One of Mackay’s most popular community events will unveil a fresh, new course this year, with record-breaking participant numbers expected as ‘run-mania’ continues to surge.

The track for this week’s Mackay Airport Twilight City Run has been varied to accommodate more people while also giving participants additional sweeping views of the Pioneer River.

More than 1000 participants are expected to turn out for the event on Friday 7 March, the highest number yet.

Mackay Airport Head of Operations Adrian Miles said one of the best things about the annual 5km run was its fun and inclusive atmosphere.

“We know running has boomed in popularity in recent years, and the Mackay Airport Twilight City Run is the perfect way to involve loved ones,” he said.

“This is a family-friendly event for all ages and abilities, and everyone is encouraged to go at their own pace; whether that’s running, walking, pushing a pram or even dancing.

“The atmosphere just gets better every year; it’s easy to see why this event continues to grow.”

Mackay Airport is proud to support this iconic fun run, which enhances community
wellbeing and showcases our region as a vibrant destination.”

All proceeds from the Mackay Airport Twilight City Run will be donated to the Leukaemia Foundation.

BMA Mackay Marina Run Event Director Tim Magoffin said organisers were thrilled to be able to accommodate the growing number of participants.

“Not only does the Mackay Airport Twilight City Run benefit individuals, but as a community, we’re raising crucial funds for the Leukemia Foundation.

“We’re excited to be offering a new, improved course to allow for more participation and further fundraising for this important initiative.

“Last year’s Mackay Airport Twilight City Run raised over $7000, and with a record number of participants expected in 2025, that figure is expected to grow.

“Participants are also invited to raise their own additional funding by setting up a page on the Mackay Marina Run site and dedicating their run to the Leukaemia Foundation.”

Michael Vella, Co-Event Director for Mackay parkrun, said lots of local running enthusiasts were planning to take part in the Mackay Airport Twilight City Run, which is held in the lead up to the BMA Mackay Marina Run.

“It’s a great time of the year, a nice time of the day, and it gives people a chance to connect.

“It’s fantastic to see all the familiar faces enjoying the event and not taking it too seriously,” he said.

“The running community in Mackay continues to grow and I can’t see it slowing down. We’re seeing increasing numbers in the 25-30 age group particularly, and more interest in healthy living, which is really great to see.”

To register for the Mackay Airport Twilight City Run, visit mackaymarinarun.com and click on the ‘Events’ tab. Entrants will automatically go into the draw to win one of three $500 travel vouchers.

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BMA Mackay Marina Run Event Coordinator Chrissy Evangelou, Mackay parkrun Co-Event Director Michael Vella, Mackay Airport Head of Operations Adrian Miles and BMA Mackay Marina Run Event Director Tim Magoffin came together at Mackay Airport on Monday 3 March in anticipation of the upcoming Mackay Airport Twilight City Run to be held on Friday 7 March. Photo supplied

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Advocating for change and bringing people together makes Ash-Lee Johnson's heart sing.

As a Councillor for Mackay Regional Council, her passion for community betterment radiates through her kind, yet fiery spirit…and her drive for change is one of inspiration and purpose.

“I’m driven by a sense of purpose – the desire to see positive impact and to advocate for those who need it most,” she says.

Cr Johnson is a firm believer in the power of working together, and her passion lies in helping others achieve greatness.

“As a woman in a leadership role, I feel a deep responsibility to help pave the way for others, especially young women, to feel like they can step into positions of influence, whether in local government, business, or any other field.

“It's so important that we lift each other up, celebrate our achievements, and continue to break down barriers.”

Cr Johnson says she’s “Incredibly lucky” to be surrounded by resilient women who continue to uplift her.

“I feel so fortunate to be surrounded by inspiring women who show me that with the right support, anyone can achieve what they set their mind to.

“It’s the women in my immediate circle and community who have had the greatest impact on me.”

While her days can get quite busy, Cr Johnson likes to unwind by spending quality time with family.

“I am all about connection, and being present with the people who mean the most.”

What’s your go-to recipe to cook in the kitchen?

“This would have to be my mum’s apple pie. It’s delicious and a very easy bake. Every bite feels like comfort and it’s always a hit when I make it for others.”

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Businesses in Mackay and the Whitsundays are invited to make a meaningful impact by becoming a ‘Beacon of Hope’ Superhero Sponsor for Broken Ballerina Inc. (BBI).

This sponsorship provides essential support for survivors, including Escape Bags, emergency accommodation, and crisis assistance. With no government funding, BBI relies solely on community generosity to continue its impactful work in the region.

The sponsorship program features three flexible tiers—Bronze, Silver, and Gold—allowing businesses to contribute in a way that best suits their capacity. Each sponsorship level ensures that funds directly support essential services for those fleeing and recovering from domestic and family violence.

A Bronze Superhero Sponsor allows businesses to contribute a monthly amount of their choice, gaining recognition on the BBI website, social media, and invitations to key events, including the BBI Charity Ball and a VIP Christmas thank-you gathering.

The Silver Superhero Sponsor, at $2,000 per month, provides greater visibility, including priority seating at the Charity Ball, logo placement in event materials, media mentions, and sponsorship of essential survivor support services.

A Gold Superhero Sponsor, at $2,500 per month, offers premium benefits, including a full table at the Charity Ball, high-profile branding opportunities, and expanded sponsorship of crisis support services.

A representative from Broken Ballerina Inc said, “Our newly launched Superhero Sponsorships help with monthly donations for 12 months and offer fantastic benefits for those businesses who come on board for the year.”

These sponsorships ensure the sustainability and growth of BBI, allowing the organisation to continue assisting those in need.

Businesses interested in supporting this cause can learn more by visiting www.brokenballerina-inc.com.au.

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A recent stall outside Big W invited shoppers to donate, purchase merchandise and homemade treats, and capture a photo in a hot pink cape. Photo source: Broken Ballerina Inc. (Facebook)

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Mackay Regional Council has completed works to restore or replace six aged timber bridges in rural areas.

The bridges replaced were Palm Tree Creek Bridge (Pinnacle), Ash's Bridge (Devereux Creek), Barren Creek Bridge (Calen), Greens Bridge (Mt Charlton), Old Hampton Road Bridge (Marian) and One Mile Creek Road Bridge (Mount Pelion).

All the bridges have been restored to a 44-tonne (T44) loading capacity.

The final bridge in the project to be replaced was Barren Creek Bridge, which opened to the public on February 27.

The Barren Creek Bridge has new concrete approach slabs and an Australian hardwood timber superstructure with galvanised steel fixings.

A custom glue laminated deck was also custom made and imported.

The custom deck is stronger, lighter and harder wearing than other alternatives, enabling re-use of the existing timber foundations, which saved time and cost.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the Barren Creek Bridge was 90 years old.

“The project team actually found original construction drawings for it and Greens Bridge from 1935,” Mayor Williamson said.

“With these six bridges requiring significant maintenance, council initiated a project to renew them in 2024 and brought in specialist contractor, Timber Restoration Services (TRS) to undertake the works,” he said.

“Unfortunately, we hit a snag in late November (2024) when one of the custom-built decks was held in Customs, causing a delay.

“Council and TRS investigated other options to minimise further delays, and a new deck was constructed and shipped at no additional expense to council, so that was a great outcome.”

Council engaged closely with the rural communities impacted while the bridge works were under way.

Mayor Greg Williamson said local residents had been very understanding and great to work with.

“We realise that road closures are inconvenient, and a lot of residents were impacted by lengthy detours, but people were tremendous, and we really appreciate their patience.”

TRS General Manager Patrick Bigg said it had been a pleasure working with council and alongside a dedicated team of local subcontractors over the past 12 months, restoring and rehabilitating these six timber bridges.

“Each bridge presented a unique set of challenges which were successfully navigated using longevity-focused design solutions that extend the life of each asset,” Mr Bigg said.

“Thanks also to the community for your assistance, continued patience and support throughout the project,” he said.

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Barren Creek Bridge before renewal

Barren Creek Bridge completed

Palm Tree Creek Bridge before renewal

Palm Tree Creek Bridge completed

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Mackay Regional Council and Mackay Isaac Tourism have hit the launch button on an “ultimate calendar” for events in the Mackay region.

Launched today (Thursday, March 6) at the Mackay Event Connect Networking evening, the new platform, Mackay Events, was met with considerable excitement by local businesses owners, event planners and industry representatives.

Mackay Events is a user-friendly platform for managing, promoting and showcasing events in the Mackay region.

Mayor Greg Williamson explained that mackayevents.com.au automatically compiled local events from other popular ticketing and events platforms.

“Oztix, Try Booking, Eventbrite, Humanitix, the MECC, Australian Tourism Data Warehouse and many others are automatically picked up and added to this ultimate calendar,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Accommodation, hospitality and tourism business owners have for a long time called for a one-stop-shop where they can direct visitors who are asking ‘what’s on’ while they are in the region,” he said.

“Mackay Events is that one-stop-shop.

“It automatically captures all the local ticketing platforms and is also very easy to add events to directly.”

Mackay Isaac Tourism CEO Jeff Stewart-Harris said this ultimate calendar launch comes off the back of Mackay Isaac Tourism’s new destination events campaign, "Keep Up”.

“The Keep Up campaign encourages visitors to explore the endless adventure and vibrant events that make our regions so attractive.

“With this new calendar, visitors and locals will never miss an event again,” Mr Stewart-Harris said.

“Mackay Events has an excellent feature which allows users to create a profile that can be personalised so that they will be notified about events that they are interested in,” he said.

“This will be a fantastic opportunity to showcase all the amazing events that make our region such a vibrant, exciting place to visit, all in the one location.”

Mackay Events can be easily accessed via the Mackay Isaac Tourism and Mackay Regional Council websites or by going directly to the web address (mackayevents.com.au).

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To celebrate and acknowledge International Women's Day, Resource Industry Network (RIN) is thrilled to host
its annual business lunch to champion inclusivity and gender equity in the workplace.

The global theme for International Women’s Day is "Accelerate Action,” focusing on the need to
take swift and decisive steps to address the systemic barriers and biases that women face in
professional spheres.

At the current rate of progress, full gender parity won't be achieved until 2158, about five
generations from now, according to the World Economic Forum.

The annual business lunch features Olympic Champion Gold Medallist, Kerri Pottharst, who has
spent a lifetime decoding human high performance, and is a highly sought-after keynote
speaker, Global Sports Commentator, coach, and published author.

Renowned as one of the world's most fierce Volleyball competitors and Australia's most
decorated Indoor and Beach Volleyball player, Kerri has represented her country for an
incredible 20 years.

Business lunch attendees will be engaged by a thought-provoking panel discussion and have
the opportunity to network with accomplished professionals.

The panel will feature Taz Zammit, who is one of Australia's most followed personalities on
social media, with over 1 million global followers. Her dedication to inclusivity has led to
partnerships with global brands like Apple, Nike, and Netflix, and earned the TikTok LIVE
Creator of the Year Award and Best Business Creator Award. As a successful entrepreneur, Taz
is passionate about mentoring LGBTQ+ creators and young leaders, offering insights into the
creator economy.

"We believe a progressive and inclusive workforce is essential for driving innovation in today's
business environment. It is also proven that having women in the workplace increases safety
and productivity," says Dean Kirkwood, General Manager at RIN.

"Our International Women's Day business lunch has sold out for five consecutive years because
we bring together Central Queensland professionals to celebrate the unique and diverse roles
of women. This impactful event helps renew our shared commitment to creating more inclusive
organisations.”

This highly regarded business lunch is for professionals of all genders who are committed to
fostering inclusion and advancing the diversity of women's roles in the workplace.

Whether you're a business owner, manager, a team leader or team player, we are excited to
host you as we celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political accomplishments of
women across the region.

Early registration for our 2026 International Women’s Day is strongly encouraged since this
year’s business lunch is sold out.

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On 8 June 2005, Community Bank Sarina opened its doors for the very first time – built on the belief that banking should strengthen the community it serves.

From day one, their mission was clear: to provide essential banking services while investing in the people, businesses and organisations that make our region thrive.

Now, 20 years later, that commitment is stronger than ever.

Thanks to Community Bank Sarina’s customers, they have invested over $4 million into local schools, sports clubs, community groups and more across the Sarina and Mackay greater district.

Stay tuned to their social media profiles to find out about all the fun happening this year to celebrate this momentous milestone!

The celebrations kicked off with a lively Chamber of Commerce networking event at Ocean International, where guests enjoyed great company, delicious food, and plenty of poolside fun to mark the beginning of Community Bank Sarina's 20th birthday festivities.

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Photo credit: Leah McLean Photography

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The recent monsoon has challenged the growers in the Central region, but our hearts go out to growers across the far north who have borne an immense blow to their crops through fast moving floodwaters.

It has been heartening to see the industry come together and rally support for the affected growers, who bore the brunt of the monsoon event across early February.

It is positive to see disaster recovery grants made available for growers, with the State and Federal Government making funding available for Disaster Recovery Grants for flood-affected primary producers and small businesses in those regions. These include $25,000 disaster assistance grants.

We congratulate the Queensland Government on its prompt response to CANEGROWERS Queensland’s call to include the cost of replanting crops as an eligible disaster recovery expense, however CANEGROWERS has now written to the Federal Government, urging Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to raise the maximum available grant to at least $75,000.

Once again, the organisation has shown strong leadership for the betterment of industry. We have worked hard for growers right across the industry, speaking with government and ultimately with millers and marketers in assessing crop losses.

Queensland CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan had said that with crops in the far north, particularly in the Herbert and Burdekin, grants are “a good start” but recovery is more than cleanup and $25,000 barely scratches the surface for some of the hardest-hit farming businesses.

As a grower representative, I feel it is also important to once again call upon government to effect changes around insurance affordability for Northern Australia, where premiums and claims are steeply increasing.
Locally, as far as the wet season goes for the Mackay-Plane Creek crop, it is too early to count our chickens. We are all too familiar with what it means to farm under the monsoon. It is a well-known fact that at this early stage in the wet season, we can still receive quite variable weather.

While the rain caused waterlogging to paddocks, a few weeks of sunshine would balance that and improve growing rates. Cane cut earlier in the 2024 harvest is looking great, responding well to the rain.
Late cut ratoons are looking average, unfortunately, and not unexpectedly. Waterlogging has delivered a major blow, impacting the crop negatively.

The rains coming so close to the end of the crush, however, has put growers behind in their farm work. It is difficult to get a fallow like soy in, when the window closes out as it has, leaving many growers looking for suitable alternate fallow crops, or being forced to bare-fallow paddocks. Outside farm duties have been restricted since the onset of this rain event.

The standover from 2024 is extensive and is always a mixed bag. You don’t know what it will do when it comes to the 2025 harvest. It sometimes becomes unharvestable, and typically presents a challenge to both harvester and miller.

Once again, we look to the impact of a very late finish to the crush upon the next year’s crop with disappointment. We will say it again and again until millers take proper heed. Harvest should finish in mid-November, following a 21-23 week crush to make the most in terms of productivity and profitability across the whole supply chain. Harvest while sugar content is high. This is Farming 101: to make the best of what we grow.

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Empowering both people and animals, Happy Paws Happy Hearts (HPHH) has created an inclusive and welcoming space where growth, compassion, and connection seamlessly intertwine.

HPHH is a national not-for-profit that exists to create positive connections between isolated Australians and rescue animals in need. Their focus is to help participants on their journey of change from social isolation to inclusion and wellbeing, supporting people with disabilities, youth at risk, and people with a life of service.

The organisation and inspiring journeys of its participants thrives thanks to the passionate commitment of its team, including Senior Trainer Terri Leotta and Program Trainer Tia O'Mally, who each bring their distinct backgrounds and skills to this rewarding role.

Terri’s passion for animal care blossomed early, shaped by her upbringing on a farm and her lifelong love for anything from ducklings to dolphins. With a vast background in schools, adult education, and consultancy, she believes every interaction – no matter how small – holds the potential for growth and development.

Viewing her job as a privilege, she sees it as a chance to nurture both hearts and paws in equal measure. She strives to ensure that every session is productive, consistent and enjoyable for both hearts (people) and paws (animals).

“Every minute I’m alive is an opportunity to empower, enhance and enliven paws and hearts, and I wake up each day with that mission,” she says.

“It holds a little bit of magic each day, and that freedom is the greatest gift we could give.”

Tia O’Mally, on the other hand, complements Terri’s approach with her background in wildlife science and experience as a disability support worker. For almost two years, she has worked at HPHH, specialising in fostering strong animal connections with disability support, where she leads classes for people of all abilities and support needs, of all ages.

“I feel like this job was made for me,” Tia says.

“The participants get to learn how to care for and train animals, and in return, they find a connection, which is so fulfilling to see."

Despite being born deaf, Tia has gained confidence in group settings through her work, growing into a strong communicator and mentor. With a supportive and fun work environment, Tia loves the connections she’s built with her colleagues and participants.

Whether it’s leaving playful notes on their workplace communication board or seeing the joy animals bring to people’s lives, every day is rewarding for Terri and Tia at HPHH.

Holding space for big, courageous hearts is at the core of everything they do, empowering individuals as they form meaningful bonds with the animals in their care. Every session is a step toward a brighter tomorrow – whether it's a rescue animal learning to trust again or a participant gaining confidence through the unconditional love of a furry friend.

At Happy Paws Happy Hearts, the mission is to make sure both people and animals feel welcomed, empowered, and connected… because to them, every heart matters, and every paw is cherished.

Learn more about their in-shelter programs available in Mackay at hphhfoundation.org/shelter-program

hphhfoundation.org

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As directors of Macrossan & Amiet Solicitors, Caitlin Roberts and Samantha Sticklan prioritise searching for and achieving the ever-illusive luxuries amounting to the perfect work life balance as a woman in law.

“We are represented by a number of talented and committed female directors and solicitors and each member of our team attempts to achieve a work life balance in different ways - the firm tries to support all of our solicitors and staff to achieve this,” explained Caitlin.

Under the direction of both Caitlin and Samantha, the women of Macrossan & Amiet Solicitors strive to thrive within the law sector and often set aside time together outside of the office to continue working towards a golden work life balance and fantastic work environment.

“Some members of our team train and participate in triathlons, some attend the gym or enjoy running, we enjoy spending time with their families and friends and others enjoy reading. We have a firm book club who meet once a month to foster this passion” Caitlin enthused.

“What seems to apply to everyone is that they enjoy getting out in our amazing communities, and participating in local events, and supporting local businesses.”

Caitlin became the firms’ first female director in its over 125-year history in July of 2019 with Samantha following close behind.

“Law has historically been a predominantly male driven profession, however in 2020, 52% of all Queensland solicitors were female, and this percentage is increasing each year as it’s a great profession for women with so many varied practice areas and specialities on offer,” added Samantha.

Now the firm operates out of offices based in Mackay, Airlie Beach and Proserpine to service clients across the state, practising in most areas of law including property, wills & estates, family, personal injury and commercial.

One thing that you may not know about Macrossan & Amiet Solicitors is that in celebration of Macrossan & Amiet Solicitors’ 100th anniversary in 1995, the firm established the Macrossan & Amiet Charitable Foundation.

“Since the initial donation by the firm of $100,000, the foundation has grown through generous donations by members of our community, and now holds capital in excess of $1.7 million,” Caitlin noted.

“It’s managed by 10 independent trustees, 5 of whom are women, and since 1995, the Macrossan & Amiet Charitable Foundation has donated over $1.1 million to local charities!”

What are you reading right now?

“The Macrossan & Amiet Book Club books for this month are The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune and The Last thing he Told Me by Laura Dave.”

macamiet.com.au

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In an 80% male dominated industry, Leanne Benson thrives as Business Owner and Lead Software Developer of Key to I.T.

Day to day, Leanne liaises directly with clients to analyse their individual software needs, requirements and business processes to develop a custom-made design programmed from start to finish with the occasional delegation to another programmer as needed.

“We need more women in Software Development and different perspectives are always helpful,” highlighted Leanne.

“If you think development might suit you, my advice is don’t be afraid to give it a try, because if you don’t, you just might be missing out on a really fun career.”

For an entrepreneur like Leanne, the lines between work life and personal life can often blur, however when she finds time to switch off, Leanne enjoys nothing more than exploring the local entertainment on offer within the community.

“I love reading, I love all kinds of music, and I have very recently started learning to play guitar,” Leanne exclaimed.

“I take every opportunity to go to live concerts, and I think a lot of people would be surprised how much local talent is around!”

With 24 years’ experience in software development, degrees in accounting and software design, and over a decade of experience in administration and financial roles, Leanne’s professional background allows her to access a unique skillset.

“I have a unique perspective,” Leanne noted.

“I am able to see process inefficiencies, and I can offer a solution that meets their needs because I know what it is like to be in the client’s shoes.”

Leanne creates flexible, affordable software solutions for industries like farming, cleaning, retail, construction, trades, and manufacturing, with the goal of helping small businesses streamline processes, improve efficiency, and grow.

She even offers her own online induction software, which is available to access via www.inductability.com.au.

Interested users can sign up for a free trial or request a demo, allowing users to easily create their own training modules.

As a woman in business navigating through a male dominated industry, Leanne believes making her mark can be daunting at times, however she often draws inspiration from the powerful women she has seen succeed to continue blazing her trail.

“I haven’t really seen any issues, but I have found it a little daunting to walk into a room full of programmers and be the only woman – I think there is a little bit of imposter syndrome at play,” Leanne explained.

“When I worked for MEB (now ERGON), Joy Cooper was the head of the finance department and went on to become the Secretary of the MEB – she was a true professional and had worked her way up in the organisation from an entry level position.

“She always encouraged me and other female staff to reach for the stars and gave us opportunities for gaining experience in as many areas as possible.”

keytoit.com.au

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Nicole Batzloff, from Laffos Bar and Pizzeria, is bringing her vibrant energy and bubbly personality to the 2025 Dancing With Heart event, and she’s ready to dazzle the crowd!

Known for her infectious energy, Nicole is a true crowd-pleaser, and it’s no surprise that she’s stepping up to dance for such a worthy cause.

Nicole shared, “In 2009, my mum suffered a massive heart attack. I was with her at the hospital when the nursing staff did their best to stabilise her.

“They were not able to stabilise Mum, and (very unconventionally) she was taken to Townsville on a CQ Rescue chopper in an unstable condition.

“I had to stay behind…It was so scary.

“Fortunately, Mum was operated on in Townsville, receiving six stents, and she is still with us today.”

This experience opened Nicole’s eyes to the vital role of the Mackay Hospital Foundation, which fills the gap when state government funding doesn’t meet the needs of local healthcare services.

“When state government funding does not meet the demands of our health services here in Mackay, the Mackay Hospital Foundation is the community’s fundraising organisation that bridges the gap.

It’s not only worthwhile, it’s vital.”

Now, Nicole is thrilled to be a part of Dancing With Heart, drawn to its lively and energetic atmosphere, while also supporting the Mackay Hospital Foundation.

“I am so excited to be dancing in the 2025 Hospital Foundation’s major fundraising event, Dancing with Heart. It’s such a great, fun, and positive event with fantastic energy behind it.

Nicole’s enthusiasm is contagious, and she’s asking for your support! Your donation will directly contribute to improving healthcare services in the Mackay community, helping to ensure that others don’t have to face what she her family did.

Despite sore knees from practicing so much, Nicole is determined to hit the dancefloor and she’s ready to strut her stuff.

“I’m going to need a big applause!”

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At Whitson Dawson, the numbers add up not only when it comes to accounting but also in how they support their staff, especially the women leading the way. As a family-run business with a strong foundation built on client outcomes and employee wellbeing, Whitson Dawson has always been about balance—balancing the books, balancing work and life, and most importantly, balancing the scales of opportunity for women.

The firm is well-known for offering more than just the standard nine-to-five grind. It’s about flexibility, mentorship, and a supportive environment where everyone—regardless of gender, background, or expertise—can rise through the ranks. This nurturing culture has allowed women to take charge, step into leadership roles, and drive the company’s success, proving that it’s not just about crunching numbers but also about fostering growth within the team.

The key to Whitson Dawson’s approach? Flexibility. Whether it’s working remotely, having flexible hours, or accommodating family commitments, the company’s policies are designed to keep the “balance sheet” of work and life in the black. Women here are encouraged to shine in their careers while staying true to their personal lives. After all, who says you can’t balance a family and a flourishing career? Whitson Dawson’s team proves every day that women can not only juggle it all but excel while doing it.

Take Trudy, for example, who began her career at Whitson Dawson in 2001, fresh off the books with a Business Degree. Fast-forward to today, and Trudy is a fully qualified CPA, mentoring new graduates and a client manager for a large tax team. She’s a perfect example of how Whitson Dawson doesn’t just help women climb the career ladder; they provide the support, resources, and mentorship to make that climb steady and sustainable.

And for those women eyeing a career in accounting, Whitson Dawson has the roadmap to success. Whether you’re a teen deciding where to start or a mum re-entering the workforce after a break, the advice is simple—education, experience, and mentorship are your golden ticket. Find a mentor who can help you navigate the professional maze, build your network, and develop the confidence to take on new challenges. In an industry where continuous learning is key, Whitson Dawson offers ample opportunities to keep skills fresh, ensuring that their team is always up to date with the latest trends, regulations, and technologies.

Whitson Dawson’s dedication to career advancement is not just about keeping the financial books in order—it’s about creating a culture of empowerment and success. Here, the firm doesn’t just balance the budget; they balance the scales of opportunity, ensuring that women can flourish in both their careers and their lives.

The bottom line? When you work at Whitson Dawson, everyone comes out on top.

whitsondawson.com.au

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Katrina Dhu has always been driven by one powerful goal: to help others take control of their financial destinies. As a financial adviser at Alman Partners, her role is about much more than just providing advice—it's about empowering clients to align their finances with their values, ensuring they have the tools to achieve what matters most to them.

With over 30 years of experience in banking and finance, Katrina has a deep well of knowledge that she shares with clients, breaking down complex financial strategies into easy-to-understand terms. But it’s her empathy and dedication that truly set her apart.

“It’s about getting to know my clients as individuals,” she explains.

“Everyone’s priorities are different, and I take time to understand what truly matters to them.”

Her commitment to her clients’ success is evident in every conversation. She’s not just providing financial solutions—she’s building long-term relationships.

“I love seeing my clients achieve their goals and celebrate their successes.

“That’s the most rewarding part of my job.”

But Katrina’s journey to success hasn’t been without challenges, especially as a woman in a historically male-dominated field.

“When I started, finance was very much a ‘boys’ club,’” she remembers.

“There were so few women in the room at conferences, and we had to work harder to get the recognition we deserved.”

But the tides have turned, and today, Katrina is proud to work for a firm where female advisers outnumber male ones.

“The profession has shifted,” she says, “and now, women’s skills in relationship-building and client care are being recognised more than ever.”

In fact, her firm’s commitment to diversity is something Katrina values deeply, saying that Alman Partners provides flexible work arrangements, making it easier for women to balance their professional and personal lives.

“It’s crucial to find a firm that values you and aligns with your personal values,” she adds.

“Alman Partners offers that, and it’s been incredible to see more women taking on leadership roles.”
Despite her impressive professional achievements, Katrina is the first to admit that work-life balance is still a work in progress.

“I’m definitely not perfect at it,” she laughs.

“But I’ve learned to outsource where I can and not to be too hard on myself. I also make sure to take time for the things I love—like travelling.” In fact, her next adventure is already planned: a trip to China this May.
Outside of work, Katrina enjoys nurturing her creative side.

“I’ve recently gotten into resin crafting and jewellery making,” she says.

“It’s my way of colouring outside the lines and recharging my batteries.”

Throughout her career, Katrina has been supported by the unwavering love of her family and friends.
“They’ve been with me through thick and thin,” she shares.

“No matter what life throws at you, great family and friends make all the difference.”

What is a mantra you live by?
“Get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Try something new.”
What are you reading right now?
“Atomic Habits by James Clear.”

alman.com.au

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A new generation of tradespeople is stepping up in North Queensland, with 37 apprentices launching their careers with Wilmar Sugar and Renewables. Among them, six fresh recruits have joined the ranks at the Plane Creek Mill in Sarina, ready to learn their craft in one of the region’s most vital industries. Seventeen of the new recruits are based in the Burdekin region, where Wilmar owns four sugar factories, five are based at Proserpine Mill and the rest will be joining the Herbert region.

From electrical and fitting and turning to boilermaking and diesel fitting, these apprentices are diving into hands-on training that will shape their futures. They’re part of a long-standing tradition at Wilmar, which has built a reputation for developing highly skilled tradespeople across its four sugar milling regions.
Wilmar Sugar and Renewables Training Superintendent Daniel Shipard said he was pleased to welcome such a high-calibre group of first-year apprentices into the business.

“Wilmar Sugar and Renewables has a long history of developing great tradespeople in our sugar milling regions.
“We’re one of North Queensland’s largest apprenticeship providers, with about 150 apprentices employed across our operations at any one time. Our program is also one of the most successful Australia, with a completion rate of 98 per cent.”

Mr Shipard said this year’s intake included five young women, one of whom had transitioned from a school-based apprenticeship with the company.

“We’ve also signed up five seasonal employees who were keen to get into our apprenticeship program and learn a trade,” he said.

Brooke Smith from the Burdekin was Wilmar’s first school-based apprentice and is now enrolled as an apprentice boilermaker at Pioneer Mill. She said she was excited to be working full time and developing her trade skills.
“Getting into Wilmar’s apprenticeship program means I’m finally going to get more experience and get more involved in what goes in the workshops. It also means I can really be part of the Wilmar business, instead of just being there one day a week,” she said.

First-year electrical apprentice Cody Masters said an apprenticeship with Wilmar meant being able to learn on the job while living in his home town of Ingham.

“It means I get to go home to mum and dad’s cane farm and still get to give back to the community,” he said.
Mr Shipard said the first-year apprentices kicked off their trade training with a two-week Safe Start program in December before beginning work at their respective sites.

“Our Safe Start program equips our apprentices to hit the ground running,” Mr Shipard said.

“It’s a comprehensive introduction that gives them important safety and technical skills, as well as the confidence to thrive in their new roles.”

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Wilmar Sugar and Renewables 2025 intake of apprentices, back from left, Corey Baker, Tyson Austin, Riley Dickson, Liam Perkins, Will Flynn, Angus Crowley, Casey Calligaro, Elijah Wojeski, Dominik Arrate, Cooper Light, Kyle Aili, David Saunders, Jarrod Morris, Will Muller, Jaxon Baldwin, Lucas Gabiola and Luca Lago. Front, from left, Hannah Swarbrick, Adrian Cugola, Jack Scharf, Amylee Asquith, Damien Marino, Bradman Condon, Camden Moroney, Training Superintendent Daniel Shipard, Thomas Raiteri, Jayde Holm, Cooper Raitelli, Jayden Shelton, Brooke Smith, Codey Masters and Jacob Rossato. Absent: Samantha Christensen, Brad Patti, Daniel Johnson, William Ghobrial, Dominic Forman and Brock Rogers

Wilmar Sugar and Renewables new Plane Creek apprentices Jarrod Morris (fitting and turning), Elijah Wojeski (boilermaking), Amylee Asquith (fitting and turning), Angus Crowley (fitting and turning) and Cooper Light (boilermaking). Absent: Brock Rogers (electrical)

Wilmar Sugar and Renewables new Proserpine apprentices, from left, Will Flynn (boilermaking), Tyson Austin (electrical), Jack Scharf (boilermaking), Thomas Raiteri (fitting and turning) and Will Muller (fitting and turning)

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