This week’s Pet of the Week is Blossom — a beautiful, gentle girl whose sweet nature shines through, even after arriving in care with more challenges than any pup should have to face.

When Blossom first came into care, it was clear she was in pain and discomfort. After several days of pain relief, anti-inflammatories and antibiotics, she is finally starting to feel like herself again. Watching the sparkle return to her eyes and the smile creep back onto her face has been incredibly special for everyone involved in her care.

The good news is that Blossom does not have a broken pelvis, which was an early concern. However, she has been diagnosed with a torn CCL (canine cruciate ligament) — a painful injury that will require careful ongoing management and surgery in the future.

For now, Blossom’s treatment plan focuses on keeping her comfortable with pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication while also addressing multiple infections affecting her eyes, ears and skin. She will begin heartworm treatment and start a carefully monitored nutrition plan to help her gain much-needed healthy weight.

Once Blossom is stronger and medically stable, she will be desexed and will undergo CCL surgery to help restore her mobility and quality of life.

It’s a long road ahead, but Blossom is facing it with quiet bravery — and she is surrounded by a team completely committed to giving her the second chance she deserves: a life free from pain and filled with safety, comfort and love.

Those caring for Blossom have expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported her journey so far, saying every act of kindness has made a real difference.

Anyone wishing to contribute to Blossom’s ongoing treatment can make donations directly to Northern Beaches Vet Hospital under the name Blossom, or via Lucy’s Lucky Tags and Dog Rescue.

Thank you for helping this brave girl bloom into the happy, healthy future she deserves

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Locals are being urged to roll up their sleeves and head to Harbour Beach on Sunday, 1 March for Clean Up Australia Day, as the community comes together to restore the coastline following recent severe weather.

Running from 7am to 10am at the Surf Club, Harbour Beach, this year’s clean-up carries added significance after heavy wet season rains and Cyclone Koji washed large volumes of debris onto the shoreline.

Organisers say plastics, fishing line and other storm-driven rubbish now scattered along the beach pose a serious threat to marine life — particularly nesting turtles and hatchlings that rely on the area’s sandy dunes.

The event is designed to be family-friendly, offering a hands-on way for children and adults alike to learn about environmental stewardship while enjoying time outdoors.

Whether participants can spare half an hour or stay for the full three-hour window, all help is welcomed.

In addition to the clean-up effort, the morning will also feature a Tangaroa Blue ReefClean monitoring activity for those keen to take their involvement a step further.

Budding “citizen scientists” will have the opportunity to learn how marine debris surveys are conducted, including transect monitoring techniques, and gain insight into the growing issue of microplastics along the coastline.

It’s an ideal chance for anyone curious about beach monitoring processes to see firsthand how data is collected and used to support long-term environmental protection.

Organisers encourage residents to bring family and friends and make a morning of it — combining community spirit with meaningful action.

With turtle nesting season underway and coastal ecosystems still recovering from recent weather events, community participation will play a key role in restoring Harbour Beach.

Those wishing to register can do so online via the official Clean Up Australia Day website, register.cleanup.org.au/fundraisers/donnajackson/clean-up-australia-day---mackay-harbour.

Clean Up Australia Day events will be held across the nation. Photo source: Shutterstock

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The Crisafulli Government has announced a sweeping package of legislative reforms aimed at combating antisemitism, curbing terrorist symbolism and strengthening protections around places of worship across Queensland.

The proposed laws, to be introduced in State Parliament this week, are described as strong and decisive measures to ensure Queenslanders can live, worship and gather safely. The reforms form part of a broader safety agenda in the wake of the Bondi beach terrorist attack and respond to growing concerns about antisemitism and extremist behaviour, particularly impacting the Jewish community.

Premier David Crisafulli said the legislation delivers the strongest possible protections to address rising threats.

“We called this out from the beginning, we said we’d act, and through this legislation, we are delivering a strong and considered response,” Premier Crisafulli said.

“This is about drawing a clear line - and stamping out the embers of hatred that were allowed to burn unchecked for too long - to ensure we protect Queenslanders. The Jewish community has been clear: Queensland needs stronger legislation backed by real enforcement to drive out antisemitism, and that is exactly what we are delivering.”

The Bill introduces tougher penalties for offences targeting religious communities. It increases the maximum penalty for assaulting or threatening a person officiating a religious ceremony from two to five years’ imprisonment, creates new offences for impeding or harassing people attending religious services with penalties of up to three years, and establishes a new special case of wilful damage for harm to a place of worship carrying a maximum sentence of seven years.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice and Minister for Integrity Deb Frecklington said the Government was standing firmly with the Jewish community in both words and action.

“We are bolstering protections for the Jewish community, so they know that this Government is doing everything possible to stop the rise of antisemitism,” the Attorney-General said.

“This Bill represents a focused and practical step forward for Queensland. It introduces targeted reforms to ban terrorist symbols and phrases and improve safety around places of worship. Together, these changes reinforce our commitment to protecting communities and ensuring Queensland remains a safe, inclusive state for everyone.”

The legislation also strengthens existing laws around terrorist imagery and slogans. Penalties for displaying terrorist symbols will increase from six months to two years’ imprisonment, and prohibitions will be extended to cover symbols associated with terrorist organisations or state sponsors of terrorism, including the Hamas flag and emblem, the Islamic State flag, the Hizballah emblem and Nazi symbols.

In addition, the Bill proposes a new offence banning the public distribution, publication, display or recitation of prescribed phrases — including “globalise the intifada” and “from the river to the sea” — where done to cause menace, harassment or offence. A maximum penalty of two years’ imprisonment would apply.

President of the Queensland Jewish Board of Deputies, Jason Steinberg, said the reforms would help restore confidence in the community.

“For the past two and a half years, the Jewish community has endured unprecedented levels of hate, intimidation and fear and the reforms send a clear message that antisemitism and hate have no place in Queensland,” Mr Steinberg said.

“Our community greatly appreciates the commitment by the Crisafulli Government to ensure Jewish Queenslanders can live, work and play just like any other Queenslander. This Bill moves beyond words and delivers real, practical protections for our community and for all people targeted by hate.

“This is not only a welcome and necessary step for Jewish people, it is vital for rebuilding the confidence we have lost as hatred has run rampant.”

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Mackay Base Hospital continues to set the standard in cardiac care, with two team members among a select group certified in heart rhythm management worldwide.

Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) Clinical Director of Cardiology Dr Michael Zhang and Senior Cardiac Physiologist Annie Luke are both credentialed by the International Board of Heart Rhythm Examiners (IBHRE), the global gold standard in heart rhythm management certification.

IBHRE Day recognises these cardiac specialists, celebrating their achievements and their impact on the field of heart rhythm management.

Patients requiring complex heart rhythm care in Mackay are benefiting from their expertise and enhanced specialist cardiac care, reinforcing the hospital’s reputation for delivering world-class healthcare close to home.

“These credentials give our regional patients confidence that cardiac care here in Mackay is gold standard and that our level of skill and knowledge is globally recognised,” Dr Zhang said.

“For a regional hospital to have this level of expertise is a real strength and demonstrates to our patients, colleagues and to our peers, both our skills and commitment to excellent care.”

Annie, who has worked in the Clinical Measurements Unit at Mackay Base Hospital for five years, said the certification had strengthened both her professional practice and patient outcomes.

“This certification validates our specialised knowledge in pacing and cardiac device therapy, which is essential for safely caring for regional patients with complex rhythm disorders,” she said.

These achievements place Mackay Base Hospital among a select number of services worldwide with multiple IBHRE-certified practitioners, with Dr Zhang and Annie among just 381 certified specialists across Australia and New Zealand.

Mackay Base Hospital proudly acknowledges Dr Zhang and Annie for their commitment to continuous learning and clinical excellence, with their globally recognised credentials continuing to enhance specialist cardiac care for patients across the Mackay region.

Mackay Base Hospital has strengthened its reputation for world-class cardiac care, with Dr Michael Zhang and Annie Luke among a select group globally certified in heart rhythm management. Photo source: Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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Queensland’s building and construction sector is ramping up pressure on the State Government ahead of the 2026–27 Budget, warning that productivity reform is critical to meeting the state’s growing pipeline of work.

In its Pre-Budget Submission delivered on 11 February, the Master Builders Queensland has called for urgent action to strengthen workforce supply, support housing delivery and create a more stable operating environment for construction businesses.

CEO Paul Bidwell said the stakes had never been higher.

“Our sector is facing what is arguably the most extraordinary pipeline of housing, community, and infrastructure projects our state has ever seen – not to mention those for the 2032 Games delivery program,” Mr Bidwell said.

“To meet this challenge, construction businesses need a stable operating environment. One that supports efficiency and sustainability. That means resilient supply chains for skilled labour and materials. It means flexibility to adopt more innovative and productive ways of working. And it means regulation that is targeted, clear, and doesn’t drag productivity down.”

The submission builds on work already undertaken by the Queensland Productivity Commission, with industry backing several of the Commission’s recommendations and the government’s initial response.

“The upcoming Budget presents a critical opportunity for government to take further meaningful action where it matters most,” Mr Bidwell said.

“To this end, our submission urges a firm focus on funding to support growing our workforce, strategic investment to deliver housing targets, and a whole-of-government focus on rebuilding productivity.”

Latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows new building approvals in Queensland rose 10.5 per cent over the year to December, reaching 41,039 dwellings. While still short of the state’s 50,000-home annual target, the figures outperformed both NSW and Victoria.

Regionally, unit approvals on the Gold Coast surged 58 per cent over the past three months, with Wide Bay, Downs & Western and Central Queensland also recording gains.

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Mackay MP Crosses Parliament Floor To End Abortion Gag

Mackay MP Nigel Dalton has made national headlines after crossing the floor of Parliament to challenge his own LNP’s gag order on abortion debate. Labelled both a ‘hero’ and a ‘rebel,’ Dalton broke party protocol in what he describes as a stand for his personal beliefs.

The motion, in place since 2024, had previously silenced MPs on the topic. Mr Dalton told pro-life activist Dr Howe in an interview on Tuesday, 10th February, that he “regrets” not speaking up sooner, citing “naivety” and a lack of understanding of parliamentary process.

“This is my time to redeem myself… in the eyes of the public, but also in the eyes of God. That’s who I serve,” he said.

Dalton’s move has sparked debate across parties and the community, drawing criticism from pro-choice activists and praise from supporters who say his stance reflects conscience and accountability. Despite the controversy, he remains steadfast, showing the weight a single MP can carry in reigniting public conversation on complex issues.

Conviction Over Compliance

Local MP Acts On Personal Beliefs Despite Backlash

A local MP has been labelled both a ‘hero’ and a ‘rebel’ following backlash from opposing political leaders and pro-choice activists after crossing the floor of Parliament in what he describes as a stand for his personal beliefs.

On Tuesday, 10^th February, Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton made national headlines after breaking with his own LNP party protocols to vote in support of removing the current gag order motion that prevents MPs from speaking on abortion.

The motion has been in place since 2024 under the Queensland Government.

Prior to the election, Mr Dalton agreed alongside other local representatives that there would be no changes to abortion laws. However, he now says he “regrets” that agreement.

In an interview with pro-life activist Dr Howe, Mr Dalton acknowledged he needed to apologise to the community for not taking a stand sooner.

“My regret is that I didn’t stand up earlier… I should have stood up during the campaign,” he said, attributing his earlier silence to “naivety,” and, “not fully understanding the parliamentary process.”

“I’m not blaming anybody for that… that’s my fault.”

Mr Dalton said that once he became aware that Robbie Katter intended to raise discussion around abortion laws, he felt compelled to act.

“This is my time to redeem myself… in the eyes of the public, but also in the eyes of God. That’s who I serve,” he said.

“This is a personal response… this is me getting right with God and the community who voted for me.”

Mr Dalton affirmed his decision was rooted in personal beliefs, rather than politics.

“Whether I’m in a school situation, a business situation or a political situation, I have to stand up for what I believe. My response to this issue was that I had to cross the floor.”

While the issue remains a sensitive topic, his actions have sparked significant debate across the political spectrum and within the wider community. The move has raised questions about why MPs were restricted from speaking on the matter and reignited discussion among advocacy groups on both sides.

Criticism has come particularly from pro-choice activists who argue that abortion legislation should remain centred on women’s rights. Supporters, however, say Mr Dalton’s decision reflects his commitment to conscience and accountability.

Whether viewed as courageous or controversial, Mr Dalton’s decision to cross the floor has positioned him at the centre of one of the state’s most divisive debates, and firmly in the national spotlight.

While opinions remain divided, the move has intensified discussion around parliamentary protocol, freedom of conscience, and the broader abortion debate in Queensland.

At the time of publication, no changes have been made to the gag order. However, Mr Dalton’s stance has underscored the impact a single vote can have in reigniting public conversation on complex viewpoints.

Despite potential political repercussions, he has remained firm in his position, a decision supporters describe as honourable, and critics as contentious.

Cover: On Tuesday, 10^th February, Mackay MP Nigel Dalton crossed the Parliament floor to challenge his party’s gag order on abortion, citing personal conviction, sparking national debate and both criticism and praise. Photo source: Nigel Dalton MP

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A rigorous march has turned into a major win for homeless veterans, with more than $27,600 raised for CASA Mackay through the Just Keep Marching campaign.

Led by 2025 Young Citizen of the Year Murray Macgroarty, the community-backed effort smashed its original target, transforming a personal challenge into real-world support for veterans facing housing insecurity.

The funding, presented by RSL Mackay, will be used to assist veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, helping cover short-term accommodation and other critical supports.

Local service provider CASA said the donation will help fill key gaps, ensuring veterans can access emergency housing and practical assistance when existing options fall short.

The campaign has highlighted the ongoing challenges facing veterans transitioning to civilian life, while showing the power of grassroots community action to deliver real, measurable change.
The donation is expected to provide immediate assistance for vulnerable veterans and strengthen local efforts to reduce veteran homelessness across the region.

RSL Mackay members met with CASA representatives on Tuesday, 10th February, to present the $27,660 donation for veteran homelessness support. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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RSL Mackay Donation Boosts Veteran Homelessness Support Through CASA

RSL Mackay presented a very generous donation of just over $27,600 to CASA Mackay in support of its ongoing work helping individuals experiencing homelessness, following the recent Murray’s Just Keep Marching fundraising campaign.

The funds were raised through an extraordinary community effort led by young cadet and 2025 Young Citizen of the Year Murray Macgroarty, whose long-distance walk captured widespread support and significantly exceeded its original fundraising target.

President of Mackay RSL Ken Higgins said the organisation was committed to ensuring the funds were directed where they were most needed.

“We want to make sure the money went to where it should go to, and that's to veteran homelessness in this area,” he said.

He confirmed the funds would directly support short-term housing needs for vulnerable veterans.

While exact figures are difficult to track due to the transient nature of the veteran community, the RSL estimates there are a number of veterans doing it tough locally.

“I would think there’d be probably 20 or 30 around the area that are coming and going,” he said.

He also highlighted the challenges many veterans face when transitioning from military to civilian life.

“One of the big problems with veterans is the transition from being very comfortable in their environment to now wandering around, and finding it hard to adapt to civilian life,” he said.

Mackay RSL Secretary Georgia-Lee Ricketts, a younger veteran herself, said she understood firsthand how difficult the transition from military life can be.

“I was discharged from the Army after 15 years, four years ago,” she said.

“I know firsthand how difficult it really is to try and find a place in the community once you leave the military.”

She said rebuilding life outside the structured military environment could be confronting.

“At 35 years old, I had to try and learn to live my life as an individual, and it is really difficult.”

CASA General Manager Will Stafford said the organisation was grateful to receive the funding and to partner with RSL Mackay to support veterans experiencing housing insecurity.

“We’re delighted to receive this funding,” Mr Stafford said.

“It was really amazing to follow Murray’s journey — that initial target of $5,000 to over $27,000 was incredible.”

Mr Stafford said CASA and the RSL had worked together to ensure the funds would be used strategically.

“After conversations with the RSL, we’ve got a plan to make this money work for veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness,” he said.

He said homelessness numbers in Mackay had stabilised but remained a significant concern.

“We’ve seen numbers stabilise — we’re sitting around 50 homeless individuals across Mackay.”

“We want to see that number go down.”

Mr Stafford said CASA had supported around 12 veterans in the past three months, and that the funding would allow CASA to fill critical gaps in support.

“If we have a homeless vet or someone at risk of homelessness, we want to be able to ensure the existing framework’s able to support them, and if in the rare instance it’s not, we can use this money to support them in any way we can.”

The donation will help ensure more veterans in Mackay receive timely support, practical assistance and a pathway toward safer, more stable housing.

RSL Mackay presented a generous donation to CASA earlier this week, following Murray Macgroarty’s Just Keep Marching campaign, to support veterans experiencing or at risk of homelessness. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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A 36-year-old East Mackay man has been charged with multiple weapons and drug-related offences following an early-morning police operation in Mackay late last month.

Mackay Tactical Crime Squad officers, with assistance from the Dog Squad, attended a Bridge Road motel in East Mackay at approximately 7.30am on 31 January in relation to a wanted person, declaring an emergent search.

Police allege that during the search, officers located a shortened firearm, ammunition, a quantity of dangerous drugs, and drug utensils.

The man has been charged with two counts of possessing dangerous drugs, including methamphetamine and buprenorphine, along with one count each of possessing a relevant substance (butanediol), unlawful possession of a weapon (shortened firearm), authority required to possess explosives (ammunition), and possessing utensils.

He has been remanded in custody and is due to reappear before Mackay Magistrates Court on 24 February.

Police are urging anyone with information to contact Policelink via the online suspicious activity form at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting, available 24 hours a day.

Information can also be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers by calling 1800 333 000 or reporting online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

Quote reference number: QP2600199545.

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Estelle is an older lady of refinement, experience and very strong opinions — and she is currently looking for a loving home to call her own.

Coming into care in need of emergency surgery, Estelle bravely underwent the removal of her hip joint. While the procedure was dramatic, her recovery has been anything but. Slow, steady and nothing short of remarkable, Estelle has handled the process with quiet determination and would like it known that she is not fragile — she is seasoned.

One of Estelle’s firmly held beliefs is that humans exist primarily for patting purposes. “Pat me, Human” is not a request, but a management directive.

Her foster carer works from home in what appears to be a very important role, though Estelle remains unimpressed. She has observed that humans have two hands: one for emails and one for the cat. This, in Estelle’s view, is simply efficient workplace management.

Estelle also lives by a strict interior design code: if it’s flat, it’s a bed. If it fits, she sits. And if there’s a laptop mat nearby, it is clearly intended for her comfort. She prefers to be wherever her human is — desk, couch, bed, paperwork or keyboard — with pats continuing, even while she sleeps. This is non-negotiable.

Despite her age and recent surgery, Estelle is calm, affectionate and wonderfully companionable. There is no chaos or curtain climbing here, just gentle company and the occasional reminder that pats are overdue.

To meet Estelle, contact Peta on 0423 500 650.

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Returning to school can be a challenge for many families, but thanks to the generosity of Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) staff, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students have begun the school year with the tools they need to succeed.

As part of the Back to School Supply Drive, staff from across Mackay HHS donated hundreds of essential items, including pens, rulers, rubbers, glue sticks, books, scissors, lunchboxes, water bottles, backpacks, and other learning equipment. The donations were collected by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Unit and delivered to the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Health Service (ATSICHS Mackay) to support families who are doing it tough.

Contributions came from various hospital units, including the Executive Leadership team and contracts department, demonstrating a strong commitment to health equity and efforts to help Close the Gap.

Organisers say the drive does more than provide supplies; it eases the financial burden on families while encouraging students to attend school regularly, reinforcing the importance of the 'Every Day Counts' message.

“A backpack filled with school supplies is the first step towards a mind filled with knowledge,” a spokesperson said.

Through this small but thoughtful gesture, Mackay HHS staff are helping local students pursue their learning and big dreams, showing how community support can make a real difference in the lives of families and young learners.

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Photo source: Mackay Hospital Health Service

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Hi lovely readers!

This Sunday is the Mackay Regional Council Sport and Rec Expo, and I’ll be popping in after church to take some photos of everyone there. If you see me with my camera out and about, feel free to come and say hi!

Sport is thriving in our region, and on page 21 you can read all about the North Queensland Games which will kick off a bit later on in the year.

Our region is jam-packed with talent, and it’s great to see so many opportunities and new pathways being paved for the future generations.

There’s a real passion amongst local leaders and the community to make Mackay not only a great place to live, but also a place where families can flourish, careers can grow, and where people can enjoy their hobbies and personal passions such as the arts or sport.

If you’re thinking of joining a local sporting club, check out the expo this Sunday. And if sport isn’t really your thing, try picking up a paint brush or starting a new hobby – you never know what talent you might uncover!

Scripture of the week: “For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” - Romans‬ 8‬:38‬-39‬ NKJV‬‬

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Mackay Community Foundation (MCF) is now accepting applications for its 2026 Grant Program, offering non-profit organisations the opportunity to access a share of up to $230,000 in funding for community projects.

The Grant Program is open to projects that deliver tangible benefits to the Mackay region community, build skills, confidence and strengthen participation across all ages and groups.

Areas such as education, youth engagement, health and wellbeing, community development, cultural and environmental initiatives or providing safe and accessible spaces are all encouraged to apply. Organisations applying under an auspice arrangement are also eligible.

While most grants are expected to range between $15,000 and $20,000, applications for larger-scale projects are also encouraged.

MCF Chair Melissa Green said the Grant Program supports a broad range of community initiatives.

“Every organisation, regardless of size or focus, has the potential to create meaningful outcomes,” Ms Green said.

“We encourage all local not-for-profits to apply, whether it’s a new pilot project, an expansion of existing programs or a creative approach to meeting community needs.

“This funding is designed to empower organisations, while helping them reach even more people and deliver outcomes that strengthen our community.”

Eligible projects must build social capital, capacity and/or resilience within the Mackay region. Projects should also deliver economic benefits locally, support local suppliers where possible, and be completed by June 2027.

Applications close at 5pm Friday, 13 March 2026. Applications can be submitted online at https://mackaycommunityfoundation.fillout.com/2026-grant-application.

Last year’s recipients shared in a total of $175,000 in grant funding awarded to local non-profit organisations in 2025. Photo source: Mackay Community Foundation

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Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, has warned that North Queensland families are being pushed to a financial breaking point following today’s decision by the Reserve Bank of Australia to raise interest rates to 3.85 per cent.

The 25-basis-point hike is the first in over two years and signals a deepening cost-of-living crisis that is being directly fuelled by the Albanese Government’s inability to control its own spending.

Mr Willcox said the rate rise is a devastating blow for mortgage holders who have already seen an extra $21,000 stripped from their pockets since Labor took office. He noted that while the Prime Minister promised Australians that "life would be cheaper" under a Labor government, the reality in Dawson is an unsettling erosion of the family budget.

For many families, the "Australian Dream" is being replaced by an economic nightmare, a daily struggle to balance the books as inflation continues to act as a silent thief.

The pressure is particularly acute for those who have young families, navigating the Christmas credit card and "back-to-school" expenses.

Recent data shows that education costs have surged by 5.4 per cent, while childcare fees have exploded by an incredible 11.2 per cent.

“It is a disgrace that in a country as prosperous as ours, a childcare place can now cost as much as a year at an elite private boarding school,” Mr Willcox said.

“These are barriers preventing parents from returning to work, making this cost-of-living nightmare even harder on families.”

Mr Willcox argued that these rising costs, combined with higher mortgage repayments and a suffocating rental market, are making it nearly impossible for working parents to get ahead.

“This economic pain is not an accident, but a direct result of Labor’s record-breaking spending,” Mr Willcox said.

New budget data has revealed an unbelievable $50 billion blowout in government spending over just six months; a rate of more than $200 million per day. “While families are being forced to make hard decisions and cut back on essentials, this Labor Government continues to pour fuel on the inflationary fire with taxpayer money,” he added.

The Member for Dawson has supported Senator Matt Canavan in calling for the immediate resignation of Treasurer Jim Chalmers. Senator Canavan initiated the call in the Senate today, following revelations of a staggering $50 billion blowout in government spending over just six months, a rate of more than $200 million per day.

“I am standing with Senator Canavan in saying enough is enough.

“Jim Chalmers has overseen the biggest spending blowout in Australian history, and it is hard working families who are settling the bill,” Mr Willcox said.

Senator Canavan noted that if a CEO in the private sector presided over a $100 billion blowout, they would be sacked on the spot.

“We should expect the same standard of accountability for the person holding the nation’s chequebook,” Mr Willcox said.

“This crazy level of spending is exactly why interest rates went up today. You cannot pour $200 million of taxpayer money onto the fire every single day and not expect inflation to burn.”

Mr Willcox warned that the rate hike would not only hurt mortgage holders but would also place even more pressure on an already suffocating rental market.

“Every time the Treasurer spends, the families in Mackay, the growers in Bowen, the tourism operators in the Whitsundays, the soldiers in Townsville and the workers in the Burdekin pay the price.

“My team and I will continue to fight to hold this Government to account for every dollar they waste and every promise they break.”

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In the heart of Mackay, nestled at 2/24 River Street, there is a culinary gem where the vibrant flavours of Asia meet a deep-rooted commitment to health and authenticity.

Tropical Phoenix Garden Restaurant is not your typical local eatery; it is a kitchen where tradition is respected and every dish is a testament to the belief that food is the ultimate medicine.

While many restaurants rely on the convenience of bulk cooking or pre-made ingredients: Tropical Phoenix has built its reputation on a much harder, yet more rewarding, path.

The secret to their incredible taste starts with a simple rule; everything is made from scratch. At Tropical Phoenix, you will never find rows of trays sitting in bain-maries for hours. Instead, every single main is wok-sizzled fresh to order. This high-heat, rapid cooking method ensures that vegetables remain crisp and nutrients are locked in, providing that elusive "wok hei" or "breath of the wok" that defines truly authentic Asian cuisine.

This dedication to quality extends to their famous starters. While many outlets serve frozen, mass-produced snacks, every spring roll at Tropical Phoenix is hand-rolled daily on-site. You can taste the difference in the light, crunchy pastry and the fresh, locally sourced filling.

Their dumplings and satay skewers follow the same standard, crafted by hand to ensure that the first bite of your meal is just as impressive as the last.

Central to the restaurant’s philosophy is the traditional Chinese nutritional belief of eating from a rainbow of vegetables. The chef understands that different colours in nature represent different benefits for the body. Following these ancient principles, they incorporate a diverse palette of ingredients to promote vitality. Red vegetables like tomatoes and capsicums are chosen to support heart health and circulation, while yellow and orange staples like carrots are essential for grounding the stomach and aiding digestion.

Green leafy vegetables are used for detoxification and liver health, while white ingredients, such as onions and cauliflower, support the lungs and immune system. By serving a spectrum of colours, Tropical Phoenix ensures that their meals provide a balanced foundation of vitamins and minerals.

The owner is also passionate about supporting the local community, sourcing vegetables and proteins from regional suppliers whenever possible. This local focus ensures the ingredients are as fresh as they can be, which is crucial when your sauces are being made in-house without the need for heavy preservatives.

Despite this focus on tradition, the team knows that diners often look for a bit of indulgence. This is why the restaurant regularly offers its fan-favourite specials, such as their famous half-price honey chicken. It is a reward for their loyal customers, providing a taste of Mackay’s most-loved dish at an unbeatable price.

Whether you are looking for a quick, nutritious lunch or a celebratory family dinner, Tropical Phoenix Garden Restaurant proves that fast food can be healthy, and traditional food can be accessible.

It is a place where every sizzle of the wok and every hand-rolled spring roll is a commitment to the health and happiness of their diners.

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The Resource Industry Network (RIN) February Industry Briefing Luncheon at Harrup Park kicked off the year with a record sell-out of 120 attendees, welcoming both familiar faces and newcomers.

Keynote speaker Adam Lancey, Asset President of BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA), provided an update on operations and the broader outlook for Queensland’s steelmaking coal industry.

Adam highlighted the importance of collaboration, saying, “Competitiveness requires collaboration… It requires a shared vision for Queensland’s future and the courage to make the changes needed to realise it.”

RIN General Manager Dean Kirkwood added, “It just shows the movements of the region, and their contribution back to ensuring that Mackay and the communities within our region are supported as well.”

The luncheon gave industry leaders a chance to explore key issues, including coal royalties, future investment, and how BMA is working with the regional supply chain.

Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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