Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
OPINION PIECE from the office of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox There is no question that immigration into Australia is out of control. The government’s numbers are too high, and standards are too low. A sustainable migration program must consider our capacity to provide housing, healthcare, infrastructure and the essential services everyone relies on, and Australians must come first. But Labor’s decision to target Working Holiday Makers Visa holders is not the answer. These people filling vital gaps in our workforce are not the cause of Australia’s housing crisis. In many cases, they are living in accommodation provided by the very businesses that employ them. The National Farmers’ Federation has made the point that Working Holiday Makers generally stay in hostels, caravan parks or purpose-built on-farm accommodation. Resorts usually have on-site staff quarters. They are not the source of Australia’s housing shortage. So why is Labor making it harder for them to come here, when these workers fill genuine jobs that regional Australia holds? Working Holiday Makers fill approximately one in seven farm jobs nationally and are particularly important during peak agricultural periods, which for Dawson, it is right now! Farmers rely on these workers to plant, pick, pack and harvest the produce that ends up on Australian supermarket shelves. Having run one of Australia’s largest tomato farms, at times Working Holiday Makers made up more than 50 per cent of my workforce. Without them, much of our crop simply would not have been picked in time and rotted in the paddock. Some may say, why not employ the Australians who don’t have a job and are on “the dole”? Can I say, this does not work. Most farmers will employ Aussies over travelling backpackers, but many either don’t want to do the work or don’t turn up after the first day. Who picks the fruit or veggies then? Farmers are already warning that visa delays are leaving them without workers. The NFF says approvals that once took days are now facing processing times of up to three months, and this time frame can be the difference between harvesting a crop or losing it. That should concern every Australian already feeling the pressure at the supermarket checkout. The same problem is playing out in tourism. Across Dawson, Working Holiday Makers are an important part of the workforce supporting tourism and hospitality, particularly in the Whitsundays. They help fill shifts, work in hotels and restaurants, support tour operators and keep businesses running through their busiest periods. They also contribute to the local economy. They spend money on food, fuel, attractions and tours, supporting the small businesses that depend on a strong visitor economy. That is why tourism and business leaders across North Queensland are raising the alarm. They understand what happens when a regional business cannot get enough staff: opening hours are reduced, and services are cut, creating a downward spiral. We do need to reduce migration to sustainable levels. We need stronger integrity measures, and we need to crack down on rorts. But responsible migration policy means understanding which parts of the system are creating pressure and which parts are helping Australia function. Working Holiday Makers are not the problem. They are part of the workforce solution for regional. Australia. People have had a gutful of watching their standard of living go backwards. Groceries, fuel, housing and everyday expenses are already putting enormous pressure on families. The last thing Australians need is another reckless policy that makes it harder to produce food, harder to run regional businesses and harder for tourism operators to find the workers they need.
Read the full storySomeone sold a house in Sydney last week for $9 million less than they bought it for four or five years ago. The sellers had bought the property in Sydney’s eastern suburbs for $29 million and sold it for $20 million in a sale forced by their bank. I imagine the sellers are a little disappointed by the government’s decisions on negative gearing and capital gains tax and feeling pretty hurt by the increased interest rates. Australia’s interest rates are on the rise and are now sitting at levels not seen since 2011. Increased cost of living is hurting people around the country and interest rates are playing into that. But the impact of interest rates is not felt evenly around the country. The far-higher property prices mean people in the major cities suffer much more than regional areas with the rates increase. That is certainly not to say people in Mackay are unaffected by the cost of living; it’s just that the impact of interest rates increase on a $400,000 mortgage is much less than the impact on a $1m mortgage. There are other Mackay-specific factors that are in play when discussing the current housing market. The big factor is the role of coal in our economy. Most of the coal extracted and exported from our region is coking coal, which is used to make steel. The price of coking coal is around $280 a tonne, which is about 50 per cent up. Good activity in the coal market translates to good news for the Mackay economy, as it is an economic engine that other cities and regions just don’t have. Good activity in Bowen Basin flows throughout the Mackay economy; Paget workshops, transport, suppliers and related businesses all benefit. But so do other, non-mining-related businesses as they benefit from the general confidence and spending that goes on. The strong mining activity also means mines need to keep their staff levels up and that means more people moving to Mackay. Of course, Mackay is much more than a coal mining town but if the coal sector is going well those other areas definitely benefit. It is a confidence boost for Mackay people looking to get into the housing market and those wanting to upgrade or downsize. It also means continuing strong demand from people wanting to rent a property and it will be interesting to see what sort of activity that creates from investors. Investors have walked away from the big-city markets because they can no longer use negative gearing on established properties that do not have a sufficient yield to be positively geared. Negative gearing has never been a big thing in Mackay because our prices are lower and rental returns continue to be strong so many investors have a positively geared property. Around the country everyone is nervous about the state of play and the probability of more interest rate rises. But strong coal prices and an economy that is performing well mean Mackay might just be presenting an opportunity for buyers and sellers that doesn’t exist in other parts. I remember when national confidence was flying high and Mackay prices were going up significantly that many buyers were saying “I wish we had bought a while ago when the market wasn’t so hot”. I’m not armed with a crystal ball so I’m not here to tell you what is going to happen but I suspect there is a very good buying window right now for those looking for an opportunity.
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A local Mackay and Sarina based model has created a dress out of newspapers, including Mackay Life, for her upcoming pageant, representing her region and hometown on the runway as she vies for Miss Diamond International in Brisbane. Zoe Place will be competing this weekend in the three-day event, beginning this Friday 2nd October and ending on Sunday 4th October. The young model spent around a month creating her eco-fashion outfit, using old newspapers as the main material and transforming them into a bodice, skirt and flowers. Red elements were also incorporated into the design to give the dress a bold and glamorous pageant feel. Zoe said, “The entire concept was really about taking something that would normally be thrown away and turning it into something beautiful and meaningful.” Her eco-fashion creation will form part of a busy weekend in Brisbane, with the Miss Diamond International event including photo shoots, interviews, an eco-fashion show and the final pageant. Zoe has been preparing for the event by practising her strut and walking, preparing for interviews and getting comfortable in the different outfits she will wear throughout the weekend. Alongside her love of modelling, pageantry has also provided Zoe with a platform to raise awareness about causes close to her heart, including mental health, while fundraising for Beyond Blue. “Pageantry has given me more of a platform to combine my love for modelling with something that is really important to me.” “When I first started, I was more nervous about putting myself out there and worried about what others would think about me – but I’ve changed a lot through my journey in pageantry.” “Pageantry has also taught me that it’s not about how you look on stage. It’s about the person you are when you step off it.” “Every woman has their own unique journey and that journey is something we should all be really proud of.” “To me, it represents confidence, empowerment, kindness, and using your voice to make a difference.” Zoe said she was looking forward to meeting the other contestants, making new connections and creating memories. “I’m definitely looking forward to meeting all the new contestants and making new connections and creating memories that I will carry with me for a lifetime.” While Zoe hopes to eventually move to the city, her sights are set even further afield, with a dream of one day walking in New York Fashion Week. Mackay and Sarina local Zoe Place has created an eco-fashion dress from recycled newspapers, including Mackay Life, ahead of her Miss Diamond International pageant in Brisbane. Photos supplied
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Trends, reels and the endless cycle of always wanting more has quietly bombarded the minds of countless social media users of all ages, but one former Mackay local has made it her mission to help others understand the effects of social media and find practical ways to break free from online addiction. Alexis Zahner is in Mackay over the next week to teach upcoming generations about social media and the effects it can have on the mind, particularly on identity, self-discovery, as well as the marketing strategies that get viewers hooked and influence their decisions. It is something Alexis knows first-hand can be a useful tool, but also a great disruption to authenticity and the world as we see and experience it. Alexis will hold a free meet and greet and book launch today, Friday 2nd October, at 5.30pm at the Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club, where she will give a talk and answer questions relating to her debut book, Real: Reconnecting to Yourself in a World of Likes and Lies. A former Mackay girl, Alexis spent the past 15 years working across business psychology, marketing and media, with her interest in social media influence beginning during her university studies at James Cook University in Townsville. Her own experience as a social media user, travel blogger and influencer eventually led her to question how much of her identity, decisions and values were being shaped by what she saw online. “The tipping point came for me about 3 years ago when I had this feeling that I couldn't separate influence from my own personal decision making,” she said. “I couldn't separate my own likes, dislikes, values, relationships from what I was being exposed to and being influenced by online.” “I found that I needed to take some time away from social media to recalibrate what was important to me and sort of reconnect and come back to myself.” Alexis said she understood the feeling of questioning who you are outside of social media. “I know what it feels like to live a life under the influence of social media and have that existential crisis of thinking to yourself, who am I? What do I like? What's the kind of life I want to live? and struggling to separate myself from influence.” Alexis is particularly passionate about reaching teenagers, who she says are in an important stage of identity development, and will share this message with Mackay high school students during her upcoming school talks. “Teenagers are really easily influenced by social media. So it's a really important age where we start educating them – not just on the mental health repercussions of things like social media and how it shortens their attention span, but how it actually influences who they become.” “If you're asking yourself these questions, it's not your fault. Social media is actually geared to create this impact on you.” Alexis encourages people of all ages to “start expanding beyond what you see on the platform.” “Dare to indulge in the things that you've always been curious about or things you used to love,” she said. “Don't be afraid to put the phone down to let yourself be curious and have fun.” What: Alexis Zahner's 'Real' Book launch When: 5.30pm Friday 2nd October 2026 Where: Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club Former Mackay local and author Alexis Zahner is returning home to share her experiences with social media and her debut book, Real. Photo supplied
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Police are appealing for public assistance after a quantity of property was found dumped on agricultural land along Maraju-Yakapari Road, Erakala. The items, discovered on Monday, 19 January, were stored in two bags and included old jewellery, collector coins, spoons, gems and a block of gold. The property was handed in to Mackay Police Station on January 20. Officers believe the items may have been stolen and are seeking information to help reunite them with their rightful owners. Anyone with information is urged to contact Mackay Police Station on 07 4968 3444. Reference number: QP2600116509.
A man has been charged with multiple weapons and drug offences following a vehicle interception in Sarina. Just before 9pm on 24 January, police stopped a brown Holden Captiva on Hans Christian Street. A search of the vehicle allegedly uncovered two shortened firearms, four shotgun shells and a quantity of cannabis. A 41-year-old Oakenden man was charged with weapons, ammunition and drug-related offences. He is due to appear before Sarina Magistrates Court on March 9. Reference number: QP2600157251.
Police are appealing for community assistance following the theft of stationary mounted whale-watching binoculars from Lamberts Lookout Road, Slade Point. The binoculars were stolen sometime between 10 January and 14 January. Anyone with information relating to the incident is urged to contact police. Reference number: QP2600143892.
Detectives from Moranbah Criminal Investigation Branch have charged a man with multiple offences following the execution of a search warrant at a Clermont property. Around 12.10pm on Thursday 29 January, police attended a McDonald Flat Road residence as part of ongoing investigations into drug and weapon offences. Officers allegedly seized dangerous drugs, illegal weapons and a quantity of cash. A 29-year-old Clermont man has been charged with 12 offences and is due to reappear before Moranbah Magistrates Court on 16 April. Reference number: QP2600186518.
Anyone with information for police is encouraged to contact Policelink or report anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Queensland councils are set to receive a boost in their fight against illegal dumping with the launch of the Governments’ $17.7 million Fighting Illegal Dumping Partnership Program (FIDPP). The initiative is designed to provide local councils with the tools and resources needed to prevent and respond to illegal waste dumping across the state.
Funding under the program can be used to employ dedicated illegal dumping compliance officers, purchase surveillance equipment, signage, vehicles, and other resources to enhance councils’ capacity to investigate and deter offenders. The program supports councils in protecting local communities and the environment, including parks, waterways, and public spaces, from the impacts of litter and unlawful dumping.
Minister for the Environment and Tourism, Andrew Powell, said the program strengthens collaboration with councils across Queensland, equipping them to safeguard the places residents care about.
“Queensland is blessed with some of the most extraordinary natural landscapes anywhere in the world, and we all have a responsibility to protect it from the harm caused by litter and illegal dumping,” he said.
Applications for the FIDPP are open until 4pm on 25th February 2026, with full grant guidelines and application forms available through the Queensland Government website. By providing councils with dedicated resources and compliance support, the program aims to reduce illegal dumping, maintain clean public spaces, and ensure Queensland communities benefit from safer, healthier environments.
Image for illustrative purposes only. Photo source: Shutterstock
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Queensland’s sugar industry has launched a new on-farm greenhouse gas emissions calculator to help growers meet growing market, financial and regulatory demands for verified sustainability data.
Released by CANEGROWERS through the Smartcane BMP platform, the tool allows farmers to measure total emissions and emissions intensity per tonne of sugar using internationally recognised standards. The calculator captures Scope 1, Scope 2 and Scope 3 emissions, with all data securely stored under the grower’s control.
CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan said the initiative responds to shifting market expectations.
“Emissions data is now part of the conversation with buyers, mills, refiners, marketers and finance institutions,” he said.
“This gives growers a practical way to generate credible information and remain competitive.”
The tool is voluntary and available to all growers, whether or not they are Smartcane BMP-accredited, forming part of Module 4 of the program, which links on-farm practices to downstream sustainability and reporting requirements.
“This is about providing useful information, not imposing new requirements, and ensuring farm data stays on the farm where it can be used for decision making,” Mr Galligan said.
He noted the calculator builds on decades of efficiency improvements by growers, making productivity gains and input reductions visible to markets when growers choose to share them.
Smartcane BMP, funded by the Queensland Government and industry investment—including proceeds from the first shipment of Smartcane BMP-accredited sugar to UK refiner Tate & Lyle—aims to strengthen Queensland sugar’s position in sustainable global markets.
“That shipment showed there is genuine market demand for sustainably produced Queensland sugar,” Mr Galligan said.
“This tool strengthens the industry’s ability to meet that demand.”
The emissions calculator is now available to all Queensland sugarcane growers via the Smartcane BMP platform.
Queensland’s sugar industry has rolled out a new on-farm greenhouse gas emissions calculator. Photo source: CANEGROWERS
A Federal Government review of the Horticulture Code of Conduct could have important implications for growers across the Mackay region, as one of Queensland’s key horticultural and food-producing hubs.
The Government has announced an independent review of the Code, to be led by Mr Chris Leptos AO. The review will assess whether the existing rules governing trade between growers and traders of wholesale, unprocessed fruit, vegetables, nuts and herbs remain fit for purpose in a changing industry.
While the Burdekin is widely recognised for its intensive horticultural production, Mackay and the surrounding Pioneer Valley also play a critical role in Queensland’s horticulture supply chain. Local growers produce a range of crops including vegetables, tropical fruits and small-scale specialty produce, much of which is sold through central wholesale markets regulated under the Code.
Nationally, horticulture is Australia’s third-largest agricultural industry, with production value forecast to reach a record $18.9 billion this financial year. Exports are also expected to hit a new high of $4.4 billion, highlighting the sector’s growing importance to the national economy.
The Horticulture Code of Conduct governs commercial relationships between growers and traders, particularly those supplying central wholesale markets. Around 10,000 growers supply produce through these markets, which are serviced by more than 400 wholesalers. Each year, approximately 4 million tonnes of horticultural produce—valued at more than $8 billion—is traded nationally.
The review will examine whether the Code remains effective, given significant changes to the horticulture sector since it was last reviewed in 2015. This includes shifts in market power, supply chain structures and competition dynamics that may directly affect regional producers, including those in Mackay.
Mr Leptos will consult widely with stakeholders across the horticulture supply chain over the coming months. Growers, traders, industry groups and government agencies are being encouraged to review the consultation paper and provide feedback on how the Code operates in practice and where improvements could be made.
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins said the review aimed to ensure the Code continued to protect all parties.
“The horticulture sector has changed since the Code was last reviewed in 2015, and we want to understand if the Code is still fit-for-purpose,” she said.
Assistant Minister for Productivity, Competition, Charities and Treasury Andrew Leigh said fair competition was essential for industry sustainability.
“The Horticulture Code exists to stop unfair dealing and keep the playing field level,” he said.
A final report is expected to be delivered to the Federal Government by the end of April. Submissions can be made through the Department of Agriculture’s ‘Have Your Say’ website.
Mackay’s home to a thriving horticulture industry. Photo supplied
Sleep is often the first thing sacrificed in our busy lives, yet its influence on both health and mood is profound. Far from just a nightly pause, sleep is a vital reset for the body and mind, and a natural process that affects everything from memory to immunity.
Experts say a lack of quality sleep doesn’t just lead to grogginess; it can quietly undermine physical and mental wellbeing. During sleep, the body repairs cells, strengthens the immune system, and balances hormones that regulate appetite and stress. Skimping on rest can increase the risk of conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity, while also intensifying feelings of irritability, anxiety, and depression.
Beyond physical health, sleep plays a crucial role in cognitive function. Studies reveal that people who consistently get adequate rest are better at problem-solving, decision-making, and retaining information. Conversely, even one night of poor sleep can leave the brain foggy, emotions heightened, and focus compromised.
Simple habits can dramatically improve sleep quality: maintaining a consistent bedtime, limiting screen exposure before bed, and creating a calm, dark environment all set the stage for restorative rest. Experts also highlight the importance of listening to your body, and recognising when you’re tired and allowing yourself to recharge.
Ultimately, sleep isn’t a luxury; it’s a cornerstone of wellbeing. Prioritising it can transform your energy, resilience, and mood, making every day not just manageable but enjoyable.
After all, a rested body is a thriving body, and a rested mind is a happier one!
My Chiropractor continues to build on its long-standing presence in the local community, offering personalised, gentle chiropractic care supported by modern technology and decades of combined clinical experience.
Under the ownership of Principal Chiropractor Marti Harris and his wife Colleen Harris, the locally owned practice has expanded its services and invested in advanced spinal decompression technology, positioning the clinic among a select group nationwide.
The practice operates two of only 17 Spine MT Core decompression machines in Australia, giving local patients access to highly specialised treatment options for disc issues and nerve compression without travelling to major metropolitan centres.
With more than 25 year’s experience each and a decade working together, Dr Marti and Dr Rod Le Coz place a strong emphasis on tailored treatment rather than a one-size-fits-all model.
“We’re not a cookie-cutter clinic… every person has a tailored program designed to achieve their health goals,” Dr Marti said.
Dr Marti said patients are drawn to the clinic’s blend of experience and innovation.
“The reason people come here is for a combination of knowledge, experience and the integration of modern technology,” he said.
Services include spinal adjustments, spinal decompression, dry needling, shockwave therapy, tailored rehabilitation and nutritional supplementation, supporting patients with disc injuries, nerve-related pain, arthritis, sporting injuries and those seeking alternatives to surgery or long-term medication.
“We just want to help people get better so they can function at work, pick up their kids and live their lives without suffering with pain,” Colleen said.
Centrally located and known for its friendly, welcoming team, My Chiropractor continues to build strong community relationships, helping patients move better, feel better and live better every day.
As January wraps up and classrooms fill again, families across the region are adjusting to earlier mornings, packed lunches and the return of school routines. While the new year brings excitement, it can also bring fatigue and emotional overload for both children and parents.
Developmental paediatrician Dr Angela Owens says the return to school is a major transition, and it’s normal for the first few weeks to feel unsettled. With some planning and gentle strategies, she says families can build routines that support learning, wellbeing and connection.
Here are Dr Owens’ top 10 back-to-school tips to help families start the year on a positive note:
• Expect a bumpy start: New routines and social dynamics can be tiring. Behaviour may be more challenging at home, but this usually settles within a few weeks.
• Understand after-school meltdowns: Many children hold it together all day and release emotions at home. Keep after-school time low-pressure and offer snacks, movement or quiet time.
• Prioritise sleep: Consistent bedtimes and wake-up times support emotional regulation, focus and smoother mornings.
• Fuel the brain: Even small breakfasts help with stamina and concentration. Smoothies or grab-and-go options can work when time is tight.
• Use social stories: Simple stories or visual schedules can help younger children prepare for tricky situations like drop-off or playground challenges.
• Share a one-page snapshot with teachers: A brief summary of your child’s strengths, interests and support needs can help teachers respond quickly and effectively.
• Regulation before expectations: When children are overwhelmed, connection and calm come first. Predictable routines and positive cues can help.
• Short-term rewards are okay: In the early weeks, connection-based rewards can support emotional adjustment and motivation.
• Restart shared reading: Just 10 minutes a day supports learning, attention and emotional wellbeing.
• Schedule fun: Keeping enjoyable family time on the calendar supports resilience and helps children feel emotionally supported.
Dr Owens also reminds families that support is available. If challenges persist or stress levels remain high, speaking with a GP can be a helpful next step to ensure both children and parents are well supported as the school year unfolds.
Dr Angela Owens. Photo source: Queensland Health
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A century of life was celebrated in Mackay in December as Alan Jarman reached the incredible milestone of turning 100, surrounded by family and loved ones.
Alan officially turned 100 on December 9, 2025, and the milestone was celebrated with a large family gathering that brought generations together. He was joined by his five children, four sons-in-law, 13 of his 14 grandchildren and most of his 26 great-grandchildren, making for a joyful reunion filled with stories, laughter and shared memories.
Family travelled from far and wide to be part of the special occasion. Alan’s sister and her daughters made the trip from Sydney, while his brother and his daughters came from Brisbane. Other relatives travelled from Singapore, Brisbane and North Queensland, underscoring just how special the milestone was for the entire family.
The celebrations began with a happy family get-together on Friday night, followed by the main event on Saturday, with a lunch celebration held at the Surf Club. Surrounded by loved ones, Alan’s century milestone was marked in fitting style, and it was a heart-warming tribute to a life well lived.
Alan Jarman marked his 100th birthday in Mackay with a large family celebration in December. Photos supplied
The Australia Day National March for Australia was held in Mackay on January 26, marking the annual commemoration of the raising of the British flag at Sydney Cove in 1788. The event brought participants together to acknowledge Australia Day and reflect on national identity and community pride.
Participants marched across the Forgan Bridge, with many carrying Australian flags in a show of support. Organisers said the response from passing motorists was positive, with several drivers acknowledging the march, including a truck driver who sounded his horn in support.
Following the march, attendees gathered at Bluewater Quay, where speakers Tine McDonald and Rhonda Marriage addressed the crowd, encouraging participants to continue engaging in discussions about national values and the future of the country. The event also included family-friendly activities, with children taking part in games and face painting, while adults visited market stalls and food vans. A sausage sizzle was also held as part of the day’s activities.
Worldwide Rally for Freedom Mackay representatives said the group is not opposed to immigration, but is raising concerns alongside others nationally about the impact of high levels of immigration on aspects of Australian lifestyle.
Organisers also acknowledged the support of Mackay Police in assisting with the event and helping to ensure public safety throughout the march.
Contributed by Tine McDonald and Rhonda Marriage
Photo source: Worldwide Rally for Freedom Mackay
Catherine McAuley College Mackay is set to introduce the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award in 2026, offering students a globally recognised pathway for personal development, leadership, and community engagement.
The program, known worldwide for empowering young people through non‑formal education, encourages participants to build confidence, resilience and independence while offering young Australians a positive and rewarding opportunity for self‑discovery.
Students aged 14 and over will have this opportunity to complete the bronze, silver, or gold levels of the award.
Each level involves a commitment to voluntary service, physical recreation, skill development, and an adventurous journey organised by the college.
Service opportunities include student leadership roles, committee participation, and mentoring younger students, while all Adventurous Journeys will be coordinated by the college.
The College’s Award Leaders and past participants Miss Zoe Jaenke, Ms Juanita Macnamarra and Mrs Michelle Welsh will guide students throughout their Duke of Edinburgh Award journey.
Catherine McAuley College staff are excited to bring this enriching program to the school community and look forward to seeing students challenge themselves and grow through the experience.
Students at Catherine McAuley College who will be participating in the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, set to be introduced at the college in 2026.
By Cr Alison Jones
Last year was a deeply challenging one for me, and among the hardest moments was the Bondi tragedy. In its aftermath, public debate quickly turned to tightening gun laws. While safety must always be our priority, I found myself reflecting on how complex this issue truly is.
Terrorists and dangerous individuals should never have access to firearms, yet some still hold licences. But it is equally important to recognise that many Australians use firearms responsibly. On rural properties, guns remain essential tools for managing threats, such as wild dogs. In gun clubs and target shooting ranges, people participate safely in a sport they enjoy. These individuals are not criminals or terrorists – they are part of our community.
Thinking about this led me to reflect on immigration – my own story included. I am an immigrant. My parents brought our family to Australia in 1971, leaving the UK to build a better life. Hope for opportunity, safety and a fair go is what draws so many here. It’s why we call Australia “the lucky country”.
I do not follow any religion. My guiding belief is we are all human beings first and kindness should shape how we treat each other. Because of that, racism has no place in my life. I take people as they are.
The topic of assimilation often comes up in national conversations. My own journey into the Australian way of life has been a process of learning – especially about our First Nations history. I have learned about the injustices Indigenous Australians endured, including violence, dispossession and the taking of children. Some of these events occurred as recently as the early 1970s, within my own lifetime.
But acknowledging the past is not about blame – it is about growth. And we are fortunate to have First Nations people and culture as an integral part of our national story. Their knowledge of Country and their resilience offer lessons that can help us build a better, more sustainable future.
When we look around the world, it becomes clear just how lucky we are. We do not live behind razor wire or fortified homes. As an Australian by choice, I choose kindness, respect and unity. Yes – we are the lucky country. Not because everything has been perfect, but because we have the chance to shape the future together for the generations to come.
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 sessions will be held at Midge Point Tavern on Tuesday, March 3.
Details on upcoming sessions can be found on the Connecting Mackay website.
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As National Apprenticeship Week 2026 (9 – 15 February) approaches, Central Queensland University’s School of Trades in Mackay is highlighting the vital role apprenticeships play in building a skilled local workforce and supporting the region’s future industries.
The week recognises the contribution of apprentices, trainees and employers, while encouraging more people to consider trade pathways that support local industry and long-term economic growth.
CQ University Deputy Dean of the School of Trades, Stuart Larsson, said apprentices are trained in simulated workplace environments to ensure they develop strong foundations in safety and technical skills before entering real-world job sites.
“We teach them in a simulated workplace environment to give them the fundamental understanding of what they need to know to work safely in their chosen industry,” he said.
Education Team Leader for Fitting and Machining, Wes Wilcox, said the diversity of apprentices at CQU reflects the changing face of the trades, with students ranging from school-based trainees to mature-age learners.
“We get trainees from about 13, which is the earliest you can start, right through to 55, which is the oldest that I have taught,” Mr Wilcox said.
He said watching apprentices grow from beginners into qualified tradespeople is one of the most rewarding parts of his role.
“You get young people who have no experience coming in, and then, at the end, you’ve got a tradesperson going out. There’s nothing more gratifying than that,” he said.
CQU Associate Vice President Mackay, Rob Brown, highlighted the university’s unique dual-sector model, which offers both vocational education and higher education pathways.
“We want them to be job ready, but we also like them to leave with the option of seeing what other opportunities there might be further on,” Mr Brown said.
Second-year diesel fitter apprentice Peyton encouraged young people considering a trade to gain hands-on experience before committing.
“Just try and do as much work experience as you can and see if you actually like the trade,” Peyton said.
“That’s how you really get a feel for it.”
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton MP said access to local trade training is critical to meeting workforce demand across the region.
“We have a massive need for people who want to get into trade,” Mr Dalton said.
“Places like this offer a wonderful opportunity for young people in Mackay to get involved and kick-start their career pathways.”
National Apprenticeship Week aims to celebrate apprentices and employers while highlighting the critical role trades play in strengthening Mackay’s workforce and preparing the region for future skills demand.
2nd year Diesel Fitters Peyton, Caitlyn and Jessie.
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton visited CQU Mackay last week to encourage young apprentices and highlight local trade pathways. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Valentine’s day is approaching, which can be a reminder to romanticise the everyday, and recognise the beauty within your home. Try these simple steps to style your place this week, and boost those cozy, fuzzy feelings- just for you.
Start with lighting. Why not turn off those harsh overhead lights, and switch to softer alternatives? Lamps, candles or fairy lights can bring a relaxing mood to your space.
Next, buy yourself flowers- or simply head out into the garden, and bring the outdoors in. A bowl of fallen frangipani could be a sweet-smelling, delicate touch.
For decorating tips; think texture. This could be in the form of cushions and throws added to the couch, or a table cloth thrown over your table to bring a little whimsy to mealtimes. Check Op-shops for vintage and inexpensive pieces.
Now, for ambiance. Set a relaxing mood in the home with music, and turn off the TV now and then, to dial back and relax.
The simplest of all? Open the windows when you can. Make the most of that soft, Whitsunday ocean breeze, and let it refresh your mind, as well as your home.
For those who don't know me, 'm Josey Comerford, Managing Director of Hugh Reilly Real Estate. I've been part of this business since 1988 and have spent over 37 years working across every aspect of real estate here in Mackay. Over that time, l've seen markets rise, settle and evolve - and one thing has always remained constant: property is deeply personal, and local knowledge truly matters.
As we move into February, the year is well and truly underway. The early momentum we often see in January tends to carry through, with buyers now more focused, organised and ready to act. Relocation decisions are being finalised, investors are watching the market closely, and many sellers are reassessing plans they've been considering for some time.
Looking back, 2025 was a strong year for property nationally and across Queensland, with solid price growth and steady demand - particularly in regional markets. Here in Mackay, we continue to see healthy enquiry levels, consistent sales activity and ongoing interest from both owner-occupiers and investors. That confidence has flowed into early 2026, creating positive conditions for well-presented and well-priced properties.
Of course, every property and every situation is different. What works for one owner may not suit another, and timing is always key. If you're curious about what the current market means for your home or investment — even if you're just thinking ahead — I'm always happy to have a conversation.
Sometimes, a simple chat is the best place to start.
Josey Comerford
Managing Director
Hugh Reilly Real Estate
Local experience.
Trusted advice.
Always happy to chat!
Mackay’s vacancy rate is slightly above the tightest regional markets at 1.1%, while other centres such as Toowoomba (0.7%), Cairns (1.0%), Townsville (1.0%), Rockhampton (0.8%), and Bundaberg (1.0%) continue to face similarly constrained conditions.
Statewide, 33 of the 50 local government areas tracked by the REIQ recorded vacancy rates at or below 1.0%. Compared to the previous quarter, seven areas tightened further, 13 remained steady, and 30 saw slight easing. Despite a modest rise in vacant properties, supply is still far from meeting demand.
REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said the tight conditions were unsurprising.
“We all need a roof over our heads whether we rent it or own it,” she said.
“However, Queensland’s rental population is higher than the national average at 36 per cent, highlighting the state’s heavy reliance on rental properties to house Queenslanders. These persistently low vacancy rates being experienced in many parts of the state show there is significant strain on our rental housing stock.”
Ms Mercorella said boosting home ownership is key to easing rental pressures.
“By helping more first home buyers transition from renting to owning a home, it lightens the load on the rental market by alleviating some of the demand-side pressure.”
Queensland’s construction pipeline also needs to keep pace with demand.
“To cater to Queensland’s portion of nationally agreed construction targets we need to be building around 49,000 new dwellings each year, but with 34,000 built over the 12 months to September last year, we’re falling behind,” Ms Mercorella said.
“Speeding up new housing supply is critical because the reality is there is a lot of catching up to do and there are still strong headwinds coming.
“With a huge pipeline of infrastructure projects and ongoing labour workforce shortages, we expect to see tradies and their families moving to Queensland – and many of them will be looking to rent.”
Southeast Queensland remains under pressure, with Greater Brisbane (1.0%), Brisbane LGA (1.2%), Ipswich (0.9%), Logan (0.9%), Moreton Bay (0.9%), and Redland (1.0%) all in tight territory, while the Sunshine Coast (0.7%) and Gold Coast (1.1%) continue to face high demand. Regional centres show similar strain, reflecting a statewide challenge for renters and policymakers alike.
The REIQ classifies rental markets as tight (0–2.5%), healthy (2.6–3.5%), or weak (3.6%+), with most of Queensland firmly in the tight category.
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