The Mackay community is mourning the passing of Dr. Lyall Ford, a beloved historian, author, and educator whose contributions to preserving the region’s history have left an enduring legacy. Lyall passed away on January 12, 2025, at the age of 80, leaving behind a wealth of knowledge and a passion for storytelling that resonated far beyond Mackay’s borders. Born on May 13, 1944, at Lister Hospital in Mackay, Lyall grew up in Walkerston before moving to Mackay. He excelled academically, attending
Read more
Picture a place where your voice isn’t just heard but celebrated, where healthcare meets compassion and your journey is guided with respect and understanding. Welcome to Generation Her, a sanctuary for women’s reproductive health, located in the heart of the Mackay region. Generation Her offers a comprehensive range of services tailored to each woman and her reproduction needs. From family planning and pregnancy care to postnatal support, Generation Her is dedicated to empowering, educating, a
Read more
Despite good intentions, by this time in January – for some, New Year’s resolutions have been abandoned, relegated as ‘too hard’, are fading into oblivion due to inaction, or maybe not set at all. Feelings of failure and regret can bubble up. There’s any number of reasons why our resolutions don’t work. And we know that all the good intentions do not produce results, it’s about action. It’s about what works for you – and it’s key to keep it simple. What’s the one thing that you could choose
Read more
In honour of their 10-year business milestone, Whitsunday Wealth has left a vibrant mark on Mackay's cityscape. The financial advisory firm commissioned a striking mural on the side of their Wood Street building, brought to life by the exceptional talent of local artist Gwada Murals. Unveiled in September 2024, the mural not only celebrates Whitsunday Wealth's decade of service but also enriches the aesthetic of Mackay’s city centre. Featuring bold colours and intricate designs, the mural has q
Read more.JPG)
Crafter Judi Hutchinson is having fun creating stunning art pieces, now showcased at the Sarina Arts and Crafts Centre. Using epoxy resin with silicon moulds, alcohol inks, mica powders, glitters, and other embellishments, Judi crafts unique décor items in a meticulous process that can take up to 24 hours. Her range of Resin Home Decor items includes coasters embedded with fish hooks or beer bottle tops, trinket trays in various colours and styles, bookmarks, key rings, owls, seahorses, turtle
Read more
Students starting certain degrees and apprenticeships at CQUniversity this year can apply for a share of $30,000 in scholarships from Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank. The program includes two $9000 scholarships for undergraduate degrees and two $6000 scholarships for apprenticeships, providing not only financial assistance but also opportunities for professional development. Community Bank Sarina Board Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich highlighted Community Bank Sarina’s commitment to support
Read more.jpg)
Mackay Sugar is shifting its focus to the future following the conclusion of the 2024 crushing season. Operations at the Marian factory wrapped up earlier than expected on 14 January due to declining harvesting contractor availability and recent rain and storms across the region. The 2024 season saw Mackay Sugar crush approximately 4.85 million tonnes of cane, producing 626,000 tonnes of raw sugar. Additionally, its cogeneration facility generated 112,570 MWh of renewable electricity, with 79,7
Read more.jpg)
Tiny but deadly, mosquitoes are responsible for more human deaths than any other creature on Earth. Oxitec Australia is targeting two of the most dangerous species in the Pacific region—Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus—in a bold effort to combat the spread of life-threatening diseases like dengue, Zika, and yellow fever, which claim hundreds of thousands of lives globally each year. Oxitec Australia is a collaboration between CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, and UK-based Oxitec Ltd
Read more
Australian sugar cane farmers will soon trade one tropical paradise for another as they explore first-hand the implications of Brazil being ranked number one and two in the world for sugarcane and ethanol production. Central region sugarcane farmer Paul Atkinson is embarking on the 10-day tour for a second time because he is interested in how Brazil’s harvest and mills operate. “Brazil is our main competition,” Mr Atkinson said, adding its use of sugar to produce ethanol affected world suga
Read more
The Forensic Crash Unit continues to appeal for witnesses following a fatal traffic crash at Alligator Creek on the 7th of January. At approximately 5pm, a black Holden Utility was seen traveling at high speeds and dangerously on Hay Point Road, before veering into oncoming traffic and colliding with a silver Kia sedan. The 58-year-old male driver of the Kia, from Ooralea, tragically died at the scene. Preliminary investigations reveal that around 4:30pm, the black Holden entered the Bruce H
Read more
After a well-earned Christmas break, the Iona West Men’s Shed is back in action, extending an open invitation to local men to join their vibrant, supportive, and social community. “If there’s any men interested in joining our organisation, they’re very welcome,” said Publicity Officer Alan Grant. “You don’t have to be retired to join, but if you are, it’s a great way to keep occupied.” The Men’s Shed provides a space for connection, learning, and contribution, particularly for men adjusting
Read more
If the Mackay weather has you feeling like folding, why not play your hand at something new? The Mackay Contract Bridge Club is hosting a “Come and Try Day” this Australia Day, inviting locals to shuffle into the world of bridge. While seasoned members will be finessing their regular games, visitors are encouraged to spectate, learn the ropes, and even pick up some cards to try their luck. Joy Block, who joined the club with her husband around five years ago, said the club’s warm atmosphere ma
Read more
ip In The Bluewater Lagoon All Day Looking for a ripper way to beat the heat this Australia Day? Grab the family and head to the Bluewater Lagoon! It’s free, open all day, and the perfect spot to cool off from that North Queensland scorch. Chuck on your sunnies, slap on some sunscreen, and dive in for a bloody good time! Bluewater Lagoon Tickle Ya Tastebuds At Tropical Phoenix Garden Restaurant Lunch and Dinner Escape the hard yakka this Sunday and Monday and let Tropical Phoenix Garden Res
Read more
Mackay region art followers can experience more than 60 contemporary and historical works from the Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) Indigenous Australian Art collection when the exhibition ‘I, Object’ tours Artspace Mackay from January 18 to March 30. ‘I, Object’ features contemporary painting, sculpture and installation by leading Queensland artists Vernon Ah Kee, Tony Albert, Michael Boiyool Anning, Fiona Foley, Danie Mellor, Christian Thompson, Warraba Weatherall and o
Read more
Friday 24th January Crochet and Conversation 9am Join the friendly group of Northern Beaches locals at Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade for a morning of crocheting, coffee, and conversation. BYO crochet tools or borrow from our communal box. All skill levels welcome. This is a great opportunity to connect, share experiences, and start our next project for the Northern Beaches community in 2025. Beachfront Bar and Restaurant, Bucasia Two Worlds Collide: Rackemann And Langer
Read more
Lovers of contemporary circus and food enthusiasts are in for a treat, with an exclusive pre-show dinner and show event taking place on Friday 21 February at the Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (MECC). To celebrate First Nations, contemporary circus group, Circa Cairns visiting the Mackay region, the MECC are hosting a fine-dining experience like no other. Taking place in the Lynette Denny Space before the performance, this intimate experience features an exclusive menu carefully cura
Read more.jpg)
Summer can be as tough on gardens as it is on people. Blazing sun, unexpected downpours, and shifting soil conditions create a perfect storm of challenges for even the most seasoned gardeners. But with a few smart strategies, your garden can beat the heat and burst with life all summer long. Start from the Ground Up Great gardens grow from the ground up, and the secret lies in healthy soil. Think of soil as the lifeline for plants—holding nutrients, retaining moisture, and anchoring roots. Aust
Read more
If your New Year's resolution is to read more, why not take advantage of the Mackay Libraries' vast collection? Librarian Sally has curated a list of must-read books to add to your summer reading list: 1. "Remarkably Bright Creatures" by Shelby Van Pelt This heartwarming novel follows Tova Sullivan, a 70-year-old widow working as a night janitor at the Sowell Bay Aquarium. There, she forms an unexpected bond with Marcellus, a giant Pacific octopus known for his mischievous nature. As their fri
Read more.jpg)
Cape Hillsborough’s Between the Tides has captured global attention, earning two prestigious accolades that cement its status as a leader in cultural tourism. Securing Silver in the Cultural Tourism category at the Queensland Tourism Awards and the Best Music Tourism Initiative at the 2024 Global Music Cities Awards in Riyadh, this event is set to shine as the centrepiece of the 2025 QLD Music Trails, The Reef. Held on Yuwi Country, the event has captivated audiences with its extraordinar
Read more
Last weekend saw eight milestone recipients celebrated at Mackay parkrun’s latest event. Achieving 100-finish milestones were Teresa Hackney, Isabelle Cahill, and Kate Mumford. Reaching the 50-finish milestone were Shelby Freidman, Michael Davidson, Georgie Wilson, and Traccee Ramsamy. Trevor Hodgson was also recognised for his 25-volunteer milestone. Participants are encouraged to notify their Run Director before or after an event when they achieve a milestone. Age Category Record Smashed
Read more
With the energy of a dojo in full swing and the pride of a community backing them, Sarina’s Little Ninjas and Samurais brought their term to an electrifying close on their Graduation Day on 5 December 2024. Held in the Sarina High School hall, the event was a celebration of discipline, resilience, and the joy of learning martial arts, proving that even the youngest warriors can pack a punch when it comes to perseverance and spirit. This transformative programme, sponsored by Dalrymple Bay Coal
Read more
Mackay Wanderers Football Club is excited to announce that registrations for the 2025 season are officially open for the Whitsunday Coast community. Newly elected MWFC President, Greg Kliese, said the Club was thrilled to open registrations for the 2025 season and can’t wait to see their football family grow. “Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the sport, there’s a spot for everyone at Mackay Wanderers FC this year,” Mr Kliese said. The Club offers playing opportunities to boys, girls
Read more
Five first-year players claimed top-four positions this week. Karen Cadwell secured first place on Wednesday, Annette Howe and Jewel Schmidt tied for second on Friday, with Sue Mayer-Miller taking fourth place the same day, and Christopher Meyers earning third place on Saturday. This is an amazing effort for these first-year players. Bridge is a complex, fun game and these new members have taken to the game like ducks to water. Our Australia Day Come and Try day, sponsored by Mackay Regional Cou
Read more
It sure was great to see so many men’s bowlers participate in the start of our 2025 club competition events. Over 50 players were present on Saturday, competing in the opening round of the Open Fours, with 36 vying for the right to progress to the second round of the Open Pairs on Sunday morning. A big thank you to all of the bowlers that took part and the Umpires that volunteered their time in assisting to make the weekend a smooth transition from our end of year break. Some close games with th
Read more
The Mackay Road Runners’ informal off-season training series has been a resounding success. The addition of Shawn’s Summer Series Splash & Dash Biathlon has replaced the usual running-only program. This exciting new format has been a refreshing change, especially given the intense humidity at this time of year. Race Director, Club Captain, and Life Member Jim Ford has been the driving force behind the program for many years, alongside the regular Wednesday 5:30pm track training sessions, whi
Read more