Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
The Government have announced a $1 million project to construct women’s changerooms for the Rugby League Mackay & District playing fields in an aim to support the next generation of female players in the region amid an increasing demand for participation. The commitment to deliver the changerooms comes after local MP Nigel Dalton petitioned for the investment and was backed by more than 300 community members. The changerooms will also be adjacent to BB Print Stadium, the home of the Mackay Cutters, which is used by a range of other sports including rugby union and soccer for major fixtures. The project will be jointly funded by the state government and Mackay Regional Council and will include two fully-serviced changerooms with dedicated female amenities. Premier David Crisafulli said the new changerooms would provide greater dignity for women and girls wanting to play rugby league. “Every Queenslander who plays sport, regardless of their gender, age or ability, deserves to have access to changerooms and facilities,” Premier Crisafulli said. “Mackay is one of Queensland’s greatest rugby league nurseries and the growth of the women’s game in the region has been outstanding. “It’s imperative women and girls who play the game are made to feel as welcome as possible, and these new changerooms will make rugby league even more inclusive for the Mackay community. “This upgrade is overdue and our government is delivering the infrastructure local sporting clubs need to thrive, while creating more opportunities for women and girls to get involved in sport.” Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the new changerooms were a gamechanger for sport in the region. “Having the right infrastructure in place will attract more women and girls to want to play rugby league, and that is a huge win for Mackay,” Mr Dalton said. “This project is a direct result of listening to our local sporting clubs and the wider community over the past year. Time and again, people told me they wanted better facilities to support the growth of women's sport, and I'm proud we have been able to deliver on that feedback. “Having the new changerooms adjacent to BB Print Stadium means female participants using that venue, whether it be for rugby league, rugby union or soccer, will also be catered for. “This is a fantastic outcome for our community and for Mackay sport, and it's another example of what can be achieved when we listen to local people and deliver on their priorities.” Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said the project was a significant win for local sport. “We’re seeing strong participation in women’s sport right across Mackay, and these new changerooms will make it easier for more women and girls to get involved and stay involved in sport,” Mayor Williamson said. “The Mackay Regional Council is pleased to partner with the Crisafulli Government on a project that will deliver benefits for local clubs and the wider community for years to come.” Mackay Cutters Board Member Emma Coburn said the upgrades would allow female players access to safe, modern and inclusive facilities that support their participation in the game. “We’ve seen incredible growth in women’s rugby league across Mackay, and having modern, dedicated female facilities is essential to supporting that growth,” Ms Coburn said. “This investment will help strengthen the pathway from grassroots participation through to representative rugby league and ensure the next generation of female talent can continue to thrive right here in our region.”
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A notorious Bruce Highway intersection long considered one of the region’s most dangerous blackspots is set for a major safety overhaul, with Premier David Crisafulli announcing plans to upgrade the Habana Road junction. The project forms part of the joint State and Federal Government’s $9 billion Bruce Highway upgrade program and will include a reconfigured intersection and road widening to improve safety and heavy vehicle access. Notorious intersection to be upgraded as part of Bruce Highway upgrades Premier David Crisafulli has announced a major safety upgrade to the notorious Bruce Highway intersection blackspot at Habana Road. The Premier visited the site on the morning of June 9th to share plans for the project, which will be funded by the $9 billion Bruce Highway upgrade program jointly delivered by the state and federal Governments. The intersection will be reconfigured to improve safety and boost capacity, with the road widened to improve safe heavy vehicle access. The site is a known crash hotspot, with four hospitalisations following serious incidents in the past decade, and many more accidents reported. Planning and design will now commence for the upgrade, with construction expected to commence in 2027. “We are delivering the safer Bruce Highway that regional Queensland has demanded and waited too long for,” Premier Crisafulli said. “This is about getting Queenslanders home sooner and safer, starting with the worst blackspots to boost safety on the Bruce.” According to Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm: “The Bruce Highway and Farleigh Habana Road intersection is notoriously dangerous, and these overdue upgrades for our community will deliver a major boost to safety,” “In addition to saving lives, this investment is ensuring we have the regional connectivity to support our tourism, mining and agricultural industries.” Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said he was proud to be part of a government delivering for regional communities. “These upgrades to the Bruce Highway are something the community has been calling for and now thanks to the Government securing a $9 billion program, it’s getting the critical upgrades it needs,” Mr Dalton said.
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A Commemorative Ceremony marking the 83rd anniversary of Australia worst air disaster was conducted at the Bakers Creek memorial on Sunday 7th June. The B-17c Flying Fortress, a former bomber which had been converted to a transport aircraft, carrying 41 American military personnel back to ‘Maple’ (Port Morsby following their rest and relaxation leave in Mackay, crashed shortly after taking off from the Mackay airport before sunrise, at 6.02am, on the morning of 14th June 1943, in the area now occupied by the abattoir. There was only one survivor. The memorial which is located at the Bakers Creek Community Hall, less than a kilometre from the crash site, was unveiled and dedicated on 11th May 1992, and remembrance services have been conducted annually since that date. Following the arrival of special guests by WW2 Jeeps, American, Australian and 24 ‘Home State’ flags (representing the casualties) were marched on, with music provided by a band comprised of primary school students from several schools. A contingent of No.105 (City of Mackay) Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets (AAFC) followed the flags, and a guard of cadets was mounted at the corners of the memorial. The ceremony commenced with the Australian National Anthem and the American National Anthem, and an address by Mr. Greg Williamson, Mayor of Mackay Regional Council. An aerial tribute was provided by a Fly Past and ‘Dipping of Wings’ by a Tiger Moth aircraft from The Mackay Tiger Moth Museum. Piper Isaac Williamson, a member of the Mackay and District Pipe Band, played a lament as flowers of remembrance were being laid, and the last, representing the sole survivor by a staff member of the Dundula State Primary School. Taps and The Last Post were sounded by the Bugler, and the Ode to the Fallen recited following a minutes silence, after which Rouse was sounded. The ceremony concluded with a march past of the AAFC.
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After its busiest year on record and more than 300 missions already completed in 2026, BMA CQ Rescue is calling on Mackay and surrounding communities to help ensure the region's rescue helicopter service remains ready for the next emergency. The community-funded organisation this week launched its 2026 Annual Appeal, aiming to raise $280,000 to help offset rising operational costs and maintain its around-the-clock rescue capability. Based in Mackay, BMA CQ Rescue provides critical aeromedical, search and rescue, and emergency response services across the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday regions, operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Demand for the service continues to grow. In 2025, crews responded to a record 778 missions and flew more than 339,000 kilometres across Central and North Queensland. So far this year, they have already completed more than 300 lifesaving flights. Chief Executive Officer Tim Healee said every mission represented a family facing one of the most challenging moments of their lives. “For 30 years, our crews have answered the call without hesitation, no matter the time, weather, or how remote the location,” Mr Healee said. “But every mission relies on the strength of our community. There will always be another accident, another medical emergency, another family needing help fast. And when that call comes, we must be ready.” While government funding supports part of the service, BMA CQ Rescue must still raise almost $7 million from the community each year to continue operating. The 2026 appeal centres on the story of 13-year-old Tallis Anderson, who suffered critical injuries in a serious motorbike accident near Moranbah. When the emergency call came through, BMA CQ Rescue crews responded rapidly, providing urgent medical care before transporting Tallis to Mackay for specialist treatment. For his family, the helicopter's arrival was a moment they will never forget. “You don't realise how precious they are until something like that happens,” Tallis' father Ryan said. Today, Tallis continues his recovery surrounded by family, something his parents believe may not have been possible without the quick response of the rescue crew. Mr Healee said Tallis' story highlighted why community support remains so important. “The people who need us tomorrow don't know it yet, but when that moment comes, our communities support means we can be there,” he said. This year's appeal also marks 30 years of service for the rescue organisation, which has become a vital lifeline for regional communities where distance can often mean the difference between life and death. Operating 365 days a year, the service now flies further and faster than ever before, thanks to its fleet of AW139 rescue helicopters. However, officials say continued community support remains essential to ensuring crews can respond whenever the next call for help comes. Community members can support the appeal by donating through the BMA CQ Rescue website via www.cqrescue.org.au. CAPTION: To help keep this vital service in the sky, residents are encouraged to support the 2026 Annual Appeal. Every dollar counts and could be the difference in someone’s life. Photo source: BMA CQ Rescue
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Running around in the bush, often barefoot, was once a defining part of Australian childhood, helping children connect with nature and develop a lasting love for the outdoors. This connection was a core principle for how many children learned about their environment. In recent years, however, studies have shown a decline in this behaviour due to technological advances. As a result, children are now less likely to engage with nature or become involved in conservation efforts later in life.
Bernd (Ben) Braeuer is the founder of New Beginnings International. This non-profit charitable organisation is dedicated to bringing positive change to the lives of Australia’s most vulnerable young people, reducing antisocial behaviour among young people, and making communities safer and more liveable.
Ben developed his charity’s programs with a passion for conservation that began at the age of five. The programs primarily achieve this by focussing on wholesome community principles and getting children back outdoors, with the main aim of the programs to “create positive change and get children involved at an early age and interested enough… to either volunteer, go into further study or a career in marine conservation,” Ben explained.
New Beginnings first came to the Whitsundays in 2012 with their ‘Way of Community’ in-school Workshops, then again in 2025 with their ‘Youth Marine Conservation Program’ comprising three levels. Levels one and two cover basic and advanced theory on marine conservation, climate change, and career opportunities, with the level 2 lecture prepared by a Master of Zoology - Marine Biology and Cognition - from the University of Vienna, Austria while on holiday in Australia. Level three is the practical component, and this year’s consisted of beach clean-ups and reef activities, working with Tangaroa Blue/AMDI to record the data nationally. Ben explains this data, “In the end, creates changes in laws like banning plastic straws.”
“The success of our marine programme has just blown my mind.”
“The feedback from kids, parents, and teachers has been phenomenal,” he enthused.
The 2025 Whitsundays-based marine program began with 90 Level One students, with numbers narrowing to 25 by Levels Two and Three through a process of elimination, and the final exercise with four of these 90 students completing all mandatory activities and receiving a Certificate of Course Completion.
Ben believes education on conservation helps kids who may be struggling by giving them purpose and direction. He explains, “it’s a multiple effect,” because kids pass their knowledge on to “their parents, siblings and peer groups.”
He also highlights the simple actions that he teaches kids: “Take three for the sea… just pick up three things.” “If everyone were to do that, the impact would be phenomenal.”
Bernd stresses that people on land have a significant impact on the ocean: “It’s actually as much the people on the land that can have a significant impact.”
Coral surveys conducted by the group in November 2024 showed significant water cloudiness coming from land runoff, highlighting the need for greater awareness and action.
After the success of the 2025 program here, Ben intends to keep on running his Marine Conservation programs and conducting further reef surveys. He explains that being independent allows them to do things differently: “We’re independent, so we’re not locked into GBRMPA funded programmes.”
For further information on the charity’s programs, please see:
https://www.newbeginningsinternational.com
and,
https://www.facebook.com/NewBeginningsMarineProjects
New Beginnings Marine Conservation Program. Photo supplied.
Want proof that the ocean celebrates Christmas too? Make way for the Candy Cane Shrimp (Alpheus randalli). These little critters are commonly found in Whitsunday reef areas, as they are native to shallow tropical and subtropical waters.
Their name is definitive of their look, evoking a candy cane with their distinct red and white stripes. Great friends with the Goby fish due to their mutualistic relationship, where the nearly blind shrimp digs burrows as the Goby stays on the lookout. Therefore, the relationship is mutually beneficial and they are both reliant on one another for survival.
The Candy Cane Shrimp is medium-sized, reaching around 1.2 inches in length, and the carapace (hard upper shell) of the candy cane shrimp is laterally compressed. They are a species of snapping shrimp and have one cheliped larger than the other, with a large snapping claw that snaps shut quickly, creating a wave of bubbles that generates high acoustic pressure and noise. This can be used as a form of communication or to stun prey for food.
Fun Fact: Male and female Candy Cane Shrimp do not share burrows but will build passageways between adjoining burrows.
Mackay Airport has once again brightened the festive season for the local community with its annual Making Christmas a Little Brighter campaign.
This initiative recognises lesser-known charities, not-for-profits, and community groups that make a meaningful impact across the region.
This year, five outstanding organisations each received a $2,000 donation to support their vital work.
• BMA CQ Rescue, the region’s aeromedical lifeline, will use the contribution to power its next lifesaving mission across Mackay, Whitsunday, Isaac, and beyond.
• Engedi Inc continues to foster connection and joy for families through thoughtful experiences and mindful traditions.
• MADEC Ltd will direct its donation toward its annual Children’s Christmas Party, providing personalised gifts and therapeutic programs for children and young people.
• Sarina Surf Lifesaving Club Inc, a volunteer-led organisation, will use the funding to support its beach patrols, nippers program, and community education initiatives that build confidence and leadership.
• Safe Sleep Mackay’s innovative mobile sleeping pods will benefit from contributions to their battery power systems, ensuring guests have air conditioning, lights, and secure access for safe rest.
Mackay Airport expressed its gratitude to all who serve the community, noting how difficult it was to select just five recipients from the many deserving nominations.
The airport looks forward to continuing this initiative in 2026, shining a light on local organisations whose dedication spreads joy, safety, and support throughout Mackay.
Photo source: Mackay Airport
As we approach Christmas, I want to take a moment to wish you and your family a safe, joyful, and restful festive season.
Christmas is a time to slow down and reconnect — with family, friends, neighbours, and community. It’s also a time to reflect on the year that’s been, to check in on those doing it tough, and to look ahead with hope and purpose. Mackay is built on strong community spirit, and I’m grateful every day to represent a region where people still look out for one another.
With many locals travelling over the holidays, I also want to share an important message: please take care on our roads. This is the season where one poor decision can have lifelong consequences. Whether you’re heading north or south on the Bruce, driving to the beach, or just doing the short trips around town, road safety matters every single time you get behind the wheel.
A few simple reminders can save lives:
As we move into the New Year, many of us start thinking about resolutions. My advice is to keep them practical, achievable, and kind to yourself.
A few realistic ideas to set yourself up for success:
Whatever your plans for the holidays — whether you’re celebrating, travelling, working, or taking things quietly — please know that I’m wishing you peace, health, and happiness, and a positive start to 2026.
Merry Christmas, Mackay — and a safe and happy New Year.
Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly MP, is calling on locals, tourism operators, and community groups to have their say in shaping the future of Eungella and the Pioneer Valley. The newly formed Destination 2045 Strategic Advisory Committee aims to harness the region’s tourism potential and develop a long-term vision that benefits both residents and visitors.
Mr Kelly said the Christmas season is the perfect time for residents and visitors alike to reflect on the opportunities that could elevate Eungella and the Pioneer Valley into a world-class tourism destination.
“Right now, families from across Queensland are visiting Eungella, Finch Hatton Gorge and the upper Pioneer Valley. As people explore these incredible natural landscapes over Christmas, I’m asking them to imagine what’s possible,” Mr Kelly said.
“Better trails, improved visitor facilities, new accommodation options, guided experiences, heritage storytelling, nature-based adventure tourism, the potential is endless. This is our opportunity to bring these ideas together and create a clear plan for the future.”
The Strategic Advisory Committee will bring together local tourism operators, environmental groups, business owners, community leaders, and residents to develop a long-term vision and identify priority projects to support growth under the Queensland Government’s Destination 2045 strategy.
An Expression of Interest (EOI) process has now opened for community members wanting to participate.
“The best ideas always come from locals, the people who live, work, and build businesses in this region,” Mr Kelly said.
Mr Kelly said the success of any long-term tourism vision will depend on local operators and businesses.
“Tourism operators and small businesses are the people who will drive a lasting legacy in Eungella and the Pioneer Valley. Government can support and enable initiatives, but it’s the boots on the ground, the guides, the café owners, the accommodation providers, the adventure tour operators, who bring a destination to life. We need them at the table.”
The committee’s first meeting will be held in Eungella in early 2026, where participants will begin mapping out investment opportunities, infrastructure needs, and policies to enhance the visitor experience.
“This region is one of Queensland’s most spectacular natural assets. With the right planning, it can become a leading ecotourism destination,” he said.
“Let’s use the Christmas season to spark those conversations, while people are up on the Range spotting platypus, hiking our rainforest trails, or enjoying time with family in the Pioneer Valley.”
Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly MP is calling on locals to help shape the future of tourism in Eungella and the Pioneer Valley through the new Destination 2045 committee. Photos supplied
As 2025 wraps up, Mackay Isaac Tourism is celebrating a big year of milestones, from record visitor numbers to standout campaigns and unforgettable events, cementing the region as one of Queensland’s top destinations.
Mackay Isaac Tourism CEO Jeff Stewart-Harris said that this year’s achievements reflect the passion and resilience of our tourism community.
“Together, we’ve elevated Mackay Isaac’s profile and created a foundation for even greater success in 2026”, Mr Stewart-Harris said.
“These results prove that strategic, creative marketing can shift perceptions and drive real outcomes,” Mr Stewart-Harris added.
“We’ve moved beyond being a stopover destination. Travellers are actively seeking Mackay Isaac for authentic experiences.”
With the festive season and school holidays approaching, Mackay Isaac is ready to welcome Free Spirit travellers into 2026.
From sunrise wallaby encounters at Cape Hillsborough to island escapes, outback adventures to vibrant summer events, the region offers endless opportunities to do whatever, whenever.
Wake House Australia & Mackay Adventure Tours and Transfers Managing Director Amanda Pelagalli said the Wake House is seeing an increase in international tourists visiting the park on their travels up north in the lead up to Christmas.
“We’re particularly seeing visitors from Germany, France, Spain and the Netherlands”. Mrs Pelagalli said.
“Looking forward to 2026, Mackay Adventure Tours and Transfers has strong forward bookings particularly with group touring companies looking for exciting new destinations to visit along the Queensland coast”.
Highlights from the year:
• Visitors Galore: 33,000 international visitors (up 17% on last year) and 773,000 domestic overnight visitors.
• Tourism Dollars: Domestic visitors spent nearly $900 million across the region, with holidays, business trips, and family visits driving the boom.
• Campaign Reach: Local campaigns like Lucky Catch and Snap, keepuP!, and Free Spirit delivered almost 20 million impressions.
• Visitors Welcomed: 13,420 guests stopped by Mackay Isaac Visitor Centres, supported by nearly 4,000 volunteer hours.
• Events Packed the Calendar: From Nebo Rodeo to the Mackay Festival of Arts, locals and visitors enjoyed a diverse lineup of signature events.
• Digital Leap: A new website and a stunning regional destination shoot showcased the best of Mackay Isaac online.
• Industry Leadership: Membership in the Australian Cruise Association, contributions to Destination 2045, and advocacy for improved visitor infrastructure kept the region on the map nationally and internationally.
• Trade Presence: Mackay Isaac Tourism showcased the region at its biggest-ever presence at ATE, attracting both national and international trade attention.
For more information, visit www.mackayisaac.com/plan/deals
Jeff Stewart-Harris and Amanda Pelagalli. Photo supplied
Meet Silly Little Millie, one of the beautiful pooches currently in care hoping to find her Christmas miracle!
Millie is an 11 month old female Staffy mix with a big personality packed into her 15.5 kg pocket rocket frame. True to her name, she’s a bit of a clown — full of fun, energy, and endless love to give.
Millie is dreaming of her forever family — one that will take her on long walks along the beach, include her in everyday adventures, and shower her with the affection she deserves. Millie would love a home with a fur sibling for company (but not necessary).
Millie is desexed and vaccinated up to date.
If you’re looking for a loyal, playful companion to brighten your days, Silly Millie might just be the perfect match!
Contact Lucys Lucky Tags and Dog Rescue Inc for more information at: lltagsanddogrescue@gmail.com
Donations can also be made to the following details below:
Bank details: Commonwealth
Bank
Name: Lucys Lucky Tags and Dog Rescue Inc
BSB: 064-722
Account: 1069 7243
Customer Service Centres
Mackay
Closed noon, Wednesday, December 24
Reopening 9am, Monday, January 5
Mirani
Closed noon, Wednesday, December 24
Reopening 9am, Thursday, January 8
Sarina
Closed noon, Wednesday, December 24
Reopening 9am, Thursday, January 8
Animal Management Centre
Closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day (on call for emergencies)
Monday, December 29 to Wednesday, December 31 - open by appointment only between 10am to 12pm
Closed New Year's Day (on call for emergencies)
Friday, January 2, 2026 - open by appointment only between 10am to 12pm
Artspace Mackay
Closed 3pm, Sunday, December 14, 2025
Reopening 10am, Tuesday, January 20, 2026
Mackay ARC
Closed Thursday, December 25 (Christmas Day)
Open Friday, December 26 (Boxing Day) 8am-6pm
Open Thursday, January 1 (New Years Day) 8am-6pm
Bluewater Lagoon
Closed Thursday, December 25 (Christmas Day)
Open every other day from 9am to 6pm
Memorial Swim Centre
Closed noon, Wednesday, December 24
Closed December 25 (Christmas Day)
Closed Friday, December 26 (Boxing Day)
Open from noon, Friday, December 27
Closing noon, Wednesday, December 31
Closed Thursday, January 1 (New Year's Day)
Open from noon, Friday, January 2
Pioneer Swim Centre
Thursday, December 25 - Closed (Christmas Day)
Friday, December 26 - Closed (Boxing Day)
Thursday, January 1 - Closed (New Year's Day)
Mirani Swim Centre
Closed noon, Wednesday, December 24
Closed Thursday, December 25 - Closed (Christmas Day)
Closed Friday, December 26 - Closed (Boxing Day)
Open Saturday, December 27, noon to 5pm
Closed Thursday, January 1 - Closed (New Year's Day)
Sarina Pool
Closed Wednesday, December 24 (Christmas Eve)
Closed Thursday, December 25 (Christmas Day)
Closed Friday, December 26 (Boxing Day)
Closed noon, Wednesday, December 31 (New Year's Eve)
Closed Thursday, January 1 (New Year's Day)
Foodspace
Closed 2pm, Friday, December 19
Reopening 8am, Monday, January 5, 2026
Jubilee Community Centre
Closed noon, Wednesday, December 24
Reopening 8.30am, Monday, January 5, 2026
Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre Box Office
Closed 4.30pm, Monday, December 22, 2025
Reopening 9am, Monday, January 5, 2026
Tickets for shows and events can be purchased online via themecc.com.au during this time.
Mackay Natural Environment Centre (Nursery)
Online nursery orders have closed. Online orders will be available from January 1.
The last day for plant collection will be Wednesday, December 17
Collections will resume from Wednesday, January 28.
Botanic Gardens Visitor Information
Closed Monday, December 22, 2025
Reopening 9am, Monday, January 12, 2026
The Botanic Gardens Café and Lagoons Gallery
Closed Monday, December 22, 2025
Reopening 9am, Wednesday, January 14, 2026
Mackay Regional Council Libraries
Closed noon, Wednesday, December 24, 2025
Reopening Monday, January 5, 2026
Pioneer Valley Museum
Closed Wednesday, December 24, 2025
Reopening 1pm, Monday, January 5, 2026
Sarina Sugar Shed
Closed 2pm, Wednesday, December 24 (Christmas Eve)
Closed Thursday, December 25 (Christmas Day)
Closed Friday, December 26 (Boxing Day)
Sarina Youth Centre
Closed Thursday, December 25 (Christmas Day) until Friday, January 2, 2026 inclusive
Reopening Monday, January 5, 2026
Council's Contact Centre will close noon, Wednesday, December 24 and reopen 8.30am, Monday, January 5, 2026. Customers can still contact council during the closure period for any urgent or emergency issues by calling 1300 MACKAY (622 529). For non-urgent matters, requests can be submitted online at www.mackay.qld.gov.au/request or via the Snap Send Solve app.
Photo source: Mackay Regional Council
As we head into a new year, there’s a powerful message for young people across our region: back yourself in 2026. Whether you’re finishing school, starting an apprenticeship or taking the leap into a university degree, the path ahead is yours to shape and you don’t have to walk it alone.
To celebrate its 20 years in 2025, Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank has expanded its scholarship program for 2026, offering five CQUniversity scholarships worth $39,000, including an additional higher education scholarship.
Three scholarships of $9000 each are available for those entering higher education degrees, while two $6000 scholarships will assist first year apprentices. Recipients benefit not only from financial assistance but also from opportunities to build confidence, develop new skills and strengthen the future workforce across our region.
For Chloe Paul, a 2023 scholarship recipient who has just graduated with a Bachelor of Agriculture (CQUniversity), the support was more than financial.
“I chose a Bachelor of Agriculture because I’m passionate about cattle genetics and I want to contribute meaningfully to bovine reproduction,” Ms Paul said.
“The Community Bank Sarina scholarship is an amazing opportunity, the support that it supplied throughout my studies was a key factor in the success I’ve achieved.”
“This scholarship not only has supported me in reaching my goals, but also it provides recipients with a support network that helps us strive, so I encourage everyone to apply.”
Community Bank Sarina Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich said the scholarships encourage local students to step forward with certainty.
“We want young people to feel empowered to take the next step toward their future,” Ms Franettovich said.
“Scholarships remove barriers so students can focus on learning, whilst gaining exposure to local professionals, potential mentors and a community that genuinely wants to see them succeed.”
With eligible fields ranging from apprenticeships to undergraduate degrees in technology, nursing, agriculture, teaching, digital media and more, the program encourages students to pursue careers that strengthen both their future and the region’s future.
If 2026 is your year to back yourself, applications close 28 February. To request an application pack, email executive@sarinacommunity.com.au.
2023 Community Bank Sarina CQUniversity scholarship recipient Chloe Paul has just graduated with a Bachelor of Agriculture. Photo supplied
Police seek assistance following the theft of a motorcycle in Blacks Beach
A motorcycle was stolen from the driveway of a residence on Aquatic Place, Blacks Beach, between 6pm on 11 December and 5am on December 12th.
The stolen motorcycle is a white and orange coloured 2019 model KTM 390 Duke motorcycle, registration number 5BP94. Anyone who might have information about the current location of the stolen motorcycle, or the offence itself, is encouraged to contact police as soon as possible.
High Speed Incident in Nebo
A 23 year old man from Slade Point has been stopped by police for an alleged high speed incident at 6.49pm on December 10th 2025 on the Peak Downs Highway at Oxford (Nebo).
During mobile speed enforcement patrols, Police recorded the alleged speed of a Hyundai Hatchback was checked to be 147 kilometres an hour in a 100 kilometre an hour speed zone.
Police stopped the Hyundai and spoke to the 23 year old alleged driver.
He was subsequently issued with an infringement notice to the value of $1,919 resulting in the loss of 8 demerit points and a drivers licence suspension period of 6 months.
Man charged for driving under the influence in Paget
A 37 year old man was arrested and charged after an alleged incident on December 8th at 11pm in which he was caught driving his Holden Sedan erratically.
Officers gave a breath test which brought back a positive reading, therein being arrested and charged with driving a vehicle under the influence of liquor. The matter will be heard in the Mackay Magistrates Court on January 5th, 2026.
Release of CCTV footage of armed robbery in Moranbah
Police have released CCTV vision in an appeal for information to identify a person who could assist investigations into an armed robbery incident in Moranbah on October 17th.
Investigations indicate around 7am, a man entered a tobacco store on Town Square Avenue, allegedly armed with a knife. The man then allegedly threatened an employee before leaving the scene on foot with a quantity of cash.
The man was observed fleeing the scene in a silver VE Holden Commodore Sedan, with Queensland registration plates 646YDC, with a driver in a hi-vis shirt heading eastbound on Belyando Avenue at around 7.03am before travelling towards the Peak Downs Highway.
Investigators are appealing to witnesses, or anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage from between 6am and 8am on Town Square Avenue, Griffin Street, Batchelor Parade, and Belyando Avenue, or anyone who has observed the Commodore Sedan, to contact police.
Refer to police reference number QP2501872563.
Ongoing missing person case in West Mackay
Police are continuing their investigation into the disappearance of 71-year-old Wayne Pedro Morseu, who was first reported missing to police on November 10th.
Wayne is described First Nations, with a slim build, grey hair and brown eyes.
Anyone with knowledge of his whereabouts or information about Wayne is urged to contact police immediately.
Refer to police reference number QP2502035864.
Photo sourced
Mackay Community Foundation has announced a leadership transition, with outgoing Board Chair Frances Easton handing over the role to local philanthropist Melissa Green, supported by Marcus Pillhofer as Deputy Chair.
Ms Easton served as Board Chair during a period of significant consolidation and progress for the Foundation, overseeing the strengthening of governance frameworks, the introduction of new operational processes and extensive behind-the-scenes work to position the Foundation for long-term growth and impact.
Incoming Chair Melissa Green will lead the Board alongside Mr Pillhofer, with Board members Ian Joblin, Tina Sanders and Jade McAuley continuing to serve.
Outgoing Chair Frances Easton said the focus throughout her tenure had been on building a strong, enduring foundation for the Mackay community – focusing on the Foundation’s guiding principle to “give where you live”.
“Mackay Community Foundation exists to make sure generosity today continues to benefit our community well into the future,” Ms Easton said.
“A lot of the work has happened behind the scenes, but it has all been about creating a solid, well-governed organisation that can grow and give back year after year to our local community.”
Over the past five years, the Foundation has increased its annual community grant distribution from around $70,000 to approximately $250,000, reflecting both growth in its investment base and a stronger platform for long-term giving.
Ms Easton said she was “confident” the Foundation was well placed for its next chapter.
“The strength of this organisation comes from people who genuinely care about Mackay and want to see local generosity protected and amplified for generations to come.”
Incoming Chair Melissa Green said she was honoured to step into the role and continue that work.
“This Foundation has a unique role in our region. By protecting donations and distributing grants every year, we’re creating lasting local impact, and that’s something I’m proud to be part of.”
Ms Green said the Board remained focused on strong governance and a clear long-term vision.
“Our goal is to grow the Foundation’s investment base to $10 million by 2040 or earlier, so we can distribute in excess of $500,000 in grants every year to organisations right here in Mackay. Everything we do comes back to giving where we live.
“If anyone is interested in learning more about the Foundation, or how to donate, I invite you to contact me directly on melissagreenmky@gmail.com.”
The 2026 grants round will open in March – follow Mackay Community Foundation on Facebook for applications dates and more details.
Outgoing Chair Frances Easton with incoming Mackay Community Foundation Chair, Melissa Green. Photo supplied
This Christmas, Mackay’s true spirit has shone brightly, with local businesses, teams and individuals coming together to support those who need it most. From families facing illness and hardship to women seeking safety, people experiencing homelessness and essential health services, the generosity shown across the region has been nothing short of heart-warming.
Acts of kindness have arrived in many forms — food hampers, toys, clothing, gifts and hands-on volunteering — all driven by a shared desire to bring comfort, dignity and joy during the festive season.
Some of the many recipients include:
• Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia – Mackay Family Room
• Chances House Mackay
• Whitsunday Foodbank Mackay
• Mackay Hospital Foundation
• Mackay Women’s Services
• BMA CQ Rescue
• Broken Ballerina Inc
• Mackay Salvation Army
• Mackay Pet Rescue Inc
These are just some of the organisations supported this Christmas, with many more quietly receiving help beyond this list.
How wonderful is our region!
When most people hear the word “strength,” they picture heavy barbells or elite athletes pushing their limits. But strength isn’t just for bodybuilders or professional sports. It’s for everyone. Strength is what allows you to carry groceries, play with your kids, recover from injury, and live a long, independent life. That’s why at Fitness Cartel Mackay, we’ve designed a facility that makes functional training, rehab, and mobility just as important as lifting big weights.
What is functional strength?
Functional strength is about building the muscles and movements that carry over to real life. Squatting down to pick something up, twisting to reach, pushing, pulling, balancing — these are everyday actions. Training them in the gym makes you more resilient outside the gym.
For athletes, functional strength means sharper performance. For older adults, it means staying mobile, confident, and safe. For everyone, it means living better, for longer.
A purpose-built functional training zone
To deliver this, Fitness Cartel Mackay features a dedicated functional training zone — a large, purpose-built space designed for everything from individual workouts to high-intensity group sessions. This area is equipped for Hyrox-style training, one of the fastest-growing fitness competitions in the world, combining endurance, strength, and functional movement into a single challenge.
But you don’t need to be an elite competitor to benefit. Our expert Functional Personal Trainers will lead structured functional training classes right here, guiding members of all levels through workouts that improve strength, agility, and conditioning. Whether your goal is to prepare for competition, get fitter for everyday life, or simply mix up your training with something new, this space has been created to deliver.
A facility designed for inclusivity
Not every member wants to dive straight into the deep end of training, and that’s perfectly fine. Our Comfort Zone provides a dedicated space where beginners, older adults, or anyone returning after time away can ease into fitness at their own pace. The design of our facility ensures there’s a place for every goal — from functional strength training to bodybuilding, from rehabilitation to high-performance conditioning.
The science of mobility and rehab
Mobility and rehabilitation aren’t just “add-ons.” They’re essential. Research shows that improving joint range of motion and stabilising key muscle groups reduces the risk of injury, accelerates recovery, and even enhances mental health by reducing chronic pain.
That’s why our facility offers not only the equipment to train strength, but also the tools and expertise to improve flexibility, stability, and function. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, working on posture, or simply want to move better, the support will be here.
Strength is for everyone
At Fitness Cartel Mackay, strength doesn’t belong to one group — it belongs to everyone. From the first-time member learning a squat, to the athlete loading a barbell, to the retiree improving balance, the outcome is the same: more confidence, more capability, and more life.
Because in the end, strength isn’t about numbers in the gym. It’s about freedom outside of it. And that’s something every member of Mackay deserves.
By Michael James – Fitness Industry Professional, Facility Owner & Wellness Coach
A Proper Christmas For Growers
By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay
It is that time of year again; we are in the lead-up to the most anticipated time of the year, that being Christmas. A time when it is most important to spend time with those people you hold dear. A time of rest, a time of reflection, and most importantly - Santa Claus making his way around the district.
One difference this year is that Santa won’t have to be worried about weaving his way through sugarcane harvesters, haul-outs, and cane train crossings. For the first time in about five years, the harvest in both the Mackay Sugar and Plane Creek areas will have been completed at least 10 days before Christmas Day. This means that people in the growing, harvesting, and milling sectors will hopefully be able to celebrate Christmas at home on the verandah rather than in the workplace, which has been the case over the last few years.
Although this is a positive, of course, it must be remembered this is the result of a reduced crop size in both areas, which takes the gloss off what has been a slightly improved factory performance. That performance has not reached expectations but is an improvement all the same. The problem is that any gains in this sector have been handicapped by massive logistical shortfalls in cane transport. This has resulted in a tremendously difficult and trying year for harvesting contractors in particular, but also the wider industry.
With the crushing season now concluded, Mackay Sugar has recorded a total harvest of 4.76 million tonnes with a seasonal CCS of 13.6. This is surprisingly close to the five-year average considering the amount of standover cane processed, given that standover cane usually lowers CCS levels due to lower sugar content. Plane Creek Mill ended up crushing about 1.332 million tonnes of cane with a CCS for the season of 13.87, which was also impacted by a significant amount of standover cane.
On behalf of Mackay Canegrowers and the wider growing sector, we would like to thank the wider Mackay community for their patience in this past harvesting season. Those of you who grew up in this district have become accustomed to haul-outs on roads and cane trains amongst others. For the newer residents, it is probably a surprise to see a tractor driving down a major arterial road or even through a subdivision, but these are the logistical challenges the industry faces.
We hope that everyone has a restful, safe, and enjoyable Christmas and New Year with those whom they hold dear. We hope that 2026 dawns brighter and more prosperous for all who live in this wonderful wider Mackay region.
There is no doubt that Mackay truly is the Sugar City.
Plane Creek Harvester parks up after finishing the crushing season for 2025. Photo credit: Jason Borg.
Lauren Neill, Women's, Men's and Pelvic Health Physiotherapist at Women's Health Physio Mackay
Christmas is a wonderful time of year, but it’s also one of the biggest disruptions to our usual routines. Long days, late nights, travel, hosting, extra lifting, more sitting, and less structure can all take a quiet toll on the body. And one area that often feels the impact, without us realising, is the pelvic floor.
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that supports the bladder, bowel, and pelvic organs, and works closely with breathing, posture, and movement. It responds not just to exercise, but to everyday life. During the festive season, however, everyday life looks a little different.
Travel is a big one. Long car trips to see family, flights, or hours sitting around a table can leave the body stiff and compressed. Many people also change their toilet habits over the holidays; maybe holding on longer in the car, going “just in case,” or delaying trips to the toilet while busy or travelling. These small changes can increase pressure on the pelvic floor and contribute to symptoms like bladder urgency, leaks, constipation, or a feeling of pelvic heaviness.
Food and drink choices often shift at this time of year too, which can quietly affect bowel health. Richer foods, less fibre, more alcohol, and not drinking enough water, (especially in the summer heat) can leave the bowels sluggish and stools firmer than usual. When constipation creeps in, straining becomes more likely, increasing downward pressure through the pelvic floor. Supporting bowel health with regular fluids, fibre-rich foods, and responding to natural urges can help keep everything moving more comfortably.
Christmas also involves more lifting than we often realise. Eskies, suitcases, kids, prams, shopping bags, and rearranging furniture for guests all place extra load through the body. When we rush or hold our breath while lifting, pressure increases downwards onto the pelvic floor; particularly if it’s already fatigued or tense.
Add to that the mental load of organising celebrations, caring for others, and keeping everything running smoothly, and it’s no surprise many women feel uncomfortable, sore, or “not quite right” by the end of the festive period.
The good news is that a little awareness goes a long way. Simple habits can help protect your pelvic floor over the holidays. Staying well hydrated supports bladder and bowel health. Taking regular movement breaks during long drives or days of sitting helps reduce stiffness and pressure. Exhaling when you lift, rather than holding your breath, can significantly reduce strain on the pelvic floor. Gentle movement like walking, swimming, stretching, or short resets between events helps your body feel supported rather than overwhelmed.
It’s also important to listen to your body. If you notice new symptoms like leaking, urgency, heaviness, or discomfort, that’s not your body “failing;” it’s communicating. The festive season often highlights issues that have been quietly present under the surface.
As the year wraps up, remember that looking after your pelvic floor isn’t about restriction or perfection. It’s about support. Supporting your body so you can enjoy the festive season with comfort, confidence, and energy — and head into the new year feeling more connected to your body, not at odds with it.
Because Christmas memories are best made when your body feels looked after too.
Pelvic Floor-Friendly Festive Tips1
• Exhale when lifting eskies, kids or suitcases -avoid breath holding.
• Drink water regularly, especially in the summer-heat.
• Include fiber-rich foods tokeep.bowels.moving-comfortably.
•Take movement breaks.on long drives.or travel days.
• Avoid excessive 'just in case' toilet trips.1
• Add gentle movement-like walking, swimming, orstretching.between events.
Lauren Neill
Women's, Men's and Pelvic Health Physiotherapist at Women's Health Physio Mackay
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