Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
The Mt Challenger Wind Farm has opened applications for its Community Fund, providing financial support to not-for-profit organisations, community groups and sporting clubs across the Proserpine and Bowen region. Applications will be open from 1st June to 12th July 2026, with $40,000 available in this funding round. Eligible groups can apply for grants of up to $10,000 to support projects that deliver meaningful and lasting benefits to local communities. The fund is designed to support initiatives within 30 kilometres of the proposed project, encouraging participation, strengthening local connections, and delivering positive outcomes for communities including Proserpine and Bowen. Alinta Energy Chief Development Officer Andres Maasing said the program reflects a commitment to supporting local priorities during the project’s development phase. “We recognise there are diverse views about the proposed Mt Challenger Wind Farm and respect the strength of community sentiment,” Mr Maasing said. “Through this funding, our focus is to provide practical support to local organisations delivering important work on the ground - from youth programs and community events to environmental initiatives and essential upgrades.” Mr Maasing said that if the Mt Challenger Wind Farm project proceeds, as well as supporting QLD’s energy supply and grid, it could bring meaningful investment into the region – including construction and operations jobs, local procurement, potential road and infrastructure upgrades, environmental enhancement programs and support for community initiatives. The Community Fund will prioritise projects that demonstrate clear community benefit, encourage local engagement, are sustainable beyond the grant period, and show strong governance. Eligible initiatives or activities may span community, education, employment, environmental, and youth sporting and interest group undertakings leading to positive social and economic participation outcomes. Applications are only accepted online at www.mtchallengerwindfarm.com/communityfund. For more information, please contact powertoyou@alintaenergy.com.au or 0497 928 036 (weekdays 9am–5pm).
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Firefighters and their families gathered to wish the Proserpine Fire and Rescue Station a happy 75th anniversary this weekend, meeting at the station on Saturday 30th May to celebrate. Little ones were delighted by demonstrations, fire trucks and equipment on display, whilst moving speeches and much deserved awards were delivered to firefighters in front of their proud loved ones. A commemorative honour board was also unveiled, recognising the 158 firefighters who have served in the brigade over the years. Auxiliary Captain Brian Little led proceedings, reflecting on his 39 years with the station. “In this ever-changing community environment, one thing has stayed static and that is the commitment, dedication and skill level of the local men and women that commit to being an auxiliary fire fighter at QFD Proserpine,” he shared. “The auxiliary fire fighters at all hours commit to turning out to help the community in a time of need with very little acknowledgement or thanks.” “The one thing that was evident from my very first day as an auxiliary fire fighter was the team moral, respect, passion and inclusive family environment created. These attributes are still evident in 2026.” As part of the commemoration, Former Auxiliary Firefighter Lieutenant Captain Frank “Bob” Robert Spencer was asked to reflect on the history of the Proserpine brigade. He shared that the Proserpine brigade crew has always had great camaraderie, making the station “The envy of other auxiliary stations,” explaining that “You had to have a sense of humour.” “Humour was sometimes used at debriefs to destress and unwind after some stressful callbacks,” Bob recounted. “The drills were taken quite seriously, but sometimes at the end of drills one crew would sneak up on the other crew while they were packing up and a water fight would ensue. “We would all arrive back at the station with both fire appliances and crews soaking wet. The Chief would take one look, shake his head and walk away.” “I am proud and grateful for the small part I played in the history of the Proserpine Fire Brigade,” Bob shared. “I am thinking of all those I served with who are no longer with us. They were good men who were also proud of the service.” Superintendent Sven Diga of the Townsville Division/Mackay Command highlighted that ‘skill, teamwork and dedication is what this team prides themselves on’. “It has been a sanctuary of safety, a hub of courage and a cornerstone of serving the Proserpine community, as well as a recognised leader in advanced road safety response/training,” Sven said. Mayor Ry Collins also reflected on the service, following the event. “For 75 years, generations of firefighters have answered the call when our community has needed them most,” he said. “Through cyclones, floods, grassfires, road crashes and countless emergencies, they have stood ready to protect lives and property across the Whitsundays. “What makes regional communities special is that the people who turn up in our toughest moments are often our neighbours, mates, work colleagues and fellow community members - even a few former shire Mayors! Their willingness to serve others deserves enormous respect.” MP for Whitsunday Amanda Camm highlighted the importance of acknowledging the support systems and families, as well as the firefighters in the service: “Today is a celebration and a recognition for all of those who have served our Proserpine community as an auxiliary firefighter, and also their families… but it’s also really important to take time to recognise the families who have also contributed in supporting their partners,” she said. She expressed her gratitude for the whole crew. “Their lives are disrupted in ways others don't understand- we thank them and congratulate them.”
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Whitsunday communities have always been built on volunteers, local clubs, community groups and people willing to put their hand up to make a difference. Whether it’s a sporting club running weekend games, volunteers organising a community event, local artists creating opportunities for others, or service groups raising money for important causes — these organisations are the backbone of our region. That’s why Council continues to strongly support community organisations through grants, sponsorships, donations and in-kind assistance right across the Whitsundays. Every month Council provides support to dozens of local groups helping deliver events, programs and opportunities that directly benefit our communities. In May alone, Council approved support for organisations and initiatives across the region including the Whitsunday Songwriter Festival, Archaic Gathering Festival of Arts, Creative Connections Whitsunday, Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network, Bowen River Rodeo and Campdraft, local swimming clubs, campdraft associations, school P&C groups, arts organisations, community BBQs, sporting clubs and junior elite athletes. Importantly, this support reaches all corners of our Whitusnday region from Bowen to Collinsville, Proserpine, Airlie Beach, Cannonvale, Dingo Beach and Mt Coolon. Council’s Regional Arts Development Fund partnership with the Queensland Government is another important example, helping support local arts, culture and creative industries since 1994. These programs help create opportunities for regional artists while also strengthening local events and tourism experiences. But beyond the dollars themselves, what this support really represents is Council backing the people who help bring our communities to life. These groups create connection, strengthen community spirit, support local businesses, give young people opportunities, improve mental health outcomes and make the Whitsundays a better place to live. Council understands that many volunteer organisations are facing increasing costs and growing pressures, particularly in regional areas, which is why we remain committed to supporting community-led initiatives wherever possible. When local organisations succeed, our whole region benefits. I want to sincerely thank every volunteer, committee member, coach, organiser and community leader across the Whitsundays for the work you do behind the scenes every single week. You help make this region what it is.
Read the full storyThe Whitsunday region’s business community is set to take centre stage once again, with applications now open for the 2026 Whitsunday Business Awards. Delivered through a collaborative partnership between the Bowen Chamber of Commerce, the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Whitsunday Regional Council, the awards celebrate outstanding achievement, innovation, leadership, and contribution across the Whitsundays business community. This year, James Cook University joins the program as Principal Partner, reinforcing its commitment to supporting regional growth, innovation, education, and the future of business across the Whitsundays. The 2026 awards program features categories recognising excellence across businesses of all sizes and sectors, alongside individual leadership, and employee recognition awards. Applications Open for 2026 Award Categories Business Legends of the Whitsundays – Celebrating businesses or individuals that have achieved long-term success and made an enduring impact on the region. Best of the Whitsundays: Business of the Year – Recognising outstanding businesses that set the benchmark for excellence, innovation, and leadership. Includes Small Business and Medium to Large Business award divisions. Business Leader of the Year – Recognising inspiring leaders whose vision, dedication, and influence have driven exceptional business and regional success. Categories include Small Business and Medium to Large Business divisions. Rising Star: Employee, Apprentice or Trainee – Highlighting exceptional individuals who have demonstrated outstanding growth, dedication, and contribution. Customer Service Excellence Award – Celebrating businesses and individuals who consistently go above and beyond to deliver outstanding customer experiences. Categories include Small Business and Medium to Large Business divisions. Community Champion Award – Recognising businesses and organisations making a meaningful difference through community contributions and initiatives. Think Big Award – Recognising businesses or individuals demonstrating bold vision and turning opportunity into action through innovation, expansion, investment, and future-focused thinking, including opportunities connected to Brisbane 2032. Applications are open to businesses and individuals operating across the Whitsunday region, with judging undertaken by respected regional and external experts to ensure an independent and robust assessment process. Key Dates Key dates for the 2026 Whitsunday Business Awards include: Monday 1 June – Applications open online Friday 17 July – Applications close Friday 9 October – Awards Ceremony at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre Businesses and individuals must apply directly, with no third-party nominations accepted. See the Awards webpage for entry eligibility, terms, and conditions: https://www.whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au/business-awards/
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Dr Maddilyn Brown has dedicated her career to paediatric and women’s health chiropractic care, supporting Mackay families through The Nurture Haus. Photo supplied
Dr Maddilyn Brown is the passionate Owner and Founder of The Nurture Haus, where she specialises as an Advanced Paediatric Chiropractor dedicated to supporting women, babies and children through every stage of life.
A proud Mackay local, Maddilyn completed both school and university in the region before spending several years living and working in Brisbane, Dysart and Emerald, eventually making her way home after seven years away.
Her journey into chiropractic began following a gymnastics injury as a teenager, sparking a passion that would shape her entire career. Since then, Maddilyn has devoted herself to extensive postgraduate study in paediatrics, pregnancy, postpartum careand women’s health, completing a postgraduate diplomat in 2025 while continuing further study in women’s health. Since 2023, she has worked exclusively with women and children.
Outside of work, Maddilyn describes herself as “animated, nerdy and unflappable”. When she’s not studying or caring for patients, she enjoys weightlifting, walking her beloved American Staffy x French Mastiff, Askari, and spending time with her partner Josh after recently ending two years of long distance.
An ex-gymnast with an adventurous streak, Maddilyn also once flew planes before relocating to Central Queensland and enjoys aerial silks in her spare time.
Her happiest life moment? Witnessing the Northern Lights in Alaska — a lifelong bucket-list dream she says was the most remarkable thing she has ever seen.
“At Baby First Aid QLD, we understand that pregnancy is a time of both excitement and preparation. Our mission is to empower expecting parents with the confidence and life-saving skills they need before their little one arrives.
“Led by experienced health professionals, our hands-on workshops cover essential infant-specific first aid, including CPR, choking response, and managing common emergencies like fevers and burns. We offer flexible learning through public classes, private in-home sessions, and comprehensive online modules. By bridging the gap between pregnancy and parenthood, we ensure you’re not just ready for birth, but ready for everything that follows.”
If you too would like to share your opinions, stories, or experiences with us, please send your letter to the editor, rachael@lifepublishing.com
In response to Federal Member for Dawson’s recent comments regarding the Giggle vs. Tickle debate
Anonymous letter to the editor.
I was concerned and disappointed recently to read Andrew Willcox’s statement regarding same-sex spaces in the wake of the Giggle vs. Tickle Ruling, which awarded damages to Transwoman Roxanne Tickle after she was blocked from Grover’s app, Giggle for Girls, promoted as an online space for women. Disappointingly, Grover’s statements regarding Tickle have been littered with cruel and incendiary rhetoric poking fun at Ms Tickle’s physical attributes and reproductive abilities, as has general conversation regarding the ruling.
As a staunch believer that transwomen should have the right to exist and join safe spaces in a world where they face elevated levels of gender-based violence, I have been saddened by the instrumentalisation of the case to further harmful ideology that transwomen are a threat to women’s safety.
I for one would hope that in a warm, close-knit community like ours, any queer or transpeople could have access to resources, spaces and online circles formed to provide refuge for all those who need it - and would urge readers to take into account individuals' humanity, experiences, and struggles, rather than scapegoating them for issues predominantly enacted by cisgender men.
As a woman, I would invite transwomen to feel safe in my space, and ask why, if we are uncomfortable with the idea of letting men into bathrooms and online spaces, we are roping transwomen in to take the blame. They are not the problem.
This DV month I for one would like to focus on addressing the very real violence disproportionately experienced by women, cis or trans, and the systems and behaviours that enable it, rather than redirecting public fear toward an already marginalised group.
If your marketing feels ad hoc or enquiry slows down, we tend to put pressure on ourselves to “do more marketing”. Ramp up advertising, get onto all the socials, stand outside + wave a sign around. It’s not these things can’t help – but honestly, the best marketing you can do is the right things, more consistently. Ie not just when things are quiet or when you notice that you haven’t posted to FB for two months (no judgement – we have ALL been there!!!).
This Small Business Month, we’ve been sharing tips for our top five marketing activities that are relevant to most businesses. They are:
The other thing worth remembering is that these activities don’t necessarily work in isolation. Someone might discover you on social media, click through to your website, sign up to your emails, then finally enquire months later after hearing your name come up again through word of mouth. Marketing is rarely one magic post, ad or email that suddenly changes everything – it’s usually a combination of touchpoints that build familiarity + trust over time.
Just think of your own purchasing behaviour. What’s something you bought recently from a business you haven’t bought from before – did you just get a recommendation, call them up + pay them for their services? Chances are, no.
Good marketing usually comes back to the same thing – being visible with the right people, in the right way, often enough to be remembered when it counts. If you’d like a hand with that, the crew at Rebel Nation would love to help – check us out at rebelnation.com.au.
It’s not every day a local distillery takes home international honours, but for 74 Islands Distillery, this year’s World Drinks Awards in London delivered a milestone moment not only for the business, but for the Whitsundays region itself.
74 Islands Distillery received major recognition on the global stage, with its Rainwater Vodka awarded Gold and named Best Vodka in Australia at the World Vodka Awards, while its Rainwater London Dry Gin secured a Silver Medal at the World Gin Awards.
For founder Glenn Hitch, the achievement is confirmation of the brands vision and belief in the quality of what can be created in regional Queensland.
“As a boutique distillery based in Airlie Beach, the awards mark a significant milestone and a proud moment for our team.”
“From the beginning, we wanted to create spirits that genuinely reflected the beauty and quality of this region.”
The awards place Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays alongside some of the world’s most respected spirit producers, with Hitch describing the recognition as both exciting and humbling for the team behind the brand.
“There are so many outstanding Gin’s and Vodka’s in the market, it’s both humbling and validating to be recognised on the world stage.” he said.
“We set out to be authentic to our brand ethos of drink well and to show the Whitsundays in our product.”
Central to the success of the spirits is one ingredient found nowhere else: Whitsunday rainwater.
“The Whitsunday rainwater is very clean and free from contaminants, this combined with our distilling process, the botanicals we use, has resulted in a product which is unique and premium”
Now, with global recognition secured, the team at 74 Islands Distillery is encouraging locals, Queenslanders and Australians alike to experience the award-winning spirits firsthand and celebrate a distinctly Whitsunday success story.
Jump online and give us a try, grab a bottle and do some blind tasting against your favourite international vodka and let us know your feedback!
Free delivery (within Australia) on the London Dry Gin and Vodka until the end of June to celebrate the awards.
Free tastings are also available at Harry Brown in Cannovale each Friday between 3-4pm and at the Airlie Beach Markets on Saturdays, come down to try and have a chat.
As golden light settles across the paddocks and the canefields begin to glow at dusk, Oh Deere Farm Stay is preparing to host one of the Mackay region’s most distinctive country experiences — A Night in the Canefields.
Returning on Saturday 18th July from 4pm to 9pm, the highly anticipated event invites locals and visitors alike to step onto a working sugar cane farm for an evening of live music, authentic rural hospitality and the rare spectacle of a live canefire at sundown.
Owner and operator Karinda Anderson said the event offered a unique opportunity to experience a tradition rarely seen in the Mackay region.
“This is a rare event, and it’s not something commonly done,” she said.
Set against a stunning rural backdrop, the evening will feature live entertainment from Mango Junction, delicious food vans, a fully licensed bar, children’s activities, warming fire pits and camping for guests wanting to soak up the atmosphere beneath the stars.
More than just a night out, Karinda said the event was about reconnecting people with the land and celebrating the farming industry that supports regional communities.
“People, especially kids, don’t always get the chance to see where food comes from,” she said.
“This is a chance to experience life on a working farm and learn more about the sugar industry, while enjoying a night out with your friends and family.”
At just $55 per vehicle, A Night in the Canefields is shaping up to be a unique celebration of farming, community and top-notch regional Queensland hospitality.
ohdeerefarmstay.com.au
Matthew Perre, Senior Manager of Sales at Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant. Photo supplied
With 26 years at Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant, Matthew Perre, Senior Manager of Sales has built a career around helping clients create memorable travel experiences across the globe.
Driven by a passion for travel and connecting people with unforgettable destinations, Matthew said the industry offered the perfect opportunity to turn clients’ dream holidays into reality.
“I loved the idea of creating memorable experiences for people,” he explained.
“Over time, my passion for travel and sharing those experiences with others led me to help turn other people’s travel dreams into reality.”
Throughout his career, some of the most memorable moments have come during unexpected travel disruptions, where professional support and customer care become especially important.
“Helping clients during difficult situations has always stayed with me,” he said.
“Supporting people when things go wrong reminds me how valuable professional travel advice and genuine customer care really are.”
Matthew believes the supportive and relationship-focused culture at Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant is what continues to set the business apart.
“We genuinely care about our clients and each other while maintaining strong professionalism, teamwork and a commitment to delivering exceptional travel experiences,” he said.
Matthew has observed current travel trends are showing an increased demand for premium, experience-driven holidays, with river cruising, expedition cruising, Europe, Japan and personalised small-group touring among the most popular choices.
Having travelled extensively, Africa remains a standout destination for Matthew thanks to its wildlife, scenery and safari experiences, while Central Asia and the historic Silk Road remain firmly on his bucket list!
New Apprentices, from left: Oscar Bishop (Plane Creek, electrical), Korben Rappard (Proserpine, boiler making), Thomas O’Neill (Proserpine, fitting and turning), Leon Arena (Proserpine, electrical), and Daniel Pugh (Proserpine, diesel fitting. Photo source: Wilmar Sugar Australia
Wilmar Sugar and Renewables has welcomed 18 first-year apprentices across its operations this year, with the new recruits already settling into roles spanning electrical, fitting and turning, boilermaking and diesel fitting trades.
The apprentices officially commenced in February and are now working across the company’s Sugar and Renewables division as part of one of Queensland’s largest apprenticeship programs.
Group Manager Mechanical Engineering Tienie van Blerk said the new apprentices had adapted well to their roles and embraced the company’s workplace values.
“They've integrated really well into the business and are demonstrating the values of teamwork and passion in their day-to-day work,” Mr van Blerk said.
“I'm really impressed by how keen they are to learn from our experienced trades and become the best they can be.”
Group Manager Electrical Instrumentation and Control Chris Pickering said apprentices at Wilmar benefited from exposure to a wide range of advanced technologies and industrial systems.
“The sugar industry is known for turning out really well-rounded apprentices and our factories have some of the most advanced technological platforms available,” Mr Pickering said.
“Our electrical trades are working with advanced automation and control systems, modern power generation and distribution systems, and smart instrumentation. Most electrical apprentices only get exposure to a narrow range of equipment. Ours are trained across a large range of industrial plant.”
General Manager Engineering Istvan Torok said the apprenticeship program played an important role in the company’s long-term workforce development and retention strategy.
“We have one of the largest and most successful apprenticeship programs in Queensland,” Mr Torok said.
“Not only do we have a very high completion rate, but we have a high retention rate among our newly qualified tradespeople. These first-year apprentices will become the highly-skilled tradespeople we rely upon to keep our factories, locos and mobile fleet running efficiently. They'll also become mentors for future generations of apprentices at our sites.”
Wilmar Sugar and Renewables currently employs around 120 apprentices across the business.
Applications for the company’s 2027 apprenticeship intake will open on 9 June.
The Federal Government is seeking feedback on proposed Right to Repair reforms that would expand repair access for agricultural machinery and support independent repairers. Photo source: Shutterstock
The Federal Government is seeking feedback on proposed Right to Repair reforms aimed at expanding repair options for farmers, drivers and small businesses while helping reduce machinery downtime and maintenance costs.
Released last Thursday, the discussion paper proposes extending Australia’s existing Right to Repair framework to agricultural machinery, alongside improvements to the Motor Vehicle Information Sharing Scheme, which has operated since 2022.
The current scheme requires vehicle manufacturers to provide independent repairers with access to service and repair information at a fair market price, supporting competition and consumer choice.
According to the Federal Government, a review of the scheme found it had contributed to a $2.4 billion increase in annual turnover across the independent repair sector.
Under the proposed changes, farmers and regional businesses could gain faster access to repair information for agricultural machinery, helping reduce delays during critical planting and harvest periods.
The Productivity Commission estimates expanding Right to Repair laws to agriculture could increase annual GDP by $97 million through increased grain outputs alone by reducing downtime during harvest.
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins said the reforms would give farmers more choice and support regional repair businesses.
“By extending Right to Repair laws to include agricultural machinery, these changes will help reduce downtime, lower repair costs and keep farm operations moving when it matters most,” Ms Collins said.
The consultation period is open until Friday, July 3, 2026.
In a world dominated by scrolling, swiping and endless notifications, there’s something quietly powerful about print. The weight of a magazine or newspaper in your hands and the texture of the paper. The deliberate pause that comes with turning a page. While the digital world races forward at relentless speed, print continues to hold its ground not out of nostalgia, but because human connection still matters.
For many, print was predicted to become obsolete long ago. Yet publications like CORE Magazine and Mackay and Whitsunday Life continue to prove otherwise. Not only surviving but thriving. Why? Because print offers something digital often cannot, permanence, presence and trust. It asks us to slow down, absorb stories more deeply and connect with the people and places behind them.
Regional publications in particular play a role far greater than simply delivering content. They become a reflection of community identity. They celebrate local business, amplify important voices and preserve stories that might otherwise be lost in the noise of algorithms and fleeting online trends.
The latest awards and industry recognition Mackay and Whitsunday Life received at the QCPA [ Queensland Country Press Association ] reinforces an important truth: regional publications deserve their place alongside metropolitan media counterparts. In many ways, they offer something even more valuable, authenticity. The stories are personal; the impact is visible and the connection to their audience is genuine.
Yet perhaps the greatest achievement cannot be measured in accolades at all. It lives within the countless businesses supported, the local stories shared, the community conversations started and the people who feel seen within its pages.
Print remains powerful because people still crave connection. In an age of temporary content and shrinking attention spans, there is something extraordinary about creating work designed to be held onto, revisited and remembered.
Perhaps that is why print continues to endure. While technology changes, the human desire for meaningful storytelling never will.
The Mackay Community Foundation has successfully secured a $50,675 stamp duty refund through QCAT following the transfer of 7 Gregory Street, Mackay, donated as a community legacy gift in 2021. Photo source: Mackay Community Foundation
Mackay Community Foundation has secured a successful outcome through the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT), resulting in the refund of $50,675 in stamp duty paid on the transfer of 7 Gregory Street, Mackay, along with interest.
In early 2021, Mackay Community Foundation founding director Steve Lowry began discussions with a donor who was seeking to leave 7 Gregory Street to a worthy charity in Mackay as a legacy to the contribution the Mackay community had made to his business success.
The property was transferred to Mackay Community Foundation in August 2021.
As part of the conveyancing process, the Foundation applied for registration as a Charitable Institution in Queensland, which would exempt it from paying stamp duty on the property transfer.
Despite holding Deductible Gift Recipient status with the Australian Taxation Office, the application was declined, with the Commissioner of State Revenue determining that Mackay Community Foundation did not meet the definition of an “Institution”.
The Foundation objected to the decision on two occasions, however charitable institution status was not granted and the Foundation was required to pay $50,675 in stamp duty.
After seeking assistance from Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer, Mackay Community Foundation began the appeal process through QCAT in December 2022.
The hearing was held in May 2025, with Mackay Community Foundation Directors Frances Eason and Ian Joblin providing evidence on behalf of the Foundation.
In December 2025, QCAT decided in favour of Mackay Community Foundation and the Queensland Office of State Revenue was ordered to refund the stamp duty paid, along with interest – with the transfer now complete.
Mackay Community Foundation Director and Company Secretary Ian Joblin said the outcome was “significant” for the Foundation and the wider not-for-profit sector in Queensland.
“Providing a fairer assessment of what a Charitable Institution is, and therefore allowing a greater number of charitable organisations to access exemptions from Queensland Government taxes and duties, has made the work to achieve this outcome worthwhile,” Mr Joblin said.
“Not only have we secured the return of funds to the Mackay community, but we have also earned interest on those monies that will be donated to charitable organisations in Mackay in 2027.
“Mackay Community Foundation would like to thank Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer, Jennifer Batrouney KC, Bridget O’Brien and Genevieve Feely for their professionalism and dedication to this successful outcome.”
Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer said it was “pleased” to represent Mackay Community Foundation on a pro bono basis in its successful application.
“In its decision, the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal recognised the Foundation as precisely the kind of well-established, well-governed organisation with deep community engagement that Parliament intended to benefit from charitable institution registration.
“Together with pro bono counsel, Jennifer Batrouney KC, Bridget O’Brien and Genevieve Feely, we are proud to have assisted in clarifying an important area of law that affects charitable trusts across Queensland.
“This successful outcome serves to safeguard the Foundation’s charitable resources for the Mackay community and provides greater certainty for the broader not-for-profit sector.”
For more information about Mackay Community Foundation, visit www.mackaycommunityfoundation.com.
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox with Mackay RSL Sub-Branch President Ken Higgins OAM.
Government claims changes will support larger, ongoing veteran health investment.
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox has labelled the Australian Government’s budgetary decision to cap the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) allied health services to an annual limit of $5000 “a profound betrayal of the men and women who have sacrificed so much for our nation.”
The Australian Government stated that the cap was instated to support a larger investment in Veteran health, pledging $169.7 million over five years from 2025–26 (and $58.8 million per year ongoing), to increase allied health provider fees for Veteran Card holders from 1st July 2027.
They call it “the largest investment in veteran allied health provider fees in more than 20 years,” which “will improve choice and availability of services for veterans and families of veterans.”
According to the DVA, the cap will redistribute funds, whilst aiming to target overservicing from providers.
“Under this arrangement, Veteran Card holders will continue to access the treatment they need, while ensuring they are not taken advantage of by providers looking to increase profits through overservicing,” the DVA published.
“DVA is committed to supporting the health and wellbeing of veterans and recognises that health care needs are individual and can change over time. That is why this measure includes flexibility for DVA to fund allied health services above $5,000 amount where there is a valid clinical need, ensuring veterans receive the care they require.”
Mr Willcox has spoken out about the change, calling the cap a “cruel cost-shifting measure.”
“Getting regular help from an exercise physiologist or a psychologist is a massive part of preventing veteran suicide,” he said.
“It gets men and women sorted before they hit rock bottom. Keeping veterans well on the frontline saves lives, and it stops them needing much more expensive medical treatment down the track."
“To see this critical funding degraded is deeply disappointing.”
By Cr Belinda Hassan
Mackay Regional Council has launched an exciting new initiative called Amplify Mackay, designed to help local businesses tap into the opportunities created by major events across our region.
As a community, we already know that events bring energy, excitement and visitors into our region. From sporting fixtures and festivals, through to exhibitions, conferences and cultural events, they inject life into our city and create valuable economic opportunities for local businesses.
But Amplify Mackay is about taking that one step further.
The program encourages businesses to align what they already do with major event periods – whether that’s through special offers, themed experiences, promotions, activations or simply creating a welcoming atmosphere for visitors and locals alike. Those offers are then promoted through the Amplify Mackay platform to event organisers, visitors and the wider community.
Importantly, businesses don’t need to spend a fortune or completely reinvent themselves. In fact, one of the strongest messages behind the campaign is that participation can be simple, affordable and effective.
For cafés and restaurants, it might be a themed menu or event-night special. For retailers, it could mean decorating shopfronts, creating eye-catching displays or running a promotion tied to a major event. Accommodation providers might offer transport options, late check-outs or packages for visitors attending events.
There are some exciting events on the horizon that businesses can connect with, including Daly Bay Illuminate, QME, Mackay’s first international Test cricket match, Rhythm and the Reef, AFLW events linked to the Gold Coast SUNS partnership, and the highly anticipated Disney: The Exhibition – A Century of Magic, which is expected to attract strong visitation from December through to May 2027.
One event I’m particularly looking forward to is Daly Bay Illuminate in July, when Wood and Victoria Streets will light up as part of the Festival of Arts. The event encourages businesses to get creative with lighting, displays and promotions, helping transform the City Centre into a vibrant night-time destination.
What I really appreciate about Amplify Mackay is that it recognises major events don’t just benefit one venue or precinct – the benefits can and should flow throughout the wider community. When visitors come here, their experience is shaped not just by the headline event, but by the hospitality, atmosphere and local pride they encounter across our region.
This initiative is about showcasing the very best of Mackay – our creativity, our business community and our ability to work together to create memorable experiences for both visitors and locals. Get onboard at: https://mackayevents.com.au/events/discover-mackay-event-energy.
Let’s Chat – Council Connect
Residents can catch up with councillors in person at upcoming Let’s Chat - Council Connect sessions held across the region. The next session will be held at Seaforth Bowls Club on June 2 at 5pm.
Further details can be found on the Connecting Mackay website.
Community generosity has helped the Habana Rural Fire Brigade upgrade its boggy fireshed forecourt, improving emergency response access and allowing the brigade to move ahead with future improvements. Photos supplied
A wealth of community support has been on full display at the Habana Rural Fire Brigade, with local businesses stepping in to help repair the brigade’s boggy fire shed forecourt.
Brigade representative Maxine Godley said the muddy conditions had become a constant issue for volunteers, with trucks regularly becoming bogged after returning from emergencies.
“Every time the trucks left the shed and returned they were in the bog — muddied and had to be washed down,” she said.
The project quickly gained momentum thanks to the generosity of local companies.
Heidelberg Materials Australia Area Manager Danielle Bree advised the brigade the company was “delighted to assist”, while Steel Force Mackay Branch Manager Rick Biggin offered to supply the steel reinforcing for the foundation.
The concrete pour took place on April 21st, with fire trucks rolling in to complete the long-awaited upgrade.
Mrs Godley said the support had not only improved day-to-day operations but also allowed the brigade to move ahead with another important improvement project.
“The savings allow us to immediately proceed to the next major project — the second roller door at the front of the fire shed to allow our smaller ‘quick response’ fire truck to be first out of the shed and away in an emergency,” she said.
“On behalf of all brigade members and our community we want to sincerely thank these donors for their willing generosity providing assistance to Habana’s Rural Fire Brigade.”
She said the finished result had already made a noticeable difference for volunteers and emergency response efforts, describing it as “a clean and secure forecourt for emergency response and returns.”
Last year's event was a major success, and this year is set to be even better! Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
The 2026 Mackay Disability Expo is here for another year, drawing thousands into the Big Shed at the Mackay Showgrounds this upcoming Tuesday June 2nd.
The event will provide various opportunities for people living with disability, and their carers, with stalls and experts available on the day to help improve quality of life.
Organisers say the expo this year will focus on ensuring people living with a disability can live their best lives.
Mayor Greg Williamson said, “While these are all important aspects of disability support, there’s so much more on offer that can improve quality of life and assist people follow their interests and passions,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Exhibitors like That Place have created a space for people to interact and grow through play with their ‘Dragons on the Spectrum’ program, which is hugely popular,” he said.
“It’s a fantastic example of social skills building, which can greatly build the confidence and life enjoyment of participants.
“Organisations like Sport4All can not only help people with a disability be involved in sport, volunteering and administration, but can help local clubs ensure they are truly accessible.”
The event will include several demonstrations, including an inspiring performance by the Unheard Voices Collective.
The latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows 5.5 million Australians, which is 21 per cent of the population, live with disability, totalling up to 17.7 per cent since 2018.
Of the households where at least one person lived with disability, more than 60 per cent needed assistance with at least one aspect of daily life.
Mayor Williamson said those statistics show the importance of events like the Mackay Disability Expo.
“With an increasing number of people living with disability, it’s vital that our community knows that help is available. And the Mackay Disability Expo is a great place to learn what is out there and how it can assist you or your loved one.”
For more information on the Mackay Disability Expo, visit mackay.qld.gov.au/disabilityexpo
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