Local students and aspiring automotive professionals are invited to the Automotive Career Expo, hosted by McCarthy Panelworks in collaboration with the Motor Trades Association of Queensland (MTAQ). This event promises to be a key opportunity for young people to explore the dynamic and rapidly evolving automotive industry.

Scheduled to take place on Wednesday April 16, the Expo will provide an interactive and hands-on training experience designed to introduce students to automotive operations. The training is part of the Autoready Training program run by MTAQ and offers three modules that, upon completion, contribute toward QCE points. This program gives students valuable insights into automotive careers while also enhancing their qualifications.

The Expo will feature a variety of exhibitors from the automotive sector, including local businesses and suppliers. This relaxed, informal event allows attendees to meet with industry professionals and learn more about the exciting opportunities the sector has to offer. Last year’s event saw over 100 people in attendance, and this year, McCarthy Panelworks aims to make the Expo even bigger and better.

For businesses, the event provides a unique chance to showcase their services, connect with potential apprentices, and engage with students and parents curious about automotive careers. Local businesses are welcome to participate, provided their displays are interactive. The event will be a great opportunity for those eager to hire or inspire the next generation to join the industry.

The evening will also highlight the broad spectrum of automotive roles available, from traditional mechanics to new careers in electric vehicle technology and automation. This is an excellent chance for students to gain insight into a future-proof, rewarding career.

Students and parents are encouraged to attend and take advantage of the chance to network with local employers and learn about vocational training, apprenticeship opportunities, and the exciting future of the automotive industry.

For more information or to register, visit the MTAQ website or scan the QR code. Don’t miss this chance to explore the possibilities in automotive careers and start paving the way for your future!

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Students, parents, and local businesses are invited to the Automotive Career Expo on April 16 - an interactive event hosted by McCarthy Panelworks and MTAQ, showcasing career pathways, hands-on training, and opportunities to connect with the future of the automotive industry. Image supplied

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The wheels are turning once again as the much-loved BMA River 2 Reef Ride returns to Mackay on 6 and 7 September, promising a high-energy weekend of cycling, creativity, and community contribution. With registrations opening on Thursday 3 April, the festival invites riders of all ages and skill levels to take part in an event that not only celebrates fitness and fun, but also drives real change in the region.

A highlight of this year’s festival is the unveiling of the 2025 BMA River 2 Reef Ride jersey, featuring a vibrant, original design by emerging youth artist Abigail Preston of Whitsunday Anglican School. Selected from a competitive field of entries, Abigail’s artwork will be worn proudly by over 500 cyclists, earning her both regional recognition and a $500 cash prize.

This year’s runner-up, Bentley Mcloughlin of Clontarf Foundation Mackay Academy at Mackay State High School, received $250, while third place went to Oliver Galletly, also from Whitsunday Anglican School, who received $100 for his design.

The festival also delivered a major win for local charities, raising an impressive $40,000 for BMA CQ Rescue and Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay (DSRM). This brings the total raised over the past three years to more than $100,000, reflecting the event’s strong focus on community support.

Linda Murry, general manager of BHP Mitsubishi Alliance’s (BMA) Hay Point Coal Terminal, emphasised the importance of the ongoing partnership.

“BMA is proud to continue our partnership with river 2 reef ride, now in its 4th year, an event that not only encourages fitness and fun but also directly benefits vital local organisations.

“Seeing the community come together each year for such a fantastic cause is truly inspiring.”

Cyclists can look forward to a diverse line-up of rides designed for all experience levels, including both competitive and family-friendly options:

Saturday, 6 September:

• Criterium Race

• Family-Friendly Golding Kids Colour Ride

Sunday, 7 September:

• 30km Queensland Country Health Fund Dash

• 60km City Fitness Epic

• 100km Kaeser Compressors Gran Fondo

Registrations open 3 April. For more details and to register, visit www.river2reefride.com.au

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Abigail Preston, Bentley Mcloughlin, and Oliver Galletly were recognised for their creative jersey designs as part of the 2024 BMA River 2 Reef Ride youth art competition. Photo credit: Deanne Woods | Deanne Woods Photography

Representatives from BMA CQ Rescue and Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay received a combined $40K from last year's event

Event organisers, student artists and charity representatives pictured following the announcement of $40,000 raised for local organisations and the unveiling of the 2025 ride jersey design

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Mackay Regional Council’s crackdown on illegal dumping is having a positive effect in the community, with a noticeable decrease in offences across the region.

Regular patrols and increased signage have helped deter offenders and word is spreading that illegal dumping can lead to hefty fines.

Mayor Greg Williamson said while it was encouraging to see fewer cases of general waste being illegally dumped, green waste remained a significant issue.

“Unfortunately, we’re still seeing green waste like lawn clippings, branches and palm fronds dumped in parks, reserves and bushland,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Some people think because it’s natural, it’s harmless – but that’s not the case,” he said.

“Dumped green waste can block drainage systems, attract pests, spread weeds and even become a fire hazard.”

Unlike household waste, illegally dumped green waste is nearly impossible to track back to an offender unless they are caught in the act.

“We’re asking the community to be extra vigilant and report anyone they see dumping green waste in public areas,” Mayor Williamson said.

Residents are reminded that illegally dumping green waste carries the same penalties as other forms of dumping, with fines of up to $2500 or more depending on the amount of waste that is dumped.

Instead of dumping green waste, it can be disposed of responsibly by being placed in residents’ red-lidded general waste bin or taken to one of council’s waste facilities to be disposed of for free using dump vouchers.

It is preferable to bag loose green waste, such as grass clippings and cuttings, as they tend to adhere to the bins and collection vehicles.

Alternatively, they can be used for mulching and composting at home.

If you see illegal dumping, report it to council by calling 1300 MACKAY (622 529).

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Redhotblue has once again been recognised as the Best Full-Service Creative Agency at the prestigious Australian Enterprise Awards, marking the agency’s third consecutive win in this category.

The awards, presented by Corporate Vision Magazine, celebrate the best in business across various sectors, and redhotblue’s achievement highlights its continued excellence in the marketing industry.

Melissa Bramall, Awards Coordinator of Corporate Vision, praised this year’s winners for their innovative approaches and significant impacts within their respective industries.

“This year’s winners have truly been making a positive impact on their spheres as they continue to innovate and update their business practices, services, and products," Ms Bramall said.

For Jody Euler, redhotblue founder, the recognition is a proud moment for both the agency and the Mackay community.

She said that she was proud to represent Mackay in a category showcasing talented businesses from all over Australia and to be recognised for three consecutive years is a tremendous honour.

Redhotblue’s success lies in its unique approach to marketing. The agency goes beyond traditional strategies, immersing itself fully in each client’s business to understand its dynamics and challenges. This deep level of involvement allows the team to craft bespoke marketing solutions tailored to each client’s specific needs and industry requirements.

The agency’s commitment to delivering fresh perspectives and innovative strategies has made a lasting impact on businesses like Primal Coffee Roasters.

Founder Dan Shaw shared his experience: “To have someone take the ramblings of my ideas and bring them to life was incredible and emotional.

"My advice… let the team at redhotblue do what they do so well and have done for nearly 30 years.”

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Jody Euler and the redhotblue team celebrate their third consecutive win as Best Full-Service Creative Agency at the Australian Enterprise Awards. Photo supplied

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By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

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It is only a matter of months until the start of the 2025 crush, and CANEGROWERS Mackay is urging people thinking of a change to take a look at opportunities in the sugarcane industry. This year, the annual CANEGROWERS Mackay harvest labour campaign is taking an all-of-industry approach.

Our industry offers a broad range of opportunities from farming, harvesting, milling and service businesses. Having an adequate and skilled workforce from paddock to mill and beyond is critical in getting our cane processed and our sugar to market. The growing, harvesting and milling sectors are all interdependent on each other to succeed.

It is important that people see opportunity in the sugar industry. It is an industry with a diversity of jobs where drivers, skilled tradespeople, technicians and growers, and supporting professionals all play a valued role.

As a renewable resource, there is a strong potential future for cane across food, fibre and fuel. In this region alone, there is well over 6 million tonne of cane to harvest and process every year.

As it has been for 15 years, the heart of the campaign is the Canegrowers Mackay Haulout Driver courses, funded through the Queensland Government Skilling Queenslanders for Work program, and delivering 20 new workers every year to the harvesting sector, equipped with basic practical and safety skills.

The four-day courses are conducted on-farm and led by highly experienced grower harvesters. As an added bonus for people new to agriculture, it features RTO-accredited modules in Rural Operations Cert II, this year backed by our new RTO course partner, Civil Safety, who will work alongside the experienced grower-harvester training team of Ron Gurnett, Glen Brady and Zac Borg.

We are always thankful for the expertise these growers bring to the course, delivering practical advice and guidance to industry newcomers. Not to mention Ron Gurnett making his farm and machinery available for the trainee’s use.

It is vitally important for our harvest sector that all Haulout driver positions are filled. As a service to industry, CANEGROWERS Mackay are committed to helping people get basic training and become employed in our industry.

C Class (drivers) licenses are all that is required to drive the more common tractor/trailer haulout combination used in Mackay region, while HR and, in some cases, HC is needed for trucks. There is a demand for drivers that have HR and HC licenses across milling areas also.

The haulout course gives a great ‘bootcamp’ start to the industry, harvest contractors and growers will still need to deliver some on the job training and site-specific inductions.

We welcome people to apply for jobs and training. There are about 130 harvesting groups across the region. Many have people who return year on year, but many are looking for new staff also. Equally, there are millers and businesses right along the supply chain looking for staff.

In recent years, we have had interest from younger retirees looking to supplement their retirement income with work through the cooler months. We have had interest from all walks of life: backpackers, women, school-leavers. From people who become tired of working the drive-in-drive-out working away from home lifestyle, and instead be home every night.

Registrations are open now for the Haulout Driver courses, closing on Wednesday 16 April. The four-day courses start 13 and 20 May. You can find out more about Haulout Driver training and see the CANEGROWERS Mackay jobs board on our website. www.mackaycanegrowers.com.au.

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Haulout Senior Trainer Ron Gurnett shares a lifetime's experience in harvest with course participants

Haulout Driver training is an excellent way to get acquainted with industry procedures. Photo credit: Kirili Lamb

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The Queensland Government is investing $2 million in targeted action to tackle the state’s escalating feral pig problem, easing the burden on regional communities and supporting the agricultural sector.

Following years of limited progress, feral pig populations have exploded across Queensland, causing widespread damage to crops, natural ecosystems and waterways. In 2023 alone, ABARES reported $95 million in production losses and control costs due to feral pigs in Queensland.

The new investment includes $1 million to develop a Queensland Feral Pig Action Plan, designed in consultation with key stakeholders and tailored to meet the unique challenges of different regions. The remaining $1 million will support the development of innovative control methods over the next three years.

This initiative adds to the government’s broader $50 million, four-year commitment to strengthening biosecurity across the state.

Regional feral pig coordinators, funded by the state government, are already on the ground in six key areas—Cairns, Longreach, Mareeba, Townsville, Mt Isa, and more—working alongside landholders, local councils, and agencies on coordinated control measures including baiting, trapping and aerial shooting.

Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said reducing feral pig numbers would take investment, innovation and teamwork.

“We need to make a dent in feral pig populations, not only to protect primary production but to mitigate biosecurity risks,” Minister Perrett said.

“Feral pigs cost primary producers millions of dollars every year.

“We know the only way to get on top of this growing problem is to have a coordinated plan with everyone from landholders to the Government working together.

“Whether you’re a grazier out west, a sugarcane farmer up north, a strawberry grower on the granite belt, a natural resource manager in the Wet Tropics, a traditional owner on the Cape, or part of a local, state, or Commonwealth government agency—your ideas, expertise, and action are essential.”

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From The Armchair Warrior

The 2022 election was all about the Climate. The results reflected this with a swag of teal independents announcing themselves on the national political stage, while the Greens picked up seats in Brisbane for the first time. But a lot has changed in three years and in 2025 the election is about the Cost of Living. Making the case for who can ease the pressures on managing household costs will go a long way to claiming a victory on May 3rd.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers in his budget speech a few short weeks ago announced income tax cuts, saying a ‘modest’ cut will come in from July 2026. The cut amounts to about $5 per week for every worker.

Opposition leader, Peter Dutton’s reply two nights later argued that $5 next year is hardly help and does nothing for people now. Dutton’s tax relief counter is to halve the Fuel Excise, cutting 25 cents a litre for every road user for 12 months with a review at the end of that 12 months.

Dutton vowed to introduce this measure to parliament in the first sitting day of a Coalition government.

The government and opposition have hotly debated who is best served to save households on their power bills. Albanese and Climate Change Minister, Chris Bowen argue for staying the course with continued investment in green technologies said to be the way to go with more wind and solar. Meanwhile Dutton has said that under a government he leads a greater emphasis will be placed on opening up gas supplies with a quarantined amount of Australian produced gas set aside for Aussie users.

Long term Dutton’s vision is nuclear power for base load power. His plan is that nuclear power plants will be built adjacent to existing coal fire power stations, pointing out that existing infrastructure means thousands of kilometres of new polls and wires, like that required for wind and solar is not needed.

The Albanese promise of $275 cheaper power bills has not materialised. Instead, the current government has given each electricity account $75 per quarter rebates over 12 months and has announced the rebate to be extended a further 2 quarters.

With the cost of everything, from supermarket items, to insurance, to healthcare, and accommodation rising, many Aussies are finding less in their pockets.

This observer’s question is – Over the next few weeks of this election campaign, will voters see any final hand on heart promises to reverse a sliding standard of living?

Bottom Line – The party who can best sell their cost of living policies will be well positioned come election day.

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With deer breeding season fast approaching, the Centre for Invasive Species Solutions is reminding communities of the heightened risk of feral deer on the road as well as increased activity and damage across Australia’s landscapes, including in suburban streets.

Dr Annelise Wiebkin, National Deer Management Coordinator, says feral deer cause serious damage in farmland, native bushland and urban areas and that the breeding season is a particularly critical time to notice their presence and manage their impacts.

“Feral deer activity will intensify in the coming weeks, so people may see deer more often or even for the first time in a new area. It’s important that the community reports sightings on the free DeerScan app,” Dr Wiebkin said.

“We have a small window of opportunity to track their spread and support control efforts, particularly in areas where feral deer numbers are still low.”

“Feral deer trash and eat native vegetation, ringbark trees, create wallows, trample undergrowth and spread weed seeds, all things that threaten the survival of native flora and fauna,” Dr Wiebkin said.

The Centre’s Chief Executive Officer, Shauna Chadlowe, warns that feral deer are becoming an increasing concern to communities across the country, with extreme weather events – such as droughts, floods and fires – pushing them into new areas.

“It’s astonishing – deer have now spread to every state and territory in Australia,” she said.

“We need everyone to stay alert.

“Every Australian can play a role by reporting feral deer sightings or signs, like tracks and damage. These reports are crucial – they help drive coordinated efforts to control new deer populations before they spiral out of control.

“By acting now, we can stop their spread and save Australia millions of dollars each year,” she added.

Feral deer also hit the farming community hard, with Ted Rowley, Independent Chair of the National Feral Deer Action Plan Committee, showcasing the importance of control efforts.

“Farmers are fed up: deer cause $69 million in agricultural productivity losses and $4.5 million in vehicle and train collisions each year. The Plan is key to stopping these losses," he said.

Jenny O’Sullivan, champion of Victoria’s Cape Liptrap community deer control group says “The free DeerScan app is really important for our community group. Reported sightings enable us to know where the deer are moving about in our community, and to focus our control efforts more effectively”.

Deer by the numbers: costing us ‘deerly’

• Six species of feral deer have become widespread in Australia.

• Deer numbers in Australia are estimated at between 1 and 2 million.

• Feral deer cost the Australian economy about $91.3 million in 2021, including:

o $69.1 in agricultural losses

o $17.8 million in public expenditure for control efforts

o $3.3 million in motor vehicle impacts

o $1.2 million in train collisions

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1: Photo credit: Darryn Mundt

2: Photo credit: Peter Bradford

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Cars For Community Brings New Wheels To Collinsville Youth Coalition

The Cars for Community initiative is revving up real-world learning and making a meaningful difference, proving that it’s much more than just a car giveaway.

Now in its third year, the program sees students spend the school year restoring donated or purchased vehicles, bringing them up to roadworthy condition before gifting them to local not-for-profit organisations in need.

Automotive Trainer Simon Korneliussen shared that the program is as much about education as it is about giving back to the community.

“We receive cars that have either been purchased or donated, and we work with our students throughout the year to restore them to roadworthy condition,” he explained.

“Once they’re ready, we pass them on to organisations that can truly benefit from them.”

The most recent handover saw a restored vehicle delivered to the Collinsville Youth Coalition. Originally purchased for $600, the car required significant repairs before it could be deemed roadworthy.

“This one’s been a long time coming — it needed quite a bit of work,” Mr Korneliussen explained, reflecting on the time and effort invested in the project.

The initiative offers dual benefits, where students gain hands-on mechanical experience and valuable teamwork skills, while local community organisations receive much-needed assets that can make a tangible difference.

For student Stathi Kypridis, the project has been a rewarding experience.

“It feels great, to be honest,” he said.

“It’s really rewarding to see something we worked on go to someone who needs it, and I’ve definitely learnt a lot about cars and tools.”

Sixteen-year-old Amelia Dos Santos added that the experience was both challenging and educational.

“Knowing the car was going to people who need it made us want to work even harder,” she said.

“It was a challenge, but working with the other students and asking questions really helped.”

For the Collinsville Youth Coalition, the donation will have a big impact.

“We do a lot of transporting gear to and from events,” said Youth Activities Coordinator Luella Widt.

“We didn’t have a vehicle that could support moving larger items — now we can do everything ourselves.

“There’s really no price on that kind of independence.”

The initiative wouldn’t be possible without the support of generous local sponsors, including Repco, OGR Tyres, DC Power, and Bakers Creek Wreckers.

“We couldn’t run this initiative without our sponsors,” Mr Korneliussen said.

“It’s all about building relationships with the community and creating pathways into the automotive industry for our students.”

With more vehicles in the pipeline and students gaining industry-relevant skills, the Cars for Community initiative is proving to be a powerful engine for change — both in the classroom and across the region.

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Cars for Community gifted a fully restored vehicle to the Collinsville Youth Coalition, giving students hands-on automotive experience while empowering a local organisation with vital transport support.

Automotive Trainer Simon Korneliussen

Work experience student, Stathi Kypridis

Youth Activities Coordinator Luella Widt. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Last Friday marked a significant milestone for the Sarina community, as Sarina Hospital celebrated one year since opening the doors of its state-of-the-art facility on Brewers Road.

Staff, volunteers, project teams and community supporters gathered to recognise the hospital’s first year of operation — a year marked by growth, resilience and commitment to delivering high-quality health care close to home.

Director of Nursing Pauline Maude reflected on the journey, commending her team and acknowledging the importance of taking time to celebrate achievements.

“We are incredibly proud of the facility we have today. Our team has experienced remarkable growth, adapting and streamlining our processes together,” she said.

“The celebration today is about taking a moment to recognise those achievements which ultimately contribute to the best possible outcomes for our patients.”

In its first 12 months, Sarina Hospital has become an essential part of the region’s health service network, with more than 9,400 Emergency Department presentations, over 4,000 inpatient days, close to 1,100 x-ray examinations, and upwards of 3,000 outpatient appointments.

The numbers tell a story of a busy hospital — but more than that, they represent real people in the community receiving timely, professional care when it matters most.

The hospital has quickly become a valued asset to Sarina, not just for its services, but for the dedication of the people behind it. Community member Leanne expressed her appreciation, and said, “Thanks to all the staff and fellow co-workers for the past 12 months!

“It really is a fabulous facility, and the effort put in to get it up, running and established has been nothing short of miraculous.”

The new hospital, which replaced the ageing original facility, was built to meet the current and future needs of the growing Sarina region. With modern infrastructure, advanced technology, and a focus on patient comfort, the facility has significantly enhanced the healthcare experience for both patients and staff.

Having access to quality health care locally is vital for regional communities like Sarina. It means patients can avoid long travel times for urgent or ongoing treatment, and families have the peace of mind that support is nearby. The hospital also provides local employment, training opportunities, and a sense of security for the entire community.

The one-year milestone served not only as a moment of reflection but also as a promise for the future.

“Happy Birthday Sarina Hospital, what an amazing team.”

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Sarina Hospital celebrated its first birthday last Friday, marking a year of delivering vital, high-quality healthcare to the local community and recognising the dedicated team behind its success. Photo source: MHHS (Facebook)

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A huge congratulations to Bowen’s own Jacob Ross, a Year 10 student at Bowen State High School, who has been selected as a delegate for the Ministerial Student Advisory Council. Jacob attended the first meeting in Brisbane on the 28th of March, where he joined 17 other young leaders from across Queensland to discuss important issues affecting students.

The Ministerial Student Advisory Council is an invaluable platform for the Minister for Education to hear the voices of students from all corners of the state. As a North Queensland representative, Jacob is in a unique position to bring the concerns and ideas of local students to the forefront. This achievement is a significant honour, not only for Jacob but for Bowen State High School as well.

Jacob, who is passionate about his school studies, instrumental music, and hockey, has expressed a deep commitment to promoting safe and supportive environments in schools.

“I am passionate about safe schools that promote the growth of healthy minds and bodies," he says, "I look forward to the opportunity to collaborate with like-minded students to help shape the future of education in Queensland schools."

Minister for Education and the Arts, John-Paul Langbroek MP, highlighted the council’s focus on key issues such as bullying, mental health, and the future of virtual learning.

Jacob’s participation in this important initiative will allow him to contribute to discussions on issues like these and many more, ensuring that the voices of young Queenslanders are heard.

This is an exciting opportunity for Jacob to make a difference and to bring a North Queensland perspective to the broader conversation about education in Queensland and we wish him all the best in this rewarding endeavour and two year council position.

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Jacob Ross in Brisbane ready to attend the Council meeting. Photo provided: Bowen State High School.

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After a heartbreaking fire tore through Sarina Junior Rugby League’s team shed earlier this year, the club was left without vital equipment and its young players without a home base. Now, there’s a flicker of hope on the horizon, with Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry, committing $200,000 to help rebuild the shed – if an LNP Government is elected.

Michelle Landry said she was proud to stand with the club and help restore what had been lost.

“Sarina Junior Rugby League is more than just a footy club, it’s part of the heart and soul of this community,” Ms Landry said.

“This club has helped shape some of Australia’s top NRL talent, like Reuben Cotter, Daly Cherry-Evans and Brianna Clark.

“We need to make sure the next generation of players has the same opportunities and support.”

Ms Landry said the $200,000 commitment would ensure the club can build back bigger and better, with upgraded facilities that support players, volunteers and the wider Sarina community.

“When local clubs lose essential infrastructure like this, the whole community feels it. This funding will help the team get back on their feet, rebuild their shed and boost the morale of everyone involved.

“This is what strong local representation looks like; standing up for the clubs and communities that make our region great.”

Club representative Aimee Korte said the support from Michelle Landry had lifted spirits and given the players and volunteers hope for the future.

“We’re incredibly grateful to Michelle for not just listening, but taking real action to help our club,” Ms Korte said.

“This funding will go a long way in helping us rebuild. It means our players will once again have a place to store their gear, gather as a team, and feel proud of their club.

“Our young players train hard and play with heart. Having the right facilities shows them that their efforts matter and that the community is behind them.”

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Back row: Deslee Stevens, Aimee Korte, Lain Korte, Ian Korte. Front row: Shae Korte, Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry, Shannon Korte, Mackay Regional Council Deputy Mayor Karen May, Sophia Hussey, Zoe Hussey. Photos supplied

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A three-part social media training series has equipped local community groups with the skills and confidence to better promote their events, engage with their audience and maximise their online presence. Thanks to the sponsorship of Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank, participants attended free of charge, making the program accessible to a wide range of local not-for-profits.

Delivered by Rebel Nation, the training covered essential topics such as content planning, engagement strategies, social media insight, and the power of digital tools like ChatGPT and Canva. Participants walked away with practical knowledge and newfound confidence to grow their online reach.

Karen Perry from the Sarina Poultry Society said the training has transformed how she manages social media for her group. “Before, I felt I wasn’t very good at writing – I knew what I wanted to say but didn’t know how to express it. Now, I’ve started using ChatGPT to help write posts and it’s great. I’ve also been able to get organised ahead of time with our posts, so that when I go away, our page is still active.”

Marg Rowlands, Chaplain at Sarina and Swayneville Primary Schools, also saw a huge shift in her approach to managing the Sarina District Schools Chaplaincy Committee Facebook page.

“Previously, I was scared to post in case I got something wrong. But now, I feel 100% better about posting – and we’ve already got some live. I’m still a little nervous, but I’ve learned not to be afraid to try, experiment and see what works. That’s where the reviewing your data comes in – if something doesn’t work, it’s not a failure, it’s just a lesson for next time.”

Marg expressed her appreciation for the sponsorship that made the training possible. “The wealth of knowledge imparted over these three sessions was outstanding. For a not-for-profit to benefit from that wisdom without having to pay for it – thanks to the support of Community Bank Sarina – is phenomenal. We are so, so grateful.”

This training series has given community groups the confidence and skills to share their stories, promote their events and engage more effectively online. Thanks to Community Bank Sarina’s sponsorship, participants walked away feeling empowered, equipped with new tools and ready to take their social media to the next level.

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The local community group members who attended the social media training series, sponsored by Community Bank Sarina, along with training facilitator Jade McAuley (Rebel Nation) and Board Chair Karen May (Community Bank Sarina)

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First Nations Artists And Craftspeople

Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF) has issued a Queensland-wide call to First Nations artists and craftspeople to showcase their culture and wares to thousands of visitors at this year’s Tanks Arts Centre-based Artisans Showcase between Thursday 10th and Sunday 13th of July 2025.

Set within the botanic surrounds of the event’s new Tanks Arts Centre hub, the Artisans Showcase, one of CIAF’s much-loved program highlights, will provide a welcoming and inspiring marketplace featuring a new and diverse range of authentic Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander arts and crafts at various price points, from meaningful gifts to artefacts and collectibles.

CIAF’s Artistic Director, Teho Ropeyarn, said that while the art market is traditionally one of the most popular and visited attractions of the annual event, it has been rebranded Artisans Showcase to better reflect the organisation’s commitment to showcasing authentic, high-quality artwork and craftsmanship.

“Importantly, the Artisans Showcase will provide an inclusive, ethical platform to present and sell a diverse and culturally rich range of arts and crafts celebrating the heritage, traditional techniques, and creative expressions of Queensland’s First Nations communities,” said Mr Ropeyarn.

CIAF will span four days and will feature the work of approximately 300 visual artists and 100 performers across a multifaceted program of mostly free and family-friendly events.

Highlights include this year’s 'Pay Attention!' themed art fair, 'Look & Listen' fashion performances, The Artisans Showcase, Eat Street, music, cultural dance and demonstrations, Masterclasses, CIAF Talks (with keynote speakers and panel discussions) and more.

CIAF is a platform for independent artists, galleries, art centres, and market stallholders. It is one of Queensland’s most significant cultural events, with a far-reaching social and economic impact.

Queensland’s First Nations artisans are invited to apply between now and 30 April 2025. To submit an EOI scan the QR Code or visit https://ciaf.com.au/ciaf-2025-artisans-showcase-eoi-now-open-0

WHAT: Cairns Indigenous Art Fair 2025 | Theme: Pay Attention!
WHEN: Thursday 10th to Sunday 13th, July.
WHERE: Tanks Arts Centre, Edge Hill, Cairns.

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During the school term, 170,000 children across Queensland are fed breakfast through school-based breakfast programs, but with school holidays upon us, the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre has created a program to support families in need when school is out.

The Brekky Pack program provides a package of breakfast foods to help families across the region. The centre sought sponsorship to fund the packs that include: a choice of cereal, vegemite or honey, bread, milk, butter, Milo, pancake mix and juice. There were 20 families selected to receive the packs, with collection on Thursday and Friday 3rd and 4th April, ahead of the two-week school holidays.

Whitsunday Transit and Smooth Sailing Financial Consulting each sponsored 10 packs and the program aims to distribute packs at the beginning of each holiday break.

“We know that families are relying on school-based breakfast programs because of the cost of groceries, and our concern was that children won’t have that over the holidays," Rebecca Woods Executive Officer.

The Centre also provides $15 pantry packs that would retail at around $70 and other low and no-cost food options from our My Community Pantry program, these pantry packs are not means tested and are available to any who are struggling to fill their pantries. “The pantry was accessed 362 times in March and 347 in February, for bread, meat, fruit and veg," Ms Woods said

“The Centre is advocating to set up a Food Bank in the near future,” she said, as this would help support these programs and the people they help. So, if you need support, or would like to be involved with sponsoring the program, reach out to the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre on: 4946 7850 or visit them at: 14-20 Hazelwood Crescent, Cannonvale.

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Rebecca Woods, Executive Officer with a pack on display. Photo supplied: Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre

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