A rigorous march has turned into a major win for homeless veterans, with more than $27,600 raised for CASA Mackay through the Just Keep Marching campaign.

Led by 2025 Young Citizen of the Year Murray Macgroarty, the community-backed effort smashed its original target, transforming a personal challenge into real-world support for veterans facing housing insecurity.

The funding, presented by RSL Mackay, will be used to assist veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, helping cover short-term accommodation and other critical supports.

Local service provider CASA said the donation will help fill key gaps, ensuring veterans can access emergency housing and practical assistance when existing options fall short.

The campaign has highlighted the ongoing challenges facing veterans transitioning to civilian life, while showing the power of grassroots community action to deliver real, measurable change.
The donation is expected to provide immediate assistance for vulnerable veterans and strengthen local efforts to reduce veteran homelessness across the region.

RSL Mackay members met with CASA representatives on Tuesday, 10th February, to present the $27,660 donation for veteran homelessness support. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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RSL Mackay Donation Boosts Veteran Homelessness Support Through CASA

RSL Mackay presented a very generous donation of just over $27,600 to CASA Mackay in support of its ongoing work helping individuals experiencing homelessness, following the recent Murray’s Just Keep Marching fundraising campaign.

The funds were raised through an extraordinary community effort led by young cadet and 2025 Young Citizen of the Year Murray Macgroarty, whose long-distance walk captured widespread support and significantly exceeded its original fundraising target.

President of Mackay RSL Ken Higgins said the organisation was committed to ensuring the funds were directed where they were most needed.

“We want to make sure the money went to where it should go to, and that's to veteran homelessness in this area,” he said.

He confirmed the funds would directly support short-term housing needs for vulnerable veterans.

While exact figures are difficult to track due to the transient nature of the veteran community, the RSL estimates there are a number of veterans doing it tough locally.

“I would think there’d be probably 20 or 30 around the area that are coming and going,” he said.

He also highlighted the challenges many veterans face when transitioning from military to civilian life.

“One of the big problems with veterans is the transition from being very comfortable in their environment to now wandering around, and finding it hard to adapt to civilian life,” he said.

Mackay RSL Secretary Georgia-Lee Ricketts, a younger veteran herself, said she understood firsthand how difficult the transition from military life can be.

“I was discharged from the Army after 15 years, four years ago,” she said.

“I know firsthand how difficult it really is to try and find a place in the community once you leave the military.”

She said rebuilding life outside the structured military environment could be confronting.

“At 35 years old, I had to try and learn to live my life as an individual, and it is really difficult.”

CASA General Manager Will Stafford said the organisation was grateful to receive the funding and to partner with RSL Mackay to support veterans experiencing housing insecurity.

“We’re delighted to receive this funding,” Mr Stafford said.

“It was really amazing to follow Murray’s journey — that initial target of $5,000 to over $27,000 was incredible.”

Mr Stafford said CASA and the RSL had worked together to ensure the funds would be used strategically.

“After conversations with the RSL, we’ve got a plan to make this money work for veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness,” he said.

He said homelessness numbers in Mackay had stabilised but remained a significant concern.

“We’ve seen numbers stabilise — we’re sitting around 50 homeless individuals across Mackay.”

“We want to see that number go down.”

Mr Stafford said CASA had supported around 12 veterans in the past three months, and that the funding would allow CASA to fill critical gaps in support.

“If we have a homeless vet or someone at risk of homelessness, we want to be able to ensure the existing framework’s able to support them, and if in the rare instance it’s not, we can use this money to support them in any way we can.”

The donation will help ensure more veterans in Mackay receive timely support, practical assistance and a pathway toward safer, more stable housing.

RSL Mackay presented a generous donation to CASA earlier this week, following Murray Macgroarty’s Just Keep Marching campaign, to support veterans experiencing or at risk of homelessness. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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A 36-year-old East Mackay man has been charged with multiple weapons and drug-related offences following an early-morning police operation in Mackay late last month.

Mackay Tactical Crime Squad officers, with assistance from the Dog Squad, attended a Bridge Road motel in East Mackay at approximately 7.30am on 31 January in relation to a wanted person, declaring an emergent search.

Police allege that during the search, officers located a shortened firearm, ammunition, a quantity of dangerous drugs, and drug utensils.

The man has been charged with two counts of possessing dangerous drugs, including methamphetamine and buprenorphine, along with one count each of possessing a relevant substance (butanediol), unlawful possession of a weapon (shortened firearm), authority required to possess explosives (ammunition), and possessing utensils.

He has been remanded in custody and is due to reappear before Mackay Magistrates Court on 24 February.

Police are urging anyone with information to contact Policelink via the online suspicious activity form at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting, available 24 hours a day.

Information can also be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers by calling 1800 333 000 or reporting online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

Quote reference number: QP2600199545.

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Estelle is an older lady of refinement, experience and very strong opinions — and she is currently looking for a loving home to call her own.

Coming into care in need of emergency surgery, Estelle bravely underwent the removal of her hip joint. While the procedure was dramatic, her recovery has been anything but. Slow, steady and nothing short of remarkable, Estelle has handled the process with quiet determination and would like it known that she is not fragile — she is seasoned.

One of Estelle’s firmly held beliefs is that humans exist primarily for patting purposes. “Pat me, Human” is not a request, but a management directive.

Her foster carer works from home in what appears to be a very important role, though Estelle remains unimpressed. She has observed that humans have two hands: one for emails and one for the cat. This, in Estelle’s view, is simply efficient workplace management.

Estelle also lives by a strict interior design code: if it’s flat, it’s a bed. If it fits, she sits. And if there’s a laptop mat nearby, it is clearly intended for her comfort. She prefers to be wherever her human is — desk, couch, bed, paperwork or keyboard — with pats continuing, even while she sleeps. This is non-negotiable.

Despite her age and recent surgery, Estelle is calm, affectionate and wonderfully companionable. There is no chaos or curtain climbing here, just gentle company and the occasional reminder that pats are overdue.

To meet Estelle, contact Peta on 0423 500 650.

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Returning to school can be a challenge for many families, but thanks to the generosity of Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) staff, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students have begun the school year with the tools they need to succeed.

As part of the Back to School Supply Drive, staff from across Mackay HHS donated hundreds of essential items, including pens, rulers, rubbers, glue sticks, books, scissors, lunchboxes, water bottles, backpacks, and other learning equipment. The donations were collected by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Unit and delivered to the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Health Service (ATSICHS Mackay) to support families who are doing it tough.

Contributions came from various hospital units, including the Executive Leadership team and contracts department, demonstrating a strong commitment to health equity and efforts to help Close the Gap.

Organisers say the drive does more than provide supplies; it eases the financial burden on families while encouraging students to attend school regularly, reinforcing the importance of the 'Every Day Counts' message.

“A backpack filled with school supplies is the first step towards a mind filled with knowledge,” a spokesperson said.

Through this small but thoughtful gesture, Mackay HHS staff are helping local students pursue their learning and big dreams, showing how community support can make a real difference in the lives of families and young learners.

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Photo source: Mackay Hospital Health Service

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Hi lovely readers!

This Sunday is the Mackay Regional Council Sport and Rec Expo, and I’ll be popping in after church to take some photos of everyone there. If you see me with my camera out and about, feel free to come and say hi!

Sport is thriving in our region, and on page 21 you can read all about the North Queensland Games which will kick off a bit later on in the year.

Our region is jam-packed with talent, and it’s great to see so many opportunities and new pathways being paved for the future generations.

There’s a real passion amongst local leaders and the community to make Mackay not only a great place to live, but also a place where families can flourish, careers can grow, and where people can enjoy their hobbies and personal passions such as the arts or sport.

If you’re thinking of joining a local sporting club, check out the expo this Sunday. And if sport isn’t really your thing, try picking up a paint brush or starting a new hobby – you never know what talent you might uncover!

Scripture of the week: “For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” - Romans‬ 8‬:38‬-39‬ NKJV‬‬

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Mackay Community Foundation (MCF) is now accepting applications for its 2026 Grant Program, offering non-profit organisations the opportunity to access a share of up to $230,000 in funding for community projects.

The Grant Program is open to projects that deliver tangible benefits to the Mackay region community, build skills, confidence and strengthen participation across all ages and groups.

Areas such as education, youth engagement, health and wellbeing, community development, cultural and environmental initiatives or providing safe and accessible spaces are all encouraged to apply. Organisations applying under an auspice arrangement are also eligible.

While most grants are expected to range between $15,000 and $20,000, applications for larger-scale projects are also encouraged.

MCF Chair Melissa Green said the Grant Program supports a broad range of community initiatives.

“Every organisation, regardless of size or focus, has the potential to create meaningful outcomes,” Ms Green said.

“We encourage all local not-for-profits to apply, whether it’s a new pilot project, an expansion of existing programs or a creative approach to meeting community needs.

“This funding is designed to empower organisations, while helping them reach even more people and deliver outcomes that strengthen our community.”

Eligible projects must build social capital, capacity and/or resilience within the Mackay region. Projects should also deliver economic benefits locally, support local suppliers where possible, and be completed by June 2027.

Applications close at 5pm Friday, 13 March 2026. Applications can be submitted online at https://mackaycommunityfoundation.fillout.com/2026-grant-application.

Last year’s recipients shared in a total of $175,000 in grant funding awarded to local non-profit organisations in 2025. Photo source: Mackay Community Foundation

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Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, has warned that North Queensland families are being pushed to a financial breaking point following today’s decision by the Reserve Bank of Australia to raise interest rates to 3.85 per cent.

The 25-basis-point hike is the first in over two years and signals a deepening cost-of-living crisis that is being directly fuelled by the Albanese Government’s inability to control its own spending.

Mr Willcox said the rate rise is a devastating blow for mortgage holders who have already seen an extra $21,000 stripped from their pockets since Labor took office. He noted that while the Prime Minister promised Australians that "life would be cheaper" under a Labor government, the reality in Dawson is an unsettling erosion of the family budget.

For many families, the "Australian Dream" is being replaced by an economic nightmare, a daily struggle to balance the books as inflation continues to act as a silent thief.

The pressure is particularly acute for those who have young families, navigating the Christmas credit card and "back-to-school" expenses.

Recent data shows that education costs have surged by 5.4 per cent, while childcare fees have exploded by an incredible 11.2 per cent.

“It is a disgrace that in a country as prosperous as ours, a childcare place can now cost as much as a year at an elite private boarding school,” Mr Willcox said.

“These are barriers preventing parents from returning to work, making this cost-of-living nightmare even harder on families.”

Mr Willcox argued that these rising costs, combined with higher mortgage repayments and a suffocating rental market, are making it nearly impossible for working parents to get ahead.

“This economic pain is not an accident, but a direct result of Labor’s record-breaking spending,” Mr Willcox said.

New budget data has revealed an unbelievable $50 billion blowout in government spending over just six months; a rate of more than $200 million per day. “While families are being forced to make hard decisions and cut back on essentials, this Labor Government continues to pour fuel on the inflationary fire with taxpayer money,” he added.

The Member for Dawson has supported Senator Matt Canavan in calling for the immediate resignation of Treasurer Jim Chalmers. Senator Canavan initiated the call in the Senate today, following revelations of a staggering $50 billion blowout in government spending over just six months, a rate of more than $200 million per day.

“I am standing with Senator Canavan in saying enough is enough.

“Jim Chalmers has overseen the biggest spending blowout in Australian history, and it is hard working families who are settling the bill,” Mr Willcox said.

Senator Canavan noted that if a CEO in the private sector presided over a $100 billion blowout, they would be sacked on the spot.

“We should expect the same standard of accountability for the person holding the nation’s chequebook,” Mr Willcox said.

“This crazy level of spending is exactly why interest rates went up today. You cannot pour $200 million of taxpayer money onto the fire every single day and not expect inflation to burn.”

Mr Willcox warned that the rate hike would not only hurt mortgage holders but would also place even more pressure on an already suffocating rental market.

“Every time the Treasurer spends, the families in Mackay, the growers in Bowen, the tourism operators in the Whitsundays, the soldiers in Townsville and the workers in the Burdekin pay the price.

“My team and I will continue to fight to hold this Government to account for every dollar they waste and every promise they break.”

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In the heart of Mackay, nestled at 2/24 River Street, there is a culinary gem where the vibrant flavours of Asia meet a deep-rooted commitment to health and authenticity.

Tropical Phoenix Garden Restaurant is not your typical local eatery; it is a kitchen where tradition is respected and every dish is a testament to the belief that food is the ultimate medicine.

While many restaurants rely on the convenience of bulk cooking or pre-made ingredients: Tropical Phoenix has built its reputation on a much harder, yet more rewarding, path.

The secret to their incredible taste starts with a simple rule; everything is made from scratch. At Tropical Phoenix, you will never find rows of trays sitting in bain-maries for hours. Instead, every single main is wok-sizzled fresh to order. This high-heat, rapid cooking method ensures that vegetables remain crisp and nutrients are locked in, providing that elusive "wok hei" or "breath of the wok" that defines truly authentic Asian cuisine.

This dedication to quality extends to their famous starters. While many outlets serve frozen, mass-produced snacks, every spring roll at Tropical Phoenix is hand-rolled daily on-site. You can taste the difference in the light, crunchy pastry and the fresh, locally sourced filling.

Their dumplings and satay skewers follow the same standard, crafted by hand to ensure that the first bite of your meal is just as impressive as the last.

Central to the restaurant’s philosophy is the traditional Chinese nutritional belief of eating from a rainbow of vegetables. The chef understands that different colours in nature represent different benefits for the body. Following these ancient principles, they incorporate a diverse palette of ingredients to promote vitality. Red vegetables like tomatoes and capsicums are chosen to support heart health and circulation, while yellow and orange staples like carrots are essential for grounding the stomach and aiding digestion.

Green leafy vegetables are used for detoxification and liver health, while white ingredients, such as onions and cauliflower, support the lungs and immune system. By serving a spectrum of colours, Tropical Phoenix ensures that their meals provide a balanced foundation of vitamins and minerals.

The owner is also passionate about supporting the local community, sourcing vegetables and proteins from regional suppliers whenever possible. This local focus ensures the ingredients are as fresh as they can be, which is crucial when your sauces are being made in-house without the need for heavy preservatives.

Despite this focus on tradition, the team knows that diners often look for a bit of indulgence. This is why the restaurant regularly offers its fan-favourite specials, such as their famous half-price honey chicken. It is a reward for their loyal customers, providing a taste of Mackay’s most-loved dish at an unbeatable price.

Whether you are looking for a quick, nutritious lunch or a celebratory family dinner, Tropical Phoenix Garden Restaurant proves that fast food can be healthy, and traditional food can be accessible.

It is a place where every sizzle of the wok and every hand-rolled spring roll is a commitment to the health and happiness of their diners.

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The Resource Industry Network (RIN) February Industry Briefing Luncheon at Harrup Park kicked off the year with a record sell-out of 120 attendees, welcoming both familiar faces and newcomers.

Keynote speaker Adam Lancey, Asset President of BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA), provided an update on operations and the broader outlook for Queensland’s steelmaking coal industry.

Adam highlighted the importance of collaboration, saying, “Competitiveness requires collaboration… It requires a shared vision for Queensland’s future and the courage to make the changes needed to realise it.”

RIN General Manager Dean Kirkwood added, “It just shows the movements of the region, and their contribution back to ensuring that Mackay and the communities within our region are supported as well.”

The luncheon gave industry leaders a chance to explore key issues, including coal royalties, future investment, and how BMA is working with the regional supply chain.

Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Earlier this month, the 2026 barramundi season was officially reeled in, with Sunday 1 February marking the start date and giving anglers across the region the green light to wet a line. After recent weather events, the Pioneer River was once again ready for action, setting the stage for one of the busiest and most anticipated periods on the local fishing calendar.

The Mackay Isaac region has continued to build its standing as a leading recreational fishing destination in Queensland, strengthened by the St Helens to Cape Hillsborough Net Free Zone and supported by the region’s official fishing brand, Hooked on Mackay, which provides information on fishing, boating, local hotspots and on-water safety.

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said the Pioneer River remains one of Queensland’s top spots for barra fishing.

“Not only is it a beautiful river to spend time on, but it is also home to very healthy fish stocks,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Anglers regularly catch quality barra right under the Forgan Bridge, at the base of Dumbleton Weir and around ‘The Vee’ near the river mouth. The Pioneer River also has an abundance of fishing platforms for land-based fishing.

“Better yet, many of those platforms have artificial reefs installed within casting distance and we know from underwater cameras that those reefs hold some very large barra, and a host of other fish.”

According to Mackay Isaac Tourism CEO Jeff Stewart-Harris, the start of barra season was a perfect example of what makes the region stand out.

“The Mackay Net Free Zone, between St Helens and Cape Hillsborough, has transformed our waterways, and Hooked on Mackay has helped shine a national spotlight on the outstanding fishing experiences we have here,” Mr Stewart-Harris said.

“On top of the net free zone, council and Catchment Solutions completed Queensland’s largest rock fishway at Jolimont Creek last year.

“That fishway will allow about 25 fish species, including barramundi, to migrate upstream as part of their life cycle and will greatly enhance fish stocks in the area.

“Add to that our four stocked impoundments across Teemburra, Kinchant, Eungella and Theresa Creek dams, and the Mackay Isaac destination offers year‑round barramundi action that you simply won’t find anywhere else in Queensland.”

Isaac Regional Council Mayor Vea Vea said from the Isaac Coast to Theresa Creek Dam, our waterways play an important role in local recreation, tourism, and the way our communities live and connect.

 “Barra season brings people into our region, supports local businesses, and reminds us why protecting and promoting these fishing destinations matters”, Mayor Vea Vea said.

As the 2026 season swings into action, Mackay Isaac Tourism encourages fishers to get ready, discover the region’s unique blend of freshwater and saltwater fishing, and stay tuned to Hooked on Mackay for maps, tips, updates, and all things angling.

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson met with Mackay Isaac Tourism CEO Jeff Stewart-Harris to discuss the 2026 barramundi season and strategies to promote the region’s fishing destinations. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Local women looking to connect with others while supporting children in need are being encouraged to join the Mackay VIEW Club, which is currently welcoming new members.
VIEW — Voice, Interests and Education of Women — is a national network of close to 300 clubs and more than 14,000 women across Australia. The organisation provides opportunities for women to enjoy social activities, build friendships and support children’s education charity, The Smith Family.
Mackay Club President Elizabeth said this year is the perfect time to join, with social events returning to the calendar, including coffee mornings and Mother’s Day celebrations.
“Our events and activities are a way that we raise funds to support the education of children and young people experiencing disadvantage through The Smith Family,” she said.
VIEW is the largest community sponsor of The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program, which provides financial, educational and personal support to students.
“We have all been hit by the rising cost of living, be it power prices, food or petrol. But these rises have had an even greater impact on those already doing it tough,” Elizabeth said.
“Parents shouldn’t have to choose between putting dinner on the table or buying their child a uniform for school.”
VIEW nationally supports the education of more than 1,720 students, with Mackay VIEW Club currently supporting five.
Anyone interested in joining can contact Elizabeth on 0438 715 732, visit www.view.org.au, or find the club on Facebook at VIEW Club – Mackay, Queensland.
The next Mackay VIEW Club meeting will be held on Wednesday, 18 February, at the Mackay Surf Club. Those wishing to attend as a guest are asked to contact Rita on 0412 590 505 by Sunday.

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Local women are encouraged to come along to Mackay VIEW Club’s next meeting on 18 February. Photo supplied

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Mackay’s biggest sport and recreation sign-on event is only days away.

The Mackay Sport and Rec Expo will have more than 90 clubs on display, creating a one-stop-shop of sport and recreation opportunities.

Mayor Greg Williamson said it was exciting to see so many local clubs get on board and support the annual expo.

“This year’s event will be action packed, with a range of active zone activities and demonstrations throughout the day and all the usual prizes and competitions, such as nominate your favourite club and random draws,” Mayor Williamson said.

The event is free to attend and will include more than 90 interactive booths, an active zone area in the south foyer and activities outside.

The activities will feature a dynamic program, including basketball 3x3, karate, wood chopping demonstrations and more.

Attendees are invited to nominate their favourite sport and recreation club at the event for a chance to win the club a $1000 merchandise voucher, thanks to in-kind sponsor Brand Factor.

Other sponsors for the event include media partners Star 101.9, 4MK and 7 News Mackay.

The event will be held Sunday, February 15, from 9am to 1pm, with Star 101.9 broadcasting live.

For more information, visit mackay.qld.gov.au/sportexpo

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Photos supplied

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Three major events on this year’s calendar have received a significant funding boost from the Queensland Government in a bid to expand tourism and deliver a vibrant program of events for locals and visitors alike.

The announcement came last week as Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton met with BMA Mackay Marina Run organiser Tim Magoffin to confirm support under Tourism and Events Queensland funding programs.

Event Director Tim Magoffin said the funding would directly support efforts to grow visitation and promote the region to a wider audience.

“This funding will enable us to increase our targeted campaigns, digital advertising and social media presence, all focused on increasing visitation to our fantastic location. This year’s Mackay Marina Run will see us tip over the $1 million mark of donations to the local Mackay branch of the Leukemia Foundation since the inception of the event,” he said.

“With the long term and ongoing support of Tourism and Events Queensland this local community support and tourism activation will continue to grow.”

The funding forms part of the Queensland Government’s broader Destination 2045 strategy, which aims to strengthen the state’s reputation as a leading events destination while driving tourism and economic activity across regional communities.

The program provides grants of up to $300,000 over three years to support event organisers in growing standout local events that promote Queensland as a must-visit destination and boost the visitor economy.

To further support cultural tourism, grants of up to $40,000 are also available for events that celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture.

In Mackay, a total of $100,000 has been allocated to support key events, including the BMA Mackay Marina Run, Rhythm and the Reef and Rumble on the Reef.

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the funding would help strengthen Mackay’s growing events calendar and deliver lasting benefits for the region.

“Mackay has a strong and growing events calendar, and this funding helps ensure local favourites like the Mackay Marina Run, Rhythm and the Reef and Rumble on the Reef can continue to grow, attract visitors and deliver lasting benefits for our community,” Mr Dalton said.

“The BMA Mackay Marina Run is a signature event that brings thousands of visitors to our region and delivers real economic and community benefits."

Queensland Minister for Tourism Andrew Powell said the funding reinforced the Queensland Government’s commitment to supporting events that drive tourism and strengthen regional economies.

“Events draw visitors into our regions, fill hotels, boost local businesses and showcase everything that makes Queensland an unbeatable place to visit.”

“Through this latest round of the Homegrown program, we are delivering real economic and social benefits for communities right across the state.”

Mackay funding recipients:
Destination Signature Events
• BMA Mackay Marina Run – $45,000
• Rhythm and the Reef – $15,000
• Rumble on the Reef – $20,000

Destination Indigenous Events
• Rhythm and the Reef – $20,000

Photos supplied

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North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) is delivering local jobs through continued investment in apprenticeships across key trade and horticulture roles.

Four new apprentices have commenced at the Port of Mackay as part of NQBP’s 2026 intake, gaining hands-on training that supports long-term skills development in the region.

The intake builds on the success of NQBP’s previous apprentice cohort, with five apprentices having recently completed their training and progressed to the next stage of their careers.

NQBP Chief Executive Officer Brendan Webb said apprenticeships were critical to developing the skilled workforce needed to support port operations and Queensland’s supply chains.

“By investing in apprenticeships, we’re building a skilled local workforce that supports our business, regional communities and the port industry into the future,” Mr Webb said.

“Having started my own career as an apprentice, I know how powerful these opportunities are. Apprenticeships open doors, build confidence and create skills that last a lifetime.”

NQBP’s 2026 cohort includes plumbing, electrical and two horticulture apprentices. Apprentices earn while they learn by the waterfront, gaining nationally recognised qualifications and hands-on experience as part of NQBP’s maintenance team.

“Mentored by experienced tradespeople, apprentices gain real-world experience maintaining critical port infrastructure that keeps essential trade moving and supports Queensland communities,” Mr Webb said.

More than half of Queensland’s trade, valued at over $53 billion annually, passes through NQBP’s ports of Mackay, Hay Point, Abbot Point and Weipa, highlighting the importance of a skilled and reliable local workforce.

“Starting my plumbing apprenticeship at NQBP marks a major new chapter for me. I’m keen to build my skills across all areas of the plumbing industry while gaining experience in a port environment, and I chose NQBP for its strong reputation within the Mackay community,” said Luke Reeves, Plumbing Apprentice.

Ethan Little, Electrical Apprentice, added, “NQBP has given me the opportunity to turn my interest in maths and science into an electrical apprenticeship, and I’m excited to learn new skills as part of the team.”

Horticultural apprentices are also joining the team. Alicia Bryant said, “I was excited and a little nervous to start my horticultural apprenticeship, but I love working outdoors and I’m looking forward to learning as much as I can over the next three years. I’m very grateful for the opportunity.”

Jasmine Bourke, another Apprentice Horticulturalist, commented, “Starting with NQBP is a great opportunity for me. I’ve always loved working outdoors in gardening and horticulture, and I’m keen to learn more about the region’s native plants and how to protect and maintain them. Being part of the NQBP team means a lot to me and my family.”

By investing in local talent today, NQBP is helping ensure the long-term capability of its ports and the communities they support.

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NQBP Apprentices Ethan Little, Jasmine Bourke and Luke Reeves

Apprentices with Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton MP and NQBP CEO Brendan Webb. Photos supplied

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Catherine McAuley College is excited to announce that our first cohort of senior students now has access to the Formula High School Program! This hands-on STEM opportunity will let students explore engineering, design, and innovation in an exciting new way.

The Formula High School Programme is a comprehensive education initiative that allows senior secondary students to complete a nationally recognised Certificate II in Engineering Pathways while still at school. The programme combines practical engineering training with an exciting, real-world project: the design and construction of a full-scale race car, that the students get to take to Lakeside Park Raceway and drive!

Throughout the course, students work in a workshop environment where they apply their learning directly to the race car project. They develop foundational engineering skills such as using hand and power tools, mechanical assembly, basic fabrication, welding, and safe workshop practices. Strong emphasis is placed on workplace health and safety, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving, all of which are essential in engineering and trade-based industries.

The race car project provides a practical framework for learning, allowing students to see how individual components and systems come together to create a functioning vehicle. Students are involved in tasks such as chassis construction, suspension and braking systems, engine installation, and general vehicle assembly, depending on the stage of the build. This project-based approach helps students understand engineering concepts in a meaningful and engaging way.

In addition to technical skills, students gain valuable employability skills by working as part of a team under real deadlines and expectations. The programme also introduces students to a range of engineering and automotive career pathways and helps them make informed decisions about further education and employment.

On successful completion, students receive the MEM20422 Certificate II in Engineering Pathways, a qualification recognised across Australia. This certificate can contribute to a student’s senior secondary certification and provides a strong foundation for apprenticeships, traineeships, or further study in engineering and manufacturing fields.

By combining a nationally recognised qualification with a hands-on race car build, the Formula High School Programme offers students a unique and practical pathway from school into the engineering workforce.

Taking enrolments for 2027! Visit https://cmcmrok.catholic.edu.au/ for more information.

Catherine McAuley College senior students now have access to the Formula High School Program! Photo supplied

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