From Awards to Advocacy: What’s Next for Local Business

Congratulations to all Whitsunday Business Awards 2025 nominees! The quality of submissions was breathtaking. We look forward to celebrating your achievements at the Awards Ceremony on Friday 21 November at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre. The event has sold out and promises to be a fantastic evening celebrating and recognising business excellence across our region.

We’re also pleased to see Whitsunday Regional Council confirm the reopening of the Proserpine RV Rest Stop. Our thanks go to the Chamber’s Proserpine Sub-Committee and local businesses for their valuable input into our advocacy report which identified ways to boost visitor stopovers and strengthen the local economy.

The Chamber Board has also made a submission to Council’s Airlie Beach Ferris Wheel consultation, supporting land-based attractions that align with strong economic, social, and safety outcomes. Our submission calls for a Five Point Framework for Future Attractions to help guide sustainable development in Airlie Beach.

Last month’s Whitsundays Job Fair 2025 was another success, connecting more than 25 employers with 80 job seekers – many of whom secured immediate interviews. Events like this show the real impact of collaboration on local workforce outcomes.

We would also like to recognise the efforts of the Airlie beach Music Festival organising committee and volunteers – another resounding success with the entire region buzzing with excitement.

Recently the Board met for its annual Strategic Planning Day, setting priorities and exploring new horizons for the Chamber to 2030. We look forward to sharing these plans with our members and the broader Whitsunday business community.

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Residents and visitors are invited to enjoy a relaxed evening by the water as the Airlie Beach Foreshore transforms into the open-air cinema on Friday, 21 November 2025.

The free community movie night will kick off at 6pm, featuring two much-loved films Rango followed by Drop Dead Fred.

Rango follows the Chameleon who has lived as a sheltered family pet experiences an identity crisis after landing in the frontier town of Dirt, where he becomes the new sheriff. What begins as an act soon turns real as a series of wild adventures push Rango to become a true hero.

Drop Dead Fred is about a lonely and unhappy young woman named Elizabeth (Phoebe Cates) whose life is in shambles after discovering her husband's infidelity. Her childhood imaginary friend, Fred (Rik Mayall), magically reappears to help her.

Guests are encouraged to bring a picnic blanket or chair and settle in for a night of family-friendly entertainment. A selection of delicious food trucks will be on-site, and attendees are reminded that this is an alcohol-free event.

The evening is proudly presented by the Whitsunday Regional Council, offering locals the perfect way to unwind and connect under the stars.
For more information, contact the council on 1300 927 753 or email info@wrc.qld.gov.au.

Note: In the event of bad weather, the screening may be cancelled.

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Friday 14 November
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm - 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Double Header (from 8pm)
Horseshoe Bay Cafe: Matty Black (5.30pm - 8.30pm)
Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Shaun Diver (from 8pm)

Saturday 15 November
Airlie Beach Hotel: Pink Gaga (2pm - 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm - 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: DJ Night (from 8pm)
Horseshoe Bay Cafe: Matty Black (5.30pm - 8.30pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: DJ Session (2-6pm)
Sorrento: Ash Smith (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Retro Joe (from 8pm)

Sunday 16 November
Airlie Beach Hotel: Pink Gaga (2pm - 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Jackson Dunn (4pm - 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Kieran McCarthy (2pm - 6pm)
Horseshoe Bay Cafe: Zed Charles (1pm - 4pm)
Sorrento: Noah Davis (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Chris Booroff (from 8pm)

Monday 17 November
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)

Tuesday 18 November
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Josiah (from 8pm)

Wednesday 19 November
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Sam McCann (from 8pm)

Thursday 20 November
Sorrento: Lucy Rose (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Scotty Wilson (from 8pm)

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After her world was suddenly turned upside down, Boomer, a gentle seven-year-old girl, is ready to find the love and stability she’s been missing.

Once surrendered to the pound, Boomer’s future was uncertain — but thanks to the kindness of rescuers, she’s now safe in foster care and beginning to rediscover her spark. At first, she was understandably subdued, unsure of her new surroundings. But with a little time, patience, and affection, her loving personality has begun to shine through.

Boomer has proven to be a calm, affectionate companion who finds comfort simply in being near those she trusts. She loves nothing more than curling up beside her humans or relaxing quietly on her bed, knowing she’s finally safe.

Her foster carers describe her as gentle-natured and easygoing, with a heart full of love to give. Boomer also gets along well with other dogs and would make a wonderful addition to a peaceful home where she can spend her days surrounded by care and kindness.

After all she’s been through, Boomer deserves a forever family who will cherish her and give her the happy ending she’s waited so patiently for.

If you’d like to meet Boomer or learn more about adopting her, please reach out to the rescue team today via email bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com.

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On Friday 7 November the Bowen Community Centre thanked businesses and community members for their support throughout the year.

The 2025 Bowen Community Centre Community Champions were:
Abbot Point Operations
Aurizon
Bowen Community Sunday Markets
Bowen Industrial Hire
ECM Project Engineering
Grace Christian Fellowship
Holy Trinity Anglican Church
Horseshoe Bay Social Club
James Barry (In Memorium)
Lowcock Builders
Zonta Club of Bowen
Mayor Ry Collins
Peries IGA Bowen
Woolworths Bowen
Prices Plus
Coral Cove Apartments
Hillery Group

Woolworths Bowen, Prices Plus, Coral Cove Apartments, and Hillery Group were absent, but recognised as Community Champions.

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Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Hi Everyone,

This week marks National Recycling Week. While it’s great to have a dedicated week to raise awareness, it’s important to remember that recycling should be a year-round practice. To support this, I’ve included a brief guide outlining what can and cannot be recycled.

Happy Reading!

Ruth

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The Do’s and Don’ts of Recycling

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By Ruth Puddefoot

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As National Recycling Week rolls around, Whitsunday residents are being encouraged to take a closer look at what’s going into their yellow-lid recycling bins. By knowing what belongs, and what doesn’t,  we can all play a part in reducing landfill waste and supporting a cleaner, more sustainable region.

The Do’s of Recycling

You can confidently place the following items in your recycling bin:

Glass bottles and jars

Paper and cardboard

Hard plastic containers

Steel containers

Aluminium

The Don’ts of Recycling

Some items, however, don’t belong in the recycling system and should be disposed of through other means:

Soft plastics such as cling wrap or plastic bags

Bagged recyclables

Food scraps or garden waste

Clothes and textiles

Rigid plastics like toys or buckets

Batteries and other hazardous waste

Other types of glass such as mirrors, windows or drinking glasses

E-waste including phones, chargers and cables

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By Ruth Puddefoot

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"Whales of the Whitsundays" (WoW) is a community-led initiative that promotes the monitoring, conservation, and cultural connection to the whales in the Whitsundays region. Through citizen science, educational programs, and events like the "Welcome Whale" event, WoW has contributed to the Whitsundays being officially designated as the world's first Whale Heritage Site within a World Heritage Area, recognising its importance for migrating humpback whales.

Now, their conservation efforts are making a splash in style. Whales of the Whitsundays has partnered with the iconic Budgy Smugglers to release a limited-edition collection that is available for two weeks only! 10% of the proceeds goes directly to Whitsunday Marine Conservation, supporting local initatives to protect whales and raise awareness abut marine preservation

Order by Thursday, 20 November to guarantee delivery in time for Christmas.

The range includes:

Bucket Hats

Men’s & Boys’ Smugglers

Women’s One-Piece Swimsuits

Women’s Two-Piece Swimsuits

Girls’ One-Piece Swimsuits

Dive into conservation in style:https://budgysmuggler.com.au/collections/whales-of-whitsundays

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$2 Million Package Strengthens Homeless Support In Mackay

It’s been a significant week for Mackay, with the Government confirming a $2 million funding boost aimed at supporting vulnerable residents and local homelessness services. The package includes $1 million for Chances House, the city’s key drop-in centre, and $1 million for additional specialist services across Mackay and the Whitsundays.

Premier David Crisafulli said the investment offers a “fresh start” for Queenslanders, while Housing Minister Sam O’Connor emphasised backing frontline services and rebuilding the state’s housing system. Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton described the funding as a vital boost for the region, and Chances CEO Kayleigh Brewster welcomed the support, saying it ensures services can operate safely and sustainably.

Read more on page 3…

Continued from Cover...

Mackay Receives Lifeline Funding For Homelessness Services

The Government has announced a $2 million funding boost to support some of Mackay’s most vulnerable residents, ensuring essential homelessness services can continue to operate and expand.

The funding includes a $1 million grant to Chances House, also known as the Australian Street Aid Project, delivering on an election commitment to back local organisations supporting Queenslanders experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

Chances House is a vital drop-in centre in Mackay that provides meals, support, and referrals to those doing it tough. Since July 1, more than 3,730 people experiencing or at risk of homelessness have been assisted by Specialist Homelessness Services in the Mackay and Whitsunday region.

A further $1 million will support six additional specialist homelessness services across the Mackay and Whitsundays, forming part of the government’s record $589 million, five-year investment in crisis accommodation and frontline housing support.

Premier David Crisafulli said the funding reflects the government’s commitment to delivering a “fresh start” for Queenslanders.

“We are delivering a fresh start by investing in the services to help Queenslanders get back on their feet and have a roof over their head,” Premier Crisafulli said.

“Through the delivery of more support for crisis accommodation and specialist homelessness support services, we can help deliver a place to call home for more Queenslanders.

“This is about ensuring there is help available for vulnerable Queenslanders when and where it’s needed most.”

Minister for Housing Sam O’Connor said the government was rebuilding the state’s housing system with record investment in frontline services.

“Labor’s social housing waitlist grew by more than 80% over their decade of decline but we’re rebuilding the system with record funding and backing specialist homelessness services who do incredible work every day supporting our most vulnerable,” Minister O’Connor said.

“Chances is one of those vital hubs for local people doing it tough, offering a safe place to have a meal, a shower and access the internet, as well as referrals to essential services including housing.

“This investment locks in funding for day-to-day operations allowing the team to concentrate on helping vulnerable people, rather than fundraising.”

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the funding would make a real difference to local residents struggling amid the housing crisis.

“Under the Crisafulli Government we’re putting resources where they’re needed – on the frontline,” Mr Dalton said.

“After years of rising homelessness under Labor, this $2 million package – including $1 million for Chances – means local services can focus on helping Mackay residents get back on their feet and into a safe place to live.”

Chances CEO Kayleigh Brewster welcomed the announcement, saying the funding would ensure the organisation could continue its vital work supporting the community.

“Having relied on community support for the past seven years, we are very relieved and grateful for this funding opportunity,” Ms Brewster said.

“It enables us to better meet the needs of people experiencing homelessness in our community and, for the first time since establishment, we are supported to provide our many vital services in a safer and more sustainable way.”

The funding forms part of the Government’s record $589 million investment into crisis accommodation and homelessness services across Queensland, ensuring help is available where it’s needed most.

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L-R: Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton, Minister for Housing Sam O’Connor, Chances CEO Kayleigh Brewster and Premier David Crisafulli. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

The Queensland Government has pledged $2 million to Mackay homelessness services—including $1 million to Chances House—to help vulnerable residents access meals, support, and housing, as part of a broader $589 million statewide investment in crisis accommodation and frontline services. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton

Premier David Crisafulli

Chances CEO Kayleigh Brewster.

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Hi lovely readers!

How great does our new design look?

It’s vibrant, fresh, and a wonderful change!

If you couldn’t already tell, the green and blue hues reflect our stunning Great Barrier Reef and vibrant hinterland.

We live in such an incredible part of the world. I even watched a YouTube video recently with my husband Adam titled Top Places To Visit in Australia, and Cape Hillsborough and the Whitsunday Islands made the list!

While we may complain about the summer heat, deep down, we wouldn’t have it any other way.

One of the things I love most about this paper is how it highlights the very best of our region.

The Mackay Isaac Tourism Awards were held last Friday, and you can read all about it on page 21. It’s been a big week for our region: Premier David Crissifulli visited Chances House, announcing $2 million for frontline homeless services (page 3), and on page 4, you’ll read about a community cabinet discussion on key areas of regional growth held right here in Mackay.

So many positive developments instill a real sense of community pride. Funny enough, 10 years ago my parents packed up our house in Melbourne and moved here for the lifestyle, and now as I grow older, I completely understand why!

I love our region. Yes, there’s bad news everywhere, but if you don’t appreciate what you have, you’ll never enjoy where you are.

Scripture of the week: “In their hearts, humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” – Proverbs 16:9

Have a blessed week!

Hannah

A local mother has taken to a community page to express her gratitude to a stranger who came to her son’s aid following a serious scooter accident.

Her 14-year-old son had fallen from his e-scooter on a Mirani street and was left unconscious on the road. The quick action of a passerby ensured he received help in what could have been a far worse situation.

“To the gentleman that picked my 14yr old son up off the road unconscious out Mirani recently from an e-scooter incident, I am eternally grateful to you for helping him out of an extremely bad situation, that he can go on to live another day,” the mother wrote.

“Thank you so so much, you were my son's guardian angel that day.”

The post has resonated with the local community, with many commenting to acknowledge the stranger’s timely assistance and to reinforce the importance of road safety for young riders.

The mother’s message serves as both a heartfelt thank you and a reminder to families about the potential risks of e-scooters, while highlighting the generosity of a local resident whose quick thinking helped protect a child in need.

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At the National Press Club, The National Party of Australia drew a line in the sand, declaring it will no longer support Labor’s reckless Net Zero target by 2050, calling it unaffordable, unachievable, and unsustainable for Australia’s economic and industrial future.

The Party says Labor’s ideological approach is driving up power prices, costing jobs, and
punishing the regions that keep Australia running.

Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability, Andrew Willcox MP, said
the decision was based on economic reality, not ideology, and a stand for Australian jobs, industry, and energy security.

“Our economy is reliant on energy,” Mr Willcox said.

“And right now, our economy is being strangled by an obsession with targets that do nothing to change the global climate but everything to destroy local jobs and drive up the cost of living.

“Our environment is suffering with forests and farmland being destroyed. We need to bring common sense back to solving climate change.

“Our plan puts Australians first, with cheaper electricity and secure jobs, while still lowering
emissions.”

Under Labor, electricity prices have risen 39 per cent and gas by the same. When power costs go up, it costs more to grow food, to make goods, and to run every household and factory across the nation. For manufacturers, the lifeblood of regional Australia, high and volatile energy prices are not just an inconvenience, they are an existential threat.

“Australia’s manufacturing sector, once a global leader, is now being crushed under the weight of energy policy confusion, rising costs, and the unrealistic burden of Net Zero,” Mr Willcox said.

“Energy volatility and regulatory overreach have driven uncertainty and eroded our competitive
advantage, while ‘carbon leakage’ is pushing production oƯshore to nations with weaker environmental standards and cheaper power.

“Labor’s renewables-only agenda is pushing businesses to the wall while pretending the transition won’t cost jobs. It will, and it already has.”

The crisis unfolding at Tomago Aluminium, where around 1,000 jobs are now in jeopardy, is the  clearest warning yet. The company has confirmed that “future energy prices are not commercially viable”, a devastating reflection of the current government’s policy failures.

“When one of the nation’s biggest energy users says it can’t keep the lights on, that’s not an
isolated problem, that’s a national crisis,” Mr Willcox said.

“If a powerhouse like Tomago can’t lock in aƯordable power, what chance does a small business in Wulguru or Ayr have?”

He said every closure in manufacturing sends shockwaves through the supply chain; suppliers,  transport operators, and small workshops that rely on these industrial anchors.

“Net Zero isn’t a climate plan, it’s a de-industrialisation plan. Every job lost weakens our  sovereign capability and makes us more dependent on imports.”

Australia cannot continue to punish itself for the emissions of others. Australia contributes just
over one per cent of global emissions, while China, the United States, India and Russia account
for roughly 60 per cent — and their emissions are still rising.

“To pretend that Australia can alter the global temperature by taxing our own industries out of
existence is fantasy,” Mr Willcox said.

“If we continue down Labor’s reckless plan, Australians will only feel more pain, with the estimated cost of net zero at $7 to $9 trillion, or $300,000 per Australian.”

“It won’t move the dial on global temperatures one bit.”

Mr Willcox said the National Party will instead focus on policies that deliver affordable, reliable,
and technology-neutral energy, including lifting Australia’s outdated ban on nuclear power to test its commercial viability.

“We support cleaner technology, but not at the cost of common sense,” he said.

“Net Zero has become a slogan, not a solution.

“Australians deserve policy grounded in reality, one that strengthens our industries instead of
strangling them.”

He added that the Nationals remain deeply committed to caring for the environment, because regional Australians live it every day.

“Our farmers are on the frontline of managing and protecting the environment,” Mr Willcox said.

“We want our children and grandchildren to grow up with clean air, healthy soils, and fresh  waterways, and we believe in practical, achievable solutions that protect our environment while
lowering emissions without trashing our economy.

“Australians want light in their homes, power in their factories, and hope for their kids; not  lectures about what car to drive or what to eat,” Mr Willcox said.

“It’s time to stop the experiment and start rebuilding our strength.

“Australia deserves better than Net Zero.”

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Shadow Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability, Andrew Willcox, at the National Party Federal Council in Canberra, standing up for Australian manufacturing and regional jobs, voting no to Labor’s Net Zero plan that threatens industries and livelihoods. Photo supplied

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The Crisafulli Government has brought its fourth Community Cabinet of 2025 to Mackay, taking the opportunity to hear directly from residents, business owners, and community leaders on what matters most to the region. More than 200 people attended the event at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre on Sunday, November 2, where Premier David Crisafulli and Ministers outlined their plan to deliver safety, health services, and economic opportunities for local communities.

Premier Crisafulli said the event was an important opportunity to engage with the community.

"We’re listening to the people of the Mackay Whitsundays to ensure we deliver what matters to them – safety where you live, health services when you need them, a stronger economy and a plan for the future," he said.

"This Mackay Community Cabinet has been a great opportunity to engage with the community to listen to ideas and priorities as we shape the future together."

The Government also highlighted its investment in housing and infrastructure. Through the $2 billion Residential Activation Fund, $41.66 million will unlock eight infrastructure projects in the Mackay-Whitsundays region, delivering 2,977 new homes. A further $44.1 million will expand and improve social and community housing, ensuring more Queenslanders have a safe place to call home.

Health services are also being strengthened with the Mackay Hospital expansion, which will deliver at least 128 new overnight beds as part of the fully-funded Hospital Rescue Plan, alongside upgrades to the hospital’s transit lounge. Employment and training opportunities for young people will benefit from the expansion of the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy, with $2 million establishing regional hubs, the first based in Mackay at the Resources Centre of Excellence.

Last week, the Government also further reinforced its commitment to housing, announcing a record $5.6 billion investment in social and affordable homes across Queensland over the next four years. In the Mackay-Whitsundays region, 141 social and affordable homes are now under contract or in construction, including 18 new social homes in Mackay, with 15 one-bedroom and three two-bedroom units, expected to be delivered by the end of 2026.

Minister for Housing and Public Works Sam O’Connor said the initiative was part of a statewide plan to deliver 53,500 social and community homes by 2044.

“Projects like this one are vital to meeting the need for social housing for Mackay-Whitsunday locals waiting for a place to call home," he said.

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton enthused that, “These 18 new social homes will be life-changing and provide stability for some of our most vulnerable locals.”

The initiatives are expected to deliver real progress, supporting a stronger and more connected community.

Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP said, "Every Queensland Minister is on the ground, listening to our community, so we can continue delivering for the Mackay Whitsunday region."

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Photo source: Amanda Camm MP

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Schools across the Mackay region came together last week to celebrate World Teachers’ Day, recognising the dedication and passion of educators shaping the next generation. Students and parents showed their appreciation through parades, morning teas, and gifts.

Fitzgerald State School said it was “a wonderful day where students and parents presented appreciation flowers and balloons, to our Fitzy staff for World Teachers Day, organised by our amazing P & C.”

Beaconsfield State School acknowledged long-serving staff, celebrating 10, 15, and 30-year service milestones, while St Patrick’s College hosted a morning tea highlighting the daily dedication of its teachers.

Whitsunday Anglican State School reflected on the lasting influence of educators.

“To our Whitsunday teachers - thank you for influencing, guiding, and empowering our young people to become the best versions of themselves. Your ability to inspire the leaders of tomorrow is a true gift, and our community is richer because of your care, commitment, and passion.”

“This is our “why” - the reason we teach, the reason we care, and the reason we love what we do.”

Member for Mirani Glen Kelly praised teachers across the region.

“Across the Mirani electorate we are blessed with more than 30 schools filled with dedicated staff who go above and beyond for our kids every day.

“Thank you – you are shaping our future,” he said.

He also singled out Sarina State High School, which celebrated staff reaching 10 and 20-year service milestones with a whole-school parade.

From milestone achievements to everyday dedication, schools across Mackay and the Whitsundays came together to mark the occasion with gratitude and celebration.

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Schools across the region celebrated World Teachers’ Day last week, recognising educators’ dedication and milestones through parades, morning teas, and community appreciation. Photos sourced

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Council is inviting the community to help shape the future of walking, riding and micromobility across the region through its draft Mackay Region Active Transport and Micromobility Plan 2025-2036.

The draft plan sets a long-term vision to make Mackay a walking and riding-friendly region, with safe, convenient and enjoyable paths designed for our tropical climate.

It aims to create a network that connects people to places that matter – schools, shops, parks and public transport – while supporting healthier lifestyles and reducing transport emissions.

Council’s Regional Infrastructure Strategic Advisory Committee Co-chair Cr Karen May said that our region had a growing population which was expected to increase by about 15,000 residents to almost 145,000 by 2036.

“This growth is expected mostly in urban areas where active transport can ease congestion,” Cr May said.

“Active transport isn’t just about environmental responsibility – it also has tremendous economic benefits,” she said.

“On average, every dollar invested in walking interventions returns almost $13 in benefits with traffic decongestion, health and environment. Cycling infrastructure investments also return about five dollars in assorted benefits for every dollar spent.

“This plan considers a lot of key factors, including our younger demographic that is reliant on active transport, our ageing population needing more accessible, walkable neighbourhoods and the rise of micromobility, such as e-scooters.

“With these factors in mind, it’s no surprise that the community’s top priorities included more separated cycleways, wider footpaths and safer crossings.”

Cr May said the community’s input has been instrumental in shaping the plan.

“We’ve heard loud and clear that residents want to walk and ride more – but they need safer, more convenient options to do so,” she said.

This draft follows extensive consultation, including:
• A public survey from March 31 to April 27, 2025, where residents shared their experiences and ideas.
• A targeted stakeholder workshop in May 2025 with schools, youth groups, accessibility advocates and bicycle organisations.
• Survey insights revealed strong support for active transport, with:
• 91.3 per cent of respondents walking for five minutes or more.
• 51 per cent riding in the week prior to the survey.

The draft plan is now open for public comment at connectingmackay.com.au/active-transport, with consultation running from now until 11.59pm, Sunday, November 16, 2025.

Whether you walk, ride, roll or scoot – this is your chance to help design a region that moves better for everyone.

Hard copies on the draft plan are also available at all Mackay Regional Council Libraries and Customer Service Centres.

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The draft plan sets a long-term vision to make Mackay a walking and riding-friendly region, with safe, convenient and enjoyable paths designed for our tropical climate. Photo supplied

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