Imagine a future where mental health is no longer a barrier, but a conversation that leads to change. MADEC’s ‘Stronger Together’ initiative in the Mackay region is doing just that, offering accessible mental health education and support to the community. With over 50 years of experience in community services, MADEC is empowering locals with the tools to manage their mental health and help others along the way. Sponsored by the Queensland Mental Health Commission, this initiative brings afforda
Read more
By Hannah McNamara_ Inspiring and unstoppable are just two words to describe former St Pat’s student Evelyn O’Brien, who recently received a life-changing scholarship that will see her live out her dream career at just seventeen. As she seizes each opportunity and breaks down common barriers, Evelyn is determined to create change and set an example for regional students in Mackay. “I remember the day I got it - it was just an email that popped up, and I was at home alone… I jumped up and I j
Read more
The Mackay Whitsunday policing district has welcomed nine first-year constables, each bringing valuable skills and experiences to the force. As they embark on their careers in law enforcement, Superintendent Dean Cavanagh highlighted the importance of diversity within the Queensland Police Service (QPS). “We have some constables here from a variety of backgrounds, which is really important because you want to bring in that skill set and knowledge from different employment backgrounds and areas
Read more
By Hannah McNamara _ At 34, Dale Potter is one of Mackay’s most talented and dedicated athletes, excelling across multiple sports while exceeding his own limits in the Special Olympics community. What began as a way to make friends, gain confidence, and stay active turned into a new profound passion for Dale, who now leads others to do the same. Mackay Fire Special Olympics is a welcoming space for athletes of all abilities, offering basketball, table tennis, ten-pin bowling, bocce, and power
Read more
In the heart of Sarina stands Roots Collective, an all-in-one bakehouse, restaurant, and community hub, serving smiles and great coffee since 2022. With a focus on staying grounded in the roots of humanity, Roots Collective creates a space where locals can relax, enjoy a drink, grab a bite to eat, and most importantly, connect with others. Expanding its branches, Roots Collective now hosts monthly Parent Connect groups, held on the last Wednesday of every month to foster a sense of community fo
Read more
Mackay Road Runners extends a big thank you to volunteers who helped with setup, spoke to prospective and existing members, and packed up at the MECC Sports Expo last weekend. It was a lovely and very successful event filled with chatting, talking, laughing… and more talking! Special thanks to Julie Whibley (Secretary), Janelle Tilse (Publicity Officer), Club Captain Jim Ford, Assetkeeper Andrew Short, Merchandiser Jo Hughes, and Vice-President Len Howarth for their time and support throughout
Read more
Mother Nature has caused disruption in the latter half of the junior cricket season, dashing the hopes of some young players hoping to make it to the big dance as they race towards the finals. The minor premiers have been decided across all grades, with Proserpine leading the way in three of the four divisions, U12, U15 and U17s. In the U13 division, Souths claimed the top spot, while Magpies White took the honours in the U17 competition. The semi-finals are set for this Saturday, 15th Februar
Read more
Detectives from the Mackay Child Protection and Investigation Unit have charged a second person in relation to the sexual assault of a child. On Sunday, the 9th of February, police executed a search warrant at a Beaconsfield address, where a 37-year-old woman was taken into custody. The arrest follows police charging a 50-year-old man with several drug and child sexual assault offences last week. It will be alleged that the 37-year-old woman facilitated in the transport of one of the man’s vi
Read more
As floodwaters in North Queensland begin to recede this week, communities across the Dawson electorate are assessing the damage and beginning the clean-up effort. Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox visited several flood-affected areas, meeting with residents, business owners, and local leaders to discuss the impact and ongoing response. "At the first opportunity, when flooding subsided, I jumped in the 4WD and headed north, visiting towns in the Burdekin region including Gumlu, Home Hill, Ayr and
Read more%5B80%5D.jpeg)
Great things happen when local businesses come together, and building a strong business community starts with strong connections. Networking is one important way to foster this collaboration and can open doors to new opportunities. As Platinum Sponsors of the Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce (MRCOC), Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank is hosting a Twilight Networking Event, 5:30pm, Thursday 20 February at Ocean’s Bar and Restaurant in Mackay. Community Bank Sarina invites the local business
Read more%5B80%5D.jpeg)
By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay_ CANEGROWERS is 100 years old in 2026, we have grown over those 10 decades with one clear focus: championing the needs and capacity of each of our members, and working hard for a flourishing industry that supports every grower and harvester. In 2025, the organisation will hold its triennial elections, with nominations opening in just a few weeks. Every member is welcome to put their hand up to nominate in what is an exciting part of CANEGROWERS’ demo
Read more
This week, QCAR Central District Manager Sonia Ball, also a property owner at Ilbilbie (south of Koumala), met with Peter Currie, a long-term member of the Ilbilbie Rural Fire Brigade and cane farmer in the Plane Creek area. Ms Ball said Peter was typical of the volunteers in rural fire brigades across the state operating in a dual role as fire fighter and brigade secretary-treasurer. “What stands out with Peter is that he has been doing this dual role for 38 years – the volunteer hours he a
Read more
Harper Bee, the much-loved gift and lifestyle store for tweens and teens, is buzzing with excitement as it prepares to move to a new, iconic home in Mackay’s CBD. Soon, the boutique will trade from the heritage-listed Queensland National Bank building on Victoria Street—an upgrade that reflects just how far this family-run business has come. The move comes as their sister business, Cheeky Little Monkeys Play Centre, prepares for a major expansion of its children’s soft play space. Rather than s
Read more
Pioneer Catchment Landcare has been recognised on the national stage, winning the prestigious Group Community Champion Award at the Clean Up Australia Day Awards in Canberra. This year marks the 35th anniversary of Clean Up Australia Day, making the honour even more special. The award celebrates outstanding commitment to environmental stewardship, recognising community groups and organisations that champion sustainability. Criteria for the award include the longevity of service, the number of C
Read more
Mater Mothers’ Hospital in South Brisbane urgently needs donations of ‘cuddle hearts’ to give its tiniest patients the best start to life. The Neonatal Critical Care Unit is looking to restock the cupboards with the fabric hearts, which are two heart-shaped pieces of material (soft cotton or flannelette) sewn together. Mater Neonatal Critical Care Unit Education Coordinator Julia Maguire is calling on crafty volunteers to turn on their sewing machines and lend a hand. “One fabric heart is
Read more
Reef Catchments and Drought Hub recently hosted a highly successful workshop in Sarina, designed to help local farmers tackle the challenges of transitioning their agricultural businesses to the next generation. Led by renowned succession expert Scott Patterson, the Succession Planning workshop offered practical strategies tailored to the realities of farming life. Scott used real-world case scenarios to deliver practical insights that deeply resonated with attendees. Farmers gained a clearer u
Read more
Despite the recent unstable weather, a number of intrepid Sinkers arrived for normal Wednesday night training at the North Mackay State School pool. They found the choppy conditions suitable for open-water swimming training, and they braved the conditions to complete a full training session. Once again, not to be deterred, even more, members turned up for the Saturday morning training session at the Memorial Pool held in similar conditions with, at times, horizontal rain. The Sinkers Masters S
Read more
Since its founding in December last year, Purrrfect Treasures has been dedicated to rescuing and rehoming surrendered, dumped, or abandoned cats and kittens in need of a loving family. In just a short time, the not-for-profit organisation has already made a significant impact, recently celebrating the adoption of 10 cats in a single adoption day. Purrrfect Treasures hosts ‘Cat Haven’ adoption days every Saturday from 10am to 2pm at Petstock, providing potential adopters with the perfect opportu
Read more
Softball Mackay is swinging into action for the 2025 season, with clubs now signing on players of all ages and experience levels. Whether you're a seasoned competitor or picking up a glove for the first time, there’s a place for you on the diamond! Who Can Play? Softball is a fantastic sport for boys and girls aged 5 and up, as well as men and women of all skill levels. No experience? No problem! All clubs provide full training, so you can learn the game in a fun and supportive environment. Se
Read more
Captured in stunning detail by Belinda Eckford, this breathtaking image showcases a powerful wedge-tailed eagle in flight, clutching its latest meal. Taken approximately four hours west of Mackay, near Clermont, the photo highlights the raw beauty of nature in the Australian outback. Belinda described the experience as surreal, watching the mighty bird soar effortlessly. As Australia’s largest raptor, the wedge-tailed eagle is an awe-inspiring sight, a true symbol of the rugged wilderness. Tha
Read more
Mackay Regional Council began refurbishment work on Brewers Skate Park in Sarina earlier this week. The project includes refurbishing four of the existing ramps to ensure the skate park remains a popular and safe recreational space for the community. To minimise disruption, temporary fencing will be placed around two ramps at a time, allowing half the skate park to remain open while work is being carried out. A new half pipe will also be installed to replace the one that was vandalised last y
Read more
Long pants and sturdy shoes might help avoid a trip to the ED as yard clean ups begin across the region after recent wet weather. Residents are being urged to be vigilant with an increase in snake bite presentations recorded across the Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) with snakes on the move due to high temperatures and floodwaters. There have been 27 snake bite presentations at Mackay Base Hospital since December last year. There were 11 patients treated at the hospital in December
Read more
An amazing thirty-two, Mackay novices and experienced players, attended the 2025 Gold Coast Congress last week. This congress attracts players from all over the world. Everyone enjoyed the week with some hard cards, lots of fun and time away enjoyed. Congratulations to David and Ming Ting who won the Bobby Richmond Championship Intermediate E Final. Well done to everyone who participated. The home front was a bit quieter but thanks to some wonderful dedicated people, members still enjoyed their
Read more
Valentine’s Day is more than just roses…though you’ll find plenty of those too at Blossoms Flower Boutique. Now under the new ownership of Frances Deguara, this boutique is THE one-stop-shop for thoughtful gifts, fresh flowers, and locally made treats. From elegant lilies and sunflowers to handcrafted fudge and gourmet Poppy’s chocolates, there’s something for every taste. Blossoms Flower Boutique also features the ever-popular Ecoya candles, adorable teddies, and custom hampers filled with aut
Read more
Love is in the air, and what better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day than with an unforgettable dining experience at Tropical Phoenix Garden Restaurant? Nestled on River Street in Mackay, this charming spot offers the perfect blend of exquisite Asian cuisine, warm hospitality, and a relaxed atmosphere beside the Bluewater Lagoon. For those looking to impress their special someone, the restaurant’s special Valentine’s Day set menu delivers exceptional value, featuring a selection of beautifully
Read more