In the Community

As we edge closer to Christmas and the end of the year, it’s been another full fortnight of activity in our region and in Parliament. I’ve recently had the pleasure of attending a range of events across Mackay. A highlight was launching the new SES Operational Support Unit trailer, which will serve the Mackay–Isaac–Whitsunday district as a mobile command centre during power outages and emergencies. A big thank you to our SES volunteers for their vital work.

I also marched alongside serving and retired police officers for Police Remembrance Day — a solemn occasion to honour those who have given their lives in the line of duty. It's a powerful reminder of the risks our officers face every day to keep us safe.

In Parliament

Last week, I participated in the Presentation of the Address-in-Reply to Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeanette Young AC PSM. This tradition gave Members — including first-timers like myself — the chance to reflect on our goals and speak on behalf of our communities. The Address was formally presented at Government House, reinforcing the strength of our democratic institutions.

Parliament also passed two significant reforms:

• Good Character Evidence Reform: Under the Penalties and Sentences (Sexual Offences) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2025, Queensland is now the first state to limit the use of character references in court to cases where they show genuine rehabilitation or reduced risk of reoffending.
• Victim Impact Statements: Courts can no longer assume that silence from victims means no harm was done. This ensures the seriousness of crimes is not diminished by trauma-induced silence.

While in Brisbane, I had the privilege of attending two significant cultural celebrations: the 25th Anniversary of South Sea Islander Recognition, a powerful reflection on history, resilience, and cultural pride; and the African Community Reception, which showcased the vibrancy, contributions, and unity of Queensland’s African-Australian communities.

Good News for Mackay

We’ve had some great funding outcomes recently:
• Mackay Hockey: $800,000 for a new indoor facility
• Great Barrier Reef Arena: $23.5 million to complete Stage 2 upgrades
• Mackay Netball: $1.6 million for shade protection for spectators
These investments are a big win for our sporting community and will benefit our region for years to come.

Get Involved

There’s still time to sign the petition for Women’s Change Rooms at the Mackay Rugby League Grounds — let’s get our athletes the facilities they deserve.

Grants Now Open:

• Gambling Community Benefit Fund – Up to $35,000 available; closes 31 October.
• Tourism Icons Investment Fund – Up to $5 million on a 50:50 co-contribution basis for high-impact tourism infrastructure. EOIs close 8 October.
• Honouring Queensland Veterans Grants –
o Capital Works: Up to $250,000 for memorials and infrastructure
o Community Projects: Up to $75,000 for commemorations and education, now open to schools, P&Cs, councils, and non-profits

If your organisation needs help applying, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

As I near the end of my first year in office, I’m proud of what we’ve achieved together. It’s been a privilege to listen, learn, and advocate for Mackay. I look forward to continuing the work we’ve started.

Until next time.

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A/Inspector Mitch Bensen with Nigel Dalton MP at the Police Remembrance Day

Nigel Dalton MP at Government House – The Hon Pat Weir MP, The Hon Trevor Watts MP, James Lister MP, Dr Christian Rowan MP, The Hon Sam O’Connor MP, Jim McDonald MP, Kerri-Anne Dooley MP, Ariana Doolan MP

Nigel Dalton MP at the launch of the SES Operational Support Unit Trailer. Photos supplied

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Mackay Regional Council has released the draft Mackay Region Housing Strategy, aiming to address a growing mismatch between current housing stock and the evolving needs of residents. The strategy is designed to create more diverse, accessible, and affordable housing across the Mackay and Whitsunday regions.

A recent review of local housing trends highlighted a key concern: while 60 per cent of households in the region comprise just one to two people, only 18 per cent of current housing caters to this demographic. In contrast, 85 per cent of existing homes are detached dwellings, with 90 per cent of those offering three or more bedrooms. Detached homes have dominated the market, making up 95 per cent of all building approvals since 2015.

Mayor Greg Williamson said smaller households are expected to be the biggest growth segment over the next two decades, and housing supply must evolve to match.

“What this strategy aims to do is ensure there is greater diversity of housing in well-located areas, with good access to employment, shops, community services, parklands and public transport,” he said.

“It’s well documented that our community’s housing needs are changing and community feedback is critical to guide future planning and development.

“Residents are the primary users of housing and bring lived experience and knowledge that can help inform our planning decisions.”

Mayor Williamson also stressed the importance of enabling older residents to age in place, saying a variety of housing types – including townhouses, units and multi-dwelling blocks – is essential for liveability and affordability.

The draft strategy not only focuses on future needs but also seeks to address why many approved residential lots remain undeveloped.

“There are almost 5,000 residential lots with a form of planning approval that are yet to be developed,” Mayor Williamson said.

“This backlog isn’t new. In fact, the number of undeveloped lots has sat at more than 4,000 since 2008.”

He added, “It’s important to note that while council administers the Planning Scheme, it doesn’t build houses. Housing is a shared responsibility between council, developers and other stakeholders like the State Government.”

In support of housing development, the region is also set to benefit from $41.66 million in funding under the Crisafulli Government’s $2 billion Residential Activation Fund (RAF). The funding will accelerate eight critical infrastructure projects across Mackay and the Whitsundays, enabling new housing in Cannonvale, Proserpine, Marian, Mirani, Sarina, Beaconsfield and Rural View.

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie said, “The Crisafulli Government’s landmark $2 billion Residential Activation Fund is delivering for Mackay and the Whitsundays with a $41.66 million investment set to fast-track eight critical projects and unlock much-needed housing for Queenslanders.”

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The Mackay SES unit unveiled its new Operational Support Unit (OSU) trailer last Thursday, September 25, marking a significant boost in capability as the service celebrates its 50th year.

The OSU will provide advanced capacity for land and water searches, including the use of new drones, and will act as a mobile operational hub in remote locations for SES, QPS, council and other services during disasters.

SES event co-ordinator Karyn Donnelly said, “This new trailer for the Mackay SES unit, along with the accompaniment of drones, marks a special time for the SES unit, for QPS and for council as we can now provide more technologically based capacity to assist our community when required.”

The trailer is also equipped to strengthen communications in impacted areas.

“It will not replace the emergency operation centre during major events, but it will enhance our capability in those areas where communication is severely impacted,” she added.

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton commended the work of SES volunteers, acknowledging the vital role they play in emergencies.

“SES is such an important part of the jigsaw in the event that anything happens,” he said.

“We appreciate what you do all the time and we are so glad to see that your communications now will be enhanced so that those operations will be better.”

Mr Dalton also recognised the commitment of volunteers across the region.

“I really thank every single SES volunteer here for the time and effort they put into being a member of this fantastic service… I really do thank you all, from the bottom of my heart… Well done, and keep up the great work.”

Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said the investment would increase the region’s resilience.

“What this will do here right now is increase our capability of land and sea searches, not just by having this transportable communication base, but also by launching today our ability to do a lot more with drone coverage,” Mayor Williamson said.

“It is a fantastic piece of the kit and it’s great to have this on board in our community.”

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The Mackay SES has unveiled a new Operational Support Unit trailer, equipped with drones and advanced technology to boost search, rescue and communications capabilities across the region. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

(group pic caption) - Local leaders praised the upgrade, highlighting its role in strengthening disaster response, supporting volunteers, and enhancing resilience for the Mackay community. Photo credit: Nicole Pasquale (JP Qual)

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Ergon Energy Retail Celebrates 25 Years Of Partnership With The Royal Flying Doctor Service

Last Friday, Ergon Energy Retail staff in Mackay joined in a heartfelt celebration, marking 25 years of partnership with the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) – a collaboration that has raised more than $20 million through the company’s voluntary customer donation scheme.

Mackay Ergon Energy Retail spokesperson Pam Lynch said the day was about “celebrating 25 years of partnership between Ergon Retail and the RFDS and $20 million raised through our voluntary customer donation scheme.”

The free community event, held at Mulherin Park, invited residents to enjoy coffee, gourmet goods, and conversation while celebrating their contributions. The highlight of the day was the Thank You Circuit truck, a travelling billboard showcasing the first names of around 100,000 Ergon customers who regularly donate to the RFDS.

Mackay Energy Specialist Shelley Gately reflected on how meaningful the initiative is for Ergon staff.

“It’s very rewarding… Events like this are amazing. We get to go out, talk to people, and actually see how much money is being raised.”

Grateful for the recognition, she added, “It’s so nice to get out of the office, have some great food, and be able to have a bit of a chat. We just thank the Flying Doctors for arranging this today.”

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The Royal Flying Doctor Service was honoured by Mackay’s Ergon Energy Retail team last Friday, marking 25 years of partnership and community support.

The Mackay Ergon Energy Retail team in front of the RFDS Thank You Circuit board. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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New data shows there’s been a significant increase in Mackay dog and cat registrations following a successful compliance inspection program.

Local laws officers conducted patrols between October and December last year, with inspections at Mirani, Marian, Mackay, Slade Point, Northern Beaches and Armstrong Beach.

Deputy Mayor Karen May said inspections were done by proactively patrolling from the kerbside, with council officers only entering a small number of properties with the consent of the owner.

“It was terrific to see that many residents took steps to register their pets during the inspection period last year, with more than 400 animals registered during October, which is significantly higher than the trend,” Cr May said.

“Council has today voted to continue this program, with inspections at properties where an unregistered cat or dog has been identified,” she said.

“Targeted inspections will include the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data to determine areas with low levels of animal registration.”

Councillor May said inspections would also be done where a renewal had not been received prior to the end of last financial year.

“Pet registration fees are put towards the costs of running the animal management centre and responding to animal management related service requests, like barking dogs and dog attacks,” she said.

“This fee structure ensures that the costs involved in providing these services are borne by pet owners, rather than all ratepayers, many of whom do not own pets.

“These inspection programs are part of council's ongoing efforts to ensure responsible pet ownership and to meet the community’s expectations for effective animal control.”

Council received 1949 animal management related service requests, which includes requests related to barking dogs, roaming dogs and dog attacks, last financial year.

The inspection programs ensure compliance with the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008 and related local laws.

Dogs and cats over 12 weeks of age must be registered with council.

The compliance program will run from October 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025.

For more details on responsible pet ownership and registering your pet visit www.mackay.qld.gov.au/animalmanagement

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The Crisafulli Government is delivering one new and six expanded transit lounges to help ease pressure on some of the State’s busiest emergency departments and restore health services when locals need them. A new transit lounge will be built at Gladstone Hospital, while expansions will go ahead at Cairns Hospital, Townsville University Hospital, Mackay Base Hospital, Logan Hospital, Redland Hospital and Ipswich Hospital.

All the transit lounges will be operational by late 2026, and additional frontline healthcare workers will be hired to support the facilities. As part of the Crisafulli Government’s key election commitment to address the Health Crisis including ambulance ramping, the initiative will deliver an additional 27 beds and 30 treatment chairs across the seven hospitals, which are home to some of the State’s busiest emergency departments.

These transit lounge projects, which run alongside the works being done under the Crisafulli Government’s Hospital Rescue Plan, are the first tranche of an $80 million investment through the Easier Access to Health Services Plan.

They will provide dedicated interim treatment areas for patients awaiting discharge, admission or transfer, or for outpatient appointments and are an important part of the Crisafulli Government’s long-term strategy to reduce ambulance ramping rates. The Crisafulli Government has committed to reducing ramping rates to below 30 per cent by 2028.

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls said transit lounges were a vital link in the patient journey, ensuring emergency departments were not overwhelmed and care was provided in the right setting at the right time.

“We are delivering health services when you need them including new and expanded transit lounges in busy hospitals to help reduce ambulance ramping,” Minister Nicholls said.

“Our public hospitals do a tremendous job caring for people in need, but it’s no secret they have been struggling."

“This will mean patients can get treatment sooner and won’t be delayed from leaving when they’re ready to, while at the same time others can get the treatment they need in our Emergency Departments and hospitals.

“This investment in transit lounges will be a game changer.”

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The Crisafulli Government is investing $80 million in new and expanded hospital transit lounges to ease emergency pressure and cut ambulance ramping below 30% by 2028. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Mackay Hospital and Health Board Interim Chair Monica McKendry has announced the appointment of a Chief Executive for Mackay Hospital and Health Service while the permanent executive recruitment process is underway.

“I am very pleased to advise that Sean Birgan, the current Chief Executive of North West Hospital and Health Service, will commence a secondment as Mackay HHS Interim Chief Executive from 13 October,” Ms McKendry said.

“Sean has more than 38 years of nursing experience, including 20 years in senior leadership and management roles.

“He worked as Queensland Health's COVID-19 System Response Lead, coordinating the state’s COVID-19 operational response.

“He also has a keen interest in disaster management and preparedness and provides ongoing support to Indonesian nurses and health executives in Bali as part of the Bali Memorial Package.

“I am sure he will bring valuable insights to our health service and we appreciate his willingness to support our health service during our permanent CE recruitment process.”

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Sean Birgan will begin as Interim Chief Executive of Mackay Hospital and Health Service on 13 October, bringing 38 years of nursing and leadership experience. Photo source: Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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The HeliCore Collective event hosted by BMA CQ Rescue last Thursday afternoon brought together members of the community for an inspiring afternoon of connection and conversation.

Guests had the opportunity to hear from Rescue Crewman Ben, who is preparing to tackle the Three Capes Trek in Tasmania alongside a dedicated group of supporters raising vital funds for BMA CQ Rescue.

Ben shared his experiences and insights during a Q&A session, highlighting the importance of community support in keeping the region’s rescue helicopter operational.

“It was a fantastic afternoon of connection, conversation, and community spirit, all in support of keeping your rescue helicopter in the sky,” a representative from BMA CQ Rescue said.

The event was made possible with the support of Daly Bay, and organisers expressed their gratitude to everyone who attended.

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Photo credit:  Coffee and Hops

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Mackay will once again come together in strength and solidarity this October as Broken Ballerina Inc hosts its highly anticipated Be Bold, Be Brave, Be Beautiful Charity Ball on Saturday, 18 October 2025, at the Mackay Turf Club.

Running from 5pm to 11pm, the event promises an evening of elegance, entertainment and heartfelt purpose — raising vital funds to support local victim-survivors of domestic violence.

Guests will be treated to a complimentary drink on arrival, appetisers, and a two-course alternate drop dinner, while enjoying a night filled with community spirit and generosity. The evening will feature MC Kim Tower, engaging guest speakers, and live music from Koby Lee’s Shania Twain Tribute Band, ensuring guests can celebrate and dance the night away in support of an important cause.

The event’s theme colours — pink, black and white — reflect compassion, courage and unity. Attendees are encouraged to embrace the cocktail attire with a country twist dress code, celebrating Broken Ballerina Inc’s signature style while standing in solidarity with those rebuilding their lives after domestic violence.

Guests can look forward to raffles, a lucky door prize, and a charity auction, all designed to help raise much-needed funds for local support initiatives. Every dollar raised contributes to Broken Ballerina Inc’s ongoing mission to assist victim-survivors through emergency assistance, advocacy and recovery programs.

Tickets are priced at $160 per person or $1500 for a table of ten, offering an ideal opportunity for friends, families, and colleagues to share a night of meaningful celebration.

Sponsorship opportunities are also available for businesses wishing to align with the cause. Interested sponsors can email events@brokenballerina-inc.com.au for more information.

Tickets are on sale now via mackaytickets.com.au.

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By Hannah McNamara

Nate Ralph is among the many young voices eager to shape the future of the Mackay, Whitsunday and Isaac regions. As the Youth Member for Whitsunday in the 30th Queensland Youth Parliament, he has taken his seat in Brisbane this week to debate legislation and shine a spotlight on the challenges and opportunities facing regional Queensland.

For Nate, the role is not only symbolic, but a cornerstone of his passion for ensuring young people have a say in decisions that will affect their lives for decades to come.

“Getting involved and doing things for the community, especially young people is what i'm most passionate about. A lot of the time their voices aren't heard and it's quite difficult to reach them,” he said.

“What it can do having a young person standing up for their community is make it easier to talk to them from someone their age.”

Nate believes balancing youthful ambition with the wisdom of experience is key.

“I think it's because, we are the future, but it's also about getting the right balance… listening to the wisdom of the older generations and putting that with our ideas, our hopes and our dreams,” he said.

Among his top priorities is improving the Bruce Highway, a lifeline for regional families and businesses.

“Roads infrastructure is really, really important, especially in regional areas and I spent a lot of times on the roads traveling to see family and some of the roads that we have to travel on are absolutely horrendous."

“The damage that they can do is absolutely insane… that’s why it’s so important to fix them, so everyone can get where they need to be safely.”

Nate is also passionate about seeing more of Queensland’s mining royalties reinvested locally. He is backing a Youth Parliament bill to direct 25 per cent of resource royalties into regional areas.

“Using a percentage of the royalties, we can get a better deal for our region by investing more heavily into fixing our local services that aren't at the same standards they are in places like Brisbane or the southeast corner,” he explained.

“And it's really important that places like Mackay and the Whitsundays that do generate this revenue, get to take home a piece of their pie.”

Another concern is volunteering, which he sees as the backbone of community life.

“It's absolutely crucial we get more volunteers because they are what brings communities together,” he said.

“Often organisations don't have the people they need and they can't get things done, which eventually leads to people not having things to do in their community because there's no one willing to go out and do them.”

Connectivity is also top of mind, with Nate pointing out that digital access is now as essential as roads or services.

“Telecommunications is absolutely vital, especially for regional communities and especially getting the help you need when you need it,” Nate said.

"Everybody should have access."

Nate advocates for all young people who want to see change in their communities to just “Go ahead, and go for it.”

“Just get started, reach out to someone, get a group of your friends… and do something positive for your local community. It doesn't have to be a lot.”

As he debates in Brisbane this week, Nate hopes his voice can secure a fairer share for the region.

“I hope that my impact that I create will be a positive one… one that gets our fair share and gets people talking,” he said.

“People need to get involved… for the sake of our futures, and for the strength of our community.”

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Nate Ralph, Youth Member for Whitsunday, is in Brisbane this week debating legislation to amplify young voices and advocate for regional Queensland. Photos supplied

Nate stands for stronger regional infrastructure, fair use of royalties, improved connectivity, and empowering young people to get involved in their communities. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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RIN Calls for Action

In the past week, our region has once again been thrust into the spotlight. One mine has closed and another has reduced production. Rising costs and the reduction in coal prices have made it unsustainable to continue normal operation. A key contributor to this challenge has been Queensland’s royalty regime, which has placed further strain on an already challenged sector.

RIN’s position has been clear and consistent since the sudden royalty increase in 2022: we do not support initiatives that hinder investment and growth within the resource industry. Over many years, RIN has worked closely with the Queensland Resources Council (QRC) to ensure the voice of the Mining Equipment, Technology and Services (METS) sector is heard. These issues affect not only multinational companies, but also hardworking local businesses.

Every regional business is, in our view, impacted by the resources sector - whether directly supplying equipment and services or indirectly supporting the industry through cafes, hotels, trades, and other essential services. When mining slows, whole communities feel the impact.

One of RIN’s key roles is to actively advocate for our members to help secure their prosperity. The LNP has not signalled an intention to review the royalty regime inherited from the former government. A clear position from regional communities is now essential: to demonstrate the real impact on jobs, suppliers, and entire towns.

We are the voice at the frontline of these changes, but we cannot do this alone. RIN is seeking your assistance in advocating for our industry and communities to the LNP government.

Member Engagement is Now Critical

To demonstrate the real impact on regional communities, and to show local MPs just how important supplier contracts are, RIN is calling on members to join us in advocating for change to the current royalty structure.

This will involve four key phases:

•  Build Community Support: Circulate a Petition

•  Drive Digital Advocacy: Share Your Story on Video

•  Amplify Supplier Voices: Represent in Local Media

•  Lead Delegation to Parliament: Meet with MPs


Our Ask of You

•  Indicate if you would support circulating and promoting a petition

•  Put your hand up to take part in the digital campaign

•  Consider becoming a media voice for our community

•  Express your interest in joining the supplier delegation to Parliament


Talking Points for Suppliers to use with MPs & Stakeholders

Central Queensland’s coal industry has powered the state for decades, funding infrastructure, hospitals, and essential services, while building businesses, careers, and communities.

The 7,500 suppliers RIN represents are hardworking, diverse, and essential. They include family-run businesses, sole traders, cafes, engineers, hotels, bakers, butchers, and more. Every regional business is connected to mining activity.

The new coal royalty regime introduced under the former government means miners in Queensland are paying up to 70 cents in every dollar back to the government.

When the coal industry is hit that hard, regional Queensland feels it first. It impacts local businesses, staff, and whole towns.

While this problem wasn’t created by the current government, it now falls to Premier Crisafulli and his team to ensure regional Queensland does not slide backwards.

Regional Queensland deserves a fair and competitive royalty structure that secures jobs, investment, and prosperity for decades to come.

Our voices must be heard as strongly as the vocal minority in Brisbane.

Together, we can show the real impact of royalties on our region and ensure the voices of suppliers, workers, and communities are impossible to ignore. RIN is committed to leading this effort, but your involvement is critical.

Dean Kirkwood, General Manager at Resource Industry Network

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The world’s leading water scientists have heard how research at Bravus Mining and Resources’ Carmichael mine is advancing knowledge of how groundwater springs and plant communities interact.

The five research papers undertaken for Bravus Mining and Resources by Eco Logical Australia in collaboration with Essence Environmental, BAAM Ecology, Water Mark Eco, EMM Consulting, and Griffith University, were presented at the 2025 International Association of Hydrogeologists (IAH) Congress in Melbourne this week.

The research focused on the Doongmabulla Springs Complex in central Queensland, which is a grouping of individual groundwater springs that naturally discharge water from the Great Artesian Basin.

The boundary of the complex lies more than 11 kilometres away from Bravus Mining and Resources’ Carmichael mine.

Bravus Mining and Resources Chief Operating Officer Mick Crowe said the research reflected the breadth and depth of the scientific expertise behind responsible mining at the Carmichael mine.

“We’re proud to be contributing to the global conversation on groundwater science and sustainability,” Mr Crowe said.

“This research offers new insights into spring typology, aquifer behaviour, ecological resilience, and species conservation.

“It strengthens our already world-class groundwater monitoring framework, and it will help us continue to make informed decisions that ensure we are mining responsibly.

“The fact the Doongmabulla springs are subject to this level of scientific study can give Queenslander’s confidence that the springs are not at risk from any of the mining we are doing now, or any of the mining we are authorised do in the future.”

Among the research papers’ findings and outcomes was a new modelling tool that helps to predict and manage ecological risks linked to groundwater pressure changes, and a second model to inform targeted conservation strategies for groundwater-dependent plants.

The studies also confirmed the Vulnerable Waxy Cabbage Palm’s reliance on groundwater and uncovered previously undocumented springs.

Eco Logical Australia Principal Hydrogeologist Anne Gibson said the research set a new benchmark for how complex groundwater-dependent ecosystems should be studied and managed.

“The work we have done highlights the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration and adaptive management in understanding and mitigating impacts,” Ms Gibson said.

“By taking a multiple lines of evidence approach that combines field and remotely sensed data, modelling, and expert knowledge, we can protect Great Artesian Basin springs.

“Continued investment in multidisciplinary science and adaptive management will be crucial for maintaining the health of these ecosystems.”

The IAH Congress is one of the world’s leading forums for groundwater science and brings researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders together each year to share knowledge and advance sustainable water management.

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Groundwater sampling being undertaken as part of Bravus Mining and Resources’ leading groundwater monitoring and management program.

Eco Logical Australia’s Principal Hydrogeologist, Anne Gibson, and Senior Principal Hydrogeologist, Richard Cresswell, at the 2025 International Association of Hydrogeologists (IAH) Congress in Melbourne. Photos supplied

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Simon Hood
Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

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Wilmar Grower Marketing’s annual Global Traders Roadshow has wrapped up for another year after a busy week of presentations, starting in Ingham and finishing in Sarina. The events brought together growers from across our milling regions to hear first-hand insights into the forces shaping the sugar market.
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Guest speaker Peter Bingham, Wilmar’s London-based Senior Sugar Trader, provided an in-depth look at the global market, with particular focus on the latest developments in Brazil and India. Brazil’s record sugar mix and India’s higher production outlook were highlighted as key factors influencing supply, pricing, and trade flows in the months ahead. Peter also delivered a thought-provoking session on consumer demand, exploring how shifting diets, health concerns, and sustainability trends are reshaping global sugar consumption patterns. Local growers also heard from Bevan Patterson, Wilmar Sugar Australia’s Risk Manager, who explained how global politics and currency markets affect returns.
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He highlighted the role of the Australian dollar, which continues to be influenced by wider geopolitical factors, including trade policy and the impact of recent Trump tariffs. His session underlined how changes well beyond Australia’s borders can have a direct effect on the value of local sugar. The roadshow once again proved to be a valuable opportunity for growers to connect, ask questions, and walk away with a clearer picture of the opportunities and risks facing our industry.
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By bringing our global expertise to local communities, the event hopefully helps growers to make informed decisions about pricing their GEI sugar exposure.
The Grower Marketing team and I would like to thank all those who attended across the districts and contributed to the conversations. We look forward to continuing to work alongside you to achieve the best results for your farm. As always, if you have any enquiries regarding your marketing or pricing, please contact a member of the team. We are on hand to assist when and where you need it.

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Wilmar’s Senior Sugar Trader Peter Bingham (right) and Risk Manager Bevan Patterson (left) have just wrapped up our annual Global Traders Roadshow.

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CANEGROWERS Mackay Chairman Joseph Borg said it is pleasing news that the halfway mark for the 2025 crush has now been crossed in both Mackay and Plane Creek Milling areas.

“We have crossed the 50 per cent mark and moving towards 60%. We are not where we would like to be, but we are certainly in a better place than this time last year, and that’s a positive,” Mr Borg said.

“Factory performance has improved on last year, but logistical issues including transport and communications have caused delays in both our milling areas this year. Growers waiting for bins has been a persistent issue.

“Hopefully we will see performance improvements there and be able to remove the remainder of the crop in a timely manner.”

Ideally, the halfway point is reached early in September, heading to a mid-November finish, which is a reality that has not been achieved in the previous four harvests. Current trends are heading to a mid-late December finish, running the risk of harvest again colliding with the onset of the monsoon.

The large amount of standover from the 2024 harvest is being processed incrementally, and while CCS is still climbing, the standover factor is suppressing weekly CCS levels.

“Standover is a challenge for profitability for growers, is difficult to harvest and can be a challenge to process at the mill. It is to be hoped that in 2025, we will remove the full crop,” said Mr Borg.

He noted that Wilmar Plane Creek had revised down its crop estimate to 1.44Mt from 1.53Mt, which had bolstered the miller’s percentage processed.

“I suspect that there will be a downwards revision on the crop estimate from Mackay Sugar in the near future, also.”

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Mackay Rural Production Society Incorporated (MRPS) held its Annual General Meeting on 20 September at City Bowls Club, Shakespeare Street, where volunteers served a hearty roast meal followed by dessert.

Formed in 1982 as an offshoot of the former Tropical Grassland Society, MRPS brings together like-minded people — not only from farming backgrounds — who enjoy exploring agricultural and rural enterprises. Over the years, members have travelled widely, from the Ord River in WA and the NT to Tasmania, northern NSW, and countless destinations across Queensland.

“There have been too many interesting places to mention them all, but every trip has been educational and memorable,” said long-time member Gail Volker.

At the AGM, outgoing president Rob Roles handed over leadership to incoming president Dan Kennedy, while secretary Kim Roles and treasurer Shirley Watt were re-elected unopposed.

Life Membership was awarded to Robert and Lyn Denman, along with Herb and Marie Robke, who each received badges and plaques from past president Lindsay Williams.

While membership numbers have declined since the society’s early days, MRPS members continue to enjoy regular trips and outings, with plans for more commercial tours in the future. New members are warmly welcomed.

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Lindsay Williams presented Herb and Marie Robke with Life Membership.

Incoming president Dan Kennedy presented Rob Roles an appreciation certificate!

Robert and Lyn Denman accepted Life Membership from Lindsay Williams.

A bit of fun on the night! Photos supplied

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