For those chasing a dreamy Whitsundays escape, Wings Sailing Charters offers the ultimate sailing experience from Airlie Beach. Recognised on the Best of Queensland list for exceptional personalised service, Wings delivers three premium products to suit every style of traveller.

The Whitsunday Islands Sail, SUP and Snorkel Day Tour is perfect for those short on time but not willing to miss the magic. This six-hour experience cruises to stunning Langford reef and surrounding anchorages, with flexible anchorages. With a maximum of just 29 guests, you will enjoy a relaxed, intimate atmosphere aboard the luxurious 60-foot SV Wings III. Spend the day snorkelling vibrant reef spots, paddle boarding over crystal-clear waters or unwinding on the top sundeck. Morning tea and a delicious lunch are prepared onboard using quality local ingredients. Bring along your favourite drinks for the day, so you can sit back, relax and soak in the breathtaking views of the Whitsunday Islands.

For a more relaxed affair, Wings’ all-new Airlie Beach BYO Sunset Sail cruise, offers the perfect way to wind down your day. Enjoy a tropical welcome drink as the sun dips below the horizon, paired with mouth-watering antipasto platters and desert canapès... yes that's right there are desserts!

Seeking something extra special? Wings’ Skippered Private Charters deliver, catered and crewed personalised experiences. Whether it is a day charter, a romantic proposal or a multi-day holiday escape, the team takes care of every detail while you relax and enjoy the best of the Whitsundays in total comfort.

Whether it’s adventure, relaxation or celebration, Wings Sailing Charters invites you to discover the Whitsundays in unforgettable style.

Visit wings.com.au to book.

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What’s more important to you in the City Centre – cool, green garden spaces or vibrant public art?

Mackay Regional Council is in the process of finalising the draft Mackay Waterfront Place Strategy and is asking residents to have their say on the actions to prioritise.

The Mackay Waterfront Place Strategy is a collaborative project setting goals to support placemaking in the City Centre and Riverfront – helping the areas to offer more for residents, better support local businesses and attract more visitors.

A series of actions were developed with community and businesses during the first engagement phase that cover shaping, activating and managing our City Centre and Riverside.

Council would like the community to select the top three actions to prioritise from each category.

Some of the 27 proposed actions include:

Connecting the City Centre to the Riverside via Wood Street.
Increasing the representation of First Nation’s and Australian South Sea Islander communities in the public realm.
Improving the appeal of the Riverside Precinct.
Improving thermal comfort and shade by enhancing the tropical garden experience.
Supporting Mackay’s public art scene to flourish.
Encouraging owners of empty tenancies to improve facades.
Supporting local businesses to bring the blue water river to life.
The survey is open now on connectingmackay.com.au until 11.59PM on Monday, June 16, 2025.

You can also have your say in person at the following events:

June 7 - Pop-up stall at the River of Light Festival.
June 13 to 15 - Pop-up stall at SPARK! Wood Street.

Your feedback will be used to inform the final strategy, and support decision-making on implementation.

Should you have any questions about this consultation, please contact council's Community Engagement Team on 1300 MACKAY (622 529) or email engagement@mackay.qld.gov.au.

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Laughter, stories, and a touch of nostalgia filled the air at Carlisle Gardens on 26 April, as the descendants of the late Frederick Leonard Stayt (Lenny) and Margaret Francis Eleanor Stayt (née Mosey) gathered for a heartfelt family reunion.

Frederick, born in 1896, was a well-known farmer at Newbury Junction near Marian and the proud patriarch of eight children and 27 grandchildren.

This special occasion brought together 47 adults and 17 children – including two cherished matriarchs, 17 first cousins, and extended family and friends – travelling from all corners of Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria.

With plenty of laughter, hugs, and tales passed down through the years, the day was a vibrant celebration of family ties and shared history. From reminiscing about childhood adventures to introducing the newest generation to their roots, it was a reunion to remember.

Descendants of Frederick and Margaret Stayt reunited in Mackay for a joyful celebration of family, legacy, and shared memories spanning generations.

The 1st Cousins

The Matriarchs. Elinor and Shirley. Photos supplied

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Students Shine In Pioneer Valley Film Workshops

Noosa Film Academy’s hands-on program, supported by the Mackay Regional Arts Development Fund, gave Mirani, Marian, and Mackay students a rare opportunity to direct, act, and edit their own short films – resulting in a red-carpet premiere at the Pinnacle Playhouse.

Laughter and applause filled the historic theatre as young filmmakers walked the red carpet to debut their creative works. The audience, made up of proud families, educators, and community members, viewed four short films produced during intensive one-day workshops held at Mirani State School, Mirani State High School, Marian State School, and Holy Spirit College.

Each film was scripted, acted, and shot in a single day as part of an immersive experience that boosted both skills and self-belief.

“Honestly, this was the best day ever,” said one Mirani State School student.

Another added, “It was the best experience I have had in my whole life, it’s so amazing we got to do this.”

A Year 6 Marian State School student shared, “I was scared, but I still did it,” about stepping in front of the camera for the first time.

Teachers were equally impressed by the transformation.

“One of our students who is usually very quiet ended up delivering a fantastic acting performance,” said Mick Tame of Mirani State High.

Teegan Denman of Mirani State School noted, “One normally reserved student found the confidence to share her ideas even.”

Workshops were led by Greg and Andrea Huglin of Noosa Film Academy. Armed with professional gear and decades of experience, the couple guided students through all facets of filmmaking – from camera work and sound to directing and editing.

“Our students learned about how to create shots, blocking, and editing – not just acting – which was a great experience at their age,” said Karen Brett of Marian State School.

One Holy Spirit College student enjoyed “learning about the camera angles and how clips are edited,” while a Mirani High student who directed a scene said it allowed her to build confidence in a leadership role while having fun and would help her “write better scripts” in class.

Teachers also gained insights.

“The kids soaked up everything,” said Ms. Denman, praising how Greg shared expert tips while Andrea kept the momentum going.

“This workshop was extremely valuable for our school community,” Mr Tame added.

At the final screening, students dressed to impress, posing for photos with their mentors before watching their films on the big screen.

“My favourite part is when I see people laughing as they watch their friends on screen,” said Greg Huglin.

“That’s when the magic happens.”

Andrea added, “There is so much talent in our regions, we want to nurture that.”

Greg Huglin thanked the Mackay community and the RADF program for their support.

“We’re definitely looking forward to coming back and helping even more students get their films on the big screen.”

Contributed By Andrea Huglin

Mirani, Marian, and Mackay students premiered their own short films on the red carpet after hands-on workshops with Noosa Film Academy, supported by the Mackay Regional Arts Development Fund. Photos supplied

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A program with a proven track record of improving the quality of care for surgical patients has been introduced at Mackay Base Hospital and the clinical team overseeing the initiative is excited about its potential.

The National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) was developed by the American College of Surgeons (ACS) in the early 90s to monitor the surgical care of veterans.

The project is led by Surgeon Champion Dr Adrian Westcott and clinical nurse consultant Emma Jacobson, who was appointed to the role of Mackay NSQIP Surgical Clinical Reviewer in July last year.

“This is a program trusted around the world to check and improve on the safety and quality of surgical care and it has now been rolled out in 24 hospitals in Queensland,” Emma said.

“I review surgical patient charts to check the patient recovered well in hospital and speak to them over the phone to assess how they recovered at home after surgery.

“That’s the great thing about NSQIP, I’m not just looking at a chart; but I’m also calling the patient and completing an over-the-phone assessment of how they recovered after surgery so I can really get an accurate portrayal of what’s happened to them post operatively.”

“This is not just about the surgery itself. It’s about making sure that across the entire spectrum of our patient’s journey, we are providing the best care possible.”

Emma has undergone intensive training to use the program and cases are chosen for review via a sophisticated selection process to ensure broad sampling from all surgical specialties.

“I am working towards a goal of reviewing 40 cases every eight days and I am looking to see how the patients are going between 30 and 90 days after their surgery,” she said.

“I’ll be looking at their pre-operative risk factors too which is an important predictor of surgical outcomes. Caring for someone who is elderly or chronically ill is very different to caring for a healthy 18-year-old so we need to consider that in our quality improvements.”

“I also ask some questions about their experience. Questions such as: ‘Did they have the opportunity to discuss the risks with their surgeon prior to surgery? and ‘Did they receive information about their procedure and what to expect afterwards?”

Emma started capturing data for surgeries at the end of September 2024 and is looking forward to the provision of benchmarking reports going forward.She also said she had a positive response to the process from patients.

“Most people are really excited to either talk about their surgical experience or to know that someone cares how they're going, even after they've maybe been discharged from a post operative clinic list,” Emma said.
“The Post Operative Discharge Support Service (PODSS) was created thanks to NSQIP data from the STARS hospital in Brisbane identifying a need for this kind of service for patients after surgery. The PODSS model of care has now been rolled out across multiple hospitals across the state including Mackay.

“Our patient information brochures are the next quality improvement project we are working on. We want to make them easier to read and more accessible for patients online.”

ACS NSQIP Fast Facts:

• It’s estimated that between 200 and 500 complications are prevented annually in NSQIP hospitals.
• Over 850 hospitals participate in NSQIP around the world.
• MBH is sampling cases from obstetrics, gynaecology, orthopaedics, general
• surgery (breast, endocrine and colorectal) and urology.
• Read more about NSQIP at National Surgical Quality Improvement Program | Clinical Excellence Queensland

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Welcoming the initiative (left to right), is Director of Nursing & Operations Perioperative & Ambulatory Care Samantha Sanders, Clinical Director – General Surgery Dr Adrian Westcott, Clinical Nurse Consultant – NSQIP Emma Jacobson and A/Nursing Director Lachlan Frank. Photo supplied

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A popular coastal haven near the Port of Mackay is receiving a major upgrade, with construction officially underway on the $2 million North Wall Recreational Area improvement project.

The works were launched on Tuesday morning by Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training Ros Bates, alongside Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton, Member for Mirani Glen Kelly, North Queensland Bulk Ports (NQBP) Chair Jane McTaggart and Acting CEO Carissa Mansfield. They were joined by some of the community’s most passionate users of the site—local surfers who know the beach best.

The upgrade will deliver more shade, increased seating and improved access, all while preserving the site’s unique character and peaceful outlook. Queensland-based contractor JMAC Constructions is leading the project, which is expected to be completed by late 2025.

To support continued access during construction, a temporary car park and beach access point are now in place. Every effort is being made to minimise disruption to the public.

NQBP Acting CEO Carissa Mansfield said the project represents a long-term investment in a space that holds deep meaning for many in the community.

While in town, Minister Bates also toured the Port of Mackay, including the STL Bulk Sugar Terminal, to see firsthand the ongoing work supporting jobs, trade, and regional communities.

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Construction has kicked off on the North Wall Recreational Area Improvement project. Photo credit: NQ Bulk Ports

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton, NQBP Acting CEO Carissa Mansfield, Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training Ros Bates, Member for Mirani Glen Kelly at North Wall Beach

Community feedback was a key part of the North Wall Recreational Area Improvement Project

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The foreshore area adjacent to the McEwens Beach swimming enclosure – locally known as “the Knoll” – is undergoing a makeover.

The project, initiated by the McEwens Beach Progress Association, will see 2000-plus tube stock, all local coastal species, planted to reinforce the foreshore’s native vegetation and help stabilise the foredune.

Beach fencing, which has improved access to the swimming enclosure and will help protect the new plantings, has already been installed.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the important environmental initiative would enhance the natural landscape while also strengthening community connections with the coastal environment.

“This project is a tremendous example of council and community working together to care for and enhance one of our region’s hidden gems,” Mayor Williamson said.

“It will not only improve coastal resilience but also provide an educational and scenic space for residents and visitors to enjoy,” he said.

To celebrate and support this effort, council is inviting residents to lend a hand at a Community Planting Day from 9am to 1.30pm on Monday, June 9, at McEwens Beach Reserve (southern end of the beach).

Volunteers can register via Eventbrite.

Participants are asked to wear enclosed boots, full length pants and long sleeve shirts. We also ask everyone to bring along a hat, added sun protection, and if they have them, a water bottle and gloves. Light refreshments following the planting activities will be provided by the McEwens Beach Progress Association for the volunteers.

There are plans for interpretive signage to also be installed to help visitors learn about the native flora and deepen their understanding of the local ecosystem.

Mayor Williamson said the McEwens Beach Progress Association had played a key role in bringing this project to life, working closely with council and the community during a planning session in January and through further consultation.

“The level of collaboration and care shown by the McEwens Beach Progress Association has been outstanding,” he said.

“This is a perfect example of a community-led project that will reflect the community’s vision and values.

“It’s always fantastic when our team gets to work so closely with local stakeholders to achieve an outcome.”

For more information, contact council’s Community Engagement team on 1300 MACKAY (622 529) or visit connectingmackay.com.au/mcewens-beach-reveg

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The foreshore area adjacent the McEwens Beach swimming enclosure, locally known as “the Knoll”, will undergo a native vegetation makeover, with the community invited to get involved and lend a hand at the upcoming planting day. Photo supplied

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Where Every Meal Feels Like A Celebration

Whether you're planning a casual brunch, a romantic dinner, or a celebration with friends, Ocean International is the place to be from sunrise to sunset.

Start your day with a breezy beachfront breakfast, settle in for a long lunch, or toast to good times with a sunset dinner on The Deck. Oceans Bar & Restaurant, open to the public seven days a week, offers elegant à la carte dining alongside your favourite seaside classics.

Craving something new? Try the Lasagne alla Bolognese – a rich, rustic dish straight from the stone oven, with layers of hand-rolled pasta, Black Angus beef ragù, béchamel, and bubbling cheese. Or refresh your senses with the new Lychee Lagoon mocktail – an invigorating blend of lychee, mint, cucumber, and soda, perfect for toasting to the good life.

Don't miss the live music every Friday and Sunday on The Deck – an electric atmosphere paired with the aroma of woodfired pizza and sizzling tapas from 5pm on weekdays and 12pm on weekends.

With spacious accommodation, ocean views, and welcoming hospitality, Ocean International is the perfect backdrop for everything from quiet coffees to milestone celebrations.

Call 4957 2044 to book your table today…because every day is better by the beach.

Try the all-new Lychee Lagoon mocktail - fresh lychee, mint, cucumber, and soda in every refreshing sip!

Lasagne alla Bolognese - crafted with hand-rolled pasta, black angus beef ragù, creamy béchamel, and baked to perfection in the stone oven.

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Nothing says “Aussie comfort food” quite like a piping-hot cob loaf fresh out of the oven.

Once a staple at every neighbourhood gathering, footy night and backyard barbecue, the humble cob loaf is staging a triumphant comeback – and this time, it’s dressed to impress.

At its heart, a cob loaf is simplicity itself: a crusty round bread, hollowed out and filled with molten goodness, then baked until golden and gooey. But the new generation of cob creations is pushing flavour boundaries in all the right ways.

Spinach and bacon dip? Still a classic. But why stop there?

Mac and Cheese Cob
Creamy, cheesy and impossible to resist, this twist replaces the usual creamy dip with a luscious macaroni and cheese filling. For extra flair, mix in crispy bacon or a touch of smoked paprika, then bake until the top turns golden and bubbling.

Mexican Fiesta Cob
Spice things up with a Mexican-inspired filling: taco-seasoned beef mince, black beans, corn and grated cheddar, all swirled into sour cream and cream cheese. Serve with fresh coriander or a side of salsa for dipping.

Butter Chicken Cob
East meets West in this warming version featuring velvety butter chicken. Add mozzarella for melt appeal and garnish with chopped coriander. It’s rich, hearty and ideal for a winter dinner party.

Garlic and Four Cheese Cob
Think cheesy garlic bread – made for dipping. Use a blend of mozzarella, cream cheese, parmesan and cheddar with a hint of roasted garlic and fresh thyme. Serve it hot and let the cob do the talking.

Veggie Patch Cob
Vegetarians, rejoice. A creamy mushroom and spinach cob with sautéed leek and a splash of white wine offers a gourmet twist that even meat-lovers will envy. Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pine nuts for texture.

The beauty of the cob loaf lies in its versatility – mix, match, or raid the fridge for leftovers and create your own DIY version. Serve with a big bowl of toasted cob chunks and vegetable sticks, or place it at the centre of your next gathering as a hearty share plate.

Because in winter, comfort food reigns supreme – and the cob loaf is once again king!

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The Beating Heart Of Sweet Success

There’s a reason Sarina Sugar Shed continues to steal both hearts and headlines. This small-but-mighty attraction is the region’s crown jewel, distilling the essence of Mackay’s sugar industry into an unforgettable visitor experience.

With a trophy cabinet brimming with accolades – including Best of Queensland 2025, TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards, and a sweep of honours at the Mackay Isaac Tourism Awards for Best of Queensland Tour or Attraction, Excellence in Food Tourism, and Best of Queensland Food & Dining – the Sugar Shed is a proven crowd favourite.

A recent Tourism & Events Queensland report reveals the Sugar Shed’s review scores sit well above both state and regional averages, confirming what thousands of guests already know: this is no ordinary tour. It’s a lively fusion of history, hospitality, and hands-on fun – further sweetened by national recognition, including Silver and Bronze medals at the Australian Rum Awards and a Bronze at the Royal Queensland Distilled Spirit Awards.

Whether it’s sampling award-winning rum or diving into rich house-made jams and sauces, every moment is crafted with care by a passionate all-female team. Real mill machinery, a working miniature sugar factory, and a café serving local delights round out this sensory experience.

As it nears its 20th anniversary, Sarina Sugar Shed continues to shine as a symbol of food tourism, heritage, and regional pride.

Book your taste of sweetness at www.sarinasugarshed.com.au.

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As the crushing season begins, this year will be “back to the future” in one important aspect. And I feel it is it is important to inform the sugar city and surrounding areas about what that might mean.

There will be greatly increased frequency of cane fires seen around the district this crush season. For those of you who have been around long enough, you will remember that, late most afternoons in the crush season: the smell of a cane fire, the crackling tones and the black soot floating through the sky as well as the night-time glows throughout the district.

Over the past 30 years or so, the implementation of green cane harvesting and trash blanket management techniques have resulted in these historic fires becoming significantly less common in the Mackay district.

However, this year we see significant areas across the district of two-year-old cane known as standover.

Standover presents its own challenges: it is in general difficult to harvest and then also for the sugar mills to process. It’s typically a bit more fibrous, has more dead material, and not the familiar straight stalks of a good standing one year crop.

The simplest way to improve this process is to first burn the paddocks prior to harvest, helping reduce the amount of extraneous matter in the crop, therefore making it easier both to harvest and process.

So: once again the sugar city will have the night skies lit up by these spectacular events. However, it must be remembered that whilst they are visually stunning, there are always dangers involved and farms are a workplace, so if you wish to view these fires, please be safe and keep a substantial distance away and ensure not to interrupt or hinder the farmers while they are working through this process. They are experienced in managing cane burning and are working within a regulated permit system.

Whilst talking about farm safety, I would like to emphasis again that farms and cane rail lines are workplaces with significant dangers ranging from harvesting and farm machinery to the giant cane trains which transport our crop from our points of delivery (sidings) to the mills for processing.  Please remind family and friends that these farms and cane railway lines are private property and not public motor bike or scrub-bashing tracks.  For example, if I were to take my motorbike or ute into a shed in Paget or shopping centre and hoon in for a burnout, I am pretty sure I would be in a lot of trouble.  So why are farms and cane rail lines any different?
Finally, in closing, by the time this column goes to print and all going well, the harvesters should be in the paddock beginning the harvest in the region’s south. Sarina’s Plane Creek is the first to kick off (planned for June 3), and Mackay Racecourse and Farleigh mills will be starting over the coming week, and Marian soon after on the 17th.

I wish a safe and successful harvest to all parties involved in this year’s crush season and also to the wider community.  If the sugar city community and surrounding areas all work together and have respect for each other, we can hopefully make this crush season a positive one for everyone.

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Tech from the big trucks and diggers at Bravus Mining and Resources Carmichael mine near Clermont in central Queensland has been upcycled to help regional Queensland families doing it tough.

Bravus Mining and Resources Head of Production and Site Senior Executive Glen Corfield said more than fifty state-of-the-art tablets no longer needed for mining operations had been upcycled to support the work of Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia and the Salvation Army.

Mr Corfield said the initiative was a collaboration between Bravus Mining and Resources and mining technology and change management business Haultrax, which took the tablets away, reconditioned them, and preloaded everything from Minecraft to Messenger in readiness for their beneficial reuse.

"We’re proud to operate in regional Queensland and are passionate about backing the organisations and causes that are important to the 1,200 workers at our Carmichael mine,” he said.

“Ronald McDonald House and the Salvos are two great examples.

“Both organisations provide services you hope your friends, family, or workmates never have to call on, but there’s a sense of comfort in knowing they’re there in a time of need.

“That’s why we’re so happy to have been able to work with Haultrax and divert these tablets from life in a box at the mine to a life helping deliver that vital work across regional Queensland.”

Haultrax Operational Specialist Steven Doyle said upcycling the tablets demonstrated the company’s belief that technology can make a real difference in both the mining industry and in people’s lives.

"Partnering with Bravus Mining and Resources on this initiative was an easy decision and we hope these tablets bring a little joy and ease to the children and families who need it most,” Mr Doyle said.

Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia CEO Tamara South said the tablets would help seriously ill children and their siblings access educational activities and resources as well as provide a welcome distraction during tough times.

“We’re incredibly grateful to Bravus Mining and Resources and Haultrax for their support because we can’t do it alone. It’s the support of community partners that truly makes our work possible,” Ms South said.

Salvation Army Townsville Corps Officer Team Leader Major Peter Sutcliffe said the tablets would be put to immediate use at next month’s Red Shield Appeal launch before they were distributed to Community Connect sites to help locals access essential resources.

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Bravus Mining and Resources Head of Production and Site Senior Executive Glen Corfield (R), joined by Haultrax Operational Specialist Steve Doyle presenting the upcycled tablets to Ronald McDonald House Charities CEO Tamara South and Salvation Army Townsville Corps Officer Team Leader Major Peter Sutcliffe (L-R). Photos supplied

Children from the Ronald McDonald House were all smiles as they enjoyed the new tablets donated by Bravus Mining and Resources and Haultrax.

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The Bowen Basin Women in Leadership Program hosted by Regional Development Australia Greater Whitsundays (RDA GW) and supported by Local Buying Foundation (LBF) assisted in bridging the cross-industry skills gap, by empowering local women.

During this initiative, participants learned how to reposition their workplace skillset, understand their value, increase confidence, become more self-aware and reduce feelings of ‘Imposter Syndrome’.

Program participant Manager of People and Capability Isaac Regional Council (IRC) Trudi Liekefett said she gained “tremendous value” from the initiative – thanks to the encouragement of Kielly Glanville.

“I felt continuously supported throughout the workshops and skill development sessions, alongside my mentor who guided me through the program,” Ms Liekefett said.

“I’ve established strong, supportive connections with other women during this program – relationships I’m confident will continue to provide mutual support well into the future.

“The content is truly life changing – the skills you develop can be applied across multiple industries.”

RDA GW CEO Robert Cocco said they were “pleased to be able to support these women in building confidence with skillsets they already have”.

“From RDA’s perspective, a heartfelt thank you to the women who participated in the Bowen Basin Women in Leadership program - we look forward to seeing what the future holds,” Mr Cocco said.

To stay up to date with RDA GW’s initiatives – including future Women in Leadership programs, visit www.rdagw.org.au.

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Graduation ceremony for the Bowen Basin Women in Leadership Program – supported by Regional Development Australia Greater Whitsundays (RDA GW) and Local Buying Foundation (LBF). Photo supplied

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Discover how you can make a difference in your community at the 2025 Mackay Volunteer Expo.

From emergency service personnel to comedic performers, street chaplains to crime stoppers, wildlife carers to choir singers and everything in between – more than 40 groups will have hundreds of roles on offer.

The expo will be held this Sunday, June 8, from 9am to noon, in the Big Shed at the Mackay Showgrounds.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the National Volunteer Week theme of “Connecting Communities” was perfectly aligned with the goals of the Mackay Volunteer Expo.

“We love that this expo showcases that no matter what you’re interested in, what your skill levels are or what your level of ability is, there is a volunteer role to suit you,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Volunteering helps people to build lasting relationships that enrich their lives and strengthen our communities,” he said.

“If you have a sense of adventure and love the great outdoors, then there are groups like the Scouts, Surf Lifesaving, SES and even Pioneer Catchment and Landcare.

“If you are an animal lover, then there are groups like Australian Wildlife Rescue, Mackay and District Turtle Watch, Mackay Animal Rescue Society and RSPCA Mackay.

“Or, if you have more specific interests, there are tremendous opportunities with Mackay Musical Comedy Players, With One Voice Community Choir, Pine Islet Lighthouse Preservation Society or the Mackay and District Orchid Society.

“A volunteer role is an amazing way to learn new skills, build a resume, make friends, feel good and stay active.”

Entry to the Mackay Volunteer Expo is free.

For more information, follow Mackay Volunteers Expo on Facebook.

About volunteering in Australia

More than six million people in Australia volunteer through organisations across the nation. Millions more volunteer informally in their local communities, helping neighbours and strangers, especially in times of crisis and adversity.

Volunteers are an essential workforce, spanning major sectors, including aged care and disability care; community welfare; sports and the arts; crisis preparedness, response, and recovery; and environmental sustainability and protection.

Volunteering is vital to the nation’s wellbeing but faces ongoing challenges. Australia’s communities and lifestyle are underpinned by the contributions of volunteers.**

WHAT: 2025 Mackay Volunteer Expo
WHEN: Sunday, June 8, 2025, from 9am to 12 noon
WHERE: The Big Shed, Mackay Showgrounds
TICKETS: Free entry

Mackay and District Turtle Watch will be at the 2025 Mackay Volunteer Expo hoping to recruit more members to assist them to monitor beaches for nesting turtles and hatchlings. Photo supplied

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By Amanda Wright

After nearly two decades in public office, George Christensen has resigned from Mackay Regional Council, effective last Friday, citing urgent family responsibilities and voicing serious concerns about the culture within council chambers.

The former federal MP, who returned to local government in 2024 after serving four terms in Canberra as the Member for Dawson, announced his resignation during last week’s ordinary council meeting. While his departure marks the end of an extensive 19-year career representing the Mackay region, Mr Christensen made it clear his decision was not driven by political pressure or media scrutiny, but by a personal matter requiring him to become a full-time carer for his daughter.

“This has not been an easy decision,” Mr Christensen said in a statement.

“But sometimes, there are responsibilities that rise above politics, above titles, and even above public service. And for me, that responsibility is family.”

While Mr Christensen’s resignation was framed with dignity and discretion, he also delivered a pointed parting message: the bullying culture in Mackay Regional Council is real—and unacceptable.

In remarks that will likely prompt further scrutiny, Mr Christensen alleged that one councillor regularly intimidates others in the chamber, particularly targeting female colleagues. He described an environment where yelling and belittlement have replaced respectful debate, and where legitimate questions are met with hostility rather than discussion.

“One councillor said they’d never seen such behaviour in any professional setting,” he said.

“Another told me they were snapped at simply for saying ‘hello’.”

These are not isolated complaints, Mr Christensen suggested. Residents—particularly women—have allegedly experienced similar behaviour in community settings, raising serious questions about the conduct and accountability of elected representatives.

Complaints have reportedly been lodged with the Office of the Independent Assessor (OIA), though Christensen expressed little faith in the body’s capacity to address councillor misconduct, accusing it of acting as a shield for bureaucracy rather than as an agent of oversight.

This isn’t the first time Mackay Regional Council has come under fire for internal dysfunction, but Mr Christensen’s allegations strike a new chord, particularly given the high proportion of female councillors currently serving. If substantiated, the claims point to a culture of intimidation at odds with both democratic values and modern workplace standards.

The situation demands clear and immediate answers, not only for the councillors directly affected, but for the broader community that expects transparency and professionalism from its local government.

In the wake of his departure, Christensen leaves behind a legacy shaped by staunch local advocacy, from sugarcane protection to infrastructure upgrades and constituent support. Whether one agreed with his political style or not, few could doubt his long-standing commitment to representing the Mackay community, first as a councillor in 2004, and then as a federal MP from 2010 to 2022.

Now, with a daughter who needs him more than ever, Christensen is stepping away from politics for the right reasons. But his final act—shining a light on a toxic culture within the chamber, demands more than reflection.

It requires action.

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Cr George Christensen during his final ordinary meeting at Mackay Regional Council, standing alongside fellow councillors Alison Jones, Belinda Hassan, Heath Paton, Nathenea MacRae, Ash-Lee Johnson and Namarca Corowa. Photo supplied

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