Five years ago, we launched a brand-new newspaper… during a global pandemic. At the time, some thought we were bold. Others thought we were completely bonkers. Fair call.

But we knew this region needed a local paper that brought people together, one that celebrated the good, covered the tough stuff honestly, and never resorted to clickbait just to get attention.

Thanks to you, our readers, our advertisers, our community, we’re still here. Still independent, still in print, and still proudly delivering local news people can trust. That’s no small feat in today’s media landscape, and it’s all because of the businesses who backed us when it mattered most.

This paper exists because locals cared enough to keep their community connected. And every week since, we’ve been lucky enough to share your stories, the joyful ones, the gritty ones, the ones that matter.

I’ve been here since day one, and I still feel just as honoured (and yes, occasionally sleep-deprived). This paper has grown up alongside my family, and it’s been a constant in a world that keeps changing.

As you open this week's edition, I’ll be high up Mt Hutt in New Zealand — watching my son see snow for the very first time, surrounded by family I’ve missed dearly. It’s a short break across the ditch to recharge and reconnect.

While I’m away, the brilliant Hannah will be your local ears and eyes, backed by our all-star team. You’ll be in great hands.

Here’s to five years of news without the nonsense — and to all of you who proved that local news in print isn’t dead… it just needed the right postcode and passion.

Amanda

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Pre-Loved Baby Clothes Aid Families At Mackay Special Care Nursery

Teeny weeny pre-loved baby clothes are bringing comfort and care to families of sick and premature babies at Mackay Base Hospital.

Wild Tribe Clothing Exchange & Preloved Clothing has once again donated baby clothes to the hospital’s Special Care Nursery (SCN), supporting families in the region who are doing it tough with their tiny bubs in hospital.

Thanks to incredible support from their community of families, founders Emma Wright and Carol Johnson have gathered a beautiful collection of clean, pre-loved baby clothing, especially in newborn and premmie sizes, that will go directly to families who need them most.

Emma said this was their third donation to Mackay Base Hospital and expressed hope that the clothes would “offer comfort, warmth and love to tiny babies and families during some of their most vulnerable moments.”

“We’re so grateful to be able to give back and make a small difference, together,” she said.

Wild Tribe Clothing Exchange is always accepting quality pre-loved baby clothing in good condition for their next hospital drop.

Mackay Hospital Health Service says, “Every onesie helps!”

The Mackay Base Hospital extended thanks to Wild Tribe Clothing Exchange for their generosity and thoughtfulness, noting that the hospital’s tiniest residents and their families “greatly appreciate it.”

This ongoing community support provides vital relief and reassurance to families navigating the challenges of caring for premature and sick infants in hospital.

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North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) is nearing the final stages of a major CCTV upgrade project.

The project, first announced in November last year, has seen the upgrade and installation of more than 50 CCTV cameras across NQBP’s three ports of Abbot Point, Hay Point and Mackay. Preparations are now under way for the installation of the last camera for the Port of Mackay’s Southern Breakwater.

NQBP Chief Executive Officer Brendan Webb said the project has seen several benefits.

“Our ports are powerful contributors to the Queensland economy with more than half (54%) of Queensland’s international trade by volume passing through our ports,” Mr Webb said.

“With more than 150 million tonnes of trade, representing a total trade value of $53 billion each year, infrastructure and security upgrades such as these are fundamental.

“Not only has this project boosted our surveillance capacity within our port footprint, but it has also provided us with operational efficiencies.

In addition to NQBP’s critical operational assets, Mr Webb said the port authority is also in a fortunate position of owning several public assets enjoyed by port communities.

“One of our key priorities is to ensure that locals and visitors can continue to enjoy safe access to these public spaces.

“While we would like to see access to these areas continue, public safety must always come first.”

A short-term vehicle closure of the Southern Breakwater is required for the camera-footing works to be undertaken safely, while the installation will be completed shortly after under traffic management.

Access will be restricted to vehicles on Thursday 7 and Friday 8 August, with pedestrian/cyclist access remaining available.

The community can keep up to date on closures by following NQBP's social media channels.

Local Mackay-based contractors CSE Crosscom is undertaking the works.

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The Southern Breakwater will be closed to vehicles this Thursday 7 and Friday 8 August to allow for the installation of camera-footing works

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Community Safety On Two Wheels And Four Paws

Officers from the Northern Beaches Police Station, alongside the Mackay Dog Squad, hit the streets last week with their Mobile Police Beat and trail bikes to promote e-scooter safety.

Locals were encouraged to ask questions, share concerns, and learn more about responsible scooter use in shared spaces.

A highlight of the day was a visit to a local primary school, where Police Dog Barron became an instant celebrity. With tail wags and plenty of cuddles, Barron brought smiles to young faces while officers shared important safety messages with students.

High-Speed Driver Clocked At 180km/H

A 23-year-old Sarina man was pulled over in Erakala on August 2 after allegedly being clocked at 180km/h in a 100km/h zone on the Mackay Ring Road.

Highway Patrol officers issued the man a $1,919 fine, eight demerit points, and an automatic six-month licence suspension. The Toyota Celica he was driving was also found to have illegal modifications, resulting in an additional $166 fine.

“Speed enforcement patrols will always be a priority on our State’s roads,” Sergeant Steve Smith, from the Mackay Crime Prevention Unit, said.

“Every driver must take responsibility for their speed in an effort towards making our roads as safe as possible.”

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Last week, local police promoted road and e-scooter safety with community patrols and a school visit from PD Barron, while a Sarina man was fined and lost his licence after allegedly being caught driving 180km/h in a 100 zone. Photo source: Queensland Police Service

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New Constables Join Mackay And Whitsundays District

Five newly graduated constables have officially joined the Queensland Police Service in the Mackay and Whitsundays District, bringing fresh energy and a strong sense of commitment to the region’s frontline policing efforts.

The officers, who recently completed their training at the Queensland Police Academy, will now begin their first year of service under the guidance of experienced field training officers.

District Superintendent Dean Cavanagh said welcoming new officers into the fold is always a significant moment for the local policing team.

“It’s a really exciting opportunity when we get to welcome new police into our blue family,” he said.

“They bring new ideas, fresh perspectives, and enthusiasm to the role.”

For First Year Constable Trista Nelson, the posting represents both a career milestone and a return home. A former student of Mackay North State High School, Nelson grew up in Mackay before moving to Brisbane to pursue a criminology degree at Griffith University.

“I honestly thought I’d really like Brisbane,” she said.

“But after being there a while, I realised I missed Mackay… I missed the beaches, the people, and most of all the community.”

Now back in her hometown in a professional capacity, she’s eager to begin her service.

“I’ve been looking forward to this for a long time. I’m excited to start talking to people and seeing what’s going on in the community,” she said.

Nelson said her studies in criminology, which included a focus on domestic violence and mental health, gave her a strong foundation for entering the force.

Joining her is First Year Constable Clay Duncan, who made the decision to relocate from Brisbane to Mackay to begin his career in regional policing.

“I’m really excited to be here,” he said.

“For me, it’s about connecting with the community and making a difference.”

Duncan said his parents, who are both in the police force, played a key role in inspiring him to pursue a career in the field.

“That influence growing up helped shape my path. I’ve always known I wanted to help people,” he said.

While he’s still new to regional living, Duncan said the diverse experiences available in the Queensland Police Service are what attracted him to the role.

“There are so many different opportunities to explore, and I’m really looking forward to learning and growing over the next 12 months.”

The five new recruits, assigned to Mackay City, Northern Beaches, and Bowen stations, forged strong bonds during their time at the academy and will now embark on their 12-month First Year Constable program under close supervision.

“They’ve undertaken extensive theoretical and practical training,” said Superintendent Cavanagh.

“Now they’ll be mentored on the job, working directly with experienced officers in real-world situations.”

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton, himself a former police officer, welcomed the new constables and praised the state government’s ongoing investment in police resources.

“We’re pleased to see new officers on the ground here in Mackay and Bowen,” he said.

“It’s great to see local talent like Trista return home to serve the community.”

As the new officers begin their careers, they bring with them not only the training and skills required to serve, but also a shared desire to build strong community connections and contribute meaningfully to the safety and wellbeing of the region.

The five new recruits, assigned to Mackay City, Northern Beaches, and Bowen stations, forged strong bonds during their time at the academy and will now embark on their 12-month First Year Constable program under close supervision. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

First Year Constable Trista Nelson

First Year Constable Clay Duncan

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A group of fourteen students in Years 10 and 11 from Whitsunday Anglican School made history as they participated in the School's inaugural Oxbridge Academic Tour, travelling to the University of Cambridge last month.

The prestigious programme, inspired by the international reputations of both Oxford and Cambridge Universities, offers a transformative learning opportunity for students with high academic aspirations.

The tour ran from 7 – 23 July 2025, beginning with three days of cultural sightseeing in London, before the group joined a summer school programme at the world-renowned University of Cambridge, recently ranked 4th in the Times Higher Education World Reputation Rankings.

The programme offered access to university-level courses taught by world-class educators in a wide range of fields including Aerospace Engineering, Astronomy and Astrophysics, International Espionage, Medicine, Law, and Business.

Principal, Mr Andrew Wheaton, expressed pride in this initiative for the region.

"The Oxbridge Academic Tour reflects our school’s commitment to excellence, offering students a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a global context - preparing them to lead on the international stage in their chosen fields," he said.

The University of Cambridge, founded in 1209, has produced a remarkable array of alumni including Nobel laureates, prime ministers, scientists, and authors.

The opportunity to study within its walls is a rare and invaluable experience for young students.

“To learn from actual Cambridge academics is something I never thought I’d get to do while still in School,” shared Andie Deguara, from Year 11.

Students were based at the historic Jesus College, founded in the 12th century, where they lived and learned in an environment steeped in academic tradition.

As part of the tour, students explored London’s most iconic landmarks, including the British Museum, Houses of Parliament, Churchill War Rooms, and West End Theatre District before transitioning into the academic portion of their journey.

The Oxbridge Academic Tour is a significant educational experience – one that bridges aspiration and opportunity, and sets a new standard for global learning at Whitsunday Anglican School.

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Fourteen Year 10 and 11 students from Whitsunday Anglican School made history by joining the inaugural Oxbridge Academic Tour, gaining rare access to university-level learning at Cambridge and exploring iconic sites across London. Photos supplied

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OPINION PIECE

Australia is blessed with abundant resources — coal, uranium, sunshine, wind, and water. We should have the cheapest and most reliable power in the world. Instead, electricity bills are soaring, reliability is falling, and households are feeling the squeeze. The gap between what we are paying for power and what we should be paying keeps growing.

Investors are walking away from major wind and hydrogen projects, leaving taxpayers to foot the bill. Even members of the government are quietly questioning the current direction of Labor’s energy policy. The current path isn’t working.

A recent CSIRO report has confirmed that coal is, in fact, the cheapest form of energy in Australia at present.

My views have not changed and my message is clear: we need a balanced energy mix. Our priority must be practical outcomes that improve livelihoods, create stable electricity, and deliver cheaper power prices.

Labor’s wind-and-solar-only approach is not the answer. Their current strategy is hurting families, tearing up prime agricultural land, and damaging our natural landscapes — all while falling short of its own climate targets. Yes, the sun and wind are free, but the infrastructure is not. Long-distance transmission lines and battery storage cost billions.

We need to rethink the path we’re on. I’ve long called for a balanced energy mix — one that is open to all technologies: coal, gas, hydro, solar, bioenergy, carbon capture, and nuclear. So long as costs are reduced, the natural environment is protected, and the lights are kept on, I’m all for it.

Mackay’s Racecourse Mill Co-generation Plant is a great example of clean and cost‑effective electricity production. The plant generates around 30% of Mackay’s electricity. Why isn’t the government putting innovations like this on the table for similar solutions to operate?

At present, I am working with my Coalition colleagues on an Energy and Net Zero Task Force, set up to review and identify the best energy mix for the country moving forward. This will be presented to the Australian people as the Coalition’s vision for energy in this country — the policy we will advocate for and take to the next election.

Let’s face it, while the world is powering ahead and building stronger energy capacities, Australia is going backwards. We need a course correction before it becomes too hard to undo, leaving Australians impacted for generations.

We need to put people first. We need to consider the natural environment. And we need to think about how we keep the lights on 24/7 in all scenarios. Australia needs a refreshed energy policy — and it has to be practical.

Net Zero is about trying to achieve the impossible, rather than doing what’s sensible. And at what cost? Taxpayers can’t afford to sign a blank cheque.

We must change our course on the national energy mix and find the right balance.

Andrew Willcox MP
Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability
Member for Dawson

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Kerryn Grieve spent six years on dialysis before he received a life-changing kidney transplant earlier this year.

The Mackay father of three had been spending five hours at a time, three days a week at Mackay Base Hospital on haemodialysis after dialysing at home was no longer an option.

Kerryn was diagnosed with end stage kidney disease in 2018 which was secondary to his lupus diagnosis 10 years earlier.

“You are placed on the kidney transplant waitlist when you first start on dialysis,” Kerryn said.

“I started peritoneal dialysis in July 2018 so that I had freedom to continue working and do it at home. I became active on the transplant wait list in November 2024.”

On 7 February this year, Kerryn received a call from the Princess Alexandra Hospital in Brisbane which would change his life; he had progressed up to fourth on the transplant waitlist.

“At 1.30am on 10 February, I received a call that a kidney was available and was advised that the Mackay hospital would contact us with the flight details,” Kerryn said.

“I felt overwhelmed and excited about the news. We had a plan in place beforehand and I had been very open with work, so everyone knew we were waiting for that call at any moment.

“From 1.30am we were organising the kids and dropping them to their nan’s house. We were then at the airport at 5.30am for the 6am flight.”

Kerryn’s kidney transplant took place that same day. He was incredibly grateful for the lifesaving operation and new kidney, but it wasn’t easy recovering from major surgery so far from home.

“It was very difficult to be away from the kids and family for six weeks,” Kerryn said.

“My wife was able to be with me in Brisbane for three weeks and then returned home to be with the kids because it was the first time we had spent more than four days away from them.”

After six weeks in hospital in Brisbane, Kerryn was able to return home and began weekly visits to the renal unit and nephrologist Dr Danielle Wu at Mackay Base Hospital for ongoing blood tests, monitoring and follow up care.

Four months later, these visits have reduced to fortnightly.

Kerryn has now returned to work and resumed normal activities with his family including taking his son to his soccer training and games.

The light at the end of the tunnel during his recovery, he said, was knowing that the transplant had gifted him “more time” with his young family.

“I also don’t have to go to the hospital three times a week for dialysis anymore,” he said.

“I’m looking forward to going home to Normanton where I grew up and my family still lives.

“I haven’t been able to go home since 2022 as they don’t have dialysis available and travelling there was too far.

“Knowing that I can now go home to see my family really helped me to remain positive.”

The opening of the North Queensland Kidney Transplant service in Townsville later this year has real potential to benefit local renal patients and enable more people to consider kidney transplants.

Being closer to home, it would also give young local families the opportunity to visit which may help patients with their recovery.

“Being closer to home and not having to travel to a big city could help patients who are anxious about travelling to Brisbane,” Kerryn said.

“Having to fly to Brisbane was not possible for my family when I had my transplant. We were lucky as my wife’s mum and sister were able to help us with the kids.

“The kids didn’t seem to be affected immediately, but after my return to Mackay my boy had a bit of anxiety thinking his dad was going to go away again.”

By Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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The opening of the North Queensland Kidney Transplant service in Townsville later this year has real potential to benefit local renal patients and enable more people to consider kidney transplants.

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After six years on dialysis, Mackay father-of-three Kerryn Grieve received a life-changing kidney transplant earlier this year, allowing him to return to work, reunite with family, and plan a long-awaited trip home to Normanton. Photo source: MHHS

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With school back in session and wheels spinning across footpaths, Mackay Whitsundays Highway Patrol is cracking down on the illegal use of electric motorcycles and personal mobility devices, targeting safety before speed.

Since Operation Wolfking commenced in January, police have administered 54 charges, including driving unlicensed, driving uninsured, driving unregistered, and driving a defective vehicle.

Police have also completed 35 street checks and issued 82 infringement notices, with the majority of offences being failure to wear an approved helmet and riding a PMD on a prohibited road, both of which incur a $166 fine. Other infringements included riding an e-bike unregistered, unlicensed, or uninsured.

Mackay Whitsundays District Highway Patrol Sergeant Daniel Goldburg said the ongoing operation is a reminder to road users about the importance of wearing a helmet, and to children and parents to know the rules and potential dangers around electric bikes.

“We want to ensure kids and parents are aware of the laws surrounding e-bikes and PMDs, and to know that officers will be charging offenders and parents for these infringements,” said Sergeant Goldberg.

“If a bike is being used as throttle-powered only, it’s a motorbike. And the rules are the same as that for a motorbike including the rider being licenced and the bike registered.”

“Officers will continue to enforce road safety and the dangerous and illegal use of e-bikes in our communities to ensure riders, road users, and pedestrians make it safely to and from their destination.”

“Wearing a helmet and staying off the road is simple, and it’s lifesaving.”

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As students return to school, Mackay Whitsundays Highway Patrol is ramping up enforcement on illegal e-bike and PMD use, issuing charges and fines to improve safety and ensure riders follow the rules. Photo source: Queensland Police Service

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Mackay is once again rolling out the welcome mat for its Sister City, with ten students from Matsuura, Japan visiting this week as part of a long-standing cultural exchange.
Mayor Greg Williamson formally welcomed the delegation last Friday during a civic reception, highlighting the enduring strength of the 35-year relationship between the two cities.

“This is the continuation of a 35-year relationship with our sister city in Japan, Matsura,” he said.

“Every other year we send students across to Matsura on an exchange and then they send students here.”

Many of the visiting students, aged 15, are travelling outside Japan for the first time. The week-long program aims to immerse them in Australian culture, offering everything from classroom experiences at a local high school to beach visits, bush dances, and tasting iconic Aussie foods.

“Most of these students wouldn’t have been outside Japan before,” the Mayor said.

“It’s building that cultural relationship, but it’s building the people-to-people relationship, which is really important for world relationships.”

“They’ll get to see things like the platypus and the beaches… it’s just that relationship building that’s very, very important for our relationships internationally.”

Mayor Williamson also hinted at some of the more memorable culinary moments the students could expect.

“We’ve got pies on the agenda with this lunch today… but they’ll get a great range of Aussie foods: barbecues, fish and chips, and hopefully an experience of Vegemite as well.”

Among the excited students were Kaya Yamashita and Ayana Maeda, who said they were glad to be in Mackay and eager to communicate in English with new friends.

“It’s our first time in Australia,” they said.

“We want to communicate in English with our friends.”

“The people are very friendly, nice and warm.”

Another student, Soataka, shared his excitement about staying with a local host family.

“I’m staying with an Australian family for a week to learn about Australian culture and the people,” he said. Having studied English for 10 years, Soataka said he found Mackay “very interesting” and was keen to practise his language skills in real life.

During their visit, the students will also tour Matsuura Gardens and spend time with local families to deepen their understanding of life in regional Australia.

The Sister City relationship between Mackay and Matsuura continues to foster goodwill, cultural appreciation and lifelong friendships across borders.

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Cultural ties shine as ten students from Matsuura, Japan, visit Mackay to experience Aussie life, marking 35 years of the Sister City relationship with a week of friendship, food, and cultural exchange. Photos supplied

Kaya Yamashita and Ayana Maeda, both 15, are among the many students visiting Australia for the first time. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Help Make A Difference In Mackay

The St Vincent de Paul Society—known locally and fondly as Vinnies—is calling on compassionate community members to join in its mission of offering hope, dignity, and practical support to those doing it tough in Mackay.

"Working with the St Vincent de Paul Society is a powerful way to live out our Christian faith in action—through love of God and love of neighbour," says Regional President Richard Calligan.

“While we are proud of the spiritual foundation of our work, we focus our daily efforts on serving anyone in need—especially the poor, the marginalised, and the forgotten—regardless of their circumstances, beliefs, or attitudes.”

The Society’s mission is rooted in respect for every person's human dignity, offering practical support while encouraging people to regain control of their own lives.

Everyone is welcome to get involved. Membership is open to anyone who shares the Society’s values. New members receive training, support, and are warmly welcomed into a community of like-minded volunteers.

What does Vinnies do in Mackay?

The work is wide-ranging and deeply personal. Imagine yourself in these moments:

• Sitting at a kitchen table with a young mother—new to Mackay, traumatised, and raising four children under seven—helping her feel less alone and more supported.
• Responding to a call from an elderly neighbour, now sleeping in their car after being priced out of the rental market.
• Listening at our Support Centre to a single father with two daughters who must choose this week between paying rent or putting food on the table.
• Visiting the police watch house, offering support to a devastated family whose lives have just been turned upside down.
• Sharing a fishing trip with men from our homeless shelter—a simple outing that brings joy, dignity, and connection.
• Volunteering at a Vinnies shop or warehouse, helping raise the funds that make all this work possible.

Whether your passion is front-line support, behind-the-scenes organisation, or simply lending a hand when you can—there’s a place for you at Vinnies.

Want to learn more or get involved?
Please reach out to Richard Calligan at
Email: president.mackay@svdpqld.org.au
Phone: (07) 4840 0820

Help us bring hope where it's needed most—right here in our Mackay community.

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What a fantastic week it’s been in Mackay!

Despite the winter chill, our community spirit has been on full display. I’ve been out and about across the region—listening, celebrating, and continuing to advocate for the issues that matter to locals.

I kicked things off at the Bluewater Fling—there’s nothing quite like the sound of the mighty bagpipes and a sea of tartan to celebrate Scottish heritage. The music, culture, and dancing made for a memorable day.

It was also great to catch up with locals at the Northside Uniting Church Fair, where I enjoyed some meaningful conversations and experienced the strength of our community connections.

A true highlight was welcoming our newest police recruits—dedicated individuals ready to serve and protect our region. Their commitment to keeping Mackay safe deserves our full support.

Local creativity took centre stage at the Woollam Art On Show Exhibition, where artists of all ages showcased stunning work. It’s clear Mackay continues to shine as a regional hub for the arts.

I was honoured to attend the Pyjama Angel of the Year Award, a moving tribute to those who go above and beyond in serving others. And the St Paul’s Uniting Church Choral Society reminded us all of the power of music to lift spirits and bring people together.

On a more serious note, I was proud to launch the Healthy Rivers to Reef Report Card, highlighting our shared responsibility to protect our natural environment. I also stopped in at the Mackay and District Sports Day—a great show of local talent, teamwork, and community pride.

Before I go—if you have 3 minutes to spare, please complete my Public Intoxication Survey. Your feedback plays a vital role in shaping local policy.

And don’t forget to mark Tuesday, 2 September in your calendar for my Digital Detox Event, featuring international speaker Brad Huddleston, who will explore the growing concerns around digital addiction and its impact on our wellbeing.

Whether it is catching up with the RSL, Soroptimists, or locals in a coffee shop – I am delivering for Mackay.

Nigel Dalton MP, Member for Mackay

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Nigel Dalton at the Bluewater Fling

Nigel Dalton at the Mackay and Districts Sports Day

Nigel Dalton at the CQU seagrass research facility, Coral Sea Marina

Nigel Dalton with Ken and Russel from the Mackay RSL

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When it comes to legends of the surf, few names command the respect of Reg Buttler, and recently, that reputation was etched into history with the awarding of a rare and remarkable 75 Year Pin.

The milestone recognises an extraordinary lifetime of service to surf lifesaving, beginning in 1950 at Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club, when budgie smugglers were woollen and sunscreen was a novelty.

Now based in Mackay, Reg has become a cornerstone of the Mackay Surf Life Saving Club and a familiar face across the North Barrier Branch and broader Queensland and Australian surf communities.

Over the decades, Reg has worn many hats — and caps — earning his Bronze Medallion, training and assessing generations of lifesavers, officiating at competitions, mentoring young members, and serving in leadership roles at all levels of the organisation.

His contributions have earned him Life Membership at club, branch, state, and national levels — an honour reserved for the very few who have given so much for so long.

Those who know him best say Reg’s passion hasn’t faded, even after 75 years. His red-and-yellow patrol shirt remains a symbol not just of safety on our beaches, but of steadfast commitment, generosity, and wisdom.

In a field built on vigilance and service, Reg Buttler stands out as a figure of quiet dedication and enduring impact.

The Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club said “Congratulations and thank you — we’re all just trying to keep up with you.

“We love you Reggie.”

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Reg Buttler’s extraordinary 75-year surf lifesaving journey, which began in 1950, has been officially honoured with a rare 75 Year Pin, recognising a lifetime of dedication, leadership, and impact across the Mackay, Queensland, and national surf lifesaving communities. Photo source: Mackay Surf Life Saving Club

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OPINION PIECE

There has been a lot of discussion regarding the council bi-election and varied opinions on what makes a good Councillor.  Firstly, everyone has a democratic right to stand for election.  Under the Local Government Act there is no specific qualification that you need, but there are plenty of things you need to learn and do to properly represent the people who voted for you.

I would like to reflect on my experience as a local government representative for the past 21 years.  Firstly, it is an absolute honour and privilege to be able to serve the local community of the Mackay region. I have seen many Councillors come and go over that period and I myself have learnt through actively participating in training opportunities, networking with other Councillors, attending conferences and participating in community organisations.

I undertook professional development through accredited training providers and the Australian Institute of Company Directors course to ensure I had all the necessary skills and knowledge to carry out my duties.  For me, there are three important parts of the role of Councillor:

1. Engage – participate in and be fully prepared for council meetings. It’s essential to read all agenda items. Seek clarification from officers if you feel you need further information to make an informed decision.  Briefing sessions are provided to councillors to ensure we are fully across the details of the item.  Attendance at these briefings is a very important part of the role. You also need to understand meeting standing orders. You need to know what you can and can’t do during the meeting so you can actively participate in the debate.  This is the way in which you can provide your view on the item or, as I like to say, this is where you get to put the community overlay on the agenda item.
2. Connect – the other part of the role is engaging with the community.  I do this by participating in the running of organisations, attending community meetings, functions and networking events, attending other community organisation meetings, when invited, and responding to residents’ customer requests.  I like to meet face-to-face where possible and listen/learn firsthand. You then need to investigate the matter via council officers and, most importantly, report back to the resident.  You may not always get a positive result; however, if you explain why to people, they generally understand.
3. Advocate – advocacy takes on a few different components at different levels.  You can advocate on behalf of the local community at the local level by taking the local concerns to the council to try to gain support from other councillors, or you can advocate of behalf of the community to the State or Federal Government.  It’s important when advocating to the other levels of government that you do this with a united voice.

Karen May, Deputy Mayor

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At Papa Ben’s Coffee Van

You can’t miss it – the bold yellow van, the scent of freshly ground beans in the air, and the signature grin of Mackay’s very own barista-on-wheels, Ben Fiegert. Behind the wheel and the espresso machine at Papa Ben’s Coffee Van is a man who gave up a long career in the mining industry to follow a passion that was percolating for years… coffee and community.

After 17 years of mining life, Ben made the bold decision to trade in the work boots and hi-vis for an apron and coffee beans. The motivation? More time with his three children, and a longing to serve the community he loves in a way that feels meaningful.

From that desire, Papa Ben’s Coffee Van was born.

Whether it’s your essential morning brew, a cheeky second coffee with lunch, or a caffeine boost at your next corporate or community event, Papa Ben’s Coffee Van delivers with heart.

The van is a regular at local markets, school fairs, smoko runs to local businesses, and private functions, including weddings, parties, and sporting events. No matter the setting, one thing never changes – Ben’s upbeat energy and warm approach that keeps customers coming back.

The coffee is top-notch, but there’s more brewing behind the counter than just espresso.

Papa Ben’s is also known for unique, mouth-watering menu items, none more beloved than the Biscoff Latte. What started as a promotional drink quickly became a customer favourite and a permanent fixture on the menu.

“The Biscoff Latte is hands down the most popular,” Ben explains.

Locally owned and operated, Papa Ben’s Coffee Van is the perfect example of a small business with a big heart.

And when he’s not fuelling the region with flat whites and friendly banter, Ben enjoys caravan holidays, movie nights with the kids, and making memories with family and friends.

From smoko stops to special occasions, Papa Ben’s Coffee Van is where quality coffee meets genuine connection.

Follow Papa Ben’s Coffee Van on socials to stay up to date with daily locations to have your coffee served fresh – with a smile.

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