Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
OPINION PIECE from the office of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox There is no question that immigration into Australia is out of control. The government’s numbers are too high, and standards are too low. A sustainable migration program must consider our capacity to provide housing, healthcare, infrastructure and the essential services everyone relies on, and Australians must come first. But Labor’s decision to target Working Holiday Makers Visa holders is not the answer. These people filling vital gaps in our workforce are not the cause of Australia’s housing crisis. In many cases, they are living in accommodation provided by the very businesses that employ them. The National Farmers’ Federation has made the point that Working Holiday Makers generally stay in hostels, caravan parks or purpose-built on-farm accommodation. Resorts usually have on-site staff quarters. They are not the source of Australia’s housing shortage. So why is Labor making it harder for them to come here, when these workers fill genuine jobs that regional Australia holds? Working Holiday Makers fill approximately one in seven farm jobs nationally and are particularly important during peak agricultural periods, which for Dawson, it is right now! Farmers rely on these workers to plant, pick, pack and harvest the produce that ends up on Australian supermarket shelves. Having run one of Australia’s largest tomato farms, at times Working Holiday Makers made up more than 50 per cent of my workforce. Without them, much of our crop simply would not have been picked in time and rotted in the paddock. Some may say, why not employ the Australians who don’t have a job and are on “the dole”? Can I say, this does not work. Most farmers will employ Aussies over travelling backpackers, but many either don’t want to do the work or don’t turn up after the first day. Who picks the fruit or veggies then? Farmers are already warning that visa delays are leaving them without workers. The NFF says approvals that once took days are now facing processing times of up to three months, and this time frame can be the difference between harvesting a crop or losing it. That should concern every Australian already feeling the pressure at the supermarket checkout. The same problem is playing out in tourism. Across Dawson, Working Holiday Makers are an important part of the workforce supporting tourism and hospitality, particularly in the Whitsundays. They help fill shifts, work in hotels and restaurants, support tour operators and keep businesses running through their busiest periods. They also contribute to the local economy. They spend money on food, fuel, attractions and tours, supporting the small businesses that depend on a strong visitor economy. That is why tourism and business leaders across North Queensland are raising the alarm. They understand what happens when a regional business cannot get enough staff: opening hours are reduced, and services are cut, creating a downward spiral. We do need to reduce migration to sustainable levels. We need stronger integrity measures, and we need to crack down on rorts. But responsible migration policy means understanding which parts of the system are creating pressure and which parts are helping Australia function. Working Holiday Makers are not the problem. They are part of the workforce solution for regional. Australia. People have had a gutful of watching their standard of living go backwards. Groceries, fuel, housing and everyday expenses are already putting enormous pressure on families. The last thing Australians need is another reckless policy that makes it harder to produce food, harder to run regional businesses and harder for tourism operators to find the workers they need.
Read the full storySomeone sold a house in Sydney last week for $9 million less than they bought it for four or five years ago. The sellers had bought the property in Sydney’s eastern suburbs for $29 million and sold it for $20 million in a sale forced by their bank. I imagine the sellers are a little disappointed by the government’s decisions on negative gearing and capital gains tax and feeling pretty hurt by the increased interest rates. Australia’s interest rates are on the rise and are now sitting at levels not seen since 2011. Increased cost of living is hurting people around the country and interest rates are playing into that. But the impact of interest rates is not felt evenly around the country. The far-higher property prices mean people in the major cities suffer much more than regional areas with the rates increase. That is certainly not to say people in Mackay are unaffected by the cost of living; it’s just that the impact of interest rates increase on a $400,000 mortgage is much less than the impact on a $1m mortgage. There are other Mackay-specific factors that are in play when discussing the current housing market. The big factor is the role of coal in our economy. Most of the coal extracted and exported from our region is coking coal, which is used to make steel. The price of coking coal is around $280 a tonne, which is about 50 per cent up. Good activity in the coal market translates to good news for the Mackay economy, as it is an economic engine that other cities and regions just don’t have. Good activity in Bowen Basin flows throughout the Mackay economy; Paget workshops, transport, suppliers and related businesses all benefit. But so do other, non-mining-related businesses as they benefit from the general confidence and spending that goes on. The strong mining activity also means mines need to keep their staff levels up and that means more people moving to Mackay. Of course, Mackay is much more than a coal mining town but if the coal sector is going well those other areas definitely benefit. It is a confidence boost for Mackay people looking to get into the housing market and those wanting to upgrade or downsize. It also means continuing strong demand from people wanting to rent a property and it will be interesting to see what sort of activity that creates from investors. Investors have walked away from the big-city markets because they can no longer use negative gearing on established properties that do not have a sufficient yield to be positively geared. Negative gearing has never been a big thing in Mackay because our prices are lower and rental returns continue to be strong so many investors have a positively geared property. Around the country everyone is nervous about the state of play and the probability of more interest rate rises. But strong coal prices and an economy that is performing well mean Mackay might just be presenting an opportunity for buyers and sellers that doesn’t exist in other parts. I remember when national confidence was flying high and Mackay prices were going up significantly that many buyers were saying “I wish we had bought a while ago when the market wasn’t so hot”. I’m not armed with a crystal ball so I’m not here to tell you what is going to happen but I suspect there is a very good buying window right now for those looking for an opportunity.
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A local Mackay and Sarina based model has created a dress out of newspapers, including Mackay Life, for her upcoming pageant, representing her region and hometown on the runway as she vies for Miss Diamond International in Brisbane. Zoe Place will be competing this weekend in the three-day event, beginning this Friday 2nd October and ending on Sunday 4th October. The young model spent around a month creating her eco-fashion outfit, using old newspapers as the main material and transforming them into a bodice, skirt and flowers. Red elements were also incorporated into the design to give the dress a bold and glamorous pageant feel. Zoe said, “The entire concept was really about taking something that would normally be thrown away and turning it into something beautiful and meaningful.” Her eco-fashion creation will form part of a busy weekend in Brisbane, with the Miss Diamond International event including photo shoots, interviews, an eco-fashion show and the final pageant. Zoe has been preparing for the event by practising her strut and walking, preparing for interviews and getting comfortable in the different outfits she will wear throughout the weekend. Alongside her love of modelling, pageantry has also provided Zoe with a platform to raise awareness about causes close to her heart, including mental health, while fundraising for Beyond Blue. “Pageantry has given me more of a platform to combine my love for modelling with something that is really important to me.” “When I first started, I was more nervous about putting myself out there and worried about what others would think about me – but I’ve changed a lot through my journey in pageantry.” “Pageantry has also taught me that it’s not about how you look on stage. It’s about the person you are when you step off it.” “Every woman has their own unique journey and that journey is something we should all be really proud of.” “To me, it represents confidence, empowerment, kindness, and using your voice to make a difference.” Zoe said she was looking forward to meeting the other contestants, making new connections and creating memories. “I’m definitely looking forward to meeting all the new contestants and making new connections and creating memories that I will carry with me for a lifetime.” While Zoe hopes to eventually move to the city, her sights are set even further afield, with a dream of one day walking in New York Fashion Week. Mackay and Sarina local Zoe Place has created an eco-fashion dress from recycled newspapers, including Mackay Life, ahead of her Miss Diamond International pageant in Brisbane. Photos supplied
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Trends, reels and the endless cycle of always wanting more has quietly bombarded the minds of countless social media users of all ages, but one former Mackay local has made it her mission to help others understand the effects of social media and find practical ways to break free from online addiction. Alexis Zahner is in Mackay over the next week to teach upcoming generations about social media and the effects it can have on the mind, particularly on identity, self-discovery, as well as the marketing strategies that get viewers hooked and influence their decisions. It is something Alexis knows first-hand can be a useful tool, but also a great disruption to authenticity and the world as we see and experience it. Alexis will hold a free meet and greet and book launch today, Friday 2nd October, at 5.30pm at the Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club, where she will give a talk and answer questions relating to her debut book, Real: Reconnecting to Yourself in a World of Likes and Lies. A former Mackay girl, Alexis spent the past 15 years working across business psychology, marketing and media, with her interest in social media influence beginning during her university studies at James Cook University in Townsville. Her own experience as a social media user, travel blogger and influencer eventually led her to question how much of her identity, decisions and values were being shaped by what she saw online. “The tipping point came for me about 3 years ago when I had this feeling that I couldn't separate influence from my own personal decision making,” she said. “I couldn't separate my own likes, dislikes, values, relationships from what I was being exposed to and being influenced by online.” “I found that I needed to take some time away from social media to recalibrate what was important to me and sort of reconnect and come back to myself.” Alexis said she understood the feeling of questioning who you are outside of social media. “I know what it feels like to live a life under the influence of social media and have that existential crisis of thinking to yourself, who am I? What do I like? What's the kind of life I want to live? and struggling to separate myself from influence.” Alexis is particularly passionate about reaching teenagers, who she says are in an important stage of identity development, and will share this message with Mackay high school students during her upcoming school talks. “Teenagers are really easily influenced by social media. So it's a really important age where we start educating them – not just on the mental health repercussions of things like social media and how it shortens their attention span, but how it actually influences who they become.” “If you're asking yourself these questions, it's not your fault. Social media is actually geared to create this impact on you.” Alexis encourages people of all ages to “start expanding beyond what you see on the platform.” “Dare to indulge in the things that you've always been curious about or things you used to love,” she said. “Don't be afraid to put the phone down to let yourself be curious and have fun.” What: Alexis Zahner's 'Real' Book launch When: 5.30pm Friday 2nd October 2026 Where: Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club Former Mackay local and author Alexis Zahner is returning home to share her experiences with social media and her debut book, Real. Photo supplied
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Mackay Regional Council is taking a step toward a greener future, launching a new trial aimed at cutting carbon emissions from equipment used by outdoor crews.
The initiative will see more than a dozen battery-powered tools put to the test, as council explores both the cost and environmental benefits of transitioning away from traditional petrol-powered machinery.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the modelling done by council officers is very encouraging.
“We estimate that in a five-year period, council could reduce their CO2 emissions from this kind of equipment from almost 11 tonnes to about three tonnes,” Mayor Williamson said.
“With the current volatility of fuel prices, any reduction in our reliance on petrol will offer a financial benefit to ratepayers, with electricity charging costs at about $0.24 per kilowatt hour. That’s significantly less than the current cost of fuel,” he said.
“If 100 petrol tools were replaced with battery-electric equivalents, we could see cost savings of about $28,000 over five years and more than 800-tonnes of CO2 emissions reduced.”
Among the equipment purchased for the trial is brush cutters, whipper snippers, blowers and chainsaws.
Sustainability Strategic Advisory Committee co-Chair Cr Alison Jones said there are other benefits to the community and staff.
“Often the equipment is lighter than petrol-powered – reducing strain and fatigue on staff, and by moving away from fuelled equipment we are removing any workplace hazards around airborne particulates,” Cr Jones said.
“The battery-powered equipment is also quieter, meaning that council staff can use them at expanded times and locations.”
The trial aims to determine if projections around cost and CO2 emissions reductions are correct and if the equipment is fit for purpose.
It’s also part of council’s goal to reduce emissions and achieve net zero by 2050, in line with Australia’s international commitments.
The trial will run for three years, with council officers to review how many tools and batteries are still viable and which tools are preferred and fit-for-purpose
The three-year trial will evaluate the long-term viability of the powered tools and batteries. Photo supplied
Community members are being encouraged to come along and show their support as Safe Sleep Mackay prepares to launch its inaugural Bosses on Buses event, aimed at raising vital funds for those experiencing homelessness across the region.
Set to take place on Friday, March 27 at the Mackay Showgrounds from 3pm to 7pm, the event will offer the public an opportunity to step inside the Safe Sleep bus, meet participating local leaders, and gain a deeper understanding of the initiative driving change in the community.
Safe Sleep Mackay spokesperson Lisa Jamieson said the event is about more than just fundraising, highlighting the importance of community connection and collective action.
“The Bosses on Buses sleepout is about leadership, our community coming together and stepping up when it matters most. We’re asking the Mackay community to get behind this event — nominate a boss, make a donation, or come along and check out the bus.”
Funds raised will help Safe Sleep Mackay operationalise the bus service and start providing safe, dignified overnight temporary accommodation people experiencing homelessness in the Mackay region.
To find out more about the event and how to nominate a boss or how to donate visit, www.safesleepmackay.com.au
The Mackay community is being urged to support the upcoming Bosses on Buses event, raising funds to deliver safe overnight accommodation for people experiencing homelessness. Photo source: Safe Sleep Mackay
Mackay Regional Council paid tribute to the Queensland State Emergency Service this week, in celebration of its 50th anniversary.
To commemorate the milestone, eight 50-year Anniversary Flags will travel right across the region to be signed by SES volunteers.
The Central Region stretches from the Whitsunday Islands to Agnes Water, consisting of 14 units, 66 groups and over 1200 active volunteers, supported by 26 staff spread across offices in Rockhampton, Mackay and Longreach.
Mayor Greg Williamson acknowledged the dedicated, highly trained volunteers who support our community in times of emergency and disaster.
“Every year, SES volunteers make a real and lasting impact on the lives of Queenslanders – providing help, hope and practical support when it’s needed most,” Mayor Williamson said.
“These tremendous individuals always step up when they are needed and often the conditions they work in are extreme,” he said.
“Whether that’s sandbagging and tarping roofs in torrential rain or searching for missing people amongst dense bushland or in flood boats in raging rivers and creeks – our SES volunteers are local heroes through and through.
“So, if you know an SES volunteer or see one out and about, please thank them for their service.
“Now is also the perfect time to get involved, so if you have ever thought about becoming an SES volunteer, head to ses.qld.gov.au and register your interest.”
SES Mackay Local Controller Alexander McPhee said the Central Region had two 50-year serving members.
“Our region is incredibly lucky to have such a depth of experience and expertise amongst our members,” Mr McPhee said.
“It’s great to be able to celebrate all our volunteers and this is a special opportunity to acknowledge the history of this organisation and the amazing, lifesaving work these volunteers have carried out over the last 50 years,” he said.
The Queensland SES was formally established on December 11th 1975.
It was created in response to the devastating 1974 Queensland floods, evolving from the former Queensland Civil Defence Organisation that had operated since 1961.
2 - SES Mackay Local Controller Alexander McPhee presented Mayor Greg Williamson and Deputy Mayor Karen May with a commemorative plaque of all the SES groups in the state and thanked council for its support.
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.
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.
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
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
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.
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!).
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
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.
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Photo source: Shutterstock
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.
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Photo source: Facebook
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.
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
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 31st 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
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