You know it’s winter in Mackay when the jumpers come out and people start talking about “the chill”—even if it’s still warmer here than most of the country!
In the last sitting of Parliament, we delivered some strong outcomes for our region:
Stronger Laws, Safer Streets
We’ve made Jack’s Law permanent, giving police the power to use handheld metal detectors in public places to help prevent knife crime. This proactive measure honours the memory of 17-year-old Jack Beasley and helps police act quickly to keep our streets safe.
Powering the Future with Sugarcane
A new parliamentary inquiry is looking into the potential of biofuels made from sugarcane. Queensland’s $4.4 billion sugar industry supports over 20,000 jobs—and now we’re exploring sustainable options like biodiesel, biomethane, and aviation fuel to diversify and strengthen the sector.
Helping Families Get Active
Families can now apply for Play On! sports vouchers—$200 to help cover the cost of sport registration and gear for kids aged 5 to 17. Vouchers will be released in two rounds starting August 4, supporting both summer and winter sports. A dedicated allocation for regional Queensland means more kids of all abilities can stay active and healthy.
Backing Local Heroes
The latest round of the Gambling Community Benefit Fund is now open, offering grants of up to $100,000 for not-for-profit organisations—particularly those helping communities recover from natural disasters. Applications close 18 July, so if you know a group doing great work, encourage them to apply.
And in other local news, the Mackay Show brought out the crowds—from thrill-seekers and families to Dagwood Dog connoisseurs and showbag collectors. It was great to be among so many locals enjoying what our region has to offer. At our mobile office, we had valuable conversations about the issues that matter most to you. The top three concerns raised were: 1-cost of living, 2-housing, 3-roads.
Thanks to everyone who stopped by to chat. Your feedback helps shape the work we do in government to support our region.
Even though it’s time to dust off the slippers, I’ll be back out and about across Mackay soon to share what the new State Budget means for you.
Nigel Dalton, Member for Mackay
Primary Industries and Resources Committee, where we will be holding the sugar inquiry with Glen Kelly MP and Stephen Bennett MP
Meeting with Dean Cavanagh (Superintendent – Mackay/Whitsunday District)
Nigel Dalton MP in the Cattle Sheds at the Mackay Show
Nigel Dalton MP and Glen Kelly MP at the Mackay Show Mobile Office. Photos supplied
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