Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Then and Now By the mid 1920s, many Proserpine districts boasted a hall of their own. These places were not only hubs of social events but also provided a centre for such activities as meetings of canegrowers, polling booths and Country Women’s Association gatherings. They were the heartbeat of these communities. Sadly, time has seen most of these halls fall into disrepair and close down. BUT not so, Kelsey Creek. Kelsey Creek Hall, made of timber with corrugated iron walls, was built by J P Mu
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Hi everyone,Hope you’re having a great week as always!This week, amid the busy pace of journalism, I’ve been reflecting on my “why.” They say that when you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life, and I’ve found that to be true!Life can throw challenges our way, sometimes feeling like mountains. But knowing your why can turn those hurdles into blessings rather than burdens.It’s easy to get caught up in what’s wrong in the world, especially in this fast-paced, digital age. If you s
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**Friday 10th October ** Crochet & Conversation 9am Drop in for a relaxed morning of crocheting, coffee and conversation with friendly Northern Beaches locals at the Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade. Everyone is welcome—whether you're a seasoned crocheter, a beginner, or just love a good chat over coffee. Bring your own tools or borrow from the communal box. It’s all about connection, creativity, and community. Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade Seniors Fitter For
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At South Suburban Bowls Club South Suburban Bowls Club is set to host the 2025 State Mixed Pairs Championships this weekend, bringing two days of high-level bowls action to the region. The event kicks off on Saturday 11th October at 9 a.m., with competition continuing through Sunday 12th October. The championships will feature some of Queensland’s finest bowlers, combining seasoned champions and local talent. Spectators can expect fast-paced games, strategic play, and a lively atmosphere as par
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Bringing Nostalgia Back To Modern Homes Kitchens are no longer just functional spaces; they’re the heart of the home, where style and personality meet practicality. In 2025, one of the standout trends reshaping these central hubs is the retro revival — a nostalgic nod to mid-century designs and vintage charm, now infused with modern convenience. Retro-inspired kitchens are all about personality. Bold colours are making a statement, from candy-apple reds and deep teals to mustard yellows and pas
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The Longest-Running Breakfast Show In The Region Triple M Mackay & The Whitsundays will mark a major milestone this Friday when Jay & Dave broadcast their 3,300th Breakfast Show, cementing their place as the longest-running breakfast team in the region. Since their first show together in 2011, Jay Shipston and Dave Peters have been the voices locals wake up to. Across more than 11,500 hours on air, they’ve laughed, cried, and shared every major moment with the community — from cyclones and floo
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I got out of my car near my office in Victoria St the other day and was swooped by a pee wee that came from behind and landed a peck on my head. Like most people, I’m not a big fan of being swooped but it’s usually aggressive male magpies that bring me grief during their breeding season, although I’ve clashed with a few plovers over the years. It probably makes me a bad person but I often think rogue, aggressive male magpies are given a bit too much latitude when they constantly, aggressively
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Community is at the heart of Hugh Reilly Real Estate, and their support reaches far beyond the walls of their office. For more than 80 years, the agency has been a familiar and trusted name in Mackay, known not only for real estate expertise but for their generous commitment to giving back. Partner and Managing Director, Josey Comerford, is often seen supporting local initiatives across the region. Recently, she joined fellow business leaders for the Chamber of Commerce B2B Brews event at Macka
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The team at Hugh Reilly Real Estate proved that laughter truly is the best office policy this April Fools’ Day. In a moment of light-hearted fun, Carol arrived at work to find her entire desk covered in the team’s funniest faces – a cheerful surprise that instantly set the tone for a day filled with laughter. Each photo featured a member of the Hugh Reilly team pulling their best expression, creating a collage of smiles that had everyone stopping by for a chuckle. Known for their professionali
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Mackay’s young athletes are gearing up for the All Schools State Schools Track and Field Championships in Townsville this October, following strong performances at the Capricornia and North Queensland school trials in September. Twelve squad members earned spots across a range of events. 10–12 years age group; 13–15 October: • Penny Shields - 800m and 1500m • Harper Miles - 200m, 400m, 800m and the 1500m 13–19 years age group; 16–19 October: • August Cole - 400m, 800m, 1500m and the 2000m St
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High-Speed Motorcycle Incident At Bakers Creek A 21-year-old Sarina man has been intercepted by police following an alleged high-speed incident on the Mackay Ring Road at Bakers Creek on Saturday, October 4, 2025. At approximately 8.49pm, officers conducting mobile speed enforcement patrols allegedly detected a Kawasaki ZX 12R motorcycle travelling at 178 kilometres per hour in an 80-kilometre-per-hour zone — 98 kilometres over the posted speed limit. Police intercepted the motorcycle and spo
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Chances House Mackay provides vital support to people experiencing homelessness, and the team is reaching out to the community for a little extra help. Residents rely on the generosity of locals to access basic necessities, and right now the shelter is in need of a range of essential items. Non-perishable foods are always appreciated, with tins featuring ring pulls preferred for ease of use. Donations of noodles, spaghetti, baked beans, tuna, fruit cups, and chunky soups go directly to those wh
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Some of Mackay’s most vulnerable young patients are benefitting from the gift of refreshed rooms, new amenities, cosy therapeutic bean bags and modern furniture thanks to the generosity of AutoCorner Mackay. Representatives visited the Children and Adolescent Unit mental health rooms to view the results of their generous donation which was arranged by the Mackay Hospital Foundation. Nurse unit manager Louise Suner and enrolled nurse Kirby Green gave a tour of the refreshed lounge area and pati
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Members of Mackay VIEW Club are calling on the community to give generously this Anti-Poverty Week [12-18 October] and sponsor a child or donate to the national children’s education charity The Smith Family. The focus of this Anti-Poverty Week is to end child poverty in Australia. Mackay VIEW Club helps 5 children through The Smith Family’s Learning for Life education support program, which provides families with long term educational, financial, and personal assistance, so that children have a
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BRIDGE The Mackay Contract Bridge Club held its 2025 Congress with players from the Gold Coast, Brisbane and Townsville in attendance. An extremely well supported weeked saw 60 players compete in three competitions. Winners of the Open pairs were Ian Afflick and Terry Sheedy, followed closely by Janet Hansen and Diane Morgan. Section B pairs were won by Martin Pearce and Simon Barnes, with Annette Howe and Jewell Schmidt in second place. The Open Teams were won by Team Bugeia, Noel Bugeia, Va
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Council Heads To Smaller Communities To Find Out What Matters Most To Them
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Mackay’s senior community is invited to come together this Tuesday, October 14, for the annual Seniors Expo, running from 9am to 12pm at The Big Shed, Mackay Showgrounds (25 Milton Street). Now a much-loved fixture on the local calendar, the expo brings together more than 80 exhibitors and around 2000 visitors each year, creating a welcoming space where older residents, their carers, and families can explore services, programs, and activities that support healthy, active, and connected living.
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At The 2025 Mackay Family Carnival! The Mackay Showgrounds came alive last weekend as families flocked to enjoy the 2025 Mackay Family Carnival — a vibrant celebration of rides, lights, and laughter that ran from September 24 to October 5. Over twelve days, the Showgrounds transformed into a wonderland of colour and excitement, offering everything from thrilling rides and classic showbags to sizzling food stalls and crowd-favourite Pluto Pups. Visitors of all ages immersed themselves in themed
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Hugh Reilly Through The Decades 1945 — Hugh Reilly returns from World War II and, together with Joe Griffin, begins his real estate career in Mackay. Shortly after, he and his wife, Anne Graham Reilly, officially establish Hugh Reilly Proprietary Limited. George Gibbs joins as an executive and shareholder, helping shape the agency’s early direction. 1971 — Hugh Reilly tragically passes away from a heart attack. His son, Steve Reilly, aged 22, steps into leadership alongside George Gibbs. 1970s
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The History Of Hugh Reilly Real Estate In 1945, a young Air Force bomber named Hugh Reilly returned from World War II determined to build something meaningful. With a vision for service, honesty, and community, he opened a real estate agency in Mackay – one that would grow to become one of the region’s longest-standing businesses. From its earliest days, Hugh Reilly Real Estate stood apart for its integrity. So trusted was its name that when the United States Forces
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Tom Andrews, Sales Consultant Tom Andrews calls it as he sees it, and it’s that honesty that keeps clients returning. Born in Townsville and raised in Cardwell, Tom returned to Mackay in 1993 and has spent over three decades navigating the local property market, earning a reputation built on trust, honesty, and results. Before stepping into real estate, Tom’s career was quite the journey. From marine engineering on ships and submarines to law enforcement, and setting up retirement living sales
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Josey Comerford, Partner And Managing Director Born and raised in Mackay to a local cane farming family, Josey Comerford knows this region like the back of her hand. Her father was born here, and her Maltese heritage traces back through generations who helped shape Mackay’s close-knit community. She began her career at Hugh Reilly Real Estate at just 20 years old after a few early jobs in law and medical offices. When an employment agency placed her at Hugh Reilly Real Estate, it turned out to
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Tanya Taylor, Leasing Manager And Trust Account Administrator Tanya Taylor’s career with Hugh Reilly Real Estate began in 1991, straight out of high school, with a six-month TAFE course under her belt and a receptionist role that would become the start of a lifelong journey. What began as a job she needed, turned into a three-decade career, during which Tanya has worn many hats – such as Sales Admin, Leasing Co-ordinator, Trust Account Administrator and Office Manager – and is now recognised as
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Cr Peter Sheedy Mackay Regional councillors warmly welcome our new CEO. Gerard Carylon returned to Mackay Regional Council late last month, taking on the position of CEO. During a meeting with councillors, he was very candid about his desire to improve the relationship between the elected body of councillors and council staff, with a focus on delivering the objectives in our Corporate Plan. This includes allocating funding for each year of the plan. Mr Carlyon also outlined how he’d like to int
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Experience what coastal living is all about at Tunes in the Dunes — the final event for 2025! This FREE event is perfect for families, friends, and individuals wanting to relax and reconnect. Live music, gorgeous ocean views, and picnics under a canopy of fairy lights create an enchanting outdoor atmosphere, not to be missed! Join us oceanside on Saturday, 18th October at Dunes Harbour Beach. Pack your favourite snacks, drinks, picnic rug, and settle in from 4pm to 7pm for a laid-back afternoo
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