“What A Great Community We Have In Mackay”

Community Spirit Shines Through In Relocation Of Vital Outreach Services

Local community advocate Lisa Jamieson has praised Mackay’s incredible spirit, following a successful grassroots effort to relocate essential outreach services in a true example of community collaboration.

“What a great community we have in Mackay,” Ms Jamieson said.

“As I head off on holidays, I have to share how blessed we are living in a community like Mackay. People care and want to make a difference.

“Sometimes it only takes just letting it be known that you need help.”

The recent transition of Orange Sky and food services from St Vincent de Paul on Juliet Street to the Mackay City Girl Guides, just across the road, has helped maintain consistency for those who rely on the support.

“The community that was at St Vinnies in Juliet St with the food services that helped support the laundry provide meaningful connections and conversations for many regular friends,” she said.

“It is so great to see that the friends are keen to keep coming, having a conversation and connected with the move across the road to the Girl Guides.”

Ms Jamieson acknowledged that change can be difficult, but familiar faces and routines make a difference.

“Change can be unsettling but the constant of knowing that you are welcomed, familiar faces and being able to take up a conversation where you left off all bring surety.”

She stressed the importance of reliability in building trust.

“Reliability certainly builds positive connections. Along with the routine it brings, it signifies the importance of being there, of turning up, and the difference you can make in someone’s life.

“The gratitude is heartfelt as the connection is genuine.

“The Mackay City Girl Guides have been so welcoming as we continue to connect at the new location,” she added.

“It has been a great collaborative community effort to bring about the move across Juliet St, and to keep it as consistent for all who connect with the community whether it is for food, conversation, or laundry.

“Every connection is important as there are people who need to be seen, to be connected and be part of a welcoming community.”

Ms Jamieson also thanked the Rotary Club of Mackay West and local contractors for their support.

“The Rotary Club of Mackay West have been awesome with the support they have provided... they have been men of action and helped out where they could.”

She also noted the vital contributions of all involved.

“The area around the Guide Hut has certainly been a hive of activity lately. Thanks to Helen Anderson from the Mackay City Guides, District Manager, for all the time she has offered to let contractors in and see the transformation of the site into what will be a great community place for connections and collaboration.”

Local advocate Lisa Jamieson has praised Mackay’s spirit of collaboration after the successful relocation of outreach services to the Mackay City Girl Guides, highlighting the power of community, consistency, and connection. Photos supplied

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