This week, the Tourism Whitsundays team enjoyed a memorable one-day getaway on Hamilton Island, staying at the luxurious Reef View Hotel. With its stunning location and panoramic views, it was the perfect spot for a quick but rejuvenating island escape.
Our evening began with an exquisitely high-quality dining experience at The Beach Club. We dined just steps from the shore, enjoying delicious food while watching the sunset over the sparkling waters—a perfect start to our stay. The atmosphere was as beautiful as the meal itself, making it a truly relaxing experience.
The next day, the team enjoyed a more laid-back start, most indulging in a well-deserved sleep-in. I opted for my regular 4 am wake-up, eager to catch the breathtaking sunrise from One Tree Hill. The early morning trek was generously rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the Whitsundays as the first light of day painted the sky.
Afterwards, we all gathered for a delicious breakfast at the Reef View Hotel, fuelling up with fresh local options before heading out for some fun. We spent the morning playing pickleball, cooling off in the resort pool, and soaking in the tropical vibes.
Though our time on Hamilton Island was short, it provided the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. It is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to unwind and explore.

Contributed by Jade Yvonne, Business Development Executive,  Tourism Whitsundays

The Tourism Whitsunday team dining at The Beach Club

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When Charlene Saez touched down in Australia in 2019, she never imagined her working holiday would stretch beyond a year.

However, a pandemic and a career opportunity would lead the French woman on a new path, one that ultimately shaped her career in Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) at Richglen.

“I came to Australia five years ago with my partner, intending to stay for just one year,” Charlene said.

“Our plan was to explore the country, work a bit, and see what adventures we could find.”
But when COVID-19 hit and international borders began closing, Charlene and her partner made the choice to stay.

“It allowed us to continue building a life here in a place that felt safe and full of opportunity, even as the world was shutting down.”

“Australia has become more than just a destination – it’s become home,” she explains, reflecting on time spent exploring and working in Tasmania, Queensland, and Western Australia.

Charlene’s professional journey took a sharp turn when she made the move from social work in France to a trades assistant (TA) role in Australia.

“When I came to Australia and transitioned into mining, I started as a TA and was then given a chance to step into a health and safety role,” Charlene said.

“I embraced the challenges of HSE, and I was eager to learn as much as I could.”

Over the next few years, Charlene worked toward a formal qualification, completing her health and safety diploma between November 2023 and March 2024 while managing the demands of her job during shutdowns.

“This hands-on experience and formal training have made HSE a field I’m truly passionate about,” she says. “I always felt supported by Richglen management.”

For Charlene, fostering a culture of safety begins with communication and leadership.
“It’s about making safety a priority in everything we do,” she says.

She’s a believer in leadership by example, and encourages workers to “stop and think” if something feels unsafe.

“I also encourage a culture of openness where people feel comfortable raising safety concerns and looking out for each other.”

Her proactive approach has proven effective, helping boost safety awareness and reducing risk on-site.

Charlene’s adding a dash of culture into her team’s toolbox talks by introducing a new French word each day.

“This came about as a fun way to bring a bit of my background into our routine and make our toolbox talks more engaging,” she says.

“The response has been great! The team enjoys trying out new words, and it’s become a bit of a friendly challenge to remember each one.

“It’s not just about learning French – it’s a way to build team spirit and make the start of each day a bit more lively.”

Charlene is committed to growing her career and is undergoing further study. Through Richglen, she’s pursuing a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, with plans to combine her HSE experience with the new training qualifications.

“My goal is to have a more significant impact in mentoring and guiding others.”

Charlene says anyone interested in pursuing a career in HSE should be proactive in learning and always be curious.

“HSE is a field that’s constantly evolving, so stay up to date with best practices, regulations, and new technologies. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek advice from experienced professionals, and take every opportunity to gain hands-on experience.”

She says safety is about people.

“Building strong relationships with the team is key – understanding people’s concerns and how they work will help you create a safer environment.”

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Richglen HSE Advisor Charlene Saez conducts a toolbox talk with her team at a coal mine in Queensland. 

French woman Charlene Saez is building a life and career in Australia through her HSE role with Richglen. 

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Queensland Health Minister Tim Nicholls visited Mackay Base Hospital the week before Christmas to confirm that the previously announced multi-storey car park project will proceed, now with the addition of a rooftop helipad.

The car park will provide 550 new parking spaces, improving community access to healthcare, but will introduce paid parking for the first time. Rates are yet to be determined, and the project is part of the Queensland Government’s state-wide Hospital Carparking Program, with completion expected in 2026.
The LNP has called out the former government for “mismanagement”, claiming that Labor’s hospital expansion program for Queensland was announced with a projected cost of $9.785 billion but now exceeds $16 billion when accounting for additional beds and clinical facilities.
Minister Nicholls said that the Crisafulli Government is committed to rescuing these projects from Labor's failures and delivering the health services all Queenslanders deserve, including the expanded Mackay Base Hospital.

“The previous Labor Government’s sweetheart deal with its CFMEU paymasters drove up costs and delayed vital upgrades across the Queensland hospital expansion program,” Minister Nicholls said.

L-R: Mackay Hospital and Health Board member Bill Cooper, Mackay Hospital and Health Service Chief Executive Susan Gannon, Minister for Health & Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls, Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton, and MHHS Executive Leadership representatives Natalie Williams and Jenny Farley. Photo source: Mackay Hospital and Health Service

Rooftop Helipad To Boost Emergency Access

“Upgrading Mackay Base Hospital is a critical project, which is why I’m here to talk to doctors, nurses and healthcare practitioners about what they need to be able to do their job properly.

“Let me be clear – the Crisafulli Government will deliver this project as we promised – with the final budget and timeline to be determined during negotiations for construction.

“Our focus being on ensuring taxpayers money is spent wisely and delivers better facilities for patients.”

Minister Nicholls also revealed the design of the new carpark had been changed by the Labor Government in May 2024 to include the proposed relocation of the helipad.

This change had apparently not been previously announced or discussed with the local neighbours and the project is subject to the Ministerial Infrastructure Designation approval process, including consultation with the local community. 

Subject to planning and other approvals, the carpark is planned to commence early works in 2025 and is budgeted separately from the hospital expansion from the statewide hospital carparking program.

The carpark is planned to be completed in 2026.

“This new carpark at the Mackay Base Hospital will make life easier for staff, patients, and their families.

“The potential for including a helipad on the roof of the carpark would significantly improve patient transfers to the critical care needed in the hospital,” Minister Nicholls said.

The helipad was temporarily relocated to Mackay Airport at the start of the year to allow for the safe delivery of hospital expansion works at Mackay Base Hospital.

Mackay Hospital and Health Service Chief Executive Susan Gannon welcomed the design and said it would help to boost patient outcomes.

“I have no doubt our staff, patients and visitors will welcome an end to our car parking challenges.

“We know how challenging it can be to find a park, considering we have very big and busy outpatient clinics.

“As we continue to expand our services and provide increasing care for our community, we know this new carpark will provide a secure location close to the hospital for all our visitors and staff.

“Importantly, the addition of the helipad in the design will further improve our services to patients because it will enable us to transfer them from the helipad to the emergency department faster,” Ms Gannon said.

   • Better healthcare services being delivered in Mackay
   • Work continues on hospital expansion
   • New carpark design to include helipad for quicker and safer patient transfer to emergency services

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls with Member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton MP. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Artist Impression of Mackay Base Hospital upgrades set to commence in 2026

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As we welcome 2025, there’s a collective sense of excitement, anticipation, and perhaps even a little bit of uncertainty about what this new year will bring. The turning of a calendar page symbolises the possibility of a fresh start, a chance to reset, reimagine, and pursue our goals with renewed energy.
However, as the philosopher Lao Tzu reminds us, “The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.” While the promise of a new year is motivating, it is the actions we take that ultimately lead to transformation. A new calendar won’t magically change our lives—it’s up to each of us to make it happen by embracing the power of choice and taking the first step toward our aspirations.
If you’re hoping for change in 2025, remember that it’s not just about wishing for things to be different; it’s about committing to the actions that will bring you closer to your goals. Whether it’s in your career, relationships, health, or personal growth, every small step you take is part of the larger journey.
In this week’s edition, we’ve curated a collection of inspiring features to help you begin the year with intention. Pages 18-22 are filled with content to inspire your health and wellness journey, including tips on nutrition, mindfulness, and wellness practices to nourish both body and mind. Whether you’re looking to embrace a healthier lifestyle or simply seeking balance in a busy world, these pages offer practical advice to set you on the right path.
Additionally, pages 23-25 showcase our Back to School feature, highlighting the achievements of local students and offering helpful insights on making the transition to the new school year easier.
As we step into 2025, let’s remember that the new year is not just a time to reflect on what we hope for, but also a chance to take action toward making those hopes a reality.
Here’s to a year filled with growth, courage, and the power to create the change we seek.
Amanda

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During the bustling Christmas season, one act of kindness turned a near disaster into a heart-warming story of gratitude. A local shopper at Mt Pleasant Shopping Centre was plunged into panic after losing his iPhone, which contained all his cards and holiday cash. With Christmas just days away, the thought of cancelling everything and losing precious family moments was overwhelming.

Thanks to Jade, a security guard at the centre, his compassion and quick thinking turned things around for the local shopper. When the distressed shopper approached him, he didn’t hesitate to help. Walking alongside him, they retraced his steps, searching high and low for the missing phone.

When their efforts seemed fruitless, Jade then had a brilliant idea.

He offered his own iPhone, allowing him to log in to iCloud and use the “Find My iPhone” feature. Together, they followed the map, navigating the busy shopping centre. Despite juggling work calls and handling mischievous scooter riders, Jade was committed to assist and help the shopper find his phone.

At one point, he even left the shopper with his phone while assisting another woman with her wheelchair, and when he returned, they continued the search.

Soon after, the missing phone was found, intact with all its contents.

Thanks to Jade’s kindness and trust, the shopper and his family woke up to a “beautiful Christmas morning”. In a display of his gratitude, he plans to return to the centre to thank him personally, perhaps with a small gift.

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Police are investigating after a Mackay man lost his life in a tragic road accident on the Bruce Highway near Kuttabul on the 28th of December.
Emergency services were called to the scene around 2:35 pm following a three-vehicle collision involving a northbound Toyota Hilux, a southbound Chevrolet Silverado towing a caravan, and a southbound Toyota Kluger.
Initial investigations suggest the Hilux came into contact with the Silverado before colliding with the Kluger. The driver of the Kluger, a 76-year-old man from East Mackay, suffered critical injuries and was declared deceased at the scene.
A 68-year-old East Mackay woman, who was a passenger in the Kluger, was rushed to Mackay Base Hospital in critical condition.
The driver of the Hilux, a 65-year-old Bloomsbury man, was also taken to Mackay Base Hospital but was reported to be in a stable condition.
The occupants of the Silverado escaped without physical injuries.
The Forensic Crash Unit is conducting investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident. Police have urged witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage from the area at the time to come forward.

Man Faces Multiple Charges Following Mackay Harbour Incident
Police have charged a 40-year-old Slade Point man with multiple offences after an alleged trespass at a business on Ken White Avenue, Mackay Harbour, on the morning of December 19.
Authorities were called to the scene at approximately 9:45 am following reports of a disturbance. Upon arrival, officers located the man in a Holden Commodore utility.
Following a brief interaction, the man was taken into custody and transported to the Mackay Watch House. He has since been charged with several offences, including trespass, unlawful possession of a dangerous drug, drug driving, unlawful possession of a knife in a public place, and two counts of shop-stealing.
The accused is set to appear in Mackay Magistrates Court on February 5, 2025.

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The Mackay region celebrated a heartwarming Christmas with the arrival of two beautiful babies at Mackay Base Hospital on December 25, spreading festive joy to their proud families.
Little Harrison ("Harry") Timms was the first to make his debut, arriving at 4:52 am. Weighing a healthy 8lb 8oz (4.01kg), Harry is the first child for Moranbah couple Jaime and Ben Timms. The delighted parents are overjoyed with their Christmas miracle, who was warmly welcomed by the hospital’s midwifery team, including Jasmine, Sarah, Jess, Kaylah, Megan, Sharni, and Emily.
Later in the day, at 2:03 pm, Airlie Beach couple Shakaya and Age became parents to their first child, a son born via caesarean section. The early arrival, born three weeks ahead of schedule, was a joyful surprise after Shakaya was transferred from Proserpine Hospital to Mackay for the delivery. The couple is keeping their little one’s name under wraps for a special announcement in the coming days.
These two precious arrivals have brought extra cheer to the region this Christmas, making it an unforgettable holiday for their families. Huge congratulations to Jaime, Ben, Shakaya, and Age on their very special Christmas gifts!

Harry is pictured with Mackay Base Hospital midwifery staff, back row from left, Jasmine, Sarah, Jess, Kaylah and front row from left, Megan, Sharni and Emily. Photo source: Mackay Hospital and Health Service
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Airlie Beach couple Shakaya and Age welcomed their first son at 2.03pm on Christmas Day

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OPINION PIECE
As 2024 draws to an end the Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox reflects on the year that was, somewhat pleased with what he has achieved over the past 12 months, and knowing more needs to be done, is looking forward to 2025, where he says he will be working to be rid of Labor when the election takes place.
Despite being in opposition, Mr Willcox has been focused on improving the lives of residents, community organisations and businesses for generations to come in his large electorate.
“Why do I do this?
“To grow a stronger future for generations to come, to make the electorate a better place for my people to live. My goal is to be in government, have access to the treasury and get more things done,” Mr. Willcox said.
Mr. Willcox says he is a member for the entire electorate. He doesn’t take his role for granted with his strong presence both across the region from Mackay to Townsville. When the Member is not down in Canberra at Parliament he spends his time on the road clocking up over 60,000 km a year meeting with constituents and holding pop-up mobile office stalls and can be regularly found in shopping centres like Canelands Central Mackay or Fairfield Central Shopping Centre in Townsville.
“There’s nothing more powerful than speaking directly with the people, then taking those wishes and comments to Parliament. When questioned, I know exactly what I am saying is correct, as it has come straight from my constituents, you can’t argue with that.”
The community has shown great support for the work the member for Dawon does each day raising concerns about the current state of the Bruce Highway, the cost-of-living crisis and the plagued telecommunication network, just to name a few. Each year Mr Willcox’s team in the Mackay office helps take calls about NDIS, Aged Care, Immigration and other issues as well as processing applications for grants.
Mr Willcox said sometimes it was the little wins like when the 2023/24 Volunteers Grant was awarded to a local Meals On Wheels.
“These are the things that make my job worthwhile. Meals on Wheels is an amazing organisation and for them to receive even just a small amount of funding goes a long way.”
It’s been no surprise that the current state of the Bruce Highway has been high on the Federal Member’s mind, he describes it as a “congo line of potholes” and thanks to Labor's callous decision to pull funding from 80:20 split with the State Government to 50:50, no improvement will be forthcoming anytime soon.
Recently in Canberra during the final sitting week Mr Willcox met with the Honourable Peter Dutton and Nationals Leader David Littleproud who confirmed if elected into government, they will restore the funding back to the 80:20 arrangement. Mr Willcox was instrumental in starting the “Back Our Bruce” petition which has received more than a thousand signatures so far and will be tabled to the Federal Transport Minister Catherine King.
During his time in the nation’s capital, he spoke against the Misinformation Bill which was rejected by the Coalition. Each year several rallies happen, and Mr Willcox spoke at the fight against the banning of gillnet fishing and attended a rally to support farmers.
Moving forward to 2025 Mr Willcox will continue to fight for an improved Bruce Highway where he hopes common sense prevails to bring the highway up to a safe standard like other states have.
The Federal Election will be called sometime in early 2025 and the Federal Member for Dawson is looking forward to serving the region of Dawson from the north to south in the new year.

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In one of the final acts for Mackay Regional Council in 2024, Keswick Island off Mackay was officially gazetted as a locality on 20th December, 2024.
That means the island is now effectively a suburb of Mackay Regional Council.
This follows lobbying by the island’s residents and a collaborative effort between the State Government and council.
Deputy Mayor Karen May said Keswick Island residents had been lobbying for this to happen.
“They wanted this to occur so they effectively have their own suburb, and it is clear where they live,’’ Cr May said.
“In the past, not being a locality has impacted residents trying to obtain insurance,’’ she said.

“It also made it difficult to establish their address for the purposes of verifying their identity based on place of residence.

“Ultimately, this will make it clear the exact location of the properties located on the island, so they can be easily located and verified by government and corporate agencies.”
The decision was made under the Place Names Act 1994 by Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing, and Regional and Rural Development, Dale Last.
It followed work undertaken by the State Government and council’s GIS (Geographic Information System) staff.
The process also involved public consultation by the State Government with relevant stakeholders in July and August.
The decision was published in the Queensland Government Gazette on December 20th, 2024.

Photo source via Instagram: @b.l.a.i.r._.h.i.l.l
Map showing the new locality of Keswick Island

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Dudley Denny City Library is currently closed due to water damage sustained during last month’s extended rain event.
Areas of flooring and ceiling material will need to be replaced.
Mackay Regional Council is currently assessing the damage and will undertake remediation works as soon as possible.
Council hopes to have the facility reopened by the end of January, 2025.
All other libraries will reopen on Thursday, January 2, 2025.
Mackay residents looking to return borrowed items and access library services during the Dudley Denny City Library closure are encouraged to use Gordon White Library (54 Phillip Street, Mt Pleasant).
While Dudley Denny City Library is closed, Gordon White Library will open on Sundays from 10am to 2pm.
Council apologises for any inconvenience caused by this unplanned closure.
For updates, please follow Mackay Regional Council Libraries on Facebook.

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In Mackay Regional Council’s new Arts and Culture Strategy 2025 to 2030 there is a focus on providing artists and community groups with more affordable access to facilities and infrastructure.
The strategy, which is now adopted and live on council’s website, sets out a clear vision for arts and culture in the Mackay region, which underpins our region's liveability and prosperity.
A key action of the strategy is to partner with local stakeholders to develop an “Arts Hub” that considers community needs and provides a multi-arts facility.
Deputy Mayor Karen May said such a facility would ideally have low-rent studios, rehearsal spaces, workshop spaces and potential exhibition and retail spaces.
“Ideally we want to explore ways for creative practices to activate underutilised regional places and spaces, like many of our beautiful City Centre buildings,” Cr May said.
“Not only would the activation of a City Centre Arts Hub fill a shortage in affordable multi-arts infrastructure, but it would also help to further enhance foot traffic in the City Centre and the liveability of our region,” she said.
“Such a hub would also provide a base for future placemaking activities and initiatives that further activate the area.”
Cr May said investigations were already underway into potential City Centre buildings that could accommodate an Arts Hub.
She said that council was also committed to ensuring the Northern Beaches Community Hub was reflective of the community’s creative needs.
“The facility will include spaces that will facilitate a range of community activities, programs, services and events.”
Other goals in the strategy include:
   • Amplifying First Nations voices and talents while building inclusive and diverse audience engagement pathways.
   • Growing local creative ecologies by increasing capability, growing opportunities, raising profiles and deepening audience engagement and community participation.
   • Building and promoting a distinctive creative identity for Mackay, showcasing the richness of our cultural landscape.
The Arts and Culture Strategy 2025 to 2030 was developed with extensive consultation with local artists, performers, creatives, venue hosts and industry stakeholders.
Residents can view the strategy at mackay.qld.gov.au/arts

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Local Member for Whitsunday and Minister for Domestic and Family Violence Amanda Camm has announced a comprehensive plan to strengthen DVConnect, marking a significant milestone in Queensland’s domestic violence support services.
DVConnect, which fields an average of 450 calls daily, connects thousands of Queenslanders to vital on-the-ground services. Over the past year, demand for help has risen by one-third, with even greater pressures anticipated during the new year—a time often marked by increased family tensions.
If you are in imminent danger, contact the police by calling 000.
As part of the State Government’s 100 Day Plan, the initiative will also establish a working group dedicated to addressing the needs of victims of domestic, family, and sexual violence.
The scope of the DVConnect analysis will focus on three key areas:
   • Accountability and transparency
   • Demand across the system
   • Future service delivery models
This includes a review of demand and data as well as exploring options to enhance 24/7 crisis support.
Ms. Camm noted that the last major assessment of DVConnect was conducted in 2017, underscoring the urgency of revisiting and improving the system.
“Under the former Labor Government, the number of victims of family and domestic violence continued to rise while funding allocations failed to create meaningful impact,” Ms. Camm said.
“As the local MP for Whitsunday, I am deeply committed to ensuring our community and all Queenslanders have access to services that meet their needs. There’s a vital opportunity to better understand demand and ensure that the systems we design are truly fit for purpose.”
Highlighting the immediate need for support during the festive season, Ms. Camm emphasised the importance of DVConnect’s 24/7 availability.
“The holiday season often adds extra pressures to families already at risk, leading to an increase in violence during this period,” she said.
“Help is always just one phone call away through DVConnect. Our aim is to ensure Queenslanders experiencing domestic or family violence feel supported not just during the holidays, but every day of the year.”
The initiative forms part of the Crisafulli Government’s $31.25 million expansion of DVConnect, which includes a new North Queensland hub.
“This expansion will double the capacity of both the Womensline and Mensline helplines and enhance regionalised support throughout Queensland,” Ms. Camm said.
“As the Member for Whitsunday, I am proud to champion a review that will elevate services and ensure that specialised organisations, including police and community services, can work together to keep families safe.”
The tender process for these initiatives will commence early next year, with completion expected by June 2025.
IN BRIEF
New analysis of DVConnect to better support critical service
Coincides with 100 Day Plan to establish working group with victims of domestic, family, and sexual violence
Enhances $31.25 million expansion of DVConnect with new North Queensland hub

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MP Amanda Camm at Government House

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The rescue, recovery, and release of Isla, a juvenile green sea turtle, has been hailed as a triumph of teamwork and dedication. Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc. has shared this heartwarming story, made possible through the swift actions of Mackay District Turtle Watch (MDTW) and the steadfast support of Cruise Whitsundays.
Isla was discovered stranded in the scorching sun, overheated and weak. The quick intervention of MDTW ensured her safe transport to the Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre, where the Eco Barge team began her intensive care.
Upon arrival, Isla was severely malnourished and suffering from float syndrome, a condition that prevents turtles from diving to feed. Months of meticulous care followed, with the team working tirelessly to nurse her back to health. Gradually, Isla regained her strength, showing a particular fondness for cuttlefish, and began thriving under the watchful eyes of her caregivers.
Isla’s release marked the culmination of her journey to recovery. Returned to the waters near Seaforth, close to Rabbit Island, she swam powerfully back to her natural feeding grounds—a triumphant moment for all involved.
Libby Edge, Founder of Eco Barge, reflected on Isla’s journey saying that Isla’s recovery highlights the incredible teamwork and dedication of the organisation’s partners.
“A huge thank you to Mackay District Turtle Watch for their swift response and to Cruise Whitsundays for their continued support.
“Every turtle we save is a testament to what we can achieve together to protect our marine life.”
Ali Yates from MDTW also expressed gratitude, saying, “Thanks to my friend Owen Pershouse for being there that day. If we hadn’t been on the water, Isla would have perished in the heat.
“Owen’s quick action in bringing Isla back to safety was crucial.”
This success story underscores the commitment of the Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre, its volunteers, and supporters. Since 2013, the centre has cared for over 272 turtles. To continue this critical work, the centre is seeking support for a 2025 upgrade to its facilities.
How You Can Help
Community members can contribute by donating at Eco Barge Clean Seas. Businesses interested in supporting the centre’s mission are encouraged to get involved.
If you encounter a sea turtle in distress, call 1300 130 372 for assistance. Together, we can ensure that more turtles like Isla have a second chance at life.
For further information or to support ongoing rescue efforts, visit ecobargecleanseas.org.au or email info@ecobargecleanseas.org.au.

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Isla, the rescued green sea turtle, is taken back to the water, ready to return to her ocean home after months of recovery. Photos supplied

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A surgical team at Mackay Base Hospital (MBH) has been reaping the benefits of a professional connection forged in Edinburgh almost 15 years ago.
Dr Graeme Walker, formerly of Edinburgh and now the Director of Gynaecology at Gold Coast University Hospital, had a major influence on the career path of Obstetrics & Gynaecology specialist Dr Wojciech Szubert who joined the MBH Women’s Health Unit twelve months ago.
Last month, the former colleagues were scrubbed up and in theatre together again in Mackay as Dr Walker provided training in endoscopic surgery techniques.
“This is a journey for our department,” Dr Szubert said.
“Here in Mackay, 12 to 18 months ago, most of the hysterectomies were done by open surgery.
“Two of my colleagues started upskilling about a year ago, guided by a consultant visiting from the Sunshine Coast.
“And then I joined the team in Mackay in December last year; laparoscopic surgery is what I am trained to do.”
Dr Szubert explained that most hysterectomies and other gynaecological operations can be performed through keyhole surgery.
“Within one year we have shifted from open surgery to having the majority of the hysterectomies performed through keyhole surgery,” he said.
“The next step is improving the efficiency of the entire team, so we work quicker, more efficiently, and from the patient’s perspective, they can safely get discharged home quicker.
“We have reduced down from a three-day hospital stay for open surgery to, at the moment, having the patients go home the next morning.”
Dr Szubert is hoping for further improvements so that selected patients may be able to go home the same day, and the training provided by Dr Walker supports increasing efficiency and patient safety.
Dr Walker runs clinical immersion courses for theatre teams at the Gold Coast four times a year.
“This is always for the team, specifically the anaesthetist, surgeon, scrub scout and recovery nurse,” Dr Walker said.
“And what we’ve done here in Mackay is in reverse.
“It’s basically just me helping Wojciech to allow the department here to see what is the norm at the Gold Coast University Hospital in endoscopic surgery.”
Dr Walker explained that the specialist medical equipment company Medtronic support him to conduct the clinical immersion courses, and they also sponsored the collaboration in Mackay.
The two-day training experience has been a great success.
“I think the entire team – anaesthetics, gynaecology and nursing – has been absolutely excited to see that we can improve efficiency without any cost,” Dr Szubert said.
“Everyone is very keen to collaborate, very keen to make further changes, to advance the quality of the care we provide, and make surgical treatments less invasive and safer.”

An MBH theatre team participating in a training course with Gold Coast University Hospital Director of Gynaecology Dr Graeme Walker, back left, are Doctors Szubert, Savant and Anand, and front from left, anaesthetist Dr Anderson, clinical nurse Jaimee and registered nurse Ruby. Photo source: Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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Move It Chiropractic has embraced the spirit of giving this holiday season by adopting a family through the “Adopt a Family for Christmas” program. This initiative, designed to provide gifts, food, and other essentials to families in need, highlights the power of community in spreading joy and hope during the festive season.

A simple, yet impactful gesture allows participants to select a family from a list provided by a participating charity, buy a gift for each family member, and deliver the items to a designated drop-off point.

For Move It Chiropractic, the initiative became a heartfelt team effort.

“Over the past two months, it’s been all hands-on deck,” said Deb Wilkinson from Move It Chiropractic.

“We’d like to thank all the participants, patients, and staff who have contributed to such a wonderful cause for our community.”

With a team of six staff members, including two chiropractors, three chiropractic assistants, and a massage therapist, the business rallied together to ensure the holiday season is special for families facing hardship. Even patients joined in, donating items and spreading festive cheer. Together, they created hampers filled with non-perishable food, tinned goods, chips, and treats for Christmas.

One hamper was delivered to the Neighbourhood Hub to support a family through the “Adopt a Family” program, while another went to Chances House, which assists those experiencing homelessness.

A representative from the Neighbourhood Hub expressed their appreciation, and said, “This year’s Adopt a Family Christmas Program has been a heart-warming success, and it’s all thanks to the generosity of local community members and businesses who stepped up to spread joy in our community.

“To everyone who donated, volunteered, or helped spread the word - thank you for making the holiday season brighter for those in need.

“You are the heart of our community!”

Chances House also thanked participants, stating that they were blown away by the generosity and Christmas spirit of their incredible community.

“A massive thank you to all the amazing people who dropped off donations over the past week to support those experiencing homelessness in Mackay,” a spokesperson said.

“Your kindness is making a real difference to the people in our community experiencing homelessness.

“Together, we’re spreading hope and joy to those who need it most.”

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Move It Chiropractic embraced the spirit of giving this holiday season by rallying their team and patients to support families in need through the “Adopt a Family for Christmas” program, delivering hampers of food and gifts to spread hope and joy. Photos supplied

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