Mackay Welcomes Laffo’s Cookies

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Mackay is set to indulge in a delightful new business venture that combines homemade cookies, locally roasted coffee, and a heartwarming story of friendship and collaboration. Laffo’s Cookies will officially open its doors at Caneland Central, outside Target, today (Friday 11 April), offering the community a perfect blend of sweet treats and exceptional coffee for both everyday enjoyment and unique gifting.

The brainchild of lifelong friends Mark (Laffo) Laffin and Christeen McKeever, Laffo’s Cookies is the culmination of a shared passion for food, baking, and community. Mark, who secured the lease for the purple van outside Target, invited Christine to bring her lifelong dream to life by sharing her incredible homemade, artisan cookies with Mackay.

Christeen, a retired nurse and lifelong baking enthusiast, has always dreamed of sharing her creations with the world. After running a small shop at The Leap a few years ago while juggling her nursing career, she is now fully embracing her passion for baking.

“I’ve always wanted to bake for others, and now, with Laffos’s Cookies, I can finally do that on a larger scale,” Christeen said.

To complement her cookies, Christeen sought out a local coffee partner who shared her values and passion for quality. She found the perfect match in Dan Shaw from Primal Coffee, a Mackay-based coffee roaster and barista trainer.

“Dan’s passion for coffee and his commitment to the Mackay community align perfectly with my vision for Laffo's Cookies,” Christeen added.

Together, they aim to create a unique experience that combines Christeen’s signature cookie recipes with Dan’s expertly roasted coffee.

The business also plans to introduce custom cookie gift boxes, which can be purchased online and delivered the same day through services like Menulog.

“We want to build a brand that people trust and love,” Christeen explained.

“Our cookie boxes will be the perfect solution for anyone looking for a unique gift or a way to brighten someone’s day.”

Mark and Christine are thrilled to bring Laffos Cookies to Mackay and are excited about the future.

“This is more than just a business—it’s a celebration of friendship, passion, and community,” Mark said.

“We can’t wait to share our love for food and baking with everyone in Mackay.”

Laffos’s Cookies invites the community to join them for their grand opening TODAY (Friday 11 April) at Caneland Central. Follow their journey on social media for updates, special offers, and more.

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L-R: Nicole Laffin, Mark Laffin, Christeen McKeever and Dan Shaw are all smiles ahead of Laffo’s Cookies' grand opening at Caneland Central – blending friendship, freshly baked cookies, and locally roasted coffee into one sweet new venture. Photos supplied

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As the Federal Election in May approaches, the Greater Whitsunday region is setting the stage for a brighter future by unveiling its comprehensive election priorities, guided by the theme "Greater Possibilities."

Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) Chief Executive Officer Ms Kylie Porter said this strategic vision aims to drive economic growth, enhance community well-being, and ensure sustainable development across the region.

“The entire Greater Whitsunday region makes an oversized contribution to the Australian economy, with a total economic output of $75B annually,” said Ms Porter.

“Our region has three key asks of investing in the basics, driving economic productivity and support local projects to underpin our communities.”

Ms Porter said the Greater Whitsunday region is calling for a fairer funding model for local governments. Currently, councils receive just 0.5 per cent of total taxation revenue. By increasing this to 1 per cent, local governments can continue to provide essential services that make our communities liveable.

“Additionally, significant investment in critical road networks and digital infrastructure is essential to prevent economic losses and improve productivity.”

Ms Porter said the region is poised to boost economic productivity through several key projects.

“The Great Barrier Reef Arena Stage 2 will enhance local sporting and major events facilities, supporting inclusivity and driving tourism. This investment is particularly timely as Harrup Park is the cricket venue for the Olympic and Paralympic Games Queensland 2032.

“Investment in the Whitsunday Marine Discovery Centre will also capitalise on the tourism opportunity coming from Olympic sailing in the Whitsundays.”

The marine centre will also create educational and tourism opportunities related to the Great Barrier Reef, further stimulating the local economy Ms Porter said.

“Supporting local projects is crucial for the region's growth and sustainability.

“The Northern Beaches Road Network Improvements project will address congestion and improve productivity by getting residents out of cars and into workplaces more efficiently.”

Ms Porter said the Isaac Royalties Road Package aims to ensure safe roads for the Isaac region, supporting the coal industry and the broader economy.

“We are calling on all candidates to clearly articulate their commitment to funding priorities and driving greater possibilities cross the entire Greater Whitsunday region in the next term of government.”

Greater Whitsunday Alliance is the region’s peak, independent economic development body committed to making the Mackay, Isaac, Whitsunday region strong for generations.

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Michelle Landry

LNP, Member for Capricornia

"I’ve fought hard for our region, securing $7 billion for infrastructure and key projects.

"From major road upgrades like the Walkerston Bypass and Sarina Northern Access, to $11 million for local community groups, I’ve delivered real results. Recently, I committed $3 million to expand the Walkerston Tigers clubhouse and $200,000 to rebuild the shed lost to fire, supporting grassroots sport and our future stars.

"But there’s more to do. I want Capricornia to thrive with strong industries, like mining, agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing which drive local jobs and small business growth. I will always fight for better infrastructure and stronger regional services to keep our communities thriving.

"Under Labor, regional Australia has been neglected. They’ve ripped funding from our towns to prop up multi-billion-dollar inner-city projects, while the cost of living has soared. Rent is up 18 per cent, groceries are up 30 per cent and power over 30 per cent higher.

"Home ownership is slipping out of reach Australians. An LNP government will make home ownership achievable by cutting migration, banning foreign investors from buying existing homes and funding essential infrastructure for housing.

"Labor axed critical Bruce Highway funding, forcing me to fight to get $7.2 billion restored. Yet, they’ll only spend $432 million over three years. This has delayed vital road safety improvements.

"A Coalition Government will invest in regional health by bolstering the workforce through incentives to attract and retain doctors and nurses. We will also ensure more doctors become GPs in regional areas by providing the support they need to train and work locally. support local businesses, and Capricornia deserves a strong voice in Canberra.

"I’ve delivered before, and with an elected LNP Government, I’ll keep fighting to get our region, and Australia, back on track."

Mick Jones

Greens candidate for Capricornia

"I’m from Rockhampton and have lived in Regional Queensland my whole life.

"I studied at Central Queensland University and became politically active with the Greens after overcoming a life-threatening illness, which taught me the value of our universal health care system and the incredible work done by our local health care workers.

"I’m running for Capricornia because the major parties have failed to address the cost of living, housing and climate crisis, and we need a bold new approach.

"Too many people in our community are doing it tough and struggling to pay the bills. Our schools are underfunded and our hospitals are understaffed. Meanwhile, the major parties continue to give handouts and subsidies to big corporations, one in three of whom pay no tax.

"As a Greens candidate, I’m campaigning to make big corporations pay their fair share so we can fund things like dental and mental health into Medicare, free GP visits, and fully funded public schools and hospitals.

"We will cap rent increases, deliver cheaper mortgages for people, and make the price gouging at our supermarkets illegal. We will take strong action on climate change through a massive investment in publicly owned renewable projects, which will include a just transition for our workers in the coal and gas industry by creating better and safer jobs in clean energy.

"The Greens don’t take corporate donations, which means we will fight for the community, not corporations.

"A vote for the Greens in the Lower House and Senate at this election is a vote to keep Dutton out and get Labor to act on our cost of living, housing and climate crisis.”

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This publication attempted to contact the candidates from Family First, One Nation, and Labor however received no response prior to print deadline. __

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Andrew Willcox, Member for Dawson

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“Having clocked up over 150,000km on the Bruce in my three years as the Federal Member for Dawson, I’m a passionate advocate for a better National Highway.

“I travel this highway every day, visiting and spending time with my constituents from Mackay to Townsville, and all the communities in between.

“I know the highway well, riding the potholes and the bumps. I know the risks travellers face, the delays they experience, and the frustrations they feel when the roads are cut.

“Not a day goes by without someone mentioning to me the poor conditions regional Australians face on this notorious stretch of road.

“Labor has neglected our highway, and in three years, it has only gotten worse. More needs to be done, and it cannot wait. I’ve been a fierce campaigner for the vital upgrades urgently needed for the Bruce Highway.

“My 'Back Our Bruce' campaign is something I'm incredibly proud to champion in Canberra, and it's a cause I will continue to fight for relentlessly.

“By securing another term on May 3rd, I can continue to drive action and fight for the necessary improvements. My Coalition colleagues support my voice for ‘Our Bruce Highway’.

“They know an improved Bruce is about improving safety, getting people moving, and that the Bruce is a key economic cog for not only North Queensland but Australia.

“A Coalition government will back our North Queensland road users and get to work on necessary upgrades. "Backing Our Bruce" means backing our farmers in getting produce to market, backing our miners getting to and from work, backing our Mums and Dads getting the kids to sport, and backing our truckies who ship our freight at all hours.

"With around a quarter of the Bruce Highway running through Dawson, getting real action is one of my most important priorities for the region.

"I want to see a better Bruce, a safer Bruce, a more reliable Bruce.

“Backing me is Backing Our Bruce!

"To join me in “Backing Our Bruce,” sign my petition and help get the wheels in motion:

www.andrewwillcox.com.au/back-our-bruce."

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Labor candidate for Dawson, Neil Wallace welcomed the policy announcement that a re-elected Albanese Labor Government will make batteries cheaper, with a 30 per cent discount on a typical installed battery through the Cheaper Home Batteries Program.

From 1 July 2025, there will be a 30 per cent discount on installing a typical virtual power plant-ready battery system alongside new or existing rooftop solar - with over 1 million installations expected by 2030.

Discounts will be based on the size of the system, with support for the first 50 kWh of usable capacity for eligible batteries sized up to 100 kWh – meaning batteries appropriate for small businesses and community facilities will also be eligible.

These batteries could save a household with existing rooftop solar up to $1,100 off their power bill every year, and $2,300 a year for households installing a new solar and a battery system.

The absolute value of the discount will decline over the next five years in line with expected battery cost reduction, in the same way discounts have tapered as the cost of rooftop solar has reduced.

The program will put downward pressure on bills by fully funding discounts by accredited installers. There is no cost to any other billpayer and everyone, battery or not, gets cheaper bills.

The initiative is expected to slash energy bills for households, small businesses and community facilities by up to 90 per cent.

Labor's plan is in stark contrast to Peter Dutton, who will cut critical services to pay for his $600 billion nuclear plan, driving up household energy bills by hundreds of dollars this decade alone and up to $1,200 when reactors are finally built.

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The Cost Of Ineffective Marketing

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Too many businesses sink money into marketing that simply doesn’t work. Some put their trust in agencies promising quick wins at unbeatable prices, only to be let down when the results don’t follow. Others take the DIY approach, spending time and resources on channels that miss the mark. To understand where things go wrong, and how to fix it, we sat down with Jody Euler, Director of award-winning agency Redhotblue, to uncover the biggest marketing mistakes and how businesses can make every dollar count.

How can a business owner tell if their marketing agency isn’t working for them?

If, as a business owner, you feel you are always pitching ideas to your agency, then it’s probably time to reconsider. A marketing agency should drive ideas and challenge the thinking of their clients - drawing on their experience and knowledge – not be providing cookie-cutter approaches.

What are the most common ways businesses waste their marketing budget?

Not having a plan is the quickest way to burn money. Activities decided on in isolation may seem like a good idea at the time, but collectively everything should work together. You need a plan to ensure you have allocated your budget appropriately. All too often clients chop and change based on the latest trends, a new offer, or what a competitor is doing.

Where do you see in-house marketing falling short in terms of budget allocation?

Lack of industry experience, media connections, and a narrow perspective are often what derail in-house marketing. While brand guidelines need to be respected, understanding how to navigate them without compromising the creative or producing bland outcomes comes with experience. It’s also common to see businesses invest in marketing that feels comfortable or familiar to themselves, but in fact doesn’t resonate with their audience.

What are some of the biggest misconceptions business owners have about marketing spend?

Often marketing is overlooked for two reasons.

1. Business is going well and therefore they believe they’re in a good position. If this were the case, we wouldn’t see the most well-respected brands continuing to promote their offerings.

2. They don’t believe it’s necessary. Business owners doing nothing in the marketing landscape will eventually fall behind, while their competitors forge ahead. In this day and age customers have access to so many options, so why would doing nothing be a good idea?

How does your agency help businesses avoid wasted marketing spend?

Strong messaging with tailored creative, delivered through the correct channels is how we approach everything regardless of budget.

How do you help clients shift from ineffective marketing tactics to a more strategic approach?

It starts with getting to know them, not just the business, but the person behind the decisions. We spend time in this space because experience has taught us that when clients understand the why, it changes everything. Often, it means going back to the fundamentals so we can build a clear, strategic path forward. True marketing strategy isn’t about chasing the latest trend or favouring a platform, it’s about intentional, purpose-driven decisions that align with long-term goals.

What would you say to a business owner who is sceptical about hiring an agency because they’ve been financially burned before?

One setback doesn’t mean the same outcome will follow, there is always a better path forward. My advice when choosing the right agency is to do your homework. Look beyond what they say and check their track record. Read client testimonials, review their past work, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. The right agency will welcome it.

Where possible book a consultation. It’s the perfect opportunity to see if the agency understands your goals. Whether you're looking to elevate your brand, grow your audience, or capture more market share, you need a team that not only has your back but also has the experience to take you there.

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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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