Note From Nigel - Delivering for Mackay

By Member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton

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As we approach two years since the election, it's a good opportunity to reflect on some of the commitments we've made to Mackay and the progress being delivered across our community.

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Recently, Premier David Crisafulli visited Mackay, where he met with local residents to discuss community safety and hear firsthand about the issues affecting our region. While he was here, I was proud to show him some of the projects that are helping deliver real outcomes for locals.

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One of those projects was the completed lighting upgrade at the North Mackay Saints AFL Club. Replacing the ageing lights had been the club's top priority for years and was a commitment we made during the election campaign. The new lights mean players can train and compete at night, providing a safer and more practical option in our tropical climate while supporting the continued growth of the club.

We also visited the new facility being delivered for the Mackay Comedy Players, another election commitment now nearing completion. Backed by a $250,000 commitment, the additional space will provide much-needed storage and operational capacity, helping the group make better use of its existing facilities. It's fantastic to see the project taking shape, with an official opening planned for next year.

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Sport continues to play an important role in our community and I'm pleased to see progress continuing on our commitment to deliver a new car park for Mackay Football. Backed by an $800,000 election commitment, the project will help address long-standing parking challenges at the facility and improve access for players, families, volunteers and visitors. The tender process is now underway, representing another important step towards delivering infrastructure that the local football community has been calling for.

Beyond major projects, we've also focused on practical improvements that make a difference in everyday life.

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Following concerns raised by local residents, we worked with stakeholders to help secure the recent clean-up of Harbour Beach. It's a good example of what can be achieved when the community raises an issue and organisations work together to find a solution.

I'm also pleased to see the Federal Government back away from its proposed disaster funding cuts. I was proud to stand alongside Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson and join calls to protect this vital funding for regional communities. For a disaster-prone region like Mackay, maintaining strong disaster recovery funding is essential to ensuring local roads, bridges and community infrastructure can be rebuilt when severe weather events occur. The decision provides greater certainty for communities, councils and disaster recovery efforts across Queensland. The Federal Government confirmed it will retain the current disaster recovery funding arrangements after consultation with councils and community groups.  

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We've also helped ensure Mackay's Australian Army Cadets can access the Play On! Sports Vouchers program, helping more young people participate in activities that build confidence, teamwork and valuable life skills.

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Community safety remains one of the issues raised most frequently with my office, and it continues to be a priority. We've seen stronger laws introduced, more police on the beat and continued action to tackle repeat offending and improve community safety. While there is always more work to do, we remain committed to ensuring Mackay receives the resources and support it needs.

Another initiative I am particularly proud of has been helping local students connect with the parliamentary process. Through school visits, virtual sessions and tours of Parliament House, students have had the opportunity to see firsthand how our democracy works. Over the past month, we welcomed students from both Mackay State School and North Mackay State School to Parliament, giving them the opportunity to see how decisions are made and learn more about Queensland's parliamentary system. It's fantastic to see young people taking an interest in the decisions that shape their future.

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Delivering for Mackay isn't just about major announcements. It's about listening to the community, following through on commitments and working every day to achieve better outcomes for local families, businesses, sporting clubs and community organisations.

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While there is always more to do, I am proud of the progress being made and look forward to continuing to deliver for Mackay.

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