Sunset Bay Outriggers were back on the road from October 4 to 6, heading south of the North Queensland zone to compete on the stunning waters of Emu Park, near Yeppon.

While the racing program was limited, club paddlers were happy to double up on competition day, eager to test themselves on the challenging course. Unfortunately, the wind seemed to follow the club all year, and Saturday’s 11.5km races provided no mercy.

Despite the tough conditions, Sunset Bay crews showed real improvement, with commitment paying off in strong results:

• Master Women: Silver – 1hr
• Golden Master Mixed: Gold – 53mins
• Master Mixed: Silver – 54mins

The 17.5km downwinder brought very hot conditions and offered little wind assistance, making it a true test of endurance.

Kim Alloway and Nicole Reseck, paddlers of the day, tactically ‘hulied’ early in the race to stay cool, winning the Master Women OC2 with a time of 1hr 42mins and finishing 14th out of 28 crews. Meanwhile, Andrew Batterson, better known as AL, gave chase in a very strong OC1 field, completing the course in 1hr 49min.

Looking ahead, the club will now focus on sprint training in preparation for the Australian National Sprint Titles at Coomera on the Gold Coast, scheduled for November 14 to 16.

Sunset Bay Outriggers traveled to Emu Park from October 4 to 6, braving tough conditions to achieve strong results and now focus on sprint training for the Australian National Sprint Titles in November. Photos supplied

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With the wet season fast approaching, now is the time to make sure our beaches are clear of harmful rubbish and debris.

Council has partnered with North Queensland Bulk Ports (NQBP) and Save Our Northwall community group to host a beach clean up this Saturday, October 18.

The event is part of the Great Barrier Reef Clean Up, coordinated by Tangaroa Blue.

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said we all had a part to play in protecting the marine environment.

“Clean ups like this are a critical way of intercepting rubbish, like plastics, fishing line and other items before they enter waterways and pose a threat to wildlife,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Marine debris is recognised as a major threat to the health of the Great Barrier Reef, with microplastics a significant concern.

“In fact, a recent report found that microplastics have been detected in coral tissues.

“It’s fantastic to have North Queensland Bulk Ports supporting our clean up this year.

“They do an incredible job in maintaining public spaces like the recreation area North Wall for residents and we thank them for their involvement.”

North Queensland Bulk Ports CEO, Brendan Webb, said environmental stewardship was a key focus for the organisation.

“North Wall Beach is much loved by the community – from surfers to beach walkers and we take a great deal of pride in our role protecting the neighbouring recreational area,” Mr Webb said.

“With the recent upgrades to facilities at the North Wall recreational area, we expect more people than ever will be visiting the beach, so events like the Great Barrier Reef Clean Up ensure its pristine nature can be maintained for years to come.”

Anyone wanting to be part of the North Wall clean up simply needs to turn up on Saturday between 2.00pm and 4.00pm, with hats, gloves and sunscreen.

NQBP has kindly donated the use of tables and shade marquees as other items for participants.

_Residents who can’t make this event are encouraged to organise their own clean up at https://tangaroablue.org/gbrcu _

Join Mackay Council and partners for a beach clean up at North Wall Beach this Saturday, October 18, to help protect the Great Barrier Reef. Photos supplied

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Member for Dawson and Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability, Mr Andrew Willcox MP, said farmers across Dawson have had an enormous win after Labor retreated on its poorly conceived, reckless, and cruel plan to tax unrealised gains on farms held in self-managed super funds (SMSFs).

Mr Willcox said Labor had been embarrassingly forced to give in after The Coalition and industry groups campaigned strongly against the plan, and the government faced a backlash from farming families across Dawson.

“Labor’s plan to punish Australia’s hardest workers and attack their unrealised gains in superannuation was shocking from the start and never should have happened,” Mr Willcox said.

He said many farming families across Dawson, including the region’s sugar cane growers, had set up SMSFs as part of their retirement and succession planning, unaware Labor could attempt to tax their assets on paper every single year.

“Labor could never even tell us how many primary producers, small and family business owners would have been impacted. In what parallel universe does a government think it’s okay to tax on-paper, unrealised gains?” Mr Willcox said.

Mr Willcox said the plan would have forced some farmers to sell their land instead of passing it on to the next generation, and that such uncertainty had caused unnecessary anxiety in regional communities.

“Farmers in Dawson deserve certainty, not shifting goalposts from a government that doesn’t understand regional Australia. This backflip is a win for common sense and for the families who have worked hard to build something for the next generation,” he said.

He said The Coalition had taken a strong stand to protect regional communities and hold Labor accountable, ensuring the concerns of rural Australians were heard loud and clear.

“The Coalition led the charge against this unfair policy because we knew what was at stake. This was never just about tax — it was about livelihoods, retirement security, and keeping family farms in family hands,” Mr Willcox said.

While welcoming Labor’s retreat, Mr Willcox warned the government not to revisit similar measures in the future.

“While Labor’s backdown is welcome, it’s also a warning. Every time this government looks for revenue, it seems they reach for regional Australia first. We’ll keep holding them to account to make sure they don’t try to sneak this or similar measures back in through the back door,” he said.

Mr Willcox said Labor should apologise to the farming community for the stress and uncertainty they caused.

“Our farmers who produce the nation’s food and fibre — from sugar to beef — must be protected from Labor’s tax grabs.

“The Coalition will always stand up for our farmers, their families, and the future of regional Australia.”

Andrew Willcox says The Coalition will always back Aussie farmers, defending family farms from unfair taxes and supporting a strong future for regional industries. Photo supplied

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Reconnect With Confidence In Your Marketing

Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, billboards, newspapers, paid advertising or organic posting - today’s small business owners have a million and one opportunities to reach their audience.

However not all platforms are equal, and it’s not about doing every “must-do” tactic you see online.

Marketing overwhelm is real. It often shows up as confusion, wasted spend, and frustration when results don’t match the effort. Most small businesses don’t need more marketing, they need more clarity.

You don’t need to be everywhere. You only need to be where your audience is. And to know that, you need to know who they are and the biggest problems they have. Start there.

Next, start building an email list; the only platform you truly own. Any social media can shut down tomorrow and with that all your semi warm leads are gone. People who subscribe are already warm leads, and far more likely to convert into paying customers.

Then, identify one or two key platforms where your audience actually spends time. Include Google Ads for high-intent searches - those people are already halfway sold.

Do not be scared of paid ads. It is an investment that brings in high ROI when done right.

Shift your focus from doing more to measuring better. Instead of chasing likes and reach, track what truly matters: calls, form submissions, bookings, and sales. Even simple tracking can reveal what’s actually moving the needle.

Marketing doesn’t have to feel like chaos. With the right strategy and structure, you can replace guesswork with focus and start seeing steady, measurable progress.

At Glow Sphere Marketing, we help small businesses do exactly that, simplify their strategy, align their message, and finally see what’s working (and what’s not). If you’re ready to get out of the overwhelm and take back control of your marketing, let’s start with a quick review of your current channels and goals. Sometimes all it takes is a fresh perspective to turn confusion into clarity and clarity into growth.

• Gabriella Sòvàgò

Marketing, Sales & Business Coach from Glow Sphere Marketing

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Mackay’s basketball community was buzzing last week as over 70 athletes took part in a high-energy Elite Camp led by Jalen Manumaleuga, one of the country’s top development coaches and current Illawarra Hawks NBL Player Development Coach.

Mackay Basketball described the two-day event as “incredible,” with the camp delivering top-tier coaching and skill development for local players.

“The energy, intensity, and attention to detail from our athletes was outstanding from start to finish,” the organisation said.

The camp provided athletes with the opportunity to learn from one of Australia’s leading coaches, sharpen their skills, and experience the demands of elite basketball first-hand.

Mackay Basketball praised participants for their commitment.

“Huge credit to everyone who showed up ready to learn, compete, and get better every session.”

Coach Jalen Manumaleuga shared his expertise and passion with the Mackay players, leaving a lasting impression on those in attendance.

Mackay Basketball expressed gratitude, stating, “A big thank you to Coach Jalen for sharing his knowledge and passion for the game with our Mackay players.”

The camp highlighted the region’s growing basketball talent and provided a platform for athletes to take their game to the next level, inspiring the next generation of elite players in Mackay.

Over 70 local athletes sharpened their skills and embraced elite coaching at Mackay’s two-day basketball camp led by Jalen Manumaleuga. Photo source: Mackay Basketball (Facebook)

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Gunshot At Sandiford Leads To Attempted Murder Charge

A 31-year-old Alligator Creek man has been charged with attempted murder following an alleged shooting incident at Sandiford, near Mackay, on October 7.

Police allege that around 2.30pm, a 40-year-old Oakenden man attended a Palm Tree Road address where an altercation occurred between the two men. During the confrontation, the 31-year-old allegedly fired a weapon in the direction of the older man, striking him in the hip.

The victim was transported to hospital in a stable condition.

The accused has been charged with one count of attempted murder and was due to appear before the Mackay Magistrates Court on Monday, October 13.

Moranbah Man Charged Over Counterfeit Cash Spree

Police have charged a Moranbah man after a spate of counterfeit cash incidents left several businesses across the Mackay and Moranbah regions out of pocket earlier this month.

Detectives from the Moranbah Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB) allege the 33-year-old man used fake currency at multiple locations between October 5 and 6, resulting in a combined loss of approximately $700 in cash and goods.

Moranbah CIB Detective Sergeant Sheldon Livingstone said counterfeit notes can look real at quick glance and are often tricky to detect.

“We urge community members and shop owners to be vigilant when handling currency,” said Detective Sergeant Livingstone

“Our investigators were able to act quickly following immediate reports from local businesses.”

“If you suspect you have received counterfeit currency, we urge you to report the matter immediately to police, and try to note any relevant information about how it came into your possession.”

The 33-year-old has been charged with seven counts each of possessing counterfeit, utter counterfeit, and fraud. He is due to appear before the Moranbah Magistrates Court on November 13.

Police investigations into the incident remain ongoing.

Photo source: Queensland Police Service

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A First-Term Perspective

When I first took office as a councillor, I knew I wanted to make a difference, but I also knew there was a lot I didn’t know about how local government actually functions
behind the scenes. Sixteen months in, I’ve learned that what most people see – roads being fixed, parks being built and bins being collected – is only the surface of a much deeper and more complex processes of governance.

Many residents assume councillors can simply “get things done”. The truth is, we don’t directly do the work, however, we direct it through policy, budget and strategy.

Our job is to make decisions that set the direction, priorities and funding, while the operational delivery is handled by council’s professional staff and contractors.

Understanding this separation between strategic governance and day to day operations is crucial, it protects both accountability and fairness. In council, there are rarely simple yes or no answers. Every decision must balance community needs, financial limits and long-term planning.

For example, fixing one drainage issue might mean delaying another project somewhere else. Learning to weigh those trade-offs and explain them honestly to residents has been one of the biggest challenges and most valuable lessons of my first term.

I’ve found that people don’t expect perfection, but they do expect honesty and the right intentions that benefit our community as a whole.

Through meetings, social media or columns like this, council can help bridge the gap between the council chamber and the community.

Nothing in local government happens in isolation. Real progress requires councillors, staff, community groups and sometimes even other levels of government working
together.

As a first-term councillor, I’ve learned to value patience and partnerships just as much as passion and persistence.

I’m still learning, every day brings new insights into how governance, budgets and community expectations fit together.

But what keeps me motivated is knowing that each decision we make, no matter how small, contributes to shaping Mackay’s future.

If residents take one thing from this column, I hope it’s this: local government works best when we all understand it and engage with it.

Let’s Chat – Council Connect

Residents can catch up with councillors in person at upcoming Let’s Chat - Council Connect sessions held across the region. The next session will be at Seaforth Bowls Club from 5.30pm to 6.30pm on November 5.
Details on upcoming sessions can be found on the Connecting Mackay website.

— Cr Namarca Corowa
Mackay Regional Council

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Human Characteristics With Enduring Career Value

Staying relevant in our careers is part of our ongoing challenge and even more top of mind as conversations about the future of work are abuzz with the impact of AI.

For those who have been around a while, the introduction of personal computers plus other tech required a significant career adjustment - some careers changed forever and new roles were created. And so is AI already making an impact and some advocates would say for the better.

Regardless of career and life stage, it’s realistic to be reflecting on what is the personal impact and how we will evolve in the face of more and smarter tech. And some types of jobs will be impacted more than others.

As with most things, it’s rarely all or nothing. The future of work is not a human ‘or’ AI question, it’s human with AI. So what are those enduring human characteristics that will remain valuable and keep us relevant? Here’s five key qualities:

1. Adaptability
   The ability to adjust to change is essential and being flexible, regardless of tech influence. The key here is being open to learning, being curious and finding the opportunities for you in the new landscape – which may mean a career switch.
2. Initiative
   Assess your personal and career situation and identify what actions you need to take to be valuable. Identify where you can contribute and step up, demonstrate natural leadership and work with the change.

3.Resilience
Career (and life) throws up challenges and we encounter setbacks. Developing personal resilience helps with navigating uncertainty, and managing the stress levels that comes with it. Having personal tools to plan for change and deal with any setbacks helps with maintaining career momentum.

4. Integrity
   Your professional reputation is a key part of your toolkit. Trust and credibility are enduing personal characteristics – acting with honesty, accountability and having an ethical compass sustain lasting success.
5. Critical Thinking
   The power of critical thinking should not be underestimated. The ability to challenge and question regardless of where the information comes from, interpret at higher level and make sound decisions is valuable. Combine with innovation and creativity and it verges on a superpower.

Our human qualities are what set us apart. These five qualities will continue to hold enduring value and assist you develop a worthwhile and impactful career. If you would like assistance with navigating career next steps, let’s talk it through and work it out together - contact me at powerup@careerforceaustralia.com.au or 0409 894 131 to learn more.

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OPINION PIECE

China is, without question, one of Australia’s most significant trading partners. We export vast amounts of natural resources and agricultural products, and in return, we import vehicles, solar panels, wind turbines, various technological products, and household goods.

But is this relationship balanced, and are we becoming too dependent?

Recent reports out of the United States have raised serious concerns about the potential for embedded technologies in imported infrastructure from China. Investigations have identified backdoor capabilities in Chinese-made inverters and batteries used to connect solar and wind systems to the American power grid. The implications are seriously concerning.

Could these systems be accessed or disabled remotely?

Here in Australia, the Albanese government is continuing its rapid push for more large-scale solar and wind projects, many of which use Chinese-built components. Such reports coming out of the USA should prompt urgent scrutiny.

Chinese-built EVs are also hitting Aussie roads in increasing numbers. Speculation is growing around whether software in these vehicles contains embedded spyware or remote access functions. Could data be tracked? Could vehicles be monitored, or even disabled remotely?

This isn’t aimed at alarmism. It’s about exercising caution. We must be fully aware of and thoroughly investigate what’s entering our country, especially if our government is hell-bent on tying the future of our energy grid to technologies made overseas. If a conflict arose, could a foreign power flick the switch to cripple our electricity system and, by extension, our economy?

This isn’t about rejecting renewables or turning our backs on trade. It’s about balance. It’s about resilience. It’s about protecting the infrastructure that underpins our economy and our way of life.

Australia’s critical infrastructure, our energy systems, transport networks, and communications must be secure, scrutinised, and ideally sovereign. Because if another country has the power to disrupt our systems, then we’ve already handed over the keys. We need them back.

Outside of our grocery stores, mining sites, and engineering hubs, it’s becoming harder to spot the green and gold Aussie-made logo. The bigger question is, how do we reduce our reliance on other nations and build our sovereign capabilities?

For decades, we’ve watched smelters, refineries, and coal-fired power stations close, while our car industry was allowed to disappear. But what if, instead of walking away, we invested in modernising and building new assets? With advances in AI, robotics, automation and other technologies, we are more equipped than ever to turn our resources into finished products here at home, instead of exporting raw materials only to repurchase them at a premium.

Our trading relationship with China must remain respectful and firm. But we also need due diligence, transparency, and surety.

It’s time to back our manufacturers, boost local production, and make sure that we’re not just driving the economy, but holding the keys as well.

Andrew Willcox says it’s time to back Australian manufacturers and ensure we’re the ones holding the keys to our nation’s future. Photo supplied

The YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament (QYP) continues to shape the next generation of leaders, celebrating 30 years of empowering young Queenslanders to speak up, step forward, and create real change across their communities.

Her Excellency Jasmin Peak, the 30th Youth Governor of Queensland, described the program as “a parliament program that focuses on personal development, community engagement and parliamentary education.”

She said, “We’ve been going on for 30 years this year… we had our 30th year celebration in August, which was very exciting. We have 93 young people from all over Queensland who come to our camps, talk about issues that are important to them, debate the bills they write throughout the year, and discuss state and national matters of importance.”

“It’s an amazing program which equips our young people from all across Queensland with the skills in terms of public speaking, connecting them with like-minded individuals, and giving them an opportunity to have their voice heard on issues that matter in their local communities,” Jasmin explained.

Mentor Tenason Stark noted that few programs bring together such a diverse mix of young people.

“There’s not any other program that I can recall where you have 93 people who are all there for one common goal… to advocate for your communities and to create change.”

Throughout the year, Youth Members participate in committees covering areas such as justice, health, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander partnerships, and community services, each drafting their own bill to debate during the residential sitting week in Brisbane.

“It’s so special to be around like-minded people and just feel that your voice can be heard,” said 2025 Youth Member for Mackay, Mikayla Green.

“For some people, this is the first time they’ve ever felt heard, and that’s just a very special feeling.”

The 30th anniversary theme of Legacy reflected the program’s impact over three decades.

“We had people coming from the very first Youth Parliament up until our most recent,” Jasmin said.

“It was amazing to see the growth and the level of connection that everyone still has even 30 years on.”

This year, Jasmin and the QYP executive team have embarked on a Regional Engagement Road trip, visiting regional areas from the Sunshine Coast to Townsville, including Mackay, to deliver civic education programs and connect with local youth.

“As someone from regional Queensland myself, I knew that just hitting the hot spots wasn’t really a regional road trip,” Jasmin said.

“We decided to drive and actually reach more of those regional areas, because civic education can sometimes lack in schools, especially in rural regions.”

Mikayla said the program has given her both confidence and purpose.

“I’ve learnt who I am as a leader and how to advocate for myself and my community,” she said.

“Mackay’s issues are real issues, and Queensland Youth Parliament gave me the skills and confidence to have my voice heard.”

Tenason added, “It’s very important that we have young voices in regional areas heard, and programs like Queensland Youth Parliament allow this. You don’t even have to want to go into politics… it’s for everyone.”

Applications for the 2026 Queensland Youth Parliament open in January, inviting young people aged 15 to 25 from all electorates to represent their communities, learn by doing, and help build Queensland’s future.

Her Excellency Jasmin Peak, Mentor Tenason Stark, and Youth Member for Mackay, Mikayla Green, met in Mackay during the Queensland Youth Parliament’s regional engagement road trip. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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There would be no one prouder – except his parents, sisters, and uncle, of course – than the race’s namesake, Benita Willis, to see fifteen-year-old Max Miles take out the annual Mackay Spine Care Chiropractic Benita Willis 10km Handicap.

Local running legend, four-time Olympian, former World Cross Country Champion, and BMA Mackay Marina Run Ambassador, Benita’s ongoing support of Mackay Road Runners remains one of the most anticipated highlights on the local running calendar – and a personal delight for her as well.

Since the event’s inception in 2012, Benita has generously provided her own running gear for the impressive perpetual trophy and signed championship images congratulating each year’s winner.

Max was ecstatic to claim the 2025 crown ahead of a fiercely competitive field vying for the prestigious trophy, which also marks the official close of the Mackay Road Runners’ 2025 season. He’s already cleared a special spot at home for the treasured trophy – though his dad may need to reinforce the shelf to handle its considerable weight!

Runners in both the 5km and 10km events set off according to their official handicaps, with the major prize awarded for the 10km handicap race. This format ensures a level playing field, giving every club member, male or female, fast or steady-paced, a fair shot at taking home the coveted prize.

Mackay Spine Care Chiropractic’s George Hannaford and his team once again showed tremendous community spirit, donating cash prizes and vouchers for random draws open to all participants, as well as awards for the first three finishers across the line in both the 5km and 10km events.

In the 5km handicap, Jo Hughes claimed gold, finishing ahead of a fast-charging, pram-pushing dad, John Rae, who took silver alongside daughter Lucy, while bronze went to Bernadine McKinnon. The tight succession of finishers across both distances showcased the handicapper’s sharp eye and skill in balancing the field based on past performances.

Despite the oppressive heat and humidity, several runners achieved personal bests from last year’s event, including casual day runners Leon Sant and Gail McKee. Special thanks were extended to fellow runners and volunteers who came to the aid of an overheated competitor in the final stretch of the 10km. With the warmer months now in full swing, runners are urged to take extra care when training or racing: prepare well, rest, and recover wisely.

The Mackay Road Runners Annual Awards Evening will be held on Saturday, October 25 at Goosies, North Mackay Bowls Club. RSVPs will have closed by the time this goes to print, but interested members are encouraged to contact the Secretary at secretary@mackayroadrunners.com in case of any late withdrawals.

Event organisers encourage everyone to ‘Watch this space’ for updates on upcoming events, including the informal off-season program, as well as details on the next Calendar and Annual General Meetings.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

– Lucy Rae congratulates Dad, John on his 5km 2nd place prize donated by Mackay Spine Care Chiropractic at the Benita Willis 10km Handicap Trophy event.
– Highest handicapped backmarker, Justin Rule had a huge challenge to catch the field from his handicap start.
–  Mackay Road Runners’ Legendary course set up and packup guru, Andrew Short ready to start the Mackay Spine Care Chiropractic Benita Willis 10km Handicap  run.
– Volunteers at the Mackay Spine Care Chiropractic Benita Willis 10km Handicap Trophy Event (left to right) Tim Magoffin (Treasurer), Julie Whibley (Secretary) & Paul Tilse (President).
– Mackay Spine Care Chiropractic Benita Willis 10km Handicap podium finishers (left to right) – Judy Zahn (3rd), Max Miles (1st) and Jeff Pearce (2nd).
– Mackay Spine Care Chiropractic Benita Willis 5km Handicap podium finishers (left to right) – Bernadine McKinnon (3rd) and Jo Hughes (1st) – John Rae (2nd) absent from photo.
– Mackay Road Runners and Mackay Spine Care Chiropractic congratulate Max Miles (left of centre) for his first placing with the coveted Benita Willis 10km Handicap Trophy.
– Life Member, Merv Shields (right) celebrates a great 5km race finish with Lauren Connor (left). Photos supplied

Members enjoyed a quieter week following the busy Pairs and Teams Congress held last week. The club now looks ahead to several upcoming events, including the Life Members Pairs (Red Points), Presidents Trophy (Red Points), and the Australian Restricted Pairs.

The final congress of the year will be the Del Ryan Central Teams event in November, rounding out the season with the Club Novice Pairs Championship.

Weekly Results

Tuesday Evening 7 September 2025 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Sandra Morris / Diane Morgan 1st Terry Sheedy / Helen Van Den Broek
2nd Joy Hold / Jayne Johnston 2nd Martin Pearce / Chirstopher Meyers
3rd Patricia Garner / Griffin Bancroft 3rd Joy Block / Andrew Canavan

Wednesday 8 October 2025 – NWP 19 of 25 - 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 1st Janet Hansen / Alan Brown
2nd John McGee / Mick King 2nd Mary Rose Ramsden / Patrick Rasmussen
3rd Sandra Morris / Jan Harris 3rd Martin Pearce / Sue Mayer-Miller

Thursday 9 October 2025 - 3 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Jan Harris / Griffin Bancroft 2nd Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy & Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

Friday 10 October 2025 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Geoff Cowan / Mick King 1st Helen Van Den Broek / Geoffrey Patterson
2nd Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes 2nd Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
3rd Roland Taylor / Lynne O’Neill 3rd Christine Nice / Gillian Mc Callum

Saturday 11 September 2025 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild 1st Sandra Morris / Ann Whitmore
2nd Jewel Schmidt / Geoff Cowan 2nd Mary Rose Ramsden / Christine Nice
3rd Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger 3rd Errol Morris / Ian Gaskell
4th Mick King / Diane Stokes 4th Julie O’Neill / Griffin Bancroft

Contributed by Joy Block

1) Open Teams Section A, 1st Team Bugeia - Val, Noel, Ian & Terry
2) Open Teams Section A, 2nd Team Brown - Diane, Alan, Francie, & Janet
3) Open Teams Section B, 1st Team Patterson - Diane Chris, Sandy & Mary Rose
4) Open Teams Section B, 2nd Team Pearce - Lynne, Sue, Martin & Simon. Photos supplied

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A once-grey brick wall in the heart of Sarina has been transformed into a vibrant celebration of the town, thanks to a remarkable collaboration between local youth, artists, and the community. The mural, unveiled on Thursday, October 9, now brightens the exterior of the Grand Central gift and coffee shop, leaving a lasting mark on the town and the young people who helped create it.

The project was led by internationally renowned Grasstree Beach artist, Donna Marie Robinson, who guided the youth through every stage of the process.

“I helped guide the youth through the whole process, from upskilling workshops to helping them create the visuals that you see before you,” Donna explained.

“During the workshops, we spoke about design, the fundamentals of visual arts, and then included their iconic imagery into the final montage.”

Approximately 20 young people participated in the workshops and painting, ranging from primary school age through to 25, contributing everything from background colours to intricate details. School students Ebony Hetherington and Lauren Stewart said the experience was incredibly rewarding.

“It’s good to just see everyone’s ideas combined and then put together in something like this where everyone can see it,” Ebony said.

Lauren added, “The best part, in my opinion, was painting… it wasn’t just your own ideas, but everyone else’s too, and working together to see it all come to life.”

The mural incorporates local symbols, such as Sarina’s historic flower, featured as part of the design “yesterday, today, and tomorrow,” reflecting the town’s history and community pride.

Donna spent two days finishing the focal face of the mural, while the youth filled in the backgrounds over two days.

“It’s fantastic to see the final piece – they were all so prolific and creative,” she said.

Community leaders praised the initiative, highlighting its positive impact.

Glen Kelly, Member for Mirani, noted the project’s role in revitalising a previously damaged area.

“It was recognised as a place to put a beautiful mural. Well done to the youth for turning something that was once associated with crime into something wonderful. It gives kids an opportunity and something to be proud of,” he said.

PJ Burridge, Youth Development Officer at the Sarina Youth Centre, emphasised the importance of engaging young people in constructive activities.

“This can give kids opportunities to do something creative, instead of getting into trouble.

“There were probably 20 people involved with the workshops and painting, and it’s just beautiful to see the results,” she said.

Councillor Belinda Hassan described the collaboration as a triumph for the Sarina community.

“Often, we hear about antisocial behaviour, but this project shows what happens when you put youth talent to good use. It’s absolutely fantastic, and congratulations to Donna and all the young artists involved.”

Local leaders hinted that more creative projects could be on the horizon, advising others to “watch this space.”

L-R: Cnr Belinda Hassan, Emma Stewart, Ebony Hetherington, local artist Donna Robinson, Lauren Stewart, Member for Mirani Glen Kelly and Sarina Youth Development Officer PJ Burridge.

A once-grey wall in Sarina has been transformed into a vibrant community mural, brought to life by local youth under the guidance of artist Donna Marie Robinson, celebrating the town’s history and creativity. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Mackay Father Calls For Greater Awareness Of Silent Epilepsy Risk

A Mackay father is urging Australians to talk more openly about the silent and little-known risk of Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP), three years on from the devastating loss of his 25-year-old son, Finley.

“Fin had his first seizure at 22 and died at 25,” said Greg Smith.

“He’d been seizure-free for 12 months and had just got his driving licence back. Then one day, he didn’t turn up for work.”

Fin’s death shocked his close-knit family and friends, and the wider Mackay community, and revealed a confronting truth: few Australians have heard of SUDEP, even among those living with epilepsy.

“Losing Finley has been devastating. It’s something you think about every day, constantly. I wake up thinking about it. So does my wife, Fin’s mum Vicki. There’s really no way to describe what it does to you.

“He was back playing sport and living life as he always had, so it was something nobody saw coming. Certainly, SUDEP was never mentioned to us at any point.”

Now, Greg and his family are sharing Fin’s story through Epilepsy Queensland, the organisation providing support for people and families impacted by this complex and often misunderstood neurological condition.

Their goal is to break the silence around SUDEP - around epilepsy - so that no-one has to struggle alone.

A hidden cause of death

SUDEP claims the lives of an estimated 300 Australians each year. Despite this, awareness remains low, and many families only learn of the risk after a tragedy occurs.

Sandi Rodiger, CEO of Epilepsy Queensland, says that needs to change.

“Too many families are blindsided by SUDEP because they simply don’t know it exists, and that’s one of the many problematic legacies of a condition that’s been hidden and stigmatised throughout history,” said Sandi.

“We still don’t know why SUDEP happens but, without scaremongering, it’s important to know that it can happen – it’s important that people and families impacted by epilepsy get the support, education and community they need to live well and know that they aren’t alone.”

A community keeping Fin’s memory alive

Every year since Fin’s death, his friends travel from across the country – and even overseas - for a charity day in his memory. To date, they’ve run three events and have raised an incredible $87,902 for Epilepsy Queensland.

“To be honest, I thought the event might go for a year or two and then peter out, but instead it’s getting bigger and bigger,” said Greg.

“That means the world. It means Fin hasn’t been forgotten.”

More than that, the loss of his ‘larrikin’ son – described as a ‘friend to many’ - has changed how Greg’s family lives.

“I suppose one of the positives, if you can call it that, is that I think we’ve all got a different outlook on life now. It’s not ‘we’re going to do something someday’ - if we want to do something, we do it now.”

No family should face epilepsy or loss alone. Learn more about SUDEP, epilepsy and how you can support families like Fin’s at www.epilepsyqueensland.com.auor or call 1300 852 853.

Three years after the sudden death of his 25-year-old son Finley from SUDEP, Mackay father Greg Smith is urging Australians to raise awareness about this little-known epilepsy risk and support affected families. Photos supplied

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No one loves cyber security. 2FA, redundant backups, password manager pop-ups - it’s all annoying. Know who loves it when you don’t bother though? Yep, hackers. That’s what they’re very literally banking on (b—tards).

So much of our life happens online now. For better or worse, we live in a digital age - and criminals exist there just as much as they do in the real world. Last week, I spoke at Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce’s Cyber Security Awareness event about simple, practical ways to keep your business safe – from a marketing perspective. Here are a few quick takeaways worth actioning today.

1. Social media is a hacker’s paradise.
   A hacked page can destroy trust, leak client info or be used to scam your followers. Set up two-factor authentication (ugh, I know), audit your admins regularly + never click sketchy links.
2. Impersonation isn’t flattery.
   Anyone can copy your logo or name and start scamming people in your place. Set up Google Alerts for your brand, remind customers what you won’t ask for online + report fakes fast.
3. Your favourite tools can be entry points.
   Platforms like Canva, Meta Business Suite or Mailchimp are all connected. Use unique passwords, delete ex-staff promptly + get a password manager to keep everything tight.

Just like you wouldn’t leave your front door unlocked or broadcast your PIN, online safety is your responsibility. It’s a pain, but a much smaller one than explaining to your clients how their data got into the wrong hands.

Cyber security is not just about you. It’s about your clients, your team + your business. When you skip the boring stuff, it’s not only your data at risk - it’s everyone who trusts you.

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