Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Photo source: Shutterstock
A morning of connection, conversation and community will take centre stage at the Mackay Seniors Expo on Tuesday 15th September.
Held from 9am to 12pm at The Big Shed, Mackay Showgrounds, the annual expo brings together more than 80 exhibitors and approximately 2,000 community members, creating a valuable space for older residents, their families, friends and carers to discover what is available across the region.
From local services and support programs to opportunities that encourage wellbeing and community connection, the expo offers something valuable for seniors at every stage of life. It is a chance to ask questions, meet local organisations, discover new possibilities and perhaps make a few new connections along the way.
More than an information event, the expo reflects the importance of creating communities where older people feel valued, included and connected.
The event forms part of the Queensland Government’s state-wide Seniors Month celebrations, which aim to encourage positive attitudes towards older people, support participation and activity, and strengthen community and intergenerational relationships.
With thousands of locals expected to attend, the Mackay Seniors Expo is an opportunity to celebrate the contribution of older members of the community while helping them stay informed, engaged and connected to the people and services around them.
When care moves beyond a transactional service and becomes a deeply personal relationship, the impact can be felt across an entire community.
That belief has been at the heart of Nurse Next Door Mackay since George Blackie and Sarah Ryan launched the franchise in 2023.
After years working in the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) sector, the pair recognised a gap for a local provider led by values and a commitment to people.
“We treat people how we would like to be treated,” Sarah says.
What sets Sarah and George apart is their ability to look beyond the care plan and see the whole person behind the care. They take time to understand each individual’s story, preferences, experiences and what matters most to them, creating support that is personal and compassionate.
“We genuinely have the intention of Making Lives Better for everyone we cross paths with.”
That philosophy is reflected in the relationships they build. One example is a client referred to as Bob, who had moved through several Mackay providers, with none lasting longer than nine months. With Nurse Next Door, he found stability and was supported for more than 18 months. Over that time, the team became a trusted presence. When Bob passed away, George and Sarah were by his side.
“We were repeatedly told how Nurse Next Door was the best provider Bob had experienced, and we are grateful to have made his final years positive,” Sarah reflects.
“The most rewarding part is making a difference for those who are extremely vulnerable and hesitant to trust.”
While clinical safety, staff capability and training remain fundamental, Sarah believes exceptional care must include warmth and connection.
“Complex community care is serious work, but there should always be room for laughter,” she says.
“Quality care is built on a foundation of safety and happiness.
”That combination of clinical excellence and empathy has supported growth. In its first year, Nurse Next Door Mackay delivered 15,267 hours of care. By 2026, that figure had grown to 143,943 hours.
Behind every hour is a person, and Sarah and George are quick to recognise the team members who make that care possible.
“We could not do what we do without the incredible people who choose Nurse Next Door and show up every day with the purpose of making someone else’s life better. Their commitment, compassion and dedication are what make the difference.”
Their impact has been recognised nationally. Within three-and-a-half years of opening, Nurse Next Door Mackay was named Best Single Unit Franchise in Australia.
For Sarah and George, being changemakers means challenging traditional models of care and continually asking how the experience can be improved.
“Being a changemaker means staying adaptable, remaining curious and recognising that there is always something new to learn,” Sarah says.
That mindset is what makes them genuine disruptors in the market.
Rather than treating care as a checklist of tasks, they are helping redefine what quality home care can look like: more personal, more responsive and more connected to the individual.
Their approach centres on understanding the person behind the care plan and supporting their independence, dignity and quality of life.
It is a philosophy that challenges convention, raises expectations and demonstrates what is possible when care is built around people first.
Photo source: Mackay Hospital and Health Service
From helping stroke patients recover their communication skills to supporting children as they find their voice, Mackay’s speech pathologists play an important role in helping people connect, communicate and live independently.
Speech Pathology Week ran from August 23rd to 29th, with Mackay Hospital and Health Service taking the opportunity to recognise the speech pathologists who support patients across the region.
“From supporting someone recovering from a stroke to helping a child develop communication skills, assessing swallowing difficulties, supporting patients in critical care and finding new ways for people to communicate, speech pathologists play a vital role across our hospitals and community services.
“They work alongside doctors, nurses and allied health teams to support recovery, independence and safe discharge, while also providing outreach and telehealth services to help connect people across our region.
“Every patient is different, which means speech pathology is a profession built on creativity, problem-solving and connection.”
This year’s Speech Pathology Week theme, Communication creates possibility, reflects the role speech pathologists play in helping people connect, learn, make choices, participate and thrive.
For patients experiencing communication or swallowing difficulties, the work can be an important part of recovery and everyday life.
Mackay HHS also highlighted the broad reach of the profession, with speech pathologists working across hospitals and community services and providing outreach and telehealth support to people throughout the region.
“A big thank you to our amazing Mackay HHS Speech Pathology team for everything you do for our patients, families and communities”
SES volunteers from across the region joined QPS, MRQ and RFS personnel at Midge Point for a large-scale search and rescue exercise, testing skills, technology and multi-agency emergency response capabilities. Photos supplied by Mackay SES (State Emergency Service)
State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers from Mackay, Whitsunday, Isaac and Rockhampton units successfully kicked off SES Week last week, taking part in a large-scale multi-agency search and rescue exercise at Midge Point over the weekend of 22nd-23rd August.
The two-day exercise brought together emergency service personnel from across the region, providing a valuable opportunity to test skills, strengthen inter-agency relationships and enhance operational preparedness in a realistic, simulated environment.
Planned by the SES and led on the day by the Queensland Police Service (QPS), the exercise simulated a real-life search and rescue operation. Members worked alongside personnel from Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) and the Rural Fire Service Queensland (RFS), demonstrating the importance of a coordinated multi-agency response during emergency situations.
The exercise was designed to put regular training into practice, allowing participants to apply their knowledge and skills under realistic operational conditions. Search teams navigated challenging terrain while working together to locate and recover simulated missing persons, mirroring the complexities often faced during real incidents.
A key feature of the exercise was the opportunity to test new technology and capabilities. Participants utilised a recently introduced mapping system designed to improve situational awareness and operational coordination in the field. Drone operators also tested aerial search capabilities, providing valuable intelligence and demonstrating how emerging technology can support more effective and efficient search and rescue operations.
SES members said the event was a valuable opportunity to build confidence, improve procedures and further strengthen relationships between local emergency service organisations.
The successful weekend exercise also marked the beginning of SES Week, which ran from 23rd to 29th August and recognises the dedication and significant contribution SES volunteers make in supporting Queensland communities during emergencies and disasters.
For more information about joining the State Emergency Service, scan the QR code or search Qld SES.
Contributed by Nicole Pasquale and Amanda Yuskan
Grain growers across Central Queensland are set to benefit from new funding support, with the Crisafulli Government delivering a $1.75 million program to strengthen sustainable farming practices and protect the Great Barrier Reef.
Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly MP, said the Grain Sediment Reduction Program is a practical investment in the future of regional agriculture, supporting local producers to improve productivity while protecting the environment.
“Central Queensland’s grain growers are significant part of our region’s economy, and this program is about backing them with real support to improve their operations,” Mr Kelly said.
“Eligible growers can now access grants of up to $100,000 to invest in on-farm infrastructure that reduces soil erosion and sediment runoff into our waterways.”
Mr Kelly said the initiative recognises that strong agricultural outcomes and environmental stewardship go hand-in-hand.
“No farmer wants to see their topsoil wash away. These grants will help landholders put practical measures in place to protect their soil, improve ground cover, and ultimately boost productivity,” he said.
“And if those actions also help protect the Great Barrier Reef, that’s a win for everyone.”
“In the 2024–25 financial year alone, more than 244,917 tonnes of grain passed through the Port of Mackay, which shows just how significant this industry is to Central Queensland,” he said.
“That’s why it’s critical we continue to invest in programs that support growers to protect their land while maintaining strong production.”
MEDIA RELEASE
Funded projects will focus on proven erosion control and land management practices,including:
Mr Kelly said the program reflects the Crisafulli Government’s commitment to rebuilding regional industries after years of neglect.
The Grain Sediment Reduction Program is open to dryland and broadacre grain and forage cropping producers across eligible local government areas, including:
Applications close at 3:00pm on Wednesday, 3 June 2026.
For more information or to apply, visit https://www.qld.gov.au/environment/coasts-waterways/reef/reef-program/grain-sediment-reduction-program
Labor’s Hidden Super Tax: Another Broken Promise
Most Australians do not spend their days reading tax legislation. They are busy working, raising families, running businesses and trying to put something aside for retirement. That is precisely what the Federal Labor government is counting on, sneaking even more tax changes through in their 2026 Budget.
The Government promised its new capital gains tax changes would leave superannuation alone. Now the Financial Services Council is warning the fine print could expose $372 billion of
Australians’ retirement savings to higher tax, potentially raising more than $55 million a year. A hidden super tax.
There may be no bill in the letterbox, but Australians will still pay. And we all know under this Labor government there’s very little left in the household budget after paying the many taxes they enforce, and now they are coming after your hard-earned superannuation as well.
The impact could work its way through the investment structures used by super funds. Changes to the way capital losses are applied can mean some investments generate a higher tax bill than they would have, under the existing rules. The industry is warning that, ultimately, those costs can flow through to lower returns for Australians’ super.
That might sound like a technical argument.
It isn't.
If your super earns less because more tax is being taken from its investments, you have less money for retirement.
You might be 35 and watching your super balance grow. You might be 55 and counting down the years until retirement. You might already be retired, relying on your savings to help pay the bills.
Every dollar that disappears from your retirement savings is a dollar that will not go towards
paying for groceries, electricity or healthcare later in life.
This Labor Government is very good drumming up stories about what it hands out, and very quiet with what it takes. They love announcements and headlines of what Australians are getting, but behind the scenes, the taxes keep growing, giving with one hand, and taking more with the other.
The extraordinary part is that the Government has already told Australians that super would be carved out of these changes. If that is what they intended, then why hasn’t the legislation been fixed?
Do not force Australians to spend precious time reading the fine print to realise another promise made by the Prime Minister and Treasurer has been broken.
People deserve honest taxes made clear at election time with no surprises down the track
Superannuation is not the Government’s money. It belongs to Australians who worked for it, saved it, and were told it would be there when they retire.
The Liberals and Nationals will keep fighting against these toxic taxes and hold this deceitful government to account.
Australians deserve to be able to keep more of what they earn and have confidence that the
money they have saved for retirement will remain theirs.
By Cr Anne Baker
Mackay is growing and changing before our eyes. With that growth comes both opportunity and responsibility.
We are fortunate to live in a region with a strong economy, diverse industries, wonderful communities and people who genuinely care about where they live and what happens. From our city and coastal communities to our rural townships and hinterland, each part of our region contributes something unique to the Mackay story.
As we look to the future, one of the challenges for council is ensuring we embrace growth without losing the authentic fabric that makes our region such a great place to call home.
Growth brings new residents, businesses and investment, but it also places additional pressure on roads, drainage, parks, sporting facilities, waste services and other community infrastructure. Planning for that growth requires us to look beyond what is needed today and consider what our community will need in five, ten and even twenty years.
At the same time, we must remain conscious of affordability.
Every new facility or piece of infrastructure we build becomes an asset that our community ultimately needs to maintain. That means good decision making isn’t simply about whether we can afford to build something today. We also need to understand what it will cost to operate, maintain and eventually replace well into the future, as well as for the life of the asset
For me, responsible local government is about finding that priority and balance.
It means continuing to invest in our region while making sure we are getting value for every ratepayer dollar. It means looking after the assets we already have, reviewing the way we deliver services and being prepared to ask whether there are better or more efficient ways of doing things.
But numbers and infrastructure are only part of the picture.
The strength of Mackay for decades has always been its people.
Our volunteers, sporting clubs, community organisations, small businesses and local industries all contribute to the character and fabric of our region. Our smaller communities and townships also deserve to feel connected to the decisions being made about their future.
That’s why listening to our community remains so important.
Community engagement shouldn’t simply be about informing people after decisions have been made. It should help us understand priorities, identify opportunities and guide better decisions.
There will always be competing demands and difficult choices in local government. We won’t always agree, and we won’t always be able to deliver everything at once.
What we can do is have a focus on making sure our decisions are considered, transparent and focused on the long-term interests of our community.
Mackay has an exciting future ahead.
If we plan carefully, spend responsibly and continue listening to the people we represent, we can embrace the opportunities that come with growth while protecting the community spirit and lifestyle that Mackay offers.
Photo source: The Neighbourhood Hub (Facebook)
August was a busy month for The Neighbourhood Hub, with a wide range of programs, workshops, community events and initiatives continuing to support people across the region.
A representative from The Neighbourhood Hub said the month was “jam-packed”, with Multicultural Month running alongside its regular activities.
The month began with Census information sessions to help community members navigate the process, while the team also attended NQ Connect Whitsundays and CASA Mackay’s Together For Shelter event, which brought housing, health, employment and wellbeing services together.
The Hub’s workshops covered practical topics including toilet training and scams awareness, while Multicultural Month included the organisation’s own Multicultural Open Day and participation in the Islamic Community Open Day.
The Hub also represented the region at the 2026 Celebrating Multicultural Communities Reception at Parliament House in Brisbane and the Queensland Multicultural Awards in Logan.
Meanwhile, preparations began for the 2026 Anti-Poverty Week Appeal, one of the organisation’s major annual campaigns.
Other August activities included the return of Drumming for Seniors Connect, additional support for Midweek Meals from DBCT and NQ Power Up Electrical, and the launch of the new Safety, Skills and Connection Program, made possible through Community Bank Sarina.
The month also included practical learning, with Treadwell Tyre Service visiting to teach the basics of car maintenance and tyre changing. The Hub celebrated Book Week at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens and connected with Trading Tracks Queensland at Forbidden ONYX.
Despite the packed calendar, the Hub’s regular weekly programs continued, including Ready Set Prep, Move with Maria yoga, community playgroups, Seniors Connect, the Food Diversion Program, Hello Baby and parenting programs.
The Hub said the month was a reminder of “what’s possible when we all show up for each other”, highlighting the role of community connection, practical support and shared participation in the region.
Mackay and Isaac community groups could be eligible to apply for a share of a $2 million Queensland Government funding pool aimed at strengthening multicultural communities and creating greater opportunities for young people.
Applications have opened for the 2026–27 round of the Strengthening Communities Multicultural Grants program, with individual grants of up to $100,000 available for eligible locally led projects.
The annual, open competitive grants program provides funding for projects involving culturally and linguistically diverse communities, groups and individuals, as well as the broader community, with the aim of building an inclusive, harmoniousand united Queensland.
For the purposes of the program, culturally and linguistically diverse communities include people from migrant and refugee backgrounds, people seeking asylum, and Australian South Sea Islander peoples.
The 2026–27 funding round includes two categories – Empowering Multicultural Community Projects and Youth and Community Connection Projects – with up to $100,000 available under each category.
Projects could include community-based activities such as workshops, training, skills development, knowledge and awareness raising, and activities designed to foster social connections.
The program also supports targeted activities that can increase community participation, economic independence, inclusion or access to opportunities within local communities.
To be eligible, projects must support the economic and social aspirations of people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, enhance community capacity to address emerging issues and improve access to services, increase the cultural capability of local services, or enhance the capacity of community groups to connect culturally diverse people with community activities.
Minister for Multiculturalism Fiona Simpson said the funding would support locally led initiatives across Queensland.
"We’re focused on bringing people together this month and this funding pool supports Queenslanders from all backgrounds to fully participate in community life and access the opportunities they need to thrive," Minister Simpson said.
"The Strengthening Communities Multicultural Grants drive innovative projects in communities where they have the greatest impact and aim to strengthen economic participation, build capacity, and boost the positive participation of young people.
"Whether it's helping individuals develop new skills, supporting community organisations to respond to local challenges, or broadening opportunities for people to feel connected and empowered, these projects make a real difference.
The Queensland Government has previously supported projects across metropolitan and regional Queensland through the program, with the 2025–26 round supporting 25 projects across the Far North, North, Central, South East and Western Queensland regions.
Eligible applicants include not-for-profit and charitable organisations, incorporated associations, eligible companies, cooperatives, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander corporations, local councils, state school P&Cs, Queensland universitiesand eligible social enterprises.
Unincorporated associations may also apply through an eligible auspice organisation.
Applications for the 2026–27 round close at 11.59pm on October 4th 2026, with projects to commence from July 1st 2027. Funded projects can be delivered over a two-year period through to June 30th 2029.
Mackay and Isaac organisations with ideas that could strengthen multicultural participation, community connections or opportunities for young people are encouraged to review the eligibility requirements and consider applying.
To apply or find out more information, visit: https://www.dwatsipm.qld.gov.au/scmg-program
In a world of instant clicks, ready-made templates and AI-generated content, creating something has never been faster. But creating something meaningful something that captures attention, builds trust and genuinely sets a business apart is another matter entirely.
Behind every successful campaign, brand or piece of creative work is a process most people never see.
It is the conversations, questions and research that happen before a concept takes shape. It is understanding the business, its audience and its competitors. It is exploring different directions, challenging the obvious and refining every detail until the final result feels clear, compelling and effortless.
That apparent simplicity is rarely simple to achieve.
At redhotblue, we understand this because we have spent 30 years doing the work behind the work. We started from the ground up, building our agency through determination, curiosity and a belief in the power of great ideas. Three decades later, we are still evolving, still creating and still leading the way from the heart of Mackay for clients across the region and nationally.
Technology has transformed our industry, and we have embraced its ability to make processes faster and possibilities greater. But technology alone cannot replace experience, intuition or the ability to recognise the difference between an idea that simply looks good and one that will genuinely work.
Ideas have power, but their value lies in the ability to execute them effectively.
That ability does not come from following the same trends, using the same templates or producing more of what already exists. It comes from knowing when to push further, when to simplify and when an idea needs to be reconsidered entirely. It comes from years of seeing what connects, what falls flat and what creates lasting value for a business.
Experience helps us ask better questions, anticipate challenges and make informed creative decisions. It allows us to look beyond the immediate brief and understand the bigger opportunity.
The finished work may be what the world sees, but its strength comes from everything behind it the thinking, the collaboration, the refinement and the courage to do something different.
After 30 years, that remains the redhotblue difference: powerful ideas, backed by the experience and ability to bring them to life.
Photo source: Shutterstock
Mackay Regional Council has adopted the Mackay Region Active Transport and Micromobility Plan 2025–2036, outlining the region’s long-term approach to walking, cycling and micromobility.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the plan would help guide future investment in pathways and active transport infrastructure, with the aim of creating a network that is safer, more connected and accessible for both residents and visitors.
"The adoption of this plan represents an important step forward in how we plan and deliver active transport infrastructure across the Mackay region," Mayor Williamson said.
"It provides council with a strategic roadmap to prioritise projects that will have the greatest benefit for our communities, improving connections between residential areas, schools, employment hubs and key destinations.
"We know from the Liveability Census, and the extensive consultation undertaken during development of this plan, that our community wants more safe and accessible pathways, and this plan responds directly to that feedback.
“This is another important step towards enhancing the liveability of the Mackay region and creating more transport choices for residents."
The new plan sets out a future for active transport that aims to make walking, cycling and micromobility more practical and enjoyable, while recognising the region’s tropical lifestyle and improving connections between key destinations.
Council developed the plan following two rounds of consultation through Connecting Mackay, complemented by input from community groups, schools, government agencies and other stakeholders.
Across the consultation process, residents and stakeholders expressed support for further investment in walking and riding infrastructure, with safer routes, better connections and improved accessibility identified as important priorities.
Liveability and Social Inclusion Strategic Advisory Committee Co-chair Cr May said the plan would bring a range of benefits for the region.
"By improving our active transport network, we're making it easier for people of all ages and abilities to move around the region safely and comfortably," she said.
"That supports healthier lifestyles, provides greater transport choice and contributes to a more liveable and sustainable community."
The plan also introduces a prioritisation framework that will help council identify and assess future pathway projects, upgrades and renewals.
Importantly, having a clearly defined strategy will strengthen council's ability to secure external funding from State and Federal Government programs.
"Grant funding is highly competitive, and having an adopted plan backed by technical analysis and strong community support puts council in a much stronger position when applying for funding opportunities," Mayor Williamson said.
"That's fantastic news for our community because it helps us maximise investment in pathway projects and deliver more outcomes for residents."
Mackay council has already increased its focus on active transport delivery, with approximately $6.6 million allocated to pathway projects in the 2026-27 financial year.
The adopted plan includes a series of actions aimed at improving network planning, infrastructure delivery and community awareness over the next decade.
For more information and future updates, visit the Connecting Mackay website online.
Mackay organisations supporting sick children and their families have just days left to apply for a share of $300,000 through the 2026 Flagon and Dragon Community Grants.
Applications for the latest round of grants will close on Wednesday 9th September, with funding available to provide equipment and resources supporting children and families throughout the Mackay region.
The $300,000 grant pool was raised during the popular biennial Flagon and Dragon luncheon held in July, with all profits from the event directed towards helping local children in need.
Flagon and Dragon Committee Chair Scott Jamieson said the grants aimed to ease some of the challenges faced by families when a child required additional treatment or care.
“Our aim is to provide support for local families when they are going through a tough time, so the family can stay here in Mackay to get the treatment and care they need,” Mr Jamieson said.
Previous recipients include the Mackay Hospital Foundation, Mackay District Special School, Mackay Mater Hospital and Victoria Park State School.
The committee also thanked the local businesses and organisations which supported the 2026 event, including McDonald’s Mackay, Brown and Bird, Mackay Land Sales, Remax Select Mackay, Pitmaster, Key Solutions Group, Club Northern Beaches Mackay, D.A.C Mining, AccuVest, Crokers Fuel & Oils, NQBE Integrated I.T., Inspec Industries and Woollam Constructions.
Applications are subject to eligibility requirements and can be submitted through the Flagon and Dragon website before the 9th September deadline.
Successful grant recipients will be formally announced through Flagon and Dragon’s Facebook page on 8th October.
Footage supplied by the office of Nigel Dalton MP
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton MP has backed proposed changes to Queensland’s bail laws, with the State Government introducing legislation that would create a new standalone offence for committing a serious offence while released on bail.
The Breach Bail, Go to Jail and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2026 was introduced to Queensland Parliament last week on 27th August as part of the Queensland Government’s next stage of its Adult Crime, Adult Time reforms.
Under the proposed legislation, people who commit a serious offence while on bail could face a mandatory minimum sentence of 12 months imprisonment, to be wholly served in custody.
Mr Dalton said the reforms reflected his view that bail should be treated as a privilege and that people who breached that privilege by committing further serious offences should face consequences.
“My view has always been simple: if you breach bail by committing another serious offence, you go to jail,” he said.
The proposed standalone offence would apply to both adults and juveniles, with the reforms targeting serious repeat offenders.
For youth offenders, the changes would apply to offences covered by the Government’s Adult Crime, Adult Time laws. For adults, serious offences would include Adult Crime, Adult Time offences, as well as coercive control and Daniel’s Law child sexual offences.
Mr Dalton said the proposed changes were intended to provide a clear consequence for serious offending while a person was on bail.
“Under these reforms, serious offenders will know there is a very real consequence for committing another serious crime while on bail, with a mandatory minimum of 12 months behind bars.”
The Bill would also introduce a new “high degree of confidence” test for bail decisions involving serious offenders.
Under the proposed changes, police or a court would be required to refuse bail unless satisfied to a high degree of confidence that the person would not commit another serious offence while on bail. Defendants would also be required to show cause as to why their detention was not justified.
Mr Dalton said the reforms were aimed at prioritising community safety and the rights of victims.
“We need to stop putting the rights of serious repeat offenders ahead of the rights of victims and the community,” he said.
“If police or the courts cannot have a high degree of confidence that a serious offender will not go out and commit another serious offence, then they should not be released back onto our streets.”
Mr Dalton said the proposed laws would represent a significant change to Queensland’s bail regime and would apply across the state, including Mackay.
“This is an actual change in the regime, which we’re going to have within Mackay, within Queensland.”
He said he did not have specific figures on how many Mackay residents could be affected by the proposed laws, but had received feedback from locals following posts about the reforms on social media.
“I have had many, many comments on my social media since we started posting this. And they’re just saying, yes, absolutely, this is what we need to do.”
The Government said the reforms were designed not only to impose stronger consequences, but to deter further offending.
Mr Dalton echoed that aim, saying the expected outcome was a reduction in offences if people understood the potential consequences of breaching bail.
“What we’re hoping is that we actually see a drop in people committing offences because they know that there is a consequence for their action.”
The Queensland Government said the bail reforms would form part of a broader approach involving additional policing, early intervention and rehabilitation, and reported that victim numbers were down 9.6 per cent.
The State Government has committed to passing the stronger bail laws by the end of the year, with the Bill now before Queensland Parliament.
Mackay North State High School students joined 135 young musicians from more than 20 schools for Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University’s regional State Honours Ensemble Program. Photos supplied by Mackay North State High School
After just 10 hours of rehearsal, 135 young musicians from more than 20 schools came together for a Grand Finale concert at Mackay North State High School.
The performance marked the conclusion of Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University’s three-day regional State Honours Ensemble Program (SHEP), hosted at North High.
Flautist and Australian Band and Orchestra Directors’ Association National President Sharelle Guest led the band, veteran music educator and Young Conservatorium Conductor Mark Sullivan led the strings, and award-winning choral educator Dr Anthony Young led the vocal ensemble.
North High Head of Department Music Kathy George said the students “blossomed unbelievably” during their 10 hours working with the conductors.
“The standard of the Grand Finale concert on the final day — capital G, capital F,” she said with a laugh, “was just outstanding.
“The hall was absolutely full of parents, and they were absolutely raving about how much they enjoyed it and how incredible the standard was.”
Kathy described SHEP as “absolutely invaluable”, providing regional students with access to high-level music teaching that is usually available in southeast Queensland.
She said the Mackay community should feel “extremely indebted” to the SHEP team for travelling across Queensland and ensuring regional students did not miss out on the opportunity.
Since Queensland Conservatorium launched SHEP in 2001, the program has connected more than 45,000 students from over 2000 schools with conductors.
North High advocated for the program to come to Mackay and welcomed the opportunity to share the experience with musicians from across the district.
And there is already a date in mind for the next chapter.
Kathy left no doubt about North High hosting SHEP again in 2027, saying: “I’ve already locked it in.”
Mackay residents are being encouraged to lace up and take part in Lifeline’s Out of the Shadows Walk this September, helping remember Australians lost to suicide while raising funds for vital crisis support.
Held in recognition of World Suicide Prevention Day on Thursday 10th September, participants are challenged to walk nine kilometres; representing the nine Australians who die by suicide each day.
Participating in the challenge could not be easier as the walk can be completed anywhere, anytime - either on 10th September or on a date that suits you. It’s an accessible way for individuals, families, workplaces and community groups to get involved.
All funds raised through the challenge will help Lifeline continue providing 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention services across the country, supporting the 3,600 people who contact Lifeline’s crisis support line each day.
Participants can walk in memory of a loved one, as a personal tribute, or simply to show support for anyone experiencing emotional distress. Community members can register online via www.outoftheshadowswalk.org.au and are able to fundraise individually or form a team and walk together.
What: World Suicide Prevention Day
When: Thursday 10th September
President of International Men’s Day Mackay Inc and Mackay Men’s Shed founder Frank Cowell is encouraging locals to nominate and celebrate a top bloke who goes above and beyond for his family, friends and community. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
By Hannah McNamara
As families across Mackay come together to celebrate Father’s Day this weekend, there is one man who has made it his mission to ensure the top blokes across the region are acknowledged, celebrated and appreciated.
President of International Men’s Day Mackay Inc, Advocate, and Founder of Mackay Men’s Shed Frank Cowell is encouraging the community to recognise the everyday men who make a difference to their families and the wider community through the annual Mackay Man of the Year award.
Mr Cowell said one of the challenges men often face is recognising how important they are to their families and society. He said men can also carry a sense of guilt when they make mistakes but highlighted the importance of focusing on the good – rather than the bad – as well as forgiveness and encouragement.
“A bloke often lives in a world of guilt from even the smallest mistakes. They need forgiveness for one, and they also need to be encouraged by those around them to be the best man God wants them to be,” Mr Cowell said.
Initiated six years ago, the Mackay Man of the Year award was created to recognise an “average man” who goes the extra mile for his family, contributes to the community and is someone others can rely on.
“It is to recognise one average man in this area, who just goes an extra mile for his family, but also contributes to community in some way, and is overall a decent bloke.”
Mr Cowell said the award is about celebrating men who are dependable, while recognising that nobody has to be perfect.
“We like to recognise the sort of bloke that you can count on, who, when he gives his word, he keeps it. But also makes mistakes, as we all do.”
Nominations are now open until 30th September, with finalists to be notified by 31st October and invited to the International Men’s Day 2026 Celebratory Breakfast later this year on Thursday 19th November, where the winner will be announced.
Mr Cowell encourages the people of Mackay to provide examples of why their nominee deserves recognition.
“You can't just say he's a good bloke. You ought to say why he’s a good bloke!”
Mr Cowell said being nominated is a form of encouragement in itself, even for those who don’t become finalists.
“Just the fact that someone is nominated is encouragement as well. They might not make the cut to become the Man of the Year, but the fact that they're in the running, and were nominated for it, speaks volumes to some men who aren’t oftenappreciated.”
The winner will have their name engraved on the Mackay Man of the Year Perpetual Trophy and receive a personal trophy, along with a prize package including a travel package to Bowen courtesy of Gallivantor Travel and 360 on the Hill Restaurant, a 12-month Muscle Garden Gym membership, $400 cash and dinner for two at Roshni By Raj.
Two runners-up will also receive prizes.
This Father’s Day, while we celebrate the dads, stepdads, grandfathers and father figures who have shaped our lives, perhaps it is also worth thinking about the other men who have always shown up, quietly helped others, kept their word or simply been the bloke we could count on.
Mr Cowell emphasised that for some men, a little recognition can mean more than we realise.
Nominations can be made by COB 30th September 2026 at www.manoftheyearmackay.com.au or by filling out a form in person. For more information contact President IMDMI, Frank Cowell on 0434 908 968
Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
There was plenty of action on the cricket pitch when Mackay made sporting history, but some of Australia’s biggest sporting stars were putting in the hard yards long before the first ball was bowled.
On Thursday 20th August, prior to the big game over the weekend, members of the Australian men’s cricket team made Fitness Cartel Mackay their training base while in the region for Mackay’s historic first-ever men’s Test match against Bangladesh.
For a regional city, having some of the country’s best cricketers walk through the doors of a local gym is no small feat. For Fitness Cartel, however, it was another strong endorsement of what the facility has set out to deliver – a premier, world-class training and wellness centre right here in Mackay.
The landmark Test match, held from 22-26 August 2026, brought international cricket to the Great Barrier Reef Arena as Australia faced Bangladesh in the second match of the NRMA Insurance Northern Australia Test Series.
And while the players took centre stage at the arena, Fitness Cartel provided a place to train, prepare and recover behind the scenes, with its renowned wellness centre offering facilities including plunge pools, a hot rock sauna and compression boots designed to support recovery and performance.
The visit came with an impressive result on the field, too, with Australia bouncing back from its Darwin defeat to secure a convincing innings-and-51-run victory over Bangladesh in Mackay.
Bangladesh struggled with the bat, scoring just 64 runs in its first innings before being dismissed for 95 in the second. Mitchell Starc was outstanding, claiming 10 wickets for 51 runs across the match, while Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon also took three wickets each as Australia wrapped up the Test in just over two days.
For Fitness Cartel Mackay co-founder Michael James, welcoming members of the Australian cricket team was a “tremendous honour”, particularly given the calibre of athletes using the facility.
“To have the best players in the country, in our national sport, choose to look after their bodies at Fitness Cartel while they’re here for the Test match is a tremendous privilege,” Mr James said.
“It just makes me very, very proud.”
The visit also added another chapter to Fitness Cartel’s growing reputation among elite sporting teams, having previously welcomed professional footy teams and other high-level athletes through its doors.
For Mr James, seeing Australia’s cricketers train and recover in Mackay demonstrated that world-class performance facilities do not have to be confined to capital cities or major sporting hubs.
“We’ve created what I would describe as affordable luxury,” he said.
“We’re bringing world-class facilities to Mackay, but they don’t have to be exclusive to world-class performers.”
“This facility is for everyday people, often people who are just starting out, right through to some of the best players in cricket in the world.”
And that is perhaps the real win for Mackay.
To have international sporting stars training and recovering locally is a reflection of how far the region’s facilities have come, and Fitness Cartel is helping put Mackay on the map as a place where elite athletes can prepare, perform and recover at a world-class standard.
At the same time, that same training floor and wellness centre remains available to the everyday Mackay community.
From Australian cricket stars preparing for a historic Test to locals simply chasing their next personal best, Fitness Cartel is proving that a world-class training and recovery environment can exist, and thrive, right here in the region.
As apartment living continues to grow in popularity across Mackay and the Whitsundays, and more local investors enter the strata market, the role of body corporate committees is becoming increasingly important. It’s a challenge the team at BCS Strata Mackay sees regularly with many owners. Body corporate living remains something of a mystery until they are faced with a decision that affects their property, their finances or their community.
That is why experienced body corporate professional and BCS Strata Mackay strata manager Rachel Blaxland is encouraging owners and committee members to focus on one simple principle: communication. Drawing on more than 15 years in the industry, Rachel has recently joined the BCS Strata Mackay local team and believes informed communities make better decisions. Rachel’s journey into strata management was not a traditional one. She entered the industry in 2010 after applying for a reception role and quickly discovered a profession that combined problem- solving, property management and community engagement. Since then, she has become a certified manager and has been recognised as Young Strata Manager of the Year in 2016 by the Strata Community Association QLD.
What continues to motivate her is the opportunity to help owners navigate challenges and reach positive outcomes together.
‘I enjoy being part of a community of owners and helping guide them through issues that arise so they can achieve an outcome that protects and maintains their investment,’ she said.
Strata communities today face a far more complex environment than they did a decade ago. Buildings are ageing, maintenance costs are increasing, insurance premiums continue to rise, and weather resilience is becoming an ongoing priority, particularly in North Queensland.
At the same time, most committee members are balancing body corporate responsibilities alongside careers, family commitments and everyday life.
‘Most committee members are volunteers. The best outcomes happen when they have clear information, practical support and enough time to focus on the decisions that matter.’
Rachel believes one of the biggest misconceptions among owners is a lack of understanding about what a body corporate actually is. Many owners see the committee or manager as being solely responsible for decisions, when in reality every owner is automatically a member of the body corporate and has a role to play in the community’s future.
For committee members, her advice is straightforward. Review past meeting minutes, understand the building’s long- term maintenance plans and keep owners informed about upcoming decisions before formal voting processes begin.
Whether it is a major building project or a routine maintenance decision, transparency helps build trust. At BCS Strata Mackay, Rachel says educating owners about the reasons behind decisions often helps communities reach better outcomes and maintain stronger relationships.
‘Over communication is always better than under communication,’ Rachel said. ‘If owners understand why decisions are being made, they are much more likely to support the process.’
In a region where communities are close-knit, and owners have a genuine interest in protecting their investments, that simple approach could make a significant difference.
My car had a sleep-over at Harrup Park Country Club last Saturday night after delivering me to the venue on the first day of the Australia-Bangladesh Test.
I was there well before the start with a few friends and the day started with a Mitchell Starc wicket on the first ball, followed by numerous more as the morning progressed.
It was a fantastic day and, as can happen when you watch a full day of cricket with friends, driving home was not an option. Hence the car’s sleep-over.
A friend dropped me in to Harrup Park the next morning to pick up my car from the car park. I felt fine, although a little foggy headed, as I juggled keys, phone, wallet, coffee cup and jacket and jumped into my car.
I headed to Mt Pleasant to pick up another friend to go and see a mate of ours who was in the Mater Hospital after badly injuring his back a few days earlier.
I had a missed call on the way to pick up my Mt Pleasant mate and I thought I’ll get back to that when I get out of the car.
But when we arrived at the Mater I couldn’t find my wallet and I spent the next 10 minutes searching under and around car seats, in my jacket etc trying to find that little leather life-support system that contains the licence, credit cards along with other cards and about $200 in cash.
I had no success but decided to go up to the ward with my Mt Pleasant mate to see my injured friend.
The hospital is a peaceful, orderly, professional sanctuary for the injured and unwell and a good example of Mackay getting things right. I spent 20 minutes or so chatting and catching up and then said I would have to head off in search of my wallet.
I searched up Harrup Park’s number on my phone and immediately noticed it was the same number as the missed call I received as I drove away from Harrup Park a little earlier. I rang Harrup and a lovely woman said someone had found it in the car park and handed it in.
If that person is reading this, I thank you.
As I drove away from Harrup Park with my wallet and all its cards and $200 in cash I thought: Good old Mackay. Where else does that happen? If I had parked outside the MCG or any other major cricket venue in the country, what chance of me getting my wallet back? Zero.
And what about the actual event I was attending the day before? Harrup Park put on an absolutely superb event, with a terrific pitch, superb outfield, excellent facilities and the weather we love.
I met people who came up from southern regions who had not heard of Mackay prior to the test. They were blown away by what they saw. Many of them kicked on to venues like the recently renovated Mackay Hotel where, again, they were surprised by what is offered in this regional city.
I don’t know what all this means for property values but my point is that the day reminded me that while Mackay might not be perfect, there are a lot of reasons to move here and stay here.
People hand in lost wallets. The medical facilities can’t be the same as Sydney but you can get good care in excellent facilities and get transported to those other centres if you need them. We can put on major events and our venues are evolving in a way that means things like test matches will be a more regular occurrence.
A decision to live in a regional centre means you miss out on some things but there is a big upside to buying in Mackay and making it home.
Trent Wooldridge, Rural Specialist and Sales Consultant at Blacks Real Estate. Photo source: Blacks Real Estate
Trent Wooldridge is helping rural property owners across the region through his role as Rural Specialist and Sales Consultant with Blacks Real Estate.
Working throughout Mackay and surrounding rural areas, Trent assists clients with the sale and purchase of rural properties while drawing on local market knowledge and industry experience.
Blacks Real Estate has established a strong presence across the region, servicing residential, commercial, rural and industrial clients from offices in Mackay and Dysart.
As demand for regional and rural properties continues across Queensland, the agency said its rural division remains focused on providing tailored support to landholders and buyers navigating the changing market.
Trent can be contacted on 0427 708 247.
By the office of Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry MP
Families, pensioners and small businesses across Capricornia are doing it tough. Every week I hear from locals who are working hard, doing the right thing and still finding it harder to get ahead. Power bills, insurance, groceries, rent, fuel and mortgages have all climbed, and too many regional Australians feel they are paying more while getting less in return.
That is why the LNP’s plan is focused on restoring living standards, rewarding hard work and putting Australians first. We believe government should respect taxpayers’ money, rein in wasteful spending and take real pressure off household budgets. Our plan includes fairer tax settings so Australians are not punished simply because inflation has pushed them into higher brackets, support for small businesses to invest and grow, and practical action to get more homes built so young people and families have a fair shot at home ownership.
For regional communities like ours, fuel and energy security matter. Capricornia relies on affordable, reliable power and transport to keep farms, mines, ports, small businesses and households moving. The LNP understands that cheaper energy is not just an economic issue; it is a household issue, a jobs issue and a regional issue.
We also know that strong borders, responsible migration and investment in national infrastructure are essential to protecting Australia’s way of life. Regional Australians do not want empty promises or political spin. They want practical policies that make life easier, make communities stronger and give the next generation confidence in the future.
The LNP has a plan to restore aspiration, back hard work and deliver a fair go for Capricornia. That is what I will continue fighting for every day.
Glen Kelly MP discussing the sugar industry with Mackay Canegrowers reps Joeseph Borg and Michelle Martin and Councillor Peter Sheedy. Photo supplied
For generations, the local Growers of the Mackay region sugar industry have helped build the wealth of this region.
They have supported our mills, our engineering businesses, our transport operators, our schools, our sporting clubs and thousands of local jobs.
Our growers are not asking for special treatment. They are asking for a fair go and the opportunity to build a strong future for the next generation.
The Crisafulli Government understands that we have set an ambitious target to grow Queensland’s primary industries to $30 billion by 2030, and sugar must be part of that growth. We have also backed a parliamentary inquiry into sugarcane bioenergy opportunities because the future of cane is about more than raw sugar. It is about electricity, biofuels, sustainable aviation fuel and new value-adding industries that can create jobs right here in regional Queensland.
But while the State Government is looking at how we help agriculture grow, Mackay Regional Council needs to have a serious look at the burden it places on our cane growers.
Council continues to operate a differential rating system that categorises properties according to their primary land use, including rural and cane farming properties.
I fundamentally disagree with an approach that sees productive agricultural land treated differently simply because of what is being grown on it.
Farmers already carry significant rates bills because of the size and value of their properties. To then impose a rating system that further differentiates land because a family chooses to grow sugarcane is ridiculous.
A cane farm isn't just a large block of land. It is a business. It requires machinery, fertiliser, fuel, labour, insurance and constant reinvestment just to get another crop to the mill.
Every extra dollar taken through rates is a dollar that cannot be invested back into that farm. Mackay Regional Council should be asking how it can make our region more competitive, not how much more it can extract from productive industries.
It is time to trim the fat in Gordon Street, find efficiencies within Council and take some pressure off the people who actually generate wealth in our region.
Our growers want to grow cane. Our mills need throughput. Our local businesses need a strong agricultural economy.
The Crisafulli Government will keep backing agriculture to grow. It is time for Mackay Regional Council to do the same, give our cane growers a fair go, get out of the way and let the sugar industry thrive.
OFFERS OVER $819,000
The Brief: Escape the Noise. Embrace this 2 acre Lifestyle Rural Retreat
Located at the top on the Eton range this tidy property offers space, peace and quiet and a green backdrop. The home is designed for comfortable country living, with spacious interiors and plenty of natural light. Set on large 8095m2 block with two sheds, this 3 bedroom, 1 bathroom home is freshly painted inside and is move in ready.
AT A GLANCE:
INSIDE:
- Open plan kitchen, dining and living with split system and a gas heater
- New dishwasher, gas cooktop and electric oven
- Master bedroom with a/c and fan
- 2 other bedrooms with built in robes and fans
- Family bathroom with double vanity, bath and separate shower
- Separate toilet
- External laundry
- Tinted windows throughout, security screens on doors, insect screens on windows.
OUTSIDE:
- Powered 20m x 10m shed with 2 x 4.2m clearance electric roller doors, plus plumbing to add a bathroom if desired.
- Double garage at house with awning
- Orchard and trees in pots ready to plant or move as desired
- Existing irrigation, 40 fruit trees and raised garden beds
- Cattle fence on 2 sides of the property and dog fence around the house
UTILITIES:
- Power: Mains and Solar 13.5 kw solar with inverter and 2x 16.6 kw batteries, generator change over switch
- Hot Water: Gas
- Water Supply: Rain water to house 5x 28,000L water tanks, 3 on house and 2 on shed, Bore (yard and livestock)
- New septic
- Communications: Starlink and hard wired security Eufy cameras
OTHER:
- Built in 2009
- Zoned: Rural
- Rates Approx. $1000 per half year
- Price: Offers over $819k
Located 40 mins to Mackay, 30 mins to Nebo, 1.5hrs to Moranbah and 23 mins to your closest supermarket in Walkerston.
Contact Robyn Agius today to arrange your private inspection. Inspections by appointment only
It has been another remarkable year for Mackay’s Sense of Skin, with founder Bre Sanders returning from two major industry awards with an impressive collection of accolades celebrating both her business and the results achieved for her clients.
Sense of Skin recently placed second in the Pigmentation Category and third in the Revive Category at the Best in Skin Awards, before an exceptional showing at the 2026 Circadia Awards Gala.
Marking a significant milestone in her career, Bre was named Circadia Australia’s Sole Operator for 2026 and Queensland Sole Operator for 2026, while also receiving Blue Diamond status and recognition as a Queensland Ambassador. Bre also excitingly took home first place for Skin Transformation – Pigmentation, second place for Skin Transformation – Acne and third place for Skin Transformation – Sensitive, with the results recognising the transformations achieved alongside her clients.
“My favourite part wasn’t the awards themselves—it was being able to tell my clients that we had won because of their incredible skin transformations,” Bre said.
“For me, it’s never really about the award. It’s about changing someone’s life.”
After also receiving industry recognition in 2025, Bre believes the continued success of Sense of Skin comes back to something simple: authenticity.
“I created Sense of Skin to be a safe space where people could feel comfortable being vulnerable about their skin, their struggles, and how those struggles can affect their confidence and everyday lives,” she said.
“At the end of the day, I just want people to feel heard, supported and cared for—and that will always be at the heart of what I do.”
Having experienced difficult skin herself as a teenager, Bre understands firsthand how deeply skin concerns can affect confidence, and that experience has in turn helped shape her approach throughout 14 years in the industry and continues to drive her commitment to education and evidence-based treatments.
“The industry is constantly evolving, and if there’s something better out there, I want to know what it is, how it works, and most importantly, why it works,” she said.
Now back home after attending the Circadia Awards Gala in Sydney, the reality of receiving national recognition as a sole operator from regional Queensland is beginning to sink in, with Bre describing the achievement as particularly surreal and crediting her family, clients and Circadia community for their continued support.
“I’m a regional, small-business owner, doing what I love in a little corner of Queensland—and somehow, I’ve just won National Sole Operator for Circadia. Like… WHAT?!
“It’s moments like this that remind me that you don’t have to be in a major city or have a massive team behind you to make an impact. You just have to be passionate, back yourself, and keep showing up.”
With the potential for even greater things ahead, Bre is now looking for the next “superstar skin therapist” to join Sense of Skin, while a new premises could also be on the horizon as the business enters its next chapter.
Bruno is a handsome Rottweiler cross with a big love for life and plenty of affection to give. Surrendered through no fault of his own, this playful and active boy is now looking for a loving family to call his own.
Bruno gets along well with adults, children of all ages, other dogs and even cats. He thrives on human connection and enjoys everything from beach walks and playing in the water to a game of fetch or simply relaxing by your side.
Well trained and easy to walk on a lead, Bruno loves family time just as much as playtime.
Fully vaccinated, desexed and microchipped, Bruno is ready to become part of your life.
To arrange a meet and greet, contact his carer from Lucys Lucky Tags & Dog Rescue Inc on 0401 366 573 or email LLTAGSandDogRescue@gmail.com
Feeling tired has become so common that many of us simply accept it as part of modern life. We push through the day, reach for another coffee or stock up on vitamins and supplements, hoping they will restore the energy we once had.
But what if persistent tiredness is not something you should tolerate? What if it is your body’s way of asking you to pay attention?
At Healthy Life Essentials, we view poor sleep as an important signal rather than an isolated symptom. Instead of masking tiredness with a quick fix, we put on our detective hats and explore the underlying factors that may be preventing the body from resting, repairing and rejuvenating properly.
There is no single cause of poor sleep. Each person’s sleep is shaped by their unique lifestyle, health history and everyday pressures. Stress involving work, family, finances or relationships can keep the mind active long after the lights go out. Even when life briefly becomes calm, busyness has a habit of quickly filling the space again.
Our nervous systems must also process more information than ever before. Emails, notifications, news and social media can keep the body in a heightened state when it should be winding down. Electronic devices are useful tools but using them late at night can disrupt the natural rhythms that help us become sleepy.
Hydration and nutrition matter too. Is your body receiving and effectively absorbing the nourishment it needs from real food? Eating to the point of being overfull or regularly snacking close to bedtime may leave the digestive system working when the body needs to be focused on overnight recovery.
We also consider the sleep environment. A bedroom that is dark, clean, quiet, cool and comfortable, with gentle airflow, can support deeper rest. Daily movement and exposure to natural daylight are equally valuable because sunrise and sunset help regulate the body’s internal clock. When night arrives, we should naturally begin to slow down.
Other patterns may provide useful clues. Do you wake at the same time each night? Do you feel alert at bedtime but exhausted in the morning? Are you resting enough during the day, or treating rest as something that must be earned? There are manyquestions worth exploring.
Sleep and rest form one of Healthy Life Essentials’ eight pillars of health. Quality sleep supports the body’s natural repair processes and provides a strong foundation for overall wellbeing.
If you are struggling to sleep or constantly waking without energy, please do not ignore it.
Your body may be telling you that it needs support. With personalised investigation and targeted strategies, refreshing sleep may be closer than you think.
There is nothing quite like waking restored, recharged and ready to embrace the beauty of a new day.
If restful sleep feels out of reach, let Healthy Life Essentials help you uncover what your body is trying to tell you and take the first step towards the restorative sleep you deserve.
Brad Baker
Healthy Life Essentials
Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank Board Chair Karen May alongside Sarina District Schools Chaplaincy Committee members at their 2026 AGM. Photo supplied
The latest round of Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank’s Community Engagement Program has been announced, with over $306,000 in community grants, sponsorships and scholarships and donations committed to groups and projects across the greater Sarina region, alongside lifesaving defibrillators for 12 community groups.
The FY26 program supports a range of initiatives, from wildlife conservation and sustainability to community arts, recreation and educational opportunities, as well as projects that strengthen community spaces.
Community Bank Sarina Business & Community Engagement Chair Maree Franettovich said the projects are “wide-ranging, but all have a common thread – supporting the people who live, learn, work and volunteer locally”.
“These are the kinds of impact investments that change lives – whether it’s creating opportunities for youth, improving community facilities or gathering people together through shared spaces and activities,” Ms Franettovich said.
“Importantly, this long term impact is only possible because people choose to bank with us. As a profit for purpose organisation, our profits are reinvested into our community, creating impact through local initiatives and organisations. We’re incredibly proud of that and grateful to our customers for making it possible.”
Community Bank Sarina Board Chair Karen May said it was a moment to reflect on what the region might look like without the direct and significant support of Community Bank Sarina and its customers.
“Over the last 21 years, over $5.3 million has been returned to the community through our community grants, sponsorships, donations and scholarships,” Mrs May said.
“These latest community investments are an extension of our ongoing commitment to the community. When you reflect on the range of support – from school chaplaincy, recreation hubs, community clubs and more – you start to realise the deep impact this support has on the community.
“It’s a privilege to play a part in that, along with my fellow directors, and to stand beside so many local organisations working diligently to make Sarina and the surrounding regions an even better place to live, while leaving a legacy for future generations.”
To see how Community Bank Sarina continues to support local groups and initiatives that make a lasting difference in the community, visit Community Bank Sarina on Facebook, LinkedIn or Instagram.
Community Bank Sarina FY26 Community Grant Recipients
Community Bank Sarina FY26 Sponsorship Recipients
Community Bank Sarina FY26 Defibrillator Recipients
Community Bank Sarina FY26 Donation Recipients
Every business has news to share at some point. Sometimes it’s exciting – you’re moving offices, launching a new product or event, hiring someone or celebrating a milestone. Sometimes it’s less fun – your phones are down, an event is cancelled, prices are changing or something has gone spectacularly pear-shaped.
Good or bad, a little planning can make communicating it a whole lot easier. Before you start typing a Facebook post, run through these four things:
1. Who needs to know?
Customers are often the obvious answer, but what about your staff, suppliers, contractors, partners or other stakeholders? Make a quick list before you communicate anything, because the last thing you want is an important audience finding out secondhand. Eg your team learning about a major business change on Facebook? Yeah, that’s not good.
2. What does each audience need to know?
You generally don’t need to tell everyone exactly the same thing. For example, staff probs need the why + what happens next, while customers only need to know what changes for them. Give people the information that's actually relevant, rather than trying to cram everything into one announcement.
3. What order should you tell them?
For an office move, probs best to tell staff first, then go external – contact key suppliers, email customers, update your website + Google Business Profile, then announce it on socials. There's no magic formula, but thinking through the order can save you from some very awkward conversations later.
4. What could you prepare now?
This one is especially handy for the not-so-good news. Think about the things that could reasonably go wrong in your business. Phones stop working? Event cancelled? Terrible review? Upcoming legislation change that could affect your customers?
In PR, we call this a crisis communication matrix – which sounds like a big deal, but it’s just a communications plan for worst case scenarios. You don't need to prepare for every possible disaster – just start with the obvious stuff. Even having a few notes on who needs to be contacted + some draft wording ready means you're not trying to work out what to say while stressed, annoyed or rage-replying to a one-star Google review!
Which brings me to some good news of my own! In case you hadn't heard, I'm heading off on maternity leave shortly, so this is my last Mackay Life column for a little while.
While I'm off, my business partner Taren will be taking the helm at Rebel Nation, and you can go to him or any of our team for anything you need. They're more than up to the challenge + will probably enjoy the few months of peace + quiet without me around!
I'll be back in February but until then – you're in very good hands!
Make the most of any good business news you have to share – like winning awards! ( L-R Taren McAuley, Jade McAuley, Luke Chetcuti). Photo supplied
Photos supplied by The Pyjama Foundation
For five years, Heather O’Connor has been a constant in the life of a young person who has faced more change than most.
Heather first began volunteering with The Pyjama Foundation in July 2021, when she was introduced to a 10-year-old boy living in out-of-home care. Since then, she has remained a steady presence in his life through changing circumstances, care arrangements and the journey from childhood into his teenage years.
Earlier this week, that commitment was been recognised, with Heather named Mackay’s 2026 Pyjama Angel of the Year by The Pyjama Foundation.
What began with simple visits has grown into a meaningful relationship built around learning, creativity and connection. Heather has encouraged her Pyjama child to become a reader and taught him life skills, cooking together and undertaking hands-on projects, most recently creating a wooden loom and rug for his bedroom.
The Pyjama Foundation Founder and CEO Bronwyn Sheehan said Heather’s greatest gift was not being able to change the circumstances around the child, but simply being someone he could rely on.
Bronwyn also praised Heather for continually adapting as he grew and his circumstances changed, while never losing sight of their relationship.
Heather was presented with her award on Sunday 23rd August at Oceans International by Bronwyn, alongside Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton MP, marking five years of an extraordinary commitment to one young person.
Her recognition also highlights an ongoing need for carers within the Mackay community.
According to The Pyjama Foundation, currently 23 children are in care waiting to be matched with their own special person and mentor in the region. For children navigating circumstances beyond their control, having a trusted adult who continues to show up can make a world of difference.
Congratulations Heather on being named Mackay’s 2026 Pyjama Angel of the Year!
There is no shortage of impressive projects carrying the Fergus Builders name across Mackay and the Whitsundays region. From schools and commercial spaces to striking homes and community landmarks, the company’s work has become a familiar part of the local landscape.
But despite another remarkable night of recognition at the 2026 Master Builders Mackay & Whitsunday Awards, Director Adam Wright is quick to shine the spotlight towards the people behind the projects.
Fergus Builders took home seven awards across residential, commercial and education categories, recognising the Gardian Office Fitout, St Patrick’s Mercy Campus Hall Refurbishment, Catherine McAuley College Stage 3, Pandanus House at Eimeo and Whitehaven at Beaconsfield. Team member Amanda Wilson was also the recipient of the Women in Building Award, while Fergus Builders received the prestigious BUSSQ Building Super President’s Award for Azura Place at Glenella.
For Adam, the achievement was not simply about collecting trophies.
“We were lucky enough to pick up seven awards. It’s always a good feeling, and we come together as a team to celebrate it. It’s a great night to celebrate not just our own team, but the whole industry and the level of excellence the region produces.”
It’s statements like this that reflects the nature of the business itself.
Behind every finished façade, polished fit out and carefully considered home is a different set of challenges, clients and ideas.
“Each project is different, and that’s one of the great things about building, no two jobs are ever the same. They all come with their own experiences, different clients and different designs, so the awards are a great reflection of the team we have, and I’mvery proud to be part of it.”
While Fergus Builders has become a familiar name among the winners at the annual awards, Adam said the recognition never becomes routine.
“We treat each project individually, and each one brings its own challenges and experiences. To receive that recognition is a great reflection of the work our team continues to put in day-in and day-out.”
Among the night’s highlights was Amanda Wilson’s Women in Building Award, with Adam describing the recognition as particularly rewarding.
“Amanda winning the Women in Building Award was probably the highlight for me. She’s been a valuable member of our team on the residential side of the business for a number of years, so it was great recognition for the hard work she puts in, both at work and away from work.”
The President’s Award for Azura Place was another significant moment, recognising the quality of work Fergus Builders continues to deliver.
“The President’s Award is always a great award to win. It showcases the quality of work that we produce, so we’re very proud of that recognition as well.”
For Adam and the Fergus Builders team, however, the greatest measure of success remains the trust placed in them to help shape the community around them.
“Delivering for our clients across the region is one of the highlights of the job, to tell you the truth. It feels good to know that you’re entrusted to deliver those prominent projects for the community.
“That’s what we strive to do – build the best projects we can for our clients and for the community.”
Amanda Wilson, Residential Manager at Fergus Builders, has been recognised with the Women in Building Award following 14 years in the construction industry. Photo supplied
In an industry traditionally dominated by men, Amanda Wilson has spent the past 14 years proving there is no limit to where knowledge, determination and a willingness to learn can take you.
Now Residential Manager at Fergus Builders, Amanda has risen through the industry while becoming an advocate and mentor for other women in construction, with her achievements recently recognised with the Women in Building Award.
“Being a female in this industry can feel isolating. Especially if you are relatively new and don’t understand all the building jargon or the construction process,” Amanda said.
“But it’s not something you can learn overnight, it takes time. Women have a really important role to play in this industry and it’s no longer confined to office work.”
Amanda joined Fergus Builders in 2018 in a sales and estimating role, bringing six years of previous industry experience. Over the years, her responsibilities have grown greatly alongside her knowledge of construction, leading to her appointment as Residential Manager in 2024.
“I began working for Fergus in a sales/estimating capacity in 2018, and over the years I’ve learnt so much more about on-site construction and project management,” she said.
“Having a comprehensive understanding of how design, pricing and construction on site are intertwined with each other has been essential to heading the division.”
Determined to keep progressing, Amanda began studying a Bachelor of Construction Management two years ago while working full-time and is now also working towards becoming a qualified site supervisor and obtaining her QBCC licence.
“The more I learn, the bigger role I can play, the more job satisfaction I feel.”
Amanda’s innate drive has extended well beyond her own career, with her passion for the industry reflected in the support and mentorship she provides to new residential office staff at Fergus Builders, alongside initiatives designed to give female employees greater exposure to the practical side of construction. Additionally, in 2025, Amanda became a mentor through Master Builders’ Emerging Women in Construction program and has continued in the role this year.
“Women offer a valuable perspective in construction and tackle problems differently, sometimes more efficiently, more methodical,” Amanda said.
“It can be daunting, but it can be such a rewarding career path, so I would encourage women to take that leap of faith if they are interested in it.”
Amanda’s own contribution to the industry was recognised with the Women in Building Award, an achievement Amanda described as an honour after looking up to previous recipients throughout her career.
“I have looked up to the women who’ve received this award over the years and aspired to make a difference in this industry, so it was an honour to receive this award,” she said.
Despite having already contributed to more than 250 projects throughout her career, Amanda sees plenty still ahead, with part of that future focused on creating opportunities for other women to forge their own paths in construction.
“Personally, I feel like I’m just getting started in this industry,” she said.
“I want to break through the glass ceiling of what women have traditionally achieved in the construction field and help pave the way for the women behind me to achieve great things in this career path.”
IMPACT Group members at the Social Justice event. Photos supplied
Education is about far more than academic achievement. At Holy Spirit College, students are learning the importance of compassion, service and community responsibility by putting their faith into action and making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Holy Spirit College students are provided with opportunities to place catholic values into action while deepening their understanding of their role as responsible community members.
The College’s Catholic Identity is reflected in opportunities for students to put the teachings and example of Jesus into practice through community initiatives.
This is reflected in the College’s Inspiring, Motivating, Promoting About Christian Teachings (IMPACT) Group and Z Club students, who have dedicated their time to causes that support and encourage others.
IMPACT Group students first explored the challenges faced by people experiencing housing insecurity, gaining a deeper perspective on the circumstances surrounding homelessness and the importance of responding with compassion.
The recent Social Justice event provided students with the opportunity to walk in faith and respond to the issues of homelessness. Students spent months fundraising and preparing to pack Backpacks with essential items before donating them to the St Vincent de PaulSociety.
As the year continues, the IMPACT Group is preparing for its Christmas Appeal, with students soon to support St Vincent de Paul in providing Christmas gifts and essential items to members of the Mackay community experiencing hardship.
The same commitment to supporting others was reflected through the College’s Z Club and its involvement in the Cancer Council Ponytail Project, where students and staff came together to support the initiative, creating a strong sense of encouragement and solidarity within the College community.
Students continue to support the Mackay region through other initiatives including Peer Support programs, Book Buddies, Environment Group, Justice Action Group, the Respect in Every Step march and Music Ministry.
These opportunities reflect an approach to education that values all aspects, encouraging students to recognise their strengths and use them in service of others.
Holy Spirit College’s Catholic identity provides a foundation throughout Years 7–12, with quality learning, supportive pastoral care and a holistic approach that supports students’ character development.
For more information about Holy Spirit College and the opportunities available for students to learn, contribute and grow within its community, contact enrolments@hsc.qld.edu.au.
"For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in"- Matthew 25:35.
St Brendan’s Catholic Primary School Mackay continues to provide students with a vibrant, engaging and inclusive learning environment where every child is encouraged to thrive academically, culturally, spiritually and socially.
Throughout the year, students embrace a wide range of extracurricular opportunities that enrich their learning beyond the classroom. From sporting competitions and cultural celebrations to academic challenges and artistic achievements, St Brendan’s students have proudly represented their school and community.
Among the highlights are student participation in the Rock Pop Mime Show, the Readers Challenge Cup, Challenge Cup Netball and Rugby League, Cumberland Sports and the highly regarded Mackay Maths Competition, where one St Brendan’s team achieved an outstanding second-place finish.
The school’s commitment to reconciliation and cultural learning was showcased through several significant events, including NAIDOC Cultural Day, which welcomed more than 30 Elders to spend time with students and staff. Students also participated in the Mackay Central Queensland University Reconciliation Week Artist Workshop, “Ochre Lens for Juniors,” led by Venita Mooney. Further success followed at the Mackay Central Queensland University Reconciliation Art Exhibition, where both St Brendan’s First Nations student entries were awarded first place.
Students also benefit from a range of experiential learning opportunities, including the Year 4 Day Camp and extended Year 5 and Year 6 camps, fostering resilience, independence and teamwork. Looking ahead, excitement is building for the upcoming Mulga Art Experience, a whole-school immersive arts initiative designed to inspire creativity and imagination.
St Brendan’s commitment to future-focused learning is strengthened through a STEM partnership with the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy, providing valuable opportunities for students to engage with science, technology, engineering and mathematics in authentic and engaging ways.
Supporting this innovative learning approach are the school’s modern facilities, featuring contemporary technology, purposefully designed open-plan learning spaces, flexible educational environments and expansive green spaces and playing areas that encourage active lifestyles and outdoor play.
Principal and staff recognise that strong partnerships between home, school and parish are central to student success. Throughout the year, the school hosts family breakfast mornings, picnic lunches, prayer celebrations, class and whole-school Masses, book fairs, book swaps, Book Week activities and mini fairs. St Brendan’s also enjoys a strong relationship with Holy Spirit College through initiatives such as STEM Day.
Parent engagement remains a cornerstone of the school community, with regular Parent Community Engagement Meetings helping to plan and deliver much-loved events including Grandparents Morning, school discos and the annual Colour Run. Parents also generously volunteer within classrooms, supporting student learning and strengthening community connections.
Student wellbeing remains a priority at St Brendan’s. Dedicated Health and Wellbeing lessons are delivered from Prep to Year 6, supported by a Student Wellbeing Officer and School Counsellor. The school also provides sacramental program support and a range of lunchtime clubs including Chess Club, Just Dance, Chalk Art and Uno Club, ensuring students have opportunities to connect, develop new skills and build friendships.
A strong commitment to inclusion is reflected through the presence of First Nations staff, the unique Pastoral Groups program where siblings learn together under the leadership of Year 6 students, and targeted learning support programs. Students across Prep to Year 6 benefit from comprehensive literacy and numeracy intervention programs, supported by a dedicated Learning Support Team comprising teachers and teacher assistants.
At St Brendan’s Catholic Primary School, every student is encouraged to discover their gifts, embrace challenges and develop confidence in a caring, faith-filled environment. Through excellence in education, community partnerships and a strong focus on wellbeing, St Brendan’s continues to nurture young people who are ready to make a positive difference in their world.
Our experienced Bio Dunder contractors take the work out of fertilising, while ensuring nutrients are precision applied for best results. Photo supplied
Jasmin Lewis
Customer Service & Logistics Supervisor, Wilmar AgServices
Behind every Bio Dunder application is a combination of technology, experience, and careful planning.
Bio Dunder is applied with precision, using variable-rate and GPS-controlled equipment, delivering the right amount of liquid fertiliser across multiple rows in a single pass.
While technology has changed the way fertiliser is applied, local knowledge and experience remain as important as always.
Bio Dunder contractors know the farms, the terrain, and the realities of a busy harvesting season. They work closely with growers, harvesters, and our Operations team to keep everything moving and, wherever possible, apply fertiliser as close behind the harvester as conditions allow.
There’s a lot happening behind the scenes to make it all come together. It’s the coordination, experience and knowledge that takes the complexity out of fertiliser application and gives growers one less thing to worry about.
With more of the season still to come, Bio Dunder contractors will continue working alongside growers to keep nutrition on track, applications timely and the job as simple as possible.
Call us on 1800 881 957 and we’ll put you in touch with your local contractor.
Alternatively, email AgServices@Wilmar.com.au
By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay
As farmers plying their trade growing sugarcane in what has always been considered “The Sugar City”, it would be fair to assume our regional councils would be proactive supporting industry economics. However, it doesn’t appear to be the case with Mackay Regional Council, which has slapped the farming industry with up to 10.39% general rates increase, a hike over 3% above residential rate rises and leaving cane farming taxed near-double the rate of other rural land uses. It’s threatening farming families and the economic backbone of our Sugar City, during an already punishing harvest season.
For generations, cane has been the heartbeat of Mackay, pumping jobs and generational wealth into our towns. Yet, when Council dropped its latest budget and rates structure, it delivered a bitter pill to growers. We note several councillors voted against this budget. We thank them: it will be remembered at election time.
Let’s be crystal clear about what is happening here: Council is using a blunt rating tool that literally singles out canefarming. While ALL OTHER rural industries- even intensive ones- fall under a more sensible 'Other Rural' bracket, cane farming is taxed double that amount. In fact, the cents-in-the-dollar rate applied to our cane lands is comparable to industrial sites or shopping complexes- actual Canelands…
This latest impost arrives at the worst possible time for growers already navigating a bruising season of low sugar prices, reduced crop tonnages, and soaring fuel and fertiliser costs. To pile a higher rates burden atop of skyrocketing production costs is completely unsustainable, compounding challenges.
For three successive budgets, Mackay Canegrowers has sat at the table with council. We have patiently laid out the hard economic realities of our industry. We have explained the delicate tether linking farm viability, the preservation of cane land, and the long-term survival of our sugar mills.
We—like every resident and business of our regional community—have ridden successive rates rises by the current council, alongside a shadow rates rise in the form of rubbery cuts to early payment discounts. Council needs to get its own house in order. The answer can’t just be to raise taxes every time it needs to balance the budget.
The council is happy to use cane imagery in glossy brochures, invoke our heritage, and boast about the 'Sugar City' when it suits public relations. But when it comes to practical support, their actions speak louder than words. Slugging farming families—remembering always that a cane farm is also a family home—is a profound betrayal.
While the mayor may argue this rise only applies to the general rates line, the hard truth for growers remains: the bottom line of their rates bill has ballooned again. We acknowledge that some changes to the levy structure have offset the general rates increase for some growers. However, absorbing various levies into general rates has not hidden the fact that agricultural properties with high land valuations inflated by urban creep, are bearing an unfair weight. We are polling our membership: even lower valuations in further flung localities are seeing bottom line increasesbeyond residential rises.
Mackay Canegrowers will not stand by and watch our community squeezed dry by a town-centric council that views the bush and the paddock as an endless cash cow. We call on Council to listen to the unified voice of Canegrowers and Mackay Sugar, and urgently review these punitive agricultural rating tiers.
Our region’s economic future hangs in the balance. If the council truly believes sugar is a pillar of this community, it is time they started treating farmers with the equity, fairness, and respect we deserve.
Photo source: Andrew Willcox MP (Facebook)
Federal Member for Dawson and Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability Andrew Willcox MP has highlighted the strength of Australia’s agricultural sector after attending a National Farmers’ Federation celebration in Parliament this week on Tuesday 25th August, marking the industry reaching $100 billion in farm-gate output four years ahead of its 2030 target.
Mr Willcox said the milestone provided an opportunity to recognise the contribution of primary producers and connect with industry leaders, including representatives from the Queensland Farmers’ Federation, CANEGROWERS, CropLife and Jet Zero Australia.
“Agriculture remains the backbone of our country, feeding and clothing millions of people across Australia and around the globe,” Mr Willcox said.
He said the milestone had been achieved despite increasing pressures facing farmers and regional businesses.
“As Opposition Leader Angus Taylor MP highlighted in his speech, this success comes despite mounting pressure on primary producers,” Mr Willcox said.
Mr Willcox pointed to regulatory requirements and increasing red and green tape as challenges facing the agricultural sector, saying regional businesses needed greater certainty and practical support.
“From restrictive EPBC Act regulations to red tape & green tape, our regional businesses need certainty and practical support, not endless overregulation,” he said.
The Dawson MP said the Federal Opposition would continue advocating for rural and regional communities, highlighting the importance of agriculture to Australia’s economy and communities.
“Our team will always back our rural and regional communities,” Mr Willcox said.
The $100 billion farm-gate output milestone comes as the agricultural sector continues to navigate regulatory, economic and environmental pressures, with Mr Willcox using the occasion to reinforce his support for producers across regional Australia.
By Cr Peter Sheedy
Planning is one of the most important issues I see across the broad range of services delivered by Mackay Regional Council through its Corporate Plan.
Development planning is a critical part of council's work because it helps ensure future growth is sustainable in every sense of the word and does not have a detrimental impact on existing residents, businesses, clubs and community activities across the region.
Council invests significant resources in establishing and maintaining a planning scheme that guides development and helps ensure applications meet appropriate standards. Whether the proposal is for residential development, a retirement village or a business, it is important that developments can be supported by safe access, water supply, sewerage, waste disposal, power and communications infrastructure.
Council must also consider State Government planning policies, including the protection of good-quality agricultural land. I believe these policies exist for good reason. They reflect lessons learned from development across Australia and other parts of the world, where productive agricultural land has often been lost to other uses. Protecting our ability to produce food and fibre remains important for both economic and community wellbeing.
In our region, the sugar industry has a significant footprint and is supported by extensive infrastructure. Mills, cane rail networks and transport systems all play an important role in ensuring the annual crop can be harvested, processed and delivered to domestic and international markets. In my opinion, this interconnected system highlights the need for careful long-term planning.
One of council's biggest challenges is balancing the interests of different stakeholders. There are often competing priorities and council must consider the broader community benefit while ensuring essential services can continue to operateeffectively.
Council's 2016 Planning Scheme is now approaching 10 years of operation and is due for review. As we begin that process, I believe we should focus on aligning our planning policies with the long-term outcomes we want for the region.
Our primary production areas supporting the sugar cane industry form the foundation of an important annual crop that relies on a wide range of supporting services and infrastructure beyond the mills themselves, highlighting the need for careful alignment in planning and policy.
While communities evolve over time, I believe we should align policies and planning to ensure we don’t make the mistakes of the past and unnecessarily fragmenting precious agricultural land when other suitable land is available for uses such as residential development.
Planning, rating and other council policies should work together to support the long-term preservation of our valuable agricultural land for future generations.
The Seaforth Esplanade Splash Pad will temporarily close from 24th August to 18th September while essential maintenance and improvement works are completed. Photo supplied
Families planning a visit to the Seaforth Esplanade Splash Pad are advised the popular facility will temporarily close for several weeks while essential maintenance works are completed.
The splash pad will be closed from Monday 24th August to Friday 18th September, with works aimed at extending the life of the facility and ensuring it remains safe and enjoyable for the community.
Maintenance will include resealing the splash pad surface and expansion joints, replacinga access pit lids, treating rust on the shade structure and removing debris from around the water tanks.
The facility will also receive a fresh new look, with family-oriented stencil artworks to be installed as part of the works.
While the splash pad itself will be unavailable, visitors will still be able to access the surrounding picnic tables, amenity blocks and playground equipment throughout the closure.
Council has thanked residents and visitors for their patience while the maintenance is undertaken and apologised for any inconvenience.
Community and not-for-profit groups across the Mackay region are being encouraged to take advantage of a new round of council grants, with funding available for everything from small equipment purchases to major community assets.
Mackay Regional Council’s Community Grants program offers three funding categories designed to help local organisations deliver projects, improve facilities and continue supporting the wider community.
Small Equipment Grants of up to $1,500 are currently open and can help groups purchase items such as computers, office equipment and kitchen appliances.
For larger projects, Community Impact Grants provide up to $10,000 towards initiatives including health and safety improvements, community programs, maintenance projects and the establishment of new fundraising events.
Local organisations can also apply for up to $30,000 through the Infrastructure and Assets category. Funding can support infrastructure projects and concept development, as well as larger equipment purchases such as vehicles.
The grants provide an opportunity for local clubs, associations and not-for-profit organisations to secure additional financial support for projects that may otherwise be difficult to fund.
Community groups interested in the Community Impact Grants will need to act quickly, with applications closing on Sunday 6th September.
Applications for Infrastructure and Assets grants close on Sunday 4th October, while Small Equipment Grant applications are already open.
Groups are encouraged to review the full eligibility requirements and grant guidelines before submitting an application.
Applications and further information are available through Mackay Regional Council’s online SmartyGrants portal via mackay.smartygrants.com.au.
Mackay Whitsunday recorded 27 e-mobility-related tragic crashes in just over 12 months, as Queensland Police step up enforcement of new rules targeting dangerous riding and non-compliant e-bikes and e-scooters.
Queensland Police Service (QPS) data covering 1st July, 2025 to 19th July, 2026 shows four incidents were recorded in both July and August last year, followed by two in September, three in October, two in November and three in December. There were no incidents in January or March this year, while one was recorded in February, four in April, one in May, two in June and one in July. QPS noted the figures were preliminary and may change.
The data comes as police launch Operation Yankee Surety, which began on 1st July to enforce Queensland’s new e-mobility laws.
In its first month, the statewide operation resulted in 991 traffic infringement notices, 249 non-compliant devices seized, 331 roadside breath tests and 24 riders charged with drink-riding offences.
Acting Deputy Commissioner Rhys Wildman said police were continuing to detect riders using illegal devices, speeding, failing to wear helmets and riding under the influence.
“One month into Operation Yankee Surety, we’re still detecting riders using non-compliant devices, failing to wear helmets, speeding, and alarmingly, riding under the influence of alcohol,” he said.
The new laws limit e-scooters and other personal mobility devices to 25km/h, while e-bike motors can only provide assistance up to that speed. A 12km/h limit applies on footpaths and when passing pedestrians on shared paths.
Police can seize illegal devices and conduct roadside breath tests, with a 0.05 blood alcohol limit applying to riders. Those over the limit can face fines exceeding $500 and maximum court penalties of up to $6,908.
From 31st August, riders must be at least 16 and hold a licence, while 12 to 17-year-olds can ride under parental supervision. Parents can also be fined if children under 16 ride non-compliant devices. E-scooters, e-skateboards and e-unicycles can continue to be used on roads and bike lanes where the speed limit is up to 60km/h, but riders remain limited to 25km/h.
From 28th February, 2027, e-bikes will also require compliance labelling.
The Government has described the reforms as “nation-leading”, saying they respond to community concerns and more than 6,000 e-scooter-related injuries recorded at emergency departments across 36 Queensland hospitals between 2022 and 2025.
Transport and Main Roads Minister Brent Mickelberg said the laws followed community and expert consultation.
Katherine Bates OLY, Managing Director of Amy’s Foundation, said only one of Queensland’s 12 e-mobility deaths last year involved a legal e-bike.
“The harm comes from illegal, high-powered devices, and these laws are right to target that,” she said.
QPS said officers would continue high-visibility and covert patrols, alongside community engagement, throughout Operation Yankee Surety, which runs until 30th June, 2027.
“Every rider has a responsibility to understand the rules, operate a compliant device, wear a helmet, ride sober, and make safe decisions every time,” a QPS spokesperson said.
Photo left to right: Director Nursing and Operations Mental Health and Alcohol and Other Drugs Service (MHAODS) Mark Scanlon, Clinical Director Division MHAODS Dr Graham Pasternak, Allied Health Continuing Care Services Program Director Catherine McLaren, Chief Executive Sean Birgan, Project Director Nicholas Reitano, Project Lead Sherry Watson and Team Leader AODS and Specialist Teams Daina Winterburn. Photo supplied
Mackay’s Community Health Centre will undergo an $18.5 million upgrade, strengthening the delivery of mental and sexual health services across the region.
The investment will support improvements to community-based care, with the project focused on creating a more private and safe environment for people accessing services.
Mackay Hospital and Health Service Chief Executive Sean Birgan said the upgrade would also improve the experience for consumers, staff, carers and visitors using the facility.
“The upgraded centre emphasises community-based clinical pathways for people seeking support from mental health, alcohol and other drugs and sexual health services,” he said.
“There will be specifically designed clinical rooms and spaces that will allow us to offer more group therapy programs and enhance the experience for people receiving care.
“This is the first upgrade the facility has undergone since opening 30 years ago. We will be incorporating the separation of public access and clinical spaces from staff-only areas to enhance patient experience, improve access and efficiency of health services.”
The Mackay Community Health Centre on Nelson Street provides mental health, alcohol and other drugs assessment and treatment services, as well as a range of sexual health services to the Mackay community.
Mackay Community Health uses multi-disciplinary teams to provide care and education for people experiencing a variety of issues and illnesses. Teams include medical, nursing, social work, allied health, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and non-clinical professionals.
Project upgrades include an improved layout, fit-for-purpose clinical spaces, new roofing, plumbing, electrical and air conditioning infrastructure and new equipment and furniture.
Mr Birgan said the project will deliver better care to people in the community who may have otherwise required admission to hospital, taking pressure off Mackay Base Hospital.
“Improving the way we deliver mental health, alcohol and other drugs treatment and sexual health community services is a strong focus for Mackay HHS,” he said.
“Our free and confidential health services are critical links for people to receive the early intervention and ongoing support they need.
“These improvements will not only benefit people seeking help but also contribute to the overall wellbeing of our communities.”
Paynters has been awarded the project contract, with works expected to commence on site from 7th September and be completed by the end of 2027.
Queensland’s foster care reforms will expand the Professional Foster Care pilot into Mackay while strengthening support for carers and encouraging more families to open their homes to children in need. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
The State Government will expand its Professional Foster Care pilot program to Mackay as part of broader reforms aimed at supporting carers and increasing family-based care options for children with complex needs.
According to the Queensland Government, the Mackay expansion will fast-track access to the pilot, which is designed to provide more stable, family-based care for children with complex needs who may otherwise be living in residential care.
The reform is also set to include the establishment of a Foster Care Advisory Group, giving foster carers and permanent guardians a greater role in shaping Queensland’s child safety system.
In a visit to Mackay on Thursday 20th August, Minister for Child Safety Amanda Camm said the changes were intended to support foster and kinship carers while encouraging more Queenslanders to consider the role.
“Foster carers provide safe, stable and nurturing homes for some of Queensland's most vulnerable children and young people, and we are committed to giving them greater recognition and a stronger voice,” Ms Camm said.
“We encourage more Queenslanders to consider becoming foster carers – whether it be short-term, long-term or specialist care, it’s an opportunity to make a life-changing difference.”
Ms Camm said Queensland needs an additional 1,000 foster and kinship carers, with the reforms forming part of its response to recommendations from the Child Safety Commission of Inquiry.
The Professional Foster Care pilot will focus on supporting children with complex needs, with skilled carers receiving practical support to provide family-based care.
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the measures were also aimed at attracting and retaining more carers.
“These new measures are about backing our carers with practical support and making sure we can attract and retain more Queenslanders willing to provide a safe and loving home for a child,” Mr Dalton said.
Queensland Foster and Kinship Care Chief Executive Officer Bryan Smith said the measures were an important step towards better supporting carers.
“Carers want to know their contribution is valued and that they have the support they need to provide the best possible care,” Mr Smith said.
For Marabisda Mackay foster carer Brooke, the announcement also highlighted the ongoing need for more people willing to open their homes to children in need.
“I’m a third-generation foster carer. Caring for children has been part of my family story for generations,” Brooke said.
Brooke and her husband Brody have provided care for children across the region for the past four years.
“In four years, Brody and I have made 109 beds for children needing somewhere safe to stay,” she said.
“You don’t have to be perfect, and you don’t need to know all the answers. You just need to be willing to open your home, your life and your heart.”
“Every child deserves somewhere safe to sleep, someone to cheer them on, someone who believes in them and somewhere they can feel like they belong.”
“The reality is, we need more carers – general foster carers, kinship carers, First Nations carers and anyone willing to give this role a try.”
The new initiatives will build on existing measures, including enhanced training, flexible funding and new pathways into fostering.
For more information, visit qld.gov.au/professionalfostercare
Photo source: Mayor Greg Williamson (Facebook)
Mackay has etched its name into Australian sporting history, with the city hosting its first-ever men’s Test match at Great Barrier Reef Arena in a landmark week that placed the region firmly in the international cricket spotlight.
Held from August 22nd to 26th, the second match of the NRMA Insurance Northern Australia Test Series brought Australia and Bangladesh to Mackay, transforming the Great Barrier Reef Arena into the stage for one of the biggest sporting events the region has ever hosted.
And while the historic occasion may have ended sooner than many fans had hoped, Australia delivered an emphatic performance on the field, bouncing back from its defeat in Darwin to secure an innings-and-51-run victory over Bangladesh inside two days.
Bangladesh struggled against Australia's formidable bowling attack, scoring 64 in its first innings before being dismissed for 95 in the second, while Australia posted 210. Mitchell Starc was the standout, claiming 10 wickets for 51 runs across the match, including 6-12 in the first innings and 4-39 in the second. Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon each claimed three wickets in Bangladesh's second innings as Australia sealed the victory and levelled the series 1-1.
But beyond the scoreboard, the Test represented something far greater for Mackay.
Speaking to media before the opening ball was bowled, Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson reflected on the significance of the occasion, and the potential of hosting cricket at the Olympics in 2032.
“We are now the 12th city in Australia to be recognised as a Test venue for men’s Test cricket,” Mayor Williamson said.
“When you look at what Great Barrier Reef Arena is today, it’s a fantastic venue. We’ve proven that we’ve got the facilities there.
“I think we’re going to see a tremendous event housed in a tremendous facility that can actually handle it.”
For Great Barrier Reef Arena CEO Adrian Young, the historic match was a milestone for the venue, and a reflection of the community that had spent generations building Mackay cricket.
In a reflection post on social media after the big weekend, Mr Young said, “What a week for Mackay.”
“Our first-ever men’s Test match. Two sold-out days of cricket. A national and international spotlight on our city, and another huge step forward for Great Barrier Reef Arena.”
“We prepared a great Queensland pitch that had bounce, carry and consistency. It rewarded GREAT bowling and provided a challenge the touring team weren’t able to overcome. The best bowling attack in the world showed us exactly what they were made of,” he said.
More importantly, Mr Young said the event demonstrated what the Mackay community was capable of achieving.
“This venue has been built over generations by our community. Volunteers, staff, players, members and supporters have taken Mackay cricket from humble beginnings to hosting the Australian Test team,” he said.
“To every volunteer and staff member who gave their time before and during this event; thank you. We simply wouldn’t be here without you.”
“From a cricket club formed in 1867, to Test cricket in 2026 to Olympic cricket in 2032,” he said.
“That’s the journey we are on, and we are only just getting started!”
Remember September, Pankind’s flagship fundraising campaign, brings communities together each year to remember those affected by pancreatic cancer while raising vital funds for research and support. Photo supplied
Mackay residents are being encouraged to lace up their walking shoes or ditch a daily vice next month to support those affected by pancreatic cancer.
Pankind’s Remember September 2026 campaign is calling on the community to take action against Australia’s third biggest cancer killer, with two challenges available.
Participants can Move It by walking or running 78km throughout September, representing the 78 Australians who die from pancreatic cancer every week, or Give It Up by going without a vice such as coffee, sugar or alcohol for the month.
More than 4,500 Australians are expected to be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer this year, with 80 per cent dying within 12 months. The five-year survival rate is just 13 per cent, dropping to around six per cent in rural and regional areas.
Pankind CEO Michelle Stewart said research was key to changing those outcomes.
“Remember September is about solidarity, action, and progress. Every step taken and every dollar raised fuels research that could help Australians live longer and live better after diagnosis.”
Since its inception, Pankind has invested more than $20 million in research grants across 76 projects at leading Australian institutions, and those wishing to become involved in this year’s fundraiser are encouraged to register online via www.rememberseptember.org.au.
M&P Services’ 11th annual Charity Golf Day raised $75,152 for local causes, continuing a 40-year legacy of giving back to the Mackay community. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
M&P Services has once again hit it out of the park – or, more accurately, around the course – with its 11th annual Charity Golf Day raising a remarkable $75,152 for local causes. Proudly sponsored by Key Solutions Group, this year’s event edged past last year’s $75,000 total, continuing a fundraising legacy that began with $6,000 at the inaugural event.
Mayor Greg Williamson praised M&P Services Managing Director Max Lamb Jnr and his team for turning a day on the green into one of Mackay’s standout community fundraising events.
After 40 years serving Mackay and the greater region, M&P Services continues to prove that good business is more about giving than it is about receiving. With more than $425,000 raised over the years, this is one community tradition that’s well and truly on par.
Mr Lamb Jr and the team emphasised their overwhelming gratitude for all involved in such a great turnout for yet another year!
A day on the green has once again delivered a major result for the Mackay community, with the 11th annual M&P Services Charity Golf Day raising an impressive $75,152, just surpassing last year’s total of $75,000!
Proudly sponsored by Key Solutions Group, the annual event has grown from humble beginnings into one of Mackay’s leading charity golf days.
Mayor Greg Williamson praised M&P Services Managing Director Max Lamb Jr and his team for the event’s continued success.
“This is the 11th annual charity golf day, and we’ve got to say to Max and his team, what a great job,” Mayor Williamson said.
“The first round, 11 years ago, raised $6,000. Last year, it raised $75,000, and already more than $350,000 has gone to Mackay charities throughout the years.
“This is Mackay’s leading charity golf day, and getting from $6,000 in that first year to where it is today is an outstanding achievement.”
For Max Lamb Jr, the day was about more than golf, with the event providing an opportunity to give back to the community that M&P Services has supported through its operations across Mackay and the greater region for 40 years.
With now more than $425,000 raised over the past decade, this is one community tradition that’s well and truly on par.
A strong focus of the event has been keeping funds local, with money raised going directly to the supported charities and organisations.
“Every dollar we raise goes straight to the bank accounts of these local charities,” Max Jr said.
“It doesn’t go through head offices in Brisbane, Sydney or anywhere else. It’s directly supporting local charities, which is why we love what we do.”
Max Jr also extended a major thank you to the many supporters, businesses, organisations, sponsors, volunteers and participants who have helped make the Charity Golf Day possible year after year, with their support again playing a vital role in the success of the 2026 event.
“To everybody who has supported this event, we thank you very much!”
For 40 years, M&P Services has been part of the fabric of Mackay and the greater region, and giving back to the community has remained central to that legacy. The annual Charity Golf Day has grown into one of the company’s most meaningful ways of turning community spirit into tangible support, bringing together local businesses, organisations and individuals to make a difference.
The following Charities and Organisations have been supported by this years golf day:
The team at M&P Services extend a massive thanks to the following Major Sponsors:
Puja Mehrotra, Senior Property Manager at Blacks Real Estate. Photo source: Blacks Real Estate
With a passion for real estate and more than 10 years of experience in human resources management, Puja Mehrotra continues to deliver reliable and professional service as Senior Property Manager at Blacks Real Estate.
Known for her strong work ethic, positive attitude and people-focused approach, Ms Mehrotra works closely with both landlords and tenants to help ensure positive outcomes across every aspect of property management.
Blacks Real Estate said her commonsense approach, combined with her friendly nature and commitment to maintaining properties as if they were her own, makes her a valued member of the team.
Ms Mehrotra said her willingness to learn and dedication to providing high-quality service continued to drive her work within the industry.
Puja Mehrotra can be contacted through Blacks Real Estate on 07 4963 2500.
When people talk about the Australian property market it often seems as though they are talking about one market, something that contains uniform traits and a consistency throughout the country.
The single-market phenomenon probably applies to other areas; the corn market is probably pretty uniform in the corn-growing areas of the country and I would expect wheat and wool and other markets to have very little variation.
Of course, the wool market is one of the many things I know nothing about, although I do hear good things about the merino breed of sheep and its soft, fine wool.
I’m slightly better informed about the property market and one thing that is very clear is that there is not one market.
Demand and supply play out in different ways in different cities. Business activity varies, population movements change, demographics have an impact and none of this is the same from one city or region to the next.
There are also the different types of property markets. The so-called “prestige market” is different to the suburban mum and dad market because different factors apply.
It is true that a federal budget that removes negative gearing on established dwellings and increases capital gains tax does have an impact in all markets but the extent varies.
And when tax changes combine with other economic factors such as an increase in the cost of living for things such as fuel and electricity, the results can be seen in various markets.
There has, without a doubt, been changes to property markets around the country over the past few months and none of them, in my opinion, appear to be going up at the moment.
But the impacts have been felt far more seriously in bigger cities than in other locations.
The prestige and higher-end markets in Sydney and Melbourne have been smashed. Many of those properties increased dramatically in recent years. A property in Sydney that increased from $4m to $5m over a short period will probably find that price winding back now.
The Herron Todd White property clock, a monthly assessment of property markets around the country by the valuation company, described Sydney and Melbourne as markets in decline in July.
There is no doubt that the removal of negative gearing will be having a huge impact on properties at the higher end as investors shy away from the negative yield those properties would provide.
It was interesting to note which cities the HTW housing property clock described as “approaching the peak” of the market.
Gladstone, the Sunshine Coast and Townsville were all described as approaching the peak.
Not so Mackay, which is still described as a “rising market”, along with Rockhampton, Cairns and Emerald. Brisbane is described as being at the peak of the market.
Melbourne is a good example of how markets around the country differ. Someone last month bought a two-bedroom unit in an inner-city suburb for $610,000. The same unit last sold in 2018 for $635,000. A loss after eight years is a very differentexperience to the Mackay situation where the prices have more than doubled in that period.
As always, economic factors in individual regions have an impact and Mackay’s economy is going well, with full employment and plenty of activity. Markets plunge when economic factors force people to sell. That is not the case in Mackay and it’s generally not the case in other parts of the country.
Meanwhile I had an average of eight people turn up to my four open homes last weekend and we ended up with strong offers on all four of them.
Buyers are more cautious than they were but people still need somewhere to live so well-priced properties that are marketed properly are attracting good attention from buyers.
It’s certainly not the case that there is one property market in Australia and that what is happening in Sydney is replicated throughout the country.
The Greater Whitsunday region is positioning itself to become a key player in Australia's growing critical minerals industry, with a new roadmap outlining how local businesses can capitalise on emerging opportunities across mining, manufacturing and advanced technology.
The Mackay and Greater Whitsunday Critical Minerals Roadmap will be launched at the Resource Industry Network Industry Briefing on Friday. Developed by the Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) with support from North Queensland Bulk Ports and BHP Mitsubishi Alliance, the roadmap identifies opportunities in exploration, mineral processing, logistics, manufacturing, research and innovation, while helping local businesses diversify into new markets.
GW3 Diversification Project Lead Jodie Thompson said the region was well positioned to support Queensland's critical minerals future.
"The Greater Whitsunday region is primed to service and lead a critical minerals future for Queensland," Ms Thompson said.
"This Roadmap is about understanding where our region can add the greatest value, helping our businesses diversify and ensuring we are ready to capture new investment and economic opportunities.
"It is not about replacing the industries that have driven our region's success, it is about building on those strengths, creating additional opportunities and ensuring our economy remains resilient and competitive as global markets evolve."
Resources Centre of Excellence Chief Executive Officer Steven Boxall said the region was already investing in the infrastructure and innovation needed to support future resources industries.
"Critical minerals development will require new approaches to extraction, processing, automation and resource recovery," Mr Boxall said.
"Our region has an important opportunity to develop, test and commercialise those solutions locally."
The roadmap was developed through consultation with industry stakeholders and regional partners and forms part of GW3's broader strategy to attract investment, diversify the economy and strengthen the Greater Whitsunday region's role in future critical minerals supply chains.
Star Sign: Aries
Favourite Movie: Pacific Rim
Favourite Colour: Red
Favourite Holiday Destination: Fiji
Favourite Music: Rock
Favourite Quote: “Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country.” – John F. Kennedy
Something most people don't know about you: I enjoy hands on activities like painting miniature figurines and target shooting.
Mackay-born dentist Kaveet Raniga is swapping miniature figurines and long-distance target shooting for a new chapter at Hanly Dental Studio, bringing more than five years of hands-on experience and a friendly, people-focused approach to his role as Associate Dentist, with bookings opening from September.
Kaveet has always enjoyed working with his hands, but when he first started treating patients in his third year of University everything just clicked.
“When I started treating patients that’s when I really found a passion for it.”
More than five years later, it’s the variety of dentistry, and the people behind each appointment, that continue to make the profession rewarding for Kaveet.
While no two days are the same, his role often sees him involved in ceramic work and rehabilitation, alongside check-ups, fillings, cleans, whitening and oral surgery – but whether a patient needs a small procedure or more complex treatment, Kaveet’s focus remains firmly on helping people feel comfortable, cared for and confident in their treatment.
For Kaveet, some of the most rewarding moments are often the smallest. Whether it’s seeing a patient’s genuine reaction when they look in the mirror after treatment, or giving a young patient a high-five after a check-up, he values the opportunity to make someone’s experience a positive one.
“It's just small wholesome moments like that that really mean a lot to me.”
That people-first approach is particularly important when treating patients who may feel nervous or apprehensive about visiting the dentist.
Kaveet believes building trust can take time and is more than happy to work at a patient’s pace, whether they are coming in for a routine check-up or something more elaborate.
Outside the clinic, Kaveet is a self-confessed dog lover, with plans to welcome a Kelpie once he has settled into his new role.
After growing up in Mackay, apart from moving to Cairns for university, Kaveet is looking forward to continuing his career close to home and joining a team he already feels comfortable with.
Bringing his experience, curiosity and distinctly “jokey, friendly and professional” personality to Hanly Dental Studio, Kaveet is ready to help Mackay locals feel a little more at ease in the dental chair.
Contact the friendly team at Hanly Dental Studio for more details!
For FMS Group, some of the best innovations begin with a simple question: why has it always been done this way?
That mindset has driven a 20-year commitment to finding safer and more efficient ways to tackle complex mining maintenance and shutdown work, and has now earned FMS Group the Austmine Innovation (METS) Award at the recent 2026 Queensland Mining Awards.
The impressive accolade recognises FMS Group’s Dipper Skid and Hoist Rope Install Jig, an innovation developed by its frontline teams to address a high-risk task on electric shovels.
Until recently, changing a hoist rope required a live shovel and a crane working alongside the equipment. FMS Group developed a pneumatic jig, dipper counterweight and skid mechanism that allows hoist ropes to be replaced without using a crane or powering up the equipment.
Following trials across six shutdowns, the method reduced downtime by two to three days while eliminating the hazard associated with the previous process.
It is a practical example of how FMS Group approaches continuous improvement: operational teams identify challenges through their experience in the field, while engineering and technical teams develop the methodology, testing and design required to make the solution safe and workable.
But much of that work happens long before a shutdown begins.
FMS Group’s projects can involve crews of 18 to 80 employees, large cranes, specialised jacking equipment, line boring and machining gear, and purpose-built jigs and tooling. Detailed planning, project methodologies, equipment mobilisationand careful scheduling are essential when multiple work fronts are operating simultaneously.
Safety sits at the centre of that process. FMS Group’s supervisors and leadership teams manage execution risk, coordinate work fronts and maintain close communication with clients. The company has also invested in supervisor development, recognising that strong leadership is fundamental to building a strong safety culture.
The award-winning innovation follows this same philosophy. Importantly, it was not developed in response to an injury, but to address a task with the potential for a catastrophic incident.
Other FMS engineering developments have similarly focused on reducing crane interactions and improving control of high-risk tasks, while also targeting shutdown efficiencies. In some applications, these improvements can save 24 to 48 hours at the end of a shutdown while electrical and systems commissioning is completed.
For FMS Group, the Austmine recognition is a significant milestone, and one the team says it is still taking in.
Ultimately, the award reinforces what has driven the company for two decades: combining frontline experience, engineering capability and client collaboration to challenge established methods and find safer ways forward.
FMS Group remains committed to improving, questioning established methods and, above all, ensuring everyone gets home safely.
fms-group.com.au
Kittens may steal the spotlight, but adult cats like Violet and Aggie have plenty of love to give and are waiting for a second chance through Mackay Pet Rescue.
Many adult cats enter care through no fault of their own after losing their homes. Foster carers provide a safe, loving environment while getting to know each cat’s personality, quirks and needs.
With patience and stability, even frightened cats can learn to trust and feel safe.
Adult cats can make wonderful companions, often offering calmer personalities and plenty of affection.
If you can provide Violet, Aggie or another adult cat with a loving forever home, contact Mackay Pet Rescue Inc to arrange a meet and greet.
Women’s Health Week is coming to Mackay — and everyone is invited.
Women are very good at looking after others. We support our families, manage work and home, and keep everything moving. But when it comes to our own health, it is easy to say, “I’ll get to that later.”
Women’s Health Week gives us a reason to change that.
Running from 7–11 September, Jean Hailes Women’s Health Week is Australia’s largest event dedicated to women’s health and wellbeing. This year’s theme, “Do it anyway,” encourages women to take small, realistic steps towards better health.
Looking after yourself does not have to mean overhauling your life. Sometimes it starts with moving your body, asking an awkward question, learning what is normal, or understanding changes through different stages of life.
That is exactly what we hope to create here in Mackay.
For Women’s Health Week, Women’s Health Physio Mackay is running a week of FREE community events, designed to empower, educate and connect.
Monday begins with our Free Fit Floor to Core pelvic floor exercise class and morning tea, celebrating two years of bringing these free classes to our community.
Tuesday morning, I’ll be at The Mum Hub for All Things Abdominal Separation, offering tummy checks, education and a relaxed chat about abdominal recovery.
Tuesday evening is All Things Periods, followed by All Things Menopause on Wednesday evening. Dr Nicole Higgins from Health on Central, Women’s Health & Pelvic Floor physiotherapist Lauren Neill, naturopath Jody Walker, Life in Motion exercise physiologists and women’s health massage therapist Sari will share their knowledge and answer questions women often do not get the opportunity to ask.
We finish Thursday with Healthier Parents exercise class, combining movement, connection and socialising for postnatal mums.
Why does this matter? Because good health information matters. Women’s Health Week creates conversations, helps reduce stigma and encourages women to take action for their health. Just as importantly, health education should be accessible, trustworthy and evidence-based.
Something powerful happens when we bring health education out of consulting rooms and into our community. Questions become easier to ask, women connect, and knowledge gives us confidence to advocate for our health.
So this Women’s Health Week, put yourself on the list. Bring your mum, sister or a friend. Come for a class, conversation or to learn something new.
Every event is FREE, but bookings are essential. Visit our Book Now page, pop into the clinic or call us to secure your free spot.
Your health is worth making time for.
One of the greatest challenges business owners face isn't a lack of passion, expertise or commitment, it's perspective.
When you've built a business from the ground up, it's easy to assume your customers see it the same way you do. You know your history, your values, your products and the countless hours you've invested to get where you are today. But your customers don't have that context. They make decisions based on what they see, hear and experience in a matter of moments.
That's where many businesses unknowingly lose opportunities.
Over time, marketing can become reactive. Websites are updated, social media is posted, brochures are redesigned, and campaigns are launched, but often without stepping back to ask a simple question: Is this really communicating what makes us different?
The reality is that the most valuable insights often come from someone looking at your business from the outside.
An experienced marketing strategist doesn't simply review your logo or critique your advertising. They challenge assumptions, uncover blind spots and ask the questions that business owners are often too immersed in the day-to-day to consider. They view your business through the eyes of your customers, identify what's working, what's missing and, more importantly, what opportunities exist to strengthen your market position.
That's the thinking behind Squeeze, redhotblue's premium one-on-one marketing workshop.
Over three focused hours, Founding Director Jody Euler and Creative Director Scott Turner work directly with business owners and leadership teams to untangle the complexities of their marketing. Drawing on decades of strategic and creative experience, they explore how your business is perceived in the marketplace, define clear marketing objectives, identify what motivates your ideal audience and develop practical recommendations that strengthen your competitive advantage.
It's three hours away from the distractions of running your business, giving you the time and space to think differently. Together we'll explore your brand, challenge ideas, identify opportunities and leave you with practical direction you can confidently put into action.
Whether you're preparing for a rebrand, entering a new market, planning a major campaign or simply wanting to ensure your marketing is working as hard as you are, Squeeze provides something that's difficult to achieve from within your own business, a fresh perspective.
Because sometimes the biggest opportunity for growth isn't changing your business.
It's changing the way the world sees it and more importantly your potential customers.
Jody Euler and Scott Turner
redhotblue
Image for illustrative purposes only. Photo Source: Shutterstock
Graziers across the Mirani electorate now have access to an expanded free cattle dip testing service aimed at helping producers manage chemical resistance in cattle ticks and protect the health of their herds.
Under the initiative, producers can collect free dip test kits from Department of Primary Industries (DPI) offices in Mackay and Rockhampton or through participating local chemical suppliers. Samples can then be returned to DPI offices during business hours for testing.
The testing program forms part of a broader range of cattle tick management measures being delivered by the Queensland Government, including work undertaken at the DPI's Queensland Tick Fever Centre, which produces and supplies the only vaccine available in Australia to protect cattle against tick fever.
The State government has also announced plans to increase the number of biosecurity officers across the state. According to the government, 40 officers have already been appointed as part of a commitment to recruit 100 officers during the current term.
Member for Mirani Glen Kelly said cattle producers are being assisted to meet their general biosecurity obligations, ensure their treatment is best practice and strengthen protections for graziers across the whole state.
“This free service offered by the local DPI team will make it easier for Mirani graziers to ensure their chemical levels are within the recommended ranges while also providing quick and reliable results.
“By maintaining correct chemical levels in their dips, producers give themselves the most cost-effective method for controlling cattle ticks and, importantly, they also reduce their risk of creating chemical resistance in cattle ticks on their properties.”
For more information about the new counter service or to learn how to prepare or submit a sample, contact the DPI on 13 25 23 or visit the DPI website.
What Does Reef Side Buyers Agent Do?
Reef Side Buyers Agent works exclusively for the buyer — not the seller.
We help people buying homes, investment properties and holiday homes across the Whitsundays, Mackay and surrounding North Queensland areas.
From search to settlement, we help our clients find the right property, assess it properly, understand what it is worth, avoid potential issues and negotiate with confidence.
For buyers who don't live locally, we can also be their eyes and ears on the ground — helping them understand the property and the local market before making a major decision.
Our job is simple: represent the buyer and protect their interests throughout the purchase.
Who Are We?
We are Tyson and Rachael Griffiths, the people behind Reef Side Buyers Agent.
We're a local family raising our young family here in North Queensland, with more than 20 years of experience across building, housing, property and business.
That background gives us a practical approach to buying property. We don't just look at the listing — we look at the property, the numbers, the location and whether it actually suits what the buyer is trying to achieve.
We work with local buyers, investors, families relocating to the region and interstate buyers who want someone local representing them.
Buying in the Whitsundays or Mackay? Have someone on your side.
Reef Side Buyers Agent
0403 353 944
info@reefsidebuyersagent.com.au
reefsidebuyersagent.com.au
Two people have been identified as suspected of illegal building activity by the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) following a three-day compliance operation across Mackay construction sites.
QBCC officers carried out 117 licence checks at 45 active sites as part of the campaign, which was aimed at checking licensing requirements and compliance within the local building industry.
The regulator said investigations were continuing into two cases. One person was alleged to have carried out building work without the required licence, while another was potentially engaging an unlicensed contractor.
A site was also found to have signage that did not meet requirements. The licensee received a warning and further information about their legislative responsibilities.
QBCC CEO and Commissioner Angelo Lambrinos said the regulator sought to educate licensees while taking action where necessary.
“Queensland’s building and construction industry is built on trust, professionalism and accountability,” Mr Lambrinos said.
He said most licensees were meeting their obligations, with compliance audits of active sites during 2025-26 recording unlicensed offending at just over one per cent.
“By conducting these audits, our officers play a critical role in identifying and addressing noncompliance, ensuring building works are being delivered to standards so that Queenslanders can feel confident about the people they hire.”
Mr Lambrinos said the QBCC would continue to focus on education and early intervention, while responding firmly to serious or repeated breaches.
“We prioritise early engagement and education, but we also take firm action on repeat or serious non-compliance.”
The Nationals are seeking to repeal recently introduced federal firearms laws and the proposed National Gun Buyback Scheme, with Dawson MP Andrew Willcox supporting the Bill in Parliament. Photo supplied
The Nationals are seeking changes to recently introduced federal firearms legislation, with a Bill to repeal the laws and abolish the Federal Government’s proposed National Gun Buyback Scheme being introduced in Parliament this week.
Nationals MP and Member for Maranoa David Littleproud is introducing the Firearms Legislation Amendment (Repealing Unfair Gun Laws) Bill 2026, which is being seconded by Federal Member for Dawson MP Andrew Willcox.
The proposed legislation would seek to reverse federal firearms and importation laws passed by Parliament earlier this year and end the proposed buyback scheme.
Mr Willcox said the legislation unfairly affected licensed firearms owners and questioned whether the proposed buyback would address illegal firearms.
“The people who will comply with this buyback are the same people who already follow the law, licensed firearm owners with registered firearms.”
“Does the Prime Minister seriously believe criminals are going to line up and hand their weapons in?”
Mr Willcox also raised concerns about the potential cost to taxpayers and the impact on regional communities, particularly farmers who use firearms for property management and feral pest control.
“This isn't just an issue for firearm owners. Every Australian taxpayer is being asked to foot the bill for a scheme that is unlikely to get illegal firearms out of the hands of criminals.”
He said the Nationals would continue to advocate for responsible, law-abiding firearms owners and welcomed Queensland’s decision not to participate in the proposed Federal scheme.
“It is great to see the Queensland Government standing strong and refusing to join Labor’s scheme.”
The Nationals’ Bill is backed by a petition with more than 71,000 signatures calling for the firearms laws to be repealed.
The proposed national buyback has not been adopted by all states and territories. Queensland, South Australia, Victoria and the Northern Territory have not signed on to the national scheme, while New South Wales and the ACT have committed to it. Tasmania and Western Australia have pursued separate state-based arrangements.
The Bill is expected to be considered by the House of Representatives this week.
By Cr Heath Paton
As someone who lives on acreage and keeps both parrots and poultry, the growing spread of H5 avian influenza across Australia is more than just another headline. Like many bird owners, I watch reports of the virus with a mix of concern and hope, knowing how much we value the health and wellbeing of our animals. While Australia's poultry industry remains free of the disease, the increasing number of detections in wild birds serves as a timely reminder that vigilance is essential.
Australian authorities are continuing to monitor the spread of H5 avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, after 231 detections were confirmed in wild birds across the country (at the time of writing this).
The majority of cases have been recorded in South Australia, where 163 detections have been reported. Victoria has recorded 53 cases, followed by Western Australia with 10, New South Wales with four and Queensland with one. Importantly, there have been no detections of the virus in poultry or Australia's agricultural production systems.
Experts have confirmed evidence of local transmission among wild bird populations in South Australia and Victoria. A significant mass mortality event involving wild birds has also been reported in South Australia, reflecting patterns seen internationally as the H5 strain becomes established in wild bird populations.
Authorities say that while the virus is spreading among wildlife, Australia's poultry industry remains free from infection and strong biosecurity measures continue to protect commercial and backyard flocks.
As the disease becomes more widespread, national surveillance and reporting methods are changing. Rather than focusing on individual bird detections, reporting will increasingly concentrate on investigations, significant mortality events, affected species and disease trends over time. Officials say this approach will provide a more accurate picture of how the virus is spreading and evolving.
Members of the public are still being urged to report unusual wildlife illness or deaths. Reports are assessed according to risk and may trigger investigations and testing where necessary.
Health authorities have reassured Australians that the current risk to people remains low. Human infections with this strain of H5 bird flu are rare, no cases have been recorded in Australia and there is currently no evidence of human-to-human transmission.
Community members who encounter sick or dead birds are advised not to touch them. Instead, they should record details such as the location and species involved, if known, and report multiple sick or dead birds or other wildlife to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
Further updates, fact sheets and biosecurity information are available through the national bird flu information website, birdflu.gov.au.
For bird owners, farmers and wildlife lovers alike, the spread of H5 bird flu is a reminder of the importance of biosecurity, early reporting and protecting the animals that play such an important role in our lives and communities.
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Glenella Care residents have grown a thriving community garden with help from staff and a generous donation from Bunnings North Mackay. Photos supplied
A community garden at Respect’s Glenella Care Banksia Wing has gone from a simple pergola area to a thriving patch of greenery, thanks to the efforts of residents, staff and a generous donation from Bunnings North Mackay.
Over the past nine months, residents have worked to establish the garden after the pergola was completed late last year.
Residents put together a wish list of what they wanted to grow, with the team at Bunnings North Mackay responding by donating planter boxes, soil, tools, gloves, hats and a range of plants.
The donation included citrus trees, a passionfruit vine, gerberas, lavender, as well as fruit and vegetable seedlings including tomatoes, corn, peas and strawberries.
The project was led by the social care team, who worked alongside residents and Bunnings to bring the garden to life. During the planting day, residents got their hands in the soil, potting up plants and cuttings.
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Resident Paul said the results were already making an impression.
“It’s bloody good, all the veggies and strawberries are fantastic. I hope they grow well.”
Joy said she was looking forward to seeing the garden continue to develop.
“I can’t wait to see how it grows, we have our first flowers on the lemon tree and they smell great.”
For Rose, the garden has added another special touch to her favourite outdoor space.
“it’s a great addition to our outdoor pergola area. I love it and can’t wait to see everything grow.”
The garden will also benefit the wider Glenella Care community, with produce grown on site to be sold to staff and families during regular market days and in the home.
All proceeds will go back into the garden fund to support future planting.
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Glenella Care General Manager Debbie Vukasinovic said the contribution from Bunnings North Mackay had made a noticeable difference to the outdoor area.
“Bunnings North Mackay have really brought life to the outdoor area. A big thank you to the team for their contribution, our residents are very happy.
“We also look forward to the workshops that Bunnings plan to run with our residents over the coming months as part of our social care activity calendar.
“This type of collaboration is what makes aged care communities as special as they are.”
The project is another example of the community connections that can help bring local initiatives to life, with Bunnings North Mackay’s contribution giving residents the resources to create something they can continue to enjoy and care for together.
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Postie Bike Safari riders hit the road from Mackay on Saturday 15th August, embarking on a 2000-kilometre journey through outback Queensland while raising funds for Childhood Cancer Support. Photo source: Postie Bike Safari
A group of 56 riders hit the road from Mackay last Saturday, kicking off a week-long journey through outback Queensland, with the annual Postie Bike Safari set to surpass $1 million in total funds raised for charity.
Now in its 14th year, the Postie Bike Safari will see riders travel more than 2000 kilometres on postie bikes, supported by 12 vehicles, while raising funds for Queensland charity Childhood Cancer Support.
The event began in 2013 when organiser Greg Becke and his workmates brought together friends for their first charity ride.
“What started with 13 bikes and a simple idea has since grown into a passionate annual ride involving dozens of riders and raising over $1,000,000 for charity,” Greg said.
“In the past five years alone, the Safari has raised $620,000 for Childhood Cancer Support.”
The riders departed from Consolidated Plastics in Paget on Saturday 15th August, before travelling through small towns and rural communities across outback North Queensland.
For 50 years, Childhood Cancer Support has provided free accommodation, transport and support services to regional families travelling for childhood cancer treatment.
Mr Becke said meeting families supported by the charity had strengthened the riders’ commitment to their annual journey.
“I’m so proud of what a small group of passionate bike riders has managed to accomplish over the past 14 years,” said Greg.
“We pay for our own fuel, food and accommodation, and give up a week of work, but the generosity we receive along the way makes it all worthwhile. In the past few years, we have seen so many brave children, spoken to their mums and dads, and learned the hardship they face so far from home.
“We do it all for these families and when we see the smiles on the kids’ faces and talk to the mums and dads, it makes all the dusty bumpy roads and breakdowns worth it.”
The Safari will conclude in Mackay on Saturday 22nd August, with riders, families and supporters gathering at the Farview Tavern in Farleigh for an auction and celebration dinner.
The event has become a major annual fundraiser, with riders covering their own costs so that funds raised can go directly towards supporting families affected by childhood cancer.
With the cumulative fundraising total expected to pass the $1 million milestone this year, Mr Becke said the achievement reflected the generosity of communities along the route and the commitment of everyone involved.
To learn more about the initiative or donate to support the cause, visit fundraise.ccs.org.au/event/postie-bike-safari.
Mackay Regional Council will undertake a major clean-up and install surveillance equipment at Illawong Drive as part of a crackdown on illegal dumping across the region. Photo supplied
Mackay Regional Council is stepping up its fight against illegal dumping following a concerning increase in reports of waste being abandoned across the region.
A major clean-up and surveillance operation will be carried out at Illawong Drive in the coming weeks, with heavy machinery to be used to remove large volumes of illegally dumped waste.
The operation comes after Council responded to more than 560 reports of illegal dumping over the past 12 months, resulting in more than 545 kilolitres of waste being removed from the natural environment.
Mackay Mayor Williamson said the amount of waste being dumped across the region was alarming.
"To put that figure into perspective, 545 kilolitres is the equivalent of about 2270 household wheelie bins worth of waste being dumped across our region," Mayor Williamson said.
"Illegal dumping damages our environment, impacts the amenity of our communities and places an unnecessary financial burden on ratepayers.”
Individuals caught illegally dumping waste can face on-the-spot fines of up to $3454, while corporations can be fined up to $12,952.
Council will also install a range of surveillance measures at Illawong Drive and other known dumping hotspots, including night vision cameras, in an effort to identify and deter offenders.
"If people think they can dump rubbish under the cover of darkness and get away with it, they should think again," Mayor Williamson said.
"We will be installing surveillance equipment, including night vision cameras, and we will continue working with authorities to identify and prosecute offenders wherever possible."
Residents are also being reminded that Council provides alternatives for those needing to dispose of eligible waste, including waste vouchers which allow households to dispose of certain waste free of charge at Council waste facilities.
Council allocates approximately $750,000 each year towards providing the vouchers.
Mayor Williamson said residents had no excuse to dump waste illegally.
"Council provides a range of legal disposal options, including waste vouchers, to help residents dispose of waste responsibly," he said.
"Those who choose to illegally dump rubbish are not only harming the environment, they're shifting the cost of clean-up onto the broader community.
"Every item that is dumped illegally has to be investigated, collected and disposed of, and the cost of that work is ultimately borne by taxpayers and ratepayers rather than the people responsible."
Residents are encouraged to report suspected illegal dumping or abandoned waste to help Council identify problem areas and pursue offenders.
"Council is committed to investigating illegal dumping, but we need the community's assistance," he said.
"If you witness illegal dumping or come across dumped waste, please report it through Snap Send Solve or contact council on 1300 MACKAY."
It has been a significant week for Mackay, with the future of Mackay Base Hospital taking a major step forward and Queensland Road Safety Week reminding us of the responsibility we all share to keep each other safe.
The Queensland Government has unveiled the long-term masterplan for Mackay Base Hospital, providing a clear pathway for how our hospital will grow to meet the future needs of Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday.
Premier David Crisafulli, Health Minister Tim Nicholls, Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm and I were pleased to outline the masterplan and confirm what will be delivered as part of Stage One.
Stage One will deliver at least 128 new overnight beds, expanded emergency, maternity, birthing, surgical, endoscopy, neonatal and paediatric services, as well as a new Mackay Birth Centre.
It will also deliver more than 1,000 additional car parks and a rooftop helipad, addressing two issues that have been regularly raised with me by hospital staff, patients and local families.
Major construction is expected to begin in 2027 following detailed design and contractor procurement, with Stage One scheduled for completion by 2030.
Importantly, work is already happening, including recommissioning the hospital's on-site helipad and delivering a temporary 80-space fleet car park.
For me, this announcement is about giving Mackay a genuine long-term plan for our hospital.
Our region continues to grow and Mackay Base Hospital provides critical healthcare not only to our city, but to communities right across the wider region.
Mackay deserves quality healthcare close to home, and this masterplan gives us a clear pathway to build the capacity and services our community will need into the future.
While we welcome this investment in healthcare, this week is also Queensland Road Safety Week, running from 17 to 21 August.
It is a timely reminder that keeping people safe isn't just about having quality healthcare available when something goes wrong. We all have a responsibility to help prevent tragedies in the first place.
The Fatal Five dangerous driving behaviours remain speeding, drink and drug driving, failing to wear a seatbelt, fatigue and driver distraction.
Whether you're travelling across Mackay, heading along the Bruce Highway or simply driving a few streets home, a momentary decision can have lifelong consequences.
So please slow down, buckle up, put the phone away, never drive impaired and stop for a rest when you're tired.
Nigel Dalton MP
Member for Mackay
Community members and local representatives gathered at the Council Chambers last Monday to reinforce the importance of road safety during Queensland Road Safety Week. Photos supplied.
Road safety took centre stage at the Mackay Regional Council lawns last Monday 17th August as local leaders, police and community organisations came together to launch Queensland Road Safety Week.
Held at the Council Chambers on Gordon Street, the event brought together Queensland Road Accident Action Group (RAAG), Treadwell Tyres, Mackay Regional Council, Star FM and other community representatives to promote safer behaviour on the region’s roads.
Mayor Greg Williamson was in attendance and spoke about the importance of road safety in the region, highlighting the need for the community to work together to reduce crashes, injuries and fatalities.
RAAG Admin and Grant Coordinator Tracey Costello said the volunteer organisation focused on supporting committees and communities through road safety initiatives and education.
“It’s about trying to educate everyone to stay safe on the roads because the fatalities are rising every year, and it all pretty much just comes down to us. It’s up to all of us to reduce it.”
RAAG also runs campaigns like the Fatal Five, while focusing on all aspects of road safety such as work visibility, roadside safety and wide loads.
Senior Sergeant Shane Edwards, who has worked in traffic policing since the early 2000’s, said road safety affects everyone and highlighted the far-reaching consequences of crashes.
“Anything we can do to reduce our rag toll is good.”
He said the increasing number of vehicles and drivers on Queensland roads, combined with modern distractions, had created additional challenges.
“There’s a lot more distractions these days than there used to be such as mobile phones, and a lot of other things that have a bad influence on drivers.”
Senior Sergeant Edwards also noted that safety on Queensland roads not only applies to vehicles with four or more wheels, but all motorised vehicles and devices, such as e-scooters and e-bikes, urging parents and riders to understand the rules around their use.
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton drew on his 42 years of service in the Police force to highlight the devastating impact of fatal crashes on families.
“From my previous 42 years of service, I remember every fatal cash I went to. There was always a horrific investigation that followed, and it’s incredibly sad to deal with the families left behind.”
Mr Dalton urged motorists to focus on the Fatal Five – consisting of seatbelts, fatigue, speed, alcohol and drugs, and distractions.
“If we remove those five things away from our behaviours on the road, we'll reduce fatal features dramatically.”
The launch came as police continued high-visibility enforcement across the region.
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During a recent Operation Interpose traffic enforcement operation in Sarina, officers conducted 737 random breath tests, intercepted 18 heavy vehicles and issued 13 traffic infringement notices. Police also issued five notices to appear for alleged drug driving and unlicensed driving.
The operation included an alleged 137km/h speeding offence in an 80km/h zone on Sarina Beach Road, while police also intercepted an allegedly stolen vehicle on Broad Street.
The enforcement activity reinforced the message delivered throughout the launch: road safety remained a shared responsibility, with every road user playing a crucial role in reducing road trauma.
Mackay RSL Sub-Branch Inc President Ken Higgins OAM, Mr Burley’s daughter Mary-Anne, Mayor Greg Williamson, Lewis Burley and his son Steve. Photo source: Mackay RSL Sub-Branch Inc
Locals gathered at Jubilee Park on Saturday, August 15, to commemorate Victory in the Pacific (VP) Day and mark the 81st anniversary of the end of the Second World War.
The annual ceremony provided an opportunity for the community to remember the Australians and Allied forces who served and sacrificed during the war, while reflecting on the peace and freedom secured through their service.
Mackay’s last surviving WWII veteran, Lewis Burley, also marked his 98th birthday on VP Day, with his children, Mary-Anne and Steve, travelling from Sydney to celebrate the special milestone with him.
The occasion was also marked from above, with a lone Tiger Moth flying over Jubilee Park at 11am. Volunteers Michael and George represented the Tiger Moth Museum, carrying the respect of the Museum’s volunteers for those who served and gave their lives.
While Anzac Day remains Australia’s principal day of military remembrance, VP Day continues to hold an important place in the nation’s history, marking the Japanese surrender on August 15, 1945, which brought the Second World War to an end.
The ceremony served as a solemn reminder of the cost of war and the importance of continuing to remember those who served.
Lest we forget.
Photo source: Shutterstock
On Tuesday 18th August Mackay marked six decades since the Battle of Long Tan, with Vietnam veterans, community members and respected local representatives gathering at Jubilee Park to honour those who served and sacrificed during the Vietnam War.
The Vietnam Veterans Day ceremony featured a parade, the Australian and New Zealand national anthems, wreath-laying and a poppy tribute, providing an opportunity to reflect on the service and sacrifice of those who served.
The ceremony also placed a focus on carrying the legacy of military service into the future, with a naval cadet commanding officer delivering the guest address and younger members of the Australian Defence Force encouraged to take part.
The gathering provided a poignant reminder of the experiences carried by Vietnam veterans and the importance of ensuring their service and sacrifice continue to be remembered by future generations.
Lest we forget
Jetstar’s suspension of Brisbane–Mackay services from October 24th will change travel options for regional locals, prompting concern over affordability and connectivity. Photo source: Shutterstock
By Hannah McNamara
Mackay travellers have been left facing changes to their flight options after Jetstar announced it would suspend its Brisbane–Mackay services from October 24th.
The decision has prompted concern among local travellers, with some community members saying the low-cost service had provided an important alternative when travelling between Mackay and Brisbane.
One local resident claimed customers with existing bookings after October 23rd had received emails advising their flights would either be transferred to Qantas or refunded. These arrangements may vary depending on individual bookings, and travellers have been encouraged to check directly with their airline.
Another community member, who said they travelled through Mackay Airport monthly, described the change as a potential financial burden.
“As someone who flies here monthly it’s going to be a huge impact on my purse…”
“The [Jetstar] flight is always full. FIFO workers are always a part of the customers flying too…”
A spokesperson from Mackay Airport said, “We are disappointed Jetstar has decided to suspend its Brisbane–Mackay services from 24th October. We recognise that any reduction in air services can be frustrating and disruptive for passengers.”
The airport said broader aviation pressures were also contributing to increased operating costs.
“Airlines make their own commercial decisions about where and how they operate their networks, based on a range of factors. Ongoing global challenges, including significant fuel-price pressures on airlines, have contributed to higher operating costs and disruption across Australia’s aviation network.”
“Mackay Airport remains committed to supporting strong and sustainable air connectivity for our region and we continue to work constructively with our airline partners to support services for the community.”
In a statement on social media, Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP said Jetstar’s decision to suspend its Brisbane–Mackay route would affect regional travellers, with reliable air connections crucially important for businesses, medical appointments, tourism and families.
Mr Willcox said, “I can confirm that Jetstar Australia has decided to suspend its Brisbane-Mackay route, as rising operating costs mean the service is no longer commercially viable.”
He said he was taking action to discuss the decision with key stakeholders and push for the flights to return.
“I am taking immediate action. I am in the process of arranging a meeting with the CEO of QantasLink in Canberra next week to discuss the impact this decision will have on our region. I can assure everyone I will be pushing to have these flights reinstated.”
Mr Willcox also raised concerns about the impact on travellers facing higher costs.
“When the cost of everything keeps going up, it is often the low-cost options that hurt the most.”
“Our region cannot be left stranded by sudden service reductions.”
Photo for illustrative purpose. Photo source: Shutterstock
Mackay’s footy fans are being encouraged to kit up in their favourite team colours next month and help children and families facing cancer as part of the Fight Cancer Foundation’s Footy Colours Day.
A national fundraising initiative running throughout September, Footy Colours Day stands as an opportunity for thousands of Australians to come together to show their support for kids with cancer, and getting involved couldn’t be easier.
Schools, workplaces, sporting clubs, families and groups can choose a date, register for free via www.footycoloursday.com.au and create their own footy-themed fundraiser! It could be a morning tea, BBQ, pizza night, sausage sizzle or a few footy games; the only requirement is wearing your colours with pride and raising funds for the cause.
In 2025, 1,362 Footy Colours Day events helped raise almost $548,000 to support children and families affected by cancer, with all funds raised used to support vital cancer research and help keep parents, siblings and children together during an incredibly difficult time through providing accommodation for families who must travel for treatment.
So, whether you're backing the Cowboys, Broncos, Storm or something entirely different, get your team together and show your colours for kids with cancer!
Photos supplied
Mackay’s cycling community turned out in force for the 2026 BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival, with rider numbers climbing 20 per cent on last year and the 25km Queensland Country Health Fund Dash reaching a complete sell-out.
Starting at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens, the festival brought riders of all ages and abilities together for a weekend that combined cycling, family fun and plenty of local spirit.
A new community partnership model also put 13 local groups at the heart of the action, with volunteers helping marshal the course, cheer on riders and support activities throughout the festival.
With strong participation, local partnerships and plenty of colour on the course, the 2026 ride proved Mackay was more than ready to get on its bike!
The 2026 BMA River 2 reef Ride Festival rolled through Mackay this weekend, with riders turning out in force to celebrate the region’s biggest community cycling event, delivering an atmosphere organisers are calling the best in the festival’s history.
Participation numbers were up 20% on last year, with the 25km Queensland Country Health Fund Dash selling out completely as riders of all ages and abilities lined up at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens for a weekend of colour, community and celebration.
This year’s festival was powered by the event’s 13 local community group partners, whose members brought extra energy to the course, cheering, marshalling and fuelling riders from start to finish. New initiatives added even more vibrancy to the weekend including a free sausage sizzle for young riders at the Golding Kids colour Ride courtesy of Mackay City Central Scout Group, a finish line pit stop hosted by Pioneer Swimming Club and their swim families cheering riders as they crossed the finish at the BMA River 2 Reef Ride.
Nikki Giles, BMA River 2 Reef Ride Event Director, said the festival’s new community partnership model was born from a desire to make it easier for local groups to access funding.
“This initiative came from a genuine desire to break down the barriers so many of our local groups face when fundraising or applying for grant monies,” Nikki said.
“We wanted to make it really easy for the people working tirelessly behind the scenes in our local groups to access guaranteed funding, without the added human resource load. In return for their volunteer role during the festival we guaranteed each of our community partners proceeds straight to their organisation’s bank account, plus the opportunity to earn $5 for every registration and jersey purchase where an entrant selected them from the dropdown menu in the registration portal.”
“It’s a genuine win-win. Our riders get a really memorable BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival experience and our community groups receive funds to put toward their 2026 initiatives,” Nikki said.
She added that the energy and community spirit on display over the weekend confirmed the new model had struck a chord with Mackay.
“The energy and community spirit out on course this year was alive and well from the moment our first riders rolled out,” Nikki said.
“Our riders were cheered from start to finish, our 13 community group partners and their members brought extra vibes to every corner of the course, and it truly felt like the whole of Mackay had come out to be part of something special. The support for this year’s ride has been phenomenal and shows just how much this event means to our region.”
Kate Sommerville, General Manager of BHP Mitsubishi Alliance’s (BMA) Hay Point Coal Terminal, said BMA was proud to see the event’s community-first model deliver such a strong result in its first year.
“It has been fantastic to see this event go from strength to strength, and this year was truly a community event from start to finish,” Kate said.
“BMA is incredibly proud to support a festival that puts community wellbeing and local partnerships at its hear, and to see our local groups, volunteers and riders come together in these numbers is something truly special for the Mackay region.”
Kate said organisers were incredibly grateful to everyone who helped bring the 2026 festival to life.
“We are so grateful to all of our event sponsors, volunteers and community groups for supporting an event that supports the Mackay region,” Nikki said.
“This festival simply would not be possible without them, and we cannot wait to do it all again next year.”
OP-ED by Federal Member For Dawson Andrew Willcox
Every Australian family sitting around the kitchen table knows the reality, our standard of living is under severe pressure. Since the Albanese Labor government took office, Australians have experienced some of the steepest declines in living standards in the developed world. With national debt fast approaching $1 trillion and structural budget deficits locked in for a decade, Labor is spending more and taxing more, while households are forced to get by with less.
The challenge facing our nation is not just identifying these economic headwinds; it is putting forward a clear, constructive alternative. That’s why I’m often asked, what a Coalition government would do differently to steer the country back on track. The answer lies in structural economic reform that rewards hard work, protects aspiration, and respects the money you earn.
At the heart of our plan is a landmark policy designed to end secret tax hikes, the Tax Back Guarantee.
Under the current system, when your wages rise to keep pace with inflation, you can easily be pushed into a higher tax bracket. This process, known as "bracket creep," allows the government to collect higher tax revenues every year without ever having to pass a law. It penalises workers for simply trying to keep up with the rising cost of groceries, rent, and power bills.
It equally penalises businesses, too. Employers feel a genuine responsibility to increase wages so their workers can afford to live, yet these rising expenses drive up business overheads at a time when everyone is struggling to swim against a tide of high inflation fuelled by the Albanese Labor Government.
The Coalition will fix this by permanently indexing income tax thresholds to inflation. Starting in the 2028-29 financial year, we will index the bottom two income tax thresholds, a measure that will protect approximately 85 per cent of Australian income earners.
By year three, that relief would climb to $1,200 a year: providing a substantial, ongoing boost to household budgets when families need it most. From the 2031-32 financial year, we will extend this indexation to the top two thresholds, ensuring that no Australian is penalised with higher taxes simply because of inflation.
This is a fair, simple, and honest reform. It forces the government to live within its means rather than relying on inflation to balance the budget.
True economic recovery also requires us to scrap this new suite of toxic taxes that punish success and stifle investment. The Albanese Labor Government's approach is a direct assault on aspiration. It imposes higher taxes on housing, savings, investments, and small businesses.
This includes a 30 per cent tax rate on discretionary trusts, which acts as an inheritance tax by stealth on the family structures everyday Australians use to pass assets to their children.
This is why a Coalition government will repeal this entire suite of toxic taxes. We will reverse changes to negative gearing that restrict housing supply, undo capital gains tax hikes that discourage investment, and protect small businesses from punitive tax structures.
Furthermore, we will abolish the Safeguard Mechanism, removing a regulatory burden that inflates building material costs and drives local manufacturing offshore.
It is a basic economic reality that when you tax something, you get less of it.
If you tax savings, housing, investment, and small business, you get less of all of them. The Coalition wants more aspiration, not less, which is why we will back the hard-working Australians who want to get ahead.
By cutting these penalties on success, we are offering a positive, practical plan to restore home ownership, lower national debt, and secure Australia's economic future.
Photo source: Shutterstock
The Queensland Mining Awards brought together businesses and organisations from across the state’s minerals and energy resources sector, recognising the work being undertaken across an industry that plays a significant role in regional Queensland.
Now in its 12th year, the awards provided an opportunity for companies of all sizes, from mining operations to contractors and suppliers, to showcase their achievements and gain recognition from industry peers.
The awards covered a broad range of areas across the sector, including productivity, innovation, safety, collaboration, environmental initiatives, and community and staff programs.
Winners were announced at a Gala Presentation Dinner held as part of the Queensland Mining & Engineering Exhibition in Mackay in July, bringing industry representatives together to celebrate achievements across Queensland’s resources sector.
For businesses operating in regional communities, the awards provided a platform to highlight projects, initiatives and expertise beyond their individual operations. The program also created opportunities for businesses to build connections with industry representatives and decision-makers.
As a signature event of the Queensland Mining & Engineering Exhibition, described by organisers as Australia’s largest regional mining exhibition, the awards provided access to an audience of more than 600 industry decision-makers.
Entries were assessed through peer judging by senior leaders within the mining industry, allowing projects and initiatives to be considered by people with an understanding of the operational environment in which they were delivered.
The Queensland Resources Council was the major event partner, further connecting the awards with Queensland’s broader resources sector.
Beyond the awards themselves, finalists and winners gained opportunities for industry exposure, networking and business connections. The program also provided year-round marketing opportunities and national media coverage, helping to highlight achievements within Queensland’s resources industry.
For the regions, the awards offered an opportunity to recognise the businesses, workers and organisations contributing to an industry that extends well beyond mine sites. From innovative projects and safety initiatives to environmental, community and staff programs, the categories reflected the range of work taking place across Queensland’s resources sector.
The Queensland Mining Awards ultimately provided a forum to acknowledge that contribution, while giving businesses an opportunity to share their achievements with peers and a wider industry audience.
Congratulations to all the winners and finalists!
BUMA is known for delivering leading mining and rehabilitation services across Queensland. Beyond its operations, the company is also helping create opportunities in the regional communities where it operates.
With a history spanning more than 100 years and as part of the global BUMA International Group, the company works alongside its clients to deliver safe, efficient and sustainable mining solutions while maintaining a strong focus on supporting local communities.
One example is BUMA's partnership with PCYC Queensland's Braking the Cycle program in Blackwater.
The initiative helps address a challenge faced by many young people in the community: obtaining a driver's licence. Without access to a vehicle, a qualified supervisor or affordable driving lessons, completing the required supervised driving hours can be difficult, limiting access to employment, education and training opportunities.
BUMA began supporting the program in 2022 through financial sponsorship. As the partnership evolved, discussions with PCYC Blackwater identified a key barrier to the program's success: a shortage of volunteer driving mentors. In response, BUMA developed a practical workforce-led solution, encouraging employees to become trained mentors and volunteer their time to support local learner drivers.
Today, BUMA volunteers continue providing consistent one-on-one supervised driving sessions, helping participants build confidence, develop safe driving habits and work towards obtaining their driver's licence.
The BUMA Braking the Cycle driving mentoring initiative was recently recognised as a finalist in the Queensland Mining Awards, held as part of the Queensland Mining and Engineering Exhibition.
The recognition highlighted the role industry partnerships and employee volunteering can play in addressing practical challenges in regional communities.
For BUMA, the initiative reflects its commitment to creating opportunities and positive outcomes beyond the mine site, with employees using their time and skills to support the communities where they live and work.
Queensland’s construction industry is set to receive a boost, with 4,500 new apprenticeships to be supported through two programs aimed at addressing skills shortages across the state.
The Government has launched the new TradieStart program alongside an extension of the Small Business Apprenticeship Program, with the initiatives expected to support thousands of new construction apprentices.
TradieStart will support 2,500 apprenticeships across construction, plumbing, engineering and electrical trades.
Eligible small businesses taking on their first apprentice will receive a base payment of $10,000, with an additional $4,000 available where the apprentice is aged over 21.
A further $2,000 can be provided when an apprentice is hired from a priority cohort, including veterans, women, people with a disability and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Medium and large businesses and Group Training Organisations can also receive $10,000 for employing an apprentice from a priority cohort, with a further $4,000 available for apprentices aged over 21.
The Small Business Apprenticeship Program will also be extended to provide wage subsidies for a further 2,000 construction apprenticeships.
Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training Ros Bates said the programs would help address workforce shortages while supporting Queensland’s growing construction pipeline.
“We’re not just battling a skills crisis, we’re also fighting a Federal Labor Government which seems intent on making things worse,” Minister Bates said.
“Queensland construction workers have a golden era in front of them thanks to the Crisafulli Government’s ambitious infrastructure pipeline, and we’re delivering the help businesses need to get more hands on the tools.
“Steven Miles’ legacy was a construction skills shortage the size of a Suncorp Stadium crowd and his mates in Canberra don’t seem to understand that we need to back businesses and workers to get things built.
“While the Albanese Labor Government continues its cash grab by cutting support for apprentices, the Crisafulli Government is opening doors for Queenslanders keen to get on the tools and backing the businesses that put them on.”
Minister for Small and Family Business Steve Minnikin said the programs would provide additional opportunities for Queenslanders considering careers in the trades.
"The Small Business Apprenticeship Pilot Program proved incredibly popular, and by extending that initiative while also introducing TradieStart, we’re creating even more opportunities for Queenslanders to pursue a career in the trades and help build our State’s future," Minister Minnikin said.
"Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and these programs will give them the confidence and support they need to take on apprentices, creating jobs and strengthening communities across Queensland."
Construction Skills Queensland Chair Sue-Ann Fresneda said the new program would help employers overcome some of the barriers associated with taking on apprentices.
"Queensland's construction pipeline presents a generational opportunity for the state but delivering it will depend on our ability to attract, retain and develop the skilled workforce needed to support it," Ms Fresneda said.
"TradieStart helps employers invest in the next generation of tradies by reducing barriers to employing apprentices and creating more pathways into meaningful, long-term careers in construction.”
For Mackay and regional Queensland, the additional apprenticeship opportunities come as the construction sector continues to require a skilled workforce to support major infrastructure and development projects.
Small business owner and KALM Construct Director Calum Moore said financial incentives could make a significant difference to businesses considering taking on an apprentice.
“Taking on an apprentice is a big commitment as an employer and without incentives like TradieStart and the Small Business Apprentice Program a lot of small businesses wouldn’t be able to make it happen, financially,” Mr Moore said.
“For us, these incentives make taking on an apprentice and giving back to the industry possible and I’d recommend them to other construction business owners."
Janice Cash, Rental Department Manager at Blacks Real Estate. Photo source: Blacks Real Estate
With more than 30 years of experience in the real estate industry, Janice Cash continues to lead the rental division at Blacks Real Estate as Rental Department Manager.
Janice first entered the real estate industry in 1977 before later joining the Air Force and raising her three daughters. She has since built an extensive career in property management, developing strong knowledge of Mackay’s rental market and investment property sector.
At Blacks Real Estate, Janice leads a team of property managers focused on supporting landlords and tenants across the region.
The agency said her decades of industry experience continue to play an important role in helping investors navigate the property market while ensuring rental properties are professionally managed.
Operating from offices in Mackay and Dysart, Blacks Real Estate services residential, commercial and rural clients throughout the wider region.
Janice Cash can be contacted on 07 4963 2500.
My dog wakes up every morning convinced she is about to win lotto.
She is so excited about her numbers coming up and winning the big one, again, that she can’t stop wagging her tail, smooching up to me and following me around as I get up and start the day.
She wants to be right next to me, pressed up against my leg, when the announcement is made.
She also does stretches in front of me, front legs extended, warming up for what’s ahead.
For Millie, the daily lotto win is not a financial thing but her regular morning walk. It means more to her that anything and it is equivalent to winning lotto every day in terms of the joy it brings her.
The excitement and anticipation builds as I start getting dressed … runners, shorts, tracksuit top all indicating the numbers are falling into place. Then the final number slots into place when I go to the cupboard in the laundry where I keep the leash. Like anyone who has won lotto, she goes a bit over the top with her excitement … running around, yelping and generally giving it the big thumbs up.
Every now and then I have to break the news to her that she hasn’t won lotto this morning. Sometimes life gets in the way and there’s no time for the morning walk but I promise her there will be a walk later in the afternoon.
I’m not sure if Millie has a full understanding of the term “afternoon” but when I get home later in the day she is certainly excited about having the walk we didn’t get to do in the morning.
But more often than not her early morning anticipation of her numbers coming up Is correct and she’s won lotto again first thing in the day. What a way to start the day!
People who have made good real estate decisions, or maybe just struck it lucky, have felt a similar joy to Millie in terms of their numbers coming up.
Property owners in Sydney in recent years might not have got up in the morning and run around in a state of over-the-top excitement like Millie does but many would have thought their property purchase was a bit like winning lotto.
Properties bought for $800,000 were worth $2m in a matter of a few years. People who had bought many years ago for $200,000 or $300,000 found their family home was now worth two or three million dollars.
It was like winning lotto for most of them because it really was a matter of luck. They happened to live in Sydney, bought a house and, thanks to a strong economy, being in a city people want to live in and an immigration policy that created a big demand for housing, property values went through the roof.
The world of real estate has changed since the May Federal budget and property values in Sydney are plummeting. People’s houses are still worth a lot but not what they were. People who bought properties relatively recently are, in many cases, in negative territory with their properties worth less than they paid for them.
It’s like losing your lotto ticket.
People who have owned their property in Mackay have also done well, with properties more than doubling from around 2018 to 2026. The numbers aren’t as big as Sydney but there has still been a very handy win.
Every real estate market in the country has been affected by the tax changes but the situation in Mackay has been steady. There’s plenty of activity and there’s nothing like the panic being felt in Sydney.
Buyers are still buying and they are still applying for loans so while you might not be running around your loungeroom in excitement like Millie, it feels like there is room for optimism in Mackay.
New housing rules are set to give Queensland builders, homeowners and councils greater flexibility, with a new Queensland Housing Code and updated Modern Homes Standards due to take effect this month.
The reforms aim to simplify design and siting requirements for homes while reducing construction costs and providing greater consistency across local government areas. The new Queensland Housing Code will establish contemporary standards for detached houses and secondary dwellings covering building height, setbacks, privacy, car parking, site cover and private open space.
Councils will have a three-year transition period from September 1st to consider adopting the new Code, with guidance and implementation support to be provided.
Changes to the Modern Homes Standards are also expected to provide more flexibility around energy efficiency and accessibility requirements. These include a reduced five-star energy-efficiency requirement for homes under 50 square metres and a six-star requirement for raised-floor homes, including traditional Queenslander-style properties.
A new “ramp-ready” option will allow elevated homes to be designed so a compliant ramp can be installed when required, while greater flexibility will also be introduced for accessible bathroom designs.
The narrow-lot exemption from liveable housing requirements will also be extended until 30th September, 2029.
Housing Industry Association Queensland Executive Director Michael Roberts said the reforms would provide greater certainty for builders, designers and homeowners.
“Greater consistency means greater certainty for builders, designers and homeowners,” Mr Roberts said.
Master Builders Queensland Deputy CEO Michael Hopkins said the changes would help address costs and practical challenges experienced by the industry.
The Modern Homes Standards amendments are proposed to commence on 14th August 2026.
Photo source: Finch Hatton Progress Association (Facebook)
The Finch Hatton community came together on Sunday, August 9, for Echoes of the Gorge, a free community art event celebrating local creativity, culture and connection.
Organised by the Finch Hatton Progress Association as part of the Mackay Festival of Arts, the event transformed the Old Finch Hatton Railway Station into a creative hub featuring free workshops, local art and artisan markets, exhibitions and live music.
Led by local artists, volunteers, residents and businesses, the event offered activities for all ages, including painting, weaving, watercolour, felting, crochet and music workshops. Visitors could also view an exhibition by local artist Anneka Meeder, whose work explored mystical beings and the spirit of trees.
The event also encouraged visitors to explore other attractions throughout the Pioneer Valley, supporting local businesses and showcasing the region’s creative community.
Most people know that poor sleep leaves you tired and grumpy. Fewer people know it could be quietly breaking your heart. Literally.
Untreated sleep apnea places enormous cardiovascular stress on your body, night after night, without you knowing. Here is what is actually happening.
Each time breathing stops during an apnea event, oxygen levels in your blood drop. Your brain sounds the alarm, flooding your system with adrenaline, spiking your heart rate, and shooting your blood pressure through the roof. All while you remain largely asleep and blissfully unaware.
Now multiply that by thirty, fifty, or even a hundred times per night. Every. Single. Night.
Over time, that relentless cycle takes a serious toll. Here is what the evidence shows:
High Blood Pressure Sleep apnea is one of the most common secondary causes of hypertension. Repeated adrenaline surges keep blood pressure elevated not just overnight, but also throughout the following day. CPAP therapy has been shown to produce meaningful reductions, particularly in people whose numbers have been difficult to control with medication alone.
Atrial Fibrillation People with sleep apnea are significantly more likely to develop AFib, an irregular heart rhythm that raises the risk of stroke and heart attack. Those already living with AFib and untreated sleep apnea are far more likely to experience an event.
Stroke The risk of stroke is two to three times higher in people with untreated sleep apnea. This is driven by elevated blood pressure, clotting changes and irregular heart rhythms.
Inflammation and Arterial Disease Regular oxygen deprivation in the body can trigger systemic inflammation and oxidative stress, contributing to arterial plaque buildup and increasing the risk of coronary artery disease.
The sneaky part? Sleep apnea often goes undiagnosed for years. Watch for loud snoring, morning headaches, persistent daytime fatigue, or blood pressure issues that remain a struggle.
The good news is, CPAP therapy works fast and may help reduce blood pressure, lower the risk of atrial fibrillation and relief from excess stress on your heart.
For a free chat about your situation, visit your local CPAP Direct store or take the online sleep assessment at cpap.com.au. Hand on our heart, you’ll be glad you did!
Photo supplied by LLT Dog Rescue Inc
Trooper is a happy five-month-old puppy with a huge heart. He is fun, cheeky, adores people, loves playing with his toys and is always ready for his next adventure before settling in for some cuddles.
His training is progressing very well, and he needs a family who will continue helping him develop his doggy skills.
Trooper is a mixed-breed Kelpie/Staffie/Lab Cross and is expected to grow into a magnificent dog weighing approximately 25–30kg.
He is microchipped, fully vaccinated and comes with a discounted desexing voucher.
Trooper is now ready to find his forever home, where he can be loved for a lifetime.
To meet this adorable, cheeky boy, call his carer Cheryl on 0408 133 822 or email LLTAGSandDogRescue@gmail.com.
As more Australians embrace preventative health and take a proactive approach to their wellbeing, complementary wellness practices such as iridology are attracting growing interest. Rather than waiting until health concerns arise, many people are looking for ways to better understand their bodies and identify areas that may benefit from additional support.
Iridology is one such modality. It involves the examination of the iris, the coloured part of the eye along with the sclera (the white of the eye) and the pupil. Iridologists observe the colours, markings and structural characteristics of the eyes to gain insights that may assist in developing a personalised wellness plan.
While iridology is not used to diagnose or treat disease, practitioners believe the eyes can provide valuable information about an individual's overall state of health and wellbeing. By identifying areas of potential imbalance or constitutional weakness, iridology is used as a screening tool to help guide lifestyle, nutrition and wellness recommendations.
For many people, the appeal lies in its simplicity. The assessment is non-invasive, painless and provides a broad overview of an individual's health from a holistic perspective. Combined with a thorough discussion about lifestyle, nutrition and personal health goals, it can help people make more informed decisions about supporting their wellbeing.
According to Brad Baker of Healthy Life Essentials, one of the greatest benefits of iridology is the opportunity to understand the body's unique needs before more significant health concerns develop.
"Every person is different," says Brad. "Iridology helps identify areas that may need extra support, allowing people to make positive lifestyle choices that promote better health and vitality. It's about understanding your body and taking a proactive approach to your wellbeing."
Brad's passion for iridology stems from his own personal health journey. After facing significant health challenges many years ago, he discovered iridology while searching for answers. The experience provided a new perspective on his health and inspired him to pursue further study in holistic wellness.
Today, he works with clients who want to better understand their bodies and develop personalised wellness strategies that complement a healthy lifestyle.
"Helping people gain clarity about their health and empowering them to make positive changes is incredibly rewarding," he says. "Everyone deserves to feel healthy, energetic and able to enjoy life to its fullest."
That’s exactly what led Jay and Dave from Triple M to explore iridology. What began as an on-air conversation about wanting to improve their health and stop simply accepting "not feeling great" as the norm has evolved into a personalised wellness journey. Now affectionately known as the Health Busters, the duo are working through individualised wellness programs, discovering firsthand how greater insight into their health can support positive lifestyle changes.
Whether you're simply curious about complementary wellness or looking to gain a deeper understanding of your own health, iridology offers an interesting perspective that encourages greater awareness of the relationship between lifestyle, nutrition and overall wellbeing.
Brad Baker : Healthy Life Essentials
When sales slow down, many business owners assume they need more marketing.
More social media posts. More followers. More advertising. More website traffic.
But sometimes, getting more attention is not the answer. The real problem may be what happens after someone discovers your business.
For a service-based business, an enquiry may sit unanswered, a quote may never be followed up, or the booking process may feel too complicated.
For a product-based business, customers may abandon their cart, struggle to find important information, receive no reminder to complete their purchase, or buy once and never hear from the business again.
These small gaps can quietly cost you money.
Marketing creates interest and brings potential customers to your business, but there still needs to be a clear and easy path to purchase. Otherwise, you may be paying to attract people who disappear before they buy.
Before increasing your marketing budget, ask yourself:
Is it easy for customers to understand what we offer?
Can they quickly find pricing, product details or booking information?
Do we follow up on enquiries, quotes or abandoned carts?
Are we encouraging repeat purchases or bookings?
Is the next step clear on our website and social media?
Are we tracking where our best customers come from?
You may discover that your marketing is working better than you thought. People are showing interest, but they are slipping through the cracks before becoming paying customers.
This is something I regularly help small business owners identify during marketing coaching sessions. We review what is working, find where money or opportunities may be leaking, and create practical next steps to fix it.
Sometimes, improving one small part of the customer journey can generate more revenue than launching an entirely new campaign.
Ms Chadburn (Principal), Timothy (School Captain), Nick Grundy (P&C President) , Heidi (School Captain), Josie Dahtler (CBS Customer Relationship Manager), Maree Franettovich (CBS Deputy Chair) and Megan Soper (P&C Vice President). Photo supplied
Swayneville State School students are enjoying new outdoor play facilities thanks to a Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank Community Grant of more than $65,000.
The project was supported through its Community Engagement Program under the youth and education pillar, investing in initiatives that strengthen local organisations and create lasting benefits for the region.
Community Bank Sarina Board Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich said the project aligned closely with the organisation's commitment to supporting initiatives that build community capacity.
“Our Community Engagement Program allows us to invest in opportunities that support youth and education at every stage, from kindergarten and local schools through to higher education and apprenticeships,” Ms Franettovich said.
“This new playground will create lasting benefits for Swayneville State School, enriching the school community and encouraging play, active learning and nurturing childhood development.”
Outdoor play is recognised as a vital part of childhood development, allowing children to build physical skills as well as social and emotional wellbeing, while encouraging curiosity and learning.
Swayneville State School P&C President Nick Grundy said the new playground is an investment in the future of the school and its community.
“In our small community of just over 5,000 residents, projects like this can take years to achieve through fundraising alone,” Ms McCowen said.
“This community grant has allowed us to create a safe and welcoming area and we’re already seeing the benefits for our students.”
“Following Community Bank Sarina’s support for new lunchtime seating in recent years, this playground is another important addition that will enhance our outdoor learning environment for generations of students.”
Since opening in 2005, Community Bank Sarina has invested more than $5 million back into the greater Sarina region through community grants, sponsorships and scholarships that create lasting, positive community impact.
Jeff ‘Kookaburra’ Bradshaw from Mirani, near Mackay, with Wilmar sales agronomists Marc Tanizar and Drew McGilchrist. Jeff has gone back to Bio Dunder after several years of using granular fertiliser. Photo supplied
Jasmin Lewis
Customer Service & Logistics Supervisor, Wilmar AgServices
The fertiliser season is well under way and our Bio Dunder application contractors are operating at full capacity, with more than 100 trucks leaving Oonooie daily.
We know demand increases in September and October, so we're urging growers to confirm their fertiliser plans now to avoid a bottleneck at the back end of the season.
This will also help us to plan fertiliser deliveries and ensure application contractors are well-placed to get across all growing regions.
Another consideration is the importance of timing when it comes to crop nutrition. Following the harvester gives your ratoon crop the best start. Taking charge of your fertiliser plan also ensures you can get Bio Dunder contractors to your farm at your preferred time.
This year has seen significant fuel price fluctuations due to the conflict in the Middle East.
Diesel prices are projected to increase further throughout August, which may have a flow-on impact to fertiliser costs.
If you're weighing up your options, now is a good time to speak with our team about Bio Dunder pricing, blend options and the most suitable product for your farming operation.
Our sales agronomists Drew McGilchrist and Marc Tanizar can arrange soil testing or review results from other agronomic providers to help determine the right Bio Dunder blend for your soils and production goals.
You can also reach out to your Bio Dunder contractor to confirm your fertiliser plans. To find out more, call us on 1800 881 957. Alternatively, email AgServices@Wilmar.com.au
Cane farms are busy workplaces across many tasks, mindfulness of safety on farm and in haulout zones is critical. Photo credit: Kirili Lamb.
By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay
Across Mackay and district, the sugar industry is right in the middle of its most hectic and important time of year.
From early morning until late at night, cane farms, haulout roads, mill sidings and local roads are carrying the rhythm of the season. Harvesting is underway, crushing is in full swing, planting is happening.
For those who do not work directly in agriculture, it can be easy to see cane paddocks as part of the landscape. They are certainly that, and they help define Mackay’s identity. But at this time of year, they are also busy and productive workplaces. Every day, men and women are operating heavy machinery, harvesting cane, checking crops, fertilising fields, managing water, organising staff and making decisions that affect their families, their businesses and the wider regional economy.
The professionalism and commitment our growers bring to this peak period is astonishing. The work is complex and time-sensitive. When the crop is ready, growers and contractors must make the most of available weather windows and mill capacity. That can mean long hours and careful coordination across farms, harvesting groups, transport operations and milling operations.
When sugarcane is moving, much of Mackay’s regional economy is moving with it. Jobs and families across the supply chain are supported. Money generated by cane farming circulates through our towns, businesses, clubs and service organisations.
At the same time, the wider community can play an important role in helping this busy season run safely and smoothly. Cane harvesters, tractors, haul out bins and trucks are not obstacles: they are tools of trade. They are part of someone’s workplace. Just as we would slow down and take care around a road crew or a school zone, we ask people to show the same patience and awareness around farms and cane transport routes.
That means allowing extra time on rural roads, giving machinery a wide berth, obeying signs, avoiding private farm access and never assuming an operator has seen you. Large machines have blind spots, take time to turn, and may need to move slowly between jobs. A few minutes of patience from a motorist can make a real difference to the safety of everyone involved.
For farming families, safety is not just a regulation or a checklist. It is personal. Many farms are family businesses, employing family members, but they are also workplaces with responsibilities, risks and standards. Growers invest heavily in training, maintenance, safe systems and planning because they want everyone to come home safely at the end of the day.
There is also a great deal of skill behind what the community sees from the roadside. Harvesting a cane crop efficiently takes experience and precision. Planting sets up the next season and numerous seasons after that. Fertilising must be carefully matched to crop need, productivity and environmental responsibility. Irrigation requires planning, timing and an understanding of soil, weather and crop growth. These are modern farming businesses using knowledge, technology and practical experience every day.
Mackay’s sugarcane industry is working hard, and our growers are proud to continue producing a crop that has helped build this region for generations.
So, over the coming months, when you see sugarcane machinery on the road, lights in a paddock after dark, or irrigation running on a hot afternoon, remember that you are seeing a workplace in action. Behind every bin of cane is a team of people working carefully and purposefully. With patience, respect and awareness from the community, we can all help make this season safe, successful and something of which Mackay can be proud.
By Councillor Nathenea McNamara
Once a month, the Council Chamber becomes the public face of local government. Residents see the debate, the vote and the final decision.
What they don't see are the many hours of work that happen long before anyone takes a seat at the council table.
One of the biggest surprises for me since being elected has been just how much work happens behind the scenes. Council agendas can run to hundreds of pages, and every report represents hours of work by our officers before it even reaches councillors.
Our role is to read those reports, attend briefings, ask questions and understand the implications of every recommendation before making a decision.
Along the way, we also meet with residents, community groups and local businesses, visit project sites and listen to a wide range of perspectives. Quite often, people hold very different views on the same issue, and it's our responsibility to consider them all with an open mind.
One thing I've learned over the past two years is that asking questions isn't a sign of disagreement, it's a sign of diligence.
Sometimes a question confirms that a recommendation is the right one. Other times it uncovers additional information, explores another option or simply helps build a better understanding of the issue. Every question contributes to making a more informed decision.
The public meeting is important because it provides transparency and accountability, but in many ways it's the final chapter of a much longer process.
Good decisions are rarely made in a single meeting. They are built through preparation, listening, learning and thoughtful consideration.
As your councillor, I see my role as much more than casting a vote. It's about doing the homework, listening respectfully, asking the questions that matter and making decisions that are in the best interests of our region.
I'm still learning every day, and I don't expect to have all the answers. But I do promise to keep doing the work behind the scenes, to read the reports, ask the questions, listen to our community and make every decision with the long-term interests of our region in mind.
While much of that work happens quietly and out of public view, it's also some of the most important work we do. I hope that by sharing a little of what happens behind the scenes, it gives you greater confidence in the care, preparation and thought that goes into every decision made on behalf of our community.
If you've ever been curious about how council works, why not watch one of our monthly council meetings? You're always welcome to attend in person, or tune in via the live stream from home. It's a great opportunity to see the decision-making process firsthand and better understand the work that goes into shaping our region.
If you’d like to connect directly with your councillors in a relaxed, informal setting, council is running Let's Chat - Council Connect sessions in regional areas. The next session will be at Hay Point Hotel Motel on September 1 from 5pm.
Photo for illustrative purposes only. Photo source: Shutterstock
Mackay’s healthcare workforce has grown by 175 workers since November 2024, as more than 10,000 new staff have joined Queensland Health across the state.
The new Mackay recruits include 28 doctors, 109 nurses and midwives, and 38 allied health workers, with the additional staff delivering clinical care across the region.
The workforce growth forms part of the Government’s commitment to employ an additional 46,000 health workers by 2032.
More than 7000 of the 10,000-plus recruits are frontline workers, including nurses, midwives, paramedics, doctors and allied health professionals. A further 2800 staff have joined non-clinical and clinical support roles.
Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls said the Government’s $35.5 billion Health Budget was helping address workforce pressures.
“Employing more health professionals is just one part of the solution and we will be doing all we can to attract and retain doctors, nurses, midwives, ambulance officers, allied health workers and other health workers to Queensland Health, especially to the areas they are needed most," Minister Nicholls said.
“This milestone marks a significant step toward the Government delivering the 46,000 additional health workers needed by 2032, to meet the needs of Queensland’s growing and ageing population.”
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the growth would benefit local families.
“Mackay deserves quality healthcare close to home, and growing our frontline workforce is an important step towards making that happen," Mr Dalton said.
Member for Mirani Glen Kelly said strengthening the regional workforce remained important for communities relying on Mackay Base Hospital.
"Communities across Walkerston, Sarina and the Pioneer Valley rely on Mackay Base Hospital to provide quality healthcare when they need it most," Mr Kelly said.
Photo source: Shutterstock
Mackay Regional Council has raised concerns about proposed changes to Australia’s disaster recovery funding arrangements, which would alter how disaster recovery costs are shared between the Australian Government and state and territory governments.
The Australian Government is proposing a new Disaster Recovery Funding Framework that would establish an equal 50/50 funding model between the Commonwealth and state and territory governments, replacing the existing Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), under which the Commonwealth can reimburse states and territories for up to 75 per cent of eligible disaster assistance costs.
The Government says the proposed framework would simplify funding, help support reach affected communities sooner and increase investment in disaster resilience. Consultation with states, territories and local government is currently underway, with the new framework to replace the existing arrangements once agreed.
Queensland councils have raised concerns about the potential financial impact of the changes, particularly in disaster-prone regional areas where significant costs can be incurred repairing roads, bridges, drainage and other public infrastructure following cyclones, floods and severe storms.
Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said the proposed changes could have consequences for communities across the region.
“This is not simply another political argument. The proposed changes could have serious consequences for regional Queensland councils and communities like ours.
Mayor Williamson said Queensland could have received more than $700 million less in disaster assistance had the proposed arrangements applied last year.
“Had these changes applied to disaster funding last year, Queensland could have received more than $700 million less in disaster assistance.”
Queensland councils have also raised concerns about a reported $2.7 million disaster activation threshold, arguing it could affect access to Commonwealth assistance. The figure has been cited by the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ), which is campaigning against the proposed changes.
Mayor Williamson said the proposed changes could ultimately place greater pressure on councils and ratepayers.
“Of even greater concern is the finer detail.
“The message being sent to councils appears to be simple: increase rates or go without.
“For councils like ours, that would mean local ratepayers carrying almost the entire cost of replacing damaged public infrastructure following declared disasters such as cyclones, floods, bushfires and severe storms.”
The Australian Government says the proposed framework would introduce a simpler threshold for accessing disaster funding, while a new Resilient Infrastructure Scheme would provide funding of up to 15 per cent, cost-shared with jurisdictions, to help communities build back better following disasters.
The LGAQ has been advocating against the proposed reduction in the Commonwealth’s contribution, with the organisation preparing a statewide submission opposing the changes. The submission is due to be lodged with the National Emergency Management Authority on August 19.
Mackay is also continuing to invest in disaster resilience, with about $19.3 million being spent on upgrades to the Pioneer River Levee system. The project includes a new levee wall, stormwater upgrades and road reconstruction, with funding from the Australian Government and Mackay Regional Council.
Mayor Williamson said regional communities should not be left to shoulder the cost of disaster recovery alone.
“Regional communities already face higher costs, greater distances and fewer resources. They should not also be expected to fund the recovery of essential public infrastructure with little support from the level of government collecting the overwhelming majority of the nation’s taxes.
“This proposal must be reconsidered.”
Mackay artist Logan Ivory has claimed first place in the QATSIF Creative Arts Competition for the second consecutive year. Photos supplied
Mackay teenager Logan Ivory has taken out first place in the QATSIF Creative Arts Competition for the second consecutive year. The Year 8 Catherine McAuley Catholic College (CMC) student was the only Mackay student to place in this year’s competition, which attracted 259 entries. Logan entered his artwork through CMC, with the school later presenting him with his award.
The annual competition, now in its ninth year, is hosted by QATSIF, with Griffith University sponsoring the 2026 event. Entries were judged on overall artistry, the artist’s description and each artwork’s connection to the 2026 Reconciliation Week or NAIDOC themes.
For Logan, the award follows years of developing his artistic craft and a style distinctly his own.
His art teacher, Kylie Ferriday, said Logan had remained committed to creating work that reflected his own perspective rather than conforming to popular or commercial trends.
“What has always made Logan remarkable as an artist is his unwavering commitment to authenticity. He has never felt the need to conform to what is popular, fashionable or commercially pleasing. Instead, he has developed a visual language that is unmistakably his own — using imagery to communicate thoughts, emotions and experiences that words alone cannot always capture,” Kylie said.
“As an autistic Indigenous teenager navigating today’s world, Logan brings a perspective to his work that is deeply personal. Art has become a powerful way for him to explore, process and communicate his experiences — and in doing so, his work has the potential to reach far beyond himself.”
The inspiration for his latest artwork began with a poem written by Logan titled I AM, which reflects on his thoughts, emotions, relationships and perspectives on life and death.
“I am Tall and smart,
I wonder if space is infinite.
I hear my thoughts.
I see my imagination.
I want peace.”
The poem goes on to explore Logan’s thoughts about his family, his own experiences, death, the future and his hope of starting again.
Logan says he was “completely blown away and in disbelief” after learning he had won the state award for a second consecutive year, and added that he was “humbled and extremely grateful for the opportunities QATSIF and Griffith University have created for young Indigenous artists.”
His mother, Corissa Ivory, said the family was “very proud” of Logan’s achievement.
“I’m excited to announce that Logan has won 1st place once again 2nd year in a row for the QATSIF Art competition.”
“We are all very proud of him,” she said.
QATSIF said artworks from the competition would be showcased through its statewide graduation ceremonies, QATSIF Board Room wall, 2026 Annual Report and other media outlets.
For Kylie Ferriday, Logan’s second consecutive state win represents years of dedication, courage and experimentation, as well as his commitment to developing his own artistic voice.
“As his art teacher and someone who has watched his artistic voice develop over many years, I could not be prouder,” she said.
Local organisations, volunteers and service providers came together at Queens Park for Together for Shelter last Thursday, connecting vulnerable community members with support, services and practical assistance during Homelessness Week. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Dozens of local organisations united at Queens Park last week as CASA Mackay's annual Together for Shelter event returned, bringing essential services, support and connection to some of the region's most vulnerable residents.
Held during Homelessness Week for the first time, the event welcomed close to 40 organisations and service providers offering everything from housing and health advice to meals, mental health support, veterinary care and practical assistancefor families, young people, pets and those experiencing hardship.
The event has grown significantly in recent years, prompting organisers to move from CQUniversity to the larger Queens Park venue and rebrand the event from the Homeless Expo to Together for Shelter.
CASA Mackay General Manager Will Stafford said the day was about ensuring people knew support was available when they needed it.
"We're really trying to build a community of community services. People might access one service, but they often need support in a few different areas, so having strong relationships between organisations translates into a better experience for clients," Mr Stafford said.
The CASA representative said rising living costs and increasing housing pressures had highlighted the importance of ensuring support services were both visible and accessible.
"We're seeing increasing cost-of-living pressures and rising rents, and we need to remove the stigma around asking for help. We want people to know the community cares and that support is available," he said.
"What keeps us up at night isn't the hard work we do during the day. It's the fear that there are people out there who think services like ours are for someone else, or that they don't know support is available."
Among the organisations in attendance was the Mackay Salvation Army, which emphasised the importance of collaboration between local support services.
"Together for Shelter is a great reminder that none of us can meet the needs of our community on our own," representative David Dobbie said.
"At The Salvation Army, we're really grateful to stand alongside so many other local organisations as we support people. When we work together, we can offer practical help, compassion and hope, and hopefully remind people that they're not alone."
Mackay Pet Rescue Inc volunteers and Northern Beaches Veterinary Hospital representatives also joined the event to provide health checks for furry friends and offer free support and essential supplies for pets belonging to people experiencing hardship.
St Patrick's College students and staff were also on hand, showcasing the school's Brekky Van initiative.
"This is a representation of what our Brekky Van does every Wednesday and Friday morning in partnership with Orange Sky," assistant principal Andrea Crocker said.
"We provide breakfast for people in our community who need a hot, nourishing meal."
Year 11 St Patrick's College student Camilla Cicchelli said the experience had been rewarding.
"We're here today to help our community in any way we can," she said.
"It's been a fantastic day, we've met lots of wonderful people, and hopefully we've been able to help plenty of people with a nice meal as well."
Organisations providing housing support, first aid, free haircuts, employment assistance, healthcare services, community support, pet supplies and street chaplaincy services were among those in attendance, offering a broad range of practical assistance to people across the5e region.
With housing affordability and cost-of-living pressures continuing to challenge many households, the event demonstrated the importance of collaboration between local organisations and the role these services play in supporting the community.
Mackay’s Vietnam veterans will gather at Jubilee Park on August 18th to mark 60 years since the Battle of Long Tan and remember those who served and sacrificed during the Vietnam War. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Sixty years after the Battle of Long Tan, Mackay’s Vietnam veterans will gather at Jubilee Park to remember those who served, those who were wounded and those who never returned home.
Vietnam Veterans Day in Mackay will be held on Tuesday 18th August from 5pm, marking the 60th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan where17 Australians were killed and 26 wounded.
For Legacy Mackay President and Vietnam veteran Les Palmer, the day carries great significance.
Les was 22 when he went to Vietnam in November 1969, just one month after marrying his wife. His service came through compulsory national service, after he had completed an apprenticeship at the Daily Mercury.
While the Battle of Long Tan is central to Vietnam Veterans Day, Les said the occasion also provided an opportunity to remember veterans who were lost in other battles and incidents throughout the war.
He was wounded during a separate incident involving his battalion, in which nine were killed and 16 wounded.
“Everybody who served, was impacted in some sort of way, even if you didn't get wounded,” he said.
Les said recognition of Vietnam veterans had also changed over the decades, with greater acknowledgement of the experiences and sacrifices of those who returned home.
The annual ceremony will include a parade, the Australian and New Zealand national anthems, wreath-laying and the laying of poppies at the memorial. Members of the public are welcome to attend.
This year, a naval cadet commanding officer will deliver the guest address, with the local veterans group keen to provide an opportunity for younger members of the Australian Defence Force to take part.
For Les Palmer, the enduring friendships formed during military service are among the memories that remain strongest.
“Out there you made a lot of mates, and the memories you make with them are the main thing that you take with you,” he said.
Decades after the war, reunions continue to bring former servicemen together.
Les also remembers the outlook he had as a young man preparing to serve.
“I was actually keen to go because Dad had served in World War 2 and I thought, well, if he can do it, so can I,” he said.
He acknowledged his father understood the realities of war more deeply than he did at the time.
“He wasn't happy, because he knew what happened in wars, and I was just young and thought I was bulletproof.”
As the number of Vietnam veterans continues to decline, Les said the Legacy Mackay Veterans Support Group was also looking towards the future of encouraging younger veterans to become involved.
“What we really need now are Afghanistan, Iraq, East Timor, all types of servicemen to come together, even those that are young, and carry the legacy,” he said.
For those attending Vietnam Veterans Day, the ceremony will provide an opportunity to pause and remember not only the events of Long Tan, but the many Australians whose lives were lost, reshaped and forever changed by the Vietnam War.
Hundreds of Mackay locals came together for the 2026 BMA CQ Rescue Fun Run. Photo credit: Coffee and Hobbs Photography
Hundreds of Mackay residents laced up their runners, volunteered their time and cheered from the sidelines as the community came together in support of the annual BMA CQ Rescue Fun Run earlier this month.
Held at Iluka Park last Sunday 2nd August, the event saw participants tackle 5km, 7.78km and 10km courses along the Bluewater Trail, with every registration and donation helping to keep the region's community-funded rescue helicopter in the air.
Beyond the runners, the success of the event relied on a dedicated team of volunteers, sponsors and supporters who helped with everything from course setup and water stations to merchandise sales and event coordination.
BMA CQ Rescue thanked everyone who played a part in making the morning such a success.
"Thank you to every single person who laced up their runners, volunteered their time, cheered from the sidelines, or helped make the day such a success," the organisation said.
"Your support helps keep our community-funded rescue helicopter flying for those who need it most."
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli was in Mackay on Tuesday to unveil the long-awaited Mackay Base Hospital master plan, promising major upgrades to services, capacity and parking set to be delivered by 2030. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli was in Mackay on Tuesday 11th August to unveil a long-awaited master plan for the Mackay Base Hospital, describing the future facility as “world-class”.
The announcement comes after years of community concern around hospital capacity, parking and pressure on services, with local politicians describing the plan as a significant step forward for the growing region.
For many Mackay residents, the announcement was long-awaited, with locals now looking to see the plans translate into action.
After years of community concern surrounding capacity, car parking and pressure on services, a long-awaited master plan for Mackay Base Hospital has been unveiled.
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli was in Mackay on Tuesday 11th August, visiting the hospital to announce the release of the plan, which outlines the next stage of a major expansion, with Mr Crisafulli describing the planned facility as “world-class”.
Stage 1 of the expansion is set to deliver at least 128 new overnight beds, expanded emergency, maternity, birthing, surgical, endoscopy, neonatal and paediatric services, a new Mackay Birth Centre, more than 1,000 new car parks and a rooftop helipad.
Main construction works are scheduled to commence in 2027, with all Stage 1 packages now expected to be delivered by 2030.
Mr Crisafulli said the master plan provided a long-term blueprint for the hospital as the region continues to grow. He also said the government had increased the Queensland Health workforce in the Mackay region by 270 people since coming to government.
“Today is about a blueprint for the future. It’s about saying to the people in Mackay that you do deserve a world-class facility, staffed by world-class clinicians,” he said.
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the master plan was the next step in addressing the region’s hospital needs.
“We know the car parking has been an issue. Many, many people come to my office and speak to me about those issues. We’re going to fix that,” he said.
“We’ve now got the plan, we’re going to move forward.”
Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm said the expanded services would benefit families across the Greater Whitsunday region, including those travelling to Mackay for healthcare.
“If you’re a young mum or you’re contemplating starting a family, you deserve a world-class maternity service,” Ms Camm said.
She also highlighted the recommissioning of the hospital’s on-site helipad, which is intended to restore direct helicopter transfers for critically ill and injured patients.
“We know, in an emergency, that those seconds count,” she said.
Health Minister Tim Nicholls said the master plan followed a review of the previous expansion program and consultation with the hospital and health service board, clinicians and staff.
“Our recommendation is to replan. And so we have replanned, and we have taken the time to replan, in consultation with the hospital and health service board, and with the clinicians and with the staff here at the hospital,” Mr Nicholls said.
While the announcement was taking place, a local woman who had been a patient at the hospital also shared her experience after approaching the visiting politicians. After spending the previous 10 days in and out of the hospital, she said she had observed the pressure on staff.
“The staff are so hammered and so flat out. They are giving care from the heart, but you can see the anguish in their face when they just don’t have time to do something,” she said.
“You’ve got to start asking people on the ground what they need.”
With the master plan now released, the focus shifts to its delivery, with main construction works scheduled to commence in 2027 and Stage 1 packages expected to be delivered by 2030.
Whether you're arriving for a tropical holiday, heading out to explore the islands or travelling to and from the region, Whitsunday Transit is helping locals and visitors stay connected every step of the way.
As the Whitsundays' leading transport provider, Whitsunday Transit operates a fleet of modern, air-conditioned buses and coaches, meeting all incoming and departing flights at Whitsunday Coast Airport in Proserpine. Guests are then transported to a variety of destinations and accommodation providers throughout Airlie Beach and the surrounding area.
The service also caters to passengers travelling by rail, with vehicles meeting all arriving and departing Queensland Rail services at Proserpine.
For those eager to experience some of the region's most iconic attractions, Whitsunday Transit provides convenient connections to the Whitsunday Islands, the Great Barrier Reef and the world-famous Whitehaven Beach, with regular services stopping at the Cruise Whitsundays Maritime Terminal at the Port of Airlie.
In addition to tourism services, the company offers school transfers and charter services, with a range of vehicles available to accommodate groups of all sizes.
Recognised as a Queensland Good to Go business, Whitsunday Transit continues to play an important role in helping people discover everything the region has to offer.
From the moment visitors arrive to the time they head home, the team is ready to welcome passengers aboard and connect them with the beauty of the Whitsundays.
For more information, visit whitsundaytransit.com.au
Some places are too good to stay secret, even if the locals wish they could.
Just 45 minutes north of Airlie Beach, at the end of one of the Whitsundays' most scenic coastal drives, sits Dingo Beach Hotel – the kind of old-school Queensland pub that reminds you why the best discoveries are often found off the beaten track.
With absolute beachfront views, an easy-going atmosphere and genuine North Queensland hospitality, it's the sort of place where lunch has a habit of turning into an afternoon, and an afternoon can easily become a weekend away.
Since new owners took the reins in March 2025, the much-loved local icon has undergone a thoughtful refresh, with improvements designed to make the venue even more comfortable and welcoming while preserving everything that makes it special. It's still the relaxed coastal pub locals love – just better than ever.
Whether you're chasing a hearty pub meal, a cold beer overlooking the Coral Sea or simply somewhere to slow down for a while, Dingo Beach Hotel delivers the kind of authentic Queensland experience that'sbecoming harder to find. It's pet-friendly, offers comfortable motel-style accommodation if you decide to stay the night, and even has a Thirsty Camel bottle shop on site, making it a handy stop for travellers and boaties stocking up for their next adventure.
If you're visiting the Whitsundays and want to experience more than the usual tourist trail, this hidden gem is well worth the detour. Enjoy live music every Saturday and Sunday, and keep an eye on the Dingo Beach Hotel Facebook page for upcoming gigs, events and what's happening next.
To plan your visit, head to dingobeachhotel.com.au
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Images supplied by Mackay Pet Rescue Inc
While kittens often capture the spotlight, older cats have just as much love to give and are often overlooked when it comes to finding a forever home.
Mackay Pet Rescue is encouraging locals to consider adopting a mature feline, highlighting the many benefits that come with welcoming an older cat into the family. Unlike kittens, senior cats have already developed their personalities, making it easier for adopters to find a companion that suits their lifestyle. They are often calmer, well-socialised and happy to settle into a comfortable routine.
Among the rescue's current residents looking for loving homes are Elodie, Violet and Aggie, three beautiful older cats with plenty of affection to share.
The rescue team also attended the Together for Shelter Expo at Queens Park this Thursday from 10am to 1pm. Following the success of last year's event, Mackay Pet Rescue once again offered free items to visitors, while a veterinarian was on site providing health checks and vaccinations.
A representative from Zoetis was also in attendance, contributing giveaways and information, while support from the Mackay Community Foundation helped make the day possible through a community grant and donated supplies from local businesses.
For these deserving older cats, a second chance could make all the difference.
Contact Mackay Pet Rescue Inc for more information
If you find yourself in the mood for some bad news, if you really want a solid dose of negativity, if you think things are humming along a bit too nicely and you want to suck the life out of it and sink into a state of overwhelming negativity … the easiest thing to do is turn on the TV news.
The bad news could be any number of things; crime is a good one, particularly violent crime against innocent people. Let it get in your head and your depressed mood is set up for the day.
The cost of living is another beauty. Electricity costs, petrol, interest rates, inflation … turn on the morning news and you can hear all about it and set yourself up for the day.
The bad news for home owners has all been about how the property market is collapsing. It’s a national story and there is no doubt that some cities are being smashed with low clearance rates at auction and falling prices. Sydney is suffering the most.
It is definitely true that since the Federal Government’s decision to ban negative gearing on housing other than brand new builds and to increase capital gains tax, there has been a change to property markets around the country.
Investors are running for the hills in Sydney and showing a serious lack of interest in Melbourne and Brisbane.
The Government’s idea was to make property more affordable for first home buyers but in those big cities the first home buyers seem to be holding off as the prices fall. Meanwhile, home owners in those cities are stressed as they see the value of their properties fall. Strangely, most people don’t want the value of their home to fall.
But the national news coverage doesn’t tell you anything about Mackay. What are buyers doing here?
One good way of assessing that is to look at the number of loan applications and submissions from mortgage brokers to banks for those loans.
Gardian CEO Ben Phillips was until recently in charge of Gardian Finance’s Mortgage Choice franchise and in his new CEO role he obviously continues to have his finger on that pulse.
He spoke with Gardian real estate’s sales team the other day to tell us that whatever we might be hearing about the real estate situation around the country, it is a different story here.
The big indicator is the number of people in Mackay who are applying for loans to buy properties here.
The Gardian Finance/Mortgage Choice franchise is one of the most successful in the country and the number of loan applications in a particular month or quarter gives a good indication of the number of buyers in our market.
Gardian Finance’s Mortgage Choice franchise is 14th in the country for the dollar value of settlements (we are competing against much higher prices in southern cities) and is fourth in Australia for the number of submissions for loan approvals.
So current loan applications through Gardian finance tell us something about the number of buyers out there.
Ben said that in the month of July, we had the fourth-highest number of loan submissions in 26 years of business. That’s not bad in a supposed property downturn.
“We are incredibly busy with loan applications from Mackay buyers,” Ben told me.
“It shows that you can listen to the national news but Mackay seems to run differently to the capital cities and the settlement and loan submission numbers show that Mackay is getting on with it and people want to buy properties
“This is the best year we have had in terms of loan submissions and July was one of our strongest months ever.”
“Ninety-two per cent of the loan submissions are for owner-occupiers who want to put down roots in Mackay, people who love this place and feel confident about its future.”
You won’t hear about that on the national news but it’s worth knowing.
Roy Brunke has joined Blacks Real Estate as a Sales Consultant. Photo source: Blacks Real Estate
Roy Brunke has joined Blacks Real Estate as a Sales Consultant, bringing decades of experience in commercial print and marketing to the Mackay property industry.
Roy recently commenced his new role with the agency and is set to assist clients across the region with the sale of residential and commercial properties.
His background in print and marketing is expected to provide valuable insight for vendors looking to effectively present and promote their properties in a competitive market.
Blacks Real Estate said Roy’s extensive experience working with businesses and clients throughout his career would be an asset to the team and future clients alike.
Operating from offices in Mackay and Dysart, Blacks Real Estate services residential, commercial, rural and industrial clients across the wider region.
(L-R) Previous Community Bank Sarina scholarship recipients and Sarina State High School students Wyatt, Makayli and Makylha attend a Community Bank Sarina hosted business networking event at Sarina Art Gallery. Photo supplied
Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank is calling on current Year 10 students at Sarina State High School (SSHS) to apply for the 2027 Senior Schooling Scholarships, an opportunity that has already supported many local students to pursue their career goals.
From future teachers to an aspiring nurse and tradesperson, previous recipients are utilising their scholarships to support their education, develop new skills and build connections within their community.
2026 scholarship recipients and current Grade 11 students Makayli Moyle and Makylha Bourke are both working towards careers in education.
Makayli said the scholarship has helped her stay focused on her studies and has reduced financial pressure.
“After finishing school, I plan to attend university and study a Bachelor of Education to become a primary school teacher. I hope to build a career where I can make a positive difference in children's lives by helping them learn, grow, and enjoy school,” Ms Moyle said.
Fellow recipient Makylha Bourke said the scholarship had supported both her studies and her connection with the wider community, as she works towards becoming a Physical Education Teacher. She is currently studying a Bachelor of Education (Primary) through the CQUniversity SUN (Start Uni Now) Program.
“This scholarship has helped me over the past year with financial assistance for my extra school curricula, as well as helping me get to know the wider Sarina community,” Ms Bourke said.
2025 recipient Wyatt McKewen has utilised his scholarship to obtain a drone licence, purchase tools for his trade and undertake Certificate II Engineering Pathways studies, while also securing multiple apprenticeship interviews and joining the Sarina Rural Skills Centre Committee.
Fellow 2025 scholarship recipient Katie Stevenson is preparing for a career in nursing, having attended the James Cook University Heroes in Health program, where students gain insight into what it’s like to work across multiple health care disciplines.
Applications are now open for two $2,000 scholarships, available for SSHS students entering Year 11 in 2027.
These scholarships are supported through the Community Bank Sarina Community Engagement Program under the youth and education pillar, helping improve youth connectedness, enhance educational opportunities and build community leadership skills.
Community Bank Sarina Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich said the scholarships are an investment in the next generation of local leaders.
"We’ve partnered with SSHS since 2017 to support more than 20 students with scholarships, encouraging them to work towards their careers and to develop the confidence and skills that will support them beyond school."
Ms Franettovich said seeing past recipients thrive demonstrated the lasting impact of the scholarship program.
"We're proud of what our scholarship recipients are achieving and encourage Year 10 SSHS students to apply. You don't need to have the highest grades, we're looking for well rounded young people who are committed to their education and their community."
Applications for the 2027 Community Bank Sarina SSHS Senior Scholarships close on 31 August 2026. To request an application pack, email executive@sarinacommunity.com.au.
Students at Cummins South Pacific (in Paget) as part of their heavy mechanical experience. Photo source: Mackay Engineering College
The wheels are already turning for a group of Sarina State High School students, who have been getting a taste of the engineering industry through the Try Trade program at Mackay Engineering College.
Students recently visited Cummins and Autocorner, where they gained valuable hands-on experience in the automotive and mechanical sectors.
A representative from Sarina State High School praised the students' enthusiasm, strong work ethic and willingness to learn, while thanking the teams at Cummins and Autocorner for supporting the valuable industry experience.
“Opportunities like these help students explore future career pathways and develop practical skills that will benefit them well beyond the classroom,” the school stated.
“A huge thank you to the teams at Cummins and Autocorner for supporting our students and providing such valuable industry experiences.
"We're proud of everything our students have achieved – keep up the great work!”
Sarina will celebrate a significant milestone later this month with a community event recognising more than 250 years of combined history, creativity and local connection.
Sarina Community Arts & Crafts will host a triple birthday celebration on Saturday 29th August, marking 30 years of Sarina Arts & Crafts, 100 years of the Mt Pelion State School Building, and more than 120 years of the Old Sarina Courthouse and Watch House.
The celebration will be held at Railway Square, Field of Dreams, Sarina, from 9am, with official ceremonies, cake cutting and formalities taking place from 10.30am.
The event will celebrate the people, places and stories that have helped shape Sarina, with the volunteer-run Sarina Community Arts & Crafts group continuing to provide a space for local makers to share their creations.
Community members are invited to attend, reflect on Sarina’s rich history and enjoy a day of connection, creativity and celebration.
What: Sarina’s 250-Year Triple Birthday Celebration
When: Saturday 29th August, from 9am
Where: Railway Square, Field of Dreams, Sarina
Image source: Shutterstock
The Queensland Government has taken the next step in its review of the State's Financial Provisioning Scheme, releasing the Terms of Reference that will guide an assessment of whether the framework is effectively supporting both environmental rehabilitation and future investment in the resources sector.
The review was announced in Mackay during the Queensland Mining & Engineering Expo on Wednesday, 22nd July, with the Government saying it aims to ensure Queensland remains competitive as global demand for critical minerals continues to grow.
The Financial Provisioning Scheme requires resource companies to provide financial security, pay annual contributions to a central fund, or both, to cover rehabilitation costs if mining operations are abandoned or environmental obligations are not met.
The review will examine whether the scheme strikes the right balance between managing financial risk while encouraging investment, particularly from smaller explorers, mid-tier companies and emerging operators.
Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dale Last said the review was progressing in response to concerns raised by industry.
"The Financial Provisioning Scheme has been one of the top three issues raised with me by smaller explorers and operators. We listened to our miners, we committed to a review last month and we're getting on with delivering it," Mr Last said.
"The world is entering a new era of resources growth, and the Government recognises the need for Queensland to have the most appropriate policy settings to capitalise.
"Our vision is to build on Queensland's reputation as a global resources leader and this review will ensure we are promoting new investment while balancing environmental obligations.
"We will work closely with industry as the review progresses to make sure we deliver the right settings for future development."
The Terms of Reference outline a broad assessment of the scheme's performance, Queensland's competitiveness with other jurisdictions, the treatment of small and mid-tier operators, investment settings and risk classification rules.
Consultation on the review is expected to open in September, with stakeholders invited to provide feedback on potential improvements to the scheme.
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