Driven by a quiet passion for supporting teens, volunteer mentor Miriam Houweling has spent the past 18 months helping young learner drivers edge closer to independence through PCYC’s Braking the Cycle program. The initiative pairs volunteers with young people who lack access to a car or supervising adult, giving them a vital pathway to reach their 100 practice hours and unlock new opportunities.

Miriam said she has always enjoyed volunteering, and was seeking new opportunities when she moved from Ipswich to Mackay. She joined the Older Women’s Network , and learned about Braking The Cycle at PCYC Mackay.

She knew this was a role where she could make a difference and feel connected to the young people she was helping.

“I love spending time with teenagers, they all have their funny quirks. If I show them respect, then they show me respect,” Miriam said.

“They all deserve a chance in life,” she said.

Miriam recommends volunteering to anyone who has time to give, and she encourages Mackay locals to come in to PCYC and find out more. PCYC provides full training and support to help mentors guide participants in becoming safe and confident drivers.

PCYC Queensland CEO Phil Schultz said Braking the Cycle provides young people with the freedom and independence to help them connect with their community.

“We have more than 700 BTC volunteers across the state who provide their time, skills and experience to help young people who may not be able to access or afford driving lessons the chance to gain their driving skills – and become safe drivers for the future,” Phil said.

“Having a licence doesn’t just give them the key to drive, it gives them the key to finding and maintaining employment, pursue study opportunities or the ability to support their families and the wider community.”

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Braking The Cycle Graduate Sian Dann with Miriam Houweling. Photo supplied

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Council’s vision of becoming Australia’s leading region for liveability and livelihood gained significant traction in 2024-2025.

Landmark projects, strong community collaboration and record investment drove momentum across the year.

Council’s Annual Report 2024–2025 showcases a year of remarkable achievements, from securing international sporting events to opening the first stage of the Northern Beaches Community Hub.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the report reflected council’s ability to balance strong financial management with bold initiatives that enhanced liveability and attracted investment.

“This year wasn’t just about infrastructure – it was about people, partnerships and possibilities,” Mayor Williamson said.

“We worked hand-in-hand with our community to shape the Mackay Waterfront Place Strategy, we developed tools to help local businesses tackle skills shortages and we secured hosting rights for two international cricket matches,” he said.

“These wins show that the Mackay region isn’t just growing – it’s thriving.”

Mayor Williamson said the Annual Report didn’t just cover the big-ticket items like the Resource Centre of Excellence – Stage 2 Future Industries Hub, it also highlighted the achievements of council’s often unsung teams.

“Our Parks and Open Spaces team did an outstanding job this year, maintaining 23 million square metres of grass across the region,” he said.

“Thanks to new equipment and smarter contracts, we achieved a 97 per cent on-time completion rate during the peak growth season – a result the community can really see and appreciate.

“Regionally, we also invested heavily in improving the Midge Point community’s water supply.

“With a new 11-kilometre water main and advanced cleaning processes, residents are now enjoying clearer water and stronger pressure. It’s a practical improvement that makes a real difference to everyday life.”

Council CEO Gerard Carlyon also acknowledged the outstanding service delivered by council staff.

“This report is packed with information about the achievements of staff and volunteers in 2024-2025,” he said.

“For example, our Civil Operations staff maintained 2442km of roads. Our Nursery team grew and distributed 56,000 native plants. Our Libraries team processed the borrowing of 784,184items and our Vector Control teams treated 4868ha for mosquitoes.”

“The sheer scope of services is something that council and senior management are extremely proud of, and I’d like to thank each and every one of our staff and volunteers for their efforts.”

All this information and more can be found in the 2024-2025 Annual Report on council’s website at mackay.qld.gov.au/annualreport

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Photo source: Mackay Regional Council

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A Mackay mum will have a jolly good Christmas, after astonishingly winning $1 million in the Wednesday Windfall — a prize she initially misread as just $10, prompting a vow never to forget her glasses again.

The Queenslander held the only division one winning entry nationally in Weekday Windfall draw 4635, on Monday 8 December 2025. She can look forward to a clean $1 million paid just in time for Christmas.

The gleeful winner shared that she burst into tears of joy upon discovering she was a millionaire and looks forward to owning her own home.

Her winning 5-game QuickPick entry was purchased via The Lott app – the official home of Australia’s lotteries.

A Mackay mum will never forget to bring her glasses again after initially misreading her incredible $1 million Wednesday Windfall win as just $10.

The Queenslander held the only division one winning entry nationally in Weekday Windfall draw 4635, on Monday 8 December 2025. She can look forward to a clean $1 million paid just in time for Christmas.

When an official from The Lott finally reached her, the ecstatic winner revealed she always played a subscription ticket, allowing her to “set and forget” and let fate do its thing.

“I’m very ecstatic and very happy!” she cheered.

“I just have a subscription. It’s good because I just set it and forget it.

“I always say, ‘You’ve got to be in it to win it!’.

“I had a quick glance, but I didn’t have my glasses on, so I thought I’d won $10.

“Then when I had a chance to look at it properly, I went ‘Holy moly!’. I just cried and cried with joy.

“It’s something I’ve been wishing for.

“I’ve always wanted to own my own home to leave as a legacy for my children and now I can.

“I’m very grateful! Thank you!”

Her winning 5-game QuickPick entry was purchased via The Lott app – the official home of Australia’s lotteries.

The winning numbers in Weekday Windfall draw 4635 on Monday 8 December 2025 were 26, 40, 6, 39, 37 and 12, while the supplementary numbers were 24 and 7.

Across Australia, there was one division one winning entry in Weekday Windfall draw 4635 – the one in Queensland.

The Lott’s division one winning tally has now reached 407 so far in 2025, including 94 won by Golden Casket customers.

In FY25, Weekday Windfall created 94 millionaires across Australia.

During this time, there were 99 division one winning Weekday Windfall entries across Australia, which collectively won $105 million.

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Photo supplied

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The Big Summer Read is back, and it’s bigger than ever!

From now until January 31, children and young people across the Mackay region are invited to dive into a world of stories, imagination and adventure.

Mayor Greg Williamson said this exciting campaign encouraged readers aged birth to 18 to keep their literacy skills strong over the summer holidays while having fun.

“Summer is the perfect time to spark a love of reading,” Mayor Williamson said.

“The Big Summer Read makes it fun and rewarding for families to explore stories together, while helping kids maintain their literacy skills. Every book read is a step toward a brighter future,” he said.

The Big Summer Read is designed to combat the “summer slide” – the loss of literacy skills that can occur during the long break when kids aren’t exposed to books or reading.

By joining the challenge, families will discover the incredible resources available at their local library and experience the joy of reading for pleasure. Whether it’s picture books, novels or audiobooks – every story counts!

How it works:

• Register online at readbooks.com.au – a user-friendly platform where you can track your reading and earn digital badges for milestones.
• Read at least five books or engage in reading for five days to qualify for local and national prize draws.
• For every additional five books or five days logged, you’ll receive extra entries into the prize draw.

Independent readers and those who love being read to can all take part. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to keep reading aloud to young people and log those books too.

So, grab your books, set your goals, and join the Big Summer Read today! Together, let’s make this summer a season of stories.

For more information and to sign up, visit mackay.qld.gov.au/big_summer_read

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Walkerston Library Branch Supervisor Sally Dhu is ready for an epic summer of stories, library adventures and prizes as part of the Big Summer Read. Photo supplied

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Mackay Base Hospital Honours Dr Vaughan’s Legacy

After more than 24 years of dedicated service, Mackay Base Hospital is bidding farewell to medical oncologist Dr Kerrie Vaughan who is retiring after a remarkable career shaping cancer care across the region.

Originally from Melbourne, Dr Vaughan completed her medical degree and oncology specialty training before heading north in search of sunnier skies. She joined Mackay Base Hospital in February 2001, when she was the only oncologist in the region working across both the public and private sectors.

“When I first started here, MBH had just one nurse who could give chemotherapy treatment,” she said.

“Now there’s a whole team including oncology consultants, junior doctors, specialist oncology nurses including McGrath Breast Care Nurses, chemotherapy-trained nurses in the oncology day unit, pharmacists, admin officers and allied health staff.

“It’s been incredible to see how far the service has come.”

Over her career, Dr Vaughan has witnessed extraordinary advances in cancer treatment.

“When I was a junior doctor, managing the side effects of chemotherapy, especially nausea and vomiting, was very difficult,” she said.

“Now there are far better medications and so many more treatment options. Patients are living longer, and more people are being cured of their cancer than ever before.”

She describes immunotherapy as one of the most exciting developments of the past decade and a treatment once thought impossible.

“It’s been amazing to see some people with very advanced cancer potentially cured thanks to this therapy,” she said.

For Dr Vaughan, the greatest reward has always been her patients.

"It has been an honour to accompany people and their loved ones as they negotiate their cancer journey, which is often one of the most difficult and challenging times of their lives,” she said.

Reflecting on her time at Mackay Base Hospital, Dr Vaughan expressed deep gratitude for her colleagues.

“It has been a privilege to work alongside so many dedicated, kind and caring medical, nursing, pharmacy and allied health staff, as well as the surgeons here at MBH and our radiation oncology colleagues at the ICON Cancer Centre and The Townsville University Hospital.

“Everyone in the oncology team is passionate about delivering compassionate, quality care to the people we see,” she said.

Director of Medicine Dr Janath da Silva said Dr Vaughan’s keen interest in innovative therapeutic approaches and advanced cancer treatments had set her apart in oncology, with many in the community benefiting from her exceptional medical expertise and compassionate care.

As Dr Vaughan retires, she leaves behind not just a legacy of clinical excellence but also a thriving, multidisciplinary oncology service built on teamwork and compassion, a testament to more than two decades of dedication.

Congratulations, Dr Vaughan, on an extraordinary career and thank you for your years of service to the Mackay community.

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Local pet rescuer Taylah Kolaric, owner of Lucy’s Lucky Tags and Dog Rescue, is urging the community to stay snake-aware after the sudden loss of her much-loved dog, Lola.

Lola, a five-year-old Boxer, was known for her joy, energy and the affectionate “Lola kisses” she offered to everyone she met.

Taylah said, “Her playful personality was infectious, and she had a natural talent for making people laugh with her silly antics.”

She also played an important role in Taylah’s rescue work.

“Lola was a valuable member of our LLT Dog Rescue team and made an incredible ‘foster-mum’ to our animals in care. From cleaning newborn babies who didn’t have a mum, to waking up the deaf pups to tell them we came home.”

Lola passed away on November 7 after a sudden encounter with a Taipan in the yard of her North Mackay home.

“We sadly lost Lola to a Taipan bite in North Mackay on the 7th of November, 2025. She will be sorely missed at home.”

Taylah hopes her experience reminds families to take simple precautions, even in tidy or well-maintained yards.

“Lola’s yard was clean from scrub, mowed regularly and Lola lived inside. She simply went out to use the bathroom and crossed paths with a Taipan passing through the yard.”

To help reduce risk during snake season, she encourages residents to stay alert and consider steps such as:

• Clearing tall grass and weeds
• Removing timber, rock, and debris piles
• Keeping lawns short
• Avoiding outdoor pet food
• Snake-avoidance training
• Avoiding dog walks at dawn and dusk

Taylah says staying snake-smart is a small but vital way to protect the pets we love.

Supporters who wish to assist the work of Lucy’s Lucky Tags and Dog Rescue can now donate their eligible 10-cent containers through any Containers for Change return point using Scheme ID C11660798. Direct donations can also be made via bank transfer to Lucy’s Lucky Tags and Dog Rescue, BSB 064 722, Account 10697243.

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Local pet rescuer Taylah Kolaric is urging residents to stay snake-smart after losing her beloved dog Lola to a sudden Taipan bite in her North Mackay yard. Photos supplied

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Excitement filled the room at Ocean International Hotel on Monday, 1 December 2025, as families gathered to celebrate the graduation of this year’s Prep-Ready Kids. The young learners, dressed in bright and colourful graduation gowns, proudly marked the end of a year filled with growth, learning, and new friendships.

The Prep-Ready Kids Program, funded by Multicultural Affairs through the Department of Women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships and Multiculturalism, continues to be highly valued by Mackay families, particularly those who are newly arrived and seeking additional support as their children prepare for the transition into Prep.

Throughout 2025, children participated in a wide range of activities designed to build early literacy, numeracy, listening, and social skills. The program also offered hands-on learning experiences, physical play, themed craft sessions, and opportunities for social interaction, helping boost confidence and school readiness.

This year’s graduation ceremony featured a slideshow showcasing the children’s progress, interactive games, a visit from Santa, and the presentation of certificates and medals. The event was made special by the attendance of special guests from Victoria Park State School, led by Prep Transition Officer Mrs. Taylor Warrell and the school captains, who assisted in congratulating the graduates.

For many families, especially those recently settling in Mackay, the morning served as both a celebration of learning and a celebration of community.

Program Coordinator Ela Maglente reflected on a rewarding year.

“It has been wonderful to witness the children’s development and confidence grow. We have also seen strong connections form among parents, and we are extremely grateful for the commitment of our volunteers who supported the program throughout the year,” she said.

Interest in the Prep-Ready Kids Program continues to increase, with families already enquiring about the 2026 intake. Sessions for 2026 will only be for Term 3 and Term 4, held each Monday during the school term, from 9:00 am to 11:00 am, at 43 Shakespeare Street, East Mackay.

Families seeking further information or wishing to register their interest can contact Ela Maglente at elam@tnhub.org.au.

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The Prep-Ready Kids Program celebrated a joyful year of learning and community as young graduates marked their achievements at a vibrant ceremony attended by families, school representatives, and supporters. Photos supplied

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Local Historian Brings Decades Of Stories To Life In New Book Launch

By Hannah McNamara

A lifelong Northern Beaches local, Mr Doug Peterson grew up roaming the sands and streets of Eimeo, Bucasia and Shoal Point long before they became the busy seaside suburbs they are today. Now, after a lifetime of collecting memories, tracking down old-timers and digging through historical records, he has gathered the region’s rich past into a book that will be launched at the Eimeo Hotel next Monday.

Mr Peterson said his passion for documenting local history was sparked by a simple truth.

“Everybody’s got a story, but not many people write them down. Even a tragedy today becomes a good story in twenty years.”

His new book, available exclusively at the Eimeo Hotel, traces the hotel’s origins, early ownership and colourful evolution from a humble coastal escape to the well-loved venue it is today. The hotel, he notes, once even featured a skating rink, which has since been transformed into the modern function room where his book launch will be held.

A natural storyteller, Mr Peterson has an eye for the quirks that make history human. He laughed as he recalled scenes that would leave today’s patrons stunned.

“One publican rode an old horse straight into the bar. Another fellow brought a snake in and put it on the counter… and he got a two-second warning to get it out.”

He also described the nearby Mango Avenue as it once was, lined not only with its signature mango trees, but also pineapples and coconuts. These stories, stitched together, paint a vivid picture of a region much changed yet somehow still familiar.

Some things, he says, haven’t changed at all.

Eimeo Beach has always been the place to be on a hot summer’s day. “Packed” hardly covers it. Public holidays were famous for crowds, just as they are today, and in those days, the Eimeo Hotel even served food and drinks directly to beachgoers on the shoreline.

For Mr Peterson, preserving these memories is more than nostalgia.

“If no one writes this history, no one will ever know… I reckon everybody should know the history… especially the younger generations. If we don’t pass it on, it disappears.”

The community is invited to celebrate the launch of his book next Monday, 15 December, in the upstairs Blue Room at the Eimeo Hotel, fittingly, the very space where the old skating rink once stood. Attendees can meet the author, hear stories firsthand and purchase one of the first signed editions for $16.50.

For those unable to attend, copies will also be available for purchase at the hotel.

In capturing the past, Doug Peterson has ensured the region’s stories aren’t lost to the tides, giving future generations the chance to understand the Northern Beaches’ evolution and appreciate what it has become today.

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Doug Peterson’s new book tells the colourful history of the Eimeo Hotel, from skating rink to a seaside icon. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara and imagery supplied

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Nominations are now officially open for the 2026 JSP Women’s Awards, with The Just Saying Project inviting the Greater Whitsunday community to celebrate the women whose stories bring joy, strength and purpose to the region.

Held on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at the MECC, the annual awards will feature acclaimed Australian author Belinda Alexandra as keynote speaker — a storyteller whose work embodies resilience, creativity and feminine strength, aligning deeply with JSP’s mission.

The opening of nominations also marks the beginning of the JSP Storytelling Season, a dedicated period where The Just Saying Project shares and uplifts women’s lived experiences across the region. This season will continue throughout the lead-up to the awards and beyond, shining a light on the stories that shape the cultural identity of the Greater Whitsundays.

The Just Saying Project (JSP) Founder Fallon Drewett said the storytelling element of the awards is what makes the event so powerful year after year.

“A story doesn’t have to change thousands of lives — sometimes it only needs to change one,” Ms Drewett said.

“When you nominate a woman, you’re not just filling out a form. You’re saying, ‘I see you. Your story matters. What you do matters.’ So many women feel invisible or unsure if their experiences count.

“This is our opportunity as a community to show them that they do.”

Now in its fifth year, the JSP Women’s Awards have become a hallmark event for the region, celebrating women across categories including The Resilient Rebel, Magic Muse, Health and Wellbeing Warrior, Rising Star, Mother of All Mothers, Woman Who Breaks the Mould and The Equaliser — which recognises male allies who champion women.

To help community members feel confident in writing strong and meaningful nominations, JSP will host a Nomination Writing Workshop on Saturday, January 10 at Ninety-Five, Victoria Street from 10am–3pm.

The workshop is open to everyone — women and men — and will guide participants in capturing the heart of someone’s story with clarity and care. Ms Drewett said the workshop is designed to remove the intimidation many people feel when nominating.

“Most people say, ‘I don’t know how to put it into words.’ But you don’t need perfect words — you just need honest ones,” she said.

“Every woman has a story,” she said.

“Some have lived through adversity. Some lead through love. Some create change in their workplace or community, and some spark joy through art or kindness. We want to honour them all. And we need the community’s help to do it.”

Nominations are now open and can be submitted via The Just Saying Project website: https://www.thejustsayingproject.com/nominate

EVENT DETAILS
2025 JSP Women’s Awards
Saturday, March 14, 2026
MECC – Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre
Featuring keynote speaker Belinda Alexandra

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Nominations have opened for the 2026 JSP Women’s Awards, inviting the Greater Whitsunday community to honour the women whose stories shape, strengthen and inspire the region. Photos supplied

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As we wrap up another big year at Community Bank Sarina, I want to thank our wonderful customers, local businesses and the broader Sarina community.

Stepping into the Branch Manager role in June, I immediately felt the warmth and genuine community spirit that makes this region so special. It’s been a privilege to meet so many of you, listen to your stories and see firsthand the pride people have in where we live.

This year, we also celebrated a milestone moment, 20 years of local banking. Two decades of profit for purpose - supporting our community, working alongside local organisations and assisting people to kick their financial goals is something our whole team is proud of.

As we head into the festive season, many of us start reflecting on our goals for the year ahead. Whether you’re considering a home purchase, reviewing your finances, planning for your business or simply wanting to feel more confident heading into 2026, our local team is here to support you.

We’ll be open over the holiday period (except public holidays), and we welcome you to come in for a chat, big or small. There’s real value in sitting down with someone who knows you, knows your community and genuinely wants the best for you. No call centres, no being passed around, just local people you can rely on.

This year our Community Bank reached another major milestone, more than $5 million back to community to support local initiatives since 2005. Every customer who chooses to bank with us enables us to reinvest those profits back into the community we all share, strengthening the places, programs and opportunities that matter most.

On behalf of our team and the Community Bank Sarina Board, I wish you a safe, happy and refreshing holiday season. If 2026 is your year to set strong financial goals, visit us on Broad Street or call 4943 2634 - we’re here for you and here to stay.

Erin Ryley – Community Bank Sarina Manager

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The festive season often brings joy, connection and a chance to unwind.

Yet for some, this time of year can bring challenges, including emotional strain, financial pressures and relationship stress.

selectability Mackay and Sarina’s Regional Coordinator, Nicole Guzowski said with the holiday season fast approaching it was crucial to find support and meaningful connections.

“We know that the holiday season can be a tough time of year, but it’s really important to look after yourself and practice self-care,” said Nicole.

The selectability Mackay team has put together some simple but important self-care tips to help you navigate the holiday season.

Step away from social media: reducing comparisons to those online can increase meaningful connections.

Be kind to yourself: at such a hectic time of the year, remember to take time for yourself and rest to enjoy the season without burnout.

Be kind to others: spreading positive actions can enhance your mood and create a ripple effect on those around you.

Connect with your community: seek out community events and activities to build positive connections. selectability is running group programs that provide opportunities to meet new people, encourage connection, and learn new skills.

“Remembering to take care of yourself and reaching out to the appropriate support can reduce the risk of burnout,” said Nicole.

“Developing strong connections through social activities can also help towards reducing isolation during the season.

“A reminder to the community that selectability’s Clubhouse offers a diverse range of activities that allow recipients to foster friendships.

“There’s a line-up of activities to help recipients get into the festive spirit, such as Christmas crafts, singing group, and cooking to name just a few.

“We’ll be closed on the public holidays and running a reduced timetable from Monday 22 December 2025 until Monday 5 January 2026.

“If you’re looking for something to do over the holiday period, pop in and see the team.

“Support is available, whether you are on the NDIS or not.”

To find out more contact the team on 07 4864 3000 or pop into the Mental Health Hub at 21 River Street.

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Mackay region’s Mothers’ Union branch is stepping up to support local children living with domestic and family violence, launching a community push to place specialised books into libraries and support organisations across the region.

The initiative aligns with the global 16 Days of Activism, beginning 25 November, and will continue locally through to the end of the year as Mothers’ Union Mackay Region welcomes donations to expand the reach of the program.

The branch has already begun purchasing copies of This is Not Yours to Carry by Sarah Brown and Matt Brown – a children’s book for cycle breakers, to help children understand that the violence and anger in the home is not their fault. The resource is intended to provide practical support for children currently experiencing harm, while also helping to break the long-term cycle.

Mothers’ Union Mackay Region President Sheryl McAuley said the goal is to “get a copy of the book into every organisation that can benefit from it”.

“There are children in our community who are going to school each day carrying experiences no child should ever have to navigate,” Ms McAuley said.

“This book gives them language, reassurance and age-appropriate guidance so they know they are not alone.

“We believe early support is critical in keeping children safe now - and in helping prevent violence in the future.”

Ms McAuley said the project was a practical way for the community to participate in the fight against family violence.

“Awareness is important, but so is action.

“This is something tangible we can do right here in Mackay region to support our kids today.”

Distribution will include the six local public libraries, as well as organisations that assist those experiencing domestic and family violence. Mothers’ Union Mackay Region have Mackay Women’s Services, The Neighbourhood Hub, Broken Ballerina and Samaritan House Mackay on their list already, and are open to suggestions from the community for where else this resource would be useful for local kids.

Including postage, each book is $25. For more information or to donate, contact Mackay Anglican Cluster on 07 4957 3341 or email admin@mackayanglicans.org.au.

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Mothers' Union President Sheryl McAuley with children's book aimed at assisting children experiencing domestic violence. Photo supplied

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Queensland’s much-loved giant mud crab populations are thriving, with a major new study reaffirming the State Government’s commitment to maintaining a world-class and sustainable fisheries industry.

A recently completed study led by Queensland’s Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and co-funded by the Australian Government through the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC) has confirmed that there is no current threat to the sustainability of the species. The research highlights the effectiveness of existing regulations, including the male-only harvest policy and the 15-centimetre legal minimum size limit.

The extensive project analysed approximately 20,000 giant mud crabs collected from across the state, using cutting-edge genetic techniques and satellite tagging to examine stock structure, monitor population health, and deepen the understanding of mud crab biology—particularly the spawning migration patterns of females.

DPI Principal Fisheries Scientist and lead researcher Dr Julie Robins said the findings provide strong scientific reassurance that Queensland’s management frameworks are successfully supporting healthy populations.

“Giant mud crabs are an iconic species and a vital part of Queensland’s fisheries, with our state accounting for 64% of Australia’s commercial harvest,” Dr Robins said.

“A significant success was the robust genetic analysis of the mud crab populations along the east coast and the Gulf of Carpentaria.

“Queensland’s male minimum legal-size limit ensures a proportion of mature males are available to reproduce and over 90% of females sampled were mated and getting ready to spawn. This means there’s no shortage of mature crabs to produce the next lot of offspring.”

Dr Robins said the research not only expanded scientific knowledge but also provided crucial biological reference points for future management.

“This study has added tremendous value to our collective knowledge and laid the groundwork for future discussions about mud crab management in Queensland,” she said.

"The collaborative nature of this project, working side-by-side with the commercial fishers, was invaluable. Their local knowledge was key to successfully gathering data on this iconic species."

As giant mud crabs remain a Queensland favourite—both commercially and recreationally—the study’s findings offer welcome confirmation that current sustainability measures are working, ensuring the species continues to flourish for generations to come.

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Dr Julie Robins with one of the 20,000 giant mud crabs measured during the study (Photo Supplied)

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At Let The Children Play Toyshop & Games Store

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, and Let The Children Play Toyshop & Games Store is getting ready to jingle all the way into its biggest and brightest festive season yet. The whole community is invited to join the fun.

Proudly locally owned since 2013, the much-loved toyshop has become a cornerstone of Mackay’s festive season. Known not only for their quality products, but for their active involvement in the community, this year, the team is rolling out a Christmas calendar worthy of a fairy-tale finale.

This Friday, 12 December, the long-running tradition with the Mackay and District Holden and GM Club returns, bringing rumbling engines, beaming families, and one very special VIP!

Club members will escort Santa through the City Heart in classic style before he arrives at the toyshop at 6.30pm for a night of Christmas-themed games, giveaways, karaoke and photo ops.

It’s just one example of how the toyshop continues to champion community connection.

Recent highlights include A Very Merry Christmas Escape, a festive collaboration with Escape Rooms Mackay, which sold out so quickly that an Easter-themed version is already in the works. Year-round, the toyshop hosts activities that spotlight local groups and businesses, ensuring playtime strengthens the fabric of the region.

In-store, families can explore a range of toys, games and puzzles, for all creative minds, many of which can’t be found in big-box retailers, and with knowledgeable staff ready to help customers discover gifts that spark imagination. For those who prefer the online shopping experience, their webstore offers convenience, free local delivery and easy click-and-collect.

As Christmas approaches, the team extends a heartfelt thanks to the Mackay community for more than a decade of support. Because when locals shop local, the whole town stays bright, joyful and wonderfully full of play.

Pop into Let The Children Play Toyshop & Games Store today, or shop online at www.playmackay.com.au

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Councillor Namarca Corowa

When people ask how I ended up on council, I don’t really have a political story to give them.

My values weren’t formed in boardrooms or strategy sessions. I grew up at Slade Point in the 70s 80s and 90s, a family of 8 in a 2-bedroom house.  I grew up in a working-class family, so I understand what it’s like to struggle in our community. My values were shaped watching my parents go to work every day to make a living. We didn’t have everything, but what we had was everything to us and most of the time, that was each other. My values were also shaped in my adult working life, sitting with families, working in youth justice, listening and helping people break cycles instead of repeating them. Those experiences don’t make headlines, but they make leaders.

Before council, I spent years working with young people who had every reason to give up on themselves. I saw firsthand how identity isn’t built through lectures or labels, it’s built through the experience of being seen, respected and believed in. I worked with families trying to hold things together. I listened to mothers who didn’t want their children to follow the same path. I walked with men facing their own choices, deciding whether to finish the story differently than it began.

It doesn’t matter where you start, but it does matter how you finish. I’ve seen people rise from places others had written off. I’ve seen character revealed when someone takes responsibility for their own story. And I’ve seen communities heal when someone decides to finish differently than they began.

People started coming to me, not just for help with a situation, but to share ideas about the future. Every question was a sign. Every story was an invitation. And slowly, the work became bigger than a program, it became community leadership.

From youth justice, I moved into restorative practice, then to men’s programs, cultural education and local advocacy.  By the time someone asked me, “Have you ever thought about council?” it wasn’t a strange question. It felt like a natural step not a leap.

When I arrived at the council table, I didn’t arrive with a political agenda, I arrived with values formed by community; responsibility, belonging, second chances, accountability, cultural respect, identity, listening to understand.

So when decisions came across the table, when I saw agenda items, I also saw faces. When I saw statistics, I saw stories. I didn’t see a policy platform, I saw a place I love.

I want you to see some of what I see through my eyes: what it feels like to make decisions that affect real lives, how the smallest conversations can shape perspective, how every person contributes a piece to the bigger picture and how much wisdom sits quietly in our own community. Leadership isn’t telling people what to think - it’s showing what you’re learning, openly and honestly, so the journey is shared.

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