The family recently gathered for a major reunion at the Mackay Showgrounds. Photo credit: Deanne Woods

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The Deguara-Schembri-Bugeja family story in Mackay traces its origins back to early Maltese migration in the 1920s, when pioneering family members left Malta in search of opportunity and a new life in North Queensland.  

The first arrival of Salvatore (Sam) Deguara in 1912 would later lay the foundation for generations that would grow through hard work in the cane fields, strong family networks and a shared commitment to faith, land and community here in Mackay.

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Over time, those early migrants established deep roots in the region, with descendants spreading across farming, business and community life while maintaining strong ties to their Maltese heritage. Today, more than a century later, that legacy continues to be carried forward by hundreds of descendants across Australia.

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Mrs Maryanne Starrett, Mrs Lyn Deguara and Mrs Lorraine Schembri are among those who now help preserve and share that history, each connected through marriage or direct descent into the original family lines. Together, they represent both continuity and custodianship of a story that spans generations.

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The family recently gathered for a major reunion at the Mackay Showgrounds, where more than 300 relatives and descendants came together under a heritage tree that has become a symbolic meeting point for storytelling, reflection and connection.

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Mrs Maryanne Starrett said the strength of the family lies in its unity across generations.  

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‍“It’s a very united family,” she said. “It was so important to see those young ones there. As we get older, the young ones will hopefully be there to take over and continue our legacy.”

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Mrs Lyn Deguara reflected on the family’s identity that was forged through farming and perseverance.  

“They were incredibly hard workers, mostly all cane farmers… and they encouraged all the men to love the land,” she said.

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Mrs Lorraine Schembri, who compiled an extensive family history publication over eight months, said preserving the story was essential for future generations.  

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“You’ve got to know where you come from, to know where you’re going,” she said. “I’ve researched the DeGuara family back to 1600, and the Schembri line back to 1355. It’s all there.”

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She said the family book now available to purchase captures not only names and dates, but lived experience.  

“I’m very proud of this book… it was quite an effort to complete in eight months,” she said.

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Across the family narrative, early migration stories reflect resilience in the face of hardship, with settlers working the cane fields under difficult conditions while relying on strong community support.  

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Mrs Schembri noted, “There were certainly difficult times, but they all helped each other out and eventually became quite successful.”

Faith, family and respect remain central to the family’s identity.  

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“Faith is very important to us,” Mrs Deguara said.

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Together, the three women reflect a living legacy, one built on endurance, unity and shared history, continuing to grow across North Queensland while remaining firmly anchored in its Maltese beginnings.

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RDA GW Committee Chair Jeff Stewart-Harris strongly encourages local community and business leaders to join RDA GW committee. Photo supplied

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Regional Development Australia Greater Whitsundays (RDA GW) is now accepting applications for Committee Members.

RDA GW is part of a national network of 50 committees across Australia, including the Indian Ocean Territories, Norfolk Island and Jervis Bay Territory.

The network is made up of local leaders who work with all levels of government, business and community groups to support economic and workforce development, local procurement, strategic regional planning and to inform government programs and infrastructure investments.

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RDA GW Committee Chair Jeff Stewart-Harris strongly encourages local community and business leaders with the expertise and desire to generate economic growth opportunities for the region to apply.

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“This is a great opportunity for individuals who are passionate about advocating for our region,” said Mr Stewart-Harris.

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“Applicants can also take confidence in the fact that we are committed to ensuring a balanced gender perspective and diverse representation around the table, as this is key to achieving well-rounded outcomes.

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“The stronger our RDA committee, the stronger our communities become.”

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Successful candidates must possess strong advocacy skills and be capable of setting strategic direction and achieving outcomes. The appointment term is from 1 July 2026 to 30 June 2030, in a hands-on role.

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Committee Members play an important role in shaping the future of the Greater Whitsundays region.

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Applications close Friday 22 May 2026. To apply, visit www.rdagw.org.au/join-our-team or email CEO Rob Cocco at ceo@rdagw.org.au for more information.

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A five-year-old boy has died following a tragic single-vehicle crash near Clermont, as two separate fatal incidents continue to impact the wider Mackay region.

Emergency services were called to the Gregory Developmental Road, about 75 kilometres north of Clermont near Kilcummin, around 3.50pm on Wednesday 29th April, after reports a white Foton Tunland lost control and rolled.

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The young boy was declared deceased at the scene.

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A 29-year-old Townsville woman and a three-year-old boy sustained serious injuries and were airlifted to Mackay Hospital, where they remain in stable condition. The driver, a 30-year-old Townsville man, along with a one-year-old boy, were transported to Clermont Hospital with minor injuries.

BMA CQ Rescue, Queensland Ambulance Service crews and additional aeromedical resources all responded to the incident, with the rescue helicopter transporting a female patient in critical condition to Mackay for urgent treatment.

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BMA CQ Rescue CEO Tim Healee described the incident as an absolute tragedy.

“Our thoughts are with the family, and everyone impacted by this heartbreaking incident,” Mr Healee said.

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“These are the types of jobs that deeply affect not only the families involved, but also our crew and all emergency services personnel who respond. I am incredibly proud of the professionalism and compassion shown by our BMA CQ Rescue crew in extremely distressing circumstances.”

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The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash and is appealing to anyone with information or dashcam footage from the area at the time to come forward (reference: QP2600823345).

The incident comes as police confirm a second fatal crash linked to the Mackay region, following the death of a 44-year-old Eton man after a rollover in the Pioneer Valley.

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The man was a passenger in a Toyota Landcruiser that left the road on Marian Eton Road at about 11:30pm on 1st April. He was transported to Mackay Base Hospital before being airlifted to Townsville University Hospital, where he died on 3rd May.

The 24-year-old driver from Marian died at the scene.

Investigations into both crashes remain ongoing, as authorities renew calls for motorists to take care on regional roads.

Police say dangerous driving behaviours, including speeding, fatigue, distraction, driving under the influence and failing to wear seatbelts, continue to put lives at risk.

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“Every choice you make behind the wheel matters,” a Queensland Police Service spokesperson said.

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“Road safety starts with you.”

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The large Hollywood-style letters will encourage people to start a conversation about respect and what it means to them. #MackayRESPECT. Photo supplied

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A new community campaign is encouraging Mackay residents to start conversations about respect, with large-scale installations and events planned throughout May as part of Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month.

Large letters spelling RESPECT will be installed on the lawns in front of the Sir Albert Abbott Administration Building, inviting locals and visitors to reflect on the role respect plays in everyday life.

Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said he hoped the installation would prompt meaningful discussion across the community.

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“Every conversation about respect matters; it outlines a clear stand about what behaviours we accept as a community and what we won’t tolerate,” Mayor Williamson said.

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“We want these letters to be a powerful tool to get people to reflect on and talk about what respect means to them.”

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Residents are encouraged to take photos and videos with the display and share their perspectives using the hashtag #MackayRespect. A smaller set of letters will also travel throughout the region to broaden community participation.

CEO of Mackay Women’s Services, Belinda Berg, said raising awareness and starting conversations were key to preventing domestic and family violence.

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“From wearing purple shirts, taking photos with the letters and just talking about it, there will be an overwhelming sense of community, of people standing together saying we can all play a part in preventing disrespect and domestic and family violence,” Ms Berg said.

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“We want people to have the confidence to notice negative behaviours, to speak up and to offer support and referral to those who need it.”

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Mackay Women’s Services also offers a behaviour change program for men, designed to be accessible for shift workers through a flexible mix of in-person, online and phone sessions.

“So, we developed a hybrid model of in-person, online and phone call sessions, which allows those men who want to make a change the opportunity to do so in a way that fits in with their lifestyle,” Ms Berg said.

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“We want to ensure that any person who wants to make positive changes to their behaviour isn’t restricted by personal circumstances.”

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The #MackayRespect campaign builds on the ongoing work of the Mayor’s Domestic Violence Taskforce, established in 2016 and recognised last year with the Alison Woolla Memorial Award for local leadership in preventing domestic and family violence.

A range of 24/7 and extended-hour support services are available for those experiencing domestic and family violence, including 1800RESPECT, DVConnect and Lifeline. In an emergency, residents are urged to call Triple Zero (000).

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Coal haulage between the Vulcan and Moranbah North mines will resume temporarily, with Isaac Regional Council granting short-term approval for Anglo American to transport approximately 20,000 tonnes. Photo source: ABC News

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Isaac Regional Council has temporarily reinstated approval for the road haulage of coal from the Vulcan Mine to Moranbah North Mine near Moranbah over an estimated three-week period commencing 27^th April 2026.

The original haulage permits were suspended in February 2026 following the Vitrinite companies entering receivership and administration. Isaac Regional Council’s previous decision related specifically to the Vitrinite companies and the suspension of their approvals while the future of the business and its assets was being determined.

Council has now granted a request from Anglo American to retrieve approximately 20,000 tonnes of coal purchased from the Receiver of the Vitrinite companies and currently located at the Vulcan Mine site.

This temporary approval is for haulage to Anglo American only for short period of weeks. It does not reinstate any other approvals, nor does it authorise any ongoing operations by the Vitrinite companies.

Mayor Kelly Vea Vea said Council’s decision reflects that the coal is being removed for a different company.

This is an approval for Anglo American to remove coal it has acquired from the Receiver.

“Council has made it clear to both Vitrinite and Anglo that the same conditions that applied previously will continue to apply, including the payment of road haulage fees.”

The approval restores the conditions of the suspended permits, including approved haulage routes, operational requirements and the payment of road haulage fees to Council.

Council will continue to monitor the haulage operation during the temporary three-week period.

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Upgrades are underway at Mackay Base Hospital, with a new temporary carpark and the return of the on-site helipad set to improve access and patient transfers across the region. Photo source: Queensland Government

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Access to health services in Mackay is set to improve, with key upgrades underway at Mackay Base Hospital as part of the State Government’s Hospital Rescue Plan.

Works have begun on a temporary 80-space carpark aimed at easing congestion and increasing parking availability for patients, visitors and staff. At the same time, refurbishment of the hospital’s on-site helipad is progressing, with the facility expected to be recommissioned in the coming months.

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The return of the helipad will allow for faster, time-critical patient transfers directly to and from the hospital, after helicopters were previously forced to land at Mackay Airport and rely on ambulance transport for the final leg.

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls said the upgrades were part of broader efforts to strengthen healthcare access across the region.

“The Mackay Hospital masterplan will identify a staged growth of the hospital campus, enabling the continued safe delivery of health services to the community as health services expand and adapt to meet the growing demand for healthcare,” Minister Nicholls said.

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“The independent review of the Labor Government’s plans for Mackay Hospital identified a number of serious flaws, including a $270 million cost blowout to more than double the announced budget.”

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“The Crisafulli Government’s fully funded Hospital Rescue Plan is the largest hospital infrastructure investment in Queensland’s history and will deliver at least 2,600 extra beds across new hospitals, expansions and upgrades."

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Local contractors are playing a key role in delivering the works, with Mackay-based Vassallo Constructions awarded the enabling works contract, supported by Revolution Electrical for the helipad recommissioning.

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the upgrades would deliver immediate benefits for the community.

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“With the first stage of works now complete, the on-site helipad at the Mackay Base Hospital will be reopened, allowing for the time-critical transfer of patients directly to and from the hospital,” Mr Dalton said.

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“The new temporary carpark will provide dedicated fleet parking for over 80 Queensland Health vehicles, freeing up space on the site for additional public and staff carparking.”

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Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm said the hospital’s long-term growth would be guided by a new masterplan.

“A new masterplan will take into account how the facility should grow over time to meet the changing needs of our growing community,” Ms Camm said.

Member for Mirani Glen Kelly said the improvements would have a practical impact for regional residents.

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“Our communities travel long distances to access care, so having patients transferred directly to the hospital in emergencies, and making it easier for families and staff to find a park, will make a real difference day to day,” Mr Kelly said.

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“It’s also great to see local contractors delivering this work, keeping jobs and investment right here in our region.”

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Planning for the hospital’s major expansion is ongoing, with the new masterplan expected to be completed by mid-2026.

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OPINION PIECE by Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox

A poor nation is a weak nation, and, a nation with too much debt loses control of its destiny.

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As we head toward the next Federal Budget, the talk of "redefining" the economy through changes to negative gearing and capital gains tax is a red flag for every Australian. This is not about reform; it is a desperate attempt to fix a budget blowout by robbing Peter to pay Paul.  

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In this case, Peter is the hard-working Australian who has sacrificed to build a nest egg, and Paul is a government that simply cannot stop spending your money.

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For many in Dawson, property investment isn't about being a tycoon, it is about security. Many investors worked through an era without compulsory superannuation. They put in the overtime and paid down their debts to ensure they wouldn't be a burden on the taxpayer in their old age. It is a gross insult to make these people the victims of poor fiscal management.

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The government hides behind the word "fairness," but this is a calculated strike on the retirement nest eggs of hard-working families.

Here is the blunt, hard truth that the Albanese Labor government refuses to acknowledge: if you jack up the taxes on the person providing rental accommodation, that cost doesn't just vanish.

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It ends up on your weekly rent.

Property investors are not running a charity, they are providing a service, and when their costs go up, your rent goes up. By slugging the people who provide housing, the Treasurer is effectively slugging the tenants. This tax grab will be bankrolled by the most vulnerable people in our community, the families and renters who are already being crushed by the cost of living.

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We have seen this play out before, and we do not want history to repeat itself. In 1985, the government tried this exact move, and, as a result, investment dried up and rents went through the roof. It was a failure then, and it will be a failure now. They are building a class of Australians who are entirely dependent on the government remaining in office. This is not about a better Australia; it is about securing power through an assault on the family unit.

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The hypocrisy is where it truly hurts. This tax agenda is a direct hit on those retiring soon, yet it conveniently protects the power structures that keep this government in office. While Labor attacks your family savings, they are clearing the path for big industry super funds to buy up housing and rent it back to you. They are telling young Australians they cannot touch theirown savings to buy a home, while letting their institutional mates use those same savings to become your new corporate landlord. We also see the cost of every new build skyrocketing because Labor refuses to stand up to the CFMEU, letting union-controlled projects bleed the taxpayer dry while everyday families pay the price.

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Albo once told us his word was his bond; however, judging by this predicted tax assault, it seems that bond has been traded for a high-interest debt that our children will be paying off for decades.

Harder on families, harder on first home buyers, harder on renters, and harder on pensioners.

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That will be the Albanese Labor legacy if they push ahead with these ridiculous budget measures.

While they focus on stripping away your savings, they are letting in a record number of people we simply do not have the houses for.

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Jim Chalmers has a choice to make before he delivers this budget. He can listen to the experts who warn that these changes could drive rents up by more than 20 per cent, or he can plough ahead and make this next year one of catastrophic hurt for Australians. Is he going to listen to the people who keep this country running, or is he going to stick to the same old Labor playbook of high taxes and higher debt?

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Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton in a stand-up interview. Footage supplied

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More than a dozen weapons have been taken off Mackay streets under Jack’s Law, as police ramp up efforts to curb knife crime and improve community safety across the region.

In the Mackay Whitsunday District, officers have conducted 5,299 wanding scans, resulting in the seizure of 13 weapons. Statewide, more than 1,032 weapons have been removed in less than 12 months, with over 127,000 scans carried out.

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Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the figures highlighted the importance of giving police the powers they need.

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“Every weapon taken off our streets is a potential tragedy prevented,” Mr Dalton said.

“People across Mackay deserve to feel safe when they go out with their families, visit local events, or head into the CBD, and these laws are helping make that happen.

“Jack’s Law is giving police the tools they need to stop dangerous weapons before they can be used to harm someone.

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“The Crisafulli Government is backing our frontline police with stronger laws and more resources because community safety must always come first.

“Labor planned to let Jack’s Law lapse, but this Government made the laws permanent and expanded them statewide because Queenslanders told us they wanted stronger action on crime.”

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Jack’s Law was introduced following the death of 17-year-old Jack Beasley, who was fatally stabbed during a night out with friends at Surfers Paradise in 2019. The legislation allows police to use handheld metal detectors to scan individuals in public places without a warrant.

Initially trialled in 2021, the laws were expanded in 2023 and made permanent in 2025, giving police the authority to conduct scans in a wide range of locations including entertainment precincts, shopping centres, transport hubs and major events.

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Police say the scans are quick, non-invasive and designed to deter people from carrying weapons in public. Individuals found with a weapon without a reasonable excuse may face fines or imprisonment.

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Since the 2024 election, the Queensland Government has also increased frontline policing resources, with more than 1,600 new officers sworn in statewide and the Queensland Police Service growing beyond 13,000 personnel for the first time.

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The Government has also committed $1 million to the Jack Beasley Foundation’s ‘One Moment’ program, which aims to educate young people about the consequences of knife crime.

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Authorities say the combined approach of enforcement, education and increased police presence is helping to create safer public spaces across Mackay and beyond.

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Mackay Regional Council is reviewing plans to repurpose the Gordon White Library into a community facility as library services are consolidated at the new Northern Beaches Community Hub opening in 2027. Photo source: Mackay Regional Council  

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The future of the Gordon White Library is under review, with Mackay Regional Council considering plans to transform the building into a community-focused council facility once the new Northern Beaches library opens.

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The change is linked to the development of the $21 million stage 1B expansion of the Northern Beaches Community Hub, which will feature a brand-new library and is expected to open in early 2027.

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Mayor Greg Williamson said council had been reviewing how to best deliver library services across the region while ensuring responsible use of ratepayer funds.

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“Council has considered our options when we open our brand new $21 million facility in the Northern Beaches Community Hub, which will feature a brand-new library,” Mayor Williamson said.

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“With Gordon White Library already operating on the northern side of the river, the option we are considering is consolidating our library services into the new hub when the library opens.”

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Under the proposal, the Gordon White Library building would be repurposed as the Gordon White Community Centre, similar to the transformation of the former Mackay City Library into the Jubilee Community Centre after the opening of the Dudley Denny City Library.

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Mayor Williamson said the decision was largely driven by the need to manage future operational costs.

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“The new Northern Beaches Community Hub will add ongoing annual operational costs of about $2 million,” he said.

“It wouldn’t be fair to just pass that onto ratepayers without looking at different service delivery models to offset that increase.

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“Re-purposing the Gordon White Library building for meeting rooms and staff offices would, in turn, reduce other staff accommodation costs for council.”

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Mackay Council is also exploring ways to maintain limited library access at the existing Gordon White site. Plans under consideration include using the building for community meeting rooms, council staff offices and potentially continuing services such as a reserved book collection point.

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Mayor Williamson acknowledged that some residents who regularly use the current library may find the change difficult.

“We understand that it may become an issue for some people who are used to using the Gordon White Library as it is right now, and we’ll work through that with our staff,” he said.

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Council staff are currently working through options and planning the transition ahead of the new hub’s opening.

Mayor Williamson said the broader review comes at a time when council budgets are under increasing pressure.

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“Even before the war in the Middle East, the 2026-2027 budget was shaping up as one of the most difficult in recent times for Mackay Regional Council,’’ he said.  

“Council must make some tough decisions to ensure it remains financially sustainable while delivering quality services and infrastructure for the community against a difficult backdrop of escalating costs, without burdening rate payers.”

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Council has also advised community hall users that the freehold Northern Beaches Community Hall site will be up for sale once the Northern Beaches Community Hub opens.

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Feedback can be provided until June 16, 2026 at 11.59pm via connectingmackay.com.au

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Photo source: Facebook

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Calm, gentle and quietly affectionate, Golda is a beautiful young cat looking for a peaceful place to call home.

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At just 1 year and 6 months old, this domestic medium hair girl has a soft, easygoing nature and a low energy level, making her an ideal companion for a relaxed household. Medium in size and big on quiet charm, Golda enjoys the simple things in life — a cozy spot to rest, a calm environment, and the comfort of having her people nearby.

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Golda is well suited to homes with older children (12+ recommended) and gets along with other cats. She hasn’t yet been tested with dogs. While affectionate, she prefers interaction on her own terms and will happily keep you company in her own gentle, independent way.

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Sensitive to loud noises, Golda would thrive in a quiet, low-traffic home where she can feel safe and settle in at her own pace. She would suit a variety of households, including singles, families with older children, or retirees looking for a calm companion.

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Golda is fully prepared for her new home — she is microchipped, vaccinated, desexed, and up to date with flea and worm treatments.

Her adoption fee is $190.

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Interested please contact Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc.

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With winter sport now underway across the Whitsundays, there’s already a great sense of energy building right across our region — from rugby league and AFL to soccer, netball and more.

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Recently, my wife Mel and I had the pleasure of attending the Whitsunday Brahmans season launch, and there’s no doubt there’s strong momentum around the club this year. A new coach, quality signings and plenty of pride heading into the season.

But one of the most exciting developments goes beyond what happens on the field.

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For the first time, the Brahmans will field an open women’s team which is a significant milestone not just for the club, but for our broader community.

Importantly, this isn’t happening in isolation. Across the Whitsundays, we’re seeing more opportunities emerge for women and girls in sport, and that’s something worth celebrating.

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Women’s sport is continuing to grow rapidly across Australia, but here in our region it represents far more than participation alone. It’s about opportunity, inclusion, visibility and building stronger communities.

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As we continue positioning the Whitsundays as the natural home of Olympic sailing for 2032, supporting grassroots sport at every level becomes even more important.

Because building a genuine sporting legacy starts long before the world arrives. It starts in local clubs, on local fields, in local pools and through local volunteers creating opportunities for the next generation.

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When young girls see women representing their local clubs, pulling on the jersey and taking the field, it sends a powerful message that there is absolutely a place for you here.

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Community sport builds confidence, resilience and connection. It creates lifelong friendships, strengthens local identity and helps shape future athletes, leaders and role models.

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And when we continue to support women and girls in sport, those benefits only grow stronger.

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We build more inclusive clubs, stronger volunteer networks and a healthier, more connected region.

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None of this happens without the incredible volunteers, sponsors, coaches, parents and supporters who work tirelessly behind the scenes.

Council is proud to support local sport, and we remain committed to backing opportunities that strengthen our communities while helping build the Whitsundays’ long-term sporting future.

As the season continues, I encourage everyone to get out, support your local clubs and be part of the action.

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Because strong clubs build strong communities — and strong communities help shape the future.

And as we look toward 2032, that future is one the Whitsundays is ready to lead.

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Marcus painted colourful murals at local venues in the region. Photos supplied

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Local artist Marcus Cain has passed away, leaving a legacy of colourful murals across venues well-loved by the community. Marcus was perhaps best known for the bright, beachy murals that cover the walls at Magnums, Airlie Beach.  

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Marcus brought life and colour to the community through his art, and will be remembered every time one of his vibrant works puts a smile on someone’s face.  

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Nominations for the 2027 Season Managed Pool Plus are now open, providing growers with an opportunity to take a proactive and structured approach to managing sugar price risk in what remains a volatile and uncertain global market.

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With ongoing pressure from large global supply forecasts, shifting macroeconomic conditions and currency volatility, pricing decisions are becoming increasingly complex. The Managed Pool Plus has been designed to help address these challenges by offering a disciplined, longer-term approach to managing GEI exposure, while also incorporating MEI exposure within a single, actively managed pool.

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A key strength of the Managed Pool Plus is its two-year pricing window, which allows for a more flexible and considered response to market movements. Rather than relying on short-term timing, the pool is actively traded across both futures and currency markets, with the aim of capturing value as opportunities arise over time. This approach is supported by Wilmar’s sugar trading team, whose experience and market access underpin the pool’s strategy and execution.

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Importantly, the pool brings growers and the mill together in navigating market conditions, with both parties exposed to the outcomes of pricing decisions. This alignment supports a consistent and disciplined approach to risk management, focused on delivering improved pricing outcomes over the longer term.

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For growers, the Managed Pool Plus can reduce the pressure of trying to pick the market and the time required to actively monitor price movements. It offers a practical option for those looking to complement their existing pricing strategies or take a more hands-off approach, while still maintaining exposure to potential market upside.

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Another important consideration for growers is flexibility. The Managed Pool Plus allows you to nominate a portion of your GEI exposure, meaning it can sit alongside other pricing mechanisms as part of a broader, diversified strategy. This gives growers the ability to spread risk across different approaches, rather than relying on a single pricing decision. By combining active pool management with individual pricing choices, growers can build a more resilient pricing strategy.

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The Managed Pool Plus is open to anyone marketing with Wilmar for the 2027 Season. Simply nominate a percentage of your exposure before 30 June via the Pricing portal in GrowerWeb.

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Growers are encouraged to speak with their local Grower Marketing Relationship Manager to determine how the Managed Pool Plus can fit within their overall pricing strategy.

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Libby started EcoBarge 17 years ago after witnessing firsthand the effect of waste and rubbish on the region’s marine life

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To many members of the Whitsunday community, Libby Edge needs little introduction. She has spent years investing in Whitsunday’s conservation community, and as founder of EcoBarge, she continues to do important work for Whitsundays marine life.  

Libby’s work has come from years of passion and dedication.  

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“I started EcoBarge about 17 years ago,” Libby said.  

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“I became aware of a 60 Minute Documentary on the Hawaiian Islands and all the rubbish that was washing up. I went on a camping expedition with my family and saw my daughter playing with rubbish along the beach. I realised the problem was here on our own shores. I knew I had to do something about it.”

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This realisation led to years of campaigning and work, resulting in initiatives keeping our oceans clean today.

“We’ve been working hard ever since then to protect the Whitsundays islands from marine debris.” Libby said.  

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Over the last 17 years, over 14,000 community members have helped to remove over 280,000 kilograms of debris and rubbish from beaches and marine areas.  

In 2012, Libby helped to start the Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre, located at Eco Barge HQ, which continues to rescue, rehabilitate and release sick and injured marine turtles, giving them a second chance to return home to the sea. To date, over 300 turtles have been cared for.

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Just recently, more than 200 community members gathered at Funnel Bay to witness the heartwarming release of two such turtles.

“It was really amazing to see so many people show up for the release,” Libby .

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The turtles, affectionately named Taylor and Swifty, were cared for at the Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre after being found at Funnel Bay in a critical condition just two months ago. They were released back into the water after a full recovery.

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Even after 17 years, Libby’s passion for conservation remains strong.  

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“We’re dealing with a dark issue, but in a positive way. When I started, I was quite upset about it all. I still get emotional. However what amazed me was the amount of people that wanted to join me to remove marine debris. What really keeps me going is the sheer amount of people who offer their support.”

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EcoBarge remains hard at work protecting the Whitsunday’s precious marine life.  

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“As humans that live in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, it is our duty to protect it. Thats what EcoBarge is all about. I want to thank every single volunteer and everyone whose volunteered. Lets keep up the good work.”

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For more information about Eco Barge or to support the Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre, visit www.ecoabargecleanseas.org.au

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Members of the community converged at Grand View Hotel after the convoy for an afternoon of music, sausage sizzle and drinks with all funds going to QIMR. Photo source: Facebook

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Last Sunday, Bowen hosted it’s annual ‘Buck Off Melanoma’ event, a fundraiser aimed at supporting melanoma research.  

This year, the event launched its ‘The Convoy 4 Melanoma’, which invited members of the community to bring their biggest and loudest vehicles together to form a convoy that drove around town, raising awareness for the fundraiser.  

Federal MP for Dawson Andrew Willcox was in attendance to show his support.  

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“It was fantastic and uplifting to witness Convoy For A Cure driving through Bowen and its surrounding areas, beeping horns and waving to residents,” Mr Willcox stated.

“It’s the first convoy we’ve done for this event,” said co-organiser Blind Man Dan. Dan played a huge role in the organising and promotion of the drive, using his previous experience to help the event run smoothly.  

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“I’ve been involved in convoys for kids. For this convoy I wanted to get everyone involved. As the years go on, we try and make it family friendly so that everyone can feel included.”  

The event featured live music from regional artists Spud & Bones as well as B-Doubles. There were sausage sizzles, face painting, raffles and merchandising – all of which went to an incredibly important cause.  

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“This year we tried to make it bigger,” said co-organiser Ben Vico.  

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“We really pushed the socials to build awareness and raise as much money as we could.”

100% of the proceeds were donated to QIMR Berghofer Medical Research. QIMR is a world leading medical research institute dedicated to delivering better treatments and diagnoses for difficult conditions such as melanoma.  

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Mr Willcox gave thanks to those who lent their support.

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“A big thanks to Joseph from QIMR Berghofer for attending the event in Bowen as well as Ben, Sally, Faye, Tracey and the incredible Jan Brown, who all contributed to organising a remarkable day for vital cause.”

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