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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Mackay father Phil Smith has been awarded the Queensland New Volunteer Award for 2026 in recognition of his asbestos awareness advocacy and fundraising efforts inspired by the loss of his wife Leah. Photos supplied
Mackay father Phil Smith has been recognised on the state stage, receiving the Queensland New Volunteer Award for 2026 for his tireless work raising awareness around asbestos-related disease.
Since the passing of his wife Leah in 2024, Mr Smith has devoted himself to advocacy and fundraising through Ride In Shorts For Leah, contributing more than 1,200 volunteer hours and raising over $42,000 to support education and prevention efforts.
Leah, who was unknowingly exposed to asbestos in childhood, was diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma at 49 and passed away just over eight months later. Her story has since become the driving force behind Mr Smith’s public mission to warn others about the risks hidden in many Australian homes.
Presented at Brisbane City Hall by the Governor of Queensland, the award recognises his ongoing commitment to community awareness and support.
What began in the shadow of personal loss has grown into a wider campaign of education, remembrance and prevention, carried forward in Leah’s name.
Peter Francis, Director and Sales Consultant at Blacks Real Estate. Photo supplied
With nearly two decades at Blacks Real Estate, Peter Francis has built a reputation across Mackay for honest service, strong negotiation skills and consistent results.
Joining the agency in 2008, Peter now serves as Director and Sales Consultant, helping vendors and buyers navigate the property market with a focus on professionalism and clear communication.
Originally trained as a surveyor at the University of South Australia, Peter later transitioned into real estate, where he went on to achieve national and international recognition, including National Top 20 rankings on seven occasions and a Hall of Fame award during a previous role.
Since moving to Mackay in 2004 with his wife Kylie and their family, Peter has become deeply involved in the local community, balancing a busy career with raising five children and contributing to school communities and the Mackay Chamber of Commerce.
Known for his calm approach and ability to mediate between buyers and sellers, Peter said building trust with clients has always been central to his work. His long list of repeat clients and referrals reflects the strong relationships he has developed across the region over the years.
Blacks Real Estate continues to operate from Wood Street in Mackay and Dysart Garden Plaza, servicing residential, commercial and rural clients across the region.
We need to talk about something that happens far too often – black kittens are usually the last to be chosen.
Yet they are often the very best companions. These kittens are not just “another kitten”.
They are the ones who follow you from room to room like your shadow. Who climb into your lap and stay there. Who greet you at the door like a dog and want to be involved in everything you do. They don’t just live in your home – they become part of your everyday life.
Our black kittens are incredibly affectionate – true lap cats who crave human connection. They are confident and curious, often the first to explore and investigate. Playful and cheeky, they are full of personality and mischief.
They are also highly social. They will chat to you, respond to you and connect with you. Once they choose you, they are yours completely.
And in real life, they are absolutely stunning – with glossy coats, striking eyes, and an elegant, sleek presence that photos simply don’t capture.
If you have ever wanted a cat that truly bonds with you, that seeks you out and becomes your constant little companion, come and meet our black kittens. Because once you meet them, you will understand.
To register your expression of interest, please contact foster carer Janet on 0423 768 805.
Contributed by Mackay Pet Rescue Inc
There’s a type of exhaustion many women carry that doesn’t disappear with a good night’s sleep.
It’s not just physical tiredness. It’s the constant mental juggling. Remembering school events, organising appointments, replying to messages, planning meals, checking homework, thinking ahead, caring for ageing parents, supporting friends, managing work deadlines, and somehow trying to look after yourself somewhere in between.
Even during moments of “rest,” many women describe feeling like their brain never truly switches off.
This invisible load is something women carry every day, and over time, the body often carries it too.
As a women’s and pelvic health physiotherapist, I often see women who come in with symptoms like pelvic pain, bladder urgency, tension, leaking, headaches, jaw clenching, shallow breathing, or a feeling that their body is constantly tight or “on edge.” Many are surprised to learn that stress and nervous system overload can play a significant role in how the body feels and functions.
When we’re stressed for long periods, the body naturally shifts into a protective state. Muscles tighten, breathing becomes shallow, sleep can be disrupted, and the nervous system stays on high alert. It’s a helpful response in short bursts, but when the body stays in that heightened state for weeks, months, or years, symptoms can begin to appear. And the pelvic floor is particularly influenced by this.
Many people think the pelvic floor only matters during pregnancy or after birth, but these muscles respond closely to stress, posture, breathing, and tension patterns throughout the entire body. Some women unknowingly hold tension through their pelvic floor all day long, almost like clenching their jaw without realising. Over time, this can contribute to discomfort, urgency, constipation, pain, or difficulty fully relaxing the muscles.
What’s important to understand is that this does not mean the body is “broken.” Often, it’s a body that has been coping, adapting, and carrying a great deal for a long time.
And while exercise and movement are incredibly important, healing isn’t always about pushing harder. Sometimes it’s about creating moments where the body feels safe enough to soften and let go.
That might look like slowing your breathing for a few minutes while sitting in the car before school pick-up. Going for a walk without turning it into another task to complete. Stretching before bed. Asking for help. Resting without guilt. Learning how to relax your pelvic floor, not just strengthen it.
Small moments matter.
Women are often exceptionally good at caring for everyone else while quietly ignoring their own symptoms. But tension, fatigue, and overwhelm are not simply things to “push through” forever. The body has a way of asking for attention eventually.
If your body feels tight, tired, or not quite like itself, it may be worth listening with curiosity rather than criticism. Support can make a meaningful difference, whether that’s through movement, stress management, pelvic health physiotherapy, or simply giving yourself permission to slow down occasionally.
Because women were never meant to carry everything alone, and the body shouldn’t have to either.
Photo credit: Coffee + Hops
Word of mouth is some of the most powerful marketing your business can get. It’s trusted, it’s personal + in regional areas especially, it carries a LOT of weight. Most businesses will proudly say, “Most of our work comes from word of mouth”. Which is awesome – but then they treat it like something that just magically happens.
The truth is – the businesses getting the most word of mouth are usually doing a few things really well.
People need a reason to talk about your business in the first place. And no, “good service” on its own usually isn’t enough anymore – that’s the baseline expectation from people! The businesses people tend to recommend are the ones that are memorable in some way. Maybe theycommunicate really well, make life easier, solve a specific problem, have a strong personality, do something unexpectedly fast or simply make people feel looked after.
Another big one? Visibility. People are far more likely to recommend businesses they remember (I know – what a shocker lol). If someone hasn’t seen or heard from you in two years, you’re probably not top of mind when a friend asks for a recommendation.
This is where consistent marketing does a lot of heavy lifting. Social media, email marketing, networking, community involvement, even signage – all of it helps reinforce who you are, what you do + why someone should choose you.
Clarity matters too. If people can’t easily explain what your business does, who you help or what makes you different, referrals get weaker. The easier you are to describe, the easier you are to recommend!!
One of the simplest things businesses can do is also be more specific when talking about the work they want. Instead of “let us know if you hear of anyone”, try “we’re looking for more commercial fitout work” or “we’d love more bookkeeping clients in construction”. Specific prompts help people connect the dots faster.
People can’t recommend a business they forgot existed. Word of mouth doesn’t just come from doing good work – it comes from being remembered when someone needs what you do.
Choosing the right shutters and blinds for your home or business can make all the difference between a space that simply serves a purpose and one that looks and feels polished. For many across the region, the search for the perfect fit begins with Deluxe Shutters & Blinds Mackay.
Established in 2010, the locally owned and family-run business has spent more than a decade helping Mackay homeowners and businesses enhance their spaces with high-quality, custom-made window furnishings and outdoor shading solutions.
Their product range includes internal and external plantation shutters, including aluminium, along with drapes, curtains, awnings and a wide selection of internal and external blinds.
Every project begins with a free onsite measure and quote, allowing the team to tailor each installation to suit the individual space.
A key point of difference is the company’s commitment to local manufacturing. Aluminium plantation shutters are produced in the business’s onsite Mackay workshop, which means they’re able to focus on strict quality control while supporting local industry.
Customers can also visit the fully functional showroom at 111 Sydney Street, where a range of exclusive products are on display, offering the opportunity to explore colours, finishes and styles firsthand.
QBCC licensed and proud members of Master Builders Queensland, the business is backed by a team of highly skilled tradesmen experienced across a wide range of installations.
Visitors can also meet the team at the upcoming Mackay Outdoor Adventure plus Home and Lifestyle Expo at Site OS126, where plantation shutters, a purpose-built external blind display and a fully erected Shadecube structure will be available to view.
deluxeblinds.com.au
Upgrade your caravan sleep with Dreamer RV and MeanderWild—two family-run Australian brands bringing comfort, quality, and thoughtful design to life on the road. The Dreamer RV Wanderluxe™ Mattress Topper is made of high-density memory foam for a soft yet supportive sleep surface. It’s designed to transform even the most uncomfortable caravan mattress into a place you genuinely look forward to at the end of the day. Finished with a breathable, removable Tencel-blend cover, anti-slip base, and secure straps, it stays perfectly in place and is built to handle the realities of travel.
Layered on top, MeanderWild brings elevated bedding designed specifically for the unique shapes and sizes of caravan mattresses. Their signature Zip Sheet Set features a clever two-way zip that connects the fitted and top sheets, keeping your bedding neatly in place and effortlessly styled. Crafted from buttery soft, cotton sateen and available in a range of modern, earthy tones, the collection extends to quilt covers, pillows, cushions, and coverlets. Made for caravan life, elevating both the comfort and the look of your caravan interior.
Dreamer RV and MeanderWild offer a complete bedding upgrade to help you sleep better on the road. Designed to work seamlessly together, taking the guesswork out of caravan bedding while delivering both comfort and style. With sizing options to suit most caravan beds and campervans, it’s never been easier to upgrade your caravan bed. Visit Dreamer RV & MeanderWild at site U442 at the Mackay Expo to experience the difference for yourself.
For more than five years, locally and family owned and operated ATS Expedition Outfitters has been helping drivers transform everyday vehicles into capable, adventure-ready touring machines built for Australian conditions.
Specialising in all things 4x4, the team at ATS Expedition Outfitters offers complete vehicle solutions designed to keep customers moving safely, legally and confidently — whether it’s for work, touring or the ultimate off-road adventure.
From GVM and GCM upgrades to complete touring setups, ATS Expedition Outfitters provides expert advice and premium-quality fit-outs tailored to every customer’s needs. Their services include bull bars and vehicle protection, trays and canopies, auto electrical solutions, lighting, dual battery systems, drawer and pantry systems, fleet fit-outs, wheel and tyre packages, and much more.
“Our goal is simple — we want to help customers build their dream vehicle while making sure it remains safe, practical and compliant,” the team said. “Whether it’s a daily driver, a serious touring setup or a commercial fleet vehicle, we take pride in delivering quality workmanship and reliable solutions.”
Visitors to the expo will have the opportunity to check out a range of vehicles on display, including everyday touring builds, a professionally equipped fleet fit-out, and several impressive full-sized American truck adventure rigs guaranteed to turn heads.
ATS Expedition Outfitters will also be running exclusive expo specials across a huge range of camping and 4WD accessories, giving attendees the perfect opportunity to upgrade their setup before their next trip. Plus, there’ll be giveaways happening throughout the event.
If you’re passionate about touring, camping or off-road adventures, make sure you stop by and chat with the team at ATS Expedition Outfitters — your one-stop shop for everything 4x4.
atsoutfitters.com.au
Helping people move better and live life to the fullest has long been at the heart of My Chiropractor Mackay City.
Owned and operated by Principal Chiropractor Dr Marti Harris and his wife Colleen Harris, the locally-loved clinic has continued to expand its services while investing in technology designed to improve outcomes for patients experiencing spinal and nerve related conditions.
One of the clinic’s most significant advancements is its spinal decompression therapy, with the practice operating two of only 17 Spine MT Core decompression machines currently available in Australia.
This advanced technology provides local patients with access to cutting-edge treatment for disc injuries and nerve compression, eliminating the need to travel to major metropolitan centres for care.
Patients attending the clinic have access to a wide range of services including spinal adjustments, spinal decompression therapy, dry needling, shockwave therapy, individualised rehabilitation programs and nutritional supplementation.
These treatments support people experiencing disc injuries, nerve related pain, arthritis, sporting injuries and those seeking alternatives to surgery or long-term medication.
The practice’s continued growth has also welcomed a new face to the team, with graduate chiropractor Dr Joly Albarracin recently joining the clinic.
Originally from Mackay, Dr Joly completed her studies in Brisbane at CQUniversity Australia, earning a Bachelor of Science (Chiropractic) and a Master of Clinical Chiropractic before returning home to begin her professional career.
“Now that I’m back, it’s like I never left… and it’s great to be back home,” Dr Joly said.
She is currently undertaking a mentorship program within the clinic, working alongside Dr Marti and Dr Rod while meeting both new and existing patients.
Dr Marti said the team was thrilled to welcome her.
“We’re very excited to have Dr Joly come and join our chiropractor family… and we are very blessed to have someone who is as passionate about family healthcare as Dr Joly is.”
Backed by a highly trained and collaborative team, My Chiropractor Mackay City continues to evolve its strong community presence, offering patient-centred care focused on spinal decompression and improved function. Those experiencing ongoing spinal or nerve-related symptoms are encouraged to book an assessment to explore whether this approach may be suitable for their individual needs.
mychiropractorqld.com.au
At On Point Eyecare, we believe good communication is one of the most important parts of good eye care.
Opening an independent optometry clinic in Mackay was never just about creating a place for eye tests and glasses. For Joel Bialy and Diana Lovadina Long, it was about building a clinic where people feel heard, understood and genuinely cared for - from the moment they walk through the door to the moment they leave with a clear plan for their eye health.
Eyes are incredibly complex but understanding them should not feel overwhelming. At On Point Eyecare, every appointment is shaped around the person in front of them. That means taking the time to listen properly, understand concerns, explain findings clearly, and make sure each patient feels confident about what comes next.
Whether it is a child struggling at school, a patient noticing changes in their vision, someone managing diabetes, or a person simply wanting reassurance that their eyes are healthy, the goal is always the same: to provide thoughtful, thorough care in a way that feels calm, clear and personal.
As an independent clinic, On Point Eyecare has been designed around patient-first care, not rushed appointments or one-size-fits-all recommendations. Advanced diagnostic technology supports detailed clinical assessment, but the heart of the appointment remains the conversation, asking the right questions, explaining results in simple language, and helping patients understand their options.
That same care extends beyond the consulting room. The clinic has been thoughtfully designed to feel welcoming, comfortable and accessible, with a calm environment, friendly team, child-friendly spaces and convenient on-site parking.
From comprehensive eye examinations and children’s vision testing through to contact lenses, dry eye care, glaucoma assessment and carefully selected eyewear, every part of the clinic reflects the same simple approach: take the time, communicate clearly, and care for the person, not just the eyes.
At On Point Eyecare, it’s personal, because you and your vision matters.
Mackay nurse navigator Shona O’Neill is being recognised during Palliative Care Week for her work supporting patients with life-limiting illness and improving quality of life through compassionate, coordinated care. Photo source: MHHS
As Palliative Care Week came to a close last week, the work of Mackay Hospital and Health Service’s Specialist Palliative Care team highlighted the important role compassionate, coordinated care plays in improving quality of life for patients with life-limiting illness.
For acting nurse navigator Shona O’Neill, palliative care is not simply about end-of-life support, but helping people live as well as possible during difficult circumstances.
“It’s not just about end-of-life care,” Shona said.
“It’s about helping people live as well as possible in the time they have — managing symptoms, supporting emotional needs, and helping people make informed choices about their care.”
Working within the Specialist Palliative Care Service at Mackay Hospital and Health Service, Shona helps coordinate care between medical teams, GPs and community services while supporting patients and families through emotionally challenging periods.
“No two days are the same,” she said.
“I might be attending outpatient appointments, visiting patients at home, or supporting them over the phone. A big part of what I do is making sure people feel connected — that they’re not facing this alone.”
Shona’s interest in palliative care developed during eight years working on a medical ward at Mackay Base Hospital, where she witnessed the impact coordinated care could have for patients and families.
“That experience really stayed with me,” she said.
“I could see how much better things could be for patients and families with the right support in place, and I wanted to be part of that.”
Since joining Mackay HHS in 2016, Shona has continued building her expertise, completing postgraduate oncology studies and currently undertaking a Master of Nurse Practitioner in palliative care.
Her current studies include developing a nurse practitioner-led palliative care model aimed at improving access to care, strengthening advance care planning and reducing avoidable hospital admissions.
While many people view palliative care as emotionally difficult work, Shona said she sees it as a privilege.
“It can be emotional, but it’s also a privilege,” she says.
“You’re supporting people through one of the most significant times in their lives. There’s a lot of meaning in helping someone feel comfortable, informed and supported.”
She said the work had also changed her own perspective on life.
“It’s taught me a lot about what truly matters to people, including relationships, comfort, dignity,” she says.
“It gives you a different perspective on life.”
With Kim McPherson, Ben Brightman and Chloe Watson from Valley Veterinary Surgery
From humble beginnings, Valley Veterinary Surgery has spent 25 years growing into a trusted network of family-run clinics, supporting animal-lovers on their best days and worst, and delivering next-level care to pets, livestock and native wildlife.
It all began with a single branch, opened in 2001 by Veterinary Surgeon Kim McPherson and her then-husband Brad Pullen, when their eldest daughter was just seven-months-old.
“I never planned on being a business owner, but it just happened, out of true necessity. We were going to be cane farmers, but the cane was in a real crisis,” Kim said.
Kim and Brad identified the potential for a vet surgery in Walkerston.
It was a risk that depended on the community giving them a chance.
“We were so appreciative of anyone who came to see us,” Kim shared.
Now, Valley Veterinary Surgery has 3 fully-staffed clinics.
“It's unbelievable to look back now and think where we began. It was such a small beginning. We didn't do anything fancy,” Kim reminisced.
“We just said: Let's do this. Let's listen to people, try and help, give good service... And you know, it's just happened.
“We barely had a holiday in six years when we first set up - but they were good times. It was really rewarding to be focused on supporting the Valley. Our girls grew up amongst after-hours emergencies, and sacrifices were endured, but I am so proud of them, one now a doctor and one about to graduate vet science.”
As demand grew, expansion followed, and Valley Veterinary Surgery opened clinics in central Mackay and Marian.
Ten years into the journey, Kim and Brad separated, but the business continued to thrive with his support.
Kim expresses gratitude for Brad’s founding role: “I wouldn't have done this on my own. We were a unit.”
In 2021, Brad’s shares in the business were taken over by Veterinarian Ben Brightman and Vet Nurse Chloe Watson.
Ben and Chloe were already on staff, dedicated to the team and to maintaining the clinic’s core family values.
Ben had grown up with a dream of working with animals. Valley Veterinary Surgery cared for his family pets, and Ben realised it was exactly the kind of clinic he wanted to work for.
“It was just always a great community-minded family vet clinic. They really cared about our pets and our livestock and wanted to do the best thing for us. You had that special relationship with them.”
Chloe was a nurse for Valley Veterinary Surgery between 2012-2018, before moving to the UK. When she returned in 2020, she became head nurse and took on clinic management.
“I never thought I would be a business owner,” Chloe said.
“I never thought it was an option for a vet nurse or a practice manager. But Kim mentioned it to me and said, with my work ethic, it’s something I’d be good at.
“I found myself thinking about it all the time, after that.”
Despite the business’s growth, a close-knit family-feel endures, with senior staff from day one now mentoring recent graduates.
An upcoming milestone for the business includes the addition of a CT scanner, the first between Bundaberg and Townsville.
Day to day, it’s all about making a difference in the community, treating every pet like it’s their own, and supporting owners on their best days and their worst.
What’s your favourite part of the job?
Kim: A client really appreciating our effort.
Ben: The people in the community.
Chloe: Training the young nurses.
valleyvet.com.au
This gorgeous Pioneer Valley property is perfect for the large family that loves an outdoor lifestyle.
Built-in 2003 this expansive, 5 bedroom + office, ranch style home is 420m2 under roof including the 120m2 massive wrap around verandah. With beautiful, timber floors in the living areas, new carpet in the bedrooms, new fans, lights and fresh paint, this home is ready for you to move in and enjoy a peaceful rural lifestyle.
The 12m x 18m powered shed has two 5m x 3.6m roller doors one at each end of the shed; providing ample room for a multitude of vehicles, machinery, toys and workshop space. There is also a 6 x 6 mezzanine and bathroom. The 7.2kW solar and new back up battery provides low cost off grid living without compromising on lifestyle.
Strategically positioned and set back from the road, the house yard includes garden beds and an abundant orchard.
Indoors:
-Massive open plan lounge, dining and kitchen with timber floors, opening out to the wrap around verandah
-Well-appointed kitchen with walk in pantry, quality appliances including a brand new, free standing gas cooker with electric oven, large fridge space and wide timber benchtops and breakfast bar.
-Separate king-size master suite, positioned at the West end of the home with a massive walk-in robe and luxurious master ensuite and study
-Central media room
-4 queen size, bedrooms all with walk-in robes and fans
-Large main bathroom with separate toilet
-Spacious laundry with plenty of storage
-2.7m ceilings and security screens throughout
-Ducted vacuum system
-Solar Hot Water
-New lights, fans, carpet and fresh paint throughout
Outdoors
-Wrap around verandah offering year-round outdoor living and 360 views
6m x 7m shed slab at house ready for garage
-12m x 18m powered shed has two 5m x 3.6m roller doors one at each end of the shed, designed as a drive through
-6 x 6 mezzanine, with bathroom
-Generator change over switch
-7.2kW Solar with new back up battery (2023)
-2 x 10,500Gal water tanks
-Bore, recommended for garden and stock use only
-Productive vegetable garden and orchard
-Septic system, all purpose tank + grease trap
-Purpose built 4T Hoist and ride on mower are available to be purchased separately
-Fully fenced in to three paddocks including the house yard + 8 panel cattle yard
-2.29ha, elevated and well drained.
INCLUDED:
Tractor with attachments and mower available. Both are 18 months old and in good condition.
Trident tractor includes a 4 foot slasher, 4 in 1 bucket , forks, auger attachment and tow hitch attachment.
Dewalt 42 inch ride on mower.
Rates: approx $1335 per ½ year
Build Year 2003
Zoning: Rural Residential
Price: $1.5M
Phone Robyn Agius to book your viewing 0419 216 364
Photo credit: Photos by Nell
Staff, supporters and business partners gathered at M&P Services last Saturday to celebrate 40 years in business with the iconic three Max Lambs who have helped shape the company’s success. The shed-style celebration, complete with a trailer stage, honoured the family-run business and its long-standing contribution to the region.
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox attended the event and praised the milestone, saying, “Congratulations to M&P Services on celebrating 40 years in business in Paget, Mackay!
“A brilliant achievement by this father and son duo, a milestone worth celebrating!”
Wilmar Sugar and Renewables has confirmed start dates for the 2026 sugar production season, with mills across the Burdekin, Proserpine and Plane Creek regions preparing to begin crushing in early June.
The company’s four Burdekin mills; Invicta, Pioneer, Kalamia and Inkerman, along with Plane Creek Mill at Sarina, are scheduled to begin operations on 2 June. Proserpine Mill and the Herbert region’s Victoria and Macknade mills will follow on 9 June.
General Manager Operations James Wallace said the start dates were determined by crop forecasts, factory readiness and expected paddock conditions.
“We've got a bigger crop than last year, and we're keen to get the season under way to minimise the risk of a late finish and the associated challenges of pushing into the wet season,” Mr Wallace said.
“Our goal is to have all of our factories crushed out by mid-to-late November.”
Wilmar is forecasting a statewide crop of 15.19 million tonnes for the 2026 season, almost one million tonnes higher than last year’s total throughput of 14.23 million tonnes.
Regional estimates include 7.97 million tonnes in the Burdekin, 1.67 million tonnes in Proserpine and 1.45 million tonnes at Plane Creek.
General Manager Engineering Istvan Torok said maintenance and upgrade works across factories, rail networks and rolling stock were nearing completion ahead of the season start.
General Manager Cane Supply and Grower Relations Dave Zeller said loco driver training was already under way and reminded motorists to remain vigilant around cane rail crossings.
“We’re reminding residents and visitors to take extra care on the roads and look out for cane trains,” Mr Zeller said.
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