It was a night of celebration for Mackay’s small business community, with M&P Services taking the win for the Best Family-Owned Business at the 2026 Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce Best in Business Awards.

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In a category recognising some of the region’s strongest family enterprises, the award marks a major milestone for M&P Services as it celebrates 40 years in business, evolving from a modest mechanical and panel shop established in 1986 into a multi sector operation with national reach.

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The business shared its gratitude following the win.

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“We are incredibly proud and honoured to have been named the winner of the 'Legacy Legends' Best Family Owned Business Award.”

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“As we celebrate 40 years in business, this recognition is particularly special. It is a testament to the dedication of our team, the support of our loyal customers, suppliers, and the community that has stood behind us throughout our journey.”

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“It is truly humbling to be part of such a successful local business community, and even more so to be selected from a group of outstanding finalists. Congratulations to all the nominees: CCL Specialise, Dave Griffith Electrical Mackay, Habitude, Wisely Group and One Hungry Mumma.”

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“Thank you to the Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce for recognising and celebrating local businesses and the contributions they make to our region.”

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Founded in 1986 by Max Lamb Snr and his business partner Peter Brayshaw, M&P Services began as a hands on mechanical and panel repair operation servicing vehicles, trucks and trailers. Built on practical skill, long hours and a commitment to getting the job done, the business steadily earned a strong reputation within the Mackay region.

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Over four decades, that foundation has developed into a diverse enterprise spanning fleet servicing, transport and logistics, and the design and manufacturing of portable buildings and homes. The company has gained particular recognition for its mobile infrastructure solutions, including its wheeled portable units developed for mining and construction sectors.

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Managing Director Max Lamb Jr has guided much of that transformation, having first joined the business as an apprentice mechanic in 1992 before taking ownership in 1997. Under his leadership, M&P Services has expanded its manufacturing capability from its purpose-built facility in Paget, delivering specialised solutions across multiple industries and regions.

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Today, the company’s portable crib units are deployed across Australia and the Pacific, supporting operations in mining, construction and remote area projects. Despite this growth, the business continues to emphasise local manufacturing, tailored solutions and strong client relationships.

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The win reflects not only four decades of commercial success, but also a family driven approach that has remained central since its inception.

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For a business built on stories, community and a love of reading, the latest chapter for The Bookish Burrow is one worth celebrating.

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The Mackay bookstore was recently named Best New Business at the Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce Best in Business Awards on the 29^th May, 2026, a recognition that owner Sarah Lipke describes as both unexpected and a “complete shock.”

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“My second thought was, ‘Oh no, I hope I don't have to give a speech.’ Spoiler alert: I did.” Sarah said.

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“We’re incredibly grateful to have received this award and couldn’t have done it without the amazing support of our community.”

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Located in the heart of Mackay’s CBD on Wood Street, The Bookish Burrow has quickly become a charming retreat for readers, creatives and collectors alike, offering new and used books, gifts and whimsical treasures for book lovers of all ages.

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The idea was born from Sarah’s recognition of a gap in the local market.

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“I knew for quite a few years that there was a gap in Mackay for a second-hand bookstore.  

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“Books have always been a passion of mine, especially fantasy and romance, so I decided to take a chance and create something I would have loved to have myself,” she said.

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What emerged was far more than a retail space.

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“I think what has resonated most strongly with the community is that The Bookish Burrow is more than just a place to buy books. Book lovers don't always have many opportunities to connect with others who share their interests, and we've created a welcoming space where people can celebrate, discuss, and share their love of reading.”

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Sarah’s vision was to create a space that felt “cosy, whimsical, and welcoming”, complete with green walls, fairy lights and a sense of stepping into “a well-loved little burrow full of stories and magic”.

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“One of my favourite things is seeing people's reactions when they walk through the door for the first time,” she said.

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“That look of surprise and excitement never gets old.”

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“To now be recognised with this award is both humbling and encouraging. The support we've received since day one has been incredible, and it's a reminder of just how special this community is.”

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The recognition comes as The Bookish Burrow prepares for an exciting period of growth. Plans include the launch of a highly anticipated book club, attendance at MackPopCon on August 1^st, becoming an approved stockist for Quirky Cup Collective products, and celebrating the store’s first birthday this September.

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More than anything, Sarah hopes the bookstore continues to be a place where readers feel welcome.

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“The Bookish Burrow has become a place where people can share their love of stories, make connections, and feel like they belong, and that's exactly what I hoped it would be.”

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For more information, visit thebookishburrow.com.au.

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More than three decades after the business was founded from a home office in Mackay, Wisely Group was named a finalist in the Best Family-Owned Business category at the 2026 Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce Best in Business Awards.

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The award acknowledges a journey that began in 1994 when founder Bob Wisely established the company, laying the foundations for what would grow into a major national business serving Australia's resource and industrial sectors.

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“Mackay has a history of great family businesses, and it is an incredible honour to be named alongside others in the region - we are incredibly proud of this acknowledgement,” said CEO Dan Wisely.

“It is a testament to working with great people as you can’t do it alone. You do need to have a dream and work hard to achieve your goals no matter how many times things don’t go to plan.”

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Reflecting on the company’s growth, Dan spoke to the hard yards and steady grind behind Wisely Group’s success, acknowledging the early days and expressing gratitude for how far the business has come.

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"Seeing the business grow from an idea to where it is now has been a journey, from setting up an office in one of the kids bedrooms, then moving to the garage, then our first office, then moving to where we are now located and only occupying 25% of the building because it was too big are all great memories," he said.

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Among the standout achievements on the way were securing the company's first contract, navigating the mining downturn between 2013 and 2018, employing 500 people, recording the first million dollar week and later reaching the first million dollar payroll week.

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"It makes you realise how much you can give back to so many families across the region," Dan said.

While the business has grown significantly, Dan believes the values that underpin the company have remained constant.

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"As a family-owned business with the family name as the business name, reputation is everything," he said.

"Values are at the heart of that and making good values-based decisions is the right thing to do and always pays off in the long run."

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He attributes Wisely Group’s longevity to values-based decision making, great people, strong succession planning and continued investment in operating systems to maintain quality.

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Looking ahead, the company is focused on expanding its service offering while embracing emerging technologies and productivity improvements across industry.

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"We are entering an exciting time with significant technological advancements, AI and an industry that now relishes the challenge to be more productive and find a better way to do things," Dan said.

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“I can’t wait to see the next generation working in this industry and what they can achieve with their mindset. Exciting times ahead, indeed!”

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For a business built on family values and long-term thinking, being named a finalist in the Best Family-Owned Business category represents both a celebration of the past and a vote of confidence for the future.

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The team at Mackay Safety and 4PS Software is thrilled to have recently won the Ground Breaker Award at the Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce 2026 Best in Business Awards.

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The award category sought an innovative product, service, process or idea that enables excellence and positively impacts the business, customers, or industry.

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Mackay Safety's valued client, Central Queensland Exploration (CQE), is a Queensland-based drilling and rehabilitation contractor operating a fleet of 20 drill rigs, supporting 12 active mine sites, with a highly mobile workforce exceeding 150 people. As CQE scaled operations, productivity, visibility and risk management were increasingly constrained by fragmented digital systems across payroll, inductions, job logging and purchasing.

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Between 2024-2025, Mackay Safety and 4PS Software, in partnership with CQE, implemented an integrated digital operations platform that connects payroll, inductions, field job logging and purchase orders into a single, end-to-end workflow. Rather than deploying additionalstandalone tools, the project focused on redesigning how operational data flows through the business.

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The innovation lies not in individual technologies, but in their integration, enabling real-time visibility, reducing duplication and aligning workforce readiness, job activity and purchasing decisions. To date, this innovative platform has enabled 50% reduction in payroll processing time, 75% reduction in administrative queries/complaints, and 50% increase in user productivity.

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The result is a scalable, transferable model that improves operational efficiency, safety oversight and decision-making across complex, multi-site mining operations.

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“The time savings were immediate, but what’s been more powerful is the change in atmosphere,” said Sidney Potter, CQE Accounts Administrator. “People aren’t stressed about delays or chasing approvals. They’re more confident in the process and in us.”

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“Since implementing the system, CQE has halved payroll processing time, while improving accuracy and team satisfaction. You don’t just get software with Mackay Safety – you get a partner who listens, adapts, and genuinely cares about outcomes,” Simon Harris, HSE Manager, Central Queensland Exploration.

What makes it unique is that there is literally no other integrated digital operations platform on the market that connects payroll, inductions, field job logging and purchase orders into a single, end-to-end workflow.

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Founded in 2004, Mackay Safety has over twenty years of experience providing trusted safety and compliance services and software. Leaders in workplace health and safety consultation, Mackay Safety excels in the provision of skilled consultants and software to implement safety improvement strategies.

The team at Mackay Safety is committed to delivering professional and reliable health and safety advice that adheres to current legislation. The focus is on implementing practical strategies and software that drive measurable improvements in safety performance.

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Mackay Safety provides consulting services encompassing safety audits, risk management profiling, safety management procedures, including documentation, qualified incident investigation, and all advisory services relating to safety in the workplace.

Whether a company requires safety compliance management software (4PS), paper form digitisation (4P Forms), drilling and project management software (4P iPlod), or payroll, asset management, and administration workflow solutions, Mackay Safety can provide the technology to keep on top of safety compliance requirements.

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Mackay Safety offers flexible engagement options to meet clients' specific needs. The highly skilled team can create custom services and software that automate any part of a business that's causing frustration.

It's important to work with a leading safety compliance specialist, so partner with Mackay Safety to experience the difference. Visit: www.mackaysafety.com.au or call: (07) 4944 1272.

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Smiles and thumbs up after their Cadet Experience flight. Photo supplied

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Cadets of No. 105 (City of Mackay) Squadron, Australian Air Force Cadets, participated in Cadet Air Experience (CAE) flights and PEX (Pilot Experience Flights) at Mackay Airport over the weekend.

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Members of the squadron in the Orientation and Initial stages of their cadet training had the opportunity to fly in a Cessna 172 aircraft with a qualified flying instructor (QFI), gaining an understanding of flight controls and the procedures involved in obtaining air traffic control clearance for take-off, flight and landing.

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Groups of three cadets at a time, many of whom had never flown in a light aircraft before, gained valuable experience through the CAE flights.

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PEX flights were also conducted for cadets in the Junior, Intermediate and Senior stages of training. These members flew one-on-one with a QFI, having previously participated in CAE flights. They were given control of the aircraft once airborne under the supervision and watchful eye of their instructor, providing hands-on experience in handling the aircraft controls.

All flights were conducted from Mackay Airport and were facilitated by Horizon Airways. Further CAE and PEX flights are scheduled for August for cadets who were unable to participate this time, giving them the opportunity to complete this phase of their training.

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Contributed by Geoff Strange

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A beloved act is soon returning to Airlie Beach, for laughs, sing-alongs and a hefty wave of nostalgia.  

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On Saturday 27th & Sunday 28th June, Back To The 70s, 80s, & 90s are back with their iconic spoofs, parodies and performances of songs that transcend time, making every generation want to laugh, dance and scream along.  

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Embracing every bit of ‘cringe’ and flamboyance from yesteryear, the act sees performers embody stars from the past with a comedy twist- take, for instance, ‘Meat Tray,’ frontman Alex’s take on Meat Loaf.

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The action-packed performance pulls out all the stops, seeing performers undergo up to 25 costume changes, donning looks that range from leg warmers & spandex, to a particularly iconic, and notably snug pair of golden hotpants.  

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Some of the show’s top numbers include hits from ABBA, Michael Jackson, Tina Turner – even,  to much acclaim, a performance of the Proclaimer’s 500 Miles. When asked why the latter was so popular with crowds, frontman Alex’s answer was simple:  

“Never look under the kilt of a Scotsman.”  

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As for what audiences should expect from the gig, they are encouraged to expect the unexpected.  

“It's a cocktail - shaken, not stirred, with a twist of insanity.” Alex said.

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“You’ve basically got the ingredients for a day where you never know how it's gonna go.”

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According to Alex, the reason that music from the past still packs a punch is that it’s passed down through the generations.  

“The music that is passed on, is the music people identify with; it takes them back.”  

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Back to the 70s, 80s and 90s, is a celebration of that- of the way music can transport, and transcend time.

The cabaret’s aim is to remind us that we’re never too old to have a good time , whilst showing the younger crowd that there is more to music than monotonous beats & fist pumping.  

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“Airlie Beach is a home away from home for all of us.” Alex added.  

“We've done it a few times now. The venue always looks after us with, and to be picked and asked to come and play, it's really wonderful.”  

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What? Back to the 70s 80s & 90s  
When? Saturday 27th & Sunday 28th June, 2pm-5pm
Where? Airlie Beach Hotel  

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Now Open & Seeking Volunteers: Community Art Gallery, Proserpine

Monday- Friday: 9.00am – 4.00pm
Saturday: 9.00am – 1.00pm (new extended hours)

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June

19^th-20^th Show Whitsunday, Proserpine Showgrounds

23^rd Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am

23^rd Bowen Show, Bowen Showgrounds

Until 26^th Desma Munro Exhibited At Community Creative Space at Bendigo Community Bank

24^th & 28^th Airlie Beach Cruise Ship Markets 8am–1pm  

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July

25^th-26^th Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival

30^th-2^nd Aug Great Barrier Reef Festival

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August

6^th-13^th Airlie Beach Race Week

15^th-22^nd Hamilton Island Race Week

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September

4^th-6^th Don River Dash

11^th-12^th White on Whitehaven Long Lunch

13^th Whitsundays Writers Festival. Early Bird tickets close 30th June. Entries for The Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards Poetry Prize close Friday 26^th June.

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November

6^th-8^th Airlie Beach Festival of Music

21^st-22^nd Hamilton Island Triathlon and Ocean Swim

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The ball will raise money for BMA CQ Rescue through a glamourous evening at Proserpine Entertainment Centre on July 25^th.  

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Tickets are now on sale for the Mayors’ Charity Ball which will raise money for BMA CQ Rescue through a glamourous evening at Proserpine Entertainment Centre on July 25^th.  

The theme of the event is Whisper of the West, bringing classic, western style and sophistication to a night of fundraising and building connecting within the community.  

“The Mayor's Ball will be a fantastic night of entertainment, great food, and spectacle this year.” Mayor Ry Collins said.

“Our theme is Whispers of the West. We've seen Kevin Costner himself in the region over recent months- I was really inspired by series like Yellowstone.”

The council describe the event as a “carefully curated evening designed to delight the senses,” including a premium seated dining experience, live entertainment, a breathtaking fireworks display, exclusive charity auctions and interactive games.  

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The recipient of the funds raised at the ball will be BMA CQ Rescue, who operate across the region to perform rescues on land and at sea.  

Tickets for the mayor’s ball are available online; scan the QR Code to get yours.

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What? The Mayor’s Charity Ball: Whispers Of The West

When? Saturday 25^th July  

Where? Proserpine Entertainment Centre

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19^th June

Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers, 7pm-10pm
Sorrento’s: Kaedan McCarthy, 4pm-7pm
The Grandview Hotel: DJ Night, 8pm-Late

20^th June

Airlie Beach Hotel: Gold Chisel & The Australian Midnight Oil Show, 2pm-5pm. Andy Mammers, 7pm-10pm
KC’s Bar & Grill: Shaun Diver, 8pm-Late
The Grandview Hotel: Zed Charles Band 8pm-Late

21^st June

Airlie Beach Hotel: Gold Chisel & The Australian Midnight Oil Show, 2pm-5pm. Andy Mammers, 7pm-10pm
KC’s Bar & Grill: Bear Brewer 8pm-Late
Sorrento’s: Jan Arns 4pm-7pm
The Grandview Hotel: Sam McCann 1pm-5pm

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22^nd June

Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris 6:30pm-9:30pm
Sorrentos: Will Heta, 4pm-7pm

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23^rd June

Sorrentos: Will Heta, 4pm-7pm

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24^th June  

Sorrentos: Will Heta, 4pm-7pm

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25^th June:  

Sorrentos: Lucy Rose, 4pm-7pm
Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon 6:30pm-9:30pm

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By Creative Connections Whitsunday

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From rugged outback ranges and dramatic storm skies to Australia's colourful birdlife, artist Desma Munro finds inspiration in the landscapes and wildlife that make this country unique. Through her paintings, she captures the light, colour and atmosphere of the places she encounters, inviting viewers to experience the beauty of Australia through her eyes.

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A longtime Proserpine local, Desma first discovered her love of art as a teenager and has spent decades developing her skills as a painter. Largely self-taught, she works primarily in oils and water-mixable oils, creating realistic artworks that retain a distinctive painterly quality. More recently, she has also embraced watercolour, enjoying the spontaneity and freedom the medium brings to her creative process.

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Desma draws inspiration from some of Australia's most celebrated landscape artists, including Hans Heysen, Arthur Streeton, Frederick McCubbin and Albert Namatjira. Their ability to capture the character of the Australian landscape continues to influence her work today.

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Travelling extensively throughout Australia in her motorhome provides a constant source of inspiration. From the rich reds of the Pilbara and Flinders Ranges to coastal scenes and native wildlife, she finds beauty wherever she goes. For Desma, painting remains both a passion and a lifelong learning journey.

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A collection of Desma's artwork is currently on display at the Bendigo Community Bank Community Display Space until 26 June. Visitors can also view and purchase several of her original artworks and artist merchandise at the Community Art Gallery in Proserpine.

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David Atkinson is a Sydney poet and winner of the inaugural Whitsundays Literary Heart Award Poetry Prize (2024).  

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Verandah by David Atkinson

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In midsummer, broiled weatherboard,
it is impossible to sleep.
Our parents escape with us
to the gauze-lined expanse

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of the veranda, to an inkling of air.
Waning daylight lustre blurs,
seconds slide into musk,
twilight dips into shadow.

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In the open we are kneaded into nature.
The night breathes a soft-hued concerto,
the wildlife variations.
A trotting fox yawls its solitary call.

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Beetles and moths are gathered
by candle light, restlessness reaches
up splintered posts. Childish rumination
on where somnolent snakes go at night.

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The rabbits of the ridge emerge
from their hairpin burrows,
graze on untrodden shoots,
an eye alert for spectral shadows.

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Beyond the stands of ringbarked trees
the muted moon rises
and the stars are glow worms
over the riverine flats.  

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This week’s winner is Dylan Wicks, for the theme “Something I have never taken a photo of”.  

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Dylan’s photo shows some Freestyle Motocross action under lights, taken at Mackay BB Print stadium.

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This week’s theme is “Textures”.

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Budding Photographers can take part via the Whitsunday Amateur Photographers group on Facebook.  

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A new government initiative is providing a $100 discount to holidaymakers booking local experiences. Photo source: Whitsunday Regional Council

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A new Regional Rewards initiative, created by the government in partnership with RACQ, is providing a $100 discount to travellers who spend $200 or more on local experiences.

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With 10,000 discounted bookings available across Queensland, the campaign is expected to generate more than $2 million in direct economic benefit for regional tourism businesses. 

Bookings will be made via ExperienceOz.com.au/QLD100 until 31^st July (or until sold out), with travel valid until 4^th October 2026, driving visitation throughout the peak winter period. 

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Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the initiative will support tourism operators and strengthen regional economies.

“Queensland is the Home of the Holiday, and Regional Rewards is putting real money into our regions, driving bookings, supporting jobs and backing local businesses,” he said.  

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“With 10,000 incentives on offer, we’re giving Queenslanders every reason to holiday at home and deliver real economic benefits where it matters most. 

RACQ MD & CEO David Carter said boosting tourism in regional centres helps drive a better future for all Queenslanders. 

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“Tourism is crucial for our regional economy, and we wanted to play our part to ensure these communities, and our members who live in them, are supported,” Mr Carter said. 

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Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) CEO Natassia Wheeler welcomed the initiative, which comes at a time when many tourism businesses continue to face challenging operating conditions. 

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“This is the type of initiative industry has been calling for,” Ms Wheeler said. 

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“QTIC has been advocating for measures that encourage more visitors to book tours, attractions and experiences, and we're pleased to see those concerns reflected in this campaign. 

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“Queensland has an extraordinary range of tourism experiences on offer, and initiatives like this help convert intention into bookings, supporting local businesses, jobs and communities right across the State.” 

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Shire of Whitsunday. A name change for the Shire was proposed to include ‘Whitsunday’which would promote publicity for the area. An opinion poll or a survey to determine popularity was suggested.

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Wildlife Competition. Many students entered posters or essays to a competition set by the Proserpine Branch of the Wildlife Preservation Society. The top entry with the title of Junior Conservationist of the Year was awarded to Monique Theuwsof Cannonvale School.

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Second Jetty Officer. It is proposed to advertise for the position of ‘Jetty Master’ at Shute Harbour to share duties and enable continuous supervision so that fees would not be missed.

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Obituary

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James [Jim] McDonald, 77 years old from Preston. Guards of honour were formed at the church by members of the Bowling Club and the RAOB Lodge.

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Lillian Hutchinson died aged 90 years. She emigrated from Peterborough, England and settled in Cannonvale in 1951 with her family. She was a leading figure in the building of St. Martin’s Lutheran Church, and the QCWA, also as treasurer of the Ladies Guild. Sons Stanley and Ray and daughters Olive Peach, Doreen Moulding and Jill all survived her, as did her 17 grandchildren and 9 great-grand children.

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Hubert Robert Raymer, a long time resident of Marathon Street died aged 86.

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Ansett’s Investment. Ansett appointed former Hayman managing director Andre Maestracci to be director of South Molle and Hook Island, to popularise these resorts recently acquired by Ansett.

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“Fish Anywhere” Proserpine Whitsunday Sportfishing Club’s competition last weekend allowed members to fish their favourite spots so long as they were back by 4pm on Sunday for the weigh-in.

Good queenfish, King Salmon, and Barra were landed. Trevor Saunders won from Mick Muller with John Hinschen the best junior angler.

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Proserpine Boomerang Throwing is the newest sport in town, instigated by long time resident Bruce Bargo who had previous experience coaching youngsters in making and throwing boomerangs.

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Tennis Partners Reunite. Diane Hunt [nee Roberts] and Cheryl Raiteri [nee Pepper] rejoined after a 16-year break from their junior days at Cannonvale School, coached by the Principal, Jack Murphy. Diane and Cheryl finished fourth in the Home Hill Competition.

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Whitsunday Guiding. A region camp at Moranbah for guides and rangers was followed by an outing to Frankston Aquaculture Centre and a Mothers Day Parade at St. Martin’s Church Cannonvale.

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Careers Night is being organised by Airlie Beach Rotaract Club at the Reef Gateway Hotel. About 50 businesses will be represented with students being transported from schools by minibus.

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Bicentennial Presentation. Local committee members Vera McLennan and Alan Hobson presented Eddie Gray and son with recognition of their sponsorship of the local Bi-centenary plans.

Bike Rider Race in Bowen. Clint Burke, Stephen Madeo and the Penhalulhurick brothers were among an impressive group of Pee Wee riders doing battle in the Bowen 2 day event.

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Coral Sea Resort was nominated for the Queensland Tourist and Travel Awards.

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Real Estate Boom. Despite the gloomy outlook of the economy Barrier Reef Real Estate sold $7.5million of real estate to Melbourne investors including Whitsunday Shopping Centre, Airlie All Sports and Bluewater Villas.

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Local lady, Earlene, is seeking information regarding this historical photo of a band she found in her family’s archives. Do you know the story behind the picture? Get in touch!

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