Sarina Athletics Club has celebrated a strong 2025 season, with more than 60 members returning to the Clubhouse this year. Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank has continued to be active in sponsoring the Club’s rebuilding and ongoing growth.

Steady participation across the season highlights the Club’s commitment to providing an inclusive environment where children and families can engage in sport and develop valuable life skills.
Athletes have enjoyed a year of development, with several travelling to Bowen to represent Sarina Athletics Club and returning with medals as well as valuable experiences that will shape their sporting journey.

Sarina Athletic Club Fundraising Coordinator Nicole McCowan said the Club has had a “busy year bringing the community together, thanks to the sponsorship support by Community Bank Sarina”.

“This year we hosted several local school and district carnivals, giving children the chance to get active close to home,” Ms McCowan said.

“The support from Community Bank Sarina, including their $5,000 sponsorship, has assisted us in strengthening our programs and creating even more opportunities for our members.”

Part of the rejuvenation was the introduction of the Squirts Program for children aged 2–5. The Athletics program continues to provide parents with the opportunity to get involved.

Another key part of reestablishing the Club has been enhancing its facilities and community services, including security screens for the canteen, crash bars on roller doors, security cameras and a new automatic external defibrillator (AED) accessible 24/7, providing potentially life-saving support and reinforcing the Club’s role as a safe and inclusive space for the broader community.

With the ongoing support of Community Bank Sarina, these events provide hundreds of local children the opportunity to participate in sports close to home, encouraging connection and a sense of belonging within our region.

Sarina Athletics Club will kick off its 2026 season after Easter, running across Terms 2 and 3. For updates on season start dates and Club activities, visit: Sarina Athletics Club Facebook.

To learn more about how Community Bank Sarina supports local initiatives and contributes to the community, visit: Community Bank Sarina Facebook.

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The Sarina Athletics Club. Photo supplied

Quality Aged Care You Can Trust

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We are proud to be part of this year’s Seniors Expo and to showcase the warm, values-led care provided at Good Shepherd Lodge and Kerrisdale Gardens. For over 50 years, we have been supporting older people in Mackay and the Whitsundays with residential aged care, independent living, and respite services designed to meet individual needs and support wellbeing.

Our approach is centred on compassion, respect, and dignity. We believe aged care should feel like home where residents are safe, supported, and connected to community. From engaging lifestyle activities and wellness programs to nutritious meals and personalised clinical care, everything we do is focused on enhancing quality of life.

We are also proud of our dedicated and caring staff who go above and beyond every day to make a difference. They are the heart of our service, and their commitment ensures residents and families feel valued and respected.

Come and visit our booth at the Expo to meet our team, ask questions, and learn more about how we can support you or your loved one on the journey of ageing well. Together, we can create a future of care you can trust.

Services we offer include:

• Residential Aged Care
• Home Care
• Memory Care
• Physio Services
• Independent Living Options

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Sarina State High School student, Joel Raward, was given an unforgettable behind-the-scenes experience at the Helicore BMA CQ Rescue Helicopter base last month on Thursday, 18 September.

Joel was treated to a full tour of the CQ Rescue facility, where he explored the control room and gained insight into how the coordination team manages life-saving missions across the region. He also had the chance to sit inside the helicopter itself, learning how the crew operates during critical rescue and aeromedical emergencies.

Operating 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, the BMA CQ Rescue helicopter serves as a lifeline for Central and North Queensland, reaching even the most remote locations. From urgent medical transfers to search and rescue operations, the skilled crew is always ready to respond when every second counts.

This vital community service depends heavily on public support to stay in the air. Donations help ensure that CQ Rescue can continue delivering rapid-response care when it’s needed most.

To learn more or contribute, visit www.cqrescue.org.au

Sarina student Joel Raward toured the BMA CQ Rescue base, gaining insight into its vital life-saving operations. Photo source: Sarina State High School (Facebook)

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This year Queensland Mental Health Week starts from 4-12 October and is the perfect time to come together and raise awareness about mental health and wellbeing.

One in five Australians aged 16-85 (22%) are estimated to have experienced a mental disorder in the last 12 months, while more than two in five (43%) have experienced one in their lifetime.

The theme of the year – ‘connect for mental health’ - invites us all to reflect on the importance of connections – with ourselves, others, our community, and nature, and how it can positively impact mental health.

selectability is proud to be a vital part in enhancing the mental wellbeing of regional Queenslanders.

With a strong focus on tailored support, the team are committed to fostering community connections by providing accessible support through a wide range of services, programs, and initiatives.

Nicole Guzowski, selectability regional coordinator for Mackay and Sarina, said programs like the Clubhouse offer a safe and welcoming environment for individuals to build new skills, share experiences, and work towards improved mental wellbeing.

“Whether it’s getting involved in self-reflection activities, engaging with others through fishing and games, or connecting with the community and nature through wellness walks and BBQs,” said Nicole.

“These activities are designed to foster connection and support but also reduce loneliness.”

For anyone over 18 seeking support to improve their mental wellbeing, there are a range of NDIS packages available, and funding options for those not on the scheme. To find out more contact the team on 07 4864 3000.

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This year, thanks to Tropical Petography, Mackay’s dogs have been given the chance to shine on the international stage as part of the Tails of the World book project.

Tails of the World is an annual international photography book celebrating dogs from around the globe. Featuring stunning portraits by professional pet photographers, each edition showcases local dogs in their hometowns – from bustling cities to breathtaking landscapes. Founded by Caitlin J.

McColl, the project brings together photographers with a shared mission, to make a difference for pets in need and to spread joy through beautiful photography and heartwarming stories.

Now in its latest edition, this years project features the work of 81 photographers from 15 countries around the world. To date, over US $170,000 has been raised for animal rescue charities around the world.

Gee Emm of Tropical Petography said, "I was honoured to be chosen this year as Mackay’s representative photographer, contributing portraits of 14 much-loved local dogs in some of our region’s most scenic spots.

“From our stunning beaches to the leafy paths of the Mackay Regional Botanic gardens, these images capture the spirit of Mackay dogs while showcasing the beauty of our region.”

Each participating family paid a session fee, with 100% of that going directly to Mackay Pet Rescue Inc. to support their work rehoming and caring for dogs in need. The finished book not only celebrates pets but also provides real, lasting help for animals in need.

With hundreds of dogs from around the world brought together in one beautifully crafted hardback edition, Tails of the World is proof of the joy, love, and connection that canine companions can bring into our lives – no matter where we call home.

Copies of Tails of the World -2025 edition will be available for purchase later this year, with all proceeds from book sales being donated to Geelong Animal Welfare Society.

All 14 dogs that will be included in the book.

Gee Emm (L), Photographer from Tropical Petography, handing over the donation to MPRI Secretary Janet Ambrose (R). Photos supplied

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Memory, Meaning, And The World Around You

If you’ve ever thought about writing your memoir but wondered how to move beyond personal reflection, this free workshop is for you.

Memory, Meaning, and the World Around You: Deepening Your Memoir will be held at the Dudley Denny Library on Saturday 18 October, and is designed for anyone aged 15 and up who wants to bring greater depth, honesty, and perspective to their life story.

This interactive two-hour session – presented by publishing consultant and 852 Press director Dr Julia Evans, together with Richard Evans, accomplished author of ten crime thrillers (inspired by true events) – is perfect for writers at any stage of their memoir or family history journey.

The workshop will explore how to enrich personal narratives by drawing on letters and correspondence, situating stories in their cultural and historical context, and navigating the complexities of memory and writing about others.

Through short, practical exercises and guided discussion, participants will:

• Learn how to use and interpret personal letters to uncover emotional truths and historical detail.
• Explore techniques for weaving major historical events and cultural shifts into a personal narrative.
• Discuss ethical and creative approaches to writing about family, friends, and others in your story.
• Discover strategies for handling memory gaps while maintaining authenticity and coherence.

No experience is necessary—just bring your preferred writing device, copies of letters and photos you want to write about, and a curiosity to explore your own story.

Event Details

What: Memory, Meaning, and the World Around You: Deepening Your Memoir
When: 9:30am-11:30am Saturday 18 October 2025
Where: Dudley Denny City Library, 134 Victoria Street, Mackay
Admission: FREE. Open to ages 15+. Limited to 40 participants.
What to bring: Preferred writing device and copies of letters and photos.

Spots are limited, so book early with the Mackay Regional Council Libraries: https://mackay.events.mylibrary.digital/event?id=164962

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James Cook University (JCU) researchers are calling for urgent government support to protect the spectacled flying-fox from extinction as new and escalating threats push the species closer to the brink.

Despite their reputation as noisy and messy neighbours, spectacled flying-foxes play a vital role in the survival of Australia’s rainforests, travelling vast distances to pollinate flowers and spread seeds at levels unmatched by any other species.

JCU adjunct associate professor Noel Preece said recent research shows long-term threats such as land clearing and human persecution are now being compounded by climate change and invasive ants, leaving the species increasingly vulnerable.

“The spectacled flying fox is a keystone species,” Prof Preece said.

“It’s one of the great travellers in distributing seeds across the wet tropics and Cape York landscapes, and a major pollinator of the forest.

“They can fly over 100km from their roost to find food and return home, flying over 200 kilometres in a single night. They move fruit around, pollinate trees and prevent tree inbreeding, and they have evolved with the rainforest, so they play a vital role in the Wet Tropics.

“It will be truly catastrophic to our rainforests if they are gone.”

CSIRO monitoring has already highlighted a dramatic decline, with numbers dropping 75 per cent between 2004 and 2017. Preece said the lack of consistent government support for monitoring and conservation programs is alarming.

“There’s no indication that the population decline has turned around. There’s nothing to suggest that, and no reason we can think of that it would just turn around,” he said.

“We do need to get the government to support this as a long-term program.”

While flying-foxes have long struggled with public perception, Preece said many issues can be easily managed.

“The problems they cause can be managed, and their ecological value far outweighs the nuisance.”

JCU-led research researchers calls for urgent government support to protect the spectacled flying-fox from the threat of extinction (Photo Supplied)

The Toastmasters Area 14 Conference will take place on Saturday, 25 October 2025, hosted by the Mackay Regional Council Toastmasters Club. This year’s theme is “The Art of Speaking Stronger Together.

The event will showcase the very best in public speaking, with contestants from the Mackay Clubs competing in four contests: Impromptu, where speakers think quickly on their feet; Evaluation, demonstrating the art of constructive feedback; Humorous, guaranteed to bring plenty of laughs; and the prestigious International Speech Contest, where powerful and inspiring messages are shared.

Winners from the Area 14 Conference will go on to represent the region at the Northern Division Conference with Toastmasters from Rockhampton to Cairns attending, being held in Mackay on the 7th February 2026. From there, competitors have the chance to advance all the way to the Toastmasters International World Championship of Public Speaking held in America.

Mackay is home to five Toastmasters clubs, each offering a supportive environment to grow communication and leadership skills. Members gain confidence in public speaking, learn how to deliver effective feedback, and develop skills that are invaluable in both work and everyday life.

Whether you’re interested in competing, improving your skills, or simply seeing some of the best speakers in action, the Area 14 Conference is an event not to be missed.

Mackay Regional Council Employees, developing their contest skills in preparation for the Area 14 Conference. Left to right: Beno Benty, Muxith Habib, Linda Egbo, Tara Lambert, and Luke Cimpa. Photo supplied

Mackay’s warm tropical climate brings sunshine almost year-round, making it a great place to enjoy the outdoors. However, the strong sun in North Queensland comes with health risks that should not be overlooked. Too much exposure can lead to sunburn, dehydration, heat stress, and an increased risk of skin cancer.

UV levels in Mackay are rated as extreme for much of the year, even when it's cloudy or cooler. You can get sunburnt in as little as 10 minutes during peak UV hours, usually between 10am and 3pm. UV radiation is invisible, so it’s not always obvious when your skin is at risk. That’s why using protection every day is so important.

Queensland has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, and people in this region are particularly exposed due to the climate and lifestyle. Preventive steps are simple but essential. Wear a long-sleeved shirt, apply SPF30 or higher sunscreen every two hours, wear a wide-brimmed hat, stay in the shade when possible, and use sunglasses that meet Australian standards.

It’s also important to stay hydrated. The heat and humidity can quickly lead to dehydration or heat-related illness. Keep a water bottle on hand, take breaks, and know the early signs of heat stress such as dizziness, nausea or fatigue.

By building sun safety into your daily routine, you can enjoy the best of Mackay’s lifestyle while protecting your health now and into the future.

Mackay Reflects On National Police Remembrance Day

By Hannah McNamara

Mackay paused in quiet respect as police officers, past and present, marched through the city in a heartfelt tribute to colleagues who lost their lives in service. On Monday, 29 September, the streets from Brisbane Street to St Patrick’s Catholic Church were filled with the steady presence of the blue family, joined by friends, families, and community members from across the region, marking National Police Remembrance Day.

Earlier in the week, a candlelit vigil at Old Town Hall Park offered a moment of reflection, allowing the city to honour the fallen and consider the sacrifices made by officers and their loved ones.

Superintendent Dean Cavanagh described the day as a solemn reminder of both loss and solidarity, highlighting the enduring strength of the police community and the support of the wider public. Retired officer and Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton reflected on the courage and dedication of those who continue to serve.

Mackay came together in solemn tribute on National Police Remembrance Day, with officers, families, and community members honouring fallen colleagues through a candlelit vigil and city march. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Candlelight And Comradeship
Mackay Pays Respect To QPS Officers Lost

By Hannah McNamara

Throughout Mackay’s CBD, the sound of polished boots echoed down Brisbane Street, accompanied by the solemn notes of bagpipes, as serving and retired officers, families, and friends marched in tribute to the men and women in blue who gave their lives protecting the community.

On Monday, 29 September, Mackay’s city heart turned blue as members of the Queensland Police Service, alongside retired officers and community supporters, made their way from Brisbane Street to St Patrick’s Catholic Church. The march brought together officers and community members from near and far, to honour National Police Remembrance Day.

A few days earlier, on Thursday evening, Mackay Police hosted a vigil at Old Town Hall Park on Sydney Street, where the soft glow of candlelight offered quiet moments of reflection ahead of Monday’s march.

Superintendent Dean Cavanagh said, “The blue family of the Queensland Police Service extends well beyond our current serving members.

“It includes retired officers, both sworn and unsworn, as well as the friends and families of every police officer who has served before.”

He said while the day carried a sense of sadness, it was also an opportunity to acknowledge the unity that binds officers and the communities they serve.

“It can be a very sad and solemn day, but it’s also an important moment to stop and reflect… to look around and see the community, family, friends, and colleagues who come together to remember our lost officers and acknowledge that we’re part of a strong and supportive community.”

Superintendent Cavanagh said policing could be both dangerous and rewarding, and days like this highlighted the importance of solidarity.

“We gather not only as the blue family but alongside the community, supporting each other through the good times and the bad,” he said.

While the Mackay Whitsunday District has lost officers in the past, Superintendent Cavanagh said no new names were added to the roll of honour this year, and it’s a hope he wishes will continue.

“We stop, reflect, and remember their legacy and service. Our wish is that no more names are added to that honour roll.”

“It’s wonderful to see such strong support from both the service and the public,” Superintendent Cavanagh said.

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton, a retired police officer, also reflected on the day’s meaning.

“As a retired police officer, this day holds deep significance. I reflect on the courage, sacrifice, and quiet strength of those we've lost — and the heavy toll it leaves on their families and fellow officers.”

“To those still wearing the badge — thank you for your unwavering dedication, your resilience, and the tireless work you do to protect our communities every single day.”

With Honour They Served

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Superintendent Dean Cavanagh

Mayor Greg Williamson and Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton MP laying a reef for the fallen police officers.

Officers, families, and community members marched through Mackay’s CBD to St Patrick’s Church, honouring fallen police. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Hi lovely readers,

Can you believe it’s October already? Cue all the Christmas fanatics cheering and unpacking their boxes of decorations, ready to adorn their homes early! My mum is one of those early Christmas fans – but I love her for it (lol).

It’s been a busy week, with an even bigger month ahead, with plenty of fun activities and community events on the calendar. You might just spot me with my camera at this Saturday’s Mackay Family Carnival… so get ready to say cheese!

On another note, it’s been a big week for our region, with the official opening of the $18M Queensland University of Technology (QUT) Mackay-based Pioneer Biopilot – fascinating stuff! You can read more about it on page 3.

Sport in Mackay is thriving as always – our BMX riders have been smashing out Queensland titles, our surf lifesaving legends continue to impress, and the Mackay Tennis Association recently hosted a lively tournament. Our regular sporting contributors, including Bridge and Road Runners, never miss a beat either! Catch all the action on pages 31–33.

Last Thursday and Monday, I attended two ceremonies honouring the Queensland Police Service and all officers in blue who have lost their lives while protecting their community.

Let it be a reminder to always count our blessings, and I pray you all have a wonderful week ahead!

• Hannah

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A Mother’s Heartfelt Thank You To Caring Kids

A simple act of kindness at a local play centre has touched the heart of a Mackay mother, who has praised a group of young girls and their parents for showing compassion and inclusion toward her daughter.

Posting to a local community page, the mother shared how her 12-year-old daughter, who has an intellectual disability, was warmly welcomed by other children while visiting the Kidz Life Play Centre with her carer.

“Unfortunately, I wasn’t there to see it myself,” she said, “but thank you to the parents and the little girls at Kidz Life Play Centre this morning.”

She explained that her children had not always experienced kindness from their peers. “They haven’t always had the best experience with other children and bullying as they are different,” she wrote.

“But this morning a few little girls included my 12-year-old intellectually disabled daughter and spent some time playing with her,” she shared.

The heartfelt message quickly resonated with the community, drawing praise for both the children and the parents who had clearly encouraged empathy and understanding.

“Thank you so much for teaching your children about inclusion,” she said. “You just made my daughter’s and my day.”

In a world often too quick to judge, the mother’s story highlights that compassion, when taught and modelled, can shift someone’s day, in the most meaningful way!

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Queensland University of Technology (QUT) has unveiled an $18 million transformation of its Mackay-based Pioneer BioPilot, now Australia’s leading pilot-scale fermentation facility. Backed by federal and state funding and linked with the Food and Beverage Accelerator (FaBA), the upgrade positions Mackay at the heart of Queensland’s push to become an Asia-Pacific biomanufacturing hub.

Senator Corinne Mulholland said, “This investment positions Australia as a serious player in the global bioeconomy and, importantly, it will make Mackay one of the driving forces for our future economy.”

“Like many, I am passionate about ensuring that Queensland’s regional centres see the economic benefits of transitioning to Net Zero by 2050.

“This transition is not just an investment in our planet, but an investment in the jobs, skills and technology of tomorrow. These facilities are a clear demonstration of that.”

The global bioeconomy, currently valued at US$4 trillion, is predicted by the World Bioeconomy Forum to grow to US$30 trillion by 2050, equivalent to a third of total global economic value.

QUT Centre for Agriculture and the Bioeconomy researcher Professor Ian O’Hara said the QUT Pioneer BioPilot, formerly called the Mackay Renewable Biocommodities Pilot Plant (MRBPP), had played a crucial role for industry for the past 15 years in the real-world translation of research, converting biomass such as sugarcane biogases into biofuels, green chemicals and bioproducts.

“The QUT Pioneer BioPilot is pioneering research and innovation in biomanufacturing, working with government and industry to position Queensland as a globally connected innovation hub,” Professor O’Hara said.

“Real-world impact is at the heart of QUT’s research commitment, where knowledge and innovation tackle global challenges and deliver locally grounded solutions.”

Assistant Minister for Primary Industry Development, Water and Western Queensland Sean Dillon said, “This is about turning Queensland’s agricultural strengths into global opportunities, aligning with our bold vision for primary industries in Prosper 2050.”

“The upgraded MRBPP gives local researchers and industry the tools to turn biomass into high-value products – right here in Mackay.”

Professor O’Hara, who is also Deputy Dean of the QUT Faculty of Engineering, said a key feature of the cutting-edge facility was its fermentation bioreactors, which allowed companies to fast-track product development in the food and beverage sector.

“No one else can provide the capability we are offering Australian industries through the QUT Pioneer BioPilot,” Professor O’Hara said.

“Precision fermentation is a technology that allows us to convert sugars into a range of other food ingredients and products in brewery-style fermentation tanks.”

“The advantages of precision fermentation are that it can lead to new food products and ingredients that supplement production through traditional methods, providing sustainability benefits and increasing consumer choice.”

Using the QUT Pioneer BioPilot, QUT researchers are partnering with Eclipse Ingredients and other institutions in a $5.5 million project to commercialise human lactoferrin, a powerful protein in breastmilk and immune cells with immune-boosting, iron-enhancing, anti-inflammatory properties.

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Queensland University of Technology has unveiled an $18 million upgrade to its Mackay-based Pioneer BioPilot, establishing Australia’s leading pilot-scale fermentation facility and positioning the region as a hub for biomanufacturing, innovation, and sustainable food and bio-product development. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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The Nebo community and surrounding regions were left in shock on Sunday evening, 28 September, when a light aircraft crashed, claiming the life of its sole occupant.

The sudden loss has devastated family, friends, and the local community, as emergency services responded to the harrowing scene.

Police are preparing a report for the coroner following the death of the 47-year-old pilot in Nebo Creek.

Emergency services were called shortly after 6pm to a private property after reports of the aircraft crash.

The pilot tragically died at the scene.

Authorities have confirmed that the Forensic Crash Unit is investigating the circumstances leading up to the incident.

At the time of print, police had not released further details, and inquiries remain ongoing as the community mourns this sudden tragedy.

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OPINION PIECE

Coal has powered Australia for generations, and it still does today. Coal is the central reason the lights turn on, the fridge stays cold, and the air con works. Coal remains the cheapest form of electricity in Australia, and without it, our country would be vastly different, in a poorer way.

But it is not just the electricity it provides. Coal provides our country with economic security. It drives investment, and the revenue raised in taxes and exports generates the wealth to fund much of our vital public infrastructure. It is not just the thermal coal that runs our power stations; it is also the metallurgical coal exported around the world to manufacture steel.

In the Bowen Basin alone, there are around 44,000 people employed directly in the coal industry. That is not counting people employed in service support roles, the ports, the rail and in the businesses that get a boost when these workers spend locally.

As the member for Dawson and the Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability, I am acutely aware of the role coal plays not only in our Central Queensland region but in the success of our country. To the workers in the industry and associated businesses, I say thank you. Whether you're driving trucks in the Bowen Basin, welding buckets in Paget, loading ships at the ports, or running a small business that supports the industry, your hard work is what keeps this country powering ahead. Your work matters. Your job matters. You matter.

But, unfortunately, our coal industry is under attack, not from overseas, but from policy decisions being made in our own backyard. The Albanese Government talks a big game about jobs and regional Australia, but their actions are driving investment away from the very industry that helped build this nation. In sad news, major miners BHP and Anglo recently made sweeping redundancies on the back of lower confidence and return on investment. My thoughts are with every family touched by this news during this time.

It may be easy to attack the mining companies for these decisions, but we have to ask why these decisions are made. Under the current Labor government, it's getting harder and harder tojustify investment when the goalposts keep shifting and the Prime Minister would rather prop up wind and solar. The truth is, these are businesses with shareholders (including many super fund holders) that are expecting to see a return on investment, and if those returns are not what they should be, then the investment goes elsewhere. Think about this - would you choose to put your money in the bank with the lower or higher interest rate returns?

Not long before these cuts were announced, the heads of BHP and Rio Tinto were meeting with Trump, and you can probably guess what those meetings were about – "Come and invest in the USA", where coal, and by and large mining, is not demonised but encouraged. The major mining companies are being very clear. The investment landscape needs to be more than viable. It needs to be a safe bet.

Coal is more than a resource. It's a sovereign asset. It's the backbone of regional Queensland. And if we don't protect it, we risk losing not just jobs, but the heartbeat of towns right across Central Queensland and beyond.

Coal keeps the lights on. Australia can not afford for investment in the Coal industry to dry up. Backing the Coal industry is backing Australia

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