Beachgoers have come out in strong support for Professional Lifeguards, signing a petition in mass numbers to advocate for an increase in their wages.

Despite broadcasting record revenue, Surf Lifesaving Queensland is refusing to give Lifeguards a pay rise that keeps up with the cost of living.

In response to the stalemate at the bargaining table, the Australian Workers’ Union have taken to the beaches to rally public support for their cause.

AWU State Secretary Stacey Schinnerl said, “The community deserve to be made aware that the people that work so hard to protect us are not being treated with respect by SLSQ.

“We have been out at Queensland beaches talking to the public and putting up signs to give the public a chance to show their support.

“The campaign has been met with an overwhelmingly positive response.

“Many beachgoers were shocked at SLSQ’s disregard for the people who protect our community every day,” Ms Schinnerl said.

“The public is rightfully wary that there will not be enough Professional Lifeguards to keep the beaches open if the wages do not improve.”

Professional Lifeguards do the vast majority of QLD beach patrolling. There are not enough volunteers to protect the many beaches and lagoons.

Lifeguards’ ability to do the job they love is under threat. It is becoming increasingly unsustainable for Lifeguards to justify staying in the profession that they love with the lagging wages.

“Our beaches cannot stay open without them.”

The previous EBA offer was decisively voted down by the workforce.

“Lifeguards have put up with a string of unsatisfactory wage rises and now it’s time to draw a line in the sand and say enough is enough,” Ms Schinnerl said.

“We call on SLSQ to put a fair deal on the table that reflects the value that Professional Lifeguards bring to the community and keeps our beaches open.”

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It’s not every day a rock becomes a world traveller, but one Mackay stone has made an extraordinary journey—crossing continents to rest in the breathtaking glacial landscapes of Argentine Patagonia.
In 2023, Miriam Lizarraga, originally from Argentina, visited Mackay’s Artspace Museum and came across a community art project featuring a spiral of painted stones. The project, organised by local artist Ros Campbell, invited residents to decorate rocks to form a colourful snake sculpture. After the display, participants were encouraged to take the stones to spread the spirit of Mackay wherever they went.
For Miriam, this idea sparked a connection. As she admired the painted stones, one particular rock found its way into her hands and, ultimately, into her suitcase. Back in Argentina, she placed the rock in a stunning Patagonian setting, capturing the moment with photos to highlight the rugged beauty of her homeland.
Miriam shared her story: “I lived in beautiful Mackay and visited the art museum. The painted snake was so special, and I brought a stone back to leave it in a beautiful place in Patagonia. I hope you see these photos and feel inspired to visit my beautiful country!”
Her story has struck a chord back in Mackay. Elizabeth Springall, reflecting on the project, said: “The snake was such a wonderful community effort. It’s amazing to think one of those stones is now in Patagonia—a little piece of Mackay travelling the world!”
From the tropics of Mackay to the icy peaks of Patagonia, this humble rock now serves as a small but powerful symbol of connection, creativity, and global adventure.
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Photo credit: Miriam Lizarraga

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An Australian summer Christmas promises joy, sunshine, and backyard cricket—but it can also come with a side of stress. Here’s how to manage the madness with a splash of creativity and a sprinkle of festive fun.
1. Swap the stress for a beach day. Who says Christmas has to be formal? Pack a picnic, bring the cricket set, and celebrate with sand between your toes. Let the kids build sandcastles while you enjoy a much-needed breather by the waves.
2. Embrace the Aussie ‘bring a plate’ tradition. Ask everyone to bring their signature dish (yes, even if it’s store-bought). Sharing the load reduces stress and adds variety to the feast. Plus, Uncle Bob’s legendary prawn cocktail always steals the show.
3. Declutter your commitments. You don’t need to attend every event or have the house looking like a Pinterest board. Prioritise what truly matters—quality time with loved ones—and say no to anything that feels like too much.
4. Stay cool—literally. When tempers rise with the heat, have some fun with water fights, homemade icy poles, or a paddling pool for the kids (and maybe for yourself).
5. Look out for each other. The holidays aren’t always easy. Check in with friends and family—sometimes a quiet chat can mean everything. Visit the Grapevine Group website for tips on recognising the signs someone may need support, or call Lifeline on 13 11 14 if you’re worried.
Christmas isn’t about perfection; it’s about connection. Whether the pav collapses or the mozzies crash the BBQ, let laughter take the lead. Keep it simple, keep it sunny, and remember: the best gifts are your time and care.

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Can you believe that in just a few short days, it will be Christmas time! It just felt like yesterday that we were opening Easter eggs and riding all the roller coasters at the show.

How this year has flown by. It’s December and we are about to get a visit from the jolly man dressed in red. I hope you’re ready, because I am.

The shops are full, carparks are jam-packed with shoppers, and our radio is sprinkling in some all-time Christmas favourites to get you in the mood. Yes, Mariah and Michael B have come out of the wilderness to get us in the mood, and I reckon there will be some interesting festive favourites to get us smiling and thinking of all things tinsel and snow in the tropics.

I certainly am loving all the decorations around the region. From the Christmas trees at Habana, to the giant blow-up Santa in West Mackay with our mate Wilbur standing next to it in his Xmas swimming trunks! This time of the year is just magical. Next week we are hitting the road again for the annual Christmas Bus Lights Convoy and we’re heading to the Pioneer Valley, Sarina and Mackay. If you want tickets, get on the 4MK website and tell us where the light displays are, and you’ll be in the draw to grab seats on the buses.

Also, tomorrow night is an absolute highlight of the festive season, with the annual 4MK Carols in the Gardens at the Meadowlands Amphitheatre. We are kicking off all the fun from 5:30pm, so we’d love you to bring the family down to sing your hearts out, meet Santa, say gudday to the Grich in his lair, and treat yourself to some delicious food and fun entertainment just for kids in their zone. So much is happening and we can’t wait to bring it to you with the Mackay Big Band and a cast of thousands on the big stage.

Fast forward to next Saturday, we will be doing the big prize draws for the 4MK Santa’s Storage Shed, where nearly $20,000 worth of prizes will be handed out. There are 17 prizes, which means there will be 17 different winners to get excited. If you haven’t entered yet, there’s still time. We aren’t closing entries until tomorrow afternoon, so get shopping. Full list of locations at the 4MK website.

One more thing, and it’s a big one. If you haven’t yet heard, next Friday the 13th, I’ll be finishing up my time on the 4MK breakfast show after over 18 years with this fantastic company. I’ve been given another exciting opportunity right here in Mackay, so Friday next week will be my final show.

While it’s not goodbye, this is my final chat in this wonderful local paper. Thank you to the wonderful Amanda, and all the team to allow me to have a chat with you each fortnight. Have a wonderful Christmas and an even better New Year. I’ll see you up the road sometime soon, and remember, have fun!

You can join Rob Kidd from 5am weekday mornings on 4MK 1026 AM in Mackay and Proserpine, 91.5FM in Airlie Beach or just ask your smart speaker to play 4MK on iHeartRadio!

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A Mackay retailer is wrapped to be giving back this Christmas, hosting Australia’s first ever unique charity event, the BIG Wrapathon. 
 
The event will take place in Mackay’s BIG W on Saturday 7 December and will involve celebrity and community volunteers, alongside BIG W team members wrapping gifts at the front of stores from 10am - 4pm. 
 
Christmas is a celebratory time for most families, but many families will be spending the festive season and beyond in hospital care. The event celebrates the launch of BIG W’s charity wrapping paper, a new range of festive gift wrap designed with children who have been supported by BIG W’s national hospital network. The colourful wrap features the children’s heartfelt artwork and customers can purchase in store and online for $5, with all proceeds going back to families across the country. 
 
In addition to its fundraising efforts, BIG W is contributing an additional $20,000 to Queensland Children's Hospital Foundation, further supporting programs that bring care and joy to sick kids and their families this Christmas
 
BIG W Mackay Store Manager Clinton Cooper said, “Through our long-standing hospital network partners, BIG W makes a real difference for Australian families in the region.

“The BIG Wrapathon is the gift that keeps on giving.

“Not only will Mackay customers save time getting their gifts wrapped by local celebrities in a fun local community event, but their gold coin donation directly supports children and families in Queensland.”
 
$2 fundraising tokens have also been designed by kids being supported by the Children’s Hospital Network. They will be sold in stores from Mon 4 November and run through to 24 December.
 
Proceeds from the sale of the wrap, tokens and the wrapathon donations will go towards Children’s Hospitals and research partners around the country, including: Children’s Hospital Foundation (CHF) - QLD.
   
Jo Donaldson from the Queensland Children's Hospital Foundation, said, “For over 21 years, BIG W has supported the Children’s Hospital Foundation here in Queensland, raising over $5 million and we’re thrilled to continue this legacy through the 2024 BIG W Community Christmas Appeal.
 
“Christmas is a time for joy and family, but for many children at Queensland Children's Hospital, it’s also a time spent facing serious health challenges far from home.

“Each year, the Queensland Children’s Hospital treats over 110,000 children, with one in three coming from regional or remote parts of Queensland and the Children's Hospital Foundation is there for each and every one of them.”
 

Join the BIG Wrapathon at BIG W Mackay on December 7 to wrap gifts for sick kids and support charity. Photos supplied

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From Sarina to Dows Creek, St Helens Beach to the Northern Beaches, amongst the City Heart and even flying into Mackay Aeroclub, Mackay Regional Council is supporting Christmas celebrations across the region.
More than 20 events have been supported to ensure everyone has the chance to celebrate with their communities this festive season.
There will be something to suit everyone’s festive tastes, from a City Centre light show projection to a guided silent disco and Christmas laneway market.
Community favourites like Carols in the Gardens will return and council is once again supporting regional events through our Christmas Grants program.
With the Christmas Grants, council has kicked in $10,000 to boost festive celebrations in regional areas.
The following regional events are open to the public and have been proudly supported by council’s Christmas Grants:
   • Armstrong Beach and Freshwater Point lolly drop and Christmas party (November 23)
   • Pioneer Valley Sporting Association Christmas break barbecue (November 25)
   • Eungella Christmas Party (November 30)
   • Northern Beaches Community Christmas Party (December 6)
   • Mackay Riding for the Disabled Community Christmas Party (December 12)
   • Sarina Sporting Services Club Christmas Car Park Party (December 13)
   • Mackay Aeroclub's Annual Christmas Party (December 13)
   • Sarina Beach Barbecue and Movie Night (December 13)
   • Mackay Christmas Lights Ride (December 14)
   • Dows Creek - Celebrating Christmas in our Community (December 15)
   • Habana Carols Under the Stars (December 21)
   • St Helens Beach Christmas Party (December 21)
   • Sarina Festive Christmas Pool Party (December 22)
Other Christmas events and celebrations supported by council and council facilities include:
   • MECCMAS – 12 days of Christmas deals and giveaways from the MECC – from December 1.
   • The annual City Heart Christmas – Guided silent disco, laneway markets, kids’ activities and more – December 6.
   • Santa’s Secret Present Search – a fun adventure through the City Heart collecting secret presents – December 6.
   • City Heart Magical Christmas Window Competition – judged from December 6 to December 16.
   • City Heart Christmas Bright Lights – watch the Masonic Hall transform into a tropical Christmas light show – from December 6 to December 14.
   • Carols in the Gardens – presented by StarFM and 4MK at Meadowlands Amphitheatre – December 7.
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For a full list of Council-supported Christmas events with all the details, head to mackay.qld.gov.au/christmasevents.

Events and festivities will be spread throughout the City Centre, from Macalister Street to Sydney Street and from River Street to Gordon Street

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When I came back to work after my Christmas/New Year break in early January this year, there was a feeling that something had changed.
Yes, I was fatter, older and poorer, but that happens every year after the Christmas break. It was more than that.
My first open homes were frenetic, energised events with dozens of buyers ready to buy.
The market had been good the previous year but nothing crazy. Suddenly it was as though Santa had snuck a message in everyone’s parcels that said, “It’s time to buy in Mackay”.
I often discuss the real estate market with Gardian colleagues and a consistent topic the previous couple of years had been how we felt the market should be stronger and that prices should be going up quicker.
Rents had gone up dramatically in the previous couple of years and there was a ridiculous level of demand among tenants.
There was an incentive for tenants, if they had the money, to take the plunge and buy.
But we also wondered why investors were not jumping into the market. People who lived in southern markets only had the option of high purchase prices for investment properties that delivered a much worse rental yield than Mackay offered.
While rental yields were 1 or 2 per cent in those places, Mackay offered 5, 6 and 7 per cent yields on rental properties. Our median sale price remained way lower than other vibrant cities and regional centres.
I told anyone who listens to me that this was the place to buy … but my dog isn’t in a position to buy and did nothing about it.
First there was that frenzy of activity from local buyers in January and then, in February, the calls started coming in from investors and buyers’ agents from down south.
It wasn’t a trickle. It was a flood of investors wanting to get into the Mackay market. They were driven by the relatively low prices, high rental returns, high average incomes, low vacancy rates, low unemployment rate and the strong economy of a significant regional centre.
The world had suddenly changed and Mackay became one of the hottest markets in Australia. Investors have been driving the market, although there are also plenty of local people who have decided to buy rather than rent.
But what has it meant, in practical terms, for the Mackay market? What has happened to prices? Sit down and brace yourself for the latest figures, provided to me by realestate.com.au this week.
The median price for houses sold in Mackay in the month of November, 2023, was $490,000. The median price for November this year was $643,000. That is an increase of over 30 per cent.
That is the biggest increase in Queensland and compares with the annual national median price increase of 5.62 per cent. House prices in Melbourne, Hobart and the ACT decreased this year. Sydney prices also recently dropped slightly.
(It is true that the Mackay figure is a snapshot of prices for one month and there might have been more upper-end properties sold then, however the figures are instructive.)
The figures are great news for home owners in Mackay. However, I want the people who haven’t bought yet to bring it in close.
The median price of units was $280,000 in November 2023. This November it was $329,000. That’s about an 18 per cent increase, a lot smaller than for houses. And it means there are still units available for around $300,000.
Now, I would never give financial advice but I was telling my dog the other day that units still offer an affordable opportunity to break into the Mackay market.
I doubt my dog will do anything about it but someone might.

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Delightfully light and airy, this pavlova wreath bursts with fresh summer flavours, making it an ideal showstopper for your Christmas celebrations!
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Ingredients
For the Pavlova Base:
   • 6 large egg whites, at room temperature
   • 1 1/2 cups caster sugar
   • 1 teaspoon white vinegar
   • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
   • 1 tablespoon cornflour
For the Toppings:
   • 300 ml thickened cream, chilled
   • 2 tablespoons icing sugar (plus extra for dusting)
   • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
   • Fresh strawberries, halved
   • Fresh raspberries
   • Fresh blueberries
   • Pomegranate arils
   • 2 passionfruit, pulp only
   • Fresh mint leaves
   • Optional: edible gold leaf for garnish
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 120°C (fan-forced). Line a large baking tray with baking paper. Draw a 25 cm circle on the paper, then draw a smaller 15 cm circle inside to form a guide for the wreath. Turn the paper over so the ink doesn’t touch the meringue.
Make the Meringue:
   • In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form.
   • Gradually add the caster sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating well after each addition. Continue until the mixture is thick, glossy, and the sugar is fully dissolved.
   • Add the vinegar, vanilla, and cornflour, gently folding them into the meringue with a spatula.
Shape the Wreath:
   • Spoon the meringue onto the prepared baking tray, shaping it into a wreath by following the drawn circles. Create decorative swirls or peaks with the back of a spoon for texture.
Bake the Pavlova:
   • Place the tray in the oven and immediately reduce the heat to 100°C. Bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes or until the meringue is crisp on the outside and slightly soft in the centre.
Turn off the oven and leave the pavlova inside to cool completely with the door open.
Prepare the Toppings:
   • In a chilled bowl, whip the cream with icing sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
   • Slice the strawberries and prepare the remaining fruits.
Assemble the Wreath:
   • Once the pavlova is completely cool, gently transfer it to a serving platter.
   • Spread the whipped cream generously over the top. Arrange the strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, pomegranate arils, and mint leaves decoratively around the wreath.
   • Drizzle with passionfruit pulp for a tangy finish.
Add the Final Touches:
       ◦ Dust lightly with icing sugar for a snowy effect.
       ◦ Add edible gold leaf for a luxurious festive touch (optional).
Serve and Enjoy:
       ◦ Serve immediately or store in the fridge for up to 2 hours before serving.

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By Hannah McNamara

In the shadow of loss and the light of brotherhood, Managing Director Sam O’Neill has built a supportive network for veterans through a not-for-profit organisation, Never Alone Fight Together (NAFT). Drawing from his own experiences with life after service, Sam is on a mission to create a unique space for veterans…one that embodies the essence of brotherhood while breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and financial struggles.

An eight-year Australian Army veteran, Sam shares that NAFT was born from both the camaraderie forged on the battlefield and the heartbreak of losing those bonds too soon.

"Ever since leaving the Army, it’s been a slow journey of building this up,” Sam said.

“Along the way, I’ve seen too many friends pass - through their own hand or circumstances that could have been avoided."

Sam O’Neill, Managing Director of NAFT – Never Alone Fight Together, is forging connections and breaking barriers, striving to rewrite the story for veterans. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Turning Loss Into Legacy
A Veteran’s Fight For Change

Sam’s military career included deployments to East Timor with 1RAR and Afghanistan with 5RAR, where he served as a section commander. These experiences not only shaped his life but also deepened his understanding of the immense struggles veterans face after service.

The detrimental loss of a close mate on January 24, 2023 soon became the spark that ignited his mission.

"Last year, a good friend of mine passed, and it was his death that sparked this," Sam said.

“After months of grieving, I realised I had to do something…not just for him but for everyone like him."

Through his grief, Sam envisioned a future where no veteran faces their battles alone, and within his darkest moments, he found the courage to turn that vision into reality.

Sam channelled his sorrow into creating NAFT, a charity dedicated to providing emergency financial assistance to veterans and their families for necessities such as groceries, fuel and medical bills. Yet, the journey to establishing NAFT was far from easy.

Sam invested his personal savings into legal fees, navigated bureaucratic challenges, and faced the emotional toll of revisiting the loss that inspired the organisation.

"The day we were officially registered was the same day I was grieving the one-year anniversary of his passing,” he said.

“It felt like a message, a sign that this is what I’m meant to do.

"I’m not doing this for myself…this is about veterans, about community, and about preventing unnecessary deaths.

“It’s about ensuring no one has to walk this journey alone," he added.

“We’ve received incredible support from the community, and many are keen to purchase our merch."

To further NAFT’s reach, Sam also hosts a podcast that delves into ‘what it means to serve’ and the ‘similarities between that of a professional soldier and a professional athlete.’

"The podcast amplifies voices - not just mine, but those of everyday Australians who have faced challenges," Sam said.

“It’s about creating connections and showcasing the resilience and shared values of veterans and athletes."

If you’d like to donate or sponsor veterans facing hardship, visit: www.naftlimited.org.au/donate/.

Give to those who gave their all for us.

Sam O’Neill’s military service includes deployments to East Timor with 1RAR and Afghanistan with 5RAR, where he served as a section commander. Photo source: NAFT

“It’s about ensuring no one has to walk this journey alone."

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A dramatic turn of events unfolded on Wednesday night last week when a trimaran sought refuge from rough seas in the Pioneer River, only to run aground on a sandbar and be battered by strong winds and waves.
The incident occurred around 7:30 pm as the vessel attempted to navigate the river’s shifting approach during an outgoing tide and 25-knot winds. The challenging conditions holed the trimaran’s hull, leaving it stranded and partially submerged.
At 3:30 am, Mackay Police contacted Marine Rescue Queensland Mackay (MRQ), alerting them to the situation. The crew of the trimaran had reported themselves safe, and given the hazardous conditions, MRQ postponed recovery efforts until daylight.
At first light, MRQ’s crew, led by duty skipper Don B, launched from the River Street ramp. They located the trimaran high and dry on the sandbar and helped its crew retrieve personal belongings. The vessel was secured with an anchor to prevent it from drifting, and the crew was later collected by friends at the ramp.
Over the following tides, the trimaran was broken apart by the rough conditions. During the process, the vessel’s emergency position-indicating radio beacon (EPIRB) floated free and activated, prompting another callout. MRQ launched again at dawn to locate and deactivate the beacon.
A spokesperson for Marine Rescue Queensland Mackay commented on social media, "The only silver linings here are that no lives were lost and there were no serious injuries."

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Photos supplied: Marine Rescue Queensland Mackay

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Battling cancer is an incredibly tough journey, but some stories remind us of just how terrifying the storms we never see coming can truly be.
On page 5, you can read about Teharnee Peel, a Mackay mum diagnosed with cervical cancer while five months pregnant. Teharnee discovered a 6.5cm cancerous mass in her cervix at 22 weeks pregnant with her son, Harry. Determined to do everything possible to protect her unborn child, she began a specialised course of chemotherapy designed to be safe for pregnancy.
Her strength was tested in unimaginable ways, from enduring chemotherapy while pregnant to undergoing further treatment just four weeks after Harry’s birth at 32 weeks. Holding her baby boy for the first time was a surreal and emotional moment. Harry, born weighing just 2.3kg, spent weeks in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit while Teharnee faced gruelling physical and mental challenges. She describes those early months with her newborn as a "whole new level of fatigue"—a testament to the resilience of this mother-son duo.
Through my own cancer journey, I met another mother whose late-term scan revealed her unborn baby had cancer. While preparing to welcome her child into the world, she had to grapple with the devastating reality that her baby would require chemotherapy just weeks after birth.
These stories highlight a unique kind of fear and courage that few can imagine.
By the time you read this, I’ll have completed chemotherapy treatment number eight. I promise to share a full update in next week’s newspaper.
Like Teharnee, I’ve found a new purpose in giving back, advocating for body awareness and earlier detection of cancer. Supporting others through the Trudy Crowley Foundation has been deeply meaningful. This weekend, I’ll be at Harrup Park for the Trudy Crowley Round, where Mackay Cricket Association’s Junior, Senior, and Ladies games will unite to support this incredible organisation. Teams will proudly wear zinc in solidarity with the foundation’s efforts to help those impacted by cancer in the Mackay and Whitsunday regions.
If you can, come along to Harrup Park on Saturday afternoon and meet the ‘Survivors XI’ to show your support.
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Amanda

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A heartfelt act of kindness has brought joy to Ayuka and her partner, Pato, who recently faced the frustration of having their bike stolen… not once, but twice. Living in a foreign country, away from family and navigating a whole new language, the experience was particularly overwhelming.

Ayuka first posted about the theft on social media, and was amazed by the outpouring of support they revived by the community.

“Even people who didn’t know us offered to help us buy another bike,” she shared.

However, an unexpected gesture soon heightened their gratitude, and left them overjoyed.

Corry Cycles, a local bicycle shop heard of the challenges that Ayuka and Pato were having, and in a selfless act, provided a brand-new replacement bike.

“I’m still surprised at what happened for us,” Ayuka said.

“From tomorrow, my partner can go to work on this amazing bike.”

Alongside the bike, they also received a secure lock to prevent future thefts.

Ayuka thanked Evan Corry and the team at Corry Cycles for their generosity.

“You don’t know how much your gesture has influenced us…we are surprised and enormously grateful.”

Ayuka also praised the broader Mackay community, acknowledging the many who commented, reacted and reached out with support.

“The Mackay community is wonderful, despite some bad people,” she said.

Ayuka and her partner were touched by the outpouring of support and said they “felt a little less foreign.”

How can you spread kindness today?

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Mackay Regional Council will be replacing an aged water main at Alfred Street, between Wellington and Peel streets.
Works began early this week (from Monday, November 25), and are expected to be complete by late-January, 2025, weather permitting.
The centre parking on Alfred Street, in this section, will be unavailable for the duration of the work.
While works are underway, a partial road closure will be in place, with the westbound lane (towards Peel Street) closed during working hours for the duration of the project.
The eastbound lane (towards Wellington Street) will remain open.
Works will be undertaken from Monday to Friday, 6am to 6pm. Some weekend and night work may also be required.
There may be some intermittent noise and dust disturbances associated with these works.
Council apologises for any inconvenience caused and appreciates your patience during these essential works.
For enquiries, please contact council on 1300 MACKAY (622 529).

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A Mackay mum who was diagnosed with cervical cancer while five months pregnant says she owes her life to her baby.
Teharnee Peel, 34, was “shocked” when doctors told her she had a 6.5cm cancerous mass growing in her cervix while she was 22 weeks pregnant with her son Harry.
Mrs Peel, who is now in remission, had been vaccinated against the HPV (Human papillomavirus) virus and her most recent pap smear results had been negative.
“I went to my local Emergency Department in Mackay to get checked out as I had bleeding on and off multiple times,” she said.
“Harry was my biggest concern, he was our first baby and I wanted to do everything I could to save his life.
“Initially doctors thought it was a hematoma on my uterus or a low-lying placenta that was causing issues.
After a biopsy revealed she had a suspected squamous cell carcinoma, one of the most common forms of cervical cancer, Mrs Peel was referred to South Brisbane’s Mater Cancer Care Centre for specialised cancer treatment by Senior Medical Oncologist Dr Catherine Shannon.
Mrs Peel said the plane ride to Brisbane with her husband Simon was “petrifying”.
“I was waiting for results, waiting for a treatment plan, we had started putting the nursery together and I was gutted I couldn’t paint the nursery,” Mrs Peel said.
Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer affecting women worldwide, causing nearly 8% of all female cancer deaths every year.
Sharing her story for last week’s Cervical Cancer Awareness Week (17–23 November), Mrs Peel urged women to be aware of their bodies.
“Don’t be embarrassed about any gynecological issues, doctors have seen it all,” she said.
Mrs Peel she had found it uncomfortable to wear tampons for around 12 months prior to her diagnosis.
Dr Shannon sees around three to four cases of cervical cancer in vaccinated women each year.
Vaginal bleeding and pelvic pain are the most common symptoms of cervical cancer, according to Dr Shannon.
“All cervical cancers more than 2cm will be treated with chemotherapy and radiotherapy,” Dr Shannon said.
Mrs Peel was given a special course of chemotherapy adapted for pregnant women and posing no risk to her unborn child.
Mrs Peel said she was determined to do “whatever it took” to give her son a fighting chance.
“Harry is now two years old and he’s a fighter, he was from the very beginning,” Mrs Peel said.
“I started chemotherapy while pregnant, then again four weeks after I had Harry in conjunction with radiation.”
Harry was born at Mater Mothers’ Hospital during a planned caesarean section at 32 weeks gestation, weighing 2.3kg.
Mrs Peel said it was a “surreal moment” when she held Harry for the first time.
“I remember that day, I cried. Harry spent around three weeks in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit,” she said.
Mrs Peel described her fight against cervical cancer as “challenging”.
“I did three rounds of chemotherapy every three weeks while pregnant,” Mrs Peel said.
“I got COVID after my first round of chemotherapy and I was so scared, I was just 23 weeks pregnant.
“Harry was three months old when we returned to Mackay, we had been in Brisbane for five months, and Simon had taken seven months off work to be with us.”
She said the hardest part of her cancer journey was having gruelling treatment.
“The mental and physical recovery was a whole other ordeal in itself,” Mrs Peel said.
“No one talks about that enough, like when you get home your whole world changes – it’s a whole new level of fatigue with a newborn baby.”
Mrs Peel is now an ambassador for the Trudy Crowley Foundation Cancer Support Centre in Mackay, which is a charity supporting people and their loved ones through cancer and beyond. 

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Teharnee Peel was diagnosed with cervical cancer when she was five months pregnant.  Photos supplied
Harry is Teharnee Peel's little fighter
Teharnee Peel during cancer treatment at the Mater Cancer Care Centre in South Brisbane
Baby Harry was born at Mater Mothers' Hospital

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Visitors and residents will soon be sitting pretty in the Mackay City Centre.
Starting Monday, November 25, council contractors will begin work refurbishing the timber slats on 58 seats in the City Centre.
The work is expected to take about two weeks to complete, with minimal disruption to the public.
Individual seats will be temporarily cordoned off while refurbishment works are underway, before contractors move onto the next seat.
Council appreciates the community’s patience as it polishes up Mackay’s City Centre seating, ensuring a comfortable and inviting space for all to enjoy.

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