With Christmas just around the corner and excitement jingling in the air, the jolly man in red is dusting off his sleigh for a special visit next week—ready to spread cheer and make spirits bright!
Mount Pleasant Centre brought festive cheer earlier this month with their Santa’s Breakfast event, spreading holiday spirit while supporting a great cause. The community gathered to enjoy delicious treats from Gloria Jean’s Coffees and Donut King, with all proceeds benefiting the Mackay Hospital Foundation. Entertainment from Dance Express Mackay, Let’s Just Face It Entertainment, and Star 101.9 added to the festive fun.

The talented dancers from Dance Express Mackay brought the magic of Christmas to life as they welcomed Santa to Mount Pleasant Centre earlier this month with Kaley from STAR 101.9. Photo credit: Dance Express Mackay

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As we approach the end of 2024, I find myself reflecting on a year that has tested me in ways I never expected. This has certainly been the hardest year of my life. But, as with any challenge, it’s made me more determined to rebuild in 2025—stronger, wiser, and more focused on what really matters: less stress, more time with my family, and a little more 'me-time'.
With a one-week break ahead, this is our final edition for the year. Looking back, we’ve covered a lot of ground in 2024—from community triumphs to the little moments that remind us what it’s all about. I’d love to hear from you. What was your favourite story? What would you like more (or less) of in 2025? Your thoughts keep us sharp and inspired, and we want to keep hitting the mark.
On a personal note, one of this week’s highlights was presenting cheques to three incredible local charities: Mackay Pet Rescue, Chances House, and the Ronald McDonald Family Room. It felt less like a transaction and more like an investment in our community’s future. You can read more about this on page 7. In 2025, I’m hoping to do more—not just with money, but with time. Volunteering and connecting with others is something I plan to make space for in the year ahead. It’s about giving what you can, and I’ve been reminded time and time again how much that can change someone’s life.
From the Mackay Life team, thank you for your support this year. Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a New Year packed with laughter, love, and just the right amount of festive food coma.
Here's to rebuilding, refuelling, and making 2025 the year we all step up and spark change.
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Amanda

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Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) has recognised the valuable contribution of
the Australian South Sea Islander community at a flag-raising ceremony held at
Mackay Base Hospital last week.

Representatives from Australian South Sea Islander organisations QUASSIC
(Queensland United Australian South Sea Islander Council) and MADASSIA (Mackay
and District Australian South Sea Islander Association) as well as other members of
this community joined Mackay HHS leaders for the event.

As the first Australian South Sea Islander elected councillor for Mackay Regional Council, Councillor Namarca Corowa said it was a very surreal moment to witness this historic occasion.

“I believe this event is deeply significant for the Mackay region, which has the largest population of Australian South Sea Islanders in the country,” Cr Corowa said.

Cr Corowa was one of the speakers at the flag raising and he said that more than 60,000 islanders, primarily from Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands, were brought to work in the sugar industry.

“Their labour significantly contributed to Queensland's early economic development,” he said.

“Australian South Sea Islanders were formally recognised by the federal government in 1994, and it took until the year 2000 for recognition by the Queensland State Government, just 24 years ago.

“Thank you to Mackay Base Hospital for acknowledging our Australian South Sea Islander heritage and community.”

Mackay Hospital and Health Board Chair Helen Darch said the occasion was a
symbolic representation of a spirit of inclusion.

“We are recognising the significant contributions of South Sea Islanders and their descendants to the development and the ongoing strength of our region,” Ms Darch said.

“Raising the Australian South Sea Islander flag here today is also a further acknowledgement of the sad historic treatment and care provided at a Pacific Islander Hospital on these grounds more than 130 years ago.

“Today is about the future and our continued commitment to developing further
understanding so that we can provide the services and care that members of our
Australian South Sea Islander community need.

“Raising this flag is a visual reminder of our commitment to care and inclusion.”

The ceremony’s MC Jeanette Morgan invited representatives to stand in front of the
five flags representing Australia, Queensland, Aboriginal, Torres Strait and Australian
South Sea Islander peoples – and the lowered flags were raised together in a spirit
of unity and inclusion.

QUASSIC director and manager of Yamadi Lera Yumi Meta Association Elizabeth
Warren also attended the event.

“This is a very proud day for the Mackay South Sea Islander community because the
flag is a visual reminder of the endurance, hard work and strength of our forefathers,”
Ms Warren said.

“But foremost it is now showing the need to move forward proudly, in strength and
unity, working with Mackay Hospital and Health Service to empower Australian South
Sea Islander people to be good caretakers of their own health and that of their
families.”

Mackay HHS raised the Australian South Sea Islander flag, honouring the community's contributions, resilience, and unity while committing to inclusion, understanding, and improved health services for future generations. Photo credit: Cr Namarca Corowa

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When the St Pat’s Brekky Van students went on an eight-week summer break, they made sure their friends visiting Orange Sky laundry shifts wouldn’t go without. Generously donating their food supplies, the students ensured the breakfasts they usually provide could continue uninterrupted.

To keep the BBQs fired up, Mackay Regional Council’s Community Development network reached out for volunteers to step in—and the community rallied. Organisations including Mater Hospital, Street Chaplaincy, UnitingCare Early Childhood team, Catholic Care, Ideal Placements, and Aussie Ergonomics all offered their time to help cook on the BBQ in lieu of the St Pat’s students.

“It’s truly heartwarming to see so many groups coming together to make sure our friends are cared for,” said Lisa Jamieson, Mackay Service Leader for Orange Sky.

“These breakfasts are about so much more than just food—they’re about connection and community.”

Orange Sky operates alongside service providers like food vans to create a safe, supportive environment where those in need can access free laundry facilities and a friendly chat. For many, these connections are a lifeline, especially during the festive season, which can be particularly tough.

At a recent shift, the UnitingCare Early Childhood team, joined by young helpers Rosa and Malachi, served up a sausage sizzle that brought smiles all around.

“This incredible support means everything to our friends,” Lisa added.

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The UnityCare Early Childhood team of Michelle, Christine and Jess with their helpers Rosa and Malachi serving up a sausage sizzle for Orange Sky

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As the festive season approaches, Ergon Energy is reminding residents and businesses to take extra precautions when setting up Christmas lights and other mains-powered decorations.  
  
Area Manager Craig Brown emphasised the importance of following safety guidelines to avoid electrical hazards, fires, and potential injuries.  
 
“We want everyone to enjoy their Christmas displays without compromising safety,” said Mr Brown. 
 
“By taking the right steps, buying good quality electrical decorations and ensuring proper installation, people can prevent accidents and keep their celebrations stress-free.” 
 
Common dangers and how to avoid them: 
 
Only buy safe decorations: Only buy them from a reputable retailer or, better still, only buy ones that adhere to Australian Safety Standards. 
 
Overloading circuits: Plugging too many lights into one socket can overload electrical circuits, leading to overheating and potential fire hazards.
 
Damaged wiring: Inspect lights and extension cords for any frays, cracks, or exposed wires before use.  
 
Outdoor-specific lights: Only use lights and decorations rated for outdoor use when setting them up outside.
 
Water and electricity don’t mix: Ensure all electrical connections are kept dry. Use weatherproof extension cords and secure them safely. 
 
Correct placement of lights: Never place lights or decorations near heat sources, flammable materials, or in areas where they could become damaged. Keep lights and other powered decorations out of reach from toddlers and young children. 
 
Rechargeable gifts (such as drones/e-scooters etc.): To prevent fires or other severe damage, only use the recharging equipment supplied with the device and turn it off overnight.   
 
“Taking these simple precautions can prevent accidents and keep your home and family safe throughout the holiday season,” Mr Brown said.  
 
“If you’re unsure about your setup, always consult a licensed electrician.

“It’s better to be safe than sorry, especially when dealing with electricity.” 

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The Ronald McDonald Family Room at Mackay Base Hospital has a new outdoor play area ready to welcome families, but it needs a little extra magic to become the perfect retreat. To help transform this space into a fun and welcoming haven, the Family Room team has created a wish list of items for the community to support.
From shade structures and comfortable outdoor furniture to toys and play equipment, the list includes items that will provide a joyful and relaxing environment for families during challenging times. With options to suit all budgets, individuals and organisations can make a meaningful contribution to this vital community resource.
Community Engagement Executive Samantha Baker shared her excitement, saying, “This outdoor area will make a big difference for families, offering them a space to unwind and connect in a supportive environment.”
The Family Room, which relocated to its temporary home earlier this year as part of the Mackay Base Hospital expansion, continues to support thousands of families annually. Donations to the wish list will ensure the outdoor space becomes an integral part of the Family Room’s mission to provide comfort and care.
Check out the wish list below and help make a difference for local families today.

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OPINION

COALITION ANNOUNCES THE COST TO GO NUCLEAR
 
The Coalition’s nuclear power plan will cost up to $263 billion less than Labor’s renewable rollout between now and 2050, translating into cheaper electricity over the long run.
 
The costings, conducted by Frontier Economics and on Friday by Opposition Leader Peter Dutton, estimates the capital and operating costs of the Coalition’s policy to deliver net zero emissions electricity by 2050 will be $331 billion.
 
The long-term plan will provide reliable, consistent and cheaper energy to return Australia to an industrial and manufacturing powerhouse. As coal-fired plants close, the Coalition plans to replace them with zero-emissions nuclear energy, to work alongside renewables and gas to power industry.
 
“Advanced economies worldwide are expanding nuclear programs to meet their energy and emissions goals, and Australia must not be left behind,” Mr Dutton said.
 
Anthony Albanese promised Australians a $275 cut to their power bills, but instead, families are paying up to $1,000 more under Labor’s costly and chaotic energy policies.
 
Labor’s ‘renewables-only’ experiment is costing Australians five times more than originally promised, driving energy prices higher and small businesses to the brink.
 
“We need an energy mix and need baseload power available 24/7. We cannot be reliant on intermittent unreliable wind and solar that only works when the sun is shining and when the wind blows,” Mr Willcox said.
 
If elected, the Coalition, which wants to build the plants on the existing sites of coal-fired power stations to make use of the transmission infrastructure, will conduct feasibility studies and a community consultation process with the aim of settling the sites for the first two plants within two years.
 
CALLS TO IMPROVE MOBILE BLACKSPOTS
It’s been no surprise that my electorate of Dawson has been plagued with bad mobile blackspots which is a real concern, especially emergency, work-related requirements or just to keep in contact with loved ones.
Residents have reported blackspots in Glenella, Cannon Valley, Bowen, Bucasia and other suburbs and more needs to be done to address this issue.
The Federal Government decided only last week to open round 8 of submissions which is a joke considering how close it is to Christmas. Again, this is a last-minute rushed plan that doesn’t benefit anyone but the Labor Government to get more votes ahead of an upcoming election.
“I am calling on the Federal Communications Minister Michelle Rowland to come to Dawson, travel through the electorate and see how hard it is to make a call,” Mr Willcox said.
“I would try to ring Minister Rowland from one of these locations to express my concerns, but the problem is I would struggle to get a signal to make the call.
“Enough is enough. I’ve said it before and I will say it again people talk about blackspots but in my electorate, there are areas where there are no spots at all.”
I encourage those impacted to report a blackspot on my website or email my office andrew.willcox.MP@aph.gov.au by December 20, 2024.

Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox highlights mobile blackspot issues in Dawson, urging residents to report problem areas and calling on the Federal Government for urgent action

COALITION’S NEW HOUSING POLICY
 
Regional Australia will receive its fair share of the Coalition’s $5 billion home-building plan, with a target of 30 per cent of the funding to be invested to unlock new homes in regional, rural and remote Australia.
 
The future Coalition Government would set an ambitious target of 30 percent of the $5 billion Housing Infrastructure Programme for investing in the regions, benefiting areas such as Dawson.
 
“Under Labor, Australia is facing a housing crisis and the great Australian dream of owning a home has never felt further out of reach,” Mr Willcox said.
A Coalition Government will also free up more than 100,000 homes by:
   • Reducing migration numbers, compared to Labor which has brought in more than one million migrants in their first two years in office.
   • Putting a two-year ban on foreign investors and temporary residents purchasing existing homes.
   • Working with the building and construction industry and bringing in people on skilled visas to support local tradies.
   • Tackling union corruption that has contributed to driving up the costs of building by 30 percent.
   • Freezing further changes to the National Construction Code to ease red tape and compliance burdens for builders.
The shortage is impacting schools across Dawson trying to find teachers amid the housing crisis. At Mackay State High School alone there are 13 positions available for 2025, and two never filled in 2024, according to the Queensland Government jobs board.

Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox addresses the housing crisis, unveiling plans to unlock regional housing funds and tackle rising costs, benefiting areas like Dawson

ONGOING SUPPORT NEEDED FOR CANEGROWERS
             
It is no secret the sugar industry had its trials and tribulations across our region in 2024.
 
As I write this, some farmers are still struggling to get the cane off and the season looks to be extended into 2025.
 
There have been some milling issues and now the wet season has arrived.
 
As I travel the electorate and meet with cane farmers and industry lobbying groups, the biggest cost to growers continues to be electricity. This is going to be a huge factor in the next Federal election, and one I will be ensuring the Coalition has a solution that actually sees prices going down.
 
We are in a cost-of-living crisis and we should not be accepting that everything just continues to increase. 
 
I would like to take this opportunity to pass on my most sincere condolences to the families, friends and work mates of those who lost their life this year in our region. Everyone deserves to go work and return home safe, and I trust these accidents are being investigated.
 
We need to remain steadfast in that this region is the sugar bowl of Australia and to ensure that remains, means we need to work together.
 
We need to iron out the root cause of some of the issues and find solutions.
 
I am here to work with the industry and take to government solutions that will get us back to being the world’s best in growing, harvesting, and milling.

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By Hannah McNamara

Gary Chapman, father of the late Michael Chapman, gave a touching speech recently at the Victoria Park State School Year 6 Graduation, on December 5.

As students, teachers and parents gathered in the hall for the presentation, Mr Chapman shared a powerful message – one that left an imprint on the hearts of many – to simply, be kind.

Mr Chapmans son, Michael, was described as a “highly regarded friend” who was always cheerful, resilient and kind. In the late 1980s, Michael had been fighting cancer, and after a lengthy battle, he was given the all clear around the age of nine.

At the age of twelve, just a few short years later, the young boy was diagnosed with cancer again. Despite countless treatments, he sadly lost his battle shortly after in 1988.

Michael’s remarkable positivity and passion for life, even during his most difficult moments, left an enduring imprint on the hearts of those who knew him.

He left such an impact, that his legacy now lives on through the Michael Chapman Award, a cherished tradition introduced by his Year 7 classmates in the year of his passing. This award, represented by a shield, is presented annually to a student chosen by their peers for exemplifying the qualities of courage, dignity, and pride - three words that perfectly captured Michael’s character. Now in its 36th year, the school has continued to honour his memory through this meaningful award, which is annually presented by his father, Gary Chapman.

In his moving speech, Mr Chapman reflected on a poignant experience from earlier that day. While at a local supermarket, he found himself thinking about Michael’s old friends. He suddenly noticed a woman with long, curly hair that reminded him of one of Michael’s closest childhood friends. Gathering his courage, he asked the woman’s name, and to his surprise, it was indeed his son’s former friend, now an adult with a family of her own. Mr Chapman described their encounter as “unbelievable” and shared that they had a lovely chat.

Mr Chapman shared memorable stories of his beloved son, along with some most recent comments made by former friends, which said, “He’s always been one of the most beautiful boys I've ever had the pleasure of knowing.

Another read: “Michael was my best friend and always will be… I always thought he was so grown up for his age.. I still think about him a lot.”

Amidst the poignant reflections, the school proudly announced the 2024 Michael Chapman Award recipient: Miss Neveah Collins, who exemplifies the courage, dignity, and pride that Michael embodied.

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Michael’s father Gary Chapman with recipient of the 2024 Michael Chapman award Miss Neveah Collins. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Christmas has come early for three local charities, thanks to Life Publishing Group’s fundraising event held in October. The event raised an impressive $9,000, with the proceeds being split evenly between three worthy causes: Chances House, Mackay Pet Rescue, and the Ronald McDonald Family Room Mackay.
The event, which marked a milestone for the Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper and Core Life Magazine, brought together local businesses, community members, and generous sponsors to support vital causes in the region.
Mackay Life team members—Editor Amanda Wright, Sales Manager Jessica Clark, and Journalist Hannah McNamara—had the honour of presenting cheques for $3,000 each to the three organisations, just in time for the Christmas season.
Chances House expressed their deep gratitude for the donation, with CEO Kayleigh Brewster saying, “Your support means the world to us and to the individuals and families experiencing homelessness in our community.
“Thanks to your kindness, we are able to continue providing critical services to those in need, including meals, essential items, and healthcare support. This donation will also help us enhance our case management efforts, working to create more positive outcomes for those we serve."
Over the past few months, Chances House has seen a significant rise in demand for their services, averaging over 80 people accessing their support daily. The organisation has been providing more than 2,100 meals per month and assisting with over 60 case management interactions each week. This increased demand highlights the importance of continued community support which allows Chances House to meet both immediate needs and long-term goals for those facing homelessness.
"Your support doesn’t just provide resources—it brings hope and dignity to those we serve. We are able to do our work more effectively because of donors like you, and for that, we are incredibly grateful," Brewster added.
Mackay Pet Rescue also extended their thanks, with Vice President Ros Lowry saying, "Thank you to the team at Life Publishing Group for your incredibly generous $3,000 donation to Mackay Pet Rescue.
“Your contribution will go a long way in helping our dedicated volunteers continue to rescue and care for abandoned animals in need. We are especially excited to use these funds for veterinary care, nourishing food, and much-needed catios to house mama cats and their kittens.
“Your support is vital to our mission, and we couldn’t do it without you."
The Ronald McDonald Family Room Mackay, who recently relocated while the new hospital wing is under construction, also expressed their heartfelt thanks. Community Engagement Executive Samantha Baker said, "The support from Life Publishing Group is greatly appreciated.
“The donation will help us continue to provide a comfortable and welcoming space for families in need, ensuring they feel supported during difficult times."
You can read more on page 5, on how you can support Ronald McDonald House Family Room.
With the holiday season fast approaching, the Mackay Life team would like to extend their thanks to everyone who supported the event and contributed to making it a night to remember.

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Life Publishing Group Editor Amanda Wright and Ronald McDonald Family Room Mackay Community Engagement Executive Samantha Baker

Life Publishing Group Sales Manager Jessica Clark and Janet Ambrose from Mackay Pet Rescue Inc.

Chances House Project and Fundraising Coordinator Lisa Merrett, Life Publishing Group Journalist Hannah McNamara and Chances House CEO Kayleigh Brewster

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Every year, RSPCA Inspectors respond to calls about pets being abandoned. This trend spikes over Christmas and School Holidays when people are away from home.
 
From December 2023 to January 2024, RSPCA Queensland responded to 402 complaints about abandoned animals.
 
“We usually receive reports from worried neighbours about dogs that are barking more than normal and when they can’t confirm if food and water has been left for the animal.
 
“If we attend a property and no one is home at the time, we will leave our information to make contact. Usually within 24 hours we’ve heard from the person who is minding the pets that the owners are on holiday, and that they’re stopping in each day to care for them,” says Inspector Steffi Schubert.   
 
The RSPCA is urging anyone who is leaving their pets in the care of a pet sitter, neighbour or family member to sign up to their free Home Alone service.
 
How does Home Alone work?
   • Owners can register their pet’s details with the RSPCA’s Home Alone service and provide the contact details of those caring for their pets.
   • If their pet is reported as abandoned, the RSPCA has contact details in cases of emergencies.
RSPCA Inspector Steffi suggests, “If you’re concerned a pet has been abandoned, leave a note on the door of the property, or talk to other neighbours to identify if someone is coming to check on the pets before lodging an abandonment complaint. This will help free up RSPCA resources to investigate critical cases.”
 
RSPCA advises that pets can be left at home while owners are away as long as they have appropriate food, water and shelter. 

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One of Mackay Airport’s busiest routes will soon be serviced by larger aircraft, injecting thousands of additional seats into the market and positioning 2025 as a bumper year for visitation and industry growth.

Virgin Australia will begin flying more Boeing 737s between Brisbane and Mackay from February next year, replacing the smaller Fokker 100 aircraft that have supplemented the airline’s national growth in recent years.

The upgrade will increase capacity on the route by close to 50 per cent, with the Boeing 737 providing approximately 420,000 seats on the route per year up from 246,000 on the smaller aircraft.

Mackay Airport Head of Operations Adrian Miles said the return of Virgin Australia’s Boeing 737, which offers business class, would be well received by passengers, particularly those regularly travelling for work.

“This is a testament to the strength of the corporate market between Brisbane and Mackay, with Mackay being one of the first ports to transition back to the Boeing 737,” he said.

“It will be fantastic to kick off 2025 with Virgin’s Boeing 737 regularly servicing our region.”

It follows a series of developments across Mackay Airport in 2024, including commencement of long-term commercial project Milton Precinct. Vacant land will be transformed into a purpose-built business, retail and mixed- use service hub, offering an array of industry opportunities and injecting millions of dollars into the local economy each year.

Mackay Airport also launched the Hidden Disabilities Program, the inaugural $25,000 Mackay Airport Local Community Sports Grants campaign, and entered a number of key partnerships aimed at growing the region’s visitor market, such as a three-year strategic agreement with Harrup Park and continued sponsorship of the Mackay Cutters.

Mr Miles said Mackay Airport was ready for a busy holiday season to close out the successful year.

“Over the three weeks leading into Christmas, we expect more than 50,000 passengers to travel through Mackay Airport, which is a 10 per cent increase on regular traffic flows,” he said.

BY THE NUMBERS
• From February 2025, Virgin Australia will begin flying more Boeing 737s between Brisbane and Mackay, replacing the smaller Fokker 100 aircraft.
• The upgrade will increase capacity on the route by close to 50 per cent, with approximately 420,000 seats on the route per year up from 246,000.
• More than 50,000 passengers are expected to travel through Mackay Airport across the three weeks leading into Christmas, a 10 per cent increase on regular traffic flows.
• Mackay Airport commenced work on the Milton Precinct in 2024. This major, long-term commercial development is estimated to provide $134.1 million to the local economy in the first 10 years of operation and new businesses at the site are expected to generate $42.5 million in output per year.

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Virgin Australia will upgrade its Brisbane-Mackay flights to Boeing 737s from February 2025, increasing route capacity by 50 per cent. Photo supplied

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A Queensland bus operator has selected the recipients of its inaugural community grant program, Moving Communities, with two organisations in Mackay set to benefit from in-kind support and grants of up to $10,000.

The Moving Communities Fund, awarded by Kinetic, is designed to support community organisations and not-for-profits that improve the livelihoods of the communities where Kinetic operates.

Launched in September 2024, the program attracted more than 200 applications from across Australia in four weeks, reflecting an incredible array of initiatives and projects.

Kinetic has announced funding support for two Mackay organisations, providing a boost to education and local sport.
Fitzgerald State School received funding to assist primary students in participating in critical water safety and swimming programs.
Meanwhile, Magpies Mackay AFC secured funding for new footballs and essential medical supplies, ensuring the club continues to promote health, fitness, and community spirit through sport.
Kinetic Executive General Manager for Central Queensland, Marcia Shield said they were proud to support local beneficiaries and the terrific work these organisations are doing in the community.

“We know this funding and support will help them to deliver immediate positive impacts to the Mackay communities they operate in.”

“It was fantastic to receive so many applications from throughout the state, and such a broad variety of interests being represented from sporting clubs through to volunteer groups,” she said.  

Kinetic Group CEO Michael Sewards said the Kinetic team is extremely proud to support these local community organisations.

“Giving back to the community is part of Kinetic’s foundation and the aim of establishing the Moving Communities Fund was to amplify these efforts,” he said. 

“We wanted to hear about all of the great things people are doing in the community and we were blown away when we received well over 200 applications.

“This is only the beginning and we can’t wait to roll out two additional rounds in 2025 and help even more community groups.”
To find out more about the Moving Communities Fund recipients and future rounds visit www.wearekinetic.com/community

Kinetic proudly operates school and urban route services across Mackay and the surrounding regions, connecting the community through safe and reliable transport.

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Kinetic’s inaugural Moving Communities Fund has awarded grants up to $10,000 to Fitzgerald State School and Magpies Mackay AFC, supporting local initiatives. Photos supplied

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Before the convenience of frozen chickens, Pearson’s Store on the north-east corner of Evan and Goldsmith Streets was the go-to spot for Christmas dinner preparations.
Proprietor Arthur Pearson operated a ‘chookery’ on land behind the store, raising free-range poultry that was fattened up for festive feasts and special occasions.
Pearson’s legacy also extended to Shakespeare and Moore Streets, where his niece Beryl Hatfield and her husband John established the beloved “Hatfields” store in 1947, a family-run business until its sale in 2008.

Mackay Libraries Heritage Collection #05528

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Mackay Christian College is celebrating a standout achievement, with Year 8 student Ashley Harris claiming the top spot in a nationwide mathematics competition hosted by Times Table Rock Stars. Competing against nearly 1,200 secondary students, Ashley emerged as the best in the country, showcasing exceptional talent and dedication.
The competition also highlighted other remarkable achievements from MCC students, with Shardinay Broome Waria ranking second in the school and an impressive 49th nationally, and Jonah Carpenter securing third place at MCC.
Congratulations to Ashley, Shardinay, and Jonah for their outstanding performances, representing MCC with pride and excellence!

L-R: Jonah Carpenter, Ashley Harris, and Shardinay Broome Waria proudly display their certificates after excelling in the nationwide Times Table Rock Stars mathematics competition. Photo credit: Mackay Christian College

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Local group Breakaway Horse Riders Club has been honoured with the 2024 Community Impact Award from Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank.

Accompanied by a $500 donation, the Community Impact Award is presented to an organisation that inspires positive change, has a dedication to community, displays integrity in service, shows leadership and fosters inclusivity.

Starting as a small group in the Kuttabul area in 1986, the club has now grown to 89 members and 20 juniors from across the region. Their annual charity ride, educational weekends, and community service projects have raised significant funds the Mackay Base Hospital Oncology Ward, Cancer and Heart Research and the This Strong Mum Foundation.

Community Bank Sarina Board Chair Karen May praised the club's dedication to creating connections through their events and raising funds for important local causes.

“Our Community Impact Award acknowledges a group that has gone above and beyond for the benefit of others and Breakaway Horse Riders Club has continued to demonstrate this through their community efforts,” Ms May said.

“Clubs like Breakaway Horse Riders play an essential role in the greater Sarina region, creating a welcoming space where lasting friendships are created, and community connections are deepened.”

Breakaway Horse Riders Club President Roxanne Aprile, expressed gratitude on behalf of the club for the award, thanking Community Bank Sarina for their ongoing support.

“This award is testament to the dedication and camaraderie of our members, and we are grateful to Community Bank Sarina for recognising our commitment to supporting locals,” Ms. Aprile said.

“The Bank’s partnership over the years has been invaluable, from supporting our annual charity rides and ANZAC tribute projects, to providing funding for essential equipment such as light horse uniforms, saddle pads, brushes, and shirts.”

“They have also provided us with a marquee, flags and signage to help us promote what we do in the greater community.”

Breakaway Horse Riders Club will be holding their next Annual Charity Ride on May 24, 2025 to raise money and awareness for pancreatic cancer.

To find out more about how Community Bank Sarina supports our community, visit their Facebook page, www.facebook.com/communitybanksarina.

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(L-R) Community Bank Sarina Board Chair Karen May, Breakaway Horse Riders Club’ Joanne Davis (Treasurer), Vicki Crowley (Vice President), Natalie McIntosh (Member) and Roxanne Aprile (President) and Community Bank Sarina Branch Manager Charmaine Matsen. Photo supplied

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