Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly MP, has welcomed last Friday’s announcement from Deputy Premier Bleijie that all new wind farm approvals will be impact assessable and required to consult with local councils, communities and other stakeholders for new projects.

Under the previous Labor Government Wind Farms had been code assessable and didn’t require full impact assessments or consultation with impacted communities as part of the development process.

The previous code assessable rules had bounded timeframes where if a decision had not been met within the timeframe projects were then deemed approved without the assessor making the final decision, with no public consultation and no third-party appeal rights.

“This is great news for Queensland’s regional communities, especially those within my electorate of Mirani,” Mr Kelly said.

“This is something that I’ve been fighting for since before I was even a candidate to make sure communities actually get a say in these developments instead of being told it was going to happen and they just had to live with it.

“This announcement shows that the Crisafulli Government has listened to the calls from the communities that have had undue stress placed on them as a result of Labor’s rushed and reckless renewables rollout.

“This an important step forward in making sure communities get a say in whether they want these projects.

“For too long our communities have felt voiceless, with ‘Community Consultation’ sessions often feeling more like community lectures.

“Social Licence is a key part of any development proposal and under the last Labor Government these developers have not needed to make sure that they have it prior to moving forward with their projects.”

From Monday 3 February Wind Farms will have to comply with an impact assessment meaning mandatory community consultation and third-party appeal rights being guaranteed.

Other requirements include:

• Making sure wind new farm applications result in no significant loss of high quality agricultural land;
• Workers’ accommodation associated with the construction of the wind farm does not adversely impact on surrounding communities;
• Construction impacts on local infrastructure are mitigated, or if unable to be mitigated, remediated;
• Social impacts are identified and addressed to avoid negative impacts on host communities (community benefit);
• Decommissioning of wind farms becomes the sole responsibility of the wind farm operator and guaranteed through bonds or financial guarantees, no longer leaving private landowners at risk.
• Any disturbance to environmental footprints are rehabilitated

Wind Farms currently being built or with development applications in the Mirani Electorate include:

1. Lotus Creek Wind Farm
2. Clarke Creek Wind Farm
3. Boomer Green Energy Hub
4. Moonlight Range Wind Farm
5. Moah Creek Wind Farm
6. Boulder Creek Wind Farm
7. Mount Hopeful Wind Farm

Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly MP, welcomes new wind farm approval rules requiring full impact assessments and community consultation to ensure local voices are heard. Photo supplied.

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The talents of six CQUniversity TAFE-trained apprentices will be put to the test when they compete at the 2025 WorldSkills National competition in Brisbane in June.

Five apprentices from the Gladstone region and one from the Mackay suburb of Habana were recently confirmed as the Central Queensland representatives as part of the Queensland team.

Gladstone Ports Corporation Limited (GPCL) apprentices Ashley Cassar, Saxon Smith and Corey Burfield will compete in their respective categories of Electrical Control, Electrical Installation and Heavy Vehicle Mechanics.

Gladstone-based firm Xtreme Engineering will also have two of its apprentices competing – Sean Keetch in Construction Steel Work and Billy Vale in Welding.

Layth McGee from Reed Plumbing Industries in Mackay will compete in the Plumbing and Heating category.

CQU’s Deputy Vice-President (VET and Business Development) Mr Peter Heilbuth congratulated the apprentices on making the WorldSkills Nationals competition.

“It’s fantastic to see these apprentices be given the chance to show off their skills and knowledge at such an important event as WorldSkills,” he said.

“It also speaks to the quality of CQU’s TAFE training and strength of industry in the Central Queensland region.

“We wish all the apprentices the very best of luck at WorldSkills.”

The 2025 WorldSkills Australia National Championships and Skills Show will run between 12 -14 June 2025 at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.

For more information visit www.worldskills.org.au

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Corey Burfield is one of six CQU-trained apprentices who will compete at the upcoming WorldSkills Nationals competition in Brisbane in June. Photo supplied.

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By Hannah McNamara

Since 2017, Orange Sky has provided free laundry services and a safe space to connect for those experiencing homelessness and hardship in Mackay and Sarina. Over 80 dedicated volunteers run 10 shifts weekly, and demand continues to grow.

"We've seen a 10 per cent increase in our services, and Orange Sky services have never been busier," said Co-founder Nic Marchesi OAM.

The service not only addresses practical needs but also creates opportunities for community connection.  

Mayor Greg Williamson emphasised its broader impact.

"To have Orange Sky, not just as somewhere to come and get your clothes washed, but as somewhere to sit down and talk to some volunteers about anything, is so important."

Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson met with Orange Sky Co-Founder Nic Marchesi OAM, Orange Sky Mackay Service Leader Lisa Jamieson, Aurizon representatives and the amazing bunch of volunteers at the first-ever pod built in Sarina. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Laundry With Compassion

Orange Sky’s Growing Impact

Since its inception in Mackay in 2017, Orange Sky has become an essential support service for those experiencing homelessness and financial hardship. Through a dedicated team of over 80 volunteers, Orange Sky runs 10 shifts weekly across Mackay and Sarina, offering free laundry services and, most importantly, a safe space to connect.

Co-founder Nic Marchesi OAM highlighted the growing demand for Orange Sky's services, stating, "We've seen a 10 per cent increase in our services, and Orange Sky services have never been busier."  

He acknowledged the complexity of homelessness and emphasises the importance of collaborative efforts within the community.

"What we know is that homelessness is very complex, but those really simple things of community services working together to support people in the community that are doing it tough are so incredibly important."

The significance of these services extends beyond just clean clothes.  

Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson, who recently visited the Orange Sky laundry pod in Sarina, emphasised the charity's important community impact.

"To have Orange Sky, not just as somewhere to come and get your clothes washed, but as somewhere to sit down and talk to some volunteers about anything, is so important,” Mayor Williamson said.

"We know that from those discussions, our community is enriched because people's lives can be changed just by sitting down with the volunteers here and saying, 'I need help.'"

Mayor Williamson also recognised the efforts of Orange Sky's volunteers and their contributions to the community.  

"This is a really, really important community effort, and to the 80-odd volunteers from Sarina through to Mackay, I take my hat off to them," he said.  

He highlighted the increasing pressures driving people into homelessness, noting that, "Everybody realises that the cost-of-living impacts today are forcing a lot more people to look at their lifestyles and how much they spend on things.  

“There are a lot of people who are driven into homelessness by what's happening in the economy."

Orange Sky Mackay Service Leader Lisa Jamieson has also observed a rise in demand over the last few months.

"We’re seeing an increase in the numbers and we’re seeing new people coming in, and that's really heartbreaking," she said.  

Ms Jamieson explains that the organisation is not only assisting those sleeping rough but also families with back-to-school children, the elderly, and employed individuals who are struggling to make ends meet.

Orange Sky’s mission extends beyond providing a practical service, and that’s why Jamieson believes that their strength lies in connectivity and compassion.  

"We all like to have a chat, and if anyone would like to come down and have a chat with us and find out what our services are like, whether they'd like to volunteer with us or whether they'd like to work alongside us, we’re certainly looking for that support in the community," she said.

Aurizon has been a key supporter of Orange Sky, frequently hosting BBQs for the organisation and, most recently, donating multiple long-sleeve sun-safe shirts for the entire volunteer team, ensuring they stay protected while helping others.

To learn more about their services or to get involved as a volunteer, visit www.orangesky.org.au

Since 2017, Orange Sky has provided free laundry services and a safe space to connect in Mackay and Sarina, with growing demand highlighting its vital role in supporting individuals and encouraging community connections. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Comedian Anh Do will bring his best-selling memoir, The Happiest Refugee, to life in a ground-breaking stand-up show at the MECC on 13 March.

This moving, inspirational and unforgettable theatre experience combines humour, real life stories, photos and filmed pieces to retell Do’s amazing story.

Anh Do travelled to Australia in 1980 on an eight-metre fishing boat with 47 other Vietnamese refugees. Sick with dehydration and one person already dead, the journey was the first of many struggles for a young Do, who overcame all manner of difficulties throughout his life to become a lawyer and, in 2008, Australia’s Comedian of the Year.

Today he is one of Australia’s most sought-after stand-ups, as well as a talented writer, actor, producer and Star of the ABC1 TV’s ‘Anh’s Brush With Fame”.

The Happiest Refugee: A Memoir, charts his journey from starving refugee to one of Australia’s best-loved entertainers, and was described by Russell Crowe as “the most surprising and inspiring read I have had in years,”.

It was recently awarded Book of the Year with sales more than 450,000.

Do’s struggles as a young refugee – his difficulties with English, divorcing parents, being bullied and broke, are brought to life in this hilarious but moving stage show, garnering this happy refugee standing ovations across the country.

What: Anh Do – The Happiest Refugee LIVE
When: Thursday 13 March, 7.30pm
Where: MECC Auditorium
Tickets: www.themecc.com.au

By popular demand, Anh Do returns to the MECC on 13 March with his smash-hit stage show, bringing The Happiest Refugee to life in a moving and hilarious theatre experience. Photo supplied.

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Looking to build confidence, improve public speaking, or develop leadership skills? Join a local Toastmasters Club and take the next step toward achieving your personal and professional goals.

Toastmasters is a friendly, vibrant, and supportive group of individuals dedicated to helping each other grow in communication, leadership, and organisation - while having fun along the way. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced speaker, Toastmasters provides practical tools, constructive feedback, and a welcoming environment to help you succeed.

Those interested are invited to attend a free showcase meeting to learn more. Arriving 10 to 15 minutes early is recommended to allow time to settle in before the meeting begins.

Fiona Koutlis, member of Toastmakers said “We'd love to meet you so please stop by to discover how a Toastmasters Club can benefit you.

“It costs nothing so come along and experience the power of Toastmasters for yourself.”

Save The Date

FEBRUARY:
Monday, 17 February - 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm
Wednesday, 19 February - 12 noon to 1 pm
Tuesday, 25 February - 7 pm to 8:30 pm
Where: Jubilee Community Centre, Alfred Street

MARCH:
Friday, 14 March - 6:45 am to 8 am
Where: St Paul's Uniting Church, Macalister Street

Book via Eventbrite.com

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Capricornia’s small businesses have a golden opportunity to showcase their unique,
locally made products on one of the biggest stages in the country, the Australian
Parliament House Gift Shop.

Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry, is calling on local businesses to apply
for the Parliament Shop National Showcase, where Queensland will take centre stage
this April.

“This is an incredible chance for our small businesses to shine,” Ms Landry said.

“Queensland is home to some of the most talented artisans and producers, and this
showcase puts their products in front of thousands of visitors from across Australia and
the world.”

The Parliament Shop National Showcase has been a huge success, giving each state
and territory a chance to highlight their best local products. Now, it’s Queensland’s turn
to impress.

“This is more than just a sales opportunity, it’s about telling the story of our region, our
craftsmanship, and the passion behind every handmade, one-of-a-kind product,” Ms
Landry said.

“For businesses, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance to gain national exposure and reach a
brand-new audience.”

Local businesses keen to be part of this exclusive showcase can apply online at
Parliament Shop National Showcase.

Applications close Friday, 28 February 2025, at 5:00 pm AEDT.

Capricornia’s small businesses have a unique opportunity to showcase their locally made products at the Australian Parliament House Gift Shop, with applications closing on 28 February 2025. Photo supplied

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Imagine a future where mental health is no longer a barrier, but a conversation that leads to change. MADEC’s ‘Stronger Together’ initiative in the Mackay region is doing just that, offering accessible mental health education and support to the community.

With over 50 years of experience in community services, MADEC is empowering locals with the tools to manage their mental health and help others along the way. Sponsored by the Queensland Mental Health Commission, this initiative brings affordable Mental Health First Aid workshops right here to the heart of the region.

MADEC Chief Executive Officer Jasmine Lowry spoke passionately about the program’s purpose, and said, “Our goal is to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge to strengthen their own well-being and resilience while also empowering them to support others effect ively.”

The ‘Stronger Together’ program offers a range of tailored workshops designed to empower individuals to respond effectively to mental health challenges. From youth mental health first aid to conversations about suicide, each session is designed to suit different needs within the community.

The program includes:

Youth Mental Health First Aid – Aimed at adults who work with or care for young people (aged 12-18), providing accreditation valid for three years.

Teen Mental Health First Aid – Equips students with peer-to-peer support strategies to assist classmates experiencing mental health issues.

Conversations About Suicide – Helps adults learn how to provide initial support to someone experiencing suicidal thoughts.

Conversations About Non-Suicidal Self-Injury – Provides training on assisting individuals engaging in self-harm.

MADEC Marketing and Communications Coordinator Katelyn Dunn explained that, “Having the skills and knowledge to be able to respond to mental health situations appropriately and supportively makes all the difference.”

The program offers training for adults, students, and parents alike, ensuring there’s an inclusive option for everyone. Dunn further emphasised the importance of recognising the signs and intervening, saying, “It’s about being able to identify the signs and offer support by checking in and asking, ‘How are you?’”

By encouraging open dialogue, the program aims to break down common stereotypes surrounding mental health and create a supportive environment where individuals can seek help without the fear of judgment.

“We really focus on one of our core values, which is empowerment,” Lowry added.

“It's about equipping people with the skills to navigate challenges, strengthen resilience and empowering them to take action.”

“Our vision is to have an inclusive community that supports everyone.”

Lowry finds it most rewarding hearing how clients and community members are achieving great things because of the program’s positive impact.

The affordability of these workshops ensures that cost is not a barrier for anyone who wants to participate, with prices ranging from just $25 to $100.

Workshops will run from February 24 to April 29, with sessions held at MADEC and selected school sites.

To book a place or for more information, visit www.madec.org.au or contact MADEC at (07) 4951 1233.

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MADEC's "Stronger Together" program offers affordable mental health first aid workshops in the Mackay region, empowering individuals to support others and build stronger, more connected communities. Photo supplied

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MADEC Chief Executive Officer Jasmine Lowry with MADEC Marketing and Communications Coordinator Katelyn Dunn. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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By Hannah McNamara

Inspiring and unstoppable are just two words to describe former St Pat’s student Evelyn O’Brien, who recently received a life-changing scholarship that will see her live out her dream career at just seventeen.

As she seizes each opportunity and breaks down common barriers, Evelyn is determined to create change and set an example for regional students in Mackay.

“I remember the day I got it - it was just an email that popped up, and I was at home alone… I jumped up and I just started crying.

“I called my mum immediately, and she started crying too.”

Those are the raw emotions Evelyn and her family experienced after realising she had been awarded the University of Queensland Ramsay Undergraduate Scholarship, allowing her to study a Bachelor of Humanities/Laws (Honours) with significant financial support.

The scholarship provides $32,000 per year for five years, covering education, living expenses, and even flight costs for a six-month semester exchange program.

Only 30 out of 40 students were chosen based on their academic ability, community service, and preparedness for the program of study—which required an ATAR of 98, which Evelyn admits to having been quite nervous about.  

“It was very nerve-wracking applying for it, knowing that 10 students weren’t going to get the scholarship who were in the course.”

“The ATAR requirement was 98, so I was just nervous about meeting the academic threshold, more or less having the extra qualities that they were looking for in the scholarship.”

Evelyn says that her parents are her biggest supporters, always encouraging her to strive for better.

“My mum is definitely my biggest supporter.

“She has always pushed me to be better and has always dreamed big for me.

“And without my dad's support, I probably wouldn’t have received the scholarship.”

Evelyn also credits her remarkable teachers from St Patrick’s College Mackay.

“I’ve had such a close relationship with some of the incredible teachers at St Pat’s, and without their continuous support and encouragement, I wouldn’t have gotten the ATAR that I needed…so I'm really grateful for them as well.”

Along with the support of her peers, Evelyn notes that hard work comes from within and encourages others - particularly regional students - to look at the bigger picture and keep chasing their dreams.

“The advice I would give to young people is definitely to dream big…but work for the dream.

“If I didn’t aim for the stars, I would have missed completely because I wouldn't have been looking up.”

Now, Evelyn is passionately advocating for regional students to follow in her footsteps, by giving local and rural students the opportunity to experience education overseas through her own not-for-profit organisation, RALI – the Regional Academic Leadership Youth Initiative.

“The main goal is to financially support students to attend similar summer school experiences overseas, primarily in relation to academics at universities,” Evelyn said.

“As regional students, we’re so disconnected from that world, mainly because we’re on the other side of the world, but also because it’s not something a lot of people consider.

“I want to recreate that opportunity and experience for other regional students.”

As Evelyn packs up her life in Mackay to live out her dream, she remains focused on the stars, hoping to one day work in an embassy as an ambassador for Australia.

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Evelyn O’Brien, a 17-year-old St Pat’s graduate, earned a life-changing scholarship and now aims to inspire regional students through her non-profit, RALI, helping them access global education opportunities. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Photo source: St Patrick's College Year 7-12 Mackay
(Facebook)

The Mackay Whitsunday policing district has welcomed nine first-year constables, each bringing valuable skills and experiences to the force. As they embark on their careers in law enforcement, Superintendent Dean Cavanagh highlighted the importance of diversity within the Queensland Police Service (QPS).

“We have some constables here from a variety of backgrounds, which is really important because you want to bring in that skill set and knowledge from different employment backgrounds and areas they've lived,” Superintendent Cavanagh said.

“We want to attract a diversity of thought and different backgrounds because it really adds value to what we can offer as a police service in Queensland.

“If you've ever thought about being a police officer, now is the time to really embrace the opportunity and make the application.”

As part of their orientation, the new constables met with Superintendent Cavanagh and other senior officers from the district leadership team.

The Queensland Police Service welcomes the following officers:

• Constable Connor Kaney, a former security manager from Toowoomba, will be stationed in the Mackay police division.
• Constable Mishen Malek, with prior law enforcement experience in South Africa, will also be based in the Mackay police division.
• Constable Hollie McKie, a former medical receptionist from Brisbane, joins the Mackay police division.
• Constable Armos Merlo, a former Defence Forces member from the Sunshine Coast, will serve in the Mackay Northern Beaches division.
• Constable Nathan Wessling, previously with the Australian Border Force and originally from Ipswich, will also serve in the Mackay Northern Beaches division.
• Constable Kevin Pacey, a former legal support officer with the Director of Public Prosecutions in Brisbane, will be posted in Sarina.
• Constable Jaxon Bokan, who previously worked as a food stall attendant in Brisbane, will be based in the Moranbah police division.
• Constable Mitchell Dentler, a former retail manager from Grafton, New South Wales, will serve in the Whitsunday police division.
• Constable Brendan Roughead, a former builder and carpenter from the Gold Coast, will join the Bowen police division.

For Constable McKie, policing runs in the family, and it was always a career she wanted to pursue.

“I have family in the job - my dad, my stepmom - they've always been huge inspirations to me growing up.

“It's always something I wanted to do since I was a little girl, and I've always wanted to do something community-wise, so I thought it was perfect for me.”

Although moving away from home was a challenge, she is ready for this next chapter.

“It's definitely a bittersweet move, moving away from my family, but I'm excited.

“It's going to be very different…but it's a change and I'm going to embrace that.”

For those considering a career in the police force, McKie’s advice is to “Just do it…and go for it, because it's a really rewarding experience and career.”

Constable Pacey shared his excitement about putting his training into practice.

“My favourite part was experiencing the practical skills that we learned, including firearms and driving skills.

“They were really fun.

“Just getting out there and speaking with the community, getting to know any issues that are out there, and just sort of engaging with them and making sure I'm meeting their needs in solving crime.”

Originally from Brisbane, Pacey is enjoying the transition to North Queensland.

“It's a great change of scenery being up here in Mackay.”

A QPS representative welcomed the new recruits, stating, “It's a pleasure to welcome our new First Year Constables to the district, and we wish them the very best in their careers.”

Constable Hollie McKie
Constable Kevin Pacey
Group photo caption: Nine first-year constables have joined the Mackay Whitsunday policing district, bringing diverse skills and experiences as they begin their careers with the Queensland Police Service. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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In the heart of Sarina stands Roots Collective, an all-in-one bakehouse, restaurant, and community hub, serving smiles and great coffee since 2022. With a focus on staying grounded in the roots of humanity, Roots Collective creates a space where locals can relax, enjoy a drink, grab a bite to eat, and most importantly, connect with others.

Expanding its branches, Roots Collective now hosts monthly Parent Connect groups, held on the last Wednesday of every month to foster a sense of community for both new and seasoned parents. The groups offer a supportive space for all stages of pregnancy and parenthood, eliminating the need for a lengthy journey into Mackay.

Roots Collective Co-Owner Skye Bailey said, “There are plenty of parents' groups in the region, but we’re bringing them together to create a hub where they can grab a coffee, relax, and spend time with friends while their kids play safely in the play area.”

Ms Bailey touched on the importance of creating a space that’s both welcoming and accessible for families in the region.

“It’s vital for parents to have a welcoming space, rather than a big, clinical setting.

“We’re lucky to have a community hub that’s central, safe, and welcoming for families.”

Roots Collective also plans to introduce CPR training demonstrations for first-time parents, with a passion for making a difference in the community.

“We’re collaborating with the council to highlight different groups, advertise events, and help spread the word.

“We’re also reaching out to emergency services to offer practical sessions, like CPR training for first-time parents.”

“We want to create a space for open conversations.

“Already, mums who’ve experienced challenges during pregnancy have expressed interest in sharing their stories to support and inspire others – it’s amazing and powerful, and we want to nurture that here at Roots Collective.”

The next Parents Connect meeting will be held on the 26th of February from 9:30am to 11:30pm.

Pop into Roots Collective and try their new range of cold drinks, including delicious matcha options and a fresh smoothie selection. Enjoy a bite to eat, let the kids play in the play area, and take time to relax, connect, and enjoy the simple things in life!

Roots Collective offers a welcoming space for parents to relax, connect, and support one another through its monthly Parent Connect groups, while enjoying great coffee, food, and a safe play area for kids.

Try their new selection of delicious matcha drinks and refreshing smoothies! Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Detectives from the Mackay Child Protection and Investigation Unit have charged a second person in relation to the sexual assault of a child.

On Sunday, the 9th of February, police executed a search warrant at a Beaconsfield address, where a 37-year-old woman was taken into custody.

The arrest follows police charging a 50-year-old man with several drug and child sexual assault offences last week.

It will be alleged that the 37-year-old woman facilitated in the transport of one of the man’s victims and had knowledge of the alleged offences that took place.

The woman has been charged with three counts of rape and one count of indecent treatment of a child.

She was remanded in custody on Monday, the 10th of February, and was due to reappear in Mackay Magistrates Court on the 12th of February.

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As floodwaters in North Queensland begin to recede this week, communities across the Dawson electorate are assessing the damage and beginning the clean-up effort. Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox visited several flood-affected areas, meeting with residents, business owners, and local leaders to discuss the impact and ongoing response.

"At the first opportunity, when flooding subsided, I jumped in the 4WD and headed north, visiting towns in the Burdekin region including Gumlu, Home Hill, Ayr and Giru, then onto south Townsville at Cungulla and Nome," Mr Willcox said.

During his visit, Mr Willcox observed varying degrees of flood impact.

"Some areas were lucky to only have little to no floodwater on their property, but some homes and businesses copped the worst, even though they were well prepared," he said.

"Speaking with the locals and small business owners, I was blown away by their strength of character, with their efforts now turned towards the clean-up process, knowing there could be further rain and flooding to come.

"I wanted to ensure my constituents I was there to listen and offer any assistance, federal or otherwise."

In discussions with local officials, Mr Willcox met with Mayor Dalle Cort and CEO Matthew Magin of the Burdekin Shire Council to address concerns about potential major flooding.

"We discussed the impact of possible major flooding at Plantation Creek and other small creeks in the shire and to understand the plans moving forward," he said.

Upon reaching Townsville, Mr Willcox participated in a briefing at the Disaster Relief Command Centre.

"Alongside other leaders and emergency workers, we were provided updates on the weather system we were experiencing, before meeting with Queensland Premier David Crisafulli," he said.

"It was important that our Premier was made aware of areas of the Dawson electorate that had been affected by this catastrophic event."

"Since having the second downpour, I stand ready to return to the Burdekin region to talk to the people and offer what help I can," he said.

"In the meantime, if there are questions or issues, I invite residents to contact my office at Andrew.willcox.mp@aph.gov.au and my team and I are ready to assist."

Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox surveys flood-affected areas in North Queensland, meeting with residents and officials as recovery efforts continue. Photos supplied

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Great things happen when local businesses come together, and building a strong business community starts with strong connections. Networking is one important way to foster this collaboration and can open doors to new opportunities.

As Platinum Sponsors of the Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce (MRCOC), Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank is hosting a Twilight Networking Event, 5:30pm, Thursday 20 February at Ocean’s Bar and Restaurant in Mackay.

Community Bank Sarina invites the local business community to join them poolside for this special evening, which not only provides a platform for businesses to build valuable relationships but also marks the launch of the Bank’s 20th anniversary celebrations.

Community Bank Sarina has been dedicated to supporting the local community since 2005 —not just as a trusted bank with quality services, but also by feeding into our region’s prosperity and sustainability, investing over $4 million in community grants, sponsorships, donations and scholarships since opening.

2025 is the year for Community Bank Sarina, together with community, to reflect on and celebrate two decades of positive impact. In FY 2024 alone, Community Bank Sarina supported 82 projects and initiatives, with a total contribution of $160,195.

This lasting impact is only possible because of the Bank’s customers—their choice to bank with Community Bank Sarina directly translates into local investment. It’s not just the Bank making a difference; it’s our entire community working together.

Join us on 20 February for an evening of conversation and celebration, whether you’re a seasoned business owner, young professional, or simply looking to expand your network, this is the perfect opportunity to gain valuable insights and engage with like-minded people.

Plus, Community Bank Sarina are giving away two lucky door prizes, with winners able to choose a charity to receive a $200 donation.

Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce Networking Evening – hosted by Community Bank Sarina
Where: Ocean’s Bar and Restaurant, Ocean International, 1 Bridge Road, Mackay
When: Thursday 20 February 2025 from 5:30pm
Register at www.mackayregionchamber.com.au, tickets $25 for MRCOC members and $40 for non-members (includes drink on arrival & canapés)

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By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

CANEGROWERS is 100 years old in 2026, we have grown over those 10 decades with one clear focus: championing the needs and capacity of each of our members, and working hard for a flourishing industry that supports every grower and harvester.

In 2025, the organisation will hold its triennial elections, with nominations opening in just a few weeks. Every member is welcome to put their hand up to nominate in what is an exciting part of CANEGROWERS’ democratic structure.

Every month, there are branch meetings held at Calen, Marian, Finch Hatton, Racecourse, and Koumala. They are a great way to catch up with your fellow growers and hear about what the organisation has been up to, but also to raise issues that directly affect you, with your elected representatives.

We aim to help you with your issues- whether it is getting staff support to get through cumbersome paperwork, or a matter that requires industry or government advocacy.

Beyond branch, there are area committees supporting a local board, represented in Queensland CANEGROWERS Policy Council and Board. We all have a view from the paddock, but CANEGROWERS is looking for members ready to take that energy and passion for action and stand up for our members’ point of view.

It’s that broadness of representation that is dedicated to keeping every cane farming business afloat- it makes your levies a good investment in your business. Your levies cover a broad number of important issues, and professional staff to deal with these.

In the decades I have represented growers, I have found great rewards and satisfaction, and any other grower rep will tell you the same. It’s an honour to speak up for your fellow growers. It gives you an opportunity to expand your knowledge of how the industry operates.

The next three-year term will have a lot of issues to tackle: the changes proposed with Sugar Terminals Ltd, the development of Sugar Research Australia, the future path of Queensland Sugar Ltd. Bio-commodities. Productivity. Cost of production. And, of course, the critical industry viability issue of milling reliability. There’s a lot to get your teeth into.

Get in touch with our office, and we can help you with your nomination. There will be training for elected representatives, with the new term starting 1 May.

We are the only grower organisation that can offer genuine broad representation locally and at State, national and international arenas, that is respected for its base of deep industry knowledge and integrity.

Above all we aim for a high standard of professionalism in the way we communicate and negotiate. There’s the saying that “discretion is the better part of valour”, and our capacity to quietly negotiate for an outcome that often benefits not just our members but the whole grower/harvester sector and its capacity to keep on farming. By maintaining our reputation for our professional standards, we maintain the ear of industry and government, and the community. But we do understand that our members want to hear about it.

There is a lot that you will hear at branch meetings that we cannot necessarily discuss in public forums. We want growers’ input on these issues: every member has a chance to speak at branch, every member matters.

If you want to have a say, get involved! Or take the extra step and show your interest in becoming an elected representative.
Aside from committee and board meetings among elected representatives, to achieve work for the industry, CANEGROWERS Mackay provides forums for members to engage with each other and the organisation across the year, from monthly branch meetings to special information meetings. Photo credit: Kirili Lamb.

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This week, QCAR Central District Manager Sonia Ball, also a property owner at Ilbilbie (south of Koumala), met with Peter Currie, a long-term member of the Ilbilbie Rural Fire Brigade and cane farmer in the Plane Creek area.

Ms Ball said Peter was typical of the volunteers in rural fire brigades across the state operating in a dual role as fire fighter and brigade secretary-treasurer.

“What stands out with Peter is that he has been doing this dual role for 38 years – the volunteer hours he and his wife Patricia, who has always assisted with some of the administration, is immeasurable,” Ms Ball said.

“The Ilbilbie Fire Brigade shed (shared with SES) on Pacific Avenue (Greenhill Road) at Greenhill, which sits quietly for much of the year, becomes a hub of activity whenever there is a bushfire,” she said.

“It’s extraordinary how help comes out of the woodwork in an emergency, and my hat goes off to every single brigade volunteer – everywhere - for stepping up and doing whatever it takes to protect life, property and livestock.”

With Peter stepping down as an office-bearer at the brigade’s last AGM, Ms Ball was nominated and accepted the role of secretary-treasurer to work with Chairman John Stevens and the brigade’s first officer Gavin Linthwaite.

She said Peter would continue to play an active role in the brigade supporting the committee and members.

As a reminder, Peter said the Ilbilbie Rural Brigade, was always looking for new members and the AGM would be announced in the near future.

If you would like to find out more, please contact Sonia Ball on 0467 573 321.

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Cane farmer Peter Currie and Ilbilbie property owner Sonia Ball held a handover meeting for the Ilbilbie Rural Fire Brigade secretary-treasurer role after Peter resigned from the position after 38 years of service. Photo supplied

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