Community News

New Leadership To Drive Rural Support Forward

New Leadership To Drive Rural Support Forward

Agricultural Voices Strengthen QRIDA Board With Historic Appointments Queensland’s farmers and regional businesses will benefit from strengthened leadership at the state’s rural support agency, with four new appointments to the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) Board – each bringing deep roots in agriculture, regional development and the private sector. The Queensland Government’s renewed focus on rural resilience and economic growth is reflected in the announcem

Read the full story
Variety Is The Spice Of The Sugar Industry

Variety Is The Spice Of The Sugar Industry

By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

Read the full story
Celebrating Our Local Legends For Queensland Small Business Month

Celebrating Our Local Legends For Queensland Small Business Month

May marks Queensland Small Business Month – a time to recognise the contribution small businesses make to our community, our economy and our way of life. From early morning starts to late-night bookkeeping, small business owners do it all – with passion, purpose and persistence. At Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank, we don’t just bank with small businesses, we champion them. We know that behind every small business is a person, or often, a family, working hard to make ends meet, create o

Read the full story
Wind And Solar Farms Now Face Full Scrutiny

Wind And Solar Farms Now Face Full Scrutiny

Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly MP, is celebrating that local communities in the Mirani electorate will now be in the driver’s seat to determine if wind and solar farms are developed in their region, thanks to strengthened planning and assessment processes. The Crisafulli Government has introduced Australia’s strongest renewables planning laws to lock in requirements on renewable energy developers to contribute to the regions in which they operate. The changes fulfil an election commitment

Read the full story
Mackay Christian College

Explore Whitsundays in a Brand-New MG3!

March 13, 2025

At Explore Property, they’re experts in property marketing and all things real estate, and passionate about promoting their business, as shown by their exciting giveaway! From March 1st to June 28th, anyone who books a sales or rental appraisal with Explore Property Whitsunday and likes and follows their Facebook page, could win a brand-new MG3 valued at $20,000, complete with 12 months of registration.

Even if selling your property isn’t on the cards, this giveaway is for everyone. Simply book a price update or request a rental proposal and you're in the running, no listing required! This is the perfect opportunity for anyone interested in staying up to date with their property’s value while having the chance to win a fantastic auto prize.

To enter, simply visit www.explorepropertywhitsunday.com.auand register your details, book an appraisal, and make sure to follow their Facebook page for the winning announcement. It's a simple and fun way to get a property update and score the chance to drive away in a brand-new automatic MG3!

The winner will be drawn randomly on June 29th, 2025, so don’t miss out! The car is here and waiting for its new owner, so act quickly. For full terms and conditions are available on the Explore Property website so, what are you waiting for? Explore your property and explore your chance to win today!

Read More

Easter Fun At The Big Mango

March 13, 2025

Bowen Tourism and Business (BTB) is running an Easter colouring-in competition for local students from Prep to Year 4. The students from Bowen State School, Merinda State School, Queens Beach State School and St Marys Catholic School have the opportunity to take part by colouring in a pic of Kenny the Mango Mascot.

The competition will be judged by Bowen Tourism and Business volunteers and the prizes will be special merchandise packs from the Bowen Visitor Information Centre including a Kenny plush toy, water game and an ice-cream. There will also be fun encouragement awards for those who put in great effort.

The competition closes well before Easter on the 24th of March, this is so the entries can be displayed at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre for all visitors to see, and there will be two prizes for every grade at each school. The competition is being organised by BTB Sales and Admin Consultant, Cindy Tonks, who came up with the idea.

“We are very much looking forward to seeing the student’s artwork and displaying them on our wall at the Visitor information Centre,” she said.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said "This was all about community engagement and getting kids involved and interested in tourism,”

“The response from the schools has been fantastic and we are also looking forward to a special presentation once the competition had been judged,” she said.

Bowen State School Head of Curriculum, Therese Smalley visited the centre last week to check out the prize packs and she said all the kids are very excited to be celebrating Easter in Bowen.

Bowen Tourism and Business Sales and Admin Consultant Cindy Tonks and Bowen State School Head of Curriculum Therese Smalley with the Easter colouring-in competition and the prize packs. Photo Provided: Leanne Abernethy

Read More

Back In The Swing Of Things March 9th 2025 Proserpine Bowls Club Notes

March 13, 2025

We've been experiencing very hot conditions and have been greatly appreciating the air conditioning in the clubhouse during our midway break.

On Wednesday, Henny Tattam, John Anderson, and Sandy Daffara defeated Henny Tattam, Bruce Uhe, and Barry Zillmann 24-12. Alen Sanderson, Philip Brown, and Mike Harrison triumphed over Michele (a visitor from Italy), Arthur Griffith, and Heather Brown, winning 20-18.

In Sunday's afternoon Social Bowls, Trevor Parsons and Heather Brown narrowly defeated Arthur Griffith and Dale Haack 21-20. Alen Sanderson, Bruce Uhe, and Mike Harrison defeated John Anderson, Philip Brown, and Sandy Daffara 27-16.

The green's drainage works are progressing very well. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this effort.

Contributed with thanks by the Secretary of the Proserpine Bowls Club.

Read More

Jubilee Tavern Donate To Zonta This International Women's Day

March 13, 2025

International Women's Day was celebrated in style at Jubilee Tavern over the weekend. Everyone got involved selling raffle tickets in the weeks leading up to the draw and placing eye-catching posters and signs to spread the word for Zonta’s campaign of ‘Say NO to Violence Against Women.’

“I just think they're doing a magnificent job. And also, by doing this event for us, they're actually getting the word out that it's not right to abuse women and children,” says Dianne Trueman, an Ex President of Zonta Whitsunday. Both Dianne and Marlene Reiffel, the Current Zonta President, attended the raffle to help announce the winners of the delicious draw prizes.

“We've been very excited and I think Jubilee Tavern has been fantastic. They’ve got all the signs up, the posters, and they've even got all those balloons on the stage,” said Marlene, “They've really embraced the whole International Women's Day and enjoyed sending that money to support Zonta.”

Maz Scott the Functions Manager and Bistro Supervisor, was going from table to table until the last moment before the raffle selling tickets. She said, “I’m so excited to support International Women's Day I've never had the opportunity to do so before. And so, it's pretty special that I get to be a part of it this year.”

Ryan the Venue Manager, was the raffle MC and said he was very proud of his staff.

“It’s been a great experience as it's really touched a lot of the staff here. They really resonated with it, so they really actioned it and really went for it. It was nice to be able to give them that opportunity and I really enjoyed tonight. It’s great to see a lot of people supporting worthy cause.”

The participants of the raffle managed to fundraise over $600, all donated to the Zonta Whitsundays. For three of the raffle winners, it was a serendipitous occasion. One table were in town for a holiday and just decided to eat at Jubilee Tavern that night, and collectively, they won the great Zonta prize box and bubbly champagne, along with the giant BBQ meat tray. The other in-house winner of the night had only just bought his raffle ticket 15 minutes before the event started, but his luck saw him take home the grand seafood platter.

Maz, the winner of the seafood platter, Marlene, Ryan and Dianne. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
Jubilee Tavern presents the $670 to Zonta. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
Laine Shaw and her daughter Amelia, winners of the meat tray. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

Read More

Renwick Road Shared Path Upgrade Nearing Completion

March 13, 2025

The shared footpath project on Renwick Rd is making significant progress, with completion expected by the end of the month—weather permitting. This much-needed upgrade will improve safety for students, families, and pedestrians, with several key developments underway.

A new fence is being installed along the footpath near Proserpine State School to ensure a secure environment for those using the path. With the school's drop-off car parks now reopened, the final phase of the project is set to focus on completing the remaining 80 meters of footpath that will extend to Stanbury St. The installation of raised priority pedestrian crossings on key intersections like Stanbury St, Keith Johns Dr, Fuljames St, and Carnation St will further enhance safety, allowing students and families to cross more safely.

While traffic management measures are in place to mitigate congestion, the community is encouraged to stay updated on the progress through the Your Say Whitsunday Online Engagement Portal. These efforts are supported by the State Government’s Cycle Network Local Government Grants Program.

As the project nears its conclusion, it’s clear that these improvements are vital for ensuring pedestrian safety and easing traffic flow in the area. With the promise of better infrastructure, the community is one step closer to a safer and more accessible Renwick Rd.

Read More

A Vets-tacular Open Day

March 13, 2025

Last weekend the Greater Whitsunday Vets held an open day for their brand-new Proserpine clinic. It was a great, albeit hot, day with many visitors coming from all over to see the clinic and browse the stalls. There wasn’t a plain face in sight as all the children proudly showed off their new looks thanks to the free face-painting booth.

"Over 750 people attended our new clinics open day,” said Georgia Bowser, Practice Manager, recounting that the day was a great success. She wanted to give thanks to their sponsors and partners for providing support allowing the day to go off without a hitch: Provet, Lisa from Royal Canin, Ainsley from Hills, Jaime from Zoetis, and Jason from MSD.

There was much to see and do, from clinic tours to 32 market stalls to peruse. You could even register yourself and your pet with the clinic staff to enter into a raffle! All the stalls and prizes were local or animal related, so many took home a piece of Proserpine that day, whether that was a brand-new bridle for their horse or a fabulous Hawaiian shirt decorated with the regions map. You could even adopt a hand-crocheted chicken!

“More than 100 people took part in our clinic tours, and they also enjoyed petting our little piglet, baby guinea fowls, alpaca, and dogs. They were a huge hit with the visitors especially the children,” said Georgia, “Rilo, with her ice cream van, was kept busy all day thanks to the hot weather!"

The new clinic was happy to have received such support on their open day, from the bush to the beach, they’ll be here for you 24/7 for you animal emergency. Or book in an appointment for one of their many offered services!

The new Proserpine clinic is open Monday – Friday: 8:30 am - 5.00pm and their Bowen clinic is open Monday – Wednesday & Friday 8:30am – 5pm, and Thursday: 8:30am - 7pm. Please know that both clinics are closed on the weekend.

From small pets to horses to livestock, the Greater Whitsunday Vets Services are here for all you animal needs.

(Vet Liaison), and Charlotte (Vet Liaison) signing up new clients. Photo Credit Victoria Velton.
Front: Dr Jason Mansfield seated, Caitlin (Vet Liaison), Charlotte (Vet Liaison), Back: Melissa Mansfield (Administration), Charlee (Floor Nurse), Georgia Bowser (Operations Manager). Photo Credit: Victoria Velton

Read More

It’s Time To Brewitt! Home Brewitt Is Open for Business In Proserpine

March 13, 2025

In Proserpine, Home Brewitt has quickly become a go-to destination for hobby brewers of all kinds, offering everything from ingredients to equipment for brewing your own beer, and mixing spirits. The store, which opened its doors a year and a half ago by husband-and-wife duo John and Caroline McGovern. It’s a labour of love driven by the passion of John, an avid home brewer, and his wife, who is equally enthusiastic about the experience.

Their diverse customer base, which stretches from Mackay to Bowen, and even the Isaac region, is a testament to how well the business has been received. Whether you're a first-time brewer or a seasoned pro, Home Brewitt has something for everyone. “People are always happy to come here because it's their hobby," Caroline says, "They love talking about their craft.”

The store offers a wide variety of ingredients for brewing, everything from beers and ginger beer to spirit flavouring, sarsaparilla, and hard lemonade mixes. The couple takes pride in providing not only the essentials but also the more unique, specialty ingredients you won't find in typical hobby brew shops. “We have everything from the raw ingredients all the way to the final equipment they can use to pour their own beers from their home taps,” she explains.

If you’re just starting out, they make it easy with starter kits. For just $100, you get everything you need to brew 23 litres of high-quality beer, including the raw ingredients and equipment. These starter kits allow home brewers to craft flavourful beers with minimal effort. And for those who are more adventurous in their brewing, Home Brewitt provides a variety of flavouring options to enhance your creations.

Whether it's adding a unique twist to whiskey or gin with special flavourings, or using wood chips to infuse rum with oaky-smoky, the possibilities are endless. "People like to make it to their own flavour, changing the profile to how they like it," says Caroline, noting that customers often turn their brews into thoughtful gifts.

The store also thrives on giving great personalised advice: “We try to provide all the advice we can and if we don’t have the answer, we try to find the answer, and we work together,” says Caroline. John’s experimentation with different beers is a big part of what makes the store’s selection unique. “He doesn’t stick to one recipe. He likes to experiment with different things, which is why I think we have some products that you don’t see very often in other hobby shops,” she adds.

For those with a brewing passion, Home Brewitt is more than just a store—it's a community where people can share knowledge, discover new flavours, and take pride in crafting their own drinks. It's a small business with a big heart, where every customer is treated like family, and the experience is as much about learning as it is about brewing.

Caroline behind the counter, with a home brew tap and some of their other products on display. Photo Credit: Victoria Velton

Caroline with all their beer flavour options. Photo Credit: Victoria Velton

Read More

The Whitsundays' Rainbow Renaissance: A Look Back, And Forward, With Nathan Fleming

March 13, 2025

The Whitsundays has long been a beloved destination for LGBTQ+ travellers, especially during the late 90s when Daydream Island was affectionately known as "Gay Dream Island", for travellers holidaying after Sydney’s Mardi Gras. Nathan Fleming, a pillar of the Whitsundays LGBTQ+ community for over 20 years, remembers those days fondly. "Back in the day, the late 90s, Daydream Island was a popular hot spot. After Sydney Mardi Gras, everyone would head up here and have a big party session in the Whitsundays," Nathan recalls.

But despite the excitement of that era, there was a long stretch of silence. Pride events were rare, and LGBTQ+ representation was all but absent. "There hasn't really been anything (Pride events). It's only this year they've actually sort of done something about Pride Week," Nathan explains. Pride Week 2025 saw a revival as for the first time in years, several local businesses embraced LGBTQ+ tourists with a series of events, from Sundowner’s Pride cruise to the Magnums drag shows, and the Airlie Beach Hotel’s Gaga vs. Pink tribute shows. This marked a hopeful turning point for the region.

Nathan, openly gay and well-respected within the Whitsunday community, reflects on his journey. "I was a drag queen representing the Whitsundays one year, and my drag name was Sandy Inlet," he laughs. His involvement in local events and initiatives helped bridge the gap, ensuring visibility for LGBTQ+ individuals. “People all know about me because I’m very open about it. I don’t hide anything.”

With his partner Benny and their two dogs, Jethro and Rufus, Nathan is proud to live and work in a place that is gradually becoming more inclusive. "The community are really accepting of it, and they're taking them in with open arms," he says. This growing acceptance has encouraged other local businesses to step up, hoping to make the Whitsundays a more welcoming destination for LGBTQ+ tourists. Nathan’s role in GALTA (Gay and Lesbian Tourism Australia) has further solidified the region’s commitment to inclusive tourism.

However, the journey has not been without its struggles, with Nathan reflecting on moments of exclusion. But his response? “You’ll respect the people in this group and everything that we have to say, we're a diverse group of people.” The resilience and spirit of the LGBTQ+ community are undeniable, and the local support has only strengthened over the years.

As the Whitsundays looks ahead, Nathan is optimistic. He hopes that Pride Week next year will see even more events, building on the success of 2025. “There’s a lot of support from local businesses, and it’s clear that the Whitsundays is becoming a place where LGBTQ+ travellers can feel welcome and celebrated,” he shares.

For now, Nathan and the community stand proud, waving the flag for progress. His legacy of openness, support, and inclusion continues to inspire. The Whitsundays, once a haven for LGBTQ+ travellers in the 90s, is experiencing a queer renaissance. With a commitment to growing acceptance and support from both locals and tourists alike, this beautiful corner of Australia is ready to welcome more LGBTQ+ with open arms into its Heart.

For more LGBTQ+ safe and welcoming tourist destinations, groups and travel advice, check out: visitgayaustralia.com.au

Nathan Fleming, representing the Whitsundays as Sandy Inlet at GAYTE in 2023. Photo Supplied: Nathan Fleming
LGBTQ+ tourists enjoying themselves in the Whitsundays. Photo Supplied: Nathan Fleming
Nathan Fleming in his before and after transformation to Sandy Inlet at GAYTE 2023. Photo Supplied: Nathan Fleming

Read More

Unlock Your Potential With Maree Franettovich From CareerForce Australia

March 10, 2025

Maree Franettovich has been providing career coaching over many years – guiding professionals with individualised support to find their purpose toward a fulfilling career. Whether it’s graduates looking to launch their careers, or professionals looking for career progression, Maree’s approach focuses on professional growth and personal wellbeing.

Feeling stuck in your career can be demotivating, and impacts other aspects of your life. You want to explore a change but are not sure where to start. If you choose to do nothing instead of taking action, then nothing will change. Whether you are considering a career uplift, switch or shift – that’s where Maree can assist.

“We’re here to help you take action and work through the steps to create your personal Career Action Plan.”

It helps to have independent support to explore your options and dream big! It’s about having someone ‘on your side’ and believe in you.

All too often women are self-sabotaging opportunities, often without realising. It can surface as procrastination, perfectionism, pressure paralysis, settling for second best, convincing ourselves it’s not the right time or the ‘Am I good enough?’

A Career Action Plan identifies your strengths, interests, opportunities and aspirations. By working through what you want to achieve, your Career Action Plan provides direction, motivation and clarity.

Maree’s extensive experience of working with women (and men) across a range of demographics and industries has assisted many progress their careers and navigate transitions with confidence. If you want to explore becoming ‘unstuck’ in your career, visit the CareerForce Australia website and get in touch.

careerforceaustralia.com.au

Read More

Cent Sale Set For March 8

March 7, 2025

Cent sales are always billed as ‘mega’ but Sarina Arts and Craft Centre’s upcoming event will be exactly that.

Centre manager Jenny Costello and a core group of helpers are putting together an amazing collection of prizes for the sale, at the Sarina Sporting and Services Club on Saturday, March 8.

“We’ve had a marvelous response from business, organisations and people within the Sarina and wider Mackay area as we’ve been collecting for the sale,” Jenny said.

“We have lots of high-quality prizes, and our major prizes are terrific.

“As well as the prizes there will be multi-draws, raffles, money boards and a lucky door prize.”

Doors open at 10.30 for a noon start.

Bookings can be made (not essential) by phoning Jenny Costello on 0414735787.

WHAT:  Sarina Arts and Craft Centre's Cent Sale
WHERE: Sarina Sporting and Services Club
WHEN: Saturday, March 8 at 10am

Read More

Mackay HHS Welcomes 79 New Graduate Nurses For 2025

March 7, 2025

Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) has welcomed another strong intake of graduate registered nurses for the year as the third orientation session reaches completion this week.

Mackay HHS Executive Director Nursing and Midwifery James Williams Jenkins said 79 newly qualified nurses have been recruited to the 2025 Mackay HHS Nursing and Midwifery Graduate Program.

The three cohorts were comprised of 16 new nurses in December, 38 in January and another 25 graduates welcomed to the Mackay HHS in February.

“We are delighted to welcome our large annual cohort of graduate nurses to the health service where they will consolidate and further develop the clinical skills they learned at university,” Mr Jenkins said.

The Mackay HHS Nursing and Midwifery Graduate Program is twelve months in duration across Mackay Base Hospital and rural hospitals.

“Graduate nurses undertake placements across any of the 25 clinical areas in the Base Hospital including mental health, emergency, renal, medical, cardiac, surgical, oncology and theatres, as well as across our rural facilities,” Mr Jenkins said.

Seventeen nurse graduates are undertaking rural placement across the Mackay HHS at facilities including Proserpine, Clermont, Bowen, Sarina, Moranbah and Dysart and there are three midwifery graduates in the program in 2025.

“They will be supported with mentoring, theoretical and clinical guidance to ensure we build safe, confident and competent nurses,” Mr Jenkins said.

“Most graduates studied at CQ University and James Cook University and many are from the Mackay region.

“We are also pleased to welcome nursing graduates from other parts of Queensland and New South Wales as well as New Zealand.”

Mackay HHS continues to support graduate registered nurses after their first year of professional practise with excellent retention rates, Mr Jenkins said.

Nursing graduate Jenna Grieve’s work experience in remote First Nations communities and her husband’s health battle has helped shape her career.

She moved to Mackay in 2022 to enable her husband to dialyse at Mackay Base Hospital three times a week and in December she started her post-graduate year in the Mackay Base Hospital emergency department.

“I never thought I’d want to work in ED when I started nursing,” she said.

“The chaos of ED scared me originally. Now I love it and it’s a place where you can use all your skills.

“I really like being able to educate people; to be there to help them through the toughest times,” she said.

Jenna was recently presented with the James Cook University Yuwi Award, awarded to the most deserving student in their final year of their Bachelor of Nursing Science degree on the Mackay campus.

“I thought that’s pretty cool; it’s a nice way to end my studies and I look forward to continuing to use my skills in the Base hospital ED.”

Moving to the small rural community of Clermont with her family, Selina Sale originally thought her career options were limited.

“So I started my diploma and working at Clermont Hospital seven years ago as an AIN (Assistant in Nursing),” she said.

“I’ve been there ever since working as an enrolled nurse and I also trained as a rural x-ray operator three years ago.”

Selina’s nursing degree took four years to complete and she did placement at Emerald Hospital in the emergency department as well as in the Rockhampton Hospital intensive care unit. Her post-graduate year will now be in Clermont.

Selina is proud to have graduated from Central Queensland University and be one of the 16 grad nurses in the December intake at Mackay HHS.

“I’m only the second person in my family to graduate from uni,” she said.

“It’s pretty big for them, my mum is super stoked.”

Mackay Hospital and Health Service has welcomed 79 new graduate nurses for 2025, with placements across Mackay Base Hospital and rural facilities to develop their clinical skills and support regional healthcare. Photos supplied

Read More

Funding Fight Continues For Nebo Showgrounds Improvements

March 7, 2025

Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry, is backing Isaac Regional Council Mayor, Kelly Vea Vea, and the Nebo Showgrounds Committee as they push for vital funding to upgrade the Nebo Showgrounds.

They are lobbying for Stage 2A of the Nebo Showgrounds Master Plan, which includes upgraded camping facilities, a redeveloped undercover arena, and planning for a new outdoor arena.

Ms Landry previously secured $2.8 million in 2022 for Stage 1, delivering key infrastructure improvements, heavy vehicle access, camping upgrades and additional parking.

“Nebo Showgrounds is the heart of this region, driving our local economy and supporting our agricultural and rodeo communities.

“Stage 1 laid the groundwork, but we must keep investing to ensure this vital hub remains a top-tier facility for years to come,” Ms Landry said.

The Nebo Showgrounds injects $2.1 million into the local economy and hosts one of Australia’s biggest rodeos, attracting thousands from across the country. It is a crucial asset for the region’s economy, culture and community.

Mayor Vea Vea said the Nebo Showgrounds is a quiet achiever, but its impact is anything but quiet.

“It’s where agriculture, tourism, and community spirit come together to support regional Queensland and, by extension, the nation’s economy," Mayor Vea Vea said.

"Stage 2a will be part of the transformation of the Nebo Showgrounds into a first-class facility — fit to host major events, support agricultural growth, and drive regional tourism.

“This is about future-proofing a key piece of social infrastructure that underpins one of Australia's most productive regions."

Read More

February A Positive Month For Sugar Prices

March 7, 2025

Simon Hood
Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

February was a positive month for prices with growers using the rally to tidy up 2024 season Target and GMPRS pricing.

Additionally, with 2025 season prices breaking through $650/t, there has been increased scale up selling from Target price growers. There is, however, still plenty of 2025 pricing to go with only about 25 per cent of Target prices locked in at this point.

The rally has also allowed our 2024 season pools to be forecasting higher returns. We have incrementally locked in prices on the rising market to ensure any potential correction will have less impact on final returns for the 2024 season. Likewise, we have initiated hedging on the #11 sugar contract to put a floor under a portion of the new Managed Pool Plus for the 2025 season.

This initial positioning combined with some sub 62 cent currency is providing a good foundation for that pool return. However, there is still a long way to go for 2025 season pool valuations to be finalised. With the focus on 2025 season and beyond, let’s have a quick review of the current outlook.

Most analysts are currently forecasting a small production surplus (Wilmar 3.5m tonnes) for the 2025-26 season based on a large Brazilian and Indian crop. Brazilian forecasts are starting to be scaled back as continued dry weather through February downgrade yield expectations. On the flip side, Indian forecasts are being maintained as high domestic prices encourage crop expansion and a very good monsoon filled storage and moisture profiles.

Nominations for our 2025 season GMPRS pricing mechanism are now open. This remains a popular choice among Target price growers due the flexibility of being able to price all GEI sugar exposure – excluding the US quota proportion – from mid-May in each season. Typically, growers are cautious about pricing too much of the final proportion early in the season as price risk is replaced with production shortfall risk.

During March we will be holding a series of shed meetings to update growers with the latest analysis from Wilmar on the outlook for 2025 season and beyond. Get in touch with your local Wilmar Grower Marketing consultant to find your closest meeting.

Prices rallied in February, providing an opportunity for growers to tidy up 2024 season GMPRS and Target pricing

Read More

Nigel Dalton Takes The Plunge In Laps For Life Challenge

March 7, 2025

Nigel Dalton is trading politics for pool laps this March, diving headfirst into Laps for Life – a nationwide swimming challenge making waves for youth mental health. The Member for Mackay and avid swimmer will take to the water with his North Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming Club teammates, raising funds for ReachOut Australia, which provides crucial mental health support for young people.

Mr Dalton has long been a dedicated advocate for suicide prevention in Mackay. As the region’s former Crime Prevention Coordinator, he played a key role in youth suicide prevention initiatives and deeply understands the critical need for early intervention.

“To reduce suicide in our community, we all need to help where we can.

“There are plenty of excellent referral services available, and Laps for Life helps ensure that young people have access to the support they need,” Mr Dalton said.

Every dollar raised through Laps for Life helps ReachOut provide free, confidential, and 24/7 mental health support for young Australians struggling with challenges such as anxiety, depression, and stress.

Mr Dalton encourages the Mackay community to get involved, whether by swimming laps, donating, or simply spreading the word.

“This is a cause that truly matters.

“Whether you swim regularly or just want to give it a go, I encourage everyone to take part.

“Every lap and every donation can help save lives,” he added.

The Laps for Life challenge runs throughout March, with participants setting their own swimming goals and fundraising targets.

For more information or to register, visit www.lapsforlife.com.au.
For donations, visit https://www.lapsforlife.com.au/fundraisers/NigelDalton

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton is diving into Laps for Life, swimming alongside his North Mackay Sinkers teammates to raise funds for youth mental health and support ReachOut Australia. Photos supplied.

Read More

Usadee Phiraphak

March 7, 2025

By day, Usadee Phiraphak is an electrical apprentice at Revolution Electrical, helping to keep the Mackay Base Hospital running smoothly. But when she’s not working behind the scenes, she’s lighting up the community in more ways than one.

“Something that most people don’t know about me is that I am always trying to help out my community whether it’s donating blood or being a member of Mackay Street chaplaincy to look after those at their most vulnerable and making sure people are safe.

“I want to be remembered as someone who gives back to my community,” Usadee shares.

Now, she’s trading work boots for dancing shoes as she steps onto the stage for Dancing with Heart, raising funds for the Mackay Hospital Foundation.

Usadee’s dance journey has been nothing short of ‘electrifying’.

“My dance routine has been amazingly fun so far, Dolly has been a great teacher and she sure is keeping me on my toes with some pretty cool moves.

“I won’t reveal too much at the moment but let’s just say I’m excited for the audiences to enjoy my performance.

“Towards the end of my performance the music does get faster and a lot harder to perform considering I have two left feet…and I definitely have to work on my cardio within these next couple of weeks before the show begins!”

Despite the minor challenges trying to keep up with the tempo, Usadee remains passionate about supporting the Mackay Hospital Foundation.

“I admire the aim of the Mackay base hospital foundation.

“I think it’s important that we help improve the health outcomes and experience for patients and their families and we can only achieve this by joining together as a community to help this great cause.”

From wiring circuits to wowing crowds, Usadee is proving that she can kick goals in any field…whether it's electrical or the performing arts!

Read More

Your FREE Voice In Print

SARINA -  WALKERSTON – MIRANI – MARIAN – PAGET – OORALEA – MACKAY CITY – MACKAY NORTH – SLADE POINT – ANDERGROVE – BEACONSFIELD – NORTHERN BEACHES – FARLEIGH – MT OSSA – SEAFORTH – KUTTABUL - CALEN – BLOOMSBURY – PROSERPINE – CANNONVALE – AIRLIE BEACH – BOWEN – COLLINSVILLE – NEBO – MORANBAH

Locally Owned. Community Loved.

Subscribe Free