By Amanda Wright Amidst the flurry of campaign posters and eager constituents, three distinct figures emerge, each carrying a story as colourful as a Shoal Point sunset, each vying to be our region’s next Mayor. First in the lineup is Greg Williamson, a name familiar to many, not just for his tenure as Mayor but for his roots deeply embedded in Mackay's community. Yet, few know of his formative years spent amidst the disciplined ranks of the Air Force cadets. It was there, under the wing of mili
Read the full storyImagine our community as a stage, set for a performance unlike any other. As the curtains draw back on the upcoming local elections, the spotlight falls on three individuals poised to take centre stage in shaping our collective future. On page 30, David Fisher, our friend from Gardian, shares his candid perspective on the candidates. He humorously admits his dilemma of remaining neutral due to his friendships with all three contenders. It's a sentiment many of us can relate to! I, too, find myse
Read the full storyAs the demand for commercial real estate investment continues to surge, the team at Gardian Real Estate, hosted a commercial insight night where guests were given the opportunity to learn the ins and outs of growing interest and investment demands in commercial real estate. Monday night’s event at Ocean International presented an invaluable platform to explore current market trends and potential benefits of investment as professional keynote speakers embedded in the industry informed and educa
Read the full storyOn a typical night out, Jayme Wilson was enjoying dinner with her friend and children just as a police car pulled up nearby on the side of the restaurant.
As Jayme’s son Jack eyed off the police car, much to their surprise the kind officer noticed the young boys’ interest and called out, inviting him to meet a very special companion…his police dog.
In excitement and awe, Jack leaped at the opportunity to meet the dog on duty alongside friendly police officer, Paul.
During this encounter, Jack got the chance to discover the significant responsibilities that a police dog carries out in the police force as Paul took the time to educate young Jack and allow him to engage with the paw-patrolling pup!
Reflecting on the experience, Jayme expressed her gratitude towards the police officer Paul for his positive encouragement and willingness to teach her son about the police dog, embedding a positive impact on Jack.
“The officer was so gentle and encouraging to my son during the whole experience.
“This was such a positive experience for my son.
“Paul went the extra mile tonight for Jack and it really made his night,” she said.
“Thank you to Paul, the policeman.”
Caption: Kind police officer Paul, introduces young Jack to his police dog and teaches him all about the special duties of a paw-patrolling pup
In a tragic incident that unfolded on Saturday, March 9, Ryan Craig, a 40-year-old resident of North Eton, lost his life in a boating accident at Kinchant Dam near Mackay. Mr Craig's heroic act of attempting to save his nine-year-old daughter from drowning during the incident has garnered widespread tributes from the community.
The sequence of events began when Mr Craig and his daughter went overboard from their boat sometime after 11 am, prompting an immediate search and rescue operation. Despite extensive efforts from volunteers, search and rescue personnel, and assistance from a passing jet skier who aided in the rescue of Mr Craig's daughter, Mr Craig's body was recovered from the dam after more than 48 hours of search efforts.
The circumstances leading to the accident, including the cause of the boat's breakdown, remain under investigation. Adverse weather conditions have been cited as a contributing factor, possibly resulting in the sinking of the vessel. Police said the boat was recovered from the dam just after 12pm on Sunday, March 10th.
Mr Craig's family was present at the time of the incident and was safely escorted to the dam's shore. His daughter, who was rescued from the water, was taken to Mackay Base Hospital as a precautionary measure.
In response to the tragedy, the recreational use of Kinchant Dam was temporarily suspended over the weekend to facilitate the search and rescue efforts. Multiple agencies, including the police, fire, ambulance, RACQ CQ Rescue helicopter service, SES, and VMR Mackay, collaborated in the operation.
The loss of Mr Craig has deeply affected the community, with an outpouring of grief and support expressed across social media platforms. Friends and acquaintances fondly remember Mr. Craig, affectionately known as RYNO6, for his positive impact and selfless actions.
As authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, the community mourns the loss of Ryan Craig and extends heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones.
Caption: RACQ CQ Rescue was part of the emergency response in searching for Ryan Craig at Kinchant Dam. Photo supplied: RACQ CQ Rescue
Ryan and Sheena Craig
Last week, the first Honours and Awards Ceremony for the Mackay Whitsunday Police District were held at the Ocean International Resort in South Mackay.
Acting Assistant Commissioner Graeme Paine and Acting Superintendent Emma Novosel were both on hand to present all awards.
Individual officers from across the district were selected to receive acknowledgements including National Police Service Medal, National Medal and Clasps, QLD Police Service Medal and Clasps, National Emergency Medal - linked to TC Debbie 2017, District Officers Certificate and Assistant Commissioner's Certificate.
In addition, residents and members from Neighbourhood Watch groups received Neighbourhood Watch Certificates reflecting their years of service.
The police service extended its thanks to the families of officers who live through the ups and downs and continue to show their support every day.
Our beautiful blue water river is now more accessible than ever with the opening of the Pioneer River Floating Pontoon.
The pontoon can be accessed via a gangway from the Brisbane Street fishing pier, next to the Bluewater Quay.
Mackay Regional Council’s Director Planning, Growth and Sustainability, Aletta Nugent, said the pontoon was an exciting part of council’s Mackay Waterfront Riverside Revitalisation project.
“It’s fantastic to have this project reach fruition, thanks to an amazing joint effort by our council project team and contractor SMC Marine,” Ms Nugent said.
“The pontoon will open the river up to recreational and commercial watercraft users, allowing access to load and unload for a day of recreation,” she said.
The pontoon is designed for boating and non-motorised watercraft access, with commercial use by permit only.
Ms Nugent said while anglers could use the pontoon, watercraft would have priority use at all times.
“The Brisbane Street fishing pier, next to the pontoon, is obviously designed for keen fisher people, with artificial reefs sunk immediately in front of it,” Ms Nugent said.
“If anyone does choose to fish off the pontoon, it’s important that they wind in and clear the way for any approaching boats immediately,” she said.
“Our Mackay City and Waterfront team are working with the community and local businesses to roll out placemaking and activation activities across the city centre and waterfront.”
This project is jointly funded by the Australian Government and Mackay Regional Council.
By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay
CANEGROWERS Mackay has been attacked on social media in recent weeks by a council candidate, who asserted that CANEGROWERS Mackay had collaborated with a Mayoral candidate to agitate on the rates issue.
CANEGROWERS Mackay had extended an open invitation via social media to any Mayoral and council candidates to meet with the Board. The Board and District Manager have met with all who have requested such a meeting.
CANEGROWERS Mackay has not assisted, funded or endorsed any candidate in the upcoming local election.
Rates and other rural issues have been a discussion point with all visiting candidates.
As a grassroots organisation, CANEGROWERS Mackay continues to advocate for ALL members in need. We will work with the new council on issues affecting our members, whether that is an issue of individual or collective concern.
CANEGROWERS is unapologetic that it has spoken up for members who have had increases of up to 300 per cent in valuations, and who have had consequent substantial rate rises - into the thousands.
CANEGROWERS Mackay leadership went to council, meeting with the CEO, Mayor and Deputy Mayor as new valuations came in, in the first half of 2023.
Council decreased the rate from 0.0278 to 0.0225, although it did not communicate this result to CANEGROWERS. That rate is still comparable to the rate paid by Paget mining service and engineering firms - many of which are major multi-national corporations.
The CANEGROWERS Mackay leadership went to the media in September, following the release of rates notices, when it became clear that some growers – family businesses - were facing massive rates increases.
The organisation’s decision to speak out came in response to member requests for advocacy, and predates any council electioneering.
While it is positive that 60 per cent of growers have had a small decrease in rates, with the decrease in cents-in-the-dollar rate for the Cane farming land category, it remains a fact that growers on properties closer to the city and along the river – in areas like Richmond, Pleystowe, Habana, and valley areas that is being sought by lifestyle block landowners have suffered substantial Land Valuation increases. These areas are also typically quality agricultural land. While Council is not responsible for State Land Valuations, it does have the liberty to structure its rating system as it wishes, and can mitigate the impact of land valuations.
Council rates and charges are a significant expense for our members and CANEGROWERS will continue to advocate on behalf of our members to keep all costs, including council charges, at reasonable levels.
At the State level, CANEGROWERS has worked with the Qld Farmers Federation to raise the impacts of rates on farmers. Together we have advocated for the existing State guidelines for equity and fairness in rating practices to become mandatory and we have invested in 5 years of analysis to benchmark the rating practices of relevant councils across the State. CANEGROWERS also meets regularly with the State Valuer General in an effort to ensure the valuation process is informed by the best possible data and knowledge.
CANEGROWERS Mackay considers it vital that land under cane is retained and that productivity continues to flourish. This is vital for the viability of the industry into the future. It is a considered responsibility to speak up when there are issues - such as high rates costs – which challenge that. It matters for our members, it matters for the sugar industry supply chain, and it matters for the regional economy. Sugar is a keystone sector, and its base is the 1200+ cane-growing businesses.
Locally, over 5000 jobs rely on the sugar industry, and it is worth over $900M in the regional economy. Mackay Regional Council draws some $14.4 M in rates from the cane growing sector.
It is indeed unfortunate that the banding system for rural properties that councillors sought to introduce in 2018 did not succeed, and succumbed to internal council conflict and disunity. CANEGROWERS Mackay is on the public record supporting the plan to band rural rates (Daily Mercury, 28/6/18) but ultimately it was a matter for the council of the day to determine.
It has also been distasteful to see the name of deceased CANEGROWERS Mackay CEO Kerry Latter derogated in the context of a chapter that is now history, for the sake of a cheap political rant. There were no deals made by this organisation, there were no “missed” meetings, as suggested by the councillor in question.
We look forward to working with the incoming Mackay Regional Council, and we will maintain the fight for our members interests.
We encourage members – and the regional community - to vote this local election according to their own conscience, priorities and concerns and how each candidate meets those criteria.
Photo credit: Kirili Lamb
As the vibrant hues of summer slowly fade into the golden shades of autumn, gardeners across Australia have a prime opportunity to embrace the changing seasons and engage in the art of autumn planting. Contrary to popular belief, autumn is not just a time for garden maintenance but also a perfect window for sowing seeds and transplanting seedlings. With its mild temperatures and ample rainfall in many regions, autumn sets an ideal stage for nurturing a variety of flowers and produce, ensuring a colourful and bountiful garden in the months to come.
One of the joys of autumn planting lies in the diversity of flora and fauna that can thrive during this season. From hardy perennials like pansies and violas to delicate blooms such as chrysanthemums and asters, there is a wide array of flowers that can be planted during this time. These plants not only add aesthetic appeal to the garden but also provide essential nourishment for pollinators like bees and butterflies, contributing to the overall ecosystem health.
In addition to flowers, autumn is also a prime time for planting a variety of fruits and vegetables, ensuring a fresh harvest throughout the cooler months. From leafy greens like lettuce and spinach to root vegetables like carrots and radishes, the autumn garden can be an abundance of nutritious produce.
Before diving into autumn planting, it's essential to consider a few key factors to ensure success. Firstly, selecting the right plants for your region and climate is crucial. While Australia boasts diverse climatic zones, understanding your local conditions will help you choose plants that are best suited to thrive in your garden. Additionally, preparing the soil by adding organic matter such as compost or aged manure can improve its fertility and structure, providing an optimal environment for plant growth.
Autumn planting offers a wonderful opportunity for Aussie gardeners to cultivate a vibrant and productive garden. By selecting the right plants, preparing the soil, and providing proper care, you can enjoy a bounty of blooms and produce that will brighten your outdoor space and nourish your body throughout the cooler months. So roll up your sleeves, grab your gardening tools, and let the autumn planting season begin!
Mackay Regional Council employees have proven that serving the community runs in their veins.
Last month, council was presented the annual Red Cross Lifeblood Teams award for ranking number one in the Mackay region for the most blood and plasma donations in 2023.
Council’s contributions were tracked as part of Red Cross Lifeblood Teams program, which saw staff from more than 299 local workplaces roll up their sleeves to give blood and plasma throughout the year.
Council’s team made more than 162 donations in 2023, helping to save more than 486 lives.
Council’s Chief Executive Officer, Scott Owen praised council employees for their generosity which has helped to save so many lives.
“Giving to the community is something that comes naturally to our staff – it's in their blood,” Mr Owen said.
“I would like to congratulate and thank all of our employees who rolled up their sleeves to give blood in 2023 – what an excellent effort,” he said.
“Collectively, workplaces in the Mackay region made more than 3096 donations in 2023 as part of the Lifeblood Teams program, helping to save more than 9288 lives – a huge achievement!” he said.
“We hope to see even more workplaces get involved this year, as every drop counts.”
Community Resilience Officer Davina Harrison said she enjoyed giving blood and plasma knowing that it quite literally saved lives.
“I have a rare blood condition which prevents me from safely having children, so I had to receive special medicine which is derived from plasma donations to allow me to have my four beautiful children,” Ms Harrison said.
“They would not be here today if I didn’t have access to the medicine which is only available due to the generous blood donations of others,” she said.
“So, donating regularly is something really important and practical that I can do, which I know makes a big difference to so many people.
“It’s quick, easy and relatively painless! I strongly encourage others to donate.”
Figures from Australian Red Cross Lifeblood show that one in three people will need blood in their lives, but only one in 30 people donate.
The annual Lifeblood Teams challenge starts again in April and runs until September.
If you’d like to become a donor or register your organisation as a team, call 13 14 95, visit lifeblood.com.au or download the Donate Blood app.
Caption: Red Cross Australia Lifeblood Regional Partnerships Account Manager, Jacinta Jeffrey presents council’s CEO Scott Owen with the Lifeblood Teams award for the Mackay region
St Patrick’s College Mackay Year 7 to 12 recently celebrated its Opening Year Mass and Investiture of the 2024 College Leaders at the College’s Senior Campus in Gregory Street.
Nine hundred people attended the special Mass which included students, staff, parents and local dignitaries.
Miss Leesa Jeffcoat AM, Diocesan Director Catholic Education Diocese of Rockhampton gave her address to the College and was joined by Michael McCusker, Assistant Director: Schools (Northern Region); Sister of Mercy Denise Hinton; Mayor of Mackay Greg Williamson, as well as St Patrick’s College Board members; College Parent Engagement Committee members and representatives from other Catholic schools in the diocese.
The celebration was led by Most Reverend Michael McCarthy, Bishop, Diocese of Rockhampton, St Patrick’s Parish Priest (Southern Cluster of Parishes) Rev Fr Matthias Ogwo, Parish Administrator of Pioneer Valley Parishes Rev Fr Gasper Peruvelil and Associate Pastor Southern Cluster Rev Fr Anthony Nguyen.
St Patrick’s College Principal Janelle Agius and College Board members received their respective certificates and pledge during the Commissioning Ceremony before the blessing of the College badges.
Bishop Michael McCarthy presented Nicola Chimes with the St Patrick’s Medal the Bishop Bernard Wallace Award for Dux of the College. Nicola, who achieved an ATAR Excellence of 99.25, was also the recipient of a Joan McGarry bursary and will study a Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours).
During the ceremony Miss Jeffcoat and Mrs Agius presented the 2024 Student Leaders with their College badge.
These included College Captains Matthew Gakowski, Evelyn O’Brien, William Radke and Lily Wardrop.
Others to receive badges were the Senior Student Representative Council: Melisa Li (Cultural Committee Chairperson); Paige Mooney (Indigenous Committee Chairperson); Gian Lim (Social Justice Committee Chairperson); Mackensie Brown (Sport Committee Chairperson); Kacee Ziegeler (Senior House Captain Argos); Amy Goode (Senior House Captain Badila); Aidyn McSherry (Senior House Captain Midas); Bryn Henson (Senior House Captain Oraya); Lana Barnes (Senior House Captain Pindar); Camryn Zeller (Senior House Captain Triton) and Gabrielle Ipson and Anthony Sorbello (College Board Student Representatives).
Badge recipients for the Mercy Campus Student Representative Council were; Izaac Noy (Mercy Campus Cultural Committee Chairperson); Madison Mooney (Mercy Campus Indigenous Committee Chairperson); Treyce Ciantar (Mercy Campus Sport Committee Chairperson); Hunter McGeary (Mercy Campus St Vincent de Paul Committee Chairperson); Cassian Radke (Mercy Campus e-Sport Committee Chairperson); Aaron Greenwood (Mercy Campus Photography Committee Chairperson); Charlotte Redfern (Mercy Campus Book Club Committee Chairperson); Bianca Maynard (Mercy Campus Auslan Committee Chairperson); Hannah Ashis (Mercy Campus Social Committee Chairperson); Kelsi Hazledine and Mackenzie Maunder (Mercy Campus House Captains Argos); Jack Law and Archy Townsend (Mercy Campus House Captains Badila); Dominic Sorbello and Isabella Webb (Mercy Campus House Captains Midas); Lucas Boshoff and Courtney Harris (Mercy Campus House Captains Oraya); Kate O¹Brien and Myah Rokic (Mercy Campus House Captains Pindar) and Nate Harding and Calvin Ramos (Mercy Campus House Captains Triton).
Badges were also presented to the Mercy Campus Homeroom Captains: ARGOS Lily Mapp; Jessica Arbuthnot; Skye Vaughan; Charlotte O¹Brien; Tahlia Vella and Matilda Wiggins.
BADILA Zarlia Beer; Jayda Earl; Tahlia Anderson; Koby Daly; Izaac Noy and Ruby Watt.
MIDAS Skye Mole; Milly Mayfield; Tayla Cumming; Lacie Clarke; Cooper Anderson and Bella McClarty. ORAYA Maggie Thorburn; Cynthia Phan; Alice Gunning; Bailey Dewar, Lauren
Gray and Addysen Ruddick. PINDAR Gabriella Ruggeri; Tayah Poli; Aimee Trims; Piper Euler; Jake Hansen and Mason Mayer. TRITON Rourke Bagley; Tate Funk; Riley Meigan; Sangwani Chinula; Eva Hooper and Reese Morgan.
Mr McCusker presented Aspire to Teach Awards to recipients Evelyn O’Brien and Anthony Sorbello while Damian Carroll presented student Patrick Arbuthnot with the Class of 1974 Bursary for having demonstrated great dedication and commitment throughout Year 11 in overcoming adversity or disability or circumstances to achieve academic success.
Other recipients of McGarry bursaries included Jinzhao Zhang (Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery); Madeline Rasmussen (Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery); Meghan Connolly (Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery); Monique Jones (Bachelor of Engineering/Science); James Galea (Bachelor of Engineering (Honours));
Baxter Norsworthy (Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery); Phoebe Francis (Bachelor of Medicine); Jada Vassallo (Bachelor of Business); Joshua Williamson (Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours)); Gracie Watt (Bachelor of Medical Sonography/Graduate Diploma of Medical Sonography); Alex Brannan (Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery); Nicholas Bowyer (Bachelor of Medical Sonography/Graduate Diploma of Medical Sonography); Olivia Price (Bachelor of Speech Pathology (Honours)) and Locke Forrest
(Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)/Diploma of Professional Practice: Co-Op Engineering). The recipient of the Joan McGarry Nursing Bursary is Laanie John. Laanie is studying a Bachelor of Nursing.
Contributed by Chris Karas
Caption: St Patrick’s College Mackay 2024 Captains and Student Representative Council members with Miss Leesa Jeffcoat AM, Diocesan Director Catholic Education Diocese of Rockhampton, Michael McCusker, Assistant Director: Schools (Northern Region) and College Principal Janelle Agius at the Opening Year Mass
A recent roadshow through north Queensland invited growers to hear from Rabobank’s experts on what the organisation believes the future holds for the sugarcane industry.
Pia Piggott is an Associate Analyst in the research division of Rabobank, RaboResearch, who presented to growers in Mackay last week.
Based in Sydney, Pia’s role includes public speaking at events, recording RaboResearch podcasts and publishing various reports, generating widespread media coverage that resonates beyond the agriculture industry.
“I cover sugar and horticulture, so I meet with clients, research the industries and provide insights into the commodities,” Pia said.
Pia presented at events in Mackay, Proserpine, Ayr and Ingham, aiming to provide a knowledge update from the bank on what’s happening in the sugar industry while it’s experiencing a down period for growers.
“It’s a good time to meet with growers and find out about what their interested in, what their looking at, as well as providing Rabobank’s view on the sugar price, the opportunities in the industry and global economics,” she said.
Pia spoke to growers about what’s happening in the major markets and major suppliers of sugar worldwide and how this can affect sugar prices.
“We overviewed what’s happening in India with their export ban and what that means for the potential sugar production in India; what’s happening in Thailand and how these prices are affecting area expansion of sugar cane; and most importantly, an update of what’s happening in Brazil, because Brazil is the largest producer and exporter of sugar in the world so we talked about how, last year, they experienced a record sugar crop, and that’s part of what has caused prices to fall to where they fell last year,” she explained.
Pia said the feeling among growers was positive, although Mackay growers shared concerns of standover if there’s no further downgrades in production estimates.
“The rain has been really positive, the humidity has been really positive, so the crop looks good and hopefully there’s no cyclones or extreme weather events in the next few months that could impact that potential,” she said.
As the world’s leading food and agribusiness bank, Rabobank’s supports the innovative farmers and agribusinesses who put food on our tables every day to do so sustainably.
Members are equipped with exclusive reports, monthly overview and other resources to improve the prosperity of farmers and rural communities across the country.
To find out more, contact Rabobank’s Mackay branch on 07 4842 6200.
Caption: RaboResearch Associate Analyst Pia Piggott
The excitement is building as the countdown begins for the highly anticipated Mackay Sugar Ag Trade Expo 2024, set to be hosted by the Western Suburbs Leagues Club (Walkerston). This event promises to be a spectacular celebration of all things agricultural.
Julie Crowley, Coordinator for the event, expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming support from the local community.
"We've been thrilled with the response from exhibitors, with bookings pouring in daily. We have an incredible lineup of stallholders already confirmed, ensuring two days packed with action, displays, products, and services catering to all aspects of agriculture and rural lifestyles," she said.
Highlighting the significance of agricultural shows in Australian culture, Julie emphasised the importance of local business support for the Expo's growth and future success.
"We extend our heartfelt thanks to the businesses that have secured their sites for 2024. For those who haven't yet, there's still time to join us in this exciting endeavour," she added.
The Expo is proud to welcome back its naming rights sponsor, Mackay Sugar, a member of the Nordzucker Group.
"Mackay Sugar brings professionalism and excitement to our event and showcases their commitment to the sugar industry in our region and we eagerly anticipate collaborating with them not only in 2024 but also in the years ahead," Julie remarked.
The 2024 Mackay Sugar Ag Trade Expo will take place at Wests Leagues Club, Branscombe Rd Walkerston, on Friday, May 19th, from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, and Saturday, May 20th, from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm.
Attendees can expect a family-friendly atmosphere with live music by The Gottani Sisters, whip-cracking demonstrations, line dancing, exhibitor demonstrations on both days, and a special kid’s zone on Saturday featuring various attractions.
Admission to the event is $5 for adults, with free entry for children under 13 years old.
For more information, please visit www.mackayagtradeexpo.com.au or contact Julie
Crowley at West’s Leagues Club by calling 4959 2480 or emailing
julie@weststigersmackay.com.au.
About Mackay Sugar Ag Trade Expo: The Mackay Sugar Ag Trade Expo is a bi-annual event showcasing the latest innovations, products, and services in agriculture. With a focus on fostering community engagement and industry growth, the Expo serves as a platform for networking, education, and celebration within the agricultural sector.
This season invites a palette of warm hues, rich textures, and natural elements that evoke a sense of comfort and relaxation. Whether you're looking to make subtle changes or embrace a full-fledged transformation, here are some tips to infuse your home with the essence of Autumn.
Warm Up With Earthy Tones Bid farewell to the bright tones of summer and embrace the earthy hues of autumn. Consider incorporating shades of terracotta, mustard, olive green, and burnt orange into your home decor. These warm colours add depth and coziness to any space, whether through accent walls, throw pillows, or decorative accessories.
Layer Textiles For Texture: Texture plays a crucial role in creating a cozy atmosphere during autumn. Use soft textiles like chunky knit throws, faux fur rugs, and plush cushions to add warmth and tactile appeal to your living spaces. Mix and match different textures to create visual interest and enhance the inviting ambiance of your home.
Bring The Outdoors In: Display seasonal foliage like eucalyptus branches, dried flowers, and seed pods in vases or woven baskets to infuse your space with a touch of rustic elegance. You can also accessorise with pine cones, acorns, and branches adorned with fall foliage for a quintessentially Australian autumn look.
Incorporate Natural Materials: Embrace the natural beauty of materials like timber, cane, and stone in your home decor. Incorporate wooden furniture pieces, woven rattan accents, and stone tabletop accessories to add warmth and authenticity to your space.
Add Seasonal Accents: Infuse your home with seasonal accents that capture the spirit of autumn. Display decorative pumpkins, gourds, and native foliage as centrepieces or table decorations. Consider swapping out lightweight summer textiles for heavier fabrics like wool and velvet to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Create a Cozy Nook: Designate a cozy nook in your home where you can unwind and embrace the slower pace of autumn. Arrange comfortable seating, pile on soft cushions and throws, and add a small side table for holding books or hot beverages. This intimate space will become your sanctuary for relaxation.
With these tips, you can effortlessly infuse your home with an autumn style, creating a welcoming retreat that reflects the beauty and warmth of the season.
Emma Novosel is a familiar face in the Queensland Police Service, serving as Detective Inspector Crime and Support Services for the Mackay Whitsunday District. In this role, she oversees investigative responses to crime and supports various sections including intelligence, tactical crime, prosecutors, crime prevention, and domestic and family violence. Beyond her duties, Emma was actively involved in school communities, sports, and the arts, as her children attended.
As a participant in Dancing with Heart, Emma embraces the challenge with an open mind and determination. Witnessing the diverse routines of fellow competitors, she acknowledges the commitment and uniqueness each one brings to the event. Despite facing challenges in executing choreography and lip-syncing, Emma is driven by the desire to do justice to Dolly's vision.
Reflecting on the work of the Mackay Hospital Foundation, Emma admires its community-driven approach to improving healthcare across the region. Having witnessed firsthand the care provided by local hospitals, she recognises the importance of bridging the gap between essential services and additional support.
“In my role at work, our responses often involve working with people who are in crisis or experience trauma and our local hospitals are a crucial part of the supporting victims and keeping people safe.
“Raising funds to provide medical equipment and projects in hospitals is so crucial for regional communities to ensure that our family and friends can access exceptional healthcare in our home towns.
“Events like Dancing with Heart bring the community together to raise funds, enjoy a night out and ‘give where you live’.”
Zachary Spencer is most known as a mortgage broker from Gardian in the finance department, assisting locals with all their home lending needs and helping clients achielve their dreams.
In the dynamic world of finance, Zachary stands out not only for his professional acumen but also for his vibrant spirit. His multifaceted dedication to providing the best service fosters a positive impact towards his clients, as well as in the communtiy.
Beyond his finance career, Zachary steps into a different spotlight as he joins the dance floor for the Mackay Hospital Foundation. Despite dancing being completely out of his comfort zone, and at times challenging to remember, Zachary embraces the challenge wholeheartedly, driven by his commitment to supporting a noble cause.
Zachary's participation in Dancing with Heart for The Mackay Hospital Foundation showcases his dedication but also contributes tangibly to the Foundation's mission. Aiming to push his boundaries and tap into untapped potential, his participation holds a deeper significance. Raising essential funds for The Mackay Hospital Foundation allows Zachary to contribute meaningfully to the well-being of the community.
It’s not just about moving to the rhythm but also moving hearts towards supporting vital healthcare services. With a desire to give back, Zachary underlines the importance of donations that remain within the community - for the community.
“I’m participating in Dancing with Heart to do something that is out of my comfort zone and to challenge myself, while raising much needed funds for a great cause!”
Every boarding school is considered a ‘home away from home’ but what makes Nudgee College Boarding different from the rest?
From the unwavering support of staff who treat the boys in their like family, to the bonds of brotherhood that last a lifetime, there is something truly unique about the Boarding program at Nudgee College.
This year, the Boarding team completed an extensive review of their boarding values which has seen boys, families and staff alike consult on what truly mattered and what would authentically reflect the thriving Nudgee College boarding community.
At the heart of Nudgee College Boarding in 2024 and beyond is faith, family, courage and trust. 2024 College Vice-Captain, Chair of the Boarding Leadership Group and proud Proserpine boarder, Grady Turner sums up what the two new values, ‘family’ and ‘courage’ mean to the community.
“In our imperfect and diverse, yet balanced family, we embrace each other's highs and lows, fostering support, respect and inclusivity.
“To be a boarder, you need a little bit of courage every day. Living away from home has its challenges and will test each boy in different ways. Ultimately, these challenges, and the courage required to overcome them will promote personal growth and development.”
Dean of Boarding Mr Casey Brealy said in reference to the ‘faith’ and ‘trust’ value, “As a Catholic School in the Edmund Rice tradition, we challenge our boys to be Signum Fidei - a ‘Sign of Faith’ - in their words and actions.
“Successful boarding is built on a foundation of trust between boarders, staff and families.”
With one of the most comprehensive pastoral care systems in the Australian boarding community, the team have worked hard to ensure young men are supported in every facet of their Nudgee College journey.
The four Houses within the Boarding Village are led by a Head of House, two Assistant Heads and a House Mother. In addition, the boys are also supported physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually by College counsellors, psychologists, their day school House Dean, academic tutors, recreation staff, kitchen and laundry staff, registered nurses in the Health Centre and many other staff who make the boys’ best interests their priority.
“We are blessed to have a diverse and dedicated team that is committed to the 24-hour care, support and formation of our young men. Ultimately, it is our hope that our boarders will leave the gates as fine young men, with these values at their core and gratitude in their hearts,” Casey said.
Learn more about Boarding at Nudgee College and meet our Dean of Boarding and Assistant Head of House Mr Daniel Tinsey in Cairns, Mackay and Proserpine from 19 - 21 March. RSVP for the community events at nudgee.com/rsvp
Caption: Bathersby Boarding Village
The Mackay’s Careers Expo offers expert advice from a range of employers and educational providers making the decisions of school leavers and career-changers a little easier.
Careers Event runs career expos throughout Australia and will be holding the Mackay Careers Expo at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) on August 15, 2024.
The event is not just open to school students but parents wanting more information to help advise their children, as well as experienced workers considering upskilling for their current or next job, making a career change or wanting to transition into a new industry.
A record number of exhibitors will be featured at the expo this year, enabling visitors to speak with highly qualified representatives from a wide array of organisations providing relevant, up-to-date knowledge in the education, training and employment sectors.
Exhibiting companies include universities from across Australia, student accommodation providers, Head Space, Youth Justice and Multicultural affairs, Mackay Regional Council, Glencore, Community Solutions, Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal and Defence Force Recruiting.
Employers and tertiary education institutions from industries such as information technology, biotechnology, aviation, early childhood education, hotel management, healthcare, hairdressing, creative media, performing arts and business education will also be present.
The community-based event will provide attendees with advice on how to apply for courses, the costs involved, financial support options and qualifications required.
Exhibitors will provide details on current career and employment options, trainee and apprenticeship programs or options for adults to upskill and retrain in the work place.
The Mackay Careers Expo is the one event you cannot afford to miss if you’re looking to take control of your future.
Admission to the expo is free.
For more information, visit careersevent.com and click on Mackay Careers Expo.
A heart-themed morning tea marked the incredible milestone of a decade of lifesaving services treating and diagnosing cardiac conditions in Mackay. Clinicians and staff gathered earlier this month to celebrate the 10th anniversary and the fact almost 12,000 lifesaving procedures have been completed by the Mackay Base Hospital Cardiac Catheter Laboratory since it opened in February 2014.
Director of Cardiology Dr Michael Zhang said the 11,858 procedures performed, which ranged from angiograms, stents, implantable cardiac-recording devices, permanent pacemakers and defibrillators, was an extraordinary milestone for a regional hospital.
Heart disease is the number one cause of death in Australia, Dr Zhang said.
“The Mackay cardiac cath lab boasts a wide range of cardiac treatment options and Queensland Cardiac Outcomes Registry (QCOR) data has demonstrated this is one of the safest cath labs in the state, which is an impressive accomplishment for both the hospital and for the region,” he said.
In its first year, Mackay’s cath lab completed 463 angiograms to diagnose blockages in arteries. By its 10th anniversary, the service had completed 9835 angiograms, 2722 percutaneous coronary interventions (stents) and 572 permanent pacemakers and defibrillators. Dr Zhang said data from the QCOR also demonstrated that Mackay’s cardiac cath lab had a very high success rate in emergency coronary artery intervention for people suffering major heart attacks.
“The Mackay cath lab's phenomenal growth and expansion of services in just 10 years is an incredible achievement which enables cardiac patients in regional areas to receive the goldstandard of care, a shorter wait for diagnosis and a broad range of treatment options,” he said.
“These are people who are experiencing a massive heart attack, so these outcomes are excellent, and I am very proud of my team of cardiologists, doctors, nurses, radiographers and cardiac scientists.
“It demonstrates that people in our Mackay health region will get the same level of care as in a major city, particularly in the acute cardiology care, and in fact Mackay is one of only two regional hospitals in Queensland, who currently provide 24/7 emergency interventional services for acute massive heart attack.”
Dr Zhang said initial predictions were that the service was expected to treat about 700 patients a year when it began operating in 2014. Year on year, this number and the range of lifesaving procedures performed had been exceeded. Many patients across the community and their families were incredibly thankful for the lifesaving procedures and service of the CCL. Dr Zhang said he was grateful for the commitment, dedication and collaboration of emergency department personnel, their Intensive Care Unit (ICU) colleagues as well as the Clinical Measurements Unit (CMU) and Medical Imaging teams.
Innovation is one of the features in cardiology practice. Mackay’s cardiac cath lab was the first in Queensland to utilise shockwave therapy to treat patients with heavily calcified coronary artery stenosis in 2021. New treatment procedures recently implemented included Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator (ICD) and Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy (CRT) in 2022.
The Mackay Base Hospital cardiac cath lab’s impressive list of achievements was detailed on the world stage to cardiovascular specialists from over 100 countries at the Transcatheter Cardiovascular Therapeutics conference, held in California, USA last year.
Photo captions:
Clinical nurse consultant Anna Townsend, Director of Cardiology Dr Michael Zhang, CDSO Tina Mansell and wardsperson Shellie Burston.
Clinical nurse Geethu George, cardiac staff specialist Dr Chaminda Sella Kapu and nurse educator Sue Meredith.
Cath lab staff: Cardiac Scientist Cameron Hope, clinical nurse Zoe Quakawoot, radiographer Gabby Brown, cardiac scientist Bella Zanatta and cardiac scientist Sarah Murphy.
CU Clinical Director Dr Stephen Luke and Dr Belinda Weich. Photos supplied: Mackay Hospital and Health Service
Film & Arts Mackay committee members met up with Linda and Elsa from All Abilities Mackay and Councillor Alison Jones to present a donation of $2,564 raised at the first Film & Arts Mackay film event of the year on 2nd February. Two films were screened at this event, the thought-provoking short film The Silent Child followed by the hilarious Red, White and Brass.
An enormous thanks to all attendees and members for their generous support on the night.
Film & Arts Mackay is a not-for-profit organisation that screens independent and foreign language movies once a month. For more information visit filmartsmackay@weebly.com.
All Abilities Mackay aims to enhance opportunities and experiences for people with disabilities in Mackay by filling in gaps in services, training, workshops, carer connection and fun skill-building activities for the chronically ill, disabled and socially disadvantaged.
For further information on the valuable service provided by All Abilities Mackay, please visit their website: https://www.allabilitiesmackay.org.au/
Caption: Linda and Elsa from All Abilities Mackay and Councillor Alison Jones present donation to the first Film & Arts Mackay event of the year
Mackay Life readers will recall local actor Geoff Stewart-McLean sacrificing his hair to play the part of the balding David Horton in Kucom Theatre’s productions of The Vicar of Dibley (2018) and The Vicar of Dibley II (2022). It takes a certain kind of dedication to shave for a stage role – but Lani Seaton, who plays the female lead in Kucom’s April production The Murder Game, is going one step further and donating her lovely long locks to charity.
Every March, thousands of Australians step up to shave their head for the World's Greatest Shave, sponsored by the Leukaemia Foundation. It's the ultimate act of support for people facing blood cancer and at the Kucom Theatre Happy Hour on Friday 22 March, our very own Lani will succumb to the clippers, wielded by fellow Kucom member Michael Brennan of HMB Barbers.
Lani said, “I have chosen to do this because I want to help those facing blood cancer, and their families too. I've been thinking about doing it for quite a while, and finally decided to actually go ahead with it. My parents have shaved their heads for the cause a number of years ago, and I have a friend who shaved her head for the cause a few years ago too.
“Seeing those around me do it has encouraged me to think about doing it myself. I also love the idea of being able to donate my hair to make wigs for those who need them. I think it will be a very rewarding experience and also help people in need.”
We encourage Kucom members and guests to come along, grab a drink or two at our licensed bar, and lend their support to Lani.
You can donate to Lani at http://my.leukaemiafoundation.org.au/laniseaton
What: Lani Seaton will participate in the World’s Greatest Shave to raise funds for blood cancer.
When: Friday 22 March, 6.00 to 7.30pm
Where: Kucom Theatre, 1 Snow Wright Court, Andergrove
Caption: Lani Seaton ready to shave her hair to support the leukemia foundation.
Caption: World’s Greatest Shave poster - How to donate.
Four helpless kittens were reportedly dumped at a local service station undergoing renovations late last Saturday. The team at Mackay Pet Recue Inc once again made it their mission to save the kittens from despair after discovering that the baby felines were underweight and starving with no mother cat nearby or in sight.
Carers suspect that these homeless kittens were once owned by a family given that they were too friendly and tame to be feral, concluding that the kittens were dumped relentlessly.
In fury of the poor act, the team brought the kittens back to their sanctuary and offered a safe place to stay, good quality food to eat and gentle human care to restore the faith in the traumatised kittens.
“Allowing a small kitten to die of neglect and starvation is an extreme act of cruelty,” a member of Mackay Pet Rescue Inc commented.
“These are domesticated kittens; they can be picked up and handled.
“They are not feral, they do not bite or scratch, they are just scared, and shame on the person who did this to them!”
Now thriving, the kittens have been named; Lylah, Rylan, Myah and Rykah. In a span of just 24 hours, the kittens were said to be rapidly healthier and happier after finding comfort and a sense of security in the hands of their foster carer.
They will soon be available to go to their forever homes.
Please contact Rissa on 0412 991 492 to arrange a meet and greet.
Animal Co-ordinator for MPRI commented, “I have nothing but admiration and thanks for the foster carers who continually put up their hand to take in dumped kittens.”
Caption: Four domesticated kittens found starved and underweight at a local service station undergoing renovations with no mother cat in sight
Caption: two of the four kittens now happily in the safe and loving security of a foster carer. To learn more about adoption, ring the number provided or visit the MPRI Facebook page. Photo credit: Mackay Pet Rescue Inc (Facebook)
Photo credit: Coffee and Hops
After a sold-out event last year, Legends On The Lawn returns in 2024 with an iconic all-Australian line-up. Featuring ICEHOUSE, Jet, Jon Stevens, Pete Murray, Baby Animals, 1927 and Bachelor Girl, the one-day festival is back in June and by all reports, it is guaranteed to sell out early!
Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said after the success of the 2023 Legends On The Lawn it was fantastic to see such huge names stepping out once more for the 2024 event.
“With Australian music royalty ICEHOUSE, Jet, Jon Stevens and Pete Murray, as well as crowd favourites Baby Animals and 1927, it’s certain to be an epic live music event that will benefit our community and our economy.
“Legends On The Lawn is shaping up to be a major drawcard for our region, attracting visitors who will also have the opportunity to experience all of the natural attractions on offer, including platypus spotting, sunrise on the beach with kangaroos and exploring our pristine beaches and tropical rainforests.”
Harrup Park CEO Adrian Young agreed. “We’re extremely excited to be involved in one of the best line-ups ever assembled in North Queensland,” he said.
“Last year’s event was outstanding and we expect 2024 to be even better!”
ICEHOUSE is one of Australia’s most iconic bands, well known and loved by audiences across generations, playing to sell-out, capacity audiences in Australia, New Zealand and throughout the world. Formed by Iva Davies, the band’s frontman and musical creative force, ICEHOUSE went on to have an amazing 28 Platinum albums, eight Top 10 albums and over thirty Top 40 singles.
Unofficial Australian anthem, Great Southern Land, has been a part of almost every Australian’s summer soundtrack for the past 40 years and in 2014, it was inducted into the National Film and Sound Archive’s Sounds of Australia registry.
JET, originally hailing from Dingley in Melbourne, quickly conquered the world after forming in 2001, selling more than 6.5 million albums globally and securing 10 x Platinum certification in Australia and Platinum in the USA and UK for their 2003 debut album ‘Get Born’. The album produced a string of classic singles in ‘Are You Gonna Be My Girl’, ‘Rollover DJ’, and ‘Look What You’ve Done’ and netted the band 6 x 2004 ARIA awards. Both ‘Are You Gonna Be My Girl’ and ‘Cold Hard Bitch’ peaked at number 1 on the US Modern Rock singles charts and propelled the band to the top of festival bills and charts around the world.
In 2023 Jet’s greatness was formally recognised at the 37th ARIA AWARDS.
JON STEVENS returns to Mackay again to thrill audiences far and wide with the Noiseworks & INXS Collection, which pays homage to the bands that helped cement him as Aussie rock royalty. With a career that spans more than four decades, Jon has a swag of solo hits to his name, as well as songs which have become all-time favourites from his time with bands Noiseworks, INXS and the Dead Daisies. His performance will feature hit after hit and have punters on their feet from start to finish.
PETE MURRAY is one of an elite group of Australian artists to have sold over 1.2 million records across his illustrious, 20-plus year career in music. He has also achieved 3 ARIA chart-topping albums to date (2003’s ‘Feeler’, 2006’s ‘See The Sun’ and 2008’s ‘Summer At Eureka’) and has been nominated for a whopping 17 ARIA Awards.
With a long list of radio hits and 7 albums under his belt, Pete Murray has always been a crowd favourite everywhere he plays. His string of hit singles – ‘Feeler’, ‘So Beautiful’ and ‘Opportunity’ to name just a few – continue to soundtrack life’s precious moments and Pete often receives feedback that certain songs, particularly ‘Better Days’, have saved lives.
“There’s no greater appreciation for your song than your lyrics keeping someone alive; that’s just the best thing you could ever hope for,” he acknowledges.
THE BABY ANIMALS exploded onto the Australian music scene in 1991 with their debut album spending six weeks at number one, eventually going eight times platinum and becoming the highest-selling debut Australian rock album until the release of Jet's 'Get Born' album 12 years later.
The Baby Animals launched back onto the scene in 2013 with their third album (the first in 20 years), ‘This Is Not The End’, a genuine rock album with a return to classic Baby Animals form that their fans loved. The band has struck a familiar pose with their enigmatic singer Suze DeMarchi and her talismanic guitarist Dave Leslie returning for action. They’re joined with Dario Bortolin on bass and Mick Skelton on drums.
1927, Australian pop rock legends, formed in 1987. In 1988 their album ‘...Ish’ went multi-platinum number-one. Front man Weideman reformed the band in 2009 with a new lineup. Fast forward to 2024 and the wheels are well and truly back on! “The last 10-12 years has been very fulfilling for me. I’ve taken the band to a different audience.” Indeed the demographic of 1927 has changed and developed.
BACHELOR GIRL is one of the biggest and most loved Australian acts of the 90’s and early 2000’s, enjoying international acclaim particularly in Asia, Scandinavia and the U.S. (including signing with Clive Davis at Arista Records). Standing out with their exceptional songwriting and Tania’s warm, powerful vocal, APRA recently reported a massive achievement for the band – their hit single ‘Buses and Trains’ being the most played Australian composition on Australian radio in the last 25 years.
The 2024 Legends On The Lawn is guaranteed to sell-out – grab your tickets early to avoid disappointment.
Tickets for Legends on the Lawn go on sale at 9am QLD time on Thursday 14th March through Ticketmaster and are only available through authorised ticket outlets listed. Patrons are advised not to purchase tickets from Viagogo or other Third Party Sellers, as fraudulent tickets will not be honoured.
Caption: Featured artists: ICEHOUSE, Jet, Jon Stevens, Pete Murray, Baby Animals, 1927 and Bachelor Girl
Neighbour Day began in Melbourne in 2003 after the remains of an elderly woman were found inside her suburban home, more than two years after her death.
Council is committed to ensuring sad incidents like that will never occur in our community.
Every March, residents in our region are encouraged to be “Legendary Neighbours”.
Community Services Director Janine McKay said council’s Legendary Neighbour campaign had two parts.
“We are aiming to bring regional areas together with our free Cuppa with your Neighbour events at Homebush, Finch Hatton, Shoal Point, Sarina Beach, Calen and The Leap,” Ms McKay said.
“These are really informal events where we use a local coffee vendor to provide some free cuppas in an area and invite residents to come along and meet each other and chat with a council Community Development Officer,” she said.
“The other part of the Legendary Neighbour campaign encourages residents to host their own neighbourhood gathering with one of our Legendary Neighbour Party Packs.
“Each pack includes a $100 MeatCo barbecue voucher and all the odds and ends you need to host a fun get-together with people in your street who you might not know yet.
“There are 10 packs up-for-grabs and all you need to do to apply for one is head to the council website and tell us why you want to get to know your neighbours..
“The whole campaign is about building a more connected community, because connected communities look out for each other and are more resilient.”
Cuppa with your neighbour events will be held on:
• Thursday, March 21, 7.30am to 9.30am - Homebush State School.
• Friday, March 22, 8am to 10am - The Gift Shed (Finch Hatton).
• Monday, March 25, 9.30am to 11.30am - Shoal Point Park, Shoal Point.
• Tuesday, March 26, 9am to 11am - Sarina Beach Foreshore (Owen Jenkins Drive).
• Wednesday, March 27, 8.30am to 10.30am - Vic Bridger Park, 3 McIntyre Street, Calen.
• Thursday, March 28, 9am to 11am - The Leap Tea Room, The Leap.
For more information or to apply for a Legendary Neighbour box, head to mackay.qld.gov.au/legendaryneighbour
Showtime presents this spectacular music tribute and full-scale stage production honouring the one and only King of Pop, Michael Jackson.
Celebrate Jackson’s creative genius and unsurpassed talent with riveting live performances evoking his early days as a member of the Jackson 5, his groundbreaking theatrics in the 80s and his continued domination of pop culture into the 21st century.
Songs include Thriller, Billie Jean, Smooth Criminal, Bad, Beat It, ABC, Don’t Stop Til You Get Enough, Human Nature, PYT, They Don’t Really Care About Us and many more.
Get the full Michael Jackson concert experience with triple-threat performer Garth Field – electrifying in his role as Jackson – plus a live band, choreographed dancers, authentic costumes, state-of-the-art sound and theatrical lighting, vision and effects.
Truly a mind-blowing stage production – not to be missed!
In 1886 The Kungurri turntable was built by Cowans Sheldon in England. It is a 40ft turntable and its job number was 1492. There were two turntables shipped to Australia back in the day. The sister turntable now resides down south and there are now only a handful of these still working in Australia.
Councillor Alison Jones shared how this piece of history found its way to the Finch Hatton mountain bike trails.
“I remember in my previous term of council former Cr Dave Perkins mentioning that he and the Pioneer Valley Rotary Club were taking a look at it and thinking about how it could be repurposed,” Cr Jones shared.
“Years later here I am in a briefing about the Mountain Bike Trails and design of the Finch Hatton Trailhead and the Director Jim Carless says, ‘We really need a piece of large equipment that is representative of the valley from years gone by’ and so I had a quiet chat with Cr Bonaventura and contacted Dave Perkins to see where I needed to find out more information about the turn table.”
Mackay Sugar had the turntable stored in a yard after it was removed to allow for a road widening.
“With all the people we had called to get the information, we had created a following which we called the KTTG and this small group were on-site checking it out and were keen to help Mackay Sugar restore her,” Cr Jones said.
Councillors Bonaventura and Jones approached Mr Carless, who agreed that using the KTT as a feature in the trailhead would be a fitting tribute to its heritage.
KTTG are now trying to gather the stories to be documented on-site.
“Last year, one of my Facebook posts on the KTTG attracted a comment from Albert Ramsamy, who at the age of 14 said he used to turn the rail motor on the turntable back in the day. These were exactly the stories we needed,” Cr Jones said.
While the turntable is locked, the KTTG are hoping that once a year they may be able to run a challenge to see who can turn the table the fastest.
Caption: Members of the Kungurri Turntable Group on-site at the Mountain Bike Trailhead in Finch Hatton during the installation of the historic turntable. Photo supplied: Alison Jones
Amidst the anticipation, the winners of the 2024 JSP Women's Awards were revealed at a gala dinner earlier this month, each embodying extraordinary resilience, courage, and innovation. These individuals, recognised across various categories, stand as shining examples of the diverse talents within our community:
WINNERS
Mother of All Mothers: Marnie Louise
Woman Who Breaks the Mould: Adrienne Bradshaw
Health and Wellbeing Warrior: Lauren Neill
Magic Muse: Samantha Munt
Resilient Rebel: Haley Crofts
The Equaliser: Rob Coco
Rising Star: Codie Ebner
From challenging societal norms to advocating for vital causes, each winner has left a mark on our collective consciousness.
This year's event marked a significant milestone in the awards' history, with organiser, Fallon Drewett, proud to witness its evolution to new heights. It's a testament to the power of storytelling, with every nominee, finalist, and winner embodying the grit and determination that inspires us all.
Beyond the glitz and glamour, the JSP Women's Awards serve as a rallying cry for empowerment and progress. It's a space where dreams are nurtured, barriers are shattered, and aspirations are kindled. These awards remind us that greatness resides within each of us, waiting to be unleashed.
1: Resilient Rebel winner, Haley Crofts
2: Health and Wellbeing Warrior winner, Lauren Neill
Two women at the helm of the Mackay Hospital Health Service are inspiring an entire workforce to new heights and demonstrating what can be achieved with hard work and perseverance.
MHHS chair and board member Helen Darch OAM and chief executive Susan Gannon are among the 83% female workforce at the Mackay Hospital Health Service.
Both agree International Women’s Day today is an ideal time to reflect on and highlight the important role of women in the workforce and within the community.
“It’s amazing to see the number of women in our service and the many and varied contributions they are making towards a better future,” Ms Gannon said.
“Women have so much to contribute and the way they look at things really matters.”
It was considered somewhat rare to have women in chief executive and chairperson roles and helping to set the strategic direction and oversee the management of Mackay HHS.
“Board members of hospital and health services were primarily male in the past, but the gender balance is now really shifting,” Helen said.
Awareness campaigns like International Women’s Day, with the theme of ‘Count her in’, served as the ideal opportunity to acknowledge how times and perspectives had changed.
“It’s a day when we note just how far we’ve come from having to seek permission to work, to actually reversing the roles in lots of ways,” Helen said.
“Today is really about celebrating how far we’ve come in recent times, but to also acknowledge there’s still a way to go in terms of ingrained attitudes and equality,” she said.
With more women drawn to the medical profession today, the workforce was seeing a “changing of the guard”.
“More females are training as doctors than ever before, This will lead to a change in culture in a previously male-dominated profession,” Susan said.
“In the metropolitan areas, the ratio of female doctors now coming through the ranks is at about 50%.”
Both women are proud to acknowledge and celebrate the predominantly female workforce at Mackay HHS.
“I think it’s fabulous to have Susan as the chief executive of the health service because, as they say, you can’t be what can’t see,” Helen said.
“Our workforce has the incredible opportunity to see women in these senior roles and to say, one day I too can be a chief executive or have a senior role here. It’s all possible,” she said.
To mark International Women’s Day, Mackay HHS staff wore purple on the day.
By Mackay Hospital and Health Service
Caption: MHHS chair and board member Helen Darch OAM and chief executive Susan Gannon.
Three engineers, a dragline operator and a workplace support manager have taken out this year’s Resources Awards for Women.
The event was hosted on International Women’s Day by the Queensland Resources Council (QRC) and Women in Mining and Resources Queensland (WIMARQ) to celebrate the contribution of women to the state’s number one export industry.
The QRC was pleased to welcome Queensland Premier Steven Miles to the event, who presented this year’s Exceptional Woman in Queensland Resources award to Head of BHP’s Global Resource Engineering Excellence, Sonia Winter. Sonia’s outstanding career in resources began 20 years ago when she was one of the first women employed through BHP’s graduate mining engineer program. She spent many years working in Central Queensland as a mining engineer, including as General Manager of Poitrel coal mine.
The event featured an array of high-achieving women led by global business leader and keynote speaker BHP President Australia Geraldine Slattery, and new QRC Chief Executive Officer Janette Hewson.
Ms Hewson said the number of women working in Queensland’s resources sector had almost doubled over the past 20 years to reach a record 22.1 per cent (8,552 FTE) of the industry’s total workforce.
“The resources sector is making good progress towards reaching our target of 30 per cent female participation by 2026, but our members are working hard to employ more women at a faster rate to meet this milestone,” Ms Hewson said.
“26.1 per cent of Executive Management positions in Queensland’s resources sector are now held by women, which is almost double the level of representation in 2015-16, with the proportion of women working in operational and production roles growing by 58 per cent over the same period.
“Significantly, the number of women in trade roles has increased by almost 40 per cent over the past year, in a clear sign our industry is becoming more diverse and inclusive in its attraction, recruitment and retention programs."
This year’s Exceptional Young Woman in Queensland Resources Ashara Moore is a FIFO engineer who works at BHP’s Saraji coal mine in Dysart. After starting her career as the sole engineer on construction projects in remote areas, Ashara is now a portfolio lead where she heads a team of engineers and is responsible for over $45 million in capital projects.
Moranbah State High School Year 12 student and school captain Lexi Croce is this year’s Exceptional Female QMEA Student. The QMEA is the education arm of the QRC which delivers STEM and trade workshops and camps to students at 100 Queensland schools. Lexi has been actively involved with QMEA programs and is a member of her school’s STEM Innovation Experience Team which won last year’s state competition. She is driven by the idea of finding electrical solutions to make mining operations more efficient and environmentally friendly.
Caption: Moranbah State High School Year 12 student Lexi Croce is this year’s Exceptional Female QMEA Student
Last week, as the world geared up to celebrate International Women's Day, the Resource Industry Network (RIN) hosted its annual business luncheon at the MECC in Mackay. With the global theme of "Inspire Inclusion," the event aimed to recognise and empower women while fostering a more inclusive workplace environment.
Dean Kirkwood, the General Manager at RIN, emphasised the importance of creating an inclusive workforce.
"We believe that creating an inclusive workforce is not only the right thing to do but is essential for driving innovation in today's business environment. It has also been proven that having women in the workplace increases safety and productivity,” he said.
The highlight of the luncheon was the keynote address by Dr. Catherine Ball, an Associate Professor renowned for her multifaceted contributions at the nexus of technology, innovation, and sustainability. Holding a BSc Honours in Environmental Protection and a PhD in Spatial Ecology, she brings a wealth of expertise to her endeavors. Dr. Ball's work extends beyond academia, as she serves as a company director on global projects that leverage emerging technologies to address humanitarian, educational, and environmental challenges. With a passion for creating businesses and championing movements, she collaborates with peers and advises game-changers across various industries. Dr. Ball's influence extends far beyond traditional boundaries, as she is a sought-after voice in the startup, futurist, and tech spheres, where she connects individuals from diverse backgrounds around common themes and shared visions for a brighter, more sustainable future.
Attendees were particularly impressed by the diverse panel discussion led by MC Kylie Porter, featuring esteemed figures like Larnie Mackay, Dr. Elissa Hatherly, Kathy Searle, and Dr. Bell. Their discussions touched upon breaking barriers for women in the workplace and the importance of fostering meaningful participation and decision-making opportunities for women.
The event also served as a platform to champion the UN Women theme of "Count Her In. Invest in Women. Accelerate Progress." It was a rallying call to empower women to have a voice and agency in driving positive change in workplaces and communities.
Reflecting on the event, participants left feeling motivated and empowered, recognising the crucial role women play in shaping the future. The vibrant atmosphere, insightful discussions, and inspiring presentations reaffirmed the commitment of the Resource Industry Network to advancing gender equality and inclusion in the region's workforce.
Photos supplied: Resource Industry Network
By Amanda Wright
Last weekend, the Zonta Club of Mackay Inc. hosted its annual International Women’s Day luncheon to celebrate and recognise girls and women worldwide.
Club President Fiona Koutlis said the lunch celebrates the strides that have already been made towards equality and a life where women can live free from discrimination and violence.
“Where women can live life to its fullest,” she added.
The UN Women International Women’s Day theme for 2024 is ‘Count her In: Invest in Women. Accelerate Progress’. Count her In will examine the pathways to greater economic inclusion for women and girls everywhere.
“Our work towards equality will continue until every girl and woman knows how it feels to be equal,” Fiona added.
The luncheon’s MC was Miki-Ponting-Boyd who delivered a thoughtfully balanced speech on women’s rights here in Australia and across the world, injecting intelligent humour while keeping the audience enthralled with poignant information about equality.
Guest speaker, Judy Porter brought pivotal understanding of why the gender gap exists, examining a range of traits, both learned and biological, examining why men are more likely to strive for promotions while women tend to step aside. Her business experience coupled with her passion for ‘what drives behaviour’ enabled her to deliver a thought-provoking presentation to empower women to strive for better.
In addition to silent auctions, a raffle and entertaining trivia, the Zonta International Young Women in Public Affairs Award was announced, which encourages young women from 16-19 to participate in public affairs. The award recognises those who take exceptional strides in the community to volunteer, lead and empower women through service and advocacy.
Evelyn O’Brien from St Patrick’s College was announced the 2024 winner. In accepting her prize, Evelyn told the audience the prize money will go towards her educational endeavour this year of studying law in the UK. Runner up was Bridget Wright from Sarina State High School.
Meet The Zonta International Young Women in Public Affairs Award Finalists
Eleena Joe
Holy Spirit College
Eleena Joe is a grade 12 student with a passion and dedication for women’s advancement in the field of public service.
“My personal aspirations include staying committed to successfully achieve my goal of becoming a student at James Cook University Townsville.
“I am also dedicated to continuing my active involvement in volunteer work at aged care homes and rehabilitation hospitals.
“My overarching goal is to align my passion for healthcare, women empowerment and community well-being with meaningful and hands-on contributions.”
Kira Hurrell
Mirani State High School
Kira is a year 11 student who has been an active member of the school Z Club for several years and has held the executive position of Treasurer in 2023 and 2024.
She enjoys the idea of activism and politics.
“An ideal career in the future would include something that involves helping people, whether through scientific discoveries or creating my own organisation towards human rights,” she said.
She also has a passion for dance and drama and participates in a wide range of cultural activities within the school.
Bridget Wright
Sarina State High School
Bridget is a year 12 student and this year was elected by her peers to represent her school as School Captain. She has been an active member of the school’s student council since year 7 and has been a member of the Sarina Zonta Club throughout her schooling.
Alongside her school captaincy, Bridget was also voted as the Mayor of the Mackay Youth Council, the first democratically elected youth council of its kind. She was elected by the eleven fellow councillors and as such works closely with the Mackay Regional Council to ensure the youth of Mackay are supported.
She is passionate about increasing women’s representation in leadership roles in the business sector and politics, through access to programs and initiatives to create strong and driven women.
Bridget’s goals include completing a Business degree where she aims to work in the economics field, working internationally to strengthen Australia’s international relationships.
Chloe Nielsen
Sarina State High School
Chloe is a year 12 student and in 2024 was elected by her peers to represent her school as part of the Student Executive. She is actively striving to initiate a mentorship and mental health program where junior students can reach out for assistance from senior students.
She is also an active member of the woder community. She volunteers time to the Sarina Library, assisting staff and has been asked to contribute to community outreach programs and increasing youth involvement in the library. She also volunteers at the Sarina Hospital where she offers companionship and support to senior citizens during their stays alongside assisting staff.
Her goal is to complete a Bachelor of Biomedical Science/Sciences as a dual degree at the University of Queensland with honours and then complete a PhD majoring in Microbiology and minoring in Neuroscience.
Evelyn O’Brien
St Patrick’s College
Evelyn is a school captain, a member of the Mackay Youth Council, an Ambassador for the Puch-up Challenge and an Ambassador for UN Youth Qld.
“I have competed in the Senior Mackay debating competition and am a current member of Reef Guardians,” she said.
She is an active member in the community, participating in a multitude of sports and performing arts endeavours whilst achieving high marks across all academic subjects.
She intends to study a dual degree in Law and Humanities at the University of Queensland to lead to a career in law.
“As an international postgrad study, I hope to become a Rhode Scholar at the University of Oxford and study a master’s degree in Diplomacy. This level of education will support my transition from law into politics.”
Lilly Uhr
St Patrick’s College
Lilly is a year 12 student and this year is a YMCA Youth Parliament Ambassador following being the Youth Parliament Member for Mackay last year. She is President of St Patrick’s Zonta Club and is a DSARM Charity member and volunteer.
As well as volunteer and academic roles, Lilly is a player, umpire and coach for North’s Netball and a player in the Mackay Machines, a local wheelchair basketball team. She’s also a regional member of the Make It 16 program.
She aspires to study medicine or occupational therapy while continuing to advocate for disability equality. She hopes to work rurally to bridge the gap in rural health services. She also hopes to coach disability sports in a rural community while advocating for women’s rights and helping to fight homelessness. She also intends to run for local government.
Captions:
Student finalists: The six student finalists L-R: Chloe Nielsen, Lilly Uhr, Eleena Joe, Bridget Wright, Evelyn O’Brien, Kira Hurrell. Photo credit: Cherrie Hughes Social Media & Photography
Winner Evelyn O’Brien being congratulated by Zonta Club of Mackay Inc. members, with runner-up Bridget Wright (right)
MC Miki Ponting-Boyd entertained the tables of attendees at the luncheon
One of my hockey mates Gareth is having his 40th birthday party tomorrow night. For anyone living near Milton Street High School, get ready. There could be some music and noise, but I’m sure the events will be very low-key. Honest. Trust me, I work in radio.
One of the other events this weekend is on tonight at the Mackay Turf Club. Their big Sugar Awards are on, and I’ll jump on the mic to help it all flow along in my own way.
This weekend we’ve got markets at the showgrounds, beach markets around Bowen and Seaforth over the next few weeks, and with Easter just around the corner, stacks of events are being planned to get the most out of the weather, especially if you’re camping at Eungella or Seaforth. Get your gear ready now.
One thing I’d like to mention in this article today, and it brings a tear to my eye as I write this down.
On Monday we got to say ‘until next time’ for a lovely young man, taken way too early in life. His name is Jai Patrick Degue, and he was just 14 years old. In 5 day’s time, he would have turned 15.
Jai had a smile that would light up a room, a personality to match, and the cheekiness that we can all say, we loved. A couple of weeks ago Jai had a cardiac episode that he never recovered from, and on Monday his family Sarah, Nev, Bruce, Jesse, Yvette and their entire extended family said their goodbyes.
What made it even more special for me, was that last week Sarah and Bruce, after speaking with Nev asked me to officiate Jai’s service. I took it as an absolute honour, and whilst it was emotional to do, I hope I showed respect to Jai and his loved ones, whilst also bringing out some of his wonderful, colourful life that everyone loved.
From seeing the Newhaven Chapel full of people, and then seeing double that outside during the service makes you feel OK that this young man was truly loved in our community.
There were plenty of tears, and there will be more to come, but after hearing the stories about Jai, what he got up to, how he loved Nutella, coffee and that daily banana, it makes you look at life in a different way. Let’s live our lives today. Not tomorrow. Today.
Tell those around you how much they mean to you, laugh a lot, cry more, ruffle someone’s hair up, because you’re tall, treat people with the utmost respect, and please if you’re playing D&D with anyone, keep a thought for Jai. He was a master at it.
Rest in peace young man.
You can join Rob Kidd from 5am weekday mornings on 4MK 1026 AM in Mackay and Proserpine, 91.5FM in Airlie Beach or just ask your smart speaker to play 4MK on iHeartRadio!
It’s that time in the election cycle when citizens can metaphorically pick up their baseball bats and head to the polls.
It can be a lot of fun for the populace to get together like a gang of marauding bullies and head to the Showgrounds or local schools and give the elected representatives a good going over.
Sometimes the electoral flogging is well-deserved and a local member, councillor or mayor is punished for their ineptitude or for simply failing to get the results that had been expected. Thwak!
This weekend it’s council elections and I reckon there will be a few bruises when we see the aftermath next week. It will be interesting to see who’s left standing but I reckon there are going to be some new faces.
I won’t comment on the mayoral race for one very good and sound reason; I know and like all three candidates and I’m a wimpy little chicken who hasn’t got the guts to state publicly what he thinks.
Having said that, I would suggest that whoever is preparing the council name tags can safely order one that says, Cr G Christensen. That should make it interesting.
Other elections are coming up; the Federal Election will be early next year and the State Election will be held in October this year.
Whether it is local, state or federal governments, we all have our opinions and biases and things we look for in our representatives. And, as long as you don’t vote Greens or Teal, I respect your views. (Come on that’s a joke … kinda.)
But whoever we vote for, I think one of the main things we all want is for the interests of our city and region to be represented properly, for Mackay to be given the opportunity to be the best it can be.
Former US president Bill Clinton had a succinct and powerful way of describing what, in the end, was truly important politically: “It’s the economy, stupid.”
The economy is really a matter for state and federal governments and the electorate will express its view on their performance when it’s time to vote.
As a Mackay person and real estate agent, I expect both levels of government to do everything they can to boost our economy, create the opportunities that will support families, generate apprenticeships and sustain our city in the years ahead.
Diversification of our economy is vital to sustain us by applying our skills to new areas as the world changes, but it is also important that governments support and promote the coal industry and the local businesses that are inextricably linked to it.
A healthy coal sector creates work opportunities for miners and their families who move to - or decide to remain in - Mackay but those people need services and that also generates work for hairdressers and plumbers and carpenters and mechanics and accountants and teachers and … the list goes on in a perfect storm of capitalist energy.
The real estate sector and those who own property in this town benefit from this dynamic but governments have let us down in a couple of areas.
The state government has been absolutely hopeless at explaining to the nation that 70 or 80 per cent of the coal we produce in our region is coking coal, which is used to make steel. Not thermal coal for power plants. Steel-making coal, you know, the good stuff.
There are other things that need to be addressed that are a matter for the State Government because they are elected to support our economy, help facilitate the business and employment opportunities and address related problems such as housing.
Yes, I am pushing for a strong real estate sector but that also means an energetic, growing economy that provides opportunities for tomorrow’s Mackay school-leavers.
The great thing about elections is that we get to make a judgement and, if necessary, a change.
Mackay Regional Council staff will begin scheduled maintenance of palm trees in the Mackay City Centre next week.
The maintenance will start on Tuesday, March 19, in Wood Street and will include pruning dead fronds/leaves, shaving the trunk, cutting away visible fruit stalks and removing seed pods.
Arborists will be on site between the hours of 5am and 9am on weekdays and they will be carrying out maintenance on trees located on Wood, Victoria, Sydney, Macalister and Nelson streets, and Matsuura Drive and Mangrove Road.
Work on Sydney Street has been scheduled for Saturday, March 23, to minimise disruption to the public and to avoid the heavy traffic on this road during the week.
The maintenance is expected to be completed by Thursday, March 29, weather permitting.
Full traffic control will be in place and some road/lane closures will be required during the work.
Residents are asked to obey all instructions from council staff and traffic control officers.
The work is part of council’s annual maintenance program.
For further information call 1300 MACKAY (622 529).
McDonald’s Mackay U16 Junior Rep Teams were back in action for their third Basketball Queensland tournament held earlier this month at Townsville Basketball.
The U16 Meteors and Meteorettes both took out the top honours in their division to claim gold.
The U16 Comettes and Comets both finished second overall in their grades.
The U16 Stars finished in second place while the U16 Starettes took out the bronze medal.
Captions
U16 Meteors
U16 Meteorettes
U16 Comets
U16 Comettes
U16 Stars
U16 Starettes
In a groundbreaking moment for adventure enthusiasts and tourism alike, Finch Hatton's Stage 1 Mountain Bike trails have officially opened, drawing scores of mountain bikers to experience the thrilling twists and turns of these newly unveiled pathways.
With the inaugural trails now accessible, the stage is set for a monumental transformation in the tourism landscape of the Pioneer Valley. This milestone isn't just about launching trails; it's about igniting a tourism revolution that promises to redefine the region's allure and economic potential.
The project of ambitious proportions is poised not just to redefine recreation but to catalyse economic revitalisation on a scale unseen before in the Mackay Region.
One of its most passionate advocates, Cr Justin Englert says the vision is resoundingly clear – to position the valley as a global hub for mountain biking enthusiasts paving the way for national and international investment. With meticulous master planning underway to bolster regional tourism through this venture, the trails stand as a linchpin for increased visitation, business expansion, and community development.
Seeking re-election as a councillor in the local elections on March 16, Cr Englert successfully lobbied for the investigation, business case and funding for the Finch Hatton/Eungella mountain bike facility which he says will increase visitation to the valley by a minimum of 30,000 people per annum, kick-starting an economic prosperity not seen in Finch Hatton and Eungella since gold was discovered in the 1800s.
“This will be the anchor tenant for a rebirth of tourism industries from accommodation, food, farm stay, fishing, tours and more for the entire region,” he added.
Caption: Councillor Justin Englert, a passionate advocate for economic growth through tourism development, leads the charge at the Finch Hatton Mountain Bike trails, paving the way for Mackay's tourism resurgence
The Finch Hatton Mountain Bike trails aren't merely about creating a recreational facility for the community; they're about carving a new future for the region – one where tourism flourishes, businesses thrive, and communities prosper.
As the Mackay Regional Council embarks on the monumental task of constructing more than 80 kilometers of single-direction mountain bike trails across the Pioneer Valley, Finch Hatton, and Eungella, Cr Englert emphasises, "We are on the precipice of a tourism boom, and if re-elected, I will fight for the completion of this project to make the Pioneer Valley THE premium destination for mountain biking in the world."
Planning and investigation works for Stage 2 are underway and will continue until 2025 with construction forecasted to commence in 2026, however funding is not yet locked in for this project and the newly elected council will determine the future of development.
"This is the economic driver for the Pioneer Valley becoming one of the most desirable rainforest destinations in the world to attract global attention and help the businesses here thrive," he said.
“There has been interest shown from a range of tourism investors, including consideration for a gondola to transport visitors up to the top of the Eungella Range.”
Cr Englert's commitment to tourism development isn't confined solely to the mountain bike trails. As a councillor, he has been a tireless advocate for initiatives aimed at elevating Mackay's tourism profile and fostering economic prosperity across the region. From lobbying for consistent funding for Mackay Isaac Tourism to throwing his support behind Pioneer River activation projects, Justin has been at the forefront of driving initiatives that promote tourism, business growth, and community well-being.
He was chairperson for Mackay Isaac Tourism during the amalgamation of Mackay Tourism and Isaac Tourism and is sitting or has sat as chair of the Mountain Bike Alliance, Visual Arts Advisory Committee and Economic Recovery Subgroup. He is or has been a member of the Character and Heritage Advisory Committee, Invest Mackay Event and Conference Attraction Program Advisory Committee and the Local Disaster Recovery Group, strengthening his understanding of the economic needs of the region.
Cr Englert's dedication to public service extends far beyond his advocacy for tourism and economic development. A man of multifaceted talents and unwavering commitment, his professional journey spans military service, small business ownership, and extensive involvement in community organisations. From his tenure as a professional State Emergency Services Local Controller and spending more than 20 years volunteering in the SES, he has consistently demonstrated a steadfast commitment to serving his community.
As he seeks re-election for a third term, Cr Englert’s platform is anchored on completing ongoing projects, ensuring affordable living for residents, fostering community growth, and advancing the development of the Pioneer River.
Authorised by Justin Englert, 8 Marlborough Street, Ooralea
Captions:
SES: Justin Englert was the Mackay region’s first professional State Emergency Services Local Controller responding to the region’s emergencies and natural disasters
Plane: Justin (left) joined the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) as an avionics mechanic at the age of 19. He was posted to 501 Wing Amberly and commenced work on the F111 C fighter jet aircraft. Photos supplied
Bike: As a councillor, Justin lobbied for the investigation, business case and funding for the Finch Hatton mountain bike trails
A new agreement has Mackay Airport firmly on the path to becoming carbon-neutral by next year, a status which would make it among the first in Australasia.
Mackay Airport, through operator the North Queensland Airports Group, recently entered a six-year partnership with state-owned CleanCo Queensland. Commencing in January 2025, the agreement means 100 per cent of the airport’s electricity, and that of tenants, will be powered by renewable energy.
Mackay Airport Chief Executive Officer Richard Barker said investing in good environmental practice was the right thing to do.
“Mackay Airport is a key economic driver for the Mackay Isaac region, and we see it as our responsibility to balance our core aviation business with the protection of our natural surroundings,” he said.
“Our region is home to Australia’s longest stretch of subtropical rainforest and many pristine national parks and beaches, as well as being the heart of the Central Queensland resource centres.
“Mackay Airport is committed to achieving Net Zero emissions (for Scope 1 and 2) by 2025, a significant target which would make us among the first carbon-neutral airports in Australasia. Implementation of climate-positive practices will help to futureproof our operations for the benefit of our community and economy.”
The collaboration with CleanCo encompasses Cairns Airport, also owned by the North Queensland Airports Group. The majority of the renewable energy will be supplied by the Kaban Green Energy Hub near Ravenshoe, on the Atherton Tablelands.
Minister for Energy, Renewables and Hydrogen Mick de Brenni said, “we know that tourists come from around the world to visit the pristine sites of the Far North, and with the tourism industry the biggest employer in the region, initiatives that take action on climate are critical.”
CleanCo Chief Executive Officer Tom Metcalfe added, “this collaboration is one of great importance to CleanCo and allows Queenslanders to make a direct connection between the renewables we are investing in, the journeys they travel and the airports they visit in beautiful North Queensland.”
Mackay Airport is implementing a progressive Environment Strategy to guide operations through to 2025. Other targets and measures within the plan include halving waste to landfill, halving potable water use and protection of biodiversity.
Caption: CleanCo Queensland CEO Tom Metcalf, North Queensland Airports CEO Richard Barker, Tourism Minister Michael Healy, Advance Cairns CEO Jacinta Reddan and Energy Minister Mick de Brenni at the announcement of the landmark renewable energy agreement
As we approach the upcoming local elections in Mackay, it's imperative that we, as a community, take the time to reflect on the issues that resonate most deeply with us. With a diverse array of candidates vying for council positions, each with their own unique platforms and priorities, it's crucial that voters engage with the specific concerns and aspirations outlined by these contenders.
Candidates have articulated a range of issues and proposals that they believe are vital for the future well-being of our region. From economic development and job creation to housing affordability, environmental sustainability, and community engagement, there is a wealth of topics to consider as we evaluate the suitability of each candidate for office.
On the cover this edition we caught up with Justin Englert to find out about the exciting economic driver in the Finch Hatton mountain bike trails, while on page 8 we find out how Jacko’s Team promises to reduce our rates.
Then on pages 10-15 we have an in-depth look at all of our councillor candidates.
For instance, Melissa Fowler emphasises the need to restore pride in our region and enhance support for local businesses and families. Namarca Corowa underscores the importance of community engagement, transparency, and sustainable initiatives to enhance Mackay's livability.
Heath Paton highlights the significance of community-spirited events and opportunities for youth, while Belinda Hassan's commitment to fiscal responsibility and community service resonates with many. Les Scott's focus on housing and employment, along with Stephen Cutting's emphasis on infrastructure and community collaboration, offer further insights into the diverse perspectives shaping this election.
These are just a few examples of the myriad issues and priorities brought forth by the candidates. As residents of Mackay, your input and feedback are invaluable in shaping the direction of our community. What issues matter most to you? What qualities are you looking for in your elected representatives?
As we prepare to cast our votes, let's take the time to engage with the candidates and critically evaluate their platforms. Together, we can ensure that our voices are heard and that our elected officials are equipped to address the pressing needs and aspirations of our vibrant and dynamic community.
Make sure you grab next week’s edition where I sit down with our three mayoral candidates.
Amanda
The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating a single fatal motorcycle crash in Crediton last week, March 1.
Initial information indicates some time the day before on February 29, a motorcycle was travelling west on Eungella Dam Road when it left the road and crashed.
Emergency services were alerted to the crash around 7am on March 1.
Upon arrival, the rider, a 61-year-old Crediton man was declared deceased.
The Pioneer Valley is grieving the loss of David ‘Warby’ Grant, a cherished member and one of the founding members of the Eungella Community Development Association since its establishment in 1988.
Warby dedicated his time to various community activities, notably serving as a volunteer cook at the Eungella Community Hub. A former employee of the Mackay Regional Council, Warby was employed at both the Eungella Chalet and Broken River Mountain Resort. The news of his tragic passing elicited an outpouring of condolences on social media platforms, reflecting the impact he had on those around him.
Anyone who may have witnessed the accident or have any relevant dashcam or CCTV footage, is urged to contact police.
Investigations are ongoing.
The Official Blessing and Opening of Stage 2 of Mackay’s newest Catholic secondary school, Catherine McAuley College, was held on Wednesday 7 February.
Catholic Bishop of Rockhampton, The Most Reverend Michael McCarthy, conducted the Blessing and Stage 2 was officially opened by Member for Mackay Julianne Gilbert MP representing the Queensland State Government, and Director of Catholic Education Diocese of Rockhampton (CEDR) Leesa Jeffcoat AM.
“This is an exciting milestone for the Catherine McAuley College community, for the Mackay community and represents the culmination of extensive collaboration, planning and development by a dedicated group of people,” College Principal, Mr Jim Ford said.
The completion of stage 2, designed by local Architects, Bold Architecture & Interior Design with construction being completed by Fergus Builders, consists of 2 new buildings known as Kappa and Theta Blocks and comprises 16 new learning hubs, including a new Technology Learning Centre.
College Principal Mr Jim Ford said he was extremely pleased with the completion of the second stage and was delighted to see planning concepts gradually transformed into bricks and mortar and finished off as beautifully designed, teaching and learning spaces.
“The College looks amazing with a blend of the refurbished old and the stylish new, and we acknowledge the State Government’s significant contribution towards this second construction phase along with the local Catholic Community,” Mr Ford said.
Catherine McAuley College now in its third year of operation has this year grown to a student enrolment of 431 with 68 staff, including 21 new staff this year. Year 7 enrolments this year have exceeded expectations with 157 in total. Forward planning will see the addition of a new year level each year until the College reaches its expected capacity enrolment of 1200 students in Years 7-12 by 2027.
Caption: Blessing and opening of Stage 2 at Catherine McAuley College, a significant occasion for education in Mackay. Photos supplied
Mackay is the latest Queensland city to gain a State Development Area (SDA), with the declaration to unlock land for new industrial development and more jobs.
The Queensland Government has declared a State Development Area across two sites, at Racecourse Mill and Rosella.
The SDA sets aside industrial land to support industry economic diversification, including bioenergy and biofood production.
A $4 million Bioenergy Fund opened late last month, on the 29th February 2024.
Assistant Minister for State Development and Infrastructure and Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert says, “This is something that is really great for our community.
“Mackay has an opportunity to build on our strengths and attract the jobs of the future.
“What we are going to be able to create here will be the new jobs for the kids sitting in our local schools today.
“We’re already producing the raw materials that will mean new jobs, new growth and new opportunities.
“This State Development Area and the Miles Government’s bioenergy fund will support our community to take advantage of future opportunities.”
The SDA sets aside 907 ha of land adjacent to the Racecourse Mill and at Rosella to be rezoned to support value adding to the sugar cane product.
The SDA will see the city become Queensland’s home of an emerging bio commodity industry.
This announcement follows a seven-month investigation by the Office of the Coordinator-General which began in April 2023 and included public consultation and a call for public submissions.
Minister for State Development and Infrastructure Grace Grace says, “Mackay now has a dedicated space to develop its enormous potential as a leader in the bio-industries that are finding new ways to make the food, fibre, feed and fuel the world’s needs.
“The declaration of an SDA across 907 hectares in Racecourse Mill and Rosella means work can now begin on a development scheme to guide future growth.
“Queensland’s sugar industry has a long history of turning waste and by-products from the sugar manufacturing process into ethanol and electricity.
“Our new Bioenergy Fund will support the expansion of these opportunities for the sector and other industries that can turn waste into clean energy.”
The next step will be for the Office of the Coordinator-General to prepare and then consult with the community on a Draft Development Scheme.
Mackay’s sugar industry will benefit from the $4 million Bioenergy Fund, providing matched financial assistance between $250,000 and $2 million for industry to investigate expanding bioenergy generation from biomass waste streams and support technology innovation.
The Fund will prioritise projects that advance biomass-to-electricity conversion technologies and enable growth in the biogas and biomethane sectors, like cane waste to ethanol.
Leading expert in technologies and systems for the development of the bioeconomy, Professor O’hara declares, “We’re working with the canegrowers, the sugar mills and other participants within the region and we’re very keen to help support the great sector, it’s a great opportunity for Mackay.”
Applications can be made for feasibility or technical studies to investigate options and pathways to expand bioenergy generation and support technology innovation in the bioenergy sector in Queensland.
Applications are open for six weeks from the 29th of February.
Caption 1: Assistant Minister for State Development and Infrastructure Julieanne Gilbert
Caption 2: Minister for State Development and Infrastructure Grace Grace
Caption 4: Assistant Minister Julieanne Gilbert, Minister Grace Grace and Professor O’hara, discussing future plans for the SDA. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Blueprint Sets Path For A New Industry
Tapping into a share of an emerging global industry estimated by the CSIRO to be worth some $400 billion by 2040, is the driver behind the release of the Greater Whitsunday Biomanufacturing Blueprint 1.0 by the Greater Whitsunday Allilance (GW3).
Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) Chief Executive Officer Ms Kylie Porter said the Greater Whitsunday region has been leading an intensive campaign to establish this emerging industry in the region since 2018.
“Mackay has long been recognised as an ideal location to lead a domestic biomanufacturing sector due to our abundance of feed stocks, sophisticated logistics network of roads, ports and rail as well as a highly skilled, technical workforce.
“When the Queensland Government released the Queensland Biofutures 10-year Roadmap and Action Plan in 2016, our focus became laser-sharp on establishing a biofutures sector in the region and since 2018, we have had a regional working group committed to achieving that goal,” Ms Porter said.
Ms Porter said that over the last six years, the group has led a range of research and evidence building activities to prove the opportunity.
“In 2023, the Biofutures Leaders Group, comprising of regional representatives from government, industry and business commenced preparation of a region-specific Greater Whitsunday Biomanufacturing Blueprint 1.0 to act as a guide to establishing a sector locally.
“The announcement of a State Development Area here in Mackay, covering two sites including Racecourse Mill and Rosella, is another positive step forward in seeing this vision come to life.
“Whilst our region is leading the charge to establish a biomanufacturing sector in Australia, we must continue to act swiftly to make the most of this competitive advantage.
“We are actively working with a range of proponents who are interested in establishing commercial operations right here in Mackay and I am very excited that in the future, the Greater Whitsunday region will be home to a leading global biomanufacturing precinct.”
Mackay bids farewell to a legend as Doug Knight OAM, a pillar of the community and rugby league aficionado, peacefully passed away on February 27, 2024. His legacy, spanning decades of dedication and service, leaves a mark on the hearts of those who knew him.
Born in Bowen, Doug devoted many of his teaching years to Victoria Park State School, leaving an unforgettable impact as both an educator and a mentor. His commitment to fostering the potential of countless students earned him widespread respect and admiration after clocking up 35 years as a teacher.
Renowned for his passion for rugby league, Doug's coaching career spanned an impressive 58 years, during which he selflessly guided numerous teams, still coaching as a 79-year-old. Regardless of skill level, Doug believed in providing opportunities for all children, instilling values of teamwork and sportsmanship that transcended the game.
His commitment to community service earned him widespread recognition, including the prestigious Order of Australia Medal.
A devoted family man, Doug and his loving wife Sandra had four daughters, Suzanne (dec), Debbie, Pauline, and Jenny, and seven grandchildren.
Reflecting on her father's legacy, Debbie Knight shared cherished memories of his boundless compassion and willingness to help others.
"He taught me a lot, but what I most admired about my dad was the devotion he had for his family and club, that he always strived for fairness and that he would never say no to helping me no matter what - even when he would be busy helping others," she fondly recalls.
“He didn’t really care about winning all that much, though it was always a much better grand final if Souths came out on top.
“Dad wanted kids to have opportunities and didn’t like seeing them missing out. He’d always pick up a heap of Souths kids to take them to footy training.”
Daughter, Jen McPherson also shared insights into Doug's remarkable character when he was awarded his OAM.
“This man is the epitome of a volunteer who does it because he loves it and gets embarrassed when he gets recognised for his awesomeness," Jen reflects.
"I saw how much care and time he puts into each and every kid that has gone through South’s over the last 57 years, regardless of sporting ability or potential, he just wants every kid to 'have a go and enjoy it'."
The Mackay Souths Sharks, deeply saddened by Doug's passing, paid tribute to his unparalleled contributions to rugby league and the wider community.
“A great man in so many ways that will be missed by many.
“A true Legend to the game of rugby league not just to South’s but to the whole rugby league community,” their tribute read on Facebook.
Though Doug may no longer be with us, his spirit lives on in the countless lives he touched and the values he instilled in others.
Caption: Doug Knight OAM, pictured after receiving his OAM, forever remembered for his dedication to rugby league and tireless community service. Photo supplied
With a 10.5% increase in Mackay Regional Council’s rates and charges looming, Mayoral candidate Steve “Jacko” Jackson and his ‘Jacko’s Team - Mackay First’ candidates have made a bold pledge to reduce residential rates.
Council's 2023/24 budget document "Statement of Income and Expenses", endorsed by current Mayor Greg Williamson and incumbent councillors, shows a planned spike in rates and charges from $240.5 million this financial year to an eye-watering $266.1 million by 2025/26, a hike of more than 10.5%.
In stark contrast, Jacko’s Team has an action plan which prioritises relief for ratepayers.
By initiating a rigorous audit of the council's sprawling $420 million budget, Mr Jackson and his team aim to identify and eliminate wasteful spending, thereby directly contributing to a reduction in residential rates across the region.
Along with lowering residential rates, Jacko’s Team has committed to freezing rural rates and working with local cane farming industry leaders to address recent rate rises which saw some local family-owned cane farms suffer 90 percent increases in their rates bills.
They have also pledged to phase out rates on properties owned by local community groups, sporting groups, and charities that do not receive income from pokies.
While the commitment to lower rates sits at the core of their campaign, Jacko's Team - Mackay First is not stopping there.
The team's action plan encompasses a holistic approach to revitalising the entire Mackay region and addressing key areas of concern for residents, including:
• Fixing local roads: Jacko’s Team has committed to an extensive assessment and repair strategy for the local road network, targeting the perennial issue of potholes and ensuring safer, more durable roadways.
• Improving waste management: By doubling the number of dump vouchers for households and removing voucher expiry dates, Jacko’s Team hopes to make excess rubbish removal easier for locals and reduce illegal dumping at the same time. This initiative is coupled with the reinstatement of the annual pre-cyclone clean-up service, reflecting a commitment to environmental sustainability and community well-being.
• Growing our region: Jacko’s Team will work on a strategic initiative aimed at bolstering local businesses and attracting skilled workers to address labor shortages, fostering economic growth and stability for our entire region.
• Providing more to do: With plans to inject life into community spaces, from revitalising the Pioneer Riverfront to fast-tracking the Northern Beaches community hub to getting more family-friendly community infrastructure in the Sarina district and the Pioneer Valley, Jacko’s Team aims to enrich the cultural and social fabric of the region.
Born and raised in Mackay, Mr Jackson's deep roots, professional rugby league background, and successful small business management position him as a Mayoral candidate deeply attuned to the needs and aspirations of the community.
The candidates from Jacko’s Team - Mackay First also have a wealth of experience in small business, farming, government, and community.
Authorised by Jeff Keioskie, 5 Downing Street, Ooralea
Last week, 22 of the 29 candidates running for the position of councillor with the Mackay Regional Council, attended a Q&A forum at the Northern Beaches Bowls Club. Hosted by the Northern Beaches Community Group, the forum aimed to introduce candidates to the public and invite each candidate to answer two questions on relevant local issues.
Below is a short summary of their introduction from every candidate who attended.
Alison Jones
Alison Jones prioritises advocacy and transparency in local governance, she emphasises returning to basics and securing financial stability for the community's future. With a focus on transparency and fiscal responsibility, Alison believes in reinstating divisions to Mackay Regional Council. She said that divisions are successful in making councillors more responsible for the area they look after and therefore providing better representation for the community.
Ash-Lee Johnson
Ash-Lee Johnson understands the community's values and aspirations intimately as she raises her own young family in the area. She is a vocal advocate for local businesses and believes strongly in empowering younger generations to become active contributors to their community, bringing a fresh perspective to enhance liveability, business opportunities, and new pathways for youth, education, and sport.
Belinda Hassan
Belinda Hassan’s passion for social welfare is evident through her nine years of service at a domestic violence shelter and her longstanding involvement with the Mackay Women's Service board for over 15 years. She actively participates in service clubs and is a strong advocate for well-being in the community. Giving back to the community is her passion.
Peter Freeleagus
With a background in underground mining in Ipswich, Peter transitioned to the mining industry in Mackay after moving to the region with his family. Peter's dedication to the community extended to local governance, He was first elected to the former Belyando Shire Council in 1997, appointed Deputy Mayor in 2000 and served as Mayor from 2003 to 2008, when the Belyando, Nebo and Broadsound shires were amalgamated to form Isaac Regional Council.
George Christensen
A fifth-generation local, George has dedicated over a decade to public service. His understanding of the needs of young families, coupled with his hands-on involvement in pivotal projects like the Mackay Ring Road, Mackay Headspace, and Mackay Northern Beaches Community Hub during his time as the Federal Member for Dawson, underscores his passion for creating a vibrant and sustainable future for the region.
Greg Fisher
Born in Proserpine, Greg Fisher has a natural curiosity and love for engaging in conversations in the early days that propelled him to observe and appreciate the progression of his town through various mayoral administrations. With a genuine passion for his community, Greg aspires to contribute positively to its growth and development through his involvement in local council affairs.
Ian Rowan
Ian Rowan was a former CEO of RACQ CQ Rescue for over five years and is involved with various community organisations, underlining his dedication to community engagement. Ian's key values of integrity, business insight, and effective communication are the foundations of his approach to addressing key issues such as rates, roads, rubbish, and public safety.
Joshua Thornton
Joshua Thornton, a relative newcomer to Mackay, brings a diverse background in law, politics, and advocacy to the table. Originally hailing from the Gold Coast, Joshua graduated from university in 2014 with a degree in law and politics. He then relocated to Mackay, where he is now advocating for initiatives aimed at making the community safer for families.
Karen May
Karen May has been a local for the past 40 years, with more than 20 of those years serving in local government. She was a councillor, deputy mayor and mayor of the former Sarina Shire Council and in her most recent role as councillor for Mackay Regional Council was also deputy mayor. Learning the ins and outs of becoming a long-term business owner with a background in management of hospitality and tourism, she advocates to see more positive changes in the Mackay region.
Kimberly Doyle
October last year, Kimberly Doyle decided she wanted better for the Mackay region. She stands firm on providing care and immediate action to every community member, declaring that every individual matters and she will be the change. Kimberley has held leadership and coaching roles in Special Olympics over the last 10 years as well as the 30-plus years in the finance and disability industry.
Kylee Stanton
In 2014, Kylee Stanton moved from Brisbane to Mackay with 4 children, where she was self-employed in a small business for the majority of her life. She emphasises not having a career in politics, but is just an ordinary citizen, wanting change for the community.
Lindsay Temple
Over the years, Lindsay Temple has been involved in programs advocating for young drivers to stay safe on the roads. Lindsay is passionate about finding more activities to keep children engaged in the community and his background experience in construction work over the years has urged his passion for fixing Mackay local roads.
Martin Bella
Martin Bella is a strong advocate for those in need, urging to combat issues regarding homelessness, disability, neurology and aged care. His down-to-earth, selfless nature provides a compassionate touch to what Martin could potentially bring to the Mackay regional community. Martin is seeking re-election.
Michelle Green
Born in the Mackay region, Michelle Green obtained a degree in exercise physiology, with a passion for active living and wellbeing in the community. Michelle has a
unique voice advocating for young families as she provides intergenerational depth and compassion for the region. She is seeking her second term as a councillor.
Neil Wallace
Neil Wallace was previously an insurance broker for 40 years, and is socially part of the Mackay North Rotary Club where he assists organisations and fundraisers in the community. He has a passion for training young people to get their learners license, getting disengaged students back into school and providing safety and activities for younger generations.
Pauline Townsend
Running for a second term as councillor, Pauline Townsend has learnt areas of recruitment, human resources and industrial relations. Working within the community in various non-for-profit charity groups such as the Trudy Crowdy Foundation, a member of Rotary, a volunteer for Shed Happens, and Special Olympics Queensland, Pauline is dedicated to providing compassion to those within the Mackay region.
Peter Sheedy
A fourth generational local, Peter Sheedy has extensive experience in accounting and is now in the grandparent stages of life. He has witnessed the crucial challenges that young families are currently facing and advocates for changes in particular to quality day-care services and safer roads, underlining that young families are our future.
Steve Cutting
Steve Cutting provides visionary care by giving back to the community through street chaplaincy, where he gained the role of president for the organisation. After forty years in professional engineering and having a heavy industrial background, he has learned that teamwork is key and he hopes he can create a team-based workplace to provide the best for the community.
Les Scott
Born and raised on a sugar cane farm up the valley, Les Scott learned a strong work ethic. He discovered his own business, providing a service that reduced landfill waste by up to 80 per cent. Over the years Les gained an interest in council and now has 2 years’ experience at the local shire council in Clermont, Moranbah and rural areas.
Justin Englert
Justin Englert has a passion for tourism and the regional economy. He is a member of the Mackay Event and Conference Attraction Program where he advocates to expand tourism opportunities in the region and is involved in the community through various services such as the SES. He believes in utilising tourism as an economic driver to forge progress in the region.
Keith Hicks
Keith Hicks is an active contributor, finding fulfillment in volunteering with the Scouts and dedicating time to the veteran community. He has a passion for innovation and a dedication to community service, aiming to give back to the community and deliver a brighter future in the Mackay region.
Fran Mann
Frann Mann is a second term councillor with a passion for the region’s heritage and history. She is a key representative for the Regional Arts Development Fund. Fran attended primary and secondary schools in the Pioneer Valley and is a passionate advocate for all parts of the Mackay region.
A single varroa mite has been found in a sentinel beehive at the Port of Brisbane after a routine inspection by Biosecurity Queensland.
Diagnostic testing has confirmed the mite is Varroa jacobsoni – not Varroa destructor.
Secondary testing is now being conducted to determine if the mite is carrying any exotic viruses of honeybees or if any other exotic bee pests are present.
Biosecurity Queensland is undertaking tracing activities to identify the potential source and likelihood of spread.
Surveillance is being conducted in conjunction with the Queensland bee industry and the Australian Government to determine if there are any more varroa mites in the surrounding area.
As a precautionary measure, a movement control order (MCO) is now in place to prevent any potential spread.
Movement restrictions apply to all beekeepers who have hives in or have had hives in the surrounding localities to the Port of Brisbane within the past 90 days.
Restrictions apply to the movement of bees, bee hives, bee products and used bee keeping equipment.
Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said, “Any new incursion of varroa mites is concerning, even if this particular detection is Varroa jacobsoni rather than Varroa destructor.
“Incidents like this one are why these surveillance hives are in key sites like the Port of Brisbane. This shows that our biosecurity systems are working, and the importance of early surveillance so we can respond swiftly,” Mr Furner said.
“Queensland is no stranger to a Varroa jacobosni incursion and has successfully eradicated this pest in Townsville in 2016, 2019, and 2020.”
“It is vital that beekeepers abide by the control order restrictions and follow the advice of Biosecurity Queensland.”
Queensland Beekeepers Association president Jacob Stevens said, “The Queensland Beekeepers’ Association Inc is in position and ready to provide meaningful support to our impacted beekeepers in the movement control zones.
“In recent years we’ve provided our expertise and technical knowledge to Biosecurity Queensland to deliver successful eradications of mites detected in Queensland,” Mr Stevens said.
“Queensland has a history of exotic incursions and the QBA is confident our beekeepers will rise to the challenge acting on our call to action to undertake varroa mite surveillance immediately, reporting all results to Bee 123.”
Both Varroa jacobsoni and Varroa destructor are classified as prohibited matter under the Queensland Biosecurity Act 2014. If found or suspected, they must be reported immediately to Biosecurity Queensland.
Beekeepers must also notify Biosecurity Queensland of any hive movements in or out of the movement control area or any bees bought or sold in the last 90 days.
Report varroa mite to Biosecurity Queensland online or by calling 13 25 23.
Biosecurity Queensland is contacting registered beekeepers inside that zone, but anyone unsure of what the control order requires of them is urged to contact the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries on 13 25 23 before moving any items.
What Beekeepers Can Do:
All Queensland beekeepers are urged to:
• continue monitoring hives for varroa mite using the alcohol wash method (at least every 16 weeks)
• report your hive check using the quick and easy Bee 123 form, even if you do not find any suspect mites
• immediately report unexpected hive deaths, deformed bees, bees with parasites, poor brood patterns and dead brood to Biosecurity Queensland
• keep your contact details and apiary sites up to date and renew your biosecurity entity registration when due
• keep accurate and up to date records of hive movements, hive checks, and any bees bought or sold
• keep up to date with the relevant state authority for movement requirements before entering or leaving the state
• report sightings of Asian honey bees, feral nests/swarms or hives showing symptoms of exotic pests to Biosecurity Queensland
• find out more about varroa mite.
Sugarcane’s potential as a renewable source of bioenergy, biofuel and bioproducts continues to grow through the concept of the circular bioeconomy.
Queensland Cane Agriculture & Renewables (QCAR) Director Russell Hall believes the sugarcane to be the only 100% renewable energy source.
“We cut it and from the day it starts growing again, it’s creating oxygen and natural capital on your farm and its producing natural energy,” he said.
“Once harvested, it joins the process of fuel, power, plastic, milk, oil, burning modules, it just becomes a whole array of green energy.”
Through the circular bioeconomy, sugarcane can fuel and power the future by utilising existing sugarcane land for sugar production while converting sugarcane waste into bioenergy, biofuel and bioproduct.
QCAR’s commitment to renewables and sustainable agriculture is also seen as a vital opportunity for the industry to capitalise on sugarcane’s unique composition as the globe makes strides in its mission to decarbonise.
Mr Hall recognised the potential for the Mackay region and beyond to participate in this shift by establishing itself as a bioeconomy hub through expansion of land and infrastructure.
“We can be part of the process and get ourselves into the grid by whole crop harvesting, then buy the power, fuel and fertiliser back,” he said.
“There’s the first part which is the sugar and molasses process, but if it’s got organic nitrogen, green power and biodiesel or bioethanol, then all of a sudden, that sugar becomes 100% net zero sugar.
“We’re good for the reef, good for the economy and good for the environment, we tick all the boxes.”
This opportunity for the sugarcane industry is seen as a positive for not only farmers and growers, but also for the communities that thrive on the industry.
“The jobs in other renewables are non-existent, whereas sugar mills employ up to 200 people,” Mr Hall said.
“It will expand the industry because, all of a sudden, you’re not sending in 8 million tonne of cane, you’re sending in 12-14 million tonnes of biomass.
“You’re going to building more factories.
“Instead of losing our families, I think there’s enough money in this sort of system to keep young people in the towns.
“The whole community can prosper, whether as a part of it or as a shareholder or even just the supply of cheaper energy and cheaper fuel.
“There’s huge potential for the economy, we’ve just got to have a proactive government on board.”
Mr Hall believes this increased demand will require sugarcane to be cut year-round, seeing a return to Monday to Friday crushing which will again benefit communities and the families who call them home.
“We all know cane is like grass, we don’t have to wait until it gets to 60-70 tonnes to the acre, you can cut it every six months,” he said.
“We want it to be ongoing, Monday to Friday, so when the sun is shining, we can be harvesting cane as a biomass.”
“QCAR is willing to work with incumbent sugar millers to push the concept of a circular bioeconomy.”
Caption: QCAR Director Russell Hall believes the sugarcane to be the only 100% renewable energy source
Local pet rescue carers got a snappy surprise visit from a young crocodile lovingly named "Fluffy" by a witty foster carer. Robin and Ros were stunned to encounter the crocodile casually sitting on Golf Links Road late last week.
The young croc was said to be approximately two metres in length and was reportedly healthy looking.
Despite the initial shock, they managed to snap a quick photo before the croc slipped back into the water and vanished. This unexpected sighting occurred as they were returning home after a day of rescue and vet visits. Given the proximity to a popular fishing spot, residents are urged to remain vigilant, especially with children or pets such as cats and dogs.
Ainslie Langdon from Northern Wildlife Operations shares her advice on how to remain croc safe, stating, “We just ask the public to maintain croc wise behaviour and try and stay five meters back from the edge of water-bodies.”
Appropriate authorities were notified, but it's essential for residents to exercise extra caution, particularly near local fishing spots as well as mangrove areas and take appropriate safety measures when near waterways.
Warning signs have now been put up in the Golf Links area and wildlife professionals urge the community to contact authorities to report a future sighting.
This incident serves as a reminder that crocodiles can appear anywhere in our croc country, including suburban areas like Mackay. By remaining vigilant and taking appropriate precautions, residents can minimise the risk of encounters with these reptiles and ensure the safety of the community.
Caption: Young Crocodile named fluffy, said to be approximately two meters in length, spotted near the Mackay Golf Course on Golf Links Road. Photo credit: Mackay Pet Rescue
Sandra Hubner is the co-owner and administration manager at Get It Done Training PTY LTD. She plays a vital role in empowering individuals to unlock their full potential, with a focus on positivity and encouragement.
Sandra is well-known in the community for her support and dedication to helping others thrive. In her position, Sandra works tirelessly to guide individuals towards realising their capabilities and achieving their goals. Whether it's through sales strategies or administrative duties, she approaches her work with a passion for making a difference in people's lives.
When it comes to her experience with dancing, Sandra's favourite moments revolve around her interactions with her dance instructor, Dolly. She cherishes the opportunity to learn from Dolly and appreciates the supportive environment she fosters. As for the most difficult aspect of her dance journey, Sandra humorously admits that, it's all challenging.
“I am probably one of her challenging students,” she said.
Despite struggles on the dancefloor at times, Sandra embraces the journey with enthusiasm.
“It's an opportunity to step into the spotlight, not just as a business leader, but as a mother, to demonstrate the importance of community engagement, lifelong learning, and supporting causes that touch our hearts.”
Beyond her professional and dance endeavours, Sandra holds a deep appreciation for the work of the Mackay Hospital Foundation. Recognising the foundation's significant contributions to the community. Sandra highly values their efforts in supporting individuals and families during times of need.
“The Mackay Hospital Foundation do a lot of amazing things for our community and the team have always been great to engage with.”
Most would know Jay Shipston in the Mackay and Whitsundays community for his cultivating, enthusiastic voice as one half of the dynamic Triple M Breakfast Show.
Beginning his career over a decade ago in 2007, Jay has cemented himself as a familiar voice in the community, providing a lively start to each day with his witty banter and infectious energy, brightening up mornings, making people laugh and keeping listeners entertained.
When it comes to dance moves, Jay's favourites are the ones that come naturally to him. He admits that the easier moves tend to be his preference, with a laugh indicating that he may not be the most skilled dancer when it comes to more complex routines.
“The harder ones, are not my favourite ones,” he says.
Despite the ‘full on’ routine, Jay is embracing the opportunity to learn new dance routines, finding enjoyment in the process even when it proves to be more intense than expected.
Beyond his on-air persona, Jay's admiration for the Mackay Hospital Foundation reflects his deep-rooted commitment to giving back to the community. He recognises the invaluable support the foundation provides to local families in need and wholeheartedly supports their endeavours.
Through his radio show, community involvement, and charitable efforts, Jay uses his platform to entertain, inspire, and make a positive impact on the lives of those around him.
“I love how much the Mackay Hospital Foundation do for the community, and it fits in with my love of the community. They work so hard for families in our region,” he said.
In a significant development for the tourism sector in the Mackay Isaac region, Mackay Isaac Tourism (MIT) has announced the appointment of Jeff Stewart-Harris PSM as its interim CEO. The move follows the resignation of outgoing CEO, Al Grundy, who has played a pivotal role in facilitating the transition.
Effective March 4th, Mr Stewart-Harris steps into the role of interim CEO with a wealth of experience garnered from his extensive tenure in various organisations across the Greater Whitsunday region since 1999. Notably, Stewart-Harris served as the Chief Executive Officer of Isaac Regional Council, and from former positions brings with him a profound understanding of infrastructure, planning, regional and economic development, community engagement, as well as port, airport, and transport sectors.
Described as a strategic thinker and courageous leader, Stewart-Harris is deeply committed to the prosperity of regional areas, viewing them as the driving force behind the nation's success. His leadership philosophy is rooted in the belief that sustainable futures for regions and communities are forged through robust social and economic performance, emphasising the importance of challenging conventional wisdom to achieve these goals.
"I am honoured to step into this role and build upon the strong foundation laid by Mr. Grundy," Stewart-Harris remarked.
"My focus will be on maintaining the momentum and continuing the excellent work done by MIT in promoting our region as a premier tourism destination."
In addition to Stewart-Harris's appointment, MIT has enlisted the expertise of Tonia Wilson from Wilson's Consulting Services as a project coordinator. Wilson will play a crucial role in spearheading key initiatives, including the development and implementation of a comprehensive cruise ship strategy aimed at enhancing tourism opportunities in the region.
Caption: Jeff Stewart-Harris PSM. Photo credit: Isaac Regional Council
Nothing beats being able to say: ‘I am fully qualified’ - and that’s what Courtney and Lauren can now do, after completing their Hairdressing Apprenticeships, with the support of scholarships from Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank.
After successfully applying for and receiving Apprenticeship Scholarships in 2019 and 2020 respectively, Courtney Kennedy and Lauren Head both went on to find their footing in the hairdressing industry and have flourished, attributing their success to supportive workplaces and the extra professional growth and networking opportunities they received as part of their scholarships.
If you are first year apprentice in 2024 and undertaking your training with CQUniversity, you could apply for one of two (2) Apprenticeship scholarships, applications closing on 31 March. If you are starting your studies in one of the following fields, you are encouraged to apply: Engineering & Technology, Building & Construction, Electrical, Manufacturing Engineering & Technology, Hairdressing, Horticulture or Mechanical.
There are also two (2) $9000 Higher Education Scholarships for those starting a Bachelor degree in 2024, in selected fields.
Courtney Kennedy said she would “most definitely encourage those starting a degree or apprenticeship to apply”, and that the Community Bank Sarina scholarship provided her with “multiple opportunities in the hairdressing community”.
“Hairdressing is a forever changing industry, and this scholarship allowed me to stay educated on the latest trends and have all the correct tools needed to excel in my career.
“Since completing my apprenticeship, I have now stepped up to be the 2IC of our beautiful salon and have an amazing full clientele,” Ms Kennedy said.
Community Bank Sarina Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich said she encouraged this year’s new students to invest in themselves and not to underestimate their potential.
“We encourage all eligible students and apprentices throughout the Mackay region to apply, as scholarships not only open doors regardless of background or circumstance, they also enable students to study and work close to home.
“The achievements of Courtney and Lauren are a great example of the potential for success when students are given the right mentoring and opportunities to pursue their goals, and the vital role that scholarships play in fostering local talent in our region, across many different industries.”
Community Bank Sarina has partnered with CQUniversity since 2012 to offer scholarships, reducing the need for students to travel for secondary education, providing a chance to stay local and actively contribute to our economy and communities.
CQUniversity Scholarships – applications close 31 March
There are two (2) $6000 Apprenticeship scholarships and two (2) $9000 Higher Education scholarships available to apply for now. These scholarships can assist with costs associated with studying and provide invaluable connections within local industries.
To find out more and apply, email executive@sarinacommunity.com.au or call 0435 537 012.
Caption (L-R) Community Bank Sarina Chair Karen May, Courtney Kennedy, Lauren Head and Community Bank Sarina Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich
Join the Sarina Sugar Shed for a special St Patrick's Day cocktail masterclass on Saturday 16th March from 4.30pm, 'cos even leprechauns love rum!
Experience all the shenanigans of the sweet masterclasses with a touch of Irish charm, including a unique green cocktail that the team is concocting!
It will be loads of fun...to be sure, to be sure!
Bookings are essential! Visit the website at www.sarinasugarshed.com.au and click on the Book Now button.
A group of intelligent young men are the graduates of the RAGE program from last term.
They now meet fortnightly with Youth Support Coordinators (YSC) Heidi & Chaplain Ben to connect with one another and discuss daily life, the grind and all things in between as they uplift each other in support.
This group aims to break the stigma of talking about mental health and throughout the program, the boys have had the opportunity to hear from local positive male mentors and be trained up to become co-facilitators of the RAGE program.
This week the boys had the pleasure of connecting with Marmin Barba who shared his story and provided some encouraging words of wisdom to motivate the boys to continue showing up, not only for each other but for themselves, prompting healthy mindsets and habits.
Caption: The resilient faces representing the Male Youth Connect Group
Straun is a year 7 ambitious student who has been given a once in a lifetime opportunity to take his passion and skills to a competition in Melbourne to compete for the National team for Karate! With Tokyo World Championships coming up in October, Sarina State High School along with the region wishes Straun all the very best for selection.
Caption: year 7 student, Straun ready to compete for the National team for karate in Melbourne this weekend. Photos supplied: Sarina State High School
Just weeks after news of a sharp national spike in asthma deaths – with South Australia recording the highest increase in a single year (88%) – scientists have revealed a promising new treatment for the chronic lung disease.
Australian researchers have found that a family of proinflammatory molecules called beta common cytokines control inflammation and scarring of the airways (fibrosis) in severe and steroid-resistant asthma.
They believe that a human therapeutic antibody called trabikihart could be the key to effectively blocking the inflammation and scarring.
The findings, published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, are a result of a joint study led by researchers from the University of South Australia (UniSA) and the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT), in collaboration with researchers from CSL and SA Pathology.
Joint study leader Dr Damon Tumes, Head of the Allergy and Cancer Immunology Laboratory in the Centre for Cancer Biology*, says the findings are significant.
“Inflammation and tissue damage in severe asthma is caused by several types of immune cells that enter the lungs due to allergens, viruses and other microbes that interact with the airways,” Dr Tumes says.
“In some people, the inflammation is resistant to steroids – the first treatment option for controlling severe asthma.
“Currently, limited treatment options are available for severe asthma. New and existing drugs often only target single molecules when multiple overlapping cells and inflammatory pathways are responsible for asthma.
“Targeting multiple inflammatory cytokines with a single drug may be the key to treat and control complex and severe chronic airway disease.”
The most recent statistics show a 30% rise in asthma-related deaths (467 people) nationally in 2022, with South Australia recording the most drastic increase at 88%.
According to experts, most of the deaths were preventable and were linked to people not having treatment on hand, or using it as prescribed, especially inhaled corticosteroids.
2022 marked the highest asthma deaths since 2017, partly driven by the post-Covid return of viral respiratory infections which are associated with increases in asthma hospitalisations.
Widespread rainfall, triggering an increase in fungal spores and pollen, is also a factor.
Lots of people ask me and want to be the best they can be and it always seems that healthy people often want to cut out things like sugar, (and that is just one type of carb that causes weight gain for example) and those who might be unhealthy or have a medical illness want to add things in like vitamins.
Health is an individual issue to us all and The World Health Organisation states the definition of Health is "a state of complete, physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity".
So many people see themselves as healthy, yet have a chronic disease or even cancer. Then others are in tip-top shape physically and on their blood work, and other investigations, but still feel unwell within themselves and can be suffering from Health Anxiety.
With so many social media pages, influencers and search engines having information on medical conditions, whether the condition is rare or not, there can be a lot of mis-information and anxiety.
Just hit the news recently, 60 Day Prescriptions - WHAT IS THIS ABOUT?
From this week, there are even more Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) medicines available for 60-day prescriptions. This includes medicines for what we call "Chronic" stable ongoing health conditions such as endometriosis, breast cancer, heart failure, epilepsy and more.
Ask your GP if a 60-day prescription is appropriate for your medical care and this will help your hip pocket too in these days of rising costs across the board.
To see the list of medicines now available, visit health.gov.au/cheapermedicines
Lastly, it's Epilepsy and Melanoma Month - so be aware of what to do if someone has a seizure and get a skin check for any suspicious-looking moles and be SUNSMART.
Yours in Good Health
Dr Mags
After receiving a call late last Thursday, Mackay Pet Rescue Inc jumped at the opportunity to save a bunch of abandoned baby puppies.
Zakary Meiert, a real estate agent, put an urgent call out on social media seeking assistance, when he found the newborn puppies abandoned at a vacant property in Sarina.
In an attempt to welcome the newborn pups to a temporary refuge, member Robyn prepped a heated incubator and warm milk while others quickly fetched new bottles, supplies and treats from the vet, ensuring everything was ready for when the newborn pups were set to arrive.
Upon arrival, the team made a required stop at the vet to check on the smitten pups, specifically providing extra care to one who had a suspected low body temperature, requiring subcutaneous fluids.
Since the check in at the vet, the puppies were consistently fed and toileted and are now safe and nestled inside the confined security of a foster home.
Cheryl, a seasoned neonate puppy carer, went above and beyond, driving from Kuttabul to take the puppies under her wing. Cheryl and her partner have committed their time to monitor the pups and feed them around the clock in the upcoming weeks as they grow into little mischief makers.
“We are so grateful to Cheryl and her partner for stepping up to help.
“Thank you also to Zak and Glenda for saving the puppies and for bringing them from Sarina to Eimeo so that they could be surrendered into foster care,” commented a member from Mackay Pet Rescue Incorporated.
For updates in upcoming weeks, visit their Facebook for donations or any other inquiries.
Caption 1,2,3: Three abandoned newborn puppies rescued by the team at Mackay Pet Rescue Inc
Pop in and see the incredible work of Mackay Woodturners on Saturday, March 16th and Sunday, March 17th, for an exciting showcase of woodworking crafts! Entry is FREE and commences from 9am to 3pm, so don't miss out on an opportunity to witness captivating demonstrations and browse a wide array of wood crafted items.
Located off Beaconsfield Road in Andergrove, Mackay Woodturners will feature demonstrations and sales of various woodworking techniques including woodturning, scroll sawing, intarsia, carving, and pyrography.
Watch as skilled craftsmen showcase their talents, providing insights into the intricate process of transforming raw wood into stunning pieces of art.
Of particular interest, there will be a live demonstration of slabbing a large log into thinner pieces, followed by the transformation of wood into unique items such as bowls or exquisite fountain pens. This captivating process will be shown from start to finish, offering a glimpse into the craftsmanship involved.
As Easter approaches, talented member, Kevin Hutchison, will be using the scroll saw to create charming Easter Bunny characters. These delightful creations will be available for purchase, offering children the opportunity to personalize and colour to their own design.
Don't miss this exciting event where creativity meets craftsmanship, and where you can find the perfect handcrafted treasures to adorn your home or to give as unique gifts.
Caption: An example of the amazing crafts that members of the Mackay Woodturners have created
Caption: Kevin Hutchison crafting easter bunny characters for the upcoming Easter Expo
Mobile BreastScreen Service Heads West
BreastScreen Queensland's free mobile screening service will hit the road this month visiting rural communities across the Isaac region. The service ensures women in rural areas have access to the latest in screening mammography technology to help detect breast cancer in very early stages.
Women in Middlemount, Dysart, Clermont, Collinsville and Moranbah are encouraged to book appointment now for their breast check-up with the mobile screening truck set to hit the road in early March. The screening is free, only takes about 30 minutes and doesn't require a doctor referral, BreastScreen Queensland Clinical director Dr Wendela Schimmer said.
"These exams aim to detect breast cancer in early stages when treatment can be more effective. The earlier breast cancer is found, the better chance you have of surviving it," she said.
Dr Schimmer said breast screening was provided to women who are aged 40 years and over and haven't notice any changes to their breasts.
"While evidence shows that women aged 50 to 74 derive most benefits from screening every two years, women aged 40 to 49 and 75 years and over are also eligible to utilise the service," she said.
"It's important for women to know that nine out of 10 women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history of it."
Regular screening was the most effective and proven method for intervention for reducing breast cancer morbidity and mortality, Dr Schimmer said.
The mobile screening service will be in Middlemount from March 11 to 14, Dysart from March 18 to 25, Clermont March 27 to April 16, Collinsville from April 3 to 12 and Moranbah from April 18 to May 2.
The service will be on site in various other locations including Nebo, Walkerston, Seaforth, Calen and Mirani, later in the year.
Book now on 13 20 50 for your free appointment at one of the BreastScreen Queensland mobile screening service locations or online at www.breastscreen.qld.gov.au.
Caption: BreastScreen Queensland Clinical director Dr Wendela Schimmer
What’s worse than finding a worm in your apple?
Finding half a worm in your apple. Boom boom.
It was never a particularly funny joke but those of us who were kids in the 1970s did get it and understood how you could end up with half a worm in your apple.
We were familiar with occasionally finding an insect or something wriggly in a piece of fruit … it was rare but we knew the joke meant that having half a worm in your apple meant you had taken a bite and eaten half a worm.
These days I don’t reckon kids would get the joke. Yes, some of them seem to be surly and very serious but it’s not that; it’s that they would never have been exposed to something as disturbing as an insect or something wriggly in a piece of fruit.
That’s because we now live in a sterile world where everything is sprayed to within an inch of its life. Agricultural produce is poisoned to perfection … so you are never going to see an insect, let alone a worm, in an apple.
Someone pointed out the other day that you don’t get nearly the number of insects splattered on your windscreen on a long drive as you did a few decades ago. And that’s not because insects have improved their evasive skills. I’m not sure all this is a good thing, the natural thing.
But it is definitely a sign of changing times. Don’t get me wrong, not all change is bad. Some change is significant and we don’t know where it’s going but we have to embrace it, or at least work with it.
Digital technology is creating significant change in the real estate industry and definitely improving the service we can offer buyers and sellers.
We can provide more information at the click of a button about a property, a neighbourhood, a market than anyone would have dreamt of even 10 years ago. This is an exciting thing to be part of and I enjoy using technology that provides a better result for clients.
When I do an appraisal on a potential seller’s property, it includes a comparative market analysis that shows, in digital form, relevant nearby properties including photos my client can click on and flick through and lots of detail about those properties and the market.
It all helps the potential seller get a good picture of the market and arm themselves with information they need before listing their property.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has suddenly become a significant part of the picture in the world generally and specifically in the real estate industry.
It is moving quickly and it is fascinating to see how it can be applied to improve the service we can now offer buyers and sellers.
At Gardian we are starting to work with AI apps that create better exposure for our client’s properties, reaching more of the people who are potential buyers for a listing.
The technology works out where to direct the social media marketing so that it has more chance of reaching genuine potential buyers for a particular property, creating more competition and helping us get the best possible result for our clients.
Embracing the technology improves the service I can offer but, having said that, some things haven’t changed. This is still a relationship business. It is still about trust, work ethic and personal communication with buyers and sellers.
While the technology might be intelligent and artificial, the agent needs to be authentic and available. Nothing beats picking up the phone and talking to a buyer or seller.
Yes, the worm has turned, but not that much.
As you may have heard on Star breakfast, I enjoy my sport. Cricket, rugby, league, the trifecta. It's the end of summer and cooing over numbers, stats and ‘how good does it look’ takes a back seat for big hits, big tries and who gets picked for rep sides.
Super rugby is back! The Reds looked good for most of their game against the Hurricanes, The Waratahs beat a powerhouse Crusaders, and the game between the Rebels and the Force was exciting. What a time it is to be a Wallabies fan.
The Eddie Jones era is over and the question now is... What’s next? Does new coach Joe Schmidt continue picking youth, or does he sprinkle in experienced players when Wales and Georgia hit our shores in July before the rugby championship.
Mass changes need to be made not just with the squad but the attitude around the Wallabies. A once proud organisation now sits at 9th in the world rankings and seems to be losing momentum with fans. Joe Schmidt has a lot of work to do before July.
Youthful players like Carter Gordon, Tate McDermott, Angus Bell, Max Jorgenson, Lachlan Lonergan and Mark Nawaqanitawase should all be receiving calls from Schmidt for the first Wallabies camp of 2024. Experienced players like Nick White, Tanelia Tupou, Will Skelton, Samu Kerevi when fit and Michael Hooper, will bring a balance to a side left rudderless after a very disappointing world cup.
Wales is a tough first assignment but I believe, and call me crazy, the Wallabies can come back. A series draw 1-1 with Wales, a win over Georgia and a positive record in the rugby championship are all achievable and it's what the Wallabies need before the Lions in 2025 and RWC 2027 in Australia.
It's the hope that kills you supporting the Wallabies, but don't give up yet.
Jake
The exposure of the gender pay gaps in large Australian organisations is a turning point for gender equality, but more must be done to hold employers to account, says an Australian researcher.
Workplace diversity expert Professor Carol Kulik says the Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA’s) release of gender pay gaps for large Australian employers is a great first step but its impact will depend on the actions of organisations to narrow the disparity.
The WGEA – a statutory agency responsible for promoting and improving workplace gender equality –published gender pay gaps for Australian private sector employers with 100 or more employees last week. It is the first time large organisations will have their gender pay gap data exposed.
In 2023, the WGEA reported that the average gender pay gap was 21.7 per cent, meaning women in Australia are earning, on average, $26,393 less a year than men.
Professor Kulik says the revelation of gender pay gaps in large corporations is a pivotal moment in advancing gender equality.
However, further actions are imperative to ensure employers with pay gaps are held accountable, Prof Kulik says, “We now must be asking employers, in what roles and what levels of employment are pay gaps most prevalent? How are you (the employer) supporting employees’ caring responsibilities? What are you doing to ensure women move into roles where they are paid more? How long will it take for you to close your pay gap?
“Until we show employers that their pay gaps influence our behaviour, they are unlikely to make the changes needed to narrow pay gaps.”
History shows that organisations do respond to regulatory pressure. In 2010, the ASX Corporate Governance Council started requiring ASX-listed entities to report the gender composition of their boards and executive teams, leading to a spike in female appointments to senior roles.
However, the appointments generated a new inequity, because female executives were paid less than their male counterparts.
“Instead of women being paid more, men were paid less,” Professor Kulik says. “Pay is an important motivator of employee performance, so a smart employer will close pay gaps by allocating separate funds to that purpose, rather than drawing funds from its rewards budget.”
Employer gender pay gaps are available on individual employer pages on WGEA’s Data Explorer.
Caption: Professor Carol Kulik
Students passionate about the world of science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) are amongst the finalists for the Queensland Resources Awards for Women - an annual event celebrating the achievements of women in the resources sector.
Lexi Croce from Moranbah State High School is among the 2024 finalists alongside students from the Gold Coast and Bundaberg.
The annual Resources Awards for Women celebrate the contribution women are making to the state’s $116.8 billion resources sector and are facilitated by the Queensland Resources Council (QRC) and Women in Mining and Resources Queensland (WIMARQ).
QRC Director of Skills, Education and Diversity, Ms Katrina-Lee Jones said the three students were worthy finalists and great advocates for the resources sector.
“Lexi, Aileen and Cadence have got different areas of interest in the resources and energy sector, but they have all displayed a commitment to the future of the industry and shown leadership skills as ambassadors for the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy this year,” said Ms Jones.
“I am sure they will be part of the next generation of innovators and leaders who will contribute to increasing the long-term sustainability of the resources and energy sector.”
“I am also delighted all three finalists are participating in our six-month QRC/WIMARQ Girls in Resources Leadership Skills (GIRLS) mentoring program where they will have the opportunity to get guidance and advice from an industry professional.”
Lexi Croce is a School Captain at Moranbah State High School and has actively pursued her interest in STEM studies throughout secondary school, including being a member of her school’s successful Moranbah High STEM Innovation Experience team which won the Queensland competition in 2023. Lexi said she was driven by the idea of finding electrical solutions to make mining operations more efficient and environmentally friendly.
“The mining and energy sector powers our world and I’m keen to be a part of the drive to create a more sustainable future for the industry,” said Lexi.
The winner of the student award will be announced at the QRC/WIMARQ International Women’s Day Lunch today (Friday 8 March) in Brisbane, which features global mining leader and BHP President Australia Geraldine Slattery as keynote speaker.
Caption: Lexi Croce, a School Captain at Moranbah State High School, is a finalist in the Queensland Resources Awards for Women
On the bigger stage, the women’s movement has won hard fought gains including the ‘right to work’, greater equity and opportunity, and let’s not forget the ‘right to vote’.
At the personal level, the enduring challenge for women to ‘give it a go’ and pursue opportunities is lack of self-belief, confidence and courage to act. For all my years working in career development, these issues persist across the generations. Women defer not only to men, but also other women, or simply choose not to act, regardless of career stage, age and experience. Believing in ourselves needs constant attention and this was Sandy’s key lesson.
After working in casual employment, Sandy (located in a prosperous regional centre with a range of industries) was interested in returning to a more permanent office job – but had been holding herself back. With the perception that employment prospects would drop when you get to a ‘certain age’ and also not feeling completely confident in her ability, Sandy was ready to ‘accept’ her current work situation instead of pursuing her goal. An opportunity presented for Sandy to join a personal development program, which took a leap of faith. She found the program to be hugely beneficial, not only the practical elements of job seeking, but also the personal coaching to focus on identifying and leveraging her strengths and building confidence. Finding the courage to apply and secure a new job has helped Sandy also see the advantages of her considerable experience.
“Don’t let age be a barrier – believe in yourself and what you bring to the table.”
Sometimes you just need that someone ’on your side’ to believe in you and provide dedicated support to ‘give it a go’. Many of us have our trusted inner circle to lean on, however there is great benefit in an independent trusted adviser. A personal career guide is totally dedicated to you, providing a confidential space to explore self, and opportunities, including an action plan for career goals and next steps. If you want to take those steps for yourself, visit my website and get in touch.
The Queensland Government is investing $90 million over three years to rollout around 450,000 free potentially lifesaving meningococcal B (MenB) vaccines for infants, children and adolescents.
Last year, Queensland recorded 36 cases of meningococcal B disease and two cases have been recorded this year to date.
This serious infection can lead to complications from invasive meningococcal disease which can cause significant illness, disability, and death.
Distribution of these vaccines is underway to vaccination providers to manage the rollout of the new program.
Year 10 students are among the first to receive the vaccine through scheduled Queensland School Immunisation Program visits.
All infants and children under two, and adolescents aged 15 to 19, can now access the vaccine, in line with the Queensland Government’s commitment to implement the program in the first quarter of 2024.
This builds upon the existing program offering the meningococcal ACWY vaccine, providing even broader protection.
The state-funded MenB program will be delivered through registered vaccination service providers including general practitioners, community vaccination clinics, pharmacies, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Services.
Deputy Premier, Treasurer and Minister for Trade and Investment Cameron Dick said these vaccines will save lives.
“As Queensland families face tough decisions as a result of national cost of living pressures, the Queensland Government is ensuring the health of our future generations is not being compromised as a result.”
Minister for Health Shannon Fentiman said, “We know the meningococcal B strain can progress rapidly and cause serious disability or death.
“The health of Queenslanders is our top priority and this investment will ensure nearly half a million infants, children and adolescents will be eligible to receive the MenB vaccine this year for free.
“I would like to thank the brave parents who tirelessly advocated for this program after experiencing unimaginable loss.
“Their courage and determination have directly resulted in this lifesaving initiative.”
Queensland Chief Health Officer Dr John Gerrard said he encourages all parents with eligible children to take the opportunity to vaccinate their child against all vaccine-preventable strains of meningococcal – A, B, C, W and Y.
Caption: Deputy Premier Cameron Dick and Minister for Health Shannon Fentiman at Browns Plains State High School, one of the first schools in the state to provide students with the MenB vaccine
One lucky Queensland kindy will win a visit from iconic children’s band The Wiggles as part of a campaign to help children learn about electrical safety.
Entry into the competition is simple, with children, parents, guardians and educators encouraged to take a photo or video that highlights why electrical safety is important using messages from The Wiggles’ song Electricity!
The Queensland Government first partnered with The Wiggles in 2022 to teach children about electrical safety, with the pair joining forces once again in 2023 to spread the free kindy message to Queensland families.
Thirteen competition runners-up will receive family passes to The Wiggles’ April concert in Brisbane.
Minister for Industrial Relations Grace Grace said the government wants Queensland children to understand the dangers of electricity.
“The Wiggles shared the Miles Government’s Free Kindy message to thousands of Queenslanders and their song Electricity! has been viewed over four million times,” she said.
“This competition is a rare opportunity to dance along with The Wiggles at your local kindy and as the honorary Pink Wiggle, I can’t wait to see plenty of creative entries.”
Minister for Education Di Farmer said, “We know how important the early years are to a child’s life – that’s why the Miles Government made kindy free.
“It is important to teach children safe habits while they are young and The Wiggles’ song Electricity! does exactly that.”
Blue Wiggle Anthony Field said that for more than 30 years, The Wiggles have educated and entertained children and their families through music, song and dance.
“We’ve created a new song about electricity that we hope will have a positive impact on children and help to keep them safe.”
You can read more about the competition here: https://www.electricalsafety.qld.gov.au/Wiggles
Despite the initial setback due to weather, the Australia Day Carnival finally took place on Saturday afternoon under clear skies. The green was bustling with excitement as two groups of bowlers gathered to participate. One group consisted of seasoned bowlers, while the other included a mix of new bowlers and a few experienced ones to guide them.
Sponsored by the Mackay Regional Council and Karyn Shepherd from More Air, the afternoon featured two games of 11 ends each. Following the first game, winners faced off against each other while losers competed in their own bracket.
Laughter and camaraderie filled the air as participants enjoyed the friendly competition and the opportunity to spend time outdoors. Despite the delay, it turned out to be a great afternoon for everyone involved, showcasing the spirit of community and sportsmanship.
Upcoming Events:
On Friday, March 8th, the day begins with Ladies Social Play at 1pm,
Followed by the CH/CH Triples event at 1:30 PM, featuring E. Clemett, J. Nelson, and R. Schatkowski against K. Dunn, C. Savage, and K. Burns.
The weekend continues with a Mixed Fours and Mixed Pairs Carnival on Saturday, March 9th commencing from 1pm, and two games of Mixed Pairs on Sunday, March 10th starting at 11am.
RESULTS
Winners of winners Bowlers: Alan Bartlett, Col Stevens, Tony Hollows.
Winner of Losers: Doug Wootton, Tony Gibson, Silver Fox.
Non Bowlers More Air Winner of Winners: Ben, Hailey, P Molloy Chris Molloy
Winner of Losers: Cam, Karyn, Janice , Shep.
Club Results
Thursday Scroungers (16) N.Holt def B.Williams (20-5)
Friday Ladies Social Results:
C.Marks, B.Jenner, R.Schatkwoski def L.JENNER, D.Mezzen, J.Caban.
P.Nelson, M.Mayfield, D.McMamara de f V.Edwards, J.Nelson, B.Robertson.
Men's A Pairs : A.Lovern, N.Holt def G.Thomsen, T.Mayfield (28-7)
R.Dunstan, S.McMillan def S.Makin, C.Molloy (30-15)
Men's A Fours: T.Gibson, K.Tranberg, G.Edmonds N.Wilson def G.Wynd, A.Shepherd,
D.Wootton, B.BRIDGER.
Contributed by Mike Irving.
Caption: Players gathered together to play a game of bowls at the postponed Australia day event.
In a historic move for the Mackay Cutters, this will mark the first ever time that the team will run three female divisions. This significant development comes as the Mackay Airport continues its major sponsorship of the Cutters, coinciding with the start of their season, which aligns with International Women’s Day celebrations, this upcoming weekend.
Leading the charge for the Mackay Cutters is 22-year-old Emma Manzelmann, a highly respected captain and player on the team. Emma expresses her excitement about the upcoming game, emphasizing the unique atmosphere of North Queensland compared to other regions. She believes that people will truly enjoy the experience of rugby league in the region.
“I think being in North Queensland is such a different atmosphere to being down south, I think people would really enjoy it up here,” Emma says.
For Emma and her fellow female rugby league players, the expansion of pathways into professional training from the under-17 level is said to be a game-changer. This opportunity not only enhances their development but also opens doors to a multitude of career opportunities in the sport.
“I think it just helps develop the girls even more, having that pathway where they can get professional training right from under 17s, it just opens up so many opportunities,” Emma explains.
As the Mackay Cutters gear up for their first game this Friday, Emma acknowledges the significance of being part of the main game for the premiership season opener, highlighting the excitement surrounding the event.
Mackay Cutters Chief Executive Officer, Mitch Cook says “It’s just such a great opportunity for future female rugby league players in Mackay, and we’re pretty excited to see what this upcoming season will bring.”
Reflecting on the expansion of women's rugby league, Emma emphasises the importance of providing role models for younger players. She hopes to inspire the next generation of female athletes and be a source of support and guidance for them as they navigate their own journeys in the sport.
While the expansion of opportunities for female players is a positive step forward, Emma advocates for a steady and sustainable approach to growth. She believes that maintaining a balance between expansion and careful development is crucial for the long-term success of women's rugby league in the region.
The ladies in league are set to kick off from 6pm on Friday, the 9th of March. As the Mackay Cutters commence this ground-breaking season, they are not only making history but also paving the way for future generations of female rugby league players to thrive. With passion, dedication, and a commitment to excellence, Emma and her teammates are poised to leave their mark on the field and inspire others along the way.
Caption: Mackay Cutters Chief Executive Officer, Mitch Cook
Caption: Captain of the women’s Mackay Cutters team, Emma Manzelmann
Caption: A team of women’s rugby league players ready to kick-start the game
Caption: The women’s rugby league team with Mackay Cutters Chief Executive Officer, Mitch Cook. Photo Credit: Hannah McNamara
Figures for this year’s race saw over a whopping 900 total registered runners on the day… an all-time record which organisers and community supporters are thrilled about! The Twilight run is a great precursor for the BMA Mackay Marina Run on June 2.
Registered Twilight runners are encouraged to lace up again! Early bird pricing for the BMA Mackay Marina Run ends March 13.
Photos supplied by Amanda Munn
Arthur Gutteridge, an eighty-seven-year-old resident of Mackay, has raised a significant concern regarding the accessibility challenges faced by elderly locals due to the construction of a new bus-stop area in front of Caneland Central on Mangrove Road.
Despite assurances of enhanced safety and accessibility, Arthur highlights the impractical and worrying reality that many older individuals endure with the new designated bus stop.
Expressing his concerns through letters to various authorities, Arthur feels ignored and unsupported, emphasising the vital importance of flat ground for individuals with mobility issues. He argues that the back entrance of Caneland Central, where the bus stop used to be, provides safer access for pensioners, parents with prams, and those with mobility impairments.
Cover caption: Arthur Gutteridge, 87, voices concerns over accessibility challenges at the new bus stop outside Caneland Central, highlighting the importance of safety and flat ground for elderly residents and individuals with mobility issues. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
By Hannah McNamara
Eighty-seven-year-old Arthur Gutteridge has spoken out about a crucial problem that Mackay local ‘oldies’ are currently facing in regards to transportation changes at Caneland Central Shopping Centre.
A newly constructed bus-stop area is now in use, located at the front of Caneland Central on Mangrove Road where it is said to be safer and easier for everyone to access.
Arthur has highlighted the potential risks of the new bus stop, underlining the impractical, brutal reality of what ‘oldies’ are forced to endure following the construction of the new designated bus stop.
In an attempt to keep the old designated bus area, Arthur has written a letter to multiple people in authority to express his concerns, where he said he was completely ignored by several individuals, leaving him feeling unheard and unsupported despite having good reasoning behind his appeal.
“One time we were a person, then we were a number and now we’re a nobody,” Arthur explains.
“It’s the old Aussie way of saying she’ll be right, but it’s not alright.”
“They expect me to walk all that way and up the ramp with my wheelie walker, my feet and back are no good, like a lot of other oldies.
“We have no way of getting into the front of Canelands.”
He emphasises the vital importance of a flat ground as many locals cannot withstand the pain of walking up an inclined slope, such as ramps or a staircase. This problem not only affects him, but many other older residents as he voices his concern, stating a valid point that the back entrance of Caneland Central provides safer access for all individuals, including pensioners, parents with prams as well as those with mobility and balance issues.
Arthur says, “With access points such as banks, internet services, insurance and other necessities close by what more could us oldies wish for.”
The new bus stop area in comparison requires individuals to walk a further distance, from the front of Mangrove Road to the main Woolworths entrance, where locals are then forced to walk up a flight of stairs or a ramp to gain access to the centre. For the average Jo, walking up a ramp seems easy enough, but for Arthur and many other locals, it is painful and can take hours, or even days to recover from the agony and discomfort stemming from sore feet, knees or a bad back.
“This means a spell in the afternoon, or two to three days to get over the trip if we have to use the front entrance,” Arthur says.
To combat this issue, Arthur suggests turning the new designated bus area into a taxi rank, keeping bus drivers, passengers and pedestrians safe.
Whilst government officials claim to provide a safer and accessible bus stop for all bus users, bus drivers and oncoming traffic, Arthur replies: “What a joke, those buses have to get out into two lanes,” highlighting the potential risk of increased accidents as buses pull out onto Mangrove Road, into high traffic conditions.
Additionally, Arthur vocalises his concerns of parents getting off the bus with children who could possibly wander off onto the busy street, stating that the back entrance of the shopping centre is less congested and far safer for all Mackay residents.
Caption: Artist impression of the new bus stop on Mangrove Road
Arthur Gutteridge says the new bus stop makes accessing Caneland Central Shopping Centre more difficult for people with mobility issues
As I reflect on my recent anniversary celebrations, marking a milestone in my own personal journey of partnership and commitment, it struck me—12 years of marriage is no small feat. Yet, in the grand scheme of things, it pales in comparison to the monumental achievement of SH Tait & Co, as they proudly celebrate a remarkable 100 years in business.
Imagine, a century of navigating the intricate labyrinth of finance and taxation, weathering economic storms and emerging stronger with each passing decade. It's a testament to resilience, foresight, and unwavering dedication—an inspiring legacy that echoes through the halls of Mackay's business history. Read more on pages 12-13.
And let's not overlook the man behind the curtain, Peter Tait, whose leadership and vision have been instrumental in steering the firm through the ever-changing tides of commerce. Not only a master of numbers, but also a pillar of philanthropy, his contributions to the community are as noteworthy as his business acumen. We extend our felicitations to Peter Tait and directors Adam Parrish, Monica McKendry, Stephen Amos, Kristelle Lamb, and John Philps for their invaluable contributions to the firm's enduring success. May their legacy continue to inspire generations to come.
Now, moving on from numbers and bottom lines—let's indulge in the flavours of Mackay's culinary scene with our Taste of Mackay feature (pages 22-23). From tantalising treats to hidden gastronomic gems, consider it your roadmap to culinary bliss. We've got the inside scoop on where to indulge your taste buds like a true Mackay epicurean.
And as we gear up for the JSP Women's Awards this weekend, I can't help but feel a surge of excitement to raise a glass (I’m still buzzing after P!NK’s Gold Coast concert) to some of the most awe-inspiring women in our midst. Here's to celebrating their achievements, toasting their tenacity, and revelling in the collective brilliance of our community's leading ladies.
Until next week,
Amanda
In the spirit of gratitude and appreciation, the Mackay Hospital Foundation extended a heartfelt thank you to Kay and his team at Muscle Garden Health & Fitness Centre.
Owner of Muscle Garden, Kay Nyenuh has raised ongoing funds to support local healthcare providers and the act of generosity did not go unnoticed.
Kristi, the General Manager of the Mackay Hospital Foundation, and Josh, a Senior Physiotherapist from Community Health and Therapy Services (CHATS) met with Kay last week, making an impactful purchase, with thanks to Muscle Garden's Charity Fundraising initiatives.
Individuals coping with mobility issues due to strokes or Parkinson's disease now have the opportunity to enhance their fitness levels. Mackay Hospital Foundation presents the MOTOmed Loop La Pro, an innovative arm and leg ergometer (bike) designed to provide strength and endurance training.
What makes this unlike traditional stationary ergometers, is the accessibility and functionality for those facing mobility challenges.
Mackay Hospital Foundation posted, “This particular model is specialised for consumers with strokes or Parkinson’s disease who would not typically be able to use a regular stationary arm and leg ergometer.”
With an estimated capacity to assist approximately 70 users each week, this equipment has the potential to positively influence the lives of over 3600 individuals annually.
Whether aiding in rehabilitation or enhancing overall well-being, the MOTOmed Loop La Pro will be a transformative addition to the community's health and fitness resources.
“A HUGE thank you to Kay from Muscle Garden Health & Fitness Centre for his continued support!”
Caption: Owner of Muscle Garden, Kay, testing out the new MOTOmed Loop La Pro with Kristi and Josh. Photo Credit: Mackay Hospital Foundation (Facebook)
Locals rolled into Renegade Barber shop on Saturday morning for the Cars and Coffee meet, where car enthusiasts gathered to showcase their pride and joy and engage in passionate discussions about all things automotive.
The carpark was filled with a diverse variety of cars, ranging from classic muscle, Japanese drift to sleek modern sports cars, ensuring there was something to capture the attention of every attendee.
This marked the second Cars and Coffee event hosted by Renegade Barber, offering the opportunity for petrol heads to come together, have a cuppa and admire the stunning cars on display.
Beyond horsepower, the event was about more than just cars; it was a chance for individuals to build connections, share their stories, and appreciate the finer aspects of automotive culture.
The day proved to be an epic appreciation of automotive passion, uniting enthusiasts from all walks of life through a shared love for cars.
Caption 1: Classic Pontiac riding in style
Caption 2: Supra, Lotus & McLaren sitting pretty. Photos supplied: Holmes Racing Media
3-6: Pontiac, Dodge Charger, Celica and Lotus were all represented at the meet. Photo credit: Elizabeth Attard Photography
Steve Jackson, Laurence Bonaventura, and Greg Williamson engaged in a spirited exchange at the Mayoral Debate hosted by the Mackay Chamber of Commerce last week. Held at Rydges Mackay, the event saw each candidate given five minutes for opening statements before delving into pressing issues facing the region, including rates, infrastructure spending, and the future trajectory of Mackay.
Key debate highlights:
• Pumped Hydro Scheme: Bonaventura supported the Pioneer-Burdekin Pumped Hydro scheme, while Jackson and Williamson opposed it. It’s important to note that this was a simple thumbs up or down question and doesn’t offer full insight.
• Homelessness and Housing: Jackson emphasised the need to unlock more land for affordable housing, while Bonaventura stressed the importance of activating the housing chain to address homelessness. Williamson echoed the sentiment, highlighting efforts to incentivise residential construction on available blocks.
• CBD Revitalisation: Jackson advocated for consultation with landlords to enhance the CBD, proposing the conversion of upper floors into residential units. Williamson highlighted past initiatives to relax restrictions on residential living above businesses that already existed. Bonaventura proposed amalgamating empty properties and constructing mixed-use developments with additional levels for housing.
• Addressing Northern Beaches Traffic Congestion: Bonaventura proposed opening more industrial land to reduce the need for residents to commute into the city. Jackson advocated for overpass construction and bridge development, while Williamson emphasised realistic approaches and signalisation of roundabouts.
The debate brought to the fore the candidates' differing approaches to key issues, offering voters valuable insights into their respective visions for Mackay's future. As local elections draw nearer, we will share more insight from Mackay’s mayoral and councillor candidates in our March 8 and March 15 editions.
Captions
1: Candidates discuss infrastructure, housing, Mackay’s future and traffic solutions at the Mackay Mayoral Debate, offering diverse perspectives on the region's future. Photo credit: Coffee & Hops
2: Laurence Bonaventura
3: Steve Jackson
4: Greg Williamson
Mackay’s very own talented performer, Brenden Borellini has more than a decade of experience in performing for Crossroad Arts up his sleeve and a lifetime of impressive, memorable moments.
Over the years he has gained the title of Crossroad Arts Ambassador and Artist in Residence, recently receiving recognition, alongside co-creators Georgia Cranko and Alison Richardson for their work on the production ‘Breathe In’ at the Matilda Awards in Brisbane. ‘Breathe in’ brought home the Lord Mayor’s Award for Best New Australian Work and the award for Best Video Design.
A rumble was felt through the theatre as hundreds of feet beat the floor expressing their appreciation for Brenden's work on ‘Breathe In’ at the end of his acceptance speech for the Matilda Judges Award was possibly the greatest moment of victory on the night.
Brenden is a creative artist who happens to be deafblind, and played a major part in the development of the well-known production ‘Breathe In,’ showcasing his talent in performing arts whilst sharing his story with a valuable message of how he communicates and survives in an unfamiliar world.
Brenden communicates using tactile sign using the deafblind alphabet or a braille device that allows him to type on a keyboard and chat with those around him. His impact goes beyond the stage as he advocates for the rights of individuals with disabilities, emphasizing that independence is a human right.
“It's important for people with disabilities to tell their own stories and make their own decisions.
“There are a few people who have no rights to make decisions and it makes me feel sorry for them,” Brenden explains.
Crossroad Arts Artistic Director, CEO and close friend, Autumn Skuthorpe, says Brenden is very independent and doesn’t like being bossed around, but jokingly says he is quite good at being the boss.
Brenden shares his interests and greatest life experiences, touching from the time he met Princess Diana and the royal family, to his multiple trips to Japan, specifically when he performed ‘Cry of the Curlew’ to the Japanese audiences, leaving a lasting impression wherever he went.
Brenden finds joy in various aspects of life, particularly in singing, performing, working and travelling, which he says inspires him to develop performing skills and sharpen his talents.
Crossroad Arts uniquely provides the opportunity for all individuals to get involved in the performing arts as it focuses on accessibility to those both performing and attending.
Autumn Skuthorpe says, “Crossroad Arts is such a unique organisation, we’re the only one of its kind in the region.
“Just echoing what Brendon was saying when he said access to the arts is a human right and it should be available for everyone.
“That’s what I love the most about Crossroad Arts, because it’s what we do.”
For an opportunity to see the award winning Breathe In, Crossroad Arts is hosting a film fundraiser showing the video on demand recording of the production at CQUniversity City Campus theatre. Tickets and information available at crossroadarts.com.au.
Caption: Georgia Cranko, Auslan interpreter Holly Menzies and Brenden Borellini performing at ‘Breathe In.’ Photo credit: Leah McLean Photography
Police have charged a 31-year-old Slade Point man after an alleged assault of a police officer on River Street, Mackay, on February 21.
Police were called to a disturbance on Nelson Street around 2.10pm where it is alleged the man became involved in an altercation with another man.
The man left the scene prior to police arrival. However, officers were able to locate him on River Street where he allegedly threatened an officer with a weapon.
Officers resolved the situation and, in that process, a taser was deployed.
The man has been charged with one count each of serious assault of police officer whilst armed with a weapon, going armed so as to cause fear, and trespassing.
Bruce Highway Closed Following Serious Crash At Glenella
Emergency crews responded to a two-vehicle crash on the Bruce Highway at Glenella, where a 69-year-old driver sustained critical injuries after allegedly hitting the side of another vehicle.
The 69-year-old man driving a white Ford ute was rushed to Mackay Base Hospital in critical condition following the incident.
The Bruce Highway was closed for several hours on Monday, 26th February, after the serious crash near Glendaragh Rd occurred around 12:30 pm.
A white Isuzu truck was traveling south on the highway when it was reportedly struck on the left side by the ute, which allegedly had turned onto the highway from Glendaragh Rd.
Diversions were put in place, with northbound motorists advised to travel on Sugarshed Rd.
Community members have highlighted the intersection's dangerous nature, citing frequent close calls, and suggesting the need for a merging lane to allow safer access to the Bruce Highway from Glendaragh Rd.
By Amanda Wright
Amidst the pulse of progress and the hum of ambition in the heart of Mackay, Mayoral candidate Laurence Bonaventura sat down with Mackay Life editor Amanda Wright to discuss his plan for the region—a vision steeped in foresight, and an unwavering commitment to community welfare.
Laurence Bonaventura's roots in Mackay run deep, tracing back generations to a legacy of resilience and innovation. Descended from a lineage of pioneers, his grandfather embarked on a journey from Italy to Queensland, where he toiled as a cane cutter. This legacy of hard work and determination laid the foundation for Laurence's own path—a path that led from the fields of his grandfather's labour to the helm of a thriving civil construction enterprise in Habana.
Amidst the tumult of the sugar slump of 1984/85, Laurence faced a defining moment to keep food on the table. The Prime Minister of the time announced that farmers couldn’t expect to survive off farming alone, so Laurence invested in an excavator. Initially intended to supplement his income by a modest 20 per cent, the excavator swiftly evolved into the linchpin of his civil works business, providing around 80 per cent of the business revenue within a decade.
"As someone deeply rooted in this community, I understand the challenges we face and the opportunities that lie ahead,” Laurence said.
“My goal is to leverage my experience and expertise to chart a course toward a brighter future for Mackay and its residents.”
His involvement in various community initiatives, including church leadership roles, the formation of youth groups, and the establishment of the Habana District Progress Association, aimed to leave a lasting impact on Mackay's social fabric.
Since assuming office in 2012, Laurence has witnessed firsthand the ebb and flow of governance in Mackay.
"From economic downturns to structural reforms, I have remained a steadfast advocate for transparency, efficiency, and accountability," Laurence noted.
Laurence initially held specific portfolios, including waste management, health, and regulatory services; this gave him an in-depth understanding of the issues that council and residents face. In 2016, the council restructured, assigning two councillors to specific areas; Laurence oversaw Northern Beaches to Midge Point. However, by 2020, this system dissolved, leaving no defined areas of responsibility—a situation Laurence aims to rectify if elected Mayor.
"In my assessment, the previous council structure lacked clear organisation and failed to provide adequate training for councillors," he remarked.
"This led to a situation where newly elected councillors lacked experience in key areas and faced challenges in fulfilling their roles effectively," he added.
Should Laurence secure the mayoral position, a pivotal aspect of his strategy entails appointing two councillors per area of interest. This approach would designate a lead councillor alongside a backup, ensuring continuity of service in the event of absence or illness.
"By implementing this system, we aim to mitigate bias, distribute responsibilities equitably, and facilitate targeted training to enhance councillors' expertise," Laurence explained.
“It prevents 'councillor shopping,' ensuring that residents address the appropriate councillors for their concerns.”
Laurence advocates for increased transparency and accountability within the council.
"It is imperative that the public has a clear understanding of where and how taxpayer funds are allocated," he asserted.
"As part of this effort, I propose presenting spending options for the 2025 budget to the public at least a month in advance for open discussion and feedback," he said.
"This inclusive approach ensures community involvement in decision-making processes, fostering a sense of ownership and pride in the outcome.”
Laurence believes in providing good stewardship, so the next generation aren’t left with untenable debt.
“The long-term financial forecast needs to have a close eye kept on it,” he said.
“The projected debt figures for the next decade are too high in my opinion. We need someone who can make a difficult decision, but the right one, to protect the financial stability of this council and this region for future generations.”
Authorised by Laurence Bonaventura, 831 Mackay-Habana Rd, Habana
Caption: Laurence Bonaventura explained areas of concern regarding Mackay Regional Council’s long-tern future forecast debt figures. Photo credit: Amanda Wright
The Queensland Country Women’s Association (QCWA) Sarina Branch’s centenary celebrations will culminate in a three-day Craft Expo, March 8-10, at the Big Shed, Mackay Showgrounds.
Kicking off on International Women’s Day, the Craft Expo is open to the public and will feature hands-on classes with world-specialist crafters from Australia’s largest craft event series, Craft Alive, as well as displays from craft retailers with the latest supplies, kits, and equipment.
Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank has sponsored a series of QCWA centenary events for the iconic association of choice for women in Sarina, which last year included a High Tea and Race Day Luncheon.
The Craft Expo will provide opportunities for people to connect, learn, and be inspired, amplifying the impact of QCWA Sarina Branch, as it continues to empower and uplift generations of women.
QCWA Sarina Branch President Mary-Therese Watson is excitedly helping to plan the Expo, with the purpose of bringing together the wider community. She said the event can be as hands on or hands off as attendees like.
“The Expo will be the perfect finale for our centenary celebrations, as craft has always been a way that we’ve supported women to stay connected socially and keep active, which is great for their overall health and well-being.
“Community Bank Sarina’s support has enabled us to confidently hold several events to celebrate 100 years in the community – and we’ve even gained new members!
“We are truly for community, by community and with the Bank’s support, it makes our role of supporting and connecting local women much easier,” Ms Watson said.
Community Bank Sarina Chair Karen May said it was important for the Bank to invest in this active group of Queensland women, who create opportunities for connection in the greater Sarina community.
“The vision of QCWA is to connect, collaborate and create an impact in communities, and this aligns with our values at Community Bank Sarina.
“It’s been wonderful to support the QCWA Sarina Branch and the enthusiastic work they’ve done in our community for a century, serving as a hub for local women and inspiring them through friendship, education, and advocacy.”
Ms Watson is looking forward to experiencing different craft activities at the expo, encouraging anyone of any age or gender to attend.
“This will be a great way for us all to broaden our horizons and bring our community together with craft.”
QCWA Sarina Branch together with Sarina Community Art and Craft are catering for the event.
Tickets for the Expo and bookings for classes can be made at www.craftalive.com.au/events/mackay/.
Caption: Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank has sponsored a series of QCWA centenary events including a High Tea
Criminal charges brought by Queensland Police against anti-coal activist Coedie McAvoy returned to Emerald Magistrates Court earlier this week, almost a year after Mr McAvoy allegedly assaulted two workers at the Carmichael mine in central Queensland by forcing their work vehicle to stop and then attempting to drag the Indigenous environmental ranger from the car under the threat of subjecting the worker to “tribal law.”
Mr McAvoy was arrested after he allegedly assaulted the Indigenous environmental ranger and a Bravus Mining and Resources security guard as the pair went about their routine and lawful work on the Carmichael Mining Lease, near Clermont in central Queensland, on 27 February 2023.
Mr McAvoy was due to face a summary trial on 14 December 2023, but the matter was diverted to the restorative justice pathway, which later failed.
A Bravus Mining and Resources spokesperson said the alleged assault occurred when Mr McAvoy and an associate used a trail bike to block the track the workers were driving on, which forced them to stop.
It is alleged that Mr McAvoy then opened the door of the vehicle the Bravus workers were travelling in and attempted to drag the Indigenous environmental ranger from the vehicle under the threat of subjecting the worker to Mr McAvoy’s “tribal law.”
It is alleged that in a video of the incident the frightened worker is heard telling Mr McAvoy “I just want to do my job” as Mr McAvoy stands near him.
“Prior to the alleged assault, Mr McAvoy posted threats to social media asking our cultural heritage workers if they are willing to die for their job,” the Bravus spokesperson said.
“He also made threats that our workers “won’t be walking out” if they enter areas of our mining lease where he is camped on the mining lease without our permission.
“Mr McAvoy’s alleged victims suffered fear and shock following the assault and so this year of legal delays has been very trying for them. We continue to provide them with support.
“Like every law-abiding Queenslander, mine workers and cultural heritage workers at our Carmichael mine have the right to feel safe at work and go about their jobs free from intimidation, harassment, or violence.”
Mr McAvoy has been charged with two counts of common assault. Mr McAvoy has maintained an unauthorised protest camp on the Carmichael Mining Lease for more than two years.
“He opposes the mine, in contrast to the majority of Traditional Owners who negotiated an Indigenous Land Use Agreement with Bravus Mining and Resources and are working proactively with the company to manage cultural heritage and the environment at the mine,” the spokesperson added.
Caption: Mr McAvoy outside Clermont Magistrates Court on 12 April 2023. Photo supplied: Bravus Mining and Resources
Mackay welcomes a new era of medical expertise with the arrival of Dr. Wojciech Szubert, whose specialised focus on endometriosis treatment promises to elevate patient care in the region.
The enviable lifestyle we often take for granted was a big drawcard for the newest member of Mackay Hospital’s Obstetrics and Gynaecology team, Dr Szubert.
Dr Szubert, who is originally from Poland, relocated from the UK to Mackay with his wife and two children late last year.
“My wife and I, when we were in university, travelled through the southern states of the USA,” Dr Szubert said.
“We always had a dream of living in a subtropical or tropical climate.
“If you can imagine, we had to spend hard-earned money to go on holidays to lay in the sun for just a week and a half.
“And here you just have it at your doorstep every single day free of charge.”
After completing his medical degree in Poland, Dr Szubert moved to Scotland for further training.
“I did my foundation training, then worked in Accident and Emergency, then tried Obstetrics and Gynaecology and I loved it,” Dr Szubert said.
“I have been working in O&G now since 2010.”
Dr Szubert’s special area of interest is the treatment of endometriosis (a disease where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows in other parts of the body) and chronic pelvic pain.
“I completed a research degree on chronic pelvic pain at the University of Edinburgh, and then I completed another fellowship in Norwich learning complex endometriosis surgery.” Dr Szubert said.
Dr Szubert hopes to establish an endometriosis multidisciplinary team at Mackay Base Hospital who can work together on the management of complex cases.
“Approximately one in 10 women have endometriosis, and about one in 100 will have severe endometriosis,” he said.
“We’re all still learning about endometriosis and its management, but we are miles further forward from where we were 10 years ago.
“We have a great team here at the Mackay Base Hospital and I’m confident we will soon advance treatment options for our patients.”
Story by Mackay Hospital and Health Service
Mackay HHS will hold an event to raise awareness and understanding of the disease on March 15 during Endometriosis Awareness Month.
Women and girls wanting more information about the condition are invited to attend. It’s on at Mackay Base Hospital from 9am to 3pm in the alcove across from the Medical Imaging unit.
About Endometriosis
Endometriosis is when body tissue like the lining of the uterus (womb), called the endometrium, grows in other parts of the body. The tissue responds to the hormone oestrogen released from your ovaries. It gets full every month and then breaks down when you have your period. This process can lead to pain, inflammation and scarring, causing organs to stick together (known as adhesions).
Endometriosis is a progressive and chronic condition, meaning it gets worse over time. It can be very painful and can affect fertility.
Source: healthdirect.gov.au
New funding is now available to Central Queensland community groups and not-for-profit organisations in the Moranbah and Middlemount areas through Anglo American’s 2024 Community Grants Program.
Anglo American Australia CEO Dan van der Westhuizen said the company was committed to supporting the development of thriving communities in the Bowen Basin.
“The annual Community Grants Program is a vital avenue to ensure mining benefits are shared with local people, communities and economies in the areas where Anglo American operates,” he said.
“We’re committed to making a genuine difference by delivering sustainable value that makes a real difference now and in the future.
“We achieve this by actively backing projects that enhance people's livelihoods — improving health and wellbeing, employment, skills, and education — and fostering positive, long-term change for all stakeholders."
In 2023, 53 groups across Anglo American’s operational footprint shared in more than $562,000 in community grants funding for local sustainable development initiatives. Moura State High School was among those recipients, receiving $13,340 toward its Australian Business Week Program and Year 12 leadership camp – as well as installing four yarning circles.
Moura State High School Year 7 and 8 co-ordinator Doug Finlay said the yarning circles were officially opened in February with a traditional smoking ceremony and welcome to country gathering. He said the yarning circle idea came about as the school had been working closely with Hugh van Cuylenburg and The Resilience Project.
Anglo American, which operates five steelmaking coal mines across the Bowen Basin, began a partnership with the project in 2023 to help introduce resilience practices into schools across Moranbah, Middlemount and Moura.
“It made sense to have areas around our school where we could have a safe, positive space to engage in gratitude, empathy and mindfulness,” Mr Finlay said.
“Together with the Gangulu elders and Anglo American, we created four outdoor spaces for our students, parents and teachers to engage in conversations and social interactions – basically, to have a yarn.
“The circles were named using traditional language encompassing listening to one another, coming to sit and to look at oneself.
“The yarning circles have been actively used for classes, social gatherings and school events.”
Applications for Anglo American’s 2024 Community Grants Program are open from 1 March 2023 to 31 March 2024. For more information and to apply, visit the Community page on Anglo American’s website.
The successful applicants of the 2023 Community Grants Program include:
Moranbah
RACQ CQ Rescue Helicopter, Mackay Hospital Foundation, Moranbah Bowls Club, 4RFM Community Radio Station, Moranbah Junior Motorcross, Greater Whitsunday Alliance, Isaac Regional Charity Fund, Rainbow Collective, Hinterland Community Care, Oasis Life Church, Moranbah NAIDOC Committee, Moranbah Junior Golf, Moranbah Tennis Association, Moranbah Touch Football Association, Moranbah East State School, Moranbah State School, Legends of League.
Middlemount
Capricorn Rescue Helicopter Service, CTM Links, Middlemount Race Club, Middlemount Youth Services, Middlemount Community School, Barada Barna Corporation, Middlemount Community Sports Association - Swim Club, Middlemount Community Sports Association - Gym Fit, Middlemount Panthers Junior Rugby League Club, Moranbah and District Support Services, Middlemount Community Sports Association - Cricket, Middlemount Community Sports Association - Box Gully Trail Run, AG PTY LTD, Middlemount Golf and Country Club, Middlemount Community Sports Association - Tennis, Mulligrubs Playgroup.
CAPTION: Moura State High School students (L-R) Liam Finlay, Quinton Dales, Janique Dales and Samuel Finlay, with former principal Jill Lees and Year 7 and 8 co-ordinator Doug Finlay
Mackay Regional Council is hosting a Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) Showcase to highlight some of the amazing talent, vision and creativity we have in our region.
This showcase celebrates the locally driven arts, cultural and heritage programs supported by RADF during the 2022/2023 program.
The showcase launch will be held in the Jubilee Community Centre from 5pm to 7pm on Friday, March 8.
It will feature works and project displays by Jan Ward, International Men’s Day Mackay, Lanna Mack and several others.
RADF recipient and performer Georgina Baira will provide musical entertainment.
Community Services Director Janine McKay said the event wasn’t just a demonstration of talent – it was an amazing networking opportunity and a great chance to learn more about RADF.
“RADF is delivered as a partnership between the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland and Mackay Regional Council,” Ms McKay said.
“A community funding pool is offered annually over three rounds, with more than $200,000 in total available to support the arts in our region,” she said.
“On top of the financial support, the RADF provides experienced mentors and promotional opportunities to successful applicants.”
The showcase launch is free to attend and open to all; however attendees are asked to RSVP online on the Eventbrite page or by calling the Arts Development Team on 49619554.
Should you have any questions or specific access requirements, please contact the team.
The RADF Showcase exhibition will remain open to the public until March 27 in the Jubilee Community Centre Foyer.
The RADF Showcase will feature works and project displays by Jan Ward, International Men’s Day Mackay, Lanna Mack and several others. Photo credit: Leah McLean
“The Federal Government’s target of building 1.2 million homes over the next five years will fall well short, if Australia’s chronic shortage of skilled trades people is not dealt with soon,” HIA Managing Director Jocelyn Martin said last month.
“HIA has lodged its pre-budget submission outlining key initiatives that could be taken by the Federal Government to ease the problems in the building industry caused by severe lack of trades people in the country,” said Ms Martin.
The HIA says it recognises the challenges brought about by the lack of skills won’t be fixed overnight but there are some measures that the Government could take to help ease the labour shortage.
“For instance, too often doing a trade or going into construction is seen as a lesser career option and we are calling on the Federal Government to instigate a widespread education program to better promote the substantive career opportunities that exist in the building industry,” Ms Martin added.
"To incentivise apprentices to continue with their training, a ‘tool bonus’ or ‘tool rewards program could be introduced consisting of $1000 tool bonus starter kit and a $500 supplement per year. This would help build up their tool kits and reward for year-on-year milestones through their apprenticeship.
Ms Martin said the building industry is keen to innovate and improve sustainable practices but to date this has resulted in more and more regulation being placed on building businesses. In addition, economic uncertainty leads to greater business risk for builders.
“We are therefore seeking support and dedicated funding to enable businesses to upskill themselves and their workers on major reforms, support for regulatory change and business education.
“A strong construction workforce is the only way that Australia will ever solve the problem of housing affordability. If the Federal Government is to realise its bold goal of 1.2 million much needed homes in five years, HIA strongly recommends the Government adopt the recommendations contained in the submission,” concluded Ms Martin.
More than two million tonnes of trade have passed through the Port of Mackay in just seven months, underlying the publicly owned port's versatility and importance to the region.
The port has already clocked up 2.218 million tonnes of cargo, surpassing throughput in the same period of the previous financial year (2,070,495).
North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) CEO Brendan Webb said the top three traded commodities were petroleum (1,115,656 tonnes) sugar (636,196 tonnes) and grain (223,221 tonnes).
“The strong trade performance at the Port of Mackay reflects its pivotal role as a leading service centre for agricultural and mining industries,” Mr Webb said.
“The port provides an essential connection between regional Queensland and the world boasting trading links to neighbouring countries in Asia as well as New Zealand and North America.”
As well as supporting the trades of today, the Port of Mackay is ready to play its part in supporting the Queensland Government’s Jobs and Energy Plan.
“As a publicly owned multi-commodity port, Mackay can play a role supporting the energy transformation underway through the importation of renewable energy infrastructure,” Mr Webb said.
“We’re continuing to invest in Port of Mackay infrastructure to boost our capabilities.
“The Port of Mackay can also help with the decarbonisation of the industrial supply chain, by moving break bulk and containerised cargo away from long-distance road travel.”
The Port of Mackay is one of four ports NQBP is responsible for, collectively facilitating around half of Queensland’s trade by tonnage.
“NQBP is one of Australia’s key gateways to trade, providing security, growth, and prosperity for our local North Queensland communities,” Mr Webb said.
“Our ports are flexible and capable of sustainably addressing the trade requirements of Queensland and the communities and stakeholders we serve.”
For further information on tonnage volumes for the Port of Mackay, visit NQBP’s Throughputs page online.
Caption: Aerial view of the Port of Mackay
Grain is in the top three traded commodities at the Port of Mackay. Photos supplied: NQBP
By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay
With the crush behind us, many farmers are getting to the jobs that sometimes need to be put to one side during harvest.
Like taking care of Smartcane BMP accreditation and re-accreditation.
There are numerous growers undergoing their five-year re-accreditations. The program has grown over the years, and now 43% of Queensland’s cane country is operated under the sustainable Best Management Practice program.
It’s a standard that has been accepted by global sustainability programs like Bonsucro and Vive, and it has certainly turned out to be an approach to farming that has benefitted environment, grower productivity and profitability, and the state’s sugar trade.
A decade ago, CANEGROWERS determined that there was a growing need to introduce a Best Management Practice program that gave cane producers a framework to document and improve their management of any environmental impacts. By the time of the introduction of Reef Regulations several years later, many growers were already in a place where they could demonstrate positive practices.
Today, the Smartcane BMP program is part of a bigger sustainability picture. If we didn’t have it in place, today our niche in the world market could have been in jeopardy. Australian sugar is now at the forefront of documented sustainable sugar production, and that is attracting buyers from across food, fuel and fibre production, from traditional manufacturers to the emerging bio-commodities sector. The world is looking to our product, and that is a golden opportunity for growers and millers to invest in our production and capture this opportunity.
It is a must that we continue to increase our BMP accreditations as a part of meeting that market hungry for a sustainably produced, readily renewable feedstock.
Those early adopters are now re-accrediting for a second time, and we can be proud to say in the Mackay and Plane Creek districts that re-accreditations are at 100% of those growers in the program. There are over 200 fully accredited growers in the region, covering 34,354ha of cane land. It's good, but we can do better.
The program focuses on areas like fertiliser and chemical use: timing, rates, and documentation, but it takes in a whole raft of farming practices, like soil, irrigation and drainage and pest weed and disease management. These are the core modules, but growers can extend their learning and practice change through optional modules including natural systems management, farm business skills, workplace health and safety, and global sustainability standards.
It really is an outstanding program, and a worthwhile investment in your time and farming business. Growers working in the program are proving that they can produce an equal or higher volume of quality cane with fewer inputs, simply by getting the timing right and with more targeted application. And that is a substantial saving that goes back into the businesses’ bottom lines.
We know that there are lots of growers out there benchmarked in the program, who are using good soil management practices like SRA’s Six Easy Steps, or have engaged with positive programs like Project Bluewater, who have their Nitrogen and Phosphorus Budgets in order. It will be a small and relatively easy step to take that final step and accredit. We strongly recommend speaking with your productivity service and make the most of a great opportunity for your business, the industry, and the environment.
You can learn more about Smartcane BMP at smartcane.com.au.
CAPTION: Our region’s Smartcane BMP officers do a fantastic job supporting growers to accredit. Steven Garrad and Lorelle Flynn at Mackay Area Productivity Services (MAPS), and Leahanna Lacey at Plane Creek Productivity Services. Photo credit: Kirili Lamb
In an announcement that further boosts Queensland’s credentials as Australia’s emerging AgTech innovation capital, Brisbane has been named as the home of the AgriFutures evokeAG. global innovation event in 2025.
Connecting the global agrifood innovation community of investors, entrepreneurs, AgTech service providers and agribusiness professionals, evokeAG. provides a digital platform and premier agrifood tech event where farmers share their experiences, startups pitch their potential, scientists showcase their discoveries, global business leaders share their insights and industry experts debate their opinions.
The announcement came after a group of Queensland innovators and industry leaders joined more than 1,800 delegates from across the Asia Pacific attending this year’s event in Perth.
Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said the Queensland Government has helped the state’s agricultural industry grow from $17.2 billion to an estimated $24 billion in value, supporting hundreds of thousands of good jobs for Queenslanders since 2015.
“AgTech is a strong part of the sustainable future of agriculture, solving problems and growing businesses,” Mr Furner said.
“Bringing this event to Queensland reinforces the Queensland Government’s commitment to AgTech and adoption.
“I have no doubt Queensland’s agriculture sector will make the most of this event and ensure next year’s evokeAG. held in Brisbane will be the best yet.”
AgriFutures Managing Director John Harvey said he looks forward to hosting the event in Brisbane.
“evokeAG. began as an opportunity to showcase the incredible agrifood tech innovation happening here in Australia, to hear from the rest of the world and to drive innovation in the Asia-Pacific region,” Mr Harvey said.
Queensland Chief Entrepreneur Julia Spicer added that the state’s agriculture has an innovative culture.
“Our farmers have instinctively turned to innovation to solve some of the big farming challenges in Australia, including dealing with drought, floods, pests, soil quality, remote locations, livestock monitoring, and transport and logistics,” Ms Spicer said.
“This in turn is driving a strong homegrown AgTech sector – technologies and innovations developed for farming in some of the toughest conditions in the world.
“As someone who works closely with many regional communities to drive change and enhance economic opportunities in agriculture, I know that hosting evokeAG. in Brisbane next year is an opportunity to showcase the world-class AgTech that we create and harness across Queensland.”
The event will be held in Brisbane from February 18-19, 2025.
The Lyon’s Grassland Striped Skink had not been observed since 1981 and is known only from a single locality that is heavily grazed by cattle.
That is until the rare lizard was found last year for the first time in over 40 years living in north-east Queensland.
In early 2023, scientists from Queensland Museum and James Cook University were tasked with the challenge of finding the elusive Lyon’s Grassland Striped Skink.
The surveys were part of research by the Resilient Landscapes Hub of the Australian Government’s National Environmental Science Program that is looking for highly threatened reptiles across Queensland.
Dr Andrew Amey from Queensland Museum Network, who led the expedition, said the goal was to find three species of skink which have very small distributions confined to the Mount Surprise area, around 500 kilometres northeast of Ayr.
“These lizards are all hard to find and seldom seen,” Dr Amey said.
“Two are part of a large group of skinks in the genus Lerista, which are only found in Australia and have adapted to sandy soils by reducing their limbs to essentially swim through the soil.
“It shows that parts of Australia such as grasslands and open woodland that are grazed by cattle can still host important biodiversity.
“It was an exciting moment to find all three skinks, but to find the Lyon’s Grassland Striped Skink was an amazing discovery.”
The other two skinks were the Limbless Fine-lined Slider, which is found in the Undara Volcanic National Park, and the Mount Surprise Slider, which was only known from one paddock.
The purpose of the survey was to find if the species still existed and if scientists could find new populations elsewhere.
The small distribution of the skinks makes them vulnerable to damaging events such as bushfires, drought, invasive weeds and disease.
The Lyon’s Grassland Striped Skink was recently listed as Critically Endangered by the Queensland and Australian Governments in recognition of this.
Dr Amey said animals like these skinks have an important role to play in our ecosystems.
“We need to know if these skinks have healthy populations or if they are declining,” he said.
“We can’t take effective action to protect them if we don’t know where they occur and what threats are impacting them.
“The only way to get this information is to go and look for them.”
Caption: Lyon's grassland skink. Photo credit: Conrad Hoskin
Landholder: Jeff Grech
Project: Major Grants
Program: Mackay Whitsunday Water Quality Program
Location: Sandiford, Qld
Tonnes of Cane: 36,000 tonnes
Sandiford grower Jeff Grech is enthusiastic about his new minimal till adjustable three row billet planter. Jeff was able to purchase the planter with assistance from the Major Grants Project under the Mackay Whitsunday Water Quality Program, funded by the partnership between the Australian Government’s Reef Trust and the Great Barrier Reef Foundation. Using the new planter, he minimises field traffic by simultaneously planting three rows directly into his knocked down legume fallow on permanent beds, reducing excessive land cultivation and compaction. This gentle approach to soil management enhances soil health by promoting better infiltration and minimising disruption to soil microbes. Additionally, it lowers the risk of erosion, contributing to improved water quality around the farm.
Looking back
The Sandiford farm was established by Jeff’s father in 1963 after relocating from the Habana area. Jeff now leads custodianship of the farm and has a deep ambition to pass it on to his son. Jeff vividly recalls his father toiling to manually cut the sugarcane – a stark contrast to the modern evolution of farm practices since then.
Reflecting on his father’s teachings, Jeff says there are a lot of things you cannot control such as the weather, mill performance, and market conditions. He follows his father’s advice to always focus on the things you can control, which for him is growing the best sugarcane crop possible using the best practices he can.
Over the years the farm faced significant erosion due to extensive land cultivation, prompting concerns about sustainability. To address this, green cane harvesting was implemented resulting in an immediate reduction in erosion. The transition to 100% green cane harvesting was swift, transforming once-eroded drains into grass-covered areas devoid of any signs of erosion. This marked the beginning of their journey which continues to evolve in a positive direction. Jeff is passionate about growing sugarcane and improving the soil and water quality so the next generation can farm this land successfully and sustainably.
Current practices
In 2023, weather conditions forced Jeff to change his harvesting plan with some paddocks being too wet for their planned early harvest. As a result, he had to leave one paddock unused in mid-winter because of the excessive moisture. Despite the challenges of growing a soy fallow crop in winter, Jeff decided to try it out and proceeded with the planting. While irrigation was necessary, the soy crop has thrived and will be incorporated into the soil in early 2024.
Jeff plans to replace the soy with a sun hemp fallow crop before planting sugarcane in April. He will then use his new three row billet planter to plant directly into permanent beds. The aim is to use raised beds for planting soybeans, followed by targeted bed renovation with a multi-ribbed cultivator, reducing soil disturbance and traffic. The double disc opener on the new planter, which will go through soybean stubble, can plant uniform depth throughout the paddock despite changes in the soil type and moisture levels.
The soybean will continue to break down releasing nitrogen into the soil as the sugarcane begins to grow. The combination of having two fallow crops fixes nitrogen, improves soil health, and reduces traffic and tillage. As a result, Jeff will be able to produce a better crop of sugarcane. An additional benefit is a reduction of chemical use as the legumes have reduced weeds while less till has prevented seeds coming to the surface to germinate.
Access to Major Grants has given Jeff the confidence to adopt usage of the three row larger planter. It provides the opportunity to plant when soil moisture and temperature is optimal in April. This planter allows Jeff to plant 10 ha/day and complete planting during this short window. Once the cane is planted, herbicide is applied immediately to keep the grass from coming up. Jeff says he won’t touch that soil for another two months, believing that less is better, and the right timing is key. He says being able to plant early gives him an extra 30 tonnes/ha of cane.
While Jeff believes they get it right most of the time, there are always hiccups along the way. He is, however, confident profits will be up. The new planter has helped with a strong strike rate and although he was a bit nervous with the changes, he is confident these new practices are benefiting the farm and improving production. If the season goes well, he expects at the very least, 110 tonnes/ha on average across the farm.
“ The more you do it right, the easier it gets and the more you get it right.”
- Jeff Grech
Looking to the future
Jeff is hoping to have 100% of his farm working under this controlled traffic model in the near future. He aims to continue improvements, adopting best practices as they emerge. With his son returning to the area and joining him on the property, he has been reinvigorated and is excited to continue the journey.
Jeff’s thoughts on land and water quality:
Jeff considers himself a steward of the land he lives on and believes that it is a privilege to be able to live and work here. He not only loves his farm, but also loves going out to the Great Barrier Reef and wants to protect it for future generations. If nutrients or chemicals applied on his farm end up at the Reef, then he sees it as a problem. Jeff wants those inputs to stay on his farm to improve the sugarcane crop.
“If there is something I am doing on my farm that is hurting the Reef, then it is also hurting my farm.” - Jeff Grech
Advice to others:
Jeff credits the growers living in his area as inspiration for trying new things. He says the growers around him are great at what they do. They feed off each other’s ideas and are constantly asking questions to learn from each other every day.
Jeff’s advice to those just starting the journey of adopting newer practices is to speak to your productivity services officers. He laughingly comments that he has Mackay Area Productivity Services (MAPS) on speed dial! Anytime he sees something that isn’t quite right or needs some help, they arrange a visit to advise on what to do. Jeff encourages other growers to engage in these types of grant programs to “get that one thing to make your farming practice just a little bit better.” He reflects that the grant process was so easy with the help of MAPS.
As we approach International Women's Day, Resource Industry Network (RIN) is thrilled to be hosting its annual business luncheon to acknowledge women in the Mackay Isaac Whitsunday region.
The global theme for International Women’s Day is "Inspire Inclusion,” reflecting a collective commitment to breaking barriers that may hinder women's presence and involvement in the workplace, and what we can do to bridge the inclusion gap.
The luncheon will feature reputed speaker Dr Catherine Ball, an associate professor, scientific futurist, visioneer, and company director working across global projects where emerging technologies meet humanitarian, education, and environmental needs.
Attendees will be engaged by the thought-provoking panel discussion and enjoy networking opportunities with accomplished professionals.
"We believe that creating an inclusive workforce is not only the right thing to do but is essential for driving innovation in today's business environment. It has also been proven that having women in the workplace increases safety and productivity," says Dean Kirkwood, General Manager at RIN.
"The reason our International Women's Day business lunch is a sell-out event three years in a row is because it invites the Mackay Isaac Whitsunday region to come together, recognise the roles of women, and renew our shared dedication to refining more inclusive organisations."
This highly regarded event is for professionals of all genders passionate about advancing women's roles in the workplace. Whether you're a business owner, a team leader or a team player, we are excited to host you as we celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political accomplishments of women across the region.
Early registration for our 2025 International Women’s Day is strongly encouraged since this year’s luncheon is sold out.
EVENT DETAILS:
What: 2024 International Women’s Day Business Lunch
When: Wednesday, March 6th, 2024
Where: Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre, Halls 1&2
Time: 11:00 am to 3:00 pm
There’s nothing like wrapping your hands around a favourite mug, and now, you can help to promote Mackay’s natural beauty with a set of collector’s mugs available at the Mackay Visitor Information Centre and kiosk!
In collaboration with local artist Harry Bruce, these caricature mugs are retailing at $22 each and feature famous faces and landscapes of our region.
Oh Deere – We’re One Of A Kind In Australia
Karinda and Dale Anderson are the passionate stewards of their family-owned and operated farm situated on 400 acres in Calen, where a tranquil farm stay, educational farm tour and cane maze has become a sought-after tourist attraction.
The farm tour promises to be both informative and fun. Learn the ins and outs of sugar cane farming from planting to harvesting. Enjoy morning tea just as they did back in the days of cutting cane by hand; don’t miss a tour of the John Deere Love Shack Museum, and a behind-the-scenes peek at the farming equipment used on the farm.
Mackay Isaac Tourism CEO Al Grundy said that it’s a fantastic way to showcase the opportunities that farmers have to diversify their income.
The couple have been stocking their dam with Barramundi, so the next planned activity for visitors will be the fun of catch-and-release.
For more information visit Oh Deere Farm Stay on Facebook.
Summer Sipper - Woo Woo (Or Should We Say, Woo Hoo!)
Get ready to elevate your summer fun with the vibrant and delicious Woo Woo cocktail!
Ingredients:
• 50ml vodka
• 25ml peach schnapps
• 100ml cranberry juice
• Few drops of fresh lime juice
• Ice
• Wedge of lime
Instructions:
1. Grab your cocktail shaker and fill it with ice.
2. Pour in the vodka, peach schnapps, cranberry juice, and a splash of fresh lime juice.
3. Shake vigorously until well mixed and chilled.
4. Strain the mixture into a cocktail glass filled with extra ice.
5. Finish it off with a festive wedge of lime for that extra burst of citrusy goodness!
Now, kick back, relax, and let the tropical vibes of this fruity concoction transport you to your own personal paradise. Cheers to summer!
For those proper island vibes, don’t forget the tiny umbrella.
For a Pina Colada inspired version, swap out the cranberry juice for pineapple juice with a splash of Malibu or coconut cream.
Located on the picturesque waterfront setting of Mackay Marina, the enviable location combined with high quality facilities and service has positioned Mantra Mackay as Mackay’s premier accommodation, conference and events venue.
At the heart of the Mantra lies Latitude 21 Bar & Restaurant, a culinary restaurant offering modern Australian cuisine. Open daily for breakfast, from Monday to Sunday, guests are treated to a delightful spread of dishes to kick start their day on a delicious note. Come evening, indulge in an exquisite à la carte dinner experience available Tuesday through Saturday.
Guests have the choice of dining in air-conditioned comfort within the coastal chic interiors of the restaurant or opting for al-fresco dining overlooking the tranquil waters of Mackay Marina. Whether savouring a gourmet meal indoors or enjoying the gentle sea breeze outdoors, every dining experience promises to be a feast for the senses.
Picture yourself lounging by the palm-fringed pool, cocktail in hand, as you soak in breathtaking vistas of Mackay Marina and the Coral Sea.
For those seeking a relaxed atmosphere and refreshing bevvy, Latitude 21 Bar opens its doors from 4pm on Tuesdays through to Saturdays.
Mantra Mackay's commitment to excellence extends beyond its culinary offerings. Whether guests are here for a leisurely getaway, a corporate retreat, or a special event, they can expect nothing short of exceptional hospitality at every turn.
As the sun sets over Mackay Marina, casting a golden hue over the tranquil waters, Mantra Mackay emerges as more than just a place to stay—it's a destination where luxury meets tranquillity, and every moment is infused with memories to cherish. From indulgent dining experiences to breathtaking views, it's a sanctuary where guests can escape the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary.
Due to popularity, bookings are recommended on 1800 386 386.
Due to the April production, ‘Bob’s Your Auntie’ being postponed to 2025, Director Maureen Coleman has promptly adapted to the minor setback by selecting another entertaining performance, a classical thriller by English playwright and screenwriter, Constance Cox, titled "The Murder Game".
In this performance, a man is financially dependent on his wife but in love with another woman. Will he commit the ‘perfect murder’ to be with the one he loves, and will a decision he makes see him go from the frying pan into the fire?
The show will star talented local performers; Dennis Rozekrans, Asta Ryan, Lani Seaton, and Michael Brennan.
This special production will open at Kucom Theatre on April 11 for a two-week season.
With tickets now available for purchase online, theatre enthusiasts have the opportunity to secure their seats for what is sure to be an unforgettable theatrical event. Don't miss the chance to be captivated by "The Murder Game" and support our local community production at Kucom Theatre this April.
Bookings are now open at https://events.humanitix.com/the-murder-game.
Caption: "The Murder Game" – a thrilling performance to be held this April
A female Minx cat arrived at the Mackay Pet rescue Incorporated just weeks ago, on the brink of death, suffering from a severe uterine infection after her alleged owners said she had run away two years ago and could no longer take her back. The helpless cat who was once known as Harmony was withered, bleeding and in immense pain.
Thanks to the action of Mackay’s pet rescue team and the expert care provided by Peta Snell at Northern Beaches Veterinary Hospital, Harmony received the life-saving treatment she desperately needed. After undergoing surgery to remove her toxic uterus, she began her journey to recovery, receiving lots of affection during her stay in foster care.
From a frail and suffering cat, she has defied the odds, now fully recovered and happily living her best life. Harmony has now been rehomed and her new family has named her Athena.
The support of the local community has played a crucial role in Athena's journey to healing. Through their generous donations, Mackay Pet Rescue Inc has been able to continue their mission of saving and caring for animals in need, not only in the local area but also in the surrounding districts.
Athena's story is a prime example of the impact that compassion and community support can have on the lives of our local pets in need. As Mackay Pet Rescue Inc continues their vital work, they remain grateful for the ongoing support that enables them to provide care and hope to animals like Athena.
Mackay Pet Rescue Inc commented, “Seeing Harmony/Athena thriving in her forever home is rewarding for our entire team.”
Caption: Harmony/Athena thriving in her new home with her new family. Photo credit: Mackay Pet Rescue Incorporated (Facebook)
Mackay Regional Council will be undertaking an upgrade to the Willetts Road playground in North Mackay.
The playground closed last Friday, (February 23) and is expected to be out of operation for two weeks, weather permitting, while the work is undertaken.
Crews will remove the old carousel and replace it with a new cup spinner and spica spinner. The old swing set will be replaced with a new one, and the soft fall sand will be refurbished.
For public safety, the playground will be full fenced off during these works.
Council apologises for any inconvenience caused by the closure.
The playground is expected to re-open by Saturday March 9, however please check with council for updates.
For enquiries, please contact council on 1300 622 529.
In today's whirlwind of financial uncertainty, saving money has become trickier than ever with the cost of living continuously on the rise. Women often look after the household finances as well as business finances, and while women can be naturally savvy at number-crunching, we have found some smart tips to help put money aside even during tough times.
Knowing how to start healthy saving habits can be difficult, that’s why the financial experts at The Lazy Trader have put together a list of helpful money-saving tips, guiding you towards financial freedom, stability and peace of mind this year, in 2024!
A spokesman from The Lazy Trader commented: “There are so many benefits to having money stashed away somewhere safe, and it will lift a weight off your shoulders knowing you have something to fall back on.”
Use a digital budget planner
Try utilising a digital budget planner to manage your finances conveniently and efficiently. These apps allow for easy adjustments and customisation to suit your needs, reducing clutter and ensuring you stay within your spending limits.
Use smash piggy banks
Invest in a smash piggy bank to visually track your progress. Even just a dollar a day can add up to a significant amount over time. If you know you have to break into it, you’re less likely to take money out of it!
Invest in life insurance when you’re young
Start investing in life insurance while you're young to secure lower premiums and consistent rates as you age. This proactive approach ensures financial security and affordability in the long run.
Shop smart at the supermarket
When shopping, utilise supermarket loyalty cards, explore reduced sections for discounted items, and buy in bulk to save money and reduce the need for frequent trips.
Pay off your debt
Prioritise paying off your debt to avoid unnecessary fees and charges. Clearing this debt as soon as you can will ease financial stress and prevent additional expenses down the line.
Saving money for a rainy day provides a safety net for future goals and reduces the possibility of financial strain in the future.
By implementing these money-saving hacks, you can build financial resilience and secure your financial future! For more information, visit https://thelazytrader.com
“Thirty-thousand pigs have drowned in the river near Rocky.”
The announcement was yelled out across the newsroom to me by a reporter at the local Mackay paper about 13 years ago when I was the editor and we were covering a central Queensland flood that had moved south and was about to engulf Rockhampton.
Now, I’m no farmer but my first reaction was that this was a surprising amount of dead pigs.
I said: “Thirty thousand pigs! Are we sure about that?”
The Mackay journalist had spoken to our sister paper, the Rockhampton Morning Bulletin, who had uncovered the story about the pigs.
“Yep, the Rocky Bulletin is putting it on their front page. The pigs were from a pig farm near Rocky and the farmer told them about it,” the reporter said.
“Have they got pictures?” I asked.
“No.”
“Well keep asking them and let me know when they come in.”
The photos didn’t come in that day and we were a Mackay paper, not a Rocky paper, so we didn’t put it on the front page but we did place it prominently as the lead story on Page 3 or Page 5, for memory. We had a big headline along the lines of: “30,000 pigs drown in flood”.
The next day the Mackay reporter who told me about the story came sheepishly into my office and said: “We’ve got a bit of a problem with the dead pigs story.”
“Oh yeah, what is it?
“It wasn’t 30 thousand pigs. The farmer got back to the Rocky paper this morning and said he didn’t say 30 thousand pigs, he said 30 sows and pigs.”
Now if someone spoke quickly over the phone to you and you couldn’t see their lips forming the words, you can understand how “30 sows and pigs” could sound like “30 thousand pigs”.
While the death of any pig is sad, and it is definitely upsetting that 30 pigs drowned, it is a bit of a different story to 30,000 pigs drowning, particularly in light of the human heartbreak that was going on in the area at that time.
The printed apology the next day made us look pretty stupid, although I did have a private laugh at the absurdity of the mistake.
The lesson I got from that very public debacle was to always trust my gut feeling. Thirty-thousand didn’t sound right. It was a mind-boggling number of dead and bloated pigs in a river … but I accepted what people were telling me without digging further.
It also reminded me not to make the same innocent mistake as the young reporter … question everything, make sure you got it right, heard it right.
Communication is a two-way street and in business, including real estate, it is important to clearly understand what someone has said, check that you have the facts right. Two ears for listening, one mouth for talking.
Did the seller say there is or isn’t asbestos in the house? What did the seller say about the sewerage line running under the pool? Did the seller say that downstairs bathroom had council approval or didn’t have council approval?
Listen to what people say and question things that don’t sound right because buyers are going to ask for that information and if you negotiate a price and do a deal, you don’t want to find out later that you got your facts wrong.
You don’t want to have, through lack of attention to detail, given false information to a buyer and effectively tried to turn a sow’s ear into a silk purse. Even a soggy one.
The World Day of Prayer is an ecumenical movement inspired by the motto “Informed Prayer and Prayerful Action.” We follow the example of Jesus Christ, who prayed with compassion and love for peace in our fractured world.
The theme is “I Beg You... Bear With One Another in Love,” and calls us to patiently support each other with generosity and compassion, despite all difficulties and oppression.
The Palestinian Christian women who wrote this worship service have invited the world to pray for peace, justice and freedom of religion and freedom of movement. They have called us all to be united in treating everyone with justice, understanding and love.
Please join us on Friday, March 1 at St Joseph’s Catholic Church, Grendon Street, North Mackay at 10 am to worship and pray together for peace in our troubled world.
Anne Jennings
Mackay Unit, Australian Church Women
Featuring Solveig Lobo
Solveig Lobo is a familiar face in the Mackay community, known for her role as an Account Executive at Bishopp, specialising in billboard and airport advertising.
Born and raised in Mackay, Solveig has a deep-rooted passion for her hometown and is actively involved in various community events and initiatives. She sees herself not just as a business professional but as a proud member of the community, always eager to contribute to its growth and vibrancy.
“I am very passionate about the community, and I get involved in every event that I can make.
“This community is my home, and I’ve loved watching the growth,” Solveig said.
When it comes to dancing, Solveig's favourite moves involve grooving to the beat and moving her hips with style. Under the guidance of Dolly at Mackay Fame Talent School, she's been mastering her dance skills, finding the perfect outfits at Dancewear Mackay to complement her moves.
Despite the fast tempo being a slight challenge on the dance floor, Solveig's love for her community extends beyond her professional and dancing endeavours. She admires the work of the Mackay Hospital Foundation, particularly their commitment to giving back to the local community by providing essential healthcare services when needed most.
“I love what they do for our community, and I want to be a bigger part of that. My nerves have turned to excitement, and I can’t wait to learn my dance and get behind this great cause.”
Featuring Brooke Hargrave
Proud owner of Mackay’s well known modelling agency, Brooke Lee Modelling, Brooke Hargrave is the visionary behind the modelling and deportment school. She is also training as a contestant for Mackay Hospital Foundation’s Dancing WIth Heart.
Her business endeavours began in May 2011, paying close attention to nurturing confidence while teaching her clients essential skills in training, posture, deportment, and presentation. She aims to extend beyond modelling, catering to juniors, teens, and seniors in Mackay and surrounding areas, growing well-mannered individuals poised for success in any area they set out to achieve.
Brooke is thrilled to collaborate with the senior dancers from Fame Talent School for Dancing With Heart.
“I don't have much background in dancing, but I'm really enjoying myself,” she said.
“However, after rehearsals, I find myself exhausted, with muscles aching for a couple of days afterward – muscles I never even knew I had!
“In a positive light, it’s a great fitness adventure,” she adds.
Brooke’s commitment to community welfare extends far beyond her business pursuits. She deeply values the support offered by organisations like the Mackay Hospital Foundation, acknowledging their tireless efforts in aiding public hospitals and regional communities.
“I love the assistance they offer to our public hospitals and regional communities, as well as our very own local charity making a positive impact on our community.”
Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures February 20, 2024:
Division 1:
Lexus (Barry Patterson, Andrew McHugh, Janice Kent) d Jaguar (Tim Shehan, Anne Sheridan, Vince Boeske) 6-5. Tim d Janice -8, 6, 13, -14, 3.
BMW (Emma Widdup, Allan Edwards, Ian McKay) d Ferrari (Geoff Denman, Tony Bowman, Robbie Richards) 7-4. Tony d Ian -4, 8, 10, -5, 10.
Mercedes (Graeme Walker, Steven Whiting, Graham Brake) d Audi (Mick Ruhl, Lee Brake, Ishan Rana) 6-5. Mick d Steven 7, -16, -7, 3, 5.
Division 2:
Isuzu (George Camilleri, Steve Mathieson, Mark Stam) d Hyundai (Noreen Fredericksen, Donna Abbott, Delma Knight) 8-3. Steve d Donna -7, -8, 14, 8, 4.
Nissan (Duncan Treloar, Aarnav Reelh, Will VanDeKaa) d Mazda (Judy Zahn, Mark Sleeman, Niro) 7-4. Will d Mark 7, 8, -6, -7, 11.
Honda (Leo Gilbert, Andrea Nicholson, Jye Callander) d Kia (Matt West, Geoff Cowan, Peter Goodson) 8-3, Matt d Jye -8, 7, 8, -6, 7.
Division 3:
Ford (Ollie Hamelink, Misha Palod) d Alfa (Kade Wright, Craig VanDeKaa) 5-4. Kade d Misha 7, 7, -7, -10, 9.
Holden (Anaya Reelh, Saisha Palod, Rohit Bansod) d Fiat (Trent Day, Ron Lemin) 8-3. Ron d Anaya -8, 10, -5, 4, 8.
Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning results February 20, 2024:
Division 1:
Leopards (Charlie Payne, Steve Mathieson, Judy Zahn) d Jaguar (Branko Vucurovic, Kevin Abbott, Peter Goodson) 7-5. Charlie d Peter -10, -10, 9, 9, 9.
Tigers (Delma Knight, Noreen Fredericksen, John McGee) d Pumas (Andrea Nicholson, Don Boettcher, Coral Morgan) 9-3. Delma/John d Andrea/Coral 8, -5, -13, 7, 7.
Cheetahs (Donna Abbott, Doug Dungavell, Van Austin) d Lions (Tony Bowman, Pam Joyce, Bryan Marshall) 8-4. Donna d Tony -10, 9, -3, 5, 13.
Division 2:
Cyan (Robyn Bushell, Marie Taylor, Louise Gould) d Teal (Cheryl Pearson, Kim Daffy, Kim Challender) 7-5. Kim d Louise -4, -8, 7, 9, 7.
Aqua (Judi Hicks, Gloria Vella, Gerry Synnott) d Lime (Helen Ware, Fred Saliba) 8-4. Helen d Gloria -9, -4, 5, 8, 13.
Division 3:
Sapphires (Pam Keune, Madge Saunders, Darryl Ross) d Emeralds (Ian Dodds, Charles Hamlett, Trish Zamparuti) 8-4. Madge d Ian -6, 11, 11, -4, 9.
Diamonds (Cheryl Pearson, Bill Hey, Myles Dutton) d Rubies (Sharon Muller, Allison Day, Glenda Dutton) 7-5. Allison d Bill -11, 7, 7, -9, 6.
The Mackay Triathlon community came together to honour the memory of Sonya Brazil in a remarkable display of athleticism and camaraderie at the Sonya Brazil Memorial Women's Only Triathlon.
Since 2000 the race has been named in Ms Brazil's honour after she died unexpectedly in 1999 whilst on her quest to stay fit and active.
The event, held under overcast skies, saw participants from all walks of life take on the challenge, with a special nod to those tackling a triathlon for the very first time.
Race Director Stephanie Allen expressed gratitude to all the participants, emphasising the importance of safety on the wet roads and commending everyone for their diligence in staying safe throughout the event. The absence of recorded incidents spoke volumes about the dedication and responsibility shown by all involved.
A heartfelt thank you was extended to the Brazil family for their continued support and generosity, with Karyn Brazil and her family providing a delightful spread of fruit and sandwiches for athletes, volunteers, and spectators in the recovery area—a gesture that was warmly appreciated by all.
The competition itself was fierce, with impressive performances and personal bests abound. Kelly Chappell claimed the top spot with an impressive time of 29:43, coming within seconds of the course record set in 2016. Isabell Cahill secured second place with a time of 30:19, while Ella Chappell clinched third place, improving upon her previous time from 2023.
Acknowledgement was also extended to the dedicated volunteers who ensured the smooth running of the event, as well as to Deanne Woods, the Permits Officer, whose efforts were instrumental in securing the necessary permits for the race.
Looking ahead, plans are already in motion for an exciting celebration of the event's 25th anniversary in 2025—a milestone that promises to be nothing short of spectacular.
Caption: Angela, sister of the late Sonya Brazil, presented the winner’s trophy to Kelly Chappell, with Isabell Cahill and Ella Chappel in second and third places respectively. Photo supplied