By Hannah McNamara

Questions begin to surface as Mackay locals express concerns over the original intentions of Melbourne-based charity, sleepbus.

The initiative was set to deliver three buses for the Mackay and Sarina regions as part of a movement to provide “safe sleeps” for the homeless. However, a recent announcement by the Founder of sleepbus revealed that the charity will soon cease their operations on June 30, 2025 due to financial difficulty.

The three buses included one for the Mackay region, one for Sarina, and a Pink sleepbus specifically designed for women and children. The charity gained momentum in the early days, with local charities raising over $300,000 to offer a safe space for homeless men, women, and children.

SAFE Sleep Mackay is hopeful it can still secure a sleepbus for the Mackay region, despite the national sleepbus organisation winding up.

In a statement made by Safe Sleep Mackay, the initial agreement was that “sleepbus was to retain ownership of the buses and assume responsibility for ongoing operations, such as maintenance, volunteer coordination and service delivery requirements.”

However, “With that national charity winding up, Safe Sleep Mackay is now looking at options to secure a bus for the region and to operate it via a local group.”

Lisa Jamieson, of Safe Sleep Mackay, said sleepbus founder Simon Rowe had advised the group that he was winding up his charity.

“While communication with sleepbus is still open and ongoing, we are actively working towards securing the transfer of the bus purchased for the Mackay region,’’ she said.

Ms Jamieson said stakeholders, including donors, had been kept informed of the development.

“It was not the news that we wanted to be sharing, but we wanted to raise awareness of this unfortunate development with stakeholders and the broader community.

“We remain so appreciative of the generosity of Mackay people and their willingness to help make life a little easier and safer for those sleeping rough in the Mackay region.

“We will continue to provide updates on the situation as it unfolds,’’ she said.

A spokesperson for the Mackay Community Foundation, a major donor, said, “We are deeply disappointed that the sleepbus charity will be winding down, possibly impacting the delivery of the PINK sleepbus that the Mackay Community Foundation supported in funding.

“While all donations to the Mackay Community Foundation are invested and protected, and therefore have not been impacted, we are just as hopeful as other stakeholders that this can be resolved positively for our Mackay community.”

The Mackay Community Foundation spokesperson added that while this news is a setback, the foundation remains committed in supporting Safe Sleep Mackay and Australian Street Aid Project.

“Safe Sleep Mackay are looking at options to secure buses for the region to ensure a compassionate and practical solution for short-term accommodation, as originally planned.

“We encourage our donors and supporters to stay tuned to the Safe Sleep Mackay Facebook page for updates, and we will continue to share information about the PINK sleepbus on our page also.

“We also want to acknowledge that it is challenging for non-profit organisations to continue to come up with funding year on year, and we urge the Mackay community to continue supporting local non-profits as their work is vital for those in need.  

Sleepbus Founder Simon Rowe said delays to rollouts were due to a number of issues, including mechanical problems, volunteer shortages, and funding challenges.

In a statement, Mr Rowe said that the cost-of-living crisis has halted donations.

“I have tried my best…I have worked my butt off but unfortunately the financial crisis we're all seeing and we're all facing has got the better of us as a small charity, and we won't be able to continue.”

He assured the community of his commitment to deliver at least one sleepbus to the Mackay region.

“My commitment is, I will do my very best to get at least one Sleepbus and I will drive it up there myself and deliver it.”

In a video on the sleepbus Facebook page, Mr Rowe posted a video specific to the Mackay situation and said that while he has received criticism as the CEO receiving money, he said “I don’t get paid so that is not the case”, and all of the money has gone towards building sleepbus vehicles and providing safe sleep.
He encourages locals to “hang in there” and “have a little bit of faith” as he tries his best to deliver for Mackay.

“I am trying my hardest…I will always do my very best.”

Mackay remains hopeful as efforts continue to secure a sleepbus for the region, despite the charity planning to cease operations in June 2025. Photo source: sleepbus (Facebook)

Sleepbus Founder Simon Rowe

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Detectives from Mackay Child Protection and Investigation Unit have charged a 50-year-old man in relation to the supply of dangerous drugs and sexual assault of a child.

On January 15 police executed a search warrant at a Mackay Harbour address, where 50-year-old Bradley Jetson was taken into custody.

A quantity of dangerous drugs, drug utensils and electronic devices were seized from the address.

It will be alleged the man supplied dangerous drugs to a girl under the age of 16 and sexually assaulted her.

It will be further alleged the man groomed a second girl under the age of 16 with the intent to engage in a sexual act.

Following extensive investigations including examination of devices seized, it will be alleged the man further supplied dangerous drugs to two other children.

Detectives have charged Mr Jetson with 22 offences including six counts of supplying dangerous drugs to minor under 16 years, three counts each of rape and possess drug utensils, two counts each of grooming child under 16 years – facilitate procurement of child to engage in sexual act, use internet to procure children under 16, possess dangerous drugs, possess drug utensils and one count each of use carriage service to groom another person to make it easier to procure persons under 16 years of age, possess anything used in the commission of a crime, indecent treatment of child under 16 (procure to commit) and contravene order about information necessary to access information stored electronically.

Officer in Charge of Mackay CPIU Acting Senior Sergeant Glenn Burley said police are committed to protecting children from harm and holding perpetrators to account.

“Offences against children are some of the most despicable, and we commend those who have come forward in this case for their bravery,” Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Burley said.

“If you or someone you know has experienced sexual violence, it is never your fault, and you are not alone.

“We encourage you to come forward, there are multiple reporting and support options available to you.

“Anyone who may have any further information in relation to this matter is urged to contact police.”

If you’ve experienced sexual assault, it is not your fault and you are not alone. There are multiple ways to report what has happened to you depending on your situation.
If there’s an immediate danger, call Triple Zero (000). You can also report online via: https://forms.police.qld.gov.au/launch/SexualAssault, over the phone or face to face at a police station.

There are also Alternative Reporting Options available depending on your situation.
For confidential information, counselling and support, call the State-wide Sexual Assault Helpline on 1800 010 120 or 1800 RESPECT for 24-hour help.

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Police arrested the man after executing a search warrant at a Mackay Harbour home on January 15. Image source: Queensland Police

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A health service investigation has been launched into Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) to examine concerns about the recruitment and credentialing for scope of practice of senior medical officers. 

Director-General Dr David Rosengren has commissioned the investigation under Part 9 of the Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011. 

The investigation will cover a two-year period from January 2023 to December 2024 to determine if Mackay HHS complied with processes and practices relating to senior medical officer recruitment and selection and to investigate what improvements need to be made. 

This includes ensuring senior medical officers have been credentialed to practice within the bounds of their role, education, training, experience and competence.  

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls said concerns had been raised about senior medical officer recruitment and credentialing, including clinical scope of practice and requirements for supervision at the Mackay Hospital and Health Service. 

“It is essential Queensland Health addresses these concerns thoroughly, which is why a Part 9 has been commissioned,” Minister Nicholls said. 

“While I understand the community may be concerned on hearing about this investigation, I am assured clinical reviews to date found no patient harm had occurred.” 

Queensland Health Director-General Dr David Rosengren said the investigation follows concerns raised by doctors in Mackay around the uncertainty of clinical scope and requirements for supervision for non-specialist senior medical staff. 

“The investigation will examine the policies and procedures currently in use to ensure they are operating effectively,” Dr Rosengren said.  

“If there are shortfalls, it is critical we identify these and implement opportunities to improve so Queensland Health continues to provide world-class healthcare.” 

Dr Rosengren said the investigation followed a clinical review Mackay HHS completed under Part 6 of the Hospital and Health Boards Act, examining the workload and scope of clinical practice of a senior medical officer. 

“While the clinical review did not identify any specific adverse outcomes, it has identified risk associated with inadequate credentialing specificity around scope of clinical practice and supervision requirements for non-specialist senior medical officers,” he said. 

“The investigation is the next step to examine processes across the entire HHS to determine if improvements can be made locally and where relevant, across the state.” 

Mackay HHS Chief Executive Susan Gannon said Mackay HHS has taken important steps following the Part 6 clinical review to strengthen practices and processes. 

This includes ensuring all senior surgical specialist staff and theatre managers understand the requirements for supervision of trainees, principal house officers and non-specialist senior medical officers. 

“Mackay HHS has responded quickly to address concerns raised by staff and this is a demonstration of our development of a culture of safety,” Ms Gannon said. 

“We will work collaboratively with investigators to further improve our processes and practices and I will continue to encourage staff to raise their concerns.” 

The terms of reference for the health service investigation are available on the Queensland Health website. 

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A new training centre in a prime Moranbah position will help boost mines rescue capabilities and shorten response times when incidents occur in the Bowen Basin mining hub.

Anglo American and Exxaro – which own a 50-50 joint venture steelmaking coal exploration project at Moranbah South - have leased an 18-hectare parcel of land to Queensland Mines Rescue Service (QMRS).

The land, on the corner of Railway Road and Moranbah Access Road, is opposite the planned site for stage 3 of the Resources Centre of Excellence.

Anglo American Australia CEO Dan van der Westhuizen said this lease agreement reinforced the company’s commitment to safeguarding lives and elevating rescue capabilities.

"This marks a pivotal moment for the industry's preparedness and response capabilities in Moranbah and will help place the town at the forefront of mines rescue training excellence,” he said.

Queensland Mines Rescue Service CEO Tim Jackson said Moranbah was the mining hub of the Bowen Basin and relocating training facilities would result in less road travel for many crews.

“The lease allows QMRS the opportunity to expand our footprint for surface and underground mines rescue training,” he said.

“We have 450 volunteer underground team members, and 50 volunteer mine inertisation unit team members, who need to maintain their skills every two months to enable them to respond to a wide range of hazards and situations at mines.

Mr Jackson confirmed that plans for the Moranbah site have been finalised, and hopes to submit a development application in 2025, largely replicating the organisation’s bespoke centre at Boonal.

Touching on their recent achievements, Mr van der Westhuizen said “Our mines rescue team from Moranbah North recently won the national underground competition - and our Grosvenor and Moranbah North mines also competed in the International Mines Rescue Competition in Colombia in September.

“Having a bespoke training facility on our doorstep will hopefully inspire even more people to volunteer with their local rescue teams to learn essential skills.

“Being prepared for emergency situations is crucial, whether at work or in the community.”

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Anglo American project manager Malcolm Smyth and Queensland Mines Rescue Service CEO Tim Jackson on the Moranbah South lease site. Photo supplied

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Geospatial and Earth Observation (EO) technologies could be the next frontier for the Greater Whitsunday region’s workforce to explore.

Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) has released the Greater Whitsunday Geospatial Hub Economic Impact Assessment report to provide a roadmap of Geospatial and Earth Observation opportunities and strategy.

Geospatial data identifies the geographic location and characteristics of natural or constructed features and boundaries on earth. This data can be derived from a variety of technologies including earth observation, remote sensing, land surveying and engineering surveying and hydrography which could add significant value to both legacy and emerging industries.

Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) Chief Executive Officer Ms Kylie Porter said the report identifies the benefits of leveraging geospatial and earth observation technologies to support the growth of the Greater Whitsunday region.”

The report found that the deployment of geospatial and earth observation technologies and the eventual implementation of a Greater Whitsunday Geospatial Hub could lead to the realisation of up to $1.46 billion annual added value to the gross regional product by 2034.

“The mining and METS sector and the agriculture and aquaculture sectors have been identified as some of the sectors that would benefit the most from a region focused geospatial data infrastructure initiative.

“Geospatial technologies are quietly shaping the world’s economic future. With every satellite image, every map, and every data point, we can build a more resilient and prosperous regional economy for the next generation,” Ms Porter said.

Ms Porter said GW3 commissioned FrontierSI to complete an economic impact assessment around the viability of a local Geospatial Hub.

FrontierSI is a social enterprise focused on bringing the best people together to anticipate and solve large problems using space and spatial expertise.

FrontierSI Chief Executive Officer Mr Graeme Kernich said the report highlights how the Greater Whitsunday region can become a key player in Australia’s growing geospatial service sector.

“This report highlights how the Greater Whitsunday region can capitalise on geospatial and earth observation technologies and capabilities to become a key player in Australia's growing geospatial services sector, which has a projected $689 billion economic benefit by 2034, as outlined in the Geospatial Council of Australia’s recent report,” he said.

GW3 will host a webinar on Thursday, 27th February, from 10am to 11am to present key findings from the report and outline the next steps for the broader project. This session is designed for key industry stakeholders o understand the role and impact of this new technology and how they can be involved in the initiative moving forward.

To explore more, or register to attend the online briefing session, you can access the Greater Whitsunday Geospatial Hub Economic Impact Assessment report online.

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Image source: Greater Whitsunday Alliance

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As Australia fights to protect its most vulnerable wildlife, the use of 1080 baiting remains a controversial yet critical tool in managing major threats to native species. While some conservationists advocate for its role in reducing predation pressure, concerns persist over its impact on non-target species and the need for alternative control measures.

Australia has some of the most unique wildlife and biodiversity in the world, but two invasive predators, feral cats and foxes, have already snuffed out 32 native animal species and are helping to drive over 200 more to extinction.

Together with the Centre for Invasive Species Solutions, the National Feral Cat and Fox Management Coordinator, Gillian Basnett, is sounding the alarm as misinformation surrounding sodium fluoroacetate (commonly known as 1080) undermines what she calls its critical place as a lifeline for native species.

“Effective 1080 baiting is the ‘thin green line’ that protects many of our threatened and other native species from extinction,” said Ms Basnett.

“The facts around 1080 are clear: native animals have a higher tolerance to this toxin than introduced predators. Native species that live in the south-west of WA, where more fluoroacetate-bearing plants naturally occur, have an even higher natural tolerance to 1080.”

As a result, only tiny amounts of the toxin are needed for effective feral cat and fox baits. If native animals such as eagles, goannas, brush-tailed possums or quolls ingest a bait, they will not receive a lethal dose.

“It’s important to remember that baits are not 100 per cent toxin and only authorised and properly trained operators are permitted to handle 1080 and prepare baits. Each bait is carefully developed to contain the minimum amount of 1080 required for the target species, in this case a feral cat or fox,” continued Ms Basnett.

She said that a fox bait contains 3mg of 1080 and a feral cat bait 4.5mg.

“For context, in eastern Australia, a wedge-tailed eagle would need to ingest at least 10 fox baits to be lethal, spotted-tailed quoll more than three fox baits, sand goannas more than 70, southern brown bandicoots between two fox baits and five (if they were in the south-west of WA).”

She added that research projects and targeted predator 1080 baiting control programs have demonstrated its advantages, with native wildlife not only surviving but thriving as the bait reduces predation pressure.

“It is also safe for the environment as bacteria and fungi found in water and soil break it down rapidly into harmless compounds.”

For some critically endangered species, even one or two feral cats or foxes can wipe them out.

“The low risk of an individual native animal consuming a lethal dose of 1080 is far outweighed by effectively controlling these predators.”

Nationally threatened mammals that benefit from 1080 baiting for foxes and feral cats include the endangered numbats, southern brown bandicoots, woylies, western and eastern barred-bandicoots and black-flanked rock-wallabies, and the vulnerable long-nosed potoroos, boodies, greater bilbies, greater stick-nest rats, western quolls, yellow-footed rock-wallabies and golden bandicoots.

“We have a choice to make, we either protect our native wildlife or we leave invasive predators like feral cats and foxes unchecked, to eat more precious wildlife into extinction,” said Ms Basnett.

The Centre's CEO, Shauna Chadlowe, endorses the use of 1080, stating it is currently the best control tool available. Along with advocating for best practice invasive species management using current methods, the Centre prioritises humaneness and is committed to collaborating with its partners to develop new and improved control tools.

“Techniques such as gene drive, for example, have great promise but are still in the developmental stage. There are no practical, effective alternatives to 1080 for predator control over large landscapes and rugged terrain,” said Ms Chadlowe.

“Without an ability to effectively manage these invasive predators, more unique Australian wildlife will be lost.”

Precious native species like goannas and dunnarts are on the menu for feral cats and foxes. Photo credit: Gillian Basnett

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By Owen Menkens
CANEGROWERS Chairman

There’s something truly special and iconic about sugarcane. 

Grown along 2000km of Australian coastline, from Grafton in northern New South Wales to the fringes of the Daintree in the tropical far north, it’s been a cornerstone of Queensland’s identity for over 150 years.

In fact, so foundational is this industry that it even features on our state’s Coat of Arms.

Yet, as iconic as it is, sugarcane isn’t just part of our history – it’s a dynamic, future-focused industry that continues to evolve, innovate, and contribute to a more prosperous, sustainable Australia.

That’s why I’m excited about the release of CANEGROWERS’ new educational resources, One Plant, Many Products.

Developed with input from teachers and industry experts, these curriculum-aligned materials will bring the sugarcane story to life in classrooms across Queensland.

They’re packed with lesson plans, assessments, and engaging insights to help students and teachers explore the fascinating journey of sugarcane, from its humble beginnings to its current role as a leader in sustainability and innovation.

Sugarcane is so much more than just sugar. It can be a feedstock for renewable energy, a source of sustainable bioplastics, and even a potential ingredient in aviation biofuels.
The industry already provides green electricity to thousands of Queensland homes, but that’s only the beginning of what we can achieve if we take full advantage of this wonderful resource.

Beyond its environmental benefits, the industry also offers a world of career opportunities. Whether it’s agronomy, chemistry, logistics, or advocacy, sugarcane’s future is rich with possibilities for the next generation of Queenslanders.

And with the sector continuing to innovate, even more roles will emerge over time.
The One Plant, Many Products resources are designed to inspire students to see these opportunities and imagine their place in this remarkable industry.

Home Hill State High School teacher Louise Nicholas put it best, saying “these materials empower educators to showcase the science, sustainability, and career potential of agriculture”.

At CANEGROWERS, we believe that reconnecting young Queenslanders with this foundational industry is vital.

By sparking curiosity and highlighting the potential for innovation, we can ensure the sugarcane industry thrives for another 150 years.

So, here’s my call to action – let’s bring cane back to our classrooms and inspire the next generation to take part in shaping a sustainable future for Queensland and beyond.

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QCAR Central District Manager Sonia Ball

Rain And Flood In Northern Queensland
Torrential rain across north and far north Queensland has caused immeasurable angst and damage for communities, businesses and governments with the final measure of implications and costs still to come.
Natural disasters such as these can have life-changing and long-lasting impacts. QCAR therefore is supporting members with information and resources and staying available and abreast of updates but also urgently seeking all avenues of support and assistance.
We are aware that many cane farmers impacted were still reeling from the financial and emotional burden of standover when the heavens opened with a vengeance and stayed open.
Our thoughts are with everyone in these regions, as even when the rain stops and the water subsides the ramifications will continue, and we will be there with you.
In the Central Region, at the time of writing, in some areas we too have felt the usual impacts of our oft predictable wet season however on this occasion, ‘touch wood’, we have, so far, fared far better than our northern counterparts.
We already have seen the ‘Return of the Potholes’ (always stated with an ominous drum roll) and the stain of overflowing debris and erosion. We can be sure also that with inundation we will see our soil health sapped and all the while the gale force gusts and storms lodge the larger cane that we all know should not still be there.
QCAR urges all cane farmers to touch base with their local office to ensure they have all the information they need to access assistance where it is needed.

Kelsey Creek Grower Meeting 
Kelsey Creek Hall committee president Craig Valmadre, left, was thanked by QCAR Chairman Christian Lago for his hospitality at the hall. Photos supplied
 
QCAR Central District Manager Sonia Ball, centre, was happy to oblige Proserpine growers Ross and Jenny Rule’s requests for a grower meeting at Kelsey Creek Hall. The Rules were generous with their time and their efforts pulling the meeting together with short notice. Ms Ball said she was looking forward to returning to the hall for another grower meeting in the near future
 

QCAR-ACFA: driving change with action
To all our ACFA members, we’ve been reaching out and explaining the stages of the integration between QCAR and ACFA in recent weeks and that process is just about complete! Please ensure your details are up to date so we can keep you informed of the great progress we are making driving change with action across all growing regions in Queensland and into northern NSW. If you have not yet heard from Central District Manager Sonia Ball, please give her a call on 0467 573 321.
Our new magazine and e-news – Members & Businesses
All QCAR members should now have received a hard copy of our inaugural Australian Cane Agriculture and Renewables magazine. If you did not receive yours, please get in touch and we’ll get your copy out to you. If you’re interested in receiving a copy or two for your business waiting areas in Proserpine, Mackay or Sarina (Plane Creek), please let us know we’d be happy to accommodate you.  
It is common that email account holders change their email address. If you are not receiving our communications in your inbox, we may have your old email address. Stay informed by making sure we have your correct details and we can make sure you are getting important updates and information.

Whitsunday Regional Council Meeting
QCAR Central District Manager Sonia Ball, second from right, met with Whitsunday Regional Council at Proserpine in late January to introduce QCAR to Mayor Ry Collins, centre, and councillors including, from left, Division 5 Councillor Gary Simpson, Deputy Mayor and Division 4 Councillor Michelle Wright and Division 1 Councillor Jan Clifford (OAM).
Ms Ball said the meeting was successful with interest shown from all at the meeting, and with Mayor Ry Collins and councillors receptive to the information provided about the new cane farmers’ representative organisation in the Central region, which encompasses Proserpine, Plane Creek (Sarina) and Mackay. Ms Ball shared information about the intentions of QCAR in the cane growing region of Proserpine and the community assuring Mayor Collins and councillors that she, and the Central District Committee were in Proserpine regularly supporting QCAR members but also supporting the community in which those members lived and worked.
“I was very appreciative of the time provided by the Mayor, Deputy Mayor and Councillors, and look forward to working with them in the future on the matters important to our members,” Ms Ball said.

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Mackay could become a diabetes research hub with the potential to help accelerate
treatment breakthroughs and enable greater access to life-changing technology for
sufferers.

This is the goal of Mackay HHS endocrinologist Dr Harshal Deshmukh who, after only
10 months in the region, has secured funding to conduct a world-first study focussed
on type 2 diabetes and Diabetic Foot Disease (DFD).

The local study, which investigates technology to track blood sugar and how it can
benefit wound healing, was critical to stemming a coming “tsunami of diabetic foot
disease,” Dr Deshmukh said.

The Mackay researcher has been awarded $50,000 in funding by the Tropical
Australian Academic Health Centre (TAAHC) to conduct a 12-month study on the
effects of Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) on wound healing, quality of life and
amputation rates in a high-risk diabetes foot clinic.

Dr Deshmukh said that DFD was a common complication of diabetes which affected people with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes and is defined as infection, ulceration and soft tissue destruction
of the foot.

“I am seeing three to four patients with diabetic foot disease every week here in our
high-risk clinic at Mackay Base Hospital,” Dr Deshmukh said.

“The five-year mortality rate for patients with diabetic foot is comparable to or worse
than many forms of cancer, reaching about 50 per cent in many cases.

“This research will focus investigations on patients with type 2 diabetes and diabetic
foot, so by definition, they have poorly controlled diabetes management and require
intensive glucose management.”

Dr Deshmukh said the 12-month research project would provide data on glycaemic
control in type 2 patients and its correlation to healing diabetic foot ulcers to prevent
limb amputations and prolong life expectancy.

“Limb amputation is 15 times more common in people with diabetes,” he added.

Trials using the CGM device would track patient’s blood sugar levels across the day,
providing researchers with data to inform treatment options. The CGMs would be used
for a three to six-month period across 40 patients to test blood sugar levels in a 24-
hour period.

“Having more data means we can provide evidence on how this technology can
improve health outcomes for people with type 2 diabetes, including preventing
amputations, complications and extended hospitalisations,” he said.

“This is the first study of CGMS in people living with type 2 diabetes and having a foot
ulcer and if we see a good result, we can do another much bigger study with a much
larger sample across multiple centres to get further evidence it works which may
actually help get it on the PBS.

“There’s been a lot of research done on CGMs and their benefit with type 1 diabetes,
but no research has been done on if they can assist with wound healing in diabetic
foot anywhere in the world,” Dr Deshmukh said.

CGMs are currently not subsidised for type 2 diabetes.

Dr Deshmukh said he hoped the research would pave the way for patients with type 2
having subsidised access to CGMs and ultimately, change how diabetic foot disease
was treated.

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Dr. Harshal Deshmukh leads a $50,000 study in Mackay on CGM technology to improve diabetic foot care, reduce amputations, and enhance treatment outcomes. Photo supplied

William "Billy" Jarrett, 31, is thrilled to be back in the region, surrounded by family and familiar faces after a diverse and enriching career path. As a fourth-generation Mackay local, William, who hails from a family with deep roots in agriculture, is eager to contribute to the community that shaped him.

"It's great to be back in the region after all these years away," William said, reflecting on his journey from growing up in Mackay to working across regional Australia.  

"I'm pretty happy to stick around for a long time."

A 2010 graduate of Whitsunday Anglican School, William's academic journey began with a passion for animals and rural life. He pursued his veterinary studies at James Cook University (JCU), graduating in 2015 and winning the prestigious JCU Cattleman’s Award.  

Afterwards, William spent several years as a dairy and beef cattle vet, working in Northern Victoria and the Margaret River region of Western Australia. During this time, he discovered his interest in rural medicine, which would ultimately lead him to a career change.

"I really am interested in rural medicine, and I think a regional area with all of the smaller rural towns gives you a really good opportunity to get some training in rural general medicine," he shared.  

This passion for rural healthcare was a driving force behind his decision to switch careers and pursue medicine. While JCU didn’t offer a four-year medical doctorate, he enrolled in a medical degree at Notre Dame University in Perth, completing his studies in November 2024 with distinction.

Having lived in places like Weipa, Kyabram, and Kununurra, he appreciates the challenges and rewards of working in remote areas.  

"I’m not really going out of the Mackay Whitsundays for a long, long time," he said with certainty.

As an intern starting a 22-week stint at Proserpine Hospital, William looks forward to applying his training in rural medicine. He finds particular joy in connecting with people from all walks of life, especially the older generation.  

"My favourite part of the job is definitely talking to people, particularly the older generation.  

“I think it's all of our duty to look after our elders, no matter who you are," he said.

Having been accepted into the Queensland Health Rural Generalist GP program, William is committed to improving the lives of regional people.  

"There's so much to achieve and so much to be part of in the rural and regional lifestyle," he added.  

With his experience and enthusiasm, it's clear that William is keen to make a lasting impact in the Mackay region.

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William "Billy" Jarrett, 31, a fourth-generation Mackay local, is excited to return to his roots and contribute to his community through rural medicine after a diverse career journey. Photos supplied

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Simon Hood, Wilmar Manager, Grower Marketing

The wash-up of the 2024 season is all but done, with only a portion of growers still to price out the balance of their 2024 crop.

The recent recovery in prices following the dip due to India announcing 1 million tonnes of export quota is welcome. We still see tight trade flow for raw and whites into this quarter which may stretch into the second quarter depending on how quickly Brazil comes back online and the current Indian and Thai crop cut out.

Growers have until 18 April 2025 to finalise their 2024 season Target and GMPRS pricing. We recently released our December quarterly Pool Performance and Comparative Outcomes for the 2024 season. Even with our forecasted pool returns pulling back, due to the fall in the sugar price, the performance of the allocation account is holding firm.

We continue to secure strong physical premiums for the balance of the sugar exported, which will flow back to growers though the net premium in the allocation account. Additionally, we have been able to export more sugar to the US market this season, which increases the percentage of grower’s GEI exposure priced by this lucrative market.

Contact your local Grower Marketing consultant for a copy of the December quarterly report and keep an eye out for our forward pricing analysis – there are some interesting insights for growers who use all mechanisms for GEI pricing. Focusing on the year ahead, we currently have the AUD sugar swap price pushing into the low 600s.

Looking across at our growers who use the Target pricing mechanism, we have a lower percentage of GEI sugar exposure priced than normal for this time of the year. Our current longer-term outlook for prices is not overly optimistic.

While the Indian crop may disappoint this year, we think that next year’s crop will be significantly larger.

Additionally, we have pencilled in another large Brazilian crop for 25/26 as the incentive to maximise sugar over ethanol production increases. If we do see 2025 season prices being dragged up by a rise in nearby prices, growers should have target levels in mind where they would be willing to increase their percentage of price hedging.

With cash flows tight at this time of the year, our Pre-Season Payment is proving useful. Growers who have nominated Wilmar as their GEI marketer for the upcoming 2025 season can take advantage of an advance payment of $5/t of cane. The payment is recouped as cane is delivered to our mills, with interest charged at 6%.

It’s a very easy process and you can nominate online via Wilmar’s GrowerWeb up until 10 May.

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Just in time for the month of love, Flavours of Vietnam is serving up new dishes and drinks designed to make hearts skip a beat. Whether it’s a romantic dinner for two, a lively gathering of friends, or just a well-deserved treat, these new menu additions bring bold flavours and a touch of indulgence to this year’s Valentine’s Day celebrations.

February brings a fresh twist to a classic with the Watermelon and Lychee Mojito - a cocktail as sweet and refreshing as love itself. Juicy watermelon and fragrant lychee blend with zesty lime, fresh mint, and a touch of fizz, creating a drink that’s as bright and playful as new romance. Perfectly balanced with white rum, it offers the ideal toast to love in all its forms. Available for the month of February only, this limited-edition cocktail is a must-try.

For a dish that captures the warmth and depth of true connection, the Bún Chả Hà Nội is now on the menu. This Northern Vietnamese specialty features smoky grilled pork - both succulent patties and caramelized slices - served with fresh herbs, vermicelli noodles, and a tangy-sweet dipping sauce that ties it all together.

This Valentine’s Day, Flavours of Vietnam serves up a feast straight from the heart. Whether celebrating romance or friendship, the rich, authentic flavours of Vietnam come together in a heart-shaped harmony – that’s warm, inviting, and made to be shared!

Reservations are recommended to secure a taste of these limited-time offerings. Book online or call (07) 4881 0209 now.

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Nicole Batzloff, the passionate co-owner of beloved local restaurant Laffos, is putting on her dancing shoes as she takes on Dancing with Heart, the Mackay Hospital Foundation’s premier fundraising event. 
 
On March 21, Nicole will hit the dance floor alongside seven other competitors, vying for the coveted title of best dancer while raising vital funds for the Mackay Hospital Foundation.  
 
This exciting event supports the Foundation’s mission to provide essential services and resources to the local community. For Nicole, the competition is not just about mastering the cha-cha or perfecting her pirouette—it’s about making a difference.  
 
“I’m thrilled to be part of such an incredible event that supports our local hospital and community,” said Nicole.
“Learning to dance has been a challenge, but knowing it’s for such a vital cause makes every step worth it.”  
 
Nicole is calling on the Mackay community to rally behind her efforts. Donations can be made via the QR code below, with all funds going directly to the Mackay Hospital Foundation. Every contribution, no matter the size, will help ensure the Foundation can continue its vital work.  
 
How to Support Nicole:
- Scan the QR code to donate.  
- Share her journey on social media and cheer her on as she prepares for the big night.  
 
Join us in supporting Nicole Batzloff as she dances her way to victory—not just for the trophy, but for the heart of Mackay. 

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Love is on the menu at Ocean International, and whether you’re celebrating romance or raising a toast to friendship, there’s no better place to spend Valentine’s…or should we say, Galentine’s.

With just one week to go, now is the time to secure your seat at one of the region’s most popular venues for a night of delicious dining, ocean breezes, and unforgettable moments.

For couples looking to turn up the romance, Oceans Restaurant offers an intimate setting with a special Chef’s selected menu alongside the regular à la carte options.

Prefer something more relaxed? The Deck will be serving up pizza and tapas, with the soulful sounds of Michael Scriha performing live from 6pm.

After dinner, take a romantic stroll along the beach, just a short walk away, before capping off the night with a cocktail or glass of champagne.

If Valentine’s is all about friendship this year, Galentine’s at Ocean International is the perfect excuse to dress up, gather your girls, and celebrate sisterhood in style.

Book a table of six or more on Friday, February 14, and enjoy a complimentary bottle of Tatachilla to toast to the ladies who make life special - (available for dinner service only).

Love comes in many forms, and whether it’s with a partner or your best friends, Ocean International is serving up the perfect setting for a night filled with laughter, love, and great food.

Bookings are essential, call 4957 2044 to secure your table now!

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Almost as daunting as organising the perfect wedding is organising accommodation for all of your visiting family and friends. No doubt there’s a range of budgets and preferences to consider, and that’s where BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday can help!

BIG4 can offer everything from powered sites to fully self-contained cabins ranging from their budget-conscious open-plan Studio Cabins to their amazing 3-bedroom Whitehaven Condos (and everything in between!). And with plenty of ‘fun stuff’ too … 13 Slide Waterpark, 32m lagoon pool, tennis, mini golf, jumping pillows, outdoor movies and much more your family and friends are guaranteed a holiday experience to remember!

You can pick up a full information pack from the stand at the Expo – BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday look forward to seeing you there.

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