In the wake of one of Mackay’s darkest weeks — with eight lives tragically lost in traffic crashes in Central Queensland — the community has turned its collective heart toward those who stand on the frontlines, offering comfort, care, and courage in the face of unimaginable grief.
From paramedics and police to nurses, doctors, and emergency staff, these everyday heroes hold steady for us amid chaos. As tributes flow in for the victims of last weekend’s tragedies, many residents are also pausing to honour the resilience of those called to respond.
“I just wanted to put up a post for all the emergency services that have had the roughest weekend here in Mackay,” one local wrote.
“Having to tell multiple families the devastation that has happened... I reach out to all the families affected and surround them with my deepest condolences.”
The sentiment rippled through the community.
“Thank you to all the first responders, service people, and hospital staff,” wrote another.
One retired paramedic, who served more than 20 years on the front line, simply said: “That’s beautiful… you’re probably the first person to say that.”
But the appreciation goes beyond tragedy.
One family, whose 80-year-old father recently survived a life-threatening illness, offered heartfelt thanks to Mackay Base Hospital: “Thanks to these unsung heroes, we got a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and uncle back.
“We are eternally grateful.”
In honour of our frontline workers, whether during tragedy or in the quiet moments of everyday care, we thank you.
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