available now via www.themecc.com.au.

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Council has officially endorsed a strategy to revitalise the Mackay City Centre and Waterfront.

Mackay Waterfront Place Strategy is a visionary roadmap designed to transform the City Centre and Riverside precincts into vibrant, inclusive and thriving destinations.

The strategy outlines some quick win actions like activating or screening empty commercial tenancies, adding more shade, cleaning up the Gregory Street bus shelter and improving the appeal of the Riverside Precinct.

It also identifies some vital long-term actions like supporting the growth of a vibrant City Centre evening economy and enhancing the Wood Street and Victoria Street roundabout area as the city’s central landmark.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the strategy was shaped by extensive community and stakeholder engagement and was developed in collaboration with external consultants Fourfold Studios and POMO.

“We were blown away by the level of positive energy surrounding this project,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Council conducts community engagement on all of our strategies, but this was different,” he said.

“Stakeholders didn’t just want to ‘have their say’ – they wanted to get involved.

“Residents were brimming with ideas, creativity and energy to drive positive change.

“When the team presented the draft strategy at the Spark Wood Street event – which was an event designed to showcase what simple public realm activations could achieve – the positivity and collaboration from everyone was tremendous.”

Mayor Williamson said this strategy built on the foundations of the Mackay Waterfront Priority Development Area (PDA) Development Scheme and the Mackay Waterfront Master Plan.

“It provides a roadmap for the Mackay Waterfront’s various stakeholders – council, business owners, developers, community organisations and residents – to work together towards a shared vision for a revitalised City Centre and Mackay Waterfront,” he said.

“It’s about unlocking the potential of those areas by creating places people connect to and love.”

Director Planning, Growth and Sustainability Aletta Nugent said the strategy focused on actions that had been crafted with extensive public engagement.

“These actions came from the community and were even ranked by the community in order of preference and priority,” Ms Nugent said.

Some of the highlighted actions include:

• Connecting the City Centre to the Riverside via Wood Street with creative lighting, signage, façade improvements and public art.
• Increase representation of First Nations and Australian South Sea Islander communities in the public realm.
• Supporting those sleeping rough and improving perceptions of public safety.
• Improving RV access to the City Centre.
• Support local businesses to bring the blue water river to life.
• Encourage the private sector to be a part of placemaking.
• Celebrate Mackay’s multicultural heritage by using public space to tell stories.

The Mackay Waterfront Place Strategy was developed with the support of the Queensland Government in association with Mackay Regional Council.

Visit mackaywaterfront.com.au and subscribe to the Mackay City and Waterfront eNewsletter to stay informed on this exciting project and view the master plan.

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Mackay Regional Council has endorsed the Mackay Waterfront Place Strategy, aiming to transform the City Centre and Riverside into vibrant, inclusive destinations through upgrades, events, and cultural celebrations. Photo supplied

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Works are ramping up in Andergrove as Mackay Regional Council pushes ahead with a major revitalisation of Oak Street.

Contractor Downer began stage two of the Oak Street upgrade project last Thursday, the 7th of August. The project first got under way in 2023 with stormwater pipe relining, marking the start of a multi-stage plan to improve this vital roadway.

Stage two will focus on underground drainage works and is expected to wrap up by late November 2025.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the works were an important step towards boosting local infrastructure and reducing long-term maintenance needs.

“Oak Street is an important link for residents,” Mayor Williamson said.

“We know commuters who use this road have been asking for an upgrade and we are confident that motorists will notice a marked improvement once stage four is completed,” he said.

“This upgrade is about providing safer, smarter and more durable infrastructure that supports our community's growth.

“We know there will be some inconvenience, but the long-term gains will make it worth it.”

Council’s Infrastructure and Operations Director Simon Taylor said the Oak Street works were complex but well planned.

He explained that council’s Project Management team and contractor Downer had developed “innovative solutions” to ensure a high-quality outcome while also saving ratepayers money.

“Anyone who drives Oak Street knows that it has some noticeable areas where the surface is quite poor and heavily patched,” Mr Taylor said.

“This is caused by the stormwater culvert joints failing below the road and allowing materials to wash away beneath the surface.

“There’s no immediate safety risk, but the subsoil movement means the road is much more susceptible to damage.

“Current works will involve rehabilitating these concrete box culverts and motorists will mostly notice excavations at various locations beside Oak Street and the temporary use of some steel road plates to cover access points.

“These can create some road noise and will also mean reduced speed limits will be in place.

“Once the underground works are complete, we will move into stage three of the project early next year which will include new kerbing (on shopping centre side), new subsoil drainage under the kerb, a new footpath and the restoration of the road surface above the culverts.”

Stage three is set to start in early 2026, while the third and final stage is expected from July 2026. This will see a new full-width asphalt pavement laid on Oak Street from Maple Drive to Keeleys Road.

“Obviously this is a large, multistage project and we are at the mercy of the weather, but we are confident of an excellent final result that will deliver a durable, smooth road for motorists,” Mr Taylor said.

Stage two works will run from 6.30am to 6pm on weekdays, with occasional weekend shifts. Two lanes of traffic will remain open for most of the works, though short periods of single-lane operation may be needed.

Council has asked motorists to follow all signage and reduced speed limits to keep workers safe. Some on-street parking will be unavailable during the project, and property access may be temporarily impacted for certain residents, who will be notified 48 hours in advance.

Noise and dust will accompany the works, but council thanked the community for its patience during the upgrade.

For updates on the project, visit connectingmackay.com.au/oak-st-upgrade.

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Work is starting to improve the standard and safety of a vital road in Andergrove (Photo Supplied)

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Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly MP, has launched the Mirani Biggest Survey; the largest community listening project ever undertaken in the electorate, alongside a new series of community town halls which kicked off in Eungella on Wednesday, the 13th of August.

The initiative is part of a major grassroots effort to hear directly from residents across the expansive Mirani electorate about the issues, priorities, and projects that matter most.

“The Mirani electorate has been overlooked for far too long under the previous government,” Mr Kelly said.

“It’s my job to fight for our communities and ensure their voices are heard loud and clear in Brisbane. That starts with listening, and this survey, along with our local town halls, is about making that happen.”

The Mirani Biggest Survey invites locals to provide feedback on key topics such as housing, roads, health, boat ramps, infrastructure, community safety, and sporting facilities. There is also room for suburb-specific concerns and new project ideas.

To complement the survey, Mr Kelly has announced the Mirani Town Hall Roadshow, a rolling series of face-to-face forums starting in Eungella earlier this week.

“I want to get out into every corner of our electorate — from the Pioneer Valley to Mount Morgan and hear from people firsthand. These town halls are all about open conversations and local solutions,” he said.

“The survey and the town halls go hand-in-hand — two key ways locals can help shape the future of our region.”

The survey will run for 12 months, alongside a year-long roadshow visiting communities across the electorate. Feedback will be shared with local, state, and federal decision-makers to help guide funding and advocacy.

Residents can take part online via glenkellymp.com.au/biggest-survey, by calling the Mirani Electorate Office on (07) 4806 0700, or by requesting a hard copy from the office.

“I’m calling on every resident to get involved. Whether it’s through the survey, coming along to a town hall, or dropping into the office, this is your chance to help put Mirani back on the map.”

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Many were in attendance of a local town hall meeting held in Sarina (Photo Supplied)

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The 2nd Annual AGIS & Broken Ballerina Inc (BBI) Charity Golf Day, held on Friday, August 1, saw pink tutus, feather boas, and plenty of golf action despite wet weather on the green as players teed off to raise both funds and awareness for domestic violence victim survivors in the Mackay and Whitsundays.

The event, hosted at Mackay Golf Club, drew strong community participation and friendly competition.

A representative from Broken Ballerina Inc said, “We are proud to announce that after expenses we have raised $35,000 for local DV Victim Survivors in the Mackay and Whitsundays thanks to all who supported and attended the 2nd Annual BBI & AGIS Charity Golf Day held last Friday.

“These funds raised go towards Escape Bags, support with accommodation and other vital items that Victim Survivors need.”

“A big thank you to all of our sponsors, as without your support, the event would not go ahead. We thank Jon Byrnes and all his staff at AGIS for his unwavering support of BBI… We couldn’t do it without you.”

“All the players from every team, thank you. We are truly grateful for your commitment and support on the day with buying raffle tickets, being very proactive with the BBI enforcer fines, and bidding on our Auction items. We love you all and look forward to hosting you again next year.

“Thank you also to everyone who donated towards our raffle prizes to help raise funds. We had $10,000 in prizes which is wonderful and we thank you all.”

The next fundraiser is the Be Bold, Be Brave, Be Beautiful Charity Ball on Saturday, October 18, featuring a Shania Twain tribute band with a country twist. Tickets and sponsorships are now on sale at www.brokenballerina-inc.com.au

Results:

• 1st Place: Team sponsored by Amanda Camm MP – Emerald Carrying Co – Let Them Cook!
• 2nd Place: Team sponsored by NQ Protective Coatings – Golf Tragics
• 3rd Place: Team sponsored by DGL Accountants – Emerald Carrying Co – Fairway Finders

Special Prize Winners:

• Longest Drive (2MT Mining Products Pty Ltd) – T Hanford
• Accuracy Drive (Robyn Agius Real Estate) – Dave Saxby
• Nearest the Pin 1 (Richglen Maintenance Services) – Andrejs Vanags of AGIS
• Nearest the Pin 2 (Club Northern Beaches Mackay) – Bryce
• Nearest the Pin 3 (Get Turfed) – George of CMR

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The 2nd Annual AGIS & Broken Ballerina Inc Charity Golf Day at Mackay Golf Club raised $35,000 to support domestic violence victim survivors in the region. Photo source: Broken Ballerina Inc

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Rural Aid Marks Major Recovery Milestone

Rural Aid has proudly reached a major milestone this month, with its 200th farm receiving vital support as part of the charity’s Farm Recovery Event currently underway in Coraki, in the New South Wales Northern Rivers. The event, running through to 2nd August, marks a significant achievement in Rural Aid’s ongoing commitment to Australia’s farming communities.

Since its inception in 2018, the Farm Recovery Events program has provided hands-on assistance to farmers facing hardship, delivering practical help and hope to over 200 farms nationwide. Alongside individual farm support, Rural Aid has now completed 293 community and recovery projects, with the Coraki event marking the latest chapter in this impactful national initiative.

The work has spanned 45 towns and regions, from drought-affected Queensland properties to bushfire-ravaged areas in Victoria. Communities across Queensland (16), New South Wales (19), Victoria (9) and South Australia (2) have welcomed Rural Aid volunteers, who have contributed more than 56,000 hours of skilled labour over the past seven years.

This year alone, volunteers have collectively travelled more than 86,000 kilometres to take part in the charity’s FREs.

Rural Aid CEO John Warlters said the milestone is a reflection of the charity’s commitment to long-term recovery and rural wellbeing.

“Our Farm Recovery Events are about more than fixing fences or building cattle yards,” Mr Warlters said.

“They restore hope. Every kilometre travelled, every hour volunteered, is a reminder to our farmers that they are not alone.”

“Reaching our 200th farm is a significant achievement. It speaks to the strength of the rural spirit and the generosity of everyday Australians who put up their hands to help.”

The benefits of the program are both practical and personal. Volunteers help with essential property repairs, but the presence of helping hands and listening ears can have lasting mental health benefits for farmers recovering from drought, floods or fire.

“Time and again, farmers tell us that just having someone show up to help, even just to share a cuppa and talk, makes all the difference,” Mr Warlters said.

“It reduces isolation, lifts spirits and strengthens resilience.”

The wider community also benefits, with Rural Aid completing more than 100 projects in public spaces like halls, showgrounds, schools and sporting clubs.

FREs also offer a unique and rewarding opportunity for corporate partners to take part in meaningful team-building experiences while directly supporting rural communities. Many businesses have already joined forces with Rural Aid to get their teams involved in on-the-ground recovery, gaining insight into rural life and creating real social impact.

Long-time Rural Aid volunteer Raelee Keegan said the experience is just as meaningful for those giving their time.

“We go in to help, but we get so much back,” she said.

“You feel the gratitude and the connection straight away. I’ve volunteered in towns I’d never even heard of before, and now they feel like part of my extended family.”

Rural Aid’s Farm Recovery Events rely on community donations, corporate support and a dedicated team of volunteers.

“While we’re proud of how far we’ve come, there’s so much more to do,” Mr Warlters said.

“We’ll keep showing up, because rural Australia matters.”

To support Rural Aid’s recovery work or learn more, visit www.ruralaid.org.au.

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Sugarcane is set to take the spotlight at the Royal Queensland Show next week, as CANEGROWERS returns to the Ekka to showcase one of Queensland’s most significant agricultural industries to city audiences.

Hosted in partnership with Sunshine Sugar and Sugar Research Australia, the sugarcane stand has become a crowd favourite in the Ekka’s Agricultural Hall, drawing thousands of visitors each year and proving there's still plenty of curiosity and pride in the industry that helped build regional Queensland.

The stand’s popular virtual reality experience is back, giving people of all ages the chance to step inside the life of a sugarcane farmer – from paddock to harvester to mill and beyond. New high-quality headsets and immersive 360-degree footage will offer a fresh take on the story of sugar.

But it’s not just the industry telling its story. Real growers will be on the stand throughout the week, chatting with visitors, answering questions, and sharing what life on the land is really like.

Visitors also regularly bring their own stories, from childhood holidays in cane country, memories of chewing stalks straight from the paddock, or family connections to the industry. These shared yarns help bridge the city-country divide.

CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens, who’ll once again spend time on the stand this year, says it’s one of the best opportunities the industry has to connect directly with the public.

“When you work the stand, you realise how many people have fond memories or a real interest in sugarcane,” Mr Menkens said.

“They remember the smell, the taste, the sound of cane being cut – and they’re genuinely keen to hear how farming works today. As growers, it’s great to be able to share that first-hand.”

The Ekka stand offers an insight into modern sugarcane farming – clean, green and high-tech and what the industry looks like in 2025.

It’s also a chance to highlight where the industry is headed, with growing prospects in green electricity, biofuels like sustainable aviation fuel, and bioplastics made from cane fibre and by-products, all part of a smarter, more sustainable regional economy.

“The Ekka gives us a voice, and we’re proud to be front and centre again this year,” Mr Menkens said.

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The Mackay and Plane Creek districts' sugarcane harvest season is well underway, and as this edition goes to print, should be hovering around the 25% mark harvested of the crop, give or take.

Each year, the Mackay-Plane Creek region, recognised as one of Australia’s largest sugar-producing areas, contributes to both domestic consumption and export markets, making the progress of its harvest season of considerable economic importance. At the local level, every dollar spent in the sugarcane industry has a multiplier of $6.40 into the regional economy.

As of early August, the harvest season has not been without its challenges, struggling to enter any sort of consistent rhythm: very much been a stop/start affair. Sitting at around 25% in early August is certainly not where we would like to be positioned. If you take into consideration the old rule-of-thumb of being around about halfway through the harvest by Father’s Day, we are highly unlikely to reach that milestone.

There are several reasons for this delay in the harvest: one being the consistent rainfall across the district through the winter period which has resulted in very moist field conditions and therefore contributing to making harvesting operations very difficult and inconstant.  This rainfall has also made planting for the 2026 crop difficult and has condensed the planting window dramatically, putting pressure on all parties involved.

On the operational front, the mills have reported an acceptable level of mechanical downtime so far, aided by extensive off-season maintenance and investments in efficiency upgrades. This is very pleasing to see that after a long-sustained period of poor performance, the efforts of the milling companies to improve is beginning to materialise.  However, transport networks supporting cane deliveries have unfortunately not followed the same trend. They have been the Achillies heel for both the processing and growing sector, resulting in costly long waiting times for harvesting groups as well as lost milling opportunity with cane supply unable at times to keep up with factory availability.  I understand that both milling companies are working away to try to rectify this situation.

CCS is down on the average of previous seasons, primarily due to the volume of standover being processed. By all indications, about half of the tonnage of two-year-old cane has been milled so far. That will continue to impact season CCS.

Looking ahead, weather and factory performance will continue to play a defining role. The collaborative efforts between growers, millers, harvesting contractors and transport operators remains central to continuing to help build momentum and achieve what is the optimum for all parties involved, that being the harvesting of the entire crop in a timely and efficient manner, resulting in better financial returns for all parties involved.

Finally, I would just like to mention that the recent 61st Annual Sarina Show was by all indications was a resounding success.  Certainly, Saturday night’s crowd was exceptional, so well done goes to show President Ron Gurnett and his committee for running such a successful event.  As is always the tradition, a hotly contested show cane competition was run. Congratulations must go to Chief Steward Barry Pace and the show cane team for organising and running the competition.  Well done to all of the winners and we look forward to seeing you again next year! It is wonderful to see grower families having pride in the crops that they grow and compete against their peers.

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The Sarina Show Cane competition team put in a massive effort to bring together another great comp in 2025. From left: Doug and Bronte Pedersen, Frank Jacobs, Mark Hetherington, Barry and Matt Pace, Lily Shaw, Rachael Pace, Aleisha, Tait and Blake Pedersen. Picture: Kirili Lamb

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In the lead-up to the nationally held R U OK? Day on September 11, local suicide prevention charity Grapevine Group is encouraging businesses and community members across Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday regions to stock up on their free Help-a-mate wallet cards – a vital resource listing local suicide prevention services.

The free pocket-sized cards can be ordered directly from the Grapevine Group website. Each card includes a QR code linking to the Grapevine Group app, which provides a more comprehensive directory of local support services. The app also features a one-tap share button, allowing users to instantly send the vital information via text or email to others.

To date, Grapevine Group has printed over 267,000 Help-a-mate cards – more than double the population of the Mackay region. This overwhelming demand highlights the community’s need for accessible, life-saving information.

“Grapevine Group first compiled the list of local services in 2005. Everyone should be armed with this information – it can save lives,” said Grapevine president Debbie Knight.

In support of R U OK? Day, Grapevine is also hosting a free safeTALK suicide prevention training session on Thursday, September 11, from 10am to 1pm at Gordon White Library.

The session is open to the public and aims to equip participants with the skills to recognise and respond to signs of suicidal thoughts. Visit the group’s website to register to this session or enquire about free group suicide prevention training for your workplace, sporting or community group.

All Mackay Regional Council Libraries are designated Help-a-mate Hubs, where individuals and businesses can collect bulk Help-a-mate cards for distribution at their R U OK? Day events.

While the cards are provided free of charge, donations are welcome to support the ongoing work of Grapevine Group.

Offices and workplaces are also encouraged to consider fundraising for Grapevine Group as part of their R U OK? Day activities.

To book training, order cards, download the app, find local help or make a donation, visit: www.grapevinegroup.org.au

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The splash park at Seaforth Esplanade will be temporarily closed for scheduled maintenance from Monday, August 18 to Friday, August 22, 2025.

The planned work includes replacing a foot valve at the base of one of the filtered water tanks, as well as repainting stencils on the concrete surface of the splash pad.

While the splash park will be closed during this period, the nearby playground and public amenities will remain open for everyone to enjoy.

The park is expected to reopen on August 22 once maintenance is complete.

Mackay Regional Council thanks the community for their patience and understanding during the temporary closure.

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The splash park at Seaforth Esplanade will close for maintenance from August 18 to 22, with the playground and amenities remaining open, and is expected to reopen once work is completed. Photo supplied

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The Mackay Art Society launched the 2025 Woollam Art on Show Exhibition with sparkling success on Opening Night last Friday, drawing a crowd of around 240 art lovers, artists, and supporters.

Guests enjoyed a fabulous evening, officially opened by Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson and expertly hosted by MC Rob Kidd from ABC Tropical North. Among the special guests were Nigel Dalton MP and Mark Svendsen, poet, writer and arts administrator of the Regional Centre of the Arts, Rockhampton who joined in celebrating this standout cultural event.

With a glitz and glamour dress theme, the room sparkled with sequins, smiles, and creative flair. Live piano music played by Valerie Dickson provided an atmospheric backdrop adding to the atmosphere.

This year’s judging was entrusted to Ron McBurnie, a respected Australian award-winning artist and educator.

His discerning eye and thoughtful selections added depth and prestige to the Awards. This year marked a new chapter, with the Mackay Art Society hosting the event for the first time - and what a debut! The committee was thrilled with the enthusiastic response from both the public and the artists. The show opened with 250 individual artworks, including works from 27 artists who submitted 43 works from across NSW, Victoria, Tasmania, and regional Queensland. Seven of the award winners came from outside the region, reflecting the national appeal of the exhibition and lifting Mackay’s profile as a thriving centre for the arts.

None of this would have been possible without the generous support of the event sponsors, especially Craig Percival, Managing Director of Woollam Constructions, whose ongoing passion for the arts has ensured the continuation of this popular local event. A special acknowledgement of and sincere thanks must be given to the Mackay Show Association for providing the best possible venue at the 500 Pavilion, Mackay Showgrounds.

“We’re incredibly proud of what’s been achieved,” said Ben Ranson, President of the Mackay Art Society.

“Woollam Art on Show Awards has truly become a premier regional arts event, and this year’s response highlights Mackay’s place as a thriving centre for creativity and culture. We hope we’ve done the artists proud, because they’ve certainly done us proud.”

Feedback from the public was overwhelmingly positive, praising the quality of the artworks, the welcoming atmosphere, and the smooth organisation. Over the course of the exhibition in excess of 30 artworks were sold, an incredible show of support for the talented creatives on display.

Congratulations to all the 2025 winners, including Sharon Drew, who took home the Woollam Art on Show Overall Winner Award for Mangroves meet the Tides.

Jan Cunningham’s ‘Storylines in Karijini Sandstone’ won her the Local Artist Award, sponsored by Gibbs Air. The People’s Choice Award was awarded to Brandon Endelman for his portrait, Gandalf The Light in Darkness.

The full list of winners spans emerging talent, intricate miniatures, and works on canvas and paper.

Organisers of Mackay Art Society sent their heartfelt thanks to every artist, sponsor, guest, and volunteer. It truly showcased a celebration of creativity and the power of art to bring the community together.

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The Mackay Art Society’s 2025 Woollam Art on Show Exhibition opened with a dazzling night of art, music, and community spirit, drawing over 240 guests and showcasing 250 works from across the country in a triumphant debut event. Photos supplied

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Mackay Safety has been nominated for the Expansion into New Markets Award – sponsored by Capricornia Pumped Hydro – at the upcoming 2025 Resource Industry Network (RIN) Awards. The nomination recognises their innovative payroll integration tool within the 4P Forms mobile platform, which is transforming industry data management.

Designed to digitise and streamline critical business records, 4P Forms enables workers to submit timesheets, pre-start forms, service sheets, issue reporting, tasking, supervisor notifications and more directly from the field, even offline. The platform integrates smoothly with payroll dashboards and accounting software, allowing payroll administrators to review and correct data in real-time before import, dramatically reducing errors and saving valuable time.

“We built a secure integration with a payroll dashboard that combines timesheet data from 4P Forms with employee details from the financial system, such as employee type and pay items.

“This integration breaks down the payroll data so the payroll administrator can view it in real time,” said Mick Storch, Owner and Managing Director of Mackay Safety.

“What this allows you to do is, check it all, approve it, and then import it back into the financial system 100% right – with no stress.

“The advantage being it’s universal… a entire business can be completely paperless in the true sense of that – and we’ve done it.”

From its origins addressing compliance gaps on Australian mine sites 15 years ago to evolving into a comprehensive operational tool, Mackay Safety is reshaping how industries capture and manage data.

Key contributors to the project include Karen Trezise (Office Manager), Ben Lewis (Principal Developer), Don Irvine (Managing Director of CQ Exploration), and Mick Storch.

Visit mackaysafety.com.au for more information on this revolutionary app.

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