Amanda Wright’s Final Chapter At Life Publishing

Community-Loved Editor Signs Off

By Hannah McNamara

Stepping down from her role as Mackay Life Editor and Journalist for Life Publishing Group is a woman who morphed the very fabric of this paper. You may know her from networking events, her community presence, or from her heartfelt, but more often than not humorous editor’s note on page 2.

Amanda Wright is the kind of woman who carries her heart on her sleeve for the community, always ensuring voices of the public are at the centre of this paper.

From conquering “the big C” after a sudden colon cancer diagnosis just last year, to winning the Resilient Rebel award soon after at the 2025 JSP (Just Saying Project) Awards, Amanda has had her fair share of struggles. Yet through it all, she’s made it her mission to keep this paper – and Core Life Magazine – centre of focus, all in the name of her love for the community.

“I’ll definitely miss the people the most,” she says.

Though, Amanda’s journey into journalism wasn’t exactly planned.

“I was never one of those people who thought of journalism as a career. It was only by chance that I ended up at the newspaper, and that was in a sales role,” she recalls.

In 2011, her ad manager at Ashburton Guardian in New Zealand saw potential, and from there, her pen found its purpose.

In 2013, Amanda moved to Dysart. Journalism jobs were scarce, so she freelanced, writing for clients across the Isaac and Mackay regions. A pivotal call from Owner and Publisher Rebecca Douthwaite of Core Life Magazine gave her a platform she would nurture for more than a decade.

“Back in those days it was still delivered door-to-door, even in Dysart, and I had already fallen in love with the magazine, so it was an instant yes.”

Over the years she assisted with the launch of Life Publishing titles like Tripping Magazine and Byron Life Magazine, later stepping into the editor’s role of the Byron publication.

When COVID threatened the business, Amanda watched owner, Rebecca, “pivot” with admiration, not only keeping the company afloat but launching Mackay and Whitsunday Life in 2020. Amanda became Mackay’s Editor, steering a paper that won Queensland’s Best Free Newspaper in 2024 at the Country Press Association Awards, alongside Whitsunday Editor, Rachael Smith.

“It was one of the proudest moments of my life, but also one of my toughest, as I received the news of our win from my hospital bed, the day after I had surgery to remove colon cancer.”

Her highlights span from celebrity interviews with Pete Evans and Daryl Braithwaite to community-defining moments like the viral “Jenny and Steve” advert.

But over the years, Amanda says journalism has always been about the connection.

“Listening to people’s stories, especially when they’re being vulnerable, teaches you to see things from different perspectives. You can’t go in with a preconceived idea… you need to be a blank canvas.

“There have been many moments where I’ve cried alongside people while hearing their stories. To tell their story properly, you have to allow yourself to be vulnerable too.”

And that, perhaps, is what has made her editor’s notes, and her journalism, so memorable.

Passionate, open, and authentic, Amanda Wright leaves her role with a gel pen in hand, your stories in her heart, and a community that's been greatly impacted by her words.

Rachael Smith, Whitsundays Editor in Chief said, "She’s genuine, quick-witted, and kind-hearted, and her personality is etched into every page of Mackay Life — a legacy that will live on for years to come."

"Wishing you all the very best for the future, Amanda. I’m so grateful for everything you've brought to the team and look forward to staying great friends."

A note from Rebecca Douthwaite:

Dear Amanda,

Thirteen years it’s hard to believe! I still smile thinking back to when you first started freelancing. For months, we worked together without ever meeting in person, and then finally, that first Christmas party rolled around… and of course, the legendary banana boat ride. I’ll never forget it — what a way to officially meet!

From that day forward, you’ve been there for every moment, big and small. Through deadlines, new launches, and the chaos that comes with running newspapers, knowing you were there gave me the confidence to keep pushing forward. You’ve been such a steady, talented, and trusted presence, and honestly, I can’t imagine this journey without you.

Mackay Life has your fingerprints all over it, you brought it to life in a way no one else could. You’re not only one of the best writers I’ve ever known, but also one of the most genuine, loyal, and kind people I’ve had the privilege to work with.

As you step into your next adventure, I just know you’ll shine, just as you always have. I wish you every success and happiness in your new career, and endless joy with your beautiful family.

Thank you, Amanda. For everything. You’ll be so deeply missed but always remembered with a smile.

Bec x

Amanda and her son Brydon during her cancer journey. Photo credit: Hamish Wright

First-ever Mackay Life cover shoot at Queens Park. Photo credit: Liz Andrews

Amanda Wright, a community-focused editor and storyteller, steps down, leaving a lasting impact on Mackay Life and Core Life Magazine. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Amanda Wright with Owner and Publisher Rebecca Douthwaite and Editor in Chief Rachael Smith. Photo credit: Norina Kent