A welcome boost to the region's medical workforce saw 31 intern doctors begin their healthcare careers with Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) last week. Among them are three proud Mackay locals excited to return home and serve their community. In 2025, a total of 38 interns will join the team, with opportunities to rotate through rural facilities in Proserpine and Bowen. These interns will be the second cohort to train under the new intern training framework, gaining valuable experience in both hospital and general practice settings.

Jodie Elliott, Zachary Hunt and Imma Ashraf. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

31 Interns Choose Mackay For Career Growth And Community Impact

Zachary Hunt, a James Cook University graduate from Mackay, chose to stay in the region after experiencing a variety of opportunities at Mackay Hospital.  

“I found that I got lots of different opportunities while in the Mackay Hospital to do different types of procedural skills as well as learning and I found all the supervisors really helpful, so I decided to stay,” he said.

He’s considering further specialisation in Rural Generalism to expand his medical expertise and continue serving his community.

Imma Ashraf, also from Mackay and a James Cook University graduate, has deep roots in the area, with most of her family being doctors. Reflecting on her final years of study in Mackay, she said, "It’s been great…There’s a lot of hands-on teaching and support, which I really enjoy."

She appreciates the guidance and the chance to contribute more than she might have elsewhere.

Jodie Elliott, originally from Sarina, studied at the University of Queensland and is a former physiotherapist.

She shared, "Graduating after 10 years of study felt incredible…I finally get to work full-time and put roots down in a place we want to be long-term."

Mackay was always her top choice, with family and a friendly, supportive environment making it the perfect fit.

Rotations will have an opportunity to gain clinical experience in areas such as emergency, cardiology, orthopaedics, anaesthetics, obstetrics and gynaecology, paediatrics, intensive care, mental health, general medical and general surgical.

Mackay HHS Chief Executive Susan Gannon congratulated the new doctors on starting their journey in medicine.

“It’s exciting to welcome first-year doctors to our team and support them as they begin their career with the Mackay HHS,” Ms Gannon said.

“They’re not only bolstering our workforce and making a real difference to our patients, but they’re building the foundations of medical careers that will serve our community and Queensland for decades to come.

“Regardless of where their careers take them, they will develop strong foundations for the years ahead from the guidance of our experienced, dedicated and highly skilled team of Mackay HHS medical professionals.”

Acting Executive Director Medical Services Dr Colin Feekery said the interns will benefit from Mackay HHS’s friendly and welcoming atmosphere, its supportive medical culture and their broad exposure to a wide range of clinical cases.

“The interns will gain invaluable clinical experience, which will enable them to develop advanced skills as a foundation for their future medical careers,” Dr Feekery said.

“Their diverse placements and experience in the Mackay HHS will also help them make an informed choice when it comes to which speciality they wish to pursue in the future.

“Our hope is that by providing excellent training experiences, many of our 2025 interns will also choose to build their future careers in the Mackay region.”

31 intern doctors have joined the Mackay Hospital and Health Service so far in 2025, gaining valuable clinical experience in various medical fields. Photo supplied: MHHS

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Recent tragedies have reminded us all of how fragile and unpredictable life can be.

The devastating wildfires that began on January 7, 2025, in Los Angeles have claimed at least 25 lives and destroyed over 12,000 structures, including homes, businesses, and schools. The Pacific Palisades fire, the most destructive in LA's history, rapidly spread due to strong winds and dry conditions, leaving entire neighbourhoods reduced to ash. The toll has been immense, with lives lost, wildlife displaced, and a community left to rebuild from the embers of what once was. For those watching from afar, it’s a stark reminder of nature’s power and how quickly disaster can strike.

While we can’t always prevent the unexpected, there are ways to be prepared for life’s challenges. Here in Mackay, cyclone season is a reality we face each year, and it’s a sobering reminder of how quickly circumstances can change. If you haven’t already, take a moment to check your cyclone kit. Make sure it has the essentials: water, food, medications, and important documents. Double-check your family’s emergency plan and talk about it together.

Preparing isn’t just about being practical; it’s about protecting the people we love.

Closer to home, the sudden passing of 37-year-old Casandra Townsend, a devoted mother of two from Beaconsfield, has left her family and friends heartbroken. In another unimaginable moment, Andrew Mallett, a Bowen Basin miner and father, went missing while spearfishing off Victoria’s coast, leaving loved ones in limbo, desperate for answers and comfort. You can read more about these tragedies on pages 6 and 12.

Hearing these stories, my heart aches for the families enduring such profound loss. They remind me of how precious our time is and how important it is to hold our loved ones close. It’s easy to take the ordinary moments for granted — the chatter at the dinner table, a quick hug before work, or even a text from a friend. But in times like these, it’s clear those are the moments that matter most.

Life is precious, and while we can’t promise tomorrow, we can make the most of today. Hug your family a little tighter, call that friend you’ve been meaning to catch up with, and remind the people in your life how much they mean to you.

Amanda

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In a heart-warming act of kindness, a young woman has left a lasting impression on a local family after helping their anxious teenage daughter change a flat tyre on Eversleigh Road.

The daughter, a P-plater with high anxiety, found herself stranded by the side of the road, upset and unsure of what to do. With her parents out of state, she was about to call RACQ when a stranger in a red Mazda CX-5 pulled over and offered assistance.

The kind woman, who is believed to be of Islander descent and in her mid to late 20s, didn’t hesitate to help. Despite the daughter’s distress, the stranger calmly changed the tyre, offering much-needed support during a stressful situation.  

"I know how she felt," she shared.  

"I was in so many sticky situations as a P-plater and wished someone helped me back then. I hope your daughter is ok."

The grateful parents, overwhelmed by the woman’s kindness, wanted to find a way to thank her.  

"We would love to give her a gift when we are back," they said.  

In response, the good samaritan humbly declined any reward, saying, "Paying it forward is enough for me."  

She added, "Also, you saying I’m still in my 20s is enough of a gift for me."

The parents expressed their deep gratitude and said, “I'm glad there are kind people still around, and in the future, we will be teaching our daughter to change a tyre!”

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Mackay Regional Council contractors will begin work on the fourth stage of the Mackay Waterfront Priority Development Area (PDA), which will include upgrades to the Sydney and River Streets intersection and Bluewater Trail.
Vassallo Constructions Pty Ltd have been awarded the contract to improve the pedestrian and cycle connectivity between the City Centre and Riverside precincts.
The works will include new and wider footpaths, new park furniture, improved lighting and landscaping. There will also be reduced intersection wait times for cyclists and pedestrians at the signals.
Works will begin mid-January and are expected to be completed by the end of June, weather permitting.
The contractor will commence work in the park area and the footpath in front of the Telstra building.
Six car parks adjacent to the park area and six in the centre car parking area opposite Wood Street will be out of action during the works.
Pedestrian and cyclist detours will be in place and there will be reduced speed limits near the work area.
Previous projects making up the PDA include the Queens Park Revitalisation and the Riverside Revitalisation project (comprising the recently completed Pioneer River pontoon and River Wharves).
The Sydney and River streets intersection active transport crossing is proudly supported by the Queensland Government and Mackay Regional Council.

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The Federal Government’s $7.2 billion commitment to upgrading the Bruce Highway is already facing delays, with conflicting statements from senior government officials raising concerns about the timeline for delivering the critical funding.

While Prime Minister Anthony Albanese assured the public during a press conference in Gympie that funding for the project would begin this year, Finance Minister Katy Gallagher told ABC’s 7.30 Report that the funding would fall outside the current forward estimates, potentially delaying the upgrades until after 2028.

Finance Minister Gallagher stated on 7.30 Report: “The costs for that will be reflected in the next budget update… but the funding will come outside of those forward estimate years because it’s a long-term project.”

In contrast, the Prime Minister had earlier told 4BC Radio: “The funding will be available from this year… we want this to be done as soon as possible.”

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox criticised the conflicting information, calling for transparency.

“The Prime Minister and the Finance Minister cannot both be correct, and the Dawson community deserves to be told the truth. It is time for the Prime Minister to come clean and release the full timing schedule for the promised Bruce Highway upgrade funds,” Mr Willcox said.

Highlighting the toll of inaction, Mr Willcox added: “Some 43 lives have been lost on the Bruce Highway over the past year, and it feels like the Prime Minister was more focused on buying votes instead of getting to work and fixing the highway.”

He also expressed frustration over the lack of priority given to dangerous sections of the highway within his electorate.

“I am very concerned that one of the worst sections of highway in my electorate was not deemed a priority by the Albanese Government, and I will continue to fight for our fair share of funding to get this road fixed,” Mr Willcox said.

Federal Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry echoed the concerns, labelling the announcement as an election stunt.

“Just a week ago, the Prime Minister assured us the funding for the Bruce Highway was ready to go. Now, his own Finance Minister says the funds won’t flow until 2028. Both statements can’t be true, and the people of Queensland deserve to know which one is,” Ms Landry said.

Ms Landry also criticised the government for prioritising politics over action, pointing to the tragic loss of 43 lives on the Bruce Highway last year.

“Our Bruce Highway is not a political pawn to win an election. Lives have been lost, families devastated, and last year, when tragedies struck, Labor was silent,” she said.

Calling for urgency, she added: “Queenslanders deserve better. They deserve a government that delivers on promises and takes immediate action to improve safety on our roads.”

In response, the Coalition has committed to matching the $7.2 billion funding pledge and restoring the 80:20 funding model with the State Government if it is re-elected in 2025.

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Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox stands by a pothole-ridden section of the Bruce Highway, highlighting the urgent need for promised upgrades to improve safety and save lives. Photo supplied

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The Mackay community is in mourning following the tragic death of Cassandra Townsend, a 37-year-old mother of two, whose body was discovered in her Beaconsfield home on the 8th of January.

Police were called to her Lorne Court property around 3.20pm, where her body was found.
Authorities declared the site a crime scene, and investigations into the cause of her death are ongoing as they await autopsy results.

A Queensland Police spokesperson confirmed, “Investigations into the death are continuing, and investigators are awaiting the results of a post-mortem to determine the cause of death.”

The spokesperson said there were no visible injuries and a report would be prepared for the coroner.

Cassandra, affectionately known as Cassie, was described as “bubbly,” positive, and devoted to her two children. Her sudden passing has left her family, friends, and the wider Mackay community devastated.

Tributes have since flooded in, remembering her vibrant spirit and the joy she brought to those around her.

“I can’t believe she’s gone,” one loved one shared, capturing the shock and grief felt by many.

Another heartbroken friend said that “Cassie had a heart of gold and loved her two babies with all of her being.

“Privileged to have crossed paths with her. May her light and positive energy shine on.”

“Cassie radiated pure joy, and every interaction with her brought a smile to your face. She will be dearly missed.”

Another shared, “She was always so bubbly with a great outlook.”

“You always will be remembered as a happy and loving person who always brings joy to others.”

As the community comes to grips with this heartbreaking loss, Cassie’s memory will live on through the love and light she shared with everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Cassie described herself as a “lover of life” and was known for her overwhelming love for her children.

At the time of publishing, there were no further updates on the cause of her death.

Mackay Life extends our deepest condolences to her family and close friends.

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37-year-old Cassie Townsend, a mother-of-two, was found deceased at her Beaconfield home. Photo source: Facebook

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An inferno on a conveyor system at a grain silo in Mackay Harbour on Monday, the 13th of January, left locals in shock and sparked an urgent response from emergency services. The blaze, which began around 6.15pm at GrainCorp on George Bell Drive, unleashed thick plumes of black smoke that could be seen throughout the Mackay Port industrial area.

Workers in the vicinity were the first to spot the smoke and flames leaping from the silo, which reportedly contained chickpeas. Workers at nearby businesses were concerned that the fire was within the proximity to fuel lines which could pose a significant risk, however the fire service confirmed that there was not a significant risk.

Emergency crews from Queensland Fire and Rescue (QFR) were quickly on site, working in tandem with local police to control the blaze. The fire was brought under control by around 9pm and completely out by 11pm. A significant challenge for firefighters was scaling around 60 metres of stairway to get to the fire, lugging hoses and equipment up the vertical ascent to reach the blaze.

Authorities immediately evacuated the nearby beach, set up an exclusion zone and implemented traffic diversions under the provisions of the Public Safety Preservation Act to ensure public safety. Workers and nearby residents were evacuated as a precaution.

Police urged members of the public to avoid the area while emergency services worked to manage the incident.

The PSPA was lifted and roads re-opened around 10:30pm.

Queensland Ambulance confirmed there were no injuries, and no patients were reported from the fire. A GrainCorp spokesperson confirmed that no one was injured and thanked emergency services for their rapid response.

North Queensland Bulk Ports said it responded to the incident and is working with GrainCorp. A spokesperson confirmed that port operations returned to normal once the PSPA was lifted. Grain is the third-largest commodity to be exported from the Port of Mackay.

The fire's cause was reported as unknown, with officials continuing to monitor developments.

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Photo credit: Ian Nelson
Photo credit: Allison Bradshaw

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Wildcat Mackay, the award-winning boat tour that brought the beauty of Mackay’s offshore islands to life, has announced its closure after more than three years of operation. The decision, made with careful consideration, comes following a decline in demand for the day-tours over the past 18 months.

Since its debut in December 2021, Wildcat Mackay has offered locals and visitors an extraordinary opportunity to explore the pristine islands of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

Its state-of-the-art catamaran provided guests with unforgettable experiences, from snorkelling at coral reefs to discovering untouched beaches and encountering vibrant marine life.

In just three years, Wildcat Mackay earned a special place in the hearts of the community, reflected in its many achievements. Most notably, the tour received the prestigious Gold award in the ‘Best of Queensland’ category last year at the 2024 Mackay Tourism Awards.

In a statement, Wildcat thanked the Mackay community, loyal guests, and dedicated staff who were instrumental in its success.

“Unfortunately, we have made the very difficult decision to cease operating our Wildcat Tour in Mackay.

“After operating in the region for more than three years, this decision was not made lightly; however, due to a significant decline in interest in the Day Tour over the past 18 months, we had to reassess the tour's ongoing viability and future.

“We want to express our heartfelt gratitude to the Mackay community for their support throughout Wildcat's journey.

“A special thank you to our wonderful guests who travelled with us, our dedicated staff for their hard work and passion, and Mackay Isaac Tourism for their support.”

Wildcat’s innovative tours showcased some of Mackay’s most breathtaking destinations, including Brampton, St Bees, and Scawfell islands, that brought a fresh perspective to the region’s natural wonders.

While its closure is undoubtedly a loss for the local tourism landscape, Wildcat Mackay’s legacy is one of adventure, discovery, and an experience that those aboard will never forget.

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Wildcat Mackay, the award-winning boat tour that showcased the stunning islands of the Great Barrier Reef, bids farewell after three years of creating cherished memories. Photo source: Wildcat Mackay

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Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre is excited to announce a vibrant and inclusive Australia Day weekend celebration on January 25th and 26th. This year, we are proud to support our local RSL and bring together our diverse community for a weekend of events, unity and festivity.

Landlord and Owner Fawkner Property believe that while we come from many cultures and hold many beliefs, we are united as one Australia. Our Australia Day weekend celebrations are a testament to this, and we warmly invite people of all ages, races, creeds, and colours to join us in honouring our shared identity.

"At Fawkner Property, we are proud to celebrate the rich diversity of our community.

“Australia Day is a perfect opportunity to come together and appreciate the many cultures and backgrounds that make us one united Australia. We invite everyone to join us for a weekend of joy, unity, and celebration," said Chris Garnaut, Fawkner Property CIO and Founder.

Chris continues, “We pay the ultimate respect to those who fought for the democratic freedoms we enjoy today and paid the ultimate sacrifice with their lives, so we are proud to support the local RSL this weekend.”

On Saturday 25 January Farleigh and Northern Beaches RSL will be raising funds for veterans and local community groups. For a gold coin donation grab a sausage sizzle or a drink and support a great cause. The Centre will also be hosting a “Best Dressed” competition and face painting.

On Australia Day, Sunday 26 January, there will be activities for all ages including an Aussie
themed competition, activities, a photobooth, craft and more. For full event details, go to the Mount Pleasant Centre website or Facebook Page.

Join the team at Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre for a day filled with joy and community spirit.

“Together, we can make this Australia Day weekend a memorable one for all.”

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A new year brings the perfect opportunity to reflect on how we spend our time and how we can make a meaningful impact. If one of your 2025 resolutions is to give back, why not consider volunteering? Offering your time and skills to help others is one of the most fulfilling ways to start the year.
And what better place to lend a hand than at the heart of our community – the hospital? Mackay Hospital Foundation provides countless ways for volunteers to support patients, families, and staff, making a difference where it matters most.
At Mackay Hospital Foundation, around 100 volunteers donate their time for various roles throughout hospitals in the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday Regions. Roles such as providing information to visitors to the hospital and directing them to the areas where they need to be, or shop assistant roles in the hospital gift shop.
There are opportunities for volunteers to be patient companions in various units, operating the convenience trolley throughout the hospital or driving the courtesy patient transfer buggy.
Volunteer Support Coordinator Jackie Meldrum said, “There are various opportunities, and I’m sure if volunteering is something you’re considering, we’ll have a role to suit. Just take that initial step and make contact with us.”
If volunteering isn’t suitable at this time in your life, there are other ways to support Mackay Hospital Foundation such as purchasing a ticket in the Play for Purpose lottery and nominating Mackay Hospital Foundation as the beneficiary. Tickets can be purchased online at www.playforpurpose.com.au or at Nextra Mt Pleasant Centre.
Another option is to donate through Containers for Change. Simply by collecting your recyclable cans and bottles and dropping them into a collection bin or location. Label them with Mackay Hospital Foundation’s Containers for Change number C10413428 and the refund will be donated to Mackay Hospital Foundation in support of medical equipment and projects throughout our local hospitals.
Mackay Hospital Foundation General Manager, Kristi Algate said, “From time to time, we’re approached by people who want to organise their own fundraising event in support of our hospitals.
Whether you’re an individual or a group, contact us and we’ll provide you with a Letter of Authority to fundraise. It’s that easy!”
For all fundraising enquiries, please contact Mackay Hospital Foundation, located at Mackay Base Hospital, or call 4885 5915. To find out more information about Mackay Hospital Foundation, visit mackayhospitalfoundation.com.au

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Volunteer Ron with MHF Courtesy Patient Transfer Buggy
Volunteers (Dawn and Paul) at the Mackay Base Hospital Information Desk

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CatholicCare Central Queensland has been a trusted provider of care and support services in Mackay and the wider Central Queensland region for over 50 years, dedicated to providing individuals and families with the quality care and support they need to thrive. With a focus on respect, compassion, and inclusivity, the organisation offers a wide range of services designed to meet the needs of the community.

Their extensive range of services include:

   • In-Home Aged Care and Disability Support: From personalised in-home care to social activities and home and yard maintenance, CatholicCare helps individuals maintain independence and dignity in their own homes.
   • Counselling and Psychology Services: Confidential support available for individuals, couples and children, ensuring your wellness is in safe and professional hands.
   • Family Relationship Services: If family relationships are tough, CatholicCare can provide assistance and mediation services to help everyone move forward and keep putting kids first.

With a commitment to providing compassionate and inclusive services, CatholicCare Central Queensland plays a vital role in supporting the well-being of the Mackay community.

For those seeking assistance, CatholicCare is located at 58 Sydney Street, Mackay, and further information about their services can be found online at www.catholiccarecq.com

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Helen Zaglas is living proof of a miracle, but she credits much of her survival to the outstanding care and dedication of the Mackay Base Hospital staff.

Described as a “walking miracle,” by many, Mrs Zaglas has faced an extraordinary number of health battles, yet her gratitude for the hospital’s exceptional service remains ever-present.

“The staff at the Base Hospital are very good at what they do,” Mrs Zaglas said.

“They’ve helped me so much over the years, and they’ve been amazing.

“I just want people to know that they really do their best and deserve the utmost recognition for it.”

Her most recent health scare in October last year turned her world upside down, but with the support of the health workers at Mackay Base Hospital, Mrs Zaglas has been given every opportunity to make a remarkable recovery.

While using her walker one afternoon, a loose grip caused her to fall, leading to a traumatic brain injury. The fall was so severe that it caused intense internal bleeding and left a lasting scar on her head. Thanks to the professionalism and kindness of the nurses and carers at Mackay Base Hospital and Community Health and Therapy Services (CHATS) Mackay, Mrs Zaglas has made an incredible recovery.

Now undergoing speech therapy through CHATS, Mrs Zaglas is quickly regaining her ability to communicate.

Over the years, Mrs Zaglas has survived double bowel cancer, breast cancer, and a heart attack at just 39 years old. Through every health battle, she says the hospital staff have gone above and beyond to provide the best possible care.

Mrs Zaglas’ strength and positive outlook on life has been an inspiration to those around her.

Friends jokingly refer to her as “Toyota-tough,” marvelling at her ability to bounce back after such an intense fall. Among her biggest supporters is her lifelong friend, Carole Ross, who has been by her side for over 40 years.

“We’ve been friends for years,” Ms Ross said.

“She’s a bit of a wild child…but she’s come a long way, and she’s a walking miracle.”

Ms Ross first crossed paths with the Zaglas family in her 20s while working at their café, and she continues to visit Helen regularly to this day.

Ms Ross even sat by Helen’s bed throughout her recovery and was equally impressed by the hospital’s care.

“The staff were wonderful,” Ms Ross said.

“Even the food was good, considering how much they make for so many patients.”

Through it all, Mrs Zaglas refuses to view her challenges as setbacks. Instead, she sees them as opportunities to embrace resilience and find joy, even in the darkest moments.

“Complaining only makes your sickness worse,” she said.

“You have to have a good outlook on life…where you can smile about it.”

Having conquered countless challenges in her lifetime, Mrs Zaglas is on a mission to share the brighter side of life and express her gratitude for the Mackay Base Hospital, whose exceptional care she believes deserves its moment in the spotlight.

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Mrs Zaglas wearing the helmet gifted by her cherished gardener John, from Lawns & Ladders

Helen Zaglas with life-long friend Carole Ross. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Mackay residents have reported several sightings of what are believed to be at least two crocodiles regularly swimming around the Mackay Marina. These elusive visitors have been spotted both within the marina itself and just outside the rock wall, adding a cautious element to the picturesque waterfront, especially for those who use the sheltered water for paddle boarding.
Earlier this week, one of the juvenile crocodiles, estimated to be about one metre long, was seen gliding along the Harbour Breakwater, surprising walkers and sparking curiosity among locals.
These sightings are part of a growing trend, with crocodile encounters on the rise across North Queensland. In fact, recent statistics highlight an alarming surge in crocodile sightings, prompting experts to advise both locals and tourists to stay "Croc-wise" and exercise greater caution.

Queensland’s waterways are home to one of nature's most formidable predators: the crocodile. Since gaining protection in 1971, crocodile populations have steadily increased, with these ancient creatures playing an essential role in the ecosystem. However, with this growth comes an undeniable risk, especially in areas like Mackay, renowned for its stunning beaches and serene swimming holes.

Crocodiles are undeniably iconic to Far North Queensland’s identity, but their increasing presence has previously sparked heated debates. Some, like Federal Member for Kennedy, Bob Katter MP, advocate for crocodile culls, arguing that the rising numbers pose a danger to human lives. Meanwhile, others stress the importance of education and responsible behaviour, noting that human actions - like feeding crocodiles or getting too close to the water - often contribute to attacks.

In Mackay alone, 17 sightings have been reported recently, while Cairns and Townsville recorded 43 and 31 sightings…just within the past 30 days, according to the crocodile sighting dashboard.

With this in mind, it's crucial that locals and visitors alike take proactive steps to stay safe.

How To Stay Croc-safe

The Queensland Government’s "Be Croc-wise" initiative provides important guidelines to reduce the risk of crocodile attacks:

• Stay at least five meters from the water’s edge and use barriers like logs or eskies if needed.
• Properly dispose of food scraps and bait to avoid attracting crocodiles.
• Keep pets on a leash and away from the water.
• Avoid small watercraft in crocodile-prone areas.
• Swim only at patrolled beaches where crocodiles are less likely.

To report a sighting, use the QWildlife app, visit the website, or call 1300 130 372. In emergencies, dial 000 or 112. Your vigilance can contribute to the safe management of crocodile populations.

This figure initially represents the number of cases (based on sighting reports received) that have been active in the last 30 days or have been declared as problem crocodiles. Image source: Queensland Government, Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation

Photo source: 4MK Mackay

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The Queensland Mines Rescue Service (QMRS) team and the wider community are mourning the loss of Andrew "Drew" Mallett - a highly respected member of their ranks.

It is believed that Drew, a father from the Mackay region, tragically went missing while spearfishing off the coast of Lorne, Victoria, on November 28, 2024. Despite extensive search efforts, which included air, sea, and coastal operations, he has yet to be recovered and has since been presumed deceased.

In a heartbreaking statement released by his family, they shared: “Together as a family we feel it is important to share with you our heartbreak.

“Andrew ‘Drew’ Mallett is presumed deceased. He went into the ocean in the area of Lorne, Victoria, to spear fish.

“It was witnessed that he got into difficulties in the water and did not resurface. Extensive air, sea and coastal searches were carried out, however, to date he has not been recovered.”

The search stretched on for weeks, but has devastatingly come to a sorrowful end, as Drew’s family and friends prepare to mourn his loss. They also shared plans for a memorial service, which will be announced once details are confirmed.

“A memorial service to celebrate Drew’s life will be held, possibly in February. We will announce it once we know.”

Drew’s passing has left a memorable impact on those who knew him.

He was a dedicated member of the Queensland Mines Rescue Service, completing his recruit course in May 2010, and worked at Carborough Downs, Grosvenor, and Aquila Mines. His contributions to the mining community and the QMRS will never be forgotten.

Tributes have poured in online for Drew, with many sharing memories of his kind and selfless nature.

One comment on a tribute post read, “You were a true gentleman! A legend of a bloke and someone that would give the shirt off his own back.”

Another shared, “Rip bud, there will never be anyone else like you…a true legend.”

The Queensland Mines Rescue Service team expressed their condolences, stating, “Our thoughts and condolences are with Drew’s family, friends, and everyone whose lives he touched. Please take care of yourselves and each other during this difficult time.”

He will forever be remembered as “a great bloke, gone way too soon.”

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The community mourns the tragic loss of Andrew Mallett, a beloved father and dedicated member of the Queensland Mines Rescue Service. Photo source: Facebook

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By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay
No doubts, there isn’t a grower out there who wants to be crushing past mid-November, let alone into January.
It’s a path that is dogging industry profitability and making a mockery of agronomic best practices.
Nonetheless, as we moved into the new year Plane Creek came to a wet end for the 2024 Crush on 3 January, leaving some 150 to 200,000 tonne—or in excess of 10% of the crop—as standover. In Mackay, both Farleigh and Racecourse had ceased operation for 2024 just prior to Christmas in response to wet weather. Farleigh mill was also suffering from boiler issues at the time. Marian restarted after the wet weather event, continuing to into the New Year with fluctuating production, with final cane delivered on 13 January.
I have heard rumblings of growers wanting representatives to just call an end to the crush when it should end, in mid-November.
It’s about the bigger picture. CANEGROWERS has been working for its members for just shy of 100 years, and we’ve learnt that it is vital to consider the needs of all members, and their survival.
In this case, it is a question of cash flow. Cane quality may be reduced, but there remains a capacity to continue crushing for lots of reasons. Growers have bills to pay and debts to service. We depend on getting as much of our crop away as we can. For many, that critical last 20% is make or break. Therefore, it would be irresponsible for representatives to make a decision for the whole, when the impacts on some could be dire.
We know that each grower will look at their own circumstances to make that critical call about when it is time to call an end to the harvest on their farms. It is for the grower to make that call at the individual level. We represent almost 800 family agribusinesses, and this is definitely not a case of one size fits all: growers need the opportunity to be able to make the best out of a bad situation whilst mills are still crushing.
However, as grower reps, we will continue to speak out with vigour and volume on the impacts to growers of repeated extended harvest.
There is solid evidence from work done by our research organisation pointing to the reasons why we need to have the harvest wrapped up around the second week of November. We need Sugar Research Australia to revisit and update research done in the 90s, when continuous crushing was introduced and have it presented to all industry participants.
Continuous crushing was a shift in practice. Once, we would crush across five days, then harvest and processing would cease for the weekend, when the mill would have two days for maintenance. these were days where milling reliability was at its peak in the majority mills.
Long crushes are pushing the boundaries of farming best practices, impacting on crop and soil management and making it challenging to maintain productivity and profitability. Taking these agronomic decisions out of our hands raises cause for concern. It also adds to mental health and fatigue, with people not getting time away from the job as expected by any employee or business owner in this country.
I have heard mutterings of starting the season earlier, but the reality is this: any earlier than June, the crop in most cases has not matured, and rainfall is a historical fact at that time of year. I contend this would lead to large amounts of cane being condemned as they are with a late harvest.
Calls for better compensation for growers when mills underperform could be a band-aid, but realistically, in those cases where there is compensation embedded in agreements these do not adequately cover the lost profitability for growers and harvesters. The best outcome is and will always be that our mills repair the woes of their ways and take action to have the industry get back on its feet.
Our forefathers set up systems and structures in the industry that served it well, with equitable harvest management arrangements for growers and millers, with a strong focus on the collective good. We need to make good use of those mutual arrangements. We can only do that with a strong and unified grower representative voice. We need to cooperate to ensure all sectors remain viable: grower, harvester and miller.
The only real solution to the industry’s predicament is mills that can operate at a reasonable capacity.

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Empty afternoon bins. Photo credit: Kirili Lamb
Young cane

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