Hi lovely readers,

It’s officially that time of year!

In the lead-up to Christmas, the stores are crowded, the roads are packed, and our hearts are often fullest when we’re surrounded by the people we love.

You don’t quite realise how much our region is growing until you experience the Christmas traffic!

It’s easy to get caught up in the rush of gift-buying and end-of-year expectations. Sometimes even a little pressure can creep in, so please let this be a gentle reminder to be kind to yourself and give yourself some grace.

We also know Christmas can be a difficult time for some, which makes kindness and compassion towards others more important than ever.

After a recent health scare, (which I’m now recovering well from), I’m especially reminded that gifts go far beyond the material things we can see and touch.

Even just waking up today is a gift!

If you’re spending Christmas alone, or if you’re curious about the true reason for the season, I encourage you to connect with a local church and share in fellowship, because we thrive best when we’re grounded in community.

You don’t have to have it all together to experience the love of God – you just need to be open to receiving it.

Jesus actually teaches us that giving is better than receiving... and what greater gift do we have than the life He has already given us?

2025 has been full of blessings – and lessons – and I can’t wait to see what 2026 holds.

Merry Christmas, and blessings to you all. Stay safe, and I’ll see you in our 9th Jan edition!

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Labor Did

Opinion Piece

Dear Santa,

We know you’re busy this time of year, but down here in Australia, we’re hoping you can spare a moment. Christmas under Labor is looking less like It’s A Wonderful Life and more like The Grinch Who Stole Christmas.

We’ve written our wish list, Santa, the same list Labor promised to deliver when they came down the chimney in 2022. Just like countless kids who wake up on Christmas morning to find socks instead of a shiny new bike, Australians are discovering that Labor’s promises don’t quite match the packaging.

So here it is, Australia’s Christmas Wish List, complete with the reality we found under the tree:

1. “All You’ll Need to See a Doctor Is Your Medicare Card!”

What We Wished For: Free, simple, accessible healthcare, a Christmas miracle for families already counting every dollar.

What We Unwrapped Instead:
• GP visits now average over $50 out of pocket;
• Specialist fees have soared, leaving Australians $117 out of pocket per visit;
• Health inflation has climbed 15 per cent.

Medicare was sold as the answer to cheaper care, yet in Dawson bulk-billing is increasingly rare, there are no Medicare clinics, and families still need their credit cards as well as their Medicare cards.

2. “Labor Will Deliver Cheaper, Cleaner, Reliable Energy!”

What We Wished For: Stable, affordable electricity to power homes, businesses, farms, factories, and schools. The kind of energy system where turning on the Christmas lights does not require taking out a personal loan.3. 4. 5. What Reality Delivered:

Power bills are up nearly 40 per cent; energy-intensive industries are on the brink, and households are forced to choose between running the air-con or affording Christmas lunch.

It is not just about household bills. When energy is unaffordable, everything becomes more expensive:
• Food costs more to grow, refrigerate, and transport;
• Construction costs have exploded;
• Manufacturing has become uncompetitive;
• Small businesses are buckling under the pressure;
• Supply chains pass every extra dollar on to consumers.

Labor’s reckless, ideologically-driven race to renewables, without firming, without planning, and without a realistic path, has created an energy market as unpredictable as a summer storm. Cheap, reliable energy is the beating heart of everything, from making steel to baking gingerbread.

“Labor Will Make Life Easier for Australians!”

What We Wished For: A cost-of-living Christmas miracle, with lower inflation, stable interest rates, and room in the weekly budget for a box of chocolates that is not on clearance.

What Reality Delivered: Inflation remains high, and the Reserve Bank of Australia has held the cash rate for the third time in a row, citing Labor’s reckless spending and mounting inflation pressures.

Mortgages are rising, households are squeezed, and hope for relief before Christmas is evaporating.
• Mortgages are $1,800 higher per month since Labor took office;
• Food is 15 per cent more expensive;
• Housing is 19 per cent more expensive;
• Insurance is 37 per cent more expensive.

Labor’s spending is running at four times the economy’s growth, leaving taxpayers to foot $50,000 in interest every minute on Labor’s trillion-dollar debt. Under Labor, Australia has suffered the biggest fall in living standards in the developed world. Some families now have $33 left after essentials, according to Anglicare. That is not festive cheer; that is a cost-of-survival crisis.

“We’ll Help First Home Buyers With a 5% Deposit Scheme!”

What We Wished For: A realistic chance for young Australians to unwrap the keys to their own home.

What We Actually Got: Higher prices, higher mortgages, and a generation staring down 40-year home loans. Only 16 per cent of homes nationwide are affordable for first-home buyers. In some suburbs in Dawson, just 4 per cent of homes are affordable for essential workers: nurses, educators, childcare workers, the people who keep our communities running.

Labor did not make home ownership easier; they simply gave buyers a bigger mortgage and a Christmas stocking full of false hope.

“HECS Relief Will Ease the Burden on Young Australians!”

A 20 per cent HECS wipe sounds generous until you realise it is funded by more debt, fuelling more inflation, which pushes rents and grocery prices up, hurting the samestudents it claims to help. It is like giving a child a present, then sending them the invoice.

Australia does not want extravagance, just fairness, stability, and the chance to get ahead.

Under Labor, it seems the only one enjoying a very merry Christmas is the tax office.

So, Santa, if you have room on the sleigh this year, Australia has a simple Christmas wish: a
government that lives within its means, so Australian families and businesses can, too.

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Australians are getting a lump of coal in their stocking this Christmas, with no cost-of-living relief in sight. While families are tightening their belts, Labor keeps delivering higher power bills, rising grocery prices, and bigger mortgages, leaving households paying more and getting less. Photo supplied

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If you’re looking to start the year green-fingered, January in Mackay is ideal for planting heat-loving vegetables and tropical plants that thrive in summer conditions.

For vegetables, think fast-growing and resilient.

Tomatoes, capsicum, eggplant, and cucumbers flourish in the tropical heat with plenty of sunlight and consistent watering.

Herbs like basil, coriander, lemongrass, and mint are perfect for adding flavour to summer dishes while being low-maintenance. Beans and zucchini are also reliable summer performers and provide continuous harvests.

Leafy greens like kangkong (water spinach) and amaranth are excellent for warmer months, growing quickly even in tropical humidity.

If you have space, sweet potatoes and pumpkin vines are productive and easy to manage with trellising or ground cover.

Tropical fruit trees and plants also thrive when started early in the year.

Passionfruit, pineapple, papaya, and bananas love the summer sun and can provide a steady yield when established. Mulching around plants helps retain moisture and keeps roots cool, which is crucial during the peak heat of January and February.

Don’t forget companion planting to boost growth and reduce pests—marigolds, basil, and nasturtiums are great allies.

With a little planning, your summer garden can be productive, vibrant, and sustainable, setting you up for a fruitful 2026 from the very start of the year!

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Preparing Your Home For A Bright New Year

The New Year is the perfect time to give your home a fresh start.

After the hustle and bustle of Christmas, a tidy, refreshed space can boost your mood, create a welcoming environment, and even inspire healthier habits for 2026.

Start with decluttering. Clear surfaces, cupboards, and wardrobes, keeping only what you truly use or love. Donate items that are in good condition, and recycle or responsibly dispose of what you no longer need. Decluttering not only frees up space but also makes your home feel lighter and more organised.

Next, consider minor renovations or updates. Even small changes, like a fresh coat of paint on walls, updating door handles, or replacing worn-out cushions, can dramatically refresh a room. Focus on areas you use most, such as the kitchen, living areas, or outdoor entertaining spaces, so you feel the benefits every day.

Lighting can also transform your home. Switch to brighter, energy-efficient bulbs, add a statement lamp, or install LED strip lights under cabinets to create warmth and functionality.

Finally, add finishing touches to make your space feel inviting. Soft textiles, fresh flowers, scented candles, or even a few well-placed artworks can instantly elevate the vibe. Outdoor spaces benefit from a sweep, potted plants, and tidy furniture arrangements.

By decluttering and refreshing your home now, you set the tone for a bright, organised, and energised 2026.

A little effort goes a long way, helping you start the year with a clear mind and a space you’re proud to call home.

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Kids Take Over TV Program Shows Mackay Through Young Eyes

Mackay’s own backyard took centre stage this year, with ten enthusiastic young actors setting out to prove that adventure doesn’t have to come with a boarding pass.

The group spent the month of July rediscovering the region’s family-friendly attractions, inviting the community to see familiar places in a new light.

Experience Mackay Through Young Eyes

From the region’s art gallery and local libraries to live football, lush gardens and the Mackay Festival of Arts, the young presenters showcased the breadth of experiences available right across the Mackay region.

Their experiences will launch to the public this week in the new season of Kids Take Over TV, which is a fun and inspiring online travel series where kids aged eight to 12 become the tour guides.

This unique program showcases the best family-friendly destinations across Australia – through the eyes of young adventurers.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the initiative was a wonderful reminder of the richness of Mackay’s community life.

“Our young people have captured the spirit of Mackay beautifully – from our arts and culture to our sporting fields and green spaces,” Mayor Williamson said

“It’s inspiring to see them enjoying these experiences and helping us to showcase them through a new lens,” he said.

“It’s easy to be complacent when you live in a region for many years, but the beauty of having young people front and centre in this series is that their genuine excitement and joy is contagious.

“It makes you really value what we have in our beautiful region and it also helps us to showcase our region to the rest of Australia in a fun, original way.”

One of the young presenters, Archer Finch was blown away by the experience.

“Being part of this series was like having a burst of excitement inside you!” Archer said.

“I felt so important and it was so much fun,” he said.

Mayor Williamson said the project was about more than just highlighting amazing regional experiences.

“It gave these young stars the opportunity to build friendships outside of school, work together as a team and develop valuable skills in communication, presentation and performance,” he said.

“It was a tremendous confidence boost for many of them, and I don’t doubt that we will see more of these young people on stage and screen in the years to come.”

Kids Take Over TV episodes will feature Artspace Mackay, BB Print Stadium and the Mackay Cutters, The Mackay Region Botanic Gardens, DBCT Illuminate and Mackay Regional Council Libraries.

Episodes will drop fortnightly on Mackay Regional Council’s Facebook page and Youtube during the school holidays and will feature young local presenters Harper Semple, Dustin Persson, Dexter Schembri, Millaa Ellis, Natalie Homewood, Isla Muir, Archer Finch, Jules Gaviglio, Ivy Gould, Madison Kennedy and Brayson Oldfield.

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Kids Take Over presenters from left, Natalie Homewood, Harper Semple, Ivy Gould, Isla Muir, Jules Gaviglio, Dustin Schembri, Archer Finch, Dexter Schembri and Brayson Oldfield, with Mayor Greg Williamson and videographer Matt Ferguson. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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A simple act of kindness has prompted a heartfelt message of gratitude from a local family, after a frightening fall at the Sydney Street Market car park reminded them just how powerful community spirit can be.

The incident occurred when a local woman fell in the car park, leaving her vulnerable and in pain. Within moments, members of the public stepped in to help, offering calm support and practical assistance while waiting for emergency services to arrive.

Strangers stayed with the woman and her husband until the ambulance arrived, ensuring they were not alone during a stressful and uncertain time. Water was brought to help keep them comfortable, and blankets were placed beneath the woman to protect her from the heat of the road as she waited for medical care.

Her daughter later shared a message of thanks, saying the situation could have been far worse without the quick thinking and compassion of those who stopped to help.

“Thank you to the wonderful people who helped my mum today at Sydney street market car park when she fell,” she said.

“Without such wonderful people like those who helped her and dad, stayed with them until ambulance arrived, got water for them and blankets to put under my mum so road didn't burn her, she would have been worse off.”

The woman has since returned home. While she is sore and bruised, she is safe and recovering – a result her family credits in no small part to the kindness shown by complete strangers. In a moment of distress, their care and compassion reflected the very best of the local community.

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Image for illustrative purposes only

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Hi lovely readers,

This is our second last edition of the year, and what a wonderful year it’s been.

Next up is our special Christmas edition which is always a joy to read, so be sure to grab your copy.

Last Sunday Adam and I were meant to celebrate our 1st wedding anniversary… although we both completely forgot until the day after (LOL).

Life has been pretty busy lately, so it somehow missed our radar… but hey, that’s life sometimes!

This past week, I spent a little time in hospital. It’s nothing too major, so please don’t worry about me. Adam always finds a way to make me laugh, even in the toughest moments, so it wasn’t all doom and gloom… and that’s one of the many things I love about him.

While I missed home for a few days, I was incredibly well looked after by the wonderful staff, nurses and doctors at Mackay Base Hospital. Their care and kindness, especially during this busy Christmas period made my stay a positive one, and for that I'm so grateful!

My prayers also go out to the victims and families affected by the recent attacks in Bondi, Sydney. Nobody deserves such harm, and my heart goes out to all who are grieving.

May the peace of God comfort them in this difficult time.

Scripture of the week: "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." – Philippians 4:6-7 NKJV

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Suns Deal Drives Regional Growth

Council has locked in a major win for the region, confirming the extension of its successful partnership with the Gold Coast SUNS Football Club (GCFC) through to 2028.

The announcement follows news of a half-billion-dollar investment in the Mackay region by Certainty Wealth, which includes the proposed development of 1,100 residential lots.

Certainty Wealth Managing Director Damien Gwynne said the company’s decision to invest in Mackay was directly influenced by council’s partnership with the Gold Coast SUNS, highlighting the role the collaboration has played in strengthening the region’s profile and appeal.

“In 2024 we were brought up by the Gold Coast SUNS on a business delegation to explore Mackay as a potential investment opportunity,” Mr Gwynne said.

“We will invest more than half a billion dollars in the region over the next seven years – retirement villages, childcare, commercial centres – and that’s all because of that one business delegation,” he said.

Within 13 months of the delegation, Certainty Wealth are 25 per cent of the way through constructing stage one of the Riverbend estate at Mirani near Platypus Beach.

They have also settled on land at Sarina, which will be a master-planned community with more than 1000 dwellings called The Crossing.

Mr Gwynne said The Crossing would change the face of Sarina.

“It will include residential lots, townhouses, retirement village, childcare centre, retail centres, plus a whole bunch of community infrastructure that will assist the existing residents of Sarina,” he said.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the new agreement reinforced council’s commitment to delivering economic, social and sporting benefits for the Mackay region.

“Since 2019, the partnership has positioned Mackay as a premier destination for elite women’s sport, with annual AFLW matches at the Great Barrier Reef Arena attracting thousands of spectators and showcasing the region on a national stage,” Mayor Williamson said.

“AFL participation in Mackay has grown by 15 per cent during this period, with female participation increasing by 20 per cent, highlighting the positive impact of the collaboration on grassroots sport,” he said.

The renewed three-year agreement will see council continue as Official Partner of the Gold Coast SUNS and Official Gold Coast SUNS AFLW Destination Partner.

Key deliverables of the extended partnership include:

• Hosting one AFLW match annually at the Great Barrier Reef Arena.
• National brand exposure through apparel branding and signage at AFLW and AFL matches.
• The creation of Discover Mackay Week, showcasing the region through SUNS platforms and match-day activations.
• Economic development opportunities via corporate networking events and boardroom lunches with SUNS partners.
• Community engagement through AFLW player appearances, academy camps and grassroots football programs.
• Consumer promotions such as the “Live the Dream” initiative, giving Mackay girls the chance to experience life as an AFLW player.
• Leadership development sessions run by GCFC executives and high-performance staff.

Gold Coast SUNS Deputy CEO Simon Fitzgibbon welcomed the extension which will see the relationship between the organisations span beyond a decade.

“We are thrilled to extend our partnership with Mackay Regional Council. The council has been an influential supporter of our club, in particular our AFLW program, for almost a decade,” Fitzgibbon said.

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Council has extended its partnership with the Gold Coast SUNS through to 2028, a move credited with driving major investment, boosting grassroots sport, and elevating Mackay’s national profile. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Opinion Piece By Andrew Willcox MP

Australia went to bed wounded, and woke up confronting a truth we should never have had to
face.

What unfolded at Bondi was not just an act of violence. It was an act of terror. It was an attack
on innocent people, on a community gathered in peace, and on the values that bind us together
as Australians.

My first thoughts are with the victims, those who lost their lives, those who were injured, and the
families whose worlds have been shattered forever. No words can ease that pain. I also extend
my deepest respect and gratitude to the police officers, paramedics, doctors, nurses,
lifeguards, and everyday Australians who ran towards danger without hesitation.

Among the horror, there was extraordinary courage. Ahmed al Ahmed, a local fruit shop owner,
did not run from danger. He ran toward it. With no thought for his own safety, he tackled an
armed attacker from behind, wrestled the weapon from his hands, and helped stop further
bloodshed. In doing so, it has been reported by media that Ahmed was shot twice and required
surgery, yet his actions likely saved countless lives.

His bravery reminds us of something fundamental about Australia: that decency, courage, and
moral clarity still rise in our darkest moments.

Australia is grieving. Australia is angry. And Australia has every right to be.

This attack occurred as members of the Jewish community gathered to celebrate Chanukah by
the Sea. What should have been a moment of light, faith, and joy was transformed into horror.
We stand with Australia’s Jewish community today and always. Antisemitism has no place in
this country. It never has, and it never will.

But we must also confront an uncomfortable truth. This tragedy was not unimaginable. For
many Australians of Jewish faith, it was feared.

Since 7 October 2023, antisemitism has surged across Australia. We have seen hateful
protests, intimidation outside synagogues, Jewish schools requiring security to function, and
vile slogans shouted openly in our streets. Before the shameful scenes on the steps of the
Sydney Opera House in October 2023, many Australians would have said such hatred could
never take root here. That complacency was a mistake.

The warnings were there. They were repeated. They were ignored.

Leaders of the Jewish community sounded the alarm. International allies sounded the alarm.
Even foreign heads of government warned that failing to confront antisemitism early would only
embolden it. Yet the Albanese Government responded with hesitation, equivocation, and
silence when moral clarity was required.

Hatred does not disappear when it is tolerated. It grows.

Australia is a successful multicultural nation because we share a social contract. We welcome
people from all backgrounds, faiths, and cultures, but we ask something in return. We ask that
people respect our laws, our freedoms, and one another. We ask that grievances from overseas
are not imported and weaponised on Australian streets. We ask that loyalty lies with Australia,
not with extremist ideologies or foreign conflicts.

The vast majority of migrants honour that contract. They work hard, integrate, contribute, and
enrich our country. They are valued members of Team Australia.

But it is no longer honest to pretend that our immigration system is immune from failure.
Under Labor, immigration has surged to levels that are unsustainable. More than 1.2 million
people arrived in Labor’s first term alone, with two million expected by the end of the second.

Housing is stretched. Hospitals are under strain. Schools are full. Infrastructure is lagging.
These pressures affect Australians of every background.

A sustainable immigration program is not defined by volume, but by the values and social
cohesion it preserves.

A successful immigration program does not just count numbers. It enforces standards. It
ensures that those who come here accept equality between men and women, freedom of belief,
freedom of speech, and the rule of law. It does not turn a blind eye to extremism, radicalisation,
or imported hatred out of fear of political backlash.

What we have seen in recent times is a failure to uphold those standards. We have seen people
who reject Australian values, glorify violence, and openly express hatred toward Jewish
Australians. That should never have been allowed to take root here.

Raising these concerns does not make someone racist or anti-migrant. It makes them honest.
Australians are generous people. But generosity without boundaries is not compassion, it is
negligence. A government that refuses to police its immigration system properly, or confront
antisemitism decisively, is not being inclusive. It is failing in its most basic duty, which is to keep Australians safe.

This attack has forever changed our nation. We cannot undo what has been done, but we can
decide what happens next.

We must strengthen laws against hate crimes. We must enforce existing laws without fear or
favour. We must ensure migration settings serve Australia’s interests, not ideology. And we must
say, clearly and without apology, that antisemitism, terrorism, and extremist hatred will be met
with the full force of the law.

Australia deserves leadership that is honest, courageous, and prepared to act early, not issue
statements after lives are lost.

Today we mourn. Tomorrow we must act.

For the victims. For their families. For our Jewish community. And for the future of a nation that
should never have allowed this to happen on its shores.

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Mackay Regional Council has raised concerns after the recently upgraded skate park in Bucasia was vandalised only weeks after the revamp was completed.

The popular community space, praised by residents for its fresh new look, has already been targeted by graffiti — a setback council describes as both frustrating and disheartening for the wider community.

Mayor Greg Williamson says the impact of this type of vandalism isn't insignificant.

"There's the cost to ratepayers for crews to have to go back and fix up this defacing of public assets, but it also means they're being pulled from other jobs and projects," Mayor Williamson said.

"The fact that they are having to go and fix up something that should never have needed to be fixed up in the first place is infuriating.

"Aussie culture is that we we don't dob people in, but this has to stop. If you see it, please report it."

Reports can be made through the Snap, Send, Solve app or call 1300 MACKAY.

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Mackay Regional Council has condemned fresh graffiti at the newly upgraded Bucasia skate park, calling the vandalism an unnecessary cost to ratepayers and urging locals to report any incidents. Photos supplied

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Queensland Government Extends Support for Greater Whitsunday Regional workforce collaboration Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) has welcomed the Queensland Government’s announcement of continued funding for the Greater Whitsunday Regional Jobs Committee (RJC), securing the program through to 2027.

This extension confirms GW3 as the host organisation for the Regional Jobs Committee program until 2027 and reinforces the vital role the committee plays in aligning local industry needs, training pathways, and regional workforce development.

The program is designed by locals, for locals, providing a coordinated approach to identifying unique skilling challenges and strengthening connections between industry, government, training providers and community organisations.

The Greater Whitsunday RJC forms part of a statewide network of 12 Regional Jobs Committees operating from Cairns to the Gold Coast. Together, these committees deliver region-specific skilling and workforce solutions that respond directly to local needs and support long-term economic growth.

Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) Chief Executive Officer, Ms Kylie Porter, said the commitment demonstrates the importance of proactive workforce planning as local industries continue to evolve.

“We are delighted the Queensland Government is continuing to invest in regional workforce development through the RJC program.

“This extension ensures we can keep driving a coordinated, industry-led approach to skills, training, and workforce attraction across Mackay, Isaac, and Whitsunday.

Greater Whitsunday Regional Jobs Committee Chair, Ms Carissa Mansfield, said sustained funding provides important certainty for industry and partners.

“Workforce remains one of the biggest challenges facing our region. The continuation of the RJC program means we can keep bringing local voices together to address barriers to training, participation, and business growth.”

Member for Mackay, Mr Nigel Dalton, said the Queensland Government is committed to supporting strong regional jobs and skills development.

“The Greater Whitsunday RJC is delivering real impact by strengthening local training pathways and helping businesses connect with the support they need. Extending this program through to 2027 ensures continued investment in regional jobs, industry alignment, and sustainable economic growth.”

“This funding reflects our commitment to ensuring local people have access to local opportunities, and that regional communities are supported to thrive.”

The Greater Whitsunday Regional Jobs Committee is proudly supported and funded by the
Queensland Government.

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Continued Queensland Government support for the Greater Whitsunday Regional Jobs Committee. Photo supplied

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Mackay residents are being encouraged to put their hand up to help shape the future of the Bruce Highway, with Expressions of Interest now open for regional representatives to join the Bruce Highway Advisory Council.

The State Government has opened applications for the next round of regional representatives, including one position for the Mackay Whitsunday region, as part of its commitment to improving safety, reliability and long-term planning along Queensland’s major north–south transport corridor.

The Bruce Highway Advisory Council brings together regional representatives and industry experts to help inform priorities for investment and upgrades, including the $9 billion Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program and the development of a statewide Fatigue Management Strategy.

Chaired by the Minister for Transport and Main Roads, the Council includes stakeholders from Pine River to Far North Queensland and plays a key role in identifying local issues and directing where funding should be prioritised.

The six regional representatives will join five peak industry bodies on the Council, including the Royal Automobile Club of Queensland, Queensland Trucking Association, Queensland Farmers' Federation, Queensland Tourism Industry Council and the Local Government Association of Queensland.

Regional representatives are appointed on a voluntary basis for a 12-month term and may reapply if they wish to continue. The government said the process ensured a diverse mix of local experience and industry expertise was brought to the table.

Expressions of Interest are open for representatives from six regions, including Far North Queensland, North Queensland, Mackay Whitsunday, Fitzroy, Wide Bay Burnett and North Coast.

Applications for the Bruce Highway Advisory Council close on the 23rd of January.

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Help the Queensland Government improve road safety by joining the Bruce Highway Advisory Council as a voluntary member for a 12-month period. Photo supplied

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Mackay To Become Specialist Cancer Service Hub

The Queensland Government has confirmed major progress on its fully funded Hospital Rescue Plan, unveiling clear timelines for hospital upgrades and new facilities across the state — with Mackay set to benefit as part of a strengthened regional health network.

The plan has reached a significant milestone, with masterplans finalised for key hospital projects including Townsville University Hospital, Toowoomba Hospital, Coomera Hospital, Redcliffe Hospital and Bundaberg Hospital, alongside confirmed planning details for major upgrades at hospitals across Queensland.

The Government said the plan was introduced after inheriting what it described as a failed and under-funded health infrastructure program, which resulted in major delays, missing services and $7 billion in cost blowouts.

Under the Hospital Rescue Plan, the government is delivering a coordinated and fully costed approach to hospital construction and upgrades, aimed at restoring health services and delivering urgently needed hospital beds across Queensland.

While Mackay is not listed for a major hospital expansion under the current tranche of projects, the region is expected to benefit directly through the Queensland Cancer Plan, which will establish Mackay as one of several specialist cancer service hubs across the state. The network will support regional hospitals and improve access to cancer care for communities outside Brisbane.

As part of the statewide plan, specialist cancer hubs will be established in Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Wide Bay, Darling Downs, Brisbane and the Gold Coast, helping reduce the need for patients to travel long distances for treatment.

Across Queensland, the Hospital Rescue Plan will deliver at least 2,600 additional hospital beds through new hospitals, expansions and upgrades, representing the largest hospital infrastructure investment in the state’s history.

Major hospital projects are already moving forward, including expansions at Townsville University Hospital, which will deliver at least 165 new beds by 2028, and Bundaberg Hospital, which is set to receive more than 200 new beds along with an expanded emergency department and improved maternity services by 2031.

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls said the government was focused on delivering hospital beds and services when Queenslanders need them most.

"Our fully-funded Hospital Rescue Plan is delivering new and expanded hospitals, 2,600 new hospital beds and health services when Queenslanders need them most," Minister Nicholls said.

"After Labor’s decade of decline that left the system in crisis and without a credible path to building the hospital beds needed, Queenslanders are starting to see the results of getting our hospital build back on track with masterplans, designs and construction moving forward.

"We’ve put to bed the poor planning, delays and cost blowouts we inherited and we’re now delivering the hospital beds Queensland needs now and into the future."

Queensland Health Implementation Lead Sam Sangster said extensive planning was underway to ensure hospital projects met the needs of local communities across the state.

“These masterplans mark an exciting first step in the process where Queenslanders will begin to see work intensifying on sites across the state,” Mr Sangster said.

“It’s important to take the time to properly plan these major projects to ensure we leave a lasting legacy through sustainable infrastructure that caters for staff, clinicians, patients and their families.”

The Queensland Government said the Hospital Rescue Plan marked a turning point for health infrastructure delivery, providing certainty for communities like Mackay through improved access to specialist services and a stronger statewide hospital network.

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The Government is determined to deliver the resources Queensland hospitals need. Photo supplied

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In celebration of 20 years, Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank has introduced an additional higher education scholarship as part of its Community Engagement Program, allowing more students to receive a share of $39,000.

For eligible degrees and apprenticeships at CQUniversity in 2026, the program includes three $9000 scholarships for undergraduate degrees and two $6000 scholarships for apprenticeships, providing not only financial assistance but also opportunities for professional development and growth.

Community Bank Sarina Board Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich highlighted Community Bank Sarina’s commitment to supporting local talent, describing the scholarships as “an ongoing investment in the personal growth and skills development of young people in our region, marking two decades of community impact."

“Scholarships show students that their community is behind them, allowing them to stay close to family, friends and support networks while pursuing their studies and careers,” Ms Franettovich said.

“This initiative creates opportunities for networking, mentoring and connection with local businesses - key elements in building a strong foundation for their future.”

Higher education scholarships are available for a range of fields for those commencing their studies in 2026, including accounting, agriculture/agribusiness, business, digital media, environmental science, health, information technology, law, nursing, science and teaching.

In addition, scholarships are offered for first-year apprentices in automotive engineering and technology, building and construction, electrical, manufacturing engineering and technology, hairdressing, horticulture, hospitality and mechanical trades.

2026 Community Bank Sarina CQUniversity Scholarship applications close 28 February. To find out more information and request an application pack, email executive@sarinacommunity.com.au.

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(L-R) Community Bank Sarina (CBS)’s Josie Dahtler, CBS Board Director Rainee Shepperson, 2025 CBS scholarship recipients Neve Macdonald, Fletcher McFadzen and Taylah Hayles, CBS Board Chair Karen May, CBS Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich and CQUniversity Associate Vice-President NQ Prof. Rob Brown.

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It’s the most wonderful time of the year!  There are lights on Christmas trees, topped with bright stars.  Everything is merry and bright.  Have you ever noticed that there is a definite theme of “Light” at Christmas time?  But here is the catch; It is at night that the lights are on and shinning in all their glory.

About 700 years before Jesus Christ was born the prophet Isaiah wrote about him; For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders.  And he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Isaiah also said; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.   And here is my point; The darkness!  Christmas is a joyful time, but we realize that there are people for whom Christmas is a time of great sadness because things are not the way that they should be.  The message of Christmas is most authentically for the people living, not just in darkness, but in deep darkness.

That might be YOU this Christmas.  However, into that darkness, Christ wants to enter and transform it.  God loves you and waits for permission to be born in your life and for you to experience his magnificent transformative light.

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