Earlier this month, Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) celebrated the dedication of the more than 3,300 women who play a vital role in delivering healthcare across the region.

From frontline professionals to behind-the-scenes specialists, these women are the backbone of the health service—saving lives, driving innovation, and shaping the future of healthcare. As part of International Women’s Day (March 8) and Queensland Women’s Week, teams across Mackay HHS wore purple to show their support and acknowledge the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women in health.

Among those recognised was rural operations manager Amelia Elliott, a shining example of leadership and career progression in health support.

Amelia’s journey in Queensland Health began over a decade ago as a business manager at Roma Hospital, where she gained firsthand experience in the vital role rural hospitals play in small communities. Since moving to Mackay in 2017, she has held multiple business management roles at Mackay Base Hospital before returning to her passion—rural healthcare.

Now, as Mackay HHS rural operations manager, Amelia’s work spans seven rural hospitals, ensuring seamless patient care through patient travel assistance, HR guidance, corporate governance, financial practices, and funding opportunities. She played a key role in the 2023 refurbishment project at Collinsville MPHS, which upgraded aged care facilities with ensuite bathrooms, improving comfort and dignity for residents.

A crucial part of her role is bridging the gap between rural facilities and Mackay Base Hospital, ensuring patients across Mackay, Isaac, and Whitsunday communities receive the care they need.

During Queensland Women’s Week, Amelia encouraged other women to consider careers in rural health, highlighting the strong teamwork, diverse opportunities, and meaningful impact of working in these essential roles.

Mackay HHS was proud to recognise and celebrate the incredible women who make healthcare possible, honouring their expertise, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the wellbeing of local communities.

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Amelia Elliott

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Resource Industry Network (RIN) is proud to have hosted an impactful business lunch celebrating inclusivity and gender equity in the workplace. This year’s theme, "Accelerate Action," emphasised the urgent need to dismantle the systemic barriers and biases that women still face in professional environments.

The event featured Olympic Gold Medallist Kerri Pottharst, whose decades of expertise in goal achievement and competition provided invaluable insights. As one of the world’s top volleyball players, Ms Pottharst has represented Australia for more than 20 years and is now a renowned speaker, coach, and author.

The panel discussion was equally enlightening, with Taz Zammit, a leading Australian social media influencer and advocate for inclusivity, offering her perspective on the creator economy.

Dean Kirkwood, General Manager at RIN, highlighted how an inclusive workforce drives innovation, safety, and productivity.

“Our International Women’s Day (IWD) business lunch has sold out for five consecutive years because it brings together Queensland professionals who are committed to championing gender equality,” said Mr Kirkwood.

This event has become a key gathering for professionals of all genders who are dedicated to advancing women’s roles in the workplace.

With the 2025 event sold out, RIN encourages early registration for the 2026 IWD lunch.

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Last weekend, the Zonta International Women’s Day High Tea celebrated more than just a tradition—it honoured the extraordinary leadership, resilience, and community spirit of young women shaping the future. The prestigious Zonta Young Women in Leadership Award recognises outstanding young women aged 16 to 19 who go above and beyond in demonstrating leadership and a commitment to public service.

This year’s winner, Arhamah Haider of Whitsunday Anglican School, and runner-up Sanvi Rana, also from Whitsunday Anglican School, exemplify what it means to lead with courage, compassion, and determination. From advocating for global women’s rights and disaster recovery to working tirelessly to improve healthcare access in rural communities, these young women are not just shaping their communities—they are transforming them.

Zonta Mackay expressed their pride, saying, "We wish to congratulate all nominees. Thank you to the many Z-Clubs who attended and who work so hard for our causes—we appreciate you! The future is in good hands."

These remarkable leaders inspire us all, proving that with vision and dedication, young women can change the world—today and beyond.

Holy Spirit College Mackay

Natalie Logan
A Year 12 student at Holy Spirit College, Natalie Logan has long been passionate about STEM subjects, leading her to participate in the 2025 National Youth Science Forum.
Beyond her studies, Natalie is actively involved in her community as a netball coach and umpire. She previously served as the Mackay-Matsuura Youth Ambassador in 2023 and currently holds the position of Peer Support Chair on the college’s Student Representative Council. Additionally, she is the president of the school’s Z Club.
Inspired by the mentors she admired growing up, Natalie strives to be a compassionate, enthusiastic, and understanding leader. She plans to pursue a Bachelor of Medical Imaging, aspiring to become a radiographer or sonographer.

Stephanie Parchert
Stephanie Parchert, also a Year 12 student at Holy Spirit College, is serving as the Community Service Chair on the college’s Student Representative Council, overseeing groups such as the Z Club and the Environment Group.
Actively involved in both, she also contributes to the school’s IMPACT (Inspiring, Motivating, Promoting About Christian Teachings) program and choir.
Outside of school, Stephanie has been a dedicated member of the Scouting movement for 12 years, beginning at the age of five. Her experiences in scouting have inspired her to pursue a career in Outdoor Education.

Sarina State High School

Montanah McWaters
A Year 12 student at Sarina State High School, Montanah McWaters was recently inducted as School Captain for 2025. Her leadership extends far beyond her title, as she takes the initiative to create opportunities for others, ensuring inclusivity in all aspects of student life.
Passionate about reproductive health, Montanah participated in the 2024 Ovarian Cancer Workout 4 Women, where she was recognised for her outstanding early contributions.
She aspires to become a high school teacher, believing that by fostering critical thinking and the power of knowledge, she can help shape a brighter future for others.

St Patrick’s College Mackay

Elena Mathew
A student at St Patrick’s College, Elena Mathew is deeply committed to community involvement and intends to continue making a lasting impact, particularly on youth.
Elected as a councillor for the Mackay Youth Council, she will complete her term in 2026 and has also been appointed as the Gratitude Initiative Ambassador for the next two years.
In addition to her civic engagements, Elena aspires to study Radiology at the University of Queensland (UQ) and later specialise in neuro-radiology.

Mikayla Green
As the School Captain of St Patrick’s College, Mikayla Green enjoys gardening, sewing her own clothes, and spending time with family.
Her personal goal is to study a Bachelor of Law at Bond University on a full scholarship. She hopes to become the youngest female District Court Judge in Queensland’s history. After graduation, she intends to return to Mackay to work as a Crown Prosecutor before progressing to a Magistrate’s role.
Mikayla also plans to take the bar exam to become a barrister.

Whitsunday Anglican School

Amelia Bishop
A proud Aboriginal descendant of the Kamilaroi people, Amelia Bishop currently lives on Yuwi country in Mackay and is a Year 11 student at Whitsunday Anglican School. She aspires to study medicine and improve Indigenous health and well-being across Australia by establishing Indigenous GP clinics that serve rural and remote communities.
Amelia is highly active in her school and local community, engaging in volunteer surf lifesaving, serving as President of the Whitsunday Anglican School Zonta Club, volunteering for NAIDOC Week and the Mackay Road Runners, assisting with Zonta Birthing Kits, and competing in inter-school debating. She is also the founder of her business, Indigenous Scrunchies, and has been selected to attend several national university programs.

Arhamah Haider (Winner)
A Year 11 student at Whitsunday Anglican School, Arhamah Haider is a United Nations Youth Student Ambassador who believes in turning talk into action.
Her extensive achievements include representing Australia at the UN Youth Conference in New Zealand, competing nationally in the UN Youth Voice competition, working with UNICEF to amplify the voices of women in Gaza, and being the youngest Minister in Queensland Youth Parliament for Fire and Disaster Recovery. She was also accepted into Harvard University’s highly competitive ‘Justice’ course, co-founded 'The Gratitude Initiative' supporting women in need, and was a state finalist in both the Tom Stephenson Community Cup and national Slam Poetry competitions.
A talented speech and drama performer in Mackay, Arhamah is a passionate advocate for change.

Sanvi Rana (Runner-up)
A Year 12 student and current School Captain at Whitsunday Anglican School, Sanvi Rana plans to pursue a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery at Monash University in Melbourne.
She aspires to improve healthcare accessibility in rural communities, ensuring better medical services for remote populations.
Sanvi’s extracurricular activities include serving as Secretary and President of the WAS Interact Club, volunteering as a face painter for Troppo Market (raising over $1,500 for Rotary), assisting children with disabilities at Sony Camp, and contributing to events such as Open Day and the Whitsunday Voices Youth Literature Festival. She has also participated in UN Youth Voice competitions and nationwide Mathematics and Science competitions.

Congratulations to all nominees on their outstanding achievements and dedication to leadership and service.

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Sanvi Rana, Arhamah Haider, Natalie Logan, Stephanie Parchert, Elena Mathew, Mikayla Green, Montanah McWaters, Amelia Bishop. Photo credit: Cherrie Hughes

Winner: Arhamah Haider

Runner-up: Sanvi Rana

Natalie Logan

Mikayla Green

Amelia Bishop

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March is a powerful month of celebration and reflection, marking International Women’s Day, Queensland Women’s Week, and International Women’s Month. It’s a time to honour the incredible women in our community—mums raising the next generation of champions, grandmothers sharing their golden wisdom, business leaders breaking barriers, students striving to make a difference, frontline workers saving lives, and those who unite women through networking and support.

These women are the backbone of Mackay, shaping our community with strength, compassion, and resilience. From boardrooms to classrooms, from healthcare centres to local events, they make our region thrive every day.

As we celebrate their achievements and contributions this March, we acknowledge that while progress has been made, the journey toward equality continues. This feature shines a spotlight on just a few of Mackay’s remarkable women—champions in their own right—who inspire us all to build a stronger, more equitable future.

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Simon Hood, Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

As the ground dries out and activity picks up on farm, so does the activity of our Grower Marketing team. We are in the process of organising our popular shed meetings where we come on farm and update growers on our recent results, the global sugar market and new products or services we can offer.

This will be followed up in June with a regional tour by our Senior Sugar Trader Peter Bingham to deliver an in-depth analysis of global production and consumption forecasts and consequent price expectations. If you’re interested in attending one of these events near you, please reach out to your local consultant to
register your interest.

While talking with growers, consultants have also been setting up the pricing mechanisms for the 2025 season and checking that GEI nomination estimates line up with initial crop estimates. For growers who want to control their pricing more closely we recommend using the Grower Managed
Production Risk Scheme (GMPRS) for the last third of your 2025 season crop over the Production Risk Pool.

While the Production Risk Pool has been performing well over the past few years there is no guarantee of gaining a higher return versus pricing yourself and we have seen many growers achieve above average returns. Those growers who don’t market with Wilmar are unfortunately missing out even further, with our Production Risk Pool currently forecast to pay more than $23 a tonne higher than QSL’s Harvest Pool for the 2024 Season.

A quick reminder for growers that all Call, Target and GMPRS pricing for the 2024 season needs to be completed by 18 of April. On a similar timeline, the set-up of Call and Target pricing for the 2025 season needs to complete by the end of April, so the GMPRS nominations can be opened at the beginning of May. We are also getting plenty of enquiries about the opening of nominations for the 2026 season Managed Pool Plus, so stay tuned for further announcements on that opportunity.

When not helping growers with pricing and pooling information, the Grower Marketing consultants are out and about in the local communities. We are proud to have extended our sponsorship budget this year to include a range of sporting teams and community activities through the regions.

Recently several Wilmar Sugar and Renewables staff including our Burdekin Business Development Manager, Owen Richards, participated in an International Women’s Day Fun Run organised by Mater Chicks in Pink. The Sugar and Renewables team raised more than $1,200 for breast cancer research.

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Wilmar Grower Marketing’s Owen Richards, back right, was part of the Sugar and Renewables team that
participated in an International Women’s Day fun run. He’s pictured with (back, from left) Sarah Harding,
Renay Wyllie, Paula Scarabel, Peter Larsen, Helen Burbidge, Yvette Drysdale and Raymond De Lai. At
front are Clara Richards, Casey Drew and Miles Newman. Photo supplied

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International Women’s Day provides a highly visible lens to spotlight women’s contributions and elevate issues, however this special day should be only part of the story.

If we are to effect real change, we need to be influencing and advocating for change as part of ‘business as usual’.

Women’s influence is everywhere in society – as parents, sisters, aunts, grandmothers, friends, teammates, and colleagues – and historically while many of these roles are informal, they should not be underestimated in the positive impact they provide for girls and women.

There is however, in my view, an added responsibility for women who hold official roles of leadership and power, to play a pivotal role in challenging the status quo and advocating for change and importantly, choice and opportunity.

The increasing presence of diverse women in formal positions of power challenges stereotypes and provides highly visible role models inspiring future generations of female leaders – at a local, regional and national level. ‘You can’t be it, if you can’t see it’. The more women in these roles blazes trails, expands options, and breaks down barriers – plus, it creates momentum for other women to follow. It reshapes public perceptions about what leadership looks like and breaks ground for a changed narrative.

It may seem unbelievable to younger generations that, for much of history, women were financially excluded, only breaking through these barriers in the 20th century. In Australia, for example, it wasn’t until the Sex Discrimination Act of 1984 that women could obtain a loan or mortgage without a male guarantor.

It’s crucial we have not only gender diversity but also more importantly that women bring diversity of thought and perspective to push for systemic change and structural reforms, as well as influence cultural change. Critically, women in power have a unique platform to draw attention to issues that may have been overlooked – whether it be in a workplace, sport or society more broadly – that not only benefit just women but also our communities generally, and effect transformation.

To move forward as a society, we need both women and men to be bold advocates in business, industry, politics, and the community. By using their influence strategically, they can create positive change with a lasting ripple effect on society as a whole.

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Mackay has been blessed so far this year, avoiding the worst of natural disasters. But when ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred devastated Southeast Queensland, our local emergency services stepped up to help those in need.

Sixteen Mackay police officers, including newly promoted Superintendent Dean Cavanagh, deployed south to assist their counterparts. Their dedication embodied the Queensland spirit—showing up when it mattered most.

Our SES volunteers also answered the call, with 85 personnel from Mackay, Mirani, Rockhampton, Gladstone, Yeppoon, and the Whitsundays heading south to provide vital support in hard-hit areas like Redlands, Redcliffe, and Capalaba. They worked tirelessly alongside emergency responders from across the state, ensuring communities received the help they needed.

Behind the scenes, 12 staff from Central Region SES offices played a crucial role in managing operations at Coordination Centres, ensuring resources were effectively allocated. And the commitment doesn’t stop—another group of SES volunteers deployed last weekend, continuing Mackay’s legacy of support.

This level of dedication doesn’t happen without sacrifice. I want to extend my deepest gratitude to these volunteers, their families, and their employers for their selflessness. Their willingness to leave home and work to assist fellow Queenslanders is truly remarkable.

As we approach Easter, I encourage everyone to support regional Queensland. While Southeast Queensland is open for business, so too are Mackay and the Whitsundays. With stunning beaches, islands, natural wonders, staying in hotels or camping, lifetime memories will be made. Our region is the perfect place to relax and explore.

Choosing to visit Mackay this holiday season not only guarantees unforgettable experiences but also helps support local businesses and communities that rely on tourism.

The generosity of our volunteers and the resilience of Queensland communities is inspiring. Mackay’s emergency service personnel continue to make us proud, proving once again that when disaster strikes, Queenslanders stand together.

Nigel Dalton MP

Member for Mackay

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If your idea of marketing to women involves pastel packaging, soft imagery or throwing a “girl boss” in there, it’s time for a rethink. Women make up a massive part of the consumer market, but too many brands still rely on stereotypes that srsly miss the mark. The good news? It’s not hard to do better – here’s how >>

   Drop the stereotypes

Not all women are into babies, cooking + fashion (srsly – have you seen what I wear??!). Not all Mums want “Mum life” products. Women are just as diverse as any other customer base, so ditch the assumptions + get specific about who you’re really talking to.

   Dig into the data

Forget guesswork – what are your female customers actually buying? What are they searching for? What problems do they need solved? Social media insights, surveys + real purchasing history will tell you way more than outdated marketing playbooks. And this isn’t just for marketing to women – the more you work from data, the more informed your marketing decisions will be.

   Make your brand feel like it’s for them

If women (or any group of people) are an afterthought in your marketing, they’ll know. It’s 2025 peeps – accepting that it takes all kinds to make the world go round isn’t just “PC”, it’s actually better for your business. Do this by ensuring your branding, messaging + imagery reflect a mix of experiences.

   Talk like a real person

No one likes being spoken down to, and yet, so much marketing still talks at their audience, rather than to them. Ditch the fluff, the forced “feminine” tone + anything else that feels try-hard (especially when marketing to younger peeps!!!). Just be clear, and talk like you’re a human being, speaking to another human being (shock horror – the secret to marketing revealed right there!!!).

   Focus on what matters, to them

Just like any audience you are marketing to – the first Q is always >> What’s in it for them? Features are nice, but people want to know how a product or service actually improves their life. Does it save them time? Reduce stress? Make their day a little easier? That’s the good stuff – lead with that.

The bottom line

Great marketing isn’t about “targeting women” – it’s about knowing your audience + speaking to them in a way that actually connects (and sounds like you give a crap about them!). Get that right, and you’ll build a brand that people (women included) actually want to engage with.

Jade McAuley

Director at Rebel Nation

#marketingdigitaldesign

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The Zonta Club of Mackay’s International Women’s Day High Tea was bigger than ever this year, bringing the community together to celebrate women’s achievements and push for meaningful progress.

Held with the generous support of Area Specialist as the major sponsor, the event featured raffles, silent auctions, and thought-provoking panel discussions on the 2025 UN theme, March Forward – It’s Time to Turn Promises into Progress. The afternoon was a celebration of resilience, highlighting the contributions of women in the region while reinforcing the need for continued advocacy.

Zonta International is a global organisation dedicated to improving the lives of women and girls through service and advocacy. The Mackay club’s high tea reflected this mission, fostering community engagement and supporting initiatives that drive change.

With its biggest turnout yet, the event was a powerful reminder of the strength in unity and the collective effort needed to create a more equal future.

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Photo credit: Cherrie Hughes Social Media & Photography

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In one of the region's biggest drug busts in recent times, police have charged three people with drug trafficking and possession following a major search warrant operation in Mount Pleasant.

Mackay’s Tactical Crime Squad, along with the assistance of the Dog Squad, executed a search warrant at a Lachlan Street address last month on February 28. The operation uncovered over a staggering $1 million worth of cocaine, methylamphetamine, and cash.

Authorities confirmed the seizure included approximately a kilogram of cocaine, $129,000 in cash, as well as 600 grams of methylamphetamine.

Detective Inspector Emma Novosel emphasised the significance of this seizure in disrupting drug distribution in the region.

“Through targeting those involved in the trafficking and supply of dangerous drugs, we aim to detect, disrupt and deter these activities that cause harm to our community,” Detective Inspector Novosel said.

Senior Sergeant Scott Ingram, the Officer in Charge of Mackay’s Tactical Crime Squad, added that, “A seizure of this size will definitely have an impact.

“It’s hard to say specifically, but it’s a substantial seizure that would translate into thousands of sales.”

The investigation had been ongoing for about a month before the search warrant was executed. Police are continuing to examine potential links to larger crime networks.

“We are continually investigating whether those arrested are part of a larger syndicate or connected to organised crime, but it’s still under review,” Senior Sergeant said.

Police forced entry into the residence, locating a significant quantity of drugs and cash in the master bedroom.

As a result of the operation, three individuals were charged.

A 39-year-old Mount Pleasant man has been charged with three counts of possessing dangerous drugs, and one count each of receiving or possessing property obtained from trafficking or supplying elsewhere than Queensland, contravening order about information necessary to access information stored electronically, possessing utensils, and authority required to possess explosives.

He has been remanded in custody and due to reappear before Mackay Magistrates Court on May 28.

A 36-year-old Mount Pleasant woman has been charged with three counts of possessing dangerous drugs, and one count each of receiving or possessing property obtained from trafficking or supplying, possessing utensils, and authority required to possess explosives.

She is due to appear before Mackay Magistrates Court on March 18.

A 39-year-old Cooee Bay man has been charged with possessing dangerous drugs.

Authorities continue to urge community members to report any suspicious activity.

“We encourage the public to provide any information that may assist us, either through Policelink or Crime Stoppers,” Senior Sergeant Ingram said.

“If you are offending, we will make your investigation and your targeting a priority.

“We are here to ensure public safety every day of the week.”

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Senior Sergeant Scott Ingram, the Officer in Charge of Mackay’s Tactical Crime Squad. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Footage from body cam - Photo source: QPS Media

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Last Thursday night, underwater hockey sessions featured a focused group of five players who engaged in a productive warm-up, honing essential skills that are crucial for performance. The players were put through a series of drills emphasising puck control, particularly the importance of maintaining head-up play, which encourages awareness and strategic movement without fixating on the puck.

“It’s a lot trickier than it sounds,” said Joel Sadleir.

The session also included an innovative drill dubbed ‘windscreen wipers,’ designed to improve lateral movement and agility with the puck.

As the session progressed, the competitive spirit intensified with a 2V3 game played in a narrower court. This adjustment not only heightened the challenge but also fostered teamwork and quick decision-making under pressure. The players adapted well to the constraints of the narrower space, leading to dynamic plays that showcased their developing skills.

Notably, Elsie and Macca stood out during the session. Their consistent performance and leadership exemplify the solid foundation upon which the club is built on. Their ability to inspire fellow younger players and demonstrate skilful play is a testament to their dedication and talent.

“As we wrap up this week’s activities, we encourage everyone to reflect on the skills practiced and carry that momentum into future sessions,” Sadleir added.

“A big thank you to all participants for their hard work and enthusiasm. We wish everyone a fantastic weekend and look forward to seeing you all back on Monday night.”

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Congratulations to Riley James on his selection for the Aussie Steelers squad. This incredible opportunity will take him to Canada from July 8 to 14, where the team will defend their 2022 championship title.

Riley’s journey in softball began with the Angels in 2004 as a young junior. Since then, he has represented Mackay, Queensland, and Australia on numerous occasions.

Volunteer and former coach Cheryl Martin said, “As one of many coaches that have coached him, I always found Riley to be a very polite, considerate and ambitious young man – always putting in 100% to training and his games.

“It's fantastic to see the accomplishments he has made, as he strives to make more.”

Riley won't have time to hang his glove up as he heads to Toronto, USA, from May to July for three months of competition in the ISC tournament, traveling to face various teams. He will then compete in the Fast Pitch STK competition in Mankato, USA, from July 26 to August 2.

Once he’s finished in Toronto, Riley hopes to earn selection for the World Cup in China, taking place from August 7 to 17.

“We wish him all the best to fulfil his dreams and all future endeavours,” Cheryl added.

Before heading off on his international journey, Riley will return to Mackay to compete in the annual Mayday Carnival from May 2 to 5—a great opportunity for supporters to catch up with him.

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Riley James has been selected for the Aussie Steelers and will compete in Canada, before heading to the USA for a series of international softball tournaments

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The Mackay Road Runners Construct Health Mackay Physio 3km Club Championship (CC) was a great success, despite the intermittent rain showers during both the pre-race briefing and post-run presentation. A big thank you to Sarah and Nick from Construct Health Mackay for once again sponsoring the annual event and donating special clinic vouchers to the first and second-place male and female runners. Over fifty runners and supporters challenged themselves against not only the weather but also the fast-paced nature of the relatively short-distance race.

Junior runner Toby Rule sizzled over the slippery surface, claiming gold in 9 minutes and 31 seconds, ahead of Liam Mumford. Ashlee Scott, the first female, maintained her top form, finishing in 11 minutes and 56 seconds, ahead of talented junior Lily Leven. All runners were competing for valuable open and age category CC points across all divisions, from 12 years to over 80 years old.

Sarah and Nick from Construct Health Mackay presented the coveted vouchers to the top two male and female finishers, while also highlighting their services, including Physiotherapy, Exercise Physiology, Pilates for injury prevention and management, health and wellbeing, Occupational Health and Safety, health and injury solutions for business, chronic illness, rehabilitation programs, and more. With clinics located across Mackay, Ooralea, Northern Beaches, Moranbah, Dysart, and Emerald, Construct Health Mackay ensures your physiotherapy needs are professionally catered for.

Congratulations to all runners on their achievements, including Stuart Sprott, David Isbister, Craig Joynson, Natasha Joynson, Bianca Miles, Max Miles, Ashley Miles, Joe Grech, Milly Bishop, Carmel Mahon, Emma Johnson, Steven Hayles, Emily Hayles, Judy Zahn, Mason Loveday, Peter Loveday, Amy Huston, Brad Kelleher, Kayla Waugh, Isaac Hammer, Jade Hammer, and Linda McFadzen.

A special thank you to the volunteer timekeepers, Julie Whibley, Rohan Miles, Teresa Hackney, and their assistants, Helen Meng and Brendan Bishop. Timing can be tricky, especially in the wet conditions, so their support was invaluable. Thanks also to the setup and pack-down team: Andrew Short, Len Howarth, David Isbister, Brendan Bishop, Alan Zamparutti, Paul Tilse, and the rest of the crew.

This Sunday’s event will start from Julie and Andrew Whibley’s residence at 25 Duncan Street, West Mackay, at 6:30am. Runners must be registered with the timekeeper and have their race member bib number visible by 6:20am at the latest to ensure the timing system is properly set. The Whibley’s Wander 5km and 12km is a fantastic event, generously hosted by the Club Secretary, with a delicious sausage sizzle and refreshments available after the run.

Club Captain Jim Ford runs a track coaching session every Wednesday at 5:30pm at the ARC (Aquatic and Recreational Complex), Ooralea. This session is open to athletes of all abilities, whether you’re a club member or not. The coaching is free, but there is a $4 entry fee for the facility, which must be paid at the pool kiosk before accessing the track. This fun, unique training session can help improve endurance, speed, recovery, and injury prevention.

Contributed by Janelle Tisle

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Mackay Road Runners Life Member and the coveted #1 bib with co-Life Member and Club President, Paul Tilse.

(left to right) Carmel Mahon, Craig Joynson and Natasha Joynson enjoying the Mackay Road Runners camaraderie at the Construct Health Physio 3km Club Championship.

(left to right) Valuable timekeepers - Julie Whibley, Rohan Miles and Teresa Hackney – where would we be without them!!!!

(left to right) Construct Health Mackay’s qualified Physiotherapists and keen runners Sarah Schofield and Nick Rewald (far right) donate vouchers, congratulating the winners of the Mackay Road Runners 3km Club Championship – Ashlee Scott (1st), Lily Leven (2nd), Liam Mumford (2nd), Toby Rule (1st).

Max, Ashley and Bianca Miles ready to score family bragging rights at the 3km Construct Health Mackay Road Runners 3km Club Championship.

John Rae (left) and Paul MacKenzie vying for valuable open and age club championship (CC) points t the 3km Construct Health event. Photos supplied

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By Amanda Wright

The Liberal National Party (LNP) has pledged $500,000 to upgrade the Northern Beaches Bowls Club if elected, boosting the local community’s social and sporting hub.

Federal Member for Dawson, Mr Andrew Willcox, announced the funding at the club, confirming the federal contribution would match the $500,000 already committed by Whitsunday MP Amanda Camm from the Queensland state government.

“This is a very important project for our community,” Mr Willcox said.

“The upgrade will fund a shade structure over the bowling green, protecting players from the harsh North Queensland sun and reducing the risks of melanoma and skin cancer.

“The Northern Beaches Bowls Club isn’t just a sports club; it’s a community gathering place where families and friends come together.

“This investment is for the entire community.”

Adam Johnson, chairman of the Northern Beaches Bowls Club, expressed his gratitude for the announcement and explained the upgrade’s significance.

“This funding will be transformative for our club,” Mr Johnson said.

“The shade structure will allow us to use the green comfortably throughout the year, which is crucial for our members’ health and well-being.

“It also enables us to host regional competitions and larger community events, bringing more visitors and vitality to the area.”

Mr Johnson mentioned the club’s broader role in the community.

“Our club is a key social hub where friendships are formed and strengthened. The bistro hosts local events and is a gathering place for families and friends.

“With this upgrade, we can enhance our facilities, support our members, and serve the wider community more effectively.”

The total cost of the project is estimated at $1.5 million. With commitments from the state and federal governments, the club hopes to complete the upgrade by mid-2026, pending the club securing the remaining funds through financial reserves and community fundraising efforts.

The proposed shade structure will be a robust canopy, designed to withstand North Queensland’s extreme weather while providing year-round sun protection.

“We’re incredibly grateful for this support,” Mr Johnson said.

It means we can enhance our club’s facilities, attract more members, and continue to serve as a vital part of the Northern Beaches community for generations to come.”

Investment in the Northern Beaches Bowls Club isn’t just about enhancing local facilities—it’s a strategic move to ease congestion on the Mackay Bucasia Road. Currently, many residents travel into Mackay’s city centre for recreational activities, dining, and social events, adding to the daily traffic burden on this already congested route.

"People drive past this facility to go into town, as we know, the road behind us here is often very, very congested," Mr Willcox explained.

"So by people being able just to come here, whether it be to have a game of bowls, attend a concert, or even have dinner at the bistro, it takes traffic off that road.

“This is the fastest growing area within Mackay. So anything that we can actually have outside the city is a big benefit to the whole community.

“The Coalition understands rural, regional, and remote communities. That's why we want to put our money into facilities like this for everybody to enjoy."

In addition to the bowls club announcement, Mr Willcox confirmed a $5,000 federal commitment to the Mackay Men’s Shed for the purchase of a Double Drum Sander. The Men’s Shed plays a vital role in the community by providing a space for local men to connect, create, and support each other through woodworking projects, furniture making, and more.

“Having this equipment will allow us to take on larger projects and improve our workshop capabilities,” a Men’s Shed coordinator said.

“It’s about giving men a space to connect, create, and support each other, and this funding is a big step in helping us achieve that.”

Mr Willcox underlined the importance of supporting local community hubs.

“Facilities like the bowls club and the Men’s Shed are the backbone of our communities.

“Investing in them isn’t just about infrastructure; it’s about investing in people’s health, well-being, and sense of belonging.”

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Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, takes aim during a game of bowls at the Northern Beaches Bowls Club, showing his support for the club's $1.5 million shade upgrade. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

Andrew Willcox joins Northern Beaches Bowls Club members, celebrating the announcement of a $500,000 federal funding commitment to enhance the club’s facilities with a shade structure

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Fresh off its critically acclaimed run, YOAH by Cirque Work is set to captivate audiences at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) on 27 March.

After winning both the Adelaide Fringe Weekly Award for Best Circus and the Critics Circle Award, and delivering sold-out performances, this visually stunning and emotionally resonant production continues to push the boundaries of contemporary circus.

Blending Japanese traditions with cutting-edge digital artistry, YOAH is an electrifying spectacle that fuses jaw-dropping physicality with breathtaking visual effects and an evocative electro soundscape. The show, under the theme of “The Moon at Dawn,” tells the story of a young dreamer on a mesmerising journey through fear, loneliness, and hope.

Featuring awe-inspiring acrobatics, hypnotic electro beats, thunderous Japanese drumming, and soothing water sounds, YOAH is a circus experience like no other.

Described as “Breathtaking, Fresh, and Exciting – Paving the Way for Contemporary Circus” by THE LIST, YOAH has been hailed as “Awe-inspiring... a circus experience like no other” (Stage Whispers) and “Masterful” (HiFi Way).

With an award-winning legacy, a newly assembled cast, and a dedicated creative team, the Mackay performance at MECC promises to be an unforgettable experience!

What: The MECC presents YOAH by Cirque Work
When: Thursday 27 March 2025
Where: MECC Auditorium
Tickets: www.themecc.com.au

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YOAH by Cirque Work, an award-winning Japanese circus fusion of stunning acrobatics, digital artistry, and electrifying sound, will make its highly anticipated debut at the MECC on 27 March 2025. Photos supplied

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