Note From Nigel 3 October

In the Community

As we edge closer to Christmas and the end of the year, it’s been another full fortnight of activity in our region and in Parliament. I’ve recently had the pleasure of attending a range of events across Mackay. A highlight was launching the new SES Operational Support Unit trailer, which will serve the Mackay–Isaac–Whitsunday district as a mobile command centre during power outages and emergencies. A big thank you to our SES volunteers for their vital work.

I also marched alongside serving and retired police officers for Police Remembrance Day — a solemn occasion to honour those who have given their lives in the line of duty. It's a powerful reminder of the risks our officers face every day to keep us safe.

In Parliament

Last week, I participated in the Presentation of the Address-in-Reply to Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeanette Young AC PSM. This tradition gave Members — including first-timers like myself — the chance to reflect on our goals and speak on behalf of our communities. The Address was formally presented at Government House, reinforcing the strength of our democratic institutions.

Parliament also passed two significant reforms:

• Good Character Evidence Reform: Under the Penalties and Sentences (Sexual Offences) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2025, Queensland is now the first state to limit the use of character references in court to cases where they show genuine rehabilitation or reduced risk of reoffending.
• Victim Impact Statements: Courts can no longer assume that silence from victims means no harm was done. This ensures the seriousness of crimes is not diminished by trauma-induced silence.

While in Brisbane, I had the privilege of attending two significant cultural celebrations: the 25th Anniversary of South Sea Islander Recognition, a powerful reflection on history, resilience, and cultural pride; and the African Community Reception, which showcased the vibrancy, contributions, and unity of Queensland’s African-Australian communities.

Good News for Mackay

We’ve had some great funding outcomes recently:
• Mackay Hockey: $800,000 for a new indoor facility
• Great Barrier Reef Arena: $23.5 million to complete Stage 2 upgrades
• Mackay Netball: $1.6 million for shade protection for spectators
These investments are a big win for our sporting community and will benefit our region for years to come.

Get Involved

There’s still time to sign the petition for Women’s Change Rooms at the Mackay Rugby League Grounds — let’s get our athletes the facilities they deserve.

Grants Now Open:

• Gambling Community Benefit Fund – Up to $35,000 available; closes 31 October.
• Tourism Icons Investment Fund – Up to $5 million on a 50:50 co-contribution basis for high-impact tourism infrastructure. EOIs close 8 October.
• Honouring Queensland Veterans Grants –
o Capital Works: Up to $250,000 for memorials and infrastructure
o Community Projects: Up to $75,000 for commemorations and education, now open to schools, P&Cs, councils, and non-profits

If your organisation needs help applying, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

As I near the end of my first year in office, I’m proud of what we’ve achieved together. It’s been a privilege to listen, learn, and advocate for Mackay. I look forward to continuing the work we’ve started.

Until next time.

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A/Inspector Mitch Bensen with Nigel Dalton MP at the Police Remembrance Day

Nigel Dalton MP at Government House – The Hon Pat Weir MP, The Hon Trevor Watts MP, James Lister MP, Dr Christian Rowan MP, The Hon Sam O’Connor MP, Jim McDonald MP, Kerri-Anne Dooley MP, Ariana Doolan MP

Nigel Dalton MP at the launch of the SES Operational Support Unit Trailer. Photos supplied

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