Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
How Queensland Fights Pests in Our Parks Spanning over 13 million hectares of protected land and forest estates, the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) is the state’s largest land manager. With that vast responsibility comes a major challenge, managing invasive pests that pose a serious threat to Queensland’s unique wildlife and natural landscapes. Invasive species, whether they’re pest plants (weeds) or feral animals like pigs, cats, foxes and wild dogs, can cause significant harm. T
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When we visit the Great Barrier Reef, most of us spend all our time looking down under the water, gazing at the marine life. Next time you are out on the water, try looking up and admire the bird life overhead. The Reef is home to 22 species of seabird and 32 species of shorebird. And, yes, there are differences between seabirds and shorebirds. Seabirds are pelagic and spend most of their life at sea. They move towards coastal areas generally to breed and raise young for a minimal amount of ti
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It has been a busy fortnight for the Cannonvale Cannons, with swimmers excelling both at home and at a special clinic in Mackay. On Sunday, a group of National and State Development Squad swimmers took part in an advanced clinic at the Mackay Aquatic Recreation Centre, hosted by Barry Prime from Swimming Queensland and Nicholas Smith from the Australian Institute of Sport. The session focused on starts, turns, performance skills and stroke technique, giving swimmers invaluable experience. Congr
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Game On As Whitsunday Light Tackle Tournament Returns Anglers are preparing to chase some of the ocean’s most exciting sport fish at the Whitsunday Game Fish Club’s Annual Light Tackle Tournament, running October 16–19 at the Marine Club, Altmann Avenue, Cannonvale. Airlie Beach Tackle World and Daiwa have signed on as naming rights sponsors for the next three years, following nearly a decade of support from Ben Doolan Builders. The club thanked all three for their generosity. Competitors must
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Rugby Union The Whitsundays will once again come alive with rugby spirit as the Viking Cup 10s Carnival returns in 2025, welcoming a record-breaking 52 teams from across Queensland. The two-day festival of rugby, taking place on Friday 3 and Saturday 4 October at Whitsunday Sportspark, is set to be the region’s biggest celebration of junior rugby yet. Hosted by Whitsunday Junior Rugby Union, the Viking Cup 10s has grown into one of Queensland’s premier junior rugby carnivals, attracting boys an
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It was a week of strong performances and historic moments at Proserpine Golf Club, with competitions across all grades producing impressive results. It was another busy week at Proserpine Golf Club, with plenty of impressive performances and a historic Hole-in-One. On Tuesday, the PGC Vets hosted Pioneer Valley in the final Croker Shield game for 2025. Pioneer Valley claimed the trophy by 23 points, meaning a strong comeback is on the cards for PGC in 2026. In ladies’ play, Heather Luvis made
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On Saturday morning, the final semi-final of the B Pairs saw Harry Craig and David Ling defeat Kendall Watts and Ken Watts 21-17. Sunday featured the Final of the B Triples, with Bruce Uhe, Mike Harrison, and David Ling overcoming Troy Campbell, Todd Leys, and Harry Craig. The B Pairs final on Sunday afternoon saw Harry Craig and David Ling secure a convincing 27-8 victory over Alen Sanderson and Trevor Parsons. In Social Bowls on Wednesday, John Anderson, Phil Hughes, and Bazza defeated Arthur
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It’s been another fantastic week at our club, kicking off with the Ladies-only “Spring Fling” Carnival on Tuesday. Eleven teams from Airlie Beach, South Suburban, North Mackay, West Tigers, Mackay City, and Northern Beaches Bowls Clubs competed. Third place went to Joan McGrath’s ABBC team, second to North Mackay skippered by Helen Fleming, and the day’s big winners were Northern Beaches, led by Gail Pudney. Prizes were also awarded for the day’s biggest winners and two lucky door draws. Wednes
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Mackay Airport is about to enter an exciting new chapter, with nearly $60 million set to transform the region’s gateway. From a revitalised terminal and upgraded runway to expanded car parking and major commercial developments at the Milton Precinct, the airport is preparing to meet the needs of a growing region and future visitors. Chief Executive Officer Richard Barker said the works are designed to enhance passenger experience while strengthening critical infrastructure. “Our region is grow
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Hi everyone, it’s me again! Usually, I’m here when Amanda, our former editor, is on holidays, but now I’ll be stepping up into the hot seat and I'm excited for what's ahead! This is my first week without Amanda's guidance, and while I’m sad to see her go, it’s surprisingly not as scary as I expected! I’ve had a few regular contributors reach out with congratulations and kind words of encouragement, which has been so lovely to receive. I’ve always loved the saying, “when one door closes
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Last week, Chances House Mackay received a welcome boost, with funds raised through the M&P Services – Key Solutions Group Charity Golf Day handed over to support its work in the community. Chances House Mackay provides a safe and supportive home environment for people at risk of homelessness. Alongside secure accommodation, the organisation offers guidance, life skills, and opportunities that empower residents to build brighter, more independent futures. In a statement shared on social
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The Mackay Public Health Unit has confirmed a case of measles in the Mackay health service region and issued an alert for potential exposure. The individual, who was unknowingly infectious, attended several public places between 12 and 18 September. These include Middlemount Gym on Burns Street (12–14 and 17–18 September, 6.30pm–8pm) and Middlemount Shopping Centre, specifically Middlemount IGA and Middlemount Pharmacy, on 17 September between 9.30am and 10.30am. Anyone who visited these
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Emergency crews were called to the Paget Waste Transfer Facility last Friday morning after reports of a fire just before 9am. The incident prompted an urgent public warning from Mackay Regional Council, advising residents to stay away from the site until further notice. Staff at the facility requested that no members of the public attend while firefighters worked to bring the situation under control. For a short time, access to the facility was restricted as thick smoke and flames were m
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The Quiet Heroes Of Australia’s Peacekeeping Efforts Not all veterans wore their service on their sleeves, nor did their names make headlines, yet many acted as the quiet glue that held peace together. These are the silent achievers of Australia’s story, men and women who worked under the radar but whose contribution was no less vital. Among them stands Rod Francisco – Mackay veteran, President of the Walkerston-Pleystowe RSL Sub Branch, and Mackay’s 2024 Man of the Year. A man with a gre
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Imagine you were given 9 hours to write, illustrate and publish a novel. But here’s the catch, you also have to include a special set of parameters that are only revealed that day. This is what 32 dedicated students accomplished on Wednesday. These students, spanning from Years 7 to 10, not only showcased their literary and artistic talents; they also raised vital funds for The Kids' Cancer Project. "Our biggest challenge was trying to get everyone’s ideas into the story," said Hannah. "
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Mackay Hospital and Health Board Chair Helen Darch will step down from her key role to pave the way for local leadership and a smooth transition ahead of the renewal of health board appointments in April next year. Ms Darch said she was pleased to be handing the reins to a local Board representative with strong community connections. “As five of our seven Board member terms, including my own as Chair, are due to conclude in early 2026, I wanted to ensure a smooth and stable change proces
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Mackay’s police force has welcomed two new first-year constables to the Mackay Whitsunday District, marking an exciting addition to the region’s law enforcement team. Constable Will Beveridge will be stationed at Northern Beaches Police Station, while Constable Milla Faragher heads to the Whitsundays Police Station. Both recruits bring fresh energy and enthusiasm after completing extensive training at the Brisbane Academy. Acting Inspector and Northern Beaches Sergeant Mitch Benson said the rec
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Sarina Cricket Association is charging into another season, with both juniors and seniors already back on the pitch and games running through to 5 April 2026. Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank has proudly supported the club over the years with major sponsorship, assisting the Association in their efforts to grow from a single team into 10 teams across all age groups. With continued support from Community Bank Sarina, this family friendly cricket club has created more opportunities for p
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That Place Mackay hosted a successful Open Day for families and the community last Saturday, 20th September, offering a first-hand look at the local disability service provider’s programs and facilities. Founded by local fathers Steve and Tim, who both have children with disabilities, That Place Mackay provides after-hours activities and safe, inclusive spaces for young people in the region. Free Saturday morning sessions allow participants of all ages and abilities to enjoy games, art, c
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Nothing redhotblue creates is accidental. Every project is handcrafted to spark curiosity, make an impact, or evoke emotion. When a business knows its marketing objectives, it can afford to be more playful, daring, and even spontaneous. The seemingly ‘random’ becomes intentional, fun becomes functional, and every creative choice works harder because it ties back to the bigger picture. Imagine this: You’ve poured months of late nights into your marketing - teaching yourself new tools, fine
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For A Celebration Of The World’s Greatest One Hit Wonders! From the award-winning creators of Golden and Lovely Day comes a brand-new music experience that will have audiences singing along from start to finish. Wonder celebrates the greatest one hit wonders of all time, brought to life by three of Australia’s finest performers, country music star Brooke Schubert (The Voice Australia, Brisbane Lord Mayor’s Christmas Carols), theatre icon Marcus Corowa (Beautiful: The Carole King Musical,
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Mackay’s Beeyoutiful Pageant Inspires All Ages In a world often focused on competition and comparison, the Beeyoutiful Charity Pageants offer a refreshing alternative: a space where local women, girls, and even men can shine, grow, and celebrate themselves, without the pressure of rivalry. More than crowns and sashes, the event is about nurturing confidence, fostering self-love, and creating a supportive, joyful environment where everyone is encouraged to step into their best self. Founde
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The Pioneer Valley Rail Trail is set for a major upgrade, with Member for Mirani Glen Kelly MP announcing $75,000 in funding to improve the much-loved community asset. The boost, delivered through the Department of Transport and Main Road’s Rail Trail Program, will resurface around two and a half kilometres of the track, enhancing safety, accessibility, and the experience for locals and visitors alike. Mr Kelly said that the $75,000 will go a long way in adding to the work that’s already
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Major upgrades have now been completed at Alsatia Park, with the community already taking advantage of the improvements. Following extensive community consultation, new play equipment, barbeque facilities and football posts have been installed. The redesigned park also ensures greater separation of the younger children's playground and the skatepark as highly requested by the community. Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said a lot of work had been done to ensure the park caters to a range of
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Top Parks To Visit For Picnics, Play And Holiday Fun Make the most of the sunshine these school holidays with some of the region’s best parks and playgrounds – perfect for family adventures, picnics, and play. Queens Park Home to one of the biggest playgrounds in the region, Queens Park is a must-visit. With sky-walk towers, toddler play zones, swings and seesaws, kids of all ages will be entertained. Wander through the orchid house or simply relax in the open gardens. Northview Park Thi
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