At the heart of every strong community are the people who quietly give their time, talent and energy to others — and the 2026 Australia Day Award nominees are a powerful reminder that the Mackay region is rich in exactly that kind of spirit.

This year, more than 186 nominations were submitted, recognising 98 outstanding residents and community groups. Behind each nomination was a local who took the time to acknowledge someone making a difference, with 131 people putting names forward — many of them more than once. It is a reflection not only of individual excellence, but of a community that notices and values service.

The Citizen of the Year nominees include Amanda Potter, Beau Bath, Colin Benson, Corrie Thompson, Denise McCallum, Doug Petersen, Dr Michael Zhang, Dr Sanjeev Bandi, Fallon Drewett, Jacob King, Jade Leeson, Katrina Hoare, Kay Nyenuh, Lisa and Terry Jamieson, Luke Tory, Melissa Aylward-Gale, Memory Pori, Michael Buckeridge, Michaele Colls, Owen Shipp, Sean Murphy, Snr Sgt Jeremy Novosel, Ty McIlrath and Zac Wilson.

The next generation of leaders is well represented among the Young Citizen of the Year nominees: Amelia Bishop, Amelia Webber, Arhamah Haider, Emersen Lamb, Krystal DeMaid, Lila Munt, Mitchell Gross and Nate Ralph.

Those who selflessly give their time to others feature strongly in the Lori Burgess Community Volunteer of the Year category, with nominees including Alma Blake, Amanda Potter, Ashley Fry, Cathy Platts, Cheryl Hawkins, Denise McCallum, Doug Petersen, Dr Alison Pighills, Edith Weiss, Frank Caruana, Frank De Battista, Gerri Kissner, Joanne Vanstralen, Jodie Whitby, Karen Turner, Katrina Hoare, Leah Rogers, Lisa and Terry Jamieson, Marion Keir, Michaele Colls, Noel Senini, Paul Anderson, Robyn Bowden, Sharon Cahill, Sharon Turner, Terry Jamieson, Tracey Stevenson, Valerie Clark and Yvette Jeffs.

The Brenden Borellini Access and Inclusion Achievement Award nominees — Anthony Moore, Cheryl Hawkins, Heath Cruckshank, Krystal DeMaid, Luke Tory, Margaret Ross, SNAGS Inc. and Tracey Stevenson — highlight the vital work being done to ensure the community is accessible and welcoming for all.

Creativity and cultural contribution are celebrated through the Arts and Culture Award, with nominees Cherie Hughes, Fallon Drewett, Jamesley Gourlay, Mackay City Heart Collective, Mitchell Gross, Nicole Thomson and Printbank Mackay.

Community-driven impact is front and centre in the Community Group Award, recognising groups such as Finley Smith Memorial Cup, First Nations Netball Carnival Mackay Inc., Happy Paws Happy Hearts, Hibiscus Coast District Scouts, Lifeline Mackay Centre, Mackay Parkrun, Mackay City Girl Guides District, Mackay Pet Rescue Incorporated, Mackay Surf Lifesaving Supports Club Inc., Marabisda Women’s Group, Marine Rescue Queensland (Mackay Branch), Pioneer Valley Rail Trail, Project Pink, Pure Vintage Band, Queensland Country Women’s Association (Mackay Branch), Sarina Bowls Club, Slade Point Progress Association, SNAGS Inc., Special Olympics Mackay Fire, The Held Project and The Pink Vo Collective.

Environmental leadership is recognised through the Environmental Achievement Award, with nominees Dr Alison Pighills, Irene Champion, Joanne Vanstralen, Sian Lawson, Suzanne McCormack and Yvette Jeffs.

Sporting excellence and dedication are acknowledged across the Senior Sports Award nominees — Anthony Cahill, Cathy Platts, Charmayne Sleeman, Dale Potter, Daniel Mayfield, Gerri Kissner, Sean Murphy, Sharon Turner, Tahlia Little and Tracey Stevenson — and the Young Sports Award nominees Ayla Moon, Cheyenne Gsheidle, Cooper Venz, Hudson Mayfield, Isabel Smith, Krystal DeMaid, Mereoni Vuibeqa and Zara Richardson.

All nominees and award recipients will be recognised at a special Australia Day Awards ceremony at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre on Sunday, January 25, 2026.

While only a handful of names will ultimately be called as winners, the true achievement lies in the collective impact of these individuals and groups. Together, they represent the values that define the Mackay region — generosity, inclusion, creativity, resilience and an unwavering commitment to community.

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Ann Barry Becomes an Australian Citizen at 82

After more than six decades living, working, and raising a family in Australia, Ann Barry has finally achieved something she had long dreamed of – Australian citizenship – at the age of 82.

Ann arrived in Australia from Brynithel, South Wales, in April 1964, carrying little more than a single chest of possessions and a heart full of courage. She quickly built a life here, finding work as a financial clerk in Adelaide, later carving out a career in banking and travel, and raising two children with her husband, Tom Barry, one of Mackay’s last surviving World War II veterans.

Yet despite her lifelong contribution to her community, the path to citizenship proved complex.

“At times, the process felt impossible,” Ann said, particularly because British citizens travelling to Australia in 1964 had no passports, leaving her with no formal record of arrival.

It was a chance conversation at the Mackay RSL Sub-Branch that changed everything. With support from Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox and his team, Ann embarked on an 18-month effort to navigate the bureaucracy. The breakthrough came when they located the original ship’s manifest from the National Archives, confirming her arrival on the S.S. Iberia.

“I'm competent at handling paperwork, but without Andrew and Ian within his team, I would have given up,” Ann said.

“Their patience and persistence were incredible. I'm not sure I'd be a citizen today without their support.”

In September 2025, Ann proudly took the oath at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre. Reflecting on her journey, she said, “My life here in Australia has been very full, and I hope to spend many more years yet, now as an Australian citizen. This country has given me everything: a career, a family, a community. It feels wonderful to belong in every sense of the word, finally.”

“Ann's journey is nothing short of remarkable,” Mr Willcox said.

“For more than sixty years, she has lived the Australian story; working hard, raising a family, contributing to her community. To be able to help her finally gain citizenship is one of the most rewarding parts of my role as a federal member.”

“Ann's experience shows just how important it is for people to know that your federal member's office is here to help,” he added.

“If you or someone you know is struggling with the citizenship process, please don't hesitate to reach out. We will do everything we can to support you.”

Ann’s story is a testament to resilience, determination, and the lifelong dream of belonging – a journey that began with a chest of belongings and ended with her proudly calling Australia home.

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Mrs Ann Barry and Andrew Willcox MP. Photo supplied

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Mackay bus drivers are set to receive enhanced safety protections following a major funding boost announced by the Queensland Government to fast-track the rollout of full safety barriers on buses across the State.

As part of the Government’s additional $3 million investment this financial year, Mackay has been named among the regional centres where buses will be upgraded to Australia’s highest safety standards. The funding will support local operators to retrofit vehicles with full driver safety barriers, aimed at protecting drivers from abuse and assault while improving overall passenger safety.

The regional funding allocation forms part of a $2 million package that will see around 70 buses upgraded across Queensland, including in Mackay, North Stradbroke Island, Toowoomba, Bundaberg and Bowen. Upgrades to the current fleet are expected to begin in early 2026 and will include driver barriers, air-conditioning in the driver cabin, electronic blinds and mirrorless camera systems. Full safety barriers will also be mandatory for any new buses entering the Translink network.

Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said the program marked a significant step forward for bus driver and community safety across Queensland.

“This is about making sure bus drivers across Queensland feel safe doing their job,” Minister Mickelberg said.

The funding boost follows discussions with bus drivers, operators and unions, reinforcing the Government’s commitment to improving safety. The upgrades form part of a broader strategy to strengthen Queensland’s public transport network, supported by a new Public Transport Stakeholder Reference Group providing ongoing input during the rollout.

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Mackay bus drivers will receive enhanced safety protections following a boost in state funding. Photo source: Translink

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Safe Sleep Mackay (SSM) has announced that Australian Street Aid Project (ASAP) will operate the first of the region’s three Safe Sleep buses.

The buses will provide temporary overnight service on weekends, offering a safe, secure place to rest for people currently sleeping rough. The initiative aims to provide dignity, safety, and relief from the elements.

SSM spokesperson Lisa Jamieson said the announcement demonstrates the power of community-led solutions.

“This is a huge milestone for Safe Sleep Mackay and our community. All three buses required significant modifications to ensure they are safe and suitable for operation. Thanks to the generosity of donors, volunteers, and local businesses, one bus is now nearly ready and has been handed over to ASAP as the first operator,” Ms Jamieson said.

She added that ASAP has supported the project from the beginning. Their frontline experience with Mackay’s homeless community gives confidence that the first Safe Sleep bus will deliver a real impact.

Australian Street Aid Project (ASAP) CEO Kayleigh Brewster said the organisation is honoured to operate the first bus.

“A safe night’s sleep is a fundamental human need, which is why we’ve supported this initiative from the start,” Ms Brewster said.

“We are well-positioned to deliver this service due to the trust and rapport we have built with those who will benefit. While this isn’t a solution to homelessness, the bus will provide an alternative to sleeping rough on the nights it operates.”

Ms Brewster added that although work remains to ensure smooth, sustainable operations, the bus is nearly ready, allowing them to coordinate next steps toward launch.

While preparing the first bus, SSM continues toward its broader goal of bringing all three buses into service. Additional funds are still needed to complete modifications on the remaining buses.

“This is just the beginning,” Ms Jamieson said.

“Today’s announcement (made on Monday, the 12th of January), shows what’s possible when a community comes together to care for those doing it tough. We will continue to fundraise and seek expressions of interest from organisations to operate the other buses.”

Safe Sleep Mackay is also actively seeking volunteers to support the program. Assistance is needed for sewing blankets and fitted sheets (materials and templates provided), and, importantly, for bus operations. Volunteers are required as drivers (MR licence), caretakers to stay overnight, helpers to assist guests into pods, and housekeepers to reset the bus for the next night.

If you’d like to get involved, community members can donate or register to volunteer at www.safesleepmackay.com.au. Every contribution helps ensure safe sleep for those who need it most.

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Safe Sleep Mackay is calling for volunteers to help sew blankets and assist with bus operations, including driving and overnight support. Photo source: Safe Sleep Mackay

Australian Street Aid Project (ASAP) will operate the first Safe Sleep bus, providing trusted frontline support to people sleeping rough in Mackay. Photo supplied

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On the 5th of January, Mackay Hospital and Health Service (MHHS) confirmed that an independent workplace investigation concerning Chief Medical Officer Dr Charles Pain, who was suspended in September 2024 following allegations of poor clinical governance, has concluded.

The investigation was carried out by an external investigator appointed by Mackay HHS. Following careful review of the findings, none of the allegations against Dr Pain were substantiated, and no adverse findings of any kind were made.

As a result, Dr Pain’s suspension has been lifted, and he has resumed his duties as Chief Medical Officer as of Monday, the 5th of January.

Mackay HHS acknowledged that Dr Pain fully cooperated with the investigation and that he acted appropriately, transparently, and reasonably throughout the process.

A representative from Mackay HHS said, “We recognise the importance of fair and rigorous processes and thank our HHS staff and the community for their patience while the investigation was completed.”

“Dr Pain has more than four decades of distinguished public service in medicine and clinical leadership, and we welcome his leadership and return to the organisation.”

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Chief Medical Officer Dr Charles Pain. Photo source: Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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North Queensland Bulk Ports advised that the Mackay Southern Breakwater was temporarily closed last week due to unsafe weather conditions, with strong winds and high tides impacting the area. The closure applied to both pedestrians and vehicles, with access restricted until conditions improved. Authorities confirmed the situation was being closely monitored, with public safety the primary concern.

Not long after, Mackay Marina Village issued a separate alert following a crocodile sighting within the marina precinct. Locals and visitors were urged to exercise caution near the water’s edge and reminded not to leave fish frames or food scraps in the area, which can attract wildlife.

With severe weather systems, elevated tides and increased water movement, experts warn that crocodile activity can become more unpredictable. Such conditions can push wildlife into unexpected areas, increasing the need for heightened awareness around coastal and marina environments.

Both incidents, occurring within the marina precinct, served as a timely reminder for the community to remain vigilant, heed safety warnings and avoid unnecessary risks. Authorities continue to encourage residents to stay informed, follow official advice and report any further wildlife sightings to the appropriate agencies.

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The Mackay Marina precinct was placed on alert last week, with the Southern Breakwater closed due to severe weather conditions, followed shortly by a crocodile sighting prompting safety warnings for locals and visitors. Photo source: Mackay Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation

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The Mackay Public Health Unit has confirmed a case of measles in an overseas traveller who recently visited the Mackay region, prompting health authorities to reassure the community that the risk to locals remains extremely low.

Officials have confirmed the individual had very limited interaction within the community, with all contact tracing now completed and no local exposure sites identified.

The traveller made their way up the Queensland coast by car. Any locations of potential concern, should they be identified, will be published on the Queensland Health alerts webpage at www.health.qld.gov.au/newsroom/alerts.

Measles is a highly infectious virus spread through coughing and sneezing or by direct contact with secretions from the nose or mouth. Symptoms typically appear seven to ten days after exposure but can take up to three weeks to develop.

Symptoms
The initial symptoms of measles can include fever, lethargy, runny nose, moist cough and sore red eyes. This is followed a few days later by a blotchy, red rash which often starts on the face and then becomes widespread over the body.

What you should do
If you have any measles symptoms, you can arrange testing with your doctor or call 13HEALTH (13 43 25 84) for advice.

If you think you may have measles, it is very important that you avoid public spaces.

Please contact your GP and pathology services before attending so they can take appropriate precautions to avoid spreading measles to others. When you call, state that you have been in contact with a measles case.

Immunisation
Immunisation is an important step towards reducing the risk associated with vaccine preventable diseases and keeping people safe.

People who have been vaccinated against or previously contracted measles are very unlikely to catch the disease even if they have been exposed.

Those who are at highest risk of contracting measles include people who:
• have a weakened immune system or,
• were born during or after 1966 and have no documented evidence of having received 2 doses of a measles containing vaccine or• have not been infected with measles before

If you are unsure of your vaccine status, contact your doctor to discuss whether you may need a vaccine.

The MMR vaccine is free and available at GPs and participating community pharmacies.

For more information about measles, call 13HEALTH (13 43 25 84) or go to the Queensland Health website.

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The MMR vaccine is free and available at GPs and participating community pharmacies. Photo source: Shutterstock

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Mackay’s sporting landscape has welcomed a new addition with the official opening of the region’s first permanent disc golf course at John Breen District Park last Friday, the 9th of January.

Councillor Ash-Lee Johnson officially opened the nine-hole course, which has been made possible through a $30,000 Community Investment Grant from Mackay Regional Council. The new facility marks a significant milestone for the Mackay Disc Golf Club and provides residents with a fresh, accessible outdoor recreation option.

Designed to cater for players of all skill levels, the course offers an easy entry point for first-time players while still providing a challenge for more experienced competitors. Disc golf follows a similar concept to traditional golf, with players aiming to throw a frisbee-style disc into a metal basket in as few throws as possible. The sport is widely regarded as simple to learn, social and a great form of exercise.

Cr Johnson said the course was a valuable addition to Mackay’s growing range of recreational facilities.

“It’s really exciting to be here today at the opening of the disc golf park. It’s such a great addition for Mackay to have a new sport become a permanent fixture, giving everyone the opportunity to come along and have a go,” she said.

She said disc golf’s broad appeal made it well suited to the region’s active lifestyle.

“It really does appeal to a wide audience — from kids through to adults — anyone who wants to get outdoors and enjoy active regional living. It’s something new, inclusive and accessible for our community,” Cr Johnson said.

Mackay Disc Golf Club president Andrew Wells said the permanent course would have a major impact on the club’s ability to grow and retain players.

“One of our biggest challenges has been retaining people, because they’d come along to a day and then have nothing to do until the next event,” Mr Wells said.

“Now, we’ve finally got a course in the ground.”

He said John Breen District Park was an ideal location due to its accessibility, central position and existing multi-use design.

“It’s a multi-sport facility with walking paths, it’s accessible to everybody and it’s beautifully kept,” he said.

Safety was a key consideration in the course design, with mandatory throwing directions implemented near walking paths to minimise risks to other park users.

The project was supported by the dedication of Mackay Disc Golf Club members, along with funding contributions from Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal and support from Mount Pleasant Tavern and Kingfisher Disc Golf.

Cr Johnson acknowledged the collaborative effort behind the project and congratulated those involved for their persistence.

“These conversations have been ongoing for some time, and it’s a credit to the dedication of the club and everyone involved that it has reached this stage,” she said.

Looking ahead, the Mackay Disc Golf Club is now in discussions with the North Queensland Games about hosting an event in Mackay in 2026, which could further showcase the sport and the region.

More information about the course is available on Mackay Regional Council’s website, and residents interested in trying disc golf are encouraged to connect with the Mackay Disc Golf Club.

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Mackay’s first permanent disc golf course has officially opened at John Breen District Park, with Councillor Ash-Lee Johnson welcoming the new community facility made possible through council funding and the valued support of sponsors including Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal. Photo source: Mackay Regional Council

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Have You Seen Danyon Bennett?
Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a 30-year-old man missing from Blacks Beach since the 5th of January.

Danyon Bennett (pictured) was last seen around 4.30pm at a Blacks Beach address and has not been heard from since. Police and family are concerned for his welfare due to a medical condition.

Danyon is described as having a fair complexion, approximately 175cm tall, with a proportionate build, brown hair, and blue eyes. He was last seen wearing a brown t-shirt, dark shorts, and a black cap.

Anyone with information about Danyon’s whereabouts is urged to contact police.

Reference number: QP2600030571

Mount Pleasant – Armed Robbery Under Investigation
Police are investigating an armed robbery that occurred at Mount Pleasant on the 5th of January.

At around 11.10pm, two male offenders allegedly exited a small black vehicle on the corner of Charles Hodge Avenue and Malcomson Street and approached a man riding an e-scooter. The offenders, unknown to the victim, assaulted him and attempted to steal the e-scooter. One offender reportedly produced a knife and threatened the man, who managed to escape with minor injuries.

Police are seeking anyone with information or relevant footage from the area at the time to come forward. Investigations are ongoing.

Reference number: QP2600031277

Mount Isa & Mackay – Property Crime Charges
Detectives from Mount Isa Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB) have charged a 38-year-old man from North Mackay with multiple property offences.

The man is alleged to have been involved in a series of burglaries, car thefts, and stealing offences between the 14th and the 29th of December across multiple locations, including James Street (Mackay); Nelia Bunda Road (Julia Creek); Fisher Drive and Kyrie Avenue (Sunset); Barton and Camooweal Streets (Mount Isa); Ramsay Street and Round Oak Road (Cloncurry); and Gregory Downs Camooweal Road (Gregory Downs).

Following extensive investigations, Mount Isa CIB detectives arrested the man on the 30th of December. He faces 15 charges, including four counts each of unlawful use of a motor vehicle and stealing, two counts of attempted unlawful use of a motor vehicle, and one count each of entering a dwelling and committing an offence, entering premises with intent to commit an indictable offence, possessing tainted property, unlawful possession of suspected stolen property, and breaching bail.

He is expected to appear before Mount Isa Magistrates Court on 31 December. Investigations remain ongoing.

Reference numbers: QP2502337892, QP2502367065, QP2502380044

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Photo source: Queensland Police Service

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Queensland Police Service (QPS) officials reported Mackay’s first e-scooter incident for 2026 in the early hours of Wednesday, the 8th of January after paramedics transported a stable female patient in her 30s to Mackay Hospital.

The woman suffered a head injury after falling from an e-scooter on Sydney Street and Shakespear Street at 1:05am, raising several safety concerns among the community.

Beam, a globally popular micromobility company, partnered with Mackay Regional Council in June of 2022 to introduce e-scooters to the area. Unveiled as a carbon-neutral, affordable and fun form of transportation, e-scooters can be hired seven days a week, 24 hours a day through a mobile application.

Once hired, a safety briefing is delivered to each rider, featuring instructions on how to park and ride safely. Other safety measures include strict speed limits in specific areas capped by onboard software, and automatic restrictions in no ride, no parking and slow zones as well as compulsory helmet technology. In instances where riders are found operating an e-scooter without a helmet, fines exceeding $160 apply.

The e-scooters are programmed to reach a maximum speed of approximately 20 to 25km/h, and automatically slow to 10 to 15km/h in slow zones pre-determined by geofencing technology.

In 2025, seven local e-scooter incidents were reported to emergency services.

On Monday, the 21st of April 2025, a woman in her 30s with significant head, abdominal and chest injuries was transported in a potentially life-threatening condition to Mackay Hospital following a vehicle and e-scooter incident on Kelleys Road at 6:04pm.

A stable female patient in her 30s with both a head and leg injury was transported to Mackay Hospital after an e-scooter incident on Stevenson Street at 5:36pm on Tuesday, the 6th of May, 2025.

On Saturday, the 21st of June 2025, a stable male patient in his 30s with a head injury was transported to Mackay Hospital following an e-scooter accident on Malcomson Street in North Mackay at 1:44am.

One stable male patient in his 30s with a hip injury was transported to Mackay Hospital following a vehicle and e-scooter incident on the corner of Bridge Road and Casey Avenue in South Mackay at 7:16pm on Thursday, the 31st of July 2025.

Paramedics transported a stable man in his 50s with head injuries to Mackay Hospital after falling from an e-scooter on Evan Street and Mcintyre Street in East Mackay just after 6am on Monday, the 6th of October, 2025.

A stable male patient in his teens with abdominal, head and arm injuries was transported to Mackay Hospital following an e-scooter incident on Victoria Street at 9pm on Friday, the 21st of November, 2025.

Earlier last month, on Sunday, the 7th of December, 2025, a stable female patient in her 30s with chest injuries was transported to Mackay Hospital after an e-scooter incident on Binnington Esplanade in East Mackay at 1:41am.

Although e-scooters are an efficient and environmentally friendly way to travel, thousands of serious injuries have been reported across the state in less than five years, and while all the incidents that occurred in Mackay in 2025 differ from one another, the safety concerns surrounding e-scooter usage are all the same.

Residents are advised to refer to the Queensland Government’s StreetSmarts website at streetssmarts.initiatives.qld.gov.au for a full run down on e-scooter safety.

Driver Escapes After Vehicle Wrecks Popular Mackay Coffee Shop

Victoria Street coffee lovers got more than they bargained for last Thursday afternoon when a car unexpectedly plunged through the front window of Little Espresso Bar in Mackay’s CBD.

The drama unfolded around 1.30pm, with witnesses reporting a silver sedan had crashed through the café’s glass frontage.

Initial images of the incident show broken windows, shattered glass, and the sedan wedged within the café, leaving locals both concerned and stunned.

Early reports suggested the café-bound silver Kia had been struck by another vehicle at the nearby roundabout, causing it to crash into the shopfront. It was alleged that a red Nissan Pulsar involved in the collision fled the scene before officers arrived.

Little Espresso Bar, which opened in late 2024, as an extension of the mini-mart next door, is owned by Borripat ‘Borri’ Apikhantikul and his wife. The café has quickly become a community favourite for its coffee and range of cold drinks.

A representative from the coffee shop said, "Thankfully, no one was seriously injured, and we are truly grateful for the support and concern we have received.

"Our priority now is to repair the damage and ensure the café is safe and welcoming before reopening."

Police are investigating the crash and are appealing for anyone with information about the red Nissan or the incident to come forward.

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A car crashed through the front of Little Espresso Bar in Mackay’s CBD last Thursday afternoon, leaving shattered glass, a wedged sedan, and locals stunned. The popular coffee shop has been boarded up until repairs are complete. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

The stage is now being set for the 2026 harvest, and that will now have to take into account any impacts to Upper Pioneer Valley cane farms during the passage of TC Koji.

At the time of writing, six-hour totals of 200-290mm in range and creek areas across Sunday 11 January  around the Upper Pioneer Valley had delivered significant inundations to farming areas, but impacts were yet to be assessed. Canegrowers Mackay will support any affected growers and their communities in whatever way we can.

Milling, weather and the world market are all significant variables in cane farming. In other words, it can be a bit of a gamble.

The conclusion of the 2025 Mackay/Plane Creek crushing season was the earliest finish to the crush in about five years. Whilst that is a positive, it is also a reflection on the reduced crop size.

Slight improvements in factory performance were swallowed up by horrendous shortfalls in the logistics sectors and   as we move forward to the next crushing season   all sectors of the industry need to work together to help rectify this significant failure in the production chain.

As 2026 dawns in its infancy, there are certainly early signs of an improved crop size for the upcoming harvest season, albeit there is still a lot of water to go under the bridge before harvesting begins.

The relatively dry nature of the crush season saw a larger amount of irrigation being utilised than what has been seen in recent memory.   The dryer season also allowed for a relatively correct sequence in harvesting order and minimal paddock damage being inflicted on ratooning paddocks.

All these factors, combined with what has been reasonable sporadic rainfall since the completion of the crush up until our first proper monsoon pulse in January, are certainly pointing towards a positive outcome in crop size for 2026.

The challenge going forward is to then process the crop in a timely manner to achieve the maximum benefit of the potential of the crop.  This can be affected by milling performance, logistics shortfalls and of course, weather.  If there is one thing that is predictable about the weather, it is that it is unpredictable.

The general consensus to which anyone in the agricultural sector will testify, is that farming is a calculated gamble. It is impacted by numerous factors well and truly outside the growers’ control.
On top of the list of challenges faced by sugarcane growers is the vulnerability of the volatile world commodity markets which at the current time are in an extremely depressed state.

The positive consideration looking forward is that - at current levels - it is believed by market experts that most sugar-producing nations are hovering around cost of production. This therefore would make you presume that if current production levels are unsustainable, a correction in the world’s sugar production may be imminent.

Major world players such as Brazil and India may decide to increase ethanol production rather than produce sugar or even grow other crops which may be more lucrative under the current prices. A reduction in the global production would hopefully lead to a world sugar deficit and then an increase in price.  We can only continue to monitor the situation and hope that this situation plays out in this manner.

Finally, on behalf of Mackay Canegrowers, I wish everyone in the Mackay community a happy and prosperous 2026 and may we all work together to make it one of the best years yet!  All the best and keep safe everyone.

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The Christmas- New Year’s period saw quality rainfall for the 2026 crop. Picture: Kirili Lamb.

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Rural Aid is calling on primary producers in Northwest Queensland impacted by ongoing flooding to register for assistance, as widespread rain continues to disrupt farms, livestock operations, and rural communities across the region.

Flooding has caused significant challenges for farmers, with properties inundated, livestock affected, road access cut, and daily operations brought to a halt. Rural Aid says it is actively mobilising to ensure support reaches those in need as soon as conditions allow.

“Flooding in the region is creating serious pressures for farmers, with properties and livestock impacted, roads cut, and daily operations disrupted,” said Rural Aid CEO John Warlters.

“We understand how quickly these events can affect both businesses and families, and we’re here to help every step of the way.”

As part of its flood response, Rural Aid is preparing to deliver hay and other essential supplies to affected farms once it is safe to do so and road access is restored. The organisation says these efforts reflect its broader commitment to providing practical support and reassurance to farming families during difficult times.

Rural Aid offers a wide range of free services to primary producers impacted by flooding, including hay and water deliveries for livestock in isolated areas, financial assistance for urgent farm needs, counselling and mental health support, and practical recovery assistance such as fencing, equipment, and infrastructure repairs. Community programs are also available to help maintain connections and provide peer support.

Primary producers affected by flooding in Northwest Queensland are encouraged to register for assistance at faa.ruralaid.org.au or by calling 1300 327 624.

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Flood affected primary producers in North Queensland are encouraged to register for assistance. Photo supplied

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Mackay sugarcane growers are playing a key role in major new research aimed at securing effective and sustainable canegrub control, as current chemical options face potential restrictions.

Canegrubs are among the most costly pests affecting sugarcane, with moderate infestations reducing yields by 10–20 per cent and severe outbreaks cutting production by more than 40 per cent — the equivalent of around 30 tonnes of cane per hectare. Across the industry, unchecked canegrub damage is estimated to cost up to $60 million annually.

Neonicotinoid insecticides are currently the primary control option. However, these products are under review by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority, with strong indications their use could be restricted or phased out by 2028–29.

In response, Sugar Research Australia (SRA) is leading a major project to identify alternative insecticides. Following laboratory screening of 23 products, up to 10 promising options have progressed to large-scale field trials, including sites in Mackay.

Chemical applications were completed in November across 12 trial sites statewide, with treatments applied to both plant cane and first ratoon crops. Throughout 2026, the Mackay trials will be closely monitored to assess effectiveness, yield protection, soil persistence, and water mobility, ensuring any future recommendations meet environmental standards. Preliminary field results are expected by the end of the year, with full datasets ready by 2028.

The research is expected to deliver new tools that protect Mackay cane yields, reduce long-term costs, and support sustainable farming into the next decade.

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The research project ‘Beyond imidacloprid’ now has many sites treated across Queensland. Photo source: SRA

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Mackay residents will soon benefit from an influx of new medical professionals, as Queensland Health welcomes a record 930 first year graduate doctors across the State in 2026. For the first time, Queensland has attracted more first year graduate doctors than anywhere else in the country, surpassing last year’s record of over 880.

The Government says this milestone is part of its commitment to delivering easier access to health services and supporting communities across Queensland.

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls met with some of the 94 first year graduates beginning their careers at the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital. He said attracting new doctors and retaining them in Queensland Health was a key element of the government’s Easier Access to Health Services Plan.

“This record intake of the next generation of doctors shows our plan to grow our workforce is working,” Minister Nicholls said.

“We know that attracting and retaining doctors at the start of their medical careers means more accessible care and better health outcomes for Queenslanders.”

“Talking to these new doctors as they commence their careers with us at Queensland Health, seeing and hearing their energy and commitment, gives me confidence the next generation of doctors is ready to step into the frontline and continue making a real difference in their communities.

“As Minister for Health and Ambulance Services, I’m committed to talking with clinicians at every stage of their career, to find out how the Crisafulli Government can support them in the delivery of excellence in health services.”

National data confirms Queensland now receives the highest number of first year graduate doctor applications in the country, overtaking New South Wales and Victoria.

“This speaks volumes about the reputation of our hospitals, the Queensland lifestyle, and the opportunities we provide for young doctors starting their careers with Queensland Health,” Minister Nicholls said.

Queensland’s new intake will gain experience across rotations including emergency medicine, cardiology, orthopaedics, anaesthetics, obstetrics and gynaecology, paediatrics, intensive care, mental health, general medicine and surgery.

Nine regional and rural hospitals - including Mackay - will welcome first year graduate doctors this year. In Mackay specifically, 36 new doctors will join the local health workforce, helping to strengthen frontline services for the community. Many graduates from metropolitan hospitals will also have opportunities to undertake rotations in rural and remote areas, ensuring a wider distribution of skills across the State.

Additionally, 56 of the 2026 cohort have already chosen specialist careers through the Queensland Rural Generalist Pathway, which equips doctors to deliver high-quality care to regional, rural, and remote communities.

With this record intake, Queensland takes another step toward its goal of adding 46,000 health staff by 2032, ensuring residents in Mackay and across the State have access to world-class healthcare now and into the future.

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Mackay will receive 36 new doctors in 2026. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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