Role: Crew

Perth-born sailor Colin Thomson has wrapped up his Clipper Round the World Yacht Race campaign after completing the first four legs of the global event.

Now based in London, Colin said he first noticed the Clipper race advertised in the UK years ago before finally signing up.

While he originally planned to sail the entire circumnavigation, he's changed his mind and his adventure will end here in the Whitsundays.

Remarkably, Colin began the race with no sailing background.

"I came in with no sailing experience,” he said, explaining he joined to learn through Clipper’s intensive training program. “I thought this was a good way to learn how to sail, to do all the training and to get up to this level.”

Training in the UK proved challenging. “We went out in a storm in the English Channel… I think eight people were puking,” he said.

Primarily a watch leader, Colin worked primarily on the foredeck, describing it as “quite hectic,” before finishing his campaign and heading on a holiday around Australia, before going back to the UK.

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Role: Crew

Originally from Melbourne, crew member Voula Skinner has lived in Hobart for 20 years. In a male dominated area, she hoped to bring more female representation to the Clipper Races. The lack of sailing experience required to join, and dedicated training program were a major draw.

“I love the training; they do a really good job of making it an even playing field. It is just supreme.”

Voula developed a passion for sailing in her late 30s and hasn’t looked back since. She cites the close friendships she’s developed as one of the best parts of her sailing experience.

“I loved the hard bits as much as the easy bits.”

Voula enjoys the obstacles of the sea, finding joy in the challenge of the great stretch between South Africa and Fremantle.

“I wanted that really big ocean crossing, it was cold, it was ferocious”.

Although returning to Hobart for now, Voula hopes to continue at a later leg of the race.

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Role: Crew

Sailor from 1707, Chris Heath is continuing his journey around the globe after a hard-fought leg of the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race, finishing third after more than 4,000 nautical miles at sea.

Chris who describes 1770 as his personal home port, said the Clipper Round the World race appealed to him because of its raw challenge.

“You can’t tame the ocean, you can only beat it, and each time you beat it, it’s only a short victory,” he said. “The next time it’s always hitting you with something else later on.”

After signing up in March 2024, Chris joined the race from Portsmouth and has faced everything from brutal weather to equipment failures and injuries.

“We’ve had just about everything thrown at us you can,” he said.

“It was a fair bit of a psychological thing to keep going every day but now I think we've got to the point where we can actually enjoy the racing and enjoy the conditions."

Now preparing for the next leg to the Philippines and China, he said, “The more we go, the more enthusiastic I’m getting to keep going.”

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Chris Heath is looking forward to the remainder of the race. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Following the heavy rainfall and flooding caused by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji earlier this week, health authorities are urging North Queensland communities to remain alert to the risk of melioidosis, a rare but potentially deadly tropical disease found in soil and water.

Melioidosis is caused by the bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei, which lives naturally in deep soil and muddy water across northern Australia. Cases are most commonly reported during the wet season, particularly after periods of heavy rain or flooding, when the bacteria can rise to the surface and spread more easily.

While melioidosis is rare in healthy adults and children, it can cause severe illness if it enters the body through cuts or sores, is inhaled in contaminated dust or water droplets, or is consumed in untreated water. Symptoms can appear anywhere from one day to three weeks after exposure and may include fever, cough, difficulty breathing, skin ulcers or non-healing sores. In serious cases, the infection can spread through the bloodstream, leading to sepsis and, if untreated, death.

People most at risk include those with underlying health conditions such as diabetes, kidney or lung disease, cancer, or weakened immune systems, as well as people who drink alcohol heavily.

The seriousness of the disease was spotlighted a couple of years ago after a local mother lost her leg after contracting melioidosis in 2024. In her case, a small cut sustained during everyday activity became the entry point for the bacteria, leading to a life-threatening illness that required intensive medical care.

Health experts say early treatment is critical. Melioidosis is treated with strong antibiotics for at least three months, and severe cases often require hospitalisation and intensive care. Prompt medical attention can be lifesaving.

There is no vaccine for melioidosis, but prevention plays a crucial role, particularly during the wet season. Residents are encouraged to:

• Avoid contact with muddy soil or floodwater where possible
• Wear waterproof footwear and gloves when gardening or working outdoors
• Cover cuts, sores or wounds with waterproof dressings
• Wash skin thoroughly if it comes into contact with soil or muddy water
• Take extra care with foot and wound hygiene, especially for people with diabetes
• Consider wearing a mask when using high-pressure hoses around soil or bore water

Melioidosis does not usually spread from person to person or from animals, but exposure can lead to illness days, months, or even years later.

Health authorities are reminding the community that while most people exposed to the bacteria do not become sick, melioidosis can be life-threatening for those who do. Awareness, early recognition of symptoms and preventative measures are key, particularly as wet weather conditions continue.

Anyone feeling unwell after potential exposure to muddy water or soil is urged to seek medical advice promptly. For health advice, residents can contact their local doctor, health centre or call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) at any time. In an emergency, call 000.

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Water and mud can pose serious health risks, including exposure to rare tropical diseases like Melioidosis. Photo credit: Jenya Smyk

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Residents of the Whitsunday Shire are being reminded to act quickly and responsibly if they encounter sick, injured or orphaned native wildlife, with expert help available through dedicated wildlife rescue services.

Native animals can become injured or unwell for many reasons, including vehicle strikes, disease, attacks by other animals, or becoming trapped in fencing or netting. Sadly, these incidents often leave young animals orphaned and vulnerable, requiring urgent and specialised care.

If you come across a sick, injured or orphaned wild animal (excluding marine animal strandings), the first step is to call Fauna Rescue Whitsundays on 4947 3389 or 1300 ANIMAL (1300 264 625) immediately. The 1300 ANIMAL (1300 264 625) service operates from 7am to 7pm, 365 days a year, providing specialist advice on the safest way to respond and ensuring the animal has the best possible chance of survival. After hours, assistance is still available through the RSPCA Hotline, which can help connect callers with their nearest wildlife rescue organisation.

Even when an animal appears to have only minor injuries, experts warn that serious internal trauma may still be present. This also applies if a dog or cat has interacted with wildlife, as even small scratches or contact with saliva can transmit harmful bacteria that require professional treatment.

For marine animal strandings, including sick, injured or deceased turtles, dolphins, dugongs or whales, the public should call 1300 130 372.

The Queensland Government appreciates the community's compassion for native animals, noting that by taking these actions, residents will be directly contributing wildlife conservation efforts accross the state.

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The Whitsundays homes plenty of adorable animals like wallabies. Photo source: Visit Whitsundays
Green Sea Turtles are often spotted in the region. Photo source: Visit Whitsundays

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Banjo is a happy-go-lucky Bull Terrier x Staffy with a love for life and a playful personality that’s hard to resist. This affectionate young dog enjoys games with balls and soft toys and is looking for an active home where he can enjoy plenty of walks, playtime, and quality bonding with his new family.

Banjo is a small–medium, male dog who gets along well with other dogs and is great with children aged seven and up. While his compatibility with cats and livestock has not yet been tested, he walks well on a lead with a little reinforcement and is full of energy and enthusiasm.

To ensure Banjo thrives, adopters will need a secure, high-fenced yard and a household ready for an active, playful companion. He will come vaccinated, desexed, and microchipped, with his desexing scheduled for the week beginning 12 January. His heartworm status is to be tested.

Banjo’s adoption fee is $400. He is ready to find a loving home where he can be a joyful, loyal companion and a true member of the family.

For more information or to arrange a meet and greet with Banjo, interested adopters are encouraged to get in touch with the rescue team. Sharing Banjo’s story is also appreciated to help him find the forever home he deserves.

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Welcome To The First Paper Of 2026

Mackay rang in 2026 in spectacular style at the 2025 New Year’s Eve River Party at Bluewater Quay, where families and locals turned out in force to farewell the year together.

The riverfront came alive with bustling food stalls, live music setting the soundtrack for the night, and a vibrant atmosphere that reflected the spirit of the community. As evening fell, the celebrations built to a dazzling fireworks display, lighting up the sky and marking a memorable start to the year ahead.

As you hold our very first publication of 2026 in hand, Life Publishing Group extends our warmest New Year wishes to our community. A fresh year brings fresh perspective, with new stories to tell, milestones to celebrate, and moments that remind us why local voices matter.

Thank you for welcoming Life into your homes, your conversations, and your everyday lives. Here’s to bold beginnings, shared success, and a year driven by connection, community, and possibility.

Happy New Year!

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Hi lovely readers!

I hope you had a wonderful rest over the Christmas break.

We’re officially back in the office, and I’m so ready to smash out another great year with you all!

I honestly didn’t get up to much over the holidays, but I’m grateful for the chance to rest and recharge, ready to start fresh for the new year. Adam and I spent quite a bit of time with our Rhodesian Ridgeback, Mocha, and for Christmas, we hosted our very first festive dinner.

The dining table was filled with all the people I love most, including my parents, my mother-in-law, my sister, and my niece.

And of course, we had ham for the following four days! Ham sandwiches, ham toasties, ham and salad, ham with tomato sauce… and so on, lol!

For New Year’s, I ventured along with Adam to the 2025 NYE Riverside Party to snap some shots of beautiful families soaking up the festive spirit. Live music, food stalls, and hundreds of happy locals filled the Bluewater Quay.

As the night went on, I met up with some friends and leaders from my church, and as the timer ticked down to 12am, we gathered to share what we’re grateful for heading into 2026.

If you haven’t taken a moment to think about something that happened in 2025 that you’re grateful for, I encourage you to do the same.

While New Year’s resolutions are great, it's also important to acknowledge just how far you've already come!

Scripture of the week: “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.” – 1 Chronicles 16:34

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A simple act of kindness has delivered a big boost of cheer to animals in care at RSPCA Mackay, thanks to the generosity of a young local who chose compassion over personal reward.

Nate recently received a voucher from his workplace, but rather than spending it on himself, he walked into RSPCA Mackay with bags filled with toys, dog and cat food, and essential supplies for animals awaiting their forever homes.

RSPCA Mackay shared its appreciation, saying, “Thank you very much Nate! He received a voucher from his work and instead of spending it on himself he brought in bags of toys, dog and cat food. We hope to have him as a volunteer in the new year.”

For the local shelter, the donation arrived at a time when every item makes a meaningful difference. With many animals relying entirely on community support, contributions like Nate’s help ensure they receive comfort, enrichment and proper nutrition while in care.
RSPCA Mackay said it is always in need of practical items to support daily operations and animal wellbeing, including treats, toys, treat pouches, wet food, bones, collars and leads, medicated shampoos, and other donated goods.

“We are always in need of treats, toys, treat pouches, wet food, bones, collars and leads, medicated shampoos and anything you can donate is very much appreciated,” the organisation said.

Acts like Nate’s serve as a reminder that kindness doesn’t have to be grand to be powerful, and that small choices can have a lasting impact on the lives of animals, and the community, right here in Mackay.

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Nate brightened the lives of RSPCA Mackay animals by donating toys, food, and supplies instead of spending his workplace voucher on himself. Photo source: RSPCA Mackay

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And Be Ready For The Wet Season

The Mackay region’s favourite mosquito warrior is reminding residents to make sure their properties are ready for summer.

From clearing the gutters of leaves, tipping out containers of stagnant water and wearing protective clothing, Damo has taken steps to protect his family from dengue fever.

Mayor Greg Williamson said now is the time to make sure your home and yard is in order.

“We’re yet to get the heavy summer rainfall, so the current spell of dry weather is the ideal time to check around your property to ensure your yard isn’t a breeding ground for mosquitoes,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Dengue mosquitoes (Aedes aegypti) breed in stagnant water around the home,” he said.

“To help prevent a dengue outbreak, it is important to tip out any water in pot plant bases and containers, store items that can hold water in a dry spot or undercover, throw out any rubbish lying around and clean out your gutters.

“Dengue mosquitoes only need a small amount of water to breed in, so it’s important to keep the area around your house clean and free of items where water can accumulate, especially in the wet season.

“The symptoms of dengue fever include headaches, fevers, aches and pains, nausea, vomiting and, in some rare cases, can result in death.

“If you experience any of these symptoms, please see a doctor immediately.”

Mayor Williamson said it’s also important to wear long clothing and insect repellent when outside and ensure door and window screens don’t have any holes in them.

Queensland Health data shows there was an outbreak in Townsville last year, with 11 cases reported in the first quarter of 2025.

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Mackay’s mosquito warrior is urging residents to use the current dry weather to remove stagnant water and prepare their homes now to help prevent dengue fever this summer. Photo supplied

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Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox MP, is proud to announce that 44 outstanding young athletes from across the Dawson electorate have been successful recipients of the Australian Government’s Local Sporting Champions program.

The successful applicants come from communities right across the electorate, including Wulguru, Balnagowan, Mount Pleasant, Riordanvale, Idalia, Glenella, Slade Point, Rural View, South Mackay, Seaforth, Ayr, Breadalbane, Cannonvale, Annandale, Shoal Point, Andergrove, North Mackay, Erakala, Hampden, Bowen, Sugarloaf, Midge Point, and surrounding areas.

“These 44 young athletes are a credit to themselves, their families, their coaches, and the local clubs that support them,” Mr Willcox said.

“Dawson has a strong and proud sporting culture, and it is terrific to see so many young people earning the opportunity to represent our region at state, national, and international level.”

The Local Sporting Champions grants assist recipients with the significant costs associated with elite competition, including travel, accommodation, uniforms, and essential sporting equipment. Each successful applicant may receive up to $750 to support their participation.

Athletes from the Dawson electorate will go on to represent their communities across a broad range of sports, including rugby union, rugby league, basketball, touch football, softball, netball, hockey, football, athletics, cross country, swimming, rowing, volleyball, gymnastics, BMX, motocross, pony club, skate hockey, and Australian football. Competitions range from Queensland state championships through to national championships and international events.

“Regional athletes often face additional financial pressures simply due to distance and travel requirements,” Mr Willcox said.

“The Local Sporting Champions program helps ensure that young people from regional communities like Dawson are not disadvantaged and can compete on an equal footing with their metropolitan counterparts.”

Applications Now Open

Mr Willcox is encouraging families across the Dawson electorate to apply for the next round of Local Sporting Champions funding.

The program provides financial assistance to athletes, coaches, and officials aged 12 to 18 who are participating in state, national, or international championships. Grants of up to $750 are available to help cover competition-related expenses.

The current round is now open and will close at 11:59pm on Wednesday, January 31, 2026.

Further information on eligibility requirements and how to apply is available through the Australian Sports Commission at: https://www.sportaus.gov.au/grants_and_funding/local_sporting_champions

“Every young athlete deserves the chance to pursue their sporting ambitions,” Mr Willcox said.

“I strongly encourage eligible families across Dawson to apply and take advantage of this valuable support.”

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Andrew Willcox MP with junior sailors. Image supplied

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Opinion Piece By Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox

Next week will mark one month since 15 innocent Australians lost their lives at one of our nation’s most iconic spots. Bondi will now forever be synonymous with the worst terror attack on Australian soil. It devastated families, shattered communities, and scarred a nation. It should never have happened.

Since December 14, many words have been spoken, yet nothing of substance has changed. The government’s response has been worse than weak. A country in mourning deserves answers, accountability, and action. Instead, Australians have been served excuses and deflection.

First, the Prime Minister blamed the guns. Then he told us events like this are “hard to legislate against.” After days of backlash came talk of tougher hate laws, yet, despite the Coalition standing ready to act, Parliament at the time of writing has not been recalled (I hope it has by the time you are reading this).

The Prime Minister’s last attempt to quiet public backlash was the announcement of a government appointed review, largely focused on security agencies. This review does not strike at the heart of the problem and it is a watered-down substitute for transparency.

The Coalition, Jewish community leaders, national figures, and sporting greats have all called for a Royal Commission. Most importantly, the families of the victims have demanded one. Even a public letter from grieving families has not moved the Prime Minister.

A Royal Commission matters because it is independent, public, and thorough. Hearings are led by judges and senior officials. Ministers, including the Prime Minister can be questioned. That level of scrutiny is essential, and it is precisely why this government is resisting it.

The government offers two excuses for not announcing a Royal Commission: concern about re-traumatising families, and time.

Well, families of the victims are asking for it, and this government has enthusiastically supported multiple Royal Commissions involving victims in the recent past.

Time, however, is the real reason. Although not because action would be delayed, because a Royal Commission does not prevent urgent laws being passed. Action can and must happen concurrently. But because a Royal Commission would keep the government’s failures in the public eye for longer.

Typically running 15 to 18 months, a Royal Commission established now would likely deliver its findings just months before the next federal election. That means sustained scrutiny of the government’s failure right up until the very moment voters are paying the closest attention. That is what Labor wants to avoid and this is the real reason the government is resisting.

The Bondi attack did not occur in isolation. For more than two years, Australians have witnessed escalating extremism, intimidation, and radicalisation. Warning signs were ignored. Hate was allowed to fester. The Prime Minister was silent as hate filled protests erupted, extremist rhetoric spread openly, and national symbols were attacked. Bondi is the consequence of that silence and inaction.

A Royal Commission will not bring back those we lost. But it could save lives in the future. A Royal Commission would tell the world Australia will not tolerate hate. It would not only explain what happened but identify holes in the current systems. It would give victims dignity not dismissal. And it would a deliver a tangible roadmap for preventing similar events.

Prime Minister, be accountable and take responsibility. Announce a Royal Commission now. Better late than never.

Australia must remember Bondi, not just today, but always.

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After years of community concern about overcrowding, limited parking and pressure on local health services, Mackay Base Hospital’s long-awaited expansion is now moving into a defined planning and delivery phase, with further announcements expected in the New Year.

On December 19, 2025, Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the focus was on resetting the hospital’s direction and restoring confidence after what he described as a prolonged period without a workable plan.

“Today is about the hospital rescue plan… getting hospitals back on track after 10 years of decline,” Mr Dalton said.

“We’re now putting in the hard work on a plan that will make this hospital one of the best.”

“It’s about giving the community confidence in what this hospital will look like into the future.”

Health Infrastructure Queensland (HIQ) representative Sam Sangster confirmed the project is now guided by a comprehensive master planning process, designed to shape development over the next several decades.

“Today we’re talking about the re-planning that will now occur here, starting with a comprehensive master planning exercise,” Mr Sangster said.

“This was one of the projects where construction had started without a master plan, which is not how you normally plan a hospital.”

“We are now doing the work that should have been done some time ago to build this hospital for the community, for the long term.”

All elements of the hospital expansion plan will proceed, including a new hospital wing, a multi-storey car park, a helipad and a birth centre. Local builders and contractors will also have opportunities to be involved in upcoming stages of the project.

Car parking, a long-standing frustration for patients, visitors and staff, has been identified as an urgent priority.

“In the New Year we’ll commence procurement of the multi-level car park, with interim parking solutions also to be announced,” Mr Sangster said.

“Car parking is such a critical issue, particularly on this site, and we’re treating that as an urgent priority.”

When complete, Mackay Base Hospital is expected to have around 1660 parking spaces, which is approximately 600 more than currently available. An interim parking solution is being developed to ease congestion while construction of the new car park is underway.

Stage One works for the new hospital wing have already been completed, including excavation, site remediation and utilities installation. Work on the broader master plan is continuing to ensure future development meets the needs of both clinicians and the community.

Planning is also underway to deliver cancer care services locally.

“Mackay is one of the regional locations where infrastructure planning will now begin to deliver cancer care closer to home,” Mr Sangster said.

Mackay Hospital and Health Service Interim Chief Executive Sean Birgan said access, patient flow and site congestion remain major challenges.

“Patients, families and staff would all agree that car parking is one of our biggest challenges,” Mr Birgan said.

“The best healthcare we provide our patients is planned care, and the best capital planning is no different.”

Expressions of interest from local builders for construction of the multi-storey car park and other expansion works are expected to open in January 2026, with further updates to follow in the New Year.

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Health Infrastructure Queensland (HIQ) representative Sam Sangster, Mackay Hospital and Health Service Interim Chief Executive Sean Birgan and Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton met at Mackay Base Hospital on December 19 to discuss a 2026 rescue plan. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Council is pleased to announce the completion of the Sydney Street and River Street intersection upgrade and Bluewater Trail improvements.

The $4.8 million project, delivered by Vassallo Constructions Pty Ltd on behalf of council, has significantly enhanced pedestrian and cycle connectivity between the City Centre and Riverside precincts.

The upgrade includes 150 metres of new three-metre-wide off-road shared path along the Bluewater Trail on River Street.

The Sydney Street and River Street signalised intersection has also been widened to 5.5 metres and a new pedestrian crossing has been constructed.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the completion of the project marked another milestone in delivering the Mackay Waterfront Priority Development Area (PDA).

“This upgrade is about promoting active transport and making it easier and safer for people to move between our City Centre and Riverside precincts,” Mayor Williamson said.

“By creating new and wider footpaths, improving lighting and landscaping, and installing park furniture, we’re encouraging more walking and cycling, which supports healthier lifestyles and a more vibrant city,” he said.

“It also aligns perfectly with our Waterfront Place Strategy, which is focused on activating the Pioneer River and surrounding areas to create attractive, connected and welcoming spaces for residents and visitors.”

Two wayfinding signage packages are also being delivered as part of the project.  These will connect the key precincts, offer visitor information and provide directions and walk times to key locations within the City Centre and Waterfront.

This project is the fourth for the Mackay Waterfront Priority Development Area (PDA). Previous projects include the Queens Park Revitalisation and the Riverside Revitalisation project (comprising the recently completed Pioneer River pontoon and River Wharves).

The Sydney and River streets intersection active transport crossing is proudly supported by the Queensland Government’s Cycle Network Local Government Grant program and Mackay Regional Council.

Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Brent Mickelberg said the Queensland Government is committed to building stronger partnerships with local councils by investing in projects that encourage the community to enjoy upgraded facilities, which showcase the natural beauty of the Mackay region.

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The upgrade along River Street will make it safer and easier for people to move between City and Riverside precincts. Photo supplied

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A Mackay man has proven that not all life-changing moments come with fireworks and fanfare, after calmly discovering he’d pocketed more than $60,000 in a Keno draw just before the new year.

The North Queenslander claimed the Keno Classic 8 Spot jackpot in draw 116, drawn on Sunday, 28 December 2025, walking away with a tidy $60,227 — and doing so with remarkable composure.

“I was actually pretty cool and calm!” he laughed when an official from Keno confirmed the win.

“I was sat down with my wife’s parents, and we were in the café area, and I decided to put a game of Keno on. I looked up at the Keno screen and that’s when I saw my Keno numbers come up.

“I said to my mother-in-law, ‘I’m pretty sure I’ve won!’.  She was more shocked than me.

“It’s funny because I usually catch up with friends and we usually share a ticket, but I managed to have won all by myself.

“As soon as I confirmed the win with staff, I went home and kept the ticket very secure.

“We ended up celebrating that night.”

When asked about how he'd spend his winnings, the joyful man shared he would be sensible with the prize.

“It will help me pay off some of my mortgage!” he exclaimed.

“Thank you very much!”

His winning Keno Classic entry was purchased at Harrup Park, 89 Julet St, Mackay.

It was a big win, a calm reaction, and a very happy start to the new year for one Mackay local.

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Image supplied

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