Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Five decades of community connection were officially celebrated over morning tea as the Whitsunday Leisure Activity Centre opened its 50th anniversary celebrations this past Monday. The gathering brought locals together to reflect on the Centre’s history and recognise those who had helped it grow into an important part of the Whitsundays community. Past and present supporters were acknowledged, with particular appreciation for the volunteers whose contributions had helped sustain the Centre across the years. “It was wonderful to hear more about the history of the Centre and the many people, volunteers and supporters who have helped it grow into such an important part of our community over five decades,” said Mayor of the Whitsundays, Ry Collins. The opening marked the beginning of a week dedicated to celebrating the milestone and welcoming the wider community through its doors. The anniversary wouldn’t have stopped at this morning tea, as opportunities to visit throughout the week, with a twilight market scheduled for Friday 30th October keep the centre buzzing Photo captions; Photo 1- Whitsundays Leisure activity centre’s 50th Anniversary morning tea. Photo supplied: Mayor Ry Collins
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A GoFundMe page has attracted an overwhelming response from the local community, with donors raising over $50k to help 1-year-old Mia after a lifechanging diagnosis. On October 20th, Mia’s mum Melanie Russel was told by doctors that her daughter has a very large mass on her brain. The family were medically flown to Brisbane, where Mia underwent life-saving brain surgery. Whilst awaiting results, Melanie reached out to the community for support amid a loss of income as she supports her daughter. “There are no words to describe that deep-rooted fear in your soul, the grief, and the amount of guilt you hold as parents knowing your child is suffering in this kind of way.” Melanie shared. “We cannot comprehend how our amazing, resilient, groovy little girl is experiencing this and still smiling at us.” The GoFundMe page had already raised $50,923 at time of print. Contributors are sending donations, support and well wishes as Mia continues her fight. Those wanting to contribute can search ‘Princess Mia’s Fight For Life’ on GoFundMe. 1. Princess Mia and her family in a happy embrace. Photo Source: Princess Mia fight for life Go FundMe page.
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A meal delivery will soon come with a reminder to keep drinking for Proserpine Meals on Wheels clients, with Whitsunday Lions funding reusable bottles to help them stay hydrated as the weather warms. The idea followed when a delivery driver found a client unwell at home, where an ambulance was called, and the client was taken to hospital, with dehydration being the final diagnosis. Geraldine Carvell, who works for Meals on Wheels and volunteers with Lions, approached the club to fund water bottles for the service’s roughly 70 clients, helping them stay hydrated throughout the day. “It also gives deliverers an opportunity when they’re delivering the meal … they can just say, ‘Have you filled the drink bottle up?’” Geraldine said. Marked with time stamp reminders to drink throughout the day, the bottles help give recipients a way to keep track of their water intake and a prompt to refill. Geraldine thanked Lions for helping turn the idea into something practical for local clients. “Lions were more than happy,” she said. “They also thought it was a good idea, so they were more than happy to fund it.” The donation continues Lions’ support for the service, which has also included assistance with new freezers. Photo caption: Geraldine Moore and Helen Maynard-Turner. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville
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The Whitsundays’ tourism industry was out in force on Saturday night, with more than 200 guests gathering to celebrate the outstanding businesses and passionate people who make the region a world-class destination. The sold-out 2026 Whitsunday Tourism Awards recognised 87 finalists across 14 categories, celebrating the exceptional experiences, service and dedication that keep visitors coming back to our slice of paradise. Tourism Whitsundays committee members, CEO of Tourism Whitsundays Tim Booth, Mayor Ry Collins and friends celebrating at the 2026 Whitsundays Tourism Awards held art Elementa over the weekend. Photo credit: R Jean Photography
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Hotel Mackay's beef and chicken are halal certified.
A generous spread, a few good sides and plenty of grilled favourites to go around, Hotel Mackay has given locals yet another reason to gather around the table with the recent addition of its Mackay Butcher’s Feast, a signature sharing experience that puts the grill centre stage.
Made for those who enjoy a little bit of everything, this generous platter brings together five favourites, with plenty to share around the table.
THE MACKAY BUTCHER'S FEAST – $249
Serves 4–6 | Suggested wine pairing: Sisters Run Calvary Hill Shiraz
For those who prefer a steak of their own, the grill menu also features several individual cuts, all cooked to diners' liking and served with a choice of baked potato or chips, plus a side of their choice.
FROM THE GRILL:
Call 07 4863 0564 to book your table and tuck into Mackay’s finest Butcher’s Feast now!
Contributed with thanks by Emmanuel Catholic Primary School Mackay
It has been an exciting time at Emmanuel Catholic Primary School Mackay, with students recently achieving outstanding results at the Opti-MINDS Challenge before coming together for a highly successfulCommunity Engagement Day.
Five Emmanuel teams participated in this year's Opti-MINDS competition, showcasing their creativity, collaboration and problem-solving abilities. Students presented innovative solutions to the Science Engineering and Media Communication long-term challenges, demonstrating weeks of dedicated preparation and teamwork.
On competition day, students also tackled the Spontaneous Challenge, which tested their ability to think critically, communicate effectively and work together under pressure.
Emmanuel students achieved excellent results, with one of the school's Science Engineering teams awarded First Place and earning an invitation to compete at the State Finals in Brisbane. Adding to the celebrations, one of Emmanuel's Media Communication teams received Honours in recognition of their creative and engaging presentation.
Opti-MINDS is a creative problem-solving competition that encourages students to think, create and communicate. Participants work collaboratively in teams to solve a long-term, open-ended challenge and complete a spontaneous challenge on competition day. The event provided a wonderful opportunity for students to develop confidence, resilience and teamwork skills while having fun and learning alongside their peers.
The excitement continued with Emmanuel's annual Community Engagement Day, which lived up to its theme of connection, participation and enjoyment.
WOW! What a fabulous Friday!
The day was a tremendous success, with students enthusiastically participating in a wide range of engaging and enriching activities. From Ballet, Jazz and Hip Hop to basketball, Body Balance, Cutters Care and F45 Fitness, there was truly something for everyone.
Creative minds immersed themselves in Lego, pottery, beading, scrapbooking, chalk drawing, painting, arts and crafts, keyring making and chatterboxes, while others explored sensory activities and enjoyed time in the school's chill-out zones.
A highlight of the day was the sensational Scavenger Hunt, which saw students working alongside their teachers in class groups to solve clues, complete challenges and enjoy quality time together.
Throughout the day, students demonstrated positive attitudes, curiosity, teamwork and problem-solving skills as they challenged themselves, learned new skills and strengthened connections with others. The activities provided valuable opportunities for students to step outside their comfort zones, discover new interests and celebrate the importance of community.
A very special thank you goes to Emmanuel's community partners and staff who generously shared their time, expertise and talents to make the day possible. Their support helped create a memorable experience for students and contributed to the success of a truly wonderful event.
The recent achievements at Opti-MINDS and the success of Community Engagement Day reflect the vibrant spirit of Emmanuel Catholic Primary School Mackay, where students are encouraged to learn, create, collaborate and thrive. Congratulations to all students involved, and best wishes to the First-Place Science Engineering team as they prepare to represent Emmanuel at the State Finals in Brisbane.
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A planned aerial 1080 baiting program targeting feral pigs across Eungella National Park and Cathu State Forest has been postponed, with Mackay Regional Council to hold a public information session before the program is rescheduled.
Originally scheduled for 14th October, the program was postponed due to forecast adverse weather conditions, with the delay also providing an opportunity for further community consultation following concerns raised about the proposed baiting measures.
Member for Mirani Glen Kelly MP said he had been working with relevant authorities to ensure community concerns were heard and residents had access to more information about the program.
“I have been advised that the program includes environmental risk assessments and operational safeguards designed to minimise impacts on native wildlife while addressing the significant damage caused by feral pigs,” Mr Kelly said.
“It is important that we continue to manage feral pig populations effectively while ensuring residents and landholders are properly informed and have an opportunity to raise any concerns.
“I appreciate the cooperation of those involved in allowing further consultation to take place and encourage the community to engage with Mackay Regional Council as it coordinates the next steps.
Council is coordinating the program in partnership with local landholders, with the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) providing funding support.
Mackay Regional Council said landholders had been requesting feral pig management programs following increased pig activity after successive wet seasons.
The pests have been causing significant damage to properties, agricultural land and the environment, while also posing a threat to primary industry operations across the area.
Environmental risk assessments conducted by the State Government, alongside operational safeguards, have been designed to minimise impacts on native wildlife while addressing the damage caused by feral pigs.
Aerial baiting forms part of a broader coordinated syndicate program, which also includes ground-based control measures such as trapping and shooting.
Mr Kelly acknowledged the importance of managing feral pig populations while ensuring residents and landholders had an opportunity to understand the proposed measures and raise any concerns.
With the postponement, council will work with the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation to organise a public information session at Eungella before the program is delivered.
Residents and landholders are encouraged to engage with Mackay Regional Council as it coordinates the next steps.
Premier David Crisafulli and Glen Kelly MP at a recent visit on the Bruce Highway between Sarina and Marlborough
By State Member for Mirani Glen Kelly MP
Across the Mirani electorate, roads are more than just a way of getting from A to B. They are the lifelines connecting our communities, supporting local industries and keeping our regional economy moving. Whether it’s families travelling to school, truck drivers transporting goods or tourists exploring our beautiful region, we all rely on safe and reliable roads.
That is why improving our road network has been one of my priorities since being elected. Over the past two years, the Crisafulli Government has been getting on with the job of delivering much-needed road improvements across Central Queensland.
One project locals will have noticed is the microsurfacing works along Mackay–Eungella Road. Our Main Roads crews have been making the most of the warmer months to undertake microsurfacing works across the region, helping extend the life of our roads and improve driving conditions. Microsurfacing involves applying a thin protective layer over the existing road surface. It helps seal minor cracks, prevent water damage and extend the life of the pavement, reducing the need for more expensive repairs.
Importantly, microsurfacing also improves road safety by restoring surface texture and providing better tyre grip, particularly in wet conditions. It's a practical, cost-effective way of maintaining our road network. I appreciate motorists' patience while these works have been underway. Line marking is scheduled for completion by the end of November, weather permitting.
Further south, major upgrades to the Bruce Highway near of Marlborough are well underway. Anyone who regularly travels the Bruce Highway knows how important these improvements are, particularly given the volume of heavy vehicles using this vital freight corridor.
We are also seeing welcome progress along the Peak Downs Highway, with new overtaking lanes and widened pullover bays under construction. These practical improvements will make a real difference to motorists sharing the road with heavy vehicles travelling between Mackay and Moranbah.
While these projects represent important progress, I recognise there is still plenty of work ahead. One road I will continue advocating for is Hay Point Road, which carries significant traffic supporting our coal export terminals.
Road investment isn't simply about bitumen and bridges. It's about road safety, productivity, regional development and keeping our communities connected. After a busy first two years of the Crisafulli Government, we are seeing real progress.
There is still much to do, and I will continue pushing to ensure Mirani receives its fair share of road funding. Regional Queensland deserves roads that are safe, reliable and built for the future.
By Michelle Landry, Federal Member for Capricornia
Early detection saves lives, and when it comes to breast cancer, recognising the warning signs and attending regular screenings can make all the difference.
Pink Ribbon Day is an important reminder for women across Central Queensland to prioritise their breast health and take advantage of the screening services available.
Breast cancer affects thousands of Australian women and their families every year but detecting it early can significantly improve treatment options and survival rates.
I encourage eligible women to access BreastScreen Queensland's free mammogram services and speak with their GP about any changes or concerns.
Living in regional Queensland should never be a barrier to accessing potentially lifesaving healthcare.
Pink Ribbon Day is also an opportunity to celebrate survivors, remember those we have lost and acknowledge the dedicated healthcare professionals, researchers and volunteers supporting families through breast cancer.
Together, we can raise awareness, encourage screening and save lives.
Sarina Landcare celebrated 25 years of environmental conservation with a community fun day at Sarina Community Native Gardens, bringing locals and community groups together last Saturday. Photo source: Sarina Neighbourhood Centre
Environmental awareness and local connections were at the heart of Sarina Landcare's 25th anniversary celebrations, with a Community Fun Day held at Sarina Community Native Gardens last Saturday.
Locals were invited to explore the gardens, visit community stalls and enjoy a morning of family-friendly activities.
Mayor Greg Williamson joined the celebrations, recognising Sarina Landcare's contribution to the region over the past quarter-century.
“For a quarter of a century, Sarina Landcare has played an important role in protecting and restoring our local environment, bringing the community together and encouraging sustainable land management,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Congratulations to everyone involved, past and present, on this fantastic milestone. Thank you to the dedicated volunteers and supporters who continue to make such a positive contribution to our region.”
A representative from Sarina Neighbourhood Centre also thanked the many community groups, organisations and businesses that contributed to the event.
Those involved included Sarina Landcare Catchment Management Association, Sarina Scout Group, Mackay and District Turtle Watch, Reef Catchments, Sarina 4WD and Outdoor Centre, Conservation Volunteers Australia, Sarina Neighbourhood Centre, Sarina Art Gallery, Linda's Taxidermy Display and Wildlife Whitsundays.
Mackay Regional Council's Pest Trailer and Parker the Library Van also attended, while the Lions Club provided food and Lil Daisy Van supplied coffee.
Mayor Williamson and Councillor Ann Baker were acknowledged as special guests, with the event supported by NQ Bulk Ports, Mackay Regional Council, Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank and Member for Mirani Glen Kelly.
The celebration marked 25 years of Sarina Landcare's work in the region, recognising the volunteers, supporters and community organisations who continue to contribute to its environmental efforts.
(L-R) Celebrating 25 years of Sarina Landcare : SLCMA Coordinator Saskia von Fahland, Community Bank Sarina Customer Relationship Officer Kylie Schulze, Community Bank Sarina Board Director
Contributed with thanks by Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank
For the past 25 years, Sarina Landcare Catchment Management Association (SLCMA) has worked to protect and improve our local environment, bringing together landholders, volunteers, schools and the wider community.
Through its community nursery, school support programs, volunteer opportunities and land management advice, SLCMA assists the community in understanding, protecting and caring for our natural resources.
Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank has proudly supported SLCMA with more than $40,000 in Community Grants over many years. This support has enabled nursery improvements and expansions, including solar panels, an undercover workspace for volunteers and visitors and upcoming upgrades such as stainless steel propagating benches, a wash bay and electrical improvements.
“It’s very rewarding to see the positive impact this support has in the community and we look forward to seeing SLCMA continue its great work for the Sarina community for many years to come,” Mrs May said.
The community nursery provides native plants and hands on learning opportunities for schools, landholders, volunteers and community groups to care for our local environment.
Most recently, a Community Grant supported the upgrades and improvements to the Sarina Community Native Gardens including weatherproofing the walking track and installing educational signage to improve visitor experience and accessibility. These upgrades were officially launched at a community fun day celebrating the organisation’s 25-year milestone.
The event brought together local landholders, volunteers, families and the wider Landcare community, with interactive activities, community displays and wildlife experiences showcasing the garden and SLCMA’s ongoing work.
SLCMA Coordinator Saskia von Fahland said ongoing support from Community Bank Sarina had “helped build the organisation’s capacity, improve facilities and create more opportunities for community participation.”
“Upgrades to the nursery have provided a more practical workspace for volunteers and opened up opportunities for workshops, hands-on native plant propagation and youth education programs, helping more people connect with Landcare and learn practical environmental skills,” Ms von Fahland said.
For more information visit SLCMA’s Facebook page. To see how Community Bank Sarina supports local groups and initiatives that make a lasting difference, follow them on Facebook, LinkedIn or Instagram.
OPINION PIECE By Andrew Willcox MP, Federal Member for Dawson
Apparently, when the Albanese Government doesn't like the answer, it simply asks the question again.
Less than 24 hours after the Senate delivered a resounding rejection of Labor's assault on older Australians' private health insurance rebates, Health Minister Mark Butler was back in Parliament introducing the very same legislation.
The arrogance is astounding.
Yesterday, the Coalition, the Greens and independent senators stood together to stop Labor's rebate cuts, with the Senate voting 38 to 23 to remove the Bill from its agenda.
Today, Labor decided that message wasn't worth listening to.
Not the Senate. Not its own concerned backbenchers. Not the thousands of Australians who signed the Coalition's petition. Not the health organisations warning about the consequences.
Just who does this Government think it answers to?
Labor has turned parliamentary democracy into a game of political stubbornness, where the Senate's verdict is treated as an inconvenience and the only opinion that matters is the Government's own.
Across Dawson, I've personally responded to hundreds of emails and met with older constituents terrified of what these changes could mean for their finances.I promised them I would fight this assault on their retirement security. And the Coalition has fought it every step of the way.
Labor's proposal would remove the additional private health insurance rebate available to Australians aged over 65.
For some older couples, that could mean paying more than $1,600 extra every year.
Around 3.2 million older Australians would be affected, including pensioners and self- funded retirees who have spent decades planning carefully for retirement.
These are people with limited disposable income.
They are Australians who have worked, saved, paid their taxes and maintained private health cover, often precisely because they don't want to become another patient waiting months for treatment.
Yet Labor wants them to help deliver $3 billion in Budget savings over four years.
The Government calls this equity. I call it an assault on older Australians who have done everything right.
And the consequences won't stop at their bank accounts.
The Government's own modelling reportedly anticipates up to 78,000 fewer older Australians holding private health insurance by 2029–30 than otherwise expected.
Where will many of those patients go?
Into public hospitals already struggling with elective surgery waiting lists, ambulance ramping and exhausted healthcare workers.
This is cost-shifting dressed up as reform. State governments, taxpayers, nurses and doctors will be left managing the consequences.
Minister Butler called the Senate's decision an "absolute travesty".
I would suggest the real travesty is expecting pensioners to shoulder another financial burden while refusing to reconsider a policy that has attracted such widespread opposition.
The Coalition attempted to stop the legislation being brought back through the House this morning, with Dan Tehan moving to suspend standing orders. Labor pressed ahead.
It's Groundhog Day, except older Australians are being asked to pay for every repeat.
There is a disturbing habit developing in this Government: announce a controversial policy, dismiss the warnings, ignore the backlash and press ahead regardless.
What sort of Government looks at a pensioner struggling to afford their health insurance and decides the problem isn't that they're paying too much, but that the Government isn't taking enough? Older Australians deserve better than a government that treats their concerns as an inconvenience.
The Senate has spoken. The community has spoken. Labor should listen.
And if this Government insists on continuing its assault on older Australians' retirement security, the Coalition will continue fighting it every step of the way.
Being prepared at home can make all the difference if faced with a storm, fire or flood event.
Disaster preparedness starts with a conversation – and on Saturday at Caneland Central, I had the opportunity to help get those conversations going.
As part of Get Ready Queensland Week, I joined the team handing out disaster preparedness packages and encouraging residents to think about how ready their households would be if severe weather came our way.
Here in the Mackay region, we know that storms, cyclones and flooding and or fire can disrupt our lives. We cannot control the weather, but we can take practical steps now to help protect ourselves, our families and our neighbours.
The packages are a useful starting point, but the real value comes from taking them home, reading the information and putting a plan into action.
Think about what your household would need if the power went out or you were unable to get to the shops. Drinking water, non-perishable food, a torch, batteries, essential medication and copies of important documents are all things to consider. Remember to plan for your pets, too.
Have a conversation with your family about how you would stay in touch, where you would go if you needed to leave home and who might need an extra hand.
Preparedness is also about looking out for one another. An older neighbour, someone living alone or a person with limited mobility may appreciate help checking supplies or understanding their options.
Council and emergency services have important roles in disaster management, and household preparation helps support that work. Taking responsibility for the things we can do now puts our whole community in a stronger position.
Thank you to everyone who stopped for a chat on Saturday, and to the staff and volunteers helping our region prepare.
My encouragement is simple: take a little time this week to check your supplies, talk through your plan and make sure you know where to find official warnings and updates.
A little preparation can make a big difference when it matters most.
If you’d like to catch up with your Mackay region councillors in person, then come along to a Let’s Chat – Council Connect session. The next one is at the Calen and District War Memorial Hall on November 3 from 5pm to 6pm.
My daughter has spent this year on her school's senior leadership team, following a selection process that was both thorough and arduous.
Six weeks of leadership training, speeches, interviews, longlists, shortlists and finally, an election by their peers.
There were nerves, tears, courage and heartbreak. You don't put yourself through that particular wringer unless you really want the role.
Watching these young people represent their school, support their peers, and now mentor the next group has been wonderful. They have grown, and they filled these roles with such joy.
It got me thinking about leadership. If you compare the extraordinary process these young people went through to become leaders to the people in business who have found themselves managing teams by accident, or with considerably less preparation.
Someone is brilliant at their job. They know the systems, understand the numbers and have earned their stripes, so they get promoted and are suddenly responsible for people. Then there's small business, where leadership comes with the keys. You're the boss, HR department, bookkeeper and the person everyone looks to for direction. Ready or not.
Last Thursday, Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce held its AGM, including our committee election. Twelve people nominated, with around one hundred members and guests in the room. There was that familiar element of putting yourself forward and hoping your peers would choose you.
It's a brave thing to put yourself forward for election, whatever your age. And the willingness to do so deserves recognition, regardless of the result. Congratulations to our newly elected committee andthank you to everyone who nominated. Volunteering your time and experience to represent our business community deserves recognition.
Watching these elections unfold has reminded me that people arrive at leadership in different ways. Some chase it. Some stumble into it. Others have it thrust upon them. But however you become a leader, knowing how to lead people is something worth learning.
And just as we invest time in identifying future leaders, we should invest in helping them become good ones. After all, if we can spend six weeks preparing teenagers to lead their school, surely we can find a little time to help adults lead their teams.
Ellen Madden
Business Engagement, Events and Communications Manager
Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce
www.mackayregionchamber.com.au
Reclaim the Night is an annual community event bringing people together to raise awareness of gender-based violence and sexual assault, while standing in solidarity for safer homes and public spaces.Photo source: Reclaim the Night - Mackay
Mackay residents are encouraged to come together, stand in solidarity and help raise awareness of gender-based violence and sexual assault at this year's Reclaim the Night event.
Hosted by Zonta Club of Mackay, alongside community partners Mackay Women's Services, The Neighbourhood Hub and The Salvation Army, the annual family-friendly gathering will take place at Bluewater Quay on Friday 30th October, from 5pm to 6.30pm.
Bringing the community together through education, shared experiences and a peaceful march, Reclaim the Night aims to make a stand against gender-based violence and sexual assault in both homes and public spaces.
The event provides an opportunity for people of all ages to show their support for those affected, acknowledge the importance of safer communities and reinforce the message that everyone deserves to feel safe, respected and protected.
The evening will begin at 5pm with a Welcome to Country by Aunty Deb Clark, followed by an opening address from Zonta Club of Mackay President Shirl Russell.
Senior Sergeant Kane Hilderbrand, Officer in Charge of the Domestic Family Violence and Vulnerable Persons Unit, will also address attendees, alongside Barb Hill.
A peaceful Reclaim the Night march will follow, giving community members the opportunity to walk together in support of the cause and demonstrate their commitment to raising awareness.
Entertainment will be provided by local performer Maya Batra, while the Walkerston Rotary Club will offer a free sausage sizzle for attendees.
Originating in Leeds, England, in 1977, Reclaim the Night has grown into a global movement, with events held annually on the last Friday of October, at the end of sexual violence awareness month.
Over the years, the movement has continued to provide communities with an opportunity to speak out against violence, challenge attitudes and encourage meaningful conversations about safety, respectand equality.
For Mackay's organising partners, the event is also an opportunity to bring local services, organisations and residents together behind a shared cause, while ensuring the message reaches beyond the evening itself.
Community members are encouraged to attend, bring their families and friends, listen to the speakers and take part in the peaceful march.
Whether attending to show support, learn more or stand alongside those who have experienced violence, every voice and presence can help strengthen the community's message.
WHAT: Reclaim The Night March
WHEN: Friday, October 30, 5pm To 6.30pm
WHERE: Bluewater Quay, Mackay
Students from across the Mackay region put their engineering and problem-solving skills to the test during Holy Spirit College's STEM Challenge Day at the Father Bucas Centre, supported by industry partners and the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy. Photo supplied
Holy Spirit College Mackay is strengthening its reputation as a leader in innovative STEM education, inspiring the next generation of engineers, designers and problem-solvers through a hands-on program that has welcomed more than 85 students from across the region.
Throughout the year, the College has hosted aspiring engineers from 13 Catholic and Education Queensland primary schools, providing students with engaging opportunities to explore science, technology, engineering and mathematics through practical, real-world challenges.
The College's Father Bucas Centre has been transformed into a vibrant hub of creativity and innovation, with students immersed in activities ranging from Structural Engineering and Robotics to Aerodynamics and Energy in Motion.
Participants have designed and constructed treehouses, programmed LEGO robots, tested paper plane designs and engineered intricate marble runs, culminating in a Prototype Challenge where students showcase and test their creations.
These experiences encourage critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and teamwork while showing how STEM concepts apply to everyday life.
Holy Spirit College Principal Mrs Alison Wales said “STEM education is most powerful when students can take an idea, test it, challenge it and ultimately see the outcome of their thinking”.
“We are proud to facilitate and welcome students from across the Mackay region, supporting the opportunity in how STEM learning can translate into real-world skills and exciting future career pathways.”
Industry partners Richglen, Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal (DBCT), Key Solutions Group and FMS Group supported STEM Day, engaging with students throughout the event and sharing insights into their industries.
Richglen Electrical Operations Manager Jeremy Phillips said "today's students are tomorrow's engineers, electricians, technicians and leaders”.
“If we can help spark an interest in STEM and show young people the opportunities available right here in our region, then we're making a meaningful investment in Mackay's future,” Mr Phillips said.
"We're proud to have members of our electrical team involved on the day, working alongside students and sharing real-world experiences that bring STEM learning to life."
Holy Spirit College is proud of its approach to STEM education, providing modern facilities, dedicated learning spaces and digital technologies that support students in their learning.
For further information about Holy Spirit College’s curriculum, facilities and approach to learning, visit www.hsc.qld.edu.au.
A fake $50 note was reported to Police at a local business in Moranbah. Photo source: Queensland Police Service
Moranbah residents are being urged to remain vigilant after a local business reported receiving a suspected counterfeit $50 note.
The note was reported to police on Monday 12th October, after being received by a business on St Francis Drive. Moranbah Police subsequently seized the banknote for investigation.
Police said the note appeared to be missing visible security features and did not have the same feel as genuine Australian currency, raising suspicions it was counterfeit.
Residents who suspect they have been handed counterfeit money are advised to refuse the note if it is safe to do so.
Anyone who comes across a suspected counterfeit banknote should handle it as little as possible, place it in an envelope and record any relevant details about how it came into their possession.
The matter should then be reported to Queensland or Federal Police through Policelink on 131 444 or online at police.qld.gov.au/reporting.
Man Charged Following Dangerous Driving Incident
A 22-year-old man has been charged following an alleged dangerous driving incident involving a stolen vehicle on the Bruce Highway at Bloomsbury earlier this month.
Police were called to the highway on October 10th following reports of a stolen Ford Ranger utility being driven dangerously, including on the wrong side of the road.
The vehicle allegedly struck several other vehicles before being brought to a stop by police.
No injuries were reported.
A 22-year-old Beachmere man has since been charged with five counts of failing to comply with duties of a driver involved in a crash, four counts of stealing, two counts of obstructing a police officer, and one count each of unlawful use of a motor vehicle, dangerous operation of a vehicle, being adversely affected by an intoxicating substance, evasion offence and conduct causing a public nuisance.
Police are appealing for anyone with relevant information or dashcam footage of the incident to come forward.
Police Seek Public Help After Motorcycle Theft
Police are appealing for public assistance following the theft of a motorcycle from Alligator Creek over the weekend of October 10th and 11th.
A red and silver 2008 Honda CBR 100 motorcycle, bearing registration 496WF, was reportedly stolen from beside the Bruce Highway sometime between 12pm on Saturday, October 10th, and 10.30am on Sunday, October 11th.
The motorcycle had reportedly experienced a mechanical breakdown and was left at the roadside while awaiting collection for repairs.
Police are seeking information about the motorcycle's whereabouts or anyone who may have witnessed the theft.
Anyone with information is urged to contact police, quoting reference number QP2602016675.
Residents are also encouraged to report any suspicious activity to police.
Reference number: QP2602016675
Twenty-one young candidates are vying for 12 positions on Mackay’s third Youth Council, giving local young people a voice in shaping the region’s future. Photo supplied by Mackay Regional Council
Mackay’s next generation of community leaders had the chance to make their voices heard this week, as local young people headed to the polls to help shape the future of the city.
A total of 21 candidates are vying for a place on the third Mackay Youth Council, with 12 young representatives set to be elected following this week’s voting.
Young people aged between 11 and 17 can cast their vote at designated polling stations across local schools, Headspace at Caneland Central and other community venues.
Mayor Greg Williamson said Mackay had led the nation in creating opportunities for young people to become involved in civic life.
“Mackay Regional Council was the first local government in Australia to have an elected youth council as part of the Foundation for Young Australians' (FYA) Young Mayors program,” he said.
“It’s been really encouraging to see the level of engagement and commitment by all the candidates to have their voices heard on how they see the future of our region,” he said.
“The previous two youth councils have developed strong policy positions and projects around mental health, recreation, opportunities and wellbeing and I’m sure this next council will continue this fantastic work.”
Approximately 1400 young people voted in the first Youth Council election in 2023, with now more than 2500 votes for the last term.
FYA Director of Young Mayors Lachlan Preston said having an elected youth council helped ensure young people's perspectives and priorities were considered in local government decision-making.
“Local governments play a huge role in the day-to-day lives of all people in our communities, but the voices of young people are often missing from decision-making processes,” he said.
“The Young Mayors program enables young people, elected by their peers to the Youth Council, to have real influence – ensuring that council policies and programs respond to and reflect the concerns, needs and desires of local young people.”
Voting was held between October 19th and October 23rd, with votes starting to be counted on Saturday 24th October.
It’s anticipated that the 12 successful candidates will be sworn in for their 18-month term in early 2027.
For more information about the election process and the candidates visit www.fya.org.au/young-mayors-mackay/
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