A smart irrigation system powered by artificial intelligence will tell sugarcane farmers when and where to water their crops in an advance that could one day revolutionise agriculture – and help preserve the health of the Great Barrier Reef.

Developed by Victoria’s La Trobe University for far-north Queensland ag-tech company Aglantis, the intelligent irrigation system uses the Internet of Things to automate water pump management and monitor sunlight, temperature, and humidity levels without human interaction.

The system was initially conceived as a project to improve land management and prevent fertiliser run-off from farms into the Great Barrier Reef, but with new technology making smart irrigation more affordable, Aglantis managing director Luke Malan said the potential of the product was almost limitless.

In addition to saving water, future AI additions could teach the system how to conserve energy, responding to solar or energy tariffs. It could also examine soil profiles and make intelligent choices around crop selection and yields.

“It essentially takes the guesswork out of farming,” Luke said.

“With growing pressures on profitability, it’s more imperative to know what you’re doing and how you can do it better.

“This flips conventional thinking on its head and opens the doorway to new possibilities.”

Professor Wei Xiang, Cisco Research Chair and Director of La Trobe University’s Cisco Centre for AI and the Internet of Things, said the smart irrigation system was the centre’s first commercial product and showed how industry could drive research to tangible and ground-breaking results.

La Trobe is already working with the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS), creating the world’s first AI-powered three-dimensional digital twin of the Great Barrier Reef to monitor its health.

“Now we've proven the technology, the next step is to add additional features to improve productivity and crop yields through leveraging cutting-edge AI technology,” Professor Xiang said.

“This will make farming on the whole more sustainable."

Researchers Kamyar Karimi and Aravindan Madasamy, who developed the system for La Trobe under the supervision of Professor Xiang, said it would reduce labour costs, increase water efficiency and allow more precision in farm decision-making.

Ultimately, the system design could include intelligent sequencing to determine the perfect order of irrigation across different farm sections, predictive maintenance and continuous learning from historical data, seasonal patterns and crop responses.

"This technology represents a major shift towards data-driven, sustainable agriculture where AI and IoT optimise every drop of water for maximum farming efficiency," Kamyar said.

Aravindan said the development of the smart irrigation system was a transformative step forward for farmers.

"By automating labour-intensive processes and putting control in the hands of advanced technology, farmers can save time, conserve resources and focus on other priorities without the stress of manual management.”

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AI-powered irrigation revolutionises sugarcane farming, optimising water use, reducing labour, and preventing runoff to protect the Great Barrier Reef, ensuring sustainable, data-driven agriculture.

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CQUniversity has been selected as the new agribusiness provider under the Queensland Government Gateway to Industry Schools Program through to 2028.

The Gateway to Industry Schools Program builds partnerships between schools and key Queensland industries to enable young people to acquire the knowledge, skills and attributes to participate effectively in the State’s economy and provides opportunities for industry and the education sector to work together to deliver outcomes for students, local communities and businesses.

Each project is led by industry organisations which develop and implement tailored school engagement activities in line with their industry's key skills and workforce priorities.

As the new provider for the Agribusiness Gateway to Industry Schools project, CQUniversity will partner with AgForce Queensland, AgriFutures Australia and the Queensland Agricultural Teachers Association (QATA) to activate school engagement and education programs for 15 schools, with the goal of introducing young Queenslanders to the many careers available in the State’s agriculture industry.

Associate Professor Amy Cosby, head of CQUniversity’s Agricultural Education and Extension team welcomed the announcement and said the University was well-placed to work with high schools and the agricultural industry across Queensland.

“CQUniversity has a strong track record in working with industry and schools across Australia to offer programs which raise the aspirations for students to pursue a career across the agricultural supply chain and highlight the vital contribution the of sector to the Queensland economy.

“We look forward to building on the great work of the QLD Department of Primary Industries (formerly DAF) who have delivered the project for the past three years,” said Assoc Prof Cosby.

“Our activities are designed to showcase the many different skills needed in the sector including on-farm roles and those that support the industry such as marketing, finance, science, technology, trades, and supply chain and logistics.

“It is our aim to introduce kids in high school to the industry and to build excitement and interest in agriculture – especially among those from non-farming backgrounds.”

Assoc Prof Cosby said the CQU project will offer two activity streams for schools to get involved in, the first is to apply to be a Gateway School where the project team will work closely with school staff over 12 months to create connections with industry and build capacity to embed agriculture across the curriculum.

“The second offers the chance to participate in teacher professional development or to host the project team in class to deliver curriculum aligned lessons focused on science and technology of agriculture,” she said.

CQUniversity will commence as the service provider for the Agribusiness Gateway to Industry Schools project in February 2025 and schools interested in becoming involved in the project will be able to apply from early 2025.

For more information, and project updates please visit CQU’s Agri-Tech Education and Extension website or email ageducation@cqu.edu.au.

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Paul Schembri's election as grower-director to the Sugar Terminals Limited (STL) board has been met with strong approval from grower advocacy organisations CANEGROWERS and Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR). This milestone highlights the increasing demand for transparency, accountability, and grower-focused decision-making within the sugarcane industry.
CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens hailed Mr Schembri’s election as a victory for growers, emphasising the significance of his leadership.
“Paul Schembri’s election is a win for growers and the industry as a whole,” he said.
“Paul’s decades of experience and dedication make him an invaluable addition to the STL board. His presence signals a renewed focus on ensuring the voices of growers are not just heard but respected.”
QCAR Chairman Christian Lago also acknowledged the overwhelming support for Mr Schembri, describing him as a “bona-fide grower” and expressing optimism about his contributions.
“We congratulate Paul on his election,” Mr Lago said.
“He’s a bona-fide grower who QCAR wholeheartedly endorsed, and we look forward to working with him and fellow G Class director Steve Kirby, who are well-placed to represent the interests of G Class shareholders.”
The election outcome follows a contentious period for STL. Delays in finalising the voting process after the Annual General Meeting (AGM) were compounded by growing frustrations with STL’s leadership and its decision-making approach. CANEGROWERS and QCAR were among those critical of STL’s controversial 2023 move to insource terminal operations, which many growers view as unnecessary and poorly communicated.
“Most farmers do not support the plan—it’s a business model STL has no track record with,” Mr Lago said.
“STL’s claims that it can outperform Queensland Sugar Limited (QSL) are unsubstantiated, and we are yet to see any proof.”
CANEGROWERS also pointed to the rejection of STL’s remuneration report for the second consecutive year at the AGM as evidence of shareholder dissatisfaction. While a motion to spill the board was ultimately defeated, the result underscored the demand for change.
“This election is more than just a win for Paul—it’s a wake-up call for STL,” Mr Menkens said.
“Growers are demanding a change in leadership style and decision-making. They want transparency, accountability, and a commitment to the industry’s long-term interests.”
Both organisations have called for reform to address diminishing grower representation within STL. Mr Lago highlighted the decline in voting power among active G Class shareholders, which has dropped from 64% in 2000 to just 36% in 2024.
“Active growers must make up the majority of shareholders as was intended in STL’s founding charter,” he said.
“STL must focus on fixing the share registers and deal promptly, decisively, and fairly with dry shareholders.”
As Mr Schembri steps into his new role, there is cautious optimism that his leadership will help bridge divides and refocus STL’s priorities.
“These terminals represent generations of growers’ hard work and investment,” Mr Menkens said.
“Unilateral decisions that ignore grower input erode trust and unity. Paul’s election is an opportunity for STL to rebuild trust and honour the legacy of the sugarcane industry while preparing it for a sustainable future.”
The industry now watches closely, expecting STL to address concerns, restore grower representation, and provide clarity on its contentious insourcing model.
“This is a critical moment for STL to prove it can genuinely act in the best interests of the growers who built its foundation,” Mr Lago said.
A full STL update is available online: nsx.com.au/ftp/news/021744120.PDF.

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Former CANEGROWERS Chairman Paul Schembri's election to the STL board is a powerful step towards accountability and collaboration say cane growing advocacy groups. Photo supplied
QCAR Chairman Christian Lago

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As the year draws to a close, we at Alman Partners take this opportunity to reflect on an incredible 2024. It’s been a year of growth and triumphs, culminating in being recognised as a Financial Advice Association of Australia (FAAA) finalist in three national award categories. This achievement reflects not only the dedication of our team, but the trust and support of our valued clients and we thank them for being an integral part of our journey.
The past year has reminded us of the importance of proactive financial planning. Markets have seen the normal ebbs and flows, but as always, staying the course with a well-crafted strategy has proven its worth. Whether helping families secure their futures or assisting retirees live their dreams, we remain committed to helping every client live a life of true wealth.
As we step into the festive season, we encourage you to prioritise mindful spending. While it’s tempting to splurge during the holidays, consider setting a budget that balances joy today with goals for tomorrow. Small steps, like tracking expenses or making thoughtful gift choices, can keep the holiday cheer alive without the January blues.
Looking ahead, we’re excited to continue delivering excellence and innovation in financial planning in 2025. For now, let’s celebrate the successes of the past year and the opportunities of the next.
From all of us at Alman Partners, here’s to a joyful and prosperous holiday season!

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Facing a complex, time-consuming case that requires expert guidance?

While investigations can seem quite messy, costly and even unresolvable, cracking the code to a complicated investigation has never been so easy, thanks to Regional Queensland Investigations.

Regional Queensland Investigations aims to eliminate the common challenges most locals face, by introducing a highly regarded former law enforcement professional with a Security Firm Licence (Class 1), a Master of Laws (LLM), and a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) (Hons) degree to regional towns like Mackay.

Formerly known as J&D Online Investigations, Jason King has built up an impressive reputation over the last decade, relocating from Melbourne to regional Queensland to provide clients with invaluable service right in their backyard. Whether it's general investigations, cybercrime, workplace bullying or harassment, fraud, local government investigations, corporate matters or even undercover operations, Jason is ready to tackle all legal and investigative matters with confidence and precision.

Jason is well-known throughout Australia, with appearances on popular TV shows and in major news outlets further highlighting his success. His ability to unravel some of the nation’s most complex investigations and deliver a positive outcome has made him a trusted leader in the industry. With experience in conducting investigations across both Commonwealth and state jurisdictions, there’s no case too big or small.

As a former Federal Agent with the Australian Federal Police, and now the director of a private investigations company, Jason’s extensive experience across a variety of crimes positions him as an experienced resource for clients in need of top-tier investigative services.

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The holiday season is looking brighter for local families thanks to the hard work of the team at Vinnies. Volunteers have been busy packing multiple hampers, filled with essential items and festive goodies, to help those facing hardship this Christmas.

Local businesses and schools have generously donated handmade toys for children, ensuring they can experience the joy of Christmas. Families receiving the hampers are invited to select toys and wrap them, giving children a special gift to open on Christmas Day.

This year, Vinnies is responding to a major increase in requests for assistance, with demand rising due to the tough economic climate. Unfortunately, donations have decreased, making community support even more crucial. Vinnies continues to rely on the generosity of locals to provide for those in need, particularly as many families face difficulties during this time of year.

As the team prepares for Christmas, Vinnies remains a vital lifeline for many, offering support and hope when it’s needed most. Volunteers and staff are committed to making this holiday season a little easier for families who might otherwise struggle.

Visit Vinnies, Evans Ave at 2 Canberra St, North Mackay to grab a sale and support those less fortunate.

Opening Hours:
Monday: 9 am–4 pm
Tuesday: 9 am–4 pm
Wednesday: 9 am–4 pm
Thursday: 9 am–4 pm
Friday: 9 am–4 pm
Saturday: 8:30 am–12 pm
Sunday: Closed

All stores are closed for the Christmas holidays from 25th December - 2nd January.

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Boosting exercise is often on the agenda in the new year, but if you’re struggling to stick to a new fitness regime, University of South Australia research shows that virtual reality (VR) will not only make exercise feel easier but also ease chronic pain.

Using a novel bike system, researchers found that when people combine VR with cycling, their exercise enjoyment increases by 20% and they exercise for 15% longer.
 
Importantly, for patients with chronic pain, the technology distracts them from their condition, enabling them to engage in exercise and improve their recovery.
 
In Australia, exercise guidelines recommend that people exercise for 30 minutes at least three to five times a week. Yet statistics show that only one in five people actually achieve this.
 
There are 3.4 million people living with chronic pain in Australia. Globally, one in five people struggle with chronic pain.
 
“Being active is essential for people to stay physically and mentally fit and healthy, but it’s also incredibly important for helping people both recover from injuries and manage chronic conditions such as arthritis,” says PhD candidate Erin MacIntyre.
 
“We also know that exercise can play an important role in rehabilitation, often reducing pain and disability.
 
“But the challenge is that there are often barriers to exercise – many find it boring, or say that it requires too much effort, or can be painful. So, we’ve been looking at ways to help overcome these barriers.
 
“In our study, we combined VR with cycling, so when a rider started exercising with the VR headset on, it made it seem like they were riding in a digital countryside.
 
“We found that the VR experience distracted cyclists from the exertion of exercise and made the exercise feel easier, which together contributed to increased enjoyment and engagement.”
 
The study used a stationary bike system with a head-mounted VR display. The system was wirelessly linked to a bespoke VR program that allowed for remote control of the stationary bike’s resistance, as well as the ability to record how hard participants were working (power output in watts). Participants rode the VR bike for up to 30 minutes but were able to end their session early for any reason.
 
The study was funded by the Hospital Research Foundation Group.

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As we approach the holiday season, many of us look forward to time with family and friends, indulging in delicious festive meals, or simply unwinding after a busy year. For some, the season is a joyful time, while for others, it can be challenging, with food and drink often becoming primary sources of comfort. Between office Christmas parties, New Year celebrations, and holidays, this period often comes with increased food and alcohol intake, coupled with a drop in physical activity. Studies show that Australians tend to gain between 1-3 kilograms over this period, and many don’t lose it in the following months. Over a decade, these small annual gains can add up to 10-30 kilograms, with significant effects on long-term health and quality of life.

Living in rural areas, our community faces unique health challenges. Demanding jobs in farming, mining, and small business ownership mean long hours, and limited access to fitness facilities and fresh produce can make staying active and eating healthily more challenging. As a result, our rural communities have higher rates of overweight and obesity compared to urban areas. Carrying excess weight, especially when it crosses into obesity (a BMI over 30), is associated with a higher risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, infertility, joint problems, and mental health issues. As a community, we have much to gain from managing holiday weight and supporting each other in making healthy choices.

Practical Tips for a Healthier Holiday Season

The good news is that it’s possible to enjoy the season’s treats without gaining unwanted weight. A few mindful changes can help us keep holiday weight gain in check and start the new year feeling our best.

1. Practice Portion Control
   - Portion control allows us to enjoy festive foods without overindulging. Instead of piling up your plate, opt for smaller servings of each dish, giving you a taste of everything without excess.

2. Balance Indulgences with Healthier Choices
   - Add salads, vegetables, and lean proteins alongside holiday treats. Swapping sugary or alcoholic drinks for water or sparkling water is another easy way to cut down on extra calories without sacrificing the celebration.

3. Stay Active
   - Even brief physical activity can help offset extra holiday calories. Walking, playing sports, or even helping out with post-meal cleanup all add to activity levels. Try to keep moving, even if you can’t stick to your usual exercise routine.

4. Practice Mindful Eating
   - Slow down and savor your food, focusing on flavours and textures. Eating mindfully helps you feel satisfied with less and enhances your enjoyment.

Taking small, mindful steps now can make a big difference in our long-term health. This holiday season, let’s look out for each other and aim to start the new year healthier and ready for what’s ahead. 

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Yours in Good Health ,

Dr Mags Swenson
 
Oaktree Family Medical and Occupational Health Centre 

(A clinic coming soon to Mackay!) 

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For Mackay local Megan Dillon, a career in surveying wasn’t something she expected for herself. 
As a female entering a male-dominated industry, she decided to not let it deter her and is now the leader of a team of nine – who are all men.  
Megan was recently honoured on Monday December 9th for achieving her registration as a surveyor in Mackay.  
She hopes to encourage more women to step into the industry – as new data reveals only 4 per cent of surveyors in Queensland are female.  
“If we were living in the 1800’s I wouldn’t be doing this job, but I love being outside and working in the region that I live.
“Working for the local government with equal employment opportunities has created a safe space for me”. 
CEO of Surveyors Australia Michelle Blicavs is also strong on this call of getting more females interested in pursuing a career in the profession.  
She says there is so much opportunity for women in surveying and with technological advancements, the career opportunities continue to grow. 
“As an industry we have networks to provide support and connection, and we want more women getting on site and taking on leadership roles like Megan.”  
Megan was awarded the Women’s Leadership Award at the 2017 Queensland Spatial Excellence Awards where judges commented, “Megan leads by example and is a great role model for women in the spatial industry.”

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(L to R) Dale Atkinson, Megan Dillon, Michael Mulliss and Michelle Blicavs
Megan Dillon (Mackay Regional Council), Michael Mulliss (Locus Surveys)

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Newly elected Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly, has wrapped up his first week in Queensland Parliament, delivering his maiden speech and stepping into his roles as a member of the Primary Industries and Resources Committee and Deputy Government Whip.
 
A proud grazier and passionate advocate for regional Queensland, Mr. Kelly is focused on ensuring the voices of the Mirani electorate are heard loud and clear in Parliament.
 
Reflecting on his first week, Mr. Kelly said, “It has been an incredible honour to stand in Parliament as the voice of Mirani. My maiden speech was an opportunity to highlight the values and resilience of our community while laying the foundation for the work ahead. Being entrusted with roles on the Primary Industries and Resources Committee and as Deputy Whip reinforces my commitment to representing the interests of our region and our industries.”
 
Mr. Kelly emphasised his eagerness to transition from Parliament to working on the ground, connecting directly with constituents as his electorate office prepares to open.
 
“I am currently working hard on recruiting my team, to ensure my office is fully operational by January. This will be a vital hub for the Mirani community—a place where residents can share their concerns and ideas, and where we can work together on the solutions that will move Mirani forward,” Mr. Kelly said.
 
In his role on the Primary Industries and Resources Committee, Mr. Kelly is determined to advocate for the region’s vital industries, including agriculture, mining, and resources.
 
“These industries are the backbone of our electorate, and I’m committed to ensuring they have the support they need to grow and thrive,” he said.
 
As Deputy Government Whip, Mr. Kelly is also looking forward to playing a key role in fostering collaboration and unity within his parliamentary team.
 
Over the coming months, Mr. Kelly will focus on connecting with residents, local businesses, and community groups, ensuring Mirani remains a priority in government decision-making.
 
“This first week is just the beginning. I am committed to fighting for better infrastructure, supporting our industries, and addressing the needs of our families and communities. There is a lot to do, and I’m ready to get started,” he added.

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Record shareholder returns, a Social Enterprise certification and significant investment into the community were just some of the highlights mentioned at this year’s AGM of Sarina and District Community Financial Services Limited (SDCFS), which operates Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank.

Strong business results were outlined, including $160,195 injected directly into the community across 82 projects and initiatives in the 2023/24 financial year, bringing Community Bank Sarina’s total community investments to over $4 million since 2005.

Community Bank Sarina Board Chair Karen May thanked customers for choosing to bank with Community Bank Sarina - “as without them, we wouldn’t be able to provide this level of community investment”.

“We have supported many local organisations, including the Mackay Hospital Foundation Volunteers, Sarina Schools Chaplaincy, Sarina Cadets, QCWA, as well as local schools," said Ms. May.

The strong financial results also provided a fully franked dividend of 14c per share to the company’s local shareholders, a record return.

“We have achieved strong results by maintaining a steadfast presence in the wider Sarina community, assuring both new and existing customers that we’re here to stay, particularly in light of recent bank closures,” Ms May said.

A major milestone for the year was SDCFS’s official certification as a Social Enterprise by Social Traders Australia, making it the first Community Bank company in Queensland to earn this recognition.

“This certification reinforces our commitment to creating genuine societal impact as a profit for purpose organisation and aligns deeply with our mission to feed into the community’s prosperity, not off it,” Ms May said.

At the AGM, former Sarina State High School student and recipient of two Community Bank Sarina scholarships Georgia Beveridge was congratulated, having successfully completed her electrical apprenticeship with Aurizon seven months ahead of schedule.

An advocate for the Bank’s scholarship programs, Georgia exemplifies the benefit of these scholarships for young leaders, boosting both their careers and the community.

Another achievement reflected on was the Bank’s 19th Anniversary Dinner in June, which brought together 175 attendees to hear from Shane Webcke, with 19 donations made to community groups to support their ongoing efforts.

You can view the Community Bank Sarina annual report on their website.

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Community Bank Sarina Board Directors (L-R) Ann Fordyce, Karen May (Chair), Nicholas McDougall, Maree Franettovich and Rainee Shepperson

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Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry, is thrilled to announce that the latest
round of the highly popular Volunteer Grants program is now open for Expressions of
Interest. Over $66,000 in funding is available to support local community groups and
their dedicated volunteers.

The 2024-25 Volunteer Grants are focused on funding items or services that enhance
the work of volunteers and support activities that benefit the development and
wellbeing of children under 18 years of age.

Ms Landry highlighted the critical role volunteers play in strengthening our
communities.

“Our volunteers are the backbone of our society. They are resilient, selfless and work
tirelessly to make our community a better place to live,” Ms. Landry said.

The grants provide funding between $1,000 and $5,000 to help organisations purchase
essential items such as laptops, tablets, electronic payment devices, training, or
equipment that supports volunteer-run initiatives.

Ms Landry expressed confidence that these grants would have a meaningful impact.

“Whether it’s a not-for-profit needing a new laptop for bookkeeping or a local football
club requiring portable goals, the Volunteer Grants program provides vital financial
support to improve these organisations and the work they do,” she said.

Ms Landry also extended her gratitude to local volunteers for their unwavering
dedication.

“To the volunteers of Central Queensland, I say thank you for your tireless efforts to
make our communities better places to live and raise families.

“Programs like the Volunteer Grants are just one way we can give back to those who give so much of their time to support others.”

Community groups interested in applying are encouraged to contact the office of
Michelle Landry MP at Michelle.Landry.MP@aph.gov.au or call 4922 6604.

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Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry, has announced the opening of the 2024-25 Volunteer Grants program, offering over $66,000 in funding to support local community groups and their dedicated volunteers. Photos supplied

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Efforts to restore critical koala habitats in the Sarina region are gaining momentum, with the Ranges to Reef team making significant strides in Oakenden, Sunnyside, and up the Sarina Range. As part of Reef Catchments' Sarina Koala Habitat Restoration Project, the team has been diligently conducting revegetation planting and weed control throughout the year.
Last month, Reef Catchments Senior Project Officer Sandy Whittington-Shaw joined Ranges to Reef to plant habitat and food trees for koalas. This initiative is funded by the Australian Government's Saving Koala Fund, underscoring a national commitment to conserving the species.
A key contributor to the project’s success is Des, a dedicated local landholder who has prepared the ground by spreading mulch and installing irrigation to keep over 600 plants thriving. These plants, generously donated by the Mackay Regional Council’s Natural Environment Centre (MNEC) nursery, were expertly grown by the MNEC team, whose efforts continue to support the region’s environmental projects.
“These collaborative efforts are vital for creating healthier habitats and boosting koala populations,” said Ms. Whittington-Shaw.
“It’s inspiring to see how teamwork and community dedication can make such a tangible impact.”
The Sarina Koala Habitat Restoration Project is not only enhancing the local environment but also fostering a sense of community stewardship. For more information about the project, contact Sandy Whittington-Shaw at sandy.whittington@reefcatchments.com.

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Sarina residents now have a safe and welcoming space to connect, learn new skills, make friends, and have fun, thanks to the recent opening of selectability's Mental Health Hub on Broad St. 
 
The hub is focused on improving mental wellbeing and promoting independent living, offering a wide range of tailored services, including one-on-one support and group activities to suit a variety of interests.
 
Metta Sands-Paton, the region's team leader, said programs at the hub were personalised to meet each individual's unique needs. 
 
"Our aim is to ensure that everyone feels heard, supported, and empowered to take control of their wellbeing," Metta said. 
 
“Being a local I have been able to use my experience, expertise and knowledge of Sarina to establish a service that supports the region’s needs. 
 
"Sarina is a close-knit community, and it’s wonderful to see locals accessing the support they have traditionally had to travel out of town for.”
 
With a focus on building self-confidence and independence, the hub provides an environment where locals can take part in a diverse range of activities, from creative classes to skill-building workshops and social gatherings.

Metta said group programs were a great way to overcome loneliness, make friends and stay connected to the community.
 
“The Clubhouse program offers something for everyone. Whether it’s art and craft sessions, life skills workshops, social activities, or games and a cuppa – we welcome everyone from all walks of life,” said Metta. 

“Our team provides support under the NDIS – and if you don’t have a plan, don’t worry – we also provide services government-funded wellbeing programs.”
 
If you are curious and would like to find out more, drop into 29 Broad St Sarina and chat to Metta and the team – or you can visit selectability.com.au/sarina.

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A mate of mine has got one of those modern cars that never shut up. It can’t keep secrets either.
He works in the city and when he jumps in the car around 11.30am on a weekday, it announces: “The Austral Hotel is three minutes away.”
A bit forward, in my view. The car thinks it knows him pretty well and feels it can predict where he is going and what he’s likely to be up to. My friend would like to hear a bit less talk and a bit more keeping your thoughts to yourself, thank you.
But in the world of artificial intelligence and digital everything there are all sorts of traps and challenges.
I walked past a busker outside a shopping centre the other day and couldn’t toss him a coin because I don’t carry cash these days.
The business model of a busker has to have changed now that people like me tap their phones to pay for everything. Do buskers now need an Eftpos device? It’s not really the same.
We all face challenges of the modern world. Technology helps us, so it is important that we understand it and make the best use of it that we can.
That is definitely the case in real estate, where we now use drones for photos and digital sites and social media for a large portion of the advertising.
But I feel there is a general push for “back to basics” service.
There have been a couple of elections this year that I feel were decided by the “back to basics” demands of voters. First the Queensland State election and then the US election.
Rather than focusing on fringe issues and agendas identified by the woke brigade, voters were more interested in cost of living, the economy, the rule of law and feeling safe. Bill Clinton summed it up years ago when he was running for president and said: “It’s the economy, stupid.”
When people went to vote this year they wanted candidates to show they were going to focus on them and the basic, important things that really affect their lives … not the peripheral stuff.
Those of us in business, and definitely in real estate, need to remember that among all the digital wizardry that is part of what we do, the basics still count.
Taking and returning phone calls, providing information that buyers and sellers need, being friendly and available no matter how busy and stressful our jobs can be.
The algorithms that help us target potential buyers for a property on social media are important and must be used. But they don’t replace the “back to basics” work that we need to do.
I recently advertised a property for sale in this magazine. It was slightly out of the Mackay suburban area so many potential buyers hadn’t gone on to the digital sites and searched under that particular suburb.
Those buyers saw the property in this magazine after flicking to the real estate section. It wasn’t in the suburbs they had been looking in on the digital sites. But they came across it in the magazine and it ticked the boxes in terms of size, features and still being close to town.
It was a great sale that relied on getting the basics right and making use of a bit of traditional advertising.
Speaking of tradition, I wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. This will be my final column for the year and I look forward to refreshing and being back on these pages next year.
Meanwhile I need to try to find a coin for the Christmas pudding … you definitely can’t do that with a digital scanner.

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