The long-promised upgrades to the Bruce Highway appear to be slipping further out of reach, leaving residents of Dawson frustrated and disappointed. Despite a commitment of $7.2 billion in funding, recent Senate estimates hearings revealed that only $432 million will be spent on the highway over the next three years—just a fraction of what was expected.

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, has voiced his dismay at the slow rollout, calling it yet another letdown for Queenslanders.

“Again, the government has not been upfront with Queenslanders on when workers can actually get started to fix the highway,” he said.

“Only $30 million out of $7.2 billion will be allocated over the next 16 months, which is simply not good enough.”

The lack of urgency is particularly concerning given the human cost of delays.

“Tragically, 43 lives were lost on the Bruce Highway last year,” Mr Willcox said.

“That’s 43 families devastated by preventable accidents on a road that desperately needs attention.”

Community frustration has been mounting, with more than 1,000 residents signing Mr Willcox’s Back Our Bruce petition, which has been presented to Parliament. In last May’s Budget, the federal government cut $488 million from Bruce Highway funding over the forward estimates—only to now restore a lesser amount at $432 million.

“And they expect people to be grateful for that?” he said.

“This is just like the broken promise that our energy bills would be reduced by $275 before the 2022 election.”
Mr Willcox remains committed to fighting for the region’s fair share.

“If elected, the Coalition has a plan to get Australia back on track, and that starts with restoring the 80:20 funding arrangement for Bruce Highway projects after it was stripped away,” he said.

“Right now, I am really concerned the Bruce Highway will be worse off over the next three years.”

For the people of Dawson, the message is clear—delays and half-measures aren’t good enough when lives are at stake.

DID YOU KNOW?
Did you know Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, and his office can assist seniors with a range of services? Whether it's navigating aged care benefits, pension concerns, or My Aged Care inquiries, his team is ready to help.
Andrew’s office can also arrange special milestone letters from King Charles III, the Prime Minister, and the Governor-General for significant birthdays and anniversaries.
If you or a loved one need support, don’t hesitate to reach out. Andrew is committed to ensuring seniors in Dawson get the recognition and assistance they deserve.

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Rising grain exports and continued strong trade in petroleum and sugar have helped push the
Port of Mackay past a two million tonne milestone.

North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) CEO Brendan Webb said between July 2024
and January 2025, the government-owned port facilitated 2.2 million tonnes of trade.
“The top three traded commodities - petroleum (1.1 million tonnes), sugar (607,000 tonnes),
and grain (245,000 tonnes) - have once again led the way to another trade milestone,” Mr Webb
said.

“Grain in particular has had a positive seven months with a notable increase of 9.7 per cent from
223,000 tonnes during the same period last year.”

The port’s strong trade performance highlights its vital role in Queensland’s global supply chain.
"Our local port boasts global connections to key international markets, including China, India,
Japan, North America, New Zealand, Korea, and Bangladesh," Mr Webb said.

'With its strategic location, multi-cargo capability, and well-established regional links, it plays a
crucial role in connecting Queensland to the world.'"

For more than 85 years, the Port of Mackay has been a driving force behind the region’s
economic growth.

"Since opening in 1939, it has grown into Queensland’s fourth-largest multi-commodity port and
is central to unlocking the agricultural and mining wealth of the region," Mr Webb said.

“Fuel trucks depart the port 24/7 to support the Bowen Basin, a supply lifeline that underpins the
mining industry’s operations.

“Meanwhile, Mackay remains one of Australia’s largest sugar-producing region, and the port
hosts one of the world’s largest bulk sugar terminals.”

The Port of Mackay is one of four ports NQBP is responsible for, including the ports of Abbot
Point, Hay Point, and Weipa.

“Our ports are powerful contributors to the Queensland economy with 54 per cent of Queensland’s
international trade by volume passing through them,” Mr Webb said.

“The consistently strong results in throughput are a testament to the dedication and hard work
of our people and port partners who keep trade flowing safely and efficiently.

“Together we are advancing our shared vision of being recognised as a leader in responsible
port trade, where Queenslanders thrive for generations.”

For further information on tonnage volumes for the Port of Mackay, visit NQBP’s Throughputs
page.

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Grain is in the top three traded commodities at the Port of Mackay

Grain getting loaded onto a ship berthed at Port of Mackay's Wharf

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OPINION PIECE

It’s been a busy start to the year, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. As Member for Mackay, I’ve had the privilege of meeting with locals, attending community events, and advocating for our region both here and in Parliament. Since the start of 2025, I’ve engaged in 40 community events, visited 14 schools, and undertaken eight department visits, including three trips to Mackay Base Hospital.

From touring the Resources Centre of Excellence to lending a hand at Orange Sky Laundry, visiting Anything Environmental, and attending the launch of The Regional Arts Development Fund, I’ve been out and about, connecting with the people who make Mackay such a great place to live. I’ve also had the chance to sit down with constituents, hear their concerns firsthand, and work on solutions that will benefit our community.

Championing Mackay in Parliament

During the first Parliament sitting week, I was proud to highlight the importance of Paget, our world-class industrial estate, and the outstanding work being done at the Resources Centre of Excellence. I also gave a well-deserved mention to Stomping Elephants, a fantastic local business known for its earrings.

There were also some significant wins for Queenslanders, with the abolition of stamp duty for first-home buyers on new builds a major step toward making homeownership more accessible. Additionally, the Crisafulli Government scrapped the patient tax, easing financial pressure on those needing medical care.

Supporting Youth Mental Health and Community Wellbeing

In March, I joined my North Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming Club to kick off Laps for Life, raising funds for ReachOut Australia. This incredible initiative provides free, 24/7 mental health support for young people facing challenges like anxiety and depression. So far, our team has raised over $6,000, and we’re just getting started! Every swimmer sets their own lap goal for the month, and I’m committed to doing my part.
This week, I’m also rolling up my sleeve for the free flu vaccine, which is available from 1 March to 30 September. This $25 million program ensures all Queenslanders can access free flu shots, helping protect against illness and easing pressure on our health system.

Investing in Schools and Supporting Local Services

Education remains a top priority, and the $44 million Behavioural Boost, announced on 17 February, is set to make a real difference. This funding will help Queensland schools, including those in Mackay, by allowing them to hire new support staff, extend teacher aide hours, and provide specialised resources like speech pathology and physiotherapy. Teachers will also have access to mentoring, professional development, and educational tools to better support students.

I was also honoured to attend the opening of Mackay’s new wellness centre, run by St Vincent de Paul. This incredible facility provides a safe and supportive space for people recovering from substance abuse, helping them develop life skills and transition back into the community.

In another significant announcement, $6.1 million in State and Commonwealth funding was secured for the Mackay Regional Community Legal Centre Inc. This funding will ensure the Legal Assistance Services Program continues from 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2030, providing critical legal support to our community and the greater North Queensland region.

Proud to Represent Mackay

The start of 2025 has been non-stop, but I am passionate about giving my all for Mackay. Every event I attend, every conversation I have, and every decision I make is with our community’s best interests at heart. I look forward to continuing this work throughout the year because there’s nothing more rewarding than serving the people of Mackay.

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Out and about in Mackay – Nigel Dalton connecting, advocating, and celebrating all that makes our community great. Photos supplied

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A service which nurtures and cares for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families
has taken a further step in its development with the opening of a special facility
located within the community in North Mackay.

The Kem Kem Yanga Midwifery Group Practice (MGP) program is a maternity service
for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mothers and babies which was established by
Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) in May 2019.

Mackay HHS Chief Executive Susan Gannon said the service was now being offered
in the community at 25-29 Evans Avenue in North Mackay rather than in a hospital
setting.

“This is a wonderful step forward in providing nurturing care for our First Nations
families in a setting that is safe, welcoming and easier to access,” Ms Gannon said.

“An important priority for our health service is improving health and wellbeing
outcomes for First Nations families and that begins with the smallest members – our
babies.

“This is a beautiful space which features a large meeting room as well as five smaller
spaces to provide safe care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women as they
prepare to welcome these little ones into the world.”

Ms Gannon also thanked the Mackay Hospital Foundation for their support in
arranging a donation from Daly Bay to buy furniture and fittings for the new centre.

“Chairs, tables, cushions, a refrigerator, books and Indigenous-themed toys and
games for children have all been provided by Daly Bay, and I thank them for their
generosity,” Ms Gannon said.

An opening event held last week included input from two Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander women who had been involved with the formation of the Kem Kem Yanga
program since inception. Aunty Deb Clark delivered a Welcome to Country and Aunty
Julianna Kennell performed a Torres Strait Islander blessing.

The community-based facility, which is staffed by four midwives and a health worker,
provides pre-natal (before birth) care for First Nations families.

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MHHS Chief Executive Susan Gannon with Acting Director of Nursing and Midwifery Kylie Clark

Mum Pam Evans with children Ryder and Aria, with Kem Kem Yanga midwife Madison Bailey

Celebration cake. Photos supplied: MHHS

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Jean-Claude Arruo is stepping out of his comfort zone to dance for a cause close to his heart.

Initially nervous about participating in Dancing with Heart, Jean-Claude was inspired to take part after learning about the Mackay Hospital Foundation’s invaluable work in supporting essential health services in the community.

As he puts it, "I just had to put all my reservations aside and get involved in what is sure to be a great night, for a great cause!"

Jean-Claude works as the Manager of Business Development in the Asset Management Business Unit at Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal (DBCT). He’s well-known for his work in the community, as DBCT is a major local employer that actively supports various community groups, clubs, and schools. His involvement with Dancing with Heart has been further supported by DBCT’s generous donation of $2,500 to his fundraising efforts.

While most people may not know this, Jean-Claude was a talented athlete in his youth, playing for Queensland in cricket and representing Australia in the Under-21 Judo World Championships at just 16 years old. Today, he simply wants to be remembered as “a good person.”

Dancing, however, isn’t something Jean-Claude has naturally excelled at. With no prior experience, he’s put in the hard work, practicing diligently to prepare for the event.

Although he doesn’t have a favourite dance move yet, he’s enjoyed learning something new and physical. One of the biggest challenges has been dancing with expression and lip syncing – skills completely foreign to him!

Jean-Claude is passionate about supporting the Mackay Hospital Foundation because of the essential health services it provides to our community.

“We never want to think about times where we may need the help of our essential health services,” he said.

“In the event that we do, the funds we raise on this night will help ensure they are the very best they can be.

“We’re doing it for our friends, family and community.”

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Dave Peters is known for his outgoing, vibrant, and hilarious spirit on the radio, but now he's stepping up to bust a move for a great cause. When asked to participate in Dancing with Heart, it was an easy yes — that is, until he remembered “DJs don’t dance!”

For those unfamiliar with Dave’s dancing skills, he likens himself to a walrus flapping around on a beach — a sight you’ll definitely want to witness on the night. But in all seriousness, Dave’s commitment to supporting the Mackay Hospital Foundation’s work is what motivated him to get involved.

"The amount of work the Foundation does is extraordinary, and they need our help to raise funds for the essential services they provide," he said.

"And if that means stepping way out of my comfort zone, I’m more than happy to do it!"

Dave’s no stranger to entertaining people on air, where he spends roughly three and a half hours a day chatting with his listeners. There’s not much that people don’t already know about his character beyond the mic, however, Dave recalls a few memorable stunts, including posing for a photograph with 100 other people naked on a beach in the Whitsundays.

Now, he's focused on learning how to dance, and while he’s not naturally coordinated, he’s embracing the challenge — albeit with a lot of effort and guidance from his dance coach, Dolly.

“The biggest challenge? Everything!” he laughs, adding that remembering the choreography is proving to be tough. But Dave is pushing through, knowing that the cause is bigger than his fears.

“When people are sick, they want the best care. Unfortunately, the government doesn’t always have enough funding, and that’s where we come in to help provide the essential equipment for our hospital right here in Mackay.”

If you want to support Dave and his dancing efforts — and more importantly, the Mackay Hospital Foundation — don’t hesitate to donate.

"Donate to me... because if I win, I’ll probably be the most surprised person in the room," he says with a giggle.

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There’s nothing more soothing than a freshly brewed cup of herbal tea, and the best part? You can easily create your own blends at home using fresh or dried ingredients. Whether you’re looking to unwind, boost immunity, or refresh your senses, these simple herbal infusions are perfect for any occasion.

Calming Chamomile & Lavender Tea
For a stress-relieving blend, steep 1 teaspoon of dried chamomile flowers and ½ teaspoon of dried lavender in hot water for 5 minutes. This floral combination promotes relaxation and better sleep.

Ginger & Lemon Immunity Booster
Boost your immune system with fresh ginger and lemon. Slice a 2cm piece of fresh ginger and steep it in boiling water for 10 minutes. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon and a drizzle of honey for extra warmth and soothing benefits.

Refreshing Mint & Lemongrass Blend
This invigorating tea is perfect for digestion and cooling down in Mackay’s warm autumn. Steep 5 fresh mint leaves and 1 stalk of lemongrass (cut into pieces) in hot water for 5-7 minutes. Serve warm or chilled over ice.

Hibiscus & Rosehip Vitamin C Tea
A tart and fruity infusion packed with antioxidants! Use 1 teaspoon of dried hibiscus flowers and ½ teaspoon of dried rosehips, steeped for 5 minutes. Add honey for a touch of sweetness.

Turmeric & Cinnamon Anti-Inflammatory Tea
For a warming and health-boosting drink, simmer ½ teaspoon of turmeric and ¼ teaspoon of cinnamon in hot water for 5 minutes. A pinch of black pepper enhances absorption.
Making herbal teas at home is easy, delicious, and packed with health benefits. Try experimenting with different ingredients to find your perfect blend!

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Cleaning works on the water mains supplying the Midge Point township have progressed to stage two.

The water mains from Kunapipi Road to the Midge Point Road and Conder Parade intersection, as well as the watermains within the township, will be cleaned using a pipeline pigging and air scouring process from Monday, March 17, weather permitting.

These essential works will remove a build-up of iron and manganese minerals from the pipelines and will significantly improve the water quality for the Midge Point community.

As a result of these works, there will be intermittent and full day water interruptions and low water pressure in the Midge Point township from Monday, March 17 to Sunday, March 23.

Affected businesses and residents will be notified directly by council’s Community Engagement team and drinking water will be delivered to affected homes before works begin.

Residents are encouraged to stockpile water in their homes prior to the works commencing for drinking and bathing purposes.

This is the final stage of works for the Midge Point Water Supply Project which aims to secure consistent high-quality water for the community of Midge Point.

At the completion of the works, residents are advised to run their taps for a few minutes for the clean water to filter through. If the water continues to be slightly discoloured for 24 hours, please contact council on 1300 MACKAY (622 529).

Council apologises for any inconvenience caused and appreciates the community’s patience during these essential works.

For further information visit http://www.connectingmackay.com.au/midgepoint

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Mackay Regional Council Libraries wants to know ‘How do you Library?’

Do you come for the games and workshops, movies and music, yarns and books, technology and WiFi, arts and culture, or just the pleasant air-conditioning and a wonderful sense of belonging?

Mayor Greg Williamson said council’s Libraries team was excited to partner with the State Library of Queensland this March to promote our libraries and everything they have to offer.

“As part of the ‘How do you Library?’ campaign, we invite the Mackay community to become a library member, renew your membership or use your current membership to enter the draw to win some fantastic prizes, thanks to the State Library of Queensland and the MECC,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Whether you’re a first-time user or a lifetime member, you’re more than welcome to join the fun,” he said.

“The first 100 responses will receive a ‘How Do You Library?’ promotional pack, including a library bag, sticker, badge and bookmark.

“Visit your local library or Parker the Library Van during the month of March to enter.”

Mayor Williamson said our libraries were modern and technologically advanced facilities that offered services for all ages and abilities.

“They are so much more than books, although they do have an amazing collection.

“Residents can access social groups, children’s activities, a creative studio for recording and editing projects, as well as computers, WiFi and print services.”

You can find Parker the Library Van out and about challenging library stereotypes and showcasing all the services libraries provide at the Cuppa with a Neighbour events, which are being held in March. Come along for a cuppa and a friendly chat at these locations:

Hay Point Memorial Park, Half Tide Beach – Thursday, March 13, from 9am to 11am.
Ball Bay, Ward Esplanade – Tuesday, March 18, from 8am to 10am.
Eungella Café Eden – Friday, March 28, from 8am to 10am.
Libraries are also launching a new event booking system this March! Download the Mackay Libraries app from the app store and check out "What's On" to find events happening at your local library.

There is so much to explore and discover at your local library. Head on down to one now.

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Council is calling on residents to take some time to get to know their neighbours during March.

On the last Sunday in March, we mark Neighbour Day, which began in Melbourne in 2003 after the remains of an elderly woman were found inside her suburban home, more than two years after her death.

Council is committed to ensuring sad incidents like that will never occur in our community.

Every March, residents in our region are encouraged to be “Legendary Neighbours”.

Mayor Greg Williamson said council’s Legendary Neighbour campaign had two parts.

“We are aiming to bring regional areas together with our free Cuppa with your Neighbour events at Slade Point, Bloomsbury, North Eton, Hay Point, Ball Bay and Eungella,” Mayor Williamson said.

“These are really informal events where we use a local coffee vendor to provide some free cuppas in an area and invite residents to come along and meet each other and chat with a council Community Development Officer,” he said.

“The other part of the Legendary Neighbour campaign encourages residents to host their own neighbourhood gathering with one of our Legendary Neighbour Party Packs.

“Each pack includes a $100 meat voucher and all the odds and ends you need to host a fun get-together with people in your street who you might not know yet.

“After the popularity of last year’s event, this year we have 20 packs up-for-grabs and all you need to do to apply for one is head to the council website and tell us why you want to get to know your neighbours.

“This initiative is aimed at those who may be new to a street or may have never had the opportunity to become acquainted with their neighbours.

“The whole campaign is about building a more connected community, because connected communities look out for each other and are more resilient.”

Cuppa with your neighbour events will be held on:

Friday, March 28, 8am to 10am – Café Eden, Eungella.
Tuesday, March 18, 8am to 10am – Ball Bay camping area.
Tuesday, March 11, 9am to 11am – QCWA Eton/Eton North Hall, 7 Mill Street, North Eton.
Thursday, March 13, 9am to 11am – Hay Point Memorial Park, 23 McCarthy Street, Half Tide Beach.

For more information or to apply for a Legendary Neighbour box, head to  mackay.qld.gov.au/legendaryneighbour

Entries open February 28 and close March 31.

About Neighbour Day

Neighbour Day was founded in Melbourne in March 2003 by local resident, Andrew Heslop, after the remains of an elderly woman were found inside her suburban home, more than two years after her death. Relationships Australia became the custodian of Neighbour Day in 2014 and the day has since grown into an ongoing, year-round social connection campaign that seeks to address loneliness across Australia. Neighbour Day is celebrated on the last Sunday of March annually.

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Through a decade-long commitment to improving safety and efficiency in underground mining, Anglo American’s steelmaking coal operations in Australia have reached a significant milestone.

The company’s 10-year vision for a ‘mine of the future’ became reality when all its underground coal mines in the Bowen Basin began operating simultaneously from Remote Operation Centres (ROCs).

The Central Queensland underground operations have also hit another remarkable milestone, notching up 10,000 longwall mining shears from those ROCs.

Anglo American Australia automation superintendent Matthew Wakeford said the rapid pace of technological innovation – especially in areas like data analytics, automation and digitalisation – had unlocked incredible opportunities for the mining sector to be safer, more productive and more sustainable.

“At Anglo American, we have re-imagined mines where our people can remotely manage operations from a safe distance, using real-time data to make informed decisions,” said MrWakeford, who will speak at the Longwall 2025 conference in the Hunter Valley.

“Since transitioning to remote operations, we have reduced exposure risk to hazardous areas by 22,500 hours across our Bowen Basin mine sites.”

Before Anglo American’s Australian operations began their focus on autonomous mining in the 2010s, only one known mine globally had achieved sustainable remote operations - San Juan Mine in the United States.

Head of Operations Matt Cooper said more than 1,000 system initiatives had enabled remote operation success during the company’s 10-year journey to this point.

“Each advancement towards our vision introduced new obstacles, requiring the development of further technology capable of meeting the unique demands,” he said.

“But if we are to unlock the full potential of these advancements, we must consistently integrate the seasoned expertise of our workforce — those who have deeply understood and mastered the complexities of coal mining through decades of experience.

“Our people are irreplaceable, and we are equipping them to grow with the industry, preserving a legacy of knowledge that will always be essential to our success.

“By developing state-of-the-art technologies and prioritising the well-being of our workforce through a collaborative approach, our steelmaking coal mines in Australia have emerged as leaders in the industry, reshaping the future of underground coal mining on a global scale.”

Anglo American’s automation and remote operation technology journey in Australia has also involved industry-leading Personal Proximity Detection systems to keep coal mine workers safe underground as well as a trial of remote-controlled stockpile dozers.

The tele-remote dozers, designed to improve operator safety on site, has been trialled at the Capcoal Complex, near Middlemount, to reduce exposure to concealed stockpile voids.

The move is expected to reduce in-cab dozer exposure time by 45,000 to 75,000 hours a year once the technology is fully deployed across all sites.

Mr Wakeford said the pilot included the retrofit of a stockpile dozer with the latest Wi-Fi enabled technology to set up connectivity between the machine and operator chair in the control centre.

“Operating our fleet of dozers from a safe distance will reduce the number of hours in the cab and fully remove our operators from the dozer seat in what is another significant advancement in autonomous mining,” he said.

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Kat Talty’s time honing her skills as a heavy vehicle mechanic at CQUniversity TAFE empowered her self-belief so much that she is now mentoring other young female apprentices to take up a trade themselves.

The 26-year-old completed her training in Mobile Plant Technology at CQUniversity in February last year, a time she looks back upon with pride.

“I decided to do an apprenticeship because I wanted a change in career, and really wanted to do something hands-on, where I could learn (on-the-job),” she said.

“I really enjoyed my time at TAFE. I was able to do training at the Emerald, Mackay, and Rockhampton campuses, with the Rockhampton campus being a real highlight because of their new workshop. I also had a variety of teachers, all bringing years of experience and knowledge.”

Kat’s apprenticeship was with BHP’s Caval Ridge Mine and she continued to work at the site – until a new opportunity came knocking.

“I was offered the Women in Automotive Mentor position at BUSY at Work, based in Mackay and covering Central and North Queensland. I decided to take this role because of how many people, especially women, were having difficulties in their apprenticeships, with a lot leaving due to these challenges,” she said.

“I saw an opportunity to help people and actually make a difference.”

Kat said she enjoyed her mentoring role and was glad to see more young women considering an apprenticeship.

“I believe that more women are taking up a trade now for many reasons. They are being given the opportunities to do it, they have people who back them, it is being normalised more and more for women to be able to do a trade, plus, there is so much more support out there for women undertaking apprenticeships” she said.

“What do I have to say to women thinking about taking up a trade? Why not? if it is something you are interested in, and can enjoy, why not take the chance and try?”

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Applications are open for Glencore’s 2026 Graduate Programs, building exciting and well-paid careers for engineers, environmental scientists, geologists, accountants, and health and safety, human resource and IT professionals.

Since 2020 Glencore has welcomed 620 new graduates into its diverse coal, zinc and copper operations, in locations like Singleton and Muswellbrook in New South Wales’ Hunter Valley, and Mount Isa, Townsville, Emerald and Tieri in regional Queensland.

Starting in February 2026, the two-year programs will give aspiring professionals a chance to supercharge their careers with one of Australia’s leading mining companies.

The programs offer a competitive salary and benefits package, hands-on experience and first-class mentoring from some of the industry’s brightest minds.

Michelle Montgomery, Human Resources Manager at Glencore Coal, said the program is more than just a career opportunity; graduates develop important new skills while experiencing regional Australia and immersing themselves in new communities.

"Our Graduate Program provides a platform for emerging professionals to learn, contribute, and thrive in a supportive and challenging environment," Michelle said.

"Beyond technical skills participants have the chance to learn from industry experts and hone their skills in communication, teamwork, and leadership.

“The foundations of our program include an absolute focus on safety culture, teamwork, integrity, and having responsibility to solve real challenges.  These focus areas are, in turn, tied to Glencore’s core values.”

Applications for the 2026 Graduate Program will close on Sunday 27 April 2025.

More information about the program and its application process can be found on the Glencore Australia website: https://www.glencore.com.au/careers/students-apprentices-graduates#graduate

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The Mackay Woodturners Association (MWA) is gearing up for a celebration of skill, creativity, and craftsmanship at their upcoming Expo on March 15th and 16th, held at Snow Wright Court in Beaconsfield. Running from 9 am to 3 pm both days, the event offers a rare opportunity to witness the incredible artistry of local woodturners and explore a range of handcrafted items that are as functional as they are beautiful.

Woodturning is far from just a hobby—it's an art form that requires precision, patience, and a keen eye for detail. For many involved with the MWA, it’s also a therapeutic practice that provides more than just a creative outlet. Whether turning a simple bowl or crafting a bespoke piece of furniture, woodturning is about focus and mindfulness, often offering a mental escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. It’s a craft that keeps the mind active and engaged while also forging lasting friendships within the woodturning community.

This year’s Expo will showcase the immense talent of local woodturners, with an array of finely crafted items available for purchase. From toys to homewares and gift items, each piece tells a story of dedication and craftsmanship. In a world where cheap, mass-produced goods dominate the market, the Expo invites visitors to consider the lasting value of handmade creations. Why settle for a plastic toy that breaks within days when you can invest in a one-of-a-kind wooden piece that could be passed down through generations? It’s a mindset shift—one that embraces sustainability, quality, and the importance of supporting local artisans.

The Expo not only highlights the remarkable talent within the MWA but also serves as a reminder of the rewards that come from choosing thoughtfully crafted, sustainable products over disposable items. Purchasing handcrafted pieces directly from the makers supports the artisans and ensures that their passion for the craft is rewarded. And for those looking for a truly unique gift for someone hard to shop for, there’s no better place to find something special that will stand the test of time.

Visitors to the Expo will also have the chance to meet the makers, learn about their techniques, and even get a glimpse of how these stunning creations come to life. The event promises to be a wonderful celebration of craftsmanship, community, and sustainability—a must-see for anyone looking to support local talent and discover timeless treasures.

The Mackay Woodturners Association Expo is free to attend, and with so much on offer, it’s an opportunity to support local artisans, enjoy a day out, and perhaps find that perfect gift that’s as enduring as the craft itself.

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Fay Wassel with her latest intarsia piece

Peter Jamieson with his wooden cups and stainless steel inserts

Dave Von Hoff's wooden train. Dave also makes bowls, cutting boards, walking sticks, jewellery and pens

A wooden drum kit by Scotty Varnham

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In honour of our editor Amanda and her proud Kiwi roots, we're serving up a treat that's as New Zealand as jandals and buzzy bees. Enter the lolly cake—a no-bake wonder found in nearly every café across Aotearoa, bringing joy to Kiwis young and old with its colourful, chewy goodness.

This isn't your average cake—there’s no baking, no fuss, and it’s almost too easy to make. Crunchy biscuits, sweetened condensed milk, and brightly coloured lollies all get squished together, rolled in coconut, and chilled to perfection. The result? A slice of nostalgia that’s dangerously addictive.

Sourcing Ingredients in Australia

If you’re trying to whip up a lolly cake on this side of the Tasman, a few clever swaps might be needed. Malt biscuits—the backbone of this recipe—can be tricky to find, but a mix of Milk Arrowroot and Biscoff will do the trick. Want to add a spicy kick? Try Milk Arrowroot and Gingernuts for an extra layer of flavour.

The real stars, however, are the fruit puffs or Explorer lollies (traditionally Eskimos, but you take what you can get). If you’re lucky, you might find Explorers at Coles or IGA, but if not, fruit puffs are your best bet.

Classic Kiwi Lolly Cake Recipe

Ingredients:

250g malt biscuits (or a mix of Milk Arrowroot and Biscoff/Gingernuts)
100g butter, melted
½ can (approximately 200g) sweetened condensed milk
180g fruit puffs or Explorer lollies, chopped
1 cup desiccated coconut

Method:

Crush the biscuits into fine crumbs using a food processor or a rolling pin.
Chop the fruit puffs or Explorers into bite-sized pieces.
In a large bowl, mix the crushed biscuits and chopped lollies.
Stir in the melted butter and condensed milk until everything sticks together.
Shape the mixture into a log or press it into a lined tin.
Roll the log in coconut (or sprinkle it on top if using a tin).
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.

Slice, serve, and enjoy—preferably with a cup of tea and a chat about the last time the All Blacks won the World Cup.

Whether you're a Kiwi craving a taste of home or an Aussie looking to embrace the sweet side of New Zealand, lolly cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and prepare for a sugar rush of delicious proportions!

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