Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Whitsunday Anglican School has celebrated a successful year of student sport, recognising the tremendous talent and achievements of its athletes at its 2026 Sports Awards. Among the major honours, the Bill Turner Cup Under-15 Soccer Team and Vicki Wilson Cup Year 7–9 Netball Team were named Sports Teams of the Year after winning their respective Mackay competitions and progressing to represent the Mackay Region at state competitions. Harriet received Sports Official of the Year for her commitment to netball umpiring, including her selection to officiate at Queensland Representative School Sport level, while Maverick and Chelsea were named Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year for their sporting excellence, integrity and contributions to the school. The school also recognised Mr Jim Fredericksen for 20 years of volunteer coaching with its Archery Programme. Mayor Greg Williamson attended the awards, alongside guest speaker Mrs Deanna Turner, who shared insights into the value of sport in education. A former Queensland Firebirds netball player, Australian rugby league player and Queensland Rugby League coach, Mrs Turner is also a current Queensland Representative School Sport coach. Her presentation explored how sport can help build resilience, teamwork and leadership. The school congratulated all award recipients and students who represented Whitsunday Anglican School throughout 2026. Photo source: Whitsunday Anglican School
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It’s the story about 30,000 drowned pigs and how it applies to real estate, best business practices and life in general. In an earlier life I was the editor of the Daily Mercury newspaper, back when it was published and printed six days a week and over 20,000 copies were sold on a Saturday. Different times in the media world. Anyway, this one day we were following a story about flooding in Rockhampton. Some days earlier there had been a lot of rain and some flooding in the Mackay region and, as often happens, the river system’s flood waters then made their way towards Rockhampton. When there is a rain event upstream a lot of water from various rivers and tributaries runs into the low-lying Fitzroy River system and into Rockhampton. It is very predictable and Rocky authorities can often establish that when there is flooding further north in places like Mackay that in a week’s time the Rocky area will be flooded. So up in nearby Mackay we were following the approaching flood and in communication with our sister paper in Rocky who were giving it massive coverage. It wasn’t Mackay so it wasn’t going to be front page in our paper but we were planning on a significant coverage. In the late afternoon one of our reporters came into my office and said: “30,000 pigs have drowned in the Rocky floods. They were washed away from a farm.” I said: “Thirty thousand pigs!? That’s a lot of pigs. Can we check on that?” The reporter came back five minutes later and said: “The story’s right. The farmer told the Rocky journo thirty thousand pigs have drowned from his property upstream from Rocky. Rocky’s running the story.” I asked if we had photos and he said they didn’t but would let me know when they had some, although none arrived that evening. We went pretty big on the drowning, as the Page 3 or Page 5 lead story with the obvious headline of 30,000 pigs drowning in the Rocky floods. Early the next morning the young journalist who had told me about the thirty thousand pigs drowning approached my office and tentatively knocked on the door. In a stammering voice he said: “Ah, look … about that, um, story about the, ah, thirty thousand pigs drowning near Rocky ...” I had an uneasy feeling, bordering on dread. “Uh ha … what about the pig story?” I asked. He said: “It wasn’t thirty thousand pigs. It was 30 sows and pigs.” I’m no mathematician but even I could work out that our story and big headline was out by about 29,970 dead pigs. I knew immediately how the miss-communication would have happened. A young Rocky reporter busily covering the floods. On the phone talking to a distressed farmer or piggery owner who blurts out: “Mate it’s terribly out here. I’ve lost 30 sows and pigs, all drowned.” If someone, speaking quickly, blurts out “thirty-sows-and-pigs” you can understand how someone could hear “thirty thousand pigs”. Also, who says “sows and pigs”? A piggery owner, obviously, but probably no-one else. Certainly not a reporter in the city. Anyway, we ran a correction the next day. The story reminds me that in life, real estate and business, listen to your gut. I had questioned the story. I thought 30,000 pigs was extremely unlikely but accepted it when the young reporter confirmed it. I should have asked more questions. I should have listened to my gut. In real estate, owners sometimes get the facts wrong … how many kilowatts in the solar system, how many litres the bore produces, when the previous owner had renovated the house. You can’t just pass these things on to a buyer as facts if you don’t know them 100 per cent true. You’ve got to be cautious, listen to your gut and check the facts.
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Queensland Telestroke Service is saving lives one video call at a time, recently providing life saving consultation to 37-year-old Mackay mum Angelica Murray. Angelica suffered a stroke whilst out with a friend, and was rushed to Mackay Base Hospital. Within minutes of her arrival she was connected by video to a specialist stroke neurologist who prescribed life-saving medication. “I was in the car with my friend and suddenly I couldn’t concentrate or remember names,” Angelica said. As her condition deteriorated, her friend rushed her to hospital. At the emergency department, staff immediately recognised the signs of a stroke. “I remember all the nurses and doctors working together so quickly,” Angelica said. “They were explaining everything, even the stroke doctor on the screen.” From the advice of the Queensland Telestroke Service (QTS) neurologist, Angelica received the clot busting medication she needed. The speed of the service made a life changing difference. “I started feeling better after a couple of hours,” Angelica said. Mackay Base Hospital is now recording the fastest stroke treatment times in the state. QTS is operating live across ten Queensland sites ( Hervey Bay, Bundaberg, Ipswich, Makay, Toowoomba, Kingaroy, Rockhampton, Bowen, Proserpine, and Gladstone hospitals) with more than 850 patients being treated so far. 12 Queensland hospitals are planned to be added to the list. The service aims to make sure that regional patients are receiving specialist stroke care just as efficiently as those in central areas. Local Stroke Nurse Helen Nengasha, who has spent more than a decade caring for stroke patients, said seeing outcomes like Angelica's was exactly why the team has embraced Queensland Telestroke Service. “The introduction of QTS has streamlined care for patients experiencing time-critical strokes,” Helen said. “Now, it doesn’t matter where you live, you can get that expert care straight away. “In one recent case, the team achieved treatment in just 42 minutes, well under the national 60-minute benchmark. That’s the fastest we’ve ever done.”
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From toilet training to prostate health, pregnancy to menopause — why pelvic health matters to us all. When you hear the words pelvic floor, what comes to mind? Pregnancy? Childbirth? Perhaps those exercises you were told to do but never quite remembered? For many years, pelvic health has been viewed as a women’s health issue. But here’s something that might surprise you: everyone has a pelvic floor, and everyone can experience pelvic health problems. Whether you’re a child struggling with constipation, a new mum recovering from childbirth, a man experiencing bladder changes after prostate surgery, or someone navigating menopause, pelvic health plays an important role in everyday life. Our pelvic floor is a group of muscles at the base of our pelvis. These muscles support our pelvic organs, help control our bladder and bowels, contribute to sexual function and work alongside our abdominal muscles during movement. When things aren’t working as they should, the impact can extend well beyond the bathroom. It might be the child who avoids school toilets because passing a bowel motion hurts. The mum who stops running because she leaks urine. The man who avoids social outings because he’s worried about finding a toilet. Or the woman who believes pelvic heaviness is simply another part of getting older. Different people. Different stages of life. But one common thread: pelvic health can influence our confidence, activity levels and quality of life. And importantly, many pelvic health concerns can improve with the right support. Pelvic health physiotherapy is about much more than strengthening muscles. Treatment might involve bladder retraining, bowel management, improving muscle coordination, addressing pain or helping someone return to activities they love. Sometimes the answer is strengthening. Sometimes it’s learning to relax. And sometimes it’s simply understanding what’s happening in your body. This broader understanding of pelvic health is also why our clinic has recently embraced a new name. After five wonderful years as Women’s Health Physio Mackay, we are now proudly Pelvic Health Mackay. Our new name reflects something we’ve always believed: pelvic health is for everyone. While our name has changed, our team, our care and our commitment to helping the Mackay community remain the same. So here’s my question to you. Have you stopped doing something you love because of your bladder, bowel or pelvic health? Perhaps you’ve given up running because of leakage, avoided social outings because of urgency, or accepted discomfort because you thought it was simply part of getting older. You don’t have to wait until symptoms become overwhelming to seek help. Many concerns can improve with appropriate assessment, education and individualised treatment. If something doesn’t feel right, start the conversation. Speak with your GP or a pelvic health physiotherapist and find out what support is available. Because pelvic health isn’t just about muscles, bladders or bowels. It’s about confidence, independence and enjoying life without unnecessary limitations. Pelvic health isn’t just women’s business. It’s everyone’s business. And your health deserves attention. Lauren Neill | APA Titled Women’s, Men’s & Pelvic Health Physiotherapist | Pelvic Health Mackay
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The aspiration to own your own home is one of the great Aussie dreams. Hotondo Homes Mackay owners Anthony and Lynelle Wolff say this is at the forefront of their minds with every new home they build, ensuring exceptional style and quality construction can be achieved for the average local family.
With decades of experience between them in the construction and design industries, Anthony and Lynelle have the ability to provide value for money stylish solutions. The price tag is lower without compromising on good looks.
It’s this teamwork which has seen Hotondo Homes Mackay reap the accolades year after year, with 2022 being no exception. At the Master Builders Mackay & Whitsunday Housing & Construction Awards, the couple scooped three awards.
Best Residential Bathroom – for Parkedge Project (Richmond)
Display Home from $450,000 up to $550,000 – for Seacoast 259 (Shoal Point)
Individual Home up to $250,000 – for Ravenswood 157 (Rural View)
Mystical floor to ceiling moody grey tiling gives this bathroom a glamorous edge, accented by black tapware, sleek white porcelain, and earthy wooden cabinetry. A relaxing retreat amid a breathtaking home.
Seacoast blends coastal living with a relaxed urban life, bringing natural elements of the outdoors in with sweeping open living areas which flow seamlessly from indoors to out. Natural stone and timber hues are a feature throughout with a large outdoor kitchen and plunge pool delivering excellent value for money.
Caption: Ravenswood
Ravenswood blends contemporary style with a touch of the Hamptons, in an affordable design suited to singles, couples and small families. The clean modern interior provides an elegant canvas for the homeowner to make this home their own.
Parkedge bathroom
Seacoast
Following a decade out of the spotlight and away from the award circuit, Matthew Brady Builders made a huge come-back at the Mackay and Whitsunday Master Builders Awards last week.
Taking out the best individual home in the $350,000 - $450,000 price bracket for his Mount Martin four-bedroom low block house, business owner Mr Brady said it was a great result after one of the hardest years in business he’s ever had.
“It’s been a hectic year with price rises and it took a bit to get through it,” he said.
“The Mount Martin house came out really well and we got such a good response from the tradies, I thought I’d enter this year.”
Usually involved with renovation work, Mr Brady only takes on a small number of new builds, choosing to work on projects that resonate with him.
For the award-winning house, he worked closely with the owners of the property to create a vision and then completed the plan with Whitsunday Drafting.
“I don’t do many new homes, but when I do, I like things to be constructed the way they should be, they are built for longevity, I don’t succumb to the quick and easy,” said Mr Brady.
“It’s got to have a bit of soul!”
“Thank you to all the contractors who were part of the job – I consider a lot of them my friends and we made it a personal thing.
The award-winning Mount Martin home
Branching out from their years of success across the categories at the Master Builders Awards, the Whitsunday-based Red Emperor Constructions tapped into the local tourism realm this year.
A company that’s garnered a reputation for exceptional workmanship and innovation – winning awards across their varied resume of builds - Red Emperor Constructions’ claim to fame at this year’s awards was no different.
Owner and builder Alistair Sawers and his experienced team at Red Emperor Constructions claimed the top accolade for Tourism and Leisure Facilities Up to $10 million with the Bettys Beach Boardwalk on Whitsunday Island.
Tasked with replacing a pre-existing, 25-year-old structure, the construction of the new Bettys Beach Boardwalk was recognised for both the remote challenges it posed and its innovation.
Constructed of a fibre reinforced polymer sub structure and laced with hardwood timber decking to blend with the existing environment, the eight-week project was simple in its final design but much more in its execution.
“The remote challenges of using helicopters to provide gear to site, as well as barges, is what set this project apart,” Owner and builder at Red Emperor Constructions, Alistair Sawers said.
“We do quite a bit of tourism and remote work, as well as land-based, but this was a dream project -particularly for our team.
“The setting up of campsites for accommodation on Whitehaven, working there from Monday to Friday, there’s nothing better.”
Mr Sawers said it was excellent to be able to be recognised for the quality of the project, and its remote nature. But most importantly, he was proud it would “be able to be used for the next fifty years by the general public.”
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While CiteCon may be a relatively new player in the game, Brad Gardner and his team have built the business on generations of construction expertise, seeing them become a leader in the industry.
With a reputation for quality and integrity, CiteCon was engaged by Club Wyndham Destinations to revive their outdated resort accommodation at the top of Mount Whitsunday Drive in Airlie Beach, a project that would ultimately win them the Refurbishment/Renovation over $750,000 category at the 2022 Mackay & Whitsunday Housing & Construction Awards.
“It’s in a line of a lot of firsts,” said CiteCon Administration Manager Bec Gardner.
“We decided to start this business together, that’s a first; we’ve got all our family involved; having that, to me, it cements that it’s good, we’ve done it, it’s one of more to come.”
The construction team reworked 56 existing resort-style apartments across eight elevated unit blocks, ranging from 1-, 2- and 3-bedrooms apartments: back to a grand standard.
After detailed dilapidation reports were conducted on all 56 apartments, three mock-up apartments were refurbished as a sample to start.
Decisions were made to alter the remaining scope of work with each apartment receiving significant structural changes, electrical upgrades, modified kitchens, new bathrooms, flooring, tiling, internal painting, and deluxe fittings and fixtures.
Demolition then recommenced on the original mock-up rooms and the remaining 53 apartments block by block.
Refurbishing apartments within a fully operational resort was not without its issues, but the team at CiteCon made a challenging work environment manageable and ensured safety was of the highest priority.
The project spanned 52 weeks, so it was vital that Brad Gardner and his team maintained clear communication and a professional relationship with the client; all whilst taking into consideration the constant movements of the residents and holidaying guests.
Collaborating with Mackay and Whitsunday trades and suppliers was the key to delivering this successful project, resulting in works finished to the highest standard, on budget and with timely delivery.
The 56 refurbished apartments now boast gorgeous, light, welcoming bedrooms and living spaces, stunning bathrooms, with spacious decks to enjoy the ocean views right in the heart of the Whitsundays.
“We were pretty honoured that we got to do it in the first place and that Club Wyndham took a chance on us,” said Bec.
“It means a lot, that one.”
Building homes in bushland settings is something that Rick and the team at Rick Chelman Builders Pty Ltd have mastered over the last 40 years.
Rick’s expertise was awarded at the 2022 Mackay & Whitsunday Housing & Construction Awards, winning the Ken & Nola Clark Perpetual Award for Quality Workmanship for Home Among the Gum Trees in Greenmount.
The project boasts the very best of innovative products and materials throughout the build.
The build faced many challenges, with the construction type requiring excellent planning to factor in all processes for smooth continuity throughout the project.
The 302m2 home features four sizeable bedrooms, an office, two attractive bathrooms and plenty of storage, with polished timber floors throughout except for wet areas.
A large stacker door at the front entrance views straight through to the rear stacker door in the family room, with a dream kitchen and matching walk-through pantry with excellent access.
LED downlights throughout including LED floodlights create a bright, modern feel and coloured feature smart lights illuminate the deck and verandas, operated via Wi-Fi using one’s phone.
Treated timbers have been used in the construction of the project and the large Merbau deck is polished with four coats of Sikkens product for low maintenance and longevity.
High-quality Hardies Scyon Linea board is used for cladding with surrounds around windows and doors.
Rick Chelman Builders Pty Ltd have once again proven why they have developed a reputation for quality local workmanship at an affordable price, with Home Among the Gum Trees a deserved winner of Ken & Nola Clark Perpetual Award.
L-R Jenna and Ashley Chelman and Rick and Barb Chelman. Photo supplied: Barb Chelman
Fergus Builders have been building the dreams of their clients since 1983, taking pride in designing and delivering high-quality new homes as well as commercial and industrial premises for Mackay and surrounding districts.
Fergus Builders were the recipients of a massive six awards at the 2022 Mackay & Whitsunday Housing & Construction Awards, each accolade truly highlighting Fergus’ diverse capabilities on a wide variety of projects.
A stand-out outcome from the Awards was the 2022 Mackay & Whitsunday BUSSQ Building Super President's Award, awarded to Fergus Builders for Cormac, located in Richmond.
Leading from an oversized outdoor area through corner stacker doors, Cormac boasts a large open living area incorporating a Hampton’s-inspired kitchen complete with shaker-style cabinetry and Smartstone benchtops.
The project was designed with the growing family in mind, with four spacious bedrooms finished with plush wool carpets, two large bathrooms and a sizable theatre room for family movie nights, ticking all the boxes.
Overcoming obstacles including Covid-19 lockdowns, wet weather and challenges with earthworks, Fergus Builders showed absolute commitment to deliver a stunning home in the Cormac project.
The judges praised the Fergus Builders for the fit, finishes and quality materials on the immaculate project.
“Quality workmanship abounds with this project and noticeably on all the Fergus Builders projects,” the judge’s comments read.
“Congratulations to the Fergus team on this immaculate home, a worthy winner of the President’s Award.”
As well as the President’s Award, Fergus Builders took home five other awards in a wide array of categories for recent residential and commercial projects.
Fergus Builders has been part of the prestigious Master Builders Awards since 2008, winning many awards across multiple categories over the years.
Adding these six awards to their collection further proves Fergus Builders as a leader in providing buildings of high quality, innovative design and superb value.
Fergus Builders 2022 Mackay & Whitsunday Housing & Construction Awards
- President's Award for Cormac (Richmond)
- Medium Density up to 3 storeys – 2 to 5 dwellings for West Mackay Apartments (West Mackay)
- Health Facilities up to $20 million for South Side Medical Centre (Mackay)
- Education Facilities up to $10 million for Carlisle Adventist College (Beaconsfield)
- Retail Facilities up to $5 million for Reece Plumbing (Mount Pleasant)
- Industrial Building up to $5 million for Blenners Transport (Paget)
The Fergus Builders team at the 2022 Mackay & Whitsunday Housing & Construction Awards. Photo supplied: Dayna Stewart
As a family business renowned for producing award-winning designed and built homes inspired by our region’s gorgeous climate, lifestyle and heritage, Urban Trend has a decade-strong proven track record as the region’s leading boutique residential builder.
Urban Trend’s reputation for excellence and innovation has won them many awards, most recently bringing home three awards between two projects at this year’s Master Builders Mackay & Whitsunday Housing & Construction Awards.
Winning Individual Home from $1.25 million up to $2 million and Best Residential Swimming Pool Eimeo’s Mango residence is the collaboration of two great friends.
One; a professor of Architecture and two; a visionary who wanted to create a home that fulfilled his great friend’s belief in house-museum typology.
The construction of Mango residence is a dichotomy of rare materials such as exposed concrete blockwork and polished concrete flooring, contrasted against NZ wool carpets and linen window furnishings.
The home is reflective of inner-city municipality construction, balanced with spotted gum joinery and tropical planting visible from the home’s great expanses of glazing.
The views are unprecedented, with the 180-degree views of Sunset and Bucasia Beaches from the master suite a particular highlight.
Externally is a sparkling swimming pool with exceptional beachfront views and viewing deck designed to capture sunshine year-round.
A 15-month build period has resulted in the creation of a hybridity of home; private, domestic, intimate; and museum; public, civic, formal.
The construction of Sugarloaf residence, located in Balnagowan, is a balanced blend of bold exterior design elements and classic textures, winning Urban Trends the Individual Home from $550,000 up to $650,000 category.
A contrasting colour palette and warm recycled brickwork create a sophisticated and unique home that fits snug into the surrounding bushland.
This balance of materials is echoed internally with deep terrazzo tiled floors, recycled brickwork and a colour palate that reiterates the bushland location.
The home is rich in modern elements but provides a traditional nod to Australian architectural heritage with wrap-around verandas, hardwood posts, double gutter-line roof line and French doors opening onto the wrap-around verandas.
Floor to ceiling glazing brings the bushland vistas into the interior spaces and provide an abundance of natural light.
The open plan living, dining and kitchen overlook a richness of bushland, a vaulted alfresco area and sparkling magnesium mineral swimming pool.
Visit urbantrend.com.au to find out more.
Mango residence, located in Eimeo
Sugarloaf residence, located in Balnagowan. Photos supplied
The region’s annual Master Builders Mackay & Whitsunday Housing & Construction Awards was once again a glamorous affair, with leaders in the construction industry showcasing innovative methods and breathtaking design at the 2022 awards.
Held at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) on August 13, a wide range of projects were recognized for thoughtful execution. From premium education facilities to resort-style homes and contemporary family homes, judges made note that this year’s field of entries was impressive.
Fergus Builders swept the pool with six awards on the night, including four awards in the construction category.
The team took out the coveted BUSSQ Builders Super President’s Award for their Richmond project, Cormac.
From the magnificent oversized outdoor area to the stunning living spaces and Hampton’s-inspired kitchen, this home was a standout for the judges.
“Quality workmanship abounds with this project and noticeably on all the Fergus Builders projects,” the judges’ comments read.
“Congratulations to the Fergus team on this immaculate home, a worthy winner of the President’s Award.”
The other big winner of the night was Icon Building Contractors collecting the House of the Year for Coryle at Grasstree Beach. The sprawling four-bedroom, two-office home also snagged the Individual Home from $650,000 up to $750,000.
Coryule was designed to capture and take in its amazing rural and ocean views. With open plan living, the home flows effortlessly to embrace both indoors and outdoor living.
The Ken & Nola Clark Perpetual Award for Quality Workmanship went to Rick Chelman Builders for Home Among the Gum Trees in Greenmount.
Building homes in remote and bushland settings is something that Rick and his team have specialised in for many years.
The project boasts the very best of innovative products and materials throughout the build.
Master Builders' Mackay & Whitsunday Regional Manager, Malcolm Hull, congratulated all the winners across the 36 categories.
"Our members have truly lived up to this year's Awards theme, Building Brilliance, which was inspired by them and their work. The projects they've delivered during these challenging times are a testament to their skills and resilience," he said.
“The quality of our winning homes is also second to none and epitomises what living in the Mackay & Whitsunday region is all about.
"It doesn't matter whether they've taken an Award home this year or not. Each of our 2022 entrants is a part of the Master Builders family and helps cement why we're so widely trusted and respected.”
2022 WINNERS
Major awards
● President's Award – Fergus Builders Pty Ltd for Cormac (Richmond)
● Project of the Year Award – Woollam Constructions for Catherine McAuley College (West Mackay)
● House of the Year – Icon Building Contractors Pty Ltd for Coryule (Grasstree Beach)
Individual awards
● Apprentice of the Year Award – Jake Christensen from Cotter Builders Pty Ltd
● Women in Building – Ashlee Denyer from Lowcock Builders Pty Ltd)
● The Ken & Nola Clark Perpetual Award – Rick Chelman Builder Pty Ltd for Home Among The Gum Trees (Greenmount)
● Residential Trade Contractor of the Year – R & R Cabinetmaking for House of Arches (Beaconsfield)
● Commercial Trade Contractor of the Year – Coral Coast Plastering Pty Ltd for Carlisle Adventist College (Beaconsfield)
Specialty awards
● Best Residential Bathroom – Hotondo Homes Mackay for Parkedge Project (Richmond)
● Best Residential Kitchen – R & R Cabinetmaking for Farlane Park (Middlemount)
● Best Residential Swimming Pool – Urban Trend Constructions Australia Pty Ltd for Mango Residence (Eimeo)
Housing awards
● Home Renovation/Remodelling Project from $200,000 up to $400,000 – Cotter Builders Pty Ltd for Cottage on MacKenzie (West Mackay)
● Home Renovation/Remodelling Project from $400,000 up to $650,000 – Nathan Bow for Glenella Richmond Farm House (Mackay)
● Display Home from $450,000 up to $550,000 – Hotondo Homes Mackay for Seacoast 259 (Shoal Point)
● Individual Home up to $250,000 – Hotondo Homes Mackay for Ravenswood 157 (Rural View)
● Individual Home up to $350,000 – Cotter Builders Pty Ltd for Casa Sadie (Richmond)
● Individual Home from $350,000 up to $450,000 – Matthew Brady Projects for Mount Martin (Kuttabul)
● Individual Home from $450,000 up to $550,000 – Latitude 20 Homes for Hydeaway Bay Beach House (Hydeaway Bay)
● Individual Home from $550,000 up to $650,000 – Urban Trend Constructions Australia Pty Ltd for Sugarloaf Residence (Balnagowan)
● Individual Home from $650,000 up to $750,000 – Icon Building Contractors Pty Ltd for Coryule (Grasstree Beach)
● Individual Home from $750,000 up to $950,000 – Lowcock Builders Pty Ltd for Brampton House (Bowen)
● Individual Home from $1.25 million up to $2 million – Urban Trend Constructions Australia Pty Ltd for Mango Residence (Eimeo)
● Medium Density up to 3 storeys – 2 to 5 dwellings – Fergus Builders Pty Ltd for West Mackay Apartments (West Mackay)
Construction awards
● Health Facilities up to $20 million – Fergus Builders Pty Ltd for South Side Medical Centre (Mackay)
● Education Facilities up to $10 million – Fergus Builders Pty Ltd for Carlisle Adventist College (Beaconsfield)
● Education Facilities over $10 million – Woollam Constructions for Catherine McAuley College (West Mackay)
● Community Service Facilities – Hamilton Island Constructions No.1 Pty Ltd for Hamilton Island Waste Water Treatment Facility Upgrade (Hamilton Island)
● Retail Facilities up to $5 million – Fergus Builders Pty Ltd for Reece Plumbing (Mount Pleasant)
● Retail Facilities over $5 million – Mainbrace Constructions (QLD) Pty Ltd for Coles Andergrove (Andergrove)
● Tourism and Leisure Facilities up to $10 million – Red Emperor Constructions for Bettys Beach Boardwalk (Whitsunday Island)
● Tourism and Leisure Facilities over $10 million – Hutchinson Builders for Proserpine Entertainment Centre (Proserpine)
● Commercial Building up to $5 million – Endurance Sheds for MCI Complex (Paget)
● Commercial Building from $5 million up to $50 million – Vassallo Constructions Pty Ltd for Shute Harbour Marine Terminal (Shute Harbour)
● Industrial Building up to $5 million – Fergus Builders Pty Ltd for Blenners Transport (Paget)
● Refurbishment/Renovation up to $750,000 – Lowcock Builders Pty Ltd for Construction of Health Care Space at Bowen TAFE Campus (Bowen)
● Refurbishment/Renovation over $750,000 – CiteCon for Club Wyndham Resort Airlie Beach (Airlie Beach)
Fergus Builders won six awards at the Master Builders Mackay & Whitsunday Housing & Construction Awards ceremony at the MECC
Rural View residents will now be able to access Northern Beaches Central and Reed Street via the roundabout from Rosewood Drive.
All works associated with the access road have been completed, and council’s Civil Operations team removed the barricades from the roundabout earlier this week on Monday.
Mackay Regional Council Director Development Services Aletta Nugent said the temporary access, which was not a designated road, was put in place during construction works of the Woolworths shopping complex.
“The road had become a popular shortcut for Northern Beaches residents between Eimeo Road and Rosewood Drive, where Northern Beaches State High School is located, as well as to access the Woolworths and Coles shopping precincts,” Ms Nugent said.
“Council has worked closely with shopping centre owners, Stockwell, to ensure the work was completed and approved in a timely manner,” she said.
“This is a great example of council working with a developer to achieve an outcome that is advantageous for the whole community.”
The works, undertaken by contractor Seaforth Civil for Stockwell, included asphalt patching, speed humps, line marking, kerb edge restraint and signs.
A map showing where the barricades will be removed at the Rosewood Drive and Reed Street roundabout
Last week, a 39-year-old West Mackay woman was detected driving at 165kph in a 110kph zoned area on the Bruce Highway South of Mackay. The incident occurred on August 20 at 1:10pm.
While police were dealing with the driver, two other motorists stopped and thanked police for their intervention as they had allegedly seen the vehicle being driven at speed earlier.
Needless to say, she got a stern lecture from police in relation to the potential consequences of her driving and she was issued with an infringement notice worth $1,653, 8 demerit points and a 6-month licence suspension.
THEFT OF FISHING EQUIPMENT, RURAL VIEW
While residents were absent from their home on Eales Road, Rural View between August 12 and August 16, an intruder entered a shed and stole fishing equipment and an inboard motor.
Entry was gained into the shed by damaging a padlock.
The following items were stolen:
- a white coloured electric Minn Kota I Pilot Terranova inboard motor
- a black coloured Garmin 7410XSV model fish finder
- a Garmin 95SV model fish finder
- one fishing rod
Anyone who may have information about the current location of the stolen items or the offence itself is encouraged to contact police as soon as possible. Please refer to QP2201410267.
CHARGES FOLLOW ALLEGED WEAPON INCIDENT, PAGET
A 50-year-old man who resides in Paget has been charged with several offences following an alleged incident at an address on Farrellys Road in Paget at 3:46 pm on August 18.
It’s alleged police were called after the man who was in possession of a shotgun and ammunition approached a caravan where a person resided who he was having a disagreement with.
Upon the arrival of police it’s further alleged officers talked to the man and located shotgun shells in his pocket and also found a shotgun in his caravan.
The 50-year-old man was arrested and has been charged with going armed so as to cause fear, possessing shortened firearms, unlawful possession of ammunition and possessing a drug utensil.
APPEAL FOR WITNESSES OR DASHCAM FOOTAGE, NORTH MACKAY
At about 1:15 pm on August 16 at the intersection of Glenpark Street and Malcomson Street in North Mackay, it's alleged that the driver of a red Holden commodore sedan has deliberately rammed multiple cars (including a police vehicle) before leaving the area.
Police are appealing for any witnesses to this alleged incident, or anyone who may have dashcam footage, to come forward as soon as possible.
Please refer to QP2201402690.
Mackay’s oldest history research group celebrated a special milestone last week, with a special lunch attended by more than twenty current and former members, patrons and supporters.
The Mackay Historical Society’s 50th anniversary ticked over on August 10, with the celebratory lunch held on August 14 at Souths Leagues Club.
Following the lunch, formalities for the 50th anniversary were conducted with historical society member Steven Pritchard opening the proceedings. After being introduced, recently appointed Vice President, Danielle Jesser then read a copy of the minutes from the Formation Meeting of the Society which had been held on Thursday, August 10, 1972, at 7.45pm at the since demolished Australian Sugar Producers Association (also known as the ASPA) Board Room in Wood Street (now the site of the Westpac Bank).
The Minutes included names attending such as: Berenice Wright, Frank Rolleston, John Henry ‘Jack’ Williams Junior, John Renton (who had called the meeting to form the society) and Rod Manning.
Those attending were then asked to share, if they wanted to, their memories of the society’s long existence. Reminiscing about their time with the society at the function were: Helen Martin, MRC Councilor Lawrence Bonaventura and Wayne Miller.
Memories from Historical Society member Terry Abbott were also shared at the anniversary lunch. Helen Martin was also to read a list of current and former historical society presidents as part of the formalities.
Also attending the lunch were: Brian Osborn (former MRC Museum’s Coordinator), Doug Petersen (Local Historian), Dr. Julia Pittman (Reverend of St Paul’s Uniting Church and the Armitage Uniting Church), Ray Braithwaite (former Federal Member for Dawson and Local Historian) and Terry Hayes (Local Historian) amongst others.
The current Mackay Historical Society committee was also in attendance: Jack Armstrong (President), Danielle Jesser (Vice President), Helen Martin (Treasurer), Judy Stewart (Honorary Secretary) and Steven Pritchard (Research and Publicity Officer).
The societies registrar, member and Local Historian Glen Hall was unable to attend the lunch.
Mr Pritchard said, “It was great to have so many attend our special 50th anniversary lunch.
“The fact we are still here today celebrating our 50th anniversary is quite an achievement, considering the changes that have occurred in accessing historical information compared to fifty years ago.”
Mr Prichard added that a lot has changed over the years.
“However, the collection of books, maps, newspaper clippings/supplements and photographs that has been built up by the society over the years is still very much being used, with the requests sent to us and those visiting us, looking for information,” he said.
“We would like to thank everyone who has supported us and been members of our society during the past half a century.
“We hope to be still here for many years to come.”
Contributed by Steven Pritchard
Attendees of the Mackay Historical Society’s 50th anniversary lunch. Photo contributed
If you are a frequent user of the River Street boat ramp, enjoy purchasing your fresh riverside seafood or like to take a stroll along the Bluewater Trail near the river mouth, you will need to be aware of a new traffic update along your journey.
River Street, between Carlyle and Lawson streets, has permanently changed to a one-way traffic flow in a westerly direction.
The change took place last Sunday (August 21) as part of the new Riverside Development.
Traffic control will be in place between Carlyle and Burns streets from this time and will remain while upgrade works to River Street are completed.
As part of these works, all on-street parking will be converted to angle parking along the levee wall.
Mackay Regional Council asks motorists to follow all site signage in the area.
A stretch of River Street between Carlyle and Lawson streets, has permanently changed to a one-way traffic flow
A convoy of Postie bikes are making their way from Mackay to Bundaberg and back in a bid to raise vital funds for regional families battling childhood cancer.
The annual Postie Bike Safari will see over 40 riders cover 1,800 kms over a week-long escapade around regional Queensland. Along the way they’ll bring gifts and spread awareness about Childhood Cancer Support and the services they offer for regional families who must travel to Brisbane for life-saving cancer treatment.
So far, the group has raised over $110,000 and Childhood Cancer Support Committee Member and Postie Bike Safari participant, Bert Pulman says they are proud to raise funds for such an important charity, with Bert having first-hand experience of the support Childhood Cancer Support offers.
“The team picked Childhood Cancer Support as their charity again this year because they can see the impact their services have by accommodating regional families with children that require treatment for cancer,” says Bert.
“I personally have used the facility when my son was receiving treatment in Brisbane.
“Childhood Cancer Support is thankful for any money raised and thanks all the riders, organisers, support people and sponsors that have done such an amazing job in raising funds so far.
“We keep off the main roads and hit the dirt as much as possible. We have a great team of riders and support members who enjoy the eight days on the road raising money for a well-deserved charity.”
Follow their journey, or donate to the Postie Bike Safari by visiting https://fundraise.ccs.org.au/event/postie-bike-safari
Childhood Cancer Support is a children’s cancer charity for regional Queensland families who must travel to Brisbane for life-saving cancer treatment. They provide families with free short-term and long-term accommodation as well as transport to and from hospital, emotional and social support.
Postie bikes set off from Mackay last weekend to ride to Bundaberg and back to raise funds for childhood cancer support
Taking pride in your community is alive and well in the Northern Beaches subdivision of Royal Sands, where a group of children perfectly captured the essence of #MackayPride.
The basketball half court has been a feature of the estate for around six years, but through plenty of use, the net had degraded and eventually fell off the hoop.
A group of children decided to fix the problem themselves, as captured by resident Brenda-Lee Anson.
Ms Anson reported on the Royal Sands Community Group page on Facebook that Max (pictured in the white shirt) supplied the net and the group worked together to install the new net onto the hoop.
Garnering more than 100 ‘likes’ the post was warmly received by the residents of Royal Sands, who praised the children for their proactiveness and teamwork.
“Well done kids, please let me know if you need anything else, I will donate,” said Scott Andreassen.
The basketball half court was installed by Mackay Regional Council after consultation with the Northern Beaches community, and is largely thanks to the effort of former Northern Beaches High School student, Daniel McLean.
Daniel approached council saying he plays and referees basketball but had to travel into Mackay to practice. Daniel prepared a petition and went door-to-door to get signatures. The basketball court received 66 per cent of the vote during consultation and has been a well-used community facility since.
Photo credit: Brenda-Lee Anson
Last week, members of the community gathered to remember the sacrifice of those who served during the 10 years of Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War.
Vietnam Veterans’ Day was originally known as Long Tan Day which commemorates the day in 1966 when the battle of Long Tan was fought by the men of D Company, 6th Battalion, the Royal Australian Regiment (6RAR).
Vietnam Veterans’ Day was first commemorated in 1969 with the raising of a cross at the battlefield by the men of 6RAR, this has been adopted to cover all veterans who served in the Vietnam War – the longest conflict in Australia’s history.
60,000 Australians served during the decade of war. Sadly, 521 died and 3,000 were wounded.
On Vietnam Veterans’ Day on August 18, the state government launched the second round of the $4 million Queensland Remembers Grants Program, helping ex-service and other not-for-profit organisations to honour Queensland veterans and their families.
“Queenslanders continue to demonstrate their commitment to honouring our veterans and sharing their stories – always turning out in enormous numbers for Anzac Day, Remembrance Day and other commemorative events throughout the year,” the Premier said.
“The Queensland Remembers Grants Program is an important part of the Queensland Government’s efforts to ensure we appropriately honour the courage and sacrifice of the men and women who have served this country.”
Assistant Minister to the Premier for Veterans’ Affairs Bart Mellish said the Queensland Remembers Grants Program builds on the state government’s extensive investment in the veteran community.
“Honouring veterans, recognising their extraordinary contributions, and ensuring the continued health and wellbeing of veterans and their families is important, ongoing work,” Mr Mellish said.
The second round of the Queensland Remembers Grants Program is now open for submissions and will close at 5pm on 4 October 2022.
Vietnam Veterans’ Day service at Mirani. Left to Right: Bob England (Vietnam Vet. Navy Ret.), Mayor Greg Williamson (RAAF Ret.) Jan Lindbergs (RAAF Ret.), Mackay RSL President Ken Higgins OAM (Vietnam Vet. 6RAR D Company 1969-1970 Ret.)
Vietnam Vet. Ray Higgins Ret. (6RAR Mortars 1969 – 1970)
Vietnam Veterans’ Day service at Mirani
Phuoc Tuy Province, South Vietnam. May 1971. A section of soldiers from C Company, 2RAR /NZ (ANZAC) (The ANZAC Battalion comprising 2nd Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment and a component from the 1st Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment) taking part in the battalion's final operation in Vietnam before returning to Australia later in the month. Private Ray Beattie (left) of St Kilda, Victoria and members of the section are spread out to his left.
Original description and photo sourced by The Australian War Memorial collection/C319339
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