A Hub For Community Wellness

The Mackay RSL Sub Branch is stepping boldly into the future, transforming its permanent Illawong Beach base into a Community Wellness Centre for veterans, first responders, families, and the wider community.

Mackay RSL Sub Branch President Ken Higgins calls it “the perfect place for what we want to do – a wellness centre that supports everyone, not just veterans.”

Already buzzing with activity—from beach volleyball tournaments and cadet training to school visits, the centre is set for major renovations, including a new roof, refurbished interiors, and reconfigured spaces to better serve the community.

Secretary Georgia-Lee Ricketts says the hub is about “health, happiness, and community… a place where you can still have a cold one, but also bring your family along, have a swim, a chat, and a laugh.”

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Mackay RSL Sub Branch Evolves Into Wellness Hub For Veterans And The Wider Community

The Mackay RSL Sub Branch is redefining what it means to serve, transforming its permanent base at Illawong Beach into a vibrant community Wellness Centre focused on connection, inclusivity, and holistic health for veterans and the wider community.

After leasing the property for 12 months, the Sub Branch has found what President Ken Higgins describes as “the perfect place for what we want to do – a wellness centre that supports everyone, not just veterans.”

Once funding is secured, renovations including a new roof, refurbished interiors, and realigned walls are expected to begin, with completion targeted for 2027.

Supported by Mackay Regional Council, RSL Queensland, and local businesses, the Sub Branch is determined to keep the project community-driven from the ground up. The Illawong Beach site is already alive with activity, from competitive beach volleyball tournaments and school visits to cadet training and fitness programs. Goosies Sport and Recreation Club has been a key partner, helping run weekly bingo nights to support the Sub Branch and will also host the upcoming RSL Gala.

Mr Higgins said, “We want this place to be not only for veterans, but for their families, first responders, people with disabilities, First Nations and South Sea Islander communities.”

Sub Branch Secretary Georgia-Lee Ricketts said the focus on wellness was reshaping what the RSL represents in the modern era.

“We want this hub to be about health, happiness, and community… a place where you can still have a cold one, but also bring your family along, have a swim, a chat, and a laugh.”

Georgia said the upcoming RSL Gala on November 8, supported by major sponsor Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal, would celebrate the community’s progress while raising vital funds for future upgrades.

“This is the first RSL Gala we’ve held… it’s a big fundraiser, and we’re over halfway sold out,” she said.

“Not only is it raising much needed funds, but it’s also showing the community what we’re doing for the wider region.”

The Sub Branch is also proud of its commitment to sustainability and self-sufficiency.

“We need to be self-sustainable in this day and age,” Mr Higgins said.

“We can’t thank Mackay Regional Council enough for their support – they’ve been wonderful to work with.”

“This is really an opportunity for veterans, first responders, their families and community members to come down, support each other, have some fun and be part of something positive.”

From accessible transport to plans for allied health and gym facilities, the Mackay RSL Sub Branch is determined to make its Illawong Beach wellness hub a place of belonging.

“We want to be known not just for supporting veterans, but for supporting everyone –families, first responders, young people, even schools. The RSL is for the whole community,” said Georgia.

Community members are invited to join in supporting this transformative project, either by attending the Gala or contributing through donations, ensuring the Illawong Beach hub continues to grow as a space of wellness, connection, and inclusion for all.

For more information, contact Georgia on 0499 567 297 or via email at
georgia-lee.ricketts@mackay.rslqld.net.au

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The Mackay RSL Sub Branch is transforming its Illawong Beach base into a one-of-a-kind Community Wellness Centre for veterans, families, and the wider community — a place for connection, health, and hope. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

The upgraded facility will feature a new roof, refurbished interiors, and reimagined spaces designed to support health programs, family activities, and community events. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Images supplied

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A well-known couple to Coles Sydney Street recently experienced an unexpected act of kindness that reminded them there’s still plenty of good in the world.

Last Friday, the husband, who has recently taken on the role of full-time carer for his wife, stopped in at the store to pick up some groceries on a particularly hot day. Feeling flustered and preoccupied, he collected everything on the list and headed to the checkout, only to realise he had forgotten his wallet.

“I told the cashier I’d just pop home to grab it since we live nearby,” he said.

“I was so embarrassed… I wished the floor would open up and swallow me.”

Before he could leave, a young man standing behind him spoke up, asking if that was all he had. When the gentleman confirmed it was, the stranger insisted on paying for the small grocery bill himself.

“I told him it wasn’t necessary, that I could go home and get my wallet,” he recalled.

“But he just said, ‘No, that’s all right, mate, I’ve got it.’”

Deeply moved by the gesture, the couple shared the story to highlight the quiet generosity still present in the community.

“It’s something that’s never happened to me before,” he said.

“It just goes to show there are still decent people out there… especially when it’s a young fellow doing such a kind thing.”

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Ever heard the saying, “Where your heart is, there your treasure is?”

It's an interesting phrase, isn't it?'

Our days are made up of so many little moments, but at the end of the day, it’s what our heart truly desires that gives us the motivation and drive to keep moving forward.

It’s funny how we often place our happiness in material things, like a holiday, a car, or a new house – yet when we receive them, we immediately look for the “next best thing.”

No doubt social media and current trends often reinforce that mindset, but where our heart is, there our treasure lies.

So, what is it for you?

On Tuesday, I celebrated my husband’s 24th birthday, and while I spent most of the evening preparing and serving food for our guests, it was in the small moments, like watching him cut the cake surrounded by our closest friends and family, or hearing laughter echo through the lounge room, that made me feel so grateful for the life we live.

These are life’s precious moments, and we never truly know if we’ll be granted tomorrow… so make sure you treasure today!

Whether it’s a loved one’s birthday or a mundane Friday - cherish it, and don’t take it for granted.

"For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." – Matthew 6:21

Have a blessed week!

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Mackay Woman Shares Story Of Hope Following Early Detection

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to remind women of the importance of early detection. For Mackay resident Wendy Hastie, 71, a routine breast screen during her retirement travels proved lifesaving.

Wendy had been enjoying her retirement in 2022 with her husband Les when her BreastScreen reminder letter arrived while they were in Perth.

“My daughter in Mackay called and said my letter from BreastScreen had arrived in the mail. I thought about waiting until we were back in Mackay to have the mammogram but decided to make an appointment in Perth with some friends,” Wendy said.

“We thought we’d make a day of it, you know have our mammograms and then go out for lunch, so that’s what we did.”

While her friends received the all-clear, Wendy was asked to return for another mammogram.

“This time it was at a larger clinic where I had an intravenous dye put through me and then as soon as I had that I went straight on the table for a biopsy on my breast. They did another mammogram there to pinpoint the area,” she said.

“We went for my results the next day and was told it was cancer. The specialist said it was a DCIS (ductal carcinoma in situ), which is not an aggressive cancer but still, I could have fallen off my chair with the news.”

Wendy underwent a six-hour right breast mastectomy two months later. The procedure included removal of her breast, muscle taken from her back, and an expander for later reconstructive surgery.

“I was fortunate to not need chemo or radiation, just the mastectomy. Six months later I underwent breast reconstruction surgery,” she said.

“I was coping pretty well the whole time. I’m a matter-of-fact person and don’t dwell on things. Still, it was definitely a very surreal time being diagnosed and going through surgery. But I wasn’t scared and didn’t panic, that doesn’t help anything does it.”

While recovering, Wendy faced more challenges as her husband Les was diagnosed with stage four kidney failure and later pancreatic cancer.

“There wasn’t much they could do because of his stage four kidney failure. So we just decided to do palliative care and enjoy what time we had left together,” Wendy said.

Despite losing her husband earlier this year, Wendy continues to live life fully, catching up with friends, doing water aerobics, working a couple of days a week, and planning a Mediterranean cruise next year.

During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Wendy hopes her story inspires women to prioritise screening.

“Make sure you have your check-ups every two years, check your breast yourself and make use of the services available,” she said.

“Looking back, I feel so grateful for the service and care. If I had waited until we had returned from travelling to book my mammogram, things could have been very different.”

With one in seven women diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, routine breast screening remains the best way to detect breast cancer early. BreastScreen provides free screening for women aged 40 and over who haven’t noticed changes in their breasts. Appointments can be booked at units or mobile services across Australia.

Call 13 20 50 or visit www.breastscreen.qld.gov.au to make an appointment.

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Discover a sweet secret hiding in plain sight – oversized, 125g cookies that are crunchy outside with a gooey centre. Baked fresh every morning and served from the big purple Laffos Cookies truck outside Target at Caneland Central – they are a fast becoming a must-try taste sensation!

An iconic New York treat, these cookies are packed with premium ingredients, including rich Belgian chocolate, and are known for their sheer size and melt in your mouth texture. Every bite is full of flavour!

Laffos Cookies owner Mark Laffin said that these New York cookies are “indulgence at its best – crispy on the outside, soft and gooey in the middle and loaded with quality ingredients”.

“Our regulars love that they can enjoy an authentic New York-style cookie experience right here at home – and we’re wanting to spread the word so that more people can try it for themselves, without having to head to the US,” Mr Laffin said.

For many in the community, cookies are becoming part of everyday occasions – picked up as a thoughtful surprise, shared at family gatherings or something different in catering for work events.

While the cookies take centre stage, the experience doesn’t stop there. Also available at Laffos Cookies are coffees from Primal Coffee, milkshakes, thickshakes and more – combinations that feel equal parts comforting and indulgent.

Mackay has long had a love for homegrown food experiences and Laffos Cookies have added another chapter to that story. By blending global inspiration with local flavour, it offers the community and visitors alike a chance to enjoy something new while staying firmly connected to our region.

For more information, visit Laffos Cookies' big purple van at Caneland Central or order online at www.laffoscookies.com.au

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Mr Mark Laffin with freshly baked cookies ready for purchase. Photo supplied

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Reflecting On A Remarkable First Year As Your Member For Mackay

One Year of Service: Reflecting on a Remarkable First Year as Your Member for Mackay
By Nigel Dalton MP, Member for Mackay
It’s hard to believe it’s already been a year since I was given the great honour of being elected to represent the people of Mackay in the Queensland Parliament. And what a year it has been.
From day one, I made a commitment: to work hard, to listen, to be present, and to stand up for the projects and priorities that matter most to our community. Over the past twelve months, I’ve had the privilege of meeting thousands of locals—from small business owners and community volunteers to school principals, frontline workers, and healthcare professionals.
Every interaction has reminded me that Mackay’s greatest strength lies in its people—their determination, generosity, and unwavering sense of community.

Delivering Real Results for Mackay

This first year has been focused on action—securing funding and delivering projects that make a genuine difference to people’s lives. From community sport and the arts, to housing and education, these investments are about building a stronger, more connected Mackay.
Highlights include:
• $23.5 million for Stage 2 of the Great Barrier Reef Arena upgrade at Harrup Park.
• $800,000 for Mackay Hockey Association to build an indoor facility.
• $800,000 for Football Queensland Mackay to upgrade the carpark facility.
• $1.6 million for Mackay Netball Association to construct shade protection.
• $450,000 to upgrade lighting at Zeolla Park in Andergrove for the All Saints AFL Club.
• $250,000 for Mackay Musical Comedy Players Inc. to upgrade their facility.
• $1 million for Chances House, providing vital support for vulnerable members of our community.
• 59 new social and community housing homes, helping address the growing need for safe, affordable accommodation.
• Refurbishment and air-conditioning of the Mackay State High School hall, part of a $70.68 million School and Education Boost.
• A new tuckshop at North Mackay State High School, also funded through the School and Education Boost.
These projects don’t just improve facilities—they create jobs, strengthen local pride, and ensure that Mackay continues to thrive.

Listening to the Community

Being on the ground—at events, in schools, at community meetings—has been one of the most important parts of my role. I’ve made it a priority to stay connected, not just from the office or Parliament House, but out in the community where ideas are shared and real issues are raised.
Over the past year, I’ve hosted local forums, attended school visits, listened to families, met with business owners, and supported our seniors. Whether it’s parents discussing education, businesses sharing workforce concerns, or retirees navigating cost-of-living pressures—I’ve listened, taken notes, and worked hard to respond.
I’ve also delivered over $600,000 in community grants, supporting grassroots initiatives across the electorate. A personal highlight was visiting the Mackay Wood Turners Association, who received over $14,000 to purchase new equipment and continue their incredible work in preserving traditional skills.

Standing Up in Parliament

In Parliament, I’ve made it my mission to ensure Mackay’s voice is heard loud and clear. I’ve spoken on legislation impacting regional communities, advocated for local infrastructure, and proudly shared the achievements of our people.
I’ve stood up for key issues that matter to our region, including:
• Supporting the establishment of a dedicated Mining Coroner to improve safety standards and ensure greater transparency across the industry.
• Backing the "Adult Crime, Adult Time" approach to strengthen youth justice and ensure greater accountability.
• Advocating for stronger domestic violence laws to better protect victims and keep our communities safe.
• Initiating an inquiry into the future of Sugar and Biomanufacturing in Queensland, to support jobs and secure long-term growth in one of our key industries.
These are not just policy positions—they’re reflections of what I’ve heard from you, and what I believe will help shape a better future for Mackay.

Looking Ahead

As we move into the next year, my focus remains firmly on delivery.
Whether it’s advocating for better housing, securing funding for local projects, or supporting programs that create jobs and strengthen our region, I will continue doing what I promised: working hard, staying local, and remaining accessible to you.
Representing Mackay is not just a job—it’s a true honour. Thank you for your trust, your support, and your belief in what we can achieve together.

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Whitsunday Anglican School students recently made their mark on the Central Queensland art scene, with their work showcased in the Creative Generations Excellence in Visual Art Awards – Central Queensland Regional Exhibition at the Emu Park Gallery.

The exhibition, which ran daily until October 18, formed part of the Yeppoon Lions Pinefest celebrations — an annual highlight that celebrates the creativity, passion, and artistic excellence of young people from across the region.

A representative from Whitsunday Anglican School said, “We’re so proud to see our talented students involved in this incredible programme and to have the opportunity to exhibit their stunning artworks as part of the Central Queensland Regional Exhibition.”

Students Scarlett, Neiva, and Sophie were among those whose inspiring pieces captured the admiration of visitors throughout the exhibition, showcasing not only their skill but the strength of visual arts education within the Mackay and Whitsunday region.

“Their inspiring pieces continue to impress visitors throughout the exhibition,” the representative added.

The event highlighted the region’s thriving creative community and the bright future of its emerging artists.

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Whitsunday Anglican School students impressed at the Creative Generations art exhibition, showcasing outstanding local talent. Photo source: Whitsunday Anglican School (Facebook)

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Veterans across the Pioneer Valley and beyond are set to benefit from the Crisafulli Government’s renewed commitment to recognising and supporting those who have served.

Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly MP, welcomed the announcement, which includes the development of a Queensland Veterans and Veterans’ Families Strategy — aimed at supporting the more than 163,000 current and former Australian Defence Force members living across the state.

A community forum will be held in Rockhampton on Wednesday, 22 October, with a Mackay forum to follow, date yet to be announced.

In addition, the government’s Honouring Our Veterans Grants Program continues to fund important local projects such as building improvements, new or refurbished war memorials, avenues of honour, memorial gardens, and flagpole installations — offering up to $250,000 for major works and $75,000 for smaller projects.

Mr Kelly said that our veterans gave service to our country for the next generation, and that it’s important that we honour their sacrifice and commitment to our country.

“The Honouring Our Veterans fund is a great opportunity to see improvements to the war memorials across the electorate of Mirani, and anybody can apply for it, whether it’s the local RSL or the council,” Mr Kelly said.

“There’s opportunities within the electorate to take advantage of this funding, from Mount Morgan to Sarina and up the Pioneer Valley.

“But it’s not only the grants, the Crisafulli Government is showing we’re truly committed to our veterans with the development of the very first Veterans Strategy for Queensland.

“I think it’s so important that we recognise our veteran community, they made sacrifices for our country that we could hardly imagine, and I’m glad they’re getting the acknowledgement they deserve.”

Applications for the Honouring Our Veterans Grant Program are open until 3PM Friday 14 November.

More information on the Queensland Veterans and Veterans’ Families Strategy can be found at www.qld.gov.au/community/getting-support-health-social-issue/veterans/queensland-
veterans-strategy

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Member for Mirani Glen Kelly with Walkerston with Mackay veteran, President of the Walkerston-Pleystowe RSL Sub Branch, and Mackay’s 2024 Man of the Year, Rod Franciso at the Walkerston Pleystowe RSL Sub Branch Anzac Day 2025. Photo supplied

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Mackay Christian College students once again took to the road, and the racetrack, for another year of hands-on learning.

Packed and ready to roll, the team set off for race day with their cars proudly displaying stickers from local supporters including Frontline Equipment Maintenance, RMS Performance Engineering, Consolidated Engineering Plastics Products, L&R Contracting, Mackay Christian College, and the Mackay Christian College Trade Training Centre.

The crew arrived at the track around 4:30pm to unload and prepare their vehicles ahead of scrutineering and shakedown runs the following morning. Students were due to arrive by flight the next day to put the cars through their paces, aiming to see if their builds could endure six hours of continuous racing on Friday.

Despite a few challenges on the track and no podium finishes this time around, the experience was a major success for the students, who demonstrated teamwork, technical skills, and perseverance throughout the event.

Their journey included a few pit stops along the way to tighten the cars on the Empire Trailer Hire trailers and refuel their Ezy Mechanical utes in Rockhampton – thanks to their generous sponsors.

The project highlighted the dedication and ingenuity of regional students, as well as the strong local industry partnerships that continue to support real-world learning experiences at Mackay Christian College.

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Your business’s audience is not everyone. Every day, thousands of ads, brands, and messages compete for attention, but no one notices them all. A health care worker isn’t interested in tractor tires, a teenager isn’t comparing retirement homes, a manufacturer isn’t looking for an Elvis impersonator, and no one cares about last month’s pizza discounts. That’s why redhotblue delivers the right message, in the right way, to the right people, at the right place and time.

When you invest time and money in your business, it’s easy to believe that your product or service is the most valuable thing in the world. Which it is… to you. A brilliant brand can only shine when it reaches the right audience and delivers a message that resonates; otherwise, it risks getting lost in the noise.

In order to discover who the right audience is, you first need to understand what problem your business solves and who genuinely cares about the solution. It’s not about who could buy from you, but who truly needs your offering. Once you pinpoint that, you can stop wasting effort shouting into the void and start building real connections with those who matter most to your brand.

Think about where and when your audience will encounter your message. Are they scrolling social media on their lunch break, or driving past a billboard during peak hour, or winding down at home watching TV? The context in which they see your ad shapes how they interpret it, so the same message can perform differently depending on whether your audience is in the right mindset to care.

Understanding your audience goes beyond knowing their age, location, or job title; it’s about uncovering what drives their decisions and how they think, feel, and communicate. Whether your audience responds to trendy language, aspirational storytelling, or witty commentary, it’s important to tailor every message to speak their language.

This process becomes easier when guided by professionals with experience across a variety of industries. Redhotblue recognises the traits that influence how people engage with a brand. This insight allows us to shape communication that feels relevant, authentic, and ultimately motivates the audience to take action.

Jody Euler from Red Hot Blue

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As the Mackay and Whitsunday region heads deeper into fire season, residents are being urged to stay alert, take precautions, and understand the crucial role that fire plays across local landscapes, from controlled cane burns to hazard reduction in rural communities.

Rural Fire Service Queensland (RFSQ) Area Manager, Inspector Andrew Houley said the local fire season typically aligns with the region’s sugar cane industry.

“Our fire season tends to reflect the biggest crop on the coast,” he said.

“It lines up seasonally when things dry out — unlike southern Australia, where fire danger peaks in February. Here, it’s very much winter and spring, and we get dry like we are now.”

Houley said rural and residential landholders could significantly reduce risk through “good housekeeping.”

“For people who live on the edge of vegetation, areas like Blacks Beach, Dolphin Heads or Eimeo, keeping your property clean makes a big difference,” he said.

“Cleaning gutters and roofs, trimming overhanging trees, and clearing under the house are all simple but vital steps.”

He added that managing vegetation through “slashing, mowing, or grazing with livestock” can also lower fire fuel loads.

“If people think fire is a tool for them, they can approach their local brigade,” Houley said.

Several local brigades are also looking for new volunteers, particularly Midge Point, Camerons Pocket, and Habana.

“It’s in everyone’s best interest to have a strong local brigade,” Houley said.

“When a well-trained local team is on hand, there’s a lot they can do before other fire appliances arrive. Neighbours helps neighbours – that’s one of our founding principles.”

Houley encouraged residents to visit the Rural Fire Service Queensland (RFSQ) website to find information on developing a Bushfire Survival Plan and locating local fire wardens.

“Fire is a really important tool for our landscape,” he said.

“It’s vital for biodiversity, agriculture, and safety, but when it goes wrong, it can be a dreadful foe, so preparation is everything.”

Residents across the Mackay and Whitsunday region are encouraged to take simple, proactive steps to reduce their fire risk:

• Clean gutters and roofs regularly to prevent leaf build-up and ember ignition.
• Trim overhanging branches and remove dry vegetation close to the home.
• Clear under the house or low-set areas where debris can accumulate unnoticed.
• Slash, mow, or graze grassed areas to reduce fuel loads on your property.
• Relocate valuable assets like caravans or boats to open, defendable areas.
• Develop a Bushfire Survival Plan using resources on the Rural Fire Service Queensland website.
• Get to know your local brigade — ask at community hubs or visit the RFSQ website for contact details.
• Consider volunteering with your local rural fire brigade to support your community’s safety.
• Stay informed of local fire warnings and conditions, particularly during dry, windy periods.

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Residents are encouraged to stay prepared this fire season by maintaining properties and supporting local brigades. Photos supplied by Rural Fire Service Queensland.

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Foster carers are the backbone of Mackay Animal Rescue Society (also known as MARS).

We rely heavily on these wonderful people to provide temporary homes for cats and dogs in care, while actively helping them find their forever families.

MARS covers all vet costs for your foster, but we do ask that you bring your foster dog or puppy to our monthly adoption days, held on the last Sunday of each month. These events are a fantastic opportunity to showcase your foster to the public and help them find their forever home. You’ll also need to take your foster animal to vet appointments, which can be arranged at times convenient for you.

Becoming a foster carer is like signing up for a reality show where the contestants are furry, and you’re the host, chef, and therapist all rolled into one!

It’s a wild ride filled with cuddles, chaos, and the occasional “What have I gotten myself into?” moment… but trust us, it’s worth every laugh, tear, and chewed-up shoe.

Animal fostering is essentially running a temporary Airbnb for creatures who don’t leave reviews but will absolutely steal your heart.

If this sounds like your kind of adventure, join our incredible team of volunteers, and fill out our foster career application today at www.mackayanimalrescue.com.au/foster-carer-application

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Sarina State High School marked Mental Health Week earlier this month with a range of engaging activities held in the Resource Centre and Education Support Centre.

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The event aimed to promote awareness and encourage open conversations around mental wellbeing among students and staff.

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The school extended thanks to its Student Wellbeing and Student Services teams for their ongoing efforts to foster a positive and supportive environment.
“A big thank you to our Student Wellbeing and Student Services teams for promoting awareness and encouraging positive mental health across our school community,” a school representative said.

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Sarina State High School marked Mental Health Week with activities promoting wellbeing and awareness. Photo
source: Sarina State High School (Facebook)

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New playgrounds and swimming programs are just some of the ways students have benefited from Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank’s Community Engagement Program.

With World Teachers’ Day just around the corner, it’s a perfect time to highlight the important role schools and educators play in supporting students to reach their full potential.

Throughout its Community Engagement Program, Community Bank Sarina continues to invest in local youth and education, creating meaningful community impact by providing community grants to P&C Associations that support Chelona, Alligator Creek and Swayneville State Schools.

From swimming programs and associated school carnivals at Chelona and Alligator Creek, to a new playground at Swayneville, these programs will support students in building confidence, developing fundamental skills and enjoying safe, engaging spaces.

For many students, gaining these swimming abilities will support them in developing independence, resilience and awareness around the water – contributing further impact into a safer, more confident community.

Alligator Creek State School P&C explained that the program will assist students in developing practical swim survival skills, supporting them with the confidence to feel safe and capable in and around water, ultimately saving lives.

Chelona State School’s P&C echoed this, highlighting that their swimming program enhances water safety and provides valuable life skills.

The Swayneville State School P&C explained that the new playground will provide students with a safe space to be active, play together and develop teamwork skills.

Community Bank Sarina Manager Erin Ryley explained that these community grants go beyond individual activities – they create opportunities for students to grow and strengthen their skills, which ultimately impact the community.

“Supporting local P&Cs to deliver opportunities for students that encourage active, healthy lifestyles and build essential life skills is something we are proud to support,” Mrs Ryley said.

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To learn more about how Community Bank Sarina’s community impact and support, visit: https://www.facebook.com/communitybanksarina

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By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

October materialised with a real kick of hot dry weather, bringing with it some blazes around the region. That reality has dominated the month, bringing with it fire bans and moderate to high fire danger. It’s times like these, we are thankful for our local rural fire brigades

It is something that probably became a little foreign in the recent past and hasn’t been experienced across the district in several years. In fact, an extended dry period like we are currently in hasn’t really occurred going back about seven years to the catastrophic conditions that we experienced in 2018 and the extreme fire conditions which followed. A large majority of the mountainous areas have not been burnt since then, and seven years of fuel load creates a significant fire threat which must be taken seriously.

The catastrophic fires of 2018 around the Mackay district stretched from Eungella and Nebo in the west to Clairview in the south and Bloomsbury in the north. The resulting uncontrollable bush fires burnt out many tens of thousands of hectares of farming land, grazing country and national park, as well as damaging a moderate amount of infrastructure. It was only the extraordinary work completed in fighting these bush fires by our farmers, landholders and our volunteer Rural Fire Services Queensland brigades which helped mitigate the damage in these exceptionally difficult conditions.

Most farmers and senior rural fire brigade volunteers are experienced in the art of controlling a burn and using fire to fight fire. Make no mistake, it is truly an art which must be not only preserved but passed onto the next generation. The RFSQ brigades around Queensland number about 1400 and are supported by approximately 28,000 volunteer members who range across all demographics, genders and experience levels.

The previous State Government introduced some structural changes to the organisation which are threatening to derail the foundations of this historic and crucial organisation. The underlying problem with these changes is that they were made with minimal consultation with the most important stakeholders, that being the experienced volunteer rural fire brigade members. Some of these changes may suit some semi-urban brigades in the south-east corner of the state, but are definitely not welcomed everywhere.

An example of these incoherent changes in areas have resulted in brigades that are relatively close to Mackay being placed under the control of Emerald regional headquarters, which is over three hours’ drive away. These changes are not only bizarre, but present logistical challenges and create a safety issue for not only the volunteers, but for the general community alike.

Landscape familiarisation is crucial in being able to coordinate a bushfire response campaign. As well as this, the legal protections of our volunteer rural fire brigade members are being reviewed and must be carefully considered before any changes are implemented going forward as they risk shaking this organisation to the core. It’s an organisation that does not need a shakeup, that has successfully served its purpose to the community for generations.

For the majority of October, Mackay and surrounding areas have rightly been placed under a fire ban to help mitigate the dangers of bush fires. It is important for our community to understand that the burning of sugarcane and sugarcane trash have been made exempt from the fire ban, albeit with restrictions placed on them such as not being able to light up until 6pm in the evening to minimize the danger.

The reason for this is that because of the burden of standover cane this year it is critical to the day-to-day running of sugarcane farms during the harvest, to improve its harvestability as it can become quite dense and tangled with several years growth. As part of the crop cycle, cool burning through cane trash is a strategy for introducing potash, and builds soil carbon.

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Farmers are typically skilled managers of fire as a tool. Photo credit: Elli Morgan.

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