
Friday 9th October Cuppa Between Chapters 9am - 10am Enjoy a relaxed morning at Dudley Denny City Library, with a warm cuppa, good company and a chance to unwind with a few chapters of your current read. Whether you're after a friendly chat, a quiet moment with a book or simply a change of scenery, this welcoming gathering is a chance to slow down and enjoy some community connection. Bring along your current read or simply come along for a cuppa and a chat. Dudley Denny City Library, 134 Victoria Street, Mackay Free Community Suicide Intervention Training 9am - 4pm This free training will equip participants with practical skills to recognise early warning signs of suicide, support people at risk to access available services and encourage help-seeking before a crisis occurs. The session will also provide an opportunity to build confidence in having supportive conversations, while helping participants identify their own self-care strategies. It is a practical opportunity for community members to build their knowledge and feel better prepared to support others. Northern Queensland Primary Health Network, 2/45 Victoria Street, Mackay Sunday 11th October Walk, Talk And Connect At Bucasia 8am Head to Bucasia Esplanade for a relaxed morning of walking, conversation and community connection as part of Queensland Mental Health Week 2026. The Walk & Talk will get underway at 8.15am, with no set distance or pace, making it suitable for all ages and walking abilities. Participants can enjoy the outdoors, meet fellow locals and take part in mindfulness prompts along the way, before heading to Beachfront Bar & Restaurant from 9.15am for light refreshments. Coffee will be available to purchase. Prams are welcome, as are dogs on leads, with one dog per person. Registration is appreciated for catering purposes. Bucasia Esplanade, Bucasia Highway Country Music Family Night 7pm Enjoy a fun family night of country music, friendship and good old-fashioned community spirit at the Highway Country Music Family Night. Everyone is welcome to come along, enjoy the music, catch up with friends and make some new ones in a relaxed community setting. Admission is just $5, with a delicious supper provided free on the night, making it a great opportunity to settle in and enjoy an evening of music and friendship. Bakers Creek Community Hall, Bakers Creek, via Mackay Monday 12th October Introduction To The Australian Job Market 9am - 11am The Neighbourhood Hub presents a practical workshop supporting people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to navigate the Australian employment landscape. Participants will learn about the local job market, connect with others and gain useful knowledge to help strengthen their employment prospects. Whether newly arrived in Australia or looking to build on existing employment opportunities, the session offers practical information and foundational knowledge to help participants better understand the local job market. The Neighbourhood Hub, 4 George Street, Mackay Tuesday 13th October Off The Hook: Knit And Crochet Club 9.30am - 11am Enjoy a relaxed morning of knitting, crochet, cuppas and friendly conversation at this welcoming monthly club. Materials are provided, or bring along your own project and enjoy getting creative while meeting new people. It is a chance to work on a project, pick up your needles or crochet hook and spend some time in good company. Whether you're an experienced crafter or simply looking for a relaxed morning activity, everyone is welcome. Dudley Denny City Library, 134 Victoria Street, Mackay
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The countdown is officially on, with less than two months to go until Mackay welcomes one of the most magical exhibitions ever to hit regional Australia. On December 4th 2026, Disney: The Exhibition – A Century of Magic will make its Australian premiere at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre, bringing more than a century of Disney imagination, storytelling and cinematic history to the region. For five magical months, the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre will showcase more than a century of imagination, storytelling and cinematic history, inviting visitors to step behind the curtain of one of the world's most beloved entertainment companies. Featuring more than 120 extraordinary artefacts, costumes, props and works of art from the Walt Disney Archives, the exhibition will take visitors on an immersive journey through the stories that have captured hearts across generations. From Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs to Encanto, visitors will encounter the worlds and characters they know and love, while also exploring the remarkable legacies of Pixar, Star Wars and MARVEL. Across eight imaginatively themed galleries and 12 interactive installations, Disney fans will have the opportunity to experience more than 100 years of history in a way never before seen in Australia. The exhibition has travelled the globe, captivating audiences in cities including London, Paris, Munich, Chicago, Seoul and Madrid. Now, remarkably, its next destination is Mackay. At the official launch event earlier this year, Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said he hoped the announcement would encourage people from across the globe to discover exactly what makes the region so special. “Come and see it for yourself and you will understand why it’s here!” With at least 100,000 visitors expected across the five-month season, the exhibition is set to deliver an enormous boost to local tourism, hospitality and businesses, while introducing the Mackay region to audiences from across Australia and potentially around the world. For Disney fans, it is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to explore the magic behind the stories that shaped childhoods and continue to inspire new generations. It will all begin with a mouse, a dream and one very magical destination! For more information, or to book tickets, visit disney100exhibit.com/mackay WHAT: Disney: The Exhibition – A Century of Magic WHEN: From 4th December 2026 WHERE: The Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre
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There is something quietly captivating about watching smoke slowly curl into the air, forming shapes that disappear almost as quickly as they arrive. This fitting image for the theme ‘Aromas in Focus’ from this week’s winning photographer Alissa Tominlinson, embodies those delicate whispers rising from an ornate incense burner. Surrounded by pink roses and tiny white flowers, the scene is so vivid you can smell the fragrance off the canvas. The rich colour of the petals and intricate metalwork give the eye plenty to be mesmerized with, while the drifting smoke adds a little mystery to the scene. Congratulations to this Alissa for capturing such a beautiful moment of stillness! The next theme is Glitter and Sparkles, so seek out something shiny. Thank you once again to everyone in the Whitsundays Amateur Photographers Facebook group for sharing another wonderful collection of images.
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New Record For Mill ? Proserpine Sugar Mill Acting General Manager, Kevin Howell predicted a record through put of 1,150,000 tonnes by the end of season, which was due to new cane varieties 1. Also heavy rainfall brought a premature end to last season leaving a standover of 90,000 tonnes. One Crash Leads To Another. A council gravel truck crashed in Kara Crescent, Airlie Beach. A crane attempting to right the truck went out of control and collided with a fire truck, a stationery MEB truck and then a boat. No-one was injured. Shute Drowning. An English tourist dived off the jetty doing a forward somersault came up then disappeared and was eventually found on the bottom about 15 minutes later. Collinsville Road Link. Plans to close the power station could put the Collinsville- Proserpine Road in doubt. Job Stats For Cannonvale. June Quarter job figures from Cannonvale CES showed that 749 people enrolled of whom 455 obtained jobs. Keep Your Cool. Anticipating hot weather in the coming months [Tuesday’s temperature was 33 degrees] local firm Smith’s Electrical took delivery of 1.5 tonnes of airconditioners valued at $30000 following another consignment 3 weeks ago worth $12000. Terraced Garden Creation. Members of Whitsunday Garden Club, Bob and Shirley Hudson have created a delightful terraced garden out of rugged terrain which contained a variety of multi coloured blooms. Daydream Development. A major development application has been made which would promote Daydream Island to the forefront of local tourism. It includes restaurants, cocktail bar, and executive suites, take 5 years to complete and cost up to $25million. South Molle Invades Bowen; on Sunday 80 Islanders steamed up the coast aboard their high speed catamaran ‘Capricornia ‘and landed on Horseshoe Bay Beach to engage locals in outrigger, paddle ski, men’s and women’s tug’o’war,and tyre tube races among numerous other contests. Tangles Visit. Special guest speaker at the WTA Dinner to be held at the Reef Gateway Hotel will be former test cricketer Max [Tangles] Walker.
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Planning a destination wedding is no small undertaking. The venues are unfamiliar, the suppliers are unknown names on a list, and the sheer logistics of organising a celebration in a place you've only visited for the weekend (maybe), can feel paralysing before a single decision has been made. The Whitsundays Wedding Trail, taking place on Sunday 14th June, is designed to change all of that.
Unlike a traditional wedding expo - where hundreds of suppliers pack into a convention centre and couples leave with a tote bag of brochures and little else - the Trail works entirely differently. It is an immersive, region-wide event that takes engaged couples directly to six of the Whitsundays' most stunning wedding venues, with key suppliers waiting at each stop, ready to meet them in the very spaces where they might one day be working together.
The concept is simple, but the effect is something a website or floor plan cannot replicate. Couples spend the day moving between venues - from lush country settings to waterfront estates - experiencing ceremony and reception spaces in their actual environment. They can understand the flow of a space and get a genuine feel for whether a venue matches their vision. No amount of scrolling through Instagram can achieve that.
The six venues on the Trail represent the full range of what the Whitsundays has to offer. Water's Edge Resort and Coral Sea Resort bring waterfront settings. The Garden Bar offers flexible spaces and marina views. The Creek Whitsundays offers a touch of country only 40mins from Airlie Beach. Elementa and Yangaro, round out the route with accommodation, ceremony and reception options for those who want to keep everything beautifully in the one place.
Two bus loops run throughout the day, making it straightforward for couples to move between venues without needing to nominate a driver or worry about directions. For those who prefer to set their own schedule, a self-drive option covers most of the Trail. There is no single prescribed way to experience the day - couples are encouraged to visit the venues on their wish list and linger as long as they need at each one.
What sets the Trail apart from other wedding planning events is the deliberate presence of suppliers at each venue. Photographers, celebrants, caterers, transport providers, stylists and florists are all represented, giving couples the rare opportunity to have real conversations in the very spaces where those suppliers would actually work. Meeting a photographer in a venue's garden, or a caterer in the function space, carries a very different weight to exchanging cards across a booth.
The Trail is the creation of Weddings Whitsundays, the region's dedicated wedding planning platform connecting engaged couples with venues and vendors across the area. The platform was built on a simple idea: that planning a Whitsundays wedding should feel accessible and inspiring, not overwhelming. The Wedding Trail extends that philosophy into a live, immersive experience - a curated introduction to the region for couples at any stage of their planning journey.
For those who are just beginning, it is an ideal starting point - a day to gather ideas and start understanding what the Whitsundays actually looks like in person. For couples further into their planning, it is the chance to meet suppliers they have been weighing up and see shortlisted venues side by side.
Tickets are available in three tiers. The self-drive option is free. The bus loop, which provides access to both loops throughout the day, is $10 per person. A closing event ticket at Elementa Whitsundays is $30 per person, and includes canapes, a cash bar, and the opportunity to keep meeting suppliers as the sun sets over the water.
The Whitsundays Wedding Trail begins on Sunday 14th June. Registrations are open at weddingswhitsundays.com/whitsundays-wedding-trail/

Bowen Tourism and Business team members Leanne Abernethy and Cindy Tonks with the Big Mango. Photo supplied
It’s been a big week for Bowen’s iconic Big Mango, which celebrated it’s 24th birthday on May 25th.
Named Queensland’s “Best Big thing” in 2025, the tourist attraction is 10 metres tall, and is located next to the Bowen Visitor Information Centre – where you can buy a large range of mango-themed products, including Bowen’s much-loved mango sorbet.
Bowen is the Australian birthplace of the Kensington Pride variety of mango, also known as the “Bowen Special”, introduced from India in 1871.
The Big Mango is a replica of that variety and is suitably lush in colour, having been repaired three years ago to ensure it was “ripe” for its 21st.
Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said the Big Mango was an important tourist attraction for the Whitsundays region.
“We have welcomed a record number of people at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre in recent years and there is no doubt the Big Mango is one of the major attractions in the region,” she said.
The Big Mango was famously “stolen” in a publicity stunt by Nandos in 2014 as part of the launch of a new mango and chicken product.
As part of that promotion, Nandos had a 6-metre mango built, which they set up in Federation Square in Melbourne, claiming they had found the Big Mango.
That structure is now known as the “Little Mango” and has been installed at Bowen’s Front Beach, next to the information booth – so Bowen actually has two big mangos.

As a fourth generation bull rider, Ky’s passion for the sport runs deep. Photo supplied
For 21-year-old local Ky Borghero, bull riding is in the blood.
As the youngest of sixth and a fourth-generation bull rider, Ky has been honing his skills aboard wild cattle from a very young age.
“I started riding small calves when I was two years old. My dad used to put me on them. He would hang onto me and let them around,” Ky said.
This year, Ky will compete in the Queensland team against New South Wales for the Professional Bull Riders Monster Energy Origin II; an annual competition which pits the two states against each other to see who possesses the greatest bull riders.
Ky cites his family as a major source of inspiration.
“I started competing when I was twelve. We used to have 11 Brahman bulls at home, and I would jump on one every afternoon. Both my older brothers ride as well – in fact one is the coach of the Queensland team this year.”
Ky’s bull riding abilities also promise to take him around the world, with bull riding trips planned for the United States and Brazil both this year and next.
Ky will compete for the State of Origin team in Newcastle (May 29th), Brisbane (June 6th) and Sydney (August 1st).
“I’m super stoked to be in the team and represent our state. Let’s go win the trophy!!”

BMA CQ Rescue is the sole beneficiary for this year’s Whispers of the West Mayor’s Charity Ball.
From remote rescues to critical medical transfers, BMA CQ Rescue provides life-saving support when our community needs it most.
With the average cost of responding to a single task sitting at an incredible $13,990 per hour, every dollar raised makes a real difference.
Tickets for the ball are on sale now. Grab your friends and reserve your spot today to help us raise as much as possible for this vital service.

Mayor Ry Collins cut a cake alongside Principal Jeremy Callaghan and co-organiser Sue Connors at Proserpine School (primary) Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
Last week both Proserpine State School and St Catherines Catholic College celebrated the 70th year of Under Eights Week at their primary schools; an annual week of themed activity organised by Early Childhood Australia that promotes the importance of early learning and play, celebrating children as capable, creative and connected citizens.
Both schools celebrated the occasion with their own event, each featuring educational stalls from local organisations such as the Whitsunday Regional Council, State Government Office, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, and Proserpine Museum Expo.

Primary school students were able to enjoy a host of activities such as face painting, bubble blowing, arts & crafts and music.


Photo source: Facebook
This labrador cross is looking for her forever home in the Whitsundays and beyond.
Vitani is an approximately 1 year old Labrador cross, small to medium sized, and absolutely bursting with energy, love, and eagerness to learn. She is the kind of dog who will match your morning walk, your afternoon run, and still have love left over at the end of the day.
She is friendly, playful, and great with kids and other dogs. She is still learning her manners, but that is half the fun. Vitani is eager to learn and will thrive with someone who can give her consistency, structure, and a little patience.
She has so much love to give and she is ready to give it all to the right person.
To adopt Vitani, DM us with your Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue your phone number and "Vitani".
The adoption fee $400. Vitani is microchipped, desexed, vaccinated and vet checked.

The Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry brought together business leaders from across the region to celebrate Queensland Small Business Month. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
The Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry recently held its regular business breakfast briefing at Club Whitsunday, bringing together business leaders from across the region to celebrate Queensland Small Business Month and look ahead to the future in light of the federal budget and ongoing regional expansion.
A highlight of the morning was a guest speaker panel featuring standout winners from the 2025 Whitsunday Business Awards. Panellists included Kellee Fogg from Whitsunday Law, Elizabeth Hackett from Magnums Accommodation Airlie Beach, and Sam Vanderpoel from Rolling With Netherpoel.
The panel shared insights into their business journeys, the challenges and opportunities facing local enterprises, and the importance of innovation, resilience and community support in a growing regional economy. Speakers also reflected on the value of the Whitsunday Business Awards in recognising excellence and inspiring other local operators.

Emily Stamatovich, Ashleen O’Neill and Claire Tobin
Hosted by Local Eyes at Blossoms Flower Boutique.
See more pictures here: https://www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/b2b-brews-in-rural-view

Friday 22nd May
Mackay Outdoor Adventure plus Home and Lifestyle Expo
8.30am - (Three Day Event - Friday-Sunday )
The Mackay Outdoor Adventure plus Home and Lifestyle Expo is set to bring together the best in travel, lifestyle and home inspiration, offering visitors a chance to explore everything from off-grid escapes to everyday home upgrades. Held as a ticketed event, the expo will showcase caravans, camper trailers, hybrids and 4x4 vehicles alongside smart camping gear, outdoor technology, home improvement ideas and décor inspiration. Visitors can also discover travel destinations, enjoy live entertainment and take advantage of exclusive expo-only deals. Designed as a one-stop destination for inspiration and planning, the event invites attendees to explore how their lifestyle and next adventure can come together in one place.
Mackay Showgrounds
Saturday 23rd May
Botanic Gardens Open Day
8am
Celebrate nature at the Botanic Gardens Open Day this Saturday, May 23, from 8am to noon at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens. The free event will feature community displays, workshops, native wildlife, plant sales, children’s activities and a selection of food and drink. Visitors of all ages are encouraged to come along, explore the gardens and learn more about the region’s unique plant life in a relaxed outdoor setting. For details, contact the gardens on 4952 7300 or email botanic@mackay.qld.gov.au
Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens
Writing for Performance – Free Workshop
10am
Aspiring writers and creative minds are invited to step into the world of live storytelling at a free theatre writing workshop this Saturday, May 23, at the Dudley Denny City Library. Facilitated by Cassandra Ramsay, the two-hour session will explore how to craft compelling characters, build dramatic tension and create moments designed for the stage. Supported by Mackay Regional Council Libraries and the Queensland Writers Centre, the workshop runs from 10am to noon, with beginners and experienced writers welcome. Attendance is free, but bookings are essential.
Dudley Denny City Library
Broken Ballerina Candle Lighting Ceremony
5pm
The Mackay community is being encouraged to come together in remembrance and solidarity at a candle lighting ceremony marking Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month. Hosted by Broken Ballerina Inc., the event will be held at the Mackay Surf Club on Saturday, May 23 from 5pm. The ceremony will honour lives lost to domestic and family violence while supporting those impacted, with survivors, families, frontline workers and community members invited to stand together as candles are lit in remembrance and hope.
Mackay Surf Club
Sunday 24th May
Mackay Country & Western Club Family Afternoon
1.30pm
The Mackay Country & Western Club is inviting the community to enjoy an afternoon of live music and country entertainment at its Family Afternoon on Sunday, May 24, at the Senior Citizens Hall. Commencing at 1.30pm, the event features walk-up performances with backing from a live band, creating an open stage atmosphere for musicians and visitors alike. Admission is $5, with all welcome, including visitors to the region. Organisers are encouraging attendees to arrive ready for a relaxed afternoon of music, with club memberships also due on the day. For more information, contact Charlie on 0408 776 564.
Senior Citizens Hall
Tuesday 26th May
The Mum Hub – Sparkly Brain Society
10am
Mums seeking connection and understanding are invited to join a supportive neurodivergent mothers group held every Tuesday at 10am at The Mum Hub Mackay. Facilitated by founder Amanda Fenton through The Held Project, the relaxed gatherings offer a welcoming space for mums on the spectrum or those who simply feel they don’t fit the usual mould. Children are welcome, with the space suited to babies and young toddlers. Tea and coffee will be provided as mums share conversation, support and community.
10/46 Mulherin Dr, Mackay Harbour
BMA Kidspace – Free Art, Craft & Music for Toddlers
9.30am
Families are invited to enjoy a vibrant morning of creativity and music at Artspace Mackay as part of the popular free toddlers’ program BMA Kidspace, designed for children aged 0–5 years. Running one Tuesday each month, the drop-in program offers two art-making sessions alongside live music designed to encourage playful, co-operative learning. Sessions run from 9.30am to 1.30pm, with families welcome to come and go throughout the day. Presented by Artspace Mackay and BHP Mitsubishi Alliance, the program requires no bookings, with upcoming dates scheduled across the year for families to simply turn up and take part.
Artspace Mackay

The countdown is officially on for one of the region’s most anticipated community events: the 2026 Pioneer Valley Show!
Set to light up the Pioneer Valley Showgrounds on Sunday, 14th June 2026, this much-loved one-day spectacular is gearing up to deliver a full day of colour, excitement and country charm, welcoming more than 16,000 visitors through its gates.
Proudly presented by the Pioneer Valley Agricultural Show Society, the event has earned its reputation as “the best one-day show in Australia,” and it’s easy to see why. From the moment gates open, the show comes alive with the sights, sounds and energy of true rural celebration.
Families can look forward to thrilling rides, free entertainment, agricultural exhibits, competitions, live displays and an unbeatable selection of food stalls offering all the classic show day favourites. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline, exploring local talent, or simply enjoying a relaxed day out with family and friends, this is the show day for you.
The Pioneer Valley Show is designed to bring the community together, celebrating the region’s agricultural roots while showcasing the best of local creativity, industry and entertainment. It’s a place where generations meet, where children experience the magic of the show for the first time, and adults return year after year for tradition, laughter and connection.
Pre-purchased tickets are now available online, with savings on offer including a Family Pass (2 adults and 2 children) for $55 and bonus ride ticket sheets for $25. Show organisers are also encouraging visitors to get in early to make the most of value-packed options and avoid missing out on the day.
Gate entry also gives visitors the chance to win major prizes, including a $1000 fuel voucher from Crokers Fuel & Oil and a family pass on a speed boat.
So mark it in bold on the calendar: Sunday, 14th June 2026. Bring the family, bring your friends, and step into a day where the Valley comes alive with energy, community spirit and unforgettable show day magic.

Monthly Markets
Marian Markets
Held on the 3rd Sunday of every month from 8am to 12pm, the Marian Markets are set within the grounds of the Holy Rosary Church at Marian. Visitors can enjoy a great variety of stalls, delicious food, and a welcoming community atmosphere, making it a lovely way to spend a Sunday morning.
Pinnacle Markets
The Pinnacle Markets are held on the 3rd Sunday of each month from 9am to 1pm at the Pinnacle Family Hotel. Featuring a range of local stalls and community spirit, the markets are a great opportunity to support local businesses and enjoy a relaxed day out. Stallholder bookings can be made by calling 4958 5207. Markets will continue monthly through to September.
Eungella Community Markets
Held on the 2nd Sunday of every month from 9am to 1pm at the Eungella Memorial Hall, 5 North Street, Eungella, the Eungella Community Markets offer a family friendly experience in an undercover, air-conditioned, all-weather venue. With local stalls and picnic areas available, it is a great reason to visit the beautiful Eungella region and enjoy a day in the community.
Upcoming Events
Sunday 31st May
Finch Hatton Cattle Camp
Young people aged 5-25 across the region are encouraged to get involved in the Finch Hatton Cattle Camp on Sunday, 31 May 2026, at the Finch Hatton Showgrounds. Open to ages 5 to 25, the hands-on day will feature cattle husbandry workshops, junior judging, practical learning experiences and plenty of fun for those keen to learn more about the agricultural industry. With lunch provided and limited spots available, organisers encourage interested participants to book early and be part of a day celebrating country spirit, learning and community connection.
Finch Hatton Showgrounds
Sunday 14th June
Pioneer Valley Show
Experience the charm and excitement of the Pioneer Valley Show on Sunday 14th June from 8.30am at the picturesque grounds in Finch Hatton. This iconic one-day agricultural show attracts more than 16,000 visitors and is packed with exhibits, entertainment and family fun. Enjoy live music at the bar, food and show attractions throughout the day, with celebrations continuing into the evening. Bring cash and settle in for a classic country show experience in the heart of the valley.
Finch Hatton Showgrounds

Year 4 student Jack from St Francis Xavier Catholic Primary School West Mackay was thrilled to receive a surprise reply from Dav Pilkey after writing him a letter about how the Dog Man books inspired him to start creating his own comics. Photo supplied
Excitement has been building in Year 4 at St Francis Xavier Catholic Primary School, West Mackay, as one student’s creativity and initiative have led to an unforgettable experience!
As part of a fast finisher activity in 4P, students were invited to choose from a selection of tasks once they had completed their classwork. One option encouraged students to write a letter to the author of a book they had enjoyed.
Inspired by his passion for the Dog Man series, Jack eagerly took on the challenge and wrote a heartfelt piece of fan mail to author Dav Pilkey.
In his letter, Jack shared how the Dog Man books motivated him to start creating his own comics. With the help of Miss Plath, Jack’s letter was carefully addressed and posted all the way to America, an exciting journey that would take patience and hope!
That patience paid off in a big way.
Recently, Jack was thrilled to receive a reply from Dav Pilkey himself!
All the way from the USA, the package included a personal letter, a special bookmark, and an official Dog Man badge. The surprise brought immense joy and inspiration, reinforcing Jack’s enthusiasm for storytelling and illustration.
Jack shared his thoughts about the experience:
“I loved reading Dogman because I wanted to make comics when I grow up and when I started reading Dogman I thought I could start making them straight away. Because the characters George and Harold were making comics in the start of the book, I thought I’d try and do the same thing, so I made a full comic book.”
He continued:
“I’m starting my second one about Maya who brought a dinosaur to life and there is an Evil Dog, Catman, and a robot named ER.”
On receiving the reply, Jack said:
“I was very excited and I didn’t think he would write back. I’m grateful for my teacher posting the letter to Dav Pilkey for me.”
Jack’s first comic has already impressed his teachers, featuring detailed illustrations, engaging dialogue, and imaginative storylines. Now working on his second comic, Jack is more motivated than ever to continue developing his craft.
This wonderful story highlights the power of literacy, creativity, and taking initiative.
A simple classroom activity has sparked a meaningful connection and inspired a young writer to pursue his passion.
Congratulations, Jack! We can’t wait to see where your creativity takes you next.

Cr Peter Sheedy, Mayor Greg Williamson and Curator of Botanic Areas Lisa Kermode strolling through the newly renovated Shade Garden. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
A newly upgraded pathway through the Tropical Shade Garden at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens has officially reopened to the public as of last Monday, 18th May to mark the beginning of Botanic Gardens Week.
The project replaces the former gravel pathways with 320 metres of concrete paths and 60 metres of modwood boardwalk, improving accessibility for visitors exploring one of the gardens’ most popular attractions.
Mayor Greg Williamson said more than $420,000 had been invested in the upgrade.
“The shade garden is one of the most iconic features of our botanic gardens,” he said.
“We have the ability now to get people of all ages and groups into here, because it used to be a pebbled pathway.
“It is now a wide shared pathway that's accessible to people with wheelchairs and people living with disabilities.”
The improved access means visitors who previously found the area difficult to navigate can now experience the lush garden environment.
“So if you've never been to the Shade Garden before, because you couldn't access it, now you can,” Mayor Williamson said.
He said spending time in nature also offered important wellbeing benefits.
“When you're able to access nature, and just listen to the birds and the environment around you… that does wonders for your mental health and wellbeing.”
The new pathway also allows easier access to several garden features, including the crane sculptures gifted in 2004 by Mackay’s Japanese sister city, Matsuura.
Curator of botanic areas Lisa Kermode said the reopening formed part of a broader program of events for Botanic Gardens Week.
“We’re really excited to be reopening the Tropical Shade Garden and welcoming visitors back,” she said.
“These are a collection of native and also exotic plants that all thrive in shady conditions,” Ms Kermode said.

The new playground at Woodlands District Park has drawn inspiration from the natural environment. (Image for illustrative purposes only and subject to change.) Image supplied
Mackay Regional Council has awarded a $2.3-million contract to Fergus Builders to construct an inclusive playground at Woodlands District Park in Andergrove, marking an exciting step forward for accessible recreation in the region.
Inspired by the pale banded snail, a species native to Mackay’s woodland areas, the playground’s design cleverly echoes the spiral of the snail’s shell.
Mayor Greg Williamson said, “We’ve listened closely to residents and are creating a space where families, nature lovers and people of all abilities can come together and enjoy the outdoors,” he said.
“This new playground has been thoughtfully designed so it’s truly inclusive, allowing children of all abilities to play, explore and interact together,” he said.
Local State Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said supporting councils to deliver vital and accessible infrastructure is at the heart of the Crisafulli Government’s commitment to Queenslanders.
“This is not just a playground, it’s a fresh opportunity with the promise that every child, regardless of ability, has a place to play, learn and laugh within our community,” Mr Dalton said.
The playground will feature accessible ramps, inclusive swings, a wheelchairfriendly carousel, sensory panels and two connected play towers offering a variety of challenges.
There will be direct wheelchair access to one of the towers and a shared slide.
There will also be a new amenities block including a Changing Places facility for people living with disabilities.
Off-street parking at Broomdykes Drive and Schnapper Court is also included in this phase of the project.
Construction of the playground is expected to begin in June and be completed by December 2026, weather permitting.
Residents can stay up to date or view the project’s master plan at:
www.connectingmackay.com.au/woodlands
This project is funded by the Queensland Government’s Works for Queensland Program in association with Mackay Regional Council.

The new playground at Woodlands District Park has drawn inspiration from the natural environment. (Image for illustrative purposes only and subject to change.) Image supplied
Mackay Regional Council has awarded a $2.3-million contract to Fergus Builders to construct an inclusive playground at Woodlands District Park in Andergrove, marking an exciting step forward for accessible recreation in the region.
Inspired by the pale banded snail, a species native to Mackay’s woodland areas, the playground’s design cleverly echoes the spiral of the snail’s shell.
Mayor Greg Williamson said, “We’ve listened closely to residents and are creating a space where families, nature lovers and people of all abilities can come together and enjoy the outdoors,” he said.
“This new playground has been thoughtfully designed so it’s truly inclusive, allowing children of all abilities to play, explore and interact together,” he said.
Local State Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said supporting councils to deliver vital and accessible infrastructure is at the heart of the Crisafulli Government’s commitment to Queenslanders.
“This is not just a playground, it’s a fresh opportunity with the promise that every child, regardless of ability, has a place to play, learn and laugh within our community,” Mr Dalton said.
The playground will feature accessible ramps, inclusive swings, a wheelchairfriendly carousel, sensory panels and two connected play towers offering a variety of challenges.
There will be direct wheelchair access to one of the towers and a shared slide.
There will also be a new amenities block including a Changing Places facility for people living with disabilities.
Off-street parking at Broomdykes Drive and Schnapper Court is also included in this phase of the project.
Construction of the playground is expected to begin in June and be completed by December 2026, weather permitting.
Residents can stay up to date or view the project’s master plan at:
www.connectingmackay.com.au/woodlands
This project is funded by the Queensland Government’s Works for Queensland Program in association with Mackay Regional Council.