With an estimated 6,000 homeless defence personnel in Australia, the issue of veteran homelessness is a pressing concern that demands attention.
Shockingly, only 1.1% of veterans access homeless support services, compared to 3.4% of the general population. Current and former service personnel experience homelessness at a rate three times higher than the broader population, highlighting a significant issue that most are unaware of.
16-year-old cadet, Murray Macgroarty has taken on the mission to raise awareness and tackle the problem of defence veterans' homelessness head-on. His approach involves connecting resources, services and funds to veterans through a coordinated and comprehensive strategy.
‘Just Keep Marching’ symbolises the beginning of Murray's focused efforts to combat this pressing issue.
Driven by a deep desire to give back, Murray's inspiration has been fuelled by conversations with current serving members, diggers, community leaders such as Mayor Greg Williamson and the active support of organisations like the Mackay RSL and Finch Hatton RSL Sub Branches. Together, they aim to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who have sacrificed so much in defence of our country.
“There’s not a lot of recognition for veterans’ homelessness,” Murray remarked.
“Those guys wouldn’t think twice about stepping in front of a bullet for us - in the defence of our country, so we should have a solid think about how we can give back to them.”
To support the cause, Murray will be embarking on a 382-kilometer march around the Blue Water Trail with former veterans, locals and supporters, to not only raise awareness, but to call to action a solution in light of defence veterans' homelessness.
By coming along, or joining Murray on his march, individuals can play a crucial role in making a difference in the lives of veterans who have served our country with dedication and sacrifice. It's time to continue the march from where our veterans left off, ensuring that they receive the support and care they deserve.
There is a $5 admission fee that will go directly towards veterans in need. Those who are interested in participating are encouraged to come along and support the cause and what better way to start than by coming together over a home baked afternoon tea, symbolising the unity and camaraderie that defines our country’s legacy.

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16-year-old Murray Macgroarty will march an estimated 382-kilometers to raise awareness for veterans’ homelessness. Photos credit: Hannah McNamara

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Following the announcement of the Mackay Base Hospital expansion project and subsequent relocation of the Ronald McDonald Family Room in Mackay, Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) North Australia are proud to announce a major extension for their care of sick and injured children in the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsundays region.
The Charity has introduced the launch of the RMHC Hospitality Cart, operating at the Mackay Base Hospital to continue servicing families with sick and injured children when they need it most.
The RMHC Hospitality Cart delivers care items at no cost to sick or injured children and their families in the Children’s Wards including the Paediatric Ward, Paediatric Oncology Day Unit, Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), and more.
Samantha Baker, Community Engagement Executive for RMHC Mackay and the Whitsundays said, “we have an amazing team of volunteers every week and it’s filled by kind donations from the community as well as our three amazing sponsors on board, which really helps with purchasing all the items and making sure it’s fully stocked every single day.
“Any family member that has a child receiving treatment here can get items off the cart, it’s not just for the patient, but also for the family and siblings as well,” Samantha added.
“We have so many amazing toys, snacks and meals for families at no cost at all so that just takes a massive financial burden off them and gives them and their kids some things to do.”
In the last 12 months, over 4,730 families have been supported by the RMHC Hospitality Carts, with over 15,290 care items supplied.
Volunteers say that “the children’s faces light up like Christmas when they see the toys.”

Dr. Charles Pain, Chief Medical Officer, Mackay Base Hospital with Samantha Baker, Community Engagement Executive for RMHC Mackay
RMHC North Australia Hospitality Cart Volunteers Sue Bartlett and Sue Trask
Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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In the lead up to ANZAC Day, RSL Queensland launched its ‘Postcards of Honour’ initiative for the second year, encouraging Queensland’s youngest generation to express their personal connection to ANZAC Day through writing and illustrations.

Secretary of the Walkerston/Pleystowe RSL Sub Branch, Dan Peters paid St Johns Catholic Primary School a visit to share his stories and insights on ANZAC day while educating the students by answering their questions and teaching them about the importance of ANZAC Day.

Mr Peters said, “This activity of ‘Postcards of Honour’ gives the kids an insight on what it’s like to write to somebody during the War as well as what the families went through back then.

“I think it’s important that we keep reminding these younger generations of what these guys went through in World War I and World War II,” he added.

Year 4, St Johns Walkerston students eagerly wrote and designed their own personalised postcards to participate in a pretend send off, in recognition of the vital support that letters and postcards have played throughout Australia’s military history.

RSL Queensland State President Major General Stephen Day DSC AM said he was pleased to see the age-appropriate initiative continue and grow year-on-year, providing a meaningful opportunity for thousands of students across the state to remember those that went before us and how the past has impacted our futures.

“It may seem like a small gesture, but the postcards acts as such a meaningful keepsake and are truly valued by the veterans who receive them,” MAJGEN Day said.

For more information on how to get involved and to download your own ‘Postcard of Honour’, visit rslqld.org/postcards-of-honour.

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Year 4 students from St John’s Catholic Primary School in Walkerston penned their treasured postcodes in honour of ANZAC day.
Secretary of the Walkerston/Pleystowe RSL Sub Branch, Dan Peters
Creativity sparked as Year 4 students presented their wonderful postcard designs.
Photo Credit: Hannah McNamara

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“The Albanese Government promised programs to support the regions, but after almost two years there is nothing to show for it.”
These are the words of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox who believes the Dawson community is suffering from the government’s failure to allocate grants for much needed community infrastructure projects.
“The Labor Government in Canberra has imposed a two-year funding drought on regional communities as a result of the Prime Minister’s decisions to abolish programs designed to strengthen rural, remote and regional Australia and a failure to deliver initiatives of their own,” Mr Willcox said.
He goes on to say that “right across the nation, regional councils and community organisations have been waiting more than 40 weeks since Labor opened the so-called Growing Regions Program, and over nine months later not one application has been approved and funded.”
“By failing to award grant moneys under this program, Labor is effectively stealing $300 million in much needed funding from the regions,” Mr Willcox added.
Mr Willcox said this is not the only program the government has failed to deliver, with not a single grant approved in the first assessment round of the $400 million Precincts and Partnerships program, undertaken in September/October last year.
“The Government is starving the regions of funding. Over Labor’s first two years in office, they have stripped more than $20 billion in infrastructure and programs from regional communities,” Willcox added.
“Labor has abolished or allowed to lapse important job and community building programs such as the Building Better Regions Fund, Community Development Grants, Regionalisation Fund, Roads of Strategic Importance Program, and the Stronger Communities Program, just to name a few.”
Willcox is currently developing a Dawson project register, and is strongly urging any community organisation, not-for-profit, or sporting club who does have a project in the works and has applied for this funding to contact his office and register their project to ensure they are the first to know about any current or future grant and funding opportunities that become available.
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“For anyone who would like to be added to this register, they can contact my office via email at Andrew.Willcox.MP@aph.gov.au.”

Opinion Piece

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The Festivals Australia program, administered by Australian Government, is injecting $1.4 million into festivals across Australia, including the Mackay region, to support a diverse array of artistic endeavours.

One recipient of this funding is the Mackay Film Festival for Youth, which will host the Pioneer Valley Acting and Screen Production Weekend Community Workshop.

This workshop aims to enhance digital storytelling skills, covering scriptwriting, acting, producing, directing, editing, and post-production.

The resulting productions will be showcased at the Pinnacle Playhouse Red Carpet Community Screening Event during the Mackay Film Festival for Youth.

Another initiative supported by the program is the Sunset Cultural Experience organised by the Issac Regional Council.

This event will kick off the St Lawrence Wetlands Weekend Event, offering a platform to showcase First Nations culture through music, dance, storytelling, and gourmet interpretations of traditional bush tucker.

One of the primary objectives of the Festival Australia program is to nurture local talent and strengthen community bonds through artistic expression.

By facilitating access to art and culture in areas that might otherwise have limited opportunities, the program strives to create a more inclusive cultural environment and showcase local talent.

Minister for the Arts Tony Burke said, “Festivals – at their best – are about building community, sharing stories, and creating memories. They put artists on a bigger stage, with a brighter spotlight.”

“This program helps support that right across Australia, making sure these opportunities aren’t just for people in capital cities,” said Mr Burke

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An initiative supported by the The Festivals Australia program is the Sunset Cultural Experience organised by the Issac Regional Council

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Mackay Regional Council announced last week that the Bluewater Lagoon will close from Monday, April 29, until early September 2024 for significant upgrade work.
Contractors will be completing work to replace the existing surface of the main and top lagoons with a new lining and tiles.
Council said that the existing Quartzon lining of the lagoon’s floor is being replaced with a Polyvinyl Chloride membrane system that will reduce maintenance requirements at the facility.
This follows on from the work completed last year, which involved relining the children’s pool with the new finish.
This work has been scheduled to be completed during the winter maintenance period to avoid unnecessary inconvenience to the public.
Residents are also advised that the Bluewater Lagoon’s kids’ pool and splash pad are also currently out of action.
The pool pump is in need of repairs that may take several weeks to complete as there are parts that need to be ordered from an overseas supplier.
As a result, the kids’ pool and splash pad will remain closed for the rest of the season.
Mackay Regional Council says it apologises for any inconvenience this may cause and thanks the public for its understanding and patience.
The Memorial Swim Centre and Mackay Aquatic and Recreation Complex will remain open as usual over the winter period.

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The Bluewater Lagoon will close from Monday April 29, reopening in September 2024. The children’s pool and splash pad are already closed and will remain closed until September. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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A $1 million fund to enhance social and community life in the Isaac region has been unveiled at today’s (20 April) inaugural Pembroke Resources Community Expo in Moranbah.
 
Pembroke Chairman and CEO Barry Tudor said the new Pembroke Community Partnership Program fund was created to ensure the local area continued to benefit from the opening of the Olive Downs Complex for generations to come, with funding being provided to projects identified, prioritised and supported by local residents.
 
“The Olive Downs Complex is already working in strong partnership with the local community by creating and supporting hundreds of jobs, prioritising local procurement whenever possible and providing our workforce with a genuine choice to live within the Isaac Region,” Mr Tudor said.
 
“Today, we are proud to announce the next step in working together to build a stronger community, through the $1 million Pembroke Community Partnership Program.
 
“This is stage one of the fund, which will run over the next five years to help ensure the local community reaps the benefits of having the Olive Downs Complex operating in their region. Projects of interest could include those focused on improved health, welfare and employment outcomes as well as improved social infrastructure.
 
“Another priority for us is reducing unnecessary red tape so it’s as easy as possible for locals to decide how and where this funding is spent for the future benefit of the community.”
 
Mr Tudor said the Pembroke Community Partnership Program was in addition to other contributions the Olive Downs Complex was making to the region through job and training opportunities, local purchasing whenever possible and leading-edge environmental stewardship.
 
“The local community is rightly proud that the high-quality steel-making coal being produced by Olive Downs is supporting our national and state economies, as well as much-needed infrastructure across the world. Our Community Partnership Program will ensure those economic benefits are delivered at the local level as well,” he said.
 
In addition to these community benefits, the Olive Downs Complex will make a significant contribution to the local, state and national economies.  The project is estimated to contribute more than $10 billion in royalties for the Queensland Government over its projected 79-year life.

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Photos supplied

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GUEST SPEAKER: Stephen Andrew MP with current, irrefutable information.

Across this great nation of ours, we are rising up to “Say NO to Digital ID”.

Digital ID means every one of us will be under total control of the government:

   • The government will track your every movement 24/7
   • The government will keep a record of every cent you spend and reward or punish you accordingly
   • The government will control what you buy and even IF you can buy
   • The government will control where you go, who you see and what you do with your time
   • The government will have total control over your medical details with a data bank of information that can be easily hacked, shared or sold without your permission or knowledge
   • The government will require permit for everything (eg: to own a bee hive, enter a national park, have more than six chickens)
   • Microchips will be inserted in your body

We say NO, NO, NO!!!!
Join us, add your voice to ours, and put a stop to this globalist ideology.

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WHAT: Say No To Digital ID
WHEN: Sunday 5 May at 11am
WHERE: Bluewater Quay, Mackay

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A local program changing the trajectory of chronic illness in First Nations people and providing greater access to care and education will be showcased across the state next month.

The healthy lifestyle program is for First Nations and Australian South Sea Islander people who are at risk of type 2 diabetes, living with type 2 diabetes or have post-gestational diabetes.

This program uses group lifestyle sessions, one-on-one care management and community event education to support those at risk, newly diagnosed or living with the debilitating condition which is prevalent in these communities.

“Providing diabetes education, timely access to care and sharing practical tools to manage illness and prevent further decline, all in a culturally appropriate way, has helped reduce the growing pressure on healthcare providers including general practitioners and hospitals,” said Mackay Hospital and Health Service nurse practitioner Maree Wearne. 

“This program helps those in Mackay, Whitsunday and Isaac regions understand the risks and complications of type 2 diabetes, assists them in reducing the chances of hospitalisation, supports the management of diabetes through healthy lifestyle choices and works together with healthcare providers for type 2 management.”

“Many in these communities just accept diabetes as their fate as others in their family have it, but this program helps show them how, with good management and practical tools, they can change their health trajectory and stop or slow a decline into chronic illness,” she added.

“We are teaching them how to control their diabetes, not be controlled by it.”

In less than 12 months, the team has received more than 100 referrals from GPs, community health care workers, hospitals as well as self-referrals, and now has about 70 active program participants.

Maree, who has more than 30 years’ experience in First Nations healthcare, said she was excited to present the benefits of the program at the Clinical Excellence Showcase next month and demonstrate how it could also be applied to programs targeting other chronic illnesses.

“It’s exciting and very motivating to see the improvement in health outcomes with achievements such as reducing obesity, cutting back on medications and patients coming off insulin because of changes we’ve helped them make.”

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Mackay Hospital and Health Service nurse practitioner Maree Wearne  is part of a local program changing the trajectory of chronic illness in First Nations people. Photo supplied

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Two men and a teenage boy have been charged in relation to the unlawful use of a motor vehicle in Mackay.
It will be alleged the 2019 Nissan Navara was stolen from an address on Fitzroy Court, Mount Pleasant on Sunday, April 21.
Just after 9am on April 22, the car crashed on Oak Street in Andergrove and three males left the scene on foot.
It will be further alleged a 22-year-old man resisted arrest and allegedly kicked one officer and headbutted another officer.
A 22-year-old Beaconsfield man has been charged with 14 offences, including three counts of unlawful use of a motor vehicle, one count of serious assault police officer, assault police officer, enter dwelling and commit and stealing.
He is expected to appear before Mackay Magistrates Court on April 23.
A 17-year-old Andergrove boy has been charged with 12 offences, including unlawful use of a motor vehicle, three counts of enter premises and commit indictable offence, driving of motor vehicle without a drivers licence and obstruction of a police officer.
He is expected to appear before Mackay Children’s Court on April 23.
A 20-year-old Andergrove man has been charged with five offences, including unlawful use of a motor vehicle and enter premises with intent to commit indictable offence.
He is expected to appear before Mackay Magistrates Court on May 22.

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Mackay is set to introduce ‘The Gentle Way’, a revolutionised end-of-life process with an effective, environmentally friendly approach to handling human remains.
Inspired by a desire to provide a gentler alternative to traditional burial and cremation methods, CEOs and Founders of Whitsunday Funerals, Jeff and Judy Boyle explored the American Alkaline Hydrolysis system. Despite its potential, they recognised its shortcomings, including harsh effects on the body and significant water wastage.
Drawing inspiration from the natural breakdown of bodies in the ground, their new system, The Gentle Way mimics this process by placing the body in a stainless-steel chamber, adding water, and raising the alkalinity using potassium hydroxide (lye).
The water then sways over the body for a period of 4 to 6 hours so that the water gently circulates around the body, breaking it down. Once complete the family receive the remains back, the same as you would with cremated ‘ashes’, along with a desert rose to signify new life.
After this, it goes into a membrane filter straight after the body tank which ensures that the sand, bones and leftover remains are collected. The water is then transferred into what they call the holding tank, where the water goes through a state-of-the-art specialised filtration system. This results in crystal clean coming out again with no connection to town water or sewage systems.
This revolutionary new system creates a completely harmless, encapsulated process where the water continues to be recycled.
The benefits of The Gentle Way extend beyond its gentle treatment of remains.
Unlike cremation, which emits pollutants and consumes significant energy, The Gentle Way produces no odour, fumes, or pollution and is carbon neutral.
During cremation, if a loved one has a pacemaker, usually they would have to cut it out, however, with The Gentle Way, the pacemaker is left in because the process is so gentle that it will still be intact and functional when the machine is finished.
Hip joints, knee joints, breast implants or even missed jewellery on a loved one can be found at the bottom, crystal clean and polished like new.
“This is a game changer for the funeral industry,” Jeff remarked.
The origin of The Gentle Way traces back to a memorable interaction with a client who expressed dissatisfaction with traditional burial and cremation options. This conversation spurred Judy and Jeff to seek a better alternative, leading to the development of The Gentle Way, a solution that honours individuals' final wishes while offering a more gentle, environmentally friendly approach to end-of-life care.
“The great thing is, it’s employing people, it’s good for the environment, it brings the prices down for funerals and it’s a win win for everybody,” Jeff said.
Regarding cost, a direct Gentle Way process is said to be less than half the price of other Funeral Homes in Mackay. The Gentle Way now offers an affordable option for the families of passed loved ones.
“The worst thing in the world is when you lose a loved one and you can’t afford a funeral,”

“We make it affordable and it’s 100% environmentally friendly.”
Over the past nine years, multiple tests have been conducted to ensure The Gentle Way body vessel is capable, efficient and most importantly, gentle.
Townsville Funerals was the first to receive a commercial unit which has been in use for the last four months, with a demand for more proving this method to be highly desired and affordable.
The Gentle Way has recently introduced this facility to Mackay, with the official opening on Monday the 22nd of April.

CEO’s and Founders Jeff and Judy Boyle with Operations Manager and Partner, Ivan Oehlert. Photo Credit: Hannah McNamara

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Our region is home to a highly unique business, known as a community bank. The community bank model is based on profit for purpose – where anyone can choose to be a customer, and a percentage of the profits are re-invested directly back into the local community. One of just 322 community banks across Australia, our very own Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank is celebrating 19 years of business this June – and over $3.8 million invested back into our local community.

Providing a full suite of banking services and advice to individuals, businesses and community groups, Community Bank Sarina is renowned for its dedication and support for our community. This is only possible thanks to the people who choose to bank with them – which is easy to do! The Community Bank Sarina team are there to welcome you – whether in person, in branch, online or they can even come to you.

There have been many highlights along the way – and many more to come. Community Bank Sarina is truly here for you, and here to stay. A snapshot of some key milestones to date:

2005 – Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank open for business
2008 – First Community Grants and Sponsorships awarded
2009 – First dividends paid to local Shareholders
2011 – Became major sponsor of Sarina Bowls Club
2012 – Higher Education Scholarship Program with CQUniversity launched
2012 – Commenced support for Sarina District Schools Chaplaincy Committee
2015 – Hosted Queensland’s Community Bank State Conference in Sarina
2016 – Charmaine Matsen appointed as Manager of Community Bank Sarina
2016 – Inducted into Community Bank Network National Hall of Fame for outstanding community impact
2017 – Sarina State High School (SSHS) Scholarship Program launched
2017 – Hosted Community Strengthening Conference with Rio Tinto Hail Creek and Mackay Regional Council
2018 – Inaugural naming rights sponsor for Cruisin’ the Coast Sarina Beach Fun Run
2019 – Scholarship Program extended with CQUniversity to include Apprentice Scholarships
2019 – Inaugural SSHS scholarship recipient Josie Dahtler commenced employment with Community Bank Sarina
2019 – Community Impact Award launched
2022 – Hit the $3 million mark in community investment (which today has exceeded $3.8 million)
2023 – Supported QCWA Sarina Branch and Koumala State School in their centenary milestones
2023 – Achieved certification as a Social Enterprise with Social Traders
2024 – Hosting Celebration of Community Anniversary Dinner with guest speaker Shane Webcke

The latest highlight is still to come – and you can join in! All are invited to Community Bank Sarina’s Celebration of Community Anniversary Dinner – to be held on Saturday, 8 June 2024 at the Bob Wood Cultural Hall. Featuring food, music, fun – and Shane Webcke – it will be a night to remember. Tickets close 12 May and are available for purchase at $90pp now at bit.ly/communitydinner2024.

Community Bank Sarina Board Directors Nicholas McDougall, Ann Fordyce, Karen May, Maree Franettovich, Rainee Shepperson and Ted Malone with Manager Charmaine Matsen.

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The annual RSPCA Million Paws Walk, dedicated to fighting animal cruelty, is back in Mackay! On Sunday, May 26th, from 8:00 am to 10:30 am, join the community at Queens Park for a day of fun and fundraising. Celebrating its 30th year, the Million Paws Walk started in Queensland and has since become a beloved event nationwide.

Everyone is welcome to participate, so bring the whole family for a fantastic day out. Don't worry if you don't have a furry friend – all are invited to enjoy the festivities. Bring a camp chair or picnic rug to relax and watch the dog competitions, with fantastic prizes up for grabs!

Get your VIP (Very Important Pooch) ready for a red carpet photo opportunity at the event. Additionally, throughout May, the local shelter team will sell raffle tickets at various locations, including Caneland Shopping Centre, Mt Pleasant Shopping Centre, and Bunnings. At just $3 per ticket, you could win one of six incredible prizes, kindly donated by local businesses: $400 2-Night Family Holiday – Camp Kanga; $275 Pet Photography Session – Coffee & Hops; $250 Joy Flight – Mackay Tiger Moth Museum; $200 Fuel Voucher – SGC Global; $185 Beginner Scuba Diving – Rainforest Scuba; Two $50 Vouchers – Body Haven Mackay.

Proceeds from the event will support animals in need, just like Loki, who found himself in RSPCA's care in November 2022. After receiving medical attention for various health issues, Loki was placed in foster care with Michelle, a dedicated volunteer at RSPCA Mackay Animal Care Centre. Michelle grew very fond of Loki and officially adopted him in April 2023, giving him a chance at a loving forever home.

Join us in celebrating 30 years of Million Paws Walk and make a difference in the lives of animals like Loki. Don't miss this opportunity to support a great cause. Tickets are available at millionpawswalk.com.au. Join the cause with a Million Paws to fight animal cruelty and ensure a brighter future for our furry friends.

What: RSPCA Million Paws Walk
When: Sunday, May 26th, from 8:00 am to 10:30 am
Where: Queens Park
Register: millionpawswalk.com.au

Michelle, Loki and the team from the Mackay RSPCA are gearing up for this year’s Million Paws Walk

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By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay
Isaac region residents have followed the Mackay Region and received new Land Valuations, with some dramatic increases causing discussion and anxiety as they take in the new valuation.
Across the board, the total value of rural land across the region has increased by 70%. But for many, increases are beyond 100%.
That, of course, translates into rates increases for landholders. While CANEGROWERS Mackay is continuing discussions with Mackay Regional Council on the rates burden for canefarming enterprises, we now are also initiating discussion with Isaac Regional Council.
While the State Valuation Service points out that rates and rating categories are under the control of local government, councils readily point out that they are based on state valuations.
For the property owner, this blame game puts us in a position of being like the piggy stuck in the middle, in a game where the ball gets higher and higher, more out of reach.
For a canefarmer, meeting the cost of rates is a double challenge. It’s about maintaining the family home and the family business. It is an ever-ballooning cost of production that sits alongside the pressure of the cost of living.
Canefarming is like quite a range of agribusinesses that are price takers, not price makers. We are at the mercy of world sugar price. There is nowhere to pass on inflating costs of production. It’s about margins. Sugar price is strong right now, but so are costs, and cost of production is unfortunately on a steep trajectory. There will be years when that price will almost certainly move closer to the cost of production. If we are lucky, the lower sugar prices will not go in tandem with drought, fire or flood.
The cost of living is a community-wide pressure. And while local government also faces the pressure of inflation, and has to meet its increasing costs, the continual pressure on landholders needs to be addressed.

Rates cost increases precipitated by steep increases in valuations are effectively a money grab: councils have the powers to set parameters within their rating system that could show greater empathy to cost of living pressures of landholders. But equally, local governments need to be supported by other levels of government to utilise a range of mechanisms that help to meet their budgetary requirements - not just via rates revenue.

The Queensland Government has a voluntary Guideline on equity and fairness in rating for Queensland local governments. CANEGROWERS is part of a growing list of organisations urging that the guidelines should be adopted as mandatory for all councils. This is a move also supported by the Queensland Farmers Federation (QFF), of which CANEGROWERS is a member.
The QFF has also reported it will be putting a submission to a Federal Senate inquiry into the sustainability of local councils, calling on the federal government to increase the allocation of financial assistance grants provided to local councils. These grants come from GST revenue, however, whilst GST revenue has continued to grow, the allocation / revenue split to local councils has remained unchanged, and has in real terms actually declined.
A sustainable council is critical to the local community. The local government share of the GST allocation needs to be increased. This will be the major lever that can assist with the financial viability of councils, allowing them to have more wriggle room when it comes to their strategies to raise income through rates.

Another major influence on cost-of-living is the market element in determining property valuations, often driven by some quite outlandishly high sales in some localities. Who really wins when a property is sold well over value? Banks? Real Estate? High land prices set off a domino effect.
Governments and opposition are always talking up how they are addressing cost-of-living issues, but they aren’t addressing that elephant in our living rooms – the influence of market value on property valuations, which impacts right down the line from landholders to renters to the community. The more money it costs to keep a roof over our head - or business – and to maintain our rates bill, the less there is to spend in local businesses and on other qualities of life.
Controlling ever-spiralling rates and land values is an issue on which all levels of government need to work together to ease cost-of-living pressures. Creating a fair system of rating categories is something that local government can do to ease community cost of living issues but we also need to see economic sustainability and services maintained at the local government level.

Isaac region cane country.  Picture: Kirili Lamb

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The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) website and app are useful tools used by many farmers and producers. The tools help landholders to understand upcoming short and long-term climate forecasts, assisting with informed property management decisions. But did you know BOM also has a YouTube channel that provides regular videos and playlists? These outline weekly, monthly and even severe weather forecasts and events.

Navigating the BOM website can be tricky and may not always provide clear and usable information. Created by the scientists and meteorologists at BOM, these videos help make the information more digestible and easy to implement on your property. They also provide the most up-to-date information and are posted regularly. 
 
The landline weather playlist provides weekly weather outlooks for the whole of Australia focusing on rainfall across the country. These episodes are added every Sunday and can be used to inform short-term decisions. The climate and water outlook playlist covers monthly and seasonal rainfall and temperature outlooks for three-month intervals for the whole of Australia. These are released every month and at the start of every season. Long-term forecasts are still the best source of upcoming conditions compared to climate drivers alone, which help ground truth models, as they consider other factors like sea surface temperatures, and atmosphere-ocean interactions. 
 
The videos under the agriculture playlist are tailored to each state and territory, with a focus on a particular crop. The sugarcane outlook videos for central Queensland provide forecast information specifically for the Mackay, Whitsunday and Isaac regions. These videos are posted monthly between April and September.

For forecast information related to our region over spring and summer, the grain's monthly climate outlook for QLD and NSW, provides climate forecasts, with our area just viewable at the top of the map displayed in the videos. 

The videos look at comparing past forecasts with known observations to confirm how accurate the predictions were, short term (weeks) and long term (months) forecast predictions and the comparison of different international forecast models. This information can then be used to inform short and long-term decisions on your property. 
 
BOM also requests feedback from farmers to allow them to learn and adapt their tools and products to make them as useful as possible for farmers and producers. Any feedback can be provided to agriculture@bom.gov.au. These videos are another tool in your kit for helping make farm-based management decisions based on forthcoming weather conditions, thereby optimising crop productivity, and enhancing time management efficiency.
 
Additionally, for those interested in further resources and initiatives focused on drought resilience, the Tropical North Queensland Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hub (TNQ Hub) led by James Cook University offers valuable support and collaboration opportunities for land managers and communities in the region.

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Senior Project Officer Carlos Bueno

Project Officer Rachel Taylor. Photo supplied

Drought Hub - Putting Faces To Names

You may have heard of us but we wanted to help put faces to names as representatives of Tropical North Queensland Drought hub in the Mackay Whitsunday Isaac region.

Senior project officer Carlos Bueno (carlos.bueno@reefcatchments.com) and project officer Rachel Taylor (rachel.taylor@reefcatchments.com) from Reef Catchments work as part of drought hub as a point of contact for our region.

We’re here to connect farmers and producers with options for managing your farm including sharing information on local webinars, workshops and grant opportunities on a range of topics such as climate forecasting, farm infrastructure, new technologies or practice changes.

We know farmers and producers have limited spare time, thereby our goal is to be that one stop shop to point you in the right direction to achieve your management goals while making your farm and business more resilient to our changing climate. Feel free to email either of us through email or call Reef Catchments on 07 4968 4200.

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Simon Hood
Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing
As the close of the 2023 pricing season nears, it's an opportune time to reflect on the journey it has been.
Opening in July 2020 with an indicative forward price of $350/t, the trajectory since then has been nothing short of remarkable, with the price steadily climbing to a peak of $950/t towards the end of 2023.
Describing the past 12 months as tumultuous would be an understatement.
At the beginning of 2023 pricing started at $550/t, steadily growing to $840/t, before dropping to $725/t in July. By late October, prices soared and we witnessed the peak of $950/t, only for it to drop once more to around $650/t by the start of 2024. This year we have seen prices fluctuate back up to $810/t, ultimately closing the season at around $675/t.
Comparing the average price of $550/t over the past three years with the $750/t average of the past 12 months, shows the volatility experienced.
Reflecting on Wilmar Sugar and Renewables’ performance in managing pools throughout this period, the primary pool used by growers was the Production Risk Pool, equivalent to QSL’s Harvest Pool. These pools are managed over a seasonal timeframe and prices may not be directly comparable to the average prices achieved by growers pricing on the forward market over a three-year period.
Despite the fluctuations, Wilmar remains dedicated to maximising returns for growers through informed pool pricing decisions. The graph below shows that growers who price under the Wilmar Production Risk Pool are consistently better off over a three-year period, than those who market with QSL’s Harvest Pool. With the 2023 season ending, significant changes to pool prices are unlikely with the expiry of the May #11 contract.
Over the past month, Wilmar’s Grower Marketing team has been bolstered by the addition of two new staff members, and some changes to increase the support for growers across all milling regions. Owen Richards will support Fiona Villis and Meghan Wilson in the Burdekin region with grower pricing. He will also be exploring new avenues to enhance profitability for growers across all regions through new products and services.
Similarly, Angus McKerrow will now split his time between the Plane Creek and Herbert regions to facilitate Wilmar’s growing presence.
In Townsville, Megan Hawke will oversee the administration by providing support to Wilmar’s growers and field team. Megan will work on enhancing grower relationships through updated communications and the development of pricing systems and tools.
Be sure to stay tuned for the upcoming quarterly analysis of pool performance and comparative outcomes. This report is a valuable resource for growers when evaluating their marketing strategies.
Additionally, Wilmar Sugar and Renewables will release an annual 2023 season pricing analysis to combine the results from all products and regions. It will provide a basis for growers to assess their current pricing strategies, and will be a reference point for the Grower Marketing team and how they will assist in GEI sugar pricing decisions, for the 2024 season and beyond.

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Wilmar’s Production Risk Pool has outperformed QSL’s Harvest Pool for three consecutive years.

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There are so many activities around Mackay and the Whitsundays for you and the family to be involved in lately. So many great opportunities to get the family out of the house and have a few laughs and the odd yelling experience too.

Saturday night is your opportunity to go and check out some basketball action with our great local teams in the NBL1!

If you remember back in the glory days of the Queensland Basketball League or, the QBL, Mackay was an absolute powerhouse. Our basketball stars with the Meteors and Meteorettes were top of the pile in sporting circles, because we won a lot of flags and trophies for the cabinets.

Right now, fast forward to 2024, we still have that greatness in basketball, because our Meteors and Meteorettes are a strong force in this expanded NBL1 competition.

This Saturday is round 3, and we’ve got another home game (that’s 3 in a row) that you can come down to and cheer. This weekend we are taking on Rockhampton and I will tell you now, there is no love lost when we take on these guys from down the goat highway.

Whenever I mention these guys, comments come back about the history of these meetings over the years. There are plenty of stories when we played them down in their home court, and the disgusting crowd behaviour given to our players. Well, that hasn’t changed all that much really. There’s still hatred towards Mackay, but now that Rocky has caught up and now have electricity and sewerage services to their homes, they have picked up their game just a bit.

Who knows how they will act when they play us at Mackay Basketball stadium on Saturday, we can only wait and see.

What I do ask of you is, quite easily, come and join us and cheer our teams on to victory. Our Meteorettes are 1 and 1 and our Meteors are 2 wins and no losses! Can we make it three on the trot? Let’s see how we go.

It’s a fun night out in the stadium. Heaps of music, fun games to watch in between the actual basketball. I’ll be the idiot on the mic getting the crowd to get louder, and who knows you could be shooting a ball from halfway to grab a $1000 cash prize! Who wouldn’t want that! Just throw it a little further than our mate Josh Smith did last week! Just saying.

Come down and get involved in basketball on Saturday. I’ll make you smile. Guaranteed.

You can join Rob Kidd from 5am weekday mornings on 4MK 1026 AM in Mackay and Proserpine, 91.5FM in Airlie Beach or just ask your smart speaker to play 4MK on iHeartRadio!

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Often we observe that people are ‘lucky’. The opportunities that come your way may have an aspect of ‘luck’, however the preparation to be ready to seize those opportunities and make the most of them (the good ones) is all up to you. Success is said to be created by being ready for and open to opportunities.

To make the most of opportunity, whether seeking a career shift or uplift, in final year at Uni, or Grade 12, here are some key tips.

Build your basic toolkit
Create an email address that is suitable for job applications – keep it simple – use your full name recommended.
Build your Résumé so it’s up to date, and then it will only be tweaks for each application.
Prepare a cover letter template – this is your summary pitch for the role.

Do your research
Check out the job and career offerings of your preferred employers. Many organisations have a dedicated section on their website (e.g. Careers, Work with Us) with information about what’s on offer. Research also will give you a sense of what it’s like to work there, including employee stories. Consider carefully not only the job you want, but also the type of place you want to work – it makes a big difference to motivation!

Make it easy – don’t miss opportunity
Sign up to career alerts via those websites for the types of roles that match what you are looking for (e.g. roles in your field, apprenticeships and graduate programs) - then it comes direct to your inbox (of course you have to check your inbox) and you won’t miss when applications open. If you are already working, also make the most of LinkedIn job alerts.

Be ready to take action
With your personal toolkit prepared, you are ready to take action and craft your application to suit the opportunity responding to why you are the right fit for the role, whether looking for a career shift or a school leaver. Be ready NOW!

If you are currently in Grade 12, for example, and seeking an apprenticeship, many of the region’s major employers are already recruiting or will be soon (not in November when you finish school). Similarly if you are completing Uni, Graduate Programs are open or soon will be for employment next year. Ensure you also explore what’s on offer from the local, state and federal governments.

Initiate rather than react – don’t be a spectator of your own life!
Open your eyes to opportunities and seize them. If it all seems overwhelming, seek some assistance to develop your Résumé, assist with your applications and interview preparation, or with an option to complete a comprehensive personal Career Action Plan. CareerForce Australia can provide that dedicated personal support - contact me at powerup@careerforceaustralia.com.au or 0409 894 131 to learn more.

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One of the things that really annoys me about today’s world is the argument that people have to apologise for, and feel guilty about, what happened in the past.
That’s not to say that what was done in the past was not wrong … in many cases it was and must be acknowledged.
All sorts of things were wrong in the past. But they were done at a time when values and beliefs were different. We now know them to be wrong and society has changed accordingly.  
We don’t discriminate against people based on the colour of their skin. We don’t accept child labour, although sadly it does still happen in Third World countries. Discrimination against women is no longer acceptable, although there are parts of the non-Western world that seem to feel it is absolutely fine. “No driver’s licence for you, dear lady.”
It is also true when assessing history that two things, one good and one bad, can happen at the same time. At a moment in time we can condemn one aspect of society and admire another.
Great works of art and philosophy and public discourse were being created at a time also marked by slavery, discrimination, brutality and unjust wars. Do we condemn everything from that time or admire the good parts and reject, condemn and never repeat the aspects that we now know to be wrong?
Which brings me to my mate Dave and the house he and his wife share in Mackay.
Dave and his wife live in a house bought by his wife’s grandfather many, many years ago, a Queenslander on Shakespeare St.
Dave told me the other day that his wife’s grandfather, Bill Higham, was a senior engineer in the sugar industry who worked at the North Eton Mill in the 1940s.
At some stage in the mid-1940s, Bill was confronted by his employer and told to convert to Catholicism.
In fact, he was given an ultimatum: become a Catholic or you will be sacked.
Now Bill wasn’t the sort of bloke who was going to be pushed around and told what, if any, religion he was going to be. He refused to take the easy way out and convert to Catholicism. So, he was sacked from his job as senior engineer at the North Eton Mill.
Imagine someone being sacked today for not being a particular religion. Rightly, it wouldn’t happen.
Fortunately, Bill moved on and got a job as head engineer at the Farleigh Mill, working there until his retirement.
During those early days at the Farleigh Mill, Bill bought a house in Shakespeare St where he and his wife raised three daughters … the same house that his grand daughter lives in today with her husband, my mate Dave.
It’s a typically beautiful, highest Queenslander with the polished floorboards, high ceilings, tongue and groove walls … an authentic work of art and functionality created by builders and who did quality work designed to stand the test of time and engage with a tough environment earmarked by heat, humidity and flood.
The house lives on nearly 100 years later, a proud statement in workmanship and design.
A moment in time in which a senior engineer could be sacked because he wasn’t a Catholic also produced a beautiful, unique style of housing designed to withstand the harshest elements of the tropics.
While society has moved on from religious-based sackings, the Queenslander stands proud and as popular as ever. Queenslanders live on, a beautiful statement in style and functionality in a modern world far removed from the time in which they were built.
You can’t sack a bloke for not being Catholic any more but you can still love living in his house.

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The theme for the 2024 Mayor’s Charity Ball to be held early next month is “Iconic Mackay”.

“This year’s Ball is all about celebrating Iconic Mackay – its features, history, events and people,’’ the Mayor said.
“The main musical entertainment will be a world-class Elton John Experience, with Greg Andrews internationally recognised as one of the best Elton John tribute artists in the world,’’ he said.
“That is a nod to the Sir Elton John concert that was held in Mackay at BB Print Stadium in September 2017. It was a once-in-a-lifetime event for many of those who attended.”
Mayor Williamson said “Iconic Mackay” was the room theme for the MECC Plenary Halls, which would look spectacular on the night on Saturday, May 11.
“As always, the Ball isn’t a fancy dress event. Ball-goers should come dressed to suit Mackay’s premier red-carpet social event,’’ he said.
The Ball has raised more than $1 million since its inception.
Mayor Williamson said the aim in recent years had been to fund two charities for two years to enable significant funds to be raised for each charity and to make a real difference in our community.
“Proceeds this year will be split 50-50 between Australian Street Aid Project and new beneficiary Grapevine Group,” Mayor Williamson said.
Grapevine Group training coordinator Edie Weiss said the group was extremely grateful to be a beneficiary of the Mayor’s Charity Ball.
“The ball coincides with our 20th anniversary, which is a very special milestone for our volunteers to reach,’’ she said.
“This donation will enable Grapevine Group to offer medium and large businesses the opportunity to have their own in-house safeTALK Trainers on staff to help train more locals in suicide prevention.
“To date, Grapevine has proudly trained 6800, but many more people need to be suicide aware and know where to find the support they need.”
Mayor Williamson said the Ball, organised by a committee made up of representatives of the community, the MECC and council, kept going from strength to strength each year.

L-R: Cr Alison Jones, Deputy Mayor Belinda Hassan, Kayleigh Brewster, Mayor Greg Williamson, Edie Weiss, Cr Ash-Lee Johnson and Cr Heath Paton are getting ready to celebrate ‘Iconic Mackay’ at this year’s Mayor’s Charity Ball

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Get ready for a fun-filled week of community vitality as the Northern Beaches Community Week springs to life from April 26th to May 5th, 2024. This vibrant celebration is made possible through the Mackay Regional Council Activate My Place (AMP!) Grant, fuelled by the community for the community, focusing on fostering connections, promoting wellness, and showcasing the richness of our local area.

The Northern Beaches has seen rapid expansion in recent years, bringing together diverse residents. However, amidst this growth, there's a recognised need for stronger community hubs and services. The Northern Beaches Community Week aims to address this by nurturing a connected, vibrant, and thriving community where neighbours support one another and feel a sense of belonging. Residents are invited to participate in various activities under the Gather - Create - Activate themes during this exciting week-long event.

With over 30 FREE events on offer, there's something for everyone. From fitness sessions like Pilates in the park and yoga to cultural and art workshops and social gatherings, the
Community Week promises to be an enriching experience for all. Collaborating with local community groups, the event line-up includes activities such as a Sunrise Photography Session hosted by the Mackay Camera Group Inc. at Blacks Beach, a Beach to Bush Walk
organised by the Mackay Bushwalkers' Club Inc. at Shoal Point, and FREE Come & Try Sessions with Sunset Bay Outriggers Canoe Club Inc. and Shito-Ryu Karate Northern Beaches.

Thanks to the support of the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF), a partnership between the Queensland Government and Mackay Regional Council, art enthusiasts will delight in youth art workshops, public art installations, and musical performances.

Local businesses are encouraged to attend and discover how to receive support and network with others in the area. Behind the scenes, a dedicated team of volunteers has worked tirelessly to bring the Northern Beaches Community Week to life, with invaluable support from Mackay Regional Council and Greater Whitsunday Communities. Their vision is to make this event a success and inspire future activations and the formation
of a community group or progress association.

Community members are encouraged to register for all events that require bookings.

Rebecca Cooper, Volunteer Event Organiser, expressed gratitude for the support and hopes to see the community embrace this new event concept in the Northern Beaches.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to participate in this exciting community event.

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Get engaged with your local community at one…or multiple FREE events amidst the week-long fun in Northern Beaches!

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Going into their Round 6 clash, Mackay Cutters and Wynnum Manly Seagulls were one and three on the Hostplus Cup table, so the game was always going to be a tight contest. 
Cutters winger Josh Smith was the first to strike, scoring the first of his two tries in the game in the seventh minute, and the Cutters went into half-time up 14-12.
The final siren saw the try count at five to four; Bryce Donovan converted all four Wynnum Manly tries and Riley Dean converted two for Cutters and kicked two penalty goals to help secure the two-point win.
Cutters coach Michael Comerford said it was good to come away with a win after a nerve-wracking end where all of the momentum sat with Wynnum Manly.

"A little bit frustrated that we weren't clinical enough to put it to bed earlier, but our defence at the end was something special," Comerford said.
"Efforts like that... down to 12 players, defending four sets in a row, you could see it meant something."
Comerford said second rowers Jamal Shibasaki and Hiale Roycroft were the standouts for him and North Queensland Cowboys affiliate Jaxon Purdue provided a welcomed injection of talent.
"Jamal Shibasaki was excellent on the left edge... Hiale Roycroft did a job on the right edge and Jaxon's long-range try was something special," Comerford said.
Comerford noted the Mackay crowd was instrumental in helping get his side over the line, and he was glad they would secure the win for everyone who had supported them through their tough times.
Comerford said moving forward, his side needed to seize all of their opportunities to finish games off better.
Seagulls coach Matt Head said the Cutters deserved the win, noting his side did not play the style of football they needed to in order to win games against quality opposition.
"All credit has to go to Mackay... they were outstanding," Head said.
"We did not play our best... there was not enough consistency from a lot of players out there... we need to be collectively better."
Head, despite being disappointed with the loss, added second rower Luke Gale and centre Connor Broadhurst were the standouts for him.
"Luke Gale was courageous in everything he did... he carried the ball well and tackled strong," Head said.
"Connor Broadhurst was our most dangerous outside back. Both of them can hold their heads high."

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Article by Jorja Brinums, QRL content producer

Josh Smith on the fly. Photo: Ben van Moolenbroek

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In other games, the Mal Maninga squad suffered a defeat against the Seagulls, going down 32-18.

The BMD Premiership ladies made it six in a row against Wynnum Manly, coming away victors 28-10 in a dominant display.

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By Amanda Wright

"Some of us were only 20," Kenneth (Ken) Higgins recalls, his voice heavy with the weight of memory. "In those days, you couldn’t vote until you were 21 and you couldn’t drink.
“Yet they would send us to Vietnam to kill people."
“We were sent to a foreign land we hadn’t even heard of before as kids, to kill people we didn’t know or dislike.
“They expected us to go and do these horrors and then come back and forget about it.”
This is part of the turmoil many Vietnam Veterans have had to face throughout the years, many with undiagnosed PTSD battling recurrent nightmares, many with unexplained illnesses through harsh poisonous chemical exposure and many who still to this day are reluctant to talk about the horror of conflict as a conscript.
The sad irony of the Vietnam War, is that although it was the first war to be televised, it’s the war with the most reluctance for its returned soldiers to talk about, due to the harsh labels pinned on these kids when they returned, “baby killers”, “murderers” were yelled at them when they first stepped foot back on ‘home’ soil.
There was no welcome home parade for these men and women.
And then, after the constant anxiety of staying alive for months on end in a jungle with constant attacks and explosions, these brave souls were basically forgotten, left to get on with a life they barely recognised, with little to no support.
This is the story Ken Higgins has agreed to share, not to glorify war, but to acknowledge the sacrifice of those still living with inner turmoil, pay respect to those fallen and ensure the mistakes and sacrifices of the past aren’t white-washed and forgotten.
Continued on pages 5 and 6…

Mackay RSL Sub-Branch President and Vietnam Veteran, Ken Higgins, reflects on the sacrifices made by soldiers during the Vietnam War. Photo credit: Amanda Wright
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The Brutal Toll Of Vietnam's Battlefield

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Forgetting the horrors of war proved impossible for Ken and his fellow conscripts.
"Nearly half of the Australians killed in Vietnam were conscripted soldiers, yet the Australian Government said conscripts were mainly to be utilised to make up the numbers... Yet the reality was that conscripts saw as much action as the full-time soldiers.
“In our platoon at least half of us were conscripts.”
The conflict which forever changed Mr Higgins’ life occurred on December 11, 1969. For the soldiers in Vietnam, it was a very different ‘Summer of ‘69’ than the one sung by Bryan Adams.
Amidst the dense jungles of Vietnam, fate dealt a cruel hand to a band of brothers.
"War correspondents were a relatively rare sight for us... until that day," Ken recounts with the rawness of memory. It was a day etched in blood and sorrow, a day when their section commander, Lance Corporal Robert Buchan, known affectionately as Jock, met his untimely end.
Jock led his platoon through the treacherous terrain of the Nui May Tau Mountains. With every step, they made their way through the thick jungle canopy and traversed the thin line between life and death.
As they pressed forward, Private Kenneth Higgins, a forward scout, signalled the presence of an enemy bunker just 15 meters ahead. Jock, ever vigilant, halted the platoon's advance, sending a second scout to investigate. But fate, cruel and unyielding, intervened with ruthless efficiency.
The enemy, hidden amidst the canopy, advanced upon the unsuspecting soldiers. In the chaos that ensued, Jock was struck down by a hail of bullets to the chest, his young life extinguished in an instant. Nearby, Private Kenneth Higgins was wounded, his arm and leg torn by the onslaught.
Above the canopy, the rhythmic thud of helicopter blades signalled the arrival of salvation. An American medivac team descended upon the sight of contact, their mission clear: to rescue the wounded and retrieve the fallen.
The aftermath was captured by the war correspondent who was with them that day.
"It’s the only photo of an Australian soldier killed in action taken by a war correspondent in the Vietnam War," Ken reflected.
The photos capture the aftermath of the contact with L/Cpl Buchan’s body in view while an American ‘dust-off’ helicopter (Iroquois) hovered overhead to winch the injured Pte Higgins to safety as well as retrieve the body of the deceased.
“They winched me out of the jungle first as Jock was already dead and if they ran into strife they would have left him and returned later, but they were able to get Jock’s body out. There were no body bags or anything, they just had to tie him on and lift him out.”
The memory of that incursion still haunts Mr Higgins to this day, though his valiant stature rarely shows glimpses of the effect these and other moments in Vietnam left scarred on his soul.
“It was a horrible time but interwoven with the best of times which is hard to comprehend.
“But when faced with the horrors we were, you relied on the person beside you with your life, and that forms bonds which are still strong to this day, more than 50 years later.
“I never had any hatred towards the Vietnamese people, what we were doing over there in our minds was political. But we still had to protect ourselves and our mates, so we did what we had to do to survive.
“We knew we just had to hold on long enough to get out of there.
“It’s probably scarred us a lot more than we realise in the way we think. My wife recognises it in me, she says when bad things happen I show no emotion. But when you’ve seen the worst, whatever they dish up now is no worse than what we’ve been through.”

On the day Jock was killed during Operation Mandaran, the second scout was John Gosling, Ken’s best man at his wedding and the duo are still close friends to this day.
“That close-knit family of a platoon of guys never ever leaves you.
“The only reason we leave each other is when we die, and we’ve lost a lot.
“A lot of the Vietnam Vets are dying very young, some through suicide and some through illness.
“I’m not saying we’re young now but we shouldn’t die yet, and a lot are dying sooner than they should.
“We’ve had people die in their 40’s and 50’s from a lot of cancer.
“We’re suspicious of the defoliants used during Vietnam and it leaching into the water and all sorts of stuff that stuck to us, all the poisonous agents.
More than 20 years after returning home, Ken spent three weeks in Greenslopes hospital with a rash from one end of his body to the other.
“They had me in oil baths daily, wrapped me up like a mummy, I had to sleep in wet gear and they never told me what it was.
“We had a reunion back in the 90’s, and out of the 8 of us that slept in the same room, 6 of us had rashes.
“We’re seeing a lot of child deformities coming through, out of all of my mates nearly all of us have a child with something not quite right and not just the children but the grandchildren.
“But the Government won’t admit to any of that, we’re just told to ‘get over it’.
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South Vietnam, December 11, 1969, Pte. Kenneth Higgins is winched out on a jungle penetrator by a hovering US Iroquois medical evacuation dust-off helicopter
The New Zealand Army Roman Catholic padre, Chaplain Ray Stachurski, administers the last rites to section commander L/Cpl Robert Buchan. Photo credit: Peter Ward
Ken being attached to the jungle penetrator in preparation for being winched out of the jungle, wounded in an arm and leg
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Leaving A Legacy For Our Veterans

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Ken’s story echoes that of many of our Vietnam Veterans. Young people of today would struggle to comprehend what it would be like to be plucked out of a humble upbringing, thrown into the face of a war that had seemingly nothing to do with the place they called home.
Mr Higgins was a country kid, who was plucked from the bush to be thrown into the jungle.
He was born on a dairy farm near the Goulburn River in Victoria, close to the NSW border. The closest main centre was Shepparton. They moved to Gippsland and then Kyabram where Ken did his schooling and played footy. That’s where he was called up from during the Vietnam War conscription.
The way conscription worked was the government randomly selected days of the month and if your birthday fell on one of those four days, you had to be assessed.
Ken and other kids from around the country were gathered up for medicals. Being fit and healthy, Ken flew through all of the tests.
“You would have been better off presenting as a rabid mongrel dog, but you just didn’t know back then, you were too honest,” he said.
He served his first 10 weeks of intensive training at Puckapunyal in Western Victoria, where they were torn down to be built back up.
From there, it was 10 weeks of infantry training at Singleton in NSW and three weeks at Kununurra for intensive jungle training.
“There was barely time to draw breath between the training, we were given a short time to say goodbye to Mum and Dad before we had to return to Ingleburn in Sydney. At midnight on a Monday night the plane would take all the reinforcements over to Vietnam,” Ken said.
“We flew to Saigon, then were shipped to Vung Tau and up to Nui Dat. Most of us were infantry and we went straight to our battalions, the reinforcement wings were tied to the 9th battalion. I was there for a month and a half and then did the next eight months with the 6th battalion.
On his 21st birthday, Ken has an interesting story to tell, involving trip wires, claymores and a wandering dog that lit up the jungle, but that’s a story for him to share over a cold beer or two.
“In May 1970 we were shipped back to Australia on leave and then to Lavarack Barracks in Townsville, which is where I fell in love with Queensland.”
While Ken was in Vietnam, his mum and dad had shifted down the Mornington Peninsula, which is where he met his wife soon after returning home.
“I was married at 24 and we’re still married 51 years later.
“Her Dad was a WWII Spitfire pilot with the RAAF and he was the secretary-manager of an RSL and invited me straight in, so I became an RSL bloke when I was 21 and I’m still here today.”
Ken and his wife moved to Hervey Bay in 1988 and bought a caravan park. They shifted in 1992 to Kinchant Dam where they owned and operated the camping grounds for more than 10 years. They then went to Alligator Creek, then briefly back to Hervey Bay when their kids were still there, and then back to Mackay where all of their children and grandchildren now live, apart from their son who lives on the Gold Coast.
“I love Mackay but I’ve always been very upset that the veterans haven’t had a proper RSL here for a number of years,” Ken said.
“I remember when the club was in full flight on Sydney Street, and that’s why we’re so passionate about getting our veterans a proper home, and not just for veterans, we want to open our doors to a number of vulnerable or disadvantaged groups of people to give them our support,” he said.
“The town deserves a decent veteran organisation to look after their interests and wellbeing.
“It’s not all doom and gloom, it’s about having fun, coming together for a laugh and hanging shit on each other. That’s the Australian and New Zealand way of life. Hang it on each other and give it to each other while respecting the heck out of one another.”
As President of the Mackay Sub-Branch RSL, the reason Ken is so passionate about the RSL is to support fellow veterans and their families, not just in Mackay, but across Australia.
With ANZAC Day approaching next week, Ken says it’s not a story of glorifying war, it’s a story of respecting the 100,000 who have died fighting for our country, and the brothers-in-arms in New Zealand.
“I talk about New Zealand and Australia in the same breath because I think we’re so close. When you’ve fought next to the Kiwis, you know we as ANZACS really are one,” he said.
“Supporting our veterans is important because there are stories to be told and those people should be proud.
“Those ANZAC’s who served together in battalions in the theatre of war are special people who should be proud of their deployments.
“Not to glorify war, but to leave a legacy for our younger ones.
“There’s no benefit to skipping over and adjusting the reality of history.
“We should learn from the past to move forward in the future.”

ANZAC Day 1970 at Nui Dat
Ken as a young soldier in Nui Dat
May Tao, South Vietnam, December 2, 1969. Guns and supplies are lowered into Fire Support Base Picton from a Chinook helicopter to support the ANZAC 6RAR / NZ battalion

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By Amanda Wright

Belinda Hassan has emerged victorious in the race for Mackay Regional Council's deputy mayor, capturing the role with a resounding majority vote. The returning councillor expressed her gratitude, stating it was "very humbling" to receive the support of the electorate and fellow councillors.
Having secured 4.1 per cent of the region's vote, Hassan's election to the deputy mayorship was confirmed with a vote of nine to two during Mackay Regional Council’s Statutory meeting last week. She acknowledged the weight of responsibility, recognising the "huge shoes to fill" left by her predecessor Karen May, who opted not to seek re-election after eight years of service.
Ms Hassan was elected for the deputy mayor position with a vote of nine to two, despite opposition from newcomer Peter Sheedy and fellow independent Marty Bella, who voted against her nomination.
Addressing the meeting, Hassan emphasised her readiness for the role, citing her four years as a councillor as ample preparation.
Drawing from her experience both as part of a team and as an independent councillor, she acknowledged the importance of professionalism and adherence to the council's code of conduct.

“As Deputy Mayor, my aim is to represent the diverse needs and aspirations of the Mackay region, fostering inclusive growth and sustainable development,” she said.
“I’m committed to championing projects that promote economic prosperity, and prioritise community wellbeing. I’m also committed to following through on existing projects, such as the Finch Hatton and Eungella mountain bike trails, Northern Beaches Community Hub and activating the waterfront area.
“Overall, I’m dedicated to serving the people of the Mackay region and working towards a brighter future for our community. I’m looking forward to collaborating with my fellow Councillors and community stakeholders to make positive decisions that will benefit us all.”
Regarding her reception of the majority vote, Hassan remarked, "It was truly humbling and gratifying to receive the majority vote from the Mackay public.

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As ANZAC Day nears, I find myself reflecting on the profound significance of this day in our national consciousness. ANZAC Day is not just a date on the calendar; it is a sacred moment of remembrance, a time to pay tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of those who have served our nations in times of conflict. For many of us, ANZAC Day holds a deeply personal resonance, a connection to loved ones who have worn the uniform and served their country with unwavering dedication.
Growing up near RNZAF Base Woodbourne in New Zealand, ANZAC Day was more than just a day off school; it was a solemn occasion marked by reverence and reflection. My father, a former member of the Royal New Zealand Air Force for around 25 years, instilled in me a respect for the sacrifices made by our servicemen and women. My husband, too, has answered the call to serve, deployed with the New Zealand Army in the Solomon Islands as a platoon commander on a peacekeeping mission.
Sitting with our RSL President,Ken Higgins, as he opened up about his experiences in Vietnam was a deeply emotional and humbling experience. His courage in sharing his story, despite the pain it undoubtedly evokes, serves as a powerful reminder of the lasting impact of war on individuals and communities. It is a reminder that the wounds of war, both seen and unseen, linger long after the guns fall silent.
In today's edition on page 4, you'll find a list of services happening across our region. I urge you to take the time to attend one of these services, to stand in solidarity with our veterans and their families, and to reflect on the lessons of history.
Lest we forget.
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Amanda

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In recent years, M&P Services have demonstrated a heartening dedication to wildlife conservation through their commitment to support the Wildlife Rehabilitation Queensland, also known as Wildlife Care Mackay, in a passionate response to championing wildlife welfare.

As a vital non-for-profit lifeline for injured and endangered wildlife throughout the region, Wildlife Care Mackay relies heavily on the generosity of business partners like M&P Services to fulfill their mission.
Recently, M&P Services made a significant impact with their drop-off donation of plywood, a gesture that was met with immense gratitude from the wildlife rehabilitation team. These stacks of plywood were skilfully crafted and repurposed into possum boxes, providing essential shelters for the region's native fauna.
Wildlife Rehabilitation Qld, posted to Facebook, acknowledging the kind act of M&P services, stating “Massive shout out to M&P services – Quality transportable Buildings for all their support and for the off cuts of plywood!
“They were put to good use and turned into possum boxes!”
Through their kind acts and ongoing support, M&P Services have become an integral part of the wildlife rehabilitation efforts in the region, earning admiration and appreciation from both the organisation and the wider community.

To continue their mission of saving and caring for sick, injured and orphaned animals in the Mackay and Isaac region, the wildlife team are on the lookout for financial donations along with items such as cable ties, rope, cup hooks and wire mesh etc.

If you are an individual or business that would like to contribute, please visit https://wrqld.org

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M&P Services recently dropped off a stack of plywood to Wildlife Rehabilitation Qld, where they were later crafted into special possum boxes. Photo credit: Wildlife Rehabilitation Qld (Facebook)

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The six-member Board appointed to govern the Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) in mid-2023 has been expanded to include a seventh member.
New member Monica McKendry is a Chartered Accountant with over 25 years of experience and is currently a Director of SH Tait & Co Chartered Accountants, which provides accounting, taxation and business advice to a variety of businesses and individuals in the Mackay region. She was appointed a director of North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation Ltd in October 2020 and chairs the Audit and Financial Risk Management Committee. Monica is also an external member of the Mackay Regional Council’s Audit Committee.
Minister for Health, Mental Health and Ambulance Services and Minister for Women Shannon Fentiman announced the addition last month.
“I am confident the Mackay Hospital and Health Board will continue to thrive with the addition of their seventh member Ms McKendry,” she remarked.
“This Board’s exceptional diversity and depth of experience fosters a collaborative environment, guaranteeing well-rounded leadership for the healthcare needs of the Mackay community.
“I look forward to working with them to deliver timely and high-quality healthcare for all Queenslanders.”
Serving the community diligently since its appointment in August 2023, the Board, led by Chair Helen Darch OAM (an experienced board member in government and not-for-profit sectors), will continue to provide strong leadership in the delivery of health services across the Mackay region.
The remainder of the Board remains unchanged, consisting of; Ms Helen Darch OAM (Chair), Mrs Kerry Maley (Deputy Chair), Dr Maureen Chapman, Associate Professor Luke Lawton, Dr Peter O’Mara, Mr William Cooper and Ms Monica McKendry.

• The Mackay Hospital and Health Board has grown from six to seven members.
   • The board will continue to be led by Chair Helen Darch OAM, who has been in the position since 2023.
   • Boards, as outlined by the Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011, are responsible for the local performance of their health services and the delivery of public health services within their communities.

Monica McKendry has been appointed as a seventh member of the Mackay Hospital and Health Service Board

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Easter weekend, became one the team at RACQ CQ Rescue will never forget, as it marked a momentous occasion for the service.

RACQ CQ Rescue has now answered regional calls for help 12,000 times.

CEO Tim Healee says, “Completing our 12,000th life-saving flight is not just a number; it's a symbol of the trust placed in us by our community.

“We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve, and we look forward to many more flights, saving lives and spreading hope across our region.

“It's a testament to the unwavering dedication of our team and the invaluable support from sponsors and supporters,” Mr Healee added.

“We continue to be one of the busiest Rescue Helicopters in the country and again the 12,0000th mission speaks volumes about the pressing need for our service.

“As we soar past our 12,000th life-saving flight, we stand on the cusp of a new era with the imminent arrival of our state-of-the-art AW139 helicopters later this year.

“This milestone is a testament to our commitment to innovation and excellence in aeromedical care.

“With these new helicopters, we are not only expanding our capabilities but also renewing our pledge to be at the forefront of lifesaving missions, ensuring that we can continue to
serve our community."

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RACQ CQ Rescue reaches a milestone of 12,000 life-saving flights

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Mater Private Hospital Mackay has completed a $7.3 million expansion and refurbishment of its operating theatres as part of its drive to meet the region’s growing health needs. The project included the construction of a sixth perioperative theatre, new sterile storage and cleaning areas, and updated patient waiting and holding bays.

The hospital’s previous suite of theatres performed around 12,000 procedures each year.
Mater Private Hospital Mackay General Manager Karen Wade said the expansion was part of strategic planning when the facility was constructed in 2003.
“Forward-planning designs for our Willetts Road campus allowed space for a sixth operating theatre until our region approached key milestones,” Ms Wade said.
“When we identified that these regional milestones – such as population growth, average age, and clinician demand – were nearing, we were able to convert that space into perioperative theatre six, as well as complementary spaces such as patient waiting and sterile storage areas.”
Mater Private Hospital Mackay Gynaecologist and Obstetrician Dr Naguesh Gaunekar said the expansion would be appreciated by patients and clinicians alike.
“This expansion will improve the patient flow through theatre which, in turn, will improve patient outcomes,” Dr Gaunekar said.
“I’ve been lucky to follow progress of the construction over the past few months and it is very exciting to see the project complete. I already have lists booked in theatre six.”
Ms Wade thanked contractors and theatre staff for ensuring the expansion took place without impacting other operating theatres.
“The collaboration between our principal contractor Paynters and our local project team ensured quality of care for our patients remained a top priority. It is an incredible feat that the project was completed without cancellation of any lists in our other operating theatres,” Ms Wade said.
“From the inception of our facility, the Mackay community has rallied behind Mater, demonstrating unwavering support which has once again been demonstrated with this project.
“Some $3.65 million of this $7.3 million project was made possible through community fundraising conducted by both Mater Foundation and the Mackay Mater Auxiliary.
“This is in addition to significant investment over the past three years to provide cutting edge surgical robotic equipment including the da Vinci X and Stryker Mako surgical assist robots.
“Both are the first of their kind in Mackay and demonstrate our commitment to providing the same level of care to Queenslanders whether they live in Mackay or the capital cities.”
The first procedures will be performed in theatre six later this month.

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A blessing was recently conducted at the Mater Private Hospital Mackay for the opening of their sixth perioperative theatre, ensuring a positive step forward in regional healthcare. Photo Credit: Jennifer Treloar Photography

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Last week on April 12, Minister for Police and Community Safety, Mark Ryan introduced Mackay’s new marine rescue vessel, MR31, to help local volunteer rescue services keep people safe on the water.

The MR31 is a modern 7.5m monohulled vessel, designed to accommodate the crew and up to six rescue passengers, adding a significant capacity to support local rescue efforts.

The contingency vessel will be used by regional marine rescue services when additional capability is required due to disasters, maintenance or repair and can be deployed throughout the area.

Member for Mackay MP Julieanne Gilbert said that “given the way the rescue team sacrifice their time and efforts for the benefit of their fellow Queenslanders it is entirely appropriate that they have the best equipment and vessels to support their selfless efforts.”

Since becoming operational, MR31 has responded to several marine search and rescue operations, including providing critical support to the Queensland Water Police during their response to the tragic incident on Kinchant Dam.  

Police and Community Safety Minister Mark Ryan said, “delivery of this vessel is part of our ongoing commitment to support our dedicated, local volunteers who often place their own safety at risk to save lives in hazardous conditions and weather.

“We will continue to further support marine rescue through establishing a single, integrated marine rescue service, when we launch Marine Rescue Queensland this year.”

The vessel is part of the Miles Government’s $22.3 million Marine Rescue Vessel Replacement Program, which will replace up to 10 search and rescue vessels along Queensland’s coastline over the next 12 months.

The Miles Government is currently delivering on its commitment to further invest in local marine services, which includes the establishment this year of a single, integrated marine rescue service, called Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ).

MRQ will progressively bring together Australian Volunteer Coast Guard and Volunteer Marine Rescue to continue the tradition of protecting Queenslanders on our oceans and waterways, while further supporting the local volunteers who support our communities. 

Marine Rescue Queensland Chief Officer Designate Tony Wulff claimed that “The modern vessel program is a cornerstone of the new Marine Rescue Queensland and a positive step to help keep the community and our volunteers safer on the water.

“Marine volunteers do so much to keep the community safe and this new vessel will help ensure they have the equipment they need to continue their valuable lifesaving work.”

Volunteer Marine Rescue Mackay President Russell McLennan expressed his gratitude, stating, “we would like to thank the Queensland Government for its ongoing support to enable us to deliver this valuable service to the community.”

Mackay Region received a new 7.5m rescue vessel to enhance the area’s marine rescue capabilities. Photo Credit: Hannah McNamara

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The state of safety reporting culture in Queensland’s mining industry was released by the Minister for Resources and Critical Minerals Scott Stewart and Interim Commissioner for Resources Safety and Health Andrew Clough at the Curragh and Oaky Creek mines in Central Queensland.
More than 7,500 people took part in the survey which aimed to identify strength and opportunity areas in Queensland’s mining industry to achieve a stronger safety reporting culture.
One of the strengths identified was that teams typically look out for each other and support each other to work safely, and frontline leaders encourage teams to take appropriate action if something feels unsafe.
It also identified that mine workers usually report their safety concerns and are encouraged to do so by leaders.
Resources and Critical Minerals Minister Scott Stewart said, “This is an incredibly important piece of work that heard directly from workers, and I welcome its release.
“The purpose of the survey is to identify strengths and opportunities in the mining industry to ensure there is a strong safety reporting culture in one of our most important industries.
“There are always more opportunities to improve safety reporting culture which is why this survey is important,” Minister Stewart added.
“Safety is my number one priority and we must do everything we can to make sure workers get home safely.”
Opportunity areas for improvements identified in the report included making reporting systems clearer and easier to use, improving feedback to workers on the outcomes of incidents, better recognition of positive safety behaviours, and better involvement of frontline workers in safety initiatives.
Resources Safety and Health Acting Commissioner Andrew Clough expressed, “The report establishes a baseline of the safety reporting behaviours exhibited at mine and quarry sites and sets a benchmark for the industry to measure its safety reporting culture against in the future.
“The survey was conducted by my office in cooperation with the tripartite Coal Mining Safety and Health Advisory Committee and Mining Safety and Health Advisory Committee.
“The report identified a number of opportunity areas for industry and the safety and health advisory committees to target for further research and continuous improvement.”
The survey was conducted by the Commissioner for Resources Safety and Health in cooperation with the Coal Mining Safety and Health Advisory Committee and the Mining Safety and Health Advisory Committee.

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Minister for Resources and Critical Minerals Scott Stewart releases the survey at Oaky Creek mine. Photo sourced from The Queensland Cabinet and Ministerial Directory

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• Minister for Resources and Critical Minerals Scott Stewart has released an industry wide survey into the state of safety reporting culture in Queensland’s mining industry
   • More than 7500 mine workers were surveyed
   • It is the first time an industry-wide survey of the safety reporting culture of the industry has been done

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NQBP CEO Brendan Webb said the project was a key priority for the North Queensland port authority.
“This project will see the replacement and undergrounding of around one kilometre of pipeline infrastructure,” Mr Webb said.
“The pipelines are currently used to supply ethanol, water, diesel, and petroleum to ships visiting Wharf 1.
“This project aims to provide greater resilience to the overall infrastructure and ensure the longevity of the pipeline system,” he said.
Fuel is the Port of Mackay’s largest commodity by volume, with almost 1.6 million tonnes passing through the Port in FY 22-23.
Approximately 90% of this fuel is transported for use at mines located in the Bowen Basin, with the remaining 10% distributed to local fuel stations.
The port has already clocked up 2.46 million tonnes of cargo this financial year, surpassing throughput in the same period of the previous financial year (2,070,495).
“The strong trade performance at the Port of Mackay reflects its pivotal role as a leading service centre for agricultural and mining industries,” Mr Webb said
“The port provides an essential connection between regional Queensland and the world boasting trading links to neighbouring countries in Asia as well as New Zealand and North America.”
“We’re continuing to invest in Port of Mackay infrastructure to boost our capabilities,” Mr Webb said.
NQBP are also pleased to announce the project contract has been awarded to local company, Wisely Group Pty Ltd.
Wisely Group Account Manager Ports and Infrastructure Rodney Parfitt said they were looking forward to delivering the project.

“We are thrilled to have been selected by NQBP for this crucial project at Mackay Harbour," Mr Parfitt said.
"This contract underscores our expertise in port infrastructure upgrades and commitment to providing sustainable and reliable solutions.
We look forward to collaborating with NQBP and delivering a project that will contribute to the regional economy and improve the efficiency of port operations at Mackay Harbour”, he said.
Wisely is planned to be onsite within the next month with construction expected to be completed in early 2025.
The Port of Mackay is one of four ports NQBP is responsible for, collectively facilitating around half of Queensland’s trade by tonnage.
“NQBP is one of Australia’s key gateways to trade, providing security, growth, and prosperity for our local North Queensland communities,” Mr Webb said.
“Our ports are flexible and capable of sustainably addressing the trade requirements of Queensland and the communities and stakeholders we serve.”

Wisely’s Rod Parfitt, NQBP’s Lynn Smart and Hossein Saadai, Wisely’s Chris Bugjea, NQBP’s Brendan Webb and Wisely’s Dan Wisely inspect the pipeline project

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The Mackay Youth Co-Responder Team (YCRT) has completed more than 5,000 engagements as it marks three years of working to intervene in the lives of at-risk young people and tackle the issue of youth offending.

The YCRT is a joint initiative between the Queensland Police Service and the Department of Youth Justice, which brings together a police officer and a youth justice professional to proactively engage at-risk young people and their families and refer them to services to address the underlying issues contributing to their offending behaviour.

Mackay YCRT launched in March 2021, and in the three years since has achieved 2,089 direct face-to-face engagements with young people and 2,943 engagements with family, guardians, and other support networks.
Minister for Police and Community Safety Mark Ryan said, “The safety of Queenslanders is our first priority, and it’s initiatives like the Youth Co-Responder model which shows the dedicated work government agencies are doing together to reduce offending and protect the public.
“While just one tactic in the fight against youth crime, we know that early intervention has the power to stop at-risk young people from going down the road towards a life of crime.

Vulnerable young people are also connected with the services they need to turn their lives around, including those that assist with housing, health, domestic and family violence, education, and employment.

Mackay District Officer, Superintendent Graeme Paine said, “While officers are on the ground proactively protecting the public and arresting serious repeat offenders, our Youth Co-Responder Teams are in the background doing the work to prevent at-risk young people from heading down that path to begin with.
“Every time our Youth Co-Responder Teams engage with a young person, not only is it an opportunity to direct them away from offending, but also to check on their welfare and what support they need to contribute positively to our community.

“Through building rapport and fostering positive relationships with the young people of Mackay, we can help intervene and prevent future offending, to enhance community safety.

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The Mackay Youth Co-Responder Team (YCRT) with Minister for Police and Community Safety Mark Ryan and Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert

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Check out M&P Services at the upcoming Mackay Ag Trade Expo, a locally owned business boasting a rich history of serving the region since its establishment in 1986. With a steadfast focus on manufacturing transportable buildings, M&P Services has emerged as a dominant option, securing the title of the largest manufacturer of portable buildings in Central and North Queensland.
Positioned at stand #20 at the Mackay Ag show, M&P Services will unveil a selection of their premium quality transportable buildings. Crafted with precision using Australian-made insulated BlueScope steel panels, these structures are renowned for their durability, providing a comfortable environment year-round with their cooling properties in summer and insulating warmth in winter. Not to mention, their easy-to-clean design adds a layer of convenience for customers.
From start to finish, M&P Services operate the entire manufacturing and distribution process in-house. This approach enables them to maintain a swift turnaround time without compromising on the hallmark quality they are known for. Expo attendees will have the opportunity to engage with the M&P Services team to discuss current lead times and availability, ensuring seamless access to their sought-after products.
Highlighted at the booth will be a prominent display featuring a 12m x 3.4m (41m2) Rural Living Quarters, featuring a generously sized 1200mm wide shower and instantaneous gas hot water.
M&P Services will be offering exclusive specials for current stock builds available from their Mackay Manufacturing Facility, including a notable $2200 saving on their popular 6m Newry series, with an option for both sales and hire solutions on all transportable modular space requirements.
Beyond their prowess in manufacturing, M&P Services remains deeply committed to their community. In the past year alone, they have contributed over 113,000k in sponsorships and donations to local charities, including The Trudy Crowley Foundation, RACQ CQ Rescue, The Ronald McDonald Family Room Mackay and a multitude of other worthy causes.
As the Mackay Ag Trade Expo approaches, anticipation builds for the unveiling of M&P Services' latest offerings and specials. With their team of experts on hand to provide detailed insights and assistance, attendees can expect an informative and engaging experience.
M&P Services eagerly awaits the opportunity to display their industry-leading solutions and demonstrate why they are the preferred choice for all your transportable building needs!

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Need a durable transportable building? M&P Services will have the solution for you! Images supplied

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Phoenix Powersports is preparing to roll in an impressive line-up of ATVs, SSVs and other top-tier brands at the upcoming Mackay Sugar Ag Trade Expo.
Among Segway's featured products are the ATV 5S Quad Pro, ATV 6S EPS and UT10 Rugged EPS, each boasting powerful engines and versatile functionalities, delivering high performance and durable solutions.
One of the standout features of Segway's UTV range is its impressive payload capacity, allowing farmers to transport all their gear in one trip with ease. These vehicles are designed to tackle various terrains with stability and reliability, ensuring farmers can reach their destinations safely and confidently. Safety features such as automatic traction adjustments and real-time monitoring further enhance the utility and security of the vehicles.
Can-Am's often impress with their strong capabilities, including increased payload capacity and versatile cargo bed options. Can-Am's Commander DPS 7 and HD9 XU will be on display, offering significant savings and robust performance for both work and play. With features like winches, drive functions, and LINQ attachments, Can-Am vehicles are designed to make farm work more efficient and convenient.
Need a repayment option? Phoenix Powersports offers a variety of financing options providing flexibility and financial relief to farmers and potential buyers.
Exclusive Segway buyers may be eligible for a buy now and first repayment will be delayed for 90 days, with specific terms and conditions for approved customers. This is provided by Urban Motor finance and is for specific models only, referring to the 2023 stock that will be on display.
Phoenix Powersports is committed to supporting local farmers and providing them with a range of options to suit their needs. By bringing another top-tier brand to the Mackay region, they aim to offer even more choices while continuing to support local companies and communities.
Attendees of the Mackay Sugar Ag Trade Expo can look forward to exploring these innovative vehicles and learning more about the benefits they offer for agricultural use.
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Visit Phoenix Powersports to discover the perfect vehicle for your farming needs!

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Phoenix Powersports have a range of options for all your work/play farming needs! Images supplied

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Mackay Containers and Mackay Trailers are gearing up to make a significant appearance at the upcoming sugar trade expo, showcasing their diverse range of equipment.
Offering FREE registration on all display trailers during the event, this means potential customers can explore their options without the added hassle of registration fees, making it easier than ever to find the perfect fit for their needs.
“Our expertise lies in providing top-quality solutions in secure storage including the hire, sale and modification of new and used containers. We can also custom-build a container to suit your needs.”
Looking to hire? Mackay Containers offer a diverse range of options, from new to near-new containers available for short or extended hires. Customers can opt for on-site storage or have it delivered to their premises, with assistance available for transport arrangements.
Wanting to buy? Mackay Containers maintain a well-stocked inventory of new and used containers in Mackay, ensuring a prompt delivery, with an extended reach beyond the local area, serving major Australian cities along with various other countries.
Need specific modifications? Mackay Containers specialise in modifying containers to suit both personal and industrial requirements.

With a reputation for industry expertise, durable products, secure storage, competitive pricing, extensive selection, specialised modifications, exceptional service and high customer satisfaction, Mackay Containers stands as the locally owned premier choice for your container solutions.

Mackay Trailers will also be in the spotlight at the expo. From standard box trailers to custom-built commercial trailers and everything in between, their ABCAR trailer range allows customers to find the perfect option with ease.
To sweeten the deal, attendees can snag a Mackay Trailers string bag filled with merchandise, including keyrings, pens, hats, coffee mugs, coolers, and stickers.
For a chance to receive more goodies, attendees are encouraged to take photos of the trade stand, share them to Facebook, and tag Mackay Containers and Mackay Trailers.
The highly experienced sales team will see you at the upcoming Mackay Sugar Ag Trade Expo to answer all your questions and inquiries. Don’t miss out on a cracking good deal on your next container or trailer!

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The Greater Whitsunday AgTech Hub online portal is reshaping the future of the region's agriculture sector through technology and collaboration.
The Greater Whitsunday AgTech Hub, an integral component of the Agribusiness Futures Alliance project, supported by Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) and key stakeholders, represents a bold vision for a world-class agriculture and agribusiness sector empowered by technology.
The Greater Whitsunday AgTech Hub developed the online portal to bring new ways of farming, people, and capabilities to the region. Central to this vision is building producers' capacity to leverage and implement cutting-edge agriculture technology solutions that enhance productivity and sustainability to build upon our already successful agriculture industry.
Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) Chief Executive Officer Ms Kylie Porter said the Greater Whitsunday AgTech Hub portal, is an online platform to support producers and businesses better understand agtech solutions and connect them with service providers and investors.
The portal encourages and supports adoption of agtech and improved practices that will deliver real benefit to producers and supply chain partners.
“The portal is a platform that will ensure Greater Whitsunday growers and producers have the knowledge to progress their businesses in the face of change across technology and skills,” Ms Porter said.
“Importantly, the portal will also promote knowledge sharing with agribusiness and producers so that we create a community of best practice.
“Agtech is becoming increasingly important within the agriculture sector and this portal is an important step in building upon our already successful agriculture industry.  GW3 is incredibly proud to be involved in the launch of this portal.”
Ms Porter said along with regional case studies and news updates from across the agriculture sector, the portal will showcase innovation and product releases, provide key information and education around agtech and ultimately, drive positive change for the sector.

The Greater Whitsunday AgTech Hub portal will also be the place to find:

•            Local agtech suppliers.

•            See examples of agtech in action.

•            Access resources and source funding.

•            Get Involved in the agtech community.

“It will also increase accessibility to agtech and associated digital support by inclusion of an agtech supplier directory of those businesses servicing the Greater Whitsunday region.
“Becoming a part of the new Greater Whitsunday AgTech Hub online community means being a part of a sustainable and productive agriculture industry,” Ms Porter said.

Discover more today: https://greaterwhitsundayagtechhub.com.au

The Greater Whitsunday AgTech Hub online portal is reshaping the future of the region's agriculture sector through technology and collaboration.
The Greater Whitsunday AgTech Hub, an integral component of the Agribusiness Futures Alliance project, supported by Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) and key stakeholders, represents a bold vision for a world-class agriculture and agribusiness sector empowered by technology.
The Greater Whitsunday AgTech Hub developed the online portal to bring new ways of farming, people, and capabilities to the region. Central to this vision is building producers' capacity to leverage and implement cutting-edge agriculture technology solutions that enhance productivity and sustainability to build upon our already successful agriculture industry.
Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) Chief Executive Officer Ms Kylie Porter said the Greater Whitsunday AgTech Hub portal, is an online platform to support producers and businesses better understand agtech solutions and connect them with service providers and investors.
The portal encourages and supports adoption of agtech and improved practices that will deliver real benefit to producers and supply chain partners.
“The portal is a platform that will ensure Greater Whitsunday growers and producers have the knowledge to progress their businesses in the face of change across technology and skills,” Ms Porter said.
“Importantly, the portal will also promote knowledge sharing with agribusiness and producers so that we create a community of best practice.
“Agtech is becoming increasingly important within the agriculture sector and this portal is an important step in building upon our already successful agriculture industry.  GW3 is incredibly proud to be involved in the launch of this portal.”
Ms Porter said along with regional case studies and news updates from across the agriculture sector, the portal will showcase innovation and product releases, provide key information and education around agtech and ultimately, drive positive change for the sector.

The Greater Whitsunday AgTech Hub portal will also be the place to find:

•            Local agtech suppliers.

•            See examples of agtech in action.

•            Access resources and source funding.

•            Get Involved in the agtech community.

“It will also increase accessibility to agtech and associated digital support by inclusion of an agtech supplier directory of those businesses servicing the Greater Whitsunday region.
“Becoming a part of the new Greater Whitsunday AgTech Hub online community means being a part of a sustainable and productive agriculture industry,” Ms Porter said.

Discover more today: https://greaterwhitsundayagtechhub.com.au

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Canegrowers Mackay
120 Wood St, Mackay
P: (07) 4944 2600
www.mackaycanegrowers.com.au

Elimix
P: 0467 689 997
Find us on facebook

Greater Whitsunday Alliance
Lev 1, 224 Victoria St, Mackay
P: 07 4845 8222
www.gw3.com.au

M&P Services
1 Diesel Dr, Paget
P: (07) 4898 0500
www.mpservices.net.au

Mackay Containers
Mackay Trailers
41 Malcomson St, North Mackay
P: (07) 49 400 722
www.mackaycontainers.com
www.mackaytrailers.com

Mackay Forestry
Dunwoody Road, Ball Bay
P: 1800 819 008
www.mackayforestry.com.au

Michelle Landry Office
71-73 Denham St, Rockhampton
P: (07) 4922 6604
Shop 8/13 Sarina Beach Rd, Sarina
P: (07) 4943 2722

Phoenix Powersports
165 Paradise St, Mackay
P: (07) 4952 2436
www.phoenixpowersports.com.au

Reef Catchments
Suite 1, 85 Gordon St, Mackay
P: (07) 4968 4200
www. reefcatchments.com.au

Western Suburbs Leagues Club
Branscombe Rd, Walkerston
P: (07) 4959 2480
www.weststigersmackay.com.au

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If the 2024 Mackay property market were a person, it would be spotted regularly emerging from the local gym with a smile on its face looking fit, strong and healthy and displaying the sort of energy required for continued intense activity.
Housing markets take on different looks, depending on location and their particular real estate cycle.
In recent years the Sydney market could be seen in its Dior gown and Prada bag stepping out of a limousine in all its finery and promenading along the red carpet into the latest on-trend nightclub.
At times various regional markets have been noticed working hard under the midday sun, glistening with sweat as they pour concrete and lay bricks. All hard work and no indulgence.
You would find other markets surreptitiously sneaking along darkened laneways, furtively looking over their shoulders in fear of something looming behind them.
Occasionally you would see a downtrodden real estate market in ragged old clothes begging on the street corner just hoping for a bit of luck from a passerby. “Couldn’t spare a fiver could you, old son?”
But today’s Mackay market is sporting a big grin, confidently striding along the street dressed in smart-casual clothes offering a friendly nod as it goes.  Full of optimism but not an arrogant show-off.
The first quarter of this calendar year was phenomenal. I remember kicking off the working year in the second week of January with five or six listings and being blown away by the number of inquiries.
I had groups of 20 and 30-plus at open homes with multiple offers coming in thick and fast. Buyers saw value in what was being offered and prices started going above what I expected.
It wasn’t the odd property, rather it was a trend. Properties I had appraised the year before at, say $450,000, were selling in the high $400,000s. Properties that late last year would have got $570,000 were selling for $620,000.
This trend continued in February and March … and April is just as strong.
Several factors are in play. Rental vacancies continue to be low so people in Mackay and those moving here are finding it difficult to find somewhere to rent. This makes it very difficult for a lot of people and it is a horrific challenge for many tenants who aren’t getting mining wages and cannot afford the increasing prices.
But, in terms of the sales market, many people are deciding to buy rather than rent and this is adding competition to the demand and supply dynamic.
Investors from southern states are also seeing great value in the Mackay market. They see rental returns of $550 a week for properties selling in the low-$400,000s and understand the yield on their investment is better here than pretty much anywhere in the country. They are now a source of additional competition for Mackay buyers.
The underlying source of market strength is, of course, the continuing confidence in the Mackay economy. Although the economy has diversified, coal mining continues to underpin the economy and those in the sector talk about how busy they are.
No one can predict what will happen in a given market but Mackay’s high per capita wages, low unemployment, strong economy and attraction as a sea change destination with all the services people need does put it in a good position.
Of course, there are external factors to take into account and Chinese economic growth is expected to slow down in the short and medium term. However, I just saw Mackay Market walk past and it still had a spring in its step.

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Repurposing household items is an eco-friendly and creative way to breathe new life into everyday objects while reducing waste. With a little imagination and resourcefulness, you can transform common household items into useful or decorative pieces for your home.
Here are six ways you can repurpose household items:
Glass Jars as Storage Containers: Empty glass jars from pasta sauce, pickles, or spreads can be repurposed as storage containers for pantry ingredients, spices, or dry goods. Clean and remove labels from the jars, then label them with chalkboard paint or adhesive labels for easy identification.

Plastic Bottles into Planters: Cut plastic bottles in half horizontally and use the bottom portion as planters for small herbs or succulents. Drill drainage holes in the bottom, fill them with soil, and plant your favourite greenery. These upcycled planters are lightweight, portable, and perfect for small spaces.

Empty Egg Cartons for Seed Starters: Use empty egg cartons as biodegradable seed starters for gardening. Fill each compartment with potting soil and plant seeds directly into the carton. Once the seedlings are ready to transplant, cut apart the compartments and plant them directly into the soil…carton and all.

Newspapers as Weed Barrier: Lay down layers of newspaper as an eco-friendly weed barrier in your garden beds. Wet the newspaper to prevent it from blowing away, then cover it with a layer of mulch or soil. The newspaper will decompose over time, smothering weeds and enriching the soil with organic matter.

Mason Jars as Bathroom Organisers: Repurpose mason jars as stylish bathroom organisers for toiletries, cotton balls, or makeup brushes. Attach the lids to the underside of a shelf or cabinet using screws, then screw the jars onto the lids to create hanging storage. This clever storage solution keeps bathroom essentials within reach and off the counter.

Old Books as Wall Art: Display old books as unique wall art by arranging them in a decorative pattern or stacking them to create shelves. Use books with colourful covers or interesting typography to add visual interest to your walls. This literary-inspired decor adds character and charm to any room in your home.
Repurposing household items is a creative and sustainable way to reduce waste and add personality to your home decor. With these ideas, you can give new life to everyday objects while saving money and minimising your environmental footprint!
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The National Fall Armyworm Symposium was held at Brisbane’s Ecosciences Precinct on April 17-18, bringing together industry, government, researchers, and funders to tackle the challenges posed by the invasive pest.
"Fall armyworm infestations are now found in every important growing area in Queensland," highlights Minister Mark Furner, stressing the severity of this year's infestations and the critical role of research and extension efforts.
Hort Innovation CEO Brett Fifield emphasises the collaborative approach taken by impacted industries in swiftly supporting growers and focusing on long-term research into combatting Fall Armyworm.
““As soon as fall armyworm arrived on our shores, the impacted industries swiftly leveraged their strong, collaborative relationships to support growers in Northern Australia.
"This symposium highlights the power of industry coming together and partnering on key biosecurity challenges," Fifield adds.
AUSVEG CEO Michael Coote underscores the urgency of the situation, especially as fall armyworm continues to spread to new areas and affect a broader range of crops.
“Fall Armyworm has caused significant damage to sweetcorn crops this year, and as it spreads to new areas, growers around the country are quickly trying to learn and apply best-practice management techniques.
"As a cross-agriculture problem, it’s heartening to see a broad range of industries working together to address the fall armyworm challenge," says Coote.
The symposium, hosted by the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, aims to share learnings, identify research priorities, and develop sustainable solutions for managing Fall Armyworm. With contributions from various industry leaders, researchers, and government agencies, the event provides a valuable platform to address this pressing agricultural challenge and safeguard Australia's farming sector.

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Fall armyworm was initially identified in Australia in the Torres Strait in January 2020 and has since extended its presence across the country. Photo source: Hort Innovation

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Queensland families are feeling the pinch at the supermarket as fresh produce prices soar while farmers struggle to make ends meet. To address this disparity, the Queensland Government says it is taking proactive steps by introducing a farm gate price monitoring scheme led by industry experts. This scheme aims to establish industry pricing standards and monitor trends across the top 20 products through collating and analysing farm financial performance and pricing data.
"As Premier, I shared a story earlier this year of a farmer selling watermelons by the road for $10 each, because he couldn’t afford to sell it for the $4 he was offered by the supermarkets," says Premier Steven Miles, highlighting the need for fair compensation for farmers' hard work.
"Gearing Up Growers is about levelling the playing field," emphasises Rachel Chambers, CEO of Queensland Fruit and Vegetable Growers.
“We know Queensland’s produce holds more value than what is currently being paid and we are going to do all we can to support our growers to achieve a fair return at market.”
Jo Sheppard, CEO of Queensland Farmers’ Federation, stresses the importance of market transparency and fair trading terms.

“Food insecurity in Australia and globally is rising. We cannot sit on our laurels. We must work to support a sustainable future for food and fibre production for the benefit of future generations.”
Premier Miles stated the importance of equipping farmers with the tools and knowledge to advocate for themselves effectively.
"My government will work with industry to capture and analyse the cost of products from the farm gate to plate.”

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'The Murder Game' opened at Kucom Theatre on Thursday night (11 April) for a two-week season. Directed by Maureen Coleman, the play has been described as ‘a gripping melodrama that delves into the complexities of love, betrayal, and the dark allure of a perfect crime’.
Not your straightforward ‘Whodunnit’ (the ‘who’ is pretty much apparent right from the start), more of a ‘Why-dunnit’.
Brian (played by Dennis Rozekrans) is financially dependent on his wife Sheila (Carolyn Roche), happily living off her money while planning to replace her with a younger model, June (Lani Seaton). It would be of considerable advantage to him if Sheila were to die.
Gerry, Brian's new friend (played by Michael Brennan), suggests a ‘foolproof’ method. Willingly complicit but naïve, Brian realises too late that Gerry has his own horrific agenda: to commit the perfect crime and subsequently take a hostage for life.
The script is crafted in such a way that makes the audience want to shout out ‘Don’t let him in’ or ‘Get out of there now’. Every step of the journey involves a choice, and in true thriller style, each choice that is made delivers the character into greater danger. We watch helplessly as the rebarbative Gerry oils his way into an already failing domestic situation, using it for his own nefarious purpose.
Rozekrans and Brennan play well off each other as the two main protagonists - Brian splutters with impotent rage as Gerry’s net tightens around him, while the smiling assassin calmly and inexorably takes control of their lives.
As Sheila and June, Roche and Seaton turn in strong performances as the wealthy wife and the grasping girlfriend.
The Kucom venue is relatively intimate and lends itself to subtlety, so every nuance can be appreciated. This was reflected in the lighting - unobtrusive but effective, with dramatic highlights at critical moments – and the sound, with a tense and foreboding musical background that you feel rather than hear, and the recurrent theme of 'Killing Me Softly' which takes on sinister connotations as the plot thickens.
A special shout-out to co-director Kath Evans, whose Elvira-inspired introduction to the performance set the tone for what was to come.
'The Murder Game' is now playing at Kucom Theatre, 1 Snow Wright Court, Andergrove.
Season dates: 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20 April at 7.30pm, with a matinee at 2pm on Sunday 14 April.
Bookings: https://events.humanitix.com/the-murder-game or phone Kucom’s Public Relations Officer on 0419756840.

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Carolyn Roche who plays Brian’s wife, Sheila
Lani Seaton and Dennis Rozekrans. Dennis plays Brian, who wants to get rid of his wealthy wife Sheila (played by Carolyn) and marry June (played by Lani)
Michael Brennan plays Gerry, the friend who offers to murder Brian’s wife for him

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An injured ibis, also renowned by locals as a ‘bin chicken’, was reportedly found lying in the Mount Pleasant carpark last week, helpless, unable to move and on the brink of death. A local soon spotted the native bird in distress and called multiple animal rescue services within the area, however, nobody was willing to assist.
Mackay Pet Rescue stepped up to the rescue once again, arriving on sight to help the injured ibis, sharing their newly rescued patient to Facebook to underline the importance of caring for all types of animals.
“We believe every life is important and no animal should suffer unnecessarily, so we immediately rendered assistance.

“The Ibis looked to be dead but once we approached, it tried to raise its head.”

The team scooped the ibis into a blanket and transported it to Northern Beaches Vet Hospital, where Dr Jackson said there was no broken bones or blood, although the bird was overwhelmingly dehydrated, underweight and extremely weak.

The ibis was given some much-needed water and even treated to some nutritious meal worms before it was taken to dedicated wildlife carer, Marie.

“At first, he just lay there but after a bit he regained some strength and was lifting his head and wanting to eat,” the rescuer added.

“We would like to thank Marie for her efforts helping both native birds and marsupials.

“Any donations of Wombaroo for marsupials, meal worms, bird seed, etc can be left in our donation bin at Petbarn in Greenfields.”

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Injured Ibis on the brink of death has been given a second chance at life by compassionate locals. Photos supplied

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By Amanda Wright
Cheers echoed through the Crater at Mackay McDonald’s Stadium last Friday night as our McDonald's Mackay Meteors dominated the court early on, clinching a thrilling victory against the Townsville Heat, In a high-flying display of hoops prowess, our boys soared to a spectacular 98-89 win, leaving fans on the edge of their seats and opponents seeing stars.
Leading the charge was the dynamic duo of Isaac White and Todd Blanchfield, whose lightning-fast moves and pinpoint accuracy kept the scoreboard ticking. With White netting an impressive 30 points while dishing out 8 assists, and Blanchfield commanding the paint with 22 points and 12 rebounds, the Meteors left their rivals trailing in their comet's tail.
But the victory wasn't just about individual brilliance. CJ Maran's hustle on both ends of the court, tallying 11 points and 4 rebounds, proved crucial in securing the win. Under the astute guidance of Head Coach Joel Khalu, the Meteors showcased their defensive prowess, stifling the Heat's offence and proving that they're not just shooting stars but defensive stalwarts too.
Reflecting on the game, Coach Khalu emphasized the importance of defensive intensity, stating, "We want to be known as a defensively strong team." He further elaborated, acknowledging areas for improvement, particularly in closing out games.
"Unfortunately I feel we did a poor job in the second half," he remarked. "We let them get back into it, it was a five-or-six-point game with three minutes to go so it was by no means over. We have to be better at closing it out."
Despite these challenges, Khalu remained optimistic about the team's prospects, saying, "For a round one win we'll take it and move forward from here."
Meanwhile, our McDonald's Mackay Meteorettes faced a tough challenge against the Townsville Flames, falling short with a final score of 84-66. Despite the loss, the Meteorettes displayed determination, led by Taylor Mole's 23 points and 6 rebounds, along with stellar performances from Sam Haiby and Nikita Van Wyk.
Looking ahead, Head Coach Jamiey Doevendans remains optimistic, stating, "We found our groove in the third quarter and I'm hoping moving forward we can translate that groove into all four quarters."
With a focus on execution and consistency, the Meteorettes are poised to bounce back stronger in their upcoming matchups.
As the excitement continues to build, mark your calendars for our next home games as our McDonald’s Mackay Meteors and Meteorettes gear up to face the Brisbane Capitals.
The action-packed games are set to take place at the Crater on April 19. The Meteorettes will hit the court first at 6:30 PM, followed by the Meteors at 8:30 PM.
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Kieron Place Art and Photography

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Introducing Bella Mackenzie, an emerging Mackay local singer-songwriter, who is set to grace the stage at the upcoming Broken Ballerina Charity Golf Day on Friday, August 2nd.
Attendees will gather for a day filled with golf, camaraderie, and most importantly, support for Broken Ballerina Inc., a non-for-profit organisation dedicated to aiding survivors of domestic violence in the region.
Behind Broken Ballerina Inc., stands its founder, Jules Thompson, a woman of courage and dedication. Alongside her husband Pete, Jules works tirelessly, seven days a week, to assist individuals and families throughout Mackay and surrounding areas.
Bella's highly anticipated performance at the event adds a layer of depth and entertainment, enhancing the day's atmosphere with her heartfelt music and a primary focus on raising crucial funds to assist those in need within the community.
Bella's song "She Don't Walk Like That Anymore," co-written with Steve Boom when she was just 16 years old resonates deeply with the hidden struggles of individuals and households affected by domestic violence.
Her musical journey began with mastering the guitar at 12 years of age, captivating audiences in local pubs and shocking those around her with her ability to reflect on causes close to her heart, including the fight against domestic violence.
In an exclusive interview, we spoke with Bella to uncover her point of view, in light of her involvement at the upcoming Broken Ballerina Inc. charity golf day event.

“I feel super strongly about the cause and it’s definitely one I’d like to support,” she said.

“As a young kid I was taught that everybody has their own struggles and you never know what’s going on in someone’s life.

“That topic came to mind when I wrote the song and it ties in with domestic violence because you just never know what people are going through at home.”
As Bella graces the stage, her voice will become a vessel for the stories of survivors, echoing their resilience and determination to break free from the cycle of violence. The event offers attendees not only a day of golfing fun, but also an opportunity to contribute to a cause that Jules Thompson and a rally of community locals are so passionate about.
Bella emphasises that “you just never know what’s going on in someone’s world and they can have the biggest smile on their face and be hurting the most they’ve ever hurt in their life so just be kind to everyone.”

Bella has new music coming out very soon and you can listen in on all digital streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple music and Google music etc.

If you would like to donate or find out more about the upcoming Broken Ballerina charity golf day event, please visit Broken Ballerina Inc online or via Facebook.

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19-year-old Bella Mackenzie will play live at the Northern Beaches Golf Club in honour of Broken Ballerina – a charitable organisation raising funds for survivors of domestic violence.

Broken Ballerina Charity Golf Day Event Information

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The Finch Hatton Mountain Bike Trails will be officially opened with a fun day for the whole community.
While the trails have been available to the public for about seven weeks, the official opening, on Sunday, April 21, will also mark the opening of the full trailhead site for visitors.
Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said the trails had been in the planning for many years and it was fantastic to now have stage one officially opened.
“The opening will include a fun community day, with market stalls and food vendors as well as a free barbecue, inflatable slide and rock-climbing wall for the kids,” Mayor Williamson said.
“We invite everyone to head out to the trailhead, bring your bikes, have a go on the pump track and check out the fantastic trails that are open for everyone to use,” he said.
Mayor Williamson said the trails had been built to international standards by global leaders in mountain bike trail design and construction – World Trail.
“World Trail has done a magnificent job and these trails will put Mackay on the national and international map as a mountain bike destination, with massive economic benefits for the entire region,” Mayor Williamson said.
“The trailhead site will be a place where you start and finish your mountain bike adventure and enjoy a family day out,” he said.
“There’s a pump track suitable for all ages and riding abilities, plenty of picnic shelters, amenities and some local historical features.”
Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said the Queensland Government was pleased to have invested $500,000 in the Finch Hatton MTB trail network.
“I want to thank Mackay Regional Council, the Mackay Mountain Bike Alliance and all other stakeholders for their dedication to this project that will put the region on the world map for mountain biking,” Mrs Gilbert said.
“The trails and the trailhead will further enhance Queensland’s great lifestyle, attracting visitors from around Australia and the world and strengthening our visitor experience,” she said.
The fun day will be from 10am to 1pm on Sunday, April 21, at the Finch Hatton MTB Trailhead, 44 Anzac Parade. An official plaque unveiling will take place from 9.30am for invited guests.
Uplift shuttles will be available by Off Camber Mountain Biking. Book ahead at offcamber.com.au/mtbshuttles.

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Amidst mounting tension and discontent, Queensland Premier Steven Miles embarked on a pivotal visit to Mackay last week, navigating the delicate terrain of community unrest surrounding the proposed Pioneer-Burdekin Pumped Hydro Project. The journey, punctuated by two town hall meetings, unfolded in the face of fierce opposition and impassioned calls for accountability. Since the pumped hydro scheme was announced in 2022 in a manner that blindsided both local Pioneer Valley residents and the region’s Mayor, Premier Miles is the first Premier to front up to the public to answer questions, a notion he apologised for but one that locals said was too little too late.

During his three-day visit to Mackay, Premier Steven Miles didn't just engage with the community through town halls; he also unveiled several significant funding projects aimed at bolstering the region's infrastructure and services. One such announcement involved the addition of 140 islands or parts thereof within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park to Queensland's protected areas estate. This acquisition, spanning a total land size of 1,390 hectares, serves to safeguard endangered ecosystems and vital habitats for species like green and flatback turtles, seabirds, and shorebirds.
In addition to environmental initiatives, Premier Miles and his team also addressed crucial public safety concerns by announcing extra police allocations for the Mackay-Isaac-Whitsunday Region. This allocation includes an additional 20 police positions to be stationed in the region by mid-next year, alongside the delivery of 28 new police vehicles. The State Government also unveiled plans to boost social and affordable housing in Mackay, with the construction of seven one-bedroom units as part of its Homes for Queenslanders plan. Simultaneously, sod was turned and construction commenced on a $250 million project to expand Mackay Base Hospital, adding 128 extra beds and relocating the Women's Health Unit and Child and Adolescent Unit to new wards. Additionally, Premier Miles took time during his visit to acknowledge community volunteers at Orange Sky and even sampled a famous Pinnacle Pie, while Health Minister Shannon Fentiman was at the opening of the new Sarina Hospital.
Continued on pages 3, 6-7 and 8

Premier Steven Miles celebrated the beginning of construction for the Mackay Base Hospital upgrade with Health Minister Shannon Fentiman, Member of Mackay Julieanne Gilbert, and MHHS CEO Susan Gannon. This was one of many announcements made during a three-day visit to Mackay. Photo credit: Annette Dew

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Premier Faces Tough Questions In Fiery Town Hall

The Premier's arrival in the Pioneer Valley marked the commencement of a three-day engagement aimed at addressing the concerns swirling around what could potentially be the world's largest pumped hydro scheme. However, as Mr Miles stepped into the spotlight at Tuesday’s town hall meeting at the Eungella Memorial Hall, he was met with a chorus of jeers and interruptions, emblematic of the simmering discontent gripping the community regarding the potential loss of platypus habitat.
At the heart of the matter lies the proposed hydro project's potential impact on the local landscape, the loss of local homes and agricultural land, and the habitat of endangered species, casting a shadow of uncertainty over the region's future. Residents, grappling with feelings of neglect and frustration, seized the opportunity to confront the Premier, demanding transparency and accountability from their elected officials.
In a bid to assuage mounting anger, Mr Miles extended a public apology for the state government's lack of consultation and communication, acknowledging missteps in the project's rollout.
"I want to apologise for the pain some of you felt around the way the initial announcement about this project was made,” Premier Miles said.
Yet, for many residents, the apology fell short of expectations, underscoring a deeper rift between the government and the grassroots.
A spokesperson from the organisation ‘Save Eungella’ said that the Premier's attempt to apologise for the project's abrupt unveiling and to engage directly with the community's queries signified a noteworthy, albeit overdue, step towards open dialogue.
“However, most residents feel it's too little too late and were left with more questions than answers,” the spokesperson said.
“The community's disappointment stemmed not just from unanswered questions but from a growing sense that the project was launched with scant planning, preparation, or genuine consideration for the local populace or the environment.”
Save Eungella said that this situation serves as a stark reminder of the importance of not only pursuing renewable energy solutions but doing so in a manner that is transparent, inclusive, and respectful of local communities and natural habitats.
“The dissatisfaction expressed by Eungella's residents highlights a crucial gap in the government's approach to renewable energy projects — the need for meaningful, ground-level consultation and planning that prioritises ecological preservation and community welfare.
“As we stand firm against the Pioneer-Burdekin Pumped Hydro Project, the experiences in Eungella only strengthen our commitment to ensure that such developments are not pursued without genuine consideration and respect for the communities and natural habitats they impact.”
Premier Miles said that several studies, including environmental, geotechnical and ecological, still had to be completed.
"Those studies are important to understand what the impacts are and how we can mitigate those impacts, before making a final decision," he said.
Despite the tension, moments of conciliation emerged as some residents expressed gratitude for the Premier's willingness to engage directly with the community. However, lingering skepticism persisted, underscoring the profound disconnect between government rhetoric and grassroots realities.
A positive in the Premier’s journey to the Pioneer Valley was the 10/10 he gave a steak pepper pie at the famous Pinnacle Family Hotel, sharing the experience to his social media to help boost the region’s hospitality tourism.
Continued on pages 6-7 and 8

The Town Halls held in Eungella and Mackay were well attended bylocals, followed by the Premier and Deputy Premier on the tongsserving up sausages. Photos: Annette Dew

Premier's Funding Drive Spurs Economic And Environmental Growth

Amid a series of significant announcements during his three-day visit, Queensland Premier Steven Miles unveiled a strategic plan aimed at fortifying Mackay's future while prioritising the well-being and safety of its residents. From bolstering environmental conservation efforts to enhancing community safety measures and expanding healthcare infrastructure, the initiatives reflect a concerted effort to address key priorities and foster sustainable growth in the region.

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Construction Underway On Mackay Base Hospital Upgrade

One of the first engagements on the Premier’s Mackay tour was to celebrate the start of construction on a major hospital expansion of the Mackay Base Hospital.
It’s one of 11 hospital expansions being delivered in Queensland.
The $250 million Mackay Base Hospital expansion will deliver an additional 128 beds, new birth suites and women's and children’s health units, to help relieve hospital pressures and improve patient care for the region.
New birth suites will also be located on the same level as the surgical department, ensuring a smoother transition of care for mothers and newborns.
The Women’s Health Unit and the Child and Adolescent Unit will move into the new contemporary wards when the hospital expansion opens in the second half of 2026.
Chief Executive of Mackay Hospital and Health Service, Susan Gannon said it was fantastic to see work on this major expansion of Mackay Base Hospital underway.
“We have been in the planning stage for some months so it’s good for staff and our community to know the much-anticipated expansion is happening.”
Initial site works began in February 2024, and included upgrades to essential services, such as water and sewerage, as well as site clearing.
Planning is also underway for the multi-deck car park at the hospital to support the expansion.
Premier, Steven Miles said that the $250 million investment will give locals more access to hospital beds, as well as better treatment spaces across a range of important wards.
Minister for Health, Mental Health and Ambulance Services and Minister for Women, Shannon Fentiman said, “We know just how much this significant investment will mean for this growing community.
“Once completed, the additional 128 beds at the Mackay Base Hospital, will help meet rising demand for healthcare and improve the flow of patients from the emergency department into the wards.
“Furthermore, our invaluable frontline health workers will be supported by state-of-the-art facilities and technologies, allowing us to attract and retain the best and brightest staff.”

Premier Steven Miles celebrated the beginning of construction for the Mackay Base Hospital upgrade with Health Minister Shannon Fentiman, Member of Mackay Julieanne Gilbert, and MHHS CEO Susan Gannon. Photo credit: Annette Dew

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Social Homes Fast-tracked In North Mackay

Construction on seven one-bedroom units will soon commence to deliver more social and affordable housing in the Mackay region. These newly constructed units will add to the 74 social homes already in the Mackay Whitsunday region.
Queensland Premier Steven Miles said, “We know that to relieve pressure in the housing market we must boost supply.
“What is just a block of land now will soon be home to seven one-bedroom apartments,” he said.
“We know it’s this kind of housing that we need to build to home single people and older people who are looking to downsize.
“This frees up larger social homes for families and ensures accommodation is fit for purpose.”
State Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said, “I’ve lived in Mackay all my life and I welcome anything that benefits the Mackay region and my fellow Mackayites,” she said.
“Like all of Queensland, in recent years Mackay has been dealing with increasing pressure on households.
“The development of housing programs aimed at increasing the housing supply in Mackay and surrounding regions is very welcome. This latest announcement to fast-track construction of seven apartments in North Mackay is positive news for our community,” she said. 

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Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert, QBuild apprentice Ethan, Premier Steven Miles and Minister for Housing Meaghan Scanlon torn sod at the North Mackay site where seven new social housing units will be constructed. Photo credit: Annette Dew

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Queensland Adds 140 Islands To Protected Areas Estate

The protection of the Great Barrier Reef has been further boosted by the addition of 140 islands or parts thereof within the marine park to Queensland’s protected areas estate, the Premier announced in Mackay last week.
The additional lands, with a combined total of 1,390 hectares, form part of the State Government’s Great Barrier Reef Island Arks project.
The project increases reef island protection, by acquiring or transferring high conservation value islands, or parts thereof, to add to Queensland’s protected area estate, ensuring endangered and of-concern ecosystems and habitat for important species such as green and flatback turtles, seabirds and shorebirds are protected for future generations.
Chief Executive Officer of the National Parks Association of Queensland Inc, Chris Thomas said, “As we continue to face environmental challenges and the delicate balance between human progress and nature conservation, the importance of Queensland’s protected areas has never been more pronounced.
“With the increase in protected areas in Queensland, we ensure the survival of these species and contribute to the overall health and resilience of ecosystems, while providing more natural spaces for the community to visit, learn about and enjoy.”
Quotes attributable to Queensland Conservation Council protected areas campaigner Nicky Moffat added, "From Cairns to Mackay and down to Gladstone, the Great Barrier Reef's Island and coastal national parks will now be more connected and this will help ensure their health into the future.”
Demolition contractors are currently removing old, dilapidated structures and plant and equipment from St Bees Island. This follows from the clean-up of the former resort on Wild Duck Island in August 2023.
Premier Steven Miles said he is passionate about protecting Queensland’s world-renowned Great Barrier Reef and its unique ecosystem for the next generation, and all those that follow.
“When we say something, we do something and it’s my promise to Queenslanders and the world that my government will always take care of the Great Barrier Reef and its natural wonders.”
Minister for the Environment and the Great Barrier Reef, Leanne Linard said The Great Barrier Reef Island Arks project is a commitment to protecting the iconic Great Barrier Reef and the wide variety of species who call it home.
“Through this project, we are protecting vital ecosystems and habitats for species like green and flatback turtles, seabirds and shorebirds,” she said.
Member for Mackay, Julieanne Gilbert added, “We must never rest in our efforts to protect and conserve our iconic Great Barrier Reef.”

The Premier with park rangers announced enhanced protection of the Great Barrier Reef with the state acquisition of around 140 high-protection islands. Photo credit: Annette Dew

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Sports enthusiasts, rejoice! It's that electrifying time of the year when the air is thick with the promise of victory and the echoes of cheering crowds. From the rugged battlefields of rugby league, where our Cowboys charge fearlessly into the fray, to the heart-stopping showdowns of the Mackay Cutters on the hallowed turf of BB Print Stadium, the stage is set for an unforgettable season.
Despite the recent heartache of the Cutters' narrow loss to Townsville in the dying moments of the game, their blazing start to the season ignites hope and excitement in every fan's heart.
Last weekend, the iconic Paris Roubaix – famously dubbed the "hell of the North" – had me glued to my seat well past midnight. Keeping pace with the gruelling European cycling classics demands ample doses of coffee the next morning, but it's all worth it for the sheer spectacle of it all.
As the North Queensland athletics season kicks off, I find myself itching to return to the throwers' circle after taking a year off for the arrival of my baby. And tonight, under the dazzling lights of the Crater, the home advantage beckons as our very own Mackay Meteors and Meteorettes kick off their NBL1 campaigns with a fiery determination to conquer their rivals.
In this edition, columnist Rob Kidd delves into the anticipation surrounding the Mackay Meteors and Meteorettes' season opener at the Multisport Stadium, affectionately known as the Crater. Keep an eye out for Todd Blanchfield, a hometown hero set to light up the court with his stellar skills – a testament to the top-tier basketball talent flourishing right here in Mackay.
So, whether you're a seasoned fan or a newcomer to the court, I urge you to experience the magic of live basketball for yourself. Trust me, you won't regret it. And to Karen Blanchfield and family – your support fuels Todd's fire, and we're all grateful for it.
See you courtside!
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Amanda
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Stay tuned for more basketball highlights on page 24 with Rob Kidd, and dive into all the action in our dedicated sports section on pages 31-36.

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In response to the escalating issue of homelessness within the community, Pioneer State High School has stepped up to make a significant impact. With an astounding show of solidarity and compassion, the school has donated an impressive 4000 tins of food to support the efforts of Chances Op Shop in addressing the needs of homeless individuals within the community.
Chances Op Shop has become an essential base for those experiencing homelessness in Mackay, offering vital services such as hot meals, warm clothing, and a safe space for respite during the day. The generous donation from Pioneer State High School will undoubtedly strengthen the organisation's ability to continue to provide essential support to individuals in need.
The initiative taken by the school reflects a growing sense of community responsibility and empathy towards those facing adversity. Through collective action and collaboration, the students, parents, and teachers of Pioneer State High School have rallied together to make an outstanding difference in the lives of those in need.
The heartfelt appreciation expressed by the team at Chances Op Shop was posted to Facebook, stating, “Thank you for doing the can drive again and a huge thank you to all of the students, teachers and parents who organised, contributed or helped.

“This will help immensely to continue providing food to people experiencing homelessness in Mackay.”

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Pioneer State High School students, parents and teachers gathered 4000 tins of food to donate to Chances Op shop to feed the mouths of those who are facing homelessness

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The Isaac region’s newly elected Council members have taken their oath in the heart of the Bowen Basin last week.
The declaration of office ceremony, led by Isaac Regional Council Acting CEO Darren Fettell, welcomed a new Mayor and eight Councillors to their elected positions following the 16 March poll results.
The ceremony was held at the Isaac Regional Council Batchelor Parade Chambers in Moranbah, with family and staff in attendance to witness this significant event.
Mayor Kelly Vea Vea, who served as Councillor for 12 years, said she was looking forward to another four-year term with a team that is committed to serving the community and driving positive change.
“It’s an honour to serve the Isaac region, and I congratulate each of the divisional Councillors on their appointment,” Mayor Vea Vea said.
“Together with the new council we will make Isaac a better place for all.”
Mayor Vea Vea paid tribute to past councillors, who set a solid foundation for the new council team.
“The Isaac region and its councillors are respected across the country for their advocacy and ability to drive change,” Mayor Vea Vea said.
“I look forward to working with my team, industry and government to ensure that our region continues to be the powerhouse of the nation.”
The Council appointed the Deputy Mayor at its post-election meeting on Friday, 5 April 2024, voting for Jane Pickels. Cr Pickels has served on council for 12 years and will help lead the recently sworn in team.
KELLY VEA VEA - MAYOR
TERRY O’NEILL Division 1 Rural Clermont, Coppabella and Glenden
VERN RUSSELL Division 2 Dysart
MELISSA WESTCOTT Division 3 Moranbah
SIMON WEST Division 4 Moranbah
ALAINA EARL Division 5 Moranbah
JANE PICKELS  - DEPUTY MAYOR - Division 6 Clermont
RACHEL ANDERSON Division 7 Moranbah and Middlemount
VIV COLEMAN Division 8 Nebo

(left to right): Cr Viv Coleman, Cr Melissa Westcott, Cr Alaina Earl, Mayor Kelly Vea Vea, Cr Rachel Anderson, Cr Vern Russell, Cr Simon West, Cr Terry O’Neill, Cr Jane Pickels (Deputy Mayor)

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The Mackay community witnessed a significant moment last week as the newly elected Mackay Regional Council was officially sworn in at a ceremony held at the 500 Pavilion, Mackay Showgrounds. The council's inauguration marked the beginning of a new chapter in the region's governance.
Amidst a gathering of local officials and community members, Mayor Williamson, alongside 10 councillors, solemnly took the oath of office administered by council’s CEO Scott Owen. Among the returning councillors were familiar faces such as Martin Bella, Belinda Hassan, Alison Jones, and Karen May, while newcomers George Christensen, Namarca Corowa, Ash-Lee Johnson, Nathenea MacRae, Heath Paton, and Peter Sheedy joined the council ranks.
This historic moment resonated deeply as Namarca Corowa became the first councillor of First Nations descent to be elected to the Mackay Regional Council, marking a significant milestone in the council's diverse representation.
Addressing the gathered audience, Mayor Williamson articulated his vision for the council's term ahead, stating, "We will, as one council, deliver the good governance for our community that the act requires us to do. We will passionately advocate for the reason that we are elected to serve. And we commit as one council to represent the aspirations and issues in our community and we will do that through robust discussions.
“The next four years is going to be very exciting and I am honoured and humbled to be Mayor of Mackay Regional Council with such a diverse team, I think this is going to be a fantastic term."
With Mayor Williamson's words echoing a sense of unity, purpose, and commitment to community representation, the newly sworn-in Mackay Regional Council embarks on its journey to serve and shape the region's future for the next four years.

L-R: Cr Karen May, Cr Martin Bella, Cr Peter Sheedy, Cr Belinda Hassan, Cr Ash-Lee Johnson, Mayor Greg Williamson, Cr George Christensen, CEO Scott Owen, Cr Namarca Corowa, Cr Alison Jones, Cr Heath Paton, Cr Nathenea MacRae. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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By Amanda Wright

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Mackay bids farewell to a cherished war hero and author, Tom Barry, who passed away last month at the age of 101. Tom's memory and remarkable wartime experiences continue to resonate within the community, immortalised through his poignant memoir, A Prodigious Leap. His legacy of courage, resilience, and unwavering commitment to his country will forever be etched in the annals of WWII history.
In commemoration of his extraordinary life, the Mackay RSL Sub-Branch organised a heartfelt poppy service at Jubilee Park, where friends, family, and fellow veterans gathered to honour Tom's profound sacrifice and enduring spirit. Mackay RSL Sub-Branch President Ken Higgins paid tribute to Tom's illustrious military service, highlighting his distinguished accolades and unwavering dedication to his nation.
"Tom was awarded the 39-45 Star, the African Star with First Army Clasp, the Italian Star, and the War Medal 39-45.
“101 years, what a wonderful life,” Mr Higgins remarked.
“Tom was a character, a man's man, he had wonderful stories to tell, and I'll bet some stories didn't make the book, but there's enough in there to know he had a very interesting life.
“He was a very young soldier, 17, and what he went through at the age of 20 is nothing short of astonishing, the responsibility he had in Italy is unreal. I can only imagine what he went through when he got captured.
“We remember him for what he did, who he was, and we are saying a fond farewell to a great man," said Higgins.
Tom's memoir, A Prodigious Leap, chronicles his extraordinary odyssey from his humble beginnings in Sunderland, England, to the battlegrounds of World War II. His vivid recollections of courage, camaraderie, and resilience offer a testament to the human spirit's triumph over adversity. Despite the harrowing ordeals he endured, including his capture by German soldiers and subsequent torture, Tom's unwavering resolve and steadfast determination never wavered. His memoir stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to sharing his wartime experiences, ensuring that future generations never forget the sacrifices made by those who served.
Tom's beloved wife, Ann, fondly remembered her husband as a great father and husband. "Tom was a man who would take command of any situation," she remarked, reflecting on their cherished years together.
As the sombre notes of a lone bugler echoed through Jubilee Park, among the solemn faces and bowed heads, stood a testament to the enduring legacy of a true war hero, Tom Barry.
Lest We Forget.

Members of the RSL Mackay Sub-Branch as well as friends and family of the late Tom Barry gathered at Jubilee Park to pay their respects to the war hero who passed away last month. Photo credit: Amanda Wright
The late Tom Barry with RSL Mackay Sub-Branch President Ken Higgins in 2022 when Tom completed his book, A Prodigious Leap. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

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Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox is encouraging organisations across the electorate to apply for funding under the Play Our Way Program which has been designed to make sport more welcoming for women and girls.
 
This funding program, which will run over three years, aims to deliver long-term benefits and improvements that address participation barriers faced by women and girls in sports.
 
Mr Willcox believes this grant opportunity will make a lasting difference to the communities within Dawson.
 
“Unfortunately, in rural and regional areas, sporting clubs and facilities are underfunded and under-resourced,” Mr Willcox said.
 
“This funding is crucial to ensuring our future sports stars aren’t continually disadvantaged to make do with substandard sporting infrastructure.”
 
The funding program is open to applications from local governments, community organisations, not-for-profit organisations, and sporting organisations.
 
Successful grant recipients will use the funding to provide safe, inclusive, quality and sustainable facilities, equipment and initiatives while helping women and girls to remain involved in sport for life.
 
“I know of a few clubs in my electorate that rely on fundraising activities to maintain and improve their facilities, this grant program will provide a much-needed boost to these fundraising activities, giving our local communities the sporting infrastructure that they need and deserve,” Mr Willcox said.
 
Applications close Monday 29 April at 2pm.
 
For eligibility criteria, or to apply, visit: www.health.gov.au/our-work/play-our-way-program

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The Queensland Police Service has announced new police officer growth allocations for the Mackay-Isaac-Whitsunday Region. A total of 20 extra police positions have been allocated this financial year with Academy training and recruitment efforts at record levels.
In addition, 28 new police vehicles have been allocated to Central Region, 17 of which have been allocated to Mackay Whitsunday District (vehicle allocation includes Bowen, Clermont, Mackay, Moranbah, Sarina, and Whitsunday).
The extra police positions will be allocated across the area in various capacities. This includes assigning five additional police officers to the Mackay Tactical Crime Squad, along with three additional police officers for the Mackay Police Station. Within the Mackay Police Station, the Child Protection Investigation Unit (CPIU) will see an addition of one police officer.
Two extra police officers will be allocated to the Mackay Northern Beaches Police Station, while the Bowen Police Station will receive four additional police officers. In Moranbah, one additional general duties police officer and one extra police officer for Moranbah Scenes of Crime will be assigned. The Sarina Police Station will have one additional police officer, and the Proserpine Police Station will see an increase of one police officer and one additional Highway Patrol Officer.
Premier Steven Miles met with police officers in Mackay last week and said, “Queenslanders tell me they want to see more police in their communities.
“With this uplift, an extra 20 police will be recruited to the Mackay and Whitsunday region by mid-next year as part of our record boost to the frontline.
“It’s my commitment to Queenslanders that more police and the tools they need to keep communities safe are being delivered where police tell us they are needed.”
Acting Police Minister Meaghan Scanlon said that in addition, police have announced Operation Whiskey Legion, which will see officers from specialist units deployed to regions, including the Mackay-Isaac-Whitsunday region, to provide further support to local police to disrupt and prevent crime.
“And further to that initiative, the government has provided police in the region with additional funding to conduct extreme high-visibility police patrols so that members of the community can be reassured by the on-going presence of police in public places like shopping centres and other high pedestrian traffic areas,” she said.
Mackay and Whitsundays District Officer Superintendent Graeme Paine said, “Community safety is at the core of our values and these additional frontline and specialised officers combined with extra resources will bolster these efforts.
“We are committed to reducing crime in the Mackay and central Queensland communities and these additional officers will be a welcomed tool to help us achieve that goal.
“Local residents can rest assured these officers will work hard to support and protect their community with a focus on preventing, disrupting and investigating crime.”

Premier Steven Miles met with local police officers last week to discuss the allocation of additional police positions in the greater Mackay region

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Paying it forward is now easier than ever with Containers for Change Container Exchange Points being installed on public bins around the region.
The Container Exchange Points allow anyone to place their drink containers into them for someone else to collect and return at their preferred Containers for Change location for a 10-cent refund.
Mackay Regional Council’s Chief Executive Officer, Scott Owen, said council was excited to roll out the program for the region to combat several recycling issues.
“It is literally a pay it forward program – from those who don’t want, to those who need it,” Mr Owen said.
“It also assists council in combatting the issue of contamination in our public recycling bins,” he said.
The stations will be rolled out over the coming months and will be attached to existing rubbish bins in 70 locations across Mackay.
Natalie Roach, CEO of Container Exchange said a lack of dedicated drink container bins in public places meant millions of recyclable and refundable containers were still going to waste across Queensland each year.
“Residents and visitors who don’t want to hold on to their empty eligible containers for a 10-cent refund can now place them in a Container Exchange Point on a public bin for others to collect.
“Mackay has embraced Containers for Change, returning more than 304 million containers for recycling since 2018.
“This has refunded more than $30.4 million to the pockets of local households, charities, and community groups. With the availability of the new Container Exchange Points in public places we are excited to see that figure continue to grow even further.
Container Exchange is the not-for-profit organisation that implements Containers for Change in Queensland on behalf of the Queensland Government.

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Pay it forward by placing your drink containers into the newly designed bins for others to access and collect

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A building at 8 River Street, earmarked for a refurbished food and beverage outlet, will be demolished.
The existing structure, formerly Maria’s Donkey, is structurally compromised and not suitable for refurbishment.
It will be demolished and the riverbank site reinstated.
A portion of the budget council had committed for refurbishment of the building will be used for investigating design options for the development of the prime riverfront site.
The balance of funding will be set aside to go towards delivery of a preferred option once approved.
The council-owned 8 River Street is adjacent to the State Heritage-listed Paxton’s building. However, it is not part of that property and is not heritage listed.
Director Planning, Growth & Sustainability Aletta Nugent said demolition was the best decision in terms of safety and financial responsibility.
“This will make the area safe,’’ she said.
“It will also provide a greenfield option for a new development on this prime site, with activation of the space in the interim,’’ she said.
“A new greenfield option will help capitalise on the site’s potential, including over-water opportunities, and include flood immunity in any new build.’
Work on the site, being undertaken by Woollam Constructions, was paused late last year while council determined the best value for money approach.
Ms Nugent said council was aware of the damage present however it was only after the deck was demolished, internal walls removed, and concrete flooring removed that the full extent of issues with the building were uncovered.
“More pylons than originally thought would also have needed to be replaced which adds significant cost,’’ she said.
“Recommended alternative piling methods and associated costs were significantly over budget.”
The building was braced at that time to make it safe and the contractor vacated the site.

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The former Maria’s Donkey site will be demolished as the building has been deemed to be structurally compromised and not suitable for refurbishment

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In the mosaic of industries that form the backbone of our economy, agriculture stands tall as the bedrock upon which prosperity is built. Beyond its role in nourishing our bodies, agriculture fuels economic growth, fosters rural development, and sustains communities across the nation. As we navigate the complexities of modernity, it's imperative to recognise and support the farmers who toil tirelessly to feed our nation.
Agriculture, the quiet giant, forms the foundation of a thriving nation. It's the engine that turns seeds into sustenance, fuels economic growth, and fosters vibrant rural communities. From sprawling cane fields to paddocks of cattle, agriculture is a living, breathing testament to ingenuity and hard work.
Agriculture's economic impact goes far beyond grocery bills. It contributes a whopping $80 billion to the Australian economy, a testament to its vital role. This impact extends beyond farms, creating jobs in processing, transportation, and countless other interconnected industries.
Strong agricultural communities are the lifeblood of regional Australia. By supporting our farmers, we ensure the continued prosperity of these regions. This ripples outward, strengthening local businesses that provide essential goods and services. It also invests in infrastructure, from roads and bridges to schools and hospitals, ensuring a high quality of life for rural residents.
Marking its fifth year as a premier agricultural event, the Mackay Ag Trade Expo has solidified its reputation as a regional staple. This year's expo promises to be bigger and better than ever, showcasing the latest innovations and technologies that are transforming every aspect of primary production.

Michelle Landry
Federal Member for Capricornia

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The anticipation is mounting as the countdown commences for the highly awaited Mackay Sugar Ag Trade Expo 2024, now set to unfold at the Mackay Showgrounds. This event promises to be a remarkable celebration of all facets of agriculture. 

Julie Crowley, Coordinator for the event, expressed profound appreciation for the tremendous support from the local community.

"We've been overwhelmed by the enthusiastic response from exhibitors, with bookings flooding in daily.

“We have an extraordinary lineup of stallholders already confirmed, ensuring two days brimming with action, displays, products, and services catering to all aspects of agriculture and rural lifestyles," she stated. 

In welcoming the change of venue, Ross Dodt, representing the Mackay Show Association, shared his excitement.

"The Mackay Show Association is thrilled to host the Mackay Sugar Ag Trade Expo at the Mackay Showgrounds.

“We are looking forward to partnering with Wests Leagues Club to bring this event to the community and showcase our agricultural industry to the region," Dodt remarked. 

Highlighting the significance of agricultural shows in Australian culture, Julie emphasised the importance of local business support for the Expo's growth and future success.

"We extend our heartfelt thanks to the businesses that have secured their sites for 2024.
 
“The Expo is proud to welcome back its esteemed naming rights sponsor, Mackay Sugar, a member of the Nordzucker Group.

"Mackay Sugar brings professionalism and excitement to our event and showcases their commitment to the Sugar Industry in our region.

“We eagerly anticipate collaborating with them not only in 2024 but also in the years ahead," Julie remarked. 

The 2024 Mackay Sugar Ag Trade Expo will take place at the Mackay Showgrounds, on Friday, April 19th, from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, and Saturday, April 20th, from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm. 

Attendees can expect a family-friendly atmosphere, with live music by The Gottani Sisters, whip-cracking demonstrations, line dancing, exhibitor demonstrations on both days, and a special kids zone on Saturday featuring kids rides and various attractions. 

For more information, please visit www.mackayagtradeexpo.com.au or contact Julie Crowley at West’s Leagues Club by calling 4959 2480 or emailing julie@weststigersmackay.com.au. 

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Images from last year's Mackay Sugar Ag Expo. This year will be one you won’t want to miss! Images supplied

What: The Mackay Sugar Ag Trade Expo
When: Friday, April 19th from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, and Saturday, April 20th, from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm. 
Where: The Mackay Showgrounds
Tickets: FREE ENTRY!

What Is The Mackay Sugar Ag Trade Expo?

The Mackay Sugar Ag Trade Expo is a bi-annual event showcasing the latest innovations, products, and services in agriculture. With a focus on fostering community engagement and industry growth, the Expo serves as a platform for networking, education, and celebration within the agricultural sector.

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Canegrowers Mackay
120 Wood St, Mackay
P: (07) 4944 2600
www.mackaycanegrowers.com.au

Elimix
105 Webberley St, West Mackay
P: 0415 712 425
Find us on facebook

Greater Whitsunday Alliance
Lev 1, 224 Victoria St, Mackay
P: 07 4845 8222
www.gw3.com.au

M&P Services
1 Diesel Dr, Paget
P: (07) 4898 0500
www.mpservices.net.au

Mackay Containers
Mackay Trailers
41 Malcomson St, North Mackay
P: (07) 49 400 722
www.mackaycontainers.com
www.mackaytrailers.com

Mackay Forestry
Dunwoody Road, Ball Bay
P: 1800 819 008
www.mackayforestry.com.au

Michelle Landry Office
71-73 Denham St, Rockhampton
P: (07) 4922 6604
Shop 8/13 Sarina Beach Rd, Sarina
P: (07) 4943 2722

Phoenix Powersports
165 Paradise St, Mackay
P: (07) 4952 2436
www.phoenixpowersports.com.au

Reef Catchments
Suite 1, 85 Gordon St, Mackay
P: (07) 4968 4200
www. reefcatchments.com.au

Western Suburbs Leagues Club
Branscombe Rd, Walkerston
P: (07) 4959 2480
www.weststigersmackay.com.au

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Looking to transform your land quickly and efficiently? Look no further than Mackay Forestry Mulching Solutions, your ultimate land-clearing experts!

As the excitement builds for the upcoming Mackay Ag Trade Expo, Mackay Forestry stands ready to showcase its cutting-edge solutions for land maintenance. With a fleet of high-powered Fecon mulchers and dedicated ASV135F machines equipped with 38 hammer and knife teeth, along with skilled operators, Mackay Forestry is primed to tackle any challenge faced by rural landowners in Queensland.

Whether it's clearing thick vegetation, tackling troublesome trees, or creating fire breaks, Mackay Forestry’s machines are designed to topple and grind with precision. Mackay Forestry co-owner, Steph Gordon, said that from large-scale projects to smaller jobs, Mackay Forestry has the equipment and expertise to get the job done swiftly and safely.

“Mackay Forestry mulchers are the go-to when your goal is to clear land quickly, safely and efficiently,” she said.

With a wide range of machines designed to topple and grind logs, trees, thick lantana, luceana, along with all the other problem trees and shrubs, it’s the perfect option for selectively clearing large tracts of land, roads, house pads, fire breaks and much more.

“We are now able to reach all sectors and have machines working long-term jobs as well as helping out customers who only need a few hours to clear that acre of land that can take years to bring under control,” Steph added.

Mackay Forestry’s machines will be on display at the Mackay Ag Trade Expo for attendees to observe, with a presentation from an operator to explain the use and parameters of the machine to cater to your property or project needs.
 
Whilst at the Ag Expo, Mackay Forestry will touch on key divisions such as land clearing and vegetation control, which is quick, efficient and effective, along with soil rehabilitation, biological and mineral nutrient stabilisation which is also fast, effective and gives the balance to all organic practices. 

“We understand what farmers and landowners go through and deal with on a daily basis which gives us a unique insight into land management, especially when dealing with the enormous variety of solutions, some very expensive and ongoing.

“When you are developing a program for your land, come and have a chat to us and see how we can help you.”
 
Don't miss the opportunity to learn more about Mackay Forestry’s innovative solutions at the Mackay Ag Trade Expo!

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In a scene straight out of a sci-fi movie, Mackay's manufacturing landscape is about to witness a futuristic transformation, thanks to an innovative grant from the State Government. Key Solutions Group, a prominent player in the region's industrial sector, is set to revolutionise its operations with the acquisition of not one, but two cutting-edge Motoman AR1440 series welding robots. Alongside these mechanical marvels, the company will also integrate Power-Trac seam finders/trackers and rotary screw compressors, heralding a new era of efficiency and productivity.
This will expand its manufacturing capacity and grow the business, resulting in as many as eight new jobs and upskill 28 current employees.
Key Solutions Group specialises in pipe welding, repairs and component manufacturing and is a major service provider to Mackay’s critical mining and agriculture sectors.  
Purchasing this new machinery has been made possible thanks to $500,000 in funding from Round 3 of the Queensland Government’s Manufacturing Hubs Grant Program.
The equipment is expected to reduce production costs by 30 per cent and generate private sector investment of more than $1.2 million.
Manufacturing Minister Glenn Butcher and Resources Minister Scott Stewart visited the business last week and said the company’s success demonstrates that the Queensland Government’s commitment to the industry is paying dividends.
“Every time we see a Queensland manufacturer take advantage of these grant programs, I know that it’s a step in the right direction for creating a more resilient and robust manufacturing sector,” Minister for Manufacturing, Glenn Butcher said.
“We have helped so many businesses throughout Queensland, just like Key Solutions Group, with leaders who can see an opportunity to expand their factory’s capabilities, an opportunity to secure more clients and grow their business.
“We have heard from many manufacturers that it’s challenging to recruit staff for welding roles and so wherever possible, automation is solving some of those problems.
“It also means staff can be upskilled to new roles and some of those manage the robotic part of the process.”
Key Solutions Group managing director, Frank Attard said that this grant will enable his business to take a major step forward in its growth journey.
“We’ll be able to achieve significantly greater efficiencies in time usage and labour output, which will ultimately result in better service to our growing customer base,” he said.
“The robotic manufacturing facility project will be a key ingredient in our business growth path and we’re looking forward to bringing in more customers with a broader product and service offerings.”

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Manufacturing Minister Glenn Butcher, Key Solutions Group managing director Frank Attard and Resources Minister Scott Stewart

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Cigarettes can take 15 years to break down, causing damage to marine life, whilst have the ability to enter the food chain as a microplastic and are considered to be a major contributor towards fires.

Knowing this, the No More Butts team are putting the final touches to a series of Big Butt Hunts, to be held across four different locations in North Queensland such as Innisfail, Ayr, Airlie beach and Mackay, this April to tidy up the region in an attempt to combat cigarette littering.

Mackay’s event will be held on Sunday 14th April at the Bluewater Lagoon, starting from 8.30am for an expected finish by 10am.

At the first event in 2022, more than a dozen volunteers picked up 4,500 butts in just under an hour. In 2023, 20 volunteers joined forces to comb the streets of Cairns for cigarette butts.

After one hour, volunteers from several different organisations and businesses had collected a total of 10,350 butts.

The success of this event saw two further events held in December 2023 in partnership with the Sea Shepherd Marine Debris Campaign, Rye, Victoria and Surfers Paradise played host to the groups, who picked up more than 14,000 butts.

Executive Director of No More Butts, Mr. Shannon Mead, said “partnering with councils, businesses, local rangers and other like-minded groups is having a great impact.

“Although our ultimate goal is to ban plastic cigarette filters, for now, we need to spend a lot of effort on education and prevention, as well as picking up these toxic nasty plastic parcels.”

Jumping into the “butt mobile” in April, No More Butts founder Mr. Shannon Mead will travel from Innisfail to Mackay to participate in the four events across two weekends.

Identifying hot spots, based on previous visits and community feedback, Mr. Mead is optimistic that others may join him in the hunt for as many butts as possible.

Although some essentials will be on hand, participants are encouraged to bring their own gloves, sunscreen, a hat and a water bottle.

Interested community members can learn more at https://bit.ly/nqldbh24 or at No More Butts on Facebook.

No More Butts have also been raising awareness of the issue that discarded vaping devices pose on our environment. Based in Queensland, Australia, No More Butts is a registered charity with ACNC.

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By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

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The Rural Fire Service has served an important role in the way rural communities have responded to fire and protected their homes and agribusinesses.
Over recent years, there has been some degradation of the service, and now the state government overhaul - that should have worked to improve rural communities’ capacity to respond to fire emergencies – seems to actively disempower the Rural Fire Service (RFS).
The RFS is an organisation of volunteers. They are people with excellent skills in containing fire and with extensive knowledge of their local landscape and managing fire outbreaks. They are professional land managers, who work their own agribusinesses in cane farming, grazing and other types of farming. They understand how fire can behave in their farming systems and the wider district.  They understand how local weather conditions are important when considering a course of action to control a fire. They really are the experts in fighting their fires- they know the land best, and the RFS was set up in recognition of this.
Because they live where their RFS brigade is, they have skin in the game and the capacity to respond quickly and effectively. It is part of the nature of fire, that once it happens, response needs to be quick off the mark. The RFS takes this responsibility seriously, and as a result, the current system works effectively.
The RFS has been in need of structural improvement and increased support, but the legislation heading to parliament currently appears to miss the mark on the improvements the RFS has sought. The Disaster Management and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2024 brings together the Rural Fire Service and the Queensland Fire and Emergency Service under the one banner of the Queensland Fire Department.
Under the legislation, the RFS – best recognised as yellow trucks- is losing a great deal of its autonomy to the more urban-centric QFES (ie: red trucks). While the RFS sought to have a Rural Fires Board that had some weight, the panel that will eventuate would only have capacity as an advisory body. Section 130 states: “To remove any doubt, it is declared that the RFS advisory committee is not a decision-making body.”
The commissioner will now be empowered to dismiss an RFS volunteer.
These changes also call for an increased demand of RFS volunteers in training hours, from the present 12 months to three to five years. Safety is important, and training is always valuable, but not if it makes it impossible for those volunteers to have their existing skills and capabilities recognised and be empowered to take actions and make decisions during active fire incidents. These are all disincentives to volunteering.
Fire emergencies can be highly fluid situations that demand deep local knowledge and the capacity to act quickly.
The legislation means that they will be led by the professional firefighting arm of the Queensland Brigade, and the commissioner has the right to determine who would lead the management of a fire incident.
Someone can have all the professional training under the sun but still not be the best equipped with specific knowledge and understanding to best know how to fight a bushfire.
In drafting legislation, there was only one week for the RFS and the broader community to respond. The legislation is being rushed, and that will be to the detriment of rural and regional Queensland.
We live in a time of increasingly extreme weather. Anything that reduces a rural community’s capacity to respond to this is at the very least, foolhardy.
It is our great concern that the changes will impact on growers and graziers to their detriment. It is a slap in the face to rural communities and the RFS, that have effectively served their communities for many years.  The legislative changes, if passed in Queensland Parliament, will be a disaster for the RFS and rural communities, and bigger disasters will follow.

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Biosecurity Solomon Islands (BSI) and Honiara Herbarium staff together with Australian Department of Agriculture staff have recently returned from a plant health survey in the Solomon Islands. These joint plant health surveys are a key part of a collaborative partnership that has been running for over a decade which has enabled Australian departments and BSI to work together on many shared biosecurity priorities and activities.

This year the plant health survey had two key focus areas, Honiara the capital city and Lata in Temotu Province. Solomon Islands recently hosted the Pacific Games 2023 in Honiara and as with any large regional event, the Pacific Games had the potential to increase biosecurity risk. This risk could have been due to the increased importation of construction materials and catering, the influx of travellers, spectators and workers from around the region. In response to this, BSI took a number of precautionary steps including increasing their staffing at the borders and follow-on plant and animal health surveillance activities.

This most recent joint plant health survey linked in with BSI’s established post-games trapping program. It involved visiting ‘high-biosecurity-risk’ sites around Honiara with the aim of detecting any exotic plant pest threats that may have been introduced as a result of the Pacific Games. The timing of this increased surveillance immediately following the Games is important as it provides the best opportunity to detect, respond and potentially prevent the further spread of a biosecurity incursion.

The team also surveyed sites in and around Lata in Temotu Province. The key pathways of interest in Lata were the movement of international tourist yachts, foreign logging activities and cross-border movement and trade with Vanuatu.

Activities such as these strengthen formal and informal networks between Australia and the Solomon Islands, increase capacity for detection and response to biosecurity incursions within the Solomon Islands and contribute information on emerging pest threats in the region.

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The entomology team setting up fruit fly traps around the guesthouse in Lata, Temotu Province. In picture Michael Gorton (DAFF) and Gideon Suda (BSI). Photo credit: Emily Lamberton

Survey team members (George Harunari and Emily Lamberton) drill a coconut palm to sample the heart tissue for any disease. Photo credit: Lynne Jones

Gideon Suda (BSI) and Michael Gorton (DAFF) undertaking field surveillance in Lata, Temotu Province. Photo credit: Emily Lamberton

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Sporting legend Ash Barty will add her star power to the State Library of Queensland’s successful play-based learning initiative, First 5 Forever.
Ash’s new role as First 5 Forever ambassador was announced at a special event at the State Library earlier this month.
The tennis champion will promote the benefits of parents and caregivers talking, reading, singing and playing with their children.
First 5 Forever helps families discover ways to support their children’s development in the first 5 years.

“As a new mum and auntie, I know how important it is to find everyday moments to connect and build a bond with little ones. That’s why I’m so excited to be the First 5 Forever ambassador,” Ash said.

“I’m proud to be championing First 5 Forever and sharing how talking, reading, singing and playing with children helps them to thrive,” she said.  

Ash’s appointment follows this year’s launch of the Ash Barty Foundation, which provides opportunities for young boys and girls through sport and education. It also builds on her close relationship with State Library.

Minister for the Arts Leeanne Enoch said, “We know when young Queenslanders learn early while they play, they thrive with lifelong health benefits.

“As a world tennis champion, a new mum and a Queenslander, Ash Barty is a wonderful ambassador for giving our kids the best possible start in life.

In acknowledgment, State Librarian and CEO Vicki McDonald AM shared, “The early years matter, which is why State Library is thrilled to continue its partnership with Ash and the Barty family through First 5 Forever.”

“We look forward to working with Ash to help parents connect with their children, in fun and meaningful ways.”

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Leeanne Enoch MP with Queensland tennis ace Ash Barty, whom is now adding her star power to First 5 Forever as the new state-wide ambassador.

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North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) is investing around one million dollars to improve the area, near its Port of Mackay.
The improvements to the North Wall recreational area will provide long-term benefits not only for its current visitors but also for future generations.​
With a local office in Mackay, landscape architects at RPS Group have been engaged to develop a preliminary layout for consideration.​
It’s anticipated that the project (including construction) will be completed in early 2025.
NQBP Chief Executive Officer Brendan Webb said the project had been initiated to provide port community members with improved amenities.
“At NQBP, we share the passion the community has for safeguarding the local environment and are committed to continuing to provide recreational access to North Wall Beach,” Mr Webb said.
“We’re looking forward to enhancing the area’s natural beauty while maintaining its unique and peaceful outlook for the community and future generations,” he said.
Mr Webb said the port authority had been working closely with key stakeholders to incorporate their feedback.
“Community engagement is at the forefront of this project.
“We have been working with representatives from our key stakeholders such as Yuwi Aboriginal Corporation, Mackay and District Turtle Watch and NQBP’s Port of Mackay Community Reference Group (CRG) who have all provided their feedback into the project.”
Long-term CRG member Mick DePinto said he was looking forward to the project coming together.
“As a regular user of North Wall, I’m really excited about this project,” Mr DePinto said.
“I’m looking forward to working together with NQBP and seeing this project come to life,” he said.
With a local office based in Mackay, Queensland-based landscape architects RPS have leveraged its extensive experience in coastal landscape development to prepare the preliminary design layout.
RPS Principal Practice Leader Tim Connor said RPS was pleased to be part of this important project.
“Our goal is to deliver landscape design that reflects and responds to the distinctive character, climate and culture of the North Wall site.”
“We’re looking forward to hearing from the community to understand what matters most, and evolving the design of this exciting site.”
Broader community feedback on the preliminary layout is now open for a period of four (4) weeks and will close at COB Friday 3 May 2024.
A final design layout will be prepared once the consultation period has closed and relevant feedback has been considered and included where possible.
Michael DePinto from community group ‘Save Our Northwall’ said that while the advocacy group didn’t get everything they wanted, they viewed this as a win for the turtles, the ecosystem and the community.
In a post on the group’s Facebook page, Mr DePinto said “I can’t thank the NQBP team at all levels enough for what has been achieved with their support. They live in Mackay and love Mackay, we could not have achieved this outcome without their support.”
He also highlighted some positives from the planning.
“The North wall area around the car park has been declared a Recreation Reserve. This has huge implications for long-term public access.

“The SEMP or Shoreline Erosion Management Plan is underway to understand and then develop a plan to stop erosion and replenish our beautiful beach. This is so important.

“Significant increase in the environmental reserve which separates the sand mining operations and natural dunal systems and the flora and fauna in those areas.

“While we might not have got everything we wanted, this is still a huge win for all of us in this group. It's a win for the turtles; it's a win for the ecosystems that exist in the beautiful bush behind our beach, and it's a win for all of us who use and love that little bit of Paradise we call Northwall.

“So to everyone on this page, nearly 2800 of you, give yourself a clap and a pat on the back for getting involved and making a difference, for without all of you and the noise we made, this would not necessarily be the outcome we got.”

NQBP said that a separate project is also underway to develop a Shoreline Erosion Management Plan (SEMP) for North Wall Beach which is required before any coastal works can occur in the area.
Information on the project, including the preliminary design layout and online survey is available on the project page on NQBP’s website.
Mentioned on its project website, NQBP says “During the construction phase, every effort will be made to minimise disruption to the community, however at times it may be necessary to restrict public access to the North Wall beach recreational area to ensure safety. Stay tuned for updates on social media.”

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Community member Mick DePinto, NQBP CEO Brendan Webb, NQBP Hossein Saadai and NQBP Board Director Lynn Smart
Conceptual plan map of North Wall
Proposed design elements

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Do the kids need a back-to-school refresh?

Little Treehouse Lane, upstairs in Caneland Central, has lunchboxes, lunch bags, drink bottles, snack containers, backpacks and more!

From the super cool sparkly Munchboxes to Montiico insulated food jars, Subo food bottles for the little sippers and Bento cups to divide the food for the fussiest of eaters, there’s something for every age and stage!

Check out the range online or visit the team in Caneland Central, upstairs opposite Snap Fitness! (Little Treehouse Lane has moved across the laneway, opposite its original location, into a bigger and brighter space).

Check out online back to school here: https://tinyurl.com/LTHLBTOS

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Almost all Queensland children will experience at least one RSV infection by the time they turn two, with the virus the most common cause of hospitalisations among infants and young children.

The highly contagious virus attacks the lungs and can spread quickly, particularly between little ones.

The State Government will invest $31.06 million to rollout a free Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) immunisation program to more than 70,000 newborn babies, eligible infants and young children.

While RSV can infect people of all ages, newborn babies and young children have tiny airways and what may seem like a cold, can rapidly turn severe, causing a range of respiratory illness including bronchiolitis or pneumonia.

Minister for Health, Mental Health and Ambulance Services and Minister for Women Shannon Fentiman said, “We know caring for a little one can already be a stressful time for parents and this is an important step to help reduce the risk of contracting RSV and keeping our most vulnerable out of hospital.”

This year alone around 7,000 cases of RSV have been recorded in Queensland, which is double the number of cases in 2023 between the same period, 1 January to 24 March.
More than 2100 of the cases recorded so far this year are children under two years of age.

Last year, nearly 29,000 RSV cases were recorded. Of these, 9,703 cases were recorded among children under two years and hospital admissions accounted for more than 5,000 occupied paediatric bed days, of which 3,525 were for infants under one year of age.

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Free immunisation against RSV will be available for newborns, eligible infants, and young children

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As we proudly mark our 27th anniversary in Sarina, First National Real Estate reflects on nearly three decades of dedicated service to this growing community. Originating as Honeycombes Sarina in 1995 and later joining the esteemed First National family in 1998, our journey has been defined by a steadfast commitment to professionalism and integrity.
Throughout the years, our reputation as one of Australia's largest real estate networks has been built upon a foundation of trust and reliability. Clients have consistently turned to us for their needs, knowing that choosing a well-established and reputable agency provides assurance and peace of mind during every step of the buying, selling, or renting process.
What truly sets us apart is our local expertise. While we are part of a national network, our local office operates with a deep understanding of the Sarina market. This localised knowledge allows us to accurately price properties, navigate local regulations, and provide tailored advice that meets the unique requirements of our clients. Our team members aren't just real estate professionals; they're integral members of the Sarina community, deeply invested in its growth.
We are deeply committed to supporting the fabric of Sarina itself. From sponsoring local organisations and sporting clubs like the Sarina & District Netball Association, Sarina Bowls Club, Sarina Pony Club and Sarina Equestrian Vaulting Team, just to name a few, to backing vital community institutions such as the RACQ CQ Rescue helicopter, Ronald McDonald Family House and Kids Help Line.
Beyond sponsorship, we engage in community events and support local initiatives, promoting growth in Sarina and beyond. As we celebrate, we thank the Sarina community for their trust over the past 27 years. Looking forward, we anticipate many more years of collaboration and success together. Contact (07) 4943 1616 us if you would like to learn more

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The Sarina Hospital on Brewers Road has officially opened its doors, marking a milestone in healthcare accessibility for the region. Health Minister Shannon Fentiman, who attended the inauguration, emphasised the significance of the upgraded facilities, including an expanded emergency department, larger consultation rooms, and a purpose-built rehabilitation facility with a spacious gym.
"It's got more beds, an expanded emergency department, a rehab gym, and new staff accommodation," Minister Fentiman said.
"We're proud to announce that the new Sarina Hospital is the first rural hospital in Queensland to be fully digital, using the ieMR digital medical system," she added. "This innovative digital infrastructure replaces traditional paper patient charts, enhancing communication between departments and hospitals and improving overall patient care."
Executive Director Public Health and Rural Services, Terry Johnson, praised the Sarina project team for their dedication in ensuring a smooth transition. "This is an exciting time for our Sarina Hospital staff who have done an amazing job in preparing for this transition," Ms. Johnson commented.
The opening of the new Sarina Hospital represents a significant step forward in delivering quality healthcare closer to home. With its modern facilities and cutting-edge digital infrastructure, the hospital is poised to meet the evolving healthcare needs of the community. The ceremony also heralded plans for the redevelopment of the former Sarina Hospital site at 1 Hospital Street. Minister Fentiman announced a further $10.4 million investment to transform the former building into a long-stay health facility. Set to commence in May 2024 and scheduled for completion by mid-2025, this redevelopment aims to bolster healthcare capacity in the region.

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Health Minister Shannon Fentiman (centre) was at the official opening of Sarina’s new hospital on Brewers Road. Photo supplied

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To celebrate the incredible 19-year journey of Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank, we are hosting a Celebration of Community Anniversary Dinner. Together, let's acknowledge our shared achievements and toast to continued collaboration for many years to come supporting our community.

Join us for an unforgettable evening on 8 June 2024, at the Bob Wood Cultural Hall in Sarina. Doors open at 5:30pm for an event filled with style. In semi-formal attire, anticipate delicious food crafted by Sinful Kitchen, featuring welcome canapés and a two-course dinner. The bar will be stocked with beverages to complement your evening. Tickets are $90 per person, with RSVPs requested by 12 May 2024. Gather your friends, colleagues, or community group as tables of 8 are available for reservation. Let's join forces to celebrate what’s great about where we live and the vibrant essence of our community!

Featuring Shane Webcke as our keynote speaker - a true example of community leadership and resilience. From sports to farming, family life to business, his life story, vividly told in his autobiography "Warhorse," reflects his unwavering commitment to safety advocacy, because of the tragic loss of his father to a workplace incident.

In "Warhorse", Shane shares the highs and lows of his football career and farm management, alongside the profound impact of personal loss. Through his experiences, he emphasises the importance of resilience and community support.

Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate this milestone for the Community Bank Sarina, book your tickets today at bit.ly/communitydinner2024

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The Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Foundation (QATSIF) extends a warm congratulations to students from Sarina State High School, who have now joined an outstanding collective of 4290 QATSIF students.

QATSIF provides educational scholarships to assist Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. The foundation also funds $500 each semester across Years 11 and 12 to assist with essential educational costs such as school fees, uniforms, excursions, subject levies and VET courses etc. The foundation aims to support students on a pathway to success despite financial constraints.
The 16th Round of QATSIF Scholarships is set to open in May, presenting another opportunity for eligible Year 10 and 11 students across Queensland to apply.
Schools will receive application forms, and interested students and parents are encouraged to talk with their school about applying for a QATSIF Scholarship.

Congratulations to these Sarina State High School students who are now collectively part of 4,290 other QATSIF students

Sarina Student Receives $5,000 QCoal Bursary For Uni

Introducing Emily Wright, the recipient of a $5,000 bursary from the QCoal Foundation to pursue her studies in Education at JCU: James Cook University, Australia.
Hailing from Sarina, Emily demonstrates a profound dedication to enhancing education in rural and regional communities.
She recognises the pivotal role of educational opportunities in fostering resilience within Queensland's regional and remote areas. The Foundation shares Emily's sentiment wholeheartedly and extends sincere congratulations to her on this achievement.
This year, in addition to its annual $30,000 scholarship, the Foundation has awarded three additional $5,000 bursaries to deserving students for their studies at JCU.

Emily Wright, recipient of $5,000 bursary from the QCoal Foundation to pursue her studies

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In just 24 hours, Eva, a tiny, frightened kitten, has shown a remarkable, yet rapid transformation in character and health after arriving at Mackay Pet Rescue Inc.
On arrival, Eva was extremely lethargic and weighed only 364 grams, raising high concerns among the staff and volunteers, which prompted preparations to implement fading kitten protocols - a last resort for kittens in critical condition.
Despite her chronological age of five-weeks-old, she remained the size of a three-week-old kitten, highlighting an alarming development issue.
Eva's turnaround since arriving at Mackay Pet Rescue Inc has been astonishing to see for both the rescue team and locals alike. Instead of shutting down in fear, she is now ‘full of happy beans’ and joyously exploring her surroundings. The stark contrast from her state just a day prior speaks volumes about the dedication and care she has received from the staff and volunteers at the rescue organisation.
Although she is currently thriving, Eva's journey is far from over. Despite her improved condition, she still has significant milestones to achieve in terms of her health and development. As she continues to grow under the loving care of Mackay Pet Rescue Inc, close monitoring remains essential to ensure she reaches milestones successfully.
When she has attained the necessary levels of health and strength will she be deemed ready for pre-adoption, where she can continue her journey towards a bright and promising future in the loving care of a new family.

Showcasing the remarkable transformation, Mackay Pet Rescue Inc posted to Facebook, in awe, “Look at the difference 24 hours in care makes.

“This is another fantastic save.”

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Image of little Eva, frightened and weak vs her 24-hour healthy and happy transformation in care. Images sourced from Mackay Pet Rescue Inc (Facebook).

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If it’s pink, you are in luck, and tonight is your night to shine.

Tonight is a massive night for sporting fans in Mackay. It’s a night to get your pink on and have some loud fun at Mackay Basketball on Juliet Street because our top-level competition, the NBL1 North comp starts up, and tonight is the night you don’t want to miss.

Our Meteors and Meteorettes start their 2024 campaign against Townsville, and we want to fill the stadium, make more noise than ever before, and start the year off in style.

We’ve got a stack of great players coming back for this season including Chelsea Brook and Samantha Haiby for the Meteorettes, and Todd Blanchfield and Emmanuel Malou for the Meteors, so you know it’s going to be a star-studded year of fun at Candlestick Park!

If you’ve never been to a game before, just think of a big room, lots of music, heaps of fun, a basketball game to watch, and a great night to be had. That’s what this season will be and more. I reckon we’ve got what it takes to take the title this year, but we need you to join us.

I’ll be the crazy one on the microphone having some fun with you in the crowd, so I reckon you’re mad if you don’t come along.

Tonight is also a wonderful night to come down, because it’s a pink night fundraiser for the McGrath Foundation so they can get more breast care nurses on the ground in the Mackay region. We have two, but we need more.

So tonight, will be a pink night, with pink hair, pink shirts for sale, raffle tickets, pink basketballs, pink players jersey’s being auctioned after the games with all funds going to help the McGrath Foundation do the great work, they continue to provide many women battling this horrible disease.

Over the years we’ve had Jason Borg, legend of the Meteors come dressed in a pink wig! There’s even been local superstar Graeme Connors, adorned with pink singing our national anthem. That’s all been done in the past. What will happen tonight? We are only hours away.

Plus, the ladies are playing for the annual Shelley Rutland Memorial Trophy as this Mackay – Townsville rivalry continues.

I hope to see you down there tonight for a great night of fun. I may even wear my pink suit again!

You can join Rob Kidd from 5am weekday mornings on 4MK 1026 AM in Mackay and Proserpine, 91.5FM in Airlie Beach or just ask your smart speaker to play 4MK on iHeartRadio!

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You don’t hear the term “Chinaman” much these days.
It was fairly common some decades ago in Australia and you used to hear it in Hollywood Westerns, usually describing some poor old pony-tailed gold-fossicker from the Orient.
It was a dismissive term with racist undertones/overtones and has largely disappeared from the language.
Serious cricket fans will also be familiar with the term “chinaman”, a word formerly used to describe a “googly” or “wrong-un” delivered by a left-arm spin bowler.
The “chinaman” has disappeared from cricket commentary due to the same racial aspect that has driven it from more general use. Unfortunately, the loss of the word means there doesn’t seem to be a simple word to label that specific cricket delivery, so they need to come up with something new.
The fishing community does not seem willing to make the same sacrifice and the Chinaman fish lives on in the vernacular of that politically incorrect group of renegades.
Of course, other words and terminology have been lost, removed or simply disappeared from the English language, generally, and Australian English specifically.
Most of the words are racist and are associated with terrible racial practices. Our language has evolved and many words are, rightly, no longer used.
It becomes more controversial when the names of consumer products are changed as corporations avoid controversy associated with racist, sexist or homophobic terms.
Witness the controversy over the change of name from Coon cheese despite the name not having any connection with the racist term. Cheer cheese just isn’t the same.
Other product names have disappeared: Red Skins are now called Red Rippers, Chicos are Cheekies and, as for Fags … well they were a disaster on several levels; homophobic lollies that promoted smoking. They’re now called Fads and no longer have the distinctive red tip.
People will have their views about name changes and there is a constant tussle between the politically correct and those who resist PC moves.
But there are other traditional Aussie words and phrases that are simply disappearing because they have gone out of fashion.
Witness rascal, sheila, strewth, cobber … common words you hardly hear any more. Larrikin is hanging in there but is seriously under threat.
While I like those words because they are part of our character and are essential to understanding our culture, the real estate industry is full of words and terminology that have had their day and should be quietly put out of their misery.
There are the classics: “Renovator’s Delight”,  which is putting a positive spin on a property that is a terminal disaster, an unlivable junkyard; “Cute”, which means it is an amazingly small house with no room for visitors; “Charming Cottage”,  which tells you it is an old-fashioned little place that is overdue for an update, “Location, Location, Location”, which tells you it is a property with very little going for it in terms of features and space and is possibly situated on a busy road but it is in a central part of town.
The list goes on; something is “cosy” not small, a bathroom is “fully functional” not extremely basic and unrenovated, and I imagine a “family friendly estate” is one of those ones where the neighbours don’t turn up at your door-step wanting to kill your kids but instead say: “Strewth cobber, I’ve got a sheila and a cuppla billy lids of me own”.

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Kucom Theatre recently welcomed a new management committee last month on Tuesday March 26 at its AGM.
Outgoing President Bronwyn Grannall paid tribute to two valued Kucom members; Life Member and past President Joe Clutterbuck, and former Patron and Honorary Member Kevin Casey, both of whom passed away within the past few months.
2023 Committee members were recognised for their hard work and dedication during the year along with the individual donors and corporate sponsors who had made it possible for Kucom to purchase and install the new retractable seating system.
Kucom Theatre is delighted to announce that Mayor Greg Williamson took over as Kucom Patron after Kevin Casey retired in 2020 and he has now been confirmed as Patron for the upcoming year.
Kucom’s next production is a psychological thriller by Constance Cox, The Murder Game, directed by Maureen Coleman. The cast includes Dennis Rozekrans, Carolyn Roche, Michael Brennan and Lani Seaton.
The Murder Game opens on Thursday 11 April for a two-week season, with performances on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings at 7.30pm and a matinee at 2pm on Sunday 14 April.
Bookings can be made at https://events.humanitix.com/the-murder-game
Kucom’s Festival of Arts Fringe event will be The Appleton Ladies’ Potato Race, by Australian playwright Melanie Tait, directed by Luana Royle, followed in October by David Williamson’s Family Values, directed by Kristyn Everett.
For more information, please visit the Kucom Theatre Facebook page.

Front row: Maureen Coleman (President), Jayne Royal (Vice President), Asta Ryan
Back row: Tessa King (Treasurer), Hayley Long, James Hunter
Inset: Carolyn Roche (Secretary). Photo supplied

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The winner of the 2024 BMA River 2 Reef Ride Youth Art Competition was the talented Naiya Luczynski from Moranbah State High School. Her captivating design, inspired by the diverse landscapes of Mackay, won the hearts of both event followers and the community.

Alongside Naiya, finalists Amelia Webber from Holy Spirit College Mackay and Abbie Boulton from Sarina State High School were also recognised for their exceptional designs.

Naiya shared her inspiration behind the design, stating, "My design is inspired by the beauty and diverse landscapes of Mackay. Where community seeks connection, not only to others but also nature. Where people, including our cyclists, seek adventure and get immersed in local beauty.

In addition, the BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival proudly announces that it has raised over $50,000 in 2023 for its two local beneficiaries, RACQ CQ Rescue and Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay.

The annual cycling festival took place on 7 and 8 October 2023 and attracted participants from across the region, all pedalling for a cause. The funds raised will be directly contributed to support the critical services provided by RACQ CQ Rescue, a vital aeromedical rescue service, and Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay, an organisation dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities through sports and recreational activities. 

Linda Murry, General Manager of BMA’s (BHP Mitsubishi Alliance) Hay Point Coal Terminal, expressed her pride in both the jersey design as well as the community's efforts and the impact they have made.

"The BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival has raised over $50,000 for our local beneficiaries in 2023.

"Naiya's design beautifully encapsulates the spirit of the Mackay region, showcasing its natural beauty and sense of community.

“We are thrilled to see her talent recognised and are proud to have her design featured on this year's BMA River 2 Reef Ride Cycling Jersey.

“BMA is deeply committed to supporting the well-being of our local community, local events, and not-for-profit organisations in the region.”

RACQ CQ Rescue provides critical aeromedical services to the community, ensuring that those in need receive rapid and efficient medical assistance, while Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay empowers individuals with disabilities to engage in physical activities and improve their overall well-being.  

Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay’s Program Coordinator Peter Sumptor said valuable donations will go towards coordinating and facilitating recreation activities both in and out of the Mackay region for their athletes.

“Activities such as supporting local disabled athletes in the Wheelchair Basketball Team, the "Mackay Machines", to attend and participate in wheelchair basketball tournaments outside of Mackay, as well as support our local programs such as the Wheelchair Dancers, "Strictly Wheelchair" and Friday Fun sport-based games and socialising,” says Peter.

The BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival has become a flagship event in the region, promoting community spirit, health, and charitable giving.

2024 BMA River 2 Reef Ride Sponsors, Youth Artist Finalists and representatives from RACQ CQ Rescue and Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay. Image supplied
Youth Art Finalist and Winner: Naiya Lucynski’s cycling jersey design. Image Supplied
Amelia Webber and Abbie Boulton were also recognised for their outstanding designs. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
The BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival proudly announces that it has raised over $50,000 in 2023 for its two local beneficiaries, RACQ CQ Rescue and Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay.

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By Hannah McNamara

On May 18, a candle lighting vigil will be held, in honour and remembrance of the lives of those who were devastatingly taken in an abrupt act of domestic and family violence.

Broken Ballerina Inc will hold the special event at Eimeo Surf club by the beach, commencing from 5pm, gathering locals, supporters and survivors alike to pay respects to the innocent lives that were cut short in an attempt to raise awareness of the rising issue.

Broken Ballerina Inc is a non-for-profit charitable organisation, founded by Jules Thompson who is a powerhouse advocate in the community. Her realism and determination for change in the matter of domestic violence acts as a blueprint to the community after she fled from multiple life threating situations in her own experiences, which has led her to be a current supporting voice for many.

With first-hand knowledge on the subject of domestic violence, Jules uses her past experiences to uplift and support those who are going through similar situations. Her ability to constantly provide for individuals and families in desperate need of compassion and safety is what makes Broken Ballerina Inc so vital in the community.

Founder of Broken Ballerina Inc, Jules said, “We wish to acknowledge the women, men and children who have been victims of domestic homicide in this past year.

“Come and join us to pay tribute to those who lost their lives due to another person’s immaturity, insecurity and who chose not to respect nor value their victims right to live.

“Please lock this important date into your calendar, we hope to see you all there.”

There will be guest speakers sharing their insights and experiences on the night, followed by a candle lighting ceremony to commemorate the list of precious souls who were brutally murdered in the act of domestic and family violence.

This event is FREE to the public, featuring local favourites, Mango Junction who will play live throughout the evening with food and drinks also available.

Whilst this event can be overwhelming to attend for some, it is crucial to remember the importance of coming together, listening to the raw stories of survivors and sharing your experiences with others, in light that you are not alone and there is help and hope for your future.

If you are in need of support or you would like to donate, please visit www.brokenballerina-inc.com.au - or call 000 in an immediate emergency.

What: Candle lighting vigil
Where: Eimeo Surf Club
When: Saturday, May 18, from 5pm

Light a candle by the beautiful ocean side view as we commemorate the lives of those tragically taken due to domestic violence
Broken Ballerina committee members Jules and Pete Thompson, Maree Sturdy, Hannah McNamara and Sgt Rowena Lacey with Whitsundays MP Amanda Camm at last year’s Candle Lighting Vigil

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Sarina Sugar Shed. Photos by The Wilde Collective

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The next phase of the exciting Woodlands District Park project in Andergrove is about to begin.
Vassallo Constructions on behalf of Mackay Regional Council, will start construction on phase two of the Woodlands District Park project in mid-April, weather permitting. 

The first phase of stage one has recently been completed and included drainage improvements, path construction barbecue facilities and lighting. 

Phase two will see a 300-metre multipurpose track and public toilets installed, along with associated landscaping. 

Mayor Greg Williamson said this project would transform Woodlands District Park into a sought-after destination for leisure and social activities, especially among residents living in Andergrove and Beaconsfield.
“Woodlands Track will cater for those wanting to enjoy a relaxing walk, bike ride or jog, or something more adventurous like scootering, skateboarding or roller blading,” Mayor Williamson said.

“It will also be the perfect place for parents to teach their children how to ride a bike or scooter,” he said.

“Council is committed to improving the liveability of our region for residents and projects like this are an essential step in achieving that goal.

“We’re also looking forward to starting work on the next phase of this project once the construction of Woodlands Track is complete, with the design for an exciting all-abilities playground currently under way.”
Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said the Miles Government was supporting the project through funding from the Works for Queensland (W4Q) program.
“Phase one of the Woodlands District Park project has delivered fantastic new recreational facilities for Mackay locals and the Miles Government is pleased to be continuing to provide support for the project’s upcoming second phase,” Mrs Gilbert said.
“Since it began in 2016, W4Q has provided more than $42 million to support Mackay Regional Council to deliver projects such as the Woodlands upgrade.
“The Queensland Government continues to support regional infrastructure through W4Q, investing a total of $1.1 billion, including $300 million committed for the upcoming 2024-27 funding round.”
Woodlands Track is expected to be completed in late June, weather permitting.

Minor noise disturbances are expected from 6.30am to 6.30pm, Monday to Friday, as part of this project. Some weekend work may also be required.

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Queenslanders can now book in for a free flu vaccination ahead of the 2024 flu season. From 1 January to 24 March, there have been more than 7,000 flu cases reported, with 713 admitted to hospital. 

To combat this, the State Government is backing free flu vaccinations in 2024, as part of a $40 million commitment to ease pressure on hospital emergency departments this flu season.

The peak season for influenza varies from year to year, but typically starts in May and lasts until around October, with most cases typically recorded in August.

Pharmacy Guild National President Professor Trent Twomey says Australians should get ahead of the flu season and get their vaccination now.

“The flu season typically runs from May to October,” Professor Twomey said.
 
“However, flu vaccines for the 2024 season are available now in community pharmacies across Australia.
 
“The state government is providing the flu vaccine to all residents aged 6 months and over for free until September 30,” he added.
 
Queensland Premier, Steven Miles said, “Our free flu vaccination program is an easy way to get yourself covered ahead of winter without the barrier of cost, and has helped almost one million people get protected so far.

“It’s our hope that all eligible Queenslanders, especially the vulnerable, roll up their sleeve and get vaccinated. It’s the best way to protect yourself and those around you this flu season.”

This program is an extension of those that ran during the 2022 and 2023 seasons and saw 912,000 Queenslanders take up the offer.

Influenza vaccine uptake dropped significantly in 2023 compared to the year prior, with just a third of Queenslanders being vaccinated against the flu. Flu vaccination uptake was particularly low last year among children aged five years and under.

Minister for Health, Mental Health and Ambulance Services Shannon Fentiman expresses the importance of reducing admissions during flu seasons, stating, “The launch of this year’s free flu campaign follows the free Meningococcal B vaccine for eligible children.

“We hope the combination of these free immunisation campaigns will lead to reduced hospital presentations and admissions this cold and flu season.”

The 2024 Free Flu Vaccination Program, concluding on 30 September 2024, aims to encourage more Queenslanders to get vaccinated, while putting money back into the pockets of families who do not qualify for a free vaccination under the Commonwealth’s National Immunisation Program (NIP).

Acting Chief Health Officer Dr Catherine McDougall encourages “every Queenslander to take advantage of a free flu vaccination, as this may also help break the chain of transmission.”

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We slap them on our wrists, clip them to our chests, or weave them into our workouts. Wearable fitness trackers and smartwatches have become a ubiquitous part of the Aussie fitness scene. But beyond counting steps and monitoring heart rate, how can we truly harness the power of these devices to smash our fitness goals?

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Level Up Your Training: Many wearables offer advanced metrics like VO2 Max (a measure of cardiovascular fitness) and recovery time. Use these to personalize your workouts. Push yourself during high-intensity intervals when your VO2 Max is high, and prioritise rest days when recovery time lengthens.
Embrace the Coaching Cue: Smartwatches with built-in GPS can track your running pace and distance. Utilise these features to create targeted training programs. Set yourself a goal pace or distance, and let your watch keep you on track.
Sleep for Success: Most wearables track sleep patterns. Use this data to identify areas for improvement. Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night, and adjust your pre-sleep routine based on your wearable's insights. A well-rested body is a high-performing body.
Find Your Fitness Tribe: Many fitness apps connect with wearables, allowing you to compete with friends or join virtual challenges. This social element can boost motivation and keep you accountable.
Wearable tech isn't magic, but it is a powerful tool. By understanding its features and using the data effectively, we can transform our wearables from passive monitors to active partners on our fitness journeys. So, ditch the step-counting obsession and delve deeper into the world of wearable tech to unlock your full fitness potential.

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North Queensland's wet season paints the rainforest a lush green, but it also brings an unwelcome guest – ticks. These tiny bloodsuckers can transmit serious illnesses like Rickettsia and Queensland tick typhus. With increased tick activity during the wet months, here's how to stay safe while exploring those tropical trails.

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Become Tick-Savvy: Not all ticks carry diseases, but it's best to err on the side of caution. Learn to identify common North Queensland tick species. The paralysis tick, with its reddish-brown body, is particularly concerning.
Dress for Protection: Long, loose clothing and insect repellent containing DEET are your best defence. Tuck your pants into your socks and consider tucking your shirt into your pants for added protection.
The Post-Walk Patrol: After your rainforest adventure, perform a thorough tick check. This includes your entire body, especially warm, moist areas like behind the ears, armpits, and groin.
Know the Signs: If you find a tick attached, remove it carefully with fine-tipped tweezers, grasping it as close to the skin as possible. Be aware of potential symptoms like fever, headache, and a rash around the bite site. If you experience any of these, see your doctor immediately.
Early detection is key: By following these preventative measures and being vigilant about tick checks, you can minimize your risk of tickborne illnesses. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a happy and healthy wet season exploring the beauty of Mackay’s rainforests.

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By Hannah McNamara

Highly respected and treasured police officer, Sergeant Nigel Dalton bids farewell after departing from his role as District Crime Prevention Coordinator.

Mr Dalton has maintained the role of district crime prevention coordinator since 2006 and has left a remarkable imprint on the community over the years. Most known for his educational school talks and local engagement, Mr Dalton is extremely passionate about community safety and will continue his legacy throughout the region, despite no longer wearing the uniform.

“I want to make somebody’s life the best possible life they can have and if I can influence that, even just a little bit, that’s really important,” he said.

Community hero, Sergeant Nigel Dalton steps down from his role as district crime prevention coordinator. Photo Credit: Hannah McNamara

Reflecting On Sergeant Dalton's Impact

While most join the police force to make the world a better place, Sergeant Nigel Dalton funnily admits that he took the job just over forty years ago so he could continue intense training for his life-long passion of swimming whilst policing on the side.

“We did competitions throughout the whole UK and managed to get to the European championships for police in Vienna, so I had a lovely time just doing what I enjoyed and fitting policing around my swimming,” he chuckles.

“Swimming has been a part of my life for years.”

He had a good family upbringing and said there was nothing in the world to complain about, but soon realised the brutal reality of working within the realm of crime.

“When I joined the police, I thought ‘wow there’s a different side of the world which I hadn’t seen’, I was totally naïve.”

Since moving into crime prevention in 2006, Mr Dalton has developed many presentations and projects for young children through to students in grade 12. He has educated and influenced a multitude of young minds in the community, with a wide array of crucial topics such as cyber safety, bullying, domestic and family violence as well as bicycle and road safety.

“The two major projects that I’ve developed is Choices, which teaches grade 12’s about their last year of school and schoolies to avoid common problems that young people seem to easily fall into.

“The other one is Safety Circus, which is like the younger brother of Choices, teaching young children how to be safe when riding their bicycle and who to report to when something’s not going well, and the third topic of Safety Circus is how to be a good bystander for a victim of bullying.”

Mr Dalton has influenced roughly six thousand students just in schools alone in the Mackay District community.

From a personal point of view, Nigel pinpoints the challenges of being in the police force, like not bringing the job back home after seeing or hearing about things that he describes as “pretty nasty.”

“You need to offload those things at some point otherwise it weighs down your shoulders for too long and that’s something that you learn to do over time,” Mr Dalton said.

“I think another one of the challenges is constantly trying to find a solution to domestic and family violence, as well as general violence in the community.”

Mr Dalton signifies the importance of implementing a police presence in early childhood centres and schools to educate the youth and pave a foundation that influences them positively with a familiar approach.

“One thing that I say to children is, I want you to run to me so I can help, but if you run away from me, we’ll catch up with you some other time and we will have to deal with it then.

“So, I tell them, run to me and not away from me.

“I also add that I can’t run fast these days anyway, and they laugh at that,” he humorously added.

“I want to make somebody’s life the best possible life they can have and if I can influence that, even just a little bit, that’s really important.

“The kindies and preppies are quite interested in the police car and lights as well,” he said.

Touching on the highlights of his career, Mr Dalton finds joy in reuniting with young people who were once troubled and hearing their success stories.

“I’ve seen lots of youngsters who were close to falling off the edge.

“I got to know them, we do a few activities and then we might not see them for a couple of years, but they come up to me at an event and they give me a big hug as they tell me they’re playing sport now or they’ve got a job at the mines etc.

“I just think that is great, that’s the best feeling.”

Mr Dalton says after he departs from policing, he will be working in the community somewhere that focuses on ensuring people get the best out of Mackay. He has no interest in travelling around Australia whatsoever and says dragging around a caravan is “just not my thing,” however, he is looking forward to spending time with his beautiful family…and most likely continuing his profound passion of swimming.

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Top cop took home the win for Citizen of The Year at Mackay Regional Council’s Australia Day Awards in 2023

Sergeant Nigel Dalton won a bronze award – in the Customer Focus category for the Queensland Police Service 2018 Awards for Excellence. Image sourced from Queensland Police News

Award-winning duo Sergeant Nigel Dalton and Gerri Kissner with Amanda Camm, leading the charge in keeping the community safe (2023). Image Supplied

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As we welcome the new era of local government leadership with the re-election of Mayor Greg Williamson and the formation of the new Mackay Regional Council, I’m excited about the possibilities that lie ahead for our community. With a blend of fresh enthusiasm from newly elected councillors and the experience of those who have served before, we have a unique opportunity to shape the future of Mackay together.
This diverse council, representing a wide range of views and backgrounds, promises to bring a fresh perspective to the table. I’m eager to see how these diverse views will be harnessed to address the needs and aspirations of our community, from addressing the homelessness crisis to investing in the liveability of our region.
As we embark on this journey, I want to hear from you, our readers. What issues are most important to you? What community projects would you like to see prioritised by the new council? Your input is invaluable in guiding the direction of our city and ensuring that the voices of all residents are heard.
Whether it's advocating for improved infrastructure, fostering economic development, or enhancing our cultural and recreational offerings, your ideas and feedback matter. Together, we can work towards building a stronger, more vibrant Mackay for generations to come. Write to us about the issues that matter most to you, and let us know what community projects are on your wish list.
Your input could help shape the agenda of our new council and make a difference in our community.
To find out who your new councillors are, and to hear from your Mayor, turn to pages 3 and 7.

Amanda

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“A huge thank you to Jackie Zimmerle and the man in the RED SHED for restoring some faith in humanity with your kindness towards my parents.”

During the recent voting madness, Jackie accidently backed her vehicle into an elderly couple’s new car. Rightfully, she took responsibility by leaving a note with her contact details and explaining the tough situation she was in. This act of honesty set the tone for what was yet to become a heart-warming display of compassion.

Despite the circumstances, the elderly owners of the car she had hit happened to be very understanding people. Upon hearing Jackie's apology and learning about her situation with her young kids, the elderly couple decided to take matters into their own hands and commence the car repairs themselves without any financial contributions from Jackie. They sought assistance from a local panel beater and automotive shop with additional help from the touch-up guys at the Red Shed in Ooralea/Paget.

After Jackie heard that the couple fixed the car without seeking financial aid from her, the couple soon received a touching letter and gift from Jackie, expressing gratitude for their understanding and assistance in this challenging time.

The couple's daughter took to Facebook to highlight the ripple effect of demonstrating compassion within the community.

The post read, “Kindness goes along way and returns in many different ways.

“We all need to be more like these people.

“Spread genuine kindness understanding, peace and love.”

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The elderly couple with their gift card and lotto ticket, kindly given by Jackie. Image sourced from Mackay Noticeboard (Facebook)

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By Amanda Wright

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The Mackay region anticipates a new era in local governance as the Electoral Commission of Queensland declares the formation of the Mackay Regional Council. Ten councillors, a mix of incumbents and fresh faces, are set to lead the region over the next four years.
The newly elected council comprises a diverse group of representatives, including four members from Jacko's team, four independents (with one newcomer and three re-elected), and two from Greg Williamson's team. Among Williamson’s team is former Deputy Mayor Karen May, alongside newcomer Ash-Lee Johnson, marking a total of six new councillors joining the council.
In a closely watched election, re-elected councillor Belinda Hassan secured the highest percentage of votes, demonstrating strong community support. However, former councillor Michelle Green narrowly missed out on retaining her seat by a mere 59 votes.
One of the standout performers in the election was George Christensen, former Federal Member for Dawson, who campaigned on a "no woke" platform alongside his father. Christensen secured over four per cent of the vote, emphasising the community's desire for change.
“I am deeply honored and humbled to find myself officially elected as one of your Mackay Regional Councillors,” Mr Christensen said.
“But this isn’t merely an election won; it’s a mandate against business as usual, against continual rising rates, against the community being ignored, against poor service delivery (particularly in our rural areas), and against the creeping imposition of ideologies that do not serve our community's core values,” he said.
Joining Christensen is newcomer Namarca Corowa, a member of the Mackay First team, who garnered significant support with his focus on indigenous perspectives and historical awareness. Nathenea MacRae, Heath Paton, and returning independents Martin Bella and Alison Jones complete the lineup of elected councillors alongside popular new independent candidate, Peter Sheedy.
In light of her re-election, Councillor Alison Jones expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the community once more, highlighting the council's diverse representation and the importance of fostering positive relationships for the region's betterment.
“I’m excited to be part of one of the most diversely represented councils I have ever seen, from the business and agricultural community, our younger generation and cultural representatives I’m looking forward to assisting our new councillors bringing them up to speed and fostering healthy positive relationships in council for the betterment of our community,” Mrs Jones said.
Notably, the first ten candidates on the ballot received a stronger percentage of votes than the last ten, raising questions about voter behaviour under compulsory voting.
With the formation of the new council, Mackay residents can anticipate a period of transition and transformation as their elected representatives embark on their mandate to shape the future of the region.
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Your Elected Councillors: Ash-Lee Johnson, Nathenea MacRae, Namarca Corowa, Peter Sheedy, Belinda Hassan, George Christensen, Alison Jones, Heath Paton, Martin Bella, Karen May.

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When it comes to sourcing all the sundry commercial cleaning and packaging supplies local hospitality businesses require, it can be difficult to find a supplier that stocks everything you need, let alone trying to avoid paying hundreds in shipping charges simply because you’re located outside of a major metropolitan area.

Local company, Mackay Cleaning & Packaging Supplies, are on a mission to make the purchasing process a whole lot simpler – and more affordable – for local businesses, with their extensive product range, industry buying power and complementary delivery services.

Store manager, Paul Galbraith, says that while they’re known around the region for stocking the basic cleaning and packaging supplies, many don’t know the full extent of their product range or services.

“Whether you’re a hotel looking for in-room guest amenities, a restaurant looking for commercial knives or Bain Marie pans, a café after bulk sugar sachets or a retailer after hand soap and toilet paper, we stock it all,” Paul says.

“More importantly, if we don’t have exactly what you’re after in our already 2000+ long product listing, we’ve got the buying power to source it for you.”

The company also services the wider Mackay region with complimentary, weekly delivery runs to locations such as Airlie Beach.

“It’s a common misconception that sourcing these sorts of products is far cheaper online, however we’ve had many customers say that by the time you factor in shipping changes and the hassle of trying to source everything themselves, they’re able to source a much better quality and more affordable option through us locally,” Paul adds.

Mackay Cleaning & Packaging Supplies are currently offering a special discount offer for new and returning customers in Airlie Beach where they can enjoy a further 10% discount on all sales included in their initial quote for three months. Call Paul on 4953 0200 for more information.

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The team at Mackay Cleaning and Packaging Supplies

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IDEAL Placements has successfully launched their Women in Warehousing project funded by Qld Government Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative.  The project recognises both the demand for workers in the warehousing industry and the willingness of employers to hire women.  It will provide training opportunities to any unemployed or under-employed women in the community who are interested in pursuing a career in warehousing.
Participants in the project will receive comprehensive training including face-to-face Cert III Accredited Training with a Registered Training Organisation, White Card, First Aid, Forklift ticket, and a high-risk license. To complement the technical training, counselling sessions, industry placement, and relevant information sessions will be provided to enhance participants' employability, resilience and personal development.
To be eligible for the program participants must commit to a 16-week schedule, attend four days per week from April 15, 2024.  Notably, registration with a Workforce Australia provider is not a requirement which makes this great opportunity accessible to a wider pool of candidates.
There is no cost involved. Participants are offered the best opportunity to gain skills and certifications that may otherwise be financially out of reach. IDEAL Placements will actively seek employment opportunities for participants before the completion of the project and offer ongoing support to ensure successful placements.
IDEAL Placements says, “This is a great opportunity for women who require skills to meet the needs of the industry.”  
“The transferable skills gained, plus on the job coaching, will allow participants to be very competitive in the job market.  Don’t be deterred.  If you are working no more than 20 hours a week or have an employed partner, this great opportunity is still available to you”.
“We are also happy to discuss the project with any interested employers who may want a bit more information.  Thank you to those who have already made a commitment”.
Interested employers are encouraged to reach out to IDEAL Placements for more information about the project and potential placements.
Individuals who are ready to begin a new journey and believe they are a committed candidate for the Women in Warehousing project should contact IDEAL Placements on 49578177 to schedule an appointment with Jeanette.

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Suicide prevention involves being vigilant for signs of distress and creating a safe and supportive environment where individuals feel valued, listened to and empowered to seek help when struggling with their mental health.

Don't miss out on an invaluable opportunity for free safeTALK suicide prevention training, taking place on Friday, April 12, at 1 pm, in the Gordon White Library.

This training equips participants with essential skills to identify individuals at risk of suicide, engage in conversations with those experiencing suicidal thoughts, and effectively guide them to supportive resources and networks.

Participants will learn how to recognise warning signs and signals, engage in open and honest dialogue, and offer compassionate support to those in need. By attending this training, individuals can play a crucial role in preventing suicide and saving lives within the community.

To secure your spot, simply download the Grapevine Group app or visit www.grapevinegroup.org.au/bookings/.

Additionally, if you're interested in arranging a free private safeTALK session or a Suicide Mythbusters toolbox talk for your workplace, sports organisation, or community group, you can reach out to training@grapevinegroup.org.au to inquire further.

As times of crisis are on the rise in all aspects of life, it’s important to treat everyone with kindness, including yourself.

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safeTALK suicide prevention training poster

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By Amanda Wright
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Greg Williamson has secured his position as Mayor of the Mackay region for a third consecutive term, following the formal declaration of his victory by the Electoral Commission of Queensland last week. Williamson first served as Mackay's mayor from 1991 to 1994 before returning to public office in 2016.
After preferences were distributed, Williamson emerged with 51.56 per cent and Steve Jackson with 48.44 per cent in a tight race after third candidate Laurence Bonaventura conceded.
Expressing gratitude, Mayor Williamson said it is an absolute honour to be re-elected as the Mayor of the Mackay Regional Council.
“We have so much to be proud of in this region and you have my word that I will work tremendously hard with the newly appointed Council.”
He extended his thanks to the voters across the region for their confidence in his leadership, emphasising his commitment to continuing the growth and prosperity of the area.
Acknowledging the competitive election, Mayor Williamson recognised the unique group now assembled around the council table, foreseeing a term filled with potential.
"With the rough and tumble of the election campaign behind us and the will of the people placing a diverse, energetic group around the council table, I am sure it is going to be a great term,” he said.
"With six new councillors elected, this new term allows for fresh ideas and reflection of the changes our communities are calling for, it is my intent to welcome feedback and influence change in the areas that the local council can impact.
“There will be new and diverse opportunities around the table with a mix of new enthusiasm and experience.
“After talking with many of the newly elected councillors last week, I can see that everyone has the same primary motivation, to deliver the best result for the people of Mackay and work together as a united council, which is fantastic," he said.
Appreciating the support received during the drawn-out vote-counting process, Mayor Williamson conveyed his gratitude to his family for their unwavering backing throughout his journey in public service.
“Thank you to Annette, our son and daughter and their partners, and our extended family, who have provided incredible support - not just for this campaign, but for my entire journey in public life.”
The official swearing-in of elected officials was scheduled to take place yesterday, on Thursday, April 4th, followed by the council's statutory meeting next Wednesday, where the deputy mayor would be elected and statutory requirements set.
Mayor Williamson expressed eagerness for upcoming projects, including the official opening of the Finch Hatton mountain bike trails.
"After seeing the usage so far, it's clear these trails have been very well accepted by the community," he remarked.

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Mayor Greg Williamson thanked his family for their support of his mayoral campaign and his time in public office, pictured with his wife Annette and their son Dean, daughter Leigh and Dean and Leigh’s partners. Photo supplied
 
 

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A Mackay organisation will receive a share of almost $1.7 million to help build a more inclusive multicultural Queensland by delivering community-led projects that support social and economic participation and young people.
As a recipient of this year’s Celebrating Multicultural Queensland program’s project funding round, George Street Neighbourhood Centre Association Inc. will receive $42,680 to help create opportunities for people from diverse cultural backgrounds to better connect and contribute to the local community.
Fourteen projects across Queensland will share nearly $505,000 to create more economic and social opportunities for people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. 
Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said, “The response to this year’s funding round showed just how passionate local community groups and organisations are in building a more inclusive Queensland.

“I am thrilled George Street Neighbourhood Centre is one of the successful recipients, being able to connect new families to the services they need is a necessary service.”
In addition, another 15 projects will receive almost $1.2 million to engage young people from culturally diverse backgrounds to help break down barriers and increase their access to, and inclusion within, their community.
These include a science, technology, engineering and maths skills project to expand study and career pathways for young girls in Townsville, and a youth mentoring and support hub program that will provide social and educational activities for those facing significant barriers to participation in school and community life in Brisbane. 
Other projects include an Ubuntu theatre training and life skills project for young people from diverse African backgrounds in Cairns. 
Minister for Multicultural Affairs Charis Mullen expressed her enthusiasm towards the project, recognising the benefits and attributes the grant will have on the region.

“I’m delighted to know these projects will build on the many things Queenslanders are already doing to help their communities flourish.

“As Queenslanders, we are stronger when we ensure everyone has the chance to forge connections and contribute their skills to their local community – it’s how we can build a more inclusive, harmonious and united state.”

$1.7 million has been allocated under the 2023–24 Celebrating Multicultural Queensland project funding round through two categories: the Economic and Social Participation category and the Youth and Community Connection category.
 
Grants totalling $1.7 million have been allocated through the Celebrating Multicultural Queensland program for community-led projects to build social and economic participation.
A total of 29 organisations will share in the funding.
Projects will create opportunities for Queenslanders from diverse cultural backgrounds to fully participate in local communities.

“I look forward to seeing these projects help break down barriers that may prevent some people from realising their ambitions and fully participating in the social and economic life of their community,” Minister Mullen added.

Further information about the Celebrating Multicultural Queensland program can be found at www.des.qld.gov.au/cmq-program

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Neighbourhood Centre Association Inc. will receive $42,680 to help create opportunities for people from diverse cultural backgrounds to better connect and contribute to the local community.

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St Patrick’s College has a long history of offering excellence in education as a Catholic Coeducational College in the Diocese of Rockhampton catering for Years 7 to 12.
Families looking for a quality secondary education in Mackay are invited to attend the St Patrick’s College Mackay Open Night being held on Tuesday 23 April at the Mercy Campus in Penn Street, Mackay from 4.00pm to 7.00pm.
Prospective parents and students are invited to view subject displays, chat to teachers, admire students’ work and join in classroom activities. Tours of the facilities and dynamic performances from the College Choir, Band, Drum Corps, Dance Troupe, Concert Percussion, Handbell and Strings ensembles will all be scheduled throughout the evening.
Enjoy the free sausage sizzle, tea and coffee, wine and cheese for the adults, with popcorn and snow cones for sale to support the St Vinnies Committee.
For those attending there is a Treasure Map prize draw at 6:30pm at the Pavilion offering:
First Prize - $200 City Beach Gift Voucher
Second Prize - $100 City Beach Gift Voucher
Third Prize - $50 City Beach Gift Voucher
Why enrol at St Patrick’s College? St Pat’s is a partnership between students, staff and parents, providing an environment of learning, personal growth and faith development while recognising students as young adults.

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Experience the rich tapestry of Thai flavours crafted from locally sourced, seasonal ingredients bursting with the vibrant colours of the rainbow. Here, freshness meets health as the carefully curated menu boasts an array of dishes cooked with minimal oil for a guilt-free feast.

Embrace the spirit of tradition woven into every dish without breaking the bank.

Indulge in a masterful menu, inspired by centuries of culinary heritage. With an air-conditioned interior for 50 and an alfresco setting for 40, enjoy the cool cosy ambience. For larger groups, the restaurant’s doors are open to accommodate gatherings of over 100.

Dietary requirements catered for! Gluten-free, Coeliac, low-sugar and Keto options are available!

Delight in timeless classics like pad Thai, Singapore noodles, honey king prawns, and cashew chicken. Explore authentic specialties such as chilli basil beef, roast duck hot pot, and the fiery jungle curry. Our local favourites like special fried rice and crowd-pleasing starters like satay chicken skewers and san choy bow await the discerning palates of diners.
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Join Tropical Phoenix Garden Restaurant for an Asian-inspired feast filled with tradition and flavours – they are open 365 days of the year!

Enjoy authentic Cantonese cuisine at Tropical Phoenix Garden Restaurant, River Street, Mackay. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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Step into the laughter-filled atmosphere at LAFFOS for their famous Tuesday Trivia night! It's not your typical brain-busting quiz; it's all about having a LAFF (that's "laugh" for the uninitiated).
Starting promptly at 7 pm, prepare for three rounds of brain-teasers that are more about wit than wisdom. And fear not, the fun wraps up by 8:30 pm, so you won't miss your beauty sleep. While testing your knowledge, indulge in one of LAFFOS' mouthwatering handmade pizzas because let's face it, pizza makes everything better.
For bookings, simply ring up 4898 1121. Oh, and here's a little insider tip: don't forget to check out their Facebook page every Tuesday for two free answers, so you can impress your pals with your "genius" knowledge (or lack thereof)!

Enjoy one of Laffos’ mouth-watering pizzas while enjoying light-hearted trivia. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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Last week in the region’s rustic inland town of Clermont, the community gathered for the grand opening of the Clermont Historic Village Museum, marking a celebration of heritage and camaraderie.
Mackay Isaac Tourism hosted its inaugural Meet & Mingle event of 2024, welcoming esteemed guests including Mayor Elect Kelly Vea Vea and Tourism Chair Jane Pickles. Against the backdrop of Clermont's rich history, attendees enjoyed engaging conversations and delightful treats from Lotta Latte's during an afternoon picnic.
However, the highlight of the day was undoubtedly the museum's new exhibitions: "Clermont Curiosities" and "Diary of a Landscape." These exhibits, featuring captivating artifacts and an innovative junk journal aesthetic, offered a glimpse into the essence of our lands and the narratives of those who traversed them.
For those yet to explore the wonders of the Clermont Historical Centre, a visit is highly recommended.
Clermont Historical Centre, Gregory Hwy, Clermont
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Hours: Wed to Sat 9am-3pm

Photos supplied: Mackay Isaac Tourism

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St Mary's gears up to mark its centenary milestone this August, with events that aim to bring together past and current students, families and staff in a celebration of the school’s significant contribution to the local Mackay region.
Established just a few short years after the end of the Great War, and with Mackay still reeling following the devastating cyclone of 1918, St Mary's school began its journey with a commitment to providing a quality Catholic education for the families of South Mackay.  With an initial enrolment of about 50 students, St Mary’s was originally staffed by two Sisters of Mercy, who were transported each day over rutted dirt roads from their convent on River St.  The original school building (pictured) was funded and built by local families and was a mainstay of school and community life for many years.  
Over the decades, St Mary's has remained steadfast in its dedication to providing an exceptional educational experience, shaping the lives of thousands of children who have passed through its doors. From its modest beginnings to the current day, St Mary's continues to uphold its mission to foster academic achievement, spiritual growth and a strong sense of community pride among its now 380 students.  
As the school embarks on its hundredth year, it invites the wider community to partake in events that honour the past, celebrate the present and embrace the future.  The festivities kick off with a Centenary Mass, to be celebrated by Bishop Michael McCarthy at the school on 6th Aug.  Following the Centenary Mass, the school will host a formal dinner on Friday, 9th August, where guests can reconnect with old friends, former classmates and teachers, reminiscing about schoolyard memories while forging new bonds in celebration of this significant milestone.
On Sunday, 11th August from 9am-12pm, St Mary's opens its doors to the community during the school’s Family Fun Day. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore open classrooms, experiencing firsthand the innovative learning environment that the current students of St Mary's enjoy.  Additionally, families can partake in the excitement of jumping castles, indulge in delicious treats, and peruse a display of memorabilia spanning the school's history, including items from the 1999-time capsule.  A highlight of the Fun Day will be the dedication of a new time capsule. Filled with mementos and messages from current students and staff, the time capsule will serve as a testament to the school's commitment to education in the Mackay community, and will be unveiled at the 125th anniversary in 2049.
As the Mackay community joins in celebrating St Mary's centenary, the school extends its heartfelt gratitude for the unwavering support and camaraderie that have enriched its journey over the past hundred years. Together, let us honour the legacy of St Mary's School and embrace the future as we embark on the next chapter of our story.
For further details and inquiries about the centenary celebrations, please visit the St Mary's Catholic Primary School Facebook page or email smm_centenary@rok.catholic.edu.au
Contributed by St Mary’s School Principal, Wes Rose

St Mary’s School Captains - Ryder Reynolds, Zander Otto, Jaylah Breayley and Kalani van Lint - pictured with the time capsule (dedicated in 1999) to be opened during this year’s centenary celebrations
The original St Mary’s school building (Morley St), which opened its doors in 1924. Images supplied

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Two separate tragic family losses are the reason Dr Alison Pighills is so passionate
about falls prevention.

The Mackay researcher has been awarded $4 million in funding to conduct a five-year
study into reducing fall-related injuries which will have an enormous impact on the
ageing population worldwide.

It’s the culmination of 20 years of hard work and a project very close to the heart of
the Mackay Hospital and Health Service Principal Research Fellow and Adjunct
Associate Professor with James Cook University (JCU).

While working on her PhD investigating the clinical effectiveness of home hazard
reduction to prevent falls in older people in 2006, her father-in-law died instantly
following a head injury after he fell downstairs at home at night in the dark. Her
mother-in-law Kath died after surgery eight years later after she fell whilst getting out
of bed and broke her hip.

“Ernest and Kath are two very good reasons why I am so passionate about falls
prevention - we miss them both every day,” Dr Pighills said.

As one of the biggest study grants received by a MHHS researcher, Dr Pighills hopes
the study and her research knowledge will be adopted and implemented by
occupational therapists (OTs) to identify and reduce home hazards contributing to falls
in the elderly.

Dr Pighills said that a recent Cochrane systematic review which she co-authored had
already proven the intervention was highly effective in reducing the rate of falls by
about 39 per cent in elderly people with three or more falls risk factors.

“Older people at high risk of falls is the category of people that this intervention is
extremely effective with and can reduce falls by approximately 39 per cent,” Dr Pighills said.

“The person will identify what they think increases their risk of falling, when they feel
unsafe doing certain tasks, such as dressing or showering, and the OT will encourage
them to not only identify their own risks but also identify their own solutions.”

Set to begin later this year, the study will be progressively rolled out with OTs in 12
sites - ten across Queensland, including the Mackay Hospital and Health Service, and
two sites in other states. The study involves supervision of participating OTs from the
public and private health system, non-government organisations and community-
based services, to ensure they properly implement EAM and involves a clinical trial to
evaluate the effectiveness of implementation.

Dr Pighills said the study reinforced that Mackay Institute of Research and Innovation
(MIRI) could be competitive in the grant funding rounds and was engaging in research
which translated into innovative practice.

“We hope this study will have a massive impact on reducing the risk of falls for elderly
people not just within Australia, but worldwide,” Dr Pighills said.

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Dr Alison Pighills, passionate researcher, receives funding to conduct a five-year study into reducing fall-related injuries. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Primary producers in the Mackay district have the opportunity to expand their knowledge, free of charge, at a series of Rabo Client Council workshops.
The workshops are designed to help provide the financial skills essential to managing an agricultural enterprise and will provide farmers with an opportunity to both upskill and network.
The initiative has been spearheaded and funded by food and agribusiness banking specialist Rabobank’s Rabo Client Council, a group of the bank’s farming clients who volunteer their time implementing programs that contribute to the sustainability of rural and regional communities.
Offered free of charge to participants, the interactive workshops provide practical, hands-on advice for understanding financial statements and banking requirements and explore topics such as taxation versus management accounting, essential business management ratios and understanding key components of a business’s financial profile.
Northern Queensland & Northern Territory Rabo Client Council member and Mackay-based accountant, Tony Olsen said “financial skills are important for our producers and the next generation of producers.
“Many of our next-generation farmers may be highly educated, or have extensive on-farm experience, but understanding financial reporting and banking requirements is often foreign to them which is why these workshops are so valuable,” he said.
Mr Olsen said the workshop content would consider cash flow implications of a variety of enterprises and there will also be a focus on preparing annual cash flow budgets.
He said the content had been specifically tailored for the workshop locations – focusing on beef and sugar enterprises at Mackay and sugar and horticulture operations for Ayr.
“The workshops have been designed so couples and family members can attend together – it is a really valuable opportunity to get away from the farm for the day to take in the same information and develop an understanding of financial reporting together,” he said.
Rabobank head of relationship management for Northern Queensland and Northern
The workshops, limited to 30 participants each and are not restricted to the bank’s clients, will be presented by director of Hudson Facilitation, Tony Hudson.
The workshop will be held at the Windmill Hotel and Events Centre, North Mackay, on Tuesday, April 9 from 8:30am to 3:30pm.
To register to participate, visit rabobankaunz.eventsair.com/financial-skills-workshops/registration/Site/Register.
Morning tea and lunch catering will be provided.

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Northern Queensland & Northern Territory Rabo Client Council member Tony Olsen

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This time last year, post the annual Dubai sugar conference, there was a reasonably consistent view that the market had upside potential on supply constraints. In effect, the fundamentals played out for most of the year and the speculative money helped push prices to record highs. This spectacularly unwound at the end of our season, and we are now in the mid to lower end of last year’s trading range.

The views this year are much more two-sided.

The Brazilian crop is obviously the primary focus, and we will soon start to see some results as the dry period for February and March allowed for an early start to harvest. A recent forecast of rain may be viewed as a short-term positive for the market, as it will delay harvest output.

It is early in the 24/25 season and global production and consumption forecasts are very contingent on a few key variables. With Brazil providing around 80% of the global raw sugar trade, the focus is rightly on the expected Brazilian cane tonnage, ATR, and sugar mix, which will be driving the expected change in global raw sugar stocks.

Wilmar is currently forecasting a reduced crop, from the record 665 million tonne crop harvested last year, of more than 600 million tonnes. This, combined with an increase in the sugar-to-ethanol mix of over 50%, results in a sugar make not unlike last year’s record sugar production.

In addition, there has been a supply response in the mid-tier production countries with Russia, Ukraine, and the EU all seeing an increase in sugar beet production, as the economics stack up against a depressed wheat and corn price.

Likewise, China is expected to increase sugar beet production for the same reasons.

By adding half a million tonnes here and there around the globe, the supply total creeps up. As underlying demand or consumption is expected to increase its relentless rise at roughly 1.5-2.0 million tonnes a year, the supply total needs to creep up.

The period of sustained high sugar prices last year did little to erode this momentum.

Currently, we are forecasting a small surplus of stock for 24/25 season which will keep global sugar prices under pressure. This is contrary to many other trade house views around the world who forecast a more bullish outlook.

As noted, it is early days and a small change in one of the key assumptions around Brazilian output can have a significant effect on the market in either direction - so nothing is assured at this point.

Growers will need to have their risk management hat on this year as we are likely to see a more volatile market as opposed to the one-way traffic we enjoyed last year – until we didn’t!

For more information, please get in touch with your local Grower Marketing consultant.

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Sugar price movements over the last two years

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Greater Whitsunday Alliance and the Resources Centre of Excellence are hosting the region’s first ever decarbonisation summit in May, to help local businesses understand their role in carbon reduction.

Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) chief executive officer Ms Kylie Porter said the Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit is focused on unlocking thinking around decarbonisation and to provide a platform for actionable change across our region’s businesses, industries, and economy.

“This summit will be a pivotal event for our region’s businesses, charting a course towards unlocking new value stream opportunities associated with decarbonisation in the Greater Whitsunday region,” said Ms Porter.

“As the world changes, we want our region to be well on the way to diversify its economic base through decarbonised industries and business practices, ensuring long -term social and economic prosperity.”

The Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit will bring together thought leaders, industry experts, and innovative minds to delve into the transformative potential of decarbonisation.

Bestselling author and international trend specialist Michael McQueen will be one of the day’s featured keynotes.

Mr McQueen will provide insight into the shifts toward a decarbonised world and how local change can have a global impact.

The summit will also hear from sustainable development specialist and founder of ThinkZero Cle-Anne Gabriel who will give businesses the tools to commence their net zero journeys but will also explore case studies from her own experiences and where businesses have successfully changed to a decarbonised future.

Ms Gabriel has provided advice on sustainability and decarbonisation projects in four Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development (OECD) countries. She has also provided advice on regional level policy and planning in Japan, the European Union, and New Zealand.

Along with being the project manager and co-designer of the European Commission funded zero emission certification pilot program Ms Gabriel founded Australia’s first Carbon Literacy program, certifying corporate clients on their journey to Net Zero.

Also featured in the summit program will be some of Australia’s leading decarbonisation experts and leaders from industry and government including BHP, Clean Energy Council, Main Sequence, Sedgman, Cauldron and the Sustainable Minerals Institute.

The Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit is a joint initiative of the Resources Centre of Excellence (RCOE) and Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3).

Resources Centre of Excellence (RCOE) Mr Steven Boxall said the summit is an initial step for businesses, especially those in the METS sector to take, as we support the region's industries to decarbonise.

“Our focus is to drive innovation and collaboration and rapidly accelerate our region’s adoption of low carbon activities, initiatives, and product development within all sectors.

"The summit will transform regional business and industry thinking and fast track our region’s approach to climate- positive action,” Mr Boxall said.

Tickets for the Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit are now on sale. To find your tickets and learn more, visit https://events.humanitix.com/decarbonisation-accelerated-summit.

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