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Fresh warnings have been raised about drink spiking in Airlie Beach after a Sunshine Coast visitor was rushed to hospital with a dangerously low heart rate. Sam Hensen and his friend Erik had flown to Townsville to pick up a newly purchased LandCruiser and on their way home, stopped into town for a bit of fun. About 30 minutes into the night, Erik began feeling unwell and returned to their accommodation, where his condition rapidly deteriorated. “I came back to him about an hour later, in absolute agony,” Sam said in a Tik Tok video. “He was completely out of it and seeing the severity of the situation, I decided to call an ambulance. Erik was assessed by paramedics, who recorded his heart rate at just 37 beats per minute. Erik remained in hospital overnight before flying home to the Sunshine Coast, bringing the trip to an abrupt end, with Sam mentioning the effects lingered for several days with Erik still feeling mentally unsettled after returning home. Sam later shared the experience on social media to warn others about how quickly drink spiking can take hold. The video attracted more than 250,000 reactions, with many viewers sharing similar experiences of their own. “We don’t know when, where or who did it,” Sam said in the video. “These horrible people don’t just spike you to commit sexual assault, they also spike you to rob you on your way home. “A lot of blokes have the same mindset as me, and they need to know this can happen at anytime at any place to anyone.” Erik’s ordeal echoes an account previously shared with this newspaper by an Airlie Beach resident, who believes her drink was tampered with while she was out with a group of friends. The young woman, who chose not to be identified, remembered little between drinking at the venue and finding herself isolated in a bathroom, where her body would no longer respond as she tried to call for help. “It wasn’t like being drunk,” she said at the time. “My mind was present, but I couldn’t control my body.” “I wanted to pick up my phone to call a friend, but it was like I couldn’t control my body.” After repeatedly trying to get herself off the floor, the woman was left bruised and sore before being taken home safely by a friend. During a later hospital visit, she described what had happened to a doctor, who told her the symptoms indicated her drink had likely been spiked. Together, the two accounts show how suddenly suspected drink spiking can take effect and why an unexpected reaction after only a small amount of alcohol should never be dismissed.
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Bowen paramedics have welcomed a new $282,000 patient transport ambulance, providing a more comfortable and practical way to move patients throughout the region. Member for Burdekin Dale Last said this addition was vital to maintaining a strong, well-functioning health system in Bowen. “The Crisafulli Government is committed to delivering a world-class health system for all Queenslanders, no matter where they live. Part of that commitment is giving our ambulance officers the resources they need to do their jobs safely,” Mr Last said. “In Bowen our QAS plays a vital role in transporting more acute patients to larger, referring hospitals, which is why we have ensured they have a state-of-the-art vehicle to meet the needs of our officers and patients.” The new vehicle can carry two patients on powered stretchers, with room for up to four additional patients who can walk aboard. It also has a refrigerated compartment to keep medication at the correct temperature, while a video display allows the driver to keep a closer eye on the patient area throughout the journey. Bowen ambulance crews spend much of their time transporting patients beyond the town to other parts of the region, making the new vehicle a timely and welcome addition. “It’s fantastic, as it’s replacing an older vehicle, so it's a lot smoother and more comfortable for patients,” said Heather Shields, officer in charge at the Bowen Ambulance Station. “We do transfers from Bowen Hospital to Mackay, or Bowen to Townsville University Hospital and we quite often transfer patients to and from Collinsville to Bowen Hospital as well, from Bowen to Collinsville Hospital. “But due to the number of kilometers that we do each year in that vehicle, it was getting dated.” Besides giving patients a smoother trip the vehicle will make everyday transfers easier and safer for Bowen’s ambulance officers, with its powered loading systems reduce the physical strain involved in moving patients, particularly during the station’s frequent long-distance trips. “There’s no lifting required with the stretchers to get them in and out of the vehicle when they’ve got patients on them,” Heather said. “It’s a great addition to our fleet at Bowen Station and for the community.” Dale Last presenting the Bowen QAS with the newest addition to their fleet. Photo supplied
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The sewing team at the Zonta Club of the Whitsundays has put its needles to work, creating specially shaped breast cancer cushions for women recovering from mastectomy surgery. Made during a recent club working bee, the cushions are designed to provide comfort and support during recovery, helping to ease pressure around the chest and underarm following surgery. Ahead of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the finished cushions will be distributed through Proserpine and Mackay hospitals to women who may need them. “It’s one of the quieter things we do as a club, but also one of the most meaningful,” said club president, Marlene Reiffel. “Our working bees give us the chance to come together, enjoy each other’s company and create something practical that can make a difficult time just a little more comfortable for someone in our community.” For more than 100 years, Zonta International has worked to support women and girls, with the Whitsundays club continuing that legacy locally with initiatives such as this one. Photo caption: The ladies putting their sewing skills to work for women recovering from breast cancer surgery. Photo supplied: Marlene Reiffel
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Bowen Growers Speak Out Against New Backpacker Visa Restrictions In Bowen, a good harvest depends on having hands at the ready when the crops are ripe. Backpackers have long provided that workforce, moving with the seasons and helping growers bring capsicums, mangoes, tomatoes and other produce from the paddock to Australian tables. But under the Federal Government’s proposed changes, second-year working holiday visas would be capped at 45,000 and third-year visas at 5,000, with places decided by ballot. Local farmers fear that uncertainty could leave regional communities without the seasonal workforce they have come to rely on.
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Souths Suburban’s Shaneel Prasad claimed the Mackay District B Singles Champion of Champions title at Proserpine Bowls Club last weekend, defeating Wests Tigers’ Mark Brown 25–12 in Sunday’s final. Prasad booked his place in the decider with a 25–16 semi-final victory over Mackay RSL Memorial’s Kaleb Lowth, while Brown defeated Mackay City’s Ian Nicholas 26–9. Saturday’s quarter-finals saw Nicholas defeat St Helens’ Larry Charles 25–21, Brown overcome Northern Beaches’ Fabian Vella 25–18, Prasad record a commanding 25–2 win over Mackay Club’s Brian Williams and Lowth defeat Airlie Beach’s Arthur McManus 25–16. Earlier, Vella defeated Pioneer Valley’s Janine Schuurman 26–11, Brown edged Proserpine’s David Ling 25–21 and Lowth defeated North Mackay’s Shane Trannore 25–14. In Wednesday social bowls, Henny Tattam and Philip Brown defeated Alen Sanderson and Mike Harrison 16–10. The second game ended 9–3, with Tattam and Heather Brown among the winners. Proserpine Bowls Club thanked the players, supporters and volunteers who prepared the green, marked matches and assisted with the bar, lunch and event preparations. Contributed with thanks to the proserpine bowls club. Photo caption: Champion of Champion B Singles, Mark Brown from Wests Tigers (Runner Up) and Shaneel Prasad from Souths Suburban (Winner). Photo supplied
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By Zach Houtenville A family of four was winched to safety in an early morning helicopter rescue last weekend after their vessel ran aground on a Reef about 120 kilometres offshore. On the afternoon of 18th September, Gary Dorman and his family departed the Whitsundays aboard their yacht, setting off for a 30-to-36-hour passage to Herald Cays, about 180 nautical miles north, where they planned to anchor and explore the remote islands and reefs. But at around 1am, while Gary kept watch, the voyage took a terrifying turn. Despite the family’s electronic charts showing they were travelling through deep water, the yacht suddenly struck a reef north of Elizabeth Reef, coming to an abrupt stop before listing about 60 degrees onto its side. “The first thing I noticed was that the dinghy had started to surf on white water, like a small wave, and then we came to a stop,” Gary said. “The boat listed to about 60 degrees because the keel was sitting on the reef, leaving it supported by the keel and the side of the hull.” The family placed a Mayday call via satellite phone and activated their emergency beacon, but what followed was six harrowing hours as waves repeatedly lifted the yacht and slammed it back onto the reef. “It’s a horrific sound, having the keel scrape along the rocky bottom of the ocean while the boat groans as it tries to stay together,” Gary said. “For six hours, we were being thrown around by waves, as the boat would lift slightly as each wave hit, then fall onto its side again and be dragged along the bottom.” Gary praised the way his family remained calm during the ordeal, working together as a team to manage the situation until help arrived. “All three of them handled it remarkably,” Gary said. “They understood the gravity of the situation and knew we had to keep it together, work as a team and get each other through it.” Within an hour of the distress call, a rescue vessel was launched from Airlie Beach, while an AMSA Challenger jet arrived soon after to monitor the stranded family from above. As daylight approached, the BMA CQ Rescue helicopter was dispatched from Mackay, reaching the yacht around sunrise as its condition continued to deteriorate. With the mast and violent movement of the vessel making it too dangerous to approach directly, a rescue swimmer was lowered into the water before helping each family member reach the winch cable. “The rescue crew were absolutely fantastic, from the pilot and paramedic through to the rescue swimmer,” Gary said. “One by one, she took my family from the boat. It would have been a lot more difficult if we had needed to be rescued from that reef by another vessel.” The family was winched to safety and, despite the ordeal, escaped relatively unscathed, other than Gary sustaining a minor head injury. While grateful his family survived, Gary said the incident had raised serious concerns about the reliability of electronic navigational charts. He said the reef was missing from the electronic charts used aboard the yacht, which showed the family travelling through deep water when the vessel ran aground, and one he claims was visible on paper maps. “This was a known reef because it’s on the paper charts, but it’s not on the electronic charts,” Gary said. “It’s unacceptable that, this close to mainland Australia, we have charts that are not showing hazardous terrain.” For Gary, ensuring those hazards are accurately mapped could prevent another family from enduring the same ordeal. Photo 1- Marooned boat north of Elizabeth Reef. Photo supplied: BMA CQ Rescue
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Congratulations to Alf Lewis, who won the Senior Singles Final at Northern Mackay Bowls Club last Saturday afternoon. Lewis defeated Alan Cooney 25-23 in a tightly contested game to claim the title. He will now progress to the District Champion of Champions Final later this month. (L) Alf Lewis and (R) Alan Cooney. Photo supplied
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Contributed with thanks by Carole Weekes The bushwalker club’s activities were centred on the Mt Ossa area last Sunday, and eleven members left town in a convoy at 8 am, ready to start walking by 9.30 either in the Mt Ossa National Park or around a private property nearby. A group of six accessed the creek that marks the start of the route up to the plateau that connects with Mt Ossa. Rainforest was soon replaced by dense grass trees as the walkers, guided by Ken Fihelly, continued the climb. After a steep pull, the participants arrived at the lookout, admiring the views over the farmlands to Mt Dalrymple in the west and Mt Blackwood to the south east. The eastern edge of the plateau was followed northwards, among the rocks and grass trees. The group turned around where the plateau starts to descend towards Ossa Creek, and after lunch, returned along the western edge. Meanwhile the five walkers who had chosen the less challenging option were covering about 6 kms by following the farm boundary fences and encountering a variety of terrain including gentle gullies, open forest and grassland, steep ascents and descents over rough tracks, and flat headlands. The distant hills and mountains, stately forest giants, a mix of farm animals, some very young, and a vocal kookaburra at close range, and a snake at even closer range, all made for a pleasant day in the delightful area. Lunch was taken beside a dam and within sight of horses, sheep and goats. A short stroll along a dirt road led us back to the cars for the return trip to Mackay. Photos supplied
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Photo supplied Well another season is nearly over, next Tuesday Night we are playing finals, please come and watch and join the Round Robin. EVENING FIXTURES - Season 3 Division 1: Jaguars (Mick Ruhl, Graeme Walker, Syed Hossain) defeated Cheetahs (Neil Brown, Janice Kent, Allan Edwards) 6-5, with Janice and Graeme having a great battle that could have gone either way (-4,4,9,-9,11). Leopards (Steve Whiting, Geoff Cowan, Dilini Ranasinghe) won against Lions (Graham Brake, Josh Brown, Will VanDaKaa) 7-4, Geoff outlasted Graham B in close 5 sets (-8,5,9,-9,4). Tigers (Lily Boland, Anne Sheridan, Remy Zhan) won 7-4 over Pumas (Trent Day, Yilin Jiang, Duncan Treloar), Remy was to strong for Trent (13,8,-8,-7,6). Hawks (Robbie Richards, Lee Brake, Andrea Nicholson) defeated Magpies (Barry Patterson, Rod Mahumas, Abbas Irshad) 7-4, Andrea overcame Rod to win in close 5 sets (-8,7,7,-6,7). Division 2: Bass (Daniel Warfield, Tiffany Camilleri, Jeff Bennington) got home against Cod (Mark Sleeman, Steve Mathieson, Darryl Ross) 7-4, Darryl just outlasted Tiffany (10,-9,5,-11,10).Squid (George Camilleri, Peter Goodson) got home 3-2 over Cuttlefish (Ian McKay, Logan Brown), with each team missing a player, George and Peter snuck home in 4 sets against Ian and Logan (9,-4,8,11). Dolphins (Mark Stam, Mark Bowerman, Ricky Zhan) defeated Mackeral (Ollie Hamelink, Craig VanDeKaa) 6-5, Ricky and Ollie had a great match with Ricky winning (6,-9,6,-9,8). Trout (Tony Bowman, Liz Burton, Bill Constanti) overcome Grunter (Lochlan Loy, Rachel Fiesta, Jason Lee) 10-1, with no 5 set matches Tony won close match against Lochlan (-11,3,5,9). Contributed by Andrea Payne
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Contributed with thanks by Dan Stampa In a break with the traditional Saturday “Jim Session” the North Mackay Sinkers came together on Saturday 12th for a huge morning of swimming as the club hosted its Endurance 1000 event — part of Masters Swimming Australia’s long‑running national aerobic program designed to encourage swimmers to complete distances from 400 metres through to 60‑minute swims. Held at the DMR Memorial Swim Centre, our regular training venue, swimmers and volunteers were greeted by good weather, crystal clear water and the always comfortable pool temperature and beautiful grounds. More than 20 members hit the water, taking on a variety of Endurance 1000 swims — from steady 400s and 800s to longer aerobic efforts. The program rewards consistency and participation, with points earned for completing different events that contribute to the club’s overall tally in the national standings. Individuals can complete a maximum of 62 swims for 1005 points including 5 each of difficult 400 and 800 m butterfly swims. After the swims wrapped up, members stayed on deck for a relaxed BBQ breakfast, sharing stories from the morning and celebrating the effort put in across all lanes. It was the perfect way to round out a productive and enjoyable club session. The Endurance 1000 program continues to grow nationally, with increasing participation each year. For the Sinkers, events like Saturday’s session help build aerobic fitness, strengthen club culture, and contribute valuable points toward the wider Masters Swimming Australia rankings. The latest points earned have moved the club to its highest points tally in over a decade. Future events are planned during the remaining portion of the year and should propel the club well in the State and National annual standings. Dee McMurtrie – Organised the timekeepers’ swimmers and events. Debra Cody (L) and Sally McGlashan after completing their swims. Arthur Douglas swam a 30-minute freestyle to earn top points for the club. Photos supplied
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The latest Mystery Run delivered plenty of standout performances and unexpected highlights, with Race Director Andrew Short marking the course from the Boomerang Hotel. Among the top 10 highlights were: Craig Joynson – completed his first ever 10km. Daniel Stampa – returned following a six-month taper. Boomerang Hotel – provided high-quality service at the post-run refreshments, including complimentary blankets for patrons. A spectacular 1977 Holden Torana – a fully restored classic car was parked at the Boomerang. Kayla Waugh – enjoyed some impromptu wedding celebrations ahead of her wedding on Monday week. Jo Hughes – returned to running after a one-month hiatus, along with some secret training in NSW. Belinda Rule – returned to look after her boys, “’cause they need it”. Toby Rule and Harry Sleeman – dusted up their respective dads. Derek Woods – had a great 10km run despite popping his shoulder while doing tricks on his board at the wake park. Leanne Connor – was left deciding which was her left arm from her other left arm. Contributed with thanks by Janelle Tilse 7947 – Avid Mackay Road Runners braved the very warm temperatures and coolish breezes for the inaugural Boomerang Hotel 5k & 10k social run 7984 – Daniel Stampa made a welcome return to the Mackay Road Runners Sunday arvo social run with a steamy 5km performance 7997 – Harry Sleeman (left) and Toby Rule tackle the 10km run in unison as preparation for upcoming State selections in Townsville 7993 – Leanne Connor (left) and Kim Saron are excited about the final few hundred metres to the finish line in the 5km event 8020 – Kayla Waugh (left) practicing her wedding dance steps with fellow road runners, Craig McGahey, Kim Saron, Leanne Connor, Jo Hughes and Jo Skinner 8027 – Craig Joynson had an excellent but tiring first ever 10km outing 8040 – Mackay Road Runners’ Race Director, legendary club stalwart, life member and all round ‘does everything’ man, Andrew Short. Photos supplied: Mackay Road Runners
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Twelve teams took part in this week’s Unders & Overs event, with ‘Unders’ defined as players with less than 100 Masterpoints as at 30/06/25. Congratulations to the winning team - Sue Mayer Miller, Martin Pearce, Janelle Conroy & Janine Rodgers. Weekly Result Monday 7th September 2026 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points N/S E/W 1st Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan 1st Ming Ting / Jennifer Cameron 2nd Janine Rodgers / Annette Howe 2nd Nancy Martin / Geoff Taylor 3rd Terry Sheedy / Glen Cocup 3rd Diane Holewa / Max Holewa 4th Margaret Lane / Barbara Tait 4th Monica Darley / Joy Block Tuesday Evening 8th September 2026 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points 1st Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor 2nd Helen Van Den Broek / Terry Sheedy 3rd Mick King / John McGee 4th Chelsea Presley / Alison Pighills Wednesday 9th September 2026 – Unders and Overs Teams - 12 Table Mitchell Green Points Team Players 1st Mayer-Miller Sue Mayer-Miller / Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy / Martin Pearce 2nd Schmidt Jewel Schmidt / Janet Hansen / Annette Howe / Alan Brown 3rd Fitzpatrick Christine Fitzpatrick / Gwen Liddell / Anne Lutz / Louise Renton 4th Rassmussen Patrick Rassmussen / Mary Rose Ramsden / Sandy Patterson / Errol Morris Thursday Evening 10th September 2026 –- 5 Table One Winner Green Points 1st Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless 2nd Anne Lutz / Geoff Taylor 3rd Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy 4th Louise Renton / John McGee Friday 4th September 2026 –- 17 of 26 NWP - 11 Table Mitchell Green Points 1st Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 1st Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix 2nd Kath Poole / Nancy Martin 2nd Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson 3rd Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes 3rd Louise Renton / Christine Nice 4th Gillian McCallum / Rod Miles 4th Ming Ting / David Ting 5th Diane Cox / Anne Lutz 5th Geoff Taylor / Joy Robinson Saturday 12th September 2026 –-12 Table Mitchell Red points Team Players 1st Holewa Diane Holewa / Max Holewa / Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 2nd Goodchild Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild / Ming Ting / David Ting 3rd Brown Frances Brown / Alan Brown / Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan 4th Harris Jan Harris / Julie O’Neill / Sandra Morris / Annie Lynch Contributed with thanks by Joy Block Sue, Martin, Janelle & Janine. Photo supplied
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Whitsunday Anglican School students battled it out on the field earlier this month, with Trinity House crowned the winners of the school’s inaugural Interhouse Football Competition. A representative from Whitsunday Anglican School said the competition had provided plenty of excitement both on and off the field. “It has been an amazing couple of weeks of competition between all four Houses. There has been plenty of intensity on the field, but more importantly, lots of fun!” the representative said. “It has been fantastic to see so many students getting behind their Houses and showing their House spirit.” The competition also gave students who may not normally play football an opportunity to take part and try something new. The school thanked students, parents and staff for supporting the competition, while also recognising Mr Song and Mr Carter for their work in bringing the event together. “A big shout-out to Mr Song and Mr Carter for their efforts in putting together this competition. What energy and passion our students have for sport!” Photo source: Whitsunday Anglican School
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By Hannah McNamara On Friday 11th September, women from all walks of life gathered at the Barrel Room Deli Nook to take part in the ‘Women Over 40’ Portrait Project Exhibition, where stories and smile lines were captured and framed in celebration of the lives and stories of 16 women over 40. Behind the art was Alyce Holzy, owner of Holzy Photography and Boudoir By Alyce. The idea stemmed from Alyce’s passion for portraits which she says was inspired by the photographs on the walls of her Nan’s house, as well as the recent milestone of turning 40 herself. On the night of the event, Alyce stood by the entryway admiring all the women she had photographed, now gathered together in one space and staring at their pictures framed on the wall. With tears in her eyes, she expressed her immense gratitude and honour for the women who had been part of her special project. “Now that it’s all here, I’m pretty emotional watching everyone’s reactions.” “It’s just lovely to see everyone supporting one another.” “There’s laughter, there’s joy, and I can see there’s some realisation of the amount of work that’s gone into this project … I’m still pinching myself that all of this has come together, and here we are celebrating these incredible women and the stories they bring with them.” “I’m really proud of this project, and I couldn’t be happier with how it’s turned out.” Throughout the project, women were pampered, photographed and professionally framed, with each participant also given the opportunity to share her story. A coffee-table-style book was created featuring the women and their stories, with each participant gifted a copy at the special exhibition and gala. Alyce said the project has become close to her heart, filled with moments of connection, laughter and emotion. “I’ve had laughs with some of the women, even belly laughs!” “I’ve also shed tears with some of the women – it’s truly been a touching experience.” The project also proudly supported The Neighbourhood Hub Mackay, with the 40 Over 40 Portrait Project donating $1,600 to the organisation. Alyce also acknowledged the local businesses, organisations and community members who helped bring the project to life, thanking Funk It Up Mackay, Atkins Lab, Barrel Room by Plattered Up/The Deli Nook, Soleil Coastal, Nancy’s Gym, Ella Bache Mackay, Laffos, Hotel Mackay, Laffos Cookies, The Avenue, Hairway Mackay and Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal, as well as the many unsung heroes who advocated for the 40 Over 40 Project. Local women gathered at Barrel Room Deli Nook to celebrate 16 women and their stories through Alyce Holzy’s ‘Women Over 40’ Portrait Project Exhibition. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
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I reckon there are several things that give a true indication of an underlying confidence in a city’s economy and its future. There might be many others that I am far too unsophisticated to have noted but the ones I am referring to are: new childcare centres, new aged care facilities and pub renovations. When companies invest money in the construction and infrastructure required for these businesses they have had to do their research. The cost of building and fitting out a childcare centre is huge and there are new ones dotted around Mackay. You don’t invest the sort of money that is required for that unless you are very, very confident that there is going to be a strong and prolonged demand for the services of the childcare centre. Now this is one of the many areas in which I have no expertise whatsoever, however I find myself thinking about these things and I imagine there are a few key things that an investor in child care centres takes into account before deciding to spend millions of dollars building a new facility. One reasonably obvious question they would ask themselves is: are there going to be enough kids in this town to create the demand we need to justify the investment we are making? There might be lots of kids now but will there be plenty in 10 years’ time? I imagine that if the answer to those questions is “no”, the childcare operators would walk away before spending the money. But there has been a proliferation of childcare centres. Now these kids are not hanging around Mackay by themselves; they are part of families and have parents who are living and working in Mackay. The childcare operator obviously feel that these families are putting down roots in Mackay. They’re not fly-by-nighters, they are here for the long-term, working, buying a property, raising kids. It’s similar with aged care facilities and retirement homes. You don’t invest the enormous amount of money required to set them up unless you expect long-term strong demand for the services of the facility. These facilities are for people who have spent significant portions of their lives in Mackay. Many of them will have families, adult children and grandkids who are still in the region and nearby. Just like the decision to build childcare centres, you only invest in them if you have done your research and strongly believe that there is going to be continuing population growth that will sustain your investment for many years to come. You don’t invest if you think the city is heading for a decline in activity and population. It’s a great vote of confidence in Mackay. The city has a strong, more diverse economy and offers employment and lifestyle opportunities that attract people from all over the country. Coal is still a driver of our economy but most of what we dig up and export is coking coal, which is used to make steel. Iron ore and coking coal creates steel and we have the best coal in the world. We do have a more diverse economy these days, which adds to the confidence. As for pubs, several have been extensively renovated and brought to life in the past couple of years. The thing about pubs is that they rely on customers having discretionary income … spare cash that they can spend at the bistro with the family, having a few beers with mates on a Friday night. Again, that is a vote of confidence in Mackay’s economy and its future. The evidence is telling the pub investors that Mackay is a vibrant, busy city with a good economy where people make enough money to enjoy the social side of life. Otherwise you wouldn’t invest the millions in renovating pubs and bringing them back to life. At a time of national concern about the Australian property market, all this bodes well for the Mackay property sector.
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Months of early mornings, sacrificed lunch breaks and weekend rehearsals have paid off, with Mackay North State High School securing three state titles and two Grand Champion crowns at the Australian All Star Cheerleading Federation Queensland State Championships. The school’s cheer, hip hop and contemporary teams each placed first on the Gold Coast at the weekend. The cheer team was also named Grand Champion after achieving the highest score across its broader level, while the contemporary team was crowned overall scholastic dance champion after recording the highest-scoring routine across all school dance divisions. The event marked the cheer team’s first away competition and the dance teams’ first outside Mackay in several years. Cheer coach and teacher Kelly Munt said the 23 athletes had to master different moves and sequences while working together to execute one seamless routine. “We knew the potential (to win) was absolutely there,” Mrs Munt said. “We’ve got some super talented and dedicated athletes across the board.” Their preparation paid off when the cheerleaders “hit zero”, meaning they executed the fast-paced routine without receiving a single deduction. “I gave the kids a pretty challenging routine, if I’m being honest, for a school team,” Mrs Munt said. “For them to go out there, have a belief in themselves and put that on the floor was incredible.” Year 11 cheer student Erin Insch said the unexpected result prompted celebrations and “a couple of happy tears” from her peers. North High offers cheer as a subject from Years 8 to 10, while senior students can give up their flexible learning time to continue training and mentor younger athletes. Erin said the program helped to build friendships across year levels and demanded complete trust, with every athlete’s performance affecting the entire routine. “You have to rely on the other girls,” she said. “You earn so many relationships and friendships between all the grades as well.” Dance teacher and coach Darci Martyn said the school had enjoyed success at local competitions, including Mackay’s Infinite Spirit event, but this was its first triumph at state level. She said the win was unexpected and a “great” reward for the students who had helped choreograph “really beautiful” routines. The students are now chasing back-to-back titles in 2027 and hope to eventually represent North High at a national competition. Mackay North State High School’s cheer, hip hop and contemporary teams have taken out three state titles and two Grand Champion crowns at the Queensland State Championships. Photos supplied by Mackay North State High School
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Photo source: ShutterstockWhat if some of the waste going into your kitchen bin each week could instead help feed your garden? Starting a compost cycle at home does not have to be complicated, and even a small backyard can have a simple system that turns everyday food scraps and garden waste into useful compost. At its most basic, composting is about combining different types of organic material and allowing them to break down naturally. There are plenty of everyday items that can become part of the compost pile, including: Fruit and vegetable scraps Fruit and vegetable peels Coffee grounds and coffee filters Tea leaves and tea bags, provided the bag is compostable Crushed eggshells Fresh grass clippings Dry leaves Small garden prunings Flowers and plant trimmings Weeds before they have gone to seed Straw and untreated hay Shredded newspaper Plain, non-glossy paper Uncoated cardboard, torn or cut into smaller pieces Small amounts of untreated sawdust or wood shavings A good place to start is with a compost bin, tumbler or designated area of the garden. It should have some airflow and ideally be positioned somewhere convenient, rather than hidden away where it will be forgotten. The trick is finding a balance between ‘green’ and ‘brown’ materials. Green materials are generally wetter and richer in nitrogen, such as fruit and vegetable scraps, fresh grass clippings and coffee grounds. Brown materials provide carbon and include dry leaves, cardboard, paper and other dry garden material. Rather than filling the compost with one type of material, try to mix the two. If the pile becomes very wet or starts to smell, it may need more dry material and airflow. If it is very dry and nothing seems to be breaking down, adding some moisture can help. Food scraps can be added gradually. Chopping larger pieces into smaller pieces can also help them break down faster. There are some things best left out of a basic backyard compost system. Meat, bones, dairy products, oils and greasy foods can attract unwanted pests and create problems. Avoid adding pet waste, diseased plants and materials that may contain chemicals or contaminants. A healthy compost pile should smell earthy rather than rotten. Turning or mixing it occasionally helps introduce oxygen and distributes moisture and materials throughout the pile. Eventually, the scraps and garden waste you started with will become a dark, crumbly material that can be added to garden beds or mixed into soil.
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Last week we celebrated Women’s Health Week, an opportunity to put women’s physical and mental health back on the priority list. The 2026 theme was “Do It Anyway” — recognising that small, achievable choices made each day can have a positive impact on our health and longevity. It’s never been harder to feel like we have it all “together” — meals, exercise, sleep, work, family, social calendars and wellbeing. Instead of aiming for perfection, Women’s Health Week encouraged us to focus on five areas where small shifts can make a lasting difference. FUEL Women’s nutritional needs change over their lifetime, from adolescence into midlife and menopause. So how can we be consistent? Make it simple and sustainable. Need to drink more water? Start with an extra glass a day. Need more fruits and vegetables? Start with adding a piece of fruit with breakfast, or 1-2 extra colours to your dinner. Choose foods you enjoy the most! And don’t shy away from the frozen section – same nutritional value, more convenient! MOVE Being time-poor is a common barrier to regular exercise and research shows women are less active than men. How you once stayed active may have changed with pregnancy, or now isn’t suitable to your body or lifestyle in later years. All women need to exercise for strength (muscles and bones), fitness (heart health) and pelvic floor function. Start by building these into your everyday life. Park further away, walk with a friend before coffee, do calf raises while brushing your teeth or squats while waiting for the microwave. Every workout starts with one movement. REST Sleep supports energy, brain function, mood and hormonal regulation. It’s not only about how long you sleep — quality, consistency and timing matter too. Try reducing caffeine or alcohol, dimming the lights and putting screens away before bed. Moving your body and eating well during the day can also support a better night’s rest. BREATHE Stress, work, caring responsibilities and hormonal changes can all contribute to feelings of overwhelm. Find moments of enjoyment in everyday life — walk the dog, call a friend, book the holiday or simply sit down and enjoy a cuppa. Ask yourself: what do I love that I haven’t done in a while? CONNECT Every woman needs a community that supports her through life’s changing seasons – whether it’s motherhood, retirement, disability or diagnosis. Connection might mean helping a friend, joining a group, checking in with someone you love — or being brave enough to ask for help yourself. Women’s Health Week may be over for another year, but its message doesn’t need to end there. Let go of the pressure to do everything perfectly and choose just one small thing you can do for your health today. Book the appointment you’ve been putting off, take the walk, call the friend, prioritise some rest or ask for support. Whatever it is, you don’t have to do it all. Just do one thing — and do it anyway. - Danae Gardner, from Women’s Health Physio Mackay
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Everything about four-year-old Blossom is big. She has a big, strong body, a big personality and an even bigger heart. Blossom was found wandering the streets and, sadly, when she was returned to her owner, they did not want her back. She came into care with a suspected broken hip, swollen joints, multiple ear infections, an eye infection, hot spots, a skin rash and heartworm. Thankfully, X-rays showed her hip was okay, and with veterinary treatment, care and plenty of TLC, Blossom has overcome her health issues, including heartworm. Now, she is full of energy and quite literally jumping out of her skin! Built like a Mack Truck but with a soft, loving and cheeky side, there was perhaps no better name for this big beautiful girl than Blossom. She is now looking for a special person or family who understands and loves big, strong gals and can give her the happy home she deserves. To meet Blossom, contact her carer on 0402 920 511 or email LLTAGSandDogRescue@gmail.com.
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What began with a love of creating beautiful experiences has grown into seven years of helping locals celebrate, connect and spend time together, without taking on all the work that comes with putting an event together. The Best Intentions Tent Co, founded and owned by Candace Reed, has evolved from a small glamping business into a luxury glamping and event-hire operation, providing styled bell tents and Cinema Luxe packages for everything from weddings and festivals to children’s parties, corporate events and backyard movie nights. “I think what makes The Best Intentions Tent Co special is that we don’t simply hire out a tent – we create an experience,” Candace said. The business provides tents, beds, hotel-quality linen, lighting and styling, with customers able to have equipment delivered, set up and packed down for them. “We take a blank outdoor space and transform it into somewhere people genuinely want to spend time,” Candace said. “Our customers don’t have to worry about transporting equipment, setting up beds, styling tents or packing everything away afterwards. They can simply turn up and just enjoy themselves.” As a locally owned business, Candace remains hands-on throughout the process, from the initial enquiry and planning through to styling, set-up and pack-down. “Being a small business means customers generally deal directly with me, which is something I really value,” she said. “I get to know the event, understand what the customer is looking for and then help bring the idea to life.” A highlight of the business’ offerings is its Cinema Luxe package, which brings outdoor movie nights to backyards, schools and community events, complete with a screen, projector, sound system and comfortable seating. “Glamping isn’t just for festivals and weddings!” Candace said. The company caters to children’s sleepovers, girls’ weekends, hens’ parties, bridal parties and milestone celebrations, with flexibility to develop events around a customer’s vision, colour palette and budget. Candace says the most rewarding part is seeing an empty space transformed and then watching people use it. “But the best part is probably the feedback afterwards,” she added. “Hearing that someone’s wedding guests loved their glamping village, that a child thought their sleepover was the best birthday ever, or that a group of friends stayed up late talking and laughing in their tents is what makes all the hard work worthwhile.” Looking ahead, The Best Intentions Tent Co is focused on expanding its wedding and event glamping villages, while continuing to develop its children’s parties, sleepovers, outdoor cinema and celebration offerings. The business is also exploring opportunities to work alongside Council and other local organisations on new events across the region. Ultimately, The Best Intentions Tent Co aims to take care of the practical details, allowing locals to spend more time enjoying their occasion without the hassle of organising everything themselves. “You don’t have to do it all yourself!” “You bring the occasion, we’ll do the hard work for you!” www.bestintentionstentco.com
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This year’s Mackay Seniors Expo attracted a strong turnout at The Big Shed last Tuesday, with thousands of people attending the annual event to connect with local organisations, services and support available to older residents. Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said this year’s Expo was one of the biggest the event had seen, with about 100 exhibitors providing information and support to seniors and their families. “This is always a great expo, there's thousands of people here today, and I think it's probably one of the biggest we've seen yet.” Emphasising the importance of connection and supporting older residents, Mayor Williamson said, “We, as a community, aren't complete as a community, unless we're looking after our older citizens.” Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
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Saturday 19th September BMA Mackay Triathlon Festival Saturday 19th & Sunday 20th The BMA Mackay Triathlon Festival returns this weekend for two days of racing and community fun along Mackay’s coastline. The festival brings together athletes, families and fitness enthusiasts for triathlon, duathlon, aquathlon, aquabike, open water swimming and a mini kids triathlon. From beginners to experienced competitors, participants can take part in a range of events in a welcoming, community-focused environment, with the Standard Distance Triathlon featuring a 1.5km swim, 40km bike and 10km run. Mackay Surf Life Saving Club, Mackay Harbour Ekphrastic Writing Club 1pm Artspace Mackay will host its September Ekphrastic Writing Club this Saturday, offering a free and relaxed session for writers and anyone wanting to explore their creative skills. Participants will take a ‘slow look’ at a selected artwork in the main gallery before responding to it through writing and discussion. The session is suitable for experienced writers and beginners, providing a quiet and supportive space to explore ekphrastic writing, a creative practice inspired by visual art. Participants are asked to bring a pen and notebook. Artspace Mackay Behind the Figures Exhibition 5.30pm The Just Saying Project will open Behind the Figures this Saturday, a free exhibition exploring women’s experiences of body image, confidence and self-perception through the work of eight local visual artists. The exhibition draws on original research involving more than 100 women, with artists interpreting stories and statistics around body image and the impact it can have on women’s lives. Opening night will also mark the first official exhibition at JSP Home of Women’s Stories, with the exhibition continuing through November. Shop 5, 31 Wood Street, Mackay Monday 21st September Yarnbomb Mackay 9.30am Yarnbomb Mackay invites locals to join its community knitting and crochet sessions, creating colourful installations for Mackay City Heart. Held at Jamaica Blue Sydney Street Markets, the free sessions welcome all ability levels, including beginners, with participants able to learn new skills while chatting with fellow crocheters over a cuppa. All materials are provided, making it a relaxed way to get involved in a creative community project and help add some colour to the Mackay city centre. Jamaica Blue Sydney St Markets, Gordon Street, Mackay What Is AI? Information Session 10am Mackay Regional Council Libraries will host an introductory session on Artificial Intelligence this Monday, offering locals a simple and practical look at how AI is becoming part of everyday life. The session will explore what AI is, how it works, different types of AI and examples of how it is used, along with its benefits and potential risks including privacy, misinformation, bias and ethical concerns. Attendees will also learn tips for using AI safely and responsibly. The session is suitable for beginners and anyone curious about AI. Dudley Denny City Library, Mackay Tuesday 22nd September Walk & Talk Book Club 8am The Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens will host its Walk & Talk Book Club this Tuesday, combining reading, gentle exercise and conversation in the gardens. The group meets fortnightly to walk and chat about a new title, with members able to stay afterwards for a social coffee. A new book is selected each month, with discussions held throughout the month. Participants are asked to bring sensible walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen and water. Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens Wednesday 23rd September Games On The Lawn 10am Mackay Regional Council Libraries will bring Games on the Lawn to the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens this Wednesday, with locals invited to enjoy a relaxed morning of outdoor games with family and friends. A range of games will be available to play, including Bag Toss, Giant Jenga, Backyard Dice, Bocce Ball and Four in a Row. The free activity is a simple way to get outdoors, enjoy some friendly competition and spend time together at the gardens. Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens
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Perched above the coastal city of Mackay, Cape Hillsborough is the kind of place where there’s so much to explore it feels like there might never be enough time to take it all in. Its centerpiece is Casuarina Beach. The long sweep of sand framed by rugged coastal cliffs is enough to make the trip for on its own, but the landscape is only half the attraction. To see Cape Hillsborough at its most unforgettable, the journey begins in the early hours of the day. The sunrise here is among Queensland’s most spectacular, helped by an open outlook across the Coral Sea. Facing east, the bay offers a clear horizon, allowing the first traces of colour to spread uninterrupted across the sky before the sun emerges over the water. On either side, the volcanic headlands of Cape Hillsborough and Andrews Point rise in silhouette, while Wedge Island and scattered offshore rocks break up the horizon. The tide can make the display even more impressive. At low or mid-tide, a thin sheet of water often remains across the sand, turning the beach into a broad mirror that reflects the pinks, oranges and golds overhead. The clouds can play their own part as well. Hanging low over the eastern horizon, they briefly hold back the direct sunlight, flexing the sky's colour potential before the first rays finally break through. For many visitors, however, the main attraction is the locals. Eastern grey kangaroos and wallabies emerge from the surrounding bushland early in the morning and make their way onto Casuarina Beach, foraging along the tide line and wandering across the sand. It is a scene that feels unmistakably Australian and one that has become the signature image of Cape Hillsborough. Sunrise times change throughout the year, so check ahead, arrive at least 30 minutes early and remember to keep your distance from these remarkable wild animals. When the sun has finished its ascent, it’s time to begin your exploration. Halliday bay, just down the road, is a great local spot to park-up at. This compact beach is tucked into a sheltered corner of the coastline, bordered by calm water and a narrow beachfront reserve, with dolphins regularly passing close to shore. At low tide, the sand stretches almost 200 metres towards the sea, revealing plenty of shoreline to wander and traverse along the rocks. But the bay’s best-kept secret waits at its southern end. Hidden at the end of the beach, the narrow McBrides Point Lookout track climbs to the top of the headland in just five minutes. It is short but slightly steep, with plenty of rocks and exposed roots, so pull on comfy shoes. When you hit the summit, it’s a view that could capture you for hours. Climb atop the giant granite boulders and take in sweeping views across Ball Bay and Halliday Bay. During whale season, you may even catch sight of one passing offshore. It is a small and easy climb with a reward far bigger than the distance suggests.
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GemLife is set to deliver Mackay’s first coastal land lease development, after receiving approval for a 232-home over-50s community in Shoal Point. The project, which has an expected gross realisation value of $203 million, was given the green light by Mackay Regional Council this week (Tuesday, 8 September). It will be built on a 10-hectare site, which forms part of Pointglen Development’s Shoal Point Waters masterplanned community and fronts the proposed 80.35-hectare Shoal Point Waters Park, about one kilometre from Bucasia Beach and two kilometres from Shoal Point lookout. A start date for construction is yet to be determined. GemLife Shoal Point will feature a range of resort-style amenities, including a Country Club with two pools, a gymnasium, cinema, salon, ten-pin bowling, and golf simulator, plus a sports hub boasting a tennis court, pickleball court, and lawn bowls. The community is GemLife’s first in the Mackay region, where 35.9 per cent of the population is aged 50-plus, according to Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data. The latest Census data found the 60 to 64 years cohort experienced the largest change over five years, with 18.3 per cent growth from 2016 to 2021. GemLife Managing Director and Group CEO Adrian Puljich said Mackay had strong underlying demand for over-50s housing, with the Northern Beaches positioned as prime real estate for those seeking a seachange. “When we looked at the existing land lease and retirement living market around Mackay, the majority of development is in town or inland, with no current opportunity for those who want to live close to the ocean,” he said. “The Northern Beaches is a lifestyle destination, and we’re expecting strong interest from buyers in Mackay and surrounding rural and semi-rural areas who are looking for a beachside location within easy reach of urban conveniences.” Mr Puljich said GemLife Shoal Point was designed to capture the essence of laid-back coastal living. “The look and feel of the community will reflect its beautiful location, with contemporary coastal-inspired architecture and lush landscaping providing a visual connection to surrounding parklands and open green space,” he said. “All homes will feature a garden courtyard, two bedrooms plus multi-purpose room and double garage, offering residents privacy, space and flexible living options to make downsizing from a family home or larger property a seamless experience. “There will also be a central Country Club and sporting amenities for residents to socialise and keep active, as part of our commitment to creating communities designed to support healthy ageing.” GemLife recently committed $6 million to a suite of new holistic wellness initiatives across its communities, including a partnership with Amplar Health to deliver 12 weeks of personalised health coaching to new residents.
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What does Sigora actually do? Sigora helps businesses prevent avoidable employee turnover by helping managers recognise and respond to problems earlier. Most organisations have processes once problems become obvious. The gap I’m interested in is before that point, when something has changed, but it isn’t yet a clear performance problem. That’s when managers have the most options. What do you mean by ‘earlier’? Businesses know lagging indicators: absenteeism, underperformance or turnover. Sigora focuses upstream. There can be changes in an employee’s questions, confidence, communication or progress. These signals don’t prove something is wrong, but a change from someone’s normal pattern gives a manager a reason to get curious. What should a manager do when they notice a change? The first thing is not to diagnose the employee. Managers don’t need to know why something has changed to respond responsibly. They can explore what’s happening, test their explanation with the employee and consider what’s within their control. Greater clarity? Different support? More challenge? A workload adjustment? Then they reassess. It’s about calibrating the working environment rather than trying to ‘fix’ the person. Isn’t this just good management? In many ways, yes. Experienced managers notice changes and make adjustments intuitively. But we rely on them developing that judgement through experience, and it isn’t always consistent. Sigora gives it structure: recognising a change, exploring what might be happening, making a proportionate adjustment and reassessing. The aim is to make good judgement more deliberate and teachable. Is this another form of performance management? No. It sits before it. Formal performance management becomes relevant once a problem is established. Sigora works where something has changed, but the manager has incomplete information. It doesn’t replace HR or formal processes. If an issue moves outside the manager’s scope, it moves outside the framework. What does working with Sigora look like? The main offering is a half-day workshop for managers and supervisors. It teaches them to recognise changes, separate observation from assumption, explore through a safe conversation, choose a proportionate response and reassess. Managers leave with practical tools, for example, prompts for an early conversation. The goal is to notice a shift on a Tuesday morning and have a way of deciding, ‘What do I do next?’ Where does employee turnover fit in? Turnover is a lagging indicator. By the time someone leaves, the opportunity to retain them has passed. Sometimes the story starts earlier: an employee begins struggling or disengaging, the change isn’t recognised, and eventually there’s a larger problem. Replacing people costs more than recruitment: lost productivity, training time and pressure on the team. Earlier intervention gives managers more options. What should local businesses take away? Probably one idea: managers don’t need certainty to respond responsibly. If something changes, don’t immediately decide what’s wrong with the employee, but don’t ignore it either. Notice it. Get curious. Make a proportionate response. Then see what happens. Sigora helps managers make that judgement better, earlier.
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