The last few weeks have been a whirlwind, with plenty happening both in the Mackay community and at Queensland Parliament. I am proud to see the Mackay events and sporting season for 2026 in full swing — from festivals and art exhibitions to thrilling sporting matches. As we get closer to the Easter school holidays, my priority — and Parliament’s — remains squarely on public safety.

One of Parliament’s key achievements has been Daniel’s Law — Queensland’s first public child sex offender register — which is already delivering results. Just ten weeks after launching in Queensland, nine reportable offenders have been identified, including two now facing charges for allegedly breaching reporting obligations. A further seven individuals not previously on the register have also been identified, prompting new police investigations.

We’ve also taken strong action through the Blue Card system across Queensland. So far, 543 people have been suspended under strengthened powers. This includes 269 prevented from starting child-related work and 274 who can no longer work with children. These changes close gaps, act earlier, and strengthen protections for families across our community.

On opportunities, Round 2 of the Women’s Career Grants has officially opened. With grants of up to $4,999, the program helps women who have been out of the workforce for six months or more cover the costs of returning to work — whether that’s training, study, or other practical support. For more information, visit: https://www.women.qld.gov.au/grants-sponsorship/women-career-grants

Closer to home, March also marks the wrap-up of my third year raising funds locally for Laps for Life — supporting youth mental health and suicide prevention. Many Mackay locals know I’m a passionate swimmer, and youth mental health is especially close to my heart, having previously served as a Crime Prevention Officer with the Queensland Police. Laps for Life allows me to combine my love of swimming with a greater cause. If you haven’t already, I encourage you to hit the pool, sign up, or support another local participant. I swim with the Master Swimmers Queensland Team, and every donation makes a real difference.

Donate at: www.lapsforlife.com.au/fundraisers/NigelDalton/laps-for-life-2026

These updates reflect a clear focus: safer communities and stronger opportunities. Whether it’s protecting children of any age, supporting families, or investing in the future of our workforce, the work being done in Parliament is focused on delivering practical outcomes where they matter most — right here in our region.

1. Mackay Citizenship Ceremony  - Nigel Dalton MP with, Adam Nur Wahyudi and Hannah McNamara

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Federal Member for Dawson and Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability, Andrew Willcox MP, today called on residents across the region to report fuel shortages using a new website: www.nofuelhere.com.au.

As communities throughout North Queensland feel the sting of the national fuel crisis, Mr Willcox is seeking hard evidence to take to the floor of Parliament.

"I have spoken with farmers in the Burdekin, Bowen, Proserpine and Mackay who are staring down a critical planting window with the fear of empty diesel tanks looming. In the Whitsundays, tourism businesses are already feeling the pinch of rapidly increasing prices.

Families are rationing their travel, and our transport operators are being pushed to the brink," Mr Willcox said.

"Regional Australians do not have the luxury of jumping on a train and many are in positions where they can’t work from home. Fuel is the lifeblood of our region: it is how we get to work, how we get our kids to school, and how our farms keep running. When the pumps are empty, Dawson grinds to a halt.

"I am asking every local resident who has experienced a shortage to log it at www.nofuelhere.com.au. Every report strengthens our case to the Albanese Government that regional Australia needs its fair share of fuel security.

"The website, launched by the Coalition, allows Australians to quickly log shortages at their local service station. These reports provide MPs with real-time data on where the crisis is hitting hardest.

Australia currently imports around 90 per cent of its refined fuel and is the only International Energy Agency member country that fails to hold the mandatory 90-day fuel reserve. This vulnerability has been exposed by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Mr Willcox said his role in the Shadow Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability portfolio has highlighted the urgent need for Australia to become a self-reliant nation.

"It is economically nonsensical that we export our natural resources only to buy them back as finished fuel at a massive markup. We cannot have sovereign capability if we cannot fuel our own tractors and trucks. We need to be a nation that makes things here, fuels things here, and stands on its own two feet," Mr Willcox said.

"The Albanese Government claims this is just a distribution problem, but that is cold comfort when you are staring at an 'Out of Service' sign in Dawson.

“Regional Australia cannot wait for Canberra to catch up. We need a plan that treats our food and fuel security as a strategic priority, not an afterthought."

Residents are encouraged to report fuel shortages at: www.nofuelhere.com.au.

Contributed with thanks to the office of Andrew Willcox MP

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox at the pump. Regional families cannot afford to run on empty. Mr Willcox is calling on the community to report fuel shortages at www.nofuelhere.com.au.

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Hi lovely readers!

Last week, you would have seen our wonderful new journo Suz make an appearance here. She’ll be helping out with stories for Mackay, and even travelling up and down the coast to cover events with me from time to time.

During last week’s print deadline, I was headed up to Airlie Beach to work for the day… but unfortunately, I blew out two tyres after hitting a humongous pothole and was stranded on the side of the road for a few hours until my beautiful husband came to the rescue!

Suz thankfully stepped in and wrote her wonderful note here.

Since then, it’s been a big week. The next day, the Life Publishing team spent the day on a wonderful boat out to Whitehaven Beach, where we were able to relax, snorkel and enjoy a bit of team bonding, which carried over into Friday as we learned all about our unique personalities.

Then on Friday afternoon, I raced back to Mackay to celebrate Adam’s Citizenship Ceremony at the MECC. Although he was born in Indonesia, he’s now officially a full-blown Aussie!

We also took lots of photos together at the ceremony with Mayor Greg Williamson, Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP, and Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton, who kindly included our photo in his monthly ‘Note from Nigel’, which you can read on page 5.

Scripture of the week: Jesus said: “He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.” - John

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Behind every patient journey at Mackay Hospital and Health Service is a team working quietly to support individuals and families through some of life’s most challenging moments.

Social workers play a vital role in helping patients navigate issues beyond the hospital bed, from complex diagnoses and discharge planning to connecting people with essential services for recovery.

Their contribution was recognised at a special lunch held at Mackay Base Hospital on March 17 to mark World Social Work Day, celebrating the dedication and compassion shown by the team each day.

“Behind every patient journey is someone helping to navigate the challenges beyond the hospital bed,” a spokesperson said.

“Thank you to our social workers for the powerful difference you make in healthcare, helping patients feel heard, supported and never alone on their sometimes-complex journey.”

Photo source: Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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We often hear people complain about the services that council delivers, the amount of rates people pay and what value they feel they receive for what they pay. To give you an idea of just how broad the range of services are that council delivers, here are some statistics to consider:

Civil Operations maintains, repairs and cleans 3135 roads, 65 off-street carparks, 409km of footpaths and pathways, 455 bus stops and 314 bus shelters, 27 boat ramps, 166 bridges and 445 culverts.

Facilities and Open Spaces maintain about 23 million square metres of grass, including 260 parks and botanic gardens, 111 reserves, 109 playgrounds, nine skate parks, three swimming enclosures, the Finch Hatton Mountain Bike Trails and six cemeteries. They also manage 272 council buildings, including libraries, halls, aquatic centres and commercial properties.

Field Services deliver a portion of the Capital Works Program, primarily using council’s ground crews (predominantly civil renewal projects, including roads, drainage, water and sewer main construction).

Mobile Assets manage the procurement, maintenance, repair and compliance of council vehicles, machinery and equipment (approximately 1300 items), to ensure staff have safe, fit-for-purpose assets for efficient service delivery.

Waste Services deliver waste and resource recovery services, implements integrated strategies to divert waste from landfill and promote sustainable practices, including waste planning. Facilities include Paget Waste Transfer Station, Hogan’s Pocket landfill and nine regional transfer stations.

Water Network operates and maintains water and wastewater infrastructure across 11 water schemes and four sewer schemes, including 2100km of pipe, 200 sewer pump stations, 30 water pump stations, 35 water reservoirs and 46,000 water meters.

Water Treatment team treats and supplies potable water and processes sewer and recycled wastewater, utilising a fleet of assets that includes nine water treatment facilities, two referable dams and a NATA accredited laboratory.

Community Lifestyle operates arts, culture, and community facilities, including five libraries, two mobile libraries, three museums and Artspace Mackay. The team delivers 2048 library programs, 511 community programs and 75 public art programs.

Corporate Communications and Marketing provide communication, marketing, design, digital media and community engagement services. The team manages council’s social media profiles and corporate websites. They facilitate about 45 community consultations each year.

Health and Regulatory Services promotes and enforces local laws and regulations to protect public health, safety and amenity. During the 2025-2026 financial year to date, the team have actioned 3480 service requests, including unregistered / straying animals, parking and vehicle offences, and illegal dumping.

MECC and Events operates public events, festivals and facilities (MECC, Foodspace, and BB Print Stadium) – in 2025, local festivals attracted 96,000 visitors and the MECC hosted 67,000 visitors across 218 events.

As you can see, just across these two major areas of council, our staff do a lot more than just collect rubbish and fill potholes. So next time you consider making a negative comment about council, consider the depth and breadth of what they actually do, and maybe remember that everyone is doing their best to deliver services to our community.

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There are a lot of new businesses popping up around Mackay at the moment (woot!). People backing themselves, starting something new + giving it a crack – so this one’s for you. Whether it’s your first or your 21st business, there’s always something new to learn.

If I had to start my marketing from scratch tomorrow, I wouldn’t overcomplicate it. I’d come back to a few simple things that get you that starting momentum – without making life harder than it needs to be.

First - I’d get really clear on what I do, who it’s for + how I want to be seen. That includes who you want to help, what your point of difference is (why should I choose you over someone else) + your brand (how you want people to see + remember you). This doesn’t need to be perfect, but it does need thought out – the clearer + more consistent you are from the start, the easier everything else becomes. If you can’t explain what you do simply, and your brand doesn’t reflect that, your marketing is going to feel WAY harder than it needs to be.

Second - I’d pick one place to show up + kick butt at it. You don’t need to be everywhere, and trying to be usually means you end up being seen nowhere. Choose the marketing activity or platform your target market is already using + focus your energy there. Once you feel like you’re getting traction, then add in the next logical one. You can build out a full strategy over time, but at the start, this is more than enough.

Third - I’d make sure there’s a clear next step. If someone sees your content or meets you at a networking gig + thinks, “This sounds pretty cool,” what should they do next? Follow you, send a message, make a booking? If you don’t guide people, they’ll move on. A simple yet clear “call to action” makes it easy for someone to take your preferred next step while they’re interested.

Starting a business is a big step, but your marketing doesn’t need to be complicated. Keep it simple, back yourself + get out there – the Mackay business community is watching (and quietly cheering you on!).

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Queenslanders could soon see some welcome relief on their power bills, with new figures showing electricity prices are set to fall under the latest draft Default Market Offer.

According to the Australian Energy Regulator, residential electricity prices are expected to drop by 10.1 per cent in 2026–27, while small business customers could see a reduction of 12.8 per cent.

The changes form part of the Queensland Government’s Energy Roadmap, aimed at delivering more affordable, reliable and sustainable power across the state.

Treasurer and Minister for Energy David Janetzki said the draft determination showed progress after a period of rising costs.

“The draft Default Market Offer from the Australian Energy Regulator demonstrates that the Energy Roadmap is putting downward pressure on power prices, as we said it would,” Treasurer Janetzki said.

“Under Labor power prices soared by 19.9% in a single year due to Labor’s failure to properly maintain our power plants. The Government is doing its bit to put downward pressure on power bills and it is now up to retailers to ensure savings are passed to customers.”

The Default Market Offer acts as a benchmark for electricity retailers, setting the maximum price for customers on standard contracts.

The regulator is expected to finalise the determination in May, with a separate announcement for regional Queensland to follow in the coming weeks.

The Government is delivering more affordable power for Queenslanders, with the default electricity reference price set to drop by more than 10 per cent next financial year. Photo source: Shutterstock

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Queensland’s tourism industry has reached a significant milestone, with new figures confirming record-breaking international visitation and spending in the year ending December 2025. According to Tourism Research Australia, the state welcomed 2.4 million international visitors—an increase of 9.8 per cent—who contributed a record $7.5 billion to the economy.

More notably, 1.4 million of those visitors travelled for holidays, spending $3.6 billion, a sharp rise of nearly 30 per cent. These figures underscore the continued global appeal of Queensland as a leisure destination, particularly as international travel continues to stabilise following years of disruption.

New Zealand remained Queensland’s largest international market, with more than 508,000 visitors contributing close to $1 billion in spending. Other key markets included China, the United Kingdom, Japan and the United States, alongside emerging strength from Taiwan and France, all of which recorded substantial visitor expenditure.

Major events played a role in driving these numbers. High-profile fixtures such as the 2025 British and Irish Lions tour and the Ashes Test in Brisbane helped boost visitation, particularly from the UK. Meanwhile, Brisbane and the Gold Coast led the state in international visitor spending, while Tropical North Queensland stood out as the strongest regional performer, attracting 622,000 visitors and generating more than $1.2 billion.

Domestic tourism also remained a cornerstone of the state’s visitor economy, with total expenditure reaching $36.9 billion. Growth in this segment, supported by strong day-trip activity, continues to provide stability alongside the international market.

The Queensland Government has pointed to these results as evidence that its long-term tourism strategy, Destination 2045, is beginning to deliver outcomes. Minister for Tourism Andrew Powell said the figures reflect growing global recognition of the state’s appeal.

“Queensland’s reputation as a premier holiday destination is resonating globally,” he said.

“Destination 2045 charts a path for Queensland to lead global tourism with unforgettable experiences, stronger economies, and better connections for visitors.”

Tourism and Events Queensland CEO Craig Davidson echoed this sentiment, highlighting the strength of the state’s tourism offering.

“Growth in holiday visitation and spend shows Queensland continues to resonate with travellers seeking that holiday feeling,” he said.

While the figures are encouraging, they also highlight the importance of sustained investment, careful planning and industry confidence to maintain momentum. Tourism remains a key economic driver for Queensland, supporting businesses, jobs and regional communities.

As the state looks ahead, the challenge will be to balance growth with sustainability, ensuring that the benefits of tourism are widely shared while preserving the natural and cultural assets that make Queensland a destination of choice.

Captions

Photo source: Shutterstock

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David is an incredible volunteer supporting PCYC Whitsunday’s ‘Braking the Cycle’ program, who has been generously giving his time to help young people develop skills and confidence necessary to get their license. His work has helped young people build up their hours – providing much needs support.

Braking the Cycle is a state-wide initiative that covers 53 locations and so far has seen over 43,000 driving sessions conducted. The aim of the program is to provide young people with increased employment oppurtunities, community education and driver connection. Mentors provide encouragement and help young people improve their self-esteem and develop positive road safety attitudes.

Since its inception in 2012, Braking the Cycle has received numerous awards from the Australian Road Safety Awards, Queensland Reconciliation Awards and Regional Achievement & Community Awards, a silver award in the 2017 National Crime and Violence Prevention Awards.

PCYC also has an additional program – Changing Gears, an adapted program designed to support the specific cultural and learning needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living within remote communities.

Programs like Braking the Cycle make a huge difference, allowing participants to gain independence, improve employment and build essential life skills.

A huge thanks to David and the PCYC Whitsunday team for the wonderful work they continue to do – supporting the community and aiding local youth.

Captions

Photo source: Facebook

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The winner this week is Elise Dunkis with this landscape of a windmill with the backdrop of a spectacular night sky, taken in South Australia.

Next week’s theme is Planet Earth: Landscapes, Oceans, Forests. Budding Photographers can enter by joining the Whitsunday’s Amateur Photographers group on Facebook.

Photos contributed by Whitsunday Amateur Photographers.

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London Calling – The Ultimate British Rock Tribute is set to grace the Airlie Beach Hotel with a score of unforgettable tracks from wickedly talented performers. London Calling is a high energy tribute show celebrating the uncontested icons of British rock. From Queen to Led Zeppelin to Sting, the show promises top performances from seasoned musicians. These tribute performers aren’t just any set of musos, but rather experienced professionals with a wealth of great experience.

The show features Andy K as Sting – a leading tribute artist with performances across Berlin, Las Vegas and beyond.

There is also Michael Anderson as Robert Plant, a performer with over 20 years of global touring who has been described as near identical to the original Robert Plant in his heyday.

Finally, there is Fernando Castro as Freddie Mercury – the first Freddie tribute to have headlined the Las Vegas Strip with multiple residencies.

“I absolutely love Airlie Beach; it will be my second time here. This side of the world is fantastic”, said Fernando.

Despite a wealth of experience, the talented singer is always learning new things.

“You can never get complacent because it just breeds failure. I’m always trying to make each show better than the last.”

The group are excited to be back in Australia for a series of phenomenal shows.

“We’re happy to be back in Australia. We want to put on the best show we can.”

Musical highlights include timeless hits such as ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’, ‘Stairway to Heaven’, ‘Every Breath You Take’, ‘We Are the Champions’ and countless others.

Even though this act has previously been a high–end ticketed theatre show, Airlie Beach Hotel is pleased to be putting on 3 free shows, giving all music fans the chance to relish in the iconic rock soundscapes.

WHAT: London Calling – The Ultimate British Rock Show, 3 Free Shows

WHEN: Good Friday, Easter Saturday, Easter Sunday, 2pm-5.30pm

WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel

Captions

Photo supplied

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The community has been deeply saddened this month by the sudden passing of long-time local Nick Rorison, a man remembered for his kindness, integrity and enduring passion for flying.

Nick, aged 37, passed away unexpectedly on Monday 9th March. He is survived by his devoted wife Gyan, who shared a touching tribute to her husband.

“He was my love, my life and my person.

“I never ever thought I would be facing a life where he was not right there by my side, holding my hand, guiding and supporting me.

“We were each other’s biggest supporters and best friends. I am forever grateful for the 14 years we had together making memories, even though it will never be long enough.”

News of Nick’s passing has been met with an outpouring of grief and shock across the community, with many reflecting on the warmth, humour and unique spark that made him so memorable.

He was known as a genuine and compassionate person, always willing to listen and support those around him, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Family friend Mel Brookes shared a touching reflection.

“Nick was always so kind and loving to our boys, especially Reef in those younger days when he was so obsessed with his planes. He truly was his inspiration to love flying and one day be a pilot like him. So many memories airside, and so many with you both over the years. Sending you love.”

Nick’s love of aviation was well known throughout the region. From owning and operating Tiger Moth Whitsundays to his more recent work with CQ Adventure Flights, his presence in the skies was unmistakable.

Many locals will remember the sight of his plane looping gracefully above the Airlie Beach skyline, a reflection of both his skill and his adventurous spirit.

He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.

Nick’s funeral was held on Tuesday this week and a special memorial will be held at Whitsunday Coast Airport Shute Harbour on Tuesday 31^st March at 2.30pm.

Caption:

1: Nick will be remembered for his humour, kindness and adventurous spirit

2: Nick and his wife beloved wife Gyan in happier times

3: Nick doing what he loved most, flying loops in his plane

Six-year-old Whitsundays pupil Titan wowed the team at Cruise Whitsundays after creating a gorgeous pastel drawing of their vessel, Seaflight, during art class.

His mum, Rachael, shared the image on social media, and the Cruise Whitsunday team soon responded with their appreciation.

Learning how much the crew loved the artwork, Titan kindly gifted them the original, which now hangs in the terminal office.

Cruise Whitsundays repaid this honour with an invitation for Titan and his family to experience the real Seaflight for themselves with a trip out to the reef pontoon.

Liza Muller, Sales & Marketing Manager at Cruise Whitsundays, said the interaction was a special reminder of the company’s connection to the local community.

“With multiple vessels crisscrossing the region every day, we’ve really become part of the landscape — something we’re incredibly proud of,” she said.

“To see that reflected through the eyes of a young local like Titan is so special. It’s amazing to see kids across the Whitsundays recognising and connecting with what we do.”

This good deed is a charming reminder of how special it is for young ones to be brought up in this corner of the world – and how sharing our passions can create connections, open opportunities and bring joy to the people around us.

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Hi Everyone,

This week, our amazing team came together for our quarterly Team Connect - three days dedicated to reconnecting, realigning, and recharging. It’s always a highlight on our calendar, and this one certainly didn’t disappoint.

A big thank you to Judy Porter from Shiift, who led us through an insightful session, helping us better understand our individual personalities and how they all contribute to us coming together as a team.

In true celebratory style (and making up for a missed Christmas party!), we also took to the water aboard Viper for a day we won’t forget in a hurry. From the breathtaking beauty of Whitehaven Beach to snorkelling at Mantaray Bay - where we met resident Maori Wrasse, Gorgeous George - it was pure magic!

For some of our newer team members, it was their very first time experiencing the islands, while for others it was the first time they had snorkelled since a child.

Across the three days, each department rolled up their sleeves to help shape our mission, sharing the words that define who we are and what we stand for. It was incredibly rewarding to see so much overlap, with values like community, trust, positivity, adaptability, accountability, engagement, and fun rising to the top. It’s a reflection of a team that’s not only aligned, but genuinely passionate about what we do.

Of course, as luck would have it, while we were all off connecting, some major local events popped up! Our apologies to the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Coexistance Queensland - we’re grateful to those who stepped in to capture moments so we could still share them with our readers in the paper this week.

Finally, on a more serious note, our thoughts are with two local families who have experienced sudden and tragic loss this week. News like this ripples through a community like ours, and we share in that grief alongside them.

Our prayers and thoughts are with you.

Rach

Quote of the Week: “When we understand that each day isn’t one more day, but one less, we start giving more value to what truly matters.” (Unknown)

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Since 2009, Brad Sobott has proudly called the Whitsundays home, making the move from Sydney with his young family in search of a better lifestyle. What began as a temporary change soon became permanent, with Brad recognising the region as an ideal place to raise a family.

Over the years, he has become a familiar and respected figure in the community, contributing to local projects, supporting charity events, and sharing his extensive real estate expertise. With more than two decades of experience—including running his own agency—Brad brings a deep understanding of the market to every client interaction.

A skilled auctioneer as well as a sales specialist, Brad has conducted over 500 auctions across the region. Known for his professionalism and ability to achieve strong results, he is equally at ease negotiating privately or commanding the auction floor.

Brad believes that while experience is essential, the way clients are supported throughout the process matters just as much. He takes pride in providing a thoughtful, attentive service, ensuring each property journey is as smooth and positive as possible.

Though he has received numerous awards, Brad says his greatest achievement is the lasting relationships he has built with clients. For him, success is measured not just in results, but in trust, community connection, and the life he continues to build with his family in the Whitsundays.

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