Time is running out to apply for the Whitsunday Business Awards 2025, the region’s premier celebration of business excellence. Applications close 11:59pm, Sunday 7 September 2025 – don’t miss your chance to be recognised.

The Awards celebrate outstanding achievements, leadership, innovation, and resilience across the Whitsunday business community.

A collaboration between the Bowen Chamber of Commerce, the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Whitsunday Regional Council, the program is judged by respected regional experts.

Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine is proud to come onboard as this year’s Principal Partner.

“Local businesses are at the heart of our community. They support families, employ locals, and make the Whitsundays an even better place to live and work. We’re proud to partner with the 2025 Whitsunday Business Awards because celebrating business excellence is about celebrating the future of our region” said Mark Henry, Chair of Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine.

One of the flagship categories, the Regional Game Changer Award, recognises businesses fuelling economic growth, innovation, and community prosperity.

TAFE Queensland will present the Trailblazing Young Entrepreneur Award, celebrating rising stars under 25.

"Working alongside industry and Queensland communities is at the heart of everything we do at TAFE Queensland," said Susan Kinobe, TAFE Queensland North General Manager. “Sponsoring this award is a chance to celebrate local business excellence and the young leaders shaping the future of the Whitsunday region.”

The Small Business Hero Award recognises sole traders and small businesses making a big impact through ambition, innovation, and resilience.

Finally, the Community Champion Award, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Airlie Beach, celebrates businesses that give back to the community.

"This award reflects Rotary’s dedication to community service, finding ways to improve the quality of life for people in their communities and to serve the public interest. It aligns with the commitment of members to use their professional skills and expertise to serve the community, promote ethical practices, and inspire others," the Club said.

Don’t miss this opportunity to put your business in the spotlight.

Visit the Award website: https://bit.ly/whitsundayba

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Reliable roads and bridges are the backbone of our regional economy. They keep our cane farmers, graziers and local residents connected, and ensure produce, livestock and equipment can move when and where they need to.

In recent years, weight restrictions on Kelsey Creek Bridges 2 and 3 have made life more complicated for those who depend on them most. For primary producers, especially during the busy sugar crushing season, these restrictions have meant longer trips and more logistical challenges when moving heavy vehicles, machinery and goods.

That’s why I’m very pleased to share that this project has now been prioritised, and funding is secured to deliver a long-term solution. Council has successfully secured more than $4.5 million through the Australian Government’s Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program, which will cover 80 per cent of the $5.6 million project cost.

On top of this, Council has committed further funding through the Transport Infrastructure Development Scheme to enable heavy vehicle bypasses to be fast-tracked while the permanent replacements are designed and constructed.

These bypasses will provide bed level crossings in waterways to comply with fisheries requirements and be built to a dry-weather standard and will immediately ease pressure on farmers and transport operators by creating alternate access for heavy vehicles. Officers are still to determine the ultimate alignment for the new bridges and detour options for all vehicles during construction.

I want to acknowledge the strong advocacy of Divisional Councillors John Collins and Gary Simpson, who have worked tirelessly to ensure this project was elevated as a priority. Both Councillors have been strong voices for their communities and have pushed hard to make sure local farmers, graziers and residents get the infrastructure they need. Their commitment has played a key role in helping Council secure the funding and drive this project forward.

This project simply would not have been possible without the support of the Australian Federal Government. Their recognition of the importance of this investment and willingness to commit significant funding has made it possible for Council to get on with the job. On behalf of our community, I sincerely thank the Federal Government for backing the Whitsundays and our rural industries.

I also want to thank local landholders for working with Council officers to help identify practical bypass options. Their recent cooperation and input have been invaluable in making sure we can move quickly and effectively.

Council’s focus is now on delivery. By prioritising this project and empowering our officers to take the necessary steps, we’re making sure the solutions are implemented as soon as possible.

This project will bring real benefits to our rural industries and communities, not just for today but for decades to come. It’s a clear sign of our commitment to practical infrastructure that supports the people who drive our local economy.

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September is Rural Road Safety Month, a timely reminder to take extra care on our rural roads. Almost two in every three road deaths occur on rural roads, where long distances, isolation and tough conditions increase the risks. Every trip matters, whether it’s to work, school, or visiting loved ones. By slowing down, staying alert and driving with care, we can all help prevent tragedy and keep our community safe.

Find out more at the Australian Road Safety Foundation’s website: www.arsf.com.au/rural-road-safety-month

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The spectacular Whitsunday venue Elementa Whitsundays has been honoured with a prestigious award for Tourism and Leisure Facilities at the Master Builders Mackay and Whitsunday Housing & Construction Awards. It has cemented the venue as one of Airlie Beach’s most exciting destinations for visitors and locals alike.

The award recognises the vision and dedication behind the hilltop development overlooking the Coral Sea, a project that began as a bold idea more than a decade ago and has since grown into a landmark attraction.

Glenn Hitch said the award was a testament to the craftsmanship and teamwork of all involved in bringing the project to life.

Elementa Whitsundays Highlights The Very Best
Of Airlie Beach And The Whitsundays

Although the vision was clear from the outset, turning it into reality required persistence and collaboration.

“The challenge was getting the idea in my head to be just as clear for everyone else,” Glenn explained. “But I had a lot of help and input from other people. It wasn’t just me, it was a real team effort.”

Among those acknowledged were Cumberland Homes as the principal contractor, along with Gangemi Cabinet Makers, Coastal Brush Painters, Holly Gardner Interior Design, Adfab Industries, Shellco, Andy Manners, and George and Bare Tiling. Each played a role in shaping the award-winning venue into what it is today.

The development first began in 2006 with the purchase of the land, which sat untouched for a decade before the first stage of accommodation was built in 2017.

From the beginning, the goal was to create more than just a place to stay; it was about building something that would be a primary reason for visitors to choose Airlie Beach for weddings, corporate events, and unique Whitsunday experiences.

“We're really proud to win this award, because this is what this building is for, it’s to bring tourists into the town, and that's what it's about,” exclaimed Glenn.

“We're not bringing Melbourne or Sydney to Airlie Beach; we are about showcasing the Whitsundays. So hence the view, hence the gin, hence our menu. Everything is reflecting what the Whitsundays has to offer, and we're doing it in an elevated way.”

In addition to its event spaces, the venue has expanded its offerings to include a distillery, with spirits crafted using locally sourced ingredients, including Whitsunday rainwater. The unique addition, which came during the build, required changes to the original plans but has since become a defining feature.

Glenn said the idea was to capture the Whitsundays not just in the venue, but in their spirits too.

“And we’re having a lot of fun with it,” he said.

Community has also been at the heart of the business, with the venue sponsoring local events such as Race Week and the Airlie Beach Festival of Music.

Glenn said supporting locals is vital to their business. “We’re a community-based business, and we want to see the community do well.”

“Our local clientele are also very important. The second part of that is, if you start to bring in weddings or events from out of town, that will also employ more local businesses, because they're subsidiary to what we do.

Essentially, we're a venue, a distillery, and we're accommodation. But wedding planning, and all these types of events, the more active we are, the better it's going to be for other local businesses

“The more people that come through the doors, everyone wins.”

While originally operating solely as an event venue, the team has gradually opened its doors to the public for ticketed experiences, with 74 Islands Cocktail Club on Friday evenings and an exciting new signature dining series in development.

From award-winning design to a growing reputation as a premier Whitsunday destination, Elementa Whitsundays' future is bright.

And with this latest accolade, the team behind it can take pride in knowing they’ve not only created a world-class facility but also a place that will continue to bring new energy and visitors to Airlie Beach for years to come.

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Eighteen-year-old Jake Duggan is proving that passion and hard work pay off, having been named the MTA Institute Apprentice of the Month for July.

Jake, who is in the second year of his auto electrical apprenticeship, works at Proserpine Auto Air and Electrical. His pathway into the trade began in a roundabout way—when owners Ray and Lisa Boyle asked him to help clean the workshop after school. That part-time job soon evolved into work experience and, before long, a school-based apprenticeship.

Having always been interested in cars, and considering a career as an electrician, Jake quickly realised this trade was the perfect way to combine the two.

“When I was growing up, my dad had earthmoving equipment, trucks and so on, and I just found it interesting,” Jake said.

Now, working alongside Ray, Jake enjoys the diversity of the jobs that come through the business. In an agricultural area like Proserpine, that means not only working on cars and trucks but also machinery and even the occasional aircraft.

“In the summertime, air conditioning is probably our main focus, but we work on the systems in cars, trucks, farming machinery and equipment, even helicopters and planes occasionally,” said Jake.

“And I’m involved any time they have something that’s a bit different. My boss really likes getting a good variety of jobs. At the moment we’re doing dual battery isolator set ups for travellers and caravan owners.”

Jake’s dedication was especially clear earlier this year when a serious road accident left Ray and Lisa away from the business for several weeks. With the help of family members, including Lisa’s father Terry, Jake stepped up to keep the workshop running. He took on stock control, diagnostics, customer service and more.

“To me, that didn’t seem like that big of a thing to do at the time … I just did it,” he said modestly.

His commitment and ability beyond his years has earned high praise from his employers and now state-level recognition. Looking ahead, Jake knows the automotive industry is always evolving and is ready to embrace the changes. Electric vehicles, for example, are already on his radar.

“We don’t see too many around here, but there are a few getting around, and they are becoming a lot more popular,” he said.

“I’m not super-interested in them, but once I have finished my apprenticeship I will look at doing some training to work on them. I want to keep learning, take things as they are and see how things go.”

With his skill, work ethic, and eagerness to learn, it’s clear Jake Duggan has a bright future in the automotive trade.

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Jake Duggan has been named MTA Institute Apprentice of the Month for July (Photo Supplied)

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Red Emperor Constructions, based in Cannonvale, had a successful night at the 2025 Mackay & Whitsunday Housing & Construction Awards.

Director and Owner/Builder, Alistair Sawers accepted 4 Awards, including the highly sought after House of the Year, for the magnificent Haven on Hamilton.

Alistair gracefully thanked the team at Red Emperor Constructions, the trades that contributed to this epic win, as well as Master Builders and all other award recipients. Site Manager, Iain Karon accepted the award for the recently completed Stage 8C of the Grove.

Held at the Mantra Mackay on 9 August, the industry’s night of nights was well attended and enjoyed by Red Emperor Constructions staff and partners.

Master Builders Queensland quoted “Haven on Hamilton is among the most challenging builds Red Emperor Constructions have ever undertaken – but the result is spectacular.

"The team drew high praise from our judges for their planning and innovation transporting materials from the mainland to the steep rocky site, perfectly executed construction and high-end finishes.

"The result is a luxurious island home boasting polished concrete floors, exposed concrete and cedar ceilings, stunning timber joinery, and an infinity edge pool taking in the breathtaking Whitsunday views.”

Red Emperor Constructions won the following awards at the 2025 Master Builders Awards:

• House of the Year Award – Red Emperor Constructions for Haven on Hamilton (Hamilton Island)
• Best Residential Bathroom – Red Emperor Constructions for Haven on Hamilton (Hamilton Island)
• Individual Home from $4 million up to $5 million – Red Emperor Constructions for Haven on Hamilton (Hamilton Island)
• Best Use of Sloping Sites – Red Emperor Constructions for Haven on Hamilton (Hamilton Island)
• Medium Density up to 3 storeys – over 5 dwellings – Red Emperor Constructions for The Grove Stage 8C (Cannonvale)

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The Red Emperor Constructions crew at the 2025 Master Builders Awards. Photo sourced: Facebook

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A stunning 400-square-metre home at Botanica Drive has earned Eastwood Projects their first Master Builders Award, marking a major milestone for the local construction company.

“This was our first time entering the Master Builders Awards, so to come away with a win makes it even more special,” said Gabbi Eastwood from Eastwood Projects.

“We really appreciate how Master Builders celebrate builders and high-quality workmanship, it feels good to be acknowledged for that.”

The intricately designed home, located within the gated estate in Woodwark, took around 14 months to complete and stood out for its craftsmanship and detailed carpentry. The property has since been sold, but its impact has left a lasting impression on the team.

Designed with a strong focus on detail, the home has become a benchmark project for the company, which is now setting its sights on future builds with the hope of further recognition in next year’s awards.

Currently, Eastwood Projects is working on two major projects in Airlie Beach. The first is a striking three-storey modern holiday home at The Beacons on Boathaven Beach. The second is a full renovation of one of the original Airlie Crescent shacks, where the team is set to transform the old structure into a modern residence while preserving its coastal character.

With one award already under their belt and more ambitious projects on the horizon, Eastwood Projects is quickly building a reputation for high-quality design and construction in the Whitsundays.

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Whitsundays-based company Tin Lid Enterprises has achieved its biggest milestone yet, taking out the prestigious Commercial Trade Contractor of the Year award at the Master Builders Awards.

This award, which is the highest at the regional level, now positions the local family-owned business for the state finals in October.

The award recognised Tin Lid’s outstanding work on the region’s new fire station, a project that demanded precision and technical skill. Over three months, the team completed all roofing and wall cladding, installing an impact-resistant system that required pre-drilling and aligning more than 10,000 holes.

Tin Lid Enterprises have been nominated in the Master Builders Awards for the last three years. In 2024, they won Judges' Commendation, but owners Kate Lilly and Nic Buhler always had their eyes set on the Commercial Trade Contractor of the Year award.

Founded in 2021 by Nic and Kate, Tin Lid Enterprises has steadily grown while keeping its close-knit, family approach. The business has trained apprentices, including one who was named Indigenous Apprentice of the Year, and continues to advocate for more young people to consider roofing as a trade.

With the award on their toolbelt, the team is now gearing up for a busy 12 months ahead, taking on major projects including the Mackay Regional Council Resource Centre of Excellence, St Patrick’s College, Carlisle Adventist College, Aldi and Harvey Norman in Cannonvale and extensions for Bunnings.

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Tin Lid Enterprises are proud to have won  Commercial Trade Contractor of the Year award at the Master Builders Awards. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Jay is a young, lovable boy with a heart full of affection and a tail that never stops wagging. He’s been waiting patiently for his second chance, and now he’s ready to find his forever family.
This gorgeous pup is playful, friendly, and loves being around people. He’s the perfect mix of fun and loyalty — always up for an adventure but just as happy to curl up beside you at the end of the day.

Jay’s Perfect Home:
• A kind, loving family who can include him in daily life
• Secure fencing to keep him safe
• Someone ready to give him the time, training, and love he deserves

Jay’s Details:

• Desexed
• Microchipped
• Vaccinated
• Up to date with flea, tick & worming
• Healthy and ready to go home today
• Adoption Fee: $650

Jay has so much love to give — he just needs the right person to give him a chance. Could that be you?

Message Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue with your name and contact number to learn more or arrange a meet-and-greet.

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by Sharon Ashman

Last fortnight, we met the Red Brain – the angry, reactive part that yells, hits, and melts down.
But what about when your child isn’t exploding – they’re withdrawing?

They’re quiet, teary, refusing to talk, or saying things like “I’m dumb,” “No one likes me,” or “I can’t do it.” That’s the Blue Brain.

The Blue Brain is our emotional brain. It’s where sadness, worry, and fear live. It’s where kids feel hurt but don’t know how to ask for help. Unlike the Red Brain, the Blue Brain doesn’t roar – it whispers. And because it’s quieter, it often gets missed.

Children stuck in Blue Brain mode might seem overly sensitive, avoidant, or flat – but underneath, they’re struggling with big feelings they don’t have the words for yet.

In counselling, I help children understand what’s going on inside and teach them how to name their feelings, ask for help, and build emotional resilience. We also work with parents to create safe, connected environments where kids feel seen and heard – even in their lowest moments.

If your child seems down, anxious, or overwhelmed, trust your instincts.

You don’t need to wait for things to “get really bad” to reach out.

Call 0418708214 today to book a counselling session that supports both you and your child.

Next fortnight: What’s the goal of it all? Let’s meet the calm, clever, super problem-solver, Green Brain.

Sharon Ashman
CMHN MPAS GD Psych

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Mackay Reflects On Vietnam Veterans And VP Day

By Hannah McNamara

Mackay recently marked Veterans Day and Victory in the Pacific (VP) Day, honouring the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of Australians who served in the armed forces. From battlefields to skies and seas, veterans faced extraordinary challenges to protect their country and its people.

These commemorations do more than reflect on the past, they pass on stories of valour and service to future generations. Firsthand experiences, like those of Vietnam veterans, help young Australians understand the realities of war, the cost of freedom, and the importance of resilience, courage, and faith.

By remembering those who never returned, supporting those who endured lasting scars, and celebrating acts of heroism, these days ensure that sacrifices are never forgotten. They inspire communities to value peace, uphold gratitude, and foster a sense of duty for generations to come.

Lest We Forget.

Mackay stood in solemn solidarity at Jubilee Park, gathering on Friday, 15th August for VP Day and Monday, 18th August for Vietnam Veterans Day, to honour and remember the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of Australians who served. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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From The Darkness Of War To The Light Of Faith
A Veterans Journey Of Overcoming

By Hannah McNamara

On August 18, as the sun set over Jubilee Park, locals gathered in solidarity to remember, honour and commemorate approximately 60,000 Australians who fought in the Vietnam War.

Adorned with medals and badges, many carried a quiet resilience that spoke volumes of their service and sacrifice. The wider veteran community stood shoulder to shoulder in support, paying tribute to the bravery of those who served.

Whether on the ground as soldiers, at sea with the Royal Australian Navy, or in the skies with the Royal Australian Air Force, each and every person who contributed, whether in combat or transport, deserves to be remembered and recognised.

Many were drafted at just 20 years old, some even younger, to serve their country. Some never returned. Others came home wounded, scarred, and burdened with memories that lingered long after the weapons were laid down.

Today, the focus remains on informing future generations, supporting those who sacrificed so much, and preserving the history that has helped shape our nation.

Among those who stood at Jubilee Park was Peter Loosmore, a living testimony of faith forged through fear. He fought in Vietnam, overcame his dread of dying, and now lives in freedom, despite the deep scars of war.

For him, everything changed one night in 1972.

He recalled the “hot, humid” evening before his first time in combat, when the weight of death pressed heavily on him.

“We were to fly out the next morning.

“I looked up because I was scared of dying, and I said, ‘God, if you are real, please look after me.’”

He had no idea those words would mark the beginning of a new life – one that would later see him sharing his story of faith with hundreds around the world.

The war itself was brutal. Mr Loosmore endured gruelling conditions and witnessed sights he will never forget. When he returned home, the emotional toll manifested in heavy drinking and the struggles of PTSD.

But something else awaited him. After Vietnam, he was introduced to a faith he had never known.

“After returning to Australia safely another soldier shared the gospel message of Jesus Christ and forgiveness of my sins, and to be born again," he said.

“Since that day, I am a born again Christian following Jesus and I now have no fear of dying.

“That was the most positive thing that happened to me in Vietnam.”

Like many veterans, he admitted the years after the war were far from easy.

**“I was drinking really bad. I was a bit of a mess,” he said. **

“But Jesus healed me.”

Conscripted at just 21 through the national service lottery, Mr Loosmore remembers clearly the unique position he held.

“I was one of the last to go,” he recalled. “And one of the last to leave Vietnam.”

Now celebrating his 75th birthday, Mr Loosmore reflects on that desperate prayer whispered before his first patrol.

For him, it remains the turning point of his life.

He continues to encourage others to surrender their fears and embrace the same freedom he found, through faith in Jesus Christ.

Lest We Forget

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Australian Army Training Team Vietnam (AATTV) base at Van Kiep, South Vietnam - where Peter Loosmore cried out for protection before facing his first combat. Photo source: Australian War Memorial

Vietnam veteran Peter Loosmore now serves as a pastor, traveling overseas to preach the gospel and share his story of faith and resilience with communities around the world. Photo source: Peter Loosmore

Mr Loosmore served with the Australian Army in 1972, and faced the harsh realities of combat before finding faith that transformed his life. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Hi everyone, it’s me again!

I had the privilege of attending VP and Vietnam Veterans Day last week. It’s always a great reminder to be thankful for the life we live today, and to honour those who sacrificed their life for us.

You can read all about it on pages 6-7. In particular page 6 is a story close to my heart, as it’s about a local pastor who served in the Vietnam War, and despite the aftermath of traumatic events he endured, he found a light at the end of it all and has been completely healed and transformed by a faith that so dramatically changed my life as well.

We all have our ways of coping with what life throws at us, and it’s stories like this that make you pause and wonder… what’s actually out there? Is there something higher than us, and if so, what or who is it?

Often, it’s only when we face deep heartache, endure challenges we never imagined, or stumble onto unexpected paths that we discover answers. Some see only coincidence, others turn to magic or religion, but I simply believe in a saving grace that each of us encounters at some point in life.

Maybe you’re going through a rough patch, or maybe life is treating you well – either way, I encourage you to remain grateful, cherish those around you, and hold onto the hope that something greater guides us all.

“And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.” - Galatians‬ ‭6‬:‭9‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

• Hannah

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Mackay’s Chances House, a vital drop-in centre providing meals, basic amenities, healthcare assistance, case management, and even pet care for people experiencing homelessness, has received a generous boost from the local community. A two-day fundraising event hosted by Mackay Line Dancing raised an impressive $8,500 to support the organisation’s ongoing work.

A representative from Chances House expressed deep gratitude for the initiative, saying, “Our hearts are full! A very special thank you to Mackay Line Dancing for hosting such a fabulous 2-day event in support of Chances House.

“Through your incredible effort, joy and generosity, an amazing $8,500 was raised!”

The organisation said funds will go a long way in helping Chances House continue providing safety, support and hope for those who need it most, noting the important role the community plays in sustaining its services.

“To everyone who danced, donated and joined in the fun – you are part of the reason we can keep opening our doors with love and compassion.”

Chances House remains a cornerstone for vulnerable members of the Mackay community, offering essential support that empowers individuals to regain stability and dignity.

The spokesperson concluded, “We are so deeply grateful for your kindness. From all of us at Chances House.... thank you for dancing with purpose and making a difference.”

This fundraising success serves as a reminder that acts of generosity, no matter how big or small, can make a lasting impact on those who need it most.

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It’s been a busy and rewarding week here in Mackay, with plenty happening across housing, science, public safety, and our vital primary industries. There’s never a dull moment — and that’s exactly how we like it.

We welcomed Minister for Housing and Public Works and Minister for Youth, Sam O’Connor, to Mackay to see firsthand the challenges we face in housing, as well as the people working hard to create real change.

A highlight was opening a new social housing facility in North Mackay. New resident Heather proudly showed us her home — a powerful reminder of the dignity safe housing brings. We also visited the Mackay Housing Services team and spoke with frontline staff about their essential work. I took the Minister on a tour of areas affected by homelessness and visited Chances House, where my $1 million election commitment will help expand meals and increase staffing for vulnerable locals.

Over lunch, we met with fantastic local organisations — CASA, Kalyan House, YIRS, and Mudth-Niyleta — all doing vital work to connect people with safe housing.

Under the new state budget, $44.1 million has been allocated to social and community housing in Mackay and the Whitsundays, with 110 homes currently under construction or contract. This forms part of a broader plan to deliver 53,500 new social homes by 2044, in partnership with the Australian Government.

We also welcomed Mackay’s newest police recruits — a proud moment and a reminder of the critical role public safety plays in our region.

As a member of the Primary Industries Committee, I helped launch the Primary Industries Prosper 2050 roadmap — a 25-year vision built on six months of consultation, unlocking new opportunities for our local farmers, fishers, and producers.

To celebrate National Science Week, we kicked off a new round of Engaging Science Grants, offering up to $25,000 for STEM events, community science projects, and initiatives celebrating First Nations knowledge.

Finally, mark your calendar for Digital Detox: A Night to Rethink Tech on Tuesday, 2 September. International speaker Brad Huddleston will be in Mackay to share insights on digital addiction and how we can reconnect with ourselves and each other.

It’s been a week of innovation, collaboration, and community spirit — just the way we like it in Mackay.

Contributed with thanks to Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton.

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Kayliegh taking Minister O’Connor and I for a tour of Chances House

Opening the new social housing in North Mackay with Minister Sam O’Connor and Glen Kelly MP.

Celebrating Science Week with the Year 9 Students at Whitsunday Anglican School.

Welcoming the new police recruits to the Mackay Whitsunday Police District. Photos supplied

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Mackay Youth Experience The Thrill Of Sailing

Excitement and smiles filled the waters of the Mackay Harbour last week as the Making Waves Foundation brought the thrill of sailing to the region. As part of its Northern Campaign 2025, the foundation kicked off the first of six ports along Queensland’s coast and Northern NSW, offering free, inclusive sailing programs for youth living with disabilities, many of whom were stepping aboard a boat for the very first time.

Mayor Greg Williamson joined the community to celebrate the campaign, praising the initiative as a unique opportunity for children.

“This is an absolutely outstanding venture that’s making waves every year. It takes the young people in our community who will not normally have an opportunity to do something like this,” he said.

Reflecting on the previous group of school students who attended, he said, “The group I’ve just met absolutely loved it.”

Mary Anne, one of the program coordinators, described the excitement for the children.

“We were hoping for calmer weather so we could get out to see some whales, but we’ve been having a lot of fun just in and out of the harbor, venturing out into the big waves… Everybody has come on and is having an absolutely fantastic time,” she said.

She reflected on the privilege of taking the young participants out.

“It’s really special and humbling to be out here with the kids. It's absolutely fantastic. I love seeing people who don’t normally go sailing, and have the best time.”

Grade 6 students from Glenella State School also shared their experiences.

Max said, “I liked when the water was choppy since it was really fun… just being with people and coming here and making new friends was really good.”

Beau added, “We went sailing out in the water. It was a bit choppy but we went out just a couple of times to see how it was… It's really good because I haven’t been on a boat in a while, and it's really good to experience it.”

Running since 2022, the Winds of Joy program continues to provide Mackay youth with hands-on sailing experiences, fostering confidence, camaraderie, and a love for the water.

The Northern Campaign 2025 will continue at Airlie Beach, Rosslyn Bay, Gladstone, Southport, and Coffs Harbour, bringing free, inclusive sailing experiences to even more young Australians.

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The Making Waves Foundation’s Northern Campaign 2025 kicked off in Mackay, giving local youth living with disabilities a thrilling, hands-on sailing experience that fostered confidence, camaraderie, and a love for the water. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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