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Volunteer Leaders Gain Valuable Insights At Queensland Volunteering Conference

With a heart for community, two of Mackay’s most passionate volunteers, Rebecca Cooper and Julie Nieslen, recently had the opportunity to attend the Queensland Volunteering Conference in Brisbane. Supported by Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm and Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton, they joined leaders from across the state at the two-day event, themed ‘Inspire, Empower, Ignite,’ to explore strategies for volunteer engagement, inclusion, and sustainability. Rebecca Cooper, Northern Beaches Communit

Protecting Mackay's Coastal Habitat

Mackay’s Harbour Beach is one step closer to becoming a safer haven for threatened turtles and shorebirds, thanks to the collaborative efforts of local stakeholders. Representatives from Yuwi Land and Sea Rangers, Pioneer Catchment and Landcare (PCL), Mackay Regional Council (MRC), and Mackay and District Turtle Watch recently gathered on-site to monitor progress and inspect 200 newly planted tube stock. The native vegetation will reinforce a strategically placed post-and-rail fence designed to

Paula Creen Returns For The Greens

The Queensland Greens have announced Paula Creen as their candidate for Dawson in the upcoming federal election, marking her second run at the seat after securing a 2.7 per cent swing to the Greens in 2022. Ms Creen, who was raised and educated in Mackay, has lived in the region for 22 years and worked as a designer and drafter in the local building industry for 28 years. She is a dedicated volunteer with the Mackay Conservation Group, Whitsunday Conservation Council, and local disability suppo

Digging Deep, Kicking High

Cowboys co-captain Tom Dearden has shown he'd have no trouble swapping footy boots for steel caps in the distant future when he’s ready to transition to a life after rugby league. The superstar five-eighth looked right at home behind the wheel of a massive Caterpillar 796AC haul truck during a trip to the Carmichel mine to shoot the new "Digging Coal, Kicking Goals" campaign that celebrates the Platinum Partnership between Bravus Mining and Resources and the Cowboys. Dearden said the visit, in

1.9 Million Boost For Magpies Sporting Club Mackay

A major upgrade is on the way for one of Mackay’s most beloved sporting clubs, thanks to a $1.9 million commitment from the LNP. Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, joined local sporting stars and Magpies representatives to announce the exciting expansion of the Magpies Sporting Club. “This investment will go towards four dressing rooms – two for females, two for males, a referee room, some secure lockers, and a first aid room,” Mr Willcox said. “It’s only fair that the ladies have dece

Western Suburbs Leagues Club To Grow

Walkerston residents will be pleased to learn that the Western Suburbs Leagues Club will undergo a significant transformation, thanks to a $3 million election commitment announced by Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry. This investment will expand the club’s function area, ensuring the venue is well-equipped to host large-scale events for community groups, local businesses, and sporting clubs. The funding will also support vital clubhouse refurbishments, enhancing amenities and acces

Mackay Steps Up To The Wicket For International Action

A major sporting announcement just hit home for Mackay cricket fans as Cricket Australia confirmed that Mackay will host its first-ever men’s international one-day matches. The Australian men's team will take on South Africa in two one-day internationals at the Great Barrier Reef Arena (GBRA) on August 22 and 24, 2025. The announcement follows months of collaboration between Mackay Regional Council, Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ), and the Great Barrier Reef Arena, who jointly submitted a s

Tim’s Chariots of Fire

Over fifty runners and supporters participated in the annual Tim’s Chariots of Fire 5km and 16km events, hosted at the Magoffin residence on Ocean Avenue, Slade Point. The club extends its thanks to Sandra, Tim, and Ruby for once again opening their home for the challenging event. Despite the humid conditions and occasional rain, runners tackled the course, which featured undulations towards Andergrove Tavern for the 16km. The route then ascended through Lamberts Beach, including steep hills le

Victory For Mackay Blokart Team At Nationals

Mackay Blokarters soared to victory at the Australian National Blokart Titles, held from March 21-23 at Waratah Bay, Victoria. The competition brought together the best blokart sailors from across the country, with competitors battling varying wind conditions over four intense days of racing. Four competitors from Central Queensland and Whitsunday Blokart Clubs raced for top honours, showcasing their skills and determination on the sand. Among them were two Mackay women, including a husband-and

Queensland's 400-Million-Year-Old Fish Fossil Changes The Evolutionary Story

Queensland has recently become the site of a remarkable paleontological discovery: the identification of a new ancient fish species, Palaeospondylus australis. This specimen, unearthed from the 400-million-year-old limestone deposits of the Georgina Basin in western Queensland, is believed to be one of the smallest known vertebrate fossils in Australia.

March 2025 Sugar Prices Waiting On Brazil Harvest

The growing season rolls on, and the weather gods continue to throw curveballs to sugarcane growers. After a relatively dry period following the February onslaught, the recent rain events may well cause a further downgrade in crop expectations. The southern Wilmar crushing regions would appear to be a beneficiary of rain, however, the Burdekin and Herbert regions are looking for some sunshine to get the crop growing again. With crop estimates released in early April, it is important for growe

Sinkers Lapping It Up!

With March done and dusted, the Sinkers Swim Club is thrilled to celebrate the incredible achievements of their second fundraiser for 2025 in support of the ReachOut organisation. This year, their efforts raised $8,664, a significant leap from the 2024 total of $5,818. Starting with a humble goal of $2,000, the club surpassed it early in the two-month campaign, thanks to a strong early push.

Mackay Contract Bridge Club

At The Table

Division 1:Phoenix Fire (Andrew McHugh, Josh Brown, Andrea Nicholson) d Panther Prowlers (Trent Day, Vince Boeske, Jacob Whelan) 7-4. Andrew d Trent 4, 13, 12.Venus Voyagers (Janice Kent, Graham Brake, Graham Drury) d Stellar Stars (Will Van DeKaa, Lee Brake, Barry Patterson) 6-5. Graham D d Lee -5, 9, 9, -9 15.Cosmic Sorcerers (Neil Brown, Anne Sheridan, Donna Abbott) d Ghost Spinners (Allan Robins, Geoff Denman, Lily Boland) 7-4. Anne d Allan -7, 10, 6, -7, 9.Ant Warriors (Goncalo Serra, Graem

Northern Beaches Community Wellbeing Series A New Chapter In Connection

The Northern Beaches is about to come alive with the launch of the Northern Beaches Community Wellbeing Series, an exciting initiative proudly supported by a Mackay Regional Council Community Impact Grant. This collaboration between the Mackay Northern Beaches Lions Club and the Northern Beaches Community Network is designed to bring people together, foster connection, and offer a wide range of activities that support wellbeing, creativity, and community spirit.

Purple For Purpose

Business owners, regional leaders, and Rotary members gathered at Ocean International last Tuesday, united in their mission to break the silence on domestic violence. Dressed in purple, attendees stood in solidarity, symbolising hope for a future free from violence. While we know change takes time, the focus remains on educating future generations and fostering respect among men, women, and children to create a safer society.

District Master Pairs Ladies Championship Final

Last Wednesday, 26th March, the Semi-Final of the Master Pairs took place, featuring two intense matchups. Nuggy Pratt and Michell Stockton faced off against Lois Deguara and Joyce Bloomfield, while Chris Woo and Chris Hall played against Lorna Coad and Floss Keft.

Running For Gold

Known for its incredible opportunities, Mackay is on track to growing some of the world’s most talented athletes, with regional sporting facilities contributing much to that success. In a bid to expand these opportunities and gain international recognition, The Crisafulli Government is taking ambitious steps to provide bold investments in the lead up to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Turning Struggles Into Success

Amanda’s journey hasn’t been easy, but she refuses to let her past define her future. With determination and the right support, she’s turning setbacks into stepping stones, creating a brighter life for herself and her son – all thanks to the Parent Pathways program, delivered by MRAEL (part of the IntoWork Group).“This is the strongest, clearest, most driven, and most supported I’ve ever felt,” Amanda said.

Uncover The Hidden Gems Of Mackay

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A Note From Nigel

Representing our community is a privilege that I take seriously, and this past month has been incredibly busy and rewarding. Whether in Mackay or Brisbane, I’ve been out listening to locals, advocating for our region, and working to ensure our communities have the support they need.

QCAR Roadshow

Sugarcane farmers across the Central District have been bombarded with invitations to attend what seems like a trillion events over the past couple of months, and this is terrific to see so many organisations and businesses step up to benefit growers and their businesses.

R U OK Whitsundays? How A Question Can Save A Life

R U OK?’s Conversation Convoy is coming to the Whitsundays region, aimed at raising awareness for suicide prevention and offering an opportunity for the community to come together, learn, and show support. The convoy will be parked up on the hill by the Coral Sea Marina carpark, on April 6th from 4:30pm to 7pm. Matt Stokes of the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network highlights the significance of this event, saying, “It’s a great reminder for our friends, and asking that one important little q

Mackay Cutters' Mixed Fortunes In Clashes Against CQ Capras

The Mackay Cutters faced the Central Queensland Capras in a rugby league showdown that yielded a mixed bag of results across various divisions. While the senior Hostplus Cup team endured a tough defeat, the junior squads showcased their potential with impressive performances. Hostplus Cup In the senior league, the Mackay Cutters fell 16-36 to the Central Queensland Capras at Rugby Park in Rockhampton. This loss marked their second consecutive defeat, leaving them at the bottom of the Hos

Health Experts Warn Of Increased Melioidosis Risk Two Mackay Deaths Attributed To The Bacterial Infection

A Mackay HHS spokesperson has confirmed a significant rise in melioidosis cases across North Queensland this year, attributed to wet weather events. With this increase, individuals are urged to take sensible precautions when engaging in outdoor activities to minimise the risk. There have been seven cases of melioidosis in the Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) region and there have now been two deaths attributed to the bacterial disease. An elderly woman died in February and the dea