Whitsunday United’s teams delivered strong performances this weekend, with crucial matches in Mackay and at home. Men’s Division 1 and 2 Face Off Against Brothers in Mackay On Friday, Whitsunday United’s Men’s Division 1 and 2 teams travelled to Mackay for a key matchup against Brothers. Division 2, seeking vital points for a finals spot, struggled against Brothers’ quick midfield, ultimately losing 2-0. Despite the setback, they remain in the running for finals, needing to win their last two ga
Read more
Congratulations to Larry Muller, who claimed the title of Overall Gross Men's Winner at the Vets Wintersun Competition held on Monday and Tuesday. In the Ladies Division, Wendy Grendon of Mackay triumphed in a playoff against our own Tina Badenhorst. On Wednesday, the "Preferred Lies" were removed, and the Ladies Stableford winner was Anna Winterbourn with 34 points, narrowly edging out Vickie Wallace on a count-back. Thursday's Stableford competition saw John Oates emerge victorious with 37 poi
Read more
In this week’s 9-hole Stableford competition, Alan Clinch emerged victorious with a score of 24 points. Luke Andrews secured second place with 23 points, while Frank Tewnyson took third with 20 points, decided on a count-back. In Friday’s 9-hole Stableford event, Michael Bond claimed first place with 24 points. Jared Leaman followed in second place with 22 points, and Glenn Rees finished third with 21 points, also decided on a count-back. Sunday’s 4BBB Club Championships saw Scott Hayes-Williams
Read more
Around 6.30am this morning, police were called to an incident at the Mackay Marina, where they have confirmed a man’s body was found deceased inside a submerged vehicle. Authorities have speculated that the van rolled into the water and was later crushed under a pontoon that it had become stuck under with the rising tide. Police are viewing CCTV footage to confirm the circumstances of the tragedy. Emergency services were in full force at the Marina on Thursday morning with police, fire, ambul
Read more
Mackay Meteors Crowned 2024 NBL1 North Champions The Mackay Meteors emerged as the 2024 Mitsubishi Motors NBL1 North champions, clinching the title by defeating the Brisbane Capitals 2-0 in the Grand Finals Series. Todd Blanchfield was named NBL1 North Finals MVP, with an impressive series average of 25.5 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3.5 steals. This victory marked Mackay as the first club in NBL1 history to win two titles, adding to their inaugural 2021 season win. The team demonstrated t
Read more
By Amanda Wright In a significant move to address the housing crisis, another 27 modular homes are set to be assembled and delivered to Mackay as part of the state government’s Homes for Queenslanders plan. This initiative aims to provide quick and effective housing solutions for families, individuals, and older Queenslanders looking to downsize. These modular homes will be constructed in collaboration with Fleetwood and Ausco at their Queensland factories before being transported to four design
Read more
If there’s one thing my little one adores, it’s bubbles! He’s forever waving his bubble wand and saying “bub, bub, bub” with all the enthusiasm of a toddler who’s just discovered magic. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the simplest pleasures bring the greatest joy. Watching him revel in those floating spheres of happiness has given me a fresh perspective on what true joy really means. Before our little bubble enthusiast arrived, my husband and I had a rather lofty view of joy. We thought it was a
Read more
Edwina Davey, who will turn 102 next month, might just be the oldest reader of Mackay Life newspaper. Living independently in a retirement village in the south-eastern suburbs of Melbourne, Edwina remains remarkably active. She claims she can still read without glasses, a statement she made with a twinkle in her eye and a bit of cheekiness, according to her son who has a suspicion that may be a fib. She even uses her mobility walker to get to the local shops for a pint of milk and a loaf of brea
Read more.JPG)
Last Friday, a group of students from Matsuura, Japan, arrived in Mackay, embarking on a cultural exchange that promises to leave lasting impressions on both the visitors and their hosts. The students were greeted with a warm welcome at Mackay Regional Council, where they were taken on a tour of the council chambers by Mayor Greg Williamson. Councillor Karen May opened the proceedings with a welcoming speech, setting the tone for a week filled with cultural, educational, and fun activities. The
Read more
BUSINESS BREAK IN, MACKAY CITY Between 2:00am and 5:00am on Monday morning (August 5) someone has broken into a business on Victoria Street in East Mackay. Entry was gained by causing extensive damage to a secured door. Once inside the showroom and office areas have been searched resulting in the theft of cash and a fridge/freezer unit. Anyone who may have information about the matter is encouraged to contact police as soon as possible - police report number QP2401317389. STOLEN MOTORCYCLE, EAS
Read more
Students in the Mackay region will make history at the Queensland Museum, thanks to St Patrick’s College Mackay recently receiving a generous grant of $18,000 under the Engaging Science Grants Program. Not only does this grant support their innovative project ‘Robotics In Action’ but also aims to enhance student engagement in robotics and STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematical) fields. This program is a part of a broader initiative that allocates nearly $500,000 to 28 recipi
Read more.jpg)
Five university students will get a head start in their careers as recipients of Mackay Regional Council’s 2024 Academic Bursary. The popular Academic Bursary program is now in its twelfth year and offers $5000 bursaries to assist students, with each recipient receiving biannual instalments of $1250 for their final two years of study. There is also the opportunity for 12 weeks of paid work experience with council. Mayor Greg Williamson said it was a hard decision this year due to the high calibr
Read more
More than 70 per cent of students visiting a school dental van in the Mackay region last year needed a filling because of tooth decay. Sugary foods and drinks combined with poor oral hygiene contributed to 4583 fillings being done by school dentists across the district. Mackay Base Hospital Dental Unit director Dr Ronel Bornman said the mobile dental vans were unfortunately only seeing about 23 per cent of school children who are eligible for the free service. During Dental Health Week (August
Read more
A wonderful young boy by the name of Samuel Hollywood recently received a new wheelchair to enhance his mobility and independence, however, the Hollywood family still faces critical challenges that require community support through donations. At just five weeks old, Samuel was diagnosed with Aicardi-Goutières syndrome, a rare disease that has left him severely intellectually and physically disabled. He battles chronic illness and complex medical needs every day which requires full-time care an
Read more.jpg)
On Saturday, 3 August 2024, a tragic incident at the Byerwen mine infrastructure site west of Mackay resulted in the death of a worker. Initial reports suggest that the incident involved a pick and carry crane, though the exact cause remains under investigation. QCoal confirmed the fatality of Chris Schloss, a long-serving, senior, and well-loved member of their team. The company stated that the incident has shocked the entire organisation, and they are focused on supporting Chris’ family and a
Read more.jpg)
From Mackay’s iconic cane fields to the naturally beautiful beaches of the Whitsundays and the resource-rich landscape of the Isaac, locals across the region have a great reason to crack a cold one in celebration as they mark the extraordinary achievement of returning more than 400 million drink containers for recycling through Containers for Change. Natalie Roach, chief executive officer of Container Exchange, the not-for-profit that runs Containers for Change, said the milestone highlighted t
Read more
Hanly Dental Studio, led by Dr Tim Hanly, has recently opened in Mackay with a mission to transform patient experiences and elevate the standard of dental care throughout the region. Located on Brisbane Street and across from Sydney Street Markets, the state-of-the-art facility is changing common dental experiences through a combination of innovative technology and a patient-focused approach, ensuring exceptional care in a comfortable environment. After nine years practicing in the Mackay region
Read more
CQ Rescue announced a significant milestone last week as the BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) stepped up to become their new naming rights partner. This partnership marked only the second time in CQ Rescue’s history that a naming rights agreement had been granted. The relationship between CQ Rescue and BMA dates back to 1996 when CQ Rescue was first established. Over the past 28 years, CQ Rescue has saved more than 12,000 lives, a feat made possible by the support of its valued partners. Tim Healee
Read more
Last Saturday evening, Cheree Ridolfi hosted a delightful #ForkCancer Longest Table event. Inspired by the heartbreaking impact of a sudden cancer diagnosis on her daughter-in-law's uncle, Tony, Cheree organised this cocktail attire dinner to raise funds and bring together guests who share a passion for the #ForkCancer initiative. The night featured a variety of delicious home-cooked dishes accompanied by fine wines, beer and ginger beer on tap. After dinner, a lively auction took place with n
Read more
Schools from across the Mackay and Whitsunday Isaac region are ready to take part in a unique program that will inspire students in the fields of STEM, science and sustainability using local waterway data. Students from Whitsunday Anglican School had the opportunity to take part in the Healthy Rivers to Reef Innovation Challenge and work with real-world data and scientists to design solutions for the future. The program helps to apply new technologies to show students how their solutions could
Read more
Last weekend, the Woollam Art on Show Awards 2024 brought the Mackay art community together in a celebration of creativity and talent. The event, which spanned from August 2nd to August 5th, showcased over 250 works from local and interstate artists, reflecting the rich tapestry of artistic expression in the region. The prestigious Overall Winner of the Woollam Art on Show Award, with a prize of $3,000, was Bradley Short for his piece "Plein Air Study Eungella." Local artist Sam Pennisi won t
Read more
Recent monitoring of restored wetlands at Alligator Creek near Mackay has shown thriving populations of native fish communities, including juvenile barramundi. This success follows comprehensive restoration efforts, which have transformed the once shallow, weed-infested wetlands into vibrant ecosystems. The restoration works have included improving fish passage through the implementation of rock fish ladders, constructing deep pool refuge habitats, revegetation, and improved grazing management.
Read more.jpg)
The voices of 1000 rural women are being sought for a groundbreaking new documentary on Australia’s rural, regional and remote women. Rural Daughters, the feature-length documentary by award-winning CheekyMac Productions, will follow the personal journeys of some of Australia’s most inspiring rural women in their efforts to overcome barriers, effect change and live a successful, purpose-driven life in the regions. In addition to their stories, a nationwide 1000 Rural Women Survey has been deve
Read more
Firefighter Mick Forde from the Sarina Fire Station recently provided a glimpse into the life of a firefighter. He shared both the rewarding and challenging aspects of his job, shedding light on the dedication required for this demanding role. "The most rewarding thing about being a firefighter is that we get to make a difference in our community and give back," Mick stated. "The most challenging part is seeing people on their worst days and still having to give 100%.” Mick has been an auxil
Read more
A rewarding scholarship program delivered by Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank officially opened, August 1. Community Bank Sarina now welcomes applications for the Sarina State High School Senior Schooling Scholarship Program for students entering Grade 11 in 2025. This is an incredible opportunity for students who want to thrive both academically and in their personal lives. Brock Raward, a recipient of the high school scholarship in 2022 and 2023, completed school last year and is now pursuin
Read more