RETURNS AFTER THREE YEAR HIATUS The local wedding industry just got bigger, bolder, and more exciting thanks to the newly rejuvenated Mackay and Whitsunday Annual Wedding Expo which is due to take place at the MECC on Sunday, 4 February, from 10am - 1pm. Launched in 2020 by local wedding and event specialist Ramona Burki from Element Events by Ramona, the Mackay and Whitsunday Wedding Expo was a huge success, but future plans were halted by the pandemic until the event became re-charged for 20
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As the mercury rises, this week’s good deed is a reminder to stay vigilant around water. Sherry Ferguson, in a heartfelt message on the Mums and Bubs of Mackay & the Whitsundays Facebook group, recounted a recent heart-stopping incident that transformed into a tale of immense gratitude towards local heroes. During a family outing at the Bluewater Lagoon, an unforeseen turn of events unfolded when Sherry's daughter, aged 19, found herself facing a nerve-wracking situation. While enjoying the day
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Ah, cyclone season—when the skies turn ominous, and we find ourselves glued to weather forecasts more than our favourite TV series. Here in Mackay, November through April is our version of a rollercoaster ride, with storms and cyclones potentially on the horizon. In Mackay Life, we've just wrapped up four weeks of disaster preparedness, reminding us that being ready for anything nature throws our way is not just a suggestion but a necessity. Our final Disaster Month feature can be found on pages
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A secret audit of Queensland’s roads has revealed almost half of Queensland’s Bruce Highway has a two-star safety rating or less. Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, said he is disappointed but not surprised the electorate of Dawson had the lowest overall star rating, with 63.4 per cent rated two stars or lower. Mr Willcox said much needed infrastructure projects like the Mackay Ring Road Stage 2 and the Goorganga Plains Flood Immunity project have been delayed by the Australian Governmen
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Mackay Man Dies 13 Days After Car Crash A serious traffic crash occurred in St Lawrence, south of Mackay on 7th November. Early investigations indicated that a truck left the Bruce Highway and crashed into a tree near Wumalgi Road, around 7am. At the time the driver and sole occupant of the vehicle, a 55-year-old man from Rural View, was flown to Rockhampton Base Hospital in a critical condition. Queensland Police Service released a statement on 20th November informing the public that the 55-yea
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Officially Opened At CQ University The Mackay campus of CQ University has officially opened a new room, dedicated to First Nations students, staff and community members. The new room provides a safe environment that is culturally rich, for students, staff, and the community to have a space for study and independent work. Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Nick Klomp said the space was an “incredibly important addition to the campus”. “CQUniversity is proud to be one of Australia’s most a
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Mackay Regional Council have kicked in $10,000 to boost festive celebrations in regional areas like Grasstree Beach, Calen, Midge Point and Marian. From carols to morning teas, movie nights to lolly drops and everything in between – the Mackay region will be buzzing with festive fun. Christmas Grants were awarded to 13 exciting events and Mackay City Band was also supported to perform at a number of community carols and Christmas events, like the Habana carols and various retirement village perf
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The Mackay Tiger Moth Museum Inc is a long-standing non-profit organisation, run by local volunteers who possess a proud passion for aviation. The group began in 1974, when the founding members of the group, formerly known as The Tiger Moth Trust banded together to purchase a Tiger Moth that had been restored locally and was in danger of being sold to America. Support was gathered from the Mackay community to purchase the Tiger Moth and the Trust (now The Mackay Tiger Moth Museum) was formed to
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For RFDS Awards The Royal Flying Doctor Service (RDFS) are hosting their annual Local Hero Awards, recognising Queenslanders who go above and beyond to support their community. The RFDS began in 1928, providing vital healthcare to regional, rural and remote areas. With nine bases operating throughout the state, they form a strategic network and help deliver the finest healthcare to all Queenslanders. Without the ongoing support of the communities in which RFDS operate, they simply would not exi
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Families of the Pioneer Valley gathered to experience an extra special Remembrance Day this year, with a service at the cenotaph followed by an unveiling of Finch Hatton RSL’s World War II Honour Gallery. With over two-hundred and fifty people in attendance from the local area and surrounds, the unveiling was a joint affair with RSL Life member David Oliver, RSL auxiliary Life Member Graeme Ware and auxiliary member Wendy Sievers all sharing in the honour. The World War II Honour Gallery follow
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With Doctor Rana of Ritu Rana Medical Doctor Ritu Rana of Ritu Rana Medical has a tremendous passion for gynaecology, pregnancy and fertility, everyday acknowledging that the gift of new life is one to be appreciated well before birth. Dr. Rana has an extensive background in the field of medicine, having done her basic medical training in India, moving on to Obstetrics and Gynaecology and a fellowship in Assisted Reproduction in the United Kingdom before moving to Australia for the sunshine. St
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Construction work on a prime riverfront food and beverage site in River Street has been paused to allow time to consider new design and construct options. Work on the council-owned building, formerly Maria’s Donkey and more recently the Don Daniels restaurant site, is being undertaken by Woollam Constructions. It is part of development in the Mackay Waterfront Priority Development Area (PDA), with other nearby projects being the completed River Wharves and the upcoming installation of a pontoon.
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A dedicated student from Mackay State High School was announced as the recipient of the 2024 Hill Family Scholarship this week, in honour of his great dedication to his academic achievements. The Hill Family Scholarship provides vital financial support of $5,000 to one deserving student each year, who is embarking on their tertiary education journey within the fields of law, accounting, or commerce. Year 12 Mackay State High School student Ned Gething won the 2024 scholarship, the accolade sho
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I bought a car the other day and, as a sales person, it was an interesting experience. I don’t like spending a lot of money on cars and, as someone with a 16-year-old son, a 20-year-old daughter and a wife, there’s not much left for me anyway. So I decided on a budget. That budget would have got me a brand new four-cylinder Japanese or Korean SUV but I wanted something a bit better, sportier, something a step up from my old Toyota Aurion that was about to die a painful, age-related death. I narr
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Festival Fever is the theme, $1000 dollars is the prize and the front cover of the 2024 Mackay Festival of Arts program is the canvas. The Mackay Festivals team is calling on artists, graphic designers, freelance creators, hobbyists, beginners and everyone in between to show off their creativity, imagination and artistic skills. The winning artwork will be featured on the cover of the 2024 program and will inspire the branding of the 2024 festival. The winning artist will also receive $1000 in p
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I have, and I do it quite often. Let’s just say I don’t have great willpower. I say that because 10 weeks ago I was shopping for Christmas decorations with my kids, and we bought a gigantic wooden advent calendar with all the sliding drawers for gifts to put in each one for the month. When we got that, I thought wouldn’t it be great to have little chocolates to put in each drawer, so I decided to grab one of those big mixed boxes of sweets. It has a few dozen little parcels of greatness wrappe
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Sporting fans from across the region gathered at a special fundraising event earlier this week, the crowds eager to meet two sporting legends, Ivan Cleary and Kerry Boustead, who shared their inspiring stories. Held at Souths Leagues Club, the event was also an opportunity to connect with recently announced mayoral candidate, Steve Jackson, who was available to answer questions. The audience enjoyed a vibrant atmosphere at the sold-out event, with a seafood and meat buffet, drinks and desserts,
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By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay It has been saddening to see the many bushfires hitting rural communities across Queensland in recent months. Like any natural disaster, bushfires hit hard on farming businesses, sometimes undoing the work of generations. It’s also saddening to hear of cane farmers losing part or all of their crop, and doubly so to hear that they have not had crop insurance. Growers invest a great deal in bringing a crop to harvest, in terms of soil health, fertilising
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Celebrating Mackay's Man of the Year In a world where conversations often revolve around physical health, what about the well-being of men's minds? Shed Happens, with major sponsors DGH Engineering, recently sparked discussions on this critical topic, bringing together 141 individuals at an International Men's Day Breakfast, under the banner of "Health & Well-being for All Generations of Men." The event wasn't just a morning meal; it was a celebration of mateship and men's mental health. Phil
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With A Perfect Present From Mackay Music Whether you're embarking on a musical journey as a novice, searching for your dream instrument as a seasoned professional, or in need of comprehensive event gear, Mackay Music stands as the reliable choice committed to meeting all your musical needs. With a legacy of twenty-four years in the business, Owner Kelly Cacciola and her team have made Mackay Music a go-to destination for musicians of all ages and skill levels. The team at Mackay Music boasts a
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Get Your Tastebuds Tingling At Mackay Farmers Market Every Wednesday morning from 6:30am to 10:30am, Mackay comes alive with the Mackay Farmers' Market Inc. at the picturesque Bluewater Quay. Two years ago, stall holders started the incorporation to continue offering Mackay locals a chance to experience the midweek market. This is your go-to destination for all things fresh and locally sourced, with an abundant array of quality produce and products. Start your morning right, with a cup of coffe
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GW Industrial had its’ first beginnings in 1982. Current owner and director, Shelley Walsh purchased the company formerly known as Geoff Walsh Engine Parts from her father in 2007. Five years later, the automotive division was sold to Burson Auto Parts and the rebranded GW Industrial, focused on supporting the industrial sector. Build - Farm - Mine was born. The business takes pride in their commitment to excellence and services a wide range of industries in Mackay and the Bowen Basin, offering
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Students of Whitsunday Anglican School celebrated the last day of their schooling career last week with a special day ceremony to commemorate their achievements and a 'Walk of Honour’ to highlight their success. The assembly, led by Year 12 school captains reflected on the years of learning, love, and laughter within the graduating class of 2023. Students from each faction—Trinity, Barnabas, Charles and Ambrose—were presented on stage, with Charles earning the title of Champion House. Whitsunda
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The Paxton’s Portrait Prize is in its’ ninth year, this year introducing the Pet Portrait category with entries from talented artists from around the Mackay region. The event is the brainchild of Lynn Robson and Melissa Larsen, both realising there was really no way for children and students to be able to exhibit their artwork in a local exhibition. This event provides a platform for young artists to show off their creative talents. The event is themed around the Archibald Prize, with conditions
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Friday 24 November Friday Night Live Music Every Friday from 5pm Join us on Friday’s from 5pm for live music from our local favourites, good food and great company. | Free entry. Boomerang Hotel The Radiators (Live) From 8pm Get ready to immerse yourself in an unforgettable night of classic hits, high-energy performances, and pure rock ‘n’ roll magic as The Radiators take the stage. | Tickets available at oztix.com.au Seabreeze Hotel Mackay Twilight Market From 5pm to 8:30pm and Saturday 4p
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