Proserpine State High School students were treated to history coming to life with a special World War II Commemorative Convoy stopping at the school.

The commemorative convoy was led by Rockhampton Returned Services League members who are travelling to Townsville to commemorate the Victory Pacific 80th anniversary of the end of World War II and remember all who served in the Australian Military during that difficult time.

Dressing in Australian WWII period uniforms and driving authentically restored WWII trucks, jeeps and motorcycles, the gentlemen also have the special task of delivering an Official Commemorative Message to the Mayor of Townsville.

Rockhampton RSL VP80 Convoy Organiser, David Bell, said the aim of the school visit was to preserve and increase awareness about Australian wartime heritage and the experiences of service personnel during that era.

“It’s about us paying respect to those who fought and claimed victory as Australia would look very different today had there been a different outcome,” he said.

“We’re just doing our bit to keep their memory alive.”

The remarkable collection of items included a 1941 Oldsmobile sedan, 1943 Willys Jeep and trailer, a Ford Army Jeep, motorcycles, weapons and more.

Acting Head of Department – Humanities Brigette Foot said when connecting our young people with veterans, history is no longer something they read in a book or online, it becomes something they feel.

“Hearing their personal stories, marked by courage, humanity and resilience, offered a mesmerising, raw and chilling reminder that history truly lives in the voices of those who have served,” she said.

“Our Year 10 History and Year 11 and 12 Modern History students are profoundly grateful to the Rockhampton RSL VP80 Convoy for sharing their time and memories - reminding us all that service to something greater than yourself can bring empathy, hope and compassion into our future.”

‍

With Pastor Andy Wilson From Whitsunday Baptist Church

Are we looking at the right statistics in the right way? For decades, society has rightly fought for women’s rights. But in the process, have some men been left behind? In the 1960s and ’70s, Australia introduced no-fault divorce laws, initially to protect women—especially those abandoned by husbands. These laws allowed women to retain the family home and often full custody of the children. At the time, it was a necessary reform. But five decades on, some are asking: do these laws now unfairly disadvantage men?

Whitsunday Pastor Andy Wilson married his high school sweetheart when he was just 21 years old. The couple went on to have four children together, bought a house in Brisbane and Andy ran his own business while his wife opted to be a stay at home mother. For many years life was idyllic, but then the marriage started to become strained.

Desperate to rekindle the spark Andy tried to woo his wife again, buying her flowers, leaving little notes for her to find and reading ‘Seven Ways To Be A Hero’ about how to win your wife back. He also sold their boat to renovate the kitchen and invested time improving the house so she could be happy.

Sadly, none of his efforts worked and he was asked to move out of the family home.

Andy rented a small room nearby to stay close to the children. Without a suitable home for overnight stays, and while continuing to financially support the family, he found himself paying over $500 per week in child support.

Meanwhile, his wife left for France on a holiday. During this time, Andy had access to the house while he was looking after the children. It was on one of these days that he saw a handwritten letter from France and curiosity got the better of him. The letter confirmed his suspicions: it was a love note to his wife.

Later that same day he looked on the family computer and discovered multiple images of his wife wearing different outfits. On each of them she had a black eye. He recalled her receiving this injury when their son accidentally swung his head into her. But here, it looked like a set-up. He realised, she was using this to try and incriminate him into a domestic violence allegation.

Andy took the hard drive and when his wife returned home she phoned him up rattled, trying to get him to admit to destroying the evidence. Andy recalls feeling like the police were listening in.

Though ultimately Andy wasn’t charged, the experience left him shaken. After speaking with a lawyer friend, Andy was told the legal battle would be lengthy and costly— his wife likely to receive up to 80% of the assets. Rather than fight, he chose to walk away and start over.

Sadly, Andy’s story isn’t uncommon. Many men report losing their homes, finances, and access to their children following divorce. While domestic violence laws are vital for protecting victims, some allege they are misused during custody disputes. Research suggests that separation and family court issues are contributing factors in male suicide. According to Dads In Distress, a national support group, separated men are six times more likely to die by suicide than their married counterparts.

Fortunately, Andy was one of the lucky ones. He may have walked away without any money, but he was able to see his children. He also met and fell in love with a beautiful woman and was able to become a caring stepfather to her two children.

Andy also discovered his true calling which is ministry – to build God’s church right here in the Whitsundays. Since December last year Andy has been the Pastor at Whitsundays Baptist Church, where his candid and uplifting sermons have grown the congregation.
His journey, however, could have ended very differently.
“I honestly believe after losing everything that without my faith in Jesus I would have been another suicide statistic,” shared Andy.

“After what happened I had every reason to hate but hate but hate locks you in a prison of bitterness. The sun will rise again - hang in there and don’t give up, because I am testament to how life does get better.”

‍

By Sharon Ashman

You can’t talk to an angry brain.

Have you ever tried reasoning with a child in the middle of a meltdown? It doesn’t work – and here’s why.

When your child is yelling, hitting, throwing things, or just completely losing it, they’re not being “naughty” – they’re in their Red Brain. This is the reactive, survival part of the brain – I call it the T-Rex Zone. It’s all fight, flight, or freeze – and it takes over when kids feel overwhelmed, unsafe, or out of control.

In Red Brain mode, logic goes out the window. This is not the time for consequences or deep conversations. It’s the time for calm, connection, and safety. Once your child feels regulated again, then their “thinking brain” can come back online.

As a child counsellor, I work with kids (and their parents!) to understand these brain states – and to build real strategies for calming down, recognising triggers, and shifting out of Red Brain faster.

If your home is full of yelling, big reactions, or you're walking on eggshells – you are not alone.

Let’s help your child tame their T-Rex and rediscover their calm.

Call 0418708214  to book a supportive counselling session or explore our webpage personaltransitions.com.au

Next fortnight : What’s going on when your child suddenly shuts down or bursts into tears?

Meet the Blue Brain.

‍

Sharon Ashman
CMHN MPAS GD Psych

‍

Forty years ago, on July 24, 1985, Kelsey Creek joined the age of modern telecommunications.
Kelsey Creek was the last country exchange functioning in the Mackay District. While the transformation to a new automatic exchange provided subscribers with up-to-date phones and services, many missed the personal service provided by Marie Fraser, the operator of this manual exchange at the time. Marie had tended that country hook up from 1968 – 1985 running the service from the bottom floor of the family’s two-storey farmhouse after taking over from the Trotter family.

Initially, the exchange operated part-time from 8am – 1pm and from 2pm – 10pm which gave the Fraser family with their four children some free time. There were times during floods and bushfires when Marie and husband, Phil, manned the phone all night to connect emergency calls.

As the population grew, the exchange was made a 24 hour service to keep up with the calls in and out of Dittmer Gold Mine. This effectively meant that unless Marie could find someone to relieve her, she was tied to the job 24 hours a day; 7 days a week.

When the Frasers first manned the exchange, they had 485 calls in 28 days. In May 1983, that number had increased to 2293 calls for the same period. But all the family knew how to operate the exchange if need be. Only once did Marie have to shut down and that was when all the children were at school and Phil was out on the farm – and Marie had tonsilitis and could not speak.

In her time as operator, Marie became confidante, co-ordinator, advertiser, and information service to the small close-knit Kelsey Creek community. She was used as a counsellor for the lonely; a co-ordinator for fires and floods and an advertiser for local community groups. If Marie received a call from one of the farms, they would often simply say, “We’ve got a fire!” and hang up so Marie would ring around neighbours to assist -  all part of the service.

It was not unusual for a casual caller asking for mates by Christian name only such as, “Could ya get Charlie or Joe?’ Mmmm which Charlie or Joe? If a caller asked for a number or a particular person, Marie was able to tell them they had gone to town because she had seen the car drive past. Then there were requests for function dates, recipes and knitting patterns; even appeals such as how to catch a porcupine!

With the updating of the Kelsey exchange, the era of personal telephone service came to an end. Gone was the convenience of contacting the exchange for information (on any subject; not just relating to phone calls) and leaving messages to be passed on to others.

In place of the old farmhouse-cum-telephone exchange was a series of squat white boxes housing the technology which brought Kelsey Creek to the rest of the world. While residents were then able to ring direct anywhere, at any time, not all were totally happy with the change and admitted they would miss Marie’s familiar, friendly and calming voice at the end of the line.

At Marie’s suggestion, the old manual exchange was kept in the shire and is on display at the Proserpine Museum. Why not pop in and check out this wonderful reminder of the past.

Story and photo courtesy of Proserpine Historical Museum. Information also sourced from the “Proserpine Guardian”.

‍

It was another action-packed week on the green for Wangaratta Bowls Club, with strong turnouts across all competitions.

Monday’s triples winners were Eileen Dunn, John F., and Geof Col, who defeated Grant Ingh, Bob Lindsay, and Leon Fox. Runners-up were Dave Richard, Bob Agg, and Denis Madeley, who overcame Buff Graham and Kennedy. The jackpot remained unclaimed.

On Tuesday, the club hosted a full green for President Margaret’s Day, proudly sponsored by Tropical Beach Caravan Park. The morning’s bowls were followed by lunch and a cent sale. Special guests included North Queensland President Lyn and three visiting ladies from Townsville, along with players from Airlie Beach, Ayr, Brandon, and Thuringowa. Afternoon winners were Allan Gillies, Lyn Sara, and Robyn Stitt, defeating Gail Simms, Beryl Cornford, and Heather Jorgensen. Second place went to Carol Bellingham, Sandra Stitson, Helen, and Pam Power, while third place was claimed by June Paynting, Louise S./Collins, and Fely Duncan. The jackpot again didn’t go off.

Fun Friday winners were Owen, Heather, and Allan, who beat Mary, Judy, and Julie. Runners-up were Carole, Ed, and Grant, defeating Barbara, Tom, and Graham. The evening was capped off with a sausage sizzle and barefoot bowls.

Sunday’s full-green afternoon, sponsored by Life Members Pat and Neil Tracey, featured another great turnout. Pat’s famous soup was enjoyed after play. Winners were Sue Symmons, Shirley Jones, Daryl McStravick, and John Hallas, defeating D. Hallas, J. McStravick, B. Thompson, and Jim Quod. Runners-up were Carole Bellingham, Jan Harvey, Ron Bosma, and Joe Paynting, who beat Karen, Pam, Alan Gillies, and Dave Madden.

The jackpot remained elusive.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

‍

Pat Tracey, Shirley Jones, Sue Symmons, John Hallas, Daryl Mc Stravik, and Neil Tracey. Photo supplied

‍

Mackay’s Cricket Scorecard Challenge Starts Now

Mackay is ready to bat above and beyond this August, as the Great Barrier Reef Arena steps up to host men’s international cricket for the very first time. This landmark event, featuring top-tier teams like Australia and South Africa, promises to ignite the city’s passion for the sport while showcasing the region’s vibrant spirit.

To celebrate, the Discover Mackay Cricket Scorecard Challenge invites locals and visitors alike to explore the stunning sights and hidden gems of the region through a fun, interactive adventure. With exciting prizes on offer and a full calendar of thrilling matches, including women’s and men’s contests.

Mackay is ready to shine on the international sporting stage, creating unforgettable memories and economic boosts, all while inviting everyone to step up to the crease and join in the excitement.

Mackay is gearing up for a historic August as the Great Barrier Reef Arena hosts its first men’s international cricket matches, celebrating the sport and the region with an exciting community challenge and a lineup of thrilling games. Photo credit: Hannah Mcnamara

‍

Go Cricket Crazy
International Action Hits Home

Mackay is ready to hit cricket for six this August, with international matches, family fun, and a brand-new way to explore our beautiful backyard.

For the first time, the Great Barrier Reef Arena will host men’s international cricket, and Mackay Regional Council is marking the milestone with the Discover Mackay Cricket Scorecard Challenge in an adventure that combines sport, sightseeing, and more than $5000 in prizes.

The challenge runs from August 7 to 31, encouraging locals and visitors to “step up to the crease” and rack up runs by completing activities across the region. Whether you’re going solo or teaming up with family and friends, every challenge completed adds to your score.
Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson officially launched the program at Fifth Lane, calling it a perfect match for the city’s biggest-ever month of cricket.

“It’s the biggest month for cricket in Mackay we’ve ever seen. We’ve got T20s and ODIs, including Australia playing South Africa, all at the Great Barrier Reef Arena. I think this will be one of the most celebrated months for cricket ever.”

On the scorecard challenge itself, the Mayor said, “Pick up one of these scorecards from the council website, the Arena, Southern Cross Austereo, or any council service centre, and get as many runs as you can by completing challenges. There’s about $5,000 in prize money to be won.

“It’s a fantastic way to celebrate cricket here in Mackay this August.”

Adrian Young, CEO of Harrup Park and General Manager of the Great Barrier Reef Arena, said the scale of events this month was unprecedented.

“It’s the biggest month of cricket we’ve ever held in the region and the first time we’ve hosted men’s international games at the Great Barrier Reef Arena.

“We’ve got three contests with Australia A women taking on India A women in T20s. Then at the end of the month, the Australian men’s team will play South Africa in ODIs on August 22 and 24.”

He added that tickets were designed to make it easy for families to get involved.

“Tickets are just $20 for adults and $5 for kids… it’s going to be a great day out.

“Get your cricket scorecard, see the sights around Mackay, and enjoy the cricket.”

The buzz is also being felt by the next generation of players.

Eleven-year-old twins Spencer and Scarlett Faulkner are among the youngest fans ready to soak up the action.

Spencer said, “I’ve been playing cricket since I was four and it’s unbelievable to see Australia’s men’s team come to take on South Africa at the Great Barrier Reef Arena.”

Scarlett is looking forward to the Australia vs India T20 clash.

“I’m very excited for the Australia versus India T20 cricket game at the Great Barrier Reef Arena. I even got to see Alyssa Healy last night at the ten years of celebrating Pioneer Valley Girls Cricket.”

Her advice to other girls thinking about picking up a bat, is simply, “Just get in there.”

With prizes including Cricket Australia merch packs, beach towels, mini bats, and jigsaw puzzles, there’s plenty of incentive to explore.

Participants can download a scorecard at www.mackay.qld.gov.au/scorecard or collect one from the Great Barrier Reef Arena, Southern Cross Austereo, any council service centre, or local library.

Mackay’s biggest cricket month kicks off with international games and a Discover Mackay Scorecard Challenge offering $5,000+ in prizes. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

‍

Hi everyone,

What a week it’s been!

Sport is thriving across our region – from the recent Wanderers footy carnival featured on page 41, to the excitement building as the Great Barrier Reef Arena prepares to host men’s international cricket for the first time later this month, which you can read all about on page 38.

On a more personal note, I want to take a moment to encourage you to check in – with yourself and those around you.

Last week, I attended the official launch of the Universal Aftercare program at Mackay Base Hospital, which supports people on the road to recovery after a suicide attempt.

It’s easy to get caught up in the busyness of life, but it’s vital to pause and reach out to your mates – because tomorrow is never promised.

As a journalist, I have the privilege of sharing stories about inspiring locals and meeting wonderful people. Yet, I also write about those lost to tragic circumstances. Though I may not have known them personally, my heart aches for the families and friends left behind.

This week we are also mourning the loss of another young man’s life who tragically passed away in a traffic accident, sometimes life feels so unfair.

Tomorrow truly isn’t promised. So please, appreciate the loved ones around you, check in on your friends, offer support, and pray for those grieving or struggling in any way you can.

Romans 12:10 reminds us: “Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honouring each other.”

Because love conquers all.

   Hannah

‍

Edie Weiss Honoured As Pyjama Angel Of The Year

The Mackay community recently celebrated one of its own, Edie Weiss, who was named Pyjama Angel of the Year at the Mackay Pyjama Foundation Awards. This special event recognises volunteers who selflessly support children in out-of-home care, offering them hope and stability through mentorship.

Edie has made a remarkable impact by dedicating one hour each week to a child in need. Through the Pyjama Foundation’s trauma-informed program, she reads, learns, and builds a consistent relationship that provides much-needed support to children facing difficult circumstances.

Nigel Datlon, who attended the ceremony, said, “It’s called the ‘power of an hour’ – and for children who’ve experienced a fragile start, that one hour a week can be life-changing.”

“Enid’s story is a reminder of the powerful impact one person can have,” Mr Dalton said.

Since its inception in 2004, the Pyjama Foundation has delivered over 1.1 million hours of support to more than 15,800 children across Australia, training over 11,000 volunteers known as Pyjama Angels. In Mackay, 29 children currently have a mentor, while 11 more are still waiting for someone to step in and make a difference.

Edie’s story shines a light on the extraordinary effect that consistent care and compassion can have on vulnerable children. Her commitment to giving her time and heart shows how one person’s efforts can change a child’s life forever. Mackay thanks Edie for her generosity and compassion in helping shape brighter futures.

‍

Mackay’s Edie Weiss was named Pyjama Angel of the Year for her life-changing weekly mentorship of a child in need. Photo source: Nigel Dalton MP (Facebook)

‍

In a move set to shape Mackay’s next chapter, council chambers confirmed last Monday, August 11, that Gerard Carlyon will step in as Mackay Regional Council’s new Chief Executive Officer.

The decision, made during a special meeting, marks a homecoming for Mr Carlyon, who will take up the role at the end of September after previously serving the region as Director of Community Services and Director of Planning from 2009 to 2018.

Mr Carlyon said returning to Mackay was very much a homecoming for his family.

“I love Mackay – my daughter was born here in the Mater Hospital and much of our family and many of our friends are here,” Mr Carlyon said.

“I’m honoured to be rejoining the Mackay Regional Council team and I look forward to listening and learning from the community, councillors and staff so we can build on the region’s strengths and deliver great outcomes for residents,” he said.

“The region – from the Pioneer Valley to the beaches and down to Sarina – is just beautiful and the council is an amazingly progressive council with a positive mindset that is focused on community improvement.

“I know staff attraction and retention is an issue facing the entire Mackay region, so I really want to make council a delightful place to work; I want people to enjoy coming to work each day and I want to engage and listen to staff to make that happen.”

Mr Carlyon joins council from Fraser Coast Regional Council, where he currently serves as Deputy CEO.

With more than two decades of senior leadership experience across State and Local Government, Mr Carlyon brings a wealth of expertise in regional and economic development, strategic planning, community services, environmental management and major project delivery.

Mayor Greg Williamson said Mr Carlyon was a highly respected leader with a deep understanding of our region and the challenges and opportunities ahead.

“We’re thrilled to have someone of his calibre and experience leading our organisation into the future,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Gerard has a very strong connection with the Mackay region and he is passionate about working with and engaging with the community, which makes him an ideal choice to guide the council through its next chapter,” he said.

Mr Carlyon said his time in the Fraser Coast had taught him how vitally important sustainable development was in a rapidly growing region.

“The Mackay region and Fraser Coast have a lot of similarities around geographic size and the makeup of rural and residential communities – Mackay is also poised for a period of rapid growth.

“I’m looking forward to being part of that next period and helping to deliver key projects like future stages of the Finch Hatton Mountain Bike Trails and the Northern Beaches Community Hub.”

Mayor Greg Williamson said council extended its sincere thanks to the Acting CEO David McKendry “who had been a steady hand on the tiller” during the transitionary period.

Mr Carlyon’s appointment signals a new era of leadership as Mackay Regional Council looks ahead to growth, innovation, and community-focused progress.

‍

Gerard Carlyon has been appointed Mackay Regional Council’s new CEO, returning to the region in September to lead it into a period of growth and community-focused progress. Photo source: Mackay Regional Council

On August 11, Mackay Regional Council appointed Gerard Carlyon as its new CEO, ushering in a new era of leadership. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

‍

The students of Mackay West State School had the honour of hosting a momentous occasion this week, as an official Australian Flag, previously flown over Parliament House in Canberra, was brought to the school by the Speaker of the House, the Hon.Milton Dick, as part of the Parliament in Schools program and National Flag Roadshow.

This national initiative was made even more special with the visit marking the first time a Speaker has visited the electorate of Dawson. The visit was proudly facilitated by Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, who expressed his deep pride in welcoming such a significant event to the region.

“Having the Speaker of the House here in Dawson for the first time ever, is something I’m incredibly proud of,” said Mr Willcox. “It’s a great opportunity for our young people to connect to our democratic process, and this visit has done just that.”

During the visit, students took part in a fun yet educational mock division of Parliament, debating one of Australia's most pressing questions, ‘should pineapple go on pizza?’
After an official vote, the chamber ruled – no pineapple.

The students were then move outside to get up close to the giant Australian Flag, the size of a double decker bus.

Mr Willcox said he hoped this would be the first of many such visits to the region and has already extended a second invitation to the Speaker.

“Our kids deserve to see and experience what democracy looks like, no matter where they live. Today was about bringing a little taste of Parliament to them, and I think we’ve inspired the next generation of leaders right here in Mackay.”

‍

Over 35,000 Teachers Strike Over Extreme Workloads, And Lack Of Support

Queensland classrooms faced significant disruption last Wednesday after more than 35,000 teachers walked off the job for 24 hours, citing concerns over school safety, unsustainable workloads, and deteriorating conditions – concerns they say the government continues to ignore.

Despite official statements from the Department of Education claiming schools would remain “operational” with “limited disruption,” many within the profession and school communities said that painted an inaccurate picture.

“School principals were forced to send the email you received,” one anonymous teacher told community members.

“All schools sent out pretty much the same info, whether they wanted to or not. I know my principal was appalled at having to send the letter dictated to them.”

“Ed Qld are pretending like schools could safely carry on without teachers... There were over 35,000 teachers who voted for this strike. For Ed Qld to say there would be limited disruption with 30,000+ teachers not at school was actually a huge slap in the face, and wasn't even accurate.”

The Queensland Teachers’ Union (QTU) had formally rejected multiple offers from the Department of Education in July, leading to last Wednesday’s state-wide stop-work action. According to the department, the matter was referred to the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission.

While the department maintained that “schools would remain operational” and that “student safety and wellbeing” were a priority, frontline education workers said that assurance failed to reflect the reality on the ground.

Prior to the strike, one local teacher said, “We are actually really worried about the teacher aides and students, especially since one of the reasons we are striking is because of increased workplace violence.”

A teacher aide, who also wished to remain anonymous, echoed those concerns.

“On a normal day it is a stressful job worrying about our and the kids’ safety, let alone a day without teachers there. I really hope most parents considered keeping their kids home.”

The Department’s public messaging around business-as-usual reportedly caused confusion and frustration among some families.

One local mother shared her view on the situation.

“As much as I can empathise with the teachers, I didn't have the opportunity to keep them home. I also work and I couldn’t afford to take leave without pay. Again, not because I don’t respect the teachers. I wish them all the best and hope they gain what they deserve from the strike.”

Another parent was more critical of the official narrative.

“Schools were directed to tell families there would be no disruption. It's all part of the games they’re playing to harm our teachers’ chances of improved conditions and pay.”

At the core of the strike action were what teachers described as unsafe classrooms and impossible workloads. While salary negotiations were ongoing, many educators insisted that pay was far from their main concern.

“It’s not just about pay. Actually, pay is probably the thing teachers are least concerned about,” one teacher said.

“Mostly it’s about safe classrooms and reduced workload — reducing pointless red tape that doesn’t help our kids learn, but rather hinders it.”

Teachers pointed to the mounting unpaid demands they face, such as afterschool staff meetings, report writing and assessment, parent-teacher interviews and stakeholder meetings, and attendance at school camps, often with no overtime or time in lieu

“We earn nothing to go spend an extra 19 'units' of our lives away from our own families — not even a day in lieu,” the teacher explained.

“The government offered us a $100 bonus for overnight camps to try and entice us to take their 2.5% pay rise that doesn't even meet inflation.”

The QTU has reiterated that the strike aimed to push for genuine reform, safer classrooms, less bureaucratic red tape, and proper recognition of the escalating demands placed on educators.

While the Department stated it was committed to achieving a negotiated outcome that values our Queensland state school educators, many on the ground said those words would ring hollow without meaningful change.

“Housing safety. Education safety. Child safety. It’s all connected,” said one teacher.

“This isn’t a day off. It’s a cry for help.”

‍

Hundreds gathered at the Bluewater Quay and 500 Pavilion last Wednesday as over 35,000 teachers from across the state struck, demanding safer classrooms and better working conditions. Photo source: Rosie Dhumbara Gangalidda (Facebook)

‍

Panic disorder, or reoccurring panic attacks, can be a debilitating condition which significantly impacts quality of life and two Mackay psychiatrists are keen to explore a potential solution for those willing to join a clinical trial.

Psychiatrist and clinical trial lead Dr Alok Rana says patients describe panic disorder as all-consuming.

“Their life actually goes on hold,” Dr Rana said.

“There are triggers which are outside the house, so they start confining within the house.

“Also, they struggle to drive so they lose their independence as well.

“Some people may struggle to carry on with jobs because the stressors at the job or stressors anywhere in life can bring these panic attacks on.”

Mackay Institute of Research and Innovation (MIRI), the research arm of Mackay Hospital and Health Service, is now recruiting patients between 18 and 65 years of age diagnosed with reoccurring panic attacks for a clinical trial focused on improving symptoms.

The study aims to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of a potential new oral treatment.

“We are using a combination of two medications, which are already used for physical health issues and widely used in the population,” Dr Rana said.

“So we know that these are safe medications.”

Assisting on the trial, psychiatrist Dr Graham Pasternak is passionate about finding treatments that are less likely to cause addiction.

“An interesting thing about this combination drug is that it's not tolerance or dependence forming, whereas if you provide Valium to these people, there can be immediate relief, but long term you develop significant dependence,” Dr Pasternak said.

“And then we see later, addiction and other sorts of co-existing disorders.”

Trial participants will have access to ongoing support from the clinical trials unit throughout the 15-week study period.

It’s hoped the new treatment will prove effective in reducing the frequency and severity of panic attacks.

Recruitment will continue through to December or until participant targets are met.

For information about eligibility and taking part in the trial, contact the clinical trials team on 4885 7561 or email mackay-clinical-trials@health.qld.gov.au

Supplied by Mackay Hospital and Health Service

‍

Mackay psychiatrists are seeking participants for a clinical trial testing a new, safe medication to reduce recurring panic attacks and improve daily life. Photo supplied

‍

Mackay Welcomes Launch Of Universal Aftercare Program

A new chapter in suicide prevention has officially begun in Mackay, with the launch of the Universal Aftercare program – a much-needed support service for locals aged 15 and over who have experienced a suicide attempt or suicidal crisis.

Launched last Friday at the Mackay Base Hospital courtyard, the initiative represents a powerful collaboration between Wellways Australia, Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS), and Northern Queensland Primary Health Network (NQPHN). The program has been quietly operating since January, already assisting more than 30 local families through one of the toughest times of their lives.

Funded jointly by the Queensland and Commonwealth Governments, the Universal Aftercare program is free and focused on person-centred recovery. It bridges the crucial gap between clinical care and ongoing community support, helping people re-engage with life in a safe and meaningful way.

Kara McCormack, NQPHN Operations Director for Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drugs, said the program was about “supporting people in ways that meet them where they are.”

“We’re very excited to have this initiative, funded by the state and Commonwealth, that is designed to support people in crisis,” Ms McCormack said.

“What’s most exciting is that we’ve been able to localise it by listening to our community in Mackay and surrounding areas, and building a service that reflects what people here really need.”

This approach is personal for many in the community, including Amy Marklay, a local woman who lost her 17-year-old nephew to suicide and later struggled to get timely support for her teenage daughter.

“It took me three months to get help for my daughter,” she said.

“We were turned away by multiple agencies, because she was ‘too young’ for most services.

“This kind of program would have made all the difference.”

The service offers tailored support in the critical months following a crisis, from building safety plans and navigating services to reconnecting with family and purpose.

Wellways Queensland General Manager Zoe Evans said Friday’s event was more than a launch, it was a shared moment of hope.

“It’s a recognition of everyone who’s walked alongside us to bring this to life,” she said.

“This is about creating safer, more supportive systems for people in distress.”

Mackay HHS Chief Executive Susan Gannon agreed, emphasising the strength of collaboration.

“Universal Aftercare fills a critical gap by offering continuity, care, and connection beyond the hospital walls,” she said.

“It shows what’s possible when clinical and non-clinical services work together.”

Currently, referrals to Universal Aftercare can be made exclusively by Mackay HHS clinical staff, ensuring the service reaches those in greatest need.

As the program expands across regional Queensland, including launches in Townsville and future plans for Cape and Torres communities, leaders say it is just the beginning of a wider cultural shift around mental health support in the regions.

And for Amy, her message to those fighting silent battles is to simply, speak up.

“Don’t be afraid to ask for help… whether it’s a parent, friend, teacher, or doctor,” she said.

“You’re never alone.”

“I’m so grateful my daughter got the help she needs and I just hope others can do the same through this program.”

‍

Universal Aftercare has launched in Mackay, offering free, local support for people 15+ after a suicide attempt or crisis. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

‍

For the first time in more than 10 years, Mackay will experience the full power and prestige of the Queensland Symphony Orchestra (QSO) when they perform Northern Lights & Southern Stars on Thursday, the 30th of October, at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC).

“This is the real McCoy,” said Andrew Bobeldyk, Executive Manager of MECC and Events.

“Not a chamber group, not a scaled down version, this is the full Queensland Symphony Orchestra, all 55 musicians, right here in Mackay.”

Led by conductor Sam Weller and featuring baritone Jake Lyle, the QSO will deliver a spectacular program ranging from the drama of In the Hall of the Mountain King to the elegance of Ravel’s Pavane for a Dead Princess and the vibrant energy of Chloé Charody’s My Australia.

“This is the first time in over 10 years we’ve had an orchestra of this calibre in our region, and we are thrilled to bring this level of musical excellence to our community,” Mr Bobeldyk said.

The visit also includes Orchestral Adventures, two specially tailored education concerts giving Mackay’s primary and secondary students the rare chance to experience a world-class orchestra up close.

“This is a special opportunity for our aspiring young musicians,” Mr Bobeldyk said.

“Our students in Mackay will be able to experience a world-class orchestra and learn from the best. This could be the spark that shapes a lifelong passion.”

Tickets are available now via www.themecc.com.au.

‍

Council has officially endorsed a strategy to revitalise the Mackay City Centre and Waterfront.

Mackay Waterfront Place Strategy is a visionary roadmap designed to transform the City Centre and Riverside precincts into vibrant, inclusive and thriving destinations.

The strategy outlines some quick win actions like activating or screening empty commercial tenancies, adding more shade, cleaning up the Gregory Street bus shelter and improving the appeal of the Riverside Precinct.

It also identifies some vital long-term actions like supporting the growth of a vibrant City Centre evening economy and enhancing the Wood Street and Victoria Street roundabout area as the city’s central landmark.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the strategy was shaped by extensive community and stakeholder engagement and was developed in collaboration with external consultants Fourfold Studios and POMO.

“We were blown away by the level of positive energy surrounding this project,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Council conducts community engagement on all of our strategies, but this was different,” he said.

“Stakeholders didn’t just want to ‘have their say’ – they wanted to get involved.

“Residents were brimming with ideas, creativity and energy to drive positive change.

“When the team presented the draft strategy at the Spark Wood Street event – which was an event designed to showcase what simple public realm activations could achieve – the positivity and collaboration from everyone was tremendous.”

Mayor Williamson said this strategy built on the foundations of the Mackay Waterfront Priority Development Area (PDA) Development Scheme and the Mackay Waterfront Master Plan.

“It provides a roadmap for the Mackay Waterfront’s various stakeholders – council, business owners, developers, community organisations and residents – to work together towards a shared vision for a revitalised City Centre and Mackay Waterfront,” he said.

“It’s about unlocking the potential of those areas by creating places people connect to and love.”

Director Planning, Growth and Sustainability Aletta Nugent said the strategy focused on actions that had been crafted with extensive public engagement.

“These actions came from the community and were even ranked by the community in order of preference and priority,” Ms Nugent said.

Some of the highlighted actions include:

• Connecting the City Centre to the Riverside via Wood Street with creative lighting, signage, façade improvements and public art.
• Increase representation of First Nations and Australian South Sea Islander communities in the public realm.
• Supporting those sleeping rough and improving perceptions of public safety.
• Improving RV access to the City Centre.
• Support local businesses to bring the blue water river to life.
• Encourage the private sector to be a part of placemaking.
• Celebrate Mackay’s multicultural heritage by using public space to tell stories.

The Mackay Waterfront Place Strategy was developed with the support of the Queensland Government in association with Mackay Regional Council.

Visit mackaywaterfront.com.au and subscribe to the Mackay City and Waterfront eNewsletter to stay informed on this exciting project and view the master plan.

‍

Mackay Regional Council has endorsed the Mackay Waterfront Place Strategy, aiming to transform the City Centre and Riverside into vibrant, inclusive destinations through upgrades, events, and cultural celebrations. Photo supplied

‍