The Queensland State Emergency Service Volunteer Association (QSESVA) is pleased to announce the election of Justin Englert as its new State President.

Mr Englert brings more than 23 years of dedicated service to the Queensland State Emergency Service (SES), with a career that spans leadership, training, and community development. He began with the Eastern Group, Brisbane City Unit, serving as Deputy Group Leader for Training before relocating to Mackay, where he went on to serve as Deputy Local Controller and later Local Controller of the Mackay City Unit. Following the 2008 council amalgamations, he was appointed the inaugural Local Controller of the Mackay Regional SES Unit, a position he held for eight years.

In addition to his operational and leadership experience, Mr Englert served two terms as a Mackay Regional Councillor from 2016 to 2024. During this time, he established Queensland’s first Local Government SES Strategic Directions Group — a pioneering framework that formalised collaboration between councils and the SES. The initiative improved governance, accountability, and volunteer support, setting a benchmark for cooperation between State and Local Governments.

A passionate advocate for volunteer training and capability development, Mr Englert has served as a senior instructor and operator across all SES functions (excluding RCR) and has deployed across Queensland in support of other SES units. He also founded the Mackay Emergency Services Cadet Unit, helping to inspire and prepare the next generation of emergency service volunteers.

Mr Englert said he is honoured to take on the role and looks forward to representing Queensland’s SES volunteers at a state level.

“Our volunteers are the backbone of community response across Queensland,” he said.

“My focus will be on strengthening capability, supporting training, improving resources, and ensuring our volunteers have the structures they need to continue delivering outstanding service to their communities.”

The QSESVA is the peak body representing SES volunteers in Queensland, advocating for their welfare, recognition, and continued capability to serve communities across the state.

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Justin Englert, a long-serving SES leader with more than 23 years of experience, has been elected President of the Queensland State Emergency Service Volunteer Association. Photo supplied

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Juvenile Spotted On Bucasia Beach

A juvenile crocodile has allegedly been spotted slinking along Bucasia Beach, near the caravan park, sending a shiver through locals and visitors alike.

While some online commenters joked the sighting might be AI-generated, multiple eyewitnesses insist the croc was very real.

The alert came from an anonymous Facebook poster, who said the croc was likely 3–4 feet long.

“I have no interest in scaring people and far too busy to make up stuff on AI,” the resident said.

“I posted this to warn others who walk the area and swim, particularly with dogs and children.”

Keeping a safe distance, the poster avoided close-up photos to protect both themselves and the animal, noting that adult crocodiles could be nearby.

Recent social media posts show a growing awareness among locals, with many sharing sightings and warning friends and family about the increased activity at the beach.

According to the Queensland Crocodile Sighting Dashboard, 10 crocodiles have been reported in the Mackay region in the past 30 days.

These contribute to a total of 163 cases currently classified as active or designated problem crocodiles. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely to ensure community safety.

Residents are urged to stay ‘croc safe’ and exercise caution, particularly near the waterline.

This latest sighting is a snappy reminder that even familiar stretches of sand can hide unexpected dangers, and vigilance is key.

If you spot a crocodile, or would like to know more information on how to be ‘croc safe’, visit the Queensland Government Crocodile Sightings webpage.

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Image posted anonymously on a community Facebook page

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Last week, the award-winning children’s musical Safety Circus visited primary schools across the Mackay region, delivering an entertaining 45-minute show focused on children’s safety.

The performance, presented in partnership with the Daniel Morcombe Foundation, is designed to teach children to Recognise, React and Report whenever they feel scared or unsafe.

The Safety Circus crew expressed their gratitude to the Daniel Morcombe Foundation for supporting the 2025 tour, which began on Monday 3 November, visiting schools throughout the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday regions.

Students and staff at St Mary’s Catholic School, Calen College, Pindi Pindi State School, Seaforth State School, and Bloomsbury State School were among those excited to see the show, along with Koumala SS, Sarina SS, Mackay Special School, Beaconsfield SS, Moranbah SS, Finch Hatton SS, Gargett SS, Walkerston SS, North Eton SS, Eton SS, St John’s Walkerston, Glenella SS, Northview SS, and Mackay Christian College.

The annual tour provides primary school students with a fun, engaging way to learn essential safety skills, reinforcing messages promoted by the Daniel Morcombe Foundation. By combining music, performance, and practical advice, the Safety Circus helps children understand how to stay safe in everyday situations while enjoying an unforgettable theatrical experience.

The Safety Circus continues to tour throughout the region, reaching hundreds of students and supporting the Foundation’s ongoing mission to keep children safe.

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Photo source: Safety Circus

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In a remarkable moment for the region, Cadet Sergeant Murray Macgroarty, known locally for his advocacy for homeless veterans, was awarded one of the highest honours in the Australian Army Cadets on Saturday, November 8.

National Commander of AAC, Brigadier David McCammon (DSM and bar), travelled to Mackay to personally present him with a Gold Level Commendation – which is the highest accolade an Australian Army Cadet can receive, awarded only in exceptional circumstances of service and leadership.

The presentation took place during the 122 AAC Ceremonial Parade at Komiatum Barracks, where Brigadier McCammon acknowledged Murray’s exceptional contribution to supporting homeless veterans through the Just Keep Marching initiative.

In delivering the award, Brigadier McCammon praised Murray’s leadership, compassion and long-term dedication.

“I commend you for your superior actions and extraordinary achievements in your efforts to improve the lives of Australian Defence Force veterans,” he said.

“Over an extended period, your personal drive to develop effective and ongoing solutions, promote community engagement and develop significant long-term resources for homeless veterans in your local region has inspired other communities to action. In striving for increased awareness, you have promoted an enduring response to homeless veterans in need across the nation.

“Your proactive approach and courage in the face of adversity are examples of superior self-motivation and tenacity. Your selflessness and the achievements you have made for veterans are exceptional examples of the Australian Army Cadet values of Service, Courage, Respect, Integrity and Excellence.”

The ceremony also brought an unexpected second honour for Murray, who was presented with the annual Senior Leaders Award by Lieutenant Colonel AAC Glenda Lavery, Assistant Commander of the North Queensland Brigade. Lt Col Lavery was visiting Komiatum Barracks for the 80th anniversary celebration of Army Cadets in Mackay.

Reflecting on his commendation, Murray said he was “extremely honoured to receive this acknowledgement.”

While appreciative, he was quick to highlight the team effort behind the initiative.

“A lot of cadets did the walk with me… and while I wear the commendation, it’s really for all of them.

“It’s a great award for all of us.”

The Just Keep Marching effort, driven by Murray and supported widely throughout the region, has now raised just over $27,000 to assist homeless veterans in Mackay.

Local businesses, particularly those connected to housing, construction or mining accommodation, are encouraged to collaborate as RSL Mackay Sub-branch continues developing a long-term, equitable strategy for distributing the funds.

Murray is currently completing his final weeks of secondary education, with external exams underway, and looks ahead to his next chapter: enlistment into the Australian Army Corps on 23 February 2026.

He also delivered a heartfelt address at this year’s Remembrance Day service, further demonstrating the maturity and leadership qualities recognised by the national commendation.

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Cadet Sergeant Murray Macgroarty recently received two prestigious honours: the Australian Army Cadets’ highest award, a Gold Level Commendation, and the annual Senior Leaders Award, recognising his leadership and fundraising efforts supporting homeless veterans through the Just Keep Marching initiative. Photo credit: Cynthy Macgroarty and Graham Jackson

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Christmas has come early for community and not-for-profit groups across the Mackay region with $10,000 in grants awarded for festive events.

From lunches to provide social connection for seniors, to a treasured carols event and a festive bike ride, events will be held right around the region.

The Christmas Grants provide funding of up to $750 for groups to help provide events that bring the community together, with a total funding pool of $10,000.

This year’s successful events are:

• Do it your way ride and breakfast – Pioneer Valley Rail Trail
• Community Christmas lunch - Seaforth
• Community Christmas Party – Eungella
• Mackay kids Christmas bike ride – Bluewater Trail
• Neighbourhood Watch Community Christmas Party – Shoal Point
• Habana Christmas Calendar and Carols – Habana
• Community Christmas Party – St Helens Beach
• Sarina Beach Surf Lifesaving Carols – Sarina Beach
• Community Christmas Carols – Bucasia
• Calen community Christmas Fair – Calen
• Grasstree Beach Family Christmas Concert – Grasstree Beach
• Come together at Christmas Community Party – Dows Creek
• Pony club community events – Eton
• McEwens Beach Christmas Party – McEwens Beach.

The following events are supported by council's Christmas Grants Program:

SEAFORTH COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS LUNCH
Monday, November 17,11am to 2pm
Seaforth Community Centre, Prince Charles Avenue, Seaforth

PIONEER VALLEY RAIL TRAIL COMMUNITY RIDE AND BREAKFAST
Saturday, November 22.  Breakfast to start at 9am to 11am
Pioneer Valley Sporting Association Clubhouse, Gargett

MCEWENS BEACH COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS PARTY
Sunday, November 30, 4pm to 7pm
Reg Jones Park, Aura Street, McEwens Beach

SHOAL POINT NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS PARTY
Friday, December 5, 6.30pm to 9.30pm
Shoal Point Beach Park

MACKAY KIDS CHRISTMAS BIKE RIDE
Friday, December 5, 6.30pm.  Ride should take 1.5 - 2 hours
Bluewater Quay

CALEN COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS FAIR
Saturday, December 6, 5.30pm to 9pm
Calen District State College

EUNGELLA COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS PARTY
Friday, December 12, 3pm to 10pm
Eungella Memorial Hall, 13 North Street, Eungella

GRASSTREE BEACH FAMILY CHRISTMAS CONCERT
Saturday, December 13, 3pm to 6pm
Grasstree Beach Foreshore

ETON PONY CLUB COMMUNITY EVENTS
Saturday, December 13, 10am to 6pm and Sunday, December 14, 9am to 5pm
Pony Club grounds, Langfords Park, Eton

DOWS CREEK HALL CHRISTMAS COMMUNITY PARTY
Sunday, December 14, 3pm to 9pm
Dows Creek Hall

BUCASIA COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS CAROLS
Sunday, December 14, 3pm to 6pm
Seaview Park, Bucasia Esplanade

HABANA CHRISTMAS CALENDAR AND CAROLS
Saturday, December 20, 7pm to 9.30pm
Habana Community Hub, 1091 Mackay-Habana Road

SARINA BEACH SURF LIFESAVING CAROLS
Saturday, December 20, 5.30pm to 8pm
Sarina Surf Lifesaving Club, 1 Owen Jenkins Drive, Sarina Beach

ST HELENS BEACH COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS PARTY
Saturday, December 27, 5pm
Repulse Esplanade, St Helens Beach

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Mackay Regional Council’s Christmas grants have been delivered just in time to ensure festive cheer reaches across the community. Photo supplied

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Alsatia Park has officially reopened, marking a significant moment for the Walkerston community as locals gathered last Sunday to celebrate the revitalisation of the much-loved space. The upgraded park now stands as a tribute to 18-year-old Luke Payne, a passionate skateboarder who tragically lost his life in 2022 and whose ideas helped shape the original skate facility.

Families, skaters and community groups turned out in strong numbers for the opening, enjoying a lively morning of free glitter tattoos, a sausage sizzle and community displays as the renewed park was unveiled.

Luke was remembered as “a passionate skateboarder,” whose early concepts for a local skate space have now been honoured through the redevelopment. Mayor Greg Williamson said the community had reached an important milestone.

“Yesterday was a very special day for the Walkerston community as we officially opened Alsatia Park — a much loved space that has been part of local family life for decades,” he said.

The upgrades were designed to reflect both the heritage of Walkerston and Luke’s lasting impact on the local skating community. His influence remains evident in the renewed skate area and the care taken throughout the project.

“It was an honour to stand with members of the Payne family, as the upgraded skate park continues to recognise and celebrate the legacy of Luke Payne,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Luke was a passionate skateboarder whose vision helped shape the original facility, and today’s renewed space carries that spirit forward for a new generation.”

Feedback from residents helped guide the upgrade, which now includes new barbeque facilities, football posts and refreshed recreational areas. The project was delivered with support from Vassallo Construction, Rotary, the Pioneer Valley Youth Council, artist Muddy Grimes and council’s engagement team, who worked closely with the Payne family.

“Alsatia Park has always been a place where families connect, kids play, and memories are made — and I’m proud to see this tradition continue with these fantastic new upgrades,” Mayor Williamson said.

The revitalised park at 8 Kellys Road, Walkerston is now open to the community, ready to welcome families and skaters to enjoy.

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The Walkerston community came together last Sunday to celebrate the reopening of Alsatia Park, a heartfelt revitalisation that honours young skateboarder Luke Payne’s lasting legacy. Photo source: Mayor Greg Williamson

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Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank has announced a record breaking year of community investment at its AGM, with over $1 million injected directly into supporting more than 100 local projects and initiatives during the 2024/25 financial year.

This milestone brings this profit for purpose organisation’s total community investment to more than $5 million since opening its doors in 2005, reaffirming its long standing commitment to creating an enduring impact in the Sarina and district community.

Strong financial results also delivered a fully franked dividend of 15 cents per share to local shareholders.

“A record community investment and the partnerships we’ve built across the community this year are something we are extremely proud of,” said Community Bank Sarina Board Chair, Karen May.

“By choosing to bank locally, our customers enable us to reinvest profits into projects and initiatives that strengthen and sustain our community,” Mrs May said.

The $1 million of support for the community was delivered through Community Bank Sarina’s Community Engagement Program, which builds the capacity of local organisations, strengthens partnerships and supports initiatives that deliver direct social and economic benefit.

A key focus of this year’s program was supporting legacy projects with long-term benefits, designed to build resilience and create lasting community impact.

“Our goal is to deliver mutual benefits, supporting local organisations to grow and thrive while ensuring Community Bank Sarina remains strong and sustainable for years to come. Our ethos assures customers that we’re here for you and here to stay,” Mrs May said.

It was a record year for the community grants program, with $706,686 invested to directly support 15 organisations responding to local community need with significant legacy projects.

As a step towards addressing the region’s need for housing, the program included a $330,000 community grant to Wongabeena Sarina Aged Housing to construct four new units, increasing affordable housing options for low-income seniors in Sarina.

The project is scheduled for completion in 2026. Wongabeena President Kari Morphy said this investment from Community Bank Sarina has been transformative, laying the groundwork for a project that will improve quality of life for seniors in Sarina for years to come.

“These new units will give more local seniors the chance to stay in the community they love, close to family, friends and the support networks that make Sarina home,” Mrs Morphy said.

Other projects supported this financial year by Community Bank Sarina’s Community Engagement Program included essential health service upgrades, community infrastructure, technology upgrades and swim programs for local students, and more.

This year’s AGM also saw the re-election of Directors Karen May, Rainee Shepperson and Ann Fordyce, rejoining current Director Maree Franettovich, and acknowledged the retirement of Director Nicholas McDougall, recognising his contribution to the Board.

To learn more about Community Bank Sarina’s results and community support during the 2024/25 financial year, view the annual report at https://bit.ly/4oTeUqH.

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Recipients of Community Bank Sarina’s Community Engagement Program across FY24/25 celebrating together at the recent AGM. Photos supplied

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Sarina Woman Marks 100 Years With Wisdom

Celebrating A Century
Joy Robinson Turns 100

It’s not every day a community gathers to celebrate a 100th birthday, but Sarina’s own Joy Robinson reached the milestone in style, surrounded by four generations of family, friends, and bridge club members last Wednesday.

“Aren’t I lucky,” Joy said with a smile.

“I’m thrilled and it’s a real privilege to be here.”

With a smile as striking as her bridge play, Joy says her secret to longevity is simply, to just be happy.

“Just try to be happy and active… have regular meals…and be happy and be active,” she says.

Joy’s dedication to staying active extends to the bridge table, where she continues to compete and win.

Receiving a letter from the King was a highlight of the day, along with the many other cards filled with kind words from her peers.

“It’s very thrilling to receive a letter from the King,” she said, smiling at the congratulatory note from King Charles III, a recognition of her remarkable milestone.

Despite her century of life, Joy’s competitive spirit hasn’t waned, and her love for the game remains as strong as ever.

Mayor Greg Williamson was among the many well-wishers, praising Joy’s incredible energy and contribution to the community.

“It’s a fantastic pleasure to be here today… absolutely incredible. It’s wonderful to see you still playing bridge after 40 years,” he said.

He also highlighted her wider role in Sarina, acknowledging her involvement in local business and community initiatives over decades. On behalf of Mackay, he extended heartfelt birthday congratulations, saying, “Happy birthday and congratulations on behalf of the community of Mackay.”

The event was a true family affair, with relatives, bridge partners, and friends gathering to honour Joy’s life and achievements. Among the highlights was the ceremonial cake-cutting, where Joy’s grandson helped her blow out the candles. Guests enjoyed a warm, celebratory atmosphere as they shared memories, laughter, and stories of Joy’s competitive, yet impressive bridge play.

Joy reflected on the people who have shaped her life, from loving parents and a devoted husband to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She also shared memories of her community involvement, from early work as a banker to running a family business, and her longstanding membership in the local bridge club, which she described as “a wonderful club” that has kept her mind active and engaged.

Even at 100, Joy remains an inspiration, proving that age is no barrier to staying active, engaged, and happy. Her message to younger generations is to live fully, stay active, and embrace life with joy.

From the bridge table to community contributions, Joy Robinson’s century-long journey is a celebration of resilience, happiness, and a life well-lived.

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Sarina resident Joy Robinson celebrated her 100th birthday surrounded by family, friends, and bridge club members at Mackay Contract Bridge Club. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

As the crushing season draws out and moves into its sixth month, it is pleasing to see that we are finally getting onto the downhill run, with both millers issuing their end-of-crush notices.

Plane Creek expect to finish harvesting 26 November and Mackay Sugar announcing completion around 12 December, with any continuation dependent on sufficient cane supply.

This follows a reduction of crop estimates in both districts, being 1.35Mt in Plane Creek and 4.85Mt for Mackay Sugar area. I would say, however, that these still appear to be a little on the high side and whether this materialises in a season shortening is yet to be seen.

Another critical factor in this equation is that the onset of the storm season has begun in late October and is appearing to continue, potentially even ramping up in the lead-up to our annual wet season.  Both of these factors, in addition to factory performance, will at the end of the day dictate the final end date of the 2025 crushing season.

I believe it is fair to say that the sooner the end date materialises, the better for all parties involved, on the proviso that growers are given the opportunity to harvest all cane that they want to harvest.  This will hopefully allow a much-needed reset in our local industry, giving the crop more time to grow and millers more time to do the necessary repairs and get their factories where they need to be for the commencement of the 2026 harvest.

It must be said that growers and harvesting contractors cannot sustain these extended season lengths for what would be considered average crop totals.

It appears that with the rainfall which has followed the prolonged dry spell, is beginning to have an effect on CCS and weight in the crop. Both of these appear to have an expected but concerning a downward trend.

It has been a long season, and over the past few months, has seen several unfortunate accidents occur: some involving members of the public and industry vehicles, as well as inter-industry parties.  This is a concerning trend which must be rectified as we all know that everyone deserves to be able to come home safely and soundly to their loved ones at the end of the day.  I would like to wish those involved in these incidents all the best and hope that they make as successful recovery as is possible from their injuries, both physically and mentally.

I would ask members of the Industry and the wider public to please have patience over the next month or so until the end of the harvest season, and let’s work together to make the end-of-crush a safe and hopefully more timely ending then what we have seen over the past five years.

Stay safe everybody.

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The crush is in its final stages, giving the following crop a good chance to grow for 2026.  Photo credit: Kirili Lamb.

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Cultivating Tomorrow’s Opportunities

Tickets are now on sale for ABARES Outlook 2026, the Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences’ (ABARES) flagship annual conference, set to take place on the 3rd and 4th of March 2026 at Hotel Realm, Canberra, and online.

With the theme Reset. Rethink. Regrow: Cultivating Tomorrow’s Opportunities, the conference will explore the key forces shaping the future of Australian agriculture, fisheries, and forestry.

ABARES Executive Director Dr Jared Greenville said Outlook 2026 will be a valuable forum for discussion, innovation, and collaboration.

“We will host sessions to discuss commodity outlooks, competition in agriculture, land and sea use change, climate and sustainability, data, innovation and productivity, and food security,” Dr Greenville said.

“These discussions are important given the competing demands on farming and the challenging global trading environment.”

This year’s conference will feature 10 sessions, offering a mix of expert panels, presentations, and fireside chats. A key highlight will be a friendly debate on the focus for growing Australian agriculture — a new addition to the program that promises lively discussion and diverse perspectives.

Delegates can attend in person or virtually, with all sessions broadcast live and online discussions facilitated by Andrew Whitelaw and Matt Dalgleish of Episode 3.

Former BBC host, Nuffield Scholar, and agriculture advocate Claire Taylor will emcee the event, guiding attendees through the two-day program.

“We’re also excited to have the Council of Rural RDCs sponsor the Welcome Sundowners networking function at the end of day one,” Dr Greenville added.

In addition to keynote sessions, the conference will provide the latest commodity data, forecasts, and industry analysis, while also offering networking opportunities to help participants connect, collaborate, and contribute to a more sustainable and competitive agricultural future.

Early bird tickets are available until the 5th of December 2025, with both in-person and digital options.

For full program details, speaker announcements, and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.agriculture.gov.au/event/abares-outlook or contact abaresevents@aff.gov.au

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Early bird tickets are on sale now for 2026's ABARES Outlook (Photo Supplied)

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Local aged care provider Glenella Care is preparing to join Respect, one of Australia’s largest regional aged care organisations, in a move that honours Glenella’s legacy and invests in the future of care in Mackay.

It is anticipated that from 1 December 2025, Glenella Care will officially become part of the Respect community. A dedicated transition team will support the change, with a focus on continuity of care for residents and preserving employment for current staff.

Respect, a not-for-profit organisation, will grow to 40 aged care homes across five states following the transition. The organisation is known for its person-centred care, reinvestment in local communities, and strong support for staff wellbeing.

Jason Binder, CEO and Managing Director of Respect, said Respect is proud to welcome Glenella Care into its community of homes to build on the legacy it has established in Mackay.

“Glenella Care has been providing care to the Mackay community for over three
decades,” Mr Binder said.

“It was founded by a local family who believed older people should be able to age with dignity, surrounded by the people and places they know and love. That belief is at the heart of everything we do at Respect.”

Glenella began as a 62-bed nursing home and has grown into a 108-bed service offering residential and respite care. Owner Renata Litton said Respect was chosen for its reputation and alignment with Glenella’s values.

After almost 35 years, the family is ready to hand over the reins, confident the home’s legacy will continue.

To learn more about Respect, visit respect.com.au

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Photo source: Respect Aged Care

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Let me have a little rant for a moment: these days, it feels like everyone is a marketer. Boost one Facebook post, watch a few YouTube tutorials, finish a quick online course and suddenly people think they’re experts. No strategy. No accountability. Just confidence and Canva.

But real marketing is far more than pressing buttons. It’s understanding human behaviour, reading data, building funnels, testing creative, managing budgets, and turning insights into decisions that actually grow a business, not just create noise.

So how do you choose the right marketer to work with?

Start with strategy. A real marketer asks questions before offering solutions: Who is your audience? What are your goals? What does your customer journey look like? They see the full picture, not just the quick fix.

Next, look for clarity. If they can’t explain their process in simple, human terms, they probably don’t understand it well themselves. Transparency is a green flag; buzzwords are not.

And of course, results matter. Look for proven outcomes: conversions, lead quality, cost per acquisition, revenue growth. Pretty graphics alone don’t build businesses.

This is exactly how I operate at Glow Sphere Marketing. With more than 15 years of international marketing experience, I’ve worked across industries, countries, and platforms, helping businesses grow with strategy-first, data-led, human-focused marketing. I believe in systems, clarity, and solutions tailored to each business.

The right marketer doesn’t just make things look good. They make things work. And they walk beside you as a true partner in your growth.

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At The Mackay Woodturners Club Expo

This Christmas, why not find gifts that are truly one-of-a-kind? The Mackay Woodturners Club, tucked away at Snow Wright Ct, Andergrove, is opening its doors for a weekend of creativity, craftsmanship, and festive cheer.

This weekend, on 22nd and 23rd November, from 9am–3pm, visitors can explore the impressive skills of local artisans working in woodturning, scroll sawing, intarsia, wood burning (pyrography), and carving, with free entry!

Woodturning is far more than a hobby, it’s an art form that requires patience, precision, and a keen eye for detail. For the club’s members, it’s also a therapeutic and mindful practice, providing a creative escape and a chance to connect with a passionate community.

This year’s Expo will showcase a range of handmade gifts, from toys to homewares, each piece telling a story of dedication and skill. In a world of mass-produced goods, these handcrafted treasures offer quality, longevity, and the chance to support local talent.

Come along, browse the incredible creations, and grab Christmas gifts that will be treasured for years to come.

Event Details:

What: Mackay Woodturners Christmas Expo
When: Saturday 22 & Sunday 23 November, 9am–3pm
Where: Snow Wright Ct, Andergrove.
Free entry.

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Photo source: Mackay Woodturners Club

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Meet Maple

Breed: Border Collie X
Age: Young Adult
Personality: Playful, Energetic, Affectionate
Vet work: Microchipped, vaccinated and desexed

About Maple:

Maple is an affectionate girl who loves nothing more than cuddling up on the couch with her favorite people. She’s loyal, loving, and will be your biggest fan!
Her ideal home is active and consistent, with plenty of walks, playtime, and enrichment. She’s a bright dog who loves using her nose in fun scent games and would thrive with someone familiar with herding breeds.

If you’re looking for a devoted companion who’s full of energy, heart, and affection, she’s ready to join your loving home!

Contact Lucys Lucky Tags and Dog Rescue Inc on Facebook, or email
LLTagsandDogRescue@gmail.com for more information,

Donations can be made via the following account details:
BSB: 064-722
ACC: 1069 7243

Photos supplied

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Readers with even a basic knowledge of ancient history will know that the Flintstones were a modern stone-age family from the town of Bedrock and that they were a page right out of history. When you were with the Flintstones, you’d have a yabba dabba doo time, a dabba doo time, you’d have a gay old time.

A lot has changed since then. These days, if Fred Flintstone and his best mate Barney Rubble were to have a “gay old time” it would mean something completely different and dramatically change the story line of the show.

But some things have not changed. The Flintstones was a 1960s animated sitcom that told the stories of the titular family, the Flintstones, and their neighbours the Rubbles. The show depicted the characters taking part in “modern” activities in a stone-age setting.

One of the things that Fred and Barney enjoyed was ten-pin bowling. Now although archaeologists have found bowling-like pins and balls from ancient Egypt around 5000 years ago, ten-pin bowling did not emerge until the mid-1800s in the United States.

It was very popular at the time the show was being produced and Fred and Barney enjoyed the entertaining diversion.

It’s interesting that in a world that has changed so much, ten-pin bowling is still popular.

A friend of mine, Anna, owns the Mackay Leisure Centre and a big part of that business is the ten-pin bowling alleys.

As far as the bowlers are concerned, ten-pin bowling has not really changed … there are those smooth bowling balls of various weights with three holes for fingers and a thumb. There are those 10 pins, which look pretty much the same as they did in the 1960s.

Of course, like everything else in life, technology has introduced efficiencies.

When the Flintstones went bowling, monkeys sitting on a bracket would pick up the knocked-over pins with their tales. In the real world, after a player did their first bowl a device would pick up the pins that were still standing, sweep away the fallen ones, and put the untouched pins back in the same place.

These days at the Mackay Leisure Centre they have string machines that remove the fallen pins and replace the untouched ones exactly where they were, ready for the second bowl. Apart from having strings attached to the pins, computer technology has made scoring and the  bowling operation more efficient.

But if ten-pin bowling is pretty much the same activity it always has been, how about selling real estate?

Marketing a property used to involve simply putting up a for sale sign and placing an ad in the local paper. Thanks to magazines like this one, you can still put ads in a paper but your marketing needs to have digital reach these days to ensure you capture all the potential buyers for a property.

Those buyers might be in Mackay but they might be at work on a mine site or an investor living in Melbourne … digital technology allows them to see the listings, receive text or email links to a property’s marketing and make inquiries by text, email, What’sApp or mobile phone call.

We have digital data bases to ensure we can maintain contact with potential buyers. In a world obsessed with acronyms, we have a CRM system that automatically generates emails with new listings attached that go to potential buyers.

The photographer’s photos are processed by someone in the Philippines and arrive in my in-box in a drop-box link the next day. Videos are now an important part of marketing a property, some done professionally and others done on mobile phones. We use DocuSign to electronically sign contracts.

So, much has changed. There are new, faster and more efficient ways to reach buyers and create competition for a property. But, like ten-pin bowling, the fundamentals are the same.

You still have to talk to people, create trust and negotiate the best possible deal for the sellers. And when the deal is done … Yabba dabba doo!

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David Fisher - Gardian

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Warm conditions and the occasional cooling breeze set the scene for another successful week of golf at Proserpine Golf Club, with players across all divisions turning in impressive results.

Tuesday’s Single Stroke event delivered excellent scores, with Brad Fleet leading the men’s field on 66 nett, closely followed by Peter Lindsay on 67. In the ladies’ division, Jacqui Wall claimed the win with 69 nett ahead of Leanne Alexander. The Vets competitions also produced strong numbers, with Allison McCarthy taking the ladies’ title on 65 nett, while Peter Lindsay backed up his form with a 67 nett win in the men’s.

On Wednesday, the ladies contested a Stableford round, where Karen Oni posted a steady 37 points to take the win. Thursday’s men’s Stableford brought standout performances across both grades, including a brilliant 42-point round from B Grade winner Bradley Wilkinson.

Friday’s 9-hole run, sponsored by the Metropole Hotel, saw Kerrie Johannesen top the leaderboard with 25 points, while the popular Putt for Cash jackpot—now up to $1050—came agonisingly close to going off, with Sherri Meade’s putt skimming the edge of the cup.

Saturday’s Haymans Electrical Stableford competition delivered some of the week’s strongest scoring. In A Grade, Lloyd Kingston returned a superb 42 points, with Steve Hickey close behind. In B Grade, Mark Richards took the win with 37 points. The ladies’ field was equally competitive, with Toni Clauss winning on a countback from Ann Gardel.

The week wrapped up on Sunday with the Medley Single Stableford, where Brad Fleet claimed his second win of the week, finishing with an impressive 42 points.

With high scoring and growing excitement around Friday’s jackpot, it’s shaping up to be another big week ahead at Proserpine Golf Club.

Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae

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Mackay Chamber Brings Business Community Together For Networking & Connection

Life Publishing Group, producers of Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper, would like to extend a massive thank you to Event Cinemas Mount Pleasant and the Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce for hosting a fantastic B2B Brews event earlier this week, where the team proudly unveiled their exciting new rebrand.

More than 100 local business owners and team members came together on Tuesday to network, connect and share ideas at the vibrant gathering. The Mackay Life Newspaper team officially revealed its fresh new look, complete with specially branded popcorn boxes showcasing the bold new colours and style.

Mackay Life Journalist Hannah McNamara, Life Publishing Editor in Chief Rachael Smith, Anita Craig from Events Cinema Mount Pleasant and Mackay Sales Manager Jessica Clark. Photo credit: Trish Jandt

Hi Everyone,

It was an absolute honour to host our rebrand launch at the Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce B2B Brews event on Tuesday. Held at Event Cinemas Mount Pleasant, it was wonderful to escape the morning humidity, connect with new people, and network in the lively main foyer before venturing into Cinema 6, where I had the privilege of presenting.

During my speech, I took the opportunity to give the broader business community an update on who we are, what we do, and to formally introduce myself.

I’ve been with Life Publishing Group for more than 10 years now, beginning my journey with owner Bec Douthwaite when it was just a small team working from a tiny home office. A lot has changed since then, but one thing has always remained the same — we are proudly independently owned and believe every region deserves its own free voice in print. That’s one of the key reasons we expanded into newspapers five years ago. I became the Whitsunday Editor, while Amanda Wright took on the Mackay Editor role.

Since then, we’ve grown to include Burdekin Life and Hinchinbrook Life Newspapers, but our heart and foundations remain firmly in Mackay.

A few weeks ago, we farewelled Amanda as she launched into an exciting new chapter as Andrew Willcox’s Media Adviser. Since then, it has been an absolute privilege to watch Journalist Hannah McNamara shine.

With an exceptional work ethic, consistency, and genuine passion for her craft, Hannah has stepped into her new role with grace, kindness, and calm. She brings compassion to every conversation and professionalism to every story.

Thank you, Hannah, for all that you do for the Mackay region — you are doing an incredible job!

Rach

Quote of the Week: "A bird does not sing because it has an answer. It sings because it has a song" (Chinese Proverb)

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A local resident’s difficult day took an unexpected turn thanks to the kindness of a KFC staff member at Northern Beaches. After experiencing the loss of a family member, the customer had gone without food and decided to order through Menulog. What was meant to be a simple meal quickly became a frustrating ordeal.

“I hadn’t eaten all day, I decided to order Menulog at KFC. I had a driver at the restaurant for about 30 minutes… I messaged them with no response,” the customer shared on social media. After repeated attempts to contact the delivery service and the restaurant, she was close to breaking point.

Her call to KFC one final time, however, proved to be a turning point. “A lovely young man answered, I explained what was going on and he said to call back if I hadn’t been able to get a hold of them and he would help me.” When she returned to the store, the worker went above and beyond, offering a refund, a box full of extra chicken, and two mousse cups on the house.

“At this point I started to cry, I was at breaking point… He was the sweetest person. He gave me a refund and was so understanding, we were both apologetic to each other! He had no reason to apologise.”

The customer urged the community to acknowledge the young man, describing him as having “orange hair and facial piercings,” and thanked him for a gesture that brightened an otherwise heartbreaking day.

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Council is pleased to announce work is about to start on a local road project which will help to ease congestion on Mackay-Bucasia Road during peak traffic periods.

The project will also help to accelerate housing development in the area, to meet the housing requirements of one of our region’s fastest growing areas.

The project, which includes funding from the State Government’s Residential Activation Fund, will see Reed Street extended through to Norwood Parade in Kerrisdale Estate.

The works will begin on Monday, November 17, 2025, weather permitting, and are expected to be completed by late-May 2027.

It will create a vital north-south connection that will reduce congestion, improve connectivity and help facilitate the construction of additional homes in the Northern Beaches area.

The new road connection will provide a direct link between the growing residential estate of Kerrisdale and a nearby commercial centre, school and other community services at Rural View.

With development approvals in place for a further 127 lots in the Kerrisdale Estate, this project will help to fast track the growth of that estate.

By taking pressure off the congested Mackay-Bucasia Road, this project will also support accelerated housing development in other growing estates in the Northern Beaches.

Mayor Greg Williamson said Mackay-Bucasia Road was a state-controlled road and council could only advocate to the State Government for its upgrade.

“This project is a way for council to develop an alternative-parallel connection to improve connectivity and reduce reliance on that road,” Mayor Williamson said.

“The Northern Beaches is one of our fastest growing areas and we know that residents are concerned with accessing the Northern Beaches Community Hub and essential community facilities, like the cyclone shelter at Mackay Northern Beaches State High School,” he said.

The project is also expected to enhance public safety by improving traffic distribution across key residential and school zones, as well as providing a key pedestrian and active transport link to such facilities.

Reduced speed limits will be in place during construction, and a 50km/h speed limit will be in place once construction is complete.

The Reed Street connection project will be jointly funded by the State Government and council, with the state contributing $7.58 million towards the total cost of about $10.5 million.

Mayor Williamson said the project was part of council’s key advocacy campaign prior to the State and Federal Elections.

He said that council would continue to advocate for funding for a second parallel access link between Dawson Boulevard and Mackay-Habana Road.

It forms part of council’s broader commitment to delivering infrastructure that meets the needs of a growing population.

This project is proudly funded by the Queensland Government’s Residential Activation Fund in association with Mackay Regional Council.

For updates and more information, visit Connecting Mackay.

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Image supplied by Mackay Regional Council

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A Mackay father who went into cardiac arrest at home has reunited with three police officers who saved his life in what doctors described as a remarkable recovery.

Andrew was at home when he collapsed and became unresponsive. His braveeight-year-old son immediately called Triple Zero (000), unaware of the weight this brave decision would impact.

Constables Joel, Liz and Travis from the Queensland Police Service were the first to arrive. They found Andrew without a pulse and not breathing, and immediately began CPR, continuing until Queensland Ambulance Service paramedics reached the scene.

Together, police and paramedics worked to revive Andrew, who was transported to Mackay Base Hospital once his pulse returned.

A Queensland Police Service spokesperson said Andrew’s doctor later revealed he had no pulse for 12 minutes.

“He had no pulse for 12 minutes, and without the incredible CPR performed by the attending officers, he wouldn’t have survived.

“Our three officers reunited with Andrew, whose life they helped save during a critical emergency. Andrew has since made an incredible recovery and says he owes his life to his three heroes

The Queensland Police Service also commended Andrew’s young son for his composure during the emergency and praised the teamwork between first responders.

Andrew said he is deeply grateful to the three officers who refused to give up and gave him a second chance at life.

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Photo source: Queensland Police Service

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OPINION PIECE

Federal Member for Dawson and Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability, Andrew Willcox, says Labor’s plan to drop regional speed limits leaves regional Australia stuck in the slow lane.

The ‘roadblock to regional progress’ proposal would reduce the default speed limit on unsigned roads outside of built-up areas, which is currently 100 km/h, down to as low as 70 km/h.

“Slashing speed limits isn’t road safety reform, it’s a lazy fix. Instead of patching potholes, Labor wants to punish the people who drive on them,” Mr Willcox said.

Mr Willcox said Dawson communities are firmly opposed to the Government’s plan, describing it as a “Canberra solution to a regional problem.”

“Country people want the Government to invest in fixing our roads, not let them deteriorate to the point where speed limits have to be reduced, and later forcing councils and state governments to pick up the tab when proper investment could prevent this.”

Since coming to office, the Albanese Government has cancelled, cut, or delayed more than $30 billion in infrastructure funding, leaving many regional projects in limbo.

Mr Willcox said the Government’s claims of restoring the 80:20 funding split for regional road upgrades were misleading.

“People think the 80:20 funding model has been restored, but that’s just smoke and mirrors. It only applies to the money pledged to the Bruce Highway, and we haven’t seen those funds flow to regional areas either,” he said.

“The Prime Minister has targeted regional roads for spending cuts, reducing the Commonwealth’s contribution from 80 per cent under the Coalition to just 50 per cent for many upgrade projects.”

Mr Willcox said the proposal would only hurt regional productivity and safety.“Out here, roads aren’t a luxury, they’re lifelines for farmers, truckies, and small businesses.

Lowering speed limits just slows regional Australia down,” he said.

“Locals don’t want slower roads, they want safer ones.

“Fund the repairs, back our councils, and stop treating regional Australia as an afterthought.”

He said Labor’s plan had even drawn criticism from within its own ranks. Labor Senator Glenn Sterle told ABC Radio:

“Absolutely no way do I support this. It is a nonsense. It is just a nonsense that we would even entertain or put up something like this.”

“If the Government won’t even listen to one of its own senators, why would we believe it will listen to feedback from rural communities?” Mr Willcox said.

“It’s time to make it clear, this plan must be scrapped.”

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Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox urges the Government to fix deteriorating regional roads in Dawson rather than imposing a 70 km/h speed limit. Photo supplied

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Mackay Gathers For Remembrance Day 2025

Mackay paused to honour its fallen at the 2025 Annual Remembrance Day ceremony, held at the Cenotaph in Jubilee Park last Tuesday, November 11. Marking the 107th anniversary of the end of the First World War, the solemn gathering saw the community observe a minute’s silence at the 11th hour, accompanied by the traditional “Last Post” and “Rouse.”

Mackay Regional Mayor Greg Williamson welcomed attendees, while ADF Cadet Sergeant Murray Macgroarty, noted for his 380 km charity walk supporting veterans’ homelessness, delivered a touching speech on the resilience of those who serve, both past and present. Tayt Rowe of St Patrick’s College performed the bugle calls, followed by a fly-past by the Mackay Tiger Moth Museum.

During wreath-laying, Piper Ian Dean of the Mackay & District Pipe Band played “Flowers of the Forest” on historic 1916 bagpipes, as the community reflected on the sacrifices of local service men and women.

Lest We Forget

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Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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The Crisafulli Government has brought its fourth Community Cabinet of 2025 to Mackay, taking the opportunity to hear directly from residents, business owners, and community leaders on what matters most to the region. More than 200 people attended the event at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre on Sunday, November 2, where Premier David Crisafulli and Ministers outlined their plan to deliver safety, health services, and economic opportunities for local communities.

Premier Crisafulli said the event was an important opportunity to engage with the community.

"We’re listening to the people of the Mackay Whitsundays to ensure we deliver what matters to them – safety where you live, health services when you need them, a stronger economy and a plan for the future," he said.

"This Mackay Community Cabinet has been a great opportunity to engage with the community to listen to ideas and priorities as we shape the future together."

The Government also highlighted its investment in housing and infrastructure. Through the $2 billion Residential Activation Fund, $41.66 million will unlock eight infrastructure projects in the Mackay-Whitsundays region, delivering 2,977 new homes. A further $44.1 million will expand and improve social and community housing, ensuring more Queenslanders have a safe place to call home.

Health services are also being strengthened with the Mackay Hospital expansion, which will deliver at least 128 new overnight beds as part of the fully-funded Hospital Rescue Plan, alongside upgrades to the hospital’s transit lounge. Employment and training opportunities for young people will benefit from the expansion of the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy, with $2 million establishing regional hubs, the first based in Mackay at the Resources Centre of Excellence.

Last week, the Government also further reinforced its commitment to housing, announcing a record $5.6 billion investment in social and affordable homes across Queensland over the next four years. In the Mackay-Whitsundays region, 141 social and affordable homes are now under contract or in construction, including 18 new social homes in Mackay, with 15 one-bedroom and three two-bedroom units, expected to be delivered by the end of 2026.

Minister for Housing and Public Works Sam O’Connor said the initiative was part of a statewide plan to deliver 53,500 social and community homes by 2044.

“Projects like this one are vital to meeting the need for social housing for Mackay-Whitsunday locals waiting for a place to call home," he said.

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton enthused that, “These 18 new social homes will be life-changing and provide stability for some of our most vulnerable locals.”

The initiatives are expected to deliver real progress, supporting a stronger and more connected community.

Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP said, "Every Queensland Minister is on the ground, listening to our community, so we can continue delivering for the Mackay Whitsunday region."

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Photo source: Amanda Camm MP

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Council is proud to announce the successful funding of 20 community-led initiatives through the Make Your Place, City Safety and Façade Improvement grant programs.

These grants will inject a total of $80,182 into projects that enhance and activate public spaces, improve public safety and celebrate local creativity.

Projects range from an interactive gnome hunt to local cooking demonstrations and a barbecue, craft beer and music festival on the riverfront.

Successful Façade Improvement projects were eligible for a co-contribution from council of up to 50 per cent of the total project cost.

Grant recipients include:

Make Your Place Grants – $40,500.00

Seven projects will bring colour, culture, and connection to the Mackay Waterfront and surrounding areas:
• Pioneer Potters Mackay Inc – Mackay Gnome Hunt: 500 gnomes will be hidden across parks and trails, each with a QR code linking to a community Facebook group.
• Rhythm Business – Community Jams: 12 interactive music sessions at Bluewater Quay inviting all ages to sing and drum together.
• River of Life Festival Association – River of Life Festival: A one-day celebration with live music, markets, art and food along 500m of the waterfront.
• Red Dog Riverfront – BBQ, Craft Beer and Music Festival: A family-friendly event showcasing local brewers, barbecue masters and musicians.
• Bonnie McCarthy – River Reimagined: A temporary art installation using recycled materials and community stories near the YUWI sign (Subject to Visual Arts Advisory Committee approval).
• Renae Johansen – Riverside Children’s Hub: Inclusive kids’ activities and performances during the River of Life Festival.
• Mackay Farmers’ Market – Local Produce Cooking Demonstrations: Quarterly sessions promoting healthy eating with fresh local produce.

City Safety Grants – $15,878.32

Six projects will enhance public safety and security in the City Centre:
• Health and Hearts Exercise Physiology Clinic: Lighting and roller door installation to deter loitering at 2 Tennyson Street.
• Red Dog Brewery: CCTV upgrades to support crime prevention and community safety.
• Financial Planning Mackay: Security gate installation to prevent unauthorised access and improve staff safety.
• Mastermyne: Roller shutter installation to address safety concerns at 45 River Street.
• Harper Bee: CCTV system to monitor external areas and deter criminal activity.
• Rasmussen Chartered Accountants: CCTV installation to improve visibility and reduce break-ins.

Façade Improvement Grants – $23,804.04

Seven projects will refresh and beautify building exteriors, contributing to a more vibrant streetscape:
• Mackay Customs House: Fence panel replacement at the historic Customs House.
• Harper Bee: Canopy upgrade and new signage to enhance heritage charm.
• Mastermyne: Window and façade painting to modernise a prominent River Street building.
• Skin Transformations: Signage, decals and smart lock system for safety and visibility.
• Man About Menswear: New signage to replace outdated branding.
• Dancewear Mackay: Exterior repairs, painting and signage upgrades.
• Health & Hearts Exercise Physiology Clinic: Artistic window designs and new signage to add colour and character.

For more information about the grants and how to apply for future rounds, visit mackaywaterfront.com.au

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The River of Life Festival, a one-day celebration with live music, markets, art and food along 500m of the waterfront, was once again supported by council’s Make Your Place Grants program. Photo supplied

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The Mackay RSL Sub Branch Dinner, proudly supported by major sponsor Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal, drew an impressive crowd for an evening of fine dining, entertainment, and community spirit. Guests enjoyed a three-course meal, live band, prizes, and an auction, all in support of a meaningful cause.

The event proved a tremendous success, with a generous amount of funds raised on the night to assist in the development of the new RSL Wellness Centre, a vital initiative aimed at supporting the wellbeing of veterans and their families.

It was an evening that celebrated camaraderie, generosity, and Mackay’s ongoing commitment to honouring and caring for those who have served.

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A Mackay woman’s week took an unforgettable turn after discovering she’d won $200,000 on November 3rd, in a Monday Lucky Lotteries Mega Jackpot draw. The surprise left her shouting with excitement and declaring her love for the lottery official who broke the news.

The North Queensland resident held the 1st Prize winning entry in Lucky Lotteries Mega Jackpot draw 1730, drawn Monday 3 November 2025, securing a dreamy $200,000.

“I love you! You’ve just become my instant bestie!” she cheered when an official from The Lott called to reveal her prize.

“I’m standing outside my work at the moment, and I’m trying my best to contain my excitement.

“I can’t believe it!

“I noticed I had a missed call and text from you earlier today and I got a little excited, but I told myself I wouldn’t be convinced until I heard it straight from the horse’s mouth.

“Now that you’ve confirmed the win, it’s starting to feel real.

“I can’t wait to tell my partner the good news.”

With her $200,000 payday, the overjoyed winner shared she can now finally pack her bags and take a long-awaited holiday.

“You know what, this has come at a great time! My partner and I have been talking about doing some travel in the near future,” she said.

“It always felt a little distant until now. Italy has definitely been on our wish list.

“I’m sure a few things might change with $200,000 in the bank.”

Her winning entry of five random numbers was purchased via The Lott app – the official home of Australia’s lotteries.

The Lucky Lotteries Mega Jackpot prize is now $15.76 million for draw 1731, while the Lucky Lotteries Super Jackpot sits at $1.28 million for draw 11046.

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Photo supplied

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What have Alice Springs, Launceston, Davenport, Burnie, Melbourne and Port Macquarie got I common?
They’re the only cities in Australia where the property markets are declining, although Port Macquarie is approaching the bottom of the market.

The revelation is featured in the latest “property clock” from property valuers Herron Todd White and gives an interesting insight into the state of play in Australian real estate markets, including Mackay.

The HTW property clock shows whether the country’s property markets are rising or falling depending on where they sit on the clock face.

The top of the clock is 12 o’clock and that’s for cities at the peak of the market,  2 o’clock is for a market starting to decline, 3 o’clock is a declining market, 6 o’clock is bottom of the market, 8 o’clock is a market starting a recovery,  9 o’clock  is a rising market and 10 o’clock is a market approaching its peak.

It’s pretty lonely for those six cities sitting on the right-hand side of the clock in declining markets because pretty much the rest of the country is in a rising market.

There are a handful of cities, such as Bundaberg, Dubbo and Toowoomba, that are at the peak of their markets and  four other places, including Byron Bay and NSW Southern Highlands, that are at the bottom of their markets. But everywhere else is in a rising market.

Interestingly, The Whitsundays are among four places, including Gladstone, that are said to be approaching the peak of their markets.

The rest of the country is squashed in at 9 o’clock on the clock, in a rising market. Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Perth and Adelaide are there. So are Cairns, Townsville and Rockhampton. And so is Mackay.

The government’s new benefits for first home buyers will put them into a better position to buy a property but you can bet this will create greater demand and help push prices up further, particularly in the typical bracket for that cohort of buyers.

Mackay’s median price is now well and truly above $600,000. That figure will generally get you a very basic three-bedroom, one bathroom house and there is an enormous demand in that price range.

Investors from southern markets are still buying in Mackay, driven by yields of 5 per cent and above thanks to our high rental prices. That $600,000 property would be expected to get at or above $650 a week, so it’s a great return on investment.

But Mackay people, wanting to buy a house to live in rather than an investment, are fighting for their opportunities.

As the latest Herron Todd White monthly report points out, southern investors are not interested in a property that needs some maintenance because they are not here to do it and want something they can set and forget.

This presents a great opportunity for  local people wanting to get into the market. You might have to do some painting and maintenance on that cottage but you won’t be competing with southern investors and you will probably get it for under $600,000.

I wrote a column in March 2023 where I encouraged young people and others wanting to break into the market to buy a unit. I said at that time that I had just sold a unit in East Mackay for $174,000 and that someone with a 10 per cent deposit could buy a property like that and have a mortgage that would be lower than rent.

Those prices have gone now but you can still buy a unit, depending on the suburb and features, in the $300,000s. I believe units in  the low $300,000s still represent an opportunity for young people because it gets them in the market, the mortgage will still be less than rent and you’d expect growing competition for properties in that price range.

Meanwhile that property clock is ticking.

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Honouring Our Heritage, Strengthening Our Future

By Councillor Nathenea MacRae

Over the weekend, I had the honour of attending the Mackay RSL 2025 Gala Dinner, a night that celebrated both our proud military history and the incredible community spirit that defines our region.

One of the most moving moments of the evening was seeing the return of the original 42nd Battalion bagpipes, gifted by the people of Mackay in 1916 and carried by our soldiers through the battlefields of France.

To hear those very pipes played once again, their sound echoing through the room, was something very special.

After being lost to history for more than a century, these pipes were unexpectedly rediscovered in California. Thanks to the determination of the Mackay RSL team and local advocates, they have finally been brought home. They’re not just instruments, they’re a piece of our city’s soul and a reminder that Mackay has always stood up, reached out and looked after one another.

That same spirit continues today through initiatives such as the RSL Wellness Centre at Illawong, which will provide vital support for veterans and their families, a place for healing, connection and community. Proudly supported by Mackay Regional Council, RSL Queensland, and local businesses, the sub branch is determined to keep the project community-driven from the ground up. Council is proud to play a role, including leasing the premises to the RSL to help this important service thrive.

As these historic pipes find their place once again in Mackay, the RSL has also launched a new mission: to identify the 13 men pictured in the 1916 Pipe Band photograph. These were our fathers, grandfathers and great-grandfathers and sons of this region whose faces deserve their names back.

I encourage every family, history enthusiast, and proud local to be part of this search. Visit the RSL, look through old family albums, and help uncover the stories of the men who carried Mackay’s music into the heart of war.

Our history has come home, now it’s up to all of us to help it speak again.

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Mater Volunteer Celebrates Life And Service

Mackay grandmother Linda Veurman said she was “shocked and amazed” to be named Mater’s 2025 Volunteer of the Year – but her night of surprises did not stop there.

By coincidence, two Mater doctors who helped save her life by diagnosing and removing a tumour growing next to her brain stem were both also honoured at the Mater People Awards evening in Brisbane.

After collecting her award, Ms Veurman caught up with Mater Private Hospital Mackay ENT specialist Dr Luke Reid and Mater Private Hospital Brisbane neurosurgeon Dr Martin Wood to congratulate them on their awards – and say a heartfelt thank-you.

Ms Veurman, 60, began volunteering at Mater Private Hospital Mackay in 2017, determined to give back to the community during her retirement.

But the next year she became a Mater patient herself after seeing Dr Reid to discuss what she thought was a sinus problem.

“Dr Reid sent me for a hearing test, that I failed pretty badly, and then sent me for an MRI – which is when they picked up the tumour in my ear,” Ms Veurman said.

“It had started pressing on my brain stem and I was told that if it wasn’t treated it may have caused me to pass away in a couple of years’ time.

“I went to the Mater in Brisbane for a 10-hour operation and Dr Wood was one of the surgeons who helped to remove the tumour.

“They are both excellent doctors who deserve their awards and to be there to win an award alongside them on the same night was unbelievable – it was a very special night!”

Dr Reid and Dr Wood both received the Contribution to Clinical Excellence – Doctor award for their service to Mater and its patients.

Dr Reid has been Mackay’s sole full-time ENT specialist for more than a decade, treating both private and public patients, while also teaching at James Cook University and mentoring international medical graduates.

Dr Wood is one of Queensland’s most respected neurosurgeons, renowned for pioneering minimally invasive spinal surgery and performing Australia’s first in utero surgery for spina bifida.

He is also the co-founder and chairman of the Brainchild Foundation, a children’s brain tumour charity.

Also among the night’s winners was Georgia Strydom, Nurse Unit Manager of the medical ward at Mater Private Hospital Mackay, who received Mater’s Emerging Leadership award for her commitment to service excellence and compassionate care.

As a ward volunteer, Ms Veurman supports Mater patients and nurses by ensuring wards always have ample stocks of medical and other supplies, while also acting as ‘concierge’ for patients as they are discharged.

“I love that I can help the nurses in their work, making their jobs a bit easier, and whenever a patient is being discharged I get a call to accompany

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Mackay grandmother Linda Veurman was named Mater’s 2025 Volunteer of the Year, sharing the stage with the two doctors who once saved her life - a heartfelt full-circle moment of gratitude and service. Photos supplied

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By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

The Australian sugar industry has long prided itself on resilience, innovation and a sense of collective purpose. However, recent events at the industry owned, not for profit, Queensland Sugar Limited (QSL) Annual General Meeting have cast a shadow over this reputation, sparking outrage across cane communities and industry stakeholders alike.

QSL has long served as the central marketing body for Queensland’s sugar exports, acting as an intermediary between growers, mills, and international buyers.
The actions of Wilmar Sugar and MSF Sugar in voting down critical constitutional reforms for QSL have drawn widespread condemnation from growers who form the backbone of the sugar industry, alongside Industry bodies and other milling companies alike.

Highlighting Wilmar and MSF being out of step with the rest of the industry, the three other milling companies using their vote - that being our very own Mackay Sugar Ltd, as well as Bundaberg Sugar and Isis Sugar - all sided with the growers to support the changes. But, alas, Wilmar and MSF voted down the aspirations of the wider industry.  It is great to see that the three supportive millers have the vision and whole-of-industry approach to the future of the Queensland sugar industry, rather than pursuing individual corporate agendas and controls.

These constitutional changes would have made QSL’s internal voting structure more reflective of the current marketing situation in the Queensland sugar industry, not that of the late 1990s when initial structure was created under what was basically a single desk marketing system.  Fast forward to the present, and we now have Wilmar Sugar and MSF who, amongst others, who are competitors to QSL yet, anachronistically and inappropriately, still have a major voice and vote in the structure and governance of an industry-owned business.

Last week’s crucial vote on proposed changes to QSL’s constitution represented a watershed moment for the future of Queensland’s sugar industry.

The reforms, designed to modernise the QSL structure, enhance transparency, and ensure fairer representation for those who market their sugar through QSL, were widely regarded as essential steps towards a more equitable and competitive future.  Yet the two multinational millers, Wilmar and MSF still believe that they have a moral right to influence an industry owned competitor modernising its governance to suit the current environment.

They have effectively stifled the voices of growers and other millers, perpetuating a status quo that limits competition and innovation. This self-serving stance risks eroding trust and cooperation within the industry, potentially driving a wedge between stakeholders at a time when unity is more critical than ever.  By blocking these changes, Wilmar and MSF have sent a concerning signal about their commitment to openness and fair play.

The sugar industry is a vital part of Queensland’s economy and rural communities, employing thousands and supporting countless local businesses. For the sector to thrive, stakeholders must work together—not against one another—to build a fair, transparent, and inclusive future. The actions of Wilmar and MSF in voting down QSL’s constitutional reforms have been widely condemned as short-sighted and self-serving, undermining the principles of democracy and collaboration upon which the sugar industry has built itself.

As the dust settles, it is imperative that all parties return to the negotiating table with a genuine commitment to reform and a willingness to put the interests of growers and regional communities first. Only by working together can the industry hope to secure a brighter, more sustainable future for Queensland’s sugar heartland.

In the end, history will judge those who chose to stand in the way of progress. The path forward may be fraught with challenges, but the determination and integrity shown by those supporting reform offer hope that the true spirit of Queensland’s sugar industry will prevail.

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Government Delivers Major Boost for Mackay Conservation

The Crisafulli Government has announced a $7.8 million investment to support land, soil, water and biodiversity projects across the Mackay, Whitsunday and Isaac regions, delivering a major boost for local conservation and community-led environmental initiatives.

The funding, part of the government’s Natural Resources Management Expansion Program (NRMEP), will help restore waterways, protect coastal reefs, and enhance wildlife habitats throughout the Mackay region — from Cattle Creek to the Coral Reef.

Reef Catchments will receive more than $4.8 million to restore eight kilometres of streambank along Cattle Creek, strengthen riparian corridors, enhance in-stream habitats, and reduce sediment flow into the Great Barrier Reef lagoon.

A further $1.9 million will connect 57 hectares of koala habitat from South Koumala to north of Eton, while nearly $1 million will fund inshore reef restoration through Coral IVF techniques and reseeding of seagrass meadows in Pioneer Bay.

Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dale Last said the investment will deliver tangible environmental outcomes by empowering local expertise.

“This funding is about backing real action, by supporting local experts who understand their region and what it takes to protect it,” Minister Last said.

“These projects will deliver real on-ground results for our environment and the communities who depend on healthy landscapes and waterways.

“During Labor’s decade of decline, NRM groups were left high and dry without the meaningful funding they need to support the great work they do across Queensland.

“Through our $117.84 million Natural Resource Management Expansion Program, the Crisafulli Government is giving those groups certainty by supporting the people who know their regions best.”

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the investment reflects the government’s commitment to long-term, practical outcomes.

“These projects will improve water quality, protect wildlife and support local jobs — and they’re happening right here in our backyard,” Mr Dalton said.

“This funding recognises the importance of local stewardship and is a major boost for our communities.”

Member for Mirani Glen Kelly said the announcement highlights the government’s focus on regional sustainability.

“From protecting koala habitat to restoring critical waterways, this is the Crisafulli Government backing local solutions and restoring trust in regional investment,” Mr Kelly said.
“Healthy ecosystems mean stronger farming, more resilient communities and better outcomes for future generations.”

Reef Catchments CEO Katrina Dent said the funding would help target priority areas for biodiversity restoration.

“We’re incredibly grateful for the Queensland Government's investment in natural resource management through the NRMEP,” Ms Dent said.

“This funding will allow us to scale up our efforts for critical ecosystems and to target hot spot areas where previous weather events have damaged key parts of the region.”

The funding marks a major milestone for the Mackay region, reinforcing its position as a leader in sustainable land and water management across Queensland.

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A $7.5 million partnership between North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) and James Cook University (JCU) will deliver a five-year program to advance marine science across four ports.

Building on a decade of nationally recognised collaboration, the partnership will deliver world-class monitoring, research, education and training.

It will also expand into new areas such as marine habitat restoration research, marine animal  studies such as dugongs and turtles, and increasing Traditional Owner engagement.

The collaboration is led by JCU’s Centre for Tropical Water and Aquatic Ecosystem Research (TropWATER).

NQBP CEO Brendan Webb said the new partnership solidifies NQBP’s long-term commitment to environmental stewardship and collaboration.

“As the only port authority managing three ports within the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area, we take our environmental and social responsibilities in these iconic surroundings seriously,” Mr Webb said.

“This partnership represents the gold standard for how industry and research institutions can work together to protect and understand the environment.

“Together, we’ve delivered world-class monitoring, empowered Traditional Owner engagement, and fostered the next generation of marine scientists. This renewed partnership ensures we build on those achievements into the future.”

JCU Deputy Vice Chancellor, Research Professor Jenny Seddon said the partnership continued to demonstrate the real-world impact of JCU’s research.

“Our collaboration with NQBP shows how industry and universities can work together and embed scientific expertise into core port operations to deliver real and lasting benefits to the environment, communities and industry,” Professor Seddon said.

Professor Michael Rasheed, JCU’s co-director of the program said at its core the partnership supports world class research and monitoring, including one of the world’s longest continuous running seagrass monitoring program.

“These programs have led to breakthrough knowledge on how coastal ecosystems function including developing tools for their effective management and approaches to restoration of seagrass meadows that can be applied throughout tropical Queensland and the Indo-Pacific,” Professor Rasheed said.

“The program reaches well beyond the ports themselves with results fed into regional reporting on waterway health and advancing science and management. This is a great example of how research and industry partnerships can benefit society,” he said.

Associate Professor Nathan Waltham, JCU TropWATER said the partnership is a model for how industry and research can work together to deliver real-world outcomes.

“We’re proud to be training the next generation of marine scientists and delivering the data and solutions needed for resilient, thriving port environments,” A/Professor Waltham said.

“It also provides extraordinary opportunities for our students and researchers to work at the
forefront of marine science.”

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North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation and James Cook University have launched a $7.5 million, five-year partnership to advance marine science, environmental monitoring, and habitat restoration across four Great Barrier Reef ports. Photos supplied

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Managing Risk In A Volatile Sugar Market

By Simon Hood
Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

Thank you to all growers who nominated Wilmar Grower Marketing as their GEI marketer for the 2026 season.

I would like to extend a warm welcome to the growing number of new growers who have chosen Wilmar for the first time. We don’t take any nomination, new or existing, for granted and remain committed to delivering strong returns, flexible products and personalised service to maintain your trust in this vital part of your business.

This year has been particularly challenging on the pricing front. Just 8 months ago, the March 26 futures contract was trading close to 20 USc/lb, with the AUD sugar price above $650/t. We are now facing a $465/t price and futures at 14 USc/lb.

Our recent October Pool results have reinforced our decision to relaunch the Managed Pool as the Managed Pool Plus (MPP) with the key difference being its extended time horizon for price management compared to the Production Risk Pool (PRP).

At the end of October, the MPP was forecast at $560/t Actual versus the PRP at $515/t. During the month, the 2025 Season price fell by about $70/t Actual, while the MPP dropped $40/t and the PRP $60/t, reflecting the MPP’s higher hedge profile.

The Grower Marketing team are fielding lots of enquiries from growers seeking guidance on sugar price outlooks. While no one can predict prices with certainty, our analysts expect global sugar stocks to build over the next 12 to 18 months due to large crops in India and Brazil, assuming normal weather.

Ethanol remains another key factor, with prices influenced by oil markets, relative feedstock prices, and government regulation. The recent dip in sugar prices below 14 USc/lb has already prompted some Brazilian mills to switch from sugar to ethanol, showing price signals are working to rebalance supply and demand.

Across all regions, growers are underpriced for the 2025 season, and even more so for 2026. While that is a challenge shared across the industry, it is important to look ahead. If you could lock in $525/t today for the 2025 season, would you take it? The 2028 season has that price available now, and pricing even a small portion early can help manage risk and secure a solid base as markets evolve.

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The AUD Sugar price has dropped considerably since it’s last high in April over $650/t to recent lows under $460/t Image supplied

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A home loan is one of the biggest financial commitments many of us will make – but paying it off sooner than expected is possible and it doesn’t always mean big changes. At Community Bank Sarina, we’re backed by Bendigo Bank and here to support locals with clear, practical ways to take control of their finances and make smarter decisions about their future. If you’re looking to reduce the life of your home loan, here are a few strategies worth considering:

Make extra repayments
Adding even a small amount to your regular repayments can reduce interest and loan term. For example, adding just $50 per fortnight on a $500,000 loan (30-year term, 6.5% interest) could save over $87,000 in interest and shorten the loan by nearly four years.

Offset accounts and redraw facilities
Keeping money in an offset account reduces the interest charged on your loan. Similarly, using a redraw facility allows you to access extra repayments if needed, while still reducing your loan balance in the meantime.

Find a lower interest rate
Even a small difference in interest rates can add up over the life of your loan. If your rate isn’t as competitive as it could be, it’s worth looking into options or talking to a lender about refinancing.

Review your loan regularly
Checking in on your loan and interest rate every few years – especially as your circumstances change, can help ensure your loan structure still suits your goals. Paying off a mortgage faster isn’t about making drastic sacrifices. It’s about finding the right tools, staying consistent and being supported by people who understand your goals.

At Community Bank Sarina, we take pride in being a profit for purpose organisation that invests in local people. If you’re looking for ways to pay off your mortgage sooner or considering refinancing, we’re here to talk. Come in and see the friendly team at 37 Broad Street, Sarina or call us on 07 4943 2634.

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The Mackay Regional Council has approved the development application for a new McDonald’s in Sarina, with Mayor Greg Williamson casting the deciding vote following a robust debate.

Speaking after the decision, Mayor Williamson said, “It was called to make a final decision on the development application for McDonald’s in Sarina.

“After a robust debate, I used my casting vote to actually approve the development application for McDonald’s in Sarina.”

The Mayor highlighted the economic benefits the new restaurant will bring to the community, particularly for local youth. “It's going to be a great thing for Sarina, particularly for the young people in Sarina. They're going to employ 120 people as casuals.”

Mayor Williamson also noted that McDonald’s has committed to working closely with the community to address concerns raised during the council meeting.

“They’ve also committed to working with the neighbours, and work with the council to ameliorate some of the concerns that were raised… about the neighbourhood impact of having McDonald’s on the main street. So, all in all, I think it is a pretty good outcome.”

The new development is expected to create significant employment opportunities while providing a long-term addition to Sarina’s main street. Council hopes the project will support local economic growth, offer jobs for young residents, and balance community needs with development benefits.

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Locals are invited to come together for a free community BBQ celebrating International Men’s Day as a chance to connect, enjoy a great lunch, and raise awareness about men’s health and wellbeing.

The event will be held on Wednesday, 19 November 2025, from 11am to 2pm at 160 Boundary Road, Ooralea, and promises to be a relaxed and welcoming afternoon for all ages.

Guests can enjoy a complimentary BBQ lunch, fun giveaways, and free blood pressure checks. It’s also a great opportunity for mates, colleagues, and families to come along, start conversations, and show support for the important men in their lives.

The event is proudly supported by Family Health Care Mackay, BeWorkFit Mackay, and Shed Happens, who have joined forces to highlight the importance of regular health check-ups and open conversations around physical and mental wellbeing.

Organisers hope the casual setting will encourage more men to take a moment for themselves, to chat, check in, and connect with local services that are here to help.
Everyone is welcome to attend, so grab your mates, head down to Ooralea, and be part of a positive community event that celebrates men, their health, and the power of looking out for one another.

Meet our pet of the week - Kobe. Kobe is an 11 month old American Staffordshire X, who is looking for his forever home.

Kobe loves to be around his people, loves to walk and run to burn off all his extra energy —and then cherishes curling up beside you at the end of the day.

Kobe is still a young pup who will need ongoing training, but lucky for his new family, he has mastered the basics already.

He lives up to his breed with excitement, but his big smile and warm heart truly make Kobe a great companion.

Kobe is desexed and up to date with all vaccinations, has also received flea tick treatment and worming, also microchipped.

He is looking for his forever family who will love him and his beautiful personality.

Available for adoption through Lucy's lucky tags and dog Rescue. For more information, please email: lltagsanddogrescue@gmail.com

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At Poetry In Print

The Poetry in Print curation team is proud to present a bold new initiative that brings together the rhythmic pulse of poetry and the tactile beauty of printmaking in a celebration of creative dialogue and community storytelling. This unique project pairs nine poets from Mackay Poetry Slam with eleven printmakers from Printbank Mackay, exploring the alchemy that occurs when word meets image.

The project began with a live warm-up session, where each poet presented two original works to an audience and their paired printmaker. From there, the printmakers were invited to respond visually to at least one poem by their assigned poet, with the
freedom to engage with others if inspired.

The result is a diverse and deeply personal collection of prints that reflect the emotional resonance, humour, and humanity embedded in the written word.

“This project is about more than just art,” says the curation team.

“It’s about connection — between disciplines, between artists, and between the community and the stories that shape us.”

Poetry in Print is an independently developed initiative, driven by the passion and collaboration of local artists. It reflects Mackay’s growing reputation as a hub for innovative, community-led arts practice.

The final works will be exhibited in a public showcase that invites viewers to experience the interplay between text and texture, voice and vision. Each piece is accompanied by the poem that inspired it, offering a layered encounter with the creative process and the power of collaboration.

Exhibition Details:

What: Poetry In Print Exhibition
When: Opening night: 5th of December 5-8pm. Then Open daily from 10-2pm 6th – 14th of December 2025
Where: 96 Victoria Street Mackay (Groove Moover Studio)

Some of the talented printmakers from the "Poetry in Print” project back in May

Poetry in Print unites Mackay poets and printmakers in a creative exhibition celebrating words, art, and community, showing December 5–14 at Groove Moover Studio. Photo source: Printback Mackay

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Protein, Creatine And The Cognitive Edge

By Michael James – Fitness Industry Professional, Facility Owner & Wellness Coach

Training is only half the story. The other half — the part that often makes or breaks your results — is nutrition. What you put into your body determines how well you recover, how much energy you have, and even how sharp your brain feels day to day. At Fitness Cartel Mackay, we’ve made this a priority by including a café stocked with protein shakes, supplements, and the right fuel to support both physical performance and mental clarity.

Two of the most important tools in this space are protein and creatine. While they’re often associated only with muscle building, the science shows their benefits extend far beyond bigger biceps or stronger lifts.
Protein – the foundation of recovery

Every time you train — whether lifting weights, attending a class, or going for a run — your muscles experience tiny tears. Protein is what rebuilds and repairs those fibres, making them stronger and more resilient. Without enough protein, your progress slows, soreness lingers, and your body simply doesn’t adapt the way you want it to.

But protein isn’t just about recovery. It helps regulate hormones, supports immune function, and keeps you feeling fuller for longer, making it a vital ally for fat loss and energy management. For anyone chasing tone, strength, or simply better health, prioritising protein is non-negotiable.

Creatine – more than just muscle

Creatine is one of the most researched and effective supplements in the world, and its benefits go well beyond the weight room. Yes, it helps muscles produce explosive power, making it invaluable for strength and performance. But recent studies have highlighted something even more exciting: creatine’s impact on the brain.

Supplementing with creatine has been linked to improved memory, faster processing, and greater mental resilience under stress. In other words, it doesn’t just help you train harder — it helps you think clearer. For busy professionals, students, or anyone who wants to stay sharp, creatine is proving to be one of the most valuable tools available.

Convenience meets science

At Fitness Cartel Mackay, our café will make it easy to put the science into practice. Post-workout shakes blended with quality protein, creatine supplementation options, and expert advice will all be on hand. That means you don’t have to guess, and you don’t have to compromise. Refuelling becomes simple, enjoyable, and effective.

Fuel your ambition

Family, community, ambition — our core values run through everything we do. By fuelling properly, you’re not just helping your body recover; you’re giving yourself the energy to show up for your family, perform at work, and chase your goals with confidence.

Because fitness isn’t just about the hours you spend in the gym. It’s about how you feel in every other hour of the day. And the right nutrition is the key to unlocking that.

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$2 Million Package Strengthens Homeless Support In Mackay

It’s been a significant week for Mackay, with the Government confirming a $2 million funding boost aimed at supporting vulnerable residents and local homelessness services. The package includes $1 million for Chances House, the city’s key drop-in centre, and $1 million for additional specialist services across Mackay and the Whitsundays.

Premier David Crisafulli said the investment offers a “fresh start” for Queenslanders, while Housing Minister Sam O’Connor emphasised backing frontline services and rebuilding the state’s housing system. Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton described the funding as a vital boost for the region, and Chances CEO Kayleigh Brewster welcomed the support, saying it ensures services can operate safely and sustainably.

Read more on page 3…

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Mackay Receives Lifeline Funding For Homelessness Services

The Government has announced a $2 million funding boost to support some of Mackay’s most vulnerable residents, ensuring essential homelessness services can continue to operate and expand.

The funding includes a $1 million grant to Chances House, also known as the Australian Street Aid Project, delivering on an election commitment to back local organisations supporting Queenslanders experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

Chances House is a vital drop-in centre in Mackay that provides meals, support, and referrals to those doing it tough. Since July 1, more than 3,730 people experiencing or at risk of homelessness have been assisted by Specialist Homelessness Services in the Mackay and Whitsunday region.

A further $1 million will support six additional specialist homelessness services across the Mackay and Whitsundays, forming part of the government’s record $589 million, five-year investment in crisis accommodation and frontline housing support.

Premier David Crisafulli said the funding reflects the government’s commitment to delivering a “fresh start” for Queenslanders.

“We are delivering a fresh start by investing in the services to help Queenslanders get back on their feet and have a roof over their head,” Premier Crisafulli said.

“Through the delivery of more support for crisis accommodation and specialist homelessness support services, we can help deliver a place to call home for more Queenslanders.

“This is about ensuring there is help available for vulnerable Queenslanders when and where it’s needed most.”

Minister for Housing Sam O’Connor said the government was rebuilding the state’s housing system with record investment in frontline services.

“Labor’s social housing waitlist grew by more than 80% over their decade of decline but we’re rebuilding the system with record funding and backing specialist homelessness services who do incredible work every day supporting our most vulnerable,” Minister O’Connor said.

“Chances is one of those vital hubs for local people doing it tough, offering a safe place to have a meal, a shower and access the internet, as well as referrals to essential services including housing.

“This investment locks in funding for day-to-day operations allowing the team to concentrate on helping vulnerable people, rather than fundraising.”

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the funding would make a real difference to local residents struggling amid the housing crisis.

“Under the Crisafulli Government we’re putting resources where they’re needed – on the frontline,” Mr Dalton said.

“After years of rising homelessness under Labor, this $2 million package – including $1 million for Chances – means local services can focus on helping Mackay residents get back on their feet and into a safe place to live.”

Chances CEO Kayleigh Brewster welcomed the announcement, saying the funding would ensure the organisation could continue its vital work supporting the community.

“Having relied on community support for the past seven years, we are very relieved and grateful for this funding opportunity,” Ms Brewster said.

“It enables us to better meet the needs of people experiencing homelessness in our community and, for the first time since establishment, we are supported to provide our many vital services in a safer and more sustainable way.”

The funding forms part of the Government’s record $589 million investment into crisis accommodation and homelessness services across Queensland, ensuring help is available where it’s needed most.

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L-R: Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton, Minister for Housing Sam O’Connor, Chances CEO Kayleigh Brewster and Premier David Crisafulli. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

The Queensland Government has pledged $2 million to Mackay homelessness services—including $1 million to Chances House—to help vulnerable residents access meals, support, and housing, as part of a broader $589 million statewide investment in crisis accommodation and frontline services. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton

Premier David Crisafulli

Chances CEO Kayleigh Brewster.

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Hi lovely readers!

How great does our new design look?

It’s vibrant, fresh, and a wonderful change!

If you couldn’t already tell, the green and blue hues reflect our stunning Great Barrier Reef and vibrant hinterland.

We live in such an incredible part of the world. I even watched a YouTube video recently with my husband Adam titled Top Places To Visit in Australia, and Cape Hillsborough and the Whitsunday Islands made the list!

While we may complain about the summer heat, deep down, we wouldn’t have it any other way.

One of the things I love most about this paper is how it highlights the very best of our region.

The Mackay Isaac Tourism Awards were held last Friday, and you can read all about it on page 21. It’s been a big week for our region: Premier David Crissifulli visited Chances House, announcing $2 million for frontline homeless services (page 3), and on page 4, you’ll read about a community cabinet discussion on key areas of regional growth held right here in Mackay.

So many positive developments instill a real sense of community pride. Funny enough, 10 years ago my parents packed up our house in Melbourne and moved here for the lifestyle, and now as I grow older, I completely understand why!

I love our region. Yes, there’s bad news everywhere, but if you don’t appreciate what you have, you’ll never enjoy where you are.

Scripture of the week: “In their hearts, humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” – Proverbs 16:9

Have a blessed week!

Hannah

A local mother has taken to a community page to express her gratitude to a stranger who came to her son’s aid following a serious scooter accident.

Her 14-year-old son had fallen from his e-scooter on a Mirani street and was left unconscious on the road. The quick action of a passerby ensured he received help in what could have been a far worse situation.

“To the gentleman that picked my 14yr old son up off the road unconscious out Mirani recently from an e-scooter incident, I am eternally grateful to you for helping him out of an extremely bad situation, that he can go on to live another day,” the mother wrote.

“Thank you so so much, you were my son's guardian angel that day.”

The post has resonated with the local community, with many commenting to acknowledge the stranger’s timely assistance and to reinforce the importance of road safety for young riders.

The mother’s message serves as both a heartfelt thank you and a reminder to families about the potential risks of e-scooters, while highlighting the generosity of a local resident whose quick thinking helped protect a child in need.

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At the National Press Club, The National Party of Australia drew a line in the sand, declaring it will no longer support Labor’s reckless Net Zero target by 2050, calling it unaffordable, unachievable, and unsustainable for Australia’s economic and industrial future.

The Party says Labor’s ideological approach is driving up power prices, costing jobs, and
punishing the regions that keep Australia running.

Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability, Andrew Willcox MP, said
the decision was based on economic reality, not ideology, and a stand for Australian jobs, industry, and energy security.

“Our economy is reliant on energy,” Mr Willcox said.

“And right now, our economy is being strangled by an obsession with targets that do nothing to change the global climate but everything to destroy local jobs and drive up the cost of living.

“Our environment is suffering with forests and farmland being destroyed. We need to bring common sense back to solving climate change.

“Our plan puts Australians first, with cheaper electricity and secure jobs, while still lowering
emissions.”

Under Labor, electricity prices have risen 39 per cent and gas by the same. When power costs go up, it costs more to grow food, to make goods, and to run every household and factory across the nation. For manufacturers, the lifeblood of regional Australia, high and volatile energy prices are not just an inconvenience, they are an existential threat.

“Australia’s manufacturing sector, once a global leader, is now being crushed under the weight of energy policy confusion, rising costs, and the unrealistic burden of Net Zero,” Mr Willcox said.

“Energy volatility and regulatory overreach have driven uncertainty and eroded our competitive
advantage, while ‘carbon leakage’ is pushing production oƯshore to nations with weaker environmental standards and cheaper power.

“Labor’s renewables-only agenda is pushing businesses to the wall while pretending the transition won’t cost jobs. It will, and it already has.”

The crisis unfolding at Tomago Aluminium, where around 1,000 jobs are now in jeopardy, is the  clearest warning yet. The company has confirmed that “future energy prices are not commercially viable”, a devastating reflection of the current government’s policy failures.

“When one of the nation’s biggest energy users says it can’t keep the lights on, that’s not an
isolated problem, that’s a national crisis,” Mr Willcox said.

“If a powerhouse like Tomago can’t lock in aƯordable power, what chance does a small business in Wulguru or Ayr have?”

He said every closure in manufacturing sends shockwaves through the supply chain; suppliers,  transport operators, and small workshops that rely on these industrial anchors.

“Net Zero isn’t a climate plan, it’s a de-industrialisation plan. Every job lost weakens our  sovereign capability and makes us more dependent on imports.”

Australia cannot continue to punish itself for the emissions of others. Australia contributes just
over one per cent of global emissions, while China, the United States, India and Russia account
for roughly 60 per cent — and their emissions are still rising.

“To pretend that Australia can alter the global temperature by taxing our own industries out of
existence is fantasy,” Mr Willcox said.

“If we continue down Labor’s reckless plan, Australians will only feel more pain, with the estimated cost of net zero at $7 to $9 trillion, or $300,000 per Australian.”

“It won’t move the dial on global temperatures one bit.”

Mr Willcox said the National Party will instead focus on policies that deliver affordable, reliable,
and technology-neutral energy, including lifting Australia’s outdated ban on nuclear power to test its commercial viability.

“We support cleaner technology, but not at the cost of common sense,” he said.

“Net Zero has become a slogan, not a solution.

“Australians deserve policy grounded in reality, one that strengthens our industries instead of
strangling them.”

He added that the Nationals remain deeply committed to caring for the environment, because regional Australians live it every day.

“Our farmers are on the frontline of managing and protecting the environment,” Mr Willcox said.

“We want our children and grandchildren to grow up with clean air, healthy soils, and fresh  waterways, and we believe in practical, achievable solutions that protect our environment while
lowering emissions without trashing our economy.

“Australians want light in their homes, power in their factories, and hope for their kids; not  lectures about what car to drive or what to eat,” Mr Willcox said.

“It’s time to stop the experiment and start rebuilding our strength.

“Australia deserves better than Net Zero.”

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Shadow Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability, Andrew Willcox, at the National Party Federal Council in Canberra, standing up for Australian manufacturing and regional jobs, voting no to Labor’s Net Zero plan that threatens industries and livelihoods. Photo supplied

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The Crisafulli Government has brought its fourth Community Cabinet of 2025 to Mackay, taking the opportunity to hear directly from residents, business owners, and community leaders on what matters most to the region. More than 200 people attended the event at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre on Sunday, November 2, where Premier David Crisafulli and Ministers outlined their plan to deliver safety, health services, and economic opportunities for local communities.

Premier Crisafulli said the event was an important opportunity to engage with the community.

"We’re listening to the people of the Mackay Whitsundays to ensure we deliver what matters to them – safety where you live, health services when you need them, a stronger economy and a plan for the future," he said.

"This Mackay Community Cabinet has been a great opportunity to engage with the community to listen to ideas and priorities as we shape the future together."

The Government also highlighted its investment in housing and infrastructure. Through the $2 billion Residential Activation Fund, $41.66 million will unlock eight infrastructure projects in the Mackay-Whitsundays region, delivering 2,977 new homes. A further $44.1 million will expand and improve social and community housing, ensuring more Queenslanders have a safe place to call home.

Health services are also being strengthened with the Mackay Hospital expansion, which will deliver at least 128 new overnight beds as part of the fully-funded Hospital Rescue Plan, alongside upgrades to the hospital’s transit lounge. Employment and training opportunities for young people will benefit from the expansion of the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy, with $2 million establishing regional hubs, the first based in Mackay at the Resources Centre of Excellence.

Last week, the Government also further reinforced its commitment to housing, announcing a record $5.6 billion investment in social and affordable homes across Queensland over the next four years. In the Mackay-Whitsundays region, 141 social and affordable homes are now under contract or in construction, including 18 new social homes in Mackay, with 15 one-bedroom and three two-bedroom units, expected to be delivered by the end of 2026.

Minister for Housing and Public Works Sam O’Connor said the initiative was part of a statewide plan to deliver 53,500 social and community homes by 2044.

“Projects like this one are vital to meeting the need for social housing for Mackay-Whitsunday locals waiting for a place to call home," he said.

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton enthused that, “These 18 new social homes will be life-changing and provide stability for some of our most vulnerable locals.”

The initiatives are expected to deliver real progress, supporting a stronger and more connected community.

Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP said, "Every Queensland Minister is on the ground, listening to our community, so we can continue delivering for the Mackay Whitsunday region."

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Photo source: Amanda Camm MP

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Schools across the Mackay region came together last week to celebrate World Teachers’ Day, recognising the dedication and passion of educators shaping the next generation. Students and parents showed their appreciation through parades, morning teas, and gifts.

Fitzgerald State School said it was “a wonderful day where students and parents presented appreciation flowers and balloons, to our Fitzy staff for World Teachers Day, organised by our amazing P & C.”

Beaconsfield State School acknowledged long-serving staff, celebrating 10, 15, and 30-year service milestones, while St Patrick’s College hosted a morning tea highlighting the daily dedication of its teachers.

Whitsunday Anglican State School reflected on the lasting influence of educators.

“To our Whitsunday teachers - thank you for influencing, guiding, and empowering our young people to become the best versions of themselves. Your ability to inspire the leaders of tomorrow is a true gift, and our community is richer because of your care, commitment, and passion.”

“This is our “why” - the reason we teach, the reason we care, and the reason we love what we do.”

Member for Mirani Glen Kelly praised teachers across the region.

“Across the Mirani electorate we are blessed with more than 30 schools filled with dedicated staff who go above and beyond for our kids every day.

“Thank you – you are shaping our future,” he said.

He also singled out Sarina State High School, which celebrated staff reaching 10 and 20-year service milestones with a whole-school parade.

From milestone achievements to everyday dedication, schools across Mackay and the Whitsundays came together to mark the occasion with gratitude and celebration.

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Schools across the region celebrated World Teachers’ Day last week, recognising educators’ dedication and milestones through parades, morning teas, and community appreciation. Photos sourced

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Council is inviting the community to help shape the future of walking, riding and micromobility across the region through its draft Mackay Region Active Transport and Micromobility Plan 2025-2036.

The draft plan sets a long-term vision to make Mackay a walking and riding-friendly region, with safe, convenient and enjoyable paths designed for our tropical climate.

It aims to create a network that connects people to places that matter – schools, shops, parks and public transport – while supporting healthier lifestyles and reducing transport emissions.

Council’s Regional Infrastructure Strategic Advisory Committee Co-chair Cr Karen May said that our region had a growing population which was expected to increase by about 15,000 residents to almost 145,000 by 2036.

“This growth is expected mostly in urban areas where active transport can ease congestion,” Cr May said.

“Active transport isn’t just about environmental responsibility – it also has tremendous economic benefits,” she said.

“On average, every dollar invested in walking interventions returns almost $13 in benefits with traffic decongestion, health and environment. Cycling infrastructure investments also return about five dollars in assorted benefits for every dollar spent.

“This plan considers a lot of key factors, including our younger demographic that is reliant on active transport, our ageing population needing more accessible, walkable neighbourhoods and the rise of micromobility, such as e-scooters.

“With these factors in mind, it’s no surprise that the community’s top priorities included more separated cycleways, wider footpaths and safer crossings.”

Cr May said the community’s input has been instrumental in shaping the plan.

“We’ve heard loud and clear that residents want to walk and ride more – but they need safer, more convenient options to do so,” she said.

This draft follows extensive consultation, including:
• A public survey from March 31 to April 27, 2025, where residents shared their experiences and ideas.
• A targeted stakeholder workshop in May 2025 with schools, youth groups, accessibility advocates and bicycle organisations.
• Survey insights revealed strong support for active transport, with:
• 91.3 per cent of respondents walking for five minutes or more.
• 51 per cent riding in the week prior to the survey.

The draft plan is now open for public comment at connectingmackay.com.au/active-transport, with consultation running from now until 11.59pm, Sunday, November 16, 2025.

Whether you walk, ride, roll or scoot – this is your chance to help design a region that moves better for everyone.

Hard copies on the draft plan are also available at all Mackay Regional Council Libraries and Customer Service Centres.

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The draft plan sets a long-term vision to make Mackay a walking and riding-friendly region, with safe, convenient and enjoyable paths designed for our tropical climate. Photo supplied

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Supporting Men And Boys

In recognition of International Men’s Day and its 2025 theme, “Supporting Men and Boys”, Grapevine Group invites the community to a free safeTALK suicide prevention training session on Saturday, November 15 at 9.30am at Dudley Denny City Library.

“With three out of four suicide deaths being male, there is a dire need for awareness and action”, says Grapevine Group president Debbie Knight.

“We’re offering practical tools in this special session open to men and the people who support them,” Ms Knight said.

Participants will learn how to recognise when someone may be at risk of suicide, how to talk to those experiencing suicidal thoughts, and how to guide them to appropriate support services. The training is designed to empower everyday people; friends, family members, colleagues and teammates to make a difference.

Nationally, there are an estimated 65,000 suicide attempts each year and Grapevine has already trained more than 7,000 people across the Mackay, Isaac, and Whitsunday regions in suicide prevention.

This International Men’s Day, the community is urged to be part of the solution. safeTALK is open to anyone aged 15 years and older and requires no prior experience.

How to register:

Visit www.grapevinegroup.org.au Or download the Grapevine Group appOrganisations can also request free group on-site training sessions or Suicide Mythbusters toolbox talks for workplaces, sporting clubs, or community groups by emailing training@grapevinegroup.org.au.

If you need to help a mate now, you can find a list of local suicide prevention services on the Grapevine Group app or pick up a Help-a-mate wallet card at any Mackay Regional Council library. All council libraries are designated Help-a-mate Hubs, where individuals and businesses can collect bulk wallet cards to distribute.

Let’s stand together to support men and boys - and help save lives.

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Safe Sleep Mackay is one step closer to providing a safe night’s rest for people sleeping rough, following the arrival of the region’s third Safe Sleep Bus.

The charitable community group, led by volunteers, has spent months working to fit out three buses that will offer temporary overnight refuge for people experiencing homelessness. Each vehicle will feature private, secure sleeping pods designed to provide guests with a place to rest safely, regroup, and begin rebuilding their lives.

Project lead Lisa Jamieson said the team is taking a “slow and steady” approach to ensure everything runs smoothly.

“We’re really making sure that we go slow and steady and that we get the process right,” she said. “So, it’ll only be one bus to start with, and that’s something we will build on.”

The group hopes to have the first bus operational in the New Year, and will be needing ongoing community funding and support to sustain the service. About $50,000 is still needed to complete the fit-outs, covering essentials such as air-conditioning, tyres, batteries, radios, and safety equipment.

Ms Jamieson said the aim is to provide a small but vital respite for those without housing.

“These buses are here as a temporary relief. We know it’s not a permanent solution, but we’re doing everything we can to provide a safe place for people to sleep,” she said.

“Sleep changes everything. That little bit of sleep is going to make a real difference to those who are sleeping rough.”

“Right now, we’re calling on the community to help us in any way they can to get the final equipment needed so we can get these buses up and running on the road.”

Local business DGH Engineering has provided space and technical assistance to help get the vehicles ready.

“We’re very happy to be part of the project and help out where we can,” said DGH Workshop Manager Cameron Horn.

“We think it’s an excellent service for the community, and something that’s really needed on the streets.”

While the initiative has widespread support, frontline homelessness service representatives have raised concerns about practical and safety risks.

One local service leader said that safety risks are heightened for vulnerable groups, particularly single women experiencing violence, if multiple individuals are placed on a bus without trained staff.

They emphasised that “innovative responses to homelessness are vital, but they must be safe, sustainable, and realistically deliverable.”

Balancing these concerns, the same representative also acknowledged the good intentions behind the project.

“The initiative is clearly a well-intentioned response to a deeply felt need in our community, and it’s heartening to see local support and generosity behind it.

“At the same time, given the complexity of homelessness and the vulnerability of those experiencing it, I do hold significant concerns about how the project will operate in practice – particularly around safety, sustainability, and alignment with existing services.”

Safe Sleep Mackay continues to call for donations of materials, labour, and funding to help complete the buses. Those wishing to assist can visit www.chancesmackay.org/ssm or follow Safe Sleep Mackay on Facebook.

With continued community generosity, the group hopes to have Mackay’s first Safe Sleep Bus in service early in the new year, offering a small but meaningful step toward ensuring everyone in the region has access to a safe night’s sleep.

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Safe Sleep Mackay is preparing to launch its first of three buses in the New Year, offering temporary overnight refuge for people sleeping rough..

Safe Sleep Mackay Volunteer Antoinette du Toit, Project lead Lisa Jamieson and DGH Workshop Manager Cameron Horn. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Mackay Regional Councillor Nathenea McRae has called for the $4.1 million in fines issued to residents who failed to vote in the recent council by-election to be redirected back to Mackay Regional Council, helping to offset the $566,101.13 cost of running the election.

Cr McRae’s motion, passed by Council in September, proposes that “the money received by the ECQ from non-voting fines associated with the council by-election be redirected to Mackay Council to reimburse the full cost of conducting the by-election,” and that “the State Government give consideration to establishing a legislative or administrative mechanism to ensure that future by-election costs incurred by local governments can be offset where there is significant fine revenue generated by the ECQ.”

Cr McRae said the idea came after learning how many residents had not voted and the large sum that would be collected through fines.

“When I saw the figures come in, I thought it was quite shocking… 24,766 people didn’t vote,” Cr McRae said.

“With fines at $166.90 each, that’s about $4.1 million in revenue. Meanwhile, ratepayers have had to cover more than half a million dollars to run the by-election.”

She acknowledged that while the proposal was unprecedented, it was worth pursuing in the interests of fairness and community benefit.

“There’s no precedent for this kind of request, and it’s never happened before,” she said.

“I do acknowledge it’s unlikely the proposal will be accepted, but even by raising the matter, it might prompt broader discussions about electoral funding and voter engagement strategies.”

Cr McRae said her motivation was simply to ensure ratepayer funds are directed toward improving local services rather than covering state-managed election costs.

“We can only try for the people, and that’s what I’m here for, to represent them,” she said.

“If we could get this win, I would be extremely proud…It would be amazing because that money could be redirected into things like our roads, parks, housing, workforce development and other community priorities.”

Letters of support have been sent to the Attorney-General and the Minister for Local Government, Meaghan Scanlon, with Council now awaiting a formal response.

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Mackay Regional Councillor Nathanea McRae is calling for $4.1 million in by-election fines to be redirected back to Council to offset the $566,101.13 election cost, arguing the funds should support local services. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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About six months ago I attended a family budget strategy meeting where the chief financial officer decided it would be in the best interests of everyone for me to be allocated a set cash payment each week to cover certain personal expenses.

The family’s chief financial officer (CFO) explained that the system up until then, in which I simply swiped a credit card to cover every personal expense, did not give me an adequate awareness of how much I was spending every week.

Under the new strategy I can continue to use the card for work/car/family expenses but the cash is used for random personal expenses … buying breakfast, shouting lunch for a few colleagues, having a few beers with my mate Lawrie after open homes on a Saturday afternoon.

The CFO, who has an additional role as my wife, pointed out that while the specific cash allocation was certainly generous, it ensured I kept an eye on, and perhaps tempered, what I was actually spending.

I’m going to Brisbane for four days next month to attend the Ashes Test at the GABBA with a group of Mackay mates and it will be a social event that will involve entertainment expenses. The CFO said it will be a good opportunity to set aside a decent portion of the cash allocation in the weeks leading up to the trip and use it  to cover those expenses. Apparently that is called “saving up”.

The CFO’s new system has been going well, although it is as though a dinosaur has walked up to the counter when I go to pay. In the past you had to specify if you were paying with a credit card; these days you are the weirdo saying “I’ll pay that with cash thanks”.

Payment is made through what used to be called a cash register but, from what I can tell, is now known as a Point of Sale System, or POS.

Anyway, I was at Zambreros in the city recently when there was some sort of a technical breakdown which meant their POS system could not process credit card payments. Only cash.

Everyone in line, except for one person, only had credit cards to pay for their meals. Staff were trying to get customers to download the Zambreros app that would  allow them to pay with credit cards.

The young woman in front of me said that she was using someone else’s card and did not have her mobile phone so could not do the app thing.

Of course, Cash Man was standing there with some fifties in his wallet and felt sorry for the young woman, so he paid for her two burritos as well as his own. The young woman was very appreciative and it was another reminder for me of how good it feels to help someone out.

Surprisingly, there is a real estate point to all of this. We too have embraced the digital age. We send listing documents and contracts through DocuSign, which means there is no need to be face-to-face as it is all signed digitally.

A link to a digital offer to purchase form is automatically texted to the mobile phones of all attendees after our open homes.

It’s all very digitally delightful and I am more than happy with it but it isn’t particularly personal and it doesn’t work for everyone. I like to have physical offer to purchase forms at open homes so people can actually use a pen and write on them if they want.

There are some clients who prefer me to sit with them and go through the listing documents and explain things in person before they sign … and I like it too because it deepens the connection and ensures the sellers know exactly what’s going on.

And when the work is done and the sellers are happy with the result, it’s a similar feeling to buying the girl those burritos. It feels good to help.

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You often hear me say “I love where I live” and that’s for many reasons, one being the Great Barrier Reef (GBR).

I recently had the opportunity to attend this year’s Reef Forum 2050. The forum had 100 stakeholders from Federal, State and Local Government, as well as scientists and academia, statisticians, natural resource management groups, business and tourist operators and, of course, recreational fishing representatives.

We saw the timeline for the past 50 years that the Marine Park Authority have achieved to protect the health of the GBR for future generations.  This forum was a check-in, looking from where we have come from to where we are at now and where we want to be by 2050.

The GBR is natural and living; so many of us have visited it, fished and researched it.  However, the world’s eyes are upon it, and it is at risk of ending up on the endangered list.

You might think that’s great, as it will be preserved for the future. Yes, it will, but in my opinion the use we currently have may not be the use we get and could be heavily restricted, and public access may be no more, should it be listed endangered.

So, what can we do? We must maintain the health of the reef so that it doesn’t decline any more, we must listen to our traditional custodians and collaborate with many stakeholders.  We must work together to achieve better water quality from the agriculture and Local Government sectors. For anglers, we must ensure our catch limits are monitored, and we need to ensure any pressures like heat stress, crown of thorn starfish and weather events that impact the GBR are managed and mitigated.

Tourist operators are already great stewards, reporting and maintaining their areas above what is required to ensure they are doing their part.  Commercial fishers have had changes in their sectors and realise they must tread lightly, or the resource will not be there into the future.  Recreational Fishers also must play their part and so should you.

I look forward to seeing the outcomes from this forum and see the new ways of doing things on the GBR to make sure it is healthy into the future.

Councillor Alison Jones, email Cr.Alison.Jones@mackay.qld.gov.au

Let’s Chat – Council Connect
Residents can catch up with councillors in person at upcoming Let’s Chat - Council Connect sessions held across the region.  The next session will be at Mackay Regional Council's Mirani office (20 Victoria Street) from 5.30pm on November 18.
Details on upcoming sessions can be found on the Connecting Mackay website.

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Discussions around sugar marketing and governance have resurfaced following the recent Queensland Sugar Limited (QSL) Annual General Meeting, where proposed constitutional changes prompted differing views between CANEGROWERS representatives and miller members, including Wilmar Sugar and Renewables.

Plane Creek Area Committee Chairman Kevin Borg said that growers across Queensland are “growing tired of conflict in the sugar marketing space.”

Mr Borg said the CANEGROWERS Plane Creek Area Committee, whose members supply Wilmar Plane Creek Mill, were disappointed at the outcome of a vote at the QSL AGM.

As a QSL Grower Representative Member for Plane Creek, Mr Borg spoke at the meeting on 21 October, saying it was time for QSL to “take the gloves off.”

Mr Borg stated that QSL sought to change its constitution to have members’ right to vote based on the amount of sugar they market through the body, aligning voting rights with those who use its services. He explained that currently, millers have a voting right based on their suppliers’ Grower Economic Interest (GEI) sugar – a clause dating back to the single-desk marketing era.

Mr Borg said, “Millers Wilmar and MSF voted down proposed changes to the QSL constitution. These mills market the entirety of their Mill Economic Interest sugar production through their own marketing arms, having no interest in the future of QSL except as a competitor.”

He added, “Whilst we don’t have an issue with these millers using their own marketing arm, it remains an issue that they refuse to have their right to vote based on present day throughputs and not based on a constitution that was fit for the past regulated, non-competitive era.”

“As competitors to QSL, this gives them control within the QSL organisation and an opportunity to white-ant the organisation from within,” Mr Borg said.

He commended millers who supported the proposed constitutional vote, adding, “I commend those Millers – Mackay Sugar, Bundaberg Sugar and Isis Sugar – who supported the vote and have shown common sense and a willingness to work with industry.”

Mr Borg further stated,“STL has already gone down the path of removing QSL as Bulk Sugar Terminal Operator as of 30 June 2026, giving STL a monopoly control of Queensland’s sugar terminal ownership and operations.”

Mr Borg said, “Lack of investment in our mill is also a thorn in growers’ sides, causing longer season lengths and thus reduced crops, this being a root cause of growers choosing leaving the industry.”

In response to Mr Borg’s comments, a Wilmar Sugar and Renewables spokesperson stated that, “Half of the miller members did not support QSL’s proposed constitution changes, including Wilmar.

“QSL members have rights to influence only a small number of governance matters. Importantly, these voting rights do not provide strategic or operational control of QSL’s marketing activities.

“Under the sugar industry regulatory framework, all millers are – and will remain – inextricably linked to QSL in its role as a marketer, irrespective of their marketing decisions.

“It’s important for miller members to retain their limited voting rights to protect their legitimate interests as supply chain participants.

“Wilmar does not have a controlling interest in Sugar Terminals Limited (STL).”

Both CANEGROWERS and Wilmar have reiterated their commitment to the long-term sustainability of Queensland’s sugar industry, despite differences in opinion on how marketing structures and governance should evolve.

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Wilmar Sugar and Renewables’ Proserpine Mill crushed out early Saturday morning, bringing an end to a successful season.

It was the second of Wilmar’s eight sugar factories to finish the 2025 season.
Proserpine Mill Manager Operations Cory O’Shea said the last bin went through the tippler
at 6.30am Saturday (1 November).

“In total, we processed 1.48M tonnes of cane for the year to make about 205,000 tonnes of
raw sugar.

“The crop dropped off towards the back end of the season due to the warm, dry weather, but sugar content was above budget. We ended up with a provisional season CCS of 14.4 units.”

Mr O’Shea paid tribute to all Proserpine Mill employees, as well as growers and harvesting contractors, for their hard work in getting the crop off.

“I’m particularly proud of the job our people did this year – both in the factory and our cane supply team. It was a tremendous effort on all fronts,” he said.

“We had good factory performance, which contributed to the earlier finish. We also had a much better run of weather in 2025 than we’ve had in recent years, so we didn’t lose as much time to rain.

“An early finish puts us in a good position to finish the washdown and start our maintenance program before Christmas. This will take some pressure off, in terms of delivering our capital and maintenance program. It’ll also set the industry up for a better crop next year.”

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Cory O'Shea and Jamie Bell celebrating the last bin for 2025 at the Proserpine Mill. Photo supplied

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BRAVUS and the North Queensland Toyota Cowboys are ready to kick goals in 2026 under a new Platinum
Partnership that includes the company’s mining, rail, port and renewables businesses.

BRAVUS Head of Reputation Kate Campbell said the new sponsorship deal would take the powerhouse tieup between the mine, rail, port and renewables business and the North’s favourite sporting team to its 10-year anniversary in 2028.

"We are excited that our BRAVUS brand will feature on the Cowboys’ NRL jersey sleeve from next year so the 2000-plus employees from our local port, mine, rail and renewables businesses can share in the fun of being part of the Cowboys family,” Ms Campbell said.

"Our people work and live in Cowboys’ territory - the Isaac region, where our mine and solar farm are located, Townsville, Rockhampton, Mackay, where we have offices, and Bowen, where our rail and port business are located.

“Fans can expect to see big trains and ships alongside coal haul trucks and excavators in our 2026 advertising campaign, which will add a bit of extra fun to the season.”

Previously, only BRAVUS’ mining business Bravus Mining and Resources, held the Platinum Partnership, whereas now it rests with the parent company BRAVUS.

North Queensland Toyota Cowboys Chief Commercial Officer Dean Payne and players Jake Clifford and Jaxon Purdue joined Ms Campbell to celebrate the partnership renewal.

Clifford and Purdue modelled the Bravus brand on the sleeves of the North Queensland Toyota Cowboys NRL side’s 2026 home and away jerseys.

"The North Queensland Toyota Cowboys are proud to continue our partnership with Bravus. United by a
shared commitment to advancing regional Queensland and showcasing our region with pride, this
partnership has always been a natural fit,” Mr Payne said.

"We're excited for the next chapter of our partnership which will expand beyond Bravus Mining and
Resources to embrace the Heart of Cowboys territory, spanning Abbot Point Operations, Bowen Rail
Company and the North Queensland Export Terminal."

Clifford said he was excited to wear the BRAVUS brand again, albeit in a different way, in 2026.

"Pretty much since I made my NRL debut, Bravus have been supporting what we do on field and making it possible for us to live out our dreams of playing in the NRL," he said.

"Heaps of the players and fans have family who work at the mine or the port, so it's a part of what makes us proud to pull on the jersey each week and take the field to represent our region."

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North Queensland Toyota Cowboys players Jaxon Purdue and Jake Clifford with Bravus Head of Reputation Kate Campbell. Photo supplied

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Mentoring is more than just personal or professional development, it’s a strategic tool that can transform workplaces, strengthen company culture, and create long-term benefits for both individuals and organisations. By fostering collaboration, communication, and leadership, a structured mentoring program can improve an organisation’s Employee Value Proposition (EVP) and have a lasting impact on its success.

The 2025 Mackay Mentoring Network Program for Resource Industry Network (RIN) members is a prime example of this approach in action. The initiative supports current and aspiring managers and leaders from regional industries and local government, offering them the chance to connect, learn, and grow in a confidential and non-judgemental environment.

Through participation in a mutually beneficial developmental relationship, mentees can explore their career paths, refine their skills, and gain valuable insights from experienced professionals. The program also helps mentors expand their own leadership and communication skills, while contributing to the professional growth of others.

Benefits for Mentees and Mentors
For mentees, the program provides a supportive environment to discuss career concerns, receive feedback, and learn from real-world experience. It also helps them develop confidence, build professional networks, and gain clarity in career direction.

For mentors, it’s an opportunity to give back to the industry, share expertise, and gain new perspectives. The experience allows them to further enhance their leadership and mentoring abilities while expanding their professional connections.

While the program doesn’t guarantee job placement or promotion, it offers something far more valuable — genuine career growth, professional guidance, and the chance to be part of a supportive leadership network within the Mackay region.

Mentees and mentors will complete an application form to help organisers pair participants effectively, ensuring the best possible mentoring partnerships. Mentees will be asked about their goals and areas of interest, while mentors will outline the areas where they can offer guidance.
For mentees, participation costs $400 (ex GST), which includes access to all program events and the Art of Mentoring platform for ongoing resources and support. There is no cost for mentors.

To apply as a mentee, individuals must be members or employees of the Mackay Regional Council or Resource Industry Network. Mentors should have a passion for supporting others, a willingness to learn, and the ability to commit to the needs of their mentee throughout the program.

For more information, contact Tennille Allen, Organisational Development Officer (Culture), at organisational.development@mackay.qld.gov.au or phone 4961 9955. RIN members can also contact General Manager Dean Kirkwood at dean@rin.org.au.

With training, tailored activities, and networking opportunities included, the 2025 Mackay Mentoring Network Program promises to equip participants with the tools, insights, and relationships needed to lead with confidence — and to make a meaningful impact in their professional communities.

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Photo source: Resource Industry Network

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Three community groups in the Pioneer Valley will benefit from a $25,000 injection of funding through round 4 of the Capricornia Pumped Hydro Project’s pre-construction Community Benefit Fund.

The Mackay Regional SES Unit Support Group, Pioneer Valley Rail Trail Group, and Eungella Craft Group have received funding to support projects that improve local resilience, enhance community wellbeing, and promote the area’s natural assets.

Capricornia Pumped Hydro Project CEO John Carr said the fund was an important way of supporting the communities that will host the project.

“We’re proud to support initiatives that strengthen local capability and contribute to the long-term sustainability and vibrancy of the region,” Mr Carr said.

The Mackay Regional SES Unit Support Group will receive $1,500 to purchase a Starlink kit to improve emergency communications in remote areas where mobile coverage is limited.

“Reliable communication can make all the difference during a critical response,” said a spokesperson for the SES Support Group.

“This investment will help us respond faster and more effectively during emergencies, especially in hard-toreach areas.”

The Pioneer Valley Rail Trail Group has been awarded $21,300 to undertake drainage works along the Benholme section of the trail, and the Swamp Crossing vehicle crossover, a vital safety upgrade.

President Mike Browne said, “this grant will significantly enhance the trail in two key ways. Firstly, it will extend the period of the year that people can enjoy the trail without getting ‘bogged down’ in wet areas.

“It also takes us another step towards making the trail more accessible for everyone in our community, helping to support wellbeing by providing easier access to a healthy, outdoor activity.”

The Eungella Craft Group will receive $2,200 to host three community workshops focused on natural dyeing, felting, and earring-making. These will be led by expert practitioners and open to the wider community.

“These workshops are about more than just craft, they’re an opportunity to connect, learn something new, and share skills,” said a Eungella Craft Group representative.

The Pre-construction Community Benefit Fund provides funding to support initiatives that promote sustainability, reduce emissions, enhance local amenity, and build cultural awareness in the region.

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Photo source: Queensland Hydro

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A New Interactive Tool For Regional Biomanufacturing

The Greater Whitsunday region launched BioVision, an interactive tool highlighting its biomanufacturing strengths to investors, government, and industry.

Proudly supported by the Queensland Government, BioVision is the first tool of its kind in the sector, combining data and strategic insights to show how Greater Whitsunday is positioning itself as a biomanufacturing leader.

Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) Chief Executive Officer Ms Kylie Porter said BioVision is more than a map—it is a gateway to the future.

“It tells the story of a region that’s ready to lead, with the feedstock, infrastructure, workforce, and vision to become a globally significant biomanufacturing hub.

“We’re not waiting for opportunity to knock, with BioVision we are building the door.”

Ms Porter said Greater Whitsunday’s rich feedstock, strong infrastructure, and skilled workforce make it a prime location for biomanufacturing.

“The region’s proximity to fast-growing Asian markets and its favourable climate for year-round biomass production further strengthen its strategic advantage."

BioVision lets users explore the region’s biomanufacturing strengths through an interactive map, showcasing key locations, infrastructure, and industry capabilities.

Ms Porter said biomanufacturing is not a new concept for Greater Whitsunday. Since the release of Queensland’s Biofutures Roadmap in 2016, the region has worked with government, research institutions, and industry leaders to build momentum and capability.

“The region is already home to enabling infrastructure like the QUT Pioneer Biopilot, a national-scale facility supporting research and commercialisation in industrial biotechnology.

“With growing recognition of its potential to host large-scale biomanufacturing facilities, Greater Whitsunday is emerging as a key player in Australia’s bioeconomy.”

BioVision is now live and accessible to the public. Users can explore the tool at their own pace.

Visit BioVision today.

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The OurSCAPE Art Exhibition, organised by Artists Connect Inc, opened on Friday, 24 November at Gallery 31, CQ University Mackay City Campus, celebrating the creativity and resilience of the Mackay, Isaac, and Whitsunday regions.

The exhibition is the culmination of the OurSCAPE Art Challenges, held across multiple regional locations including the Proserpine Rock Wallaby Festival, The Leap Hotel, St Lawrence Wetlands, and the Cape Hillsborough Masterclass. Each artist was given just four hours to complete their works, with 30 artists participating in the Challenges and 18 attending the Cape Hillsborough Masterclass retreat.

Mackay Regional Councillor Namarca Corowa praised the exhibition for reflecting the spirit of the community.

“The images captured throughout this exhibition…really capture the heart of our community. In that, they tell the story of our resilience, and what it took to build the region that we have today,” he said.

Cr Corowa highlighted how the works represent both Mackay’s history and its community values.

“Mackay recently being voted as number one for work-life balance, speaks to how our region values hard work, as well as that community spirit,” he said.

He also emphasised the importance of the region’s environment and heritage, noting the landscapes, beaches, and iconic Queenslander buildings.

“The mountains and the wildlife, speaks to how we’ve been able to have this community that’s so resourceful whilst maintaining the key elements of our environment, too,” he said.

Arts educator Glenda Hobdell praised the exhibition as a vibrant showcase that “brings people together.”

Now in its second year open to the public, the event encourages artists to step out of their comfort zones and create works within a limited timeframe.

“It’s about challenging our artists to step out of their comfort zone and to create something in a short time, but in a collegial environment as well,” Glenda said.

The exhibition welcomed both members and non-members aged 18 and over, with participants this year ranging from 18 up to 70.

Glenda encourages aspiring artists of all ages to “connect with those around you in the community… and believe you can do it – because you can. Everyone is born an artist.”

Glenda thanked the event’s strong community support and acknowledged the partnerships with organisations such as Artspace Mackay and Orange Sky.

Through Artists Connect Inc, Glenda continues to mentor emerging artists, run workshops, and strengthen the bond between artists and community, ensuring the region’s creative talent continues to flourish.

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Glenda Hobdell and Cr Namarca Corowa celebrated the OurSCAPE Art Exhibition, showcasing the creativity, resilience, and community spirit of the Mackay, Isaac, and Whitsunday regions. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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The Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (MECC) has been awarded Gold for Business Event Venue at the Mackay Isaac Tourism Awards 2025, recognising the venue’s excellence in hosting business events, conferences, and corporate gatherings.

As the largest convention facility between Cairns and Brisbane, the MECC boasts a 1,090-seat auditorium, two plenary halls, four meeting rooms, a 100-seat studio, breakout areas, and an in-house professional conference organiser office.

Over the past year, the centre welcomed more than 80,000 visitors and hosted over 100 business events, including major gatherings such as the Australian Regional Tourism (ART) Conference, Queensland Country Women’s Association Annual Conference, Queensland Mining Awards, Institute of Public Works Engineering Australia (NQ) Conference, Resource Industry Network Professional Development Conference, and the Australian Sugar Milling Safety Conference.

Key innovations contributed to MECC’s recognition, including the launch of the MECC Event Portal, streamlining event planning, document sharing, and communication for clients. The venue also upgraded its PA system across major spaces for clearer, more reliable sound and implemented a strategic team restructure to enhance client experience and operational efficiency.

Customer service remains a hallmark of the MECC, with a 95% client satisfaction rating. Initiatives such as the MECC “SHOWTIME” program celebrate staff excellence and embed service standards, while real-time QR code feedback provides instant visitor insights.

Sustainability and inclusivity are also priorities, with biodegradable catering and waste-sorting stations, energy-efficient LED lighting, and accessibility upgrades including Companion Card ticketing currently underway.

Executive Manager Andrew Bobeldyk said, “It’s been a big year, and this award is a credit to our entire team. Their hard work, passion, and commitment to excellence are what make the MECC such a standout venue for business events in Queensland.”

Celebrating innovation, service, and professionalism, the award underpins the MECC as a leading venue and a must-visit destination for high profile events.

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Tucked away in one of Andergrove’s most tightly held pockets, 13/42 Wattle Street is where architectural flair meets everyday functionality. Every inch of this remarkable home has been designed with purpose – offering the perfect sanctuary for families, professionals, and entertainers alike.
 
Behind the understated façade lies a home that truly delivers on all fronts: five generous bedrooms, four bathrooms (three ensuited), and a selection of indoor and outdoor living zones that flow seamlessly for both privacy and togetherness.
 
The heart of the home – the kitchen – is a culinary masterpiece. Boasting three ovens, including a steamer, a gas cooktop, and a built-in Miele dishwasher, this space has been curated for those who value both beauty and performance. Overlooking the dining and living areas, it effortlessly connects to the undercover patio, creating a true entertainer’s dream.
 
Attention to detail is evident everywhere – from the VeriShades in the dining area that filter light perfectly, to the 20kW solar system that keeps energy bills in check without sacrificing comfort. The air-conditioned garage/workshop adds flexibility for hobbyists or those working from home, while rear lane access and space for a shed make it as practical as it is polished.
 
Set within a boutique, secure enclave, this home provides peace of mind and a strong sense of community, yet remains only minutes from schools, shopping, and the Mackay Marina.
 
Whether you’re a growing family seeking space, a couple wanting room to host, or simply someone who appreciates quality craftsmanship, 13/42 Wattle Street promises a lifestyle upgrade in every sense.
 
At a Glance:

• 5 bedrooms | 4 bathrooms (3 ensuited)
• Gourmet kitchen with 3 ovens, steamer & Miele dishwasher
• Multiple indoor & outdoor living areas
• 20kW solar system | VeriShades | air-conditioned garage/workshop
• Rear lane access with room for a shed
   
  Discover the home that redefines modern Andergrove living.

Contact Area Specialist Shirlz Russell today to experience it for yourself.

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Photos supplied

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Olympic Legend Cathy Freeman Returns Home!

By Hannah McNamara

Olympic legend Cathy Freeman OAM returned to Mackay last week to announce a state-of-the-art sporting facility named in her honour.

“It is quite surreal,” Freeman said, celebrating the milestone as the region prepares to nurture the next generation of champions.

The Cathy Freeman Sports Performance Centre, part of the Great Barrier Reef Arena’s Stage Two expansion, promises to give young athletes from Central and North Queensland a world-class training hub.

Freeman’s visit also marked 25 years since her historic Sydney 2000 Olympic 400m gold, celebrated with hundreds of local students in relays and races.

The new centre stands as a legacy of inspiration, giving regional talent a place to dream big, train hard, and aim for greatness!

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Olympic Gold, Local Ground
Cathy Freeman Sports Performance Centre Announced

Last week, Olympic running legend and Aussie icon Cathy Freeman OAM stepped foot onto home soil at Mackay’s Great Barrier Reef Arena to announce a new sporting facility named in her honour.

It comes amid growing local buzz about Mackay potentially hosting Olympic cricket matches in 2032, and a wave of regional athletes dominating podiums despite lacking the elite facilities found in capital cities.

The newly announced Cathy Freeman Sports Performance Centre, part of Stage Two of the Great Barrier Reef Arena’s development, will become a state-of-the-art training hub for aspiring athletes from across Central and North Queensland.

“It is quite surreal,” Freeman said.

“I’ve always been a Mackay girl, but I’m a proud Central Queenslander, so I’m very proud of the announcement today.”

For Freeman, who grew up running barefoot on Mackay’s tracks long before Olympic gold, the honour carries great meaning.

“I hope young athletes see my name and realise that it’s a possibility to achieve the sort of things I aspired to once upon a time, growing up here in Mackay,” she said.

Freeman described the new centre as “an incredible opportunity… a breeding ground of champions or young athletes who want to just aspire to be the best they can be.”

Adrian Young, CEO of Harrup Park and the Great Barrier Reef Arena, said naming the facility after Freeman was a natural fit.

“We will be naming the Sports Performance Centre within the Great Barrier Reef Arena Stage Two development the Cathy Freeman Sports Performance Centre,” he announced.

“We are hoping to inspire greatness in our youth, athletes and kids into 2032 and beyond… and who better to do that, than the legendary Cathy Freeman standing here with me today.”

Freeman’s visit to Mackay also coincided with the Run with Cathy Freeman – 25 Year Celebration, held at the Arena on Friday, October 24. The milestone event marked a quarter century since her unforgettable 400m gold medal run at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games – a moment that united a nation and became a defining chapter in Australian sport.

Hundreds of Mackay’s primary and secondary students took part in the Run with Cathy – Schools Challenge, featuring 4x100m relays and 400m races, with Freeman personally presenting the winners’ awards and encouraging the next generation of champions, even though a knee injury kept her from joining the run herself.

Born in 1973, Freeman became the first First Nations Australian to win an individual Olympic medal. From running barefoot in Mackay to lighting the cauldron and claiming Australia’s 100th gold medal, Ms Freeman stands as a symbol of sheer legacy and hope for those aspiring to follow in her footsteps.

As the Great Barrier Reef Arena expands for the next chapter in Mackay’s sporting story, the Cathy Freeman Sports Performance Centre promises to embody the spirit of its namesake, inspiring regional talent to dream big, run hard, and never forget where they came from.

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Hundreds of local students joined Freeman in relays and races, celebrating her legacy and inspiring the next generation of athletes. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara and Olympics.com

Adrian Young, CEO of Harrup Park and the Great Barrier Reef Arena, welcomed Olympic legend Cathy Freeman OAM to Mackay to officially announce the Cathy Freeman Sports Performance Centre. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Hi lovely readers,

What an amazing week it’s been!

As you may have seen on the front cover, the legendary Cathy Freeman was in town, and I had the honour of meeting her last Thursday as she announced stage 2 of the Cathy Freeman Sports Performance Centre right here in Mackay. You can read all about it on the next page, and don’t forget to check out the pictures from the ‘Run With Cathy Freeman’ event on page 16.

Last Friday, it was inspiring to see so many students from across our region come together. Some even ran solo to represent their schools, and it was incredible to watch. Our youth have astounding talent, and I can’t wait to see local names make headlines in the future.

I believe we’re all gifted with unique talents, but it’s what we do with them that matters. We can either hit the ground running and strive for greatness, or let fear hold us back.

Olympic icons like Cathy Freeman didn’t achieve their success by chance. They worked tirelessly, used their talents to their fullest, and made history.

It’s not always about being the “latest and greatest,” but about striving toward the life you’re called to live. Not everyone will win a gold medal, but each of us has our own treasures waiting to be discovered. The real question is: how will we use our gifts?

On another exciting note, Life Publishing Group hosted an incredible fundraiser on Saturday, 25th October, raising a significant amount for seven worthy local charities. In the attached photo, you’ll see me with our Production Co-ordinator Georgia and Editorial Team Leader Ruth, who are both based in the Whitsundays. It was wonderful to catch up, celebrate, and share the night with our amazing advertisers and supporters.

You can flip over to the Whitsunday side of the newspaper to see the first-release photo gallery of the event on pages 18-21, and more details on the cover, plus pages 2 and 3.

It’s been a massive week, and a memorable one at that! I hope you all have a blessed week ahead.

Scripture of the week: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” - Jeremiah 29:11

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At The Whitsunday Wealth Enchanted Garden, Hosted By Life Publishing Group

It was glitz, glam, and pure enchantment last Saturday as guests stepped into The Whitsunday Wealth Enchanted Garden, hosted by Life Publishing Group and Core Life Magazine – an evening brimming with sparkle, soul, and sophistication.

Held at the breathtaking Elementa, perched high above the Whitsundays, the event lived up to its promise as “a night like no other.” Beneath a canopy of fairy lights and lanterns, guests mingled among the treetops, enjoying endless gourmet tapas, a five-hour premium drinks package, and a live band that kept the energy glowing well into the night.

The atmosphere was nothing short of magical with laughter, music, and connection weaving through every moment. And while the glamour shone bright, the heart of the evening beat even brighter, with proceeds supporting seven local charities including the Trudy Crowley Foundation, Mackay Hospital Foundation, Orange Sky, Bowen and Collinsville Pet Rescue, Mackay Pet Rescue, Fauna Rescue Whitsundays, and the Townsville Spinal Unit.

For one dazzling evening, The Enchanted Garden brought together the movers, shakers, and changemakers of Mackay and the Whitsundays – proving that when community, compassion, and class collide, something truly enchanting happens!

A major thanks to all who came along to support this remarkable event – we hope to see you next year!

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Photo credit: Hannah McNamara and Donnchadh Alexander

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A revolutionary blood test developed by a Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) gastroenterologist is poised to transform coeliac disease, offering patients a less invasive path to diagnosis.

Mackay HHS gastroenterologist and biotech co-founder and director Dr Robert Anderson said the antigen-specific T-cell blood test eliminates the need for patients to undergo a gastrointestinal endoscopy.

“Potentially, you no longer have to do that,” Dr Anderson said.

“You can just draw blood and you can measure the immune response in a blood sample.

"There's no real need to eat gluten and it actually turns out that the immune response in the blood is, if anything, stronger in people who are on a gluten-free diet,” he said.

Current diagnosis for the disease requires patients to consume a diet high in gluten prior to having a gastroscopy.

This is often met with resistance by patients due to uncomfortable symptoms experienced like nausea, pain and bloating.

“It’s removing a big barrier to them getting a correct diagnosis - an accurate diagnosis for people on a free diet has huge implications,” Dr Anderson said.

The test has proved highly successful in a recent clinical trial, with results published in the Journal of Gastroenterology.

The test identifies an immune system marker, which spikes when blood from someone with coeliac disease is exposed to gluten in a test tube.

Dr Anderson believes the test will also help to identify patients who have been incorrectly diagnosed with the disease.

“The gluten-free diet probably costs around three thousand dollars or more per year, which is extreme,” he said.

“You don’t go to social events, you mistrust everything and you’re burdening the person and the family with psychological issues.

“And (in the case of an incorrect diagnosis) it’s unnecessary. This is the other side of the blood test that you can perhaps unravel,” he said.

The test also shows potential for diagnosing other autoimmune diseases and conditions involving immune reactions.

In his role as a gastroenterologist for Mackay Base Hospital, Dr Robert (Bob) Anderson regularly manages patients with coeliac disease and is also responsible for over 500 patients with inflammatory bowel diseases, many of whom receive biologic immunotherapies.

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Dr Robert Anderson has developed a blood test that simplifies and improves coeliac disease diagnosis. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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OPINION PIECE

Next Tuesday, being the first Tuesday in November, the race that stops the nation will be beamed into homes and workspaces across Australia. But many won’t just be watching the horses. Mortgage holders will be eyeing the Reserve Bank’s Cup Day decision and praying for relief in the form of a rate cut.

In recent months, economists have poured cold water on the chances of any more rate cuts this year, pointing to a return to higher inflation and the Labor government’s failure to rein in spending. The big four banks had been saying the economic data did not stack up for a cut in November. That was, of course, until the latest unemployment figures were released.

Unemployment rose to 4.5 per cent in September, up from 4.3 per cent the month before, renewing pressure on the RBA to deliver some relief. This is a sudden and seismic jump that has stunned economists and sent the government scrambling to change the narrative.

Employment Minister Amanda Rishworth brushed off the figures, saying they weren’t worth losing sleep over.

Not worth losing sleep over! Are you serious? People, a lot of people have just lost their jobs, and the Minister for Employment is not concerned. I wonder at what point would this government start to worry!

Since Labor took office in 2022, unemployment has been creeping up, but these latest figures (and trends) are very alarming. It’s a canary in the mine, and it’s chirping loudly.

With around 80 per cent of all new jobs created since Labor came to office being in the public sector, it is clear the government has not done nearly enough to stimulate private sector employment and investment. This government simply hasn’t been managing the economy.

It has been spending, spending, spending, and betting the Aussie house on their incompetence and waste. Labor has failed to create an environment where private enterprise can thrive, where small businesses can open and survive, and where our farmers and producers are supported. And let’s not forget, it is Labor’s energy policy driving the cost of everything through the roof. A course correction is desperately needed.

We need strong economic reform, serious fiscal responsibility, a clear plan to reduce debt and a boost to build up private enterprise and household resilience.

The Coalition has announced plans to wind back Labor’s damage. At the next election, we’ll
offer a way forward to curb spending and waste, while introducing income tax cuts to keep more of what Aussies earn in their pockets.

The odds have now shortened, and it will be photo finish as to what the RBA decides next Tuesday and economists are divided as to what that decision might be. Some say the jump in unemployment justifies a rate cut, while others say government spending, and booming property prices, only further stimulated by the recently introduced First Home Buyers 5 per cent deposit scheme, will see rates kept higher for longer.

The government needs to stop betting the Aussie house. They need to take ownership of a slumping economy and rising unemployment.

To everyone across Dawson having a cheeky flutter on Tuesday, good luck. Perhaps some good fortune will come your way on the track and on the mortgage.

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Mackay has received a major boost in youth support and community safety initiatives, with two local organisations sharing in $300,000 of funding as part of the Crisafulli Government’s Gold Standard Early Intervention program.

The investment is part of a $115 million statewide initiative designed to help make Queensland safer by tackling the causes of youth crime early and supporting at-risk young people before they become entrenched in offending.

Two new early intervention programs will be delivered across the Mackay region — a move that local leaders say will have lasting benefits for young people, their families, and the wider community.

Family and Children’s Emerging Support Services will provide mentoring, mental health and housing support, and life skills education including literacy, hygiene, and budgeting for at-risk youth.

Meanwhile, the Mudth-Niyleta Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corporation in Sarina will deliver support for disengaged, homeless, or at-risk youth aged 8–17 to reconnect with education, employment, and community life.

Premier David Crisafulli said the Crisafulli Government was delivering the fresh start Queenslanders voted for, exactly as promised.

“We are restoring safety where you live with early intervention to break the cycle of youth offending before it starts,” Premier Crisafulli said.

“While we are seeing crime down and victim numbers down, there is much more to be done to make Queensland safer, and we remain committed to delivering the fresh start we promised.”

Minister for Youth Justice and Victim Support Laura Gerber said the investment into early intervention was essential to tackling youth crime and restoring community safety.

“For 10 years Labor sat on their hands while youth crime spiralled out of control,” Minister Gerber said.

“Unlike the former Labor Government, we are taking real action to break the cycle of crime in this State, and our Kickstarter program is a targeted investment in turning young lives around and making Queensland safer.”

Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm said the benefits of the additional early intervention programs would be felt across the region.

“By intervening early, we are preventing the next generation from becoming repeat youth offenders.

“We are giving the support they need to become productive, engaged members of the community,” Minister Camm said.

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton welcomed the programs as a positive step forward.

"By offering young people an alternative to a life of crime, we can restore safety where Queenslanders work and live," Mr Dalton said.

Member for Mirani Glen Kelly agreed, adding that local, community-led initiatives are vital to success.

“Early intervention programs are crucial to turn the tide on youth offending and reducing the number of victims,” Mr Kelly said.

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Mackay has received a major boost in youth support and community safety, with two local organisations sharing in $300,000 from the Crisafulli Government’s $115 million Gold Standard Early Intervention program to tackle the causes of youth crime early and help at-risk young people build brighter futures. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Catholic Education – Diocese of Rockhampton has worked closely with the Daniel Morcombe Foundation (DMF) for approximately 20 years.

From the commencement of the 2015 school year, the teaching of a Child Safety Curriculum in all Catholic kindergartens, prep, primary schools and colleges in the Diocese of Rockhampton has been mandatory.  This safety curriculum is aligned with the Australian Curriculum: Health and Physical Education and consists of classroom lessons across 3 phases of learning: Prep to Year 2; Years 3 to 6 and Years 7 to 9.

Catholic Education – Diocese of Rockhampton Kindergartens, Primary Schools and Colleges along with implementing the DM Child Safety Curriculum, have over the past 20 years engaged with the many events and learning opportunities for both students and staff delivered, facilitated and provided by the DMF.  Catholic Education – Diocese of Roakhampton was also instrumental in working collaboratively with DMF to develop a Safety Curriculum for Early Years (Kindergarten) based on the Daniel Morcombe Child Safety Curriculum Prep to Year 2. The Child Safety Curriculum - Early Years was developed for kindergartens across Catholic Education, Diocese of Rockhampton. It reflects the key messages emanating from the Daniel Morcombe Child Safety Curriculum intended for school-age children. In addition, there is an emphasis on the connection between the early years setting and the home environment and the significance of effective communication between the child’s family and educators.

The diversity of topics and focus of the DMF has assisted with a broader understanding of what it means for kindergartens, schools and the wider community to keep children safe.  The parent resources have been utilised by our kindergartens and schools to share with parents in an ongoing basis. Across our schools there has been a very strong attendance at the Australia’s Biggest Child Safety Lesson which provides online lessons for early years and primary schools.

Bruce and Denise Morcombe have been welcomed to many of our Primary Schools over the past 20 years, sharing Daniel’s Story and the message of the Daniel Morcombe Foundation with students, staff and parents.

We are very proud to have been in a position to both support and work collaboratively with the Daniel Morcombe Foundation over these past 20 years enabling conversations to be had with children and young people about their own personal safety. Our schools participate annually in the Day for Daniel held on the last Friday in October. Our school’s participation in this day reinforces the message that the Daniel Morcombe Foundation prescribes to.

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Bruce and Denise Morcombe, Daniel's parents
Daniel Morcombe
School children across the country remember Daniel on this date each year

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Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson and Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins have been appointed to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games Organising Committee’s Host Mayors Advisory Group, ensuring the Mackay and Whitsunday regions have a voice in shaping the legacy of the Games across Queensland.

The announcement comes as one of Australia’s greatest Olympians, swimmer Ian Thorpe AM OLY, joins the Athletes and Sports Advisory Group, while seven Queensland mayors, including Mayor Williamson, officially take their seats on the Host Mayors Advisory Group.

Both Groups, together with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and Commercial Advisory Groups, have been developed to actively support the Brisbane 2032 Board in decisions and implementation in the lead up to the Games in just under seven years’ time.

Brisbane 2032 President, Andrew Liveris congratulated new members and looked forward to their engagement and involvement in delivering a Games that benefits Brisbane, Queensland and Australia long-term.

“There is an incredible amount of support and goodwill across Queensland and beyond to ensure that our home Games are successful and importantly, drive meaningful and lasting legacies for local communities,” Mr Liveris said.

“Those across the Advisory Groups are leaders within their communities and on behalf of those they represent and I have no doubt their contributions will ensure we achieve our collective ambitions.”

Chair of the Athletes and Sports Advisory Group, Susie O’Neill confirmed her delight in Ian’s inclusion as part of the Sports and Advisory Group.

“Ian is not only one of Australia’s greatest Olympians, but an incredible advocate for the success and support of athletes across Australia,” Ms O’Neill said.

“With the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games edging closer, Ian’s contribution, along with all members of our Advisory Group, will ensure that athletes and the sports associated with the Games continue to be the key focus in our successful delivery.”

“The Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games are about showcasing Brisbane and the best of Queensland and Australia to the world,” Brisbane Lord Mayor and Host Mayors Advisory Group Chair Adrian Schrinner said.

“Expanding the Host Mayors Advisory Group means more local voices helping shape a Games that benefits communities across our state.
www.brisbane2032.
“Delivering the world’s biggest sporting event takes teamwork, and this expanded group ensures more councils are part of that effort.

“Together, we’ll create a Games that leaves lasting benefits including better infrastructure, connected communities and a stronger Queensland economy.”

Brisbane 2032 confirmed that as the Games’ sports programme and venue master plan are refined, the composition of the Host Mayors Advisory Group would evolve accordingly.

Additional Advisory Group Members
• Athletes and Sports Advisory Group (Chair, Susie O’Neill AM OLY) – Ian Thorpe AM OLY
• Host Mayors Advisory Group (Chair, Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner)
• Fraser Coast Regional Council Mayor, George Seymore
• Ipswich City Council Mayor, Teresa Harding
• Mackay Regional Council Mayor, Greg Williamson
• Redland City Council Mayor, Jos Mitchell
• Rockhampton Regional Council Mayor, Tony Williams
• Toowoomba Regional Council Mayor, Geoff McDonald
• Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor, Ry Collins

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Mackay Regional Council Mayor, Greg Williamson. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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East Point is set to welcome vehicles back in a carefully staged reopening by Mackay Regional Council, while keeping its delicate environment protected. Dunes Boulevard has been closed since March as work continues on the latest stage of the Dunes residential estate at Harbour Beach.

The road will reopen this Friday, October 31, but vehicle access will remain restricted across the area, including the foreshore reserve. With turtle breeding season in full swing, council has created a temporary car park at the end of Dunes Boulevard, giving locals a safe way to enjoy the area without disturbing the wildlife.

Vehicle access beyond this car park is prohibited, with any offenders to be fined $834. After the wet season next year, council will push a legal access track to a second car park closer to East Point.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the staged re-opening balances community access with environmental protection.

“The restrictions on four-wheel-drive vehicles and motorbikes in this area in the past couple of years have resulted in excellent revegetation,” he said.

“The dunal system had been degraded over many years, but is now being rejuvenated. This staged approach not only ensures the protection of the area but also recognises the community’s historical connection to East Point.”

The temporary car park includes fencing, plantings, and educational signage, while the old access track remains blocked and monitored by a surveillance camera.

“Any offenders accessing the beach or the dunal system on vehicles or motorbikes will be fined,” Mayor Williamson added.

Mackay and District Turtle Watch President Steve Fisher highlighted the positive impact on wildlife.

“The work undertaken here over the last couple of years has re-established a solid nesting area for these turtles,” he said.

“Human interference is one of the biggest issues, which we are managing with council and community involvement.

“Mackay has a unique genetic strain of turtles that predominantly nest on these beaches. If you see hatchlings, stand back and watch; don’t shine lights on them or interfere with their journey.”

Katrina Dent, CEO of Reef Catchments, said, “East Point is an iconic location across Mackay, and it’s important that we invest in the area.

“There’s always more we can do, but it’s great to show what can be achieved in a relatively short amount of time.”

Birdlife Mackay President Greg Strohal noted, “It’s important for migratory shorebirds and terrestrial birds, that their environment is untouched, and that’s the best way we can protect them.

“Vehicles, trail bikes, people, and dogs disturb nesting sites and feeding grounds, especially for migratory shorebirds arriving from overseas. In Australia, 87% of the population lives within 50 kilometres of the coast, so natural environments are often disrupted.”

Irene Adams, Board member of the YUWI Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC, highlighted the importance of protecting and managing the area for the community and future generations.

“We’re looking forward to the master plan for the beach – it’s about moving forward and working with the community.

“The focus now is on collaboration and bringing the whole community together for the future of this area.”

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Representatives from Reef Catchments, Mackay and District Turtle Watch, Birdlife Mackay, Yuwi and council gathered at East Point for the first stage of the reopening. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Growing out of the need expressed by the community for an alternative to traditional Halloween celebrations, the Light Party is an inclusive annual event, which provides community members of all backgrounds, with a positive, fun, family friendly option. This free event includes interactive games, creating and activities for the kids and food trucks, live music, all while creating a vibrant atmosphere in the city heart, at the Blue Water Quay.

‘The Light Party began as a set of family activities in our home, which as others heard about and they asked me to create something so that their kids could join in the fun,’ Light Party organiser Jay-ellen Wright explained. ‘There is a historical connection with the event date, which gave me the inspiration for several of the activities. On October 31, 1517, Martin Luther posted his 95 problems with the church of his day on a church door in Wittenberg, Germany, sparking the Protestant Reformation, which has had long lasting social implications for the Western World.’

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said it was tremendous to see such strong community spirit on display, with the Light Party bringing families together in a positive and inclusive way.

“Events like this have the added benefit of activating of our City Centre and Waterfront, and I’m proud that council can support it through the Community Impact Grant scheme,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Hats off to our dedicated church families, not-for-profits and local businesses who combine to run events like this that bring our community together for some great family-friendly fun,” he said.

Everyone is warmly invited to join for the event, any time between 4-9pm, Friday, 31st October, at Blue Water Quay.

WHAT: Light Party
WHERE: Blue Water Quay, River Street
WHEN: Friday 31st October 4pm-9pm

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If you’re a business owner looking to sharpen your marketing knowledge or someone who’s been handed the job of marketing and feels a bit lost, support is now closer than ever.

Mackay based agency Rebel Nation has relaunched The Rebellion, an online marketing and mentoring membership designed to provide practical tools and guidance, including bite-sized lessons, expert advice, regular check-ins and accountability.

Delivered fully online, members can learn at their own pace while still benefiting from ongoing mentoring.

Rebel Nation Director Jade McAuley said the membership was built for anyone with marketing on their to-do list, no matter their background or role.

“We reopened The Rebellion after seeing first-hand how many people struggle with limited time, budget and confidence when it comes to marketing,” Ms McAuley said.

“Marketing can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. The Rebellion is about giving people clarity, confidence and simple strategies they can actually action, with the reassurance of expert support along the way.”

At $40 a month (or $400 annually), The Rebellion is one of the most affordable professional development options available.

Rebel Nation hopes The Rebellion will empower more people in regional business settings to approach marketing with confidence and direction, from business owners and new graduates to HR staff or admin assistants managing the socials.

Early participants have already seen results. Central Queensland Quantity Surveying Director Jodie Stanley said the accountability and structure had been invaluable.

“Jade is the marketing trainer you need,” Ms Stanley said.

“Even when you know what to do, having someone there to guide you and keep you on track makes all the difference.”

The Rebellion membership is now open, visit www.rebelnation.com.au/rebellion to learn more or join.

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Regional Development Australia Greater Whitsundays (RDA GW), with support from the Local Buying Foundation (LBF), has opened applications for the 2026 Bowen Basin Women in Leadership program, dedicated to empowering women across the Isaac region.

The Women in Leadership program supports women in the Isaac region who are aspiring workplace or community leaders, providing access to workshops, mentoring and skill development sessions, aimed at building leadership capabilities and workplace confidence.

RDA GW CEO Robert Cocco explained the importance of supporting women in leadership roles.

“We’re proud to deliver a program that equips local women with the tools, confidence and networks to succeed in their careers,” Mr Cocco said.

“By building capable, connected leaders, this program strengthens the Isaac region and drives our communities forward.”

Women in Leadership 2025 program mentor Viv Coleman explained that she is “genuinely excited” to be a part the program and see many inspiring women choosing to invest in themselves.

“What excites me most is watching these emerging leaders set meaningful goals for themselves and have the courage to be vulnerable in the pursuit of growth,” Ms Coleman said.

“I look forward to continuing this journey with them as they strengthen their voice, trust their instincts and lead with confidence.”

Applications for the 2026 program are now open and close on 7 November 2025, with the program commencing in February 2026. For more information or to apply, please email projectmanager@rdagw.org.au or ring Nic Willis on 0487 895 796.

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L-R Katie Hobbs and Sheree Crawford Women in Leadership participants

L-R Kyi Nairn and Trudi Liekefett Women in Leadership participants

L-R Women in Leadership participant Marricka Clancy and Isaac Region Council Mayor and Mentor Women in Leadership program Kelly Vea Ves. Photos supplied

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In true tropical style, Mackay has come out on top once again, officially ranked #1 in Australia for work-life balance, proving that our corner of Queensland is more than just paradise; it’s the perfect blend of career, community, and coastline.

The national research by Remitly crowned Mackay as the leader with an impressive work-life balance score of 8.42 out of 10, edging out Ballarat, Victoria (7.55) and Hobart, Tasmania (7.44) for the top three spots.

The study highlighted Mackay’s abundance of beaches, with more than 14 per 100,000 people, combined with an enviable average annual temperature of 23°C, as key factors driving its relaxed and rewarding lifestyle. Add to that the city’s world-class seafood, the vibrant Mackay Festival of Arts, and the region’s strong sense of community, and it’s no surprise that Mackay shines so brightly.

Workers in Mackay also enjoy an average monthly salary of $7,944 after tax, with rental prices among the most affordable in the country — meaning locals can enjoy more of life outside the office. Shorter commutes, friendly neighbourhoods, and an active outdoor culture seal the deal for those seeking balance and belonging.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the recognition was a proud moment for the region.

“Proud moment for Mackay!

“I’m thrilled to share that Mackay has been ranked #1 in Australia for work-life balance according to research by Remitly.

“This achievement reflects what we already know: Mackay is a place where career and community come together, where our lifestyle supports both productivity and wellbeing.

“As Mayor, I want to thank everyone who contributes to this — our local businesses, community groups, schools, and residents who make Mackay a great place to live and work.

“Here’s to continuing to build a city where people can thrive at work, relax in their time off, and connect with community. Let’s keep growing with balance, purpose and heart.”

While Mackay proudly took the crown, Ballarat and Hobart followed closely behind, both recognised for their affordable living, strong community ties, and scenic lifestyles.

From its palm-fringed beaches to its thriving business scene, Mackay continues to show the nation what it means to live and work well — sun, sea, and satisfaction included

For more information, visit www.remitly.com/au/en/landing/best-australian-cities-work-life-balance

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Photo source: Queensland Travel Guide

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Simon Hood
Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

Recently, we released the first edition of this season’s comparative analysis for growers. This year’s analysis takes a slightly different focus, offering valuable insights into the strategies growers use to manage their GEI price exposure.

Typically, growers who choose to market with Wilmar Grower Marketing use the Target Price and GMPRS pricing mechanisms, which give them maximum control over their final price outcomes. This year’s report analyses the variation in the weighted GEI Sugar price by examining how different proportions are allocated across these mechanisms. With the revamped Managed Pool Plus (MPP), growers now have an additional choice within the committed cane category. As at the end of September, the analysis indicates that the greater the GEI Sugar exposure allocated to the MPP, the higher the weighted price overall.

The report also compares pricing mechanisms between marketers. As at 29 September, there was a clear benefit in marketing your GEI sugar tonnes through Wilmar across most pricing strategies employed. It’s important to note that it is still early in the season, and as pools are only partially hedged, the outright price and marketer differentials could shift significantly as the pricing period progresses.

Growers have a range of options to manage their GEI sugar pricing. Wilmar Grower Marketing offers a suite of products that allows you to take control of your own pricing or have Wilmar manage your exposure. You can lock in prices up to three years forward to gain income certainty or commit to pools that allow your GEI price to move with the market over time.

This flexibility enables you to tailor a pricing strategy that suits your individual circumstances and risk appetite. The Wilmar Grower Marketing team can help you understand how each mechanism works and provide general guidance on price risk management principles.

With the 2026 season nomination deadline fast approaching, this is the final opportunity for growers to choose Wilmar Grower Marketing.

It is important to note that you can make or change your nomination up until this date. Any proportion of your GEI sugar that isn’t priced can be moved – you aren’t locked in.

Nominations close on 31 October, so now is the time to review your options and decide on the marketing partner that best aligns with your business goals.

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View all of the results in the latest Pool Performance and Comparative Analysis report for the 2025 season.

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A new initiative is urging Queensland businesses to take biosecurity as seriously as other critical risks, with the Queensland Farmers’ Federation (QFF) and Biosecurity Queensland leading the charge.

Biosecurity in the Boardroom highlights the growing threat of biosecurity incursions across all sectors of the economy, not just agriculture. With risks forecast to quadruple over the next decade, organisers say businesses of all kinds need to act now to protect supply chains, reputations, and long-term viability.

QFF CEO Jo Sheppard said biosecurity has traditionally been seen as a farm-based issue, but it is increasingly a concern for all industries.

“Biosecurity impacts Queensland’s cultural, environmental, social, and economic values,” Ms Sheppard said.

“Business leaders must treat biosecurity as a core risk, just like workplace health and safety, to safeguard continuity and avoid reputational and financial damage.”

The initiative provides resources for company boards and senior executives, prompting businesses to consider biosecurity in their strategic planning, corporate culture, and day-to-day operations. From tourism to transport, education to energy, every sector has a role to play in protecting Queensland’s biosecurity system.

The launch event, held at Customs House in Brisbane, featured leaders from multiple industries and was opened by Assistant Minister for Primary Industry Development, Water and Western Queensland Sean Dillon MP, who highlighted the importance of cross-sector collaboration.

“Partnerships like Biosecurity in the Boardroom bring together the expertise we need across business, industry, and government to strengthen Queensland’s biosecurity system,” Mr Dillon said.

Keynote speaker Dr Rachel Chay, Queensland’s Chief Biosecurity Officer, warned that biosecurity risks are not confined to farms or regional areas.

“Addressing these risks requires a united effort—from boardrooms to paddocks,” she said.

With strong attendance from a wide range of industries, QFF says the initiative reinforces that biosecurity is a whole-of-economy issue. Whether moving goods, managing supply chains, or hosting visitors, all sectors are vulnerable—and all have a role to play.

For more information and resources, businesses can visit www.business.qld.gov.au/running-business/risk/biosecurity.

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Grazing Forum And Field Day Delivers Big Learnings For Whitsundays Graziers

For the first time in its 12-year history, the Reef Catchments Grazing Forum and Field Day were held in the Whitsundays - and it was a resounding success.

Over two days, graziers, ag professionals and community members came together to share knowledge, explore innovation, and strengthen connections across the region. The event, delivered by Reef Catchments’ Sustainable Agriculture team, highlighted the importance of collaboration, practical learning and community-led sustainable land management in the grazing sector.

Field Day: Innovation Meets Practicality

Hosted by generous landholders at Yalboroo, the field day focused on the real-world challenges of converting old cane paddocks into productive grazing pastures. Attendees rotated through hands-on sessions covering weed management, pasture nutrition and soil health, including pH and texture assessments led by Reef Catchments and TNQ Drought Hub.

A standout moment was the live demonstration of AutoWeed’s AI drone technology, which is being trialled to support more targeted and efficient weed control. Kevin Moore, Principal Project Officer for Sustainable Agriculture at Reef Catchments, said the interest from landholders was clear.

“AutoWeed is a tool we’re looking at using to reduce pesticide use by targeting specific weeds. That means lower costs for landholders and less runoff into our waterways - a win-win for graziers and the Great Barrier Reef.”

Farmacist Mackay Extension Agronomist Mandy Jeppsen also spoke on the importance of combining weed control with nutrition for successful pasture establishment.

“If graziers can get a handle on both from the start, it reduces ongoing maintenance costs and they will have good pasture establishment up front. A holistic approach combining grazing management, mechanical methods like slashing and nutrition is key.”

The field day was a chance for graziers to connect, share experiences and learn from one another, as well as gain technical learnings.

“This is my 10th Grazing Forum,” said grazier Travis Perry.

“It’s great to see how the event has progressed. There’s still a lot of people willing to learn and take the time to come to these events. That’s what makes it worthwhile – it's been a great event to attend once again.”

Forum: Genetics, Herd Health and Community Connection

Held at the Proserpine Showgrounds, the Grazing Forum built on the momentum of the field day with a strong focus on cattle management. Topics included genetics, disease prevention and bull selection, with expert insights from Lawson Camm (Cambil Brahmans), James Kent (Great Northern Brahman Sale) and Tim Emry (Department of Primary Industries).

Attendees were treated to a showcase of Brahman bulls and a breakdown of complex topics like EBVs and genetic scoring, helping graziers make informed decisions tailored to their enterprise goals.

“We’ve had Lawson Camm and representatives from the Great Northern Brahman Sale speak down at the Proserpine Showgrounds showring, which was pretty spectacular,” said Reef Catchments Sustainable Agriculture Facilitator, Kellie Harmsworth.

“There are quite a few good specimens of Brahman bulls coming through. I’ve really enjoyed the day. It’s been a casual, relaxed atmosphere with great attendance from landholders, sales reps, industry reps and the general community.”

Jason Mansfield from Greater Whitsunday Vet Service also spoke on the importance of herd health, reinforcing the need for proactive management and regular vet engagement.

Mandy Jeppsen reflected on the broader impact of the event.

“These sorts of events are rare in this region, especially with grazing not always seen as a priority in cane-growing areas. There aren’t many places where graziers can meet suppliers and service providers, hear from guest speakers, and learn from each other all in one spot. It’s a great way to build community - the more people you connect with, the more ideas you can share, and everyone benefits from that.”

The success of this year’s event highlights the growing appetite for practical, locally relevant grazing support in the Mackay Whitsunday region. Reef Catchments is proud to support graziers through events like these, which foster innovation, collaboration, resilience and community.

For more information, visit www.reefcatchments.com.au/projects/sustainable-agriculture-facilitaor-saf.

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Photos source: Reef Catchments

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By Cr Ash-Lee Johnson

Since being elected, one of the greatest realisations I have had is just how strong and generous the community spirit is across our region. We are home to a remarkable network of community groups and volunteers who quietly go the extra mile week after week, simply because they care about people and want to make a difference. Among them, the Country Women’s Association stands out as a powerful example of what community connection truly looks like.

The Country Women’s Association, known as the CWA, have been part of regional life in Queensland for generations. It is a place where women of all ages and backgrounds come together for friendship, support and purpose. Their values are simple but meaningful. Across our region, branches are busy doing what they do best. They advocate, improve the lives of local families, support various valuable programs and bring people together. Beyond the projects and fundraising, there is something else they offer that cannot be measured and that is genuine connection.

Attend any CWA event and you will find conversation, laughter and women who are there for each other. No judgement. No pressure. Just country values and community spirit at its best. At a time when we are more connected online than ever, but feel more disconnected in real life, groups like the CWA remind us of the value of real human connection.

For anyone looking to meet new people or get involved in their local area, community groups are a great place to start. You do not need to be experienced, overcommit or have ever been on a committee. You just need to show up and care.

We are incredibly fortunate to have many member organisations in our beautiful region, that remind us that strong communities do not just happen. They are built by people who care, who show up, give their priceless time for others and expect nothing in return. These are the people who stand beside each other in difficult times and who keep community spirit alive through simple acts of kindness. Seeing the commitment and care in action, like I have, emphasises how lucky we are here.

Let’s Chat – Council Connect

Residents can catch up with councilors in person at upcoming Let’s Chat - Council Connect sessions held across the region.  The next session will be at Seaforth Bowls Club from 5.30pm to 6.30pm on November 5.

Details on upcoming sessions can be found on the Connecting Mackay website.

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Koumala CWA Branch Annual Garden Party. Photo supplied

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Why Group Fitness Builds More Than Strength

By Michael James – Fitness Industry Professional, Facility Owner & Wellness Coach

When most people think of going to the gym, they imagine lifting weights or working alone on a treadmill. But some of the most powerful results don’t come from solo sessions — they come from training together. At Fitness Cartel Mackay, our vision is to create a community where group training is more than just exercise; it’s connection, motivation, and joy rolled into one.

Why groups work better

Science shows that training with others increases consistency, effort, and enjoyment. When you’re surrounded by like-minded people, you naturally push harder, stay longer, and stick with your goals. This isn’t just psychology — it’s physiology. Group workouts elevate endorphins and oxytocin, two “feel-good” chemicals that boost mood, reduce stress, and strengthen social bonds.

For anyone who’s ever struggled with motivation, the group environment is a game-changer. Instead of dreading the gym, you start looking forward to it — not just for the workout, but for the people you’ll share it with.

World-class variety, right here in Mackay

At Fitness Cartel Mackay, our group training offering has been designed to rival the best in the world. From high-energy Les Mills programs to cycle classes that drive endurance, from reformer Pilates that tones and strengthens to functional team training that challenges every muscle, there’s a class to suit every goal and every personality.

Each session is led by skilled instructors who know how to get the best out of you — whether that’s pushing you through your last rep, or guiding you to move with precision and confidence. The result is not just better fitness, but a better experience.

Community is the secret ingredient

Our mission has always been built on family, community, and ambition. Group fitness is where all three come together. Families can train side by side, friendships are built through shared effort, and ambition grows when you see others striving for their best.

In a world where loneliness and isolation are becoming all too common, the gym can be more than a place to sweat — it can be a place to belong. The bonds built in classes spill over into life outside the gym, creating a support network that keeps you moving forward.

From beginner to elite

Group training isn’t just for the seasoned athlete. Every class is scalable, meaning whether you’re stepping into fitness for the first time or chasing elite performance, you’ll find your place. That’s the beauty of community: it lifts everyone, no matter where you start.

At Fitness Cartel Mackay, training together isn’t just an option — it’s a cornerstone of how we’ll help this community thrive. Because when people come together, they don’t just get stronger bodies. They build stronger lives.

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Michael James – Fitness Industry Professional, Facility Owner & Wellness Coach

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What began as one woman’s simple act of kindness has grown into a lifeline for lost and abandoned animals across Mackay.

When local animal lover Taylah Kolaric first bought a microchip scanner online, she simply wanted to help reunite lost dogs with their families.

“I was always seeing lost dog posts on Facebook and it was concerning to me how much pound fees were,” she said.

“So, I volunteered on community pages to scan dogs if someone could hold them. That way, I could call the owners and return the dog without the need for pound fees… because that can make or break a family.”

Little did she know, a stray found wandering near the Peak Downs Highway, would soon change everything.

“Her microchip said her name was Paintbrush,” Taylah recalled.

“I thought she looked more like a Lucy, and a few days later, when I reached the breeder, I learned her owners didn’t want her anymore.”

Lucy, as she became known, tested positive for heartworm. Determined to help her recover, Taylah began creating custom pet ID tags to raise funds for her treatment.

“We managed to raise all the funds we needed, and Lucy’s now heartworm negative and living happily with her new family,” she said.

“That’s how Lucky Tags began — I never really meant to get into rescue, but it found me.”

From those humble beginnings, Lucy’s Lucky Tags & Dog Rescue has grown into an incorporated association with a dedicated team of volunteers.

“We’ve probably rehomed over 200 dogs so far,” Taylah said.

“Right now, we have about 30 in care, including some going through heartworm treatment, which can cost around $1,500 each.”

Every tag sold, engraved with a pet’s name and phone number, helps fund the rescue’s vet bills, desexing, and medical care.

“We make great affordable pet tags, and 100% of the profits go to our pets in need,” Taylah said.

“It’s much quicker to have your phone number on your pet’s collar than to rely on someone to take your dog to a vet or the pound.”

The group now hopes to expand its fundraising and foster network.

“We’re always looking for more carers, especially for short-term or puppy care,” Taylah added.

For Taylah and her team, it’s all about compassion and community.

“There’s really no excuse for irresponsible pet ownership these days,” she said.

“Desex your pets, keep them safe, and if you ever need help – our inbox is open.”

To order a tag or learn more about fostering, visit Lucy’s Lucky Tags & Dog Rescue on Facebook.

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Taylah and her team of dedicated volunteers are giving Mackay’s lost and abandoned dogs a second chance through Lucy’s Lucky Tags & Dog Rescue. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Mackay Apartment Owners Hit With Costly Repair Bills

Mackay townhouse and apartment owners are being urged to understand strata law, as disputes over who pays for repairs and upgrades are leaving some with surprise bills in the tens of thousands. From roof repairs to storm damage, owners are finding that costs they assumed were covered by the body corporate can fall to them.

“Disputes over levies, unexpected bills, or delayed repairs are becoming more common in strata communities,” said Archers the Strata Professionals CEO, Nicky Lonergan.

“What looks like a simple water leak can escalate into tens of thousands of dollars and even dispute resolution with the Office of the Commissioner for Body Corporate and Community Management.”

Queensland has more than 52,000 registered strata schemes housing around 1.2 million residents. As buildings age and safety and sustainability expectations rise, conflicts over maintenance versus improvements are increasing.

Mrs Lonergan said confusion often arises from exceptions in the rules.

“Causation, incidental works, improvements, exclusive use, utility infrastructure, and building format plans can shift responsibility in ways owners don’t anticipate,” she explained.

Examples include: flexi hoses, bathroom membranes, incidental works, exclusive use areas, and storm damage – all of which can leave owners footing the bill.

To help, Archers, in partnership with Smart Strata, held a free community education seminar in Mackay on Wednesday, October 15. Using real-world case studies such as balcony leaks, shade sails, and roof replacements, the sessions clarified owner and committee responsibilities and helped prevent costly misunderstandings. Seminars were also held across the Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast, Brisbane, and Cairns.

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Nicky Lonergan, CEO of Archers the Strata Professionals. Photo supplied

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I’m sure there are lots of positives about being a medical doctor, whether that’s a general practitioner or a specialist of some sort.

There’s the thing about helping people, guiding them on their health journey as they attempt to overcome all the disturbing and confronting difficulties that ageing, Western diets, stress and gluttonous modern indulgences tend to create.

It’s important work and the community rightly values doctors and the crucial role they play in diagnosing health issues, prescribing solutions, easing pain and extending the life expectancy of their appreciative patients.

I imagine that, for doctors, the downside of their profession is the fairly constant need to deliver bad news, often to poor souls who have done nothing wrong and do their best to lead healthy lives.

Apart from that annual check-up people have, patients tend to go and see their doctor because there’s a problem.

When doctors have sweet dreams it’s probably about an imaginary day at work when there is a constant flow of people who are either in sparkling health and need no treatment and those previously ill people who are dramatically improving and on their way to a full and permanent recovery.

Those times when health scenarios improve and doctors get to deliver good news to patients do happen, of course, but wouldn’t it be good if it happened all the time?

“Yes Bob, the test results are in. Full recovery. No worries, happy to help … next.”

“Hi Sarah, so the pain has stopped has it? Yes, well the scans show the problem has disappeared so everything couldn’t look better. See you in a year for a routine check-up! Next. …”

Unfortunately, the reality is that the nature of their work means that doctors, dentists and other medical professionals do have to diagnose problems and deliver bad news.

Which brings me to real estate agents and the difference that currently exists between them and medical professionals.

Okay, apart from years of gruelling study, a broad yet deep understanding of the scientific complexities of their area of focus, a professional standing that puts them at the top (rather than the bottom) of the ladder of community regard and a level of trust that means people willingly put their lives in a medical professional’s hands … there is another difference.

It's the good news diagnosis. That’s what real estate agents are currently able to deliver to people wanting to sell their property in Mackay.

“You bought your house in 2004 and you want to sell? Well, the good news is your place is worth a lot more now.”

“You bought your house in 2016?  Well, the good news is your property has more than doubled in value.”

“You bought your house four years ago? Well, it’s worth about $250,000 more today.”

It is a great part of my job to be able to do an appraisal on someone’s house and tell them how much more their property is worth now than it was when they bought it. And it is particularly enjoyable when I sold the house to that person.

I sold a cheap, basic property to a young tradesman about two years ago. He did a few simple renovations without spending too much and got me to sell it for him recently. He made nearly $200,000 and has been able to step up the real estate ladder.

I’ve been selling real estate in Mackay since 2011 so there are other terrific examples of people coming back to me to sell their properties. There are other young blokes and women who now have partners and kids and I get to sell the property they bought from me for a huge profit and help them take significant financial strides on their property journey.

I do remember the dark days of a real estate downturn when the diagnosis wasn’t so positive. Hopefully the current status quo continues. But we know it can’t forever. Next.

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A Hub For Community Wellness

The Mackay RSL Sub Branch is stepping boldly into the future, transforming its permanent Illawong Beach base into a Community Wellness Centre for veterans, first responders, families, and the wider community.

Mackay RSL Sub Branch President Ken Higgins calls it “the perfect place for what we want to do – a wellness centre that supports everyone, not just veterans.”

Already buzzing with activity—from beach volleyball tournaments and cadet training to school visits, the centre is set for major renovations, including a new roof, refurbished interiors, and reconfigured spaces to better serve the community.

Secretary Georgia-Lee Ricketts says the hub is about “health, happiness, and community… a place where you can still have a cold one, but also bring your family along, have a swim, a chat, and a laugh.”

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Mackay RSL Sub Branch Evolves Into Wellness Hub For Veterans And The Wider Community

The Mackay RSL Sub Branch is redefining what it means to serve, transforming its permanent base at Illawong Beach into a vibrant community Wellness Centre focused on connection, inclusivity, and holistic health for veterans and the wider community.

After leasing the property for 12 months, the Sub Branch has found what President Ken Higgins describes as “the perfect place for what we want to do – a wellness centre that supports everyone, not just veterans.”

Once funding is secured, renovations including a new roof, refurbished interiors, and realigned walls are expected to begin, with completion targeted for 2027.

Supported by Mackay Regional Council, RSL Queensland, and local businesses, the Sub Branch is determined to keep the project community-driven from the ground up. The Illawong Beach site is already alive with activity, from competitive beach volleyball tournaments and school visits to cadet training and fitness programs. Goosies Sport and Recreation Club has been a key partner, helping run weekly bingo nights to support the Sub Branch and will also host the upcoming RSL Gala.

Mr Higgins said, “We want this place to be not only for veterans, but for their families, first responders, people with disabilities, First Nations and South Sea Islander communities.”

Sub Branch Secretary Georgia-Lee Ricketts said the focus on wellness was reshaping what the RSL represents in the modern era.

“We want this hub to be about health, happiness, and community… a place where you can still have a cold one, but also bring your family along, have a swim, a chat, and a laugh.”

Georgia said the upcoming RSL Gala on November 8, supported by major sponsor Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal, would celebrate the community’s progress while raising vital funds for future upgrades.

“This is the first RSL Gala we’ve held… it’s a big fundraiser, and we’re over halfway sold out,” she said.

“Not only is it raising much needed funds, but it’s also showing the community what we’re doing for the wider region.”

The Sub Branch is also proud of its commitment to sustainability and self-sufficiency.

“We need to be self-sustainable in this day and age,” Mr Higgins said.

“We can’t thank Mackay Regional Council enough for their support – they’ve been wonderful to work with.”

“This is really an opportunity for veterans, first responders, their families and community members to come down, support each other, have some fun and be part of something positive.”

From accessible transport to plans for allied health and gym facilities, the Mackay RSL Sub Branch is determined to make its Illawong Beach wellness hub a place of belonging.

“We want to be known not just for supporting veterans, but for supporting everyone –families, first responders, young people, even schools. The RSL is for the whole community,” said Georgia.

Community members are invited to join in supporting this transformative project, either by attending the Gala or contributing through donations, ensuring the Illawong Beach hub continues to grow as a space of wellness, connection, and inclusion for all.

For more information, contact Georgia on 0499 567 297 or via email at
georgia-lee.ricketts@mackay.rslqld.net.au

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The Mackay RSL Sub Branch is transforming its Illawong Beach base into a one-of-a-kind Community Wellness Centre for veterans, families, and the wider community — a place for connection, health, and hope. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

The upgraded facility will feature a new roof, refurbished interiors, and reimagined spaces designed to support health programs, family activities, and community events. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Images supplied

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A well-known couple to Coles Sydney Street recently experienced an unexpected act of kindness that reminded them there’s still plenty of good in the world.

Last Friday, the husband, who has recently taken on the role of full-time carer for his wife, stopped in at the store to pick up some groceries on a particularly hot day. Feeling flustered and preoccupied, he collected everything on the list and headed to the checkout, only to realise he had forgotten his wallet.

“I told the cashier I’d just pop home to grab it since we live nearby,” he said.

“I was so embarrassed… I wished the floor would open up and swallow me.”

Before he could leave, a young man standing behind him spoke up, asking if that was all he had. When the gentleman confirmed it was, the stranger insisted on paying for the small grocery bill himself.

“I told him it wasn’t necessary, that I could go home and get my wallet,” he recalled.

“But he just said, ‘No, that’s all right, mate, I’ve got it.’”

Deeply moved by the gesture, the couple shared the story to highlight the quiet generosity still present in the community.

“It’s something that’s never happened to me before,” he said.

“It just goes to show there are still decent people out there… especially when it’s a young fellow doing such a kind thing.”

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Ever heard the saying, “Where your heart is, there your treasure is?”

It's an interesting phrase, isn't it?'

Our days are made up of so many little moments, but at the end of the day, it’s what our heart truly desires that gives us the motivation and drive to keep moving forward.

It’s funny how we often place our happiness in material things, like a holiday, a car, or a new house – yet when we receive them, we immediately look for the “next best thing.”

No doubt social media and current trends often reinforce that mindset, but where our heart is, there our treasure lies.

So, what is it for you?

On Tuesday, I celebrated my husband’s 24th birthday, and while I spent most of the evening preparing and serving food for our guests, it was in the small moments, like watching him cut the cake surrounded by our closest friends and family, or hearing laughter echo through the lounge room, that made me feel so grateful for the life we live.

These are life’s precious moments, and we never truly know if we’ll be granted tomorrow… so make sure you treasure today!

Whether it’s a loved one’s birthday or a mundane Friday - cherish it, and don’t take it for granted.

"For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." – Matthew 6:21

Have a blessed week!

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Mackay Woman Shares Story Of Hope Following Early Detection

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to remind women of the importance of early detection. For Mackay resident Wendy Hastie, 71, a routine breast screen during her retirement travels proved lifesaving.

Wendy had been enjoying her retirement in 2022 with her husband Les when her BreastScreen reminder letter arrived while they were in Perth.

“My daughter in Mackay called and said my letter from BreastScreen had arrived in the mail. I thought about waiting until we were back in Mackay to have the mammogram but decided to make an appointment in Perth with some friends,” Wendy said.

“We thought we’d make a day of it, you know have our mammograms and then go out for lunch, so that’s what we did.”

While her friends received the all-clear, Wendy was asked to return for another mammogram.

“This time it was at a larger clinic where I had an intravenous dye put through me and then as soon as I had that I went straight on the table for a biopsy on my breast. They did another mammogram there to pinpoint the area,” she said.

“We went for my results the next day and was told it was cancer. The specialist said it was a DCIS (ductal carcinoma in situ), which is not an aggressive cancer but still, I could have fallen off my chair with the news.”

Wendy underwent a six-hour right breast mastectomy two months later. The procedure included removal of her breast, muscle taken from her back, and an expander for later reconstructive surgery.

“I was fortunate to not need chemo or radiation, just the mastectomy. Six months later I underwent breast reconstruction surgery,” she said.

“I was coping pretty well the whole time. I’m a matter-of-fact person and don’t dwell on things. Still, it was definitely a very surreal time being diagnosed and going through surgery. But I wasn’t scared and didn’t panic, that doesn’t help anything does it.”

While recovering, Wendy faced more challenges as her husband Les was diagnosed with stage four kidney failure and later pancreatic cancer.

“There wasn’t much they could do because of his stage four kidney failure. So we just decided to do palliative care and enjoy what time we had left together,” Wendy said.

Despite losing her husband earlier this year, Wendy continues to live life fully, catching up with friends, doing water aerobics, working a couple of days a week, and planning a Mediterranean cruise next year.

During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Wendy hopes her story inspires women to prioritise screening.

“Make sure you have your check-ups every two years, check your breast yourself and make use of the services available,” she said.

“Looking back, I feel so grateful for the service and care. If I had waited until we had returned from travelling to book my mammogram, things could have been very different.”

With one in seven women diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, routine breast screening remains the best way to detect breast cancer early. BreastScreen provides free screening for women aged 40 and over who haven’t noticed changes in their breasts. Appointments can be booked at units or mobile services across Australia.

Call 13 20 50 or visit www.breastscreen.qld.gov.au to make an appointment.

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Discover a sweet secret hiding in plain sight – oversized, 125g cookies that are crunchy outside with a gooey centre. Baked fresh every morning and served from the big purple Laffos Cookies truck outside Target at Caneland Central – they are a fast becoming a must-try taste sensation!

An iconic New York treat, these cookies are packed with premium ingredients, including rich Belgian chocolate, and are known for their sheer size and melt in your mouth texture. Every bite is full of flavour!

Laffos Cookies owner Mark Laffin said that these New York cookies are “indulgence at its best – crispy on the outside, soft and gooey in the middle and loaded with quality ingredients”.

“Our regulars love that they can enjoy an authentic New York-style cookie experience right here at home – and we’re wanting to spread the word so that more people can try it for themselves, without having to head to the US,” Mr Laffin said.

For many in the community, cookies are becoming part of everyday occasions – picked up as a thoughtful surprise, shared at family gatherings or something different in catering for work events.

While the cookies take centre stage, the experience doesn’t stop there. Also available at Laffos Cookies are coffees from Primal Coffee, milkshakes, thickshakes and more – combinations that feel equal parts comforting and indulgent.

Mackay has long had a love for homegrown food experiences and Laffos Cookies have added another chapter to that story. By blending global inspiration with local flavour, it offers the community and visitors alike a chance to enjoy something new while staying firmly connected to our region.

For more information, visit Laffos Cookies' big purple van at Caneland Central or order online at www.laffoscookies.com.au

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Mr Mark Laffin with freshly baked cookies ready for purchase. Photo supplied

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Reflecting On A Remarkable First Year As Your Member For Mackay

One Year of Service: Reflecting on a Remarkable First Year as Your Member for Mackay
By Nigel Dalton MP, Member for Mackay
It’s hard to believe it’s already been a year since I was given the great honour of being elected to represent the people of Mackay in the Queensland Parliament. And what a year it has been.
From day one, I made a commitment: to work hard, to listen, to be present, and to stand up for the projects and priorities that matter most to our community. Over the past twelve months, I’ve had the privilege of meeting thousands of locals—from small business owners and community volunteers to school principals, frontline workers, and healthcare professionals.
Every interaction has reminded me that Mackay’s greatest strength lies in its people—their determination, generosity, and unwavering sense of community.

Delivering Real Results for Mackay

This first year has been focused on action—securing funding and delivering projects that make a genuine difference to people’s lives. From community sport and the arts, to housing and education, these investments are about building a stronger, more connected Mackay.
Highlights include:
• $23.5 million for Stage 2 of the Great Barrier Reef Arena upgrade at Harrup Park.
• $800,000 for Mackay Hockey Association to build an indoor facility.
• $800,000 for Football Queensland Mackay to upgrade the carpark facility.
• $1.6 million for Mackay Netball Association to construct shade protection.
• $450,000 to upgrade lighting at Zeolla Park in Andergrove for the All Saints AFL Club.
• $250,000 for Mackay Musical Comedy Players Inc. to upgrade their facility.
• $1 million for Chances House, providing vital support for vulnerable members of our community.
• 59 new social and community housing homes, helping address the growing need for safe, affordable accommodation.
• Refurbishment and air-conditioning of the Mackay State High School hall, part of a $70.68 million School and Education Boost.
• A new tuckshop at North Mackay State High School, also funded through the School and Education Boost.
These projects don’t just improve facilities—they create jobs, strengthen local pride, and ensure that Mackay continues to thrive.

Listening to the Community

Being on the ground—at events, in schools, at community meetings—has been one of the most important parts of my role. I’ve made it a priority to stay connected, not just from the office or Parliament House, but out in the community where ideas are shared and real issues are raised.
Over the past year, I’ve hosted local forums, attended school visits, listened to families, met with business owners, and supported our seniors. Whether it’s parents discussing education, businesses sharing workforce concerns, or retirees navigating cost-of-living pressures—I’ve listened, taken notes, and worked hard to respond.
I’ve also delivered over $600,000 in community grants, supporting grassroots initiatives across the electorate. A personal highlight was visiting the Mackay Wood Turners Association, who received over $14,000 to purchase new equipment and continue their incredible work in preserving traditional skills.

Standing Up in Parliament

In Parliament, I’ve made it my mission to ensure Mackay’s voice is heard loud and clear. I’ve spoken on legislation impacting regional communities, advocated for local infrastructure, and proudly shared the achievements of our people.
I’ve stood up for key issues that matter to our region, including:
• Supporting the establishment of a dedicated Mining Coroner to improve safety standards and ensure greater transparency across the industry.
• Backing the "Adult Crime, Adult Time" approach to strengthen youth justice and ensure greater accountability.
• Advocating for stronger domestic violence laws to better protect victims and keep our communities safe.
• Initiating an inquiry into the future of Sugar and Biomanufacturing in Queensland, to support jobs and secure long-term growth in one of our key industries.
These are not just policy positions—they’re reflections of what I’ve heard from you, and what I believe will help shape a better future for Mackay.

Looking Ahead

As we move into the next year, my focus remains firmly on delivery.
Whether it’s advocating for better housing, securing funding for local projects, or supporting programs that create jobs and strengthen our region, I will continue doing what I promised: working hard, staying local, and remaining accessible to you.
Representing Mackay is not just a job—it’s a true honour. Thank you for your trust, your support, and your belief in what we can achieve together.

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Whitsunday Anglican School students recently made their mark on the Central Queensland art scene, with their work showcased in the Creative Generations Excellence in Visual Art Awards – Central Queensland Regional Exhibition at the Emu Park Gallery.

The exhibition, which ran daily until October 18, formed part of the Yeppoon Lions Pinefest celebrations — an annual highlight that celebrates the creativity, passion, and artistic excellence of young people from across the region.

A representative from Whitsunday Anglican School said, “We’re so proud to see our talented students involved in this incredible programme and to have the opportunity to exhibit their stunning artworks as part of the Central Queensland Regional Exhibition.”

Students Scarlett, Neiva, and Sophie were among those whose inspiring pieces captured the admiration of visitors throughout the exhibition, showcasing not only their skill but the strength of visual arts education within the Mackay and Whitsunday region.

“Their inspiring pieces continue to impress visitors throughout the exhibition,” the representative added.

The event highlighted the region’s thriving creative community and the bright future of its emerging artists.

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Whitsunday Anglican School students impressed at the Creative Generations art exhibition, showcasing outstanding local talent. Photo source: Whitsunday Anglican School (Facebook)

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Veterans across the Pioneer Valley and beyond are set to benefit from the Crisafulli Government’s renewed commitment to recognising and supporting those who have served.

Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly MP, welcomed the announcement, which includes the development of a Queensland Veterans and Veterans’ Families Strategy — aimed at supporting the more than 163,000 current and former Australian Defence Force members living across the state.

A community forum will be held in Rockhampton on Wednesday, 22 October, with a Mackay forum to follow, date yet to be announced.

In addition, the government’s Honouring Our Veterans Grants Program continues to fund important local projects such as building improvements, new or refurbished war memorials, avenues of honour, memorial gardens, and flagpole installations — offering up to $250,000 for major works and $75,000 for smaller projects.

Mr Kelly said that our veterans gave service to our country for the next generation, and that it’s important that we honour their sacrifice and commitment to our country.

“The Honouring Our Veterans fund is a great opportunity to see improvements to the war memorials across the electorate of Mirani, and anybody can apply for it, whether it’s the local RSL or the council,” Mr Kelly said.

“There’s opportunities within the electorate to take advantage of this funding, from Mount Morgan to Sarina and up the Pioneer Valley.

“But it’s not only the grants, the Crisafulli Government is showing we’re truly committed to our veterans with the development of the very first Veterans Strategy for Queensland.

“I think it’s so important that we recognise our veteran community, they made sacrifices for our country that we could hardly imagine, and I’m glad they’re getting the acknowledgement they deserve.”

Applications for the Honouring Our Veterans Grant Program are open until 3PM Friday 14 November.

More information on the Queensland Veterans and Veterans’ Families Strategy can be found at www.qld.gov.au/community/getting-support-health-social-issue/veterans/queensland-
veterans-strategy

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Member for Mirani Glen Kelly with Walkerston with Mackay veteran, President of the Walkerston-Pleystowe RSL Sub Branch, and Mackay’s 2024 Man of the Year, Rod Franciso at the Walkerston Pleystowe RSL Sub Branch Anzac Day 2025. Photo supplied

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Mackay Christian College students once again took to the road, and the racetrack, for another year of hands-on learning.

Packed and ready to roll, the team set off for race day with their cars proudly displaying stickers from local supporters including Frontline Equipment Maintenance, RMS Performance Engineering, Consolidated Engineering Plastics Products, L&R Contracting, Mackay Christian College, and the Mackay Christian College Trade Training Centre.

The crew arrived at the track around 4:30pm to unload and prepare their vehicles ahead of scrutineering and shakedown runs the following morning. Students were due to arrive by flight the next day to put the cars through their paces, aiming to see if their builds could endure six hours of continuous racing on Friday.

Despite a few challenges on the track and no podium finishes this time around, the experience was a major success for the students, who demonstrated teamwork, technical skills, and perseverance throughout the event.

Their journey included a few pit stops along the way to tighten the cars on the Empire Trailer Hire trailers and refuel their Ezy Mechanical utes in Rockhampton – thanks to their generous sponsors.

The project highlighted the dedication and ingenuity of regional students, as well as the strong local industry partnerships that continue to support real-world learning experiences at Mackay Christian College.

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In order to discover who the right audience is, you first need to understand what problem your business solves and who genuinely cares about the solution. It’s not about who could buy from you, but who truly needs your offering. Once you pinpoint that, you can stop wasting effort shouting into the void and start building real connections with those who matter most to your brand.

Think about where and when your audience will encounter your message. Are they scrolling social media on their lunch break, or driving past a billboard during peak hour, or winding down at home watching TV? The context in which they see your ad shapes how they interpret it, so the same message can perform differently depending on whether your audience is in the right mindset to care.

Understanding your audience goes beyond knowing their age, location, or job title; it’s about uncovering what drives their decisions and how they think, feel, and communicate. Whether your audience responds to trendy language, aspirational storytelling, or witty commentary, it’s important to tailor every message to speak their language.

This process becomes easier when guided by professionals with experience across a variety of industries. Redhotblue recognises the traits that influence how people engage with a brand. This insight allows us to shape communication that feels relevant, authentic, and ultimately motivates the audience to take action.

Jody Euler from Red Hot Blue

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As the Mackay and Whitsunday region heads deeper into fire season, residents are being urged to stay alert, take precautions, and understand the crucial role that fire plays across local landscapes, from controlled cane burns to hazard reduction in rural communities.

Rural Fire Service Queensland (RFSQ) Area Manager, Inspector Andrew Houley said the local fire season typically aligns with the region’s sugar cane industry.

“Our fire season tends to reflect the biggest crop on the coast,” he said.

“It lines up seasonally when things dry out — unlike southern Australia, where fire danger peaks in February. Here, it’s very much winter and spring, and we get dry like we are now.”

Houley said rural and residential landholders could significantly reduce risk through “good housekeeping.”

“For people who live on the edge of vegetation, areas like Blacks Beach, Dolphin Heads or Eimeo, keeping your property clean makes a big difference,” he said.

“Cleaning gutters and roofs, trimming overhanging trees, and clearing under the house are all simple but vital steps.”

He added that managing vegetation through “slashing, mowing, or grazing with livestock” can also lower fire fuel loads.

“If people think fire is a tool for them, they can approach their local brigade,” Houley said.

Several local brigades are also looking for new volunteers, particularly Midge Point, Camerons Pocket, and Habana.

“It’s in everyone’s best interest to have a strong local brigade,” Houley said.

“When a well-trained local team is on hand, there’s a lot they can do before other fire appliances arrive. Neighbours helps neighbours – that’s one of our founding principles.”

Houley encouraged residents to visit the Rural Fire Service Queensland (RFSQ) website to find information on developing a Bushfire Survival Plan and locating local fire wardens.

“Fire is a really important tool for our landscape,” he said.

“It’s vital for biodiversity, agriculture, and safety, but when it goes wrong, it can be a dreadful foe, so preparation is everything.”

Residents across the Mackay and Whitsunday region are encouraged to take simple, proactive steps to reduce their fire risk:

• Clean gutters and roofs regularly to prevent leaf build-up and ember ignition.
• Trim overhanging branches and remove dry vegetation close to the home.
• Clear under the house or low-set areas where debris can accumulate unnoticed.
• Slash, mow, or graze grassed areas to reduce fuel loads on your property.
• Relocate valuable assets like caravans or boats to open, defendable areas.
• Develop a Bushfire Survival Plan using resources on the Rural Fire Service Queensland website.
• Get to know your local brigade — ask at community hubs or visit the RFSQ website for contact details.
• Consider volunteering with your local rural fire brigade to support your community’s safety.
• Stay informed of local fire warnings and conditions, particularly during dry, windy periods.

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Residents are encouraged to stay prepared this fire season by maintaining properties and supporting local brigades. Photos supplied by Rural Fire Service Queensland.

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Foster carers are the backbone of Mackay Animal Rescue Society (also known as MARS).

We rely heavily on these wonderful people to provide temporary homes for cats and dogs in care, while actively helping them find their forever families.

MARS covers all vet costs for your foster, but we do ask that you bring your foster dog or puppy to our monthly adoption days, held on the last Sunday of each month. These events are a fantastic opportunity to showcase your foster to the public and help them find their forever home. You’ll also need to take your foster animal to vet appointments, which can be arranged at times convenient for you.

Becoming a foster carer is like signing up for a reality show where the contestants are furry, and you’re the host, chef, and therapist all rolled into one!

It’s a wild ride filled with cuddles, chaos, and the occasional “What have I gotten myself into?” moment… but trust us, it’s worth every laugh, tear, and chewed-up shoe.

Animal fostering is essentially running a temporary Airbnb for creatures who don’t leave reviews but will absolutely steal your heart.

If this sounds like your kind of adventure, join our incredible team of volunteers, and fill out our foster career application today at www.mackayanimalrescue.com.au/foster-carer-application

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Sarina State High School marked Mental Health Week earlier this month with a range of engaging activities held in the Resource Centre and Education Support Centre.

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The event aimed to promote awareness and encourage open conversations around mental wellbeing among students and staff.

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The school extended thanks to its Student Wellbeing and Student Services teams for their ongoing efforts to foster a positive and supportive environment.
“A big thank you to our Student Wellbeing and Student Services teams for promoting awareness and encouraging positive mental health across our school community,” a school representative said.

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Sarina State High School marked Mental Health Week with activities promoting wellbeing and awareness. Photo
source: Sarina State High School (Facebook)

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New playgrounds and swimming programs are just some of the ways students have benefited from Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank’s Community Engagement Program.

With World Teachers’ Day just around the corner, it’s a perfect time to highlight the important role schools and educators play in supporting students to reach their full potential.

Throughout its Community Engagement Program, Community Bank Sarina continues to invest in local youth and education, creating meaningful community impact by providing community grants to P&C Associations that support Chelona, Alligator Creek and Swayneville State Schools.

From swimming programs and associated school carnivals at Chelona and Alligator Creek, to a new playground at Swayneville, these programs will support students in building confidence, developing fundamental skills and enjoying safe, engaging spaces.

For many students, gaining these swimming abilities will support them in developing independence, resilience and awareness around the water – contributing further impact into a safer, more confident community.

Alligator Creek State School P&C explained that the program will assist students in developing practical swim survival skills, supporting them with the confidence to feel safe and capable in and around water, ultimately saving lives.

Chelona State School’s P&C echoed this, highlighting that their swimming program enhances water safety and provides valuable life skills.

The Swayneville State School P&C explained that the new playground will provide students with a safe space to be active, play together and develop teamwork skills.

Community Bank Sarina Manager Erin Ryley explained that these community grants go beyond individual activities – they create opportunities for students to grow and strengthen their skills, which ultimately impact the community.

“Supporting local P&Cs to deliver opportunities for students that encourage active, healthy lifestyles and build essential life skills is something we are proud to support,” Mrs Ryley said.

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To learn more about how Community Bank Sarina’s community impact and support, visit: https://www.facebook.com/communitybanksarina

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By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

October materialised with a real kick of hot dry weather, bringing with it some blazes around the region. That reality has dominated the month, bringing with it fire bans and moderate to high fire danger. It’s times like these, we are thankful for our local rural fire brigades

It is something that probably became a little foreign in the recent past and hasn’t been experienced across the district in several years. In fact, an extended dry period like we are currently in hasn’t really occurred going back about seven years to the catastrophic conditions that we experienced in 2018 and the extreme fire conditions which followed. A large majority of the mountainous areas have not been burnt since then, and seven years of fuel load creates a significant fire threat which must be taken seriously.

The catastrophic fires of 2018 around the Mackay district stretched from Eungella and Nebo in the west to Clairview in the south and Bloomsbury in the north. The resulting uncontrollable bush fires burnt out many tens of thousands of hectares of farming land, grazing country and national park, as well as damaging a moderate amount of infrastructure. It was only the extraordinary work completed in fighting these bush fires by our farmers, landholders and our volunteer Rural Fire Services Queensland brigades which helped mitigate the damage in these exceptionally difficult conditions.

Most farmers and senior rural fire brigade volunteers are experienced in the art of controlling a burn and using fire to fight fire. Make no mistake, it is truly an art which must be not only preserved but passed onto the next generation. The RFSQ brigades around Queensland number about 1400 and are supported by approximately 28,000 volunteer members who range across all demographics, genders and experience levels.

The previous State Government introduced some structural changes to the organisation which are threatening to derail the foundations of this historic and crucial organisation. The underlying problem with these changes is that they were made with minimal consultation with the most important stakeholders, that being the experienced volunteer rural fire brigade members. Some of these changes may suit some semi-urban brigades in the south-east corner of the state, but are definitely not welcomed everywhere.

An example of these incoherent changes in areas have resulted in brigades that are relatively close to Mackay being placed under the control of Emerald regional headquarters, which is over three hours’ drive away. These changes are not only bizarre, but present logistical challenges and create a safety issue for not only the volunteers, but for the general community alike.

Landscape familiarisation is crucial in being able to coordinate a bushfire response campaign. As well as this, the legal protections of our volunteer rural fire brigade members are being reviewed and must be carefully considered before any changes are implemented going forward as they risk shaking this organisation to the core. It’s an organisation that does not need a shakeup, that has successfully served its purpose to the community for generations.

For the majority of October, Mackay and surrounding areas have rightly been placed under a fire ban to help mitigate the dangers of bush fires. It is important for our community to understand that the burning of sugarcane and sugarcane trash have been made exempt from the fire ban, albeit with restrictions placed on them such as not being able to light up until 6pm in the evening to minimize the danger.

The reason for this is that because of the burden of standover cane this year it is critical to the day-to-day running of sugarcane farms during the harvest, to improve its harvestability as it can become quite dense and tangled with several years growth. As part of the crop cycle, cool burning through cane trash is a strategy for introducing potash, and builds soil carbon.

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Farmers are typically skilled managers of fire as a tool. Photo credit: Elli Morgan.

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At low tide on the Seaforth coast, volunteers gathered with buckets, boots, and a shared ambition to restore the seagrass meadows that support the health of the Great Barrier Reef.

Lead by Reef Catchments in partnership with Central Queensland University and OzFish Unlimited, the two successful volunteer events at Seaforth marked a major milestone in the (Sea)Grassroots Community Restoration Project; a three-year initiative aimed at improving the health and resilience of seagrass meadows in the Great Barrier Reef.

Seagrass meadows are powerful ecosystems; the unsung heroes of the Great Barrier Reef. They stabilise sediment, filter coastal waters, store carbon, and provide food and shelter for turtles, dugongs and many species of juvenile fish. Unfortunately, seagrass meadows are under pressure from a changing climate, poor water quality and coastal development. Restoration of degraded meadows is essential, and community involvement is key.

Seaforth volunteers worked alongside marine scientists and Rangers from the Yuwi Aboriginal Corporation to collect seagrass flowers and cores of a key local seagrass species, Zostera muelleri. Zostera, also known as “Eelgrass,” plays a critical role in reef resilience yet remains vulnerable to various pressures.

Alexandra Williams, Reef Catchments Project Officer, explained the importance of the work, "Every seagrass flower and core collected aims to bolster the effectiveness of future restoration efforts. This is real science, which the community is a significant part of. It’s great to see the Seaforth community show such a keen interest into how they can help take care of these critical ecosystems."

The Yuwi Rangers joined the events, bringing cultural knowledge and deep connection to Country. Yuwi Ranger Bron Tonga shared, "Seagrass is important to our people for physical, spiritual, and cultural reasons. It provides food for the Turtle and Dugongs and is integral to our identity and connection to Country.

“The Seagrass meadows are vital for the ecosystem's directly supporting other marine animals. It's also about the understanding of seasons and cycles to monitor and care for sea meadows.”

This shared respect for seagrass was echoed by Dr Geoff Collins from OzFish Unlimited, who emphasised its role in supporting fish populations and recreational fishing, “These seagrass meadows play a vital role in supporting the life cycle of the fish we all like to catch. If the seagrass meadows suffer, that has a direct impact on recreational fishing.

“That's why volunteer events like these are so important - they give the local community a real, hands-on opportunity to take care of fish habitat.”

Seagrass restoration is local action with global impact. These meadows strengthen the reef’s ability to recover from severe weather, support thriving fish populations and keep coastal waters rich with life. For anyone who values clean oceans, healthy marine life and resilient reef systems, this is where meaningful change begins - on the shoreline, with your hands in the mud.

To learn more or register for future events, visit www.reefcatchments.com/events.

This project received grant funding from the Australian Government’s Protecting the Great Barrier Reef – Community Stewardship Program – an Australian Government initiative and delivered by Reef Catchments, in partnership with CQ University and OzFish Limited.

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Photo credit: OzFish Unlimited

Volunteers in action. Photo credit Reef Catchments

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Authorities are urging residents of the Mackay Shire to be hypervigilant around cane trains this crushing season following an incident last week involving an on-track collision between a cane train locomotive and a vehicle just south of the region.

Shortly after 12pm on Monday, the 13th of October, first responders were called to Oakenden after a cane locomotive and a b-double truck collided at a level crossing. Queensland Fire and Rescue officers cut the train driver out of the terribly damaged cab, and he remains in hospital in a critical condition with leg and pelvic injuries.

The incident comes as the third Mackay Sugar cane locomotive derailment in the region within the past fortnight, with the last accident recorded on the 29th of September.

In a statement released by Mackay Sugar on Wednesday, the 15th of October, officials assured each of the past fortnight’s locomotive derailments are currently under investigation and the findings will be implemented to protect the safety of the community.

“At Mackay Sugar, safety is the foundation of how we operate and the outcome of living our core values of courage, appreciation, responsibility, and dedication. It is the starting point of every decision and the measure of ever action,” said Mackay Sugar.

“We are committed to protecting the health, safety, and wellbeing of our employees, contractors, visitors, and the wider community. Our vision is to ensure that every person returns home safe and well, every day.”

Since commencing the 2025 crushing season in June, several derailments have been reported across the area, and with approximately three months left until the season draws to a close, Mackay Sugar cannot stress the importance of being cane train aware.

“Cane Rail safety is a crucial aspect of our operations, and we have clear and specific operating procedures and dedicated training programs,” stated Mackay Sugar.

“Cane Train Awareness information is widely available and published and Mackay Sugar runs a focused campaign on Rail Network safety through advertising with multiple media channels.”

Within the region, there’s 852km of train tracks, approximately 40 sugar locomotives, almost 6,000 cane bins, and more cane train crossings than anywhere else in the country and Mackay Sugar regularly spreads the message of cane train awareness every year, reminding the community “we share the same backyard”.

“Being safe is something we can all relate to. We keep our children safe; we keep our co-workers safe; and we don’t tend to go out of our way to put ourselves in unsafe situations. Yet, complacency and distraction remain the two biggest causes of incidents when it comes to cane rail safety,” shared Mackay Sugar during August’s National Rail Safety Week.

“In a town where everyone knows someone connected to sugar, we’ve all heard stories of near misses and close encounters – as well as some that weren’t so lucky. For our Mackay Sugar teams, we know that being part of our community means keeping people safe so they can take care of the things that matter most.”

Informative and educational safety resources can be found online at www.youtube.com/@MKYSugar.

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A Mackay Sugar train driver remains in a critical condition after an on-track collision in Oakenden on Monday, the 13th of October (Photo Source: Mackay Sugar)

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Disaster recovery assistance has been expanded to include a wider range of primary production businesses, offering vital financial support to more regional enterprises impacted by severe weather events earlier this year.

Under the updated Primary Production Enterprise definition, contracting businesses such as farm irrigation services, mustering, shearing, silage baling, and timber plantation maintenance services may now be eligible for assistance, subject to the Australian and New Zealand Standard Industrial Classification (ANZSIC) Code.

The expanded eligibility applies to the following disaster events:

   North and Far North Tropical Low (29 January – 28 February 2025)
   Tropical Cyclone Alfred and Associated Severe Weather (1 – 16 March 2025)
   Western Queensland Surface Trough and Associated Rainfall and Flooding (21 March – 19 May 2025)

The Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) encourages affected businesses to review the updated guidelines to determine their eligibility.

The changes mean businesses can now apply for assistance if damage has occurred across both their farm enterprise and primary production contracting enterprise. It may also be easier for applicants to demonstrate that the majority of their income and labour are derived from primary production activities.

Eligible businesses should ensure their operations align with the correct Business Industry Code (BIC), which is essential for Goods and Services Tax (GST) registration. Primary production support services should have a BIC of 05290.

Available financial assistance includes Exceptional Disaster Assistance Recovery Grants, Disaster Assistance Loans, and Essential Working Capital Loans to help businesses recover and resume normal operations.

Full eligibility details are available on the QRIDA website at qrida.qld.gov.au/primary-producers.

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Additional primary production businesses may now be eligible for disaster recovery assistance (Photo Supplied)

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