Olympic Legend Cathy Freeman Returns Home!

By Hannah McNamara

Olympic legend Cathy Freeman OAM returned to Mackay last week to announce a state-of-the-art sporting facility named in her honour.

“It is quite surreal,” Freeman said, celebrating the milestone as the region prepares to nurture the next generation of champions.

The Cathy Freeman Sports Performance Centre, part of the Great Barrier Reef Arena’s Stage Two expansion, promises to give young athletes from Central and North Queensland a world-class training hub.

Freeman’s visit also marked 25 years since her historic Sydney 2000 Olympic 400m gold, celebrated with hundreds of local students in relays and races.

The new centre stands as a legacy of inspiration, giving regional talent a place to dream big, train hard, and aim for greatness!

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Olympic Gold, Local Ground
Cathy Freeman Sports Performance Centre Announced

Last week, Olympic running legend and Aussie icon Cathy Freeman OAM stepped foot onto home soil at Mackay’s Great Barrier Reef Arena to announce a new sporting facility named in her honour.

It comes amid growing local buzz about Mackay potentially hosting Olympic cricket matches in 2032, and a wave of regional athletes dominating podiums despite lacking the elite facilities found in capital cities.

The newly announced Cathy Freeman Sports Performance Centre, part of Stage Two of the Great Barrier Reef Arena’s development, will become a state-of-the-art training hub for aspiring athletes from across Central and North Queensland.

“It is quite surreal,” Freeman said.

“I’ve always been a Mackay girl, but I’m a proud Central Queenslander, so I’m very proud of the announcement today.”

For Freeman, who grew up running barefoot on Mackay’s tracks long before Olympic gold, the honour carries great meaning.

“I hope young athletes see my name and realise that it’s a possibility to achieve the sort of things I aspired to once upon a time, growing up here in Mackay,” she said.

Freeman described the new centre as “an incredible opportunity… a breeding ground of champions or young athletes who want to just aspire to be the best they can be.”

Adrian Young, CEO of Harrup Park and the Great Barrier Reef Arena, said naming the facility after Freeman was a natural fit.

“We will be naming the Sports Performance Centre within the Great Barrier Reef Arena Stage Two development the Cathy Freeman Sports Performance Centre,” he announced.

“We are hoping to inspire greatness in our youth, athletes and kids into 2032 and beyond… and who better to do that, than the legendary Cathy Freeman standing here with me today.”

Freeman’s visit to Mackay also coincided with the Run with Cathy Freeman – 25 Year Celebration, held at the Arena on Friday, October 24. The milestone event marked a quarter century since her unforgettable 400m gold medal run at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games – a moment that united a nation and became a defining chapter in Australian sport.

Hundreds of Mackay’s primary and secondary students took part in the Run with Cathy – Schools Challenge, featuring 4x100m relays and 400m races, with Freeman personally presenting the winners’ awards and encouraging the next generation of champions, even though a knee injury kept her from joining the run herself.

Born in 1973, Freeman became the first First Nations Australian to win an individual Olympic medal. From running barefoot in Mackay to lighting the cauldron and claiming Australia’s 100th gold medal, Ms Freeman stands as a symbol of sheer legacy and hope for those aspiring to follow in her footsteps.

As the Great Barrier Reef Arena expands for the next chapter in Mackay’s sporting story, the Cathy Freeman Sports Performance Centre promises to embody the spirit of its namesake, inspiring regional talent to dream big, run hard, and never forget where they came from.

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Hundreds of local students joined Freeman in relays and races, celebrating her legacy and inspiring the next generation of athletes. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara and Olympics.com

Adrian Young, CEO of Harrup Park and the Great Barrier Reef Arena, welcomed Olympic legend Cathy Freeman OAM to Mackay to officially announce the Cathy Freeman Sports Performance Centre. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Hi lovely readers,

What an amazing week it’s been!

As you may have seen on the front cover, the legendary Cathy Freeman was in town, and I had the honour of meeting her last Thursday as she announced stage 2 of the Cathy Freeman Sports Performance Centre right here in Mackay. You can read all about it on the next page, and don’t forget to check out the pictures from the ‘Run With Cathy Freeman’ event on page 16.

Last Friday, it was inspiring to see so many students from across our region come together. Some even ran solo to represent their schools, and it was incredible to watch. Our youth have astounding talent, and I can’t wait to see local names make headlines in the future.

I believe we’re all gifted with unique talents, but it’s what we do with them that matters. We can either hit the ground running and strive for greatness, or let fear hold us back.

Olympic icons like Cathy Freeman didn’t achieve their success by chance. They worked tirelessly, used their talents to their fullest, and made history.

It’s not always about being the “latest and greatest,” but about striving toward the life you’re called to live. Not everyone will win a gold medal, but each of us has our own treasures waiting to be discovered. The real question is: how will we use our gifts?

On another exciting note, Life Publishing Group hosted an incredible fundraiser on Saturday, 25th October, raising a significant amount for seven worthy local charities. In the attached photo, you’ll see me with our Production Co-ordinator Georgia and Editorial Team Leader Ruth, who are both based in the Whitsundays. It was wonderful to catch up, celebrate, and share the night with our amazing advertisers and supporters.

You can flip over to the Whitsunday side of the newspaper to see the first-release photo gallery of the event on pages 18-21, and more details on the cover, plus pages 2 and 3.

It’s been a massive week, and a memorable one at that! I hope you all have a blessed week ahead.

Scripture of the week: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” - Jeremiah 29:11

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At The Whitsunday Wealth Enchanted Garden, Hosted By Life Publishing Group

It was glitz, glam, and pure enchantment last Saturday as guests stepped into The Whitsunday Wealth Enchanted Garden, hosted by Life Publishing Group and Core Life Magazine – an evening brimming with sparkle, soul, and sophistication.

Held at the breathtaking Elementa, perched high above the Whitsundays, the event lived up to its promise as “a night like no other.” Beneath a canopy of fairy lights and lanterns, guests mingled among the treetops, enjoying endless gourmet tapas, a five-hour premium drinks package, and a live band that kept the energy glowing well into the night.

The atmosphere was nothing short of magical with laughter, music, and connection weaving through every moment. And while the glamour shone bright, the heart of the evening beat even brighter, with proceeds supporting seven local charities including the Trudy Crowley Foundation, Mackay Hospital Foundation, Orange Sky, Bowen and Collinsville Pet Rescue, Mackay Pet Rescue, Fauna Rescue Whitsundays, and the Townsville Spinal Unit.

For one dazzling evening, The Enchanted Garden brought together the movers, shakers, and changemakers of Mackay and the Whitsundays – proving that when community, compassion, and class collide, something truly enchanting happens!

A major thanks to all who came along to support this remarkable event – we hope to see you next year!

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Photo credit: Hannah McNamara and Donnchadh Alexander

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A revolutionary blood test developed by a Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) gastroenterologist is poised to transform coeliac disease, offering patients a less invasive path to diagnosis.

Mackay HHS gastroenterologist and biotech co-founder and director Dr Robert Anderson said the antigen-specific T-cell blood test eliminates the need for patients to undergo a gastrointestinal endoscopy.

“Potentially, you no longer have to do that,” Dr Anderson said.

“You can just draw blood and you can measure the immune response in a blood sample.

"There's no real need to eat gluten and it actually turns out that the immune response in the blood is, if anything, stronger in people who are on a gluten-free diet,” he said.

Current diagnosis for the disease requires patients to consume a diet high in gluten prior to having a gastroscopy.

This is often met with resistance by patients due to uncomfortable symptoms experienced like nausea, pain and bloating.

“It’s removing a big barrier to them getting a correct diagnosis - an accurate diagnosis for people on a free diet has huge implications,” Dr Anderson said.

The test has proved highly successful in a recent clinical trial, with results published in the Journal of Gastroenterology.

The test identifies an immune system marker, which spikes when blood from someone with coeliac disease is exposed to gluten in a test tube.

Dr Anderson believes the test will also help to identify patients who have been incorrectly diagnosed with the disease.

“The gluten-free diet probably costs around three thousand dollars or more per year, which is extreme,” he said.

“You don’t go to social events, you mistrust everything and you’re burdening the person and the family with psychological issues.

“And (in the case of an incorrect diagnosis) it’s unnecessary. This is the other side of the blood test that you can perhaps unravel,” he said.

The test also shows potential for diagnosing other autoimmune diseases and conditions involving immune reactions.

In his role as a gastroenterologist for Mackay Base Hospital, Dr Robert (Bob) Anderson regularly manages patients with coeliac disease and is also responsible for over 500 patients with inflammatory bowel diseases, many of whom receive biologic immunotherapies.

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Dr Robert Anderson has developed a blood test that simplifies and improves coeliac disease diagnosis. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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OPINION PIECE

Next Tuesday, being the first Tuesday in November, the race that stops the nation will be beamed into homes and workspaces across Australia. But many won’t just be watching the horses. Mortgage holders will be eyeing the Reserve Bank’s Cup Day decision and praying for relief in the form of a rate cut.

In recent months, economists have poured cold water on the chances of any more rate cuts this year, pointing to a return to higher inflation and the Labor government’s failure to rein in spending. The big four banks had been saying the economic data did not stack up for a cut in November. That was, of course, until the latest unemployment figures were released.

Unemployment rose to 4.5 per cent in September, up from 4.3 per cent the month before, renewing pressure on the RBA to deliver some relief. This is a sudden and seismic jump that has stunned economists and sent the government scrambling to change the narrative.

Employment Minister Amanda Rishworth brushed off the figures, saying they weren’t worth losing sleep over.

Not worth losing sleep over! Are you serious? People, a lot of people have just lost their jobs, and the Minister for Employment is not concerned. I wonder at what point would this government start to worry!

Since Labor took office in 2022, unemployment has been creeping up, but these latest figures (and trends) are very alarming. It’s a canary in the mine, and it’s chirping loudly.

With around 80 per cent of all new jobs created since Labor came to office being in the public sector, it is clear the government has not done nearly enough to stimulate private sector employment and investment. This government simply hasn’t been managing the economy.

It has been spending, spending, spending, and betting the Aussie house on their incompetence and waste. Labor has failed to create an environment where private enterprise can thrive, where small businesses can open and survive, and where our farmers and producers are supported. And let’s not forget, it is Labor’s energy policy driving the cost of everything through the roof. A course correction is desperately needed.

We need strong economic reform, serious fiscal responsibility, a clear plan to reduce debt and a boost to build up private enterprise and household resilience.

The Coalition has announced plans to wind back Labor’s damage. At the next election, we’ll
offer a way forward to curb spending and waste, while introducing income tax cuts to keep more of what Aussies earn in their pockets.

The odds have now shortened, and it will be photo finish as to what the RBA decides next Tuesday and economists are divided as to what that decision might be. Some say the jump in unemployment justifies a rate cut, while others say government spending, and booming property prices, only further stimulated by the recently introduced First Home Buyers 5 per cent deposit scheme, will see rates kept higher for longer.

The government needs to stop betting the Aussie house. They need to take ownership of a slumping economy and rising unemployment.

To everyone across Dawson having a cheeky flutter on Tuesday, good luck. Perhaps some good fortune will come your way on the track and on the mortgage.

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Mackay has received a major boost in youth support and community safety initiatives, with two local organisations sharing in $300,000 of funding as part of the Crisafulli Government’s Gold Standard Early Intervention program.

The investment is part of a $115 million statewide initiative designed to help make Queensland safer by tackling the causes of youth crime early and supporting at-risk young people before they become entrenched in offending.

Two new early intervention programs will be delivered across the Mackay region — a move that local leaders say will have lasting benefits for young people, their families, and the wider community.

Family and Children’s Emerging Support Services will provide mentoring, mental health and housing support, and life skills education including literacy, hygiene, and budgeting for at-risk youth.

Meanwhile, the Mudth-Niyleta Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corporation in Sarina will deliver support for disengaged, homeless, or at-risk youth aged 8–17 to reconnect with education, employment, and community life.

Premier David Crisafulli said the Crisafulli Government was delivering the fresh start Queenslanders voted for, exactly as promised.

“We are restoring safety where you live with early intervention to break the cycle of youth offending before it starts,” Premier Crisafulli said.

“While we are seeing crime down and victim numbers down, there is much more to be done to make Queensland safer, and we remain committed to delivering the fresh start we promised.”

Minister for Youth Justice and Victim Support Laura Gerber said the investment into early intervention was essential to tackling youth crime and restoring community safety.

“For 10 years Labor sat on their hands while youth crime spiralled out of control,” Minister Gerber said.

“Unlike the former Labor Government, we are taking real action to break the cycle of crime in this State, and our Kickstarter program is a targeted investment in turning young lives around and making Queensland safer.”

Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm said the benefits of the additional early intervention programs would be felt across the region.

“By intervening early, we are preventing the next generation from becoming repeat youth offenders.

“We are giving the support they need to become productive, engaged members of the community,” Minister Camm said.

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton welcomed the programs as a positive step forward.

"By offering young people an alternative to a life of crime, we can restore safety where Queenslanders work and live," Mr Dalton said.

Member for Mirani Glen Kelly agreed, adding that local, community-led initiatives are vital to success.

“Early intervention programs are crucial to turn the tide on youth offending and reducing the number of victims,” Mr Kelly said.

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Mackay has received a major boost in youth support and community safety, with two local organisations sharing in $300,000 from the Crisafulli Government’s $115 million Gold Standard Early Intervention program to tackle the causes of youth crime early and help at-risk young people build brighter futures. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Catholic Education – Diocese of Rockhampton has worked closely with the Daniel Morcombe Foundation (DMF) for approximately 20 years.

From the commencement of the 2015 school year, the teaching of a Child Safety Curriculum in all Catholic kindergartens, prep, primary schools and colleges in the Diocese of Rockhampton has been mandatory.  This safety curriculum is aligned with the Australian Curriculum: Health and Physical Education and consists of classroom lessons across 3 phases of learning: Prep to Year 2; Years 3 to 6 and Years 7 to 9.

Catholic Education – Diocese of Rockhampton Kindergartens, Primary Schools and Colleges along with implementing the DM Child Safety Curriculum, have over the past 20 years engaged with the many events and learning opportunities for both students and staff delivered, facilitated and provided by the DMF.  Catholic Education – Diocese of Roakhampton was also instrumental in working collaboratively with DMF to develop a Safety Curriculum for Early Years (Kindergarten) based on the Daniel Morcombe Child Safety Curriculum Prep to Year 2. The Child Safety Curriculum - Early Years was developed for kindergartens across Catholic Education, Diocese of Rockhampton. It reflects the key messages emanating from the Daniel Morcombe Child Safety Curriculum intended for school-age children. In addition, there is an emphasis on the connection between the early years setting and the home environment and the significance of effective communication between the child’s family and educators.

The diversity of topics and focus of the DMF has assisted with a broader understanding of what it means for kindergartens, schools and the wider community to keep children safe.  The parent resources have been utilised by our kindergartens and schools to share with parents in an ongoing basis. Across our schools there has been a very strong attendance at the Australia’s Biggest Child Safety Lesson which provides online lessons for early years and primary schools.

Bruce and Denise Morcombe have been welcomed to many of our Primary Schools over the past 20 years, sharing Daniel’s Story and the message of the Daniel Morcombe Foundation with students, staff and parents.

We are very proud to have been in a position to both support and work collaboratively with the Daniel Morcombe Foundation over these past 20 years enabling conversations to be had with children and young people about their own personal safety. Our schools participate annually in the Day for Daniel held on the last Friday in October. Our school’s participation in this day reinforces the message that the Daniel Morcombe Foundation prescribes to.

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Bruce and Denise Morcombe, Daniel's parents
Daniel Morcombe
School children across the country remember Daniel on this date each year

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Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson and Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins have been appointed to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games Organising Committee’s Host Mayors Advisory Group, ensuring the Mackay and Whitsunday regions have a voice in shaping the legacy of the Games across Queensland.

The announcement comes as one of Australia’s greatest Olympians, swimmer Ian Thorpe AM OLY, joins the Athletes and Sports Advisory Group, while seven Queensland mayors, including Mayor Williamson, officially take their seats on the Host Mayors Advisory Group.

Both Groups, together with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and Commercial Advisory Groups, have been developed to actively support the Brisbane 2032 Board in decisions and implementation in the lead up to the Games in just under seven years’ time.

Brisbane 2032 President, Andrew Liveris congratulated new members and looked forward to their engagement and involvement in delivering a Games that benefits Brisbane, Queensland and Australia long-term.

“There is an incredible amount of support and goodwill across Queensland and beyond to ensure that our home Games are successful and importantly, drive meaningful and lasting legacies for local communities,” Mr Liveris said.

“Those across the Advisory Groups are leaders within their communities and on behalf of those they represent and I have no doubt their contributions will ensure we achieve our collective ambitions.”

Chair of the Athletes and Sports Advisory Group, Susie O’Neill confirmed her delight in Ian’s inclusion as part of the Sports and Advisory Group.

“Ian is not only one of Australia’s greatest Olympians, but an incredible advocate for the success and support of athletes across Australia,” Ms O’Neill said.

“With the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games edging closer, Ian’s contribution, along with all members of our Advisory Group, will ensure that athletes and the sports associated with the Games continue to be the key focus in our successful delivery.”

“The Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games are about showcasing Brisbane and the best of Queensland and Australia to the world,” Brisbane Lord Mayor and Host Mayors Advisory Group Chair Adrian Schrinner said.

“Expanding the Host Mayors Advisory Group means more local voices helping shape a Games that benefits communities across our state.
www.brisbane2032.
“Delivering the world’s biggest sporting event takes teamwork, and this expanded group ensures more councils are part of that effort.

“Together, we’ll create a Games that leaves lasting benefits including better infrastructure, connected communities and a stronger Queensland economy.”

Brisbane 2032 confirmed that as the Games’ sports programme and venue master plan are refined, the composition of the Host Mayors Advisory Group would evolve accordingly.

Additional Advisory Group Members
• Athletes and Sports Advisory Group (Chair, Susie O’Neill AM OLY) – Ian Thorpe AM OLY
• Host Mayors Advisory Group (Chair, Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner)
• Fraser Coast Regional Council Mayor, George Seymore
• Ipswich City Council Mayor, Teresa Harding
• Mackay Regional Council Mayor, Greg Williamson
• Redland City Council Mayor, Jos Mitchell
• Rockhampton Regional Council Mayor, Tony Williams
• Toowoomba Regional Council Mayor, Geoff McDonald
• Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor, Ry Collins

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Mackay Regional Council Mayor, Greg Williamson. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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East Point is set to welcome vehicles back in a carefully staged reopening by Mackay Regional Council, while keeping its delicate environment protected. Dunes Boulevard has been closed since March as work continues on the latest stage of the Dunes residential estate at Harbour Beach.

The road will reopen this Friday, October 31, but vehicle access will remain restricted across the area, including the foreshore reserve. With turtle breeding season in full swing, council has created a temporary car park at the end of Dunes Boulevard, giving locals a safe way to enjoy the area without disturbing the wildlife.

Vehicle access beyond this car park is prohibited, with any offenders to be fined $834. After the wet season next year, council will push a legal access track to a second car park closer to East Point.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the staged re-opening balances community access with environmental protection.

“The restrictions on four-wheel-drive vehicles and motorbikes in this area in the past couple of years have resulted in excellent revegetation,” he said.

“The dunal system had been degraded over many years, but is now being rejuvenated. This staged approach not only ensures the protection of the area but also recognises the community’s historical connection to East Point.”

The temporary car park includes fencing, plantings, and educational signage, while the old access track remains blocked and monitored by a surveillance camera.

“Any offenders accessing the beach or the dunal system on vehicles or motorbikes will be fined,” Mayor Williamson added.

Mackay and District Turtle Watch President Steve Fisher highlighted the positive impact on wildlife.

“The work undertaken here over the last couple of years has re-established a solid nesting area for these turtles,” he said.

“Human interference is one of the biggest issues, which we are managing with council and community involvement.

“Mackay has a unique genetic strain of turtles that predominantly nest on these beaches. If you see hatchlings, stand back and watch; don’t shine lights on them or interfere with their journey.”

Katrina Dent, CEO of Reef Catchments, said, “East Point is an iconic location across Mackay, and it’s important that we invest in the area.

“There’s always more we can do, but it’s great to show what can be achieved in a relatively short amount of time.”

Birdlife Mackay President Greg Strohal noted, “It’s important for migratory shorebirds and terrestrial birds, that their environment is untouched, and that’s the best way we can protect them.

“Vehicles, trail bikes, people, and dogs disturb nesting sites and feeding grounds, especially for migratory shorebirds arriving from overseas. In Australia, 87% of the population lives within 50 kilometres of the coast, so natural environments are often disrupted.”

Irene Adams, Board member of the YUWI Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC, highlighted the importance of protecting and managing the area for the community and future generations.

“We’re looking forward to the master plan for the beach – it’s about moving forward and working with the community.

“The focus now is on collaboration and bringing the whole community together for the future of this area.”

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Representatives from Reef Catchments, Mackay and District Turtle Watch, Birdlife Mackay, Yuwi and council gathered at East Point for the first stage of the reopening. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Growing out of the need expressed by the community for an alternative to traditional Halloween celebrations, the Light Party is an inclusive annual event, which provides community members of all backgrounds, with a positive, fun, family friendly option. This free event includes interactive games, creating and activities for the kids and food trucks, live music, all while creating a vibrant atmosphere in the city heart, at the Blue Water Quay.

‘The Light Party began as a set of family activities in our home, which as others heard about and they asked me to create something so that their kids could join in the fun,’ Light Party organiser Jay-ellen Wright explained. ‘There is a historical connection with the event date, which gave me the inspiration for several of the activities. On October 31, 1517, Martin Luther posted his 95 problems with the church of his day on a church door in Wittenberg, Germany, sparking the Protestant Reformation, which has had long lasting social implications for the Western World.’

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said it was tremendous to see such strong community spirit on display, with the Light Party bringing families together in a positive and inclusive way.

“Events like this have the added benefit of activating of our City Centre and Waterfront, and I’m proud that council can support it through the Community Impact Grant scheme,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Hats off to our dedicated church families, not-for-profits and local businesses who combine to run events like this that bring our community together for some great family-friendly fun,” he said.

Everyone is warmly invited to join for the event, any time between 4-9pm, Friday, 31st October, at Blue Water Quay.

WHAT: Light Party
WHERE: Blue Water Quay, River Street
WHEN: Friday 31st October 4pm-9pm

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If you’re a business owner looking to sharpen your marketing knowledge or someone who’s been handed the job of marketing and feels a bit lost, support is now closer than ever.

Mackay based agency Rebel Nation has relaunched The Rebellion, an online marketing and mentoring membership designed to provide practical tools and guidance, including bite-sized lessons, expert advice, regular check-ins and accountability.

Delivered fully online, members can learn at their own pace while still benefiting from ongoing mentoring.

Rebel Nation Director Jade McAuley said the membership was built for anyone with marketing on their to-do list, no matter their background or role.

“We reopened The Rebellion after seeing first-hand how many people struggle with limited time, budget and confidence when it comes to marketing,” Ms McAuley said.

“Marketing can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. The Rebellion is about giving people clarity, confidence and simple strategies they can actually action, with the reassurance of expert support along the way.”

At $40 a month (or $400 annually), The Rebellion is one of the most affordable professional development options available.

Rebel Nation hopes The Rebellion will empower more people in regional business settings to approach marketing with confidence and direction, from business owners and new graduates to HR staff or admin assistants managing the socials.

Early participants have already seen results. Central Queensland Quantity Surveying Director Jodie Stanley said the accountability and structure had been invaluable.

“Jade is the marketing trainer you need,” Ms Stanley said.

“Even when you know what to do, having someone there to guide you and keep you on track makes all the difference.”

The Rebellion membership is now open, visit www.rebelnation.com.au/rebellion to learn more or join.

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Regional Development Australia Greater Whitsundays (RDA GW), with support from the Local Buying Foundation (LBF), has opened applications for the 2026 Bowen Basin Women in Leadership program, dedicated to empowering women across the Isaac region.

The Women in Leadership program supports women in the Isaac region who are aspiring workplace or community leaders, providing access to workshops, mentoring and skill development sessions, aimed at building leadership capabilities and workplace confidence.

RDA GW CEO Robert Cocco explained the importance of supporting women in leadership roles.

“We’re proud to deliver a program that equips local women with the tools, confidence and networks to succeed in their careers,” Mr Cocco said.

“By building capable, connected leaders, this program strengthens the Isaac region and drives our communities forward.”

Women in Leadership 2025 program mentor Viv Coleman explained that she is “genuinely excited” to be a part the program and see many inspiring women choosing to invest in themselves.

“What excites me most is watching these emerging leaders set meaningful goals for themselves and have the courage to be vulnerable in the pursuit of growth,” Ms Coleman said.

“I look forward to continuing this journey with them as they strengthen their voice, trust their instincts and lead with confidence.”

Applications for the 2026 program are now open and close on 7 November 2025, with the program commencing in February 2026. For more information or to apply, please email projectmanager@rdagw.org.au or ring Nic Willis on 0487 895 796.

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L-R Katie Hobbs and Sheree Crawford Women in Leadership participants

L-R Kyi Nairn and Trudi Liekefett Women in Leadership participants

L-R Women in Leadership participant Marricka Clancy and Isaac Region Council Mayor and Mentor Women in Leadership program Kelly Vea Ves. Photos supplied

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In true tropical style, Mackay has come out on top once again, officially ranked #1 in Australia for work-life balance, proving that our corner of Queensland is more than just paradise; it’s the perfect blend of career, community, and coastline.

The national research by Remitly crowned Mackay as the leader with an impressive work-life balance score of 8.42 out of 10, edging out Ballarat, Victoria (7.55) and Hobart, Tasmania (7.44) for the top three spots.

The study highlighted Mackay’s abundance of beaches, with more than 14 per 100,000 people, combined with an enviable average annual temperature of 23°C, as key factors driving its relaxed and rewarding lifestyle. Add to that the city’s world-class seafood, the vibrant Mackay Festival of Arts, and the region’s strong sense of community, and it’s no surprise that Mackay shines so brightly.

Workers in Mackay also enjoy an average monthly salary of $7,944 after tax, with rental prices among the most affordable in the country — meaning locals can enjoy more of life outside the office. Shorter commutes, friendly neighbourhoods, and an active outdoor culture seal the deal for those seeking balance and belonging.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the recognition was a proud moment for the region.

“Proud moment for Mackay!

“I’m thrilled to share that Mackay has been ranked #1 in Australia for work-life balance according to research by Remitly.

“This achievement reflects what we already know: Mackay is a place where career and community come together, where our lifestyle supports both productivity and wellbeing.

“As Mayor, I want to thank everyone who contributes to this — our local businesses, community groups, schools, and residents who make Mackay a great place to live and work.

“Here’s to continuing to build a city where people can thrive at work, relax in their time off, and connect with community. Let’s keep growing with balance, purpose and heart.”

While Mackay proudly took the crown, Ballarat and Hobart followed closely behind, both recognised for their affordable living, strong community ties, and scenic lifestyles.

From its palm-fringed beaches to its thriving business scene, Mackay continues to show the nation what it means to live and work well — sun, sea, and satisfaction included

For more information, visit www.remitly.com/au/en/landing/best-australian-cities-work-life-balance

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Photo source: Queensland Travel Guide

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Simon Hood
Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

Recently, we released the first edition of this season’s comparative analysis for growers. This year’s analysis takes a slightly different focus, offering valuable insights into the strategies growers use to manage their GEI price exposure.

Typically, growers who choose to market with Wilmar Grower Marketing use the Target Price and GMPRS pricing mechanisms, which give them maximum control over their final price outcomes. This year’s report analyses the variation in the weighted GEI Sugar price by examining how different proportions are allocated across these mechanisms. With the revamped Managed Pool Plus (MPP), growers now have an additional choice within the committed cane category. As at the end of September, the analysis indicates that the greater the GEI Sugar exposure allocated to the MPP, the higher the weighted price overall.

The report also compares pricing mechanisms between marketers. As at 29 September, there was a clear benefit in marketing your GEI sugar tonnes through Wilmar across most pricing strategies employed. It’s important to note that it is still early in the season, and as pools are only partially hedged, the outright price and marketer differentials could shift significantly as the pricing period progresses.

Growers have a range of options to manage their GEI sugar pricing. Wilmar Grower Marketing offers a suite of products that allows you to take control of your own pricing or have Wilmar manage your exposure. You can lock in prices up to three years forward to gain income certainty or commit to pools that allow your GEI price to move with the market over time.

This flexibility enables you to tailor a pricing strategy that suits your individual circumstances and risk appetite. The Wilmar Grower Marketing team can help you understand how each mechanism works and provide general guidance on price risk management principles.

With the 2026 season nomination deadline fast approaching, this is the final opportunity for growers to choose Wilmar Grower Marketing.

It is important to note that you can make or change your nomination up until this date. Any proportion of your GEI sugar that isn’t priced can be moved – you aren’t locked in.

Nominations close on 31 October, so now is the time to review your options and decide on the marketing partner that best aligns with your business goals.

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View all of the results in the latest Pool Performance and Comparative Analysis report for the 2025 season.

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A new initiative is urging Queensland businesses to take biosecurity as seriously as other critical risks, with the Queensland Farmers’ Federation (QFF) and Biosecurity Queensland leading the charge.

Biosecurity in the Boardroom highlights the growing threat of biosecurity incursions across all sectors of the economy, not just agriculture. With risks forecast to quadruple over the next decade, organisers say businesses of all kinds need to act now to protect supply chains, reputations, and long-term viability.

QFF CEO Jo Sheppard said biosecurity has traditionally been seen as a farm-based issue, but it is increasingly a concern for all industries.

“Biosecurity impacts Queensland’s cultural, environmental, social, and economic values,” Ms Sheppard said.

“Business leaders must treat biosecurity as a core risk, just like workplace health and safety, to safeguard continuity and avoid reputational and financial damage.”

The initiative provides resources for company boards and senior executives, prompting businesses to consider biosecurity in their strategic planning, corporate culture, and day-to-day operations. From tourism to transport, education to energy, every sector has a role to play in protecting Queensland’s biosecurity system.

The launch event, held at Customs House in Brisbane, featured leaders from multiple industries and was opened by Assistant Minister for Primary Industry Development, Water and Western Queensland Sean Dillon MP, who highlighted the importance of cross-sector collaboration.

“Partnerships like Biosecurity in the Boardroom bring together the expertise we need across business, industry, and government to strengthen Queensland’s biosecurity system,” Mr Dillon said.

Keynote speaker Dr Rachel Chay, Queensland’s Chief Biosecurity Officer, warned that biosecurity risks are not confined to farms or regional areas.

“Addressing these risks requires a united effort—from boardrooms to paddocks,” she said.

With strong attendance from a wide range of industries, QFF says the initiative reinforces that biosecurity is a whole-of-economy issue. Whether moving goods, managing supply chains, or hosting visitors, all sectors are vulnerable—and all have a role to play.

For more information and resources, businesses can visit www.business.qld.gov.au/running-business/risk/biosecurity.

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