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Local tourism operators are expressing concern toward troubling times ahead, with the federal government’s new visa restrictions set to shrink the backpacker workforce that drives seasonal operations. The Federal Government’s proposed cuts to Working Holiday Visas have raised concerns across two of the Whitsundays’ biggest industries. Bowen farmers warned that fewer backpackers could leave crops unpicked, and now tourism leaders in Airlie Beach have added that the same cuts could leave local businesses scrambling to find workers that aren’t there. At Airlie Beach’s Heart of the Great Barrier Reef sign, Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth and Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins spoke about what the proposed changes could mean for a region that relies heavily on tourism. “We can't have Airlie Beach named Australia's top tourism town in the small category and then have the knees cut out from us by federal policy,” Tim said. The proposed changes form part of the Federal Government’s effort to reduce migration, a topic that has been of hot debate by all three parties that Mayor Ry Collins believes the working holiday visas should be separated from. “Obviously the federal government is really coming in with broad brushstrokes to try and address the publicly perceived issue around net overseas migration (NOM),” said Mayor Collins. “Some of the dialogue I heard last week in Canberra was actually taking that working holiday maker class completely out of the NOM calculation. “I think that's a fair and reasonable way that they can make the numbers look as good as they want but it won't affect the actual number of workers that are here to support our industries.” The new restrictions look to cut the second-year extension on Working Holiday Visas from 57,000 to 45,000 slots, and 3rd year extension from 31,000 to just 5,000. According to Tourism Whitsundays, the Whitsundays hosts about 3,500 backpacker workers at any given time of the year. “I think for regions like the Whitsunday’s unemployment rate is lower than the national average by 0.9%, so at a 3.5% unemployment rate, we just don't have the workforce there that can pick up these roles that the working holidaymaker delivers for our communities,” Tim said. According to figures released by Tourism Whitsundays, in the year ending March 2026, domestic visitors spent $959.1 million in the region and international visitors spent a further $271.8 million. This spending was made possible by the abundance of workers delivering those experiences. “[Working holidaymakers] do a terrific job already in delivering world-class experiences, particularly here in the Whitsundays,” said Mayor Collins. “We do see working holidaymakers really take up that mantle, particularly in areas like customer service roles, hospitality roles, housekeeping roles... “What we're asking for is that we can stay strong as an entire tourism industry.” Having just returned from Canberra, the pair said raising regional and statewide voices is crucial to persuading the Federal Government to reconsider how the proposed restrictions would apply. “And then at a federal level, obviously through our federal member Andrew Wilcox, but we've also engaged with the members of the Labor Party around that as well. “But unfortunately it's starting to feel like a number of issues that we're campaigning on…along with things like disaster recovery funding arrangements which was one we linked into last week.” Photo caption: Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins and CEO of Tourism Whitsundays, Tim Booth. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville
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In this world of AI and other technological advancements, you don’t want to be the person who wanders around the office like a big old clumsy Tyrannosaurus Rex bumping into all the youngsters and stepping on their laptops and other devices. It’s one of the challenges of our times; getting the balance right in business in a world that is increasingly controlled by AI, robotics and a rapidly changing IT environment. I remember, some years ago now, when older family members had refused to embrace computer technology and mobile phones etc. They were really left behind and felt excluded in a world that had moved ahead without them. I’ve got a 19-year-old son who doesn’t have to think about it. Current and evolving technology is part of his life and, like others in his age group, he is completely at ease with something that is just part of his make-up and comprehension of the world around him. The trap you can fall into is letting the kids do all the IT stuff for you. My son set up our old TV with all the streaming services etc, which was the easy option for me, but I find it’s important to get involved and do it yourself otherwise everything will move ahead and you won’t be able to do things for yourself. But I am still stuck in some of the old ways. If I am ordering a takeaway meal I still ring the restaurant and go and pick it up. The old T-Rex wanders into the Thai or Indian joint and picks up his plastic bag of goodies, pays, and drives home. There aren’t many of us left. Uber Eats baby. Everyone has embraced it. My wife and daughter were having dinner together in Brisbane recently and my daughter noticed that her stockings or tights had “run” or a ladder in them. My wife suggested she jump in the car and drive to a nearby supermarket and get another pair. But my daughter ordered a new pair to be delivered to the restaurant by Uber. They were there in a jiffy and the night continued without the pesky interruption of having to leave the restaurant to buy them. It’s a great example of the modern world making things easier and how many of us need to ensure we are adjusting and understanding how things can now be done. There is another side to the coin, however. People have told me that I should get AI to write my columns. They say I could give it some examples of columns I have written and give it an idea for a new column and tell it to knock out 600 words on my chosen topic in my style of writing. It’s something I would never do. Apart from the fact that it would somehow seem like I was cheating, it would also not be authentic. I feel that however boring or pedestrian my stories and comments are, at least they are mine. They have come from my noggin, my experiences. It is my take on the world, not something that has been cobbled together by artificial intelligence. It’s similar in the world of real estate and, I’m sure, business generally. You need to embrace the technology, use it when it creates a better service, a superior experience for buyers and a better result for sellers. But there is still a place for picking up the phone and calling buyers, following up from open homes, doing the hard work that needs to be done as an agent. In a world of AI, robotics and Uber Everything the human element, the person-to-person connection still needs to happen to deliver good service and create the best result for clients.
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Maisy is a beautiful little soul who seems to understand that the very best place in the world is right beside someone she loves. She is affectionate, gentle, social and wonderfully trusting. She loves curling up on a welcoming lap, snuggling into your arms and settling close enough to make you feel as though you have always belonged together. Maisy is generous with her purrs, her cuddles and her sweet little air biscuits. She even places her paw in your hand as if to say, “I choose you.” But this gorgeous girl is not only a champion snuggler. Maisy is playful, curious and full of kitten joy. She loves exploring her toys, chasing anything that moves and turning ordinary moments into entertainment. She will happily amuse herself, but everything is even more fun when her favourite person joins in. She has that perfect combination of affection and personality, soft and loving when it is time to cuddle, and playful and bright when it is time for fun. Maisy will bring warmth to your home, companionship to your days and a little paw to hold whenever you need it. If you are looking for a kitten who will play with you, curl up with you and love being part of your life, Maisy may be the girl you have been waiting for. Maisy has been desexed, microchipped, received her first vaccination, been wormed and is litter trained. She is ready to begin her beautiful new life as a much-loved indoor companion. To arrange a meet and greet with Maisy, please call Ros on 0403 814 318.
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Tarren McAuley, Web Director and Co-Owner I remember when those AI posters started popping up – the first one looked kinda different. By the end of the week, when I’d seen 30 of them, I was much less enamoured + actively scrolled past anything that had that telltale paint smear style font. It’s not that the quality had gotten any worse between me seeing that first one + when I was sick of them by the 30th. But it was no longer novel or original. I think AI is especially susceptible to this because as soon as someone discovers a winning formula, everyone else jumps on the bandwagon, but because everyone is getting similar outputs, it gets old – quick. I think brands can fall into a similar trap. Humans are always looking for inspiration + when seeking it out, where better to look than the other players in your field. If you’re a tech company, you’re going to look at Samsung, Apple + the like. But when that happens too much, you get a feedback loop of samey-ness. For me, this is best exemplified by airline logos. Look at Qantas + Virgin, probably the two biggest brands in Australia. Both use a red plane-like icon, w/ their logo in big letters next to it. Bit cherry picked but even the other big players’ logos are similar - Emirates uses mainly red + shakes it up by having a slightly more exotic font. Jetstar ditches the red for orange + has their icon at the end but it has similar visual markers. This isn’t unique to logos, like w/ the poster example earlier – it could be your social tiles, your website or even your company email sig. Whatever it is, if you wake up one day + notice that the other businesses around you are looking a bit too similar, that should be your sign to start looking at a rebrand to shake off the rust + re-establish your unique identity. You know, until the cycle repeats again!
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We are excited to introduce a new column ‘The Poet’s Corner’, a section dedicated to showcasing local poetry across the region.
The first poem is from Suzy Gordon entitled, ‘Thunderstorm’. Suzy Gordon has lived in the Whitsundays for 16 years. She teaches and mentors young writers, runs an online magazine for them, and is working on two poetry collections and a book about creativity and writing.
If you are interested in submitting your own poetry don’t hesitate to get in touch by emailing sebastian@lifepublishinggroup.com.
Thunderstorm
We sit on the front deck when the rains come
All a slather;
A watery frame in which we wash
– arms, brows, backs –
It reminds me of the clamour & hush
when snowdrops crown
& I hold my hand up
trace the condensation
hoping this glassy relief
will vanquish the cold
once and for all.
It is the end of a long winter in the north.
Hailing all the way from Leeds in the UK, Suzanna McLoughlin has joined the Life Publishing team as the newest Cadet Journalist. Suz initially studied English Literature and French at the University of Manchester, spending a year in France where she taught kids English.
After university, she embarked on a grand trip to New Zealand, working and travelling there for two and a half years, deciding to stop in Australia on the way home. Whilst in Australia, she did seasonal work on Fraser Island and around the Great Ocean Road, falling in love with the country.
Upon returning to the UK, Suz worked in audio and podcasting, writing material for mental health and sleep podcasts, whilst dabbling in children’s fiction as a side hustle. Having gained valuable skills, Suz – reminiscing on her time in Australia – decided to return to become a journalist.
“I love storytelling. Throughout the years I got more passionate about honest and ethical journalism. I want to tell stories in ways that honour people’s experience and serve a purpose”, Suz said.
In her spare time, Suz pursues physical activity such as yoga, having recently become a qualified yoga teacher. She loves camping and hiking and is excited to explore the beautiful environment.
“It’s been amazing meeting everyone. All the people I’ve met are so kind and it’s really nice to see a tight knight community that welcomes others so readily.”
If you see Suz around, don’t hesitate to say hello. The team readily welcome her and are excited to see what she will accomplish.
Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
Reef Authority experts are calling on citizen scientists to help unlock the mystery of the whale sharks of the Coral Sea.
Little is known about the star-speckled giants of the sea or where whale shark aggregations can be found on the Great Barrier Reef.
But latest findings from the Eye on the Reef program reveal a surge in whale shark activity, with reefs off Townsville and the Far North becoming key areas of interest.
In the last four months alone, eight sightings have been recorded – an unusually high frequency for this period.
Reef Authority’s Eye on the Reef Program Manager Chris Jones said the Townsville data stands out due to the high frequency of sightings despite lower boat traffic compared to other hubs.
"While places like Cairns see a high volume of sightings, they also have significantly more tourism vessels on the water," he said.
"The fact that we are seeing this cluster of sightings off the Townsville region with fewer boats suggests there is something truly special happening here.
“However, we need more sightings to identify any patterns.”
Reef Authority Field Management Director Dr Mark Read said this localised activity may be linked to broader biological events occurring across the Marine Park.
“Just like the famous aggregations at Ningaloo Reef, whale sharks on the east coast appear to gather around coral and fish spawning seasons,” he said.
“While we have long known they visit the Reef, the latest data logged by citizen scientists is helping us better understand their movements and identify potential areas of interest.”
The Reef Authority is calling on all reef-goers – from commercial operators to recreational divers – to help solve the mystery.
“If you have seen a whale shark on the Reef – even if it was 10 or 15 years ago – you can still enter them in Eye on the Reef app,” Dr Read said.
“Every entry helps us identify long-term patterns and contributes to the global knowledge of where these sharks are going not just across the Reef, but around the planet.”
The gentle giants being spied increasingly in our waters. Photo supplied
The Great Barrier Reef — the jewel in the crown of coral reefs worldwide — is facing an uncertain future.
The greatest threat to the Reef is climate change. Rising ocean temperatures are driving mass coral bleaching events, while ocean acidification weakens the calcium carbonate skeletons corals rely on to grow. Combating climate change requires a coordinated global response, and while action is underway, it is happening far too slowly. Time, unfortunately, is not on the Reef’s side.
Yet all is not lost. While the Reef cannot be saved by local action alone, there is much Australia can do right now to buy it time. The key lies in building reef resilience.
What Is Reef Resilience?
Reef resilience refers to a coral reef’s capacity to resist damage and bounce back after stress events such as bleaching, cyclones, or disease outbreaks. A healthy, resilient reef is far more likely to survive climate impacts than one already weakened by pollution, overfishing, or poor water quality.
The good news is that building reef resilience does not require international agreements or global consensus. It can be — and already is being — done at home through two complementary strategies: reducing local pressures on the Reef and actively restoring and adapting reef ecosystems.
Reducing Local Impacts
Local stressors have long undermined the health of the Great Barrier Reef, increasing its vulnerability to climate change.
One of the most damaging is poor water quality. Runoff from the land carries excess nutrients, pesticides and fine sediments into coastal waters, largely from agriculture, land clearing and coastal development. These pollutants promote algal blooms, reduce light availability, and increase coral disease.
Australia’s recently released Nature Laws have the potential to significantly reduce this decades-old problem — but only if they are properly enforced and adequately funded.
Another major threat comes from crown-of-thorns starfish (COTS). These coral-eating predators can devastate reefs, consuming vast areas of coral in a matter of weeks. Outbreaks have plagued the Reef for decades, with poor water quality believed to contribute to population explosions.
Today, trained dive teams actively control outbreaks by injecting starfish with reef-safe substances such as vinegar or cattle bile. While labour-intensive, this approach has proven highly effective in protecting high-value reefs.
Fishing practices also play a critical role. Overfishing and destructive fishing methods disrupt reef ecosystems and is harmful to reef building corals.
On the Great Barrier Reef, fishing is managed through zoning, quotas, gear restrictions and enforcement — all designed to maintain ecological balance and long-term sustainability.
Restoration and Adaptation
Alongside reducing local impacts, scientists are actively restoring and adapting the Reef to a warming world.
Reef restoration and adaptation involve large-scale, science-driven initiatives aimed at improving coral heat tolerance, accelerating recovery, and enhancing long-term survival. Approaches include growing heat-tolerant corals in nurseries, boosting resilience using beneficial microbes, and using robotic systems to distribute coral larvae and stabilise damaged reef structures.
It may sound like science fiction, but these projects are already underway on the Great Barrier Reef.
Buying Time
Despite these efforts, climate change remains the Reef’s greatest existential threat. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions is essential to limiting warming to 1.5°C — a threshold widely regarded as critical for coral survival.
Local action alone cannot save the Reef. But by reducing pollution, managing fisheries, controlling outbreaks and restoring damaged reefs, we can strengthen resilience and buy time.
For the Great Barrier Reef, time may be the most valuable resource we have.
Contributed with thanks to Tony Fontes
Last week, more than 13,000 cruise passengers passed through Shute Harbour Marine Terminal across three consecutive days, delivering a significant boost to local businesses and tourism operators across the Whitsundays.
As a Council-owned facility, Shute Harbour Marine Terminal plays a critical role as a key gateway
to the Whitsundays.
“Shute Harbour is a Council-owned asset that delivers real economic returns for our community,” said Mayor Ry Collins.
“When cruise ships arrive, visitors flow straight into local tours, transport, shops and hospitality venues, providing a direct boost to local businesses and jobs. Combined with the continued record-breaking performance at Whitsunday Coast Airport, it shows how our sea and air gateways are working together to strengthen visitor connectivity and keep our regional economy moving.”
Director of Commercial Businesses Craig Turner said the scale and success of the cruise operations
reflect careful planning and strong coordination across Council’s commercial facilities.
“Managing cruise operations of this size over consecutive days is a complex task, and the results
reflect the professionalism of our teams and partners across the terminal,” Mr Turner said.
“Shute Harbour and Whitsunday Coast Airport are Council-owned gateways that complement each other. Together, they allow us to efficiently move visitors into the region by sea and air, connect
them with local operators, and support a strong and growing visitor economy.”
Mr Turner said strong collaboration between terminal staff, tenants, transport providers and tour
operators was critical to ensuring safe, efficient passenger movement and a positive experience
for cruise lines and visitors alike.
Positive feedback was received from visiting cruise operators, highlighting the success of the operations and the professionalism of the Whitsundays’ tourism network.
1 – It’s always smooth sailing through the Shute Harbour Marine Terminal
2 – One of many cruise ships bringing custom to our shores
The key to a gorgeous, liveable backyard often begins with nailing the aesthetic elements. But the real secret to unlocking its full potential lies in creating zones, layers, and experiences that invite you to relax, reconnect with nature, and make the most of every square metre.
Zone Your Space for Purpose & Flow
Rather than having one big, undefined plot, divide your backyard into distinct areas; lounge, dining, play, garden nook, etc. Use changes in flooring (decking, gravel, grass), planters, or pergolas to visually separate zones without building walls, adding function while also making your backyard feel larger and smarter.
Incorporate Water Features
A small fountain, bubbling pot, or pond serves as a background soundtrack, visual element, and stress reliever all rolled into one, setting a relaxing undertone to any gathering.
Embrace Sustainable & Natural Elements
Use drought-tolerant natives, recycled materials, and permeable pavers to support sustainability without sacrificing design. Loosen the reins on structure to create a more biodiverse, lively space.
Comfortable Outdoor Living
Think of your backyard as an extension of your home. Add comfy loungers, a fire pit gathering area, or a dining nook under shade sails or a pergola. Mix furniture materials for visual depth, and include soft textiles that withstand the weather.
Vertical Greenery
Use walls, trellises, or hanging planters to maximise green without eating up floor space—great for smaller yards or creating privacy screens.
Incorporate these tips to stay ahead of the curve, with a backyard that not only appears stunning and organised, but genuinely is.
Indoor-outdoor living is especially popular in the tropics for a variety of reasons.
Natural Ventilation and Cooling: Tropical climates are characterised by high temperatures and humidity. Seamless transitions, using features like large windows, sliding doors, and open floor plans, allow for maximum cross-ventilation and air flow, which naturally cools interior spaces and reduces reliance on energy-intensive mechanical cooling systems (like air conditioning).
Thermal Comfort and Shading: Covered terraces, verandas, and pergolas act as transitional semi-outdoor spaces, filtering UV rays and providing essential shade from the intense sun while still allowing air movement. These areas create comfortable temperatures whilst offering protection from sun and rain while maintaining an open-air ambiance.
Lifestyle and Well-being: The mild year-round temperatures in tropical regions encourage an outdoor lifestyle. Blurring the boundaries between inside and outside promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and improves overall well-being by providing constant access to natural light, greenery, and fresh air.
Expanded Living Space: These transitions effectively extend the functional living areas of a home. A covered patio or deck becomes an outdoor living room, dining area, or kitchen, offering flexible and adaptable spaces for social interaction and everyday activities.
Aesthetic and Cultural Appeal: This design philosophy connects you with the lush surrounding landscape and natural beauty, which is a significant part of the region's appeal.
ehind every successful creative agency are businesses willing to take a leap, back a vision, and commit to building something meaningful. Real Conversations puts the spotlight on those businesses sharing, in their own words, how strategic branding and marketing have shaped their growth.
Get Real Workwear & Safety is a well-known local brand, supplying industry trades with reliable gear for more than a decade. Redhotblue has worked alongside Get Real to deliver cut-through campaigns for key product sales and promotions, where visibility drives results. We spoke with owner Nathan Price about the value of professional marketing and what it takes to stand out in a competitive retail market.
Why do you continue to invest in marketing rather than relying on familiarity alone?
Describe your favourite Get Real marketing campaign?
Our favourite Get Real marketing campaign would have to be the “Win $10,000 Can Crush Competition”, which we ran as part of our 10th Birthday Celebration.
This campaign stood out because it created huge excitement both in-store and online, and it was backed by strong, professional graphics and consistent branding that immediately grabbed attention. The campaign also generated strong customer engagement because it was fun, different, and gave people a reason to visit the store and be part of the celebration.
One of the biggest highlights was the outside broadcast on the day of the major can crush appointment, which created a real buzz in the community and helped turn the event into more than just a promotion — it became a memorable Get Real milestone.
Overall, it was a campaign that combined strong visuals, community engagement, and excitement, and it helped reinforce Get Real’s brand as bold, energetic, and locally connected.
What are the benefits of hiring a professional agency to do your marketing rather than in-house?
Hiring a professional marketing agency gives us access to a wider skill set than we can realistically maintain in-house. Agencies bring strategic planning, creative direction, high-level design, copywriting expertise, and data-driven campaign management, all under one roof.
It also saves time internally — instead of our team juggling marketing on top of daily operations, an agency can deliver consistent content, professional branding, and structured campaigns that align with business goals.
Most importantly, agencies provide an outside perspective and keep us accountable to growth. They help ensure our marketing remains modern, competitive, and aligned with trends in digital advertising and customer behaviour.
How have campaigns helped influence customer behaviour?
Our campaigns have strongly influenced customer behaviour by increasing both brand awareness and customer confidence.
We’ve seen campaigns drive behaviour in practical ways, such as:
Overall, our campaigns have helped shift customer behaviour from simply “shopping” to actively trusting Get Real as their go-to safety supplier, which builds long-term loyalty and repeat business.
JODY EULER : redhotblue and
NATHAN PRICE: Getreal Workwear
A Mackay woman has made her way from silent battles to the international stage, transforming pain into purpose and self-doubt into a platform that now inspires women across the region and beyond.
Recently appointed National United Miss – Ms Queensland 25/26, Jenna will represent Australia at International United Miss in America this July, which she says is, “a dream come true.”
In October, she was crowned after applying online for a system that resonates with her mission, made up of “a strong sense of sisterhood.”
She kept the news private until receiving her sash and crown just four weeks ago, officially beginning her journey to the international stage.
“It’s so amazing that I get to do what I love – only now I get to do it on a bigger scale and make more of a global impact,” she said.
As the only Mackay entrant in her system heading to Florida, Jenna admits the honour is significant — but she is far from alone.
“The support is so, so tight — you would think that we were all sisters.”
Her rise has not come without hardship. From a young age, Jenna experienced bullying that deeply affected her confidence, self-love and sense of self-worth. She has faced both online and in-person bullying, even in recent times, but she refuses to let those voices define her.
“What defines me is how I choose to rise with heart, honesty, and a desire to help others do the same,” she said.
Through modelling and pageantry, Jenna rebuilt her confidence and learned to believe in herself again. That healing journey sparked her advocacy platform, Freedom to Flourish — a movement grounded in mindset, healing and permission to grow. It is a message for those carrying silent battles and anyone learning to love themselves again.
“Pageants and modelling really changed my life,” she said. “It’s life changing.”
Determined to create that same transformation for others, Jenna founded Beeyoutiful Charity Pageants, combining empowerment with purpose. The next event will be held on June 27, and will raise funds for HeartKids, supporting children and families impacted by childhood-onset heart disease. Entries are now open.
Through her platform, business and volunteer work, Jenna regularly connects with women navigating confidence struggles and self-doubt. By sharing her story openly, she hopes others feel seen, and brave enough to step forward.
Preparation for Florida is already underway, with a routine in place, public speaking training and a full-time coach.
But beyond crowns and competition, her mission is focused on reminding women they are worthy of space, healing and growth.
“Through this title and once in a lifetime opportunity, I hope to continue inspiring others who may be struggling with fear or the weight of others’ opinions, and remind them that they deserve the freedom to flourish.”
Businesses interested in sponsoring her international journey or supporting the June charity event can connect via Instagram at @nummsqueensland.
Mackay’s Jenna Kerschbaumer has been named National United Miss – Ms Queensland 25/26 and will represent Australia at International United Miss in America this July, using her platform Freedom to Flourish to inspire women to rise above bullying and self-doubt. Photos supplied
Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) has kicked off 2026 by welcoming a vibrant new cohort of graduate nurses, ready to begin their healthcare careers across Mackay Base Hospital and regional facilities.
Executive Director Nursing and Midwifery James Williams Jenkins said 67 newly qualified nurses have been recruited to the 2026 Mackay HHS Nursing and Midwifery Graduate Program.
The two cohorts are comprised of 36 new nurses in February and 26 graduates welcomed to the Mackay HHS in March.
“We are delighted to welcome our large annual cohort of graduate nurses to the health service where they will consolidate and further develop the clinical skills they learned at university,” Mr Jenkins said.
The Mackay HHS Nursing and Midwifery Graduate Program is twelve months in duration across Mackay Base Hospital and rural hospitals.
“Graduate nurses undertake placements across any of the 25 clinical areas in the Base Hospital including mental health, emergency, renal, medical, cardiac, surgical, oncology and theatres, as well as across our rural facilities,” Mr Jenkins said.
Fifteen nurse graduates are undertaking rural placement across the Mackay HHS at facilities including Proserpine, Clermont, Bowen, Sarina and Dysart and there are two midwifery graduates in the program in 2026.
“They will be supported with mentoring, theoretical and clinical guidance to ensure we build safe, confident and competent nurses,” Mr Jenkins said.
“Most graduates studied at CQUniversity and James Cook University and many are from the Mackay region.
“We are also pleased to welcome nursing graduates from other parts of Queensland and New South Wales as well as New Zealand.”
Mackay HHS continues to support graduate registered nurses after their first year of professional practise with excellent retention rates, Mr Jenkins said.
Hayley Borg, Jessica Treyvaud and Alex Robinson
Group pic - Mackay Hospital and Health Service has welcomed 67 new graduate nurses to its 2026 Nursing and Midwifery Graduate Program, providing placements across Mackay Base Hospital and rural facilities to build skills, confidence, and support local and regional healthcare. Photos supplied
Do you have someone in your neighbourhood who is a bit of a legend?
Maybe they bring in your bins when you’re away, collect your parcels to keep them safe from porch pirates, or maybe offer an ear and a chat over the fence?
As part of Neighbour Day, Mackay Regional Council is looking for those people in our region who really make our neighbourhoods feel safe, connected and supportive.
My Legendary Neighbour, will run again throughout March, with residents urged to nominate someone they think is a true legend.
Mayor Greg Williamson said previous Neighbour Day events have led to lasting and meaningful relationships.
“One of last year’s winners, Rebecca, hosted a street gathering as a way to bring together older and younger residents and bridge the gap over the generations,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Their neighbour, who is in his 90s, attended and had a wonderful time connecting with others and her young children now make a point of going and checking on him and spending time with him.
“These sort of connections are what makes our community great and also provide people with a sense of belonging, connection and security.”
This year, residents are being encouraged to nominate their legendary neighbour to be in the running for a prize that they can share.
Nominations can be made at mackay.qld.gov.au/neighbour and close on March 20, 2026.
Council is also running several ‘Cuppa with a Neighbour’ events throughout March. These free events will be held at Armstrongs Beach, Mount Ossa, Marian, Walkerston and the Northern Beaches.
These events will allow people to meet and socialise in a relaxed environment.
Full details of these events can be found at mackay.qld.gov.au/neighbour
Mackay marked International Men’s Day on Wednesday 13 February 2026 at Souths Leagues Club, celebrating the sixth year of the event organised by Mackay Shed Happens.
Proudly sponsored by DGH Engineering and supported by Daly Bay Coal Terminal, the morning recognised the positive impact men make in the community as fathers, colleagues, mates, and role models.
Attendees enjoyed good food, engaging conversation, and guided table discussions on discrimination against men in social services, societal expectations, and the law, while highlighting men’s health, wellbeing, and meaningful connections.
A special congratulations went to Charlie Jones (DBCT), who received a Weber BBQ after winning the door prize at the celebratory breakfast.
Organisers also thanked Member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton, for donating the BBQ, as well as everyone who bought tickets and supported the event.
Photo source: Real Mates Talk & SHED Happens Mackay
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, has today welcomed the decision to re-form the Coalition between the Liberal and National parties, describing it as a vital step in providing Australia with the strong, credible opposition it deserves.
The re-formation of the Coalition follows a period of principled stand-taking by the National Party after the Albanese Government attempted to rush the complex Combatting Antisemitism, Hate and Extremism Bill 2026 through Parliament with only hours of scrutiny.
“I have always stood by my convictions, and my priority has never wavered: I am here to do what is best for the people of Dawson,” Mr Willcox said.
“This wasn't an easy period, but it was a necessary one.”
Mr Willcox said that the deal to re-form the Coalition between the Nationals and Liberals wasn’t just a handshake, it’s a fundamental reset of how the Coalition functions.
“We have replaced unwritten conventions with a formal, written agreement that enshrines the primacy of the Joint Party Room. This means that from now on, the National Party’s voice is locked into the decision-making process at the earliest stage, ensuring that regional concerns are addressed before a final Coalition position is reached.
“By taking this stand, the National Party has secured a more transparent and accountable partnership, one that is built on codified rules and mutual respect for our separate party rooms.
“We have used this time to strengthen our internal processes, and we are returning to this partnership stronger, more united, and more determined than ever.”
Mr Willcox noted that the Coalition is the most enduring and successful partnership in Australian political history, and that its reunion is a clear win for regional Australians who have been hit hardest by Labor’s economic failures.
“Every moment spent on internal party issues is a free pass to a weak and divisive Prime Minister,” Mr Willcox said.
“While the media was focused on the split, I remained focused on the families, the growers, the workers, our retirees and the students who are struggling under the weight of rising inflation and a reckless 'renewables-only' energy agenda that is driving up the cost of everything.
“Australia deserves a government that bridges the gap between the city and the country, rather than one that throws away taxpayer money while families are forced to make heart-breaking cuts to their own budgets.”
As part of the reformed Coalition arrangements, Mr Willcox will return to his role as Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability on 1 March 2026.
“I am eager to get back to work in this portfolio,” he said.
“Our manufacturing sector is the backbone of our sovereign self-reliance, yet it is currently battling unrealistic climbs in energy costs and bureaucratic red tape.
“I will continue to be a fierce advocate for 'making things in Australia' and ensuring our industries have the affordable, reliable power they need to remain competitive on the world stage.”
Mr Willcox remains unyielding in his commitment to the people of Dawson; he will always stand up for the common-sense values of his electorate, regardless of the political noise in the capital.
“Debate is a sign of a healthy democracy, and the Coalition is undoubtedly stronger together.
“We are squarely focused on the future, and we will spend every single day holding this failing Albanese Labor Government to account.”
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, at Parliament House following the announcement that the Coalition has officially re-formed. Photo supplied
Hi lovely readers!
On the front cover and page 7, you’ll read about our local member for Mackay making national headlines last week after crossing the floor in parliament, voting in support of raising the gag order on current abortion laws.
While this is a sensitive topic, I believe it’s one that needs to be discussed. Everyone should have the right to talk about issues like this, especially our MPs, who are on the frontline representing their communities.
Nigel Dalton took a stand, not only for his personal beliefs but also for those he felt were voiceless – and I believe that deserves recognition.
Whether you’re ‘pro-life’ or ‘pro-choice,’ the fact that he risked public scrutiny to stand for what he believes in should encourage each of us to do the same.
It’s no secret that I am a follower of Christ and hold Christian values and beliefs (as you may gather from my weekly scriptures!), and I find Mr Dalton’s actions, for both his community and his faith, truly inspiring.
These days, we are often told to keep our faith private or shy away from speaking out if something is ‘too controversial’… but I think shedding light on global issues from a Christian perspective is something that could be accepted just like any other viewpoint.
We all have a right to stand up for what we believe in.
May we continue to stand boldly in our beliefs, unafraid and unashamed!
Scripture of the week: “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek.” – Romans 1:16
The 2025 Christmas season in Mackay saw the power of community generosity on full display, with the annual Christmas Gift Wrapping initiative raising an impressive $72,000. A significant portion of the funds, $53,000, will directly support BMA CQ Rescue, ensuring the local emergency helicopter service can continue its vital work rescuing people across Central Queensland.
In addition to BMA CQ Rescue, the initiative also provided critical funding to Queensland Remote Area Tracking (QRAT) and The Neighbourhood Hub, helping local organisations sustain their important services.
Organisers and participants praised the incredible effort of volunteers, shoppers, and community groups, including ESA Alpha Rho and Caneland Central, whose dedication turned small donations into meaningful support for those in need. From wrapping gifts to shopping for loved ones, every contribution played a role in making a lasting impact.
BMA CQ Rescue expressed gratitude to everyone involved, highlighting how collective action can strengthen the community while keeping essential services operational.
Photo source: BMA CQ Rescue
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