OPINION

COALITION ANNOUNCES THE COST TO GO NUCLEAR
 
The Coalition’s nuclear power plan will cost up to $263 billion less than Labor’s renewable rollout between now and 2050, translating into cheaper electricity over the long run.
 
The costings, conducted by Frontier Economics and on Friday by Opposition Leader Peter Dutton, estimates the capital and operating costs of the Coalition’s policy to deliver net zero emissions electricity by 2050 will be $331 billion.
 
The long-term plan will provide reliable, consistent and cheaper energy to return Australia to an industrial and manufacturing powerhouse. As coal-fired plants close, the Coalition plans to replace them with zero-emissions nuclear energy, to work alongside renewables and gas to power industry.
 
“Advanced economies worldwide are expanding nuclear programs to meet their energy and emissions goals, and Australia must not be left behind,” Mr Dutton said.
 
Anthony Albanese promised Australians a $275 cut to their power bills, but instead, families are paying up to $1,000 more under Labor’s costly and chaotic energy policies.
 
Labor’s ‘renewables-only’ experiment is costing Australians five times more than originally promised, driving energy prices higher and small businesses to the brink.
 
“We need an energy mix and need baseload power available 24/7. We cannot be reliant on intermittent unreliable wind and solar that only works when the sun is shining and when the wind blows,” Mr Willcox said.
 
If elected, the Coalition, which wants to build the plants on the existing sites of coal-fired power stations to make use of the transmission infrastructure, will conduct feasibility studies and a community consultation process with the aim of settling the sites for the first two plants within two years.
 
CALLS TO IMPROVE MOBILE BLACKSPOTS
It’s been no surprise that my electorate of Dawson has been plagued with bad mobile blackspots which is a real concern, especially emergency, work-related requirements or just to keep in contact with loved ones.
Residents have reported blackspots in Glenella, Cannon Valley, Bowen, Bucasia and other suburbs and more needs to be done to address this issue.
The Federal Government decided only last week to open round 8 of submissions which is a joke considering how close it is to Christmas. Again, this is a last-minute rushed plan that doesn’t benefit anyone but the Labor Government to get more votes ahead of an upcoming election.
“I am calling on the Federal Communications Minister Michelle Rowland to come to Dawson, travel through the electorate and see how hard it is to make a call,” Mr Willcox said.
“I would try to ring Minister Rowland from one of these locations to express my concerns, but the problem is I would struggle to get a signal to make the call.
“Enough is enough. I’ve said it before and I will say it again people talk about blackspots but in my electorate, there are areas where there are no spots at all.”
I encourage those impacted to report a blackspot on my website or email my office andrew.willcox.MP@aph.gov.au by December 20, 2024.

Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox highlights mobile blackspot issues in Dawson, urging residents to report problem areas and calling on the Federal Government for urgent action

COALITION’S NEW HOUSING POLICY
 
Regional Australia will receive its fair share of the Coalition’s $5 billion home-building plan, with a target of 30 per cent of the funding to be invested to unlock new homes in regional, rural and remote Australia.
 
The future Coalition Government would set an ambitious target of 30 percent of the $5 billion Housing Infrastructure Programme for investing in the regions, benefiting areas such as Dawson.
 
“Under Labor, Australia is facing a housing crisis and the great Australian dream of owning a home has never felt further out of reach,” Mr Willcox said.
A Coalition Government will also free up more than 100,000 homes by:
   • Reducing migration numbers, compared to Labor which has brought in more than one million migrants in their first two years in office.
   • Putting a two-year ban on foreign investors and temporary residents purchasing existing homes.
   • Working with the building and construction industry and bringing in people on skilled visas to support local tradies.
   • Tackling union corruption that has contributed to driving up the costs of building by 30 percent.
   • Freezing further changes to the National Construction Code to ease red tape and compliance burdens for builders.
The shortage is impacting schools across Dawson trying to find teachers amid the housing crisis. At Mackay State High School alone there are 13 positions available for 2025, and two never filled in 2024, according to the Queensland Government jobs board.

Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox addresses the housing crisis, unveiling plans to unlock regional housing funds and tackle rising costs, benefiting areas like Dawson

ONGOING SUPPORT NEEDED FOR CANEGROWERS
             
It is no secret the sugar industry had its trials and tribulations across our region in 2024.
 
As I write this, some farmers are still struggling to get the cane off and the season looks to be extended into 2025.
 
There have been some milling issues and now the wet season has arrived.
 
As I travel the electorate and meet with cane farmers and industry lobbying groups, the biggest cost to growers continues to be electricity. This is going to be a huge factor in the next Federal election, and one I will be ensuring the Coalition has a solution that actually sees prices going down.
 
We are in a cost-of-living crisis and we should not be accepting that everything just continues to increase. 
 
I would like to take this opportunity to pass on my most sincere condolences to the families, friends and work mates of those who lost their life this year in our region. Everyone deserves to go work and return home safe, and I trust these accidents are being investigated.
 
We need to remain steadfast in that this region is the sugar bowl of Australia and to ensure that remains, means we need to work together.
 
We need to iron out the root cause of some of the issues and find solutions.
 
I am here to work with the industry and take to government solutions that will get us back to being the world’s best in growing, harvesting, and milling.

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By Hannah McNamara

Gary Chapman, father of the late Michael Chapman, gave a touching speech recently at the Victoria Park State School Year 6 Graduation, on December 5.

As students, teachers and parents gathered in the hall for the presentation, Mr Chapman shared a powerful message – one that left an imprint on the hearts of many – to simply, be kind.

Mr Chapmans son, Michael, was described as a “highly regarded friend” who was always cheerful, resilient and kind. In the late 1980s, Michael had been fighting cancer, and after a lengthy battle, he was given the all clear around the age of nine.

At the age of twelve, just a few short years later, the young boy was diagnosed with cancer again. Despite countless treatments, he sadly lost his battle shortly after in 1988.

Michael’s remarkable positivity and passion for life, even during his most difficult moments, left an enduring imprint on the hearts of those who knew him.

He left such an impact, that his legacy now lives on through the Michael Chapman Award, a cherished tradition introduced by his Year 7 classmates in the year of his passing. This award, represented by a shield, is presented annually to a student chosen by their peers for exemplifying the qualities of courage, dignity, and pride - three words that perfectly captured Michael’s character. Now in its 36th year, the school has continued to honour his memory through this meaningful award, which is annually presented by his father, Gary Chapman.

In his moving speech, Mr Chapman reflected on a poignant experience from earlier that day. While at a local supermarket, he found himself thinking about Michael’s old friends. He suddenly noticed a woman with long, curly hair that reminded him of one of Michael’s closest childhood friends. Gathering his courage, he asked the woman’s name, and to his surprise, it was indeed his son’s former friend, now an adult with a family of her own. Mr Chapman described their encounter as “unbelievable” and shared that they had a lovely chat.

Mr Chapman shared memorable stories of his beloved son, along with some most recent comments made by former friends, which said, “He’s always been one of the most beautiful boys I've ever had the pleasure of knowing.

Another read: “Michael was my best friend and always will be… I always thought he was so grown up for his age.. I still think about him a lot.”

Amidst the poignant reflections, the school proudly announced the 2024 Michael Chapman Award recipient: Miss Neveah Collins, who exemplifies the courage, dignity, and pride that Michael embodied.

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Michael’s father Gary Chapman with recipient of the 2024 Michael Chapman award Miss Neveah Collins. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Christmas has come early for three local charities, thanks to Life Publishing Group’s fundraising event held in October. The event raised an impressive $9,000, with the proceeds being split evenly between three worthy causes: Chances House, Mackay Pet Rescue, and the Ronald McDonald Family Room Mackay.
The event, which marked a milestone for the Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper and Core Life Magazine, brought together local businesses, community members, and generous sponsors to support vital causes in the region.
Mackay Life team members—Editor Amanda Wright, Sales Manager Jessica Clark, and Journalist Hannah McNamara—had the honour of presenting cheques for $3,000 each to the three organisations, just in time for the Christmas season.
Chances House expressed their deep gratitude for the donation, with CEO Kayleigh Brewster saying, “Your support means the world to us and to the individuals and families experiencing homelessness in our community.
“Thanks to your kindness, we are able to continue providing critical services to those in need, including meals, essential items, and healthcare support. This donation will also help us enhance our case management efforts, working to create more positive outcomes for those we serve."
Over the past few months, Chances House has seen a significant rise in demand for their services, averaging over 80 people accessing their support daily. The organisation has been providing more than 2,100 meals per month and assisting with over 60 case management interactions each week. This increased demand highlights the importance of continued community support which allows Chances House to meet both immediate needs and long-term goals for those facing homelessness.
"Your support doesn’t just provide resources—it brings hope and dignity to those we serve. We are able to do our work more effectively because of donors like you, and for that, we are incredibly grateful," Brewster added.
Mackay Pet Rescue also extended their thanks, with Vice President Ros Lowry saying, "Thank you to the team at Life Publishing Group for your incredibly generous $3,000 donation to Mackay Pet Rescue.
“Your contribution will go a long way in helping our dedicated volunteers continue to rescue and care for abandoned animals in need. We are especially excited to use these funds for veterinary care, nourishing food, and much-needed catios to house mama cats and their kittens.
“Your support is vital to our mission, and we couldn’t do it without you."
The Ronald McDonald Family Room Mackay, who recently relocated while the new hospital wing is under construction, also expressed their heartfelt thanks. Community Engagement Executive Samantha Baker said, "The support from Life Publishing Group is greatly appreciated.
“The donation will help us continue to provide a comfortable and welcoming space for families in need, ensuring they feel supported during difficult times."
You can read more on page 5, on how you can support Ronald McDonald House Family Room.
With the holiday season fast approaching, the Mackay Life team would like to extend their thanks to everyone who supported the event and contributed to making it a night to remember.

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Life Publishing Group Editor Amanda Wright and Ronald McDonald Family Room Mackay Community Engagement Executive Samantha Baker

Life Publishing Group Sales Manager Jessica Clark and Janet Ambrose from Mackay Pet Rescue Inc.

Chances House Project and Fundraising Coordinator Lisa Merrett, Life Publishing Group Journalist Hannah McNamara and Chances House CEO Kayleigh Brewster

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Every year, RSPCA Inspectors respond to calls about pets being abandoned. This trend spikes over Christmas and School Holidays when people are away from home.
 
From December 2023 to January 2024, RSPCA Queensland responded to 402 complaints about abandoned animals.
 
“We usually receive reports from worried neighbours about dogs that are barking more than normal and when they can’t confirm if food and water has been left for the animal.
 
“If we attend a property and no one is home at the time, we will leave our information to make contact. Usually within 24 hours we’ve heard from the person who is minding the pets that the owners are on holiday, and that they’re stopping in each day to care for them,” says Inspector Steffi Schubert.   
 
The RSPCA is urging anyone who is leaving their pets in the care of a pet sitter, neighbour or family member to sign up to their free Home Alone service.
 
How does Home Alone work?
   • Owners can register their pet’s details with the RSPCA’s Home Alone service and provide the contact details of those caring for their pets.
   • If their pet is reported as abandoned, the RSPCA has contact details in cases of emergencies.
RSPCA Inspector Steffi suggests, “If you’re concerned a pet has been abandoned, leave a note on the door of the property, or talk to other neighbours to identify if someone is coming to check on the pets before lodging an abandonment complaint. This will help free up RSPCA resources to investigate critical cases.”
 
RSPCA advises that pets can be left at home while owners are away as long as they have appropriate food, water and shelter. 

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One of Mackay Airport’s busiest routes will soon be serviced by larger aircraft, injecting thousands of additional seats into the market and positioning 2025 as a bumper year for visitation and industry growth.

Virgin Australia will begin flying more Boeing 737s between Brisbane and Mackay from February next year, replacing the smaller Fokker 100 aircraft that have supplemented the airline’s national growth in recent years.

The upgrade will increase capacity on the route by close to 50 per cent, with the Boeing 737 providing approximately 420,000 seats on the route per year up from 246,000 on the smaller aircraft.

Mackay Airport Head of Operations Adrian Miles said the return of Virgin Australia’s Boeing 737, which offers business class, would be well received by passengers, particularly those regularly travelling for work.

“This is a testament to the strength of the corporate market between Brisbane and Mackay, with Mackay being one of the first ports to transition back to the Boeing 737,” he said.

“It will be fantastic to kick off 2025 with Virgin’s Boeing 737 regularly servicing our region.”

It follows a series of developments across Mackay Airport in 2024, including commencement of long-term commercial project Milton Precinct. Vacant land will be transformed into a purpose-built business, retail and mixed- use service hub, offering an array of industry opportunities and injecting millions of dollars into the local economy each year.

Mackay Airport also launched the Hidden Disabilities Program, the inaugural $25,000 Mackay Airport Local Community Sports Grants campaign, and entered a number of key partnerships aimed at growing the region’s visitor market, such as a three-year strategic agreement with Harrup Park and continued sponsorship of the Mackay Cutters.

Mr Miles said Mackay Airport was ready for a busy holiday season to close out the successful year.

“Over the three weeks leading into Christmas, we expect more than 50,000 passengers to travel through Mackay Airport, which is a 10 per cent increase on regular traffic flows,” he said.

BY THE NUMBERS
• From February 2025, Virgin Australia will begin flying more Boeing 737s between Brisbane and Mackay, replacing the smaller Fokker 100 aircraft.
• The upgrade will increase capacity on the route by close to 50 per cent, with approximately 420,000 seats on the route per year up from 246,000.
• More than 50,000 passengers are expected to travel through Mackay Airport across the three weeks leading into Christmas, a 10 per cent increase on regular traffic flows.
• Mackay Airport commenced work on the Milton Precinct in 2024. This major, long-term commercial development is estimated to provide $134.1 million to the local economy in the first 10 years of operation and new businesses at the site are expected to generate $42.5 million in output per year.

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Virgin Australia will upgrade its Brisbane-Mackay flights to Boeing 737s from February 2025, increasing route capacity by 50 per cent. Photo supplied

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A Queensland bus operator has selected the recipients of its inaugural community grant program, Moving Communities, with two organisations in Mackay set to benefit from in-kind support and grants of up to $10,000.

The Moving Communities Fund, awarded by Kinetic, is designed to support community organisations and not-for-profits that improve the livelihoods of the communities where Kinetic operates.

Launched in September 2024, the program attracted more than 200 applications from across Australia in four weeks, reflecting an incredible array of initiatives and projects.

Kinetic has announced funding support for two Mackay organisations, providing a boost to education and local sport.
Fitzgerald State School received funding to assist primary students in participating in critical water safety and swimming programs.
Meanwhile, Magpies Mackay AFC secured funding for new footballs and essential medical supplies, ensuring the club continues to promote health, fitness, and community spirit through sport.
Kinetic Executive General Manager for Central Queensland, Marcia Shield said they were proud to support local beneficiaries and the terrific work these organisations are doing in the community.

“We know this funding and support will help them to deliver immediate positive impacts to the Mackay communities they operate in.”

“It was fantastic to receive so many applications from throughout the state, and such a broad variety of interests being represented from sporting clubs through to volunteer groups,” she said.  

Kinetic Group CEO Michael Sewards said the Kinetic team is extremely proud to support these local community organisations.

“Giving back to the community is part of Kinetic’s foundation and the aim of establishing the Moving Communities Fund was to amplify these efforts,” he said. 

“We wanted to hear about all of the great things people are doing in the community and we were blown away when we received well over 200 applications.

“This is only the beginning and we can’t wait to roll out two additional rounds in 2025 and help even more community groups.”
To find out more about the Moving Communities Fund recipients and future rounds visit www.wearekinetic.com/community

Kinetic proudly operates school and urban route services across Mackay and the surrounding regions, connecting the community through safe and reliable transport.

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Kinetic’s inaugural Moving Communities Fund has awarded grants up to $10,000 to Fitzgerald State School and Magpies Mackay AFC, supporting local initiatives. Photos supplied

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Before the convenience of frozen chickens, Pearson’s Store on the north-east corner of Evan and Goldsmith Streets was the go-to spot for Christmas dinner preparations.
Proprietor Arthur Pearson operated a ‘chookery’ on land behind the store, raising free-range poultry that was fattened up for festive feasts and special occasions.
Pearson’s legacy also extended to Shakespeare and Moore Streets, where his niece Beryl Hatfield and her husband John established the beloved “Hatfields” store in 1947, a family-run business until its sale in 2008.

Mackay Libraries Heritage Collection #05528

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Mackay Christian College is celebrating a standout achievement, with Year 8 student Ashley Harris claiming the top spot in a nationwide mathematics competition hosted by Times Table Rock Stars. Competing against nearly 1,200 secondary students, Ashley emerged as the best in the country, showcasing exceptional talent and dedication.
The competition also highlighted other remarkable achievements from MCC students, with Shardinay Broome Waria ranking second in the school and an impressive 49th nationally, and Jonah Carpenter securing third place at MCC.
Congratulations to Ashley, Shardinay, and Jonah for their outstanding performances, representing MCC with pride and excellence!

L-R: Jonah Carpenter, Ashley Harris, and Shardinay Broome Waria proudly display their certificates after excelling in the nationwide Times Table Rock Stars mathematics competition. Photo credit: Mackay Christian College

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Local group Breakaway Horse Riders Club has been honoured with the 2024 Community Impact Award from Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank.

Accompanied by a $500 donation, the Community Impact Award is presented to an organisation that inspires positive change, has a dedication to community, displays integrity in service, shows leadership and fosters inclusivity.

Starting as a small group in the Kuttabul area in 1986, the club has now grown to 89 members and 20 juniors from across the region. Their annual charity ride, educational weekends, and community service projects have raised significant funds the Mackay Base Hospital Oncology Ward, Cancer and Heart Research and the This Strong Mum Foundation.

Community Bank Sarina Board Chair Karen May praised the club's dedication to creating connections through their events and raising funds for important local causes.

“Our Community Impact Award acknowledges a group that has gone above and beyond for the benefit of others and Breakaway Horse Riders Club has continued to demonstrate this through their community efforts,” Ms May said.

“Clubs like Breakaway Horse Riders play an essential role in the greater Sarina region, creating a welcoming space where lasting friendships are created, and community connections are deepened.”

Breakaway Horse Riders Club President Roxanne Aprile, expressed gratitude on behalf of the club for the award, thanking Community Bank Sarina for their ongoing support.

“This award is testament to the dedication and camaraderie of our members, and we are grateful to Community Bank Sarina for recognising our commitment to supporting locals,” Ms. Aprile said.

“The Bank’s partnership over the years has been invaluable, from supporting our annual charity rides and ANZAC tribute projects, to providing funding for essential equipment such as light horse uniforms, saddle pads, brushes, and shirts.”

“They have also provided us with a marquee, flags and signage to help us promote what we do in the greater community.”

Breakaway Horse Riders Club will be holding their next Annual Charity Ride on May 24, 2025 to raise money and awareness for pancreatic cancer.

To find out more about how Community Bank Sarina supports our community, visit their Facebook page, www.facebook.com/communitybanksarina.

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(L-R) Community Bank Sarina Board Chair Karen May, Breakaway Horse Riders Club’ Joanne Davis (Treasurer), Vicki Crowley (Vice President), Natalie McIntosh (Member) and Roxanne Aprile (President) and Community Bank Sarina Branch Manager Charmaine Matsen. Photo supplied

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By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

There has been much conjecture surrounding Queensland sugar mills underperforming and costing the industry dearly.

It would take a person gamer than myself to argue that the milling sector is performing to standards equivalent to the past. We have seen a sharp decline in milling investment both in capital and maintenance budgets, thus making the milling sector the Achilles heel of the industry. This, CANEGROWERS feels, has led to an untenable situation taking away from industry affluence. At CANEGROWERS Mackay's 2024 AGM I took it upon myself to expose the elephant in the room.

There have been claims from millers that grower reps who speak up about poor mill performance and its accumulated costs to the grower and harvester sectors are “talking down the industry”. But with crush end dates like 5 January for Mackay Sugar and 24 January for Wilmar, it is a necessity - a responsibility, in fact - that we speak out on the impacts on growers, eroding the profitability of our businesses. This is not purely an industry issue. It has ramifications for the community and the regional economy, and therefore, these communities have a right to know about issues impacting a significant number of family farming businesses.
Such late finish times mean that the start of maintenance and capital works during the off-season will also be delayed, every minute of which is needed to ensure a smoother 2025. Those works, alongside training and maintaining people working in the mills are presently the single biggest critical point to maintaining the reliability of our milling sector.
In any event, the likeliest outcome will be that the arrival of the monsoon will bring the crush to a halt.
As we go forward with this debate, we need to be sure that we remain calm in our discussions with the milling sector. As chairman of the QCGO farm inputs and research committee appointed to deal with these issues, I have been successful in creating a taskforce geared towards finding a solution. Canegrowers has been successful in getting a commitment from the ASMC to meet, with the goal of forging a way forward.

In the past there has been a reluctance from industry stakeholders to get together to sort these problems. I agree with ASMC's sentiment that we need to cease the public stoush, however it is disappointing that one party has to resort to such action to overcome the tin ear of the other.

The industry needs to be able to work as business partners and not be dismissive of their counterpart’s concerns. However, there is a limit to the tolerance of growers. We don’t need to worry about growers pointing out the industry’s shortcomings, we need to worry about farmers leaving the industry altogether. In a lot of cases, the farmers aren’t complaining to the millers, they are warning them about what can and will happen if the mills don’t lift their game.

After a prolonged period of time, Sugar Terminals Limited has released the election results held at their 2024 AGM. Mackay’s very own Paul Schembri was elected to take up the grower director position made vacant by the retirement of Tony Bartolo.

I take this opportunity to thank Tony for his time on the STL board representing the cause for grower shareholders. I would also like to congratulate Paul on his success in having grower shareholder confidence in him to represent them on STL.
STL is an industry owned body that is appointed as custodians of our sugar terminal assets, consisting of bulk sugar terminals located at the ports of Cairns, Mourilyan, Lucinda, Townsville, Bundaberg, and Mackay. It is now more obvious than ever that grower shareholders are of the opinion that they see STL is going down a path not supported by them by insourcing the operations of the terminals and as a result eliminating transparency and a long history of efficiency. I am sure Paul has the background and ability to represent shareholders on these issues.

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As planting and spraying operations increase across Queensland this summer, all chemical users are reminded of their responsibility to minimise spray drift and protect surrounding areas.

Key tips for responsible spraying include checking weather conditions, using appropriate equipment, keeping detailed spray application records and communicating with neighbours about nearby crops that may be at risk.

DPI and Cotton Australia are partnering to promote best practices, including reading chemical labels carefully to ensure products reach their intended targets.

They also encourage sprayers to connect with neighbours to identify susceptible crops and coordinate activities.

Michael Reid, General Manager of Plant Biosecurity and Product Integrity at the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) emphasised the importance of timing and monitoring conditions.

“The best time to spray is during light, steady breezes and moderate temperatures.

“Avoid spraying on windy days or during thermal inversions.

“If conditions aren’t suitable, postponing is often the safest choice,” Mr. Reid said.

Michael Murray, General Manager of Cotton Australia, highlighted the importance of monitoring inversion conditions using the Weather and Networked Data (WAND) towers, particularly for growers in Southern and Central Queensland.

“Inversion conditions, which increase spray drift risks, are common during summer evenings and nights.

“We urge growers to check the WAND site at www.wand.com.au, which is accessible on mobile devices,” Mr. Murray said.

Factors such as weather, droplet size, boom height, travel speed, and application method all influence the likelihood of spray drift.

To comply with the Chemical Usage (Agricultural & Veterinary) Control Regulation 1988, users must also measure and record weather conditions at the application site.

For more information about using agricultural chemicals safely and effectively in Queensland, including record-keeping requirements, contact the DPI on 13 25 23.
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Tips for spraying correctly
   • Keep your knowledge of application methods up to date. Attend equipment manufacturer or product manufacturer field days when these are organised in your area.
   • Read the agricultural chemical product label and follow the instructions accurately. Many products have specific spray drift management instructions dealing with optimal weather conditions and spray equipment.
   • If you don't understand a label instruction, ask someone who does before commencing the application. Product labels provide contact details of the manufacturer who can provide reliable technical advice to assist you if necessary.
   • If you're not sure about what you're doing, consider engaging a professional contractor.
   • Identify sensitive crops and areas (e.g. creeks and streams, livestock paddocks or schools) around the area where you intend to spray, and let the spray operator know about these areas.
   • Discuss your spray plans with your neighbours and contractors. Good communication can often avoid complaints from neighbours or prevent misunderstandings and unnecessary conflict.
   • If possible, maintain a buffer zone between areas of application and areas where there is a risk of damage from spray drift.

Mackay Base Hospital’s cardiac catheter laboratory has reopened, boasting upgraded equipment and improved diagnostic capabilities following a decade of service.

The scheduled upgrades mark the end of the lab’s 10-year lifecycle, replacing essential equipment and enhancing the facility’s ability to deliver cutting-edge cardiac care. The improvements promise to benefit patients by ensuring better access to advanced diagnostics and treatment options.

Staff have undergone comprehensive training with a clinical application specialist to become proficient with the newly installed equipment. Ongoing support will be provided to ensure a seamless transition.

The cardiac catheter laboratory, which first opened in 2014, has grown significantly over the years, becoming a 24/7 service offering an extensive range of cardiac care. Clinical and project teams implemented robust contingency plans to maintain patient care during the upgrade period.

A spokesperson from the Mackay Base Hospital emphasised that the investment in the cath lab represents a commitment to providing the best possible outcomes for patients in the region.

The dedicated Mackay Base Hospital cath lab team celebrates the reopening of the upgraded facility, ready to deliver top-tier cardiac care to the community. Photo credit: Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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The festive season can be a challenging time for many, and Orange Sky is stepping up to provide support for those in need. Offering free laundry services, warm breakfasts, and genuine conversation, the Mackay team is ensuring connection and care for the community throughout the holidays.
“Our hope is that by staying open, we can offer positive connections during what can be a difficult time for many,” said Orange Sky’s Mackay Service Leader Lisa Jamieson.
“Christmas can be a lonely time, but a friendly chat and some clean clothes can make a big difference.”
Orange Sky’s Juliet Street service will operate as usual on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings from 7am to 11am, including Christmas and New Year’s Day. Breakfast is provided at the start of each shift. While the Wednesday night service will pause on Christmas night, it will resume the following week on New Year’s Day.
In Sarina, the service will close on 23rd December and reopen on 2nd January, in line with council office closures. Operating hours in Sarina remain 9am to 11am.
Partnering with food vans and community centres, Orange Sky creates a safe, welcoming space for anyone in need. Their free laundry and shower facilities are complemented by non-judgemental conversations, fostering connection and kindness.
“Shockingly, one in seven Australians experience social isolation, and over one in six feel lonely,” Lisa explained.
“We want to combat that by being here for the community, no matter the time of year.”
The team is also celebrating the contribution of new volunteer Jake, Mackay and Sarina’s youngest helper. Fresh out of Year 12 at St Pat’s, Jake’s connection to Orange Sky began through his work with the St Pat’s Brekky Van. A familiar face to the community, Jake’s early morning shifts on the BBQ allowed him to form meaningful bonds with those in need.
“As a community, we are fortunate to have Jake and other youths who give their time to think of others,” Lisa added.
“Jake’s journey from the Brekky Van to Orange Sky is inspiring and shows how small acts of kindness can grow into something truly impactful.”
This festive season, Orange Sky’s dedicated volunteers are ensuring no one is left without a helping hand—or a listening ear. Whether for clean laundry or a kind conversation, all are welcome.

Jake, Mackay and Sarina’s youngest Orange Sky volunteer, continues his journey of giving back to the community after graduating from St Pat’s

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“Christmas can be a lonely time, but a friendly chat and some clean clothes can make a big difference.”

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Excited children and proud families gathered at Souths Leagues Club on the 2nd of December, 2024, to celebrate the graduation of the Prep-Ready Kids Class of 2024. The children, aged 3.5 to 5 years, had successfully completed The Neighbourhood Hub’s popular Prep-Ready Kids Program, which prepares little learners for the transition to prep school.
The Program, funded by Multicultural Affairs through the Department of Women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships and Multiculturalism, has become a favourite among Mackay families, particularly newly arrived migrant families looking to ensure their children have the best possible start in school.
Through a dynamic curriculum that mirrors the Prep classroom experience, children learn essential skills such as numbers, letters, listening, comprehension, and cooperation. They also engage in social activities, experiments, excursions, physical literacy, and more, building both confidence and friendships along the way.
The graduation ceremony was a heartwarming celebration featuring a video compilation of the children’s achievements and progress through the year, fun games, and a visit from Santa. Graduates were presented with framed certificates and medals, marking their accomplishments in style.
Program Coordinator Ela Maglente shared her reflections on a successful year.
“The children thrived in the classroom-like setup, bonding quickly with each other and excelling in their learning. We’ve also been able to engage parents through fitness sessions, workshops, and information sessions, helping them build connections and friendships within the community,” she said.
The event was also a tribute to the families’ dedication and the generosity of volunteers who supported the program throughout the year.
“It’s always special to see families come together to celebrate their hard work and resilience. This year was no exception,” Ela added.
The Prep-Ready Kids Program has become increasingly popular, particularly among multicultural families adjusting to life in Mackay. Families are already expressing interest in the 2025 intake, which will begin in February. Sessions run every Monday during the school term with a new start time of 9:00 am to 11:00 am at 43 Shakespeare St, East Mackay.
Interested families of all backgrounds are encouraged to email ELA at elam@tnhub.org.au to secure their child’s spot for next year.

Beaming with pride, the Prep-Ready Kids Class of 2024 celebrate their graduation at Souths Leagues Club, surrounded by their excited families. Photos supplied
Ela Maglente (Program Coordinator), with volunteers Ruth Bell, Sonia Galea and Maricel Tebble

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Since joining The Doctors Mackay in November 2023, Dr. Umang Bassan has earned a stellar reputation for his expertise and compassionate approach to patient care. With a focus on personalised treatment, Dr. Bassan has become a trusted healthcare provider in the Mackay region, bringing a wealth of knowledge and a patient-first ethos to the clinic.
Dr. Bassan has expertise in Aboriginal and Indigenous health, chronic condition management, dermatology, skin cancer, men’s health, skin procedures, and pre-employment medicals, including rail and linesman assessments. His broad range of knowledge ensures comprehensive and compassionate care for all patients.
By specialising in Aboriginal and Indigenous Health, Dr. Bassan provides culturally sensitive care tailored to meet the unique needs of Indigenous patients. His work strengthens the clinic’s commitment to equitable healthcare, ensuring that all members of the community receive the support they deserve.
For those managing chronic conditions, Dr. Bassan’s expertise in creating detailed care plans ensures patients feel supported throughout their health journey. He blends modern medicine with a deep understanding of patient needs, fostering a partnership that improves outcomes for conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and respiratory illnesses.
In dermatology and skin cancer care, Dr. Bassan’s skills are invaluable in a region where sun safety is paramount. From conducting routine skin checks to performing minor surgical procedures, he prioritises prevention and early detection to protect his patients’ well-being.
Dr. Bassan is also a strong advocate for men’s health, addressing physical and emotional challenges with equal importance. His approachable manner creates a comfortable environment for patients to discuss sensitive issues, ensuring they receive the support they need.
Beyond his specialties, Dr. Bassan is highly sought after for pre-employment medicals, including rail and linesman assessments, providing thorough evaluations for employers and individuals alike. Here, he is able to complete paperwork for drug and alcohol testing, commercial driver's licenses as well as provide audiometry and spirometry testing.
The Doctors Mackay is a clinic dedicated to providing high-quality, affordable, and accessible healthcare to all. Conveniently located in Parkside Plaza Shopping Centre, the clinic combines the convenience of ample parking with the practicality of having a pharmacy next door. Patients can attend appointments, collect prescriptions, and complete errands in one trip.
The clinic’s team of dedicated general practitioners works tirelessly to promote well-being through comprehensive medical services. With an emphasis on family-focused care, The Doctors Mackay is a one-stop hub for the community’s healthcare needs.
Their approach is centred on patient satisfaction, offering a wide array of services ranging from routine check-ups to specialised care. Dr. Bassan exemplifies this ethos, bringing a personalised touch to every consultation and delivering results that inspire confidence.
To experience expert care with a patient-centred focus, visit The Doctors Mackay or call 07 4829 4606 to book your appointment.

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