Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Simon Hood – Wilmar Manager, Grower Marketing Every grower has a different way of handling their GEI sugar price exposure, which affects their final cane price. Some like to keep a close eye on the market, while others prefer a hands-off approach. We offer a range of pricing options so growers can choose what suits their level of interest and their risk appetite. We recommend thinking about sugar pricing as a form of risk management. If you're using Target Pricing, it means selling in sm
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The Australian Government is seeking input from community and industry stakeholders on the popular On Farm Connectivity Program to ensure it is delivering the best possible outcomes for primary producers through the upcoming third round. Through over $30 million in rebates provided over the first two rounds, thousands of primary producers have been able to extend connectivity and take advantage of connected machinery and sensor technology. The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Reg
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By CANEGROWERS Chair Owen Menkens The Queensland Government’s announcement to extend the 15 per cent rural irrigation price discount for another two years is a long-awaited and welcome move—and I reckon most of the farmers I know would say it’s about time. This is a common-sense decision and one we’ve been calling for loud and clear. It’s great to see the Crisafulli Government listening to what the agriculture sector has been saying and acting on it. For irrigators like us—especially in
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Last week, the Whitsunday Voices Youth Literature Festival celebrated its 21st year with a vibrant launch, immersive school activities, and a memorable keynote presentation, all encompassing the power of stories and the importance of regional voices in Australia’s literary landscape. The festival officially opened on Wednesday night at Whitsunday Anglican School, with Principal Andrew Wheaton welcoming guests and reflecting on the significance of the event for country and regional student
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A 29m crocodile-shaped multi-use amphitheatre is a standout feature in the newly opened Northern Beaches Community Hub. Stage 1A of the project, which opened to the public today, also includes an undercover multi-purpose court, adjoining kitchenette and storeroom, nature play and picnic spaces. Mayor Greg Williamson said it was tremendous to have this community facility open in the heart of the Northern Beaches. “The Northern Beaches is our region’s fastest growing community, and this project
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I started in local government as a Divisional Councillor and much of my role was acting as a link between residents and council departments. That connection to the community was something that I prioritised, but over the years local government and the role of councillors has certainly changed. In the past, I was able to work much closer with staff around specific community issues, but now a councillor’s role is much more strategic and is far less operational. Yes, we still want to work
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Step Into Your Future At Mackay Careers Expo 2025 A new chapter is being written for the Mackay Careers Expo, and it’s turning the page with purpose. On Thursday, August 7, the region’s most anticipated education and employment showcase is relocating to the Mackay Showgrounds, making room for more opportunity, more innovation, and more futures forged. More than 60 major exhibitors from across the nation are confirmed to attend, offering insights into everything from university pathways and appr
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Through The Whitson Dawson Accountants School Leaver Initiative In an era where the transition from education to employment is increasingly complex, Whitson Dawson Accountants stands out as a firm committed to nurturing young talent and shaping the future of professional services. Whitson Dawson Accountants is not only opening doors for recent graduates but also redefining what it means to build a career from the ground up. The school leaver initiative offers a structured pathway for scho
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With Mackay And The Whitsundays Link And Launch Program Research tells us that every year a number of young people who complete Year 12 are not engaged in education, employment or training in the year after they leave school. While there are numerous programs and services available to students completing Year 12 to help them transition from school, data indicates that some of the young people who need this help the most, do not access it. The Queensland Government is funding Link and Laun
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Roll Up Your Sleeves For National Tree Day Spending time in nature is one of the best things we can do for our physical and mental wellbeing – and what better way to do it than by planting trees? Mackay residents are invited to roll up their sleeves, breathe in the fresh air, and help green up Glenella at council’s National Tree Day planting event on Sunday, July 27. Held at Glenfields Park, on Wheeler Drive, the event runs from 8am to 11am and will build on years of community planting w
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Where Community Meets Affordable Luxury Something extraordinary is on its way to Mackay, with a new wellness and fitness destination promising to reshape the region’s health landscape. Fitness Cartel aims to deliver more than just a premium gym experience. Its creators believe fitness is only one part of the wellbeing puzzle, and have designed an expansive facility that brings together affordable luxury and an all-encompassing approach to health—under one roof. Set to become the largest
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Common — But Not Normal Motherhood is messy, magical, exhausting; and all too often, full of silent struggles. Leaking when you laugh. A constant, urgent need to wee. A heavy or dragging feeling down there. Pain with intimacy. These symptoms are so common that many mums shrug and say, “It’s just part of mum life.” But here’s the truth: Common does not mean normal. Pelvic floor dysfunction affects up to one in three women after childbirth; but it’s not something you have to simply put up
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A Sacred Concert Of Timeless Beauty The soaring acoustics of St Paul’s Uniting Church will be filled with inspiring harmonies as Mackay Choral Society presents its sacred concert, Majesty, on Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd August at 3:00pm. This moving program showcases the enduring power and beauty of sacred choral music, with selections ranging from the grandeur of Vivaldi to the tender and familiar strains of Howard Goodall’s "Psalm 23", known widely as the theme from The Vicar of Dibley.
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Bluewater Fling Celebrates Scottish Pride With Massed Pipes And Family Fun This weekend, the Mackay Scottish Bluewater Fling returns to the Bluewater Quay, transforming the riverside into a sea of tartan, toe-tapping tunes and highland pride. Held on Saturday, July 26 from 1.30pm to 5pm, this much-loved community event has been officially included in the Mackay Festival of Arts program, and promises to be bigger, louder, and more heartfelt than ever. At its core, the event is a celebrati
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A powerful contemporary British tragicomedy is set to take centre stage at the Pinnacle Playhouse this Saturday as part of the Mackay International Film Festival. Hard Truths, one of the standout films of 2024, is a darkly humorous yet emotionally resonant exploration of modern family life in London. The film follows two polar-opposite sisters as they grapple with grief, conflict, and healing in the wake of personal hardship. Tackling themes such as loss, reconciliation and the messiness of fam
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Unwind by the sea on Saturday 2nd August for an afternoon that captures the essence of coastal living. Tunes in the Dunes is a seaside event where live music meets ocean views, open skies, and fairy lights, creating a warm and easy-going atmosphere. Bring your picnic rug, favourite snacks and a few friends - it’s BYO and all about enjoying good company in a beautiful surround. Local musicians Zoey Mills and Leyon Milner will take the stage and will deliver a mix of covers and original acoustic
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Friday 25th July ** Crochet & Conversation 9am Join a welcoming morning of crochet, coffee, and conversation with Northern Beaches locals at Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade. Bring your own tools or borrow from the communal box. All skill levels welcome—just look for the yarn to find the table. Connection and creativity guaranteed. Bucasia Beachfront Bar and Restaurant 9th Lane Grind Illuminate Food Fest 5pm – Friday and Saturday For two nights only, 9th Lane Grind is t
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At 2025 NAIDOC Awards Mackay’s Indigenous community came together last week in a powerful celebration of culture, leadership and legacy, with the 2025 NAIDOC Awards and Pageant drawing a large crowd to Pioneer Murri Court on Wednesday evening. Now in its fifth year, the NAIDOC Pageant continues to grow in recognition and pride, showcasing young leaders and community role models through categories that honour cultural knowledge, dress, and expression of this year’s theme, “The Next Generat
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Mackay Anglican Community Are you a Good Samaritan? The Good Samaritan came to the rescue of a traveller, beaten and left for dead. The Samaritan performed first aid, took the man to safety, cared for him and paid the bills for his care. The Good Samaritan is a story that Jesus told. It is why so many church organisations venture into charitable works, and Mackay Street Chaplaincy is one in this model, as is The Faith in Action Coffee & Op Shop, based at Holy Trinity Parish Hall. The stor
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OPINION PIECE “Consistent with the recommendations from the Henry Tax Review: Don’t change negative gearing or capital gains tax until supply has been addressed and the purpose of the productivity summit should not be to increase the taxes on housing,” stated HIA Chief Economist, Tim Reardon. The McKell Institute earlier this week released a report suggesting changes to on investors with the goal of increasing housing supply. “All parties agree that Australia has an acute shortage of housing,”
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In a bid to tackle regional housing pressures and support essential services, five new modular homes are set to rise in Nebo, backed by funding from the Crisafulli Government to help Isaac Regional Council attract and retain key workers. The homes will feature two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a private open space, a covered carport, and a small garden shed. Designed to maximise the potential of the lot, the new homes will help address the shortage of accommodation for council staff and support the
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Some years ago, when my son Lincoln was aged about three or four, I was sitting on the couch watching TV and felt a tap on the back of my head. Now, I was able to make the connection between my four-year-old son, the space at the back of the couch where he was now obviously crouching, and the tap on the back of my head. But I went along with it, feigned surprise, rubbed the back of my head and slowly got up, giving Lincoln enough time to scurry out from behind the couch and tip-toe down the ha
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Mackay’s rising distance runners are stepping onto the national stage, with four outstanding athletes earning selection in the Queensland All Schools Cross Country Team after standout performances at the recent state championships. Leading the charge is Mackay Road Runners junior club champion Toby Rule, who has enjoyed a stellar seven-day stretch of competition. Last weekend, Toby placed eighth in the 8km race at the Queensland Athletics Cross Country Championships in Toogoolawah, securing a w
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Softball Action Heats Up It was a nail-biting clash between the Pink Hawks and Dragon Slayers, with both teams locked at 13-all by the final whistle. The Pink Hawks came out swinging, scoring six runs in the opening dig. Charlotte Whittaker, Angela Baker, and Julie Hankin each made it home three times, while Katrina Whittaker hit her first-ever home run, rounding all the bases to add to the tally. Defensively, Darcy Dorsett took two catches and Katrina added one more to the Pink Hawks' fi
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Over the weekend, four talented acrobats from Mackay Gymnastics showcased their skills at the prestigious Australian National Championships, held on the Gold Coast. Competing against strong rivals from across the country, the young athletes delivered outstanding performances that reflected their dedication and talent. Among the standout routines, Artaya and Mia secured an impressive third place in their dynamic routine, demonstrating exceptional teamwork and precision. Their success is a
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