Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Photos supplied by Mackay Christian College
Enrolments Available From Kindergarten Through To Year 12
Every student has unique gifts and talents, and Mackay Christian College is committed to helping young people discover their potential through an education grounded in faith, learning and opportunity.
Located across two spacious campuses, Mackay Christian College is a multi-denominational, co-educational private school offering a continuous learning journey from Kindergarten through to Year 12.
With a vision to present excellent, Christ-centred learning opportunities, the college provides a diverse range of learning experiences spanning academics, trade studies, instrumental music, sport, personal development and service.
At the heart of the school’s ethos is a desire to nurture each student's individual, God-given abilities while encouraging them to become responsible and successful members of the wider community.
Students can begin their learning journey in Kindergarten before progressing through Prep to Year 12, with high-quality Australian Curriculum learning underpinned by a foundational Christian worldview.
The college also offers Outside School Hours Care (OSHCare) for its students from Kindergarten to Year 6, catering to the busy lives of families, parents and carers.
Combining educational opportunity with a strong Christian foundation, Mackay Christian College aims to support students as they grow, learn and develop throughout every stage of their schooling.
The outstanding achievements and contributions of Whitsunday Anglican School students were celebrated in last week’s Cultural and Academic Awards Assembly.
Students were congratulated for their academic excellence, cultural involvement, and dedication, recognising the myriad ways they contribute to the school community.
To mark the occasion, musical performances were put on from the school’s very own Street Band. Helina performed Mozart’s Sonata and Lucas performed an excerpt from Beethoven’s Piano Sonata.
Congratulations to all of the award recipients on their achievements and contributions.
Members f the Community discussing the Unlocking Water Project. Photo Source: Queensland Government
Since the delivery of the Unlocking Water Project, an initiative run by the department of local government and water, results and recommendations have been released, all aiming to fulfill the key goals of releasing underutilized water, cutting red tape, and supporting growth and trading.
The results showed that more than 132,000 megaliters (ML) of water will now be made available for agriculture and industries in Queensland.
The total number of completed Unlocking Water Project studies have risen to ten, with the latest additions of Cape York, the Burdekin Basin, and the Pioneer Valley.
Through the Watertight Water Security Plans, underutilised water will now be available to support regional growth and aid farmers and industries across the region for years to come.
The recommendations for the Pioneer Valley include making better use of existing water, supporting water trading and unlocking opportunities for biofutures, which are the Mackay State Development Area and Prosper 2050.
In Cape York the recommendations aim to unlock 2,000 ML in the Lakeland area, create smaller releases across seven catchments, and improve access to available water through the reduction of red tape.
In the Burdekin Basin, recommendations include releasing 130,000 ML in the Belyando-Suttor sub-catchment and cutting red tape to improve water access, overland flow use and water trading.
Each water plan area is different. Varying on factors like the local demands, environmental and cultural values, the amount and type of water available, and the rules for accessing water.
The recommendations aim to create economic benefits for the Indigenous communities in the Cape, whilst also coordinating the use of water in the wider communities and smaller businesses.
Elected members across the region are championing the success of the water project, amplifying the profit for their local communities.
Minister for Local Government and Water Ann Leahy said the Unlocking Water Project outcomes would support stronger regional economies and growth for our agriculture industries.
“Our government’s Unlocking Water Project is driving real outcomes to deliver for farmers and industries as promised, including supporting water trading and streamlined processes to support greater water availability.
“From Cape York to the Burdekin and Pioneer Valley, these studies are identifying practical opportunities to make better use of Queensland’s water resource.”
Unlocking water in the Burdekin Basin will provide greater certainty for the region's agricultural industry, stated by the Member for Buredekin, Dale Last.
“The Burdekin is one of Queensland’s great agricultural regions, and unlocking up to 130,000 ML in the Belyando-Suttor catchment is a significant opportunity to support farmers, grow local industries and create jobs,” Mr Last said.
Member for Mirani Glen Kelly said Water is one of the most valuable resources we have in the Pioneer Valley, making sure it is being put to good use is important.
RDA GW and LBF’s Women in Leadership program class of 2026, Bowen Basin chapter. Photo supplied
Applications are now open for the 2027 Mackay Women in Leadership program from Regional Development Australia Greater Whitsundays (RDA GW), supported by the Local Buying Foundation (LBF).
With a focus on empowering women, the program provides workshops on developing leadership strategies and confidence in the workplace, while building professional networks and mentoring relationships.
RDA GW CEO Robert Cocco spoke on the importance of encouraging women to step into leadership roles in their careers.
“The Women in Leadership program is about giving women the knowledge and skills to become incredible leaders in their chosen fields,” Mr Cocco said.
“By amplifying women who want to make a difference in the community, we set our region up for a future of female leaders who have the tools to strengthen the region around them.”
The program involves five workshops, two masterclasses and mentor and mentee networking events over the course of ten months.
Applications for the 2027 Mackay Women in Leadership Program close on 20 November for a February 2027 start. For more information or to apply, email projectmanager@rdagw.org.au or ring Nic Willis on 0487 895 796.
QCGO Chairman Owen Menkens will join former QCGO Chairman and Mackay grower Paul Schembri as a Grower Director on the Sugar Terminals Limited, ensuring two powerful voices for growerson these critical industry assets. Photo credit: QCGO
By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay
The sugar industry is an ever-evolving and moving feast, with constant advances in nutrition, chemicals, research, technologies, and milling operations. This is, of course, the hands-on growing, research and manufacturing side of the business.
On the flip-side, there is the evolving global trade landscape of the industry’s marketing, logistics and export terminals. This side of the industry includes vitally important choke point assets which is a reality often overlooked by the general community.
In the last few weeks, we have seen some major steps forward for both Queensland Sugar Limited and Sugar Terminals Limited, which will now help both organisations better reflect the changing landscape of the logistical and marketing side of our industry.
At the 2025 Queensland Sugar Limited (QSL) Annual General Meeting, constitutional changes were put up to modernise the governance of the organisation to better reflect the position of QSL standing in the industry. Unfortunately, these changes were voted down by a couple of milling companies, who it could be said were direct competitors to Queensland Sugar Limited in the marketing space.
Fast forward to the 1st of July, 2026 and we saw Queensland Sugar Limited officially transfer the operations of the sugar terminals to allow Sugar Terminals Limited to begin insourcing operations and therefore transforming Queensland Sugar Limited into a pure marketing entity rather then also being a terminal operator.
Moving forward, at the 2026 Queensland Sugar Limited Annual General Meeting, a slightly modified version of these constitutional changes was presented to both grower and miller reps and pleasantly were unanimously accepted and implemented.
It is a credit to all milling and grower representatives who have shown leadership in this arena to agree to the constitutional changes which will allow Queensland Sugar Limited’s governance to better reflect its current standing in the marketing space of the Australian sugar industry.
In a nutshell, it allows the entities which market the majority of their sugar through Queensland Sugar Limited to have a majority say in the governance of the organization which is a major positive for the customers of Queensland Sugar Limited and is long overdue.
Finally, the other piece to this puzzle was the election of Queensland Cane Growers Organisation Chairman, Owen Menkens to the vacant Grower Director position on the Sugar Terminals Limited Board. Congratulations must go to Owen who has replaced the retiring grower director Steve Kirby. A vote of thanks must go to Steve for his years of service through probably the most difficult period in Sugar Terminals Limited existence.
Owen will continue the important role of providing a strong grower voice to this board, diligently working alongside STL Grower Director and previous Queensland CANEGROWERS Chairman Paul Schembri.
It is a credit to the Canegrowers organisation to have both these incredibly passionate and fierce leaders holding directors’ positions on the board of the most important logistical organisation critical to the prosperity of the Australian sugar industry as a whole.
These two changes which have occurred in the recent past have help secure the marketing and logistical future of our industry going forward but we still have a way to go. Mackay Canegrowers, and the wider QCGO community, have publicly argued with vigour and determination on the future of these critical industry organisations. Change is inevitable, in industry, in our commodity markets, in the world. It is essential that our grower organisation is strong and active in continuing to ensure best outcomes for growers.
Photo supplied
OPINION PIECE By Andrew Willcox MP, Federal Member for Dawson and Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability
Australians who lived through the 1990s remember the pain of 17 per cent interest rates. It was a brutal period for homeowners, with families pushed to breaking point just trying to keep a roof over their heads.
But here's something that should alarm every Australian. Despite interest rates being nowhere near 17 per cent today, the average mortgage is consuming a greater share of a worker's wage than it did back then.
In 1990, repayments on an average new home loan accounted for approximately 42 per cent of a full-time wage.
Today, that figure is around 51 per cent.
More than half of your pay packet is gone before the groceries are purchased, the electricity bill is paid, or the car is filled with fuel.
When Anthony Albanese and Jim Chalmers talk about economic progress, I'd like them to explain that, to a family in Dawson, struggling to make ends meet.
Last week's inflation figures showed annual inflation climbing to 4.3 per cent, well above the Reserve Bank's target. Underlying inflation also increased to 3.6 per cent.
These figures represent another hit to household budgets already stretched to their limits.
Yet Jim Chalmers and Anthony Albanese keep telling Australians they've got the economy under control.
If that's true, why is inflation rising again? Why are mortgage holders bracing for another increase? And why are Australians still paying more while getting less?
Labor cannot blame every economic problem on overseas events. Domestic inflation remains high, and government spending is causing the Reserve Bank to increase the interest rate.
Australians don't get to make excuses when their mortgage payment is due.
They either find the money or face the consequences.
Across Dawson, I have talked with many hardworking people, who are doing the best they can in these difficult times. They've saved, bought a home, worked hard and tried to provide security for their families.
Now they're wondering how much longer they can keep going.
Instead of more spending, more taxes and more excuses, Australia needs a government with economic discipline to lower inflation and have a serious plan to ease pressure on households.
By Cr Belinda Hassan
How often have you heard someone say, "There's nothing to do in Mackay"?
Well, this December, something extraordinary is coming to our region – and for once, it's the rest of Australia that will need to travel to us to experience it!
From December 4th the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre will host Disney: The Exhibition – A Century of Magic, the only Australian destination for this internationally acclaimed exhibition.
Having already captivated audiences in cities including London, Paris, Munich and Chicago, the exhibition celebrates 100 years of Disney storytelling through eight immersive galleries, featuring more than 120 rare artefacts, costumes, props and interactive experiences. From beloved childhood classics to Marvel, Pixar and Star Wars, there's something for every generation.
Bringing an exhibition of this calibre to regional Queensland is no small achievement. It represents considerable planning, collaboration and investment, but importantly, it's about much more than entertainment.
The exhibition is expected to attract visitors from across Australia, creating opportunities for our accommodation providers, restaurants, retailers and tourism operators. Early economic modelling forecasts a potential $14 million boost to our local economy.
And for local families, it's an opportunity to experience something usually reserved for capital cities, right here on our doorstep.
There has also been some recent discussion about council's procurement arrangements for the exhibition. To clarify, council undertook market testing with six specialist suppliers before approving the engagement of a preferred contractor. Due to the specialised requirements and tight installation timeframe, council approved an exemption from the usual public tender process, as permitted under local government legislation. Importantly, the expenditure was already included in the approved exhibition budget – it is not an additional, unexpected cost.
I understand that residents expect accountability when public money is involved, and rightly so. But it's equally important to consider the broader economic and community benefits of initiatives like this.
If we want Mackay to be a vibrant, attractive place to live, work and visit, we need to create opportunities that bring people here, support local businesses and give our community experiences worth celebrating.
The benefits of hosting major events extend far beyond ticket sales. Visitors discover our beautiful region, spend money locally and, hopefully, leave wanting to return.
Disney's arrival is an opportunity to showcase Mackay on a national stage, while creating special memories for local families.
So, rather than asking why something like this is coming to Mackay, perhaps we should be celebrating the fact that it is!
After all, why should the capital cities have all the magic?
Chamber Committee for 2026 - L-R: Kelly Parker, Elizabeth Dent, Fallon Drewett, Taren McAuley, Geoff O’Connor, Berta Collins, Solveig Lobo, Deb Rae, Vicki Smith. Photo Credit: Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce
The Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce has marked a significant milestone in its history, with members endorsing major governance changes and electing a new Management Committee at its Annual General Meeting on 8th October 2026.
Geoff O'Connor will continue as President, supported by Vice President Deb Rae, Treasurer Lizzy Dent and Secretary Berta Collins.
The newly elected nine-member Management Committee also includes Fallon Drewett, Solveig Lobo, Taren McAuley, Kelly Parker and Vicki Smith.
The AGM saw members vote in favour of transitioning the Chamber from an incorporated association to a Company Limited by Guarantee, adopting a new constitution and approving a name change to Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce Limited.
Mr O'Connor said the decisions represented an important step in preparing the organisation for its next chapter.
"The Chamber has grown considerably in recent years, not just in membership, but in the role, we play in representing and supporting businesses across our region," Mr O'Connor said.
"These changes are about making sure our governance structures keep pace with that growth and position the Chamber for the future.
"It's particularly pleasing that our members have supported this direction. It's their Chamber, and these were important decisions for them to make."
The strength of the Chamber's growing business community was evident at the sold-out AGM luncheon, with more than 100 members and guests in attendance.
"We still find it remarkable that we can sell out an AGM!" Mr O'Connor said.
"Annual General Meetings aren't traditionally the hottest ticket in town, but to have more than 100 people turn up and take an active interest in the future of their Chamber says a lot about the level of engagement we're seeing from our members."
That enthusiasm also extended to the committee elections, with 12 candidates nominating for the nine available positions.
"To have 12 people willing to put their hands up and contribute their time and experience is a terrific reflection of the strength of our Chamber.
"We have a great mix of experience and fresh perspectives around the table, and the new committee has already hit the ground running."
The Chamber's membership increased from 319 to 412 during the 2025–26 financial year, representing growth of almost 30 per cent.
Alongside that growth, the organisation has continued to expand its networking, business support and advocacy activities, strengthening its role as a voice for businesses across the Mackay region.
Mr O'Connor said the Chamber's focus remained firmly on its members.
"While the organisation continues to evolve, what we do and who we do it for hasn't changed.
"We're here to back Mackay region businesses, make sure their voices are heard and create opportunities for them to connect and succeed."
The transition to a Company Limited by Guarantee will progress through the required regulatory processes over the coming months.
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton urges locals to stay stinger safe this season! Photo source: Nigel Dalton MP
November has arrived, and with it comes the start of marine stinger season across Mackay’s tropical waters, prompting a reminder for locals to take care before heading in for a summer dip.
While marine stingers can be present in tropical Queensland waters all year, Surf Life Saving Queensland says the risk from potentially dangerous species, including box jellyfish and Irukandji, is higher during the typical stinger season from November to May.
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton reminded locals of two unwelcome visitors to watch out for this summer:
“Two locals we'd all rather avoid meeting this stinger season... the Irukandji and Box Jellyfish!”
“With stinger season now underway, it's a timely reminder to check local beach conditions, follow safety signage and take appropriate precautions when heading into the water.”
Surf Life Saving Queensland advises swimming only at patrolled beaches under the supervision of lifesavers and lifeguards, and following all beach warnings and directions.
Box jellyfish stings can cause severe pain and, in serious cases, life-threatening symptoms. Irukandji stings may initially appear minor, with more serious symptoms sometimes developing between five and 40 minutes later.
For suspected tropical marine stings, pour vinegar over the affected area for at least 30 seconds and call Triple Zero (000) for an ambulance. Keep the person out of the water and seek assistance from a lifeguard if available.
For bluebottle stings, avoid rubbing the area, carefully remove any tentacles, rinse with seawater (not freshwater), then soak the affected area in hot water for 20 minutes, ensuring it is not too hot; or use cold icepacks in a dry plastic bag. Seek medical help if symptoms persist.
Find further marine stinger safety and first-aid information via lifesaving.com.au/safety-info/marine-stingers
Footage by Queensland Police Service, Mackay
Operation Diamantina, conducted by local Queensland Police officers, has resulted in 17 people being charged in relation to 89 property crime offences.
Since October 8th, police have been in full force targeting property offences, including burglary, stealing, unlawful use of motor vehicles, unlawful weapons and dangerous drugs.
On October 16th, at around 5.30am, Mackay police responded to reports of a man allegedly siphoning approximately 1,600 litres of diesel from a cane farm at Te Kowai.
Officers from Mackay’s Property Crime Task Force, Dog Squad, Tactical Crime Squad and Mackay Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB) attended the area, arresting a 30-year-old man a short time later in nearby cane fields.
The East Mackay man was subsequently charged with 11 offences, including enter premises and commit indictable offence, possess utensils, obstruct police officer, possession of implements used in the commission of an offence, receiving tainted property, stealing and vehicle-related offences.
He has been remanded in custody and is due to reappear before Mackay Magistrates Court on November 18th.
In a separate incident, between October 9th and 10th, an offender allegedly entered the residence of an 80-year-old woman at Andergrove while the resident was away.
Following targeted investigative enquiries, police arrested a 27-year-old woman and recovered several stolen items, including jewellery and other personal belongings.
The woman has since been charged with one count each of enter dwelling and commit, and wilful damage. She has been remanded in custody and is due to reappear before Mackay Magistrates Court on November 18th.
Around midday on October 29th, police responded to reports of a stolen vehicle on Milton Street in Mackay.
Police will allege a 35-year-old man attended the Mackay Showgrounds and stole a black and orange Kubota RTV900.
The vehicle was later located abandoned, with police locating and arresting the man a short time afterwards.
The 35-year-old man was charged with unlawful use of a motor vehicle and was due to appear before Mackay Magistrates Court on October 30.
Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Andrew McNamara said the work by Mackay’s Property Crime Task Force was an example of the district’s commitment to pursuing property crime offences.
“Investigating property crime remains a priority, and I commend the work being undertaken by our Property Crime Task Force,” said Detective Acting Senior Sergeant McNamara.
“The work undertaken by our team in just a few weeks has seen multiple offenders held to account.”
“Our team also ensured treasured family items were returned, and that vulnerable people will be supported through proactive investigations.”
“Stolen property will be actively pursued and recovered wherever possible, and we ask the community to continue to report any instances of property offending to police.”
Sarina State High School celebrated staff reaching 10, 15, 25 and 30 years of service at a morning tea for World Teachers’ Day. Photo source: Sarina State High School
Sarina State High School has recognised the dedication of its teachers and support staff, celebrating a combined range of service milestones as part of World Teachers’ Day.
Staff gathered for a morning tea to acknowledge colleagues who have reached 10, 15, 25 and 30 years of service, recognising the contribution they have made to the school community over the years.
Among those celebrating 10 years were Mr Bermingham, Ms Koschel, Mrs Beveridge, Vanessa Wright and Mrs Mcintosh.
The 15-year milestone was reached by Ms Wright, Ms Flynn, Mr Clegg, Mrs Allen, Mrs Hall and Mrs Grendon, while Mrs Berry and Mr Ford were recognised for 25 years of service.
Ms Regan also marked an impressive 30 years.
The school thanked each staff member for the knowledge, care and commitment they bring to their roles, and for the difference they make in the lives of students.
The celebration also acknowledged the support of the school's P&C, which provided the morning tea, and James Cook University, which supplied a cake for the occasion.
Hannah wearing her pageant award. Photo Credit: Mackay Hospital and Health Service
Mackay doctor Hannah Penner is getting ready to swap her scrubs for heels and take part in the national final of the Miss Australia Pageant.
When Hannah competes in the Gold Coast next month, it will be about more than going for the crown. For her, it’s a chance to boost her confidence, promote her community and raise funds for an important cause.
The Kattabul local currently divides her time between working as an ENT Principal House Officer at Mackay Base Hospital, studying for medical exams, and practicing her runway strut in high heels. And if that wasn't enough, she is developing her photography and videography skills.
Hannah will be competing against more than 20 women across Australia for one of four national titles, with just two months to prepare.
For Hannah, the upcoming competition is a chance to “step outside [her] comfort zone, build confidence, meet people from different backgrounds” and use a public platform to make a difference.
“I’m quite a reserved person, so this is really quite challenging for me,” Hannah said.
“But I believe in mind over matter, and I want to keep learning new things, be curious and become a more well-rounded and confident person.”
Hannah moved to Australia when she was eight. Originally from South Africa, she has made Kattabul her home for the past decade.
After attending Holy Spirit College in Mackay, she studied medicine at James Cook University in Townsville. She has spent the past five years working in surgery.
Her ENT colleagues have helped her along this newest journey.
“It’s been a great team-building and bonding experience, and they’re just as invested in this pageant as I am,” Hannah said.
“The ENT team has been amazing. They’re not only giving me great moral support but also helping me with their own different skills.”
Hannah is raising funds for Destiny Rescue, with a target of $3000, and is excited to champion the Mackay region and show what it has to offer.
“Mackay and the surrounding region are a hidden gem. I love it here, and my future is here,” she said.
Photo source: Andrew Willcox MP
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox has highlighted the importance of quality standards and accountability across disability and aged care services following an event at Parliament House.
Mr Willcox attended the Every Australian Deserves Quality Care event, which brought together parliamentarians, community leaders and service providers to discuss access to safe, reliable and high-quality care for Australians.
In a social media post following the event, Mr Willcox said the discussion included the work of Assistance Dogs Australia and the role assistance dogs play in helping people live more independently and confidently.
He said the event also highlighted the importance of ensuring people and families could have confidence in the services and support they accessed.
“Quality standards build trust, and that trust gives people and families the confidence to access the support they need,” Mr Willcox said.
He also said Australians should be able to expect properly trained and accountable organisations and workers, whether receiving support through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) or other community services.
“Whether it's through the NDIS or other community services, Australians deserve to know the people and organisations supporting them are properly trained, accountable and delivering quality care.”
Mr Willcox said peace of mind was particularly important for families across Dawson navigating disability and aged care services.
The event was an opportunity for parliamentarians, community representatives and service providers to gather and discuss the standards expected across the care sector, with a focus on building trust in the support available to individuals and families.
Mr Willcox thanked those involved in bringing the discussion to Parliament House, as well as the assistance dogs who attended the event.
Mackay Harbour Boat Ramp. Photo source: Shutterstock
A local campaign is calling on the Queensland Government to take the next step towards improving boating access across the Mackay region, seeking funding for an independent assessment into options for additional protected, all-tide launching facilities.
Mackay Boat Ramp Campaign organiser Brett Hoskin said the focus was on turning recognised demand for boating infrastructure into a practical plan for the region's future.
Following a January petition response from Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg, which encouraged proponents to engage directly with Mackay Regional Council and North Queensland Bulk Ports (NQBP) to explore potential solutions, the campaign has since approached both organisations.
Mr Hoskin said a formal proposal had been submitted seeking a funded, State-led assessment of potential options.
The campaign has also received support from the Boating Industry Association, while the Queensland Recreational Boating Council's September letter backed the need for a State-funded, independent and impartial feasibility assessment.
Reef Marine owner Andrew Camilleri has also written to the Boating Industry Association and Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton in support of the campaign, outlining the effects he believes limited boating access is having on customers and local marine businesses.
“The problem is hurting us all,” he told the campaign.
Mr Hoskin said Mackay Regional Council had confirmed it would participate in State-led boating planning, while NQBP had indicated it was willing to provide relevant information and participate in working groups on recreational boating matters.
The proposed assessment would consider a range of potential locations and solutions, examining factors including sheltered access to open water, launching and retrieval capacity, trailer parking, road access, environmental constraints and associated costs.
It would also build on previous studies, identify a shortlist of potential options and determine which proposals require more detailed investigation, including consideration of ongoing maintenance requirements and responsibilities.
Mr Hoskin said the campaign remained open to suitable locations, with relevant authorities, landholders, boating users and industry encouraged to contribute information for options to be assessed against consistent criteria.
The immediate request, he said, was for the Queensland Government to provide funding, identify a responsible State lead and establish a timetable for the assessment.
The campaign is seeking this initial investigation before any decision is made about a preferred location or potential construction project.
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said he recognised the importance of safe and accessible boating infrastructure for the local community.
“I’ve discussed this matter with the Transport Minister's office and understand that Maritime Safety Queensland is actively working with Mackay Regional Council and other stakeholders to investigate boating infrastructure options,” he said.
“I’ll continue to advocate for an outcome that better meets the needs of Mackay boaties.”
Safety Circus visited Mackay schools, using music and education to help Year 2 students recognise unsafe situations and feel confident speaking up. Photo source: Nigel Dalton MP
A splash of red was seen across Mackay last Friday 30th October, as schools and members of the community joined a nationwide show of support for Day for Daniel, remembering a young life lost too soon while renewing an important conversation about child safety.
More than two decades after 13-year-old Daniel Morcombe disappeared from Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, his story continues to resonate with families across the country, including here in the Mackay region.
Daniel was living with his parents and brothers in Palmwoods when he went missing on Sunday, December 7th 2003. He had been on his way to buy Christmas presents for his family and was last seen wearing a red T-shirt while waiting for a bus. Following years of searching and an extensive undercover police investigation, Daniel was found deceased in 2011.
In the wake of his disappearance, Daniel’s parents, Bruce and Denise, established the Daniel Morcombe Foundation, turning their family's devastating experience into a legacy of child safety education.
The red T-shirt Daniel wore that day has since become a recognised symbol of the cause each year, with Day for Daniel held annually on the last Friday of October. The initiative encourages Australians to wear red, remember Daniel and help equip children with the knowledge to recognise unsafe situations and speak up.
Across Mackay, schools took part in this year's event, with students and teachers wearing red to show their support and help keep the message front of mind for another generation.
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton also spoke to the importance of education and community initiatives in helping children understand how to stay safe, including the Safety Circus program which visits Mackay schools.
“Through initiatives like Safety Circus, children are empowered with the knowledge and confidence to recognise unsafe situations and speak up when something doesn't feel right,” Mr Dalton said.
“Daniel's legacy has helped educate generations of young Queenslanders and reminds us that keeping children safe is a responsibility we all share.
“With the next Safety Circus school tour kicking off, that important message will continue reaching students across our region.”
Safety Circus is a 45-minute children's musical addressing a range of safety issues, helping young students build confidence in recognising unsafe situations and knowing when to speak up.
CQUniversity partners with the Daniel Morcombe Foundation to bring the award-winning production to Year 2 classes in primary schools each year. Having already visited a number of schools, the next tour will continue taking that message into classrooms across the Mackay region.
Photo source: BMA CQ Rescue
A community fundraising effort has delivered a generous boost to BMA CQ Rescue, with Baltic Group raising $23,500 through its annual Charity Golf Day.
The event brought together supporters, including current and former BMA CQ Rescue Board Members, to help support the region’s vital aeromedical rescue service and its ongoing work keeping Central Queensland communities safe.
A representative from BMA CQ Rescue said the organisation was incredibly grateful for Baltic Group’s continued support, describing the golf day as “one of our favourite days on the calendar”.
“It’s wonderful to see the community come together for such a great cause,” BMA CQ Rescue said.
The funds will help BMA CQ Rescue remain mission-ready, ensuring it can continue responding to people in need across the region.
The organisation also thanked the Baltic Group team and everyone who contributed to making the fundraising day a success, with the ongoing generosity providing valuable support for its lifesaving work.
Left to right: Liam Shields (ERT Training), Andrew Cox (Seaforth RSL Sub Branch President), Ross Daily (Seaforth RFS Captain). Photo supplied
Advanced first aid kits, oxygen equipment and a team of trained local volunteers will now be part of Seaforth's growing emergency response network, designed to help residents when floodwaters leave them cut off from medical assistance.
With the wet season approaching, Seaforth RSL Sub Branch is taking community safety into its own hands, recruiting eight volunteers across flood-prone areas to provide initial medical assistance when ambulances and emergency services cannot get through.
Backed by a recent $5,000 grant, the initiative draws on the military, paramedic and mine rescue experience already within the community, turning a wealth of skills into a practical lifeline for neighbours who may otherwise face hours waiting for help.
When floodwaters rise and roads become impassable, getting medical help in Seaforth can become a waiting game, with local residents potentially left isolated for hours.
So, members of Seaforth RSL Sub Branch are working to strengthen the community's ability to respond when emergency services cannot get through, using their own experience and newly acquired equipment to provide early assistance to those in need.
The Sub Branch has received a $5,000 grant through the Foundation for Rural Resilience's Isolated Community Aid & Response Equipment (ICARE) program, supporting a trial initiative designed to help residents in flood-prone parts of the area.
Seaforth Sub Branch President Andrew Cox said the need for a local support network was critical, particularly given the area's ageing population and distance from emergency services.
"We're often cut off. We're outside of town, and we don't have quick access to an ambulance which can be quite worrying in times of need," he said.
Andrew said residents had previously faced lengthy waits for an ambulance, including people suffering broken bones and other injuries.
With the nearest ambulance service based in Calen, or otherwise coming from Mackay, the Sub Branch recognised the importance of having people equipped to provide initial assistance while help was on its way.
The idea also came from recognising the experience already within the local RSL community, including an ex-paramedic, Andrew's own background as an ex-patrol medic in the Army, and other members with mine rescue qualifications.
“There's a few of us in Seaforth that have got ex-paramedic experience, myself as an ex-patrol medic in the Army, and a couple of other guys with mine rescue qualifications.
“That’s when we raised the question - 'Well, why can't we help ourselves?,' and that’s why we applied for the grant.”
Through the trial program, the community has been divided into isolated flood-prone sectors, with two people being recruited from each area to help ensure residents have someone nearby if roads become inaccessible.
Eight participants are undertaking training, with online learning completed and practical assessments planned this year, ahead of the wet season.
The grant has funded three advanced first aid kits, two oxygen kits, pneumatic splints, headlamps, casualty cards and vital signs assessment instruments, with equipment allocated across the identified flood-prone areas.
Andrew said the intention was to have participants collect their kits from the fire station before returning to their respective areas when severe weather threatened.
"If we do get a cyclone or find ourselves in the midst of a natural disaster, two people from each area will come into the fire station, grab their kits, go back home, and then in the event that something does happen and we can't access them, they've at least got someone there, with the proper equipment to help themselves and their communities nearby."
A select number of Sub Branch members also hope to undertake further pain management training next year, subject to Queensland Health approval.
Andrew said the skills gained through Defence flows into their daily lives now, with their hearts still focused on service to their community in an event where it’s needed.
"Without the community, we're nothing."
"We absolutely need their support and vice versa.”
“Some of the skills that we bring back out of Defence can be repurposed, and it’s something majority of us carry with us – we like to give back to our communities where we can."
The emergency response trial is one of several community-focused projects undertaken by the Seaforth RSL Sub Branch, which continues to support both veterans and the wider community.
The Sub Branch, and wider Seaforth community is also working towards completing their bronze Afghanistan veteran statue along the esplanade as part of a larger memorial project that is said to be the only cenotaph of it’s kind in Australia.
To find out more, or to donate, contact
secretary@seaforth.rslqld.net.au
Photo source: Whitsunday Anglican School
Whitsunday Anglican School has celebrated a successful year of student sport, recognising the tremendous talent and achievements of its athletes at its 2026 Sports Awards.
Among the major honours, the Bill Turner Cup Under-15 Soccer Team and Vicki Wilson Cup Year 7–9 Netball Team were named Sports Teams of the Year after winning their respective Mackay competitions and progressing to represent the Mackay Region at state competitions.
Harriet received Sports Official of the Year for her commitment to netball umpiring, including her selection to officiate at Queensland Representative School Sport level, while Maverick and Chelsea were named Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year for their sporting excellence, integrity and contributions to the school.
The school also recognised Mr Jim Fredericksen for 20 years of volunteer coaching with its Archery Programme.
Mayor Greg Williamson attended the awards, alongside guest speaker Mrs Deanna Turner, who shared insights into the value of sport in education. A former Queensland Firebirds netball player, Australian rugby league player and Queensland Rugby League coach, Mrs Turner is also a current Queensland Representative School Sport coach.
Her presentation explored how sport can help build resilience, teamwork and leadership.
The school congratulated all award recipients and students who represented Whitsunday Anglican School throughout 2026.
It’s the story about 30,000 drowned pigs and how it applies to real estate, best business practices and life in general.
In an earlier life I was the editor of the Daily Mercury newspaper, back when it was published and printed six days a week and over 20,000 copies were sold on a Saturday. Different times in the media world.
Anyway, this one day we were following a story about flooding in Rockhampton.
Some days earlier there had been a lot of rain and some flooding in the Mackay region and, as often happens, the river system’s flood waters then made their way towards Rockhampton.
When there is a rain event upstream a lot of water from various rivers and tributaries runs into the low-lying Fitzroy River system and into Rockhampton.
It is very predictable and Rocky authorities can often establish that when there is flooding further north in places like Mackay that in a week’s time the Rocky area will be flooded.
So up in nearby Mackay we were following the approaching flood and in communication with our sister paper in Rocky who were giving it massive coverage. It wasn’t Mackay so it wasn’t going to be front page in our paper but we were planning on a significant coverage.
In the late afternoon one of our reporters came into my office and said: “30,000 pigs have drowned in the Rocky floods. They were washed away from a farm.”
I said: “Thirty thousand pigs!? That’s a lot of pigs. Can we check on that?”
The reporter came back five minutes later and said: “The story’s right. The farmer told the Rocky journo thirty thousand pigs have drowned from his property upstream from Rocky. Rocky’s running the story.”
I asked if we had photos and he said they didn’t but would let me know when they had some, although none arrived that evening. We went pretty big on the drowning, as the Page 3 or Page 5 lead story with the obvious headline of 30,000 pigs drowning in the Rocky floods.
Early the next morning the young journalist who had told me about the thirty thousand pigs drowning approached my office and tentatively knocked on the door.
In a stammering voice he said: “Ah, look … about that, um, story about the, ah, thirty thousand pigs drowning near Rocky ...”
I had an uneasy feeling, bordering on dread.
“Uh ha … what about the pig story?” I asked.
He said: “It wasn’t thirty thousand pigs. It was 30 sows and pigs.”
I’m no mathematician but even I could work out that our story and big headline was out by about 29,970 dead pigs.
I knew immediately how the miss-communication would have happened. A young Rocky reporter busily covering the floods. On the phone talking to a distressed farmer or piggery owner who blurts out: “Mate it’s terribly out here. I’ve lost 30 sows and pigs, all drowned.”
If someone, speaking quickly, blurts out “thirty-sows-and-pigs” you can understand how someone could hear “thirty thousand pigs”. Also, who says “sows and pigs”? A piggery owner, obviously, but probably no-one else. Certainly not a reporter in the city.
Anyway, we ran a correction the next day. The story reminds me that in life, real estate and business, listen to your gut. I had questioned the story. I thought 30,000 pigs was extremely unlikely but accepted it when the young reporter confirmed it. I should have asked more questions. I should have listened to my gut.
In real estate, owners sometimes get the facts wrong … how many kilowatts in the solar system, how many litres the bore produces, when the previous owner had renovated the house. You can’t just pass these things on to a buyer as facts if you don’t know them 100 per cent true.
You’ve got to be cautious, listen to your gut and check the facts.
Queensland Telestroke Service is saving lives one video call at a time, recently providing life saving consultation to 37-year-old Mackay mum Angelica Murray.
Angelica suffered a stroke whilst out with a friend, and was rushed to Mackay Base Hospital. Within minutes of her arrival she was connected by video to a specialist stroke neurologist who prescribed life-saving medication.
“I was in the car with my friend and suddenly I couldn’t concentrate or remember names,” Angelica said.
As her condition deteriorated, her friend rushed her to hospital.
At the emergency department, staff immediately recognised the signs of a stroke.
“I remember all the nurses and doctors working together so quickly,” Angelica said.
“They were explaining everything, even the stroke doctor on the screen.”
From the advice of the Queensland Telestroke Service (QTS) neurologist, Angelica received the clot busting medication she needed. The speed of the service made a life changing difference.
“I started feeling better after a couple of hours,” Angelica said.
Mackay Base Hospital is now recording the fastest stroke treatment times in the state.
QTS is operating live across ten Queensland sites ( Hervey Bay, Bundaberg, Ipswich, Makay, Toowoomba, Kingaroy, Rockhampton, Bowen, Proserpine, and Gladstone hospitals) with more than 850 patients being treated so far. 12 Queensland hospitals are planned to be added to the list.
The service aims to make sure that regional patients are receiving specialist stroke care just as efficiently as those in central areas.
Local Stroke Nurse Helen Nengasha, who has spent more than a decade caring for stroke patients, said seeing outcomes like Angelica's was exactly why the team has embraced Queensland Telestroke Service.
“The introduction of QTS has streamlined care for patients experiencing time-critical strokes,” Helen said.
“Now, it doesn’t matter where you live, you can get that expert care straight away.
“In one recent case, the team achieved treatment in just 42 minutes, well under the national 60-minute benchmark. That’s the fastest we’ve ever done.”
From toilet training to prostate health, pregnancy to menopause — why pelvic health matters to us all.
When you hear the words pelvic floor, what comes to mind? Pregnancy? Childbirth? Perhaps those exercises you were told to do but never quite remembered?
For many years, pelvic health has been viewed as a women’s health issue. But here’s something that might surprise you: everyone has a pelvic floor, and everyone can experience pelvic health problems.
Whether you’re a child struggling with constipation, a new mum recovering from childbirth, a man experiencing bladder changes after prostate surgery, or someone navigating menopause, pelvic health plays an important role in everyday life.
Our pelvic floor is a group of muscles at the base of our pelvis. These muscles support our pelvic organs, help control our bladder and bowels, contribute to sexual function and work alongside our abdominal muscles during movement.
When things aren’t working as they should, the impact can extend well beyond the bathroom.
It might be the child who avoids school toilets because passing a bowel motion hurts. The mum who stops running because she leaks urine. The man who avoids social outings because he’s worried about finding a toilet. Or the woman who believes pelvic heaviness is simply another part of getting older.
Different people. Different stages of life. But one common thread: pelvic health can influence our confidence, activity levels and quality of life.
And importantly, many pelvic health concerns can improve with the right support.
Pelvic health physiotherapy is about much more than strengthening muscles. Treatment might involve bladder retraining, bowel management, improving muscle coordination, addressing pain or helping someone return to activities they love.
Sometimes the answer is strengthening. Sometimes it’s learning to relax. And sometimes it’s simply understanding what’s happening in your body.
This broader understanding of pelvic health is also why our clinic has recently embraced a new name.
After five wonderful years as Women’s Health Physio Mackay, we are now proudly Pelvic Health Mackay.
Our new name reflects something we’ve always believed: pelvic health is for everyone. While our name has changed, our team, our care and our commitment to helping the Mackay community remain the same.
So here’s my question to you.
Have you stopped doing something you love because of your bladder, bowel or pelvic health?
Perhaps you’ve given up running because of leakage, avoided social outings because of urgency, or accepted discomfort because you thought it was simply part of getting older.
You don’t have to wait until symptoms become overwhelming to seek help. Many concerns can improve with appropriate assessment, education and individualised treatment.
If something doesn’t feel right, start the conversation. Speak with your GP or a pelvic health physiotherapist and find out what support is available.
Because pelvic health isn’t just about muscles, bladders or bowels. It’s about confidence, independence and enjoying life without unnecessary limitations.
Pelvic health isn’t just women’s business. It’s everyone’s business. And your health deserves attention.
Lauren Neill | APA Titled Women’s, Men’s & Pelvic Health Physiotherapist | Pelvic Health Mackay
Pelvic Health Mackay
admin@pelvichealthmackay.com.au
Happy Tails Paws Pet Minding Pet Services and Training caters to a wide range of animals, from miniature and small dogs to medium, large and giant-sized dogs. The service also looks after cats, birds (including parrots, canaries and macaws), chickens, fish of all types and even turtles.
With the Christmas, New Year and school holiday periods approaching, pet owners can arrange for their animals to be cared for through the following services:
Pet Home Visits: Daily visits to care for pets, including feeding and spending quality time with them.
Pet House Sitting: A pet carer stays in the pet owner's home to provide care while they are away on holiday.
Dog Walking: Walking services are available for small to medium-sized dogs only, with large and extra-large dogs excluded under the business's health and safety policy.
Bathing and Grooming: Pet bathing and grooming services are also available.
Complimentary services are included to help pet owners with household maintenance tasks, such as collecting mail, putting out garbage bins on allocated collection days, and watering pot plants and garden beds.
The pet carer can also walk dogs while providing home or pet-sitting services, with walks limited to small and medium-sized dogs.
Happy Tails Paws Pet Minding is a mobile service prepared to travel throughout Mackay and surrounding areas, including Hay Point, Sarina, Bakers Creek, Armstrong Beach, Salonika Beach, Campwin Beach and Grasstree Beach.
Enquiries can be made by text message, email or through the Happy Tails Paws Pet Minding Google business listing. Enquiries are answered within 24 hours.
For more information, contact 0447 123 413 or email htppm.enquiries@gmail.com.
We are the pet business with a HEART!
Award-winning stylist Sheridan Shaw, owner of Melbourne-based MAMA WEST will lead Chair Culture Education’s inaugural hands-on cutting workshop. Photo supplied
Regional hairdressers deserve the same opportunities to learn and grow as their city counterparts, inspiring Mackay hairdresser of 30 years, Bianca Kemp, to establish Chair Culture Education and bring quality, hands-on industry education closer to home.
As a locally owned business, supporting the regional hairdressing community is at the heart of Bianca's investment.
“Chair Culture Education is a locally owned business, and supporting these workshops means supporting a local business that's investing money, opportunities and growth back into our region,” she says.
Kicking things off on Monday 22nd February 2027, award-winning stylist Sheridan Shaw from MAMA WEST will lead a six-hour, hands-on cutting workshop at CQUniversity Mackay City Campus.
Instead of just watching demonstrations, attendees will have the opportunity to work alongside an experienced educator, ask questions, practise new techniques and build confidence they can take straight back into the salon.
The workshop will also launch Culture Give Back, an initiative where one lucky participant at every Chair Culture Education event will receive a voucher towards future education, encouraging continued learning and professional growth.
Bianca says, “It's my way of giving back to the hairdressing community and encouraging hairdressers to keep learning, growing and investing in their careers.”
While Bianca hopes to eventually expand into Townsville and Cairns, her focus remains on building something meaningful in Mackay.
Tickets are already available, with a Salon Crew offer giving two or more hairdressers from the same salon $100 off each ticket.
To discover upcoming workshops, follow Chair Culture Education on Facebook and Instagram. Tickets are available through the link via social media bios.
Team pic - Photo supplied
Contributed with thanks by Woolworths, Mount Pleasant
Woolworths relaunched its Mount Pleasant Centre store last week, with an expanded fresh food experience, convenient shopping options and value at the heart of its offering.
The new look store now offers a large range of Australian fruit and vegetables, with additional grocery products to choose from including chilled dairy goods, as well as more self-scanning checkouts for shopping convenience.
Shoppers will discover a new "Dinner Made Easy" section, offering a variety of ready-to-go meals that includes everything from fresh pizzas and pastas to salads, soups and BBQ favorites.
Also on offer are artisan style breads, 100% Australian beef from Aussie farmers and an array of fresh, local seafood from the deli department. The store also features a selection of plant-based protein and a range of gluten-free goods.
Mount Pleasant Store Manager, Clinton Mackie, who has managed five stores around Mackay over his twelve year career at Woolworths, can’t wait to show off the new look to Mount Pleasant locals.
“We were excited to see the renovations wrap up and there have been lots of changes to help our customers get the most out of the shop, whether it’s finding a larger range of groceries across the store or the improvements made to all our fresh food departments”, Clinton said.
“This refurbishment has been a number of years in the making and it’s been great to be part of the supermarket’s transformation. The new look store will significantly benefit our team members, customers and the local community”.
“Another great part of this process has been growing our team, with nearly 30 new members joining in the past few months, bringing the total number of team members to over 140.”
Woolworths Mount Pleasant is also proud to support the community by providing food donations to Foodbank and community support group, The Neighbourhood Hub.
A new undercover Direct to Boot service is also expected to open in the coming months, at the rear of the store. Customers will be able to conveniently pull up in one of the six undercover parking bays to pick up their groceries, after placing an online order.
Across 32 countries, more people now name mental health as the biggest health problem facing their nation. More than cancer, stress, or obesity. Nearly half of respondents in the latest global survey put it first, and the number has been rising for years.
The reasons are not mysterious. Chronic stress has become a daily background condition rather than an occasional spike. Sleep is shorter and more fragmented. Ultra-processed food dominates many diets, quietly feeding inflammation that affects the brain as much as the body.
In-person social connection has thinned for millions, while constant digital stimulation keeps the nervous system on alert. Many people also spend large parts of their energy pleasing those around them at the expense of their own needs, leaving little energy left for recovery. At the same time, doom-scrolling has become a quiet habit of judging and comparing oneself to others, steadily eroding self-worth and calm. Without knowing themselves deeply, or having a clear sense of purpose and mission, many feel adrift.
Life shrinks to the daily grind with little to look forward to.
For many, there is also a quiet loss of connection to their spirit, the inner sense of meaning, belonging, and guidance that once provided steadiness. The result is a steady rise in anxiety, low mood, brain fog, and the sense that ordinary life requires more effort than it used to.
What makes this different from many other health issues is how quietly it spreads. There is often no single dramatic event. Instead, small daily drains accumulate: poor sleep compounds poor food choices, which deepen fatigue, which makes stress harder to manage, which further disrupts sleep.
Over time, the body and mind both run on less reserve. People begin to feel “off” without a clear diagnosis, and the cycle continues.
Most of the public conversation still treats mental health as something that happens mainly in the mind and is best addressed with therapy or medication alone. Those tools help many people. Yet a growing body of evidence shows that the state of the body strongly influences the state of the mind.
Stable blood sugar, adequate minerals, a calmer gut environment, and consistent sleep each change how the brain functions. When those foundations are neglected, even the best psychological support has to work harder.
This is why the conversation is shifting. People want to understand why they feel the way they do and what practical steps can reduce the load on their system.
Simple, consistent changes in food quality, daily rhythm, and nervous-system recovery often produce noticeable improvements in mood and clarity before any dramatic intervention is required. Equally important is reclaiming a sense of self, purpose, connection to spirit and something meaningful to look forward to beyond the daily grind.
At Healthy Life Essentials we see this pattern regularly. Many people arrive feeling stuck, tired, and mentally flat after years of doing what they were told. When we help restore the foundations, the mental fog frequently begins to lift alongside the physical symptoms. The mind, body, and spirit are not separate problems.
Brighter mental health is possible. It starts with treating the whole person.
Brad Baker: Healthy Life Essentials
www.healthylifeessentials.com.au
After more than 25 years in marketing and advertising, the team at redhotblue have seen businesses of every size and industry hit the same roadblocks: no clear plan, not enough time, blending into the crowd, limited expertise, lack of commitment, and wasted spend.
1. NO PLAN - Lost in Space
It’s easy for businesses to lose their way in the vast, complex, and ever-expanding universe of marketing, advertising, and branding.
A clear strategy provides direction, connects your activities and keeps your investment focused on meaningful business goals.
2. WASTING MONEY - Roll the Dice
For business owners, it can feel like a game of chance knowing who to trust with their brand, when everyone claims to be a marketing expert.
Look for proven experience, strategic thinking and a genuine understanding of your business.
3. TIME POOR – The Headless Chook
Balancing urgent challenges with daily tasks is a constant juggling act for business owners. Securing quality time for marketing is often as rare as hens’ teeth!
Without dedicated time and responsibility, marketing becomes reactive, inconsistent and easy to postpone.
4. BLENDING IN – Apples to Apples
In the battle for brand memorability, if your audience doesn’t understand your core benefits, your business is just another apple in the cart.
Give people a clear reason to choose you, then communicate it consistently.
5. LIMITED SKILLS – The Drivers Seat
Even a business with the most talented team, innovative product, or efficient systems, will fail to achieve its full potential without a skilled professional in the creative driver’s seat.
The right expertise turns business strengths into compelling messages that connect with customers.
6. NOT COMMITMENT – Lift the Anchor
Successfully navigating the advertising landscape without fully committing to every part of a strategy is like trying to sail a ship with the anchor still down.
Commit the time, budget and resources needed to give your strategy momentum.
From start-ups to established brands, our award-winning team helps businesses find clarity, build momentum and achieve their goals. If any of this sounds familiar, then it’s time to break the cycle and start with redhotblue.
CONTACT US FOR YOUR FREE COPY OF THE PITFALLS BROCHURE.
phone: 4953 2833
Photo supplied by Mackay Pet Rescue Inc
At just nine months old, this handsome boy is full of charm, with a gorgeous marmalade coat and plenty of love to give.
Skittles has been making wonderful progress in foster care, growing in confidence and discovering the joys of being a much-loved little cat.
With his cheeky personality and irresistible good looks, he's sure to bring plenty of sunshine into his new family's home.
Even better, Skittles has had all his vetwork completed. He's desexed, vaccinated, microchipped and wormed, meaning he's ready to find his forever home.
If you're looking to welcome a little ginger goodness into your life, Skittles could be just the companion you've been waiting for!
To enquire about adopting Skittles, contact his foster carer, Jess from Mackay Pet Rescue Inc, on 0499 779 348.
Isabelle O'Hara has been awarded a once in a lifetime all expenses paid trip to the United Kingdom, France and Belgium. Photo source: Mackay North State High School
Pride is flowing in Mackay and Sarina as the government has announced that a local student is one of 10 2027 Premiers Anzac Prize recipients.
Mackay North State High School student Isabelle O'Hara has been awarded a once in a lifetime all expenses paid trip to the United Kingdom, France and Belgium.
Sarina State High School Head of Department Tamara Steinhardt has also been selected as a Chaperone.
The pair will have the opportunity to explore and walk the once trodden paths of soldiers in historic war sites, venturing into the deep history of Australia's military.
“I love learning about people, their experiences and the stories that shape communities,” Isabelle said.
“Since first hearing about the Premier’s Anzac Prize in 2024, I have been inspired by the opportunity to stand in places I had previously only learnt about in the classroom.
“Through the prize, I have been able to extensively research Anzac history, particularly how Anzac day and remembrance have evolved over time.
“Being selected still feels surreal, and I am incredibly proud to represent my school and community. I hope to return with stories that help other young people connect with our Anzac history.”
The announcement comes in time to mark the start of 2026 State Education Week, coming together to celebrate Australia's past with Australia's future.
Premier David Crisafulli said that the Premier Anzac Prize shines light on an important part of Australia's history, allowing young students to connect with their nations past.
“Through this program, Queensland students will gain a better understanding of the courage, sacrifice and service that helped shape our nation,” Premier Crisafulli said.
“Anzacs are our nation’s heroes and it’s important the next generation understands the significant sacrifices of those who came before us.
“By visiting significant historical sites in the United Kingdom, France and Belgium, these young Queenslanders will gain a deeper appreciation of the Anzac legacy and the enduring values it represents.
“I congratulate the successful recipients and teacher chaperones on this outstanding achievement and know they will represent Queensland with pride.”
Minister for Education and the Arts John-Paul Langbroek reverberates the importance of Premier’s Anzac Prize.
“The Premier’s Anzac Prize is an extraordinary opportunity for students from across Queensland to build their knowledge of Australia’s military history,” Minister Langbroek said.
“This is a powerful learning experience that extends beyond the classroom and stays with students through their lives.
“This Prize helps our young people return home with a stronger understanding of the Anzac legacy and its significance for Queensland and Australia.”
RSL Queensland State President Major General Stephen Day DSC AM, positively reflects on the awards.
“Shaped by the ANZAC spirit more than 100 years ago, this rare pilgrimage gives students the opportunity to develop a deeper appreciation of the service, commitment and sacrifice of veterans and their families,” Major General Day said.
Recipients will also take part in a range of learning experiences and events, ranging from Remembrance Day Commemorations to the Young Historian Workshop and White Gloves Experience at the State Library of Queensland.
Farm & Family Vets
Brothers Dr Brad Pullen and Dr Craig Pullen are returning to their roots with the opening of a new independent veterinary clinic serving the Mackay region.
Farm & Family Vets, located at Rural View, brings together more than 60 years of veterinary experience and a shared commitment to providing practical, personal veterinary care to the local community.
Both brothers grew up on a cane farm at Mirani before graduating from the University of Queensland more than 30 years ago.
Dr Brad returned to the Mackay region and became a founding partner of Valley Vet Services, building a long career caring for animals and families across the district. Dr Craig moved south, where he established the first animal hospital on the Sunshine Coast before later working internationally.
Despite following different professional paths, the brothers have always shared a similar view of veterinary medicine: that the best care comes from knowing your clients, understanding their animals and being genuinely connected to the community you serve.
That philosophy is at the heart of Farm & Family Vets.
The new purpose-built clinic combines that traditional, relationship-based approach with the benefits of modern veterinary medicine. The facility includes comprehensive in-clinic diagnostic capabilities together with advanced X-ray and CT imaging, allowing the team to investigate many conditions quickly and thoroughly without patients having to travel outside the region.
For Brad and Craig, however, technology is only part of the story.
Their aim is to build a veterinary practice where experience, sound clinical judgement and modern diagnostic tools work together, while clients continue to have a direct relationship with the people caring for their animals.
As an independently owned local practice, Farm & Family Vets will provide veterinary care for both family pets and farm animals, reflecting the brothers’ own rural upbringing and the needs of the wider Mackay community.
After careers that have taken them in different directions, opening a practice together in Mackay represents something of a homecoming.
For two brothers who began life on a cane farm at Mirani, Farm & Family Vets is an opportunity to bring their combined experience back to the community that shaped them.
Community groups are encouraged to apply for Australia Day event grants. Photo source: Mackay Regional Council
Mackay Regional Council’s Australia Day Event grants have been released, with up to $10,000 now up for grabs for local community groups.
The Australia Day event grants were so successful in 2026 that they have returned for a second time around.
“Council was proud to support 11 true blue community events for Australia Day 2026 and we are looking forward to another incredible event lineup in the new year,” Mayor Greg Williamson said.
“From beach games and park barbecues to awards ceremonies and morning teas, the events are a great way to celebrate our vibrant community spirit.”
"Australia Day is a chance to come together, reflect on what makes our community special and celebrate the people and places that make the Mackay region a great place to live," he said
“Not-for-profit community groups can apply for up to $1000 to support their Australia Day event and celebrate what they love about the Mackay region.”
To be eligible for Aussie day grants, organisers need to be a registered not-for-profit group or have a letter of support from a registered group.
Additionally the events will need to be held on Australia Day 2027 (Tuesday, January 2026), and be free for all to attend and held within the Mackay Regional Council Area.
Succesful candidates must complete a tax declaration form and return it by 5pm Wednesday December 2nd, provide event details and complete an Australia day 2027 Grant outcome form online.
Applications are now open via the council website and will close midnight Sunday 22nd November.
By Andrew Willcox MP Federal Member for Dawson
Imagine walking into a chemist with a $50 note to buy medication, only to be told your money isn't accepted.
It's Australian currency. You've earned it. Yet a business can refuse it.
That doesn't sit right with me, and I suspect it doesn't sit right with most Australians.
Cash is not some outdated relic. For many people across Dawson, particularly older Australians, pensioners and those living in regional communities, it's an essential part of everyday life.
That's why I'm backing the Coalition's Cash is King Bill 2026, which would give Australians a practical legal right to pay with cash.
Most people would be surprised to learn that Labor's cash rules only apply to supermarkets and fuel stations, for purchases of $500 or less, between 7am and 9pm.
If you can use cash to buy groceries, why can't you use it to buy medicine, clothes or a meal from other large businesses too?
The Coalition's legislation would extend cash acceptance to major retailers, lift the transaction limit to $2,000, remove the time restrictions and require Commonwealth agencies to accept cash for eligible counter payments.
Importantly, businesses turning over less than $10 million annually would be exempt. We're not interested in piling more red tape onto small businesses already doing it tough.
And there's another reason this matters enormously in North Queensland.
When a cyclone hits, the power goes out or telecommunications fail, your bank card can become useless. We've seen firsthand how quickly essential services can be disrupted. Cash provides a practical backup when electronic payment systems aren't working.
It's also about keeping costs down.
Every time someone is forced to tap a card, that’s another cost to small business. Cash gives consumers an alternative without a card surcharge.
Around 1.5 million Australians rely on cash for most of their purchases. They shouldn't be treated as an inconvenience simply because the world is becoming increasingly digital.
Nobody is suggesting we abandon electronic payments. I use them myself.
But convenience should never come at the expense of choice.
Whether you're buying groceries in Mackay, medication in Bowen, ag supplies in the Burdekin or clothes in Townsville, you should have the freedom to decide how you pay.
It's your money. It should be your choice.
Cash is king, and the Coalition intends to keep it that way.
Construction of a multi-million dollar Port of Mackay Container Depot hardstand is now complete.
The 1.3-hectare facility will strengthen supply chain resilience, improve freight efficiency and provide regional businesses with greater access to containerised trade, supporting industries including mining, agriculture and manufacturing.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said the project would improve road safety, get trucks off the Bruce Highway, and help build a stronger economy in North Queensland.
"This critical port infrastructure supports the Queensland Freight Strategy by giving regional businesses and producers a more efficient, cost‑effective pathway to domestic and international markets.” Minister Mickelberg said.
“By eliminating the need for long-haul transport to other ports we are unlocking savings in freight costs and time, while also reducing heavy vehicle traffic and congestion on the Bruce Highway, delivering a better lifestyle through a stronger economy.”
North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) Chief Executive Officer Brendan Webb said the Depot had already demonstrated its capability, with the first successful trial of export containers moving through the facility last week.
“Carrying tunnel boring machine components, the containerised cargo departed the Port of Mackay aboard FWN Provider bound for Texas, marking an important milestone for the Depot," Mr Webb said.
“With the laydown area now complete, the project will move into its next phase, with a range of activities under way to prepare the facility for future operations, including commissioning equipment, integrating operational systems and final site works.”
North High Year 11 student Ezriel, who is a finalist for Best Film, Best Sound and Best Animation at the inaugural Essential Screen Skills Awards. Photo supplied
Contributed with thanks by Mackay North State High School
A Mackay North State High School student who entered her animation in a statewide film competition moments before the deadline is now in the running for three awards.
Year 11 student Ezriel learned her film, Unfocused, Hocus Pocus, was a finalist for Best Film, Best Sound and Best Animation at the inaugural Essential Screen Skills Awards just one day before her 17th birthday.
“It was awesome,” she said.
“The email said congratulations, I was like ‘What?’ I was freaking out – it was crazy.”
The competition attracted more than 100 submissions, with up to five nominees selected in each category.
Ezriel said she submitted her animation moments before entries closed after her Film, Television and New Media teacher, Mr Mark Shew, encouraged her to give it a go because “you never know”.
Her work has now been assessed by an animation judging panel that includes Oscar-nominated filmmaker Lachlan Pendragon and animator and designer Kate Derrick, who joined the Bluey team in its second season.
Pendragon earned his 2023 Academy Award nomination for the animated short An Ostrich Told Me the World Is Fake and I Think I Believe It.
Ezriel will travel to Brisbane with her older brother Enzo for the awards weekend.
As a finalist, she has been invited to an Industry Development Day at QUT’s Kelvin Grove campus on Friday 13th November, where students can meet and learn from screen industry professionals.
Her animation is then scheduled to screen alongside other nominated films at Event Cinemas Uptown on Saturday morning 14th November. The awards ceremony will follow that afternoon at the same venue.
For Ezriel, the opportunity to pursue a career in animation feels surreal after years of drawing and dreaming about working in television.
Her ambition is to one day see her name in the credits of a television show.
Ezriel said she created Unfocused, Hocus Pocus using Clip Studio, drawing inspiration from Eddsworld, the YouTube animation series created by Edd Gould about the misadventures of three friends.
“I really look up to him,” she said.
Around 30 women gathered last Friday for a Pink Ribbon Breakfast, combining community connection, breast health education and fundraising for the National Breast Cancer Foundation. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Stories, conversations and a splash of pink filled the room as around 30 women gathered at Roshni by Raj last Friday morning for a special Pink Ribbon Breakfast, held in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Organised by Alicia Saelman of Atlas & Co Travel Studio and Shirlz Russell of Area Specialist Property Hub, the morning brought together a colourful gathering over coffee and breakfast, creating an opportunity for women to connect, share experiences and reflect on the importance of looking after their breast health.
The turnout was a welcome sight for organisers, with guests embracing the pink theme and showing their support for an important cause.
A highlight of the morning was a presentation from Dr Wendela Schimmer, General and Breast Surgeon with Mackay Surgical Group, who shared her knowledge of breast health and the importance of early detection.
Dr Schimmer also highlighted that breast cancer is not exclusive to women, with men also affected, reinforcing the importance of awareness and understanding across the wider community.
The discussion encouraged attendees to take a more informed approach to understanding their bodies, recognising changes and making time for regular health checks.
“I think everyone in the room learned something and that’s what it’s all about… there were some really great takeaways from this morning, and we’re really thankful for Dr Schimmer for sharing her knowledge with all of us here today,” Shirlz said.
For Alicia, bringing people together around an important cause was at the heart of the morning, with early detection remaining a key message.
“It’s been a really lovely morning bringing all these ladies together, but ultimately, the most important message is that early detection and prevention are everything,” Alicia said.
Alongside breakfast and the guest presentation, the event featured a pink hamper, a light-hearted game of trivia and a raffle, with community support helping raise funds for the National Breast Cancer Foundation.
Beyond the pink attire and morning's festivities, the gathering offered a timely reminder of the importance of staying informed, being familiar with changes in both men and women’s bodies and making personal health a priority.
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox and Federal Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry. Photo supplied
By Federal Member For Dawson Andrew Willcox
I want to sincerely thank my friend and Nationals colleague Michelle Landry for her extraordinary dedication to the people of Capricornia and regional Queensland, following her decision not to contest the next federal election.
Since being elected in 2013, Michelle has been a tireless advocate for her community. She has never forgotten who sent her to Parliament, and her commitment to delivering better roads, stronger regional industries and opportunities for local families has never wavered.
With Capricornia and Dawson sharing boundaries, industries and many of the same challenges, Michelle and I have often found ourselves fighting for the same things. Whether it's backing our resources sector, supporting local jobs or pushing for much-needed improvements to the Bruce Highway, I've always valued having Michelle alongside me as a strong voice for regional Queensland.
Michelle has been particularly passionate about making the Bruce Highway safer. She understands, as I do, that for regional Queenslanders, this isn't just another road. It's the lifeline connecting our communities, our businesses and our families, and she's never stopped fighting for the investment it deserves.
Beyond her work for Capricornia, Michelle has been a wonderful colleague and a tremendous support to our Nationals team. Her warmth, straight-talking nature and willingness to lend a hand have earned her the respect and friendship of so many.
Capricornia has certainly had a fantastic steward in Michelle Landry. She's given so much of herself to public service, and the people she's represented have been fortunate to have someone who cares so deeply about their future.
Michelle, you've earned the opportunity to enjoy more time with your family and the people closest to you. I wish you all the very best for whatever the next chapter holds.
Contributed with thanks by the office of Federal Member For Capricornia Michelle Landry
After more than 13 years representing Central Queensland, Federal Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry has announced she will not contest the seat at the next federal election, bringing a significant chapter of her political career to a close.
First elected in 2013, Ms Landry said the decision came after considerable thought and reflection as she looks towards the next chapter of her life, while remaining committed to representing the people of Capricornia until the next election.
Ms Landry said representing the people of Capricornia has been “the greatest honour of her life,” and that she “will be forever grateful for the trust this community has placed” in her.
During her time in office, Ms Landry helped secure funding for major infrastructure projects across Mackay, the Pioneer Valley and surrounding regions, including the Walkerston Bypass, Eton Range realignment on the Peak Downs Highway, Phillips Creek Bridge on Saraji Road between Dysart and Moranbah, and the redevelopment of the Collinsville QCWA Hall.
“Together, we have put Central Queensland on the map, and Capricornia is now a region with enormous opportunities ahead of it.”
Ms Landry said that while her decision had been made, her commitment to the electorate remained as strong as ever.
“There is still important work to be done, and I intend to keep fighting for Capricornia right up until the next election.”
Ms Landry acknowledged the personal sacrifices that come with public life, particularly for those closest to her, and said she was looking forward to spending more time with her two daughters and grandson, travelling and enjoying life beyond the parliamentary calendar.
“I also intend to remain an active member of the community I love, volunteering, giving back locally and indulging in one of my great passions, growing orchids, as well as spending more time with the wonderful people at the Rockhampton Orchid Society.
“My time in federal politics may be coming to an end, but my commitment to Capricornia never will.”
Leader of The Nationals Matt Canavan described Ms Landry as “the fiercest local political fighter in the Parliament,” and said he was saddened that she would not be fighting alongside him in the next parliamentary term.
“Michelle is not leaving today, and I am certain that Michelle will be banging down my door, still fighting for things for Capricornia right up to the next election.”
Ms Landry thanked her staff, past and present, volunteers, supporters, parliamentary colleagues and family for their contributions throughout her political career.
“There will be plenty of time over the coming months to reflect on the projects we have delivered, the battles we have fought and, most importantly, the extraordinary people I have had the privilege of meeting along the way.
“To the people of Capricornia, thank you for welcoming me into your communities, businesses, schools, sporting clubs and homes.
“Thank you for sharing your challenges and successes with me and, most importantly, thank you for trusting me to be your voice in Canberra.”
Federal Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry has announced she will not contest the next federal election after more than 13 years representing Central Queensland.
The 12 newly elected Mackay Youth Council members will represent local young people and help shape projects and initiatives across the region over the next 18 months. Photo supplied by Mackay Regional Council
Fresh ideas, youthful energy and a passion for making a difference have been brought to Mackay Youth Council, with 12 young locals recently elected to represent their peers and help shape the region’s future.
Meet the new faces ready to speak up, share ideas and champion issues that matter to young people across our community: Blyss McKenna, Charlotte Hancock, Charlotte Richards, Charlotte Shepperson, Grace O'Neill, Jayden Wong, Katelyn Ranola, Kayden, Logan Ivory, Misha Palod, Ollie Dalglish and Robert Jones.
From mental health and the environment to recreation and affordable activities, these are the voices helping put young people's ideas on the local agenda.
Congratulations to all our newly elected youth councillors!
A group of enthusiastic, dedicated young people have been named for the next term of the Mackay Youth Council.
After weeks of workshops and campaigning and a week of polling across the region, the 12 members of the council have been named.
Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said it was wonderful to see the commitment of the young candidates and the interest from voters.
“Our election teams visited 15 schools and community polling locations with young voters taking the time to find out about the candidates and what they stood for,” Mayor Williamson said.
“By working with the Electoral Commission of Queensland, the election provided a valuable opportunity for young people to build their understanding of democracy, leadership and civic participation,” he said.
The members of the incoming Mackay Youth Council are:
“I want to congratulate not only those young people that have been elected, but everyone who nominated. Each of them worked incredibly hard throughout the process and it’s a big thing to put yourself forward in this way.
“The candidates have learnt and developed new skills around leadership, communication, building support networks and budgeting – all things that will serve them well in life.
“The dedication shown by each of these young people shows that the future of our region is in great hands.”
Through the campaign period and at the Meet the Candidates event young people shared their ideas to improve Mackay, with topics ranging from environmental issues, increased recreational opportunities for young people, mental health supports, and reduced costs for activities
Executive Director of the Young Mayors program, Tahlia Azaria said she’s excited to see how the next Mackay Youth Council will raise and address issues important to them.
"We know young people want to be more involved in the decisions that impact their lives and communities, and the election of the third Youth Council in Mackay is a crucial way for this to happen,” Ms said.
“"The Foundation for Young Australians congratulates all the young people who campaigned for election. Their energy and passion for the community were palpable during Election Week, and we can't wait to see what the third Mackay Youth Council deliver in their term in office."
It’s expected the 12 elected councillors will attend induction sessions in November, with the official swearing in ceremony being held early next year.
The Mackay Youth Council will then work to develop a Priority Agenda to inform their work over the next 18 months where they will deliver projects, events and campaigns to respond to their key issues.
It will be the third Youth Council for Mackay, which was the first local government in Australia to run the program through the Foundation for Young Australians.
The 12 newly elected Mackay Youth Council members will represent local young people and help shape projects and initiatives across the region over the next 18 months. Photo supplied by Mackay Regional Council
Photo source: QCWA Mackay Branch
A little handmade gesture is helping bring comfort to Mackay families with newborn babies receiving extra care, thanks to the thoughtful efforts of Queensland Country Women's Association (QCWA) Mackay Branch members.
The branch has donated handmade Cuddle Hearts and tote bags to the Mackay Base Hospital Special Care Nursery, supporting parents and babies during what can be an emotional and challenging time.
The Cuddle Heart Project involves specially made fabric hearts designed to help parents and their newborns maintain a sense of connection while babies are receiving care in the nursery.
The hearts can carry the familiar scent of a parent or baby, offering a source of comfort and connection when they cannot always be together.
A representative from QCWA Mackay Branch said the donation was made to support the work of the Special Care Nursery team and the families they care for.
The branch also acknowledged its members who generously contribute their time, skills and care to making the handmade items for local families.
Through the donation, QCWA Mackay Branch hopes to make a small but meaningful difference for parents navigating the early days of their baby's life in the Special Care Nursery.
Bioethanol can use sugarcane by-products including molasses, bagasse, mill mud as well as plant material. Image: AdobeStock
By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay
A firmly enforced bioethanol mandate, backed by increased local sugarcane production, is essential to strengthening Queensland’s industry resilience, regional jobs, and Australia’s long‑term fuel security.
Our region holds enormous potential: not only for producing sugar, but for renewable fuel, energy diversification, and national economic security.
Queensland’s sugarcane industry has always been a cornerstone of regional prosperity, but today it stands at a crossroads. Global markets are volatile and input costs are rising, and at the same time, Australia faces increasing pressure to reduce emissions, strengthen domestic fuel supplies, and build more resilient regional economies.
A properly enforced bioethanol mandate is one of the most effective tools we have to meet these challenges head on.
Queensland already has a mandate in place, but compliance remains inconsistent. When fuel retailers fail to meet their obligations, growers, mills, and regional communities lose out on opportunities that should rightfully be flowing into our local economy.
Bioethanol is not a theoretical solution: it is a proven, practical, and immediate pathway to cleaner fuel and stronger regional industries and economies. Countries like Brazil and the United States have shown that bioethanol can reduce emissions, stabilise fuel markets, and create thousands of rural jobs. In these countries, and across the world, bioethanol forms a substantially higher portion of retail fuel sales than this country has embraced. Queensland has the same potential, but only if the mandate is taken seriously and enforced with the consistency it deserves.
For Mackay, the benefits are clear. Our region is one of Australia’s most productive sugarcane hubs, with the land, infrastructure, climate, and expertise to support a thriving biofuels sector. Increased demand for bioethanol directly translates into increased demand for sugarcane. That means more cane in the ground, more certainty for growers, and more throughput for our mills, and we all know that milling is a volume game. This in turn supports jobs from the paddock to the processing line.
But the opportunity extends far beyond economics. A stronger bioethanol industry enhances national fuel security, reducing Australia’s reliance on imported fuels. At a time when global supply chains are increasingly unstable, producing more of our own fuel is not just smart policy, it is essential. Every litre of bioethanol produced in Queensland is a litre of fuel Australia does not have to import.
To seize this opportunity, we must also focus on increasing local sugarcane production. The industry cannot diversify, innovate, or expand into new markets without a reliable and growing supply of cane. More cane means more flexibility for mills, more investment in advanced manufacturing, and greater capacity to produce not only sugar and ethanol, but also bioplastics, green electricity, and other high value products.
Growers are ready to meet this challenge. With the right policy settings from all levels of government, including a robust and enforced bioethanol mandate, we can plant more cane, improve productivity, and strengthen the long‑termviability of our region. But growers cannot do it alone. We need government to ensure the mandate is upheld, fuel retailers to meet their obligations, and industry partners to continue investing in innovation and infrastructure.
Mackay has the land, the people, and the expertise to lead Queensland’s next era of renewable energy and agricultural diversification. What we need now is the policy certainty that comes from a mandate that is not only written into law but actively enforced.
A stronger bioethanol mandate is not just good for growers it is good for Queensland, good for regional jobs, and good for Australia’s fuel future. The time to act is now.
Marketing strategy boils down to answering four questions:
But how do you actually go about answering those Q’s? Like anything, the broad strokes are more complicated in practice but it’s a good framework to come back to when you’re planning your next marketing activity. Start by drilling down + identifying a measurable goal that you can work towards. Vague + lofty goals are okay, but without a clear way to track your progress, achieving them will be pretty tough. For example, tracking how many enquiries you get + the quote conversion rate can be useful info to have as a baseline. That way, if you do a targeted campaign to attract more work, you can see if it meaningfully pushed the needle in the right direction!
Next, really empathise with who can help you achieve those goals. Try to build up a target customer in your head. How old are they? What do they want from your business? What are they interested in? The more specific you are, the easier it’ll be to craft messaging that will actually appeal to that person.
Once you’ve defined your goal + who can help you achieve it, you’ve got to tell them how to help you do it. Your messaging should be the key information that your audience needs to know about your business. This is where you focus on not only what your customers want to know about you, but how your business is different to all the others out there. Your messaging should change based on the people you’re targeting.
Lastly, the delivery. Where does your target market frequent? Do they use socials? Are they constantly listening to the radio? Do they frequent the pub on a Friday arvo? Once you know where they go, you can start figuring out how to get your message there. While socials are a great option, they’re not the only one. Billboards, coasters, or a flyer that sits on a wall somewhere are all effective options.
But if that all sounds like too much effort, you can always reach out + talk to us. We’ll help you figure it out 😉
- Taren McAuley
It’s interesting how Australian states have different rules and approaches in an attempt to achieve the best result for their citizens.
In Queensland we have the “adult crime, adult time” approach to youth offenders, an approach with which some will agree and others disagree.
Youth crime has become a significant issue throughout the country and certainly became a concern in places like Townsville and Cairns, which led to the change in how sentencing is assessed.
Victoria seems a bit different and it is true that that state has challenges that Queensland doesn’t face.
We don’t seem to have a problem with youth gangs armed with machetes so we do not require the same measures as they do in Victoria.
In Victoria there are special boxes scattered around the place where people can hand in their machetes. Getting machetes off the streets is an important part of the fight against crime in that state. The different approaches also extend to real estate, particularly with the rules around auctions.
In Queensland the seller of a property sets a reserve prior to auction but this price is only revealed to the auctioneer and the sales agent. Queensland law dictates that the reserve price cannot be revealed to any potential buyers.
The rules in NSW and Victoria are different, with Victoria’s law changing in the past week to make it compulsory that sellers make the reserve public seven days prior to the auction.
In one state it is illegal to reveal the reserve and in another state it is compulsory.
Glenn Price, director of Price Buyers Agents, told real estate online publication REB that buyers wanted to know price expectations before spending time checking out a property.
“The buyers I work with all say the same thing. They want to know what the vendor is expecting before they burn a Saturday standing in a backyard for an unrealistic number,” Price told REB.
“If buyers know the number a week out, low-ballers stay at home and people who turn up are serious bidders.”
There were only 500 auctions in Melbourne following the introduction of the new law compared to 700 the week before. Price said that some sellers might now be avoiding auctions because the don’t want to show their hand.
He also pointed out that Queensland was now out of step with Victoria and NSW. Queensland’s auction clearance rate dropped to 17 per cent and Price said the fact that bidders don’t know the reserve could be an issue.
“Based on the clearance numbers right now, Queensland’s market is a bit of trouble; that’s due to a host of other factors. Bidding blind on top of that doesn’t help,” he told REB.
It is worth noting that Price is a buyer’s agent and that role is different to that of a listing agent, who is predominantly focused on getting the best result for the seller.
The argument in favour of leaving the reserve confidential is that the open market is left to determine the true value of a property. That could be higher or lower than the reserve.
It’s also worth remembering that while a seller sets a reserve, where the property will be sold to the highest bidder above that price, the vendor still has the option of selling at a lower price.
Gardian’s auctioneer, Gordon Macdonald, will have a conversation with a seller if bidding stalls and the reserve has not been reached, which enables the vendor to assess the state of play and perhaps lookat bids below that reserve price.
Plenty of buyers would not turn up to an auction if the reserve was revealed and they felt it was too high … only to discover later that the property sold within the buyer’s budget at a price below the reserve.
Too much meddling from governments or not enough?
If you have a soft spot for big dogs and beautiful brindle coats, four-month-old Cozi might just be the perfect addition to your family.
A Mastiff cross, Cozi is an intelligent, fun-loving pup with a gentle nature and plenty of playful energy. She's particularly fond of anything involving water. With her gentle temperament and affectionate nature, Cozi has all the makings of a wonderful family companion.
Still enjoying the fun-filled puppy stage, Cozi will need a family committed to continuing her training and helping her grow into the best girl she can be.
Contact her carer Aaron on 0400 821 800 to arrange a meeting, or email LLTAGSandDogRescue@gmail.com.
Hotel Mackay's beef and chicken are halal certified.
A generous spread, a few good sides and plenty of grilled favourites to go around, Hotel Mackay has given locals yet another reason to gather around the table with the recent addition of its Mackay Butcher’s Feast, a signature sharing experience that puts the grill centre stage.
Made for those who enjoy a little bit of everything, this generous platter brings together five favourites, with plenty to share around the table.
THE MACKAY BUTCHER'S FEAST – $249
Serves 4–6 | Suggested wine pairing: Sisters Run Calvary Hill Shiraz
For those who prefer a steak of their own, the grill menu also features several individual cuts, all cooked to diners' liking and served with a choice of baked potato or chips, plus a side of their choice.
FROM THE GRILL:
Call 07 4863 0564 to book your table and tuck into Mackay’s finest Butcher’s Feast now!
Contributed with thanks by Emmanuel Catholic Primary School Mackay
It has been an exciting time at Emmanuel Catholic Primary School Mackay, with students recently achieving outstanding results at the Opti-MINDS Challenge before coming together for a highly successfulCommunity Engagement Day.
Five Emmanuel teams participated in this year's Opti-MINDS competition, showcasing their creativity, collaboration and problem-solving abilities. Students presented innovative solutions to the Science Engineering and Media Communication long-term challenges, demonstrating weeks of dedicated preparation and teamwork.
On competition day, students also tackled the Spontaneous Challenge, which tested their ability to think critically, communicate effectively and work together under pressure.
Emmanuel students achieved excellent results, with one of the school's Science Engineering teams awarded First Place and earning an invitation to compete at the State Finals in Brisbane. Adding to the celebrations, one of Emmanuel's Media Communication teams received Honours in recognition of their creative and engaging presentation.
Opti-MINDS is a creative problem-solving competition that encourages students to think, create and communicate. Participants work collaboratively in teams to solve a long-term, open-ended challenge and complete a spontaneous challenge on competition day. The event provided a wonderful opportunity for students to develop confidence, resilience and teamwork skills while having fun and learning alongside their peers.
The excitement continued with Emmanuel's annual Community Engagement Day, which lived up to its theme of connection, participation and enjoyment.
WOW! What a fabulous Friday!
The day was a tremendous success, with students enthusiastically participating in a wide range of engaging and enriching activities. From Ballet, Jazz and Hip Hop to basketball, Body Balance, Cutters Care and F45 Fitness, there was truly something for everyone.
Creative minds immersed themselves in Lego, pottery, beading, scrapbooking, chalk drawing, painting, arts and crafts, keyring making and chatterboxes, while others explored sensory activities and enjoyed time in the school's chill-out zones.
A highlight of the day was the sensational Scavenger Hunt, which saw students working alongside their teachers in class groups to solve clues, complete challenges and enjoy quality time together.
Throughout the day, students demonstrated positive attitudes, curiosity, teamwork and problem-solving skills as they challenged themselves, learned new skills and strengthened connections with others. The activities provided valuable opportunities for students to step outside their comfort zones, discover new interests and celebrate the importance of community.
A very special thank you goes to Emmanuel's community partners and staff who generously shared their time, expertise and talents to make the day possible. Their support helped create a memorable experience for students and contributed to the success of a truly wonderful event.
The recent achievements at Opti-MINDS and the success of Community Engagement Day reflect the vibrant spirit of Emmanuel Catholic Primary School Mackay, where students are encouraged to learn, create, collaborate and thrive. Congratulations to all students involved, and best wishes to the First-Place Science Engineering team as they prepare to represent Emmanuel at the State Finals in Brisbane.
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It's Addressed: With an exceptional outdoor space and a large, powered shed this near new home is perfectly suited to families seeking a lifestyle with nature on your doorstep. This impressive 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home, combines modern living with an outstanding outdoor setup. Positioned high on a hill, with an excellent outlook, the property offers privacy, established fruit trees, paddocks and 300m of private creek frontage.
INSIDE AT A GLANCE
OUTSIDE AT A GLANCE
UTILITIES:
Contact Robyn Agius, your local Area Specialist to arrange a private inspection or request further information.
Photo source: Shutterstock
A planned aerial 1080 baiting program targeting feral pigs across Eungella National Park and Cathu State Forest has been postponed, with Mackay Regional Council to hold a public information session before the program is rescheduled.
Originally scheduled for 14th October, the program was postponed due to forecast adverse weather conditions, with the delay also providing an opportunity for further community consultation following concerns raised about the proposed baiting measures.
Member for Mirani Glen Kelly MP said he had been working with relevant authorities to ensure community concerns were heard and residents had access to more information about the program.
“I have been advised that the program includes environmental risk assessments and operational safeguards designed to minimise impacts on native wildlife while addressing the significant damage caused by feral pigs,” Mr Kelly said.
“It is important that we continue to manage feral pig populations effectively while ensuring residents and landholders are properly informed and have an opportunity to raise any concerns.
“I appreciate the cooperation of those involved in allowing further consultation to take place and encourage the community to engage with Mackay Regional Council as it coordinates the next steps.
Council is coordinating the program in partnership with local landholders, with the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) providing funding support.
Mackay Regional Council said landholders had been requesting feral pig management programs following increased pig activity after successive wet seasons.
The pests have been causing significant damage to properties, agricultural land and the environment, while also posing a threat to primary industry operations across the area.
Environmental risk assessments conducted by the State Government, alongside operational safeguards, have been designed to minimise impacts on native wildlife while addressing the damage caused by feral pigs.
Aerial baiting forms part of a broader coordinated syndicate program, which also includes ground-based control measures such as trapping and shooting.
Mr Kelly acknowledged the importance of managing feral pig populations while ensuring residents and landholders had an opportunity to understand the proposed measures and raise any concerns.
With the postponement, council will work with the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation to organise a public information session at Eungella before the program is delivered.
Residents and landholders are encouraged to engage with Mackay Regional Council as it coordinates the next steps.
Premier David Crisafulli and Glen Kelly MP at a recent visit on the Bruce Highway between Sarina and Marlborough
By State Member for Mirani Glen Kelly MP
Across the Mirani electorate, roads are more than just a way of getting from A to B. They are the lifelines connecting our communities, supporting local industries and keeping our regional economy moving. Whether it’s families travelling to school, truck drivers transporting goods or tourists exploring our beautiful region, we all rely on safe and reliable roads.
That is why improving our road network has been one of my priorities since being elected. Over the past two years, the Crisafulli Government has been getting on with the job of delivering much-needed road improvements across Central Queensland.
One project locals will have noticed is the microsurfacing works along Mackay–Eungella Road. Our Main Roads crews have been making the most of the warmer months to undertake microsurfacing works across the region, helping extend the life of our roads and improve driving conditions. Microsurfacing involves applying a thin protective layer over the existing road surface. It helps seal minor cracks, prevent water damage and extend the life of the pavement, reducing the need for more expensive repairs.
Importantly, microsurfacing also improves road safety by restoring surface texture and providing better tyre grip, particularly in wet conditions. It's a practical, cost-effective way of maintaining our road network. I appreciate motorists' patience while these works have been underway. Line marking is scheduled for completion by the end of November, weather permitting.
Further south, major upgrades to the Bruce Highway near of Marlborough are well underway. Anyone who regularly travels the Bruce Highway knows how important these improvements are, particularly given the volume of heavy vehicles using this vital freight corridor.
We are also seeing welcome progress along the Peak Downs Highway, with new overtaking lanes and widened pullover bays under construction. These practical improvements will make a real difference to motorists sharing the road with heavy vehicles travelling between Mackay and Moranbah.
While these projects represent important progress, I recognise there is still plenty of work ahead. One road I will continue advocating for is Hay Point Road, which carries significant traffic supporting our coal export terminals.
Road investment isn't simply about bitumen and bridges. It's about road safety, productivity, regional development and keeping our communities connected. After a busy first two years of the Crisafulli Government, we are seeing real progress.
There is still much to do, and I will continue pushing to ensure Mirani receives its fair share of road funding. Regional Queensland deserves roads that are safe, reliable and built for the future.
By Michelle Landry, Federal Member for Capricornia
Early detection saves lives, and when it comes to breast cancer, recognising the warning signs and attending regular screenings can make all the difference.
Pink Ribbon Day is an important reminder for women across Central Queensland to prioritise their breast health and take advantage of the screening services available.
Breast cancer affects thousands of Australian women and their families every year but detecting it early can significantly improve treatment options and survival rates.
I encourage eligible women to access BreastScreen Queensland's free mammogram services and speak with their GP about any changes or concerns.
Living in regional Queensland should never be a barrier to accessing potentially lifesaving healthcare.
Pink Ribbon Day is also an opportunity to celebrate survivors, remember those we have lost and acknowledge the dedicated healthcare professionals, researchers and volunteers supporting families through breast cancer.
Together, we can raise awareness, encourage screening and save lives.
Sarina Landcare celebrated 25 years of environmental conservation with a community fun day at Sarina Community Native Gardens, bringing locals and community groups together last Saturday. Photo source: Sarina Neighbourhood Centre
Environmental awareness and local connections were at the heart of Sarina Landcare's 25th anniversary celebrations, with a Community Fun Day held at Sarina Community Native Gardens last Saturday.
Locals were invited to explore the gardens, visit community stalls and enjoy a morning of family-friendly activities.
Mayor Greg Williamson joined the celebrations, recognising Sarina Landcare's contribution to the region over the past quarter-century.
“For a quarter of a century, Sarina Landcare has played an important role in protecting and restoring our local environment, bringing the community together and encouraging sustainable land management,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Congratulations to everyone involved, past and present, on this fantastic milestone. Thank you to the dedicated volunteers and supporters who continue to make such a positive contribution to our region.”
A representative from Sarina Neighbourhood Centre also thanked the many community groups, organisations and businesses that contributed to the event.
Those involved included Sarina Landcare Catchment Management Association, Sarina Scout Group, Mackay and District Turtle Watch, Reef Catchments, Sarina 4WD and Outdoor Centre, Conservation Volunteers Australia, Sarina Neighbourhood Centre, Sarina Art Gallery, Linda's Taxidermy Display and Wildlife Whitsundays.
Mackay Regional Council's Pest Trailer and Parker the Library Van also attended, while the Lions Club provided food and Lil Daisy Van supplied coffee.
Mayor Williamson and Councillor Ann Baker were acknowledged as special guests, with the event supported by NQ Bulk Ports, Mackay Regional Council, Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank and Member for Mirani Glen Kelly.
The celebration marked 25 years of Sarina Landcare's work in the region, recognising the volunteers, supporters and community organisations who continue to contribute to its environmental efforts.
(L-R) Celebrating 25 years of Sarina Landcare : SLCMA Coordinator Saskia von Fahland, Community Bank Sarina Customer Relationship Officer Kylie Schulze, Community Bank Sarina Board Director
Contributed with thanks by Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank
For the past 25 years, Sarina Landcare Catchment Management Association (SLCMA) has worked to protect and improve our local environment, bringing together landholders, volunteers, schools and the wider community.
Through its community nursery, school support programs, volunteer opportunities and land management advice, SLCMA assists the community in understanding, protecting and caring for our natural resources.
Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank has proudly supported SLCMA with more than $40,000 in Community Grants over many years. This support has enabled nursery improvements and expansions, including solar panels, an undercover workspace for volunteers and visitors and upcoming upgrades such as stainless steel propagating benches, a wash bay and electrical improvements.
“It’s very rewarding to see the positive impact this support has in the community and we look forward to seeing SLCMA continue its great work for the Sarina community for many years to come,” Mrs May said.
The community nursery provides native plants and hands on learning opportunities for schools, landholders, volunteers and community groups to care for our local environment.
Most recently, a Community Grant supported the upgrades and improvements to the Sarina Community Native Gardens including weatherproofing the walking track and installing educational signage to improve visitor experience and accessibility. These upgrades were officially launched at a community fun day celebrating the organisation’s 25-year milestone.
The event brought together local landholders, volunteers, families and the wider Landcare community, with interactive activities, community displays and wildlife experiences showcasing the garden and SLCMA’s ongoing work.
SLCMA Coordinator Saskia von Fahland said ongoing support from Community Bank Sarina had “helped build the organisation’s capacity, improve facilities and create more opportunities for community participation.”
“Upgrades to the nursery have provided a more practical workspace for volunteers and opened up opportunities for workshops, hands-on native plant propagation and youth education programs, helping more people connect with Landcare and learn practical environmental skills,” Ms von Fahland said.
For more information visit SLCMA’s Facebook page. To see how Community Bank Sarina supports local groups and initiatives that make a lasting difference, follow them on Facebook, LinkedIn or Instagram.
OPINION PIECE By Andrew Willcox MP, Federal Member for Dawson
Apparently, when the Albanese Government doesn't like the answer, it simply asks the question again.
Less than 24 hours after the Senate delivered a resounding rejection of Labor's assault on older Australians' private health insurance rebates, Health Minister Mark Butler was back in Parliament introducing the very same legislation.
The arrogance is astounding.
Yesterday, the Coalition, the Greens and independent senators stood together to stop Labor's rebate cuts, with the Senate voting 38 to 23 to remove the Bill from its agenda.
Today, Labor decided that message wasn't worth listening to.
Not the Senate. Not its own concerned backbenchers. Not the thousands of Australians who signed the Coalition's petition. Not the health organisations warning about the consequences.
Just who does this Government think it answers to?
Labor has turned parliamentary democracy into a game of political stubbornness, where the Senate's verdict is treated as an inconvenience and the only opinion that matters is the Government's own.
Across Dawson, I've personally responded to hundreds of emails and met with older constituents terrified of what these changes could mean for their finances.I promised them I would fight this assault on their retirement security. And the Coalition has fought it every step of the way.
Labor's proposal would remove the additional private health insurance rebate available to Australians aged over 65.
For some older couples, that could mean paying more than $1,600 extra every year.
Around 3.2 million older Australians would be affected, including pensioners and self- funded retirees who have spent decades planning carefully for retirement.
These are people with limited disposable income.
They are Australians who have worked, saved, paid their taxes and maintained private health cover, often precisely because they don't want to become another patient waiting months for treatment.
Yet Labor wants them to help deliver $3 billion in Budget savings over four years.
The Government calls this equity. I call it an assault on older Australians who have done everything right.
And the consequences won't stop at their bank accounts.
The Government's own modelling reportedly anticipates up to 78,000 fewer older Australians holding private health insurance by 2029–30 than otherwise expected.
Where will many of those patients go?
Into public hospitals already struggling with elective surgery waiting lists, ambulance ramping and exhausted healthcare workers.
This is cost-shifting dressed up as reform. State governments, taxpayers, nurses and doctors will be left managing the consequences.
Minister Butler called the Senate's decision an "absolute travesty".
I would suggest the real travesty is expecting pensioners to shoulder another financial burden while refusing to reconsider a policy that has attracted such widespread opposition.
The Coalition attempted to stop the legislation being brought back through the House this morning, with Dan Tehan moving to suspend standing orders. Labor pressed ahead.
It's Groundhog Day, except older Australians are being asked to pay for every repeat.
There is a disturbing habit developing in this Government: announce a controversial policy, dismiss the warnings, ignore the backlash and press ahead regardless.
What sort of Government looks at a pensioner struggling to afford their health insurance and decides the problem isn't that they're paying too much, but that the Government isn't taking enough? Older Australians deserve better than a government that treats their concerns as an inconvenience.
The Senate has spoken. The community has spoken. Labor should listen.
And if this Government insists on continuing its assault on older Australians' retirement security, the Coalition will continue fighting it every step of the way.
Being prepared at home can make all the difference if faced with a storm, fire or flood event.
Disaster preparedness starts with a conversation – and on Saturday at Caneland Central, I had the opportunity to help get those conversations going.
As part of Get Ready Queensland Week, I joined the team handing out disaster preparedness packages and encouraging residents to think about how ready their households would be if severe weather came our way.
Here in the Mackay region, we know that storms, cyclones and flooding and or fire can disrupt our lives. We cannot control the weather, but we can take practical steps now to help protect ourselves, our families and our neighbours.
The packages are a useful starting point, but the real value comes from taking them home, reading the information and putting a plan into action.
Think about what your household would need if the power went out or you were unable to get to the shops. Drinking water, non-perishable food, a torch, batteries, essential medication and copies of important documents are all things to consider. Remember to plan for your pets, too.
Have a conversation with your family about how you would stay in touch, where you would go if you needed to leave home and who might need an extra hand.
Preparedness is also about looking out for one another. An older neighbour, someone living alone or a person with limited mobility may appreciate help checking supplies or understanding their options.
Council and emergency services have important roles in disaster management, and household preparation helps support that work. Taking responsibility for the things we can do now puts our whole community in a stronger position.
Thank you to everyone who stopped for a chat on Saturday, and to the staff and volunteers helping our region prepare.
My encouragement is simple: take a little time this week to check your supplies, talk through your plan and make sure you know where to find official warnings and updates.
A little preparation can make a big difference when it matters most.
If you’d like to catch up with your Mackay region councillors in person, then come along to a Let’s Chat – Council Connect session. The next one is at the Calen and District War Memorial Hall on November 3 from 5pm to 6pm.
My daughter has spent this year on her school's senior leadership team, following a selection process that was both thorough and arduous.
Six weeks of leadership training, speeches, interviews, longlists, shortlists and finally, an election by their peers.
There were nerves, tears, courage and heartbreak. You don't put yourself through that particular wringer unless you really want the role.
Watching these young people represent their school, support their peers, and now mentor the next group has been wonderful. They have grown, and they filled these roles with such joy.
It got me thinking about leadership. If you compare the extraordinary process these young people went through to become leaders to the people in business who have found themselves managing teams by accident, or with considerably less preparation.
Someone is brilliant at their job. They know the systems, understand the numbers and have earned their stripes, so they get promoted and are suddenly responsible for people. Then there's small business, where leadership comes with the keys. You're the boss, HR department, bookkeeper and the person everyone looks to for direction. Ready or not.
Last Thursday, Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce held its AGM, including our committee election. Twelve people nominated, with around one hundred members and guests in the room. There was that familiar element of putting yourself forward and hoping your peers would choose you.
It's a brave thing to put yourself forward for election, whatever your age. And the willingness to do so deserves recognition, regardless of the result. Congratulations to our newly elected committee andthank you to everyone who nominated. Volunteering your time and experience to represent our business community deserves recognition.
Watching these elections unfold has reminded me that people arrive at leadership in different ways. Some chase it. Some stumble into it. Others have it thrust upon them. But however you become a leader, knowing how to lead people is something worth learning.
And just as we invest time in identifying future leaders, we should invest in helping them become good ones. After all, if we can spend six weeks preparing teenagers to lead their school, surely we can find a little time to help adults lead their teams.
Ellen Madden
Business Engagement, Events and Communications Manager
Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce
www.mackayregionchamber.com.au
Reclaim the Night is an annual community event bringing people together to raise awareness of gender-based violence and sexual assault, while standing in solidarity for safer homes and public spaces.Photo source: Reclaim the Night - Mackay
Mackay residents are encouraged to come together, stand in solidarity and help raise awareness of gender-based violence and sexual assault at this year's Reclaim the Night event.
Hosted by Zonta Club of Mackay, alongside community partners Mackay Women's Services, The Neighbourhood Hub and The Salvation Army, the annual family-friendly gathering will take place at Bluewater Quay on Friday 30th October, from 5pm to 6.30pm.
Bringing the community together through education, shared experiences and a peaceful march, Reclaim the Night aims to make a stand against gender-based violence and sexual assault in both homes and public spaces.
The event provides an opportunity for people of all ages to show their support for those affected, acknowledge the importance of safer communities and reinforce the message that everyone deserves to feel safe, respected and protected.
The evening will begin at 5pm with a Welcome to Country by Aunty Deb Clark, followed by an opening address from Zonta Club of Mackay President Shirl Russell.
Senior Sergeant Kane Hilderbrand, Officer in Charge of the Domestic Family Violence and Vulnerable Persons Unit, will also address attendees, alongside Barb Hill.
A peaceful Reclaim the Night march will follow, giving community members the opportunity to walk together in support of the cause and demonstrate their commitment to raising awareness.
Entertainment will be provided by local performer Maya Batra, while the Walkerston Rotary Club will offer a free sausage sizzle for attendees.
Originating in Leeds, England, in 1977, Reclaim the Night has grown into a global movement, with events held annually on the last Friday of October, at the end of sexual violence awareness month.
Over the years, the movement has continued to provide communities with an opportunity to speak out against violence, challenge attitudes and encourage meaningful conversations about safety, respectand equality.
For Mackay's organising partners, the event is also an opportunity to bring local services, organisations and residents together behind a shared cause, while ensuring the message reaches beyond the evening itself.
Community members are encouraged to attend, bring their families and friends, listen to the speakers and take part in the peaceful march.
Whether attending to show support, learn more or stand alongside those who have experienced violence, every voice and presence can help strengthen the community's message.
WHAT: Reclaim The Night March
WHEN: Friday, October 30, 5pm To 6.30pm
WHERE: Bluewater Quay, Mackay
Students from across the Mackay region put their engineering and problem-solving skills to the test during Holy Spirit College's STEM Challenge Day at the Father Bucas Centre, supported by industry partners and the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy. Photo supplied
Holy Spirit College Mackay is strengthening its reputation as a leader in innovative STEM education, inspiring the next generation of engineers, designers and problem-solvers through a hands-on program that has welcomed more than 85 students from across the region.
Throughout the year, the College has hosted aspiring engineers from 13 Catholic and Education Queensland primary schools, providing students with engaging opportunities to explore science, technology, engineering and mathematics through practical, real-world challenges.
The College's Father Bucas Centre has been transformed into a vibrant hub of creativity and innovation, with students immersed in activities ranging from Structural Engineering and Robotics to Aerodynamics and Energy in Motion.
Participants have designed and constructed treehouses, programmed LEGO robots, tested paper plane designs and engineered intricate marble runs, culminating in a Prototype Challenge where students showcase and test their creations.
These experiences encourage critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and teamwork while showing how STEM concepts apply to everyday life.
Holy Spirit College Principal Mrs Alison Wales said “STEM education is most powerful when students can take an idea, test it, challenge it and ultimately see the outcome of their thinking”.
“We are proud to facilitate and welcome students from across the Mackay region, supporting the opportunity in how STEM learning can translate into real-world skills and exciting future career pathways.”
Industry partners Richglen, Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal (DBCT), Key Solutions Group and FMS Group supported STEM Day, engaging with students throughout the event and sharing insights into their industries.
Richglen Electrical Operations Manager Jeremy Phillips said "today's students are tomorrow's engineers, electricians, technicians and leaders”.
“If we can help spark an interest in STEM and show young people the opportunities available right here in our region, then we're making a meaningful investment in Mackay's future,” Mr Phillips said.
"We're proud to have members of our electrical team involved on the day, working alongside students and sharing real-world experiences that bring STEM learning to life."
Holy Spirit College is proud of its approach to STEM education, providing modern facilities, dedicated learning spaces and digital technologies that support students in their learning.
For further information about Holy Spirit College’s curriculum, facilities and approach to learning, visit www.hsc.qld.edu.au.
A fake $50 note was reported to Police at a local business in Moranbah. Photo source: Queensland Police Service
Moranbah residents are being urged to remain vigilant after a local business reported receiving a suspected counterfeit $50 note.
The note was reported to police on Monday 12th October, after being received by a business on St Francis Drive. Moranbah Police subsequently seized the banknote for investigation.
Police said the note appeared to be missing visible security features and did not have the same feel as genuine Australian currency, raising suspicions it was counterfeit.
Residents who suspect they have been handed counterfeit money are advised to refuse the note if it is safe to do so.
Anyone who comes across a suspected counterfeit banknote should handle it as little as possible, place it in an envelope and record any relevant details about how it came into their possession.
The matter should then be reported to Queensland or Federal Police through Policelink on 131 444 or online at police.qld.gov.au/reporting.
Man Charged Following Dangerous Driving Incident
A 22-year-old man has been charged following an alleged dangerous driving incident involving a stolen vehicle on the Bruce Highway at Bloomsbury earlier this month.
Police were called to the highway on October 10th following reports of a stolen Ford Ranger utility being driven dangerously, including on the wrong side of the road.
The vehicle allegedly struck several other vehicles before being brought to a stop by police.
No injuries were reported.
A 22-year-old Beachmere man has since been charged with five counts of failing to comply with duties of a driver involved in a crash, four counts of stealing, two counts of obstructing a police officer, and one count each of unlawful use of a motor vehicle, dangerous operation of a vehicle, being adversely affected by an intoxicating substance, evasion offence and conduct causing a public nuisance.
Police are appealing for anyone with relevant information or dashcam footage of the incident to come forward.
Police Seek Public Help After Motorcycle Theft
Police are appealing for public assistance following the theft of a motorcycle from Alligator Creek over the weekend of October 10th and 11th.
A red and silver 2008 Honda CBR 100 motorcycle, bearing registration 496WF, was reportedly stolen from beside the Bruce Highway sometime between 12pm on Saturday, October 10th, and 10.30am on Sunday, October 11th.
The motorcycle had reportedly experienced a mechanical breakdown and was left at the roadside while awaiting collection for repairs.
Police are seeking information about the motorcycle's whereabouts or anyone who may have witnessed the theft.
Anyone with information is urged to contact police, quoting reference number QP2602016675.
Residents are also encouraged to report any suspicious activity to police.
Reference number: QP2602016675
Twenty-one young candidates are vying for 12 positions on Mackay’s third Youth Council, giving local young people a voice in shaping the region’s future. Photo supplied by Mackay Regional Council
Mackay’s next generation of community leaders had the chance to make their voices heard this week, as local young people headed to the polls to help shape the future of the city.
A total of 21 candidates are vying for a place on the third Mackay Youth Council, with 12 young representatives set to be elected following this week’s voting.
Young people aged between 11 and 17 can cast their vote at designated polling stations across local schools, Headspace at Caneland Central and other community venues.
Mayor Greg Williamson said Mackay had led the nation in creating opportunities for young people to become involved in civic life.
“Mackay Regional Council was the first local government in Australia to have an elected youth council as part of the Foundation for Young Australians' (FYA) Young Mayors program,” he said.
“It’s been really encouraging to see the level of engagement and commitment by all the candidates to have their voices heard on how they see the future of our region,” he said.
“The previous two youth councils have developed strong policy positions and projects around mental health, recreation, opportunities and wellbeing and I’m sure this next council will continue this fantastic work.”
Approximately 1400 young people voted in the first Youth Council election in 2023, with now more than 2500 votes for the last term.
FYA Director of Young Mayors Lachlan Preston said having an elected youth council helped ensure young people's perspectives and priorities were considered in local government decision-making.
“Local governments play a huge role in the day-to-day lives of all people in our communities, but the voices of young people are often missing from decision-making processes,” he said.
“The Young Mayors program enables young people, elected by their peers to the Youth Council, to have real influence – ensuring that council policies and programs respond to and reflect the concerns, needs and desires of local young people.”
Voting was held between October 19th and October 23rd, with votes starting to be counted on Saturday 24th October.
It’s anticipated that the 12 successful candidates will be sworn in for their 18-month term in early 2027.
For more information about the election process and the candidates visit www.fya.org.au/young-mayors-mackay/
L-R - Wendela Schimmer, Raelene Brown, Andy Watson and Elly Engstrom. Photo supplied
A little extra pink has been popping up around Mackay this October, as the community comes together to show its support for those affected by breast cancer.
Around 100 people recently gathered at Hastings Deering’s Mackay base for a Breasties Brunch, setting a fundraising target of $10,000 to help support local breast cancer services.
The event featured a presentation from Mackay-based Mater breast surgeon Dr Wendela Schimmer, followed by a panel discussion and question-and-answer session covering early detection and available breast care services.
Community fundraising has also helped Mater Chicks in Pink fund a new breast care nurse position at Mater in Mackay, giving patients and their families access to additional support throughout their breast cancer journey.
Mater Private Hospital Mackay Nurse Unit Manager Elly Engstrom said the new position would help make a difficult time a little easier for those navigating a diagnosis.
“Receiving a breast cancer diagnosis can be frightening, but at Mater we are committed to supporting our patients right throughout their care journey,” Ms Engstrom said.
“Our new breast care nurse will be able to deliver an even more personal level of care for Mater patients.
“One in seven Australian women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, so the support from the community at events like today’s are so important, both to fundraise for better services and to rally around people impacted by breast cancer in the Mackay community.”
Hastings Deering Regional Manager Andy Watson said the Mackay team's involvement was part of a longer-standing commitment to supporting Mater Chicks in Pink.
“Over the past three years, our Mackay team has raised more than $20,000, contributing to a partnership between Hastings Deering and Mater Chicks in Pink that has raised more than $250,000 over the past 15 years,” Mr Watson said.
“These funds help provide specialist breast care nurses, support services and equipment that make a meaningful difference for women and families navigating a breast cancer diagnosis.
“We are incredibly proud of our ongoing commitment to this cause, and we hope our fundraising efforts encourage important conversations, support life-changing care and research, and help improve outcomes for those affected by breast cancer."
One in four Queensland women diagnosed with breast cancer will receive treatment at a Mater facility, highlighting the importance of accessible specialist care and support for patients across the state.
With community-led events continuing throughout October, locals are also encouraged to get involved by hosting their own Breasties Brunch to help raise funds for Mater Chicks in Pink.
More information is available at fundraise.mater.org.au/breastiesbrunch.
St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland State President Peter Dougherty and St Vincent de Paul CEO of Housing Sharon Shearsmith. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland has just opened a new purpose-built support hub in Mackay, aiming to lend a helping hand to the region’s most vulnerable residents experiencing homelessness, financial hardship and housing instability.
The Mackay Community Support Centre was officially opened on Monday 19th October as part of the organisation’s mission to deliver more than 500 supported community homes across the state. Over the past 12 months alone, the Society has reportedly supported more than 6,000 people across the Mackay region.
The new development features six one and two-bedroom accommodation units, including a fully accessible ground-floor home, alongside a community support centre offering food and clothing assistance, housing support, a food pantry, donation facilities and private interview spaces.
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton welcomed the opening, recognising the longstanding contribution St Vincent de Paul has made to supporting vulnerable members of the community.
“It's wonderful to see six new units being made available through this St Vincent de Paul charity,” he said.
“It's a great recognition of all the work that many, many people have done over many years from the St Vincent de Paul Society in looking after the vulnerable.”
Mr Dalton said the development offered hope for the community, highlighting the important role faith-based and Christian organisations play in supporting people through compassion, accommodation and practical assistance when they need it most.
St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland State President Peter Dougherty said the organisation currently assisted approximately 60 people each week in Mackay through its local services, with demand highlighting the importance of continued community support.
Mr Dougherty said the Society's work was grounded in its Catholic faith and commitment to putting the Gospel into practice through compassion and practical acts of service.
“The values we try to do is live the Gospel. And that's how we demonstrate our faith,” he said.
“We're commanded to feed people, clothe people, shelter people, and that's where we draw our inspiration from.”
Mr Dougherty added that people did not need to be Catholic to become involved with the organisation, whether as a member, volunteer or through its services.
St Vincent de Paul CEO of Housing Sharon Shearsmith said the new homes came at a time when housing pressures continued to affect communities across Queensland, with Mackay experiencing increasing rental costs and demand for support.
“Across Queensland, we're finding, increasingly, that people are struggling to maintain their housing,” she said.
“Across all our services, we're constantly being approached with demand, and the system's stretched.”
At the time of the opening, four tenants were already residing in the new homes, with another expected to move in the following week. Residents have come from a range of circumstances, including homelessness and referrals through local services, St Vincent de Paul members and the Department of Housing.
Ms Shearsmith said the opportunity to provide a stable home could make a significant difference, particularly for people who had never experienced the security of having somewhere safe to live.
“Overwhelmingly, our tenants are just so grateful, so pleased to be given the opportunity for a home,” she said.
“For some people, they've never experienced a safe home.”
She said the Mackay development represented an important milestone in the Society's broader housing commitments, with further projects planned across regional Queensland.
“This is a really proud milestone moment for Vinnie's Housing and the Society,” she said.
“It's been really important for us to work with the local community, to really understand the needs of the community, but also how we can best open homes that people will feel welcome in and that will meet their needs.”
Ms Shearsmith said bringing together government and community support through developments such as the Mackay hub could help create greater opportunities for people to regain stability.
“It's really great that we have the opportunity to bring together the support of government, of the community, through sites like this, that have access to support services, to really create that hope, and that opportunity for people to get back on track.”
OPINION PIECE By Andrew Willcox MP, Federal Member for Dawson
In a world of social media, AI and ever-evolving technologies, the digital landscape can be imposing. We all want to feel safe online, protect our children and control what appears on their devices. Protections should be strengthened and big tech held accountable.
But the price should never be our freedom of speech and personal expression.
The Labor Government says its proposed Digital Duty of Care laws are about keeping Australians safe and giving users more control over online feeds through algorithm opt- outs. It sounds reasonable, until you dig deeper.
What the Albanese Government actually wants is control, bringing back its previously failed misinformation agenda by stealth and giving government greater influence over what Australians can view online.
During a speech at the UN, Albanese revealed just how broadly his government views these laws:
“Whilst today we're concentrating on the impact on children, the truth is this is having an impact on our entire society and how it functions with misinformation, disinformation. With the increased polarisation that we're seeing as well in the political system, where people are moving away from the centre and more and more to the extremes, be they of the left or the right. And that is why we think that this is a very positive move that's being put forward.”
That raises serious concerns about government using online safety laws to influence what Australians see, read and debate. The Government says the legislation shifts the focus from reacting to harms topreventing them. But who decides what is “harmful”?
The proposed legislation would give government regulators greater powers over how online platforms manage content.
This is too much power in the hands of government and every Australian should be alarmed.
Consider debates about climate change or the definition of gender. If platforms fear regulatory consequences for allowing controversial opinions, they may restrict lawful content rather than risk penalties.
That could stifle debate and diminish voters' access to differing opinions.
We already have laws governing what Australians can publish online. People should be free to challenge government policy, question experts and disagree with others without fear that lawful views will be suppressed.
Protecting Australians online matters. Protecting children matters. But online safety and freedom should never be competing values.
We can keep Australians safe without handing government the power to control the conversation.
A $44.5 million Queensland Government investment in critical infrastructure is expected to unlock more than 7,200 potential new homes across Mackay and Sarina. Photo source: Jarrod Bleijie MP
More than 7,200 potential new homes could be unlocked across Mackay and Sarina following a $44.5 million Queensland Government funding announcement aimed at improving infrastructure needed to support future residential development.
Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie visited Mackay on Friday 16th October, announcing funding for two new infrastructure projects alongside Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton, Member for Mirani Glen Kelly MP and Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson.
In Mackay, $12.1 million will go towards upgrades to the Nebo Road Water Treatment Plant, increasing the plant's capacity to support future residential development and ensuring essential water infrastructure can keep pace with the region's growth.
The Mackay project is expected to unlock more than 6,350 homes.
Meanwhile, Sarina will receive $32.4 million for a range of infrastructure works, including stormwater infrastructure, a new sewer pump station and sewer mains, a water main upgrade, electrical infrastructure, new roads and a roundabout.
The Sarina project is expected to unlock more than 890 homes.
Mr Bleijie said the investment demonstrated the government's commitment to increasing housing supply by addressing infrastructure barriers to new residential development.
“The Crisafulli Government’s Residential Activation Fund is pulling every lever to increase housing supply, because you can’t build homes without the roads, water and sewerage infrastructure to support them,” Deputy Premier Bleijie said.
“This project will unlock more than 7,200 places to call home for Queenslanders and support the growing Mackay Region. This investment demonstrates what’s possible when government partners with councils, landowners and industry to remove barriers to new housing.
“More affordable housing starts with more supply. While also delivering a record number of social and affordable homes and support for first homebuyers, we’re delivering a place to call home for more Queenslanders.”
The announcement brings the Queensland Government's reported investment in trunk infrastructure through the Residential Activation Fund to more than $70 million across Mackay, Sarina, Marian, Mirani, Beaconsfield and Rural View.
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the investment would help ensure housing supply kept pace with the region's growth.
“Mackay continues to grow, and we need to make sure housing supply keeps pace with that growth, and this investment will unlock new opportunities for housing in the region, while strengthening the infrastructure local families and businesses rely on,” Mr Dalton said.
Member for Mirani Glen Kelly said the Crossing Estate was a positive step forward for Sarina, supporting the growing community while delivering practical benefits for local families.
“One of the most significant outcomes of this development is helping resolve the longstanding issue of access to the Sarina Showgrounds, something our community has been seeking a solution to for many years.
“This is about creating more opportunities for families to build a home and a future in Sarina, while supporting local businesses, jobs and future investment.”
Mayor Greg Williamson said the investment would streamline an important part of Mackay's water network.
“The investment into the Clarifier Upgrade will strengthen drinking water quality, increase treatment capacity and improve resilience during extreme weather events, helping secure safe and reliable water services for Mackay well into the future,” Mayor Williamson said.
The Residential Activation Fund is one of several housing initiatives outlined by the Queensland Government, which says the program has already unlocked more than 174,000 new places to call home statewide.
Mackay Base Hospital’s helipad has reopened after two and a half years, restoring direct aeromedical transfers and improving access to urgent care for critically ill patients. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
As of Monday 19th October, Mackay Base Hospital’s helipad has officially begun operating after two and a half years, restoring direct helicopter transfers for critically ill patients. The reopening removes the need for additional ambulance transfers from Mackay Airport, helping patients reach urgent medical care sooner while freeing up ambulance crews to respond to emergencies across the region.
Mackay Base Hospital’s helipad officially reopened on Monday 19th October, restoring direct aeromedical retrieval services to the hospital after two and a half years.
The reopening means critically ill patients arriving by helicopter can once again be transported directly to the hospital, removing the need for an additional ambulance transfer from Mackay Airport.
The helipad has undergone upgrades to its systems, infrastructure and technology, with new safety features including automated boom gates, warning lights and locking doors activated as helicopters approach and depart.
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton welcomed the reopening, saying it would help patients access urgent medical care sooner.
“Today, we're really excited to announce the return of the helipad to the hospital here,” he said.
“It means that if there is a need to use a helicopter to transport somebody to the hospital, it doesn't have to land at the airport, and then a transfer for the ambulance to move the patient to the emergency ward.”
Mr Dalton acknowledged community concerns about the additional transfer time over the past two and a half years, saying people had worried about the potential consequences for patients requiring urgent care.
“Over 2.5 years, I think people have been really concerned that that extra amount of time and transfer time is going to cause a serious catastrophe, which could have been avoided,” he said.
He also congratulated the hospital board, contractors and staff involved in restoring the facility.
Mackay Hospital and Health Service Chief Executive Sean Birgan said approximately 1,400 patient transfers had taken place between Mackay Airport and the hospital during the helipad's two-and-a-half-year closure, averaging around 10 each week.
He said returning helicopter services to the hospital campus would help critically ill patients reach emergency departments, operating theatres and neonatal wards more efficiently. He also said the arrangement would also benefit ambulance services by reducing the need for crews to travel between the airport and hospital, particularly during busy traffic periods.
“The sooner we can get critically ill patients to definitive care in the emergency department, or the operating theatres, or our neonatal wards, that's what we are planning to do.”
“Anytime that they can avoid [traffic], that just puts an extra ambulance on the streets to respond to emergency care for the community,” he said.
Mr Birgan confirmed the helipad would recommence operations from midday on Monday, following clinical scenario testing to prepare hospital staff for incoming patient transfers.
The current ground-level helipad is expected to remain in place for at least a couple of years, with longer-term plans to incorporate a rooftop helipad into a proposed four-storey clinical building as part of Stage Two of the hospital redevelopment.
The Queensland Government's Stage One masterplan is set to deliver 128 additional beds, birthing services, an expanded emergency department, a new clinical services building with a rooftop helipad and a 1,000-space staff car park by 2030.
At just 18 months old and weighing 17kg, Obi is a happy little guy with plenty of love and enthusiasm for life.
Getting along well with children, other dogs and visitors, he has plenty of potential to become a much-loved member of his new family.
Obi had a rough start to life and can still find the world a little scary at times, so he is looking for a patient and understanding family willing to help build his confidence and show him the ropes.
He already knows his basic commands and walks confidently on the lead, making him a great companion for someone happy to continue guiding him as he settles into his new life.
Once Obi gets to know and trust you, he will become an unshakeable little shadow, following his favourite person wherever they go.
If you have the time, patience and love to give Obi the fresh start he deserves, contact his carer Char on 0402 540 612 to arrange a meeting. Alternatively, email LLTAGSandDogRescue@gmail.com to find out more.
No city or region in Australia has been unaffected by the property market changes that have become obvious ever since the Federal Government introduced its budget in May, removing negative gearing from established housing and changing the capital gains tax rules.
But some have been hit harder than others. The latest property market review by valuers Herron Todd White gives an extensive rundown of where particular regions sit as well as the nation as a whole.
HTW chief economist Cameron Kusher pointed out in the September review that inflation continues to be a factor, not only in cost of living but also projected interest rate rises in the months ahead.
He said: “National dwelling values fell by 3.1 per cent over the three months to August 2026, with capital city values 3.7 per cent lower and regional values falling by 1.2 per cent.”
He said property market analyst Cotality estimates that over the three months to August 2026 “there were 14.6 per cent fewer property sales than the same period last year”.
“Transaction activity has seen a much greater decline in the capital cities than in the regional markets; however, falls are broad-based,” he said.
“Every capital city except for Hobart is seeing a higher volume of properties available for sale relative to a year ago, and only regional Tasmania and regional NT are seeing fewer total listings.
“Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra have historically high listing volumes, and although they aren’t at historic highs elsewhere, Brisbane and Perth have seen annual increases of more than 50 per cent, and Adelaide has seen an annual increase of more than 40 per cent.
“The heightened volume of stock for sale at a time in which there are fewer active buyers in the market means that those who are buying have less urgency and more choice. In turn, this means that they have greater scope to negotiate on price, and there are many properties that will take a long time to sell in this market or simply won’t transact.
“In the regional areas, the longest median days on market are in NT, NSW and Victoria and the lowest are in WA, Queensland and Tasmania.”
The HTW monthly review includes their very interesting property clock, in which they categorise where particular markets are in the property cycle.
Sitting at 3 o’clock on the property clock in a declining market are Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra. Sitting in the “starting to decline” category includes cities such as Alice Springs, Brisbane and the Gold Coast.
Several Queensland cities are included in the “peak of the market” category; Gladstone, Bundaberg and Toowoomba.
And cities in the “approaching the top of the market” category include Cairns, Sunshine Coast, Townsville and the Whitsundays.
What about the cities still sitting at 9 o’clock, the “rising market” category?
Well, there aren’t nearly as many cities in that category as there were a few months ago but it still includes Mackay, Rockhampton and Emerald, among a few others.
HTW can only go on the data in front of them, however agents on the ground experience the market as it happens.
It is true that the Mackay market is behaving nothing like the free fall being felt in major cities like Sydney. The economy is going well, unemployment is virtually non-existent, rental vacancies are low and properties are selling.
However, no agent in Mackay will tell you that right now Mackay is in a rising market. It’s still active and people are still buying but at the moment it’s not going up … it represents a great opportunity for those wanting to get into the market and investors seeking one of Australia’s best rental returns.
Photo source: Cherish Life QLD - Mackay Branch
Locals gathered in Mackay last Saturday for the annual March For Life, which brought together supporters of the pro-life movement.
The march began at Harbour Road before finishing at Caneland Central Park, where attendees heard from guest speakers and community representatives.
Among those attending was Cherish Life Queensland CEO Matthew Cliff, who travelled from Brisbane for the event.
Operating since 1970, and formerly known as Right to Life Queensland, Cherish Life is one of Queensland's longest-established pro-life organisations, with branches throughout the state, including Mackay.
Mr Cliff, who has been CEO for around four and a half years, said the organisation's work centred on two key areas of education and advocacy, aiming to encourage greater understanding of its pro-life position, while engaging with elected representatives and participating in public discussions about abortion.
Mr Cliff said the organisation also connected women experiencing unplanned pregnancies with other services that could provide practical and emotional support. Though Cherish Life do not offer direct assistance themselves, they refer women toservices like Hope's Dream, a Christian-based, non-profit charitable organization which provides pregnancy counselling and support.
“The rallies are really a good way of bringing public awareness,” Mr Cliff said.
“It's an opportunity for people who support the pro-life movement to demonstrate why this is important to them.”
Mr Cliff said his own Christian beliefs played a role in shaping his position, with his views centred on the belief that human life is valuable from conception.
“The Christian method in which I believe as the CEO of Cherish Life Queensland is to walk in grace and truth, and truth in love, and that all human life from conception is valuable,” he said.
The Mackay event featured several speakers and representatives, including Mr Cliff, Australian Christian Lobby Assistant Director Daniel Adsett, Family Voice Australia Queensland Director Andrew McColl, Lighthouse Church Mackay Pastor Jai Wrightand St Joseph's Catholic Church Associate Pastor Rev. Fr. Raju Mandothparambil.
While Cherish Life advocates against abortion, other organisations take a different view of reproductive rights.
CEO of Queensland pro choice organisation Children By Choice Anjulee Singh shared:
“Children by Choice believe all people have the right to make decisions about their own body and health care.
“Abortion is legal healthcare and should be accessible without barriers regardless of where you live.”
The organisation advocates for accessible reproductive care in regional communities, claiming that stigma and privacy concerns can make it hard to ask for help, and can prevent women from pursuing the healthcare they are entitled to.
“Everyone has the right to make their own decision about their pregnancy, whether that means continuing, ending, or considering adoption,” the organisation states.
“Support should be non-judgemental, confidential, and respectful.”
The differing perspectives come amid ongoing public and parliamentary debate about reproductive rights in Queensland, including discussions involving Mackay MP Nigel Dalton, who earlier this year crossed the floor in opposition to restrictions on parliamentary debate about abortion.
L-R - Robyn Burkett, Coordinator Waterways and Coastal Planning for Mackay Regional Council, Kylie Cauchi, Waterways Planning Advisor for Mackay Regional Council and Mayor Greg Williamson of Mackay Regional Council, testing out the new CoastSnap pole at Eimeo Beach. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Mackay beachgoers are encouraged to put their photography skills to good use, with the arrival of two new monitoring stations giving community members a hands-on role in tracking changes to the coastline.
Eimeo Beach and Lambert’s Beach are the first locations to introduce the newly installed CoastSnap poles, which feature a phone cradle where residents and visitors can position their phones, capture an image of the coastline and upload it through the CoastSnap app.
Photos taken from the same position over time will help build a long-term record of sand movement, beach erosion and recovery, providing valuable information to support future coastal management.
Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said the project, led by the University of New South Wales, would give council access to valuable monitoring data while allowing the community to get involved.
"It's easy to use. You just follow the barcode. And you can do it anonymously, you don't have to put your name on it," he said.
Mr Williamson said the photographs and accompanying observations would help build a detailed picture of how the region's beaches change over time.
"If everybody does that every day, just imagine the record that we're going to have via the University of New South Wales to manage this in the future," he said.
"This is just another tool for us to be able to effectively manage the 31 beaches we've got in our region."
Council's Coordinator of Waterways and Coastal Planning Robyn Burkett said the initiative formed part of the Mackay Coast Our Future project, helping council better understand coastal conditions and plan for future changes.
"It's about monitoring our beaches, and community education, so that's why we're encouraging people to come along, snap a photo, and learn more about coastal hazards and how our coastal processes work in the Mackay region," she said.
Ms Burkett said ongoing monitoring would help determine how much sand was lost during storm events, whether beaches recovered naturally and when intervention might be needed.
"Having good information now, when we experience a storm event, looking at what those changes are, and how much sand is lost, whether it will recover over time, or whether it needs intervention is really important."
The CoastSnap initiative was founded in 2017 as a pilot project by the University of New South Wales, with more than 100 poles now installed across 16 countries.
The two Mackay stations were funded by council, with further locations being considered for the region.
To learn more, visit www.coastsnap.com or visit connectingmackay.com.au/mackay-coast-our-future.
Think about the businesses you enjoy working with. The ones you call first, recommend without hesitation and trust when something important is on the line.
Chances are, it comes down to more than their price or what they deliver. It’s how they make you feel. They listen. They follow through. They understand your business and care about what happens next.
Businesses that stand head and shoulders above the rest recognise the value of relationships. Every conversation, project and problem is an opportunity to build trust. Over time, that trust becomes a powerful reason to keep doing business together.
At redhotblue, we’ve been in business for almost 30 years. The work we produce and the advice we provide have certainly contributed to that longevity. Creative ideas need to deliver results, and strategic advice needs to help clients make confident decisions.
But alongside the work are the people.
Some of our client relationships span more than two decades. We’ve worked together through business growth, leadership changes, market challenges and exciting new directions. That shared history brings understanding you simply cannot capture in a project brief.
You learn what matters to someone. You understand their ambitions, the pressures they face and when they need encouragement or an honest conversation.
Strong relationships make that honesty possible. Often our role is to challenge an idea, question an approach or suggest a different direction. Those conversations are easier when clients know the advice comes from experience and a commitment to their success.
Of course, relationships need effort from both sides. Clear communication, mutual respect and realistic expectations all matter. So does recognising the expertise each party brings to the table.
A purely transactional approach can miss this value. When every interaction centres on the cheapest quote, the fastest turnaround or getting a little more for a little less, there is limited room to understand the bigger picture.
The right supplier becomes someone you can think with, learn from and rely on. They help solve problems, bring fresh perspective and make your working day easier.
After almost 30 years, we know that lasting business success is built through good work and good relationships. Both deserve attention.
So, take a moment to consider the suppliers you work with. Do they listen, communicate and help move your business forward? Do you feel confident picking up the phone?
If doing business with them consistently feels like hard work, perhaps it’s time to reconsider who you’re doing business with.
Picture this: The golden crunch of a freshly opened bag of chips, salt crystals glittering like tiny diamonds on your tongue. Or the molten stretch of cheese on a late-night pizza, the caramelised edges of a fast-food burger, the cold, creamy slide of ice cream against warm chocolate sauce. In that moment the world shrinks to pure sensation. Crunch, salt, fat, sugar. Each mouthful feels like comfort, celebration, reward. For a few fleeting seconds, everything seems right.
Then the swallow.
What follows is not true nourishment. Refined sugar, salt and industrial fats rapidly stimulate the brain’s reward centres, releasing dopamine and locking in the desire for more. At the same time the body registers an inflammatory and metabolic challenge. Blood sugar spikes, insulin surges, and protective responses begin.
The gut lining becomes irritated, and the body increases mucus production as a barrier. This excess mucus can thicken in the airways, making breathing heavier, or coat the small intestine, slowing nutrient absorption. Managing the inflammation draws heavily on reserves of zinc, magnesium, calcium and antioxidants. When these foods dominate, those reserves steadily decline.
The disrupted gut environment also alters the microbiome. Beneficial bacteria diminish while less helpful organisms gain ground. In this sticky terrain, opportunistic organisms including certain parasites can easily take hold, adding further burden.
Over time the regular consumption rewires reward pathways until craving becomes compulsive. Digestive rhythm slows, constipation becomes common, aches and brain fog appear. The gut, the body’s engine room, struggles under constant overload and every system feels the strain. Years later the consequences often arrive as chronic disease. Rarely is the pattern of ultra-processed “food-like” substances examined as a root cause.
The fleeting pleasure has long been forgotten; only the cost remains.
If any of this feels familiar, please know you are not alone and you are not to blame. Modern food environments make these choices almost effortless, and the resulting fatigue and discomfort can leave people feeling stuck. Breaking free is possible, and you do not have to walk the path by yourself.
At Healthy Life Essentials we understand how heavy this can feel. We walk beside each person who chooses to heal, offering personalised guidance and steady support. Together we restore depleted nutrient stores, clear excess mucus, repair digestive function and quietly rebuild vitality. Step by step, clarity returns, energy lifts, and the body remembers what true nourishment feels like.
Another encouraging truth: you don’t have to go without. We are smart about “treats” making them nutrient-packed and genuinely tasty rather than toxic and destructive.
No fleeting rush of “food-like” junk is worth the erosion of your health.
The real cost is the quality and length of your life.
How would you feel having the health you desire?
Healthy Life Essentials is here to guide you back to better health.
Brad Baker: Healthy Life Essentials
During Queensland Mental Health Week, recognised between 3rd -11th October, Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) took the opportunity to recognise the staff who support the mental health and wellbeing of people across the region.
The health service acknowledged the diverse team of professionals working across its services, including mental health clinicians, nurses, allied health staff, peer workers and support teams.
A representative from Mackay Hospital and Health Service said staff brought compassion, expertise and commitment to their roles, supporting people and families through some of life’s most challenging moments.
“Their hard work helps individuals and families feel heard, supported and connected, while strengthening the wellbeing of our wider community.”
The representative said even simple interactions, such as a conversation, a listening ear or a moment of connection, could make a meaningful difference to someone experiencing mental health challenges.
The health service also recognised that mental health care involved a broad range of staff and roles, with contributions made across different workplaces and services.
The acknowledgement served as a thank you to all Mackay HHS staff members who play a part in providing mental health care and supporting the wellbeing of the local community.
Mackay Hospital and Health Service has recognised its dedicated mental health workforce, thanking staff across the region for their compassion and ongoing support of individuals and families. Photo source: Mackay Hospital and Health Service
Mackay State High School marked Mental Health Week with a ‘Chalk the Pavement’ activity promoting positivity and welcomed Run For MI Life’s Minion mascot to promote this Sunday’s mental health and suicide prevention fun run at the Botanic Gardens. Photo source: Mackay SHS
Mackay State High School students kicked off Mental Health Week by sharing messages of positivity and hope through a creative ‘Chalk the Pavement’ activity.
Students were encouraged to use their creativity to write uplifting messages for others who may be doing it tough, helping spread awareness and promote positive mental health across the school community.
The school also welcomed a special visitor from Run For MI Life, with the event’s Minion mascot stopping by to promote this weekend’s fun run at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens.
Held annually in honour of Mathew Ivory, who the community lost to suicide in 2012, the event was established by founder Jo Shanks and her family to raise awareness and funds for suicide prevention and mental health initiatives across the region.
Participants can register to run or walk 3km, 5km or 10km, either individually or as part of a team, with dogs also welcome. Mackay State High School staff have already entered a team.
A wellbeing fair will follow the run, giving community members the opportunity to connect with local support services.
The event welcomes runners, walkers, volunteers and community members keen to show their support for mental health and suicide prevention in the Mackay region.
The run will be held on Sunday 18th October at Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens.
OPINION PIECE By Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox
For regional areas like here in Dawson, where driving is not optional but essential, higher fuel prices bite hard. Even short bursts of higher prices can have a major impact on already stretched budgets.
Families hitting the road over the September school holidays would be acutely aware of the cost to fuel up. Many may have ditched their holiday plans at the last minute or chosen to spend less at their destination to compensate.
But it’s not just the cost of filling up the car that is hurting. Supply chains are being smashed, meaning the flow on effects are also felt in other areas, like the checkout. If farmers and truckies are paying more for diesel, the consumer ultimately pays more.
The other unfortunate part of higher fuel prices is that inflation is also impacted. Which means interest rates don’t come down. They only go up and stay up.
There is, of course, a lever the government could pull right now. Re-introducing a cut to the fuel excise would provide much needed relief. However, when asked last week if the government would re-introduce an excise tax cut, Treasurer Jim Chalmers said, ‘It is not something we are discussing – not something we are considering.’
This is something myself and my colleagues will continue to push for.
Our newly announced policy, The Fuel Price Shield, would see the fuel excise automatically halved when Brent Crude Oil rises above $100 per barrel over a two-week period, like it is now. The policy is aimed at ensuring that major oil price shocks do not disproportionately affect Australian families and businesses. Whether you are growing produce, transporting goods, or simply filling up the tank, this policy would mean the relief is immediate.
No debating or deliberating. Just automatic implementation.A halving of the fuel excise equates to a reduction of 27 cents per litre or around $15 off a tank for the average family car. For household budgets already stretched to the maxunder this government’s cost of living crisis, that cut would make all the difference.
Also included in the Fuel Price Shield, the 32 cent a litre heavy vehicle road user charge would be set to zero, which would lessen the flow-on costs of transportation. Because overall, high fuel prices mean more than just what is paid at the bowser. It means more at the checkout, more at your favourite café, and more on the mortgage.
When the war in the Middle East kicked off earlier this year, Labor dragged their feet in taking action on skyrocketing fuel prices and addressing supply chain issues; remember their major response was to advertise, for us all to inflate our tyres and carry lighter loads. They eventually buckled to pressure and implemented the fuel excise cut, which came off mid-year. Well, fuel prices are back up to similar levels and could yet go higher. Let’s hope the government will see sense or buckle to pressure and provide the relief so desperately needed.
The government can and should pull that excise tax lever now. They can’t control far away wars. But they have the power to lower the price at the pump.
By Cr Peter Sheedy
The current Eisteddfod season, and the extraordinary way in which volunteers, schools, performance groups, families and supporters have come together, has reinforced for me the immense cultural value of the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) to our region.
As a councillor, I have been struck by the depth of community support for the Eisteddfod and what it means to generations of Mackay residents. The MECC, as the flagship performance venue in our region, enables these events to be presented at the highest possible standard through facilities that rival those found anywhere in Australia.
It has been remarkable to witness the MECC successfully host such a diverse range of Eisteddfod performances, many of which have been sold out and supported by enthusiastic, capacity crowds. The level of participation and audience engagement demonstrates not only the popularity of the event but also the important role the MECC plays in bringing our community together.
As a first-term councillor working through the challenges of budget development, I have gained a greater appreciation of the many competing demands placed upon council. Beyond the essential services of roads, water, sewerage, waste collection, parks and gardens, council is responsible for maintaining a wide range of community facilities and infrastructure that contribute to the quality of life enjoyed by our residents.
While our region is fortunate to have a number of excellent venues capable of hosting community events and gatherings, including BB Print Stadium, the MECC occupies a unique and special place within our community. Its outstanding auditorium and professional facilities continue a proud tradition of performance and entertainment that stretches back through the Theatre Royal and Parish Hall eras.
This year's Eisteddfod season has highlighted for me the vital role the MECC plays in fostering creativity, talent and community participation. It has been a real eye-opener to see the dedication of the volunteers, organisers, adjudicators, performers and venue staff who work together so seamlessly to create an experience that is rewarding for participants and audiences alike.
Beyond the Eisteddfod, I have also enjoyed attending visiting productions and major performances throughout the year. These experiences have reinforced my belief that Mackay has found the right balance between supporting local talent and attracting high-quality touring productions.
The MECC is much more than a building. It is a cultural cornerstone for our region, providing opportunities for people of all ages to perform, learn, participate and connect. The success of this year's Eisteddfod season is a powerful reminder of the value the venue delivers to our community and why its continued support remains so important to the cultural life of Mackay.
Photos supplied by Healthy Rivers To Reef
A key marine monitoring program improving understanding of the Isaac coastline will continue for another three years, thanks to renewed funding from Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal Pty Ltd (DBCT P/L – Daly Bay) and Dalrymple Bay Infrastructure (DBI).
Daly Bay and DBI will invest $498,000 in the Southern Inshore Program from July 2026 to June 2029, allowing the program to reach a 10-year monitoring milestone in 2027.
Established in 2017 to fill a critical data gap between Cape Palmerston and Clairview Bluff (south of Mackay), the program has grown from water quality monitoring to include seagrass and coral, providing the only long-term environmental dataset for a little-known section of the Queensland coast.
From underwater coral assessments to seagrass monitoring by helicopter, DBCT P/L Manager of Safety, Risk and Environment, Ricci Churchill, said the program demonstrated what could be achieved when industry, science and community partners worked together toward a shared goal.
“The Southern Inshore Program has become a highly important source of environmental knowledge for the region,” she said.
“Before the program commenced in 2017, there was no data available for this vital area of the Isaac coastline. We are proud to be working with Healthy Rivers to Reef and DBI to support the next phase of monitoring.
“By renewing our support for another three years, we are continuing to invest in the science and partnerships needed to better understand regional ecosystems and ensure future management decisions are backed by robust scientific data.”
DBI Director of Enterprise Planning and Sustainability Tim Bruton said it had been great to see the monitoring expand and mature, providing a much clearer picture of conditions in the Southern Inshore Zone.
“Having access to reliable, long-term environmental data is essential for understanding and managing these important marine ecosystems,” he said.
“DBI is pleased to continue supporting a program that strengthens regional knowledge and helps inform future environmental management.”
The funding allows research partners JCU TropWATER, Australian Institute of Marine Science and University of Queensland to continue gathering and analysing environmental data for the region.
Jaime Newborn, Executive Officer of the Healthy Rivers to Reef Partnership, said the program's next phase planned to expand its focus on iconic marine species such as dugongs and turtles.
"Nine years of monitoring has shown the Southern Inshore Zone supports some of the region's healthiest seagrass meadows, providing critical habitat and food for dugongs and turtles," she said.
"The program regularly records dugong feeding trails, and sightings of green turtles and herds of dugongs during field surveys. The next phase will help us better understand how these species use the area and the important role these healthy ecosystems play.
"This long-term program has transformed our understanding of water quality, seagrass and coral condition along the Isaac coastline.
“We're incredibly grateful to Daly Bay and DBI, together with our research partners, for their ongoing investment and collaboration."
For more information on the Southern Inshore Program, visit www.healthyriverstoreef.org.au.
A showcase from J.Rigby Indigenous Designs. Photo supplied
From photography and Indigenous artwork to garage doors and vital home improvements, the First Nations Business Expo will bring together a diverse mix of local businesses and services for the Mackay region to discover.
Ochre Lens by Venita
Among the returning exhibitors is Ochre Lens by Venita, owned by Mackay photographer Venita Mooney, who has turned a longstanding passion for photography into a trusted business over the past 18 months.
Venita specialises in family portraits, couples, Year 12 formal and event photography, with a particular focus on First Nations cultural and arts events. She also aims to provide a welcoming, culturally safe space for First Nations families, helping them feel comfortable and represented when capturing special family moments. She also creates digital art and paintings, offering visitors an insight into her creative work. Having attended last year's expo as both a photographer and stallholder, she is looking forward to reconnecting with other business owners and introducing more people to her services.
Statewide Sales & Service
Statewide Sales & Service will showcase a range of residential and commercial garage doors, roller doors, panel doors, sectional doors and window shutters. Owned and operated by Adam Doull, the regional business is a Platinum Dealer for B&D garage doors and services areas from Bowen to St Lawrence and west to Emerald. Its mobile B&D To You showroom van brings product samples, colour options, measurements and quotes directly to customers without the inconvenience of visiting a traditional showroom.
With wet and cyclone season approaching, Adam is urging residents to check their garage doors, motors and remotes, and consider whether their doors are cyclone-rated. Visitors can also learn about B&D's new Secure Roll Door, which automatically locks when closed.
J.Rigby Indigenous Designs
Another favourable business returning is J.Rigby Indigenous Designs, owned by Mackay and Middlemount based artist Jessica Rigby. Established in 2002, Jessica's business features unique, traditional Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander artwork across a variety of mediums, including emu eggs, boomerangs and handcrafted jewellery incorporating feathers. With artwork sold internationally and local commissions completed throughout the community, visitors will have the opportunity to discover her handmade creations and artistic style.
Jessica previously participated as the expo's artist in residence, delivering a live art demonstration. She said this year’s expo will be “a wonderful opportunity for other Indigenous businesses to connect and get to know each other more and what other businesses do.”
Event Details
Free and open to everyone, this year’s expo offers an opportunity to discover local services, support First Nations businesses, celebrate regional talent and build connections across the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday regions.
U3A Mackay members knitted and crocheted 810 squares for the Wrap With Love charity during a successful two-month pop-up group, with the squares to be made into wraps for people in need. Photos supplied by U3A Mackay Inc
A successful two-month pop-up knitting and crochet group has seen U3A Mackay members come together to produce 810 squares for the Wrap With Love charity.
The group met on Thursdays at CQUniversity, with members spending their time knitting, crocheting, chatting, laughing and learning along the way.
The completed squares have been sent to Wrap With Love, where they will be stitched together into wraps and distributed throughout Australia and overseas to people in need.
All wool used for the project was generously donated by U3A members, with many others also contributing by knitting and crocheting from home.
Originally introduced as a short-term pop-up activity, the group proved to be a popular success, with organisers indicating it may return next year.
For more information about U3A Mackay activities for retirees, contact admin@u3amackay.com.
Young people across Mackay are putting their hands up to represent their peers, with candidates for the 2026 Mackay Youth Council sharing their ideas, passions and priorities for the region’s future.
From mental health and inclusion to sport, creative opportunities and safer public spaces, here is a look at what each candidate hopes to achieve:
GRACE O’NEILL
“For Mackay’s Youth — May Belonging Be Ever in Your Favour”
Grace is passionate about belonging and youth empowerment, enjoying instrumental music, Irish dancing, Just Dance and long runs with Hugo. She wants to make mental health and wellbeing support easier to access and more normal to discuss, while helping teenagers find their identity and future direction through practical workshops, safe spaces and mentoring.
Priorities: Mental health and wellbeing, safety, inclusion and belonging.
KATELYN RANOLA
“With Great Power Comes Great Responsibility, Empower Our Youth!”
A keen reader and baker who enjoys movies and spending time with friends, Katelyn wants young people to have safe spaces where they feel comfortable and secure, whatever they may be facing. She also wants them to have a voice in the issues and causes they care about.
Priorities: Young people having a say, safety, inclusion and belonging.
ADELAIDE KELLY
“Our Lives, Our Decisions, Our Voice”
Adelaide enjoys music, spending time with friends and being around her pets. She wants more safe spaces where Mackay’s young people can be themselves, feel comfortable and connect with others who may be experiencing similar situations.
Priorities: Mental health and wellbeing, young people having a say, inclusion and belonging.
KINITH ATTANAYAKE
“Choose Air, Choose Your Future”
Kinith enjoys basketball, swimming and cricket, alongside academic challenges such as Opti-MINDS and AMC. His campaign focuses on changing perceptions of vaping, helping young people recognise outside influences and make their own informed choices.
Priorities: Mental health and wellbeing, safety, inclusion and belonging.
MISHA PALOD
“Our Minds Matter”
Misha loves reading, writing and watching movies with friends. She wants to encourage young people to slow down and talk about mental health, working with Council and other young people to establish community activities and youth spaces focused on wellbeing, connection and creativity.
Priorities: Mental health and wellbeing, young people having a say, arts, culture and events.
CHARLOTTE HANCOCK
“Bringing Everyone Together at the Blue River”
Charlotte enjoys netball, animals and the outdoors. She wants to create more opportunities for young people to get creative and connect through kids’ markets, school holiday sports gala days and movie nights at the Blue River.
Priorities: Parks and public spaces, fun creative events for young people.
JAYDEN WONG
“No One Walks Alone”
Jayden enjoys basketball, spending time with friends and playing musical instruments. He wants to help create a safe, inclusive Mackay where younger people can access the mental health and wellbeing support they need, particularly when facing hardship.
Priorities: Mental health and wellbeing, safety, inclusion and belonging.
ARYA
“Arya’s the Name, Making Change Is the Game!”
Passionate about singing, drama and musical theatre, Arya wants young people to lead awareness, change and support initiatives. Her proposed Little Backpack Project would be a youth-led campaign providing essential and comfort items for children entering foster care.
Priorities: Safety, young people having a say, youth-led awareness campaigns.
OLLIE DALGLISH
“Hear the Youth. Heal the Youth.”
Ollie loves musical theatre, is learning guitar and enjoys spending time with friends. He wants young people to have more comfortable, relatable ways to talk about their problems and anxiety.
Priorities: Mental health and wellbeing, safety, inclusion and belonging.
ELLA
“Empowering Every Endeavour: Ella’s Open Opportunities”
Ella enjoys books, spending time with friends and being with her dog. She wants to help young people prepare for future life experiences, from moving away from home to getting a first job, building confidence and independence along the way.
Priority: Giving young people more opportunities.
KAYDEN
“Sports for All, Costs Must Fall!”
A fan of football, outdoor activities, Minecraft and his PS5, Kayden wants to make sport more affordable. He hopes to encourage healthier lifestyles by lowering the cost of sporting activities and giving Mackay’s young people a stronger voice.
Priorities: Sport and recreation, young people having a say, cost of living.
ROBERT JONES
“Pay Goes Down, Bills Go Round, Stand Your Ground”
Robert enjoys singing, animals and spending time with friends. He wants to inspire creative young people in Mackay and beyond to share their thoughts and showcase their creativity.
Priorities: Mental health and wellbeing, arts, culture and events, cost of living.
LOGAN IVORY
“Guess Who’s Back, Back Again, Logan’s Back, Tell a Friend”
Logan enjoys basketball, athletics, fitness, playing drums and piano, painting, community involvement and spending time with his dog Mickey. He wants to create inclusive opportunities through creative arts, sport and fun activities where all young people are welcome.
Priorities: Arts, culture and events, sport and recreation, inclusion and belonging.
GRACE WINTERTON
“We Are the Change”
Grace loves music, debating and animals. She wants young people to feel safe, valued and involved in their community, with more youth spaces and opportunities to have their voices heard through Council.
Priorities: Arts, culture and events, young people having a say, inclusion and belonging.
ARIZONA EVANS
“Strong Voices, Even Stronger Communities”
Arizona loves animals and is learning piano and dancing. She wants to create spaces where young people who do not usually get the chance to speak up can share ideas about improving Mackay and have those ideas considered.
Priorities: Arts, culture and events, young people having a say, parks and public spaces.
STEPHEN MIRANDA
“Youth Out Loud Are Proud”
Stephen’s passion is music, whether playing, reviewing or composing it. He wants young people to help drive a progressive Mackay, encouraging them to speak up for what is right and have a meaningful say in their community’s future.
Priorities: Environment and climate, young people having a say, inclusion and belonging.
CHARLOTTE SHEPPERSON
“Mackay’s Youth Shaping Tomorrow”
Charlotte enjoys netball, singing, drama and musicals. She wants to create fun, educational opportunities that allow young people to continue learning and developing outside the classroom.
Priorities: Arts, culture and events, sport and recreation, education and schools.
CHARLOTTE RICHARDS
“Making It Better for Young People”
Charlotte enjoys sport, academics and the arts, particularly football and basketball, and loves learning new things. She wants to work with Council to provide safer places for young people in communities surrounding Mackay to connect with friends and to ensure their views help shape change.
Priorities: Young people having a say, sport and recreation, mental health and wellbeing.
GEORGIA LITTLE-THOMPSON
“Build a Better Tomorrow, Today”
Georgia loves dance and the arts, using creativity and personal style to express herself. She wants more free, accessible third spaces where young people can socialise, create and connect. She is also passionate about the environment and educating young people about simple ways to protect it.
Priorities: Arts, culture and events, young people having a say, environment and climate.
BLYSS MCKENNA
“Shooting Goals for the Valley”
Blyss enjoys netball, baking and spending time with friends. She wants to bring young people in the valley together through accessible social sports that everyone can play, creating more opportunities for fun and connection.
Priorities: Parks and public spaces, sport and recreation, inclusion and belonging.
RYLEIGH LITTLE
“Better Places to Grow Up”
Ryleigh enjoys cooking, gaming and exploring. She wants to improve facilities in the outer Mackay region to help create a better place for future generations to grow up.
Priorities: Parks and public spaces, jobs and opportunities, transport.
Five new first-year constables have joined police stations across Mackay, Bowen, Sarina and Proserpine, bringing fresh experience and a strong focus on community policing. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Mackay and surrounding regions have just received another five first year constables, bringing fresh faces, new experiences and a range of backgrounds to local police stations.
The new recruits met with Mackay and Whitsunday District commissioned officers, along with Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton, last Thursday as they settle into their new stations across the region.
Mackay Whitsunday District Officer Superintendent Dean Cavanagh said it was an exciting opportunity to welcome the new officers into the district and introduce them to the local community.
“It’s a really exciting opportunity to bring in the new staff, the new skills, new experiences, and invite them into the Mackay Whitsunday District, but also into the big blue family,” he said.
The five constables will be stationed across Bowen, Sarina, Proserpine and Mackay, bringing a broad range of experiences with them.
Among the new recruits is Sarina-based First Year Constable Kai Chin, who moved to Queensland after spending seven years working as a police officer in Taiwan.
While the move has brought a change of scenery, Constable Chin said the work itself felt surprisingly familiar to back home.
“It’s actually surprising for me how similar it is to be a police officer here, as it is in Taiwan,” he said.
“The legislation is different, and the country is a little different, but I think what we do and who we are is basically exactly the same.”
Proserpine First Year Constable Xenia Marianna Vansche is also bringing a different perspective to the region, having moved from Brisbane to begin her policing career in North Queensland.
After completing a Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice, Constable Vansche said her university studies helped cement her decision to join the police force.
“Going through the three years in uni, I did some electives in policing topics, so evidence-based policing, and that kind of cemented my career progression into the police force,” she said.
Her interest in policing also began much earlier, after participating in karate and seeing female police officers involved in demonstrations at school fetes.
“Seeing women’s presence in policing really helped kind of cement it, and then I kind of went through uni and I was like, yeah, this is something I really want to do,” she said.
Superintendent Cavanagh said the new recruits had arrived with the right attitude towards community policing and would spend their first year gaining operational experience alongside training officers.
“They’ve got that great platform now from their learning at the Academy,” he said.
“They join the district now to get that operational experience and make sure that they’re teamed up with training officers to really make sure over this next year they get all the skills they need so they can help our communities.”
Superintendent Cavanagh said the welcome would give senior officers an opportunity to get to know the first-year constables, share and reminisce on stories from their own early days in the force, and offer encouragement as the new recruits began their careers.
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By Member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton
As we approach two years since the election, it's a good opportunity to reflect on some of the commitments we've made to Mackay and the progress being delivered across our community.
Recently, Premier David Crisafulli visited Mackay, where he met with local residents to discuss community safety and hear firsthand about the issues affecting our region. While he was here, I was proud to show him some of the projects that are helping deliver real outcomes for locals.
One of those projects was the completed lighting upgrade at the North Mackay Saints AFL Club. Replacing the ageing lights had been the club's top priority for years and was a commitment we made during the election campaign. The new lights mean players can train and compete at night, providing a safer and more practical option in our tropical climate while supporting the continued growth of the club.
We also visited the new facility being delivered for the Mackay Comedy Players, another election commitment now nearing completion. Backed by a $250,000 commitment, the additional space will provide much-needed storage and operational capacity, helping the group make better use of its existing facilities. It's fantastic to see the project taking shape, with an official opening planned for next year.
Sport continues to play an important role in our community and I'm pleased to see progress continuing on our commitment to deliver a new car park for Mackay Football. Backed by an $800,000 election commitment, the project will help address long-standing parking challenges at the facility and improve access for players, families, volunteers and visitors. The tender process is now underway, representing another important step towards delivering infrastructure that the local football community has been calling for.
Beyond major projects, we've also focused on practical improvements that make a difference in everyday life.
Following concerns raised by local residents, we worked with stakeholders to help secure the recent clean-up of Harbour Beach. It's a good example of what can be achieved when the community raises an issue and organisations work together to find a solution.
I'm also pleased to see the Federal Government back away from its proposed disaster funding cuts. I was proud to stand alongside Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson and join calls to protect this vital funding for regional communities. For a disaster-prone region like Mackay, maintaining strong disaster recovery funding is essential to ensuring local roads, bridges and community infrastructure can be rebuilt when severe weather events occur. The decision provides greater certainty for communities, councils and disaster recovery efforts across Queensland. The Federal Government confirmed it will retain the current disaster recovery funding arrangements after consultation with councils and community groups.
We've also helped ensure Mackay's Australian Army Cadets can access the Play On! Sports Vouchers program, helping more young people participate in activities that build confidence, teamwork and valuable life skills.
Community safety remains one of the issues raised most frequently with my office, and it continues to be a priority. We've seen stronger laws introduced, more police on the beat and continued action to tackle repeat offending and improve community safety. While there is always more work to do, we remain committed to ensuring Mackay receives the resources and support it needs.
Another initiative I am particularly proud of has been helping local students connect with the parliamentary process. Through school visits, virtual sessions and tours of Parliament House, students have had the opportunity to see firsthand how our democracy works. Over the past month, we welcomed students from both Mackay State School and North Mackay State School to Parliament, giving them the opportunity to see how decisions are made and learn more about Queensland's parliamentary system. It's fantastic to see young people taking an interest in the decisions that shape their future.
Delivering for Mackay isn't just about major announcements. It's about listening to the community, following through on commitments and working every day to achieve better outcomes for local families, businesses, sporting clubs and community organisations.
While there is always more to do, I am proud of the progress being made and look forward to continuing to deliver for Mackay.
Local representatives and regional mayors have welcomed the Federal Government's decision to retain existing disaster recovery funding after advocating against proposed cuts. Photo supplied by the office of Andrew Willcox MP
Mackay representatives have welcomed a Federal Government decision to retain existing disaster recovery funding arrangements, following previous concerns that proposed changes could have placed greater financial pressure on regional councils and ratepayers.
As of the 9th October 2026, the Federal Government has abandoned its proposed move to a 50-50 cost-sharing arrangement, confirming the Commonwealth will continue contributing up to 75 per cent of eligible disaster recovery costs when certain criteria are met.
The decision follows consultation and opposition from regional mayors and local government representatives, who raised concerns about the potential impact on communities regularly exposed to cyclones, flooding and severe weather.
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox welcomed the announcement, describing it as a significant outcome for disaster-prone communities across the region.
"This is a huge win for disaster-prone communities like Dawson, and I'm incredibly proud to have fought alongside our regional mayors to get this result," Mr Willcox said.
Mr Willcox said he had worked alongside Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson and Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins to raise concerns about the proposed changes, including during meetings in Canberra.
He said the proposed funding model could have placed a considerable financial burden on councils, with ratepayers potentially facing greater costs when rebuilding essential infrastructure following major disasters.
Drawing on his experience as Whitsunday Mayor during Severe Tropical Cyclone Debbie in 2017, Mr Willcox said recovery involved rebuilding roads, bridges, community facilities and essential infrastructure, with damage running into hundreds of millions of dollars.
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton also welcomed the decision, highlighting the importance of reliable disaster recovery funding for local families, businesses and infrastructure.
“Mackay has experienced firsthand the devastating impacts of cyclones, flooding and severe weather, and we know just how important disaster recovery funding is to getting our community back on its feet,” Mr Dalton said.
“From repairing damaged roads and infrastructure to helping local families and small businesses recover, this funding is absolutely critical for our region.”
In a statement, Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers said the revised framework followed extensive consultation and was intended to provide communities with greater funding certainty after disasters.
The Government also confirmed councils would retain the ability to claim eligible Counter Disaster Operations costs, while funding activation thresholds would be revised.
While the funding arrangement has been retained, Mr Willcox said further details of the remaining disaster recovery reforms still needed to be worked through, adding he would continue monitoring their impact on regional councils.
For Mackay and surrounding areas, the decision maintains the existing Commonwealth contribution towards eligible recovery costs, providing continued support for councils tasked with repairing local infrastructure and helping communities recover when disaster strikes.
A memorial stands at Thomas Mitchell Court in commemoration of Marilyn Wallman. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
More than five decades after 14-year-old Marilyn Joy Wallman disappeared on her way to school in Mackay, renewed coronial proceedings are bringing attention back to a tragedy that has remained unresolved for generations.
Described on community Facebook page What Happened To Marilyn Wallman? as "A girl with a beautiful heart and a wonderful soul", Marilyn was last seen on the morning of 21st March 1972, when she left home on her bicycle to catch a school bus.
According to a historical Queensland Police reward notice, Marilyn left her home at approximately 7.42am, riding towards the Rural Youth Hall at the junction of Wallman and Eimeo roads, where she was due to catch an 8am school bus.
About 10 minutes later, her two brothers travelled along the same route and discovered her bicycle and school bag beside the road, approximately one kilometre from home.
Marilyn was never seen again.
The case was initially treated as a disappearance before becoming a murder investigation, with police believing she may have been murdered. However, no one has ever been charged in connection with her disappearance or death.
A $250,000 reward was offered for information leading to the apprehension and conviction of the person or people responsible, according to a Queensland Police notice. In September 2018, the reward was temporarily increased to $500,000 for 12 months.
A significant development came in January 2015, when DNA testing confirmed that a fragment of skull discovered at McGregor Creek, approximately 40 kilometres from where Marilyn disappeared, belonged to her.
Her disappearance has remained a mysterious part of Mackay's history, with a memorial park at Thomas Mitchell Court commemorating Marilyn. According to Monument Australia, the park was redeveloped in 2015.
Now, 54 years after she vanished, a second coronial inquest is examining the circumstances surrounding Marilyn's disappearance and death, with proceedings taking place in Mackay throughout October.
The Queensland Coroners Court lists the inquest from 7th - 23rd October, 2026.
While the proceedings may help establish further details about what happened, the circumstances surrounding Marilyn's death remain unresolved at the time of print.
For her family and the wider Mackay community, the search for answers continues.
The inquest was adjourned until Thursday 15th October, with further updates to follow.
A second coronial inquest is revisiting the 1972 disappearance and death of 14-year-old Mackay girl Marilyn Wallman, as her family and community continue seeking answers.
Photos supplied
A young Mackay baker has spent part of her school holidays giving back to the community, bringing a batch of homemade cupcakes to the Mackay City Girl Guides for visitors to enjoy.
Dundulla Primary School Year 5 student Healey baked and decorated the iced cupcakes herself before taking them along to the Girl Guides, where the Orange Sky laundry was open.
The cupcakes were shared among those visiting, with Healey heading home with empty containers after her homemade treats were enjoyed.
The visit was a welcome one for the community members who regularly attend the Orange Sky laundry, where food provides an opportunity for people to come together, have a conversation and feel welcomed.
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For some visitors, the time spent at the laundry may be their only social interaction, making the chance to sit down, share food and connect with others an important part of the service.
Sausage sizzles and meals are made available through community donations, along with the time and effort of volunteers who help make them possible.
Healey’s visit added another contribution to the community effort, with her cupcakes providing a treat for those attending during the school holidays.
Her visit also highlighted how young people can contribute to their community by sharing their own skills and giving their time to others.
For Healey, it was a chance to put something she enjoys doing to good use, while giving the Mackay City Girl Guides community a welcome school holiday treat!
Michele Cox, Kim Fox and Chris Pollard, alongside absent fellow foundation member Joyce Savage, are raising awareness and funds for a Hologic Faxitron Trident HD Specimen Radiography System at Mackay Base Hospital. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
By Hannah McNamara
Four women whose lives have been changed by breast cancer are now determined to change the lives of others, turning their own battles into a powerful mission for improved local care. United by their experiences, Michele Cox, Chris Pollard, Kim Foxand Joyce Savage are leading a $150,000 fundraising campaign to bring specialised breast cancer imaging technology to Mackay Base Hospital. Alongside raising vital funds, their initiative is building a community of strength, support and sisterhood, celebrating survivors and ensuring no woman faces the journey alone.
Four women have unexpectedly crossed paths in life, turning a disheartening experience into one of courage, strength and sisterhood.
Michele Cox, Chris Pollard, Kim Fox and Joyce Savage are the four foundation members behind a local initiative raising awareness and funds for a Hologic Faxitron Trident HD Specimen Radiography System, a specialised breast cancer imaging machine for Mackay Base Hospital.
The independent, not-for-profit group aims to raise $150,000 to purchase equipment allowing surgeons to examine tissue removed during breast cancer surgery while patients are still in theatre. Currently, samples are sent away for testing, with patients potentially waiting up to two weeks for results.
The group has also produced a calendar featuring local breast cancer survivors, celebrating their individual journeys through photography.
Chris's aggressive cancer was detected through a routine two-yearly mammogram, with the tumour having grown to around five centimetres. Her treatment included 20 rounds of chemotherapy, 15 rounds of radiation and two breast surgeries.
Kim's diagnosis followed further testing after an unrelated doctor's appointment. Although her mammogram was clear, an ultrasound identified an abnormality.
After undergoing chemotherapy and radiation, Kim said without paying for the additional ultrasound, she would have been “a walking time-bomb”.
“That extra scan saved my life.”
Michele was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer, a rare and aggressive form, after attending a mammogram and ultrasound. Her treatment involved chemotherapy, surgery and radiation.
Reflecting on the difficult days, Michele said her perspective was shaped by the people she loved.
“I’m not a person to cry… but I cried.”
“You have good days, and you have bad days… you also certainly go through the ‘why me?’ moments… but I’m grateful to be here, and I'd rather it be me than my daughter or my granddaughter,” she said.
Joyce, who could not attend the interview as she was undergoing treatment, is living with Stage 4 cancer and has been fighting the disease for several years. Her journey has included a double mastectomy, lymph node removal and numerous rounds of treatment.
Beyond fundraising, the initiative has grown into a support network for survivors, with the group acknowledging it would not be possible without local women who have survived breast cancer or are navigating their own treatment journeys.
Calendar photoshoots have included motorcycle rides, jet skis and boats, showcasing both the women and the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday region.
Chris said watching women grow in confidence had become one of the most rewarding parts of the journey.
“They come around the first time, and they're all quite shy, and then they realise that, hey, there's no judgement here. It's all inclusive and they just flourish.”
The group has received a $5000 donation from Bowen Gun Club, alongside support from local businesses.
Elegance Lymphatic Care at Marian has come on board as the Diamond Sponsor, recognising the importance of supporting the cause after regularly seeing women experiencing lymphoedema following lymph node removal.
With the calendar hoped to become an annual project, the women are determined to continue raising funds and ensuring survivors know they don't have to walk their journey alone.
For more information on the calendar or sponsorship opportunities, contact BreastBuddiesMackay@hotmail.com.
From working the cane fields to welcoming visitors, Oh Deere Farm Stay is putting life on the land in the spotlight, with the local business recently earning recognition across two major tourism awards.
At the Mackay Isaac Tourism Awards, Oh Deere Farm Stay won Unique Accommodation and Tour & Transport Operators, as well as the People’s Choice Award for Accommodation, with both Oh Deere businesses also named Queensland Tourism Awards finalists.
Karinda Anderson says the recognition reflects years of hard work sharing the realities and rewards of life on a working cane farm, while giving visitors a chance to get amongst life on the land.
Guests can enjoy kayaking, catch-and-release fishing and kicking back around the firepit, all surrounded by sugar cane country. Tours take visitors from plant to plate, with powered camping, and unpowered, there’s plenty for the whole family to enjoy.
“Farming isn't just about dirt, dust, snakes and cattle. Farming is where your food comes from, and without a farmer, there won't be any food on our supermarket shelves,” Karinda said.
“We walk you through the full experience, and there’s truly nothing like it.”
Karinda hopes every visitor leaves with a greater appreciation for the people, hard work and love that goes into putting food on our tables.
Beyond the visitor experience, educating the next generation is close to Karinda’s heart, and she credits the many wonderful people behind Oh Deere for its success.
The Queensland tourism awards will be held on the Gold Coast on Friday 6th November, where this year's state winners will be announced.
The Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre has been named a finalist in the 2026 Queensland Tourism Awards for Business Event Venues (Combined State/Regional), reinforcing its reputation as one of Queensland’s leading destinations for conferences, conventions, and business events.
The finalist recognition is a significant achievement for the venue and reflects the commitment, professionalism, and dedication of the MECC team. Every year, the venue welcomes thousands of delegates, guests, and event organisers, delivering high-quality experiences that contribute to the success of events held in Mackay and the surrounding region.
The announcement builds on the MECC’s previous success at the Queensland Tourism Awards, where the venue received a Bronze Award in the Business Events Venue category in 2023. Since then, the team has continued to focus on enhancing event experiences, providing exceptional customer service, and showcasing the Mackay region as a destination for business and events tourism, this year taking second place in the Business Event Venue category at the Mackay Isaac Tourism Awards.
As one of the region’s premier event venues, the MECC plays an important role in attracting visitors, supporting local businesses, and strengthening the visitor economy. From conferences and exhibitions to corporate functions and special events, the venue continues to deliver experiences that leave a lasting impression on attendees while highlighting the region’s unique offerings.
Being named a finalist is not only recognition of the venue’s achievements but also an acknowledgement of the broader tourism and events industry that contributes to Mackay’s growth and success. The MECC is proud to be recognised alongside many outstanding tourism operators from across Queensland and looks forward to celebrating the industry’s achievements at the 2026 Queensland Tourism Awards.
Photo supplied by Mackay Pet Rescue Inc
At just six months old, beautiful Bull Arab Cassius is already winning hearts with his calm nature, gentle spirit and affectionate personality.
Cassius absolutely loves cuddles and will happily curl up beside his people, soak up attention and repay them with plenty of kisses. He is a loving young dog who simply wants to belong.
Like any young pup, Cassius is still learning. He can pull a little on the lead and sometimes gets excited and jumps up, but he is eager to learn and responds well to patient, consistent guidance.
He is crate trained and making good progress with his toilet training, giving his new family a wonderful foundation to build upon.
Cassius would thrive with a family who will include him in their lives, continue his training and help him grow into a confident, well-mannered companion.
In return, he promises plenty of love, cuddles, kisses and loyal companionship.
• Male
• Bull Arab
• Six months old
• Dog friendly
• Cat friendly
• Child friendly
• Pocket pets not tested
• Crate trained
• Adoption fee: $450
Cassius’s veterinary care will be brought up to date, including desexing when he reaches the age considered appropriate by his veterinarian.
Cassius is ready to give his whole heart to a family who will love him just as deeply. If Cassius sounds like the missing member of your family, please complete the online adoption interest form at mackaypetrescueinc.com.au.
Wednesday 7th October was annual Emergency Nurses Day, a time for Mackay Base Hospital to thank its hardworking ED team. Photo supplied
Earlier this week, Emergency Nurses were honoured on a special day dedicated to acknowledging their service.
On Wednesday, 7 October, the attributes and dedication of these professionals were celebrated as part of Emergency Nurses Day.
Known for their quick thinking and compassion, emergency nurses deliver essential, lifesaving care to patients with acute conditions and injuries, while being prepared to deal with almost every eventuality.
This week provided an opportunity to recognise the passion, hard work and round-the-clock dedication of nurses working in the often high-stress environment of Emergency Departments (EDs) across the region.
Locally, Mackay HHS emergency nurses step into a world that most people can only imagine. They walk into the unknown, never knowing whether the next patient presenting to the ED will be a child with a high fever, a car accident victim or someone in cardiac arrest.
“They meet people on the worst days of their lives and show up with skill, compassion and calm in the chaos,” shared a spokesperson from the hospital.
“Today we honour our ED nurses’ courage, experience and heart which define their work daily. Because when every second counts, the world counts on them and THAT is worth recognising every day.”
Emergency nursing opportunities are available at Mackay Base Hospital.
If you are interested in pursuing a career in emergency nursing, Mackay Base Hospital Emergency Department (ED) is currently recruiting motivated and enthusiastic nurses to join the team.
For further information, please contact the ED Nurse Unit Manager at deborah.clyne@health.qld.gov.au or MBHEDNumSupport@health.qld.gov.au.
You can make an impact by beginning or progressing your health career by joining the Mackay HHS nursing workforce.
Other nursing opportunities are also available within the hospital. Head to the Facebook page for full details.
The new MARS system is a game-changer for multiple myeloma detection. Photo credit: Lyndon Mechielsen
A new technology being used by Queensland Health could help improve access to faster and more accurate cancer diagnosis for patients in Mackay and other regional communities.
The MARS system has already been used for more than 100 patients across Queensland to help identify multiple myeloma, a form of blood cancer affecting plasma cells in the bone marrow.
Queensland Health says the technology can more than triple the speed of diagnosis while allowing scientists to detect genetic abnormalities in much smaller amounts of cancerous cells.
For regional patients, one of the biggest potential benefits is the ability to test samples for longer after they have been collected.
Previously, samples containing plasma cells could become unusable if transport to a central laboratory took more than 24 hours. The new system allows samples to be enriched and accurately tested for up to five days after collection.
For Mackay patients, the development comes as the region continues to expand its local cancer and specialist healthcare capacity.
Mackay Base Hospital has a 24-hour Pathology Queensland laboratory, while its oncology service provides care for people across the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday region.
Queensland Health recorded 2,855 cases of multiple myeloma between 2019 and 2023, equivalent to about 570 cases a year.
The MARS system uses magnetic beads to identify and separate myeloma cells from a patient's sample, increasing the concentration of cancerous cells and making genetic abnormalities easier to detect.
Dr Wight said the ability to obtain reliable results earlier was particularly valuable for people outside major metropolitan centres.
“For example, I recently had a patient whose results came back within two weeks, revealing a high-risk chromosomal deletion we weren’t expecting. That single result completely changed the treatment plan and ensured he received the most effective care for his type of myeloma,” he said.
“Having this level of insight, and having it early, is invaluable for regional patients.”
The MARS technology was developed by US company Applied Cells and funded through a Queensland Health innovation program.
By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay
Rural Women’s Day on 15th October is more than a date on the calendar: it’s a moment to recognise the matriarchs whose strength, skill and determination have shaped regional Australia. In the sugar industry, their contribution runs deep, from the earliest days of cane farming to the modern, technology driven sector we know today.
Across the Mackay district and every cane growing region, rural women have always been central to the story of sugar. In the early decades, cane farms were family enterprises in the truest sense. Women worked beside their family in the paddock, kept the books, managed the household and raised children. They were the quiet strategists behind planting decisions, the ones who stretched every dollar, and the glue that held farming families together through droughts, floods, fires and volatile markets.
As the industry modernised, rural women stepped into even more visible leadership roles. They became agronomists, mill technicians, researchers, accountants, and business owners. They led advocacy organisations and represented growers at national forums. Today, women are driving innovation in all facets of the technical and hands-on sectors of rural life in general that will help shape the next generation.
But their impact goes beyond job titles. Rural women have changed the culture of the industry. They’ve brought new perspectives to problem-solving whilst strengthening community networks and championing education and training opportunities that benefit everyone. Their leadership has helped the sugar sector remain resilient and forward-looking, even as global pressures intensify.
Importantly, Rural Women’s Day isn’t just about the sugar industry, it’s about celebrating women across the entire rural landscape. In cattle, horticulture, grains, fisheries, forestry and every regional enterprise, women are essential to productivity, innovation and community wellbeing. They run businesses, teach in rural schools, lead health services, volunteer in emergency response groups, and keep small towns vibrant and connected.
In many cases, rural women are the ones who ensure farms and regional businesses adapt to change. They embrace new technologies, navigate compliance and regulation, manage finances, and build partnerships that strengthen local economies. Their ability to balance practical skills with long-term planning is one of the great strengths of rural Australia.
Yet despite their enormous contribution, rural women often work without recognition. They carry heavy workloads, juggle family responsibilities, and face unique challenges: from limited access to childcare and healthcare to the pressures of isolation and natural disasters. Rural Women’s Day is an opportunity to acknowledge these realities while celebrating the resilience that defines so many women in regional communities.
In the sugar industry, we see that resilience every day. Women who manage farms through unpredictable seasons. Women who lead research into climate adaptation. Women who advocate for fair policy and strong regional investment. Women who support their families, their neighbours, and their communities with unwavering commitment.
Rural women are vital to the future of our industry. Their leadership, creativity and determination strengthen our sector and enrich our communities. On 15th October, we honour their past contributions, celebrate their present achievements, and look forward to the future they are helping to build.
Rural Women’s Day is a reminder that the success of the sugar industry and all of regional Australia is built on the efforts of women who work hard, lead boldly, and care deeply for the places we call home. This week, we celebrate them.
Sarina residents gathered last Wednesday for the popular Green Up Sarina event, with locals able to collect native plants and connect with local groups about plants, gardening, pests and weeds.
The annual event was supported by Sarina Landcare Catchment Management Association, Mackay Natural Environment Centre and the Mackay Regional Council Pest Management Team.
Representatives from Sarina Neighbourhood Hub thanked the volunteers, supporters and organisations involved in making the event possible.
“What an incredible community effort! The success of Green Up Sarina would not have been possible without the dedication, enthusiasm and support of so many wonderful people and organisations,” they said.
Sarina Landcare volunteers and the Community Programs Team, including Jonny and Lara, were among those who volunteered their time to help deliver the event.
The organising team included Chrissy and Sonia and the Mackay Natural Environment Centre Nursery team, Saskia and Susie alongside the Sarina Landcare Catchment Management Association Nursery team, and Kevin Anderson from Sarina Neighbourhood Centre.
Deputy Mayor Karen May, Cr Anne Baker and Cr Ash-Lee Johnson were also acknowledged for their support.
The event received funding support from Mackay Regional Council and the Queensland Government.
Green Up Sarina also provided an opportunity for residents to access native plants, with similar plant giveaway days forming part of broader local efforts to encourage residents to green their properties.
Last year, more than 102,000 plants were distributed by the Mackay Natural Environment Centre through events such as Green Up days and Mackay Regional Council’s click and collect program.
The Sarina Neighbourhood Hub representatives thanked everyone who contributed to the event.
“Together, we are creating a greener, healthier and more connected Sarina. Thank you to everyone who planted, volunteered, organised, supported and participated. Your contribution helps make our community a wonderful place to live, learn and grow.”
Last Wednesday, Sarina residents came together for Green Up Sarina, collecting native plants and receiving gardening advice while local volunteers, organisations and supporters helped make the community event a success. Photo source: Sarina Neighbourhood Centre
By Michelle Landry MP, Federal Member for Capricornia
Small businesses are the engine room of our economy, but many across Central Queensland could be forgiven for wondering whether Canberra understands just how difficult it is to keep their doors open.
Everywhere I go, business owners tell me about rising power bills, insurance, wages, rent, supplies and compliance costs.
Now they face another challenge following the removal of card surcharges.
While customers will no longer see a separate surcharge at the checkout, the cost of processing transactions does not simply disappear. Businesses still pay those costs and, where they cannot be absorbed, they inevitably put further pressure on margins and prices.
Then came the Australian Taxation Office’s decision to stop accepting credit card payments rather than absorb merchant costs itself.
The irony should not be lost on anyone.
If the Government’s own tax collector is unwilling to absorb these costs, how does Canberra expect a family-run café, butcher, tradie or retailer to do it?
There cannot be one standard for Canberra and another for the corner store.
Meanwhile, as temperatures rise, Central Queensland’s tourism and hospitality businesses should be preparing for a busy summer.
Instead, uncertainty surrounding the Working Holiday Maker program is creating another headache.
Working holiday makers are not simply tourists. They spend money in our communities while providing an important seasonal workforce for farms, restaurants, accommodation providers and tourism operators.
Around one in five international holiday visitors to our region are working holiday makers, representing thousands of visitors spending money with local businesses each year.
Our agricultural sector is equally reliant on seasonal workers. Mangoes and pineapples cannot simply wait because there aren't enough people available to harvest them.
That is why the Coalition’s new migration policy is about ensuring regional Australia gets the workers we need, where we need them and when we need them – particularly during critical harvest periods.
It raises a broader question: do decision-makers in Canberra truly understand what it takes to run a small business or farm in regional Australia?
Small business owners work long hours, employ local people and invest in their communities.
They don't want special treatment.
They want certainty, sensible policy and a government that understands the consequences of its decisions.
Small business needs government in its corner, not standing in its way.
Premier David Crisafulli and Glen Kelly MP during a recent visit to the Field of Dreams, Sarina. Photo supplied
By Glen Kelly MP
There is a real sense of momentum building in Sarina. For generations, Sarina has been the gateway to North Queensland a proud sugar town with a strong community, great local businesses and some of the best lifestyle opportunities in our region. But I believe we are now entering an exciting new chapter for the town.
You only have to drive through Sarina to see that things are changing. New investment is happening, The Crossing estate is set to bring a new generation of families to town. That growth means more customers for our local businesses, more kids joining our schools and sporting clubs, and greater confidence for people to invest in Sarina’s future.
For too long, there has been a perception that Sarina is the poor cousin to Mackay. I don’t accept that. Sarina has an enormous amount going for it. It has the lifestyle and community spirit of a country town, strong agricultural and industrial foundations, and the incredible Southern Beaches right on its doorstep.
Another major advantage is that Sarina has more than one way in and out of town. That connectivity gives us options and is a real strength as we think about future growth, investment.
As Sarina grows, we have an opportunity to think about what we want the town to look like in 10, 20 and 30 years. That means planning for the roads, sporting facilities, community infrastructure and public spaces that a growing population will need. It also means supporting our existing businesses while encouraging new investment into the area.
We should be ambitious about Sarina’s future while protecting the character and community spirit that make people proud to call it home. As the local Member, I want to make sure Sarina gets the attention and investment it deserves and that the community has a strong voice in shaping what comes next.
Importantly, we have a Premier who understands the value of regional towns like Sarina and the role they will play in Queensland’s future. That gives us a real opportunity to make the case for the infrastructure and investment Sarina needs as it grows.
A holiday trip to New Zealand took a frightening turn for Mackay’s Nick Bennett last month when he suffered a sudden and life-threatening medical emergency at Mackay Airport.
The former police officer, who now works as a facilitator, team builder and performance coach, was preparing to board a flight with his wife Rowena when he suddenly began feeling faint and his blood pressure dropped rapidly.
While Rowena went to get him some water, Nick collapsed at the airport. Initially, it was thought he may have been suffering a stroke.
In fact, he was experiencing severe lower gastrointestinal bleeding, resulting in a dangerous drop in blood pressure and haemorrhagic shock.
“There was blood everywhere, so my wife called immediately for help and an ambulance. The airport fire crews arrived quickly and an ambulance followed,” Nick said.
“Rowena, the amazing woman that she is and so calm in the moment, organised our bags off the plane, all while this crisis was happening.”
Nick was quickly attended to by airport fire crews and paramedics before being transported by ambulance, under lights and sirens, to the Mackay Base Hospital Emergency Department.
“I honestly thought I was gone; there was so much blood, about 2.5 litres apparently,” he said.
“I had no control over my body and I felt my life blood just rushing out.”
Nick was given four bags of blood before being rushed into emergency surgery, where medical staff located and treated the source of the bleeding.
He spent four days in the surgical unit before being discharged to continue his recovery at home.
The experience was another in a spate of medical events for Nick, who previously survived three serious cardiac episodes over 13 years, as well as a machete attack while trekking the Black Cat Track in Papua New Guinea.
Reflecting on his latest medical emergency, Nick said he wanted to share his experience as a way of processing what had happened and recognising the people who helped him through it.
He paid tribute to his wife, airport staff, emergency responders and the medical teams at Mackay Base Hospital.
“We have amazing people in our Mackay Base Hospital. You are such special people who are confronted with others' trauma daily and your calm in the chaos made it much more manageable for both myself and my wife,” he said.
“A massive thank you to my beautiful wife for your incredible love, self-control and calm.
“Thank you for the sincere concern and support from the Mackay Airport staff who were so quick to respond and to the airport fire team and two young ambulance officers who also helped us.
“Thank you to the Mackay Base Hospital ED staff who were more than amazing in what they were dealing with. And thanks also to the General Surgery Unit (GSU) staff who are just incredible. My life was literally in your hands.
“I am eternally grateful and indeed very fortunate.
“Thank you, thank you, thank you.”
OPINION PIECE by Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox
George Orwell imagined a world where the state did not merely control what people said, but sought to control what they could think.
More than 75 years after Nineteen Eighty-Four, we have something Orwell could never have imagined: almost every Australian carries a device that puts the world’s information in the palm of their hand. We can reach across the world, hear different views, challenge what we are told and make up our own minds.
Yet the Albanese Labor Government is now proposing to put itself between Australians and that information.
Labor calls its proposal a ‘Digital Duty of Care’ and says it is about keeping children safe online.
Every parent wants their children to be safe online. But protecting children cannot be used to justify giving the Government power over what Australians see, read and discuss online.
I have been inundated with emails and phone calls from people across Dawson who are angry about this legislation. They are angry that the Government wants a say over something that should never be in its hands: what Australians see, read and discuss online.
The Government says the framework is about making platforms responsible for foreseeable harms and giving Australians greater control over algorithmically curated content.
But there is a world of difference between giving you control over your own feed and giving a minister power over what platforms must do with the information they provide.
One puts the power in your hands. The other puts more power in the hands of government.
But then the Prime Minister said the quiet part out loud. This was sold as a law to protect children. Yet in New York, Anthony Albanese was talking about misinformation, disinformation and political polarisation, saying digital technology affects “our entire society and how it functions”.
There it is.
This is no longer just about protecting children. It is about Government deciding what information Australians should be exposed to.
That is Government overreach. And Australians are angry about it.
This is exactly why the Coalition has rejected this legislation in its current form.
Because no government should be handed a blank cheque to decide what Australians can read, see and hear.
That is how political censorship starts, with a government deciding which information is harmful, which views are dangerous and which conversations need to be controlled.
Orwell understood where government control of information can lead. He knew that when those in power control what people know, they can start controlling what people believe.
Labor says it wants to give Australians more control over algorithms. But the answer cannot be to give the Government more control over what those algorithms show us.
That does not give Australians more freedom. It gives the Government more power.
Labor has replaced the algorithm with the Albo-rithm.
And that is not a joke about the Prime Minister. It is a warning about the power of the office.
Today, the concern may be misinformation or polarisation. Tomorrow, the definitions could be broader, the political circumstances could be different, and the minister holding that power could be someone you profoundly disagree with.
I will oppose this legislation in its current form because it threatens fundamental freedoms and gives government powers that could be used to restrict lawful speech, access to information and open debate.
Opinion Piece By Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox
As of October 1, consumers are no longer charged a surcharge to use a credit or debit card. For many who like to know the cost of their meal before they head to the front counter, this will be a welcome change.
However, the charge has not disappeared. The cost of processing these transactions has not gone away. Businesses, particularly small businesses, will need to decide whether to absorb these costs or build them into the price of their goods and services.
Small businesses across Dawson have some real concerns. Many have told me that while they understand customers don't want unexpected fees at the checkout, they now have to deal with being left to absorb another cost. For a business operating on already tight margins, even relatively small transaction fees can add up over multiple sales.
That is why reform must address the underlying cost of card payments, rather than simply moving that cost from one place to another. For the privilege of providing customers with card payment options, businesses must factor in merchant fees, terminal rental fees and gateway charges. For larger businesses like supermarkets and airlines, there is greater power to negotiate with payment providers. Small businesses though, do not have the same bargaining power.
Then there’s the other side of this change. When businesses are no longer able to apply a surcharge to customers who choose to pay by credit card, an important element of consumer choice is removed: pay by cash and avoid the surcharge or pay by credit card and accept the additional cost associated with that payment method. Removing that choice does not make the cost disappear; it simply moves the cost from an individual transaction, into the broader cost of doing business, where it can ultimately be spread across all customers.
Small businesses in our region are already doing it tough. The cost of doing business has risen dramatically in the last few years. They are paying higher rents, higher electricity prices and facing more regulation.
For many businesses, it feels like every time they open their inbox there is more bad news – more tax, more government regulation, more green and red tape, more complex industrial relations rules and more bill pain.
Margins are shrinking and keeping the doors open is becoming more challenging. The changes to card surcharges are just another impost, another cost, another stress point these businesses have to contend with.
Government should be playing their part in reducing the burden on small business, so business owners can get back to working in their business, not working on just paperwork. Unfortunately, under the current Labor government, the opposite is happening.
Removing the surcharge line on the customer receipt does not remove the cost of accepting card payments. For businesses already facing rising costs and shrinking margins, adding another cost is another pressure on their ability to stay viable.
The Government should ensure that removing card surcharges does not simply mean small businesses are left carrying the cost.
Reflections from Councillor Nathenea McNamara
One of the things I really enjoy about co-chairing council’s Economic Development and Growth Strategic Advisory Committee is having the opportunity to look beyond what Mackay needs today and consider what our region may need five, ten and even twenty years from now.
Recently, our committee considered a Short-Term Accommodation Needs Analysis looking at Mackay’s future accommodation needs and what increasing economic activity could mean for our region.
When we think about short-term accommodation, we often immediately think about tourists and holidaymakers. But in Mackay, the picture is much broader than that.
Our accommodation sector also supports business travellers, contractors, major projects, conferences and events, visiting families and people coming to our region for work.
As Mackay continues to grow and attract investment, we need to make sure our accommodation capacity grows with it.
The analysis looked at our existing accommodation supply, future demand and where potential gaps may emerge. It also highlighted some of the challenges associated with attracting new hotel development, including construction costs and the commercial viability of projects.
This is where having good information becomes so important.
Council isn’t in the business of building hotels, but we can play an important role in understanding what our region needs, identifying opportunities and ensuring we have the evidence available when talking with potential investors and developers.
It also helps us think more broadly about opportunities such as mixed-use developments and how accommodation can support our wider economic development, tourism and events strategies.
For me, this is exactly the type of forward planning we should be doing.
If we want Mackay to continue attracting major events, conferences, new industries and investment, we need to consider all the infrastructure that sits around that growth and accommodation is part of that picture.
Sometimes the work happening behind the scenes in council’s advisory committees isn’t particularly visible to the community, but reports like this are important.
They help us understand where we are today, where the gaps may be tomorrow, and what we can do now to help ensure Mackay is ready for the opportunities ahead.
If you’re interested in learning more, the full Short-Term Accommodation Needs Analysis is available on Mackay Regional Council’s website at www.discovermackay.com.au/Invest/Resources
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Indigenous businesses from across the Mackay, Whitsunday and Isaac regions will come together with local procurement representatives when the First Nations Business Expo returns to Mackay for its fifth year. Photo supplied
Over recent years, the Mackay Isaac Whitsunday Indigenous Business Working Group has delivered a series of First Nations business events that have become a key part of Indigenous Business Month celebrations. Next up is the 2026 First Nations Business Expo, set to take place on October 22nd.
From the original Meet the Buyer Supplier Event to the 2025 expo, the events so far have provided a platform for First Nations businesses to showcase their capabilities, build networks and connect with procurement and growth opportunities.
What began as a regional networking event has evolved into an annual gathering connecting Indigenous entrepreneurs with government agencies, major industry buyers, procurement specialists, business support organisations and community stakeholders.
Each year, the event has attracted around 115 registrations and featured Indigenous suppliers from a broad range of industries, including construction, engineering, professional services, recruitment, catering, manufacturing, civil works, arts, retail and community services.
The focus has been on increasing the visibility of First Nations businesses, strengthening buyer-supplier relationships and creating pathways into procurement opportunities.
The results have included 11 opportunities for further supply of products and services, nine prospective contract or subcontract opportunities, seven potential prequalification opportunities and four invitations to apply for tenders.
More than 70 per cent of participating businesses reported making between four and 10 new business connections, while 94 per cent said they would recommend the event to other Indigenous businesses.
The 2025 expo attracted expressions of interest from more than 40 businesses, with 32 First Nations businesses ultimately exhibiting across sectors including mining, tourism, construction, health, education, banking and technology.
A dedicated procurement panel gave exhibitors the opportunity to hear directly from procurement professionals about upcoming opportunities, supplier requirements and pathways into government and corporate supply chains.
Feedback from the 2025 event was overwhelmingly positive, with all responding businesses saying they would recommend the expo and participate again. Ninety-five per cent of attendees said they were very likely to use Indigenous businesses they met at the event, while all respondents said they would recommend those businesses to others.
As the expo continues to grow, it remains a platform for celebrating First Nations business capability while supporting meaningful economic participation and sustainable growth across the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday regions.
Abortion continues to be the subject of public discussion and differing views across Queensland, with a peaceful march planned in Mackay this Saturday, October 10th in Mackay, beginning at Harbour Road and finishing at Caneland Central Park.
Pro-life movement supporters are expected to gather from 8.45am, with speakers to follow at 9am before the march gets underway.
The Mackay March For Life aims to stand for the value and dignity of every human life, while providing an opportunity for those involved in the pro-life movement to publicly voice their views on abortion, support women and families, and advocate for the protection and dignity of unborn life.
Associated with the Cherish Life organisation, organisers say the event is intended to provide an opportunity for people who support the pro-life movement to publicly express their views on abortion, support for women and families, and the protection and dignity of the unborn.
The march comes as abortion remains a topic of ongoing public discussion, with Queensland legislation setting out the circumstances in which a termination of pregnancy can legally be performed.
According to the Queensland Government, termination of pregnancy, also referred to as abortion, is a safe and legal healthcare procedure in Queensland.
The Queensland Government states there are two types of termination: medical and surgical. A medical termination involves taking medicines to end a pregnancy, while a surgical termination involves an operation and is performed in a hospital or private clinic. Depending on gestation, medical termination may be available at home or in hospital, with some people up to nine weeks pregnant able to access medical termination through telehealth.
Under Queensland law, a medical practitioner may perform a termination when a person is not more than 22 weeks pregnant. After 22 weeks, two medical practitioners must consider the circumstances and both agree that the termination should be performed.
The Queensland Government states doctors must consider relevant medical circumstances, as well as the person’s current and future physical, psychological and social circumstances and applicable professional standards and guidelines. In an emergency, a termination after 22 weeks may be performed without this consultation if a doctor considers it necessary to save the life of the pregnant person or another unborn child.
Those wishing to attend the march are invited to meet at Harbour Road from 8.45am on Saturday October 10th with speakers beginning at 9am before the march proceeds to Caneland Central Park.
What: Mackay March For Life
When: 8.45am, Saturday 10th October
Where: Harbour Road across from the big banana
Image for illustrative purposes only. Photo Source: Shutterstock
Locals looking for a fun and active way to spend their Sunday morning can lace up their walking shoes and head to Bucasia Esplanade for a community Walk & Talk this month.
Held on Sunday, October 11 as part of Queensland Mental Health Week 2026, the free event will bring Northern Beaches residents together for a relaxed morning of walking, conversation and connection.
The morning will kick off at 8am at the big shade shelter on Bucasia Esplanade, with the Walk & Talk getting underway at 8.15am.
There is no set distance or pace, making the walk suitable for kids, adults, families, friends, neighbours and everyone in between. Participants can walk for as long as they like before turning around when they are ready.
Along the way, mindfulness prompts will encourage walkers to slow down, take notice of their surroundings and enjoy a bit of time outdoors. They can also be used as conversation starters for walking buddies or simply as a chance for a quiet moment of reflection.
After the walk, participants will head to Beachfront Bar & Restaurant from 9.15am for light refreshments, with coffee available to purchase.
Prams are welcome, while dogs can also join in provided they are kept on a lead, with one dog per person.
The event is co-hosted by Mackay Northern Beaches Lions Club and Northern Beaches Community Network, with registration appreciated for catering purposes.
WHAT: Walk & Talk Event
WHEN: Sunday, 11th October
WHERE: Bucasia Esplanade
BMA CQ Rescue crews have completed a test landing at the newly refurbished Mackay Base Hospital helipad as the facility moves closer to becoming operational. Photo source: BMA CQ Rescue
BMA CQ Rescue crews have responded to a string of medical emergencies including a near-drowning at Hardy Reef and a horse fall near Proserpine.
The community-funded aeromedical service said its crews were tasked to multiple incidents throughout the week, supporting patients across the region and beyond.
A male patient involved in a near-drowning at Hardy Reef Pontoon was winched by the rescue helicopter and transported to Mackay Base Hospital.
The crew also responded to several cardiac-related incidents from Emerald and Bowen to Mackay, as well as a horse fall near Proserpine, with the patient transported to Mackay Base Hospital.
A mother and child were also retrieved from Hamilton Island, with the child requiring assessment for a suspected chest infection.
The team was additionally tasked to Owens Creek following an incident in which a patient sustained burns.
The patient was treated by the BMA CQ Rescue team before being transported by road to Mackay Base Hospital.
The busy week also saw an important milestone for Mackay's aeromedical services, with the crew completing a test landing and take-off at the newly refurbished Mackay Base Hospital helipad.
BMA CQ Rescue said the test was an important step towards the helipad becoming operational and the return of aeromedical retrievals to Mackay Base Hospital.
The service continues to rely on community support to maintain its emergency response capability across the region.
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