Fauna Rescue Whitsundays recently expressed their gratitude on Facebook to the dedicated hotliners, rescuers, carers, volunteers, and members of the public who have provided invaluable support to the organization.
In their post, Fauna Rescue Whitsundays emphasised that the success of the organisation is due to the commitment of those individuals.
With the ongoing wet season leading to a sharp increase in the number of animals requiring care, the organisation is actively seeking additional help from the community. Fauna Rescue Whitsundays is particularly looking for volunteers for the following roles:
   • Hotliners: Answer calls and coordinate rescue efforts
   • Rescuers: Respond to calls and rescue and transport animals in need
   • Carers: Provide safe environments and rehabilitation for rescued wildlife
   • Volunteers: Assist with events, fundraising, and administrative tasks
Even those who can offer assistance on a less frequent basis are encouraged to get involved.
For more information about volunteer opportunities, visit:

https://www.frw.org.au/volunteer-or-donate.html.

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Hi Everyone,
Welcome to the second week of Ruth 2 Reef!
I hope you enjoy reading this week's feature, and if you have any stories that you would like to see featured in Ruth 2 Reef, please email ruth@lifepublishinggroup.com.
Happy reading!
Ruth
“An understanding of the natural world, and what’s in it as a source of not only great curiosity but great fulfilment.”- David Attenborough

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The Whitsundays attract many visitors who are drawn to its vibrant marine life, with the majestic manta rays being a particular highlight.
These magnificent creatures are often regarded as more ethereal than any other marine animal, gliding gracefully through the water with an almost otherworldly presence.
Yet, manta rays are far more than just plankton-feasting, magical sea creatures, they are fascinating beings with remarkable intelligence and intricate cleaning and feeding behaviours that captivate all who encounter them.
Manta rays have the largest brain relative to their body size of any fish in the ocean, making them highly intelligent, with some studies even concluding that they are self-aware and can recognise their own reflections.
Manta Rays are also hugely important to the functioning of many ocean habitats, including coral reefs; research has shown that they play a key role in cycling nutrients across habitats.
Worldwide, overfishing is the biggest threat to species survival, as slow reproduction and long lifespans hinder recovery. Poor water quality, pollution, sediment runoff, rising temperatures, and climate change are also damaging their reef habitats. As a result, manta rays are losing the pristine environments they rely on.
Project Manta Whitsundays is a citizen science initiative that partners with local organizations and the community to study manta rays in the Whitsundays.
Launched four years ago by Ocean Rafting Eco Manager Jessica Funnell, the project began when she moved to the region and became intrigued by the manta rays' migration patterns, which lacked clear information. Determined to find answers, she started the project herself.
The team collects sighting data primarily from Ocean Rafting tours and local boating and snorkeling trips, engaging guests and residents in the process.
Jess shared insights into the team's ongoing research focus:
“We collect the basic information, it's the date, it's the time, it's the location, it's the behaviour.
“It might seem so little, but it's actually so big, because this helps us track movement patterns.
“It helps us see what they're doing around the islands.
“Are they feeding here? Are they at cleaning stations?”
For crew members interested in getting involved, Ocean Rafting offers the chance to enter the water and capture a photo of a manta's belly, which serves as a unique "fingerprint." Once the data is collected, if the manta is a new sighting, the person who identified it gets to name the ray.
Jess stated that whilst naming a ray is very special, spotting a ray that's already been found is also just as important:
“If it has been seen again, that's equally as important, because that marks a movement pattern.
“And because of our research that we did last year, for the first time, we got a migration pattern of a ray travelling from the Whitsundays to Orpheus Island, which has never been recorded before.
“We also had two from Lady Elliot Island coming to the Whitsunday Island, so we are making progress.”
To keep track of the wonderful Whitsunday Rays or to see how to get involved head to @projectmanta_whitsundays on Instagram.

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Fast Fact: The word manta is Spanish for ‘blanket’ and it’s easy to see where these beautiful creatures got their name!

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Whitsunday Manta Ray. Photo Credit: Marine Biologist Johnny Gaskell @johnny_gaskell.

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Living in the hot tropics means there are plenty of thirsty guests and locals out and about enjoying the beauty the Whitsundays has to offer.
Sadly, a lot of the containers used for drinking end up in landfills, especially with the huge influx of tourists who visit the islands.
Ocean Rafting has acknowledged the contribution that tourism operators have on waste, and to help minimise their eco footprint introduced a brand-new initiative called Tins 4 Fins.
Having found out about the Containers for Change initiative in Airlie Beach, Ocean Rafting decided that they could exchange their waste for money with all proceeds to fund and support various environmental projects, such as beach clean-ups, wildlife research and more.
Jessica Funnell, Eco Manager at Ocean Rafting, explained how it has been a great initiative for not just guests but also crew members:
“It's actually been a really good initiative for our crew to get behind as well, and also something great for us to tell our guests, as it is something that they can contribute to, meaning they might not feel so bad either.”
What started as one bag, taken down by one of Ocean Rafting’s crew members Ivan, has now become four bins a week.
“As we also continue our conservation efforts, this year, we're going to be calling more on local businesses, schools, community members to donate their recyclables to support our next goal, which is raising funds for manta ray research,” Jess explained.

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Brax, a 12-month-old Great Dane-Catahoula mix, was surrendered to Bowen and Collinsville Pet Rescue.
His health is improving every day and he’s steadily gaining weight, his mange is nearly cleared up, and he’ll begin heartworm treatment this month, which will be covered by Bowen and Collinsville Pet Rescue.
Brax is well-trained, he knows how to sit, waits patiently for meals, and has an excellent recall.
Fully toilet-trained, he’s ready to settle into his forever home.
Affectionate and sweet, Brax is a snuggly companion who loves to be around people.
He’s also dog-friendly and gets along perfectly with other dogs.
Brax is looking for a loving home to call his own!

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There's a bright red sky this morning, the yachties gave us warning of maybe just a chance of a little rain.
Up goes the anchor and out goes the heady, they'll be back soon to prop the bar up once again.

The green slime on the gable end climbs higher day by day.
Every yard is a quagmire, since the gutters overflowed.

Sideways goes the ute on the off ramp at the roundabout,
we've gone from squashing toads to dodging potholes on the roads.

A blue flannelled Dad with a big black brolly
Stands knee deep with his phone out on record,
And the floodwater hurries past
To the drains and to the creek
Where it gurgles and it tumbles and it roars

And out there in the creek mouth, the mud crabs are frothing
Busily examining every single offering
That the rains have so kindly brought

By Helier Mason

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A fresh new dining experience has arrived at the Shute Harbour Marine Terminal, with 74 Islands Bar & Bistro now open and ready to welcome guests. Whether you're looking to savour a delicious meal with stunning oceanfront views, grab a quick barista-made coffee before heading on a tour, or unwind with a drink at the fully licensed bar, 74 Islands has something for everyone.
Featuring a diverse all-day menu, 74 Islands offers a range of dishes that showcase fresh, quality ingredients. From gourmet breakfast options and light lunches to hearty mains and signature seafood specials, there’s a dish to suit every taste. Complementing the menu, the bar serves up an enticing selection of wines and beers, perfect for a relaxed afternoon by the water.
Adding to the lively atmosphere, 74 Islands has plans to host regular live music and spit roasts, making it a must-visit spot for both locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re stopping in before catching a ferry or settling in for a long lunch, the bistro provides a welcoming space to enjoy great food, drinks, and company. Plus, pets are welcome in the outdoor seating areas, so you can enjoy a relaxing meal with your furry friend by your side!
Boasting a full liquor license, 74 Islands provides a fantastic setting for both casual and more refined gatherings. The expansive upstairs venue is ideal for large functions, offering a private space with inspiring views across Shute Harbour. With 25 years of hospitality experience, the head chef adds a personal touch to every dish, ensuring guests receive a top-notch, quality meal every time.
As Shute Harbour continues to thrive with cruise ship visitors, island adventurers, and locals enjoying the seaside charm, 74 Islands is set to be a go-to spot for great food and relaxed coastal dining. Now open and ready to serve, it’s time to head down and experience this exciting new addition for yourself.

Ronny, head chef and owner of 74 Islands Bar & Bistro. Photo Credit: Victoria Velton
One of the delicious dishes available at 74 Islands: freshly caught Red Emperor with a side salad and chips. Photo Credit: Victoria Velton

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The spirit of resilience and remembrance filled the air at Bluewater Quay as more than 300 people gathered for the second Mackay Survival Day Walk on the 26th of January.

Survival Day, also known as Invasion Day and the Day of Mourning, marks a time to honour the passion and endurance of ancestors who faced the Frontier Wars, which began on January 26, 1788, at Botany Bay. In Mackay, the day is dedicated to paying tribute to the survivors of the Yuwi Nation and their descendants, who continue to share their experiences and culture within the community. The event also recognised the contributions of First Nations people across Australia and their ongoing efforts to foster a strong and inclusive society for the future generations to come.

Zelda Quakawoot, representative for the Mackay Survival Day Working Committee, emphasised that the message for Mackay locals remains consistent each year, encouraging everyone to take part in the event, engage with Yuwi Country, and seek understanding.

“The message for Mackay locals would be the same message every year - to join with us to learn and gather on Yuwi Country with the oldest living culture on this Earth, and ask questions about the things they are not sure of,” Quakawoot stated.

“Knowledge for the next generation grows a stronger and inclusive future for Mackay.”

Aunty Anne MacDonald was acknowledged for sharing her story in a reflection of her trauma and strength as she recounted her experience of being taken from her family as a small child on Yuwi Country. Aunty Deb Clark was also recognised for sharing the resilience of her ancestors, offering an important perspective on fortitude and cultural survival.

The event was made possible through the support of local businesses, community groups, and volunteers, such as; Deadly Choices, Greens, Senator Penny Allman-Payne, Naturally Yours, NJ Designz, Uncle Phil, Estelle Lane, MARABISDA, My 105.9 FM, ATSICHS, Cyclic Konnectionz, Survival Day Working Group, MCFC, and many members of the community who contributed in various ways throughout the day.

“We hope to see Mackay locals, traditional owners and the wider community come together to heal and walk with us in 2026!”

More than 300 people gathered at Bluewater Quay for the second Mackay Survival Day Walk, honouring the resilience of First Nations people, fostering cultural understanding, and uniting the community in remembrance. Photos supplied

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Two auxiliary firefighters who helped establish a ground-breaking youth program for local teens were among 81 firefighters recognised for their service across the state.

The Queensland Fire Department Australia Day Achievement Award, proudly sponsored by QSuper, annually recognises and celebrates community heroes who personify the spirit of mateship, service, and endurance.

Timothy Davis and Christopher McMasters, auxiliary firefighters from Moranbah, received their awards at a special ceremony at Mackay Fire Station last Wednesday, 29th January.

QFD Assistant Commissioner Michael O’Neil highlighted the significance of the awards.

“Today (29th January) is about acknowledging the great work that our people do.

"Every day, our people roll out the door and do a great job, but today’s about acknowledging those that do go above and beyond and do a little bit extra,” said Commissioner O’Neil.

Auxiliary firefighters Timothy Davis and Christopher McMasters were recognised with the Queensland Fire Department Australia Day Achievement Award for their dedication to the community and their work in establishing a youth cadet program. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Emergency Services Cadet Program Earns State-wide Recognition For Local Firefighters

Moranbah auxiliary firefighters Timothy Davis and Christopher McMasters have been honoured with the Queensland Fire Department Australia Day Achievement Award for their dedication to the community.

At a ceremony held at Mackay Fire Station, QFD Assistant Commissioner Michael O’Neil commended recipients for embodying the spirit of mateship and endurance.

“Through the Australia Day awards, we recognise the people that go above and beyond in serving their community,” Commissioner O’Neil said.

Mr McMasters and Mr Davis played crucial roles in bringing the Emergency Services Cadet program to life, providing local youth with valuable skills and opportunities in remote and regional areas, such as Moranbah.

“Tim and I have started with the emergency services cadets, which is a youth program, bringing it into our area,” Mr McMasters said.

Seeing a gap in opportunities for young people in the community, the duo took the initiative to create a program that would inspire and prepare the next generation.

“There wasn't anything for the youth like this around our area, so seeing a need with community and volunteers, we started the cadets,” he explained.

Designed for 12 to 17-year-olds, the initiative also aims to foster long-term engagement by encouraging participants to continue volunteering in the future.

“The program is from 12 to 17-year-olds, and then after that, we hope that they'll either come back as volunteer leaders or go on to volunteer themselves in some other capacity.

“Most of the time, the kids always get excited about playing with the tools on the fire truck,” added Mr McMasters.

The program is designed to be open and inclusive, ensuring that any young person who wants to participate has the opportunity to do so.

“The program is free…it's all for the community.

“It's open for everyone, there's no restrictions, and we'll certainly work with the schools and any of the other youth groups that are in town.”

Mr Davis also emphasised the significance of such programs, not only for skill development but also for fostering resilience and confidence in young people.

“Programs like this are a solid board in our state.

“It’s doing well to engage the kids, and it also provides a sense of support, ownership, and helps build a growing community.”

Both Mr Davis and Mr McMasters were incredibly humble in receiving their award, yet remarkably appreciative of the recognition.

Moranbah firefighters Timothy Davis and Christopher McMasters were recognised with the Queensland Fire Department Australia Day Achievement Award for their role in establishing the Emergency Services Cadet Program, providing valuable skills and opportunities for local youth. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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World Cancer Day on the 4th of February was a reminder that cancer doesn’t just affect one person—it touches families, friends, entire communities. For the past 12 months, cancer has been my reality. It has consumed my time, my energy, my body. It has left scars—some visible, others buried deep. The fight isn’t just physical; the mental toll is a battle all on its own.

But I haven’t faced it alone. Hundreds of people, through kind words, gestures and assistance, have helped me navigate this unfamiliar path. One of them is Sue Allsopp, a specialist bowel cancer nurse at Icon Cancer Centre Mackay, who has been a lifeline to many in our region facing a bowel cancer diagnosis. She is just one of many incredible people in Mackay who ensure no one has to go through cancer alone. You can read her story on page 7.

While our own battles may feel all-consuming, this week has also reminded us how quickly life can turn upside down. The flash flooding in Mackay has been significant, cutting off roads, inundating homes, and leaving supermarket shelves looking bare. But for those further north in Townsville and the Hinchinbrook region, the situation is even more dire. Two people have tragically lost their lives, and entire communities remain cut off. Two of our own team members in Hinchinbrook are still without power and water, facing extreme shortages of essential supplies. If you think the empty shelves here are bad, imagine having no food, no clean water, and no way to restock.

If you’re told to evacuate—do it. Make sure your emergency kit is up to date, and stay informed. Check Council’s website and Facebook page for details on where to access sand for sandbags. More on the flooding is on page 4.

In times of crisis—whether it’s cancer, floods, or life’s hardest battles—the strength of a community isn’t just in what we endure but in how we show up for each other.

Amanda

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In the Eimeo neighbourhood, one local woman decided to show appreciation for the postman who had been delivering her mail in the area for the last two years.

Sharing to the community through a Facebook post, she said "A huge shout out to this top bloke! He's been delivering our mail for the past two years.

“[He] always has a smile on his face and waves hello! Just a nice bloke!"

The community responded with overwhelming support, praising his consistent positivity, despite the significant rainfall throughout the region.

"Even in this weather, he's out in the wet delivering people’s mail. What a legend," the post continued.

The woman, deeply moved by his kindness, even offered to buy him a carton of beers, saying, "I'd love to arrange a carton of beers (if he drinks) or something for him.

“He does a wonderful job!"

Other residents added, "He’s the best postie. Always up for a quick chat. Even waves when I’m driving past him," and "Costs nothing to give a smile and to say G'day. There should be more of it. Good on him!"

One resident even joked, "Chris is an awesome postie. Must get a sore arm from the waving he does at all the locals in his area. Great guy!"

As Anthony J. D’Angelo quoted: ‘Wherever you go, no matter what the weather, always bring your own sunshine.’

How can you spread positivity today?

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Photo credit: Jessica Morgan (Facebook)

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Queenslanders are being urged to update their phone settings to ‘favourite’ the Emergency Alert (EA) phone number to stay informed during an emergency or disaster.

Emergency Alert is the national telephone-based warning system used to send voice messages to landlines and text messages to mobile phones to warn people of emergencies, including dangerous weather with potentially severe impacts.

Mackay Whitsunday District Superintendent Dean Cavanagh emphasised the importance of the system. 

"If you're in a certain area that might be impacted by weather events or any emergency, you will automatically receive this message." 

He noted that alerts are geo-targeted, ensuring they reach those who need them most.

An Emergency Alert is just one way for authorities to warn communities of a dangerous situation in the area and is only issued when necessary. While they are not sent for every circumstance, the message will contain important, potentially life-saving directions that require immediate action.

"It is really important for us to raise awareness in relation to the emergency alert messaging system," Superintendent Cavanagh said, urging residents to be proactive in ensuring they receive warnings.

You do not need to register to receive an Emergency Alert, which is sent from caller ID number +61 444 444 444. QPS have confirmed that messages from this number are not a scam - they are official phone warnings as part of a national geo-targeting emergency alert system.

Residents are encouraged to check that the number is not blocked on their device and to add it to their ‘favourites’ to avoid missing critical alerts.

Superintendent Cavanagh reassured the public that the alerts will reach them regardless of phone settings, saying, "Even if your phone is on 'Do Not Disturb,' it will go through."

Although there is currently no immediate concern, he reminded Queenslanders to always stay prepared. 

"Be prepared - that's all." 

He emphasised that weather can often be unpredictable, making it crucial for locals to be disaster-ready at all times.

"Our season never finishes for disasters; we're always prepared, and we're always exercising safety," he said.

For those receiving an Emergency Alert, he advised, "If you received that warning system, it means that you're in a certain area we've targeted, so please hear that message and make sure that number is saved."

To stay informed, residents can visit the Disaster Management website for the latest Emergency Alert details and access local government disaster dashboards.

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Queenslanders are urged to ‘favourite’ the Emergency Alert number to ensure they receive critical warnings, with Superintendent Dean Cavanagh stressing the importance of staying prepared for unpredictable weather and emergencies. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Mackay has been hit by significant flooding over the past week, with flash flooding closing roads, cutting off access to the airport, and inundating homes and businesses. The heavy rainfall is part of a broader weather event affecting communities from Mackay to Cairns and especially from Townsville north in the Hinchinbrook region, including Cardwell, Ingham, and Giru.

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, said the local governments of the Dawson region had been responding to a severe flooding event that had impacted much of North Queensland.

"Heavy rain moved across the electorate of Dawson, bringing more than 120mm of rainfall in Mackay over a short period," Mr Willcox said.

“A number of roads in Beaconsfield, Walkerston, Calen, Kuttabul, North Eton, and West Mackay have been cut by rising floodwaters. I urge everyone to stay vigilant and to regularly check your local disaster dashboard for a full comprehensive list of roads that are closed due to flooding.”

Heavy rainfall led to rising water levels, cutting off access to Mackay Airport and resulting in all flights being cancelled. Passengers were urged to contact their airlines for the latest flight details. Emergency services worked tirelessly to conduct evacuations, provide assistance to those in need, and ensure public safety.

Moderate to heavy rainfall had been observed across the Pioneer River catchment in the days leading up to the flooding, with minor flooding expected in Mackay due to a king tide.

Mr Willcox, who had been scheduled to fly to Canberra this week, chose to remain in the electorate to assist where possible with the flooding disaster.

“My top priority is the safety and well-being of all residents in the electorate of Dawson. This is a serious weather event, and I want to ensure that residents have access to accurate information and necessary support. I will continue to monitor this dangerous weather and am ready to provide any federal assistance I can in the coming days,” he said.

“Please stay safe and take care, and remember—if it’s flooded, forget it.”

The situation was closely monitored throughout the weekend, with warnings updated as required. Mackay then experienced another significant flooding event on February 4, particularly in South Mackay, again forcing the closure of the airport. Homes and businesses around the Juliet and Shakespeare Street areas were affected, with some businesses urging people to stay home.

Mackay Regional Council asked residents to share photos of localised flooding to help their Strategic Planning team understand stormwater behaviour during the intense rainfall.

“The team is especially interested in flash flooding that occurred on Saturday morning (February 1) in the areas around Bridge Road, Fourways, Ooralea, and the airport,” Council said in a statement.

“Any images or videos residents have would be appreciated.”

Due to heavy rain and road closures, several council facilities in Sarina were also shut until further notice, including the Sarina Customer Service Centre, Sarina Neighbourhood Centre, Sarina Youth Centre and Library, and Sarina Rural Transfer Station. Some school bus services were also cancelled, disrupting the second week of the school term.

Mackay Regional Council also reminded residents that emergency sand stockpiles were available at 14 locations across the region.

Meanwhile, the broader North Queensland region faced ongoing challenges, with authorities warning of more significant rainfall to come. Dams and river catchments from Mackay to Cairns remained swollen from a week of torrential rain, which dumped more than 1.2 metres in some locations.

More than 400 people—mostly in Townsville, Ingham, and Cardwell—were in evacuation shelters after being advised to flee, and entire towns were left without power and isolated by floodwaters. The Bruce Highway, the only connection between central, north, and far north Queensland, was rendered impassable after a bridge was washed away at Ollera Creek, between Townsville and Ingham. Emergency services performed 11 water rescues on Sunday night, while a woman in her 60s from Ingham tragically died during an attempted rescue.

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli said authorities “remain prepared for the ongoing prospect of more rain and the likelihood of more flooding.”

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Floodwaters inundate streets in and around Mackay, with localised flash flooding affecting homes and businesses across the region.

Farleigh-Dumbleton Rd. Photo credit: Nicole Mills
Heidi Street, Paget. Photo credit: Naomi Tancred
Sophia Street. Photo credit: Jess Davie
Boundary Road, near Mackay Airport. Photo credit: Brent Hewlitt
Juliet Street, South Mackay. Photo credit: Andrew Payne

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Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly MP, is calling for local community groups in the electorate of Mirani to apply for the Community Gambling Benefit Fund’s 123rd round of funding with applications open until 28 February 2025.

The Gambling Community Benefit Fund (GCBF) is Queensland’s largest one-off community grants program and distributes approximately $60 million each year to not-for-profit community groups.

The Gambling Community Benefit Fund funding helps these groups to provide services, leisure activities and opportunities for Queensland communities.

“This round of the Gambling Community Benefit Fund gives community groups the opportunity to receive grants of up to $35,000 to help fund different sorts of activities and investments,” Mr Kelly said.

“Funding is available for a variety of needs, including funding for community events and training, equipment (such as medical supplies), facility upgrades, machinery, printing and publications, marketing, solar improvements, vehicles, as well as workshops and conferences.”

“This fund helps support our community groups that support us, and the most recent recipients in Mirani have been Bajool School of Arts for an upgrade to their hall, the Marlborough and District Lions Club to purchase a BBQ Trailer, Oakenden State School P&C for canteen equipment, and Sarina Saints Football Club to purchase a new mower.”

“I want to see our community groups taking advantage of these grants and obtaining the funding they need to help improve what they have to offer, and the best way to do this is making sure as many groups know about it as possible.”

All applicants require 3 referees as part of their proposals, and Glen Kelly MP is willing to offer a letter of support for eligible community organisations for their applications.

For more information visit: https://outdoorsqueensland.com.au/gambling-community-benefit-fund-
2025/

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Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly MP, is encouraging local community groups to apply for the Gambling Community Benefit Fund’s 123rd round of grants, offering up to $35,000 for various needs, with applications open until 28 February 2025. Photo supplied

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By Amanda Wright

Every year, close to 15,000 Australians hear the words no one wants to hear: you have bowel cancer. For many, the road ahead is overwhelming, filled with medical jargon, invasive treatments, and a battle that is as much mental as it is physical. But in Mackay, there is someone dedicated to walking that road with them.

Following World Cancer Day on the 4th of February, the spotlight turns to the incredible work being done to support patients across our region. Among those making a difference is Sue Allsopp, a specialist Bowel Care Nurse at Icon Cancer Centre Mackay, who provides critical support to local patients navigating a bowel cancer diagnosis. She is not just a nurse—she is an advocate, a navigator, and a source of unwavering support for those facing one of the toughest fights of their lives.

“I have so many patients who inspire me due to their positive approaches and resilience in the face of a life-changing cancer diagnosis,” says Sue.

Bowel cancer presents unique challenges, and every patient’s journey is different. For the past six months, Sue has been ensuring that those diagnosed in Mackay do not have to face it alone. Thanks to a partnership between Bowel Cancer Australia and Icon Cancer Centre, specialist Bowel Care Nurses like Sue have been placed in select centres nationwide, bridging the critical gaps in patient care.

“Each day in my role is different as each patient with a diagnosis of bowel cancer is unique. I spend time with each patient to discuss their individual needs and support them to set realistic goals that will help them during their bowel cancer journey.”

For Karen Worcester, a 61-year-old bowel cancer patient at Icon Cancer Centre Mackay, Sue’s support has been invaluable.

Karen was diagnosed with a stage 3 rectal tumour in November 2023.She underwent radiation therapy and chemotherapy at Icon Mackay, before undergoing surgery in August 2024.

“From the moment we were introduced, Sue has been in constant touch, lining me up with stoma nurses before and after my operation, researching physiotherapists and dieticians to help my recovery, and she put me in touch with the Cancer Society for any further assistance I may need. I can’t thank her enough,” Karen shares.

“Sue’s support has been invaluable, and she has played a major part in me getting through and dealing with my cancer journey.”

Beyond patient support, Sue is on a mission to break down barriers, raising awareness and challenging misconceptions about bowel cancer. Many still believe it is a disease that only affects older adults, but the reality is stark: bowel cancer is now the deadliest cancer and the seventh leading cause of death for Australians aged 25-44.

“Early detection is so important when it comes to achieving good outcomes for bowel cancer patients,” Sue emphasises.

“I think there are still misconceptions relating to early-onset bowel cancer, which are leading to delays in diagnosis in the under 40 years age group. Bowel cancer can impact anyone at any age.”

The statistics reinforce her urgency—86% of people diagnosed with early-onset bowel cancer experience symptoms. Yet, too many dismiss those symptoms or struggle to access timely testing. This is where advocacy is critical.

According to Bowel Cancer Australia CEO, Julien Wiggins, 83 per cent of bowel cancer patients identify access to a specialist nurse as an essential resource to improve their care journey.

With Sue in Mackay, more patients now have that crucial lifeline.

Sue’s journey to this role has been one of dedication and experience. Having worked in rural and remote areas, tertiary hospitals, surgical and oncology wards, emergency, gastroenterology, palliative care, aged care education, and chronic disease management, her background is as diverse as it is specialised. She has spent over a decade in gastroenterology and inflammatory bowel disease programs and continues to build upon her expertise through oncology nursing competency training at Icon Cancer Centre.

“I felt drawn to the role because I had the clinical gastroenterology and palliative care skills to provide professional, holistic assessment and support to patients diagnosed with bowel cancer and those facing advanced outcomes,” she said.

“I have built strong professional health networks over many years within the Mackay region, and I believe those networks are essential in this role.”

Sue’s work is changing lives, offering not just medical support but hope, guidance, and reassurance.

As the world reflects on World Cancer Day, her message is clear: don’t wait to have symptoms identified, push for answers, and never ignore the signs.

Cancer doesn’t wait, and neither should you.

Sue Allsopp, a specialist Bowel Care Nurse at Icon Cancer Centre Mackay, provides advocacy and support for people diagnosed with bowel cancer
Karen Worcester knows firsthand the challenges of a bowel cancer diagnosis, but with the support of specialist nurse Sue Allsopp, she’s facing her journey with strength and resilience

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