Then and Now

By the mid 1920s, many Proserpine districts boasted a hall of their own. These places were not only hubs of social events but also provided a centre for such activities as meetings of canegrowers, polling booths and Country Women’s Association gatherings. They were the heartbeat of these communities. Sadly, time has seen most of these halls fall into disrepair and close down. BUT not so, Kelsey Creek.

Kelsey Creek Hall, made of timber with corrugated iron walls, was built by J P Muller in 1927 and opened with no debt. District farmers each donated one truck of sugar cane towards the cost. “Bowen Independent” reported, “The Kelsey Creek Hall, measuring 40 x 24 feet with a 10 feet verandah, was opened on Saturday, 23rd April. Mr W B Biggs (Chairman) performed the opening ceremony and Mr Spoor kindly brought a plant along and lit the building up with electricity. A good crowd turned up from town and with the local residents in full force the evening passed (with) one continuous round of merriment.”

The hall had a good dance floor and there were plenty of talented local musicians to play at functions. Before electricity, carbide and kerosene lights, then later pressure kerosene lamps, were used to light up the hall.

Admission to dances was one shilling (ten cents) for gents and ladies – but if ladies provided a plate of goodies for supper, they were admitted free of charge. At supper, a round bath tub full of freshly made sandwiches would be taken around the hall along with cakes (lots of sponge cakes). Even gnocchi made by Italian settlers was served in inverted stump caps. Large enamel tea pots served tea and coffee, water being heated in a copper outside and brought in using enamel jugs. Dances were held by many different groups. On September 28, 1935, the “Proserpine Guardian” noted, “Dances at Kelsey Creek have become very popular, the hall being booked every fortnight until Christmas.”

Typical of all local halls, it was used for meetings of cane growers and the Country Women’s Association (who first met there on October 13, 1960). It was also available for weddings, handicrafts and hoy mornings.

At the meeting of the hall committee on May 7 1927, rules were adopted. Some were: -

· Dances to be held monthly in aid of the hall

· When leased for other benefits, the committee was to decide whether they would forgo one of their dances or add an extra one

· Fees for all dances or benefits other than hall or school dances to be 25/-. The fee may be given back at the committee’s discretion if the benefit was for charity

· Cleaning fee of 10/6d to be charged on all occasions; such fee to be handed back if the hall was cleaned satisfactorily

· All fees to be paid in advance to the secretary

In the early days, at one committee meeting, the following motion was passed – “two males are not allowed to dance together.”

While usage of the hall declined in the 2000s, it remained an important meeting point for locals. And if caught out in the floods, they knew the hall was open so they could wait there instead of sitting in their car at the edge of the creek.

When the hall was struck by vandals in August 2014, this almost spelt its total demise. Today, however, it is heartwarming to see an energetic group of young Kelsey Creekers, committed to preserving this important piece of history, undertaking repairs and maintenance, and injecting new life into their hall.

Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum.

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Kelsey Creek Hall. Photo supplied.
The Hall Comes Alive! Photo supplied.

Hi everyone,

Hope you’re having a great week as always!

This week, amid the busy pace of journalism, I’ve been reflecting on my “why.” They say that when you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life, and I’ve found that to be true!

Life can throw challenges our way, sometimes feeling like mountains. But knowing your why can turn those hurdles into blessings rather than burdens.

It’s easy to get caught up in what’s wrong in the world, especially in this fast-paced, digital age. If you struggle to see the goodness in life, I encourage you to pause and look deeper.

I know I did.

There was a time I was consumed by negativity, but when I put my faith in something greater than myself, I began to see life differently. Suddenly, grace, abundance, and goodness were everywhere — I just needed to lift the scales to see them.

Psalm 23:6 reminds us, “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life.”

So, no matter how dark the road feels sometimes, just know that there is hope, there is goodness, and there is joy waiting to be noticed.

With that in mind, and in the spirit of embracing the good things happening around us, I’m excited to share a little weekend fun - I’ll be at the BMA CQ Rescue Family Fun Day this Sunday… so get ready to say cheese!

Have a blessed week! :)

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Bringing Nostalgia Back To Modern Homes

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Kitchens are no longer just functional spaces; they’re the heart of the home, where style and personality meet practicality. In 2025, one of the standout trends reshaping these central hubs is the retro revival — a nostalgic nod to mid-century designs and vintage charm, now infused with modern convenience.

Retro-inspired kitchens are all about personality. Bold colours are making a statement, from candy-apple reds and deep teals to mustard yellows and pastel blues. These vibrant shades are being paired with geometric tiles, checkerboard patterns, and contrasting countertops, creating visual interest that draws the eye and adds a playful, energetic vibe. For homeowners, it’s a chance to break away from neutral palettes and bring warmth and life into the space.

Vintage appliances are another key feature of this trend. Think enamel fridges in bold colours, chrome-trimmed stoves, and classic kettle shapes reimagined for modern efficiency. These pieces are more than just functional; they act as conversation starters and focal points, blending the nostalgia of yesteryear with today’s technology. The beauty of this trend is that it celebrates the past without sacrificing contemporary functionality. Energy-efficient appliances, smart cooking tools, and durable surfaces ensure that retro kitchens are just as practical as they are stylish.

Cabinetry and storage solutions are also reflecting the retro revival. Rounded edges, shaker-style doors, and open shelving with vintage crockery add charm, while clever organisation and hidden storage maintain a modern level of convenience. Lighting plays a big role too — pendant lights with brass or colourful glass shades, paired with under-cabinet LEDs, create a layered effect that is both functional and visually striking.

Another appealing aspect of retro kitchens is their versatility. Whether homeowners prefer a fully immersive 1950s diner feel or subtle mid-century touches, the trend can be tailored to suit any style. Retro elements can complement industrial, coastal, or contemporary interiors, making it an accessible choice for a wide range of homes.

The rise of social media has also fueled the trend, with influencers and home renovation enthusiasts sharing photos of vibrant, retro-inspired kitchens. It’s easy to see why: the combination of bold design, nostalgic charm, and practical modern upgrades makes these spaces ideal for both daily life and entertaining guests.

Ultimately, the retro revival in kitchens is about more than aesthetics — it’s about creating a space that reflects personality, tells a story, and makes cooking and gathering at home a joyful experience. For homeowners looking to stand out while staying practical, this trend offers the perfect balance of fun, style, and functionality.

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The Longest-Running Breakfast Show In The Region

Triple M Mackay & The Whitsundays will mark a major milestone this Friday when Jay & Dave broadcast their 3,300th Breakfast Show, cementing their place as the longest-running breakfast team in the region.

Since their first show together in 2011, Jay Shipston and Dave Peters have been the voices locals wake up to. Across more than 11,500 hours on air, they’ve laughed, cried, and shared every major moment with the community — from cyclones and floods to grand finals and good news stories.

"Fifteen years of 3 a.m. alarms, bad coffee, and big laughs — it’s been the ride of a lifetime,” Jay Shipston said.

“We’ve grown up with our listeners. They’ve heard us get married, come out, win awards, and celebrate Mackay through it all.”

Dave Peters said, “When you’ve spent over eleven thousand hours together on air, you’re basically family — and that’s what our listeners are to us.

"Friday’s about thanking them for being part of our mornings for so long.”

To celebrate, Jay & Dave will broadcast live from 6 a.m. at Barnes Creek Road, just before the Forgan Bridge. One lucky listener will win tickets and accommodation to see Jelly Roll, plus there’ll be throwbacks, special guests, and plenty of surprises.

Event Details

What: Jay & Dave’s 3,300th Breakfast Show
When: Friday 10 October 2025 from 6 a.m.
Where: Barnes Creek Road (before the Forgan Bridge)
Giveaway: Jelly Roll tickets + accommodation
Listen: Triple M Mackay & The Whitsundays or on the LiSTNR app

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Jay & Dave celebrate their 3,300th Breakfast Show this Friday, marking them as Mackay’s longest-running breakfast duo. Photo source: Triple M Mackay & The Whitsundays (Facebook)

I got out of my car near my office in Victoria St the other day and was swooped by a pee wee that came from behind and landed a peck on my head.

Like most people, I’m not a big fan of being swooped but it’s usually aggressive male magpies that bring me grief during their breeding season, although I’ve clashed with a few plovers over the years.

It probably makes me a bad person but I often think rogue, aggressive male magpies are given a bit too much latitude when they constantly, aggressively chase and attack people.

I’ve seen young girls and boys on push bikes careening dangerously onto the street in panic as they try to escape a swooping magpie.

I was at the Mackay Base Hospital a few years ago and there was a magpie-swooping sign that warned patients, visitors and staff to beware of a particularly aggressive bird.

Patients, who already had enough to worry about, had the additional issue of being swooped if they dared get out of their room to enjoy some fresh air.

In my view we should be protecting kids, old people and hospital patients ahead of dangerous magpies and remove the ones who are clearly rogue and aggressive.

Although, as I said, I am a bad person so I would think that.

But I’ve never had a problem with pee wees before. They seem to be smart birds and I have seen them team up and attack predatory crows hanging around pee wee nests. Pee wees dive into my pool in the heat of summer and they are welcome guests.

What surprised me about being swooped by one the other day was not just that it was a pee wee but that it was in Victoria St. It got me wondering about why pee wees and other birds like city life so much. Surely life is better in Habana or Balnagowan or out in Devereux Creek.

Apparently there are good nesting places on buildings that are safe and fewer natural predators in the City Heart. There might be an unfortunate “fast food” dietary element as well, although I don’t see pee wees behaving in the disgraceful way ibis do around city garbage bins.

Like the pee wees, many humans are drawn to life in the City Heart. Other people like living outside the city and enjoy the space, privacy and tranquility of life in those areas outside suburbia.

I can understand that because in a busy, bustling world of business and traffic and pressure, your home and your land becomes a private sanctuary and your daily escape.

But, like the pee wees, plenty of people are drawn to the convenience and abundance of nesting places in the city.

People can step out of their unit or house and be in the café, restaurant or pub in minutes. Go for a morning walk along the river bank. Getting to work is a breeze and you’re right near all the shopping you need.

I like the architecture of Mackay’s City Heart and it’s an easy place to get around by foot.

The council often talks about getting more residents into the City Heart and I think it would be terrific to see more people living there.

We have several high-rise apartment blocks along the river but it would be great to see more and you can only imagine what a transformation of the city there would be if further development happened along the river. What about all those buildings along Wood St and Victoria St with space on their second levels?

At the moment a lot of the city-dwellers seem to be homeless people, which is a tragic and difficult problem of our times.

Rather than the homeless, I would love to see a City Heart bustling with more people enjoying their life in the CBD. Although they would have to watch out for the pee wees.

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Community is at the heart of Hugh Reilly Real Estate, and their support reaches far beyond the walls of their office. For more than 80 years, the agency has been a familiar and trusted name in Mackay, known not only for real estate expertise but for their generous commitment to giving back.

Partner and Managing Director, Josey Comerford, is often seen supporting local initiatives across the region. Recently, she joined fellow business leaders for the Chamber of Commerce B2B Brews event at Mackay Women’s Services, learning more about the vital work the organisation does in supporting women and families.

Hugh Reilly Real Estate has long supported the Mackay West Rotary Club, contributing to the club’s ongoing community projects and fundraising initiatives. Rotary’s values of service, integrity, and goodwill align closely with the agency’s own long-standing ethos.

The team’s generosity extends across a range of community causes. Earlier this year, they joined Laffo’s Bar & Pizzeria’s “Pizza for a Purpose” fundraiser, supporting The Grapevine Group’s mental health programs. In May, they hosted Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea, welcoming locals for tea, coffee, and cake while raising funds for the Cancer Council to support cancer research and prevention.

Over Easter, the team also donated a large hamper filled with chocolate eggs to the hardworking doctors and nurses at Mackay Base Hospital. Coordinated with the Mackay Hospital Foundation, the gesture offered a small but heartfelt thank you to healthcare staff working through the holiday.

In 2023, Hugh Reilly Real Estate was also a proud gold sponsor of Mackay Musical Comedy Players Inc, helping nurture local creativity and keep the arts thriving.

Through decades of change, the agency has proven that real success isn’t measured in property, but in people. In Mackay, when one hand reaches out, the whole community rises. From healthcare to mental health, the arts to advocacy, Hugh Reilly Real Estate shows that true local impact is built on heart, grit, and connection – a reminder that home isn’t just a place, it’s a community looking out for one another.

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The team at Hugh Reilly Real Estate proved that laughter truly is the best office policy this April Fools’ Day.

In a moment of light-hearted fun, Carol arrived at work to find her entire desk covered in the team’s funniest faces – a cheerful surprise that instantly set the tone for a day filled with laughter. Each photo featured a member of the Hugh Reilly team pulling their best expression, creating a collage of smiles that had everyone stopping by for a chuckle.

Known for their professionalism and long-standing commitment to clients, the Hugh Reilly team also know the value of joy in the workplace. Between managing properties, assisting buyers, and supporting the community, they take every opportunity to share a laugh and lift one another’s spirits.

The April Fools’ prank was a reminder that while real estate can be a serious business, it’s the people behind it who make it personal, and in this case, playful too.

It’s not every day you walk into the office to find yourself surrounded by a wall of friendly faces, but at Hugh Reilly Real Estate, it’s all part of the fun. Their team spirit shines through both in their work and their sense of humour, reminding everyone that success often starts with a smile.

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High-Speed Motorcycle Incident At Bakers Creek

A 21-year-old Sarina man has been intercepted by police following an alleged high-speed incident on the Mackay Ring Road at Bakers Creek on Saturday, October 4, 2025.

At approximately 8.49pm, officers conducting mobile speed enforcement patrols allegedly detected a Kawasaki ZX 12R motorcycle travelling at 178 kilometres per hour in an 80-kilometre-per-hour zone — 98 kilometres over the posted speed limit.

Police intercepted the motorcycle and spoke with the 21-year-old rider regarding the alleged offence. He was subsequently issued three infringement notices:

• Exceeding the speed limit by more than 40 km/h — $1919 fine, eight demerit points, and a six-month licence suspension
• Learner driver failing to display legible L plates — $267 fine and two demerit points
• Rider not authorised to ride the class of motorbike — $556 fine

Major Traffic Operation In Calen Yields 167 Charges

Calen police, supported by the Highway Patrol and Tactical Crime Squad, conducted a major traffic operation across the Bruce Highway between 19 and 22 September, resulting in a total of 167 charges.

The operation focused on high-visibility patrols targeting road-related offences, with officers conducting 3,516 roadside breath tests and 174 roadside drug tests. Of those, 47 motorists returned a positive result. A total of 48 infringement notices were also issued. Charges included drink and drug driving, speeding, possession or supply of dangerous drugs, and possession of drug-related utensils.

During the operation, police responded to a separate incident at approximately 11.40am on 20 September when they observed substantial smoke coming from nearby cane fields.

Officers saw a man exit the paddock and return toward the fire with his dog. The man, later identified as a 34-year-old Monkland resident, was arrested and a large quantity of drugs was located.

He has been charged with five counts of possessing dangerous drugs; two counts each of setting fire to vegetation and possessing property suspected of being used in connection with a drug offence; and one count each of animal cruelty, trafficking in dangerous drugs (methylamphetamine), possession of a knife in a public place, and an offence to buy or possess S4 or S8 medicines or hazardous poisons (dexamphetamine).

The man remains in custody and is due to reappear at Proserpine Magistrates Court on 10 November.

Photo source: Queensland Police Service

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Chances House Mackay provides vital support to people experiencing homelessness, and the team is reaching out to the community for a little extra help. Residents rely on the generosity of locals to access basic necessities, and right now the shelter is in need of a range of essential items.

Non-perishable foods are always appreciated, with tins featuring ring pulls preferred for ease of use. Donations of noodles, spaghetti, baked beans, tuna, fruit cups, and chunky soups go directly to those who need them most. For pet owners, wet dog and cat food is especially useful, complementing the shelter’s current supply of dry food.

Other items that make a real difference include sleeping bags, small tarpaulins, insect repellant, mozzie coils, small gas canisters, toothpaste, toothbrushes, and deodorant.

Clothing is not required at this time, as the shelter has ample supply.

Chances House Mackay encourages residents to help in any way they can, whether by dropping off donations, sharing this call-out on social media, or spreading the word to friends and family. Every contribution provides comfort, safety, and support to some of Mackay’s most vulnerable community members.

Donations can be dropped off directly at Chances House during opening hours. The team thanks the community for every gift, large or small, and for helping ensure that everyone in Mackay has the support they need to stay safe and cared for.

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Some of Mackay’s most vulnerable young patients are benefitting from the gift of refreshed rooms, new amenities, cosy therapeutic bean bags and modern furniture thanks to the generosity of AutoCorner Mackay.

Representatives visited the Children and Adolescent Unit mental health rooms to view the results of their generous donation which was arranged by the Mackay Hospital Foundation.

Nurse unit manager Louise Suner and enrolled nurse Kirby Green gave a tour of the refreshed lounge area and patient rooms.

“We have new couches and tables, all walls and doors are repainted and everything is in cool and calming colours of blue and green,” Louise said.

“The lounge area is more inviting so these patients can come out of their rooms, play board games, eat out here and interact with specialists and their family.

“There are also a couple of big therapeutic bean bags, a cupboard full of games and the blackboard as well.

“Full credit goes to Kirby in our team for arranging this and we are so grateful to Auto Corner Mackay and our Mackay Hospital Foundation for their support.”

Patient rooms also have new beds, and the same colour scheme in ensuite bathrooms with new vanity cabinets.

EN Kirby Green, CAU nurse unit manager Louise Suner, Auto Corner representatives Jason Watts and Kane McHardy and Mackay Hospital Foundation representative Leonie Hansen. Photo source: Mackay Hospital and Health Service (Facebook)

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Members of Mackay VIEW Club are calling on the community to give generously this Anti-Poverty Week [12-18 October] and sponsor a child or donate to the national children’s education charity The Smith Family. The focus of this Anti-Poverty Week is to end child poverty in Australia.

Mackay VIEW Club helps 5 children through The Smith Family’s Learning for Life education support program, which provides families with long term educational, financial, and personal assistance, so that children have all the essentials needed to make the most of their education.

President of the VIEW Club Elizabeth Butterworth said with one in six children in Australia growing up in poverty, there has never been a more important time to support a child with their education.

“Families are having to make impossible choices about how to spend limited resources, this could be prioritising rent over sending their child on a school excursion, being able to afford schoolbooks or essential digital learning tools,” said Elizabeth.

“A laptop and reliable internet access at home are now vital for any child’s education.”

“No child should have to miss out on the essentials for their education, and this is why VIEW is so passionate about supporting the work of The Smith Family.

"Its evidence-based approach helps children experiencing disadvantage to overcome the educational inequality they face. They support students for the duration of their education, and this helps them build the confidence and skills needed to create better futures for themselves.”

VIEW Clubs raised more than $1.5 million nationally last year to support The Smith Family’s important work, and they currently sponsor over 1,800 students on the Learning for Life scholarship program.

VIEW Clubs in 2025 also raised over $182,000 for The Smith Family’s Digital Learning Essentials program, that aims to close the digital divide and allow students to fully participate in their schooling.

While fundraising plays a vital role in helping children in need, President Elizabeth is also encouraging women of all ages to donate their time and skills by joining a VIEW Club.

Each year, VIEW members collectively volunteer over 70,000 hours of their time to help young people through homework, reading and mentoring programs run by the charity – but there’s still a need for more helping hands.

“Our VIEW members have a unique opportunity to provide hands-on support to children experiencing disadvantage, while also forming meaningful and lasting community relationships,” Elizabeth said.

“Recently, members in our local area have been participating in public awareness stalls at Riverside and Farmer’s Markets and we will also be at The Seniors Expo on October 14."

To find out more about joining VIEW, visit view.org.au or call 1800 805 366.

To sponsor a child or donate to The Smith Family, visit thesmithfamily.com.au or call 1800 633 622.

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Council Heads To Smaller Communities To Find Out What Matters Most To Them

The Mackay Mayor, councillors and senior staff are hitting the road, taking council to some of the region’s smaller communities.

Let’s Chat - Council Connect is holding sessions in areas from Bloomsbury in the north to Sarina in the south and west to the Valley.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the informal sessions were an opportunity to raise issues and ideas and have a chat.

“What we learnt through the recent discussion about divisions is that there are parts of the Mackay region that feel like they’re not being heard,” Mayor Williamson said.

“There was a clear message from these communities that they want more contact from council and councillors, so we are taking council to them,’’ he said.

“A recent session in Sarina at Hay Point was successful and we’re confident future sessions in Bloomsbury, Seaforth, Mirani and the Northern Beaches will be just as beneficial.

“The most recent sessions were held at Eungella and Finch Hatton.”

As part of the Let’s Chat sessions, attendees can also book one-on-one sessions to raise specific issues.

“These 10-minute sessions are done with just the resident and council representative, so it’s much more relaxed than a town hall style meeting,” Mayor Williamson said.

“There will also be staff on hand to help residents submit service requests through Snap Send Solve.”

Details on upcoming sessions can be found on the Connecting Mackay website.

No RSVP is required for general attendance, however bookings for one-on-one sessions need to be made through Eventbrite.

The Mayor, councillors and senior staff are hitting the road to chat to residents in some of Mackay's smaller communities. Photo supplied

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Mackay’s senior community is invited to come together this Tuesday, October 14, for the annual Seniors Expo, running from 9am to 12pm at The Big Shed, Mackay Showgrounds (25 Milton Street).

Now a much-loved fixture on the local calendar, the expo brings together more than 80 exhibitors and around 2000 visitors each year, creating a welcoming space where older residents, their carers, and families can explore services, programs, and activities that support healthy, active, and connected living.

The event is a key part of the Queensland Government’s Seniors Month celebrations, which aim to promote positive attitudes towards ageing, highlight the valuable role seniors play in the community, and encourage participation across generations.

Council’s Community Programs team said the expo continues to grow each year, offering something for everyone — whether it’s discovering a new activity, connecting with support services, or simply catching up with friends.

Free Bus Services Available

To make the event as accessible as possible, free bus services will operate from Sarina and Mirani, helping residents travel safely to and from the venue.

Sarina service:

50-seater coach
Pick-up: Broad Street Sarina bus stop (outside old post office) at 8.45am
Arrival: Mackay Showgrounds approximately 9.30am
Return: departs 12pm, arriving back in Sarina around 12.45pm

Mirani service:

27-seater midi bus
Pick-up: Mirani Central bus stop (outside park gazebos on Alexander Street) at 8.45am
Arrival: Mackay Showgrounds approximately 9.30am
Return: departs 12pm, arriving back in Mirani around 12.45pm
Seats can be booked by phoning the Community Programs team on 4961 9536.

A Showcase Of Local Support

This year’s expo will feature a wide range of exhibitors offering information and advice on everything from health and wellbeing to hobbies, home services, legal assistance, and social groups.

Stallholders include:

• Mackay VIEW Club
• Pioneer Nursing Services
• Mackay Regional Council Libraries
• Untapped Exercise Physiology
• TPF Care Service
• Mackay Hearing
• Nurse Next Door Mackay
• City Funerals
• Gallivanter Travel
• Wellways Carers Gateway
• Mackay Discount Drug Store
• Mackay Combined Probus Club Inc
• Life Without Barriers
• Mackay & District Senior Citizens' Association, Inc.
• Arden Maintenance Services
• Wellways - Universal Aftercare
• Move It Chiropractic
• The Neighbourhood Hub Mackay
• Mackay Regional Community Legal Centre Inc.
• MACKAY LOCAL AMBULANCE COMMITTEE
• Niagara Medical Therapy
• Integrate Health
• Right at Home Mackay
• U3A MACKAY INC
• Driving Miss Daisy Mackay North
• United Chemist Andergrove
• Whitsunday Funerals Mackay
• Mackay Fibre Arts
• Mackay City Ladies Bowling Club Inc.
• CPAP Direct
• Mackay Hospital and Health Services - CHATS
• Ergon Energy Retail
• Mackay District Home Care
• Telstra Regional Australia
• Office of Fair Trading
• Michelle Landry MP & Andrew Willcox MP
• MACKAY MUSICAL COMEDY PLAYERS INC
• selectability
• Sew Create Donate Mackay Inc
• Department of Families, Seniors, Disability Services and Child Safety
• Smoke Alarms Mackay
• Relationships Australia Queensland
• YAMADI AGED AND COMMUNITY CARE
• ADA AUSTRALIA
• Footprints Community
• CatholicCare CQ
• LifeInMotion Exercise Physiology Clinic
• Feros Care
• Acorn Stairlfits
• MHHS - Nurse Navigators
• Queensland Public Trustee
• Meals on Wheels Mackay
• Comlink Australia
• Good Shepherd Lodge Ltd

Residents are encouraged to follow the “Mackay Seniors Expo 2025” event on Facebook to see updates and highlights from past years.

With free entry, easy transport, and a wealth of local knowledge on display, the Mackay Seniors Expo offers the perfect opportunity to connect, learn and celebrate ageing well in our community.

Mackay’s senior community is set to gather this Thursday at The Big Shed, Mackay Showgrounds, for the annual Seniors Expo - a  free event featuring over 80 exhibitors, transport services, and opportunities to connect and celebrate healthy, active ageing. Photo source: Mackay Regional Council

At The 2025 Mackay Family Carnival!
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The Mackay Showgrounds came alive last weekend as families flocked to enjoy the 2025 Mackay Family Carnival — a vibrant celebration of rides, lights, and laughter that ran from September 24 to October 5. Over twelve days, the Showgrounds transformed into a wonderland of colour and excitement, offering everything from thrilling rides and classic showbags to sizzling food stalls and crowd-favourite Pluto Pups.

Visitors of all ages immersed themselves in themed nights, including the lively Country and Western Night, a playful Dress-Up Party, and the adventurous Scavenger Hunt Sunday. Parents and children alike enjoyed the chance to test their skills at sideshow alley, take a spin on adrenaline-pumping rides, or simply soak up the bright carnival atmosphere under the glowing lights.

With free entry and daily specials adding to the fun, the Mackay Family Carnival proved a standout of the school holidays.

The Mackay Family Carnival lit up the Showgrounds last weekend, with families enjoying rides, games, themed nights, and a vibrant school holiday atmosphere. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Hugh Reilly Through The Decades

1945 — Hugh Reilly returns from World War II and, together with Joe Griffin, begins his real estate career in Mackay. Shortly after, he and his wife, Anne Graham Reilly, officially establish Hugh Reilly Proprietary Limited. George Gibbs joins as an executive and shareholder, helping shape the agency’s early direction.

1971 — Hugh Reilly tragically passes away from a heart attack. His son, Steve Reilly, aged 22, steps into leadership alongside George Gibbs.

1970s–1980s — Edward Sydney Cowan, and Frank Comben (valuer) Join as partners and the partnership becomes Hugh Reilly Real Estate.
The agency grows under these partnerships. Frank Comben and later his son Barry who joins as a salesperson play key roles in guiding the business. George Gibbs’ family involvement continues along with his son, Chris Gibbs.

1986 — The agency relocates to the corner of Wood and Gordon Streets, a site it still occupies today, cementing its status as a Mackay landmark and a stable, locally owned institution.

1990s — The firm briefly experiments with a franchise identity (trading as Richardson & Wrench for a short period) before returning to the independent Hugh Reilly Real Estate name, responding to strong local recognition for the original brand.

1996 – Frank Comben retires and Barry Comben and Chris Gibbs enter the Partnership with Syd Cowan.

2007 — After more than two decades on staff, Josey Comerford rises through reception and property management to be offered a partnership stake when Syd Cowan retired, along with Barry Comben; she stepped into principal responsibilities whilst heading up the Property Management department.

2010s–2020s — Hugh Reilly Real Estate evolves its services to include modern digital marketing, commercial sales & leasing, project marketing and continued award-winning property management while remaining a locally owned, independent agency.

2022 — Barry Comben retires and Wendy Chatto buys into the business along with Josey Comerford. Wendy becomes a partner and Senior Property Manager, reinforcing the next generation of leadership in property management. Josey becomes the Managing Director.

Today (2025) — After 80 years, Hugh Reilly Real Estate remains a local, independent agency built on reputation, community service and continuity – a business that has adapted through technological shifts, natural disasters and changing markets while retaining its founding values of integrity.

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