In the final weeks of parliament for 2024, Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP has addressed two critical issues: the Federal Government’s response to the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide and his ongoing efforts to support canegrowers and improve infrastructure in the region.

During his time in Canberra, Mr. Willcox hosted the Greater Whitsunday Council of Mayors and GW3 at Parliament House, where they discussed regional priorities with Opposition Leader Peter Dutton.
“Our conversation centred on roads and infrastructure, housing, childcare, the sugar industry, and agriculture, providing a valuable opportunity to brief Peter on some of the region's main objectives for driving better outcomes and a stronger future,” Mr. Willcox said.
In the final two sitting weeks of Parliament, the safety of the Bruce Highway was a key focus for Mr. Willcox. He criticised the Albanese Government’s decision to reduce the funding split with the Queensland Government from 80:20 to 50:50.
“The Albanese Government has increased the risk to people’s lives by reducing the funding from 80:20 split with the State Government to 50:50,” he said.
“I have written to the Federal Transport Minister Catherine King to give her my frank opinion on what needs to be done urgently.”
“A commitment was made by Mr. Dutton that if elected, he would restore the funding back to 80:20 with the State Government.”
Mr. Willcox also emphasised the importance of innovation for the sugar industry, highlighting his meeting with Nationals Leader David Littleproud and Jet Zero.
“It was a very productive last week with Jet Zero meeting with Nationals Leader David Littleproud to discuss how sugarcane can be used to create sustainable aviation fuel in the future,” he said.
Reflecting on the Coalition’s year in opposition, Mr. Willcox celebrated a significant victory against the Albanese Government’s proposed Misinformation Bill.
“The Coalition has been the underdogs this year in opposition, but we had a major win with the Albanese Government losing its ill-thought plan to create legislation to censor you,” he said.
“From the start, I have opposed the Misinformation Bill along with the Coalition, which would have changed our Australian landscape when it comes to how we communicate online.”
Addressing the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, Mr. Willcox acknowledged the Albanese Government’s response to the Final Report, which included 122 recommendations.
“Tragically, we have lost thousands of veterans to suicide over the last five years. We need to do more to support veterans who fought for us so we could live in a better world,” he said.
Mr. Willcox stressed the urgency of swift action on the report’s recommendations.
“While announcing the imminent appointment of an interim head is a start, the Albanese Government needs to commence public consultation swiftly and any legislation required to ensure that the Defence and Veterans’ Service Commission is implemented expeditiously,” he said.
With a Federal election approaching before May, Mr. Willcox reiterated his commitment to the Dawson electorate.
“I would like to take the opportunity to thank you all for believing in me to get the job done as your Federal Member for Dawson,” Mr. Willcox said.
“Each day you send me an email, give me a call, or meet me in person to voice your concerns about real-life issues, whether it be on the cost of living, health, or on roads and infrastructure, you’re entrusting me with your concerns and to get the job done.
“There’s a lot of work to do, and I’m ready to work hard to grow a stronger future for us all,” he said.

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Mackay RSL Sub-Branch President and Vietnam Veteran, Ken Higgins with Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP

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Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, has invited community organisations in Dawson to submit their expressions of interest (EOIs) for the Australian Government’s 2024-25 Volunteers Grant.

These grants recognise the vital role that volunteers have within our community and support the positive difference they make on the ground.

“This additional funding will go a long way in helping local organisations and their volunteers to continue their crucial work in supporting the vulnerable and strengthening our community,” Mr Willcox said.

“Volunteering acts as an effective pathway to employment, fosters community participation,
and breaks down the barriers of marginalisation.

“The 2024-25 Volunteer Grant provides organisations with grants of $1,000 to $5,000 to assist with purchasing equipment, training, cover fuel costs, as well as background screening checks for their volunteers.”

EOIs will be accepted until 5.00pm, Friday 17th January 2025, for EOI application form and
guidelines, please contact Andrew Willcox’s office on Andrew.Willcox.MP@aph.gov.au.

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The Queensland Retired Police Association (QRPA) is a unique group designed to keep the bond alive between those who’ve served in the police force or as police public servants. While not part of the Queensland Police Service (QPS), the QRPA proudly supports the incredible work of sworn officers and enjoys the backing of the Police Commissioner and serving members.

The QRPA, a non-profit organisation, connects former members of the QPS and other recognised police services, along with retired public servants who have served in the QPS.

At its heart, the association is all about connection. QRPA creates a supportive space where members can thrive in camaraderie, build friendships and support each other through life’s ups and downs.

The Mackay Whitsunday Branch is looking to grow its local membership and is inviting retired police officers, public servants and their partners to get involved.

Branch Secretary Andre Wijtenburg says the group is a great way for retirees to stay social and feel part of a like-minded community.

“I have seen and experienced that some Police have a tendency to become totally focused on their Police work in the organisation whilst serving the community, and not having time or allowing themselves to be involved in other interests – and therefore when they retire, they are sometimes lost.

“We have regular monthly meetings which typically include discussions about political changes, recognition of previous members who have passed, general business, organising group outings and other different topics.”

The Mackay Whitsunday QRPA Branch actively engages in fundraising efforts to support charitable causes. Members also dedicate their time to meaningful projects, such as restoring and maintaining old police graves.

The association acknowledges that many retired police officers and public servants may be unaware of its existence and warmly invites those interested to attend a meeting and experience what it has to offer.

“We understand that there are a lot of retired Police and police public servants who are not aware of the association – and they are all very welcome if they are interested, to come along to a meeting and see what it’s like,” said Mr Wijtenburg.

“Many of our members have found that by joining our local retired & former police association, it has been helpful in maintaining social connection with like-minded people and positive mental health outcomes, as well as staying in touch with former colleagues.”
Membership is open to anyone who retired or resigned with honour and repute. Partners of members and Police widowers are also welcome to join as associate members.

To learn more or find out about the next meeting, contact President Bob Maher at maher.robert53@yahoo.com.au or Secretary Andre Wijtenburg at ondy08@gmail.com.

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The Queensland Retired Police Association fosters camaraderie, supports retirees and invites new members to join its Mackay Whitsunday Branch. Photos supplied

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Eat, drink, shop and be merry – there’s something for the whole family at this year’s City Heart Christmas celebrations.
The annual City Heart Christmas will be on Friday, December 6, from 4pm to 8pm.
Events will be spread throughout the City Centre, from Macalister Street to Sydney Street and from River Street to Gordon Street.
Mayor Greg Williamson said it was tremendous to see the annual City Heart Christmas celebrations growing into an exciting family event.
“There is so much planned for our City Centre this year, with some new and exciting activities,” Mayor Williamson said.
“This year for the first time there will be a Guided Silent Disco where participants don Guru Dudu headsets and groove their way through the streets,” he said.
“This is a really fun and engaging experience with different times available for different age groups. Don’t miss out on that one.
“Another feature will be the Century 21 Laneway Christmas Markets, in Ninth Lane, with all your favourite local artisans.
“There’ll also be the regular family favourites including face painting and glitter tattoos, Fifth Lane kids’ activities, Sensory Circus kids’ workshop, Merry Stencils Graffiti Wall and late-night shopping.
“And, of course, bring the kids to meet the jolly man in red himself at Let the Children Play Toyshop on Macalister Street at 6.30pm.”
Also kicking off on Friday, December 6, will be Santa’s Secret Present Search.
This fun adventure through the City Heart will have participants follow clues to collect the secret presents that Santa has hidden inside 10 city stores.
Go online and solve the clues to find the next destination on your quest. Look out for the special yarn symbols to know you’re in the right place.
Santa’s Secret Present Search will be on during store opening hours until December 16. Clues will be available online at mackaywaterfront.com.au/what-to-do/whats_on and on the Mackay Waterfront Facebook page from December 6.
Keep an eye out on council’s social media for more Christmas City Heart fun in the coming weeks.

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Council’s City Heart Christmas will be back bigger and better, with local businesses providing something for the whole family

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The Neighbourhood Hub, a leading community centre in Mackay, is proud to announce the launch of its new Early Connections Program, designed to support families in the Andergrove and Beaconsfield areas in accessing essential early childhood education, health, and developmental services.

The program, funded by the Queensland Government’s Department of Education, will provide increased pathways and connections for families experiencing vulnerabilities and disadvantage during the critical years leading up to school age. With a strong focus on early intervention, the Early Connections Program will help ease the transition from home life to early education, while also offering a wide range of parenting support, health checks, and developmental guidance.

Sophie Townson, Early Connections Program Coordinator, expressed her excitement about the new initiative, emphasising the program’s holistic approach to family support.

“I’m excited to offer this program and create a safe space where families can find the guidance and resources they need,” Sophie said.

“The Early Connections Program is about more than just providing information - it’s about building relationships and supporting families to overcome barriers.

“Whether it’s through connecting with education and health services, gaining support through playgroup, or helping to arrange health checks for their little ones, we want to ensure every child is supported during these pivotal years.”

The Early Connections Program aims to remove the common barriers many families face when accessing essential early childhood services. By strengthening links between families and local service providers, the program ensures families can access the support they need for positive and lasting outcomes in their child’s early development.

The Neighbourhood Hub is reaching out to organisations and community groups to help spread the word and refer families in the Andergrove and Beaconsfield areas who may benefit from the program and receive personalised support and resources tailored to their unique needs.

“We understand that families experiencing vulnerabilities often need extra help navigating the various services available,” Sophie added.

“Through our Early Connections Program, we aim to simplify that process, providing a central point of contact and ensuring that families are connected to the right resources as they embark on their journey of early childhood development.”

The Early Connections Program offers a range of services, including:

   • Access to early childhood education pathways: Connecting families with local early learning centres, kindergarten programs, and school readiness initiatives.
   • Health and developmental checks: Ensuring that children’s health, social, and emotional development is on track before they start school.
   • Parenting support services: Offering advice, weekly playgroups, and resources for parents to help them navigate the challenges of raising young children.
   • Referral services: Helping families access other community services, including mental health support, housing, and financial assistance.

To refer a family to the Early Connections Program, please contact Sophie Townson at The Neighbourhood Hub at sophiet@tnhub.org.au or phone (07) 4957 2626.

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The Neighbourhood Hub has launched the Early Connections Program in Andergrove and Beaconsfield to support families with access to early childhood education, health services, and parenting support, aiming to improve outcomes for children in their critical developmental years. Photo supplied

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This festive season, Inspirations Paint Cannonvale and Porters Mitre 10 Whitsunday are bringing Christmas cheer to the Whitsundays. Whether you’re sprucing up your space or adding the finishing touches to your dream project, Inspirations Paint has everything you need to create a home that inspires. From premium paint brands to expert advice, their team is ready to help make your vision a reality.
But that’s not all—Porters Mitre 10 is making spirits bright with Ham Mania, an unmissable Christmas giveaway! Shop at participating Porters Mitre 10 stores, including Mackay City, Mackay Trade Centre, Northern Beaches Trade Centre, Sarina, Marian, and Whitsunday to go in the draw to win a delicious ham every weekday between the 2nd and 20th December. It’s the perfect way to stock up on your holiday DIY and hardware needs while enjoying a little festive bonus.
So, whether you're looking to refresh your living room, build something new, or just get your hands on some Christmas cheer, these local stores have you covered. Visit Inspirations Paint Cannonvale and your nearest Porters Mitre 10 to make this season merry, bright, and oh-so-creative!
Remember, Christmas isn’t just a time for giving; it’s a time for creating—and Porters and Inspirations Paint are here to assist with all your DIY needs.

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Detectives have released CCTV footage as part of their ongoing investigation into the suspicious death of a 67-year-old Mackay man earlier last month.

John Patrick Hackett was discovered at his Gold Street unit in Mackay around 7:18 pm on Saturday, November 9, following a welfare check by family members.

A crime scene was declared, and police have launched a homicide investigation after receiving additional information including results from a post mortem examination indicating evidence of an assault.

As part of Operation Whiskey Glen, an Investigation Centre has been set up to examine the circumstances surrounding his death.

Police have released CCTV footage showing the John Patrick Hackett at a Goldsmith Street grocery store on November 5.

Investigators are appealing for information from anyone who may have witnessed an interaction or altercation involving John Patrick Hackett on the afternoon or evening of Tuesday, November 5.

They are also urging anyone who was in the vicinity of Gold Street, Mackay, between 5 pm and 7 pm on November 5 and may have seen him or has dashcam footage from the area to come forward.

Reference Number: QP2401927535

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Investigators have shared footage of John Patrick Hackett last captured at a Goldsmith Street grocery store on November 5. Photo credit: QPS Media

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Support for the region’s homeless, young indigenous entrepreneurs, local beach lifesavers,
dementia patients, and those living with disabilities will be boosted through North Queensland
Bulk Ports Corporation’s (NQBP’s) 2024-25 Community Fund.

Fourteen Community Fund recipients will share $100,000 in funding, with each initiative
expected to deliver strong benefits across NQBP’s port communities, in what is the most
diverse range of recipients in the Fund’s three-year history.

NQBP Chief Executive Officer Brendan Webb congratulated the fourteen Community Fund
recipients.

“We had more than 50 strong applications in our third year of the Community Fund from a large
range of community groups across all of our port communities,” Mr Webb said.

“Our team worked carefully to evaluate each application, and I am proud to say each of our
successful applicants demonstrated an ability to make a real difference in their respective
communities.

“All the initiatives supported have a strong alignment with NQBP’s values of Care, Connection,
Courage and Curiosity.

“I am also pleased that this year, due to our increase in funding, we were able to support an
additional five community groups, up to fourteen from nine in the previous two years.

“I would like to thank all applicants for their interest in this year’s Community Fund, and we
encourage all community groups to consider applying for our next round,” he said.

Crossroads Arts CEO Autumn Skuthorpe was pleased to be a successful applicant.

“Our event, Loose Ends, celebrates the diversity of our community as part of International Day
for People with Disability celebrations,” Ms Skuthorpe said.

“The support from NQBP will ensure that Crossroad Arts can provide paid opportunities during
Loose Ends for artists with disability, and celebrate arts for all,” she said.

The NQBP Community Fund is open to non-profit groups and organisations, and registered
charities, and seeks to support events, programs and activities that align with NQBP’s vision to
be a leader in responsible port trade, where Queenslanders thrive for generations.

NQBP has proudly provided more than $1 million in community sponsorships and donations
over the last decade.

A full list of the 2024-25 Community Fund recipients is below:

Crossroad Arts Inc - An inclusive night-time activity in the Mackay CBD for young people with disabilities.
Community Accommodation & Support Agency - Food packs to assist rough sleepers during extended closures of major services, such as over Christmas.
   • Stella Maris Mackay - A Christmas shoe box and bag appeal to support seafarers at the ports of Mackay, Hay Point, and Abbot Point.
   • Whitsunday Community Services Inc - Equipment to expand The Pantry Program into a dedicated food bank, providing groceries through food rescue and donations.
   • Zonta Club of Mackay Inc - Hosting the 2025 International Women’s Day Lunch.
   • Bowen Community Centre - The Pram Pusher Group, creating a supportive space for mothers to connect through light exercise with their babies, and a Cooking Class project bringing older community members and new mums together to share budget-friendly recipes.
   • Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club - An intensive training camp in collaboration with clubs from the Wide Bay and Southeast regions.
   • Pacific-Australia Youth Association Inc. (PAYA) - A two-day Youth Entrepreneurship Regional Summit (YERS) held in Weipa.
   • Bowen Historical Society and Museum - Construction of a wheelchair-accessible ramp to improve access to the museum.
   • Weipa Running Festival 2025 - Hosting the Weipa Running Festival.
   • Bowen Old People's Home Society Ltd - Establishing a Dementia Café at Murroona Gardens in Bowen.
   • Bowen Flexi Care Inc. - The Digging to Dining project, an all-abilities garden initiative.
   • Port Denison Sailing Club - Replacing one of the motors on the club’s coaching and safety boat.
   • Whitsunday STEM Challenge Inc. - The Whitsunday Drone Challenge (WDC), a key event during the Festival of STEM.

NQBP is a Queensland Government-owned corporation responsible for the ports of Hay Point, Mackay, Abbot Point, and Weipa in far north Queensland.

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Crossroad Arts Inc will receive funding for an inclusive night-time activity in the Mackay CBD for young people with disability
Representatives from NQBP 2024-25 Community Fund recipients from Crossroad Arts, Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club, Zonta Club of Mackay and Stella Maris Seafarers Centre at last night's stakeholder event. Photos supplied
Mackay Surf Lifesaving club will receive funding to assist with costs for an intensive training camp

Zonta Club of Mackay will receive funds to host its 2025 International Women’s Day lunch

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Tyler Wessling, an Electrical Engineer at Richglen, has had a sparking career, progressing from a university placement student to a full-time employee. His genuine passion for the trade testifies to how Richglen’s supportive work environment has enabled him to thrive, ultimately enhancing the quality of work delivered to clients.

Riley, Tyler’s younger brother, is following in Tyler’s footsteps, currently undertaking his 4th-year JCU placement with Richglen. Much like his brother, Riley is passionate about electrical engineering, and his experience is shaped by the same supportive work environment that allowed Tyler to thrive.

Tyler first joined Richglen in 2019 as part of a 24-week university placement program. After completing the placement, he was offered a full-time role by his electrical manager.

"The opportunity to continue working here after my placement was exciting," Tyler recalls.

"It felt like a natural fit, and I’m grateful for how welcoming the team has been."

Tyler’s interest in electrical engineering began during his physics studies, where he was drawn to the problem-solving and technical challenges.

"I’ve always loved the challenge and problem-solving aspects of electrical engineering.

“It felt like a natural choice compared to other subjects."

A typical day for Tyler involves collaborating with his team and clients to ensure projects run smoothly.

"We start the day by reviewing the work ahead, addressing safety concerns, and answering any questions from the crew.

“I also stay in close contact with our clients, providing reports to make sure we’re meeting deadlines and keeping our customers up-to-date."

One of the things Tyler and Riley value most about working at Richglen, is the strong sense of teamwork.

"The teamwork is really great here," Tyler said.

"I’ve been fortunate to work alongside engineers who have decades of experience.”

Looking ahead, Tyler and Riley are optimistic about their future and encourage others considering a placement with Richglen to apply, noting that the invaluable skills learned can open doors to multiple career pathways.

"I definitely see myself here long-term," Tyler said.

"Even if I eventually move on, the skills you gain here will be beneficial in the future, no matter what path you take."

Together, both brothers represent the growth and opportunities Richglen offers, continuing a legacy of success and dedication to the industry.

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Brothers Riley and Tyler Wessling

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Peabody announced an acquisition of world-class metallurgical coal assets from Anglo American plc last week, significantly strengthening Peabody’s position as a leading global supplier of steelmaking coal. The transaction, valued at USD 3.8 billion, is set to close in mid-2025, subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions.
The acquisition includes four Tier 1 metallurgical coal mines in Queensland’s Bowen Basin—Moranbah North, Grosvenor, Aquila, and Capcoal—renowned for producing premium hard coking coal essential to steelmaking. The mines are projected to produce approximately 11.3 million tons in 2026, positioning Peabody to meet growing demand across key Asian markets.
Peabody President and CEO Jim Grech hailed the deal as a “rare opportunity to acquire premier assets at a compelling valuation” that aligns with the company’s strategic focus on seaborne metallurgical coal. He noted that the transaction would be “immediately accretive, highly synergistic, and transformative for Peabody’s future.”
The transaction is expected to bolster Peabody’s financial profile by generating significant cash flow and achieving substantial synergies of approximately $100 million annually through efficiency improvements. With an average mine life exceeding 20 years and substantial reserves, the acquisition elevates Peabody’s metallurgical coal output from 7.4 million tons in 2024 to over 21 million tons in 2026.
Anglo American Chief Executive Duncan Wanblad expressed confidence in Peabody’s stewardship of these assets, stating, “We are delighted to collaborate with Peabody to ensure a successful transition that benefits all stakeholders.”

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Productivity is set to return to Queensland worksites under proposed changes to Workplace Health and Safety laws, introduced in Parliament last week. The reforms aim to reinstate a 24-hour notice period for permit holders seeking right of entry, bringing Queensland in line with the Commonwealth Fair Work Act. Exceptions will apply only in cases of immediate or imminent risks to workers' health and safety.
This shift follows the suspension of Best Practice Industry Conditions and underscores the Crisafulli Government’s commitment to balancing productivity with worker safety. Announced last Thursday, November 28, the changes mark a significant step towards restoring efficiency and fairness on Queensland worksites.
Legislation introduced to the Parliament in the Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games Arrangements and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2024, will require Workplace Health and Safety permit holders to provide at least 24 hours’ notice to exercise their right of entry to a workplace.

Reintroducing the requirement to provide notice ensures management, and their safety specialists, are available on site when entry permit holders come on site to discuss any safety concerns.  

The amendments also provide consistency with the requirements of the Commonwealth Fair Work Act 2009, which requires permit holders give at least 24 hours’ notice before exercising an entry right.  

Deputy Premier and Minister for Industrial Relations Jarrod Bleijie said all Queenslanders had the right to go to work, get paid well and to come home safely to their family. 

“These laws will stop the CFMEU using safety as an industrial weapon,” Mr Bleijie said. 

“The CFMEU’s cultural practice of bullying and intimidation that we see on Queensland worksites against workers, contractors, employers and the independent public servants who protect workers safety must end. 

“Reintroducing the requirement to provide at least 24 hours’ notice will provide a circuit breaker to recent tensions we’ve observed regarding entry and will provide employers with sufficient time to respond to WHS entry permit holders on issues that they may raise. 

“The LNP Government backs workers, their wages and their safety.” 

Recent changes introduced by the Electrical Safety and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2024 to permit health and safety representatives (HSR) and WHS entry permit holders (EPHs) to take photos, videos, measurements and conduct tests at the workplace when undertaking their roles will no longer proceed. 

This is following concerns raised by industry representatives about protecting the privacy of individuals in workplaces. 

Following these immediate law changes being introduced, the Queensland Government will also turn focus on the work health and safety framework to address gaps in the legislation around work-related violence and aggression.   

This will mean incidents of work-related violence and aggression, including physical and sexual assault, will come to the attention of the WHS Regulator, and that more serious events can be triaged for an inspectorate response.

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Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie at the Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning and Office of Industrial Relations in Rockhampton

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By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

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The Mackay Canegrowers Ltd AGM was held Wednesday 27 November with a good roll-up in a challenging year where many are still cutting their crop. It was great to see the 80 members and guests attend the event, to hear from myself, Deputy Chairman Joseph Borg and District Manager Michelle Martin on progress made in 2023-24 financial year and to the present.
We also heard from guest speaker Dr John Pickering on farming and resilience in tough times. John is a behavioural psychologist specialising in practice change, from Evidn. He is very familiar with the sugar industry, having worked with CANEGROWERS on Project CaneChanger almost a decade ago, when we were improving industry environmental sustainability and implementing Smartcane BMP. He was instrumental in achieving strong early growth of the program in the cane growing sector.
Thanks to all who attended to support the region’s strong grower representative organisation.

Ooralea Growers Jim and Sharon Pengelly with CANEGROWERS District Manager Michelle Martin
IMG_2752_Plane Creek grower Glen Brady with guest speaker Dr John Pickering
IMG_2755_Yalboroo grower Bruce Wallace and Mackay Sugar Agricultural Manager Damian Baxter
IMG_2758_Growers Peter Doyle and Paul Schembri
IMG_2768_ Growers De-Ann Grech, Jan Muscat, Therese Russell and Mary Wallace
IMG_2769_Canegrowers Mackay Director Phil Deguara, Marian Grower Anthony Deguara, with QSLs Brad Dunn
IMG_2778 Marwood Grower Tony Ross with Canegrowers Mackay Agricultural Economist John Eden
IMG_2781_CANEGROWERS Chairman Kevin Borg, Accounts Manager Elli Preston and Director Brett Leach

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This week
Season to date
Cane crushed
37,550
1,128,064
Average bin weight
3.69
3.89
CCS
13.74
14.13
Cane variety performance for region
Variety
%
CCS
Variety
%
CCS
Q183
38.7
14.42
Q253
8.3
12.52
Q240
9.1
12.71
SRA9
4.2
14.33
Q208
19.8
13.89
KQ228
2.4
12.82
Q232
3.0
13.84
Q138
5.1
12.75
Comments:
Plane Creek Mill processed 37,550 tonnes of cane for the week, bringing the season-to-date total to just over 1,128,000 tonnes.
Rain late in the previous week triggered a halt to harvesting and crushing operations.
Average CCS declined by 0.84 of a unit over the previous week, closing out at 13.74 units. The year-to-date average is now sitting at 14.13 units.
Standover cane made up approximately 4.5 per cent of the week’s cane supply.
The highest CCS honour for the week was a rake of Q183 fifth ratoon from the Main Line productivity area with a CCS of 16.80 units.
With the crushing season extending into the school holiday period, we ask parents and caregivers to talk to children about the dangers of playing on or around our cane rail network.
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Lindsay Wheeler
Cane Supply Manager
Plane Creek Region

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Inspired by the true story of a merino ram who was lost for five years in the bush near Canberra and set the record for the world’s heaviest fleece, A Woolly Tale is a delightful new fictional tale for children launched by the National Museum of Australia.

Written by author Jackie Hosking, A Woolly Tale follows the life and adventures of Chris, the world’s woolliest sheep, whose fleece is on display at the National Museum.

National Museum director Katherine McMahon said Chris the sheep is a beloved rural character who has enchanted visitors since his 41.1-kilogram fleece was acquired by the Museum in 2016.

“Chris became an international media story after his fleece was recognised by the Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s ‘heaviest sheep fleece’, breaking records previously set in New Zealand by a whopping 12 kilograms.”

Author Jackie Hosking said she imagined what Chris the Sheep might have got up to during his “missing years”.

“Originally, I thought I might have him do something out of this world, like travelling to space but then opted for a more plausible story.

“I researched merino sheep and learned that they do not shed their wool and that they are foragers and eat a variety of plants, not just grass.

“These facts helped shape the story: one, that of course his fleece would keep growing and two, he’d be able to survive away from the sheep station.

“While I try to avoid writing stories that are didactic, I hope that children might see Chris as a courageous sheep, nervous at first but strong and determined in the end. And although he does run away in the beginning, he uses that time away to get to know himself until he feels brave enough to face his fears,” Ms Hosking said.

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A Woolly Tale, a new children’s book by Jackie Hosking, reimagines the story of Chris the Sheep, who became famous for having the world’s heaviest fleece. Photo supplied

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Up to $32.6 million over 4 years will be invested in the future of Australia’s sugarcane industry with research and development projects set to increase the productivity, profitability and sustainability of the Australian sugarcane industry.
Sugar Research Australia (SRA) and the Queensland Government’s Department of Primary Industries (DPI) are investing in a diverse portfolio of novel and strategic research activities. The new projects will target improved efficiency, competitiveness, sustainability and innovation for Australian sugarcane growers, milling companies, and regional communities.
Funding will be allocated as follows:
• $6 million to create transformational breeding technologies to develop high yielding and disease resistant varieties, and explore the potential for energy cane
• $12.1 million to overcome agronomic production constraints, optimise crop management, and improve the industry’s sustainability credentials to maintain market access for Australian sugar
• $6.8 million to develop sustainable management approaches for pests, weeds and pathogens and biosecurity preparedness
• $5.5 million to optimise operations for enhanced milling efficiency and develop opportunities to diversify revenue streams in the bioeconomy
• $2.2 million to increase adoption of available technologies that increase productivity, profitability and sustainability for sugarcane growers, millers, and regional communities.
SRA CEO Mick Bartlett said the rigorous multi-step approval process for applicants ensured that projects with the strongest potential to deliver real change and positive industry-wide outcomes were successful.
“The calibre of submissions was exemplary and represents the strong scientific standing we have in the sugar industry, particularly within SRA,” Mr Bartlett said.
“Each of these projects has the potential to deliver positive change, and whole-of-industry research outcomes capable of being adopted on farm and within the milling sector.”

SRA’s new CEO Mick Bartlett

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Beachgoers have come out in strong support for Professional Lifeguards, signing a petition in mass numbers to advocate for an increase in their wages.

Despite broadcasting record revenue, Surf Lifesaving Queensland is refusing to give Lifeguards a pay rise that keeps up with the cost of living.

In response to the stalemate at the bargaining table, the Australian Workers’ Union have taken to the beaches to rally public support for their cause.

AWU State Secretary Stacey Schinnerl said, “The community deserve to be made aware that the people that work so hard to protect us are not being treated with respect by SLSQ.

“We have been out at Queensland beaches talking to the public and putting up signs to give the public a chance to show their support.

“The campaign has been met with an overwhelmingly positive response.

“Many beachgoers were shocked at SLSQ’s disregard for the people who protect our community every day,” Ms Schinnerl said.

“The public is rightfully wary that there will not be enough Professional Lifeguards to keep the beaches open if the wages do not improve.”

Professional Lifeguards do the vast majority of QLD beach patrolling. There are not enough volunteers to protect the many beaches and lagoons.

Lifeguards’ ability to do the job they love is under threat. It is becoming increasingly unsustainable for Lifeguards to justify staying in the profession that they love with the lagging wages.

“Our beaches cannot stay open without them.”

The previous EBA offer was decisively voted down by the workforce.

“Lifeguards have put up with a string of unsatisfactory wage rises and now it’s time to draw a line in the sand and say enough is enough,” Ms Schinnerl said.

“We call on SLSQ to put a fair deal on the table that reflects the value that Professional Lifeguards bring to the community and keeps our beaches open.”

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It’s not every day a rock becomes a world traveller, but one Mackay stone has made an extraordinary journey—crossing continents to rest in the breathtaking glacial landscapes of Argentine Patagonia.
In 2023, Miriam Lizarraga, originally from Argentina, visited Mackay’s Artspace Museum and came across a community art project featuring a spiral of painted stones. The project, organised by local artist Ros Campbell, invited residents to decorate rocks to form a colourful snake sculpture. After the display, participants were encouraged to take the stones to spread the spirit of Mackay wherever they went.
For Miriam, this idea sparked a connection. As she admired the painted stones, one particular rock found its way into her hands and, ultimately, into her suitcase. Back in Argentina, she placed the rock in a stunning Patagonian setting, capturing the moment with photos to highlight the rugged beauty of her homeland.
Miriam shared her story: “I lived in beautiful Mackay and visited the art museum. The painted snake was so special, and I brought a stone back to leave it in a beautiful place in Patagonia. I hope you see these photos and feel inspired to visit my beautiful country!”
Her story has struck a chord back in Mackay. Elizabeth Springall, reflecting on the project, said: “The snake was such a wonderful community effort. It’s amazing to think one of those stones is now in Patagonia—a little piece of Mackay travelling the world!”
From the tropics of Mackay to the icy peaks of Patagonia, this humble rock now serves as a small but powerful symbol of connection, creativity, and global adventure.
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Photo credit: Miriam Lizarraga

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An Australian summer Christmas promises joy, sunshine, and backyard cricket—but it can also come with a side of stress. Here’s how to manage the madness with a splash of creativity and a sprinkle of festive fun.
1. Swap the stress for a beach day. Who says Christmas has to be formal? Pack a picnic, bring the cricket set, and celebrate with sand between your toes. Let the kids build sandcastles while you enjoy a much-needed breather by the waves.
2. Embrace the Aussie ‘bring a plate’ tradition. Ask everyone to bring their signature dish (yes, even if it’s store-bought). Sharing the load reduces stress and adds variety to the feast. Plus, Uncle Bob’s legendary prawn cocktail always steals the show.
3. Declutter your commitments. You don’t need to attend every event or have the house looking like a Pinterest board. Prioritise what truly matters—quality time with loved ones—and say no to anything that feels like too much.
4. Stay cool—literally. When tempers rise with the heat, have some fun with water fights, homemade icy poles, or a paddling pool for the kids (and maybe for yourself).
5. Look out for each other. The holidays aren’t always easy. Check in with friends and family—sometimes a quiet chat can mean everything. Visit the Grapevine Group website for tips on recognising the signs someone may need support, or call Lifeline on 13 11 14 if you’re worried.
Christmas isn’t about perfection; it’s about connection. Whether the pav collapses or the mozzies crash the BBQ, let laughter take the lead. Keep it simple, keep it sunny, and remember: the best gifts are your time and care.

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Can you believe that in just a few short days, it will be Christmas time! It just felt like yesterday that we were opening Easter eggs and riding all the roller coasters at the show.

How this year has flown by. It’s December and we are about to get a visit from the jolly man dressed in red. I hope you’re ready, because I am.

The shops are full, carparks are jam-packed with shoppers, and our radio is sprinkling in some all-time Christmas favourites to get you in the mood. Yes, Mariah and Michael B have come out of the wilderness to get us in the mood, and I reckon there will be some interesting festive favourites to get us smiling and thinking of all things tinsel and snow in the tropics.

I certainly am loving all the decorations around the region. From the Christmas trees at Habana, to the giant blow-up Santa in West Mackay with our mate Wilbur standing next to it in his Xmas swimming trunks! This time of the year is just magical. Next week we are hitting the road again for the annual Christmas Bus Lights Convoy and we’re heading to the Pioneer Valley, Sarina and Mackay. If you want tickets, get on the 4MK website and tell us where the light displays are, and you’ll be in the draw to grab seats on the buses.

Also, tomorrow night is an absolute highlight of the festive season, with the annual 4MK Carols in the Gardens at the Meadowlands Amphitheatre. We are kicking off all the fun from 5:30pm, so we’d love you to bring the family down to sing your hearts out, meet Santa, say gudday to the Grich in his lair, and treat yourself to some delicious food and fun entertainment just for kids in their zone. So much is happening and we can’t wait to bring it to you with the Mackay Big Band and a cast of thousands on the big stage.

Fast forward to next Saturday, we will be doing the big prize draws for the 4MK Santa’s Storage Shed, where nearly $20,000 worth of prizes will be handed out. There are 17 prizes, which means there will be 17 different winners to get excited. If you haven’t entered yet, there’s still time. We aren’t closing entries until tomorrow afternoon, so get shopping. Full list of locations at the 4MK website.

One more thing, and it’s a big one. If you haven’t yet heard, next Friday the 13th, I’ll be finishing up my time on the 4MK breakfast show after over 18 years with this fantastic company. I’ve been given another exciting opportunity right here in Mackay, so Friday next week will be my final show.

While it’s not goodbye, this is my final chat in this wonderful local paper. Thank you to the wonderful Amanda, and all the team to allow me to have a chat with you each fortnight. Have a wonderful Christmas and an even better New Year. I’ll see you up the road sometime soon, and remember, have fun!

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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A Mackay retailer is wrapped to be giving back this Christmas, hosting Australia’s first ever unique charity event, the BIG Wrapathon. 
 
The event will take place in Mackay’s BIG W on Saturday 7 December and will involve celebrity and community volunteers, alongside BIG W team members wrapping gifts at the front of stores from 10am - 4pm. 
 
Christmas is a celebratory time for most families, but many families will be spending the festive season and beyond in hospital care. The event celebrates the launch of BIG W’s charity wrapping paper, a new range of festive gift wrap designed with children who have been supported by BIG W’s national hospital network. The colourful wrap features the children’s heartfelt artwork and customers can purchase in store and online for $5, with all proceeds going back to families across the country. 
 
In addition to its fundraising efforts, BIG W is contributing an additional $20,000 to Queensland Children's Hospital Foundation, further supporting programs that bring care and joy to sick kids and their families this Christmas
 
BIG W Mackay Store Manager Clinton Cooper said, “Through our long-standing hospital network partners, BIG W makes a real difference for Australian families in the region.

“The BIG Wrapathon is the gift that keeps on giving.

“Not only will Mackay customers save time getting their gifts wrapped by local celebrities in a fun local community event, but their gold coin donation directly supports children and families in Queensland.”
 
$2 fundraising tokens have also been designed by kids being supported by the Children’s Hospital Network. They will be sold in stores from Mon 4 November and run through to 24 December.
 
Proceeds from the sale of the wrap, tokens and the wrapathon donations will go towards Children’s Hospitals and research partners around the country, including: Children’s Hospital Foundation (CHF) - QLD.
   
Jo Donaldson from the Queensland Children's Hospital Foundation, said, “For over 21 years, BIG W has supported the Children’s Hospital Foundation here in Queensland, raising over $5 million and we’re thrilled to continue this legacy through the 2024 BIG W Community Christmas Appeal.
 
“Christmas is a time for joy and family, but for many children at Queensland Children's Hospital, it’s also a time spent facing serious health challenges far from home.

“Each year, the Queensland Children’s Hospital treats over 110,000 children, with one in three coming from regional or remote parts of Queensland and the Children's Hospital Foundation is there for each and every one of them.”
 

Join the BIG Wrapathon at BIG W Mackay on December 7 to wrap gifts for sick kids and support charity. Photos supplied

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From Sarina to Dows Creek, St Helens Beach to the Northern Beaches, amongst the City Heart and even flying into Mackay Aeroclub, Mackay Regional Council is supporting Christmas celebrations across the region.
More than 20 events have been supported to ensure everyone has the chance to celebrate with their communities this festive season.
There will be something to suit everyone’s festive tastes, from a City Centre light show projection to a guided silent disco and Christmas laneway market.
Community favourites like Carols in the Gardens will return and council is once again supporting regional events through our Christmas Grants program.
With the Christmas Grants, council has kicked in $10,000 to boost festive celebrations in regional areas.
The following regional events are open to the public and have been proudly supported by council’s Christmas Grants:
   • Armstrong Beach and Freshwater Point lolly drop and Christmas party (November 23)
   • Pioneer Valley Sporting Association Christmas break barbecue (November 25)
   • Eungella Christmas Party (November 30)
   • Northern Beaches Community Christmas Party (December 6)
   • Mackay Riding for the Disabled Community Christmas Party (December 12)
   • Sarina Sporting Services Club Christmas Car Park Party (December 13)
   • Mackay Aeroclub's Annual Christmas Party (December 13)
   • Sarina Beach Barbecue and Movie Night (December 13)
   • Mackay Christmas Lights Ride (December 14)
   • Dows Creek - Celebrating Christmas in our Community (December 15)
   • Habana Carols Under the Stars (December 21)
   • St Helens Beach Christmas Party (December 21)
   • Sarina Festive Christmas Pool Party (December 22)
Other Christmas events and celebrations supported by council and council facilities include:
   • MECCMAS – 12 days of Christmas deals and giveaways from the MECC – from December 1.
   • The annual City Heart Christmas – Guided silent disco, laneway markets, kids’ activities and more – December 6.
   • Santa’s Secret Present Search – a fun adventure through the City Heart collecting secret presents – December 6.
   • City Heart Magical Christmas Window Competition – judged from December 6 to December 16.
   • City Heart Christmas Bright Lights – watch the Masonic Hall transform into a tropical Christmas light show – from December 6 to December 14.
   • Carols in the Gardens – presented by StarFM and 4MK at Meadowlands Amphitheatre – December 7.
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For a full list of Council-supported Christmas events with all the details, head to mackay.qld.gov.au/christmasevents.

Events and festivities will be spread throughout the City Centre, from Macalister Street to Sydney Street and from River Street to Gordon Street

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When I came back to work after my Christmas/New Year break in early January this year, there was a feeling that something had changed.
Yes, I was fatter, older and poorer, but that happens every year after the Christmas break. It was more than that.
My first open homes were frenetic, energised events with dozens of buyers ready to buy.
The market had been good the previous year but nothing crazy. Suddenly it was as though Santa had snuck a message in everyone’s parcels that said, “It’s time to buy in Mackay”.
I often discuss the real estate market with Gardian colleagues and a consistent topic the previous couple of years had been how we felt the market should be stronger and that prices should be going up quicker.
Rents had gone up dramatically in the previous couple of years and there was a ridiculous level of demand among tenants.
There was an incentive for tenants, if they had the money, to take the plunge and buy.
But we also wondered why investors were not jumping into the market. People who lived in southern markets only had the option of high purchase prices for investment properties that delivered a much worse rental yield than Mackay offered.
While rental yields were 1 or 2 per cent in those places, Mackay offered 5, 6 and 7 per cent yields on rental properties. Our median sale price remained way lower than other vibrant cities and regional centres.
I told anyone who listens to me that this was the place to buy … but my dog isn’t in a position to buy and did nothing about it.
First there was that frenzy of activity from local buyers in January and then, in February, the calls started coming in from investors and buyers’ agents from down south.
It wasn’t a trickle. It was a flood of investors wanting to get into the Mackay market. They were driven by the relatively low prices, high rental returns, high average incomes, low vacancy rates, low unemployment rate and the strong economy of a significant regional centre.
The world had suddenly changed and Mackay became one of the hottest markets in Australia. Investors have been driving the market, although there are also plenty of local people who have decided to buy rather than rent.
But what has it meant, in practical terms, for the Mackay market? What has happened to prices? Sit down and brace yourself for the latest figures, provided to me by realestate.com.au this week.
The median price for houses sold in Mackay in the month of November, 2023, was $490,000. The median price for November this year was $643,000. That is an increase of over 30 per cent.
That is the biggest increase in Queensland and compares with the annual national median price increase of 5.62 per cent. House prices in Melbourne, Hobart and the ACT decreased this year. Sydney prices also recently dropped slightly.
(It is true that the Mackay figure is a snapshot of prices for one month and there might have been more upper-end properties sold then, however the figures are instructive.)
The figures are great news for home owners in Mackay. However, I want the people who haven’t bought yet to bring it in close.
The median price of units was $280,000 in November 2023. This November it was $329,000. That’s about an 18 per cent increase, a lot smaller than for houses. And it means there are still units available for around $300,000.
Now, I would never give financial advice but I was telling my dog the other day that units still offer an affordable opportunity to break into the Mackay market.
I doubt my dog will do anything about it but someone might.

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Delightfully light and airy, this pavlova wreath bursts with fresh summer flavours, making it an ideal showstopper for your Christmas celebrations!
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Ingredients
For the Pavlova Base:
   • 6 large egg whites, at room temperature
   • 1 1/2 cups caster sugar
   • 1 teaspoon white vinegar
   • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
   • 1 tablespoon cornflour
For the Toppings:
   • 300 ml thickened cream, chilled
   • 2 tablespoons icing sugar (plus extra for dusting)
   • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
   • Fresh strawberries, halved
   • Fresh raspberries
   • Fresh blueberries
   • Pomegranate arils
   • 2 passionfruit, pulp only
   • Fresh mint leaves
   • Optional: edible gold leaf for garnish
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 120°C (fan-forced). Line a large baking tray with baking paper. Draw a 25 cm circle on the paper, then draw a smaller 15 cm circle inside to form a guide for the wreath. Turn the paper over so the ink doesn’t touch the meringue.
Make the Meringue:
   • In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form.
   • Gradually add the caster sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating well after each addition. Continue until the mixture is thick, glossy, and the sugar is fully dissolved.
   • Add the vinegar, vanilla, and cornflour, gently folding them into the meringue with a spatula.
Shape the Wreath:
   • Spoon the meringue onto the prepared baking tray, shaping it into a wreath by following the drawn circles. Create decorative swirls or peaks with the back of a spoon for texture.
Bake the Pavlova:
   • Place the tray in the oven and immediately reduce the heat to 100°C. Bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes or until the meringue is crisp on the outside and slightly soft in the centre.
Turn off the oven and leave the pavlova inside to cool completely with the door open.
Prepare the Toppings:
   • In a chilled bowl, whip the cream with icing sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
   • Slice the strawberries and prepare the remaining fruits.
Assemble the Wreath:
   • Once the pavlova is completely cool, gently transfer it to a serving platter.
   • Spread the whipped cream generously over the top. Arrange the strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, pomegranate arils, and mint leaves decoratively around the wreath.
   • Drizzle with passionfruit pulp for a tangy finish.
Add the Final Touches:
       ◦ Dust lightly with icing sugar for a snowy effect.
       ◦ Add edible gold leaf for a luxurious festive touch (optional).
Serve and Enjoy:
       ◦ Serve immediately or store in the fridge for up to 2 hours before serving.

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By Hannah McNamara

In the shadow of loss and the light of brotherhood, Managing Director Sam O’Neill has built a supportive network for veterans through a not-for-profit organisation, Never Alone Fight Together (NAFT). Drawing from his own experiences with life after service, Sam is on a mission to create a unique space for veterans…one that embodies the essence of brotherhood while breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and financial struggles.

An eight-year Australian Army veteran, Sam shares that NAFT was born from both the camaraderie forged on the battlefield and the heartbreak of losing those bonds too soon.

"Ever since leaving the Army, it’s been a slow journey of building this up,” Sam said.

“Along the way, I’ve seen too many friends pass - through their own hand or circumstances that could have been avoided."

Sam O’Neill, Managing Director of NAFT – Never Alone Fight Together, is forging connections and breaking barriers, striving to rewrite the story for veterans. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Turning Loss Into Legacy
A Veteran’s Fight For Change

Sam’s military career included deployments to East Timor with 1RAR and Afghanistan with 5RAR, where he served as a section commander. These experiences not only shaped his life but also deepened his understanding of the immense struggles veterans face after service.

The detrimental loss of a close mate on January 24, 2023 soon became the spark that ignited his mission.

"Last year, a good friend of mine passed, and it was his death that sparked this," Sam said.

“After months of grieving, I realised I had to do something…not just for him but for everyone like him."

Through his grief, Sam envisioned a future where no veteran faces their battles alone, and within his darkest moments, he found the courage to turn that vision into reality.

Sam channelled his sorrow into creating NAFT, a charity dedicated to providing emergency financial assistance to veterans and their families for necessities such as groceries, fuel and medical bills. Yet, the journey to establishing NAFT was far from easy.

Sam invested his personal savings into legal fees, navigated bureaucratic challenges, and faced the emotional toll of revisiting the loss that inspired the organisation.

"The day we were officially registered was the same day I was grieving the one-year anniversary of his passing,” he said.

“It felt like a message, a sign that this is what I’m meant to do.

"I’m not doing this for myself…this is about veterans, about community, and about preventing unnecessary deaths.

“It’s about ensuring no one has to walk this journey alone," he added.

“We’ve received incredible support from the community, and many are keen to purchase our merch."

To further NAFT’s reach, Sam also hosts a podcast that delves into ‘what it means to serve’ and the ‘similarities between that of a professional soldier and a professional athlete.’

"The podcast amplifies voices - not just mine, but those of everyday Australians who have faced challenges," Sam said.

“It’s about creating connections and showcasing the resilience and shared values of veterans and athletes."

If you’d like to donate or sponsor veterans facing hardship, visit: www.naftlimited.org.au/donate/.

Give to those who gave their all for us.

Sam O’Neill’s military service includes deployments to East Timor with 1RAR and Afghanistan with 5RAR, where he served as a section commander. Photo source: NAFT

“It’s about ensuring no one has to walk this journey alone."

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A dramatic turn of events unfolded on Wednesday night last week when a trimaran sought refuge from rough seas in the Pioneer River, only to run aground on a sandbar and be battered by strong winds and waves.
The incident occurred around 7:30 pm as the vessel attempted to navigate the river’s shifting approach during an outgoing tide and 25-knot winds. The challenging conditions holed the trimaran’s hull, leaving it stranded and partially submerged.
At 3:30 am, Mackay Police contacted Marine Rescue Queensland Mackay (MRQ), alerting them to the situation. The crew of the trimaran had reported themselves safe, and given the hazardous conditions, MRQ postponed recovery efforts until daylight.
At first light, MRQ’s crew, led by duty skipper Don B, launched from the River Street ramp. They located the trimaran high and dry on the sandbar and helped its crew retrieve personal belongings. The vessel was secured with an anchor to prevent it from drifting, and the crew was later collected by friends at the ramp.
Over the following tides, the trimaran was broken apart by the rough conditions. During the process, the vessel’s emergency position-indicating radio beacon (EPIRB) floated free and activated, prompting another callout. MRQ launched again at dawn to locate and deactivate the beacon.
A spokesperson for Marine Rescue Queensland Mackay commented on social media, "The only silver linings here are that no lives were lost and there were no serious injuries."

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Photos supplied: Marine Rescue Queensland Mackay

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Battling cancer is an incredibly tough journey, but some stories remind us of just how terrifying the storms we never see coming can truly be.
On page 5, you can read about Teharnee Peel, a Mackay mum diagnosed with cervical cancer while five months pregnant. Teharnee discovered a 6.5cm cancerous mass in her cervix at 22 weeks pregnant with her son, Harry. Determined to do everything possible to protect her unborn child, she began a specialised course of chemotherapy designed to be safe for pregnancy.
Her strength was tested in unimaginable ways, from enduring chemotherapy while pregnant to undergoing further treatment just four weeks after Harry’s birth at 32 weeks. Holding her baby boy for the first time was a surreal and emotional moment. Harry, born weighing just 2.3kg, spent weeks in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit while Teharnee faced gruelling physical and mental challenges. She describes those early months with her newborn as a "whole new level of fatigue"—a testament to the resilience of this mother-son duo.
Through my own cancer journey, I met another mother whose late-term scan revealed her unborn baby had cancer. While preparing to welcome her child into the world, she had to grapple with the devastating reality that her baby would require chemotherapy just weeks after birth.
These stories highlight a unique kind of fear and courage that few can imagine.
By the time you read this, I’ll have completed chemotherapy treatment number eight. I promise to share a full update in next week’s newspaper.
Like Teharnee, I’ve found a new purpose in giving back, advocating for body awareness and earlier detection of cancer. Supporting others through the Trudy Crowley Foundation has been deeply meaningful. This weekend, I’ll be at Harrup Park for the Trudy Crowley Round, where Mackay Cricket Association’s Junior, Senior, and Ladies games will unite to support this incredible organisation. Teams will proudly wear zinc in solidarity with the foundation’s efforts to help those impacted by cancer in the Mackay and Whitsunday regions.
If you can, come along to Harrup Park on Saturday afternoon and meet the ‘Survivors XI’ to show your support.
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Amanda

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A heartfelt act of kindness has brought joy to Ayuka and her partner, Pato, who recently faced the frustration of having their bike stolen… not once, but twice. Living in a foreign country, away from family and navigating a whole new language, the experience was particularly overwhelming.

Ayuka first posted about the theft on social media, and was amazed by the outpouring of support they revived by the community.

“Even people who didn’t know us offered to help us buy another bike,” she shared.

However, an unexpected gesture soon heightened their gratitude, and left them overjoyed.

Corry Cycles, a local bicycle shop heard of the challenges that Ayuka and Pato were having, and in a selfless act, provided a brand-new replacement bike.

“I’m still surprised at what happened for us,” Ayuka said.

“From tomorrow, my partner can go to work on this amazing bike.”

Alongside the bike, they also received a secure lock to prevent future thefts.

Ayuka thanked Evan Corry and the team at Corry Cycles for their generosity.

“You don’t know how much your gesture has influenced us…we are surprised and enormously grateful.”

Ayuka also praised the broader Mackay community, acknowledging the many who commented, reacted and reached out with support.

“The Mackay community is wonderful, despite some bad people,” she said.

Ayuka and her partner were touched by the outpouring of support and said they “felt a little less foreign.”

How can you spread kindness today?

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Mackay Regional Council will be replacing an aged water main at Alfred Street, between Wellington and Peel streets.
Works began early this week (from Monday, November 25), and are expected to be complete by late-January, 2025, weather permitting.
The centre parking on Alfred Street, in this section, will be unavailable for the duration of the work.
While works are underway, a partial road closure will be in place, with the westbound lane (towards Peel Street) closed during working hours for the duration of the project.
The eastbound lane (towards Wellington Street) will remain open.
Works will be undertaken from Monday to Friday, 6am to 6pm. Some weekend and night work may also be required.
There may be some intermittent noise and dust disturbances associated with these works.
Council apologises for any inconvenience caused and appreciates your patience during these essential works.
For enquiries, please contact council on 1300 MACKAY (622 529).

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A Mackay mum who was diagnosed with cervical cancer while five months pregnant says she owes her life to her baby.
Teharnee Peel, 34, was “shocked” when doctors told her she had a 6.5cm cancerous mass growing in her cervix while she was 22 weeks pregnant with her son Harry.
Mrs Peel, who is now in remission, had been vaccinated against the HPV (Human papillomavirus) virus and her most recent pap smear results had been negative.
“I went to my local Emergency Department in Mackay to get checked out as I had bleeding on and off multiple times,” she said.
“Harry was my biggest concern, he was our first baby and I wanted to do everything I could to save his life.
“Initially doctors thought it was a hematoma on my uterus or a low-lying placenta that was causing issues.
After a biopsy revealed she had a suspected squamous cell carcinoma, one of the most common forms of cervical cancer, Mrs Peel was referred to South Brisbane’s Mater Cancer Care Centre for specialised cancer treatment by Senior Medical Oncologist Dr Catherine Shannon.
Mrs Peel said the plane ride to Brisbane with her husband Simon was “petrifying”.
“I was waiting for results, waiting for a treatment plan, we had started putting the nursery together and I was gutted I couldn’t paint the nursery,” Mrs Peel said.
Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer affecting women worldwide, causing nearly 8% of all female cancer deaths every year.
Sharing her story for last week’s Cervical Cancer Awareness Week (17–23 November), Mrs Peel urged women to be aware of their bodies.
“Don’t be embarrassed about any gynecological issues, doctors have seen it all,” she said.
Mrs Peel she had found it uncomfortable to wear tampons for around 12 months prior to her diagnosis.
Dr Shannon sees around three to four cases of cervical cancer in vaccinated women each year.
Vaginal bleeding and pelvic pain are the most common symptoms of cervical cancer, according to Dr Shannon.
“All cervical cancers more than 2cm will be treated with chemotherapy and radiotherapy,” Dr Shannon said.
Mrs Peel was given a special course of chemotherapy adapted for pregnant women and posing no risk to her unborn child.
Mrs Peel said she was determined to do “whatever it took” to give her son a fighting chance.
“Harry is now two years old and he’s a fighter, he was from the very beginning,” Mrs Peel said.
“I started chemotherapy while pregnant, then again four weeks after I had Harry in conjunction with radiation.”
Harry was born at Mater Mothers’ Hospital during a planned caesarean section at 32 weeks gestation, weighing 2.3kg.
Mrs Peel said it was a “surreal moment” when she held Harry for the first time.
“I remember that day, I cried. Harry spent around three weeks in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit,” she said.
Mrs Peel described her fight against cervical cancer as “challenging”.
“I did three rounds of chemotherapy every three weeks while pregnant,” Mrs Peel said.
“I got COVID after my first round of chemotherapy and I was so scared, I was just 23 weeks pregnant.
“Harry was three months old when we returned to Mackay, we had been in Brisbane for five months, and Simon had taken seven months off work to be with us.”
She said the hardest part of her cancer journey was having gruelling treatment.
“The mental and physical recovery was a whole other ordeal in itself,” Mrs Peel said.
“No one talks about that enough, like when you get home your whole world changes – it’s a whole new level of fatigue with a newborn baby.”
Mrs Peel is now an ambassador for the Trudy Crowley Foundation Cancer Support Centre in Mackay, which is a charity supporting people and their loved ones through cancer and beyond. 

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Teharnee Peel was diagnosed with cervical cancer when she was five months pregnant.  Photos supplied
Harry is Teharnee Peel's little fighter
Teharnee Peel during cancer treatment at the Mater Cancer Care Centre in South Brisbane
Baby Harry was born at Mater Mothers' Hospital

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Visitors and residents will soon be sitting pretty in the Mackay City Centre.
Starting Monday, November 25, council contractors will begin work refurbishing the timber slats on 58 seats in the City Centre.
The work is expected to take about two weeks to complete, with minimal disruption to the public.
Individual seats will be temporarily cordoned off while refurbishment works are underway, before contractors move onto the next seat.
Council appreciates the community’s patience as it polishes up Mackay’s City Centre seating, ensuring a comfortable and inviting space for all to enjoy.

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February 6, 2023, is a day Dylan Holmes will never forget. What began as an ordinary workday at Jennmar Australia took a dramatic turn when the worker in his 40s suddenly collapsed mid-conversation with a colleague. Without warning, he had suffered a sudden cardiac arrest - a life-threatening condition where survival hinges on immediate medical intervention.

Luckily, Dylan was in a workplace equipped with an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and colleagues who knew exactly what to do. Within 90 seconds, Jennmar’s Queensland Branch Manager, Mick Baker, and his team sprang into action. They performed CPR and used the AED to deliver five critical shocks, buying Dylan the precious time he needed before paramedics arrived.

“The AED undoubtedly saved Dylan’s life,” Mick said.

Paramedics administered four additional shocks at the scene before rushing Dylan to Mackay Base Hospital. There, he underwent intensive care and surgery to have a subcutaneous internal defibrillator implanted in his chest. This advanced device monitors his heart and automatically delivers a shock if another life-threatening rhythm occurs, giving Dylan peace of mind and a second chance at life.

Mackay Base Hospital Cardiologist Dr Dominika Budzbon said that Mr Holmes’ cardiac arrest was caused by very fast and abnormal heart rhythm.
“After a period of stabilisation in hospital, we decided he needs protection from any possible event like that in the future.”
Dr Budzbon explained that Mr Holmes became the first patient in Mackay to receive an implant of a subcutaneous defibrillator (ICD).
“This is a clever and highly programmable processor which recognises dangerous heart rhythms and works out what to do with it,” Dr Budzbon said.
“It is suitable for patients who only need a device to shock the heart, and do not need the support of a pacemaker as well.”
Since that fateful day, Dylan has become a passionate advocate for workplace defibrillators.

“All workplaces should have them; they’re a lifesaver,” Dylan emphasised.

"I wasn’t sick or anything like that—there was nothing wrong with me. It could happen to anybody," he said.

"If I’d been feeling unwell, I wouldn’t have clocked on early for overtime. It was a hot day, and the work’s physical, but everything seemed fine," he explained.

"The guy I was working with said I was talking normally one minute, then I let out a moan and crunched over some plates before hitting the ground.”

He now urges businesses to not only install AEDs but also to ensure employees are trained to use them and know their location.

Inspired by Dylan’s miraculous survival, Mick Baker and the Jennmar team have made it their mission to promote the life-saving potential of AEDs. Their efforts have already started making waves. One local business manager, deeply moved by Dylan’s story, paused operations to train employees in the proper use of defibrillators.

“For the amount of money they cost, it’s the best investment your business will ever make,” Mick said.

“If we can get just one business to purchase an AED, that’s a success…it could save a life.”

Recently, Jennmar Australia extended their advocacy efforts even further by donating a brand-new AED to CASA (Community Accommodation & Support Agency). CASA is a vital local organisation committed to helping individuals secure housing and access support services that foster stability, independence, and self-reliance.

This donation ensures that CASA staff, clients, and visitors will have access to life-saving equipment during a cardiac emergency.

“Thanks to Mick and his team, CASA now has a defibrillator installed to ensure the safety of everyone who resides in or enters our business,” said a CASA representative.

“On behalf of everyone at CASA, our clients, and the community surrounding our business, we extend heartfelt thanks for this generous donation. It ensures that more lives can be saved with on-site AEDs.”

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Jennmar Australia’s generous donation of an AED to CASA ensures that staff, clients, and visitors are equipped with life-saving equipment in critical moments. Photo source: CASA - Community Accommodation & Support Agency Inc.

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Illawong Beach became the scene of a heartwarming homecoming on November 23, as Mickey, a juvenile Green sea turtle, was released back into the ocean following his successful rehabilitation at the Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre.
Mickey's journey began when he was found floating and struggling in the waves off Illawong Beach, covered in algae and barnacles and in urgent need of care. Ali from the Mackay District Turtle Watch team stepped in to transport him safely to the Whitsundays, where his recovery began.
Upon arriving at the rescue centre, Mickey underwent thorough cleaning, treatment, and observation. With the support of dedicated Turtle Carers, he received the nourishment and care required to regain his strength. After weeks of rehabilitation, Mickey was finally deemed ready to return to his natural habitat.
The release marked a celebration of the community’s efforts to protect marine life, showcasing the vital collaboration between Eco Barge Clean Seas and Mackay District Turtle Watch. A spokesperson for Eco Barge Clean Seas praised the teamwork, saying, “Ali’s dedication and the tireless work of our Turtle Carers highlight the incredible impact of community-driven conservation initiatives.”
Ali's commitment was instrumental in ensuring Mickey’s recovery, and her efforts exemplify the passion and perseverance behind the work of Mackay District Turtle Watch and the Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre.
Eco Barge Clean Seas encourages the public to support their ongoing turtle rescue and marine conservation initiatives. For more information or to get involved, visit www.ecobargecleanseas.org.au.

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Mickey the juvenile Green sea turtle makes his triumphant return to the ocean at Illawong Beach after weeks of care and rehabilitation at the Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre. A true community effort brought him back to health. Photos supplied

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The Queensland Government has announced an exciting opportunity for local residents, businesses and road users to have their voices heard about the future of the Bruce Highway. As part of a long-term commitment to improve road safety and capacity, the state government will re-establish the Bruce Highway Advisory Council (BHAC) by the end of 2024. This is a significant step forward for the region, and residents of Mackay, Whitsundays, and surrounding areas are encouraged to play a part in the process.

The Bruce Highway is a vital corridor connecting the communities of Queensland, from the Far North to the Sunshine Coast. It serves as the main route for thousands of commuters, freight operators and tourists, but it also faces challenges, particularly in the Mackay and Whitsunday region, which has long been plagued by safety concerns and congestion. Now, the government is calling for local representatives who regularly use the highway to help shape the future of this essential infrastructure.

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton assured the region that the state government is getting to work on a long-term plan to fix the Bruce Highway by re-establishing the Bruce Highway Advisory Council.

Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg emphasised the importance of local voices in the decision-making process.

“It’s important we listen to our regional communities to be able to deliver the upgrades that are so desperately needed to the Bruce Highway,” Mr Mickelberg says.

“We want to hear from a broad cross section of people who drive the Bruce Highway regularly from the Far North to south of the Sunshine Coast, whether they be truck drivers, local commuters or interested stakeholders.”

The Crisafulli government is seeking expressions of interest from Queenslanders who have firsthand experience using the Bruce Highway and can identify key locations that require attention.

Those living in Mackay and the Whitsunday region, where the highway has some of its most challenging sections, are strongly encouraged to submit nominations. The areas most in need of attention include sections notorious for accidents, as well as areas prone to flooding and congestion. Having a seat at the table on the BHAC will allow regional residents to highlight their unique needs and advocate for improvements that matter most to the local community.

The focus of the re-established BHAC will be on road safety, with a particular emphasis on identifying priority locations for investment. The Council will play an instrumental role in advising the government on the sequencing of key upgrades along the highway. While issues like flood resilience and capacity will be addressed, road safety remains a top priority, particularly in areas like Mackay and the Whitsundays, where hazardous sections of the Bruce Highway have been identified as high-risk.

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox has also weighed in on the urgency of addressing the state of the highway, particularly the stretch between Mackay and Townsville.

“There have been several reports recently that have identified the section of the Bruce that runs through Dawson as having the worst safety rating for the entire highway,” said Willcox.

“I don’t support the current funding arrangement of 50-50 from the Federal and State Government.

“The original arrangement of 80-20 needs to be restored to look after the roads and infrastructure in Far North Queensland.”

The current safety concerns along the Bruce Highway are alarming, with Andrew Wilcox MP saying, “Every day on Australian roads, on average three people are killed and 100 people are seriously injured.”

“These deaths may have been prevented if the busy highway was up to scratch.”

This is an opportunity for local residents to directly influence the government’s road upgrade plans and ensure that their voices are heard when it comes to prioritising safety and infrastructure improvements on the Bruce Highway. For this plan to be truly effective, it is essential that regional Queenslanders are at the forefront of the discussion.

With the BHAC’s first meeting set for December 2024, there is no time to waste for interested locals to submit their expressions of interest.

Interested residents in Mackay and the Whitsunday region must submit their applications by 5pm on Friday, 29 November 2024.

For more information and to apply, visit the Queensland Government’s Transport and Main Roads website.

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Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, doesn’t support the current funding arrangement of 50-50 from the federal and state governments for roading infrastructure and is calling on the 80-20 model to be reinstated. Photos supplied

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As the festive season approaches, Mackay finds itself grappling with an escalating homelessness crisis that serves as a stark reminder that not everyone will experience a merry Christmas. For many in our community, the holidays are not a time of celebration but of survival—a daily struggle for shelter, food, and safety.
At the heart of the city’s efforts to combat homelessness is Chances House, Mackay’s only dedicated drop-in centre for those experiencing homelessness. Located at 2 Endeavour Street, Chances House is more than just a service provider—it’s a lifeline for the vulnerable.
Chances House operates Mackay’s only daily meal service, offering breakfast and lunch Monday to Friday, as well as weekend meal packs. Since 2020, the organisation has provided over 120,000 meals to those in need. This vital service ensures that no one has to face hunger alone.
The drop-in lounge at Chances House is a safe, inclusive space offering essential resources like phone charging facilities, internet access, lockers, and even creative outlets like music and art activities. It’s a place where compassion meets practicality, giving individuals a moment of reprieve and access to much-needed support from caring staff and volunteers.
Beyond immediate relief, Chances House focuses on long-term solutions through its case management program. By working closely with individuals, case managers help connect them to healthcare, housing, job opportunities, and mental health services, guiding them toward a path of stability and hope.
Despite these remarkable achievements—like opening Mackay’s first homelessness drop-in centre and distributing over 11,000 essential items—Chances House operates without regular government funding. Instead, it relies on the generosity of the Mackay community.
This Christmas, Chances House is calling on locals to help make a difference. Donations of money, food, or essential items can go a long way in easing the burden of homelessness. Volunteering your time is another powerful way to contribute, offering companionship and support to those who need it most.
The statistics are sobering, but they highlight the incredible impact of Chances House: over 800 nights of crisis accommodation provided, more than 116,250 hours of support and connection shared, and countless lives touched by their unwavering dedication.
As Mackay faces a growing homelessness crisis, there’s never been a more crucial time to act. By supporting Chances House, you’re not just giving a meal, a blanket, or a safe space—you’re giving hope. This Christmas, let’s come together as a community to ensure that no one is left behind.
If someone is experiencing difficulties, they can visit Chances House at 2 Endeavour Street, Mackay, for support, while members of the general public are encouraged to visit www.chancesmackay.org for more information on how to help.

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For some, Christmas can be a challenging time and it is up to us to check on those around us by being suicide alert this festive season.
There is no doubt that Christmas is special, but Mayor Greg Williamson reminds us that while many love celebrating with family and friends, some will struggle.
“Unfortunately for some people it is the most challenging time of the year emotionally.
“Knowing the signs and having the courage to reach out to those struggling at Christmas is a gift that can change lives,” Mayor Williamson said.
There are a range of reasons that Christmas can be hard. It might be a relationship breakdown, child custody issues, financial pressure or loneliness, which makes it all the more important to learn about the warning signs of suicide.
“I know it’s the busiest time of the year, but taking a couple of minutes to learn the signs can help us check in on those we care about,” said Grapevine Group President Debbie Knight.
Geoff O’Connor, President of the Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce echoes the concern.
“We don’t know what pressures people may be experiencing.
“Many people could be feeling the cost of living impacts, so let’s reach out to our networks and make sure they’re ok this Christmas,” Mr O’Connor said.
Dean Kirkwood General Manager of the Resource Industry Network wants to remind businesses and the community that they can take advantage of the free safeTALK suicide prevention training and safety toolbox talks available.
“This might be a great opportunity to make suicide education a New Year’s resolution,” he said.
Conveniently, Grapevine Group trainers are available to train groups on-site.
The Mackay community are urged to download the free Grapevine Group app or visit grapevinegroup.org.au to learn the 16 warning signs, find local suicide prevention services in Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday communities and book public or private group training.
The campaign, supported by Mackay Regional Council’s Mayor, Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce, Resource Industry Network and Queensland Police Service, has run for 14 years and includes a video with a life-saving message for the community.
Recognise the 16 warning signs of suicidal thoughts
   • Talking about suicide, death, and/or having no reason to live
   • Preoccupied with death and dying
   • Withdrawing from friends and/or social activities
   • Severe recent loss (especially a relationship) or threat of a significant loss
   • Major changes in behaviour
   • No interest in hobbies, work, school, etc
   • Unexpectedly making a will or funeral arrangements
   • Giving away their prized possessions
   • History of suicidal thoughts or attempts
   • Taking unnecessary risks and/or is impulsive
   • No interest in their personal appearance
   • Increases their use of alcohol or drugs
   • Expresses a sense of hopelessness
   • Experienced a situation of humiliation or failure
   • History of violence or hostility
   • Unwilling or unable to connect with potential support

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North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) is investing more than $1 million to increase security at its ports of Mackay, Hay Point and Abbot Point.
The upgrade and installation of more than 50 cameras across the three ports comes after a security review was completed earlier this year.
It also comes on the back of the recent increase to Australia’s national security threat level, through which NQBP is responsible for associated maritime security obligations.
NQBP Chief Executive Officer Brendan Webb said the project will see several benefits.
“Not only will this project boost our security, it will also provide operational efficiencies,” Mr Webb said.
Also included in the project are upgraded and new cameras for the Port of Mackay's Southern Breakwater, Mt Bassett Lookout and the Port of Hay Point's Half Tide public boat ramp.
“NQBP is in a fortunate position of owning several public assets enjoyed by our port communities,” Mr Webb said.
“One of our key priorities is to ensure that locals and visitors can continue to enjoy safe access to these public spaces.
The community can keep up to date on any closures by following NQBP's social media channels.
Local Mackay-based contractor CSE Crosscom has been awarded the project.
CSE Crosscom Regional Manager (Qld) Ben Pollock said the team were excited to deliver the project.
“Supported by our local network of specialist technicians and project managers, CSE Crosscom is proud to work with NQBP on this project to provide comprehensive and sustainable solutions across a large-scale and complex system,” Mr Pollock said.
Works are expected to be completed by early 2025.

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This week
Season to date
Cane crushed
35,206
1,090,513
Average bin weight
3.84
3.90
CCS
14.58
14.15
Cane variety performance for region
Variety
%
CCS
Variety
%
CCS
Q183
22.9
15.21
Q253
9.8
13.00
Q240
20.1
14.62
SRA9
7.6
14.79
Q208
21.4
14.73
SP80
6.3
14.99
Q252
3.0
13.62
Q138
4.6
13.88
Comments:
Plane Creek Mill processed just over 35,200 tonnes of cane for the week, bringing the season-to-date total to just over 1.09 million tonnes.
Widespread rain mid-week triggered a halt to harvesting operations, and the mill ran out of cane on Thursday morning.
Scheduled chemical cleaning and planned maintenance was brought forward to take advantage of the wet weather stoppage.
Field conditions had improved by the weekend, and there were plans to resume crushing Sunday evening.
Average CCS declined by 0.25 of a unit over the previous week, closing out at 14.58 units. The year-to-date average is now sitting at 14.15 units.
Standover cane made up approximately six per cent of the week’s cane supply.
The highest CCS honour for the week was a rake of Q208 fourth Ratoon from the Mt Christian productivity area with a CCS of 17.60 units.
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Lindsay Wheeler
Cane Supply Manager
Plane Creek Region

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Australia’s investment in agricultural research and development has reached almost $3 billion in 2023-24, the latest ABARES release has shown.
The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry reported that this long-term commitment will lead to improvements in agricultural productivity, sustainability and modernisation.
The private sector accounts for the largest growth in investment in the sector, with a nearly 5 per cent annual growth rate from 2005-06.
ABARES Executive Director, Dr Jared Greenville, said ABARES’s latest data, Agricultural research and development (R&D) investment in Australia – 2023-24 update, found total agricultural R&D funding was increasing steadily, largely from the private sector.
“Agricultural R&D investment is what underpins innovation in the sector, and the flow-on benefits for farmers are considerable,” Dr Greenville said.
“We know that every $1 invested in agricultural R&D, generates an almost $8 return for farmers over 10 years, which is a great incentive for the private sector to make these important investments.”
According to ABARES, total agricultural R&D funding has continued to increase gradually, from $2.91 billion in 2022-23 to $2.98 billion in 2023-24.
“Overall, investment in agricultural R&D is increasing steadily, but we’ve seen the private sector just overtake the public sector as the main funder of agricultural R&D investment,” Dr Greenville said.
“There is a healthy mix of public and private R&D investment, reflecting a strong and robust innovation system with a good mix of long-term discovery research and practical commercialisation of technology.
“Private sector investment has the advantage of focussing on commercialising new technologies, so it has far-reaching benefits for Australian farmers.”
Dr Greenville said the strength of Australia’s agricultural R&D system was underpinned by the rural Research and Development Corporations (RDCs).
“The RDCs are a unique investment partnership between industry and government, and their funding has grown steadily over the years as productivity has increased,” Dr Greenville said.
“Each RDC delivers tangible, practical improvements for their industries, particularly in terms of productivity and sustainability.”

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By Sonia Ball (QCAR Central District Manager)

Proserpine
Being fit to burst with excitement is not only reserved for when someone buys you chocolate. It is also an appropriate way to feel if you have prepared for an event and successfully come out the other side chuffed to the rafters and stuffed with endorphins.  
And so it is that I am happy to report, thanks in main to the Proserpine district growers and stakeholders who took the time to attend our November 20 Meet & Greet, it was indeed a success.
The gathering at the Hotel Metropole proved a great networking opportunity, an informal catch up with members, as well as an introduction to new interested growers in addition to the latest news updates from stakeholders.
I am grateful for the proactive and supporting QCAR Central District Committee led by Chairman Steve McKeering, and for those committee members who made time to be in Proserpine for most of the day and night including our Proserpine representative Craig Emmerson.
We had a jam-packed agenda with a meeting with Wilmar Sugar and Sugar Services Proserpine followed by the monthly QCAR Central District Committee meeting with the day culminating in the QCAR information session and Meet & Greet. Every minute was deemed a great success.
Mackay
Your local QCAR Central District Committee is inviting you, and your cane growing friends, to attend the upcoming QCAR Mackay Information Session and Meet & Greet.
We’ll be hosting this at the Western Suburbs Leagues Club from 6pm on Wednesday 4 December.
While we understand this is a busy time of the year, we wanted to give all QCAR-ACFA members an opportunity to be updated on QCAR activities in the Central District and the broader QCAR vision and activities, while also providing information about our organisation to other interested growers and stakeholders.
Attendees can meet our QCAR Board Chairman Christian Lago and our CEO Stephen Ryan as well as members of the QCAR Central District Committee led by Chairman Steve McKeering.
Meet the team, enjoy a cold drink, tea or coffee and nibblies, and please don’t forget to RSVP. Call, text or email Central District Manager Sonia Ball on 0467 573 321 or Sonia.ball@qcar.org.au
Plane Creek
In a few weeks we’ll also be converging on the Plane Creek district with a QCAR Plane Creek Meet & Greet on Tuesday 17 December. More details to come on venue and times.
Save the date, RSVP and join your local QCAR team for an informal Meet & Greet and Information Session to get the latest information on our integration, our actions, our growth, our plans and meet the team driving change across Proserpine, Mackay and Plane Creek.
Consider yourself invited.  

Stay updated on our Facebook page
Just like many businesses, we keep our cane growing communities engaged and informed with the use of social media and our Facebook page, Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables, is the place to be to stay updated as events, news or updates occur. Visit us, like our posts and follow our page. QCAR also loves to see your contributed photos and receive information updates about other industry sector news and events so please send these through to our new QCAR Media and Communications Manager Heidi Petith at Heidi.petith@qcar.org.au.
What’s happening with the fibre issue in the Herbert River, and will this impact our region?
Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR) cautiously welcomed the announcement by Wilmar Sugar on Friday that it will review the Cane Analysis Program (CAP: 2017) across its Queensland mills over the next few months.
QCAR has been investigating, with due diligence, the anti-competitiveness of the overdue for review CAP for almost a year after an independent sugarcane auditor revealed the Herbert River mills (Victoria and Macknade) were only sampling fibres for members of the Herbert River District Cane Growers Organisation (HRDCGO).
The QCAR Central District team is looking forward to being involved in this review process.
To get all the details and read our most recent articles please visit our Facebook page, website or sign-up as a member and get on our e-list for regular member updates. How easy is that?

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Among those attending the recent QCAR Proserpine Meet and Greet last week are, from left, Alan Hoffman, QSL’s Brad Dunn, Andrew Pini and Karin Swift
QCAR member Bill (Pratty) and Sharon Pratt at the recent QCAR Proserpine Meet and Greet
QCAR Central District Committee member and Proserpine grower/contractor Craig Emmerson, left, meets the new QCAR Burdekin District Manager Angelo Licciardello
QCAR Central District Manager Sonia Ball, left, with Sugar Services Proserpine Manager Stacey Corrie at the recent QCAR Proserpine Meet and Greet
At the Hotel Metropole for a meeting with Sugar Services Proserpine Manager Stacey Corrie are, back from left, QCAR Committee members Craig Keating and Craig Emmerson, front from left, QCAR Committee member Blair Watt, Stacy Corrie, and QCAR Central District Committee Chairman Steve McKeering
Still chatting late into the QCAR Meet and Greet at Proserpine are, from left, Dale Holcombe, QCAR Central District committee Chairman Steve McKeering, QSL’s James Formosa and QCAR Burdekin District Manager Angelo Licciardello. Photos supplied

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Sarina State High School (SSHS) students Katie Stevenson and Wyatt McKewen were each awarded a $2000 Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank Senior Schooling Scholarship at this week’s SSHS Awards Night.

SSHS Grade 10 students were invited to apply for the scholarships which promote a commitment to education and community involvement, whilst providing funding to support their education and development in senior schooling, for items such as excursions, textbooks and technology.

Community Bank Sarina Board Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich emphasised Community Bank Sarina’s dedication to reinvesting profits back into the community and supporting the next generation through high school, apprenticeship and higher education scholarships.

“Scholarships are an investment not only in each student’s future but in the future of our entire community, and I want to congratulate Katie and Wyatt on their impressive efforts in applying for and attaining these scholarships,” Ms Franettovich said.

“By fostering local expertise and encouraging a commitment to lifelong learning, we can strengthen our community whilst nurturing future leaders and community citizens.”

SSHS 2025 Senior Schooling Scholarship recipient Katie Stevenson, expressed her gratitude for this “incredible opportunity”, noting her appreciation for Community Bank Sarina’s confidence in local students.

“It's not just the monetary value, but also the support and encouragement you gain,” Ms Stevenson said.

Katie also encouraged students to apply for scholarships, highlighting the importance of receiving feedback throughout the process.

“The application experience with Community Bank Sarina was extremely helpful, guidance empowers applicants to improve if they wish to apply for other scholarships in the future.”

Fellow recipient Wyatt McKewen said he always strives to do his best and that receiving the scholarship felt like a rewarding acknowledgment of his hard work.

“Scholarships are important to students like me as we can take part in extra school programs and courses to expand our opportunities, without adding an extra financial burden,” Mr McKewen said.

Community Bank Sarina has partnered with SSHS since 2017 to offer scholarships and awards, creating valuable learning and development opportunities for students.

To learn more about Community Bank Sarina scholarships, please contact executive@communitybanksarina.com.au.

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(L-R) Community Bank Sarina Board Chair Karen May, SSHS scholarship recipients Wyatt Mckewen and Katie Stevenson, Community Bank Sarina Board Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich

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Nestled on 400 acres of lush sugarcane fields in Calen, Oh Deere Farm Stay offers a truly unique escape where authentic farm life meets unforgettable hospitality. This family-run retreat, helmed by Karinda and Dale Anderson, is fast becoming one of Queensland’s must-visit destinations – and the accolades are pouring in to prove it.
At the 2024 Mackay Isaac Tourism (MIT) Awards, Oh Deere Farm Stay took home an impressive five honours, including Gold for Unique Accommodation and two coveted People’s Choice Awards for Favourite Accommodation and Experience Provider. Owner Karinda Anderson was also recognised with the Outstanding Contribution by an Individual award, highlighting her passion for bridging the gap between urban and rural communities.
The farm’s charm doesn’t end there. Oh Deere also shone on the state stage, securing a Bronze at the prestigious Queensland Tourism Awards for its dedication to sustainable tourism and authentic storytelling.
“Receiving these awards is an incredible honour,” Karinda shared.
“They celebrate our mission to connect people with farming life in a meaningful and enjoyable way. We’re excited to keep sharing our story with visitors from near and far.”
Karinda is deeply passionate about agri-tourism and educating visitors on the origins of their food, particularly the journey of sugarcane from paddock to plate. She believes that sharing these stories fosters a greater appreciation for the hard work of farmers and the essential role they play in sustaining communities.
“When people understand where their food comes from, they value it more,” she says.
Oh Deere’s magic lies in its versatility. Whether you’re pitching a tent, parking a caravan, or relaxing by the communal fire pit, the farm stay offers cosy accommodation infused with rustic charm. Guests rave about the Sugar Farm Tours, which deliver an engaging look at life on the land, from planting cane to operating vintage farming machinery.
A highlight of the tour is “The Love Shack,” a John Deere museum brimming with nostalgia. Karinda adds, “It’s about more than farming – it’s about showing people where their food comes from and the hard work behind it.”
A catch-and-release Barramundi dam has been introduced for fishing fun showing that Oh Deere continues to innovate, giving guests new ways to connect with nature and agriculture.
Experience the warmth, wonder, and authenticity of Oh Deere Farm Stay – a place where every visit tells a story, and every guest becomes part of the family.
Book your stay today and see why Oh Deere is winning hearts and awards across the state!

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Oh Deere Farm Stay and Tours
71 Zamparuttis Road, Calen, QLD,
https://ohdeerefarmstay.com.au/

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The Mackay Whitsunday District’s Dog Squad recently introduced two new canine recruits, adding fresh ears to the team. Labradors Neo and Baron have joined forces with German Shepherds Jury and Ruckus, creating a dynamic unit for the region.

At 10 years old, Neo is the seasoned veteran of the squad, contributing a wealth of experience to every assignment in Mackay since his arrival earlier this year. Although recently retired, Neo has taken on the role of mentor to the team’s youngest recruit, Baron - a two-year-old Labrador who, under Neo's guidance and the leadership of Officer in Charge Sergeant Felipe Peraza, has quickly proven himself to be a fast learner.

Neo and Baron are known for their ability to switch seamlessly from playtime to high-stakes work, balancing their downtime with a commitment to their duties.

Sergeant Peraza, who has nearly two decades of service across various Queensland locations, joined the Mackay Dog Squad in April 2024. His leadership has been instrumental in training Baron for his role as the squad’s newest drug detection dog.

In addition to managing the squads newest drug dogs Neo and Baron, Sergeant Peraza works alongside Jury, a 7-year-old German Shepherd. Meanwhile, Senior Constable Jarrod Knox, a police officer since 2013, has been partnering with Ruckus, a spirited four-and-a-half-year-old German Shepherd who enjoys relaxing on sunny days and frolicking in the waves during his downtime.

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Ruckus - Senior Constable Jarrod Knox with PD Ruckus

Baron - Sergeant Felipe Peraza with PD Baron

Jury - Sergeant Felipe Peraza with smiling Jury

Neo - Sergeant Felipe Peraza with PD Neo. Photo source: myPolice Mackay

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They were a series of sudden, brutal deaths of young Mackay people that devastated their families and friends and shook this town to the core when they were killed.
Mackay-born people will mostly know about the deaths, and the names of some or all of those involved, but many others will be unaware of the tragic loss of the lives of these young local people.
This town needs to talk more about these youngsters, some of them really just kids, and remember what happened to them.
Fortunately, a special effort to remember them has created extra attention and a renewed focus on who they were and how they died.
There isn’t room here to name all the Mackay kids who died in the events I am talking about, but they include David Pratt, who was killed when he was 21, Eric Perry, who died around the same time when he was 19, Keith McGinn, who was 20, Joseph Holack, who was 19, and young Keith Hamilton, who was 20 when he was killed.
Many Mackay locals will know about these boys and how they died but if you’re new to town you might not know about them … although you might recognise their names.
Some other names of the dead from the events I am talking about are: Charles Penn, Harold Holland, Robert Kippen, William Griffin, Keith Simpson, Albert Hucker and Robert Lamb.
These are just some of the names of young Mackay blokes who died in World War I and World War II and whose surnames are recorded forever more as street names dotted around the inner suburbs of this city.
Earlier this year I started noticing poppies emblazoned on many of the street signs in the suburb I live in, West Mackay.
I knew the street I live in was named after a local digger who died in World War 1, aged 22, so when I saw the poppy on our new street sign I realised it was a council measure to respectfully recognise the streets named after Mackay people who died at war.
As you drive around my suburb, as well as South, East and North Mackay and Marian, there is now a constant reminder of the locals who sacrificed their lives for us.
When you drive into a street with a poppy-emblazoned street sign, you know what it means … you’re on hallowed ground and you are indebted to the Mackay person it is named after.
A drive out of my street takes me into Field Street and towards the city through Webberley Street, and then through Keith Hamilton, McGinn, Mogford, Donaldson, Edmonds and Smith Streets onto Bridge Road. It’s poppies and gratitude all the way.
A couple of weeks ago, on the 11th of the 11th at 11am, a group of colleagues and I bowed our heads in a minute’s silence to remember Australians who died at war.
We were in our office in the Dalrymple building in Victoria St, which was built in 1918 … the same year that Robert Donaldson, Thomas Grendon, James Johnson and Rex Sneyd died fighting to protect the life we now have the good fortune to lead.
That minute’s silence is to honour all lives lost in the fight for freedom and, while no one life is more significant than another, the poppies on Mackay street signs do make the local sacrifice hit home. It did for me that day.
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*The council website is well worth a visit to learn more about the brave names behind the signs.

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A boost of vibrancy will be felt in the Mackay City and Waterfront with an exciting array of activations and building works set to kick-off in the coming months.
The recipients of the latest round of the Make Your Place Mackay Waterfront Placemaking Grants and City Safety Grants have been announced.
The City Safety Grant aims to deliver safety infrastructure within the Mackay city centre, and the Make Your Place Grant aims to help people create inspiring and inclusive projects that encourage people to become more active in the city.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the grants would help improve the late-night economy and community safety.
“We want to see our River Wharves and City Centre precincts come alive and be a safe night-time environment for all patrons,” Mayor Williamson said.
“These grants are a great opportunity for our businesses and community to come together and create a place where people will want to visit,” he said.
The River of Life Festival will be back in 2025 after the huge success of the event this year.
Hosted by the River of Life Festival Association, the event will be held at the Bluewater Quay and River Wharves in March.
It will showcase local bands, community acts, street performers and live painting as well as have market stalls, community social service stalls and plenty of food vans for attendees.
Renae Johansen also received a grant to host the Riverside Children’s Hub, a satellite event of the River of Life Festival.
The children’s hub will be a series of activities to suit children of all ages and abilities and will feature a shaded stage at the Leichardt Tree grassy area for young people to perform.
Other successful Make Your Place grant recipients were:
   • MKY City Heart Collective – Placemaking Mackay’s Chinatown, to produce artistic installations to decorate an Asian Spring Festival Celebration in what was once Mackay’s old Chinatown.
   • Anytime Tours – Pioneer River Walking Tours Summer Series, to deliver free walking tours for the community in collaboration with the Mackay Riverside Markets from December to February. The tours will discuss the history of Mackay’s riverfront and highlight key public art assets.
   • Red Dog Riverfront – Barbecue, Local Craft Brewery and Music Festival, to deliver a free community event to showcase local smoke meat vendors, local craft brewer suppliers and musicians.
   • ID Dezine – Celebrating 20 years in the City Heart, to install a mural in the laneway adjacent to their building to celebrate 20 years of trading and attract visitation to the Mackay Waterfront area.
There were three recipients of the City Safety Grant who all will install CCTV and/or lighting to improve safety and visibility near their premises.
The recipients are:
   • 9th Lane Grind – will install CCTV to improve safety of the laneway which is used as a thoroughfare by staff and the community.
   • That Shop – located near nightclubs on Victoria Street, it is hoped the installation of CCTV and lighting will help deter antisocial behaviour in the area.
   • Groove Moover – the installation of CCTV and lighting at the rear of the Victoria Street building, which backs onto Eighth Lane, will improve visibility and help deter antisocial behaviour.

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Hundreds of people gathered at the Bluewater Quay for the 2024 River of Life Festival. The festival will be back in 2025 with the support of a Make Your Place Mackay Waterfront Placemaking Grant

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After breaking the $1 million mark for donations in 2024, the Mayor’s Charity Ball committee has announced the beneficiaries for the 2025 event.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the aim of the event was to fund two charities for two years to enable significant funds to be raised for each group and to make a real difference in our community.
“Proceeds will be split 50-50 between Grapevine Group and new beneficiary The Salvation Army’s Family Violence Service,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Australian Street Aid Project drops off this year after completing their two-year tenure, but it’s exciting to see the positive impact of the funding for people who are experiencing homelessness in our region,” he said.
“Grapevine Group is continuing on for their second year, which is timely, as suicide prevention and awareness is a very important issue for our community.”
Grapevine Group award-winning trainer Edie Weiss said they were thrilled to continue on for a second year.
“The timing of the funding and support from the Mayor’s Charity Ball couldn’t be better, as we celebrated our 20th anniversary this year,” Ms Weiss said.
“We are grateful for the support of the Ball, not just for the fundraising opportunity, but also for the chance to build awareness of the importance of suicide prevention,” she said.
“The 2025 funds will allow us to continue to provide life-saving training to locals in our region and expand our network of trainers.
“We can also now offer businesses the opportunity to have their own safeTALK trainer on staff.
“To date, Grapevine has trained 6800 people, but many more need to be suicide aware, so attempts can be prevented and those struggling can find the vital support they need.
“The theme of our first fundraiser was ‘Have a ball and make a difference’ and that’s what we would like to encourage Mackay to do at the 2025 Ball.”
Liz Carney, Family Violence Regional Manager for The Salvation Army, said their whole team were grateful for being selected as a charity for the event.
“With a significant increase in demand for family violence services across the board, it’s more important than ever that The Salvation Army can continue to provide vital services to victim survivors,” Ms Carney said.
“For survivors to truly recover from the impact of family violence and thrive, The Salvation Army need to be able to provide accessible healing and therapeutic services,” she said.
“This donation will not only improve our facilities for The Salvation Army but will also help us continue to offer recovery and healing services for victim-survivors in the Mackay region, a much-needed step to creating recovery pathways for victim survivors.
“At a time where there has been an unprecedented increase in the number of deaths due to gender-based violence in Australia, it’s crucial that all services come together to provide holistic responses to prevent and respond to family violence.
“At the Salvos we believe in good, and this belief drives us to find new ways and places to make a difference across Australia.” 

The 2025 event will see a change in sponsorship structure, with long-term Platinum sponsor DGH Engineering finishing up as a sponsor of the event.
Mayor Williamson said DGH had been a massive help with the event over the years and their unwavering sponsorship was greatly appreciated.
“DGH has been a major sponsor since the very beginning and their support has been instrumental in helping the event crack the $1 million mark last year.”
“BHP Mitsubishi Alliance have decided to step up and fill the Platinum sponsorship vacancy after supporting the event for many years as a Gold sponsor.”
Platinum partners for the 2025 Mayor’s Charity Ball include Fergus Builders, Daly Bay and BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA).

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Left to right – Ben Sonter from CQ Soil testing, Courtney Casey from Southern Cross Austereo, Ben Bloxsidge from Pentacon, Cr Heath Paton, Mayor Greg Williamson, Sharon Johnston from Daly Bay, Cr Karen May, Jules Kakono from Salvation Army, Nicole Whitley from SCIG, Liz Carney from The Salvation Army, Edie Weiss from Grapevine Group and Ben Hilder from Fergus Builders. Photo supplied: Mackay Regional Council

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Perfectly positioned near Mackay’s hospital and airport, Tropic Coast Motel offers a welcoming and comfortable retreat for travellers. With a variety of room options—Standard Queen, Executive Queen, Deluxe Twin, and Triple or Quad Family rooms—there’s an option to suit every need. 
All rooms are conveniently located on the ground level, featuring large undercover parking and outdoor seating for guests to relax. Additional amenities include a guest laundry, ample parking for trucks and trailers, a playground, a swimming pool, and a covered BBQ terrace—ideal for enjoying Mackay’s tropical lifestyle. 
Tropic Coast Motel also offers the added convenience of after-hours check-in, making it an excellent choice for late arrivals. Guests who book directly through the website can enjoy exclusive savings at www.tropiccoastmotel.com.au.
Adding to its charm, Tropic Coast Motel hosts free monthly Sunday Sessions in the restaurant and BBQ terrace area—a perfect family-friendly gathering to unwind and enjoy good company from 3pm – 6pm. Children are welcome and there is a safe playground with a small pool and lawn games for added fun. The bar will be open for refreshments and nibblies while you listen to the sweet sounds of talented local musicians. For more information and to book, visit www.sundaysessionsattropiccoastmotel.com.au. For those travelling from out of town, there’s a special $5-off button to book your accommodation through the Sunday Sessions link.
Whether you’re in town for business or leisure, Tropic Coast Motel promises comfort, convenience, and a warm welcome. 
www.tropiccoastmotel.com.au 
reservations@tropiccoastmotel.com.au 
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158 Nebo Road, Mackay 
07 4951 1888 

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Headspace Mackay has officially relocated to Caneland Central, on the second level, Tenancy 2514 - opposite Snap Fitness - making mental health support even more accessible for local youth. The grand opening on November 14 featured tours, guest speakers, snacks and a very welcoming atmosphere for all.

The new space, funded by the North Queensland Primary Health Network (NQPHN), is designed to provide a more inclusive and accessible environment for young people aged 12-25. Headspace offers free services, including counselling, work and study support, as well as social groups. With referrals doubling since the move, the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.

"Being at Caneland Central means we’re closer to where young people gather, with great public transport and easy parking for families,” said Administration Coordinator Jonathan Greenhalgh.

“Parents love the convenience, and young people find the space cozy and welcoming,” he added.

For more information or to self-refer, visit headspace Mackay’s new location or explore their online resources at www.headspace.org.au/headspace-centres/mackay/

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Photo source: Headspace Mackay (Facebook)

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Violence against women and girls is one of the most widespread human rights violations, affecting millions worldwide. It knows no cultural or national boundaries, occurring in homes, workplaces, and public spaces. From psychological and physical abuse to practices like human trafficking and child marriage - the impact is devastating - and to conquer this widespread issue we, as a community, must unite and take a stand against said acts.

The Zonta Club of Mackay’s 16 Days of Activism campaign is already underway, having launched on 25 November (United Nations Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) and will run until 10 December (United Nations Human Rights Day). This campaign provides an opportunity for the Mackay community to take a stand against gender-based violence and continue raising awareness throughout the remaining days.

Statistics reveal that 1 in 3 women globally experience physical or sexual violence in their lifetime.

“This staggering figure underscores the urgent need for action and awareness,” said Zonta Club President Fiona Koutlis.

“The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence is a call to action for everyone, including men and boys to stand together in creating a world where respect, equality and safety are universal values.”

Signature orange ladies have been placed in prominent locations across the region, each featuring vital information about emergency contacts and Zonta services.

The message is further amplified through market stalls, art installations, social media campaigns, and displays in libraries, hospitals, and shopping centres.

“Each day, we’re sharing important information, stories, and ways the community can get involved.”

Zonta International’s advocacy efforts, including the Zonta Says NO to Violence Against Women campaign, aim to challenge laws, attitudes, and behaviours that perpetuate gender-based violence.

As Mackay joins this global movement, the Zonta Club invites the community to break the silence, support survivors, and help create a future free from violence.

Each year, Zonta Mackay joins the 16 Days of Activism movement around the globe, by placing orange ladies in prominent places around town to raise awareness, and prevent violence against women and girls

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The Men’s Prostate Cancer Support Group is transforming how men view a prostate cancer diagnosis, turning fear and isolation into hope and connection.

Meeting every second Thursday of the month at the South Suburban Bowls Club, the group provides a safe, uplifting environment where men can navigate the challenges of prostate cancer together.

Chris Bartlem who has been involved with the group for 18 years after overcoming the disease himself, is passionate about breaking the stigma surrounding prostate cancer.

“A diagnosis is not a death sentence... it’s far from it,” Chris insists, determined to inspire others to seek support.

“We’re here to help people in the community who’ve had their lives shaken by devastating news.

“It can impact their work, sports, family interactions, and even marriages,” he explains.

“Most get through it without issues and come out the other side in good condition, but you always have to keep your eye on the ball… it can sneak up again.”

Thanks to advances in early detection and regular testing, survival rates for prostate cancer have soared to 95 per cent after five years. The group passionately advocates for annual PSA testing from age 50 - or earlier for those with a family history - highlighting that prostate cancer often shows no symptoms.

“Proactive health checks are crucial,” Chris cautions.

Beyond providing medical guidance, the group is a place where friendships flourish.

“We’ve seen connections built here that have lasted decades,” Chris shares.

Barbecues, fundraisers, and awareness events further strengthen these bonds, creating a network of support outside of the monthly meetings.

“When someone is newly diagnosed, they’re often gutted.

“But we get them talking to others who’ve been through it, and they usually walk out with a smile on their faces.

“That’s why we do it,” Chris says.

Partners, often the silent pillars of strength, are also encouraged to attend, recognising the essential emotional support they provide. The group welcomes everyone with open arms, offering a reminder that no one has to face the journey of prostate cancer alone.

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The Men’s Prostate Cancer Support Group offers a lifeline to those affected by prostate cancer, replacing fear with hope, breaking the stigma and fostering lasting connections through shared experiences and support

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The Wangaratta Bowls Club saw some spirited competition in their recent social and triples games. On Tuesday, Sue Shearing, Margaret Wilson, and Greg Colquhoun claimed victory over Lyn Danvers, Penny Warren, and Geoff Danvers. In another closely contested match, Stumpy Adams, Dot Slater, and Steve Roome triumphed over Merle Elphinstone, Mark Drummond, and Kevin Jewell. The jackpot, however, remained unclaimed.
Sunday’s play featured two exciting triples matches. On Rink 2, Bron Tolcher, Kevin Jewell, and Mark Drummond emerged as winners against Lindy Suann, Gavin Charles, and Pat Tracey. Meanwhile, Merle Elphinstone, Penny Warren, and Allan Rolfe secured a win over Jim Quod, Alby Vigar, and Kennedy Whitton. Despite the fierce competition, the jackpot once again stayed intact.
Members are encouraged to attend the club’s Annual General Meetings this Sunday at 9 a.m. to help decide on the new executive team that will guide the club into 2025.

Contributed with thanks to Penwarr.

Sunday’s victors!

By Hannah McNamara

Greater Whitsunday Communities (GWC) marked 50 years of service with a commemorative event at CQUniversity Mackay City Campus. The milestone celebration united contributors, foundation members, and leaders to recognise decades of commitment to the Mackay, Isaac, and Whitsunday regions. Executive Officer Carol Norris honoured the vision of Carmel Daveson, while Mayor Greg Williamson applauded GWC’s achievements. Deputy Mayor Karen May reflected on the organisation’s journey, sharing inspiring stories of determination and teamwork. The event highlighted GWC’s lasting mission to foster resilient, thriving communities, celebrating a significant chapter in the region’s history.

Deb Rae, Mayor Greg Williamson, Carmel Daveson, Executive Officer Carol Norris, Former President Ian Hope and Deputy Mayor and Chair for Greater Whitsunday Communities Karen May. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

GWC Reflects On Five Decades Of Community Commitment

By Hannah McNamara

Greater Whitsunday Communities (GWC) celebrated its 50th anniversary with an evening of reflection, gratitude, and pride at CQUniversity Mackay City Campus last Tuesday. The event gathered past and present contributors, foundation members, and local representatives to honour five decades of community building across the Mackay, Isaac, and Whitsunday regions.

Executive Officer and MC for the night, Carol Norris, opened the celebration by acknowledging the collective efforts that have shaped GWC over the years, giving special recognition to foundational figure Carmel Daveson.

“If it wasn't for you, Carmel, we would not be here tonight,” Ms. Norris said.

“It is your vision, it was your vision, and you held on to it for many years… this is a celebration from your vision and it's a celebration of our organisation.”

Highlighting GWC’s mission, she added, “It's really about enabling the community of the Mackay Isaac and Whitsunday regions to be resilient, thriving, and living their best life for now and tomorrow.”

Mayor Greg Williamson praised the team’s dedication to the region, remarking, “I’m really happy to see now this organisation kicking goals.”

He also acknowledged GWC’s original shareholders, noting, “MRCSD and all the original shareholders should be very, very proud.

“Thank you very much for what you’re doing.”

Ian Hope, president of the Mackay Regional Council Social Development (MRCSD) in the late 1980s and early 1990s, expressed his pride in the organisation’s evolution.

“I’m very pleased to see that the organisation is still alive and well,” he said.

Reflecting on his tenure, Mr Hope remarked, “I’m glad to see that there are more housing programs to combat homelessness.

“It’s good for the region, and in the next 50 years, I hope future developments will continue to thrive and improve, both economically and as a community.”

Deputy Mayor Karen May, and Chair of Greater Whitsunday Communities, shared heartfelt stories from her early community work. She often championed initiatives beyond the usual “rates, roads, and rubbish,” a passion she still upholds today.

As an advocate for Sarina, she pushed for a mural to enhance the public toilet block, persisting despite hurdles with the council. With support from MRCSD, the project succeeded, and in 2000, as a newly elected councillor, she unveiled the mural.

“It was absolutely fantastic,” she said.

“It wasn’t just my achievement - it was the collective effort of the group and the driving forces behind MRCSD.

“We set clear goals, stayed focused, and delivered on our promises.”

The evening highlighted GWC’s legacy, underscoring the power of vision, persistence, and collaboration in fostering resilient and vibrant communities across the region.

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Greater Whitsunday Communities celebrated 50 years of community building

Mayor Greg Williamson with advocate and driving force behind the organisation, Carmel Daveson. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

International Men’s Day is a moment to pause and appreciate the men in our lives who do so much to support, inspire, and care for their families and communities. For me, this year has brought a deeper understanding of what it means to call someone my hero.
My husband, Hamish, has carried an extraordinary load while I’ve undergone chemotherapy. Between daycare drop-offs, swimming lessons, and everything else that comes with parenting a toddler, he’s stepped up in every way imaginable. He’s not just my Superman; he’s my Gladiator, fighting every day for his family with unwavering strength and love.
As Marcus Aurelius famously said, “Waste no more time arguing about what a good man should be. Be one.” It reminds me that the measure of a man isn’t his accolades but his heart, his ability to care, and his unwavering presence for those who need him most.
This year’s Mackay Man of the Year finalists—Brett Comerford, Rod Francisco, and Councillor Namarca Corowa—exemplify these qualities. Brett’s journey as a teacher, mentor, and advocate for the hearing impaired reflects his compassion and dedication. Rod, with his courage and integrity, reminds us of the importance of hope and resilience. Namarca’s work in promoting cultural awareness and addressing social issues highlights the power of leadership grounded in empathy and action. You can read more about their achievements on page four of this edition. Congratulations to Rod on being announced as Mackay’s Man of the Year.
To all the men in our community, thank you. As editor of this paper, I am privileged to see your impact every day—whether it’s through your leadership, your volunteer work, or simply being there for your families and neighbours. I’m proud to call many of you my friends, knowing the strength and kindness you bring to our community.
Here’s to the gladiators, the carers, and the quiet heroes among us—you make Mackay stronger, kinder, and better.
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Amanda

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What better way to spread holiday cheer than by bringing a touch of home to those far from theirs?

The Stella Maris Christmas Shoebox Appeal is bringing holiday cheer to seafarers visiting the Ports of Hay Point, Mackay, and Abbot Point. Each year, Stella Maris Seafarers Centre Mackay distributes shoeboxes filled with small gifts to these hardworking men and women.

Life at sea can be lonely and challenging, especially during the festive season, when seafarers are often far from their loved ones. Stella Maris has long been committed to providing support, and this annual Christmas Shoebox Appeal has become a cherished tradition, bringing warmth and holiday spirit to those who keep the ports running smoothly.

As a dedicated partner of Stella Maris, North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation are proud to support this effort. Small items like books, magazines, snacks, games, and other comforts are thoughtfully packed into each shoebox, giving seafarers a taste of home and a reason to smile.

Anyone interested in joining this initiative can donate items or shoeboxes by reaching out directly to Stella Maris Mackay. Your contribution can make a meaningful impact, letting seafarers know their hard work is valued and that they are not forgotten.

How can you bring joy to someone this holiday season? Check out our Giving Guide on pages 22-23 to discover ways to donate to those in need.

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Stella Maris Mackay volunteers giving gifts to crew onboard the Federal Swift at the Port of Mackay. The ship is loaded with Central Queensland-grown grain, ready to be exported worldwide. Photo credit: NQBP

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Rod Francisco was recently honoured as the 2024 Mackay Man of the Year during the International Men's Day celebrations, which focused on men's positive contributions to society. This year’s events included an Art Show at the Jubilee Community Centre, along with the Mackay Man of the Year Award presentation breakfast at Souths Leagues Club, featuring insightful group discussions and an auction of the winning artwork.

Reflecting on the recognition, Rod said he was “truly humbled” and expressed deep gratitude for the journey that led him to this moment.

“Being nominated was unexpected, being a finalist just brilliant, and to be the winner has been an emotionally rewarding and levelling experience,” he said.

From the many nominations received for Man of the Year, the entrants were narrowed down to three finalists who were recognised at the breakfast.

Brett Comerford – Inspiring Educator and Role Model

Driven by a desire to make a difference, Brett Comerford became a primary school teacher to address the need for male role models in education. His passion for inclusivity shines through his work, establishing Auslan Clubs to promote awareness for the hearing impaired at every school he’s taught at. Overcoming his own dyslexia, Brett pursued postgraduate studies in special education to support children with learning difficulties. A devoted family man, Brett celebrates 42 years of marriage to Deirdre and their two adopted children. Humbled by his daughter’s nomination, Brett embodies compassion, resilience, and a commitment to mentoring future generations.

Rod Francisco – A Life of Service and Resilience

Rod Francisco is an Army veteran, HR leader, and published author who lives by the values of integrity, respect, inclusion, and kindness. His life’s work centres on leaving a legacy of hope and opportunity for others. Having experienced both the heartbreak of loss and the triumph of success, Rod’s journey reflects his resilience and passion for making a difference. Whether navigating adversity with courage or celebrating life’s joys, he approaches every challenge with unwavering commitment. A devoted husband, father, and community advocate, Rod inspires those around him with his steadfast belief in humanity’s potential for better.

Namarca Corowa – Champion of Cultural Healing and Change

Councillor Namarca Corowa is a dedicated leader and educator, steering impactful social change through his organisation, Reconcile Life Pty Ltd. With over a decade of expertise in youth justice and adult education, he delivers culturally-informed programs addressing behavioural change, domestic violence prevention, and family unity. Supported by his wife Vikki, Namarca’s initiatives, including a 15-week men’s behavioural change program and youth camps, integrate Indigenous perspectives to foster respect and cultural connection. As a Mackay Regional Councillor, he advocates for safety and resilience, partnering with the community to drive meaningful progress. Namarca’s work inspires healing and empowerment across diverse communities.

For someone who sees himself as “just an ordinary bloke,” winning Mackay’s Man of the Year highlighted not just Rod’s journey, but the values and virtues that have defined his life up until this point. He describes himself as a man who has “lived, loved, and learned a lifetime.”

Rod shared thoughts on what it means to be a man in today’s world.

“It is the way it has always been, just that we now have a different context, multiple ways of communication, and an abundantly clear opportunity to care more for other men and their role in society.”

He also mentioned the importance of individuality, quoting Oscar Wilde: “Be yourself, everyone else is taken.”

Over time, Rod’s life as a man has evolved, guided by three core values - Respect, Integrity, and Inclusion - and one defining virtue: Kindness. However, his journey wasn’t always without challenges. Reflecting on those struggles, Rod advised, “Be vulnerable, be self-aware, and don’t be too hard on yourself as you are good enough.”

Among these words of wisdom, Rod also shared five key lessons that have shaped him, hoping they inspire others.

Healing takes time: “If you are hurt, heal first and don’t try to heal alone.”

Stand for what’s right: “Do not accept what you would not do; bad things happen when good men do nothing.”

Learn from role models: “It’s not about perfection but persistence.”

Build resilience: “Resilience is more than just being able to get up; it is to avoid getting knocked down in the first place.”

And lastly, accept life’s unpredictability: “Sh*t happens—sometimes it’s funny, and sometimes it’s not.”

Rod extended his gratitude to Nick and Rowena from Minds Aligned for sponsoring the award.

From experiencing loss and adversity to celebrating love and achievement, Rod approaches challenges with his signature philosophy: “Let it rip and tear, at least it will be interesting.”

Rod’s humility, resilience, and dedication to his community has made him a deserving recipient of the 2024 Mackay Man of the Year award.

Mackay Life congratulates the three nominees on being recognised as outstanding men in our community.

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Frank Cowell, Rod Francisco, Mayor Greg Williamson

Rod Francisco and Nick Bennett from Minds Aligned. Photos supplied

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A talented and dedicated student from Mackay State High School was recently announced as the recipient of the 2025 Hill Family Scholarship, valued at $5,000.

The scholarship is designed to support a student with exceptional potential and motivation to embark on a tertiary education in law, accounting, or commerce.

Year 12 student Morgan Faulkner from Alligator Creek (Mackay) won the scholarship thanks to her tenacious attitude to success and commitment to personal development.

“Studying law provides the opportunity to fulfil a belief that everyone deserves a fair trial. I have a deep aspiration to make a meaningful impact and advocate for those who may be marginalised by the legal system,” Morgan said.

Balancing her success as an upcoming cross country and track athlete, Morgan is also navigating her path into the USA college system by applying her sporting and academic aspirations.

“This scholarship provides essential financial support to meet my goals, easing the burden and allowing me to direct more attention to my education and future professional endeavours,” she said.

Established in 2021 by Mackay SHS alumni Karl and Sarah Hill, the Hill Family Scholarship aims to empower regional youth to pursue higher education by removing some financial burdens such as accommodation, textbooks, equipment and travel.

Founder and Managing Director of Results Legal, a specialist commercial disputes and commercial law firm, Karl believes that without equality for all students willing to participate in higher education, Australia’s workforce will lack vital perspectives that comes only from regional experience.

“Where you live shouldn’t be a barrier to education. However, the recent Australian Universities Accord Report shows that Australians from regional, rural and remote backgrounds have far lower educational attainment than their urban peers,” Karl said.

“Many students from regional backgrounds also cite financial difficulties as a reason for considering leaving university early. This results in a loss of critical regional perspectives in the workforce,” he said.

“From personal experience, we know the unique challenges regional students face when pursuing tertiary education.

“The Hill Family Scholarship aims to help bridge this gap,” he added.

“We are committed to ensuring that talented regional students are not overlooked due to financial constraints.”

The Hill Family Scholarship supports Results Legal’s commitment to creating opportunities that have a meaningful impact and endure well into the future.

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Karl Hill ran a Q&A session for over 90 Year 10 and 11 students at Mackay SHS to openly discuss regional education challenges and provide advice to students that aim to pursue studies in the city. Previous recipients Pushti Shah and Ned Gething were in attendance, as well as the 2025 Hill Family Scholarship recipient, Morgan Faulkner

Karl Hill and Morgan Faulkner

Previous recipients: Ned Gething and Pushto Shah, with Karl Hill, and newest recipient Morgan Faulkner. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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By Amanda Wright

The old bones of Hotel Mackay are about to get a second lease on life, thanks to a dynamic revival driven by two of Mackay’s beloved business couples. When the Laffins and Phillips families set their sights on the heritage-listed pub, it was more than just a business deal—it was a chance to honour their deep family ties to the hospitality scene, breathe new life into a local landmark, and create a new hub for the Mackay community to gather, celebrate, and make memories.
For Ben Phillips, this venture is more than just a business; it’s a homecoming. Ben’s roots in the hotel industry run deep. He and his brothers, Peter (dec) and Luke, were raised in the iconic Leichhardt Hotel. Managed by his father, Keith Phillips, and before that, his grandfather and great-grandfather, the Leichhardt was the Phillips family's pride and joy. It stood proudly on River Street, its verandah offering a front-row seat to Mackay’s vibrant riverside community life.
Ben recalls how the pub was more than just a business; it was a way of life.
“There was always someone to talk to, and the customers became a part of our everyday life. It was a bustling place where everyone knew each other’s names.”
The Phillips family's lineage stretches back even further, to Ben’s great, great, great grandfather, a bootlegger with a reputation as colourful as the era itself. The Taylors, Ben’s maternal ancestors, were one of Mackay’s most influential families during the early 1900s. Known for their entrepreneurial spirit, they owned numerous businesses, including the historic Taylors Hotel, built in 1936. This family of trailblazers helped shape Mackay's economic and social landscape, contributing to the town’s rich tapestry with their chain of hotels, theatres, and other establishments.
“My grandmother was one of the seven Taylor daughters, and each of them was gifted a pub or business when they married. The Taylors Hotel, which still stands today, was one of their many ventures,” Ben said.
Ben’s father, Keith, took over the Leichhardt in 1949. The pub became legendary, not only for its infamous cabaret shows and live performances but also for its vibrant flood stories.
The most infamous tale? The legendary shooting of a 32-foot crocodile from the pub’s verandah after a massive flood—a story that has become part of Mackay folklore. The crocodile’s skin, so they say, once hung proudly in the hotel, though the details are now a blur between legend and fact.
While Ben grew up surrounded by the hum of pub life, Nicole Laffin’s connection to Mackay’s hotels is just as captivating, albeit in a different way. You could say Nicole was destined for the pub life—her birth certificate humorously lists McGuires Hotel as her birthplace, with her father noted as the publican.
“Growing up, I was always surrounded by that lively pub atmosphere,” Nicole says.
“It’s funny to think I was literally born into it.”
Nicole and her husband Mark, who has decades of experience running iconic pubs along the Queensland coast, saw in the Hotel Mackay an opportunity that was too good to pass up.
It all began over breakfast one morning at Laffo’s Bar & Pizzeria, another of Mark and Nicole’s successful ventures. When Ben casually asked Mark over breakfast, “Do you want to buy a pub?” the wheels were set in motion. Mark took charge of the negotiations, and soon the couples found themselves the proud owners of one of Mackay’s most beloved landmarks.
“We couldn’t have asked for a better pub to invest in,” Nicole said.
“We wanted something that truly represented Mackay’s spirit—a place that people are excited to come back to.” And that’s exactly what they’re creating—a destination where good food, cold beer, and community spirit will converge in the most welcoming of settings.
Rebecca Phillips is as much a part of Mackay's fabric as the very land her family has cultivated for generations. Born and bred in the region, she hails from a proud third-generation cane-growing family near Calen, an area rich with history and the hardworking spirit of the land. Her family’s longstanding connection to the agricultural community has instilled in her a deep appreciation for resilience, community, and the simple joys of rural life.
As part of the team behind the Hotel Mackay’s historic rebuild, she’s excited to help keep the CBD vibrant and alive, all while honouring the town’s rich heritage. In addition to her agricultural roots, Rebecca is an experienced financial controller at Gardian Finance, where her expertise in managing financial operations has been invaluable. Rebecca’s vision is to create a space where locals and visitors alike can come together to celebrate the spirit of Mackay, all while ensuring the hotel plays an integral part in shaping the town’s future.
The restoration of Hotel Mackay isn’t just about slapping on a fresh coat of paint; it’s about lovingly restoring a piece of Mackay’s history while infusing it with a new vibrancy. Mark, a veteran of North Queensland’s hotel scene, has been hands-on with Nicole in designing every detail. The pub will retain its distinctive Art Deco charm, paying homage to an era known for its elegance and glamour.
Inside, you’ll find big open spaces filled with natural light, a modern open-air kitchen, and a warm, inviting family-friendly restaurant. The new design extends into a neighbouring property, giving extra room for dining and socialising.
This includes the addition of “Puffa’s Sports Bar,” a heartfelt tribute to Ben’s late brother, Peter, known for his love of rugby and his larger-than-life personality.
“We want to create spaces that honour the past but also invite new memories,” Mark said.
Beyond his achievements in rugby league and business, Peter was a magnet for camaraderie, bringing people together with his infectious energy and love of a good time. Whether it was sharing a laugh over a cold beer, orchestrating one of his famous pranks, or cheering on his beloved Brothers Rugby League team, Peter had an unmatched gift for lighting up every room he entered.
The sports bar will be both a nod to his sporting legacy and a lasting celebration of his spirit—a place where friends, family, and the community can gather to raise a glass in his honour, just as he would have loved.
The revamped Hotel Mackay is set to become Mackay’s new favourite gathering spot. With a large outdoor beer garden featuring a permanent stage, this will be the place to catch some of the best live music acts heading through North Queensland.
For those looking to celebrate special occasions, the upstairs will be transformed into a luxurious series of rooms, blending the old-world Art Deco elegance with all the comforts of modern hospitality. Nicole promises that whether it’s a wedding, anniversary, or just a fun weekend away, Hotel Mackay will be a place where people can truly relax and reconnect.
“We’re aiming for something that’s both timeless and fresh, a nod to the past but also very much looking forward,” Nicole explained.
“The heritage will shine through in everything we do, from the decor to the menu, with affordable family fare our main focus.”
One thing’s for sure—Hotel Mackay will be a place where you won’t leave hungry. The Laffins have built a reputation for serving up hearty, family-friendly meals at Laffo’s, and they plan to bring that same ethos to Hotel Mackay. Think juicy steaks, comforting pasta dishes, and all-day breakfasts that will keep you coming back for more.
In true Mackay style, the menu will be crowd-pleasing, a celebration of local flavours and generous portions. The team is even looking to bring back Mackay’s reputation for the best steaks in town.
“We want families to feel like they can come here any time—whether it’s for a quick coffee and cake, a long lunch, or a big night out,” Mark said.
But it’s not just about food. It’s about creating an experience. From themed trivia nights to musical bingo, karaoke, and fun-filled Taco Tuesdays, there’ll always be something happening at Hotel Mackay.
“We’re putting the fun back into the pub scene,” Nicole added with a smile. “Everyone is talking about what’s happening here, and we’re just so excited to welcome everyone in.”
More than just a pub, Hotel Mackay is set to become a cornerstone of the community—a place where locals can unwind, celebrate, and make memories. The couples behind this venture are passionate about giving back to the town that has supported them.
“It’s not just about the business for us; it’s about the people,” Ben said.
“We’re locals, and we’re investing in Mackay’s future.”
The project is a labour of love, one that reflects the strong community values that have always been at the core of both Laffo’s and Gardian Group.
“We’re putting our hearts into this,” Nicole said.
“It’s more than just a renovation; it’s a revival. It’s about bringing people together in a place that feels like home.”
With plans to open in mid-2025, just in time for Mark and Nicole’s milestone birthdays, the anticipation is building. Hotel Mackay promises to be the go-to destination for everything from casual catch-ups to grand celebrations.
As the Art Deco gem on Victoria Street prepares to open its doors once again, it’s clear that Hotel Mackay is set to become a new favourite, where heritage meets hospitality, and everyone is welcome to join in the fun.
Cheers to that!

L-R: Mark and Nicole Laffin, Ben and Rebecca Phillips. Photo credit: Coffee and Hops

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Imagine stepping into a tranquil haven where time slows down, and the only task on your agenda is pure relaxation. As you and your partner (or bestie) sink into plush treatment beds, the world outside fades away, replaced by the gentle melodies of soft music, the delicate scent of tropical flowers, and the soothing touch of skilled hands. At the heart of Mackay’s beauty scene lies a secret oasis, designed for those who crave an intimate escape from the everyday hustle: welcome to Natural Body & Beauty Clinic.
This local gem, founded 26 years ago by Lynne Buckley, has evolved into a beloved destination for indulgence and rejuvenation. Lynne, along with her daughter Candy—who began her career as an apprentice under her mother’s expert guidance—has created a nurturing space where each visit feels like a mini-retreat. From the bustling streets of their original CBD location to their serene and spacious setting on Palmer Street, this mother-daughter duo has spent decades perfecting the art of skincare and soul care, turning clients into lifelong friends.
The latest glow in their repertoire is the new couple's treatment room, an experience designed for those looking to reconnect on a deeper level. Picture yourself side by side with your partner, receiving a luxurious full-body treatment that goes beyond the ordinary. Your journey might begin with an invigorating body scrub, gently exfoliating away the stress of the week, followed by a nourishing massage that melts away muscle tension and soothes the mind. As Pure Fiji's botanical elixirs cascade over your skin, you’re transported to a tropical paradise—where every touch is a promise of renewal.
But the experience doesn’t end when the massage does. As you emerge from your cocoon of relaxation, you’re treated to a beautifully curated platter, encouraging you to linger a little longer, savour each other’s company, and indulge in the art of simply being together. It's more than just a treatment—it's an intimate escape designed to rekindle connection and leave you both glowing, inside and out.
Natural Body & Beauty Clinic is dedicated to providing personalised skincare solutions, particularly to address the evolving needs of mature skin. Whether it's navigating the changes brought by menopause, combating dry skin, or reversing the effects of sun exposure, Candy and her team are dedicated to delivering results that truly transform. With state-of-the-art treatments like LED Light Therapy, IPL Skin Rejuvenation, and Dermapen Skin Needling, they bring the latest innovations in beauty to the heart of Mackay, all while maintaining a personal, down-to-earth approach that clients adore.
It’s not just about treatments, though. Lynne and Candy have cultivated a warm, welcoming community where clients feel valued and understood. Regular events, from skincare workshops to social gatherings, turn a visit into a social affair, making every client feel like a cherished part of the Natural Body family. Their philosophy is simple: beauty is about more than just skin—it’s about confidence, self-care, and the joy of feeling pampered.
With Christmas around the corner, there's no better time to give the gift of relaxation. Rather than settling for a standard gift voucher, why not spoil your loved ones (or yourself) with one of their thoughtfully curated Christmas packages? These bundles combine luxe products with a treatment voucher, offering a blend of luxurious skincare and a promise of pampering. And because Lynne and Candy believe in celebrating their loyal clients, they’ve created special Christmas discount vouchers that extend well into 2025—ensuring that the spirit of giving lasts long after the holiday season ends.
So why not step into this oasis of calm and make time for yourself? As life gets busier, there’s no better remedy than the healing touch of a massage, the glow of a rejuvenating facial, and the comfort of knowing you’re in the best hands. Let the team at Natural Body & Beauty Clinic take you on a journey of relaxation, where every treatment is more than a service—it’s an experience designed to revive both body and soul.
Indulge, unwind, and let 2025 be the year you embrace the art of self-care. After all, true beauty begins with feeling your best.
naturalbodyandbeautyclinic.com.au

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For many, the holiday season is a time for family, traditions, and creating lasting memories—and what better way to capture the magic than with a visit to Photos by Nell? Located in the peaceful suburb of Balberra, nestled between Mackay and Sarina, Nell Thomsett’s studio transforms each year into a festive wonderland where families can experience an intimate, stress-free session with the one and only Santa Claus.
Nell, a locally born and bred country girl, has built a diverse reputation for her creative photography. While she’s well-known for her racy boudoir sessions, professional headshots, product placements, and high-flying drone footage, it’s her holiday photography that really brings her artistry to life. Every year, Nell’s studio becomes Santa’s magical cave, a festive haven where families can book personal, private sessions with a Santa that’s as authentic as they come.
This Santa isn’t just any imposter—he’s a seasoned, professional performer who looks every bit the part. With years of experience engaging with children, he knows just how to calm nerves and ensure even the shyest child feels comfortable. The sessions are relaxed and unrushed, with plenty of time for little ones to chat with Santa about their Christmas wishes, all while Nell captures the moment with her expert photography skills.
The studio, decorated with twinkling lights, sparkling ornaments, and the warmth of the holiday spirit, creates a perfect setting for your family photos. And the best part? It’s all done in air-conditioned comfort, so no need to worry about sweaty kids or long queues. You can skip the chaos of crowded shops and enjoy a peaceful, personalised experience where your family’s holiday memories are the focus.
With session prices starting at just $55, this unforgettable Santa experience is not only magical but also incredibly affordable. Families can enjoy a collection of beautiful images, carefully crafted by Nell, to treasure for years to come.
Whether it’s capturing the joy in your child’s eyes as they meet Santa or preserving the tradition of your yearly Christmas photo, Photos by Nell offers an exceptional opportunity to create heartwarming memories in a comfortable, calm setting.

photosbynell.com.au

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It’s inevitable as we navigate life and career that we compare how we are doing and where we are at to others (in business, it’s akin to benchmarking). In reality, how much of their journey do we truly know?

This personal benchmarking is not all bad, depending on your approach, and it can be motivating and a catalyst for action.

Constantly measuring your life or career against others, even those you admire, can be detrimental if
   • it erodes your self-confidence
   • you feel ‘left behind’
   • it fosters resentment and dissatisfaction

From the outside looking in, and in our professional circles, it’s easy to think that someone has it all together. This of course is completely unrealistic, along with the assumption that you can cherry pick the great qualities of someone else’s life and just take that one part of it. The good in life has to come with the bad. It’s all one package. We are only seeing what we want to see in others (fuelled also by any self-dissatisfaction) or, as often is the case with social media, the carefully curated stories that show the highlights of others’ lives and not the struggles.

No one has it all good. Everyone has struggles. So if you are envious of someone else’s success, job, or whatever, it’s important to stop and take stock of the situation. And in your reflection ask yourself, do I want to trade all of my life, including my ‘struggles’, for theirs?

If we are to use this benchmarking process as a positive, it can be motivating.
   • Others’ success can be inspiring to pursue your goals (if they can do it, so can I)
   • Use it as a learning opportunity – apply any relevant lessons and strategies to your own life
   • Take action – identify areas where you’d like to grow and create a plan to achieve it

And as part of this self-reflection, put the focus on you and start with what you have to be grateful for, what you are proud of in your life, and what are your accomplishments. It will help to build a sense of appreciation. Feeling grateful helps shift to a positive mindset and provides a launchpad for personal growth.

Also ask yourself what does success look like for you based on your personal values and priorities? That’s where to focus your attention and efforts, not on comparison. Your journey is unique, with its own timing, challenges and success. Comparing yourself to where you were yesterday is a healthier focus, and whether you are heading in the direction for where you want to be, not for others. Do it your way and forge your own path.

Sometimes it helps to seek assistance to clarify and enact your plan. At CareerForce Australia, we can provide that individualised support - contact me at powerup@careerforceaustralia.com.au or 0409 894 131 to learn more.

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Works on the water mains supplying the Midge Point township will commence this week to help improve water quality in the area.
The works will be completed in two stages. Council has engaged a highly skilled contractor, Flo-Max Australia to undertake the specialised process known as “pigging”.
This process cleans the inside of the pipes and will remove the build-up of iron and manganese which creates a natural biofilm in the pipes.
Stage one will involve the cleaning of water mains from the Kelsey Creek Water Treatment Plant to Kunapipi Road.
These works will be undertaken from Tuesday, November 19, to Friday, November 22, weather permitting.
Stage two will involve the cleaning of the water mains from Kunapipi Road to the Midge Point Road and Conder Parade intersection.
These works will be undertaken from Monday, December 9, to Wednesday, December 11, weather permitting.
As a result of these works, water interruptions will occur. Affected businesses and residents will be notified directly by council’s Community Engagement Team and alternative drinking water sources will be provided for the duration of the works.
At the completion of the works, residents are advised to run their taps for a few minutes for the clean water to filter through. If the water continues to be slightly discoloured for 24 hours, please contact council on 1300 MACKAY (622 529).
Council apologises for any inconvenience caused and appreciates the community’s patience during these essential works.
For further information visit connectingmackay.com.au/midge-point-watermain-cleaning-works

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A two-vehicle crash in Booyal has claimed the life of a 68-year-old motorcyclist from Moranbah after being struck by a Ford Ranger on Sunday, November 17.

Investigations indicate that at approximately 11:10 am, the Ford Ranger was traveling north on the Bruce Highway, near Booyal Dallarnil Road, when it collided with the motorbike.

The motorcyclist sustained critical injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The driver of the Ford Ranger, a 69-year-old man from New South Wales, has been arrested and charged with dangerous operation of a vehicle causing death and failing to remain at the scene to provide assistance. He remains in custody and appeared in the Bundaberg Magistrates Court on Monday, November 18.

Police are appealing for witnesses or anyone with relevant dashcam footage of the incident to come forward.

Car Theft Reported In West Mackay

Police are investigating the theft of a vehicle from a business carpark on Nebo Road, West Mackay, which occurred between 9:15am and 10:30am on November 13.

The stolen vehicle is a 2004 white Ford Falcon sedan with registration number 737 YBN. No image of the vehicle is currently available.

Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding the car's location or the circumstances of the theft to contact police immediately.

Residents are also encouraged to report any suspicious activity near unattended vehicles.

Police remind vehicle owners to secure their cars and remove keys at all times to prevent theft.

Suspicious Death Investigation Underway In Mackay

Mackay Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB) detectives have launched an investigation into the death of a 67-year-old man earlier this month.

John Patrick Hackett was discovered at his Gold Street unit in Mackay around 7:18pm on Saturday, November 9, during a welfare check conducted by family members.

A crime scene was established, and following a post-mortem examination revealing evidence of an assault, police have initiated a homicide investigation under Operation Whiskey Glen.

Investigators are seeking information from anyone who may have witnessed an interaction or altercation involving John Patrick Hackett on the afternoon or evening of Tuesday, November 5.

Police are particularly interested in hearing from individuals with CCTV or dashcam footage from the vicinity of Gold Street on that date.

Anyone with information is urged to contact authorities immediately.

Tools And Fuel Stolen In North Mackay Break-In

Between 3:30pm on November 8 and 6am on November 11, a building on Swayne Street in North Mackay was broken into. Tools and fuel were taken from a vehicle parked inside.

This incident is recorded under QP2401935776.

Anyone with information about these incidents is urged to contact police immediately.

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By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

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November is the season of the Annual General Meeting, and CANEGROWERS Mackay is no exception.
The 2024 Mackay Canegrowers Ltd AGM will be held next week, on Wednesday 27 November, with a wrap on the events and issues across 2023-24, and guest speaker Dr John Pickering. Dr Pickering was instrumental in delivering the Cane Changer project some years ago. It was all about the practice change mindset, and was one of CANEGROWERS initiatives that was a companion to Smartcane BMP.
A decade on, and that industry shift towards sustainable land and water stewardship practices has reaped rewards for the industry. It was an unintended result, but that shift has attracted new markets for sugar and potentially fibre and fuels as the world looks to more renewable and carbon neutral feedstocks.
We encourage our members to get involved- it’s a forum to ask questions of your association, to hear about the year past and how CANEGROWERS is speaking out and taking action on growers’ behalf. It’s also a great chance to catch up with fellow growers socially over afternoon tea and a few drinks, in what is proving a difficult season. Camaraderie is important.
Beyond CANEGROWERS Mackay, we encourage growers to take an interest in their industry organisations. Sugar Research Australia, Sugar Terminals Ltd, Queensland Cane Growers Organisation- all are having AGMs across the month. If it isn’t possible to attend in person because often these state events are held in Brisbane, then it is worth making sure you direct your proxies and, if provided, watch via video streaming.
In forming these industry boards there has been a TREND to include board members who are independent of the industry. Whilst I realise the intention is of bringing a different perspective to the board, there is in actual fact no replacement for actual experienced grower and miller directors who can convey the needs of the industry in decision-making. This is why we ask that growers make serious consideration when voting for grower directors, as we have done recently around the Sugar Terminals Ltd AGM.
It’s important for growers to be active and ensure that they as a group maintain an equal footing with miller representation in industry organisations. Active participation is fundamental in getting balanced representation in those organisations that require it.
Plane Creek Productivity Services also held its AGM on 11 November. It’s been mentioned before but our district prod services are instrumental. They are out in the paddocks, at the front line in working with growers in an attempt to increase productivity, managing pests and diseases, refining their sustainable practices for Smartcane accreditation. This year, Sugar Services Proserpine’s Frank Millar presented on the work around tissue culture and clean seed distribution being carried out by the Proserpine prod service.
It was an informative presentation, and a timely piece of information sharing, as both districts combat Ratoon Stunting Disease and value the importance of clean seed techniques in preventing the spread of the disease.
The meeting was also the final AGM for outgoing Chair Mal Langdon, who has served in the role for MANY years. Mal has put in a great effort into being the Chairman of Plane Creek Productivity Services, contributing much to moving productivity in the Plane Creek area forward and helping to protect our crops against disease. It is a difficult task. As a Plane Creek grower and on behalf of CANEGROWERS, I thank Mall for all he has done, and that hope he and his wife Jane have a great retirement.

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Frank Jacobs, Leahanna Lacey, Frank Millar and Mal Langdon

At the PCPSL 2024 AGM, District Manager Frank Jacobs, Productivity Officer Leahanna Lacey, guest speaker Frank Millar from SSP, and PCPSL Chairman Mal Langdon. Photo credit: Kirili Lamb

This week
Season to date
Cane crushed
58,394
1,055,307
Average bin weight
3.86
3.90
CCS
14.83
14.13
Cane variety performance for region
Variety
%
CCS
Variety
%
CCS
Q183
34.0
15.38
Q253
11.3
13.98
Q240
10.1
14.66
SRA9
7.6
15.11
Q208
19.0
14.56
SP80
8.2
15.29
Q252
1.9
13.94
Q138
2.8
13.76
‍

Comments:
Plane Creek Mill processed 58,394 tonnes of cane for the week, passing the million-tonne milestone on Sunday morning, 10 November.
Average CCS increased by 0.22 of a unit over the previous week, closing out at 14.83 units.
The year-to-date average is now sitting at 14.13 units.
Standover cane again made up approximately three per cent of the week’s cane supply.
The highest CCS honour for the week was a rake of Q183 first ratoon from the Yukan productivity area with a CCS of 17.30 units.
Please remember to use your train brain and always give way to cane trains.
‍

Lindsay Wheeler
Cane Supply Manager
Plane Creek Region

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Marking National Agriculture Day last week (November 15), Queensland’s Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett reiterated the Crisafulli Government’s commitment to supercharging the state’s agricultural industry.
With a bold target to boost farm gate output to $30 billion by 2030, the LNP say that Queensland is poised to become a national leader in food and fibre production.
The Crisafulli Government has also said it will strengthen Queensland’s biosecurity frontline, with a $50 million boost including 100 additional biosecurity cops on the beat to build defences against pest and diseases.
A $4.5 million investment in Beef Week 2027 will showcase Queensland’s beef industry and support its continued growth.
Minister Perrett said the State Government would deliver a fresh start to Queensland’s primary industries sector.  
“Our farmers and regional communities are the backbone of Queensland’s economy,” Minister Perrett said.
“This plan is about unlocking potential, driving investment, and delivering long-term certainty for the sector and we are committed to putting Queensland agriculture first.
“From our sugar cane fields to the timber industry, and from biosecurity to AgTech, we’re delivering a comprehensive plan for the future of Queensland agriculture.
“This strategy is designed to support every sector of our diverse industry, bringing long-term prosperity to our rural and regional communities.”

Ag workers were also encouraged to “play it safe” for National Agriculture Day and review their safety practices, with agriculture being one of Australia’s most dangerous
industries.

Australian Institute of Health and Safety (AIHS) CEO Julia Whitford said the agricultural
industry was unique in the number of safety challenges workers must manage, which can
impact physical and mental health.

Safe Work Australia statistics show the agriculture, forestry, and fishing sector is ranked
number two on the list of industries with the greatest number of worker fatalities in 2024,
with 30 deaths so far this year.

“Over the past five years we’ve seen an average of 38 deaths a year in agriculture, forestry
and fishing, and any death is one too many,” Ms Whitford said.

“Ag workers face a range of hazards that they must mitigate every day. Among the risks is
the operation of heavy equipment, being struck by an animal, handling chemicals,
exposure to weather and dust, slips, trips and falls, and vehicle accidents, including
those involving tractors and quad bikes.”

Data reveals fatal quad bike accidents and rollovers are on the rise, with 18 deaths
recorded so far in 2024, up 38 per cent on last year and 63 per cent on 2022.

“To help bring those numbers down, we encourage ag workers to do a registered quad
bike training course, install a crush protection device, ride on familiar tracks, and avoid
riding in bad weather, on rough terrain, and on steep slopes wherever possible,” Ms Whitford said.

As well as physical risks, there are considerable psychological safety challenges due to
high stress seasonal pressures like intense periods of planting, harvesting, shearing,
lambing, felling, fishing, or calving.

“Agriculture is key to Australia’s economy, but unfortunately the long hours ag workers
put in often go unrecognised, and they have little to no control over variables like the
weather, disease, or market conditions, making for an unpredictable and stressful work
environment,” Ms Whitford said.

“We urge our hard-working ag workers to review and update their safety procedures to best protect their physical and psychological health.”

Resources can be found on the AIHS website.

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ANZ and the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) have awarded $250,000 in grants to 22 community groups and not-for-profit organisations through the ANZ Seeds of Renewal program.

Now in its 22nd year, the program provides grants to community groups across remote, rural and regional Australia. The awarded funds will support projects that align with one of four key areas: improving access to housing; increasing financial wellbeing; advancing environmental sustainability; or helping communities to thrive.

ANZ Head of Agribusiness, Mark Bennett said, "For over two decades, Seeds of Renewal has provided more than $6 million to approximately 930 projects, helping around 870 communities in remote and regional Australia build their resilience, sustainability and vibrancy.

"We are proud to provide funding for a diverse mix of projects that will support lasting economic and social growth for rural communities.

“These targeted and well-informed grants allow local organisations to implement initiatives that will have a meaningful impact and ensure the ongoing prosperity of regional Australia."

FRRR CEO, Natalie Egleton said, "Across remote, rural and regional Australia, not-for-profit organisations play a vital role in helping address the critical environmental, financial, housing or wellbeing needs of their communities.

"Through partnerships, such as our longstanding association with ANZ, we can support and fund these groups to lead local initiatives and continue to strive for, and celebrate, the liveability, sustainability and vibrancy of Australia's remote, rural and regional communities," Ms Egleton said.

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Vegetation management crews working on behalf of Ergon Energy and Energex have trimmed trees along more than 800,000 spans* of powerlines in Queensland over the last year to help reduce the risk of power outages.  

Three natural disasters that impacted Queensland communities last summer left extensive damage in their wake – Ergon and Energex crews had to replace 220 power poles, 820 cross arms and more than 200,000 metres of conductors and cables.  
 
Some of that damage was caused by street trees and plantings on private properties.  

Local Councils and residents can help by following smart planting tips and choosing the right species in areas with overhead powerlines.  

“You can use our online Plant Smart search to find powerline-friendly plants in your local government area before you hit the nursery or get the gardening gloves out.  

“If you see any trees growing near powerlines, report them to Ergon if you’re in regional Queensland or Energex if you’re in the south-east.  

“Do not attempt to prune any plants near powerlines yourself because electricity can pass through trees when branches or foliage touch the live wires.  

“We use experienced vegetation management teams, including qualified arborists when more intricate jobs are undertaken, so please leave it to the professionals who are trained to work safely near powerlines,” Mr Dunn said.   

Fallen powerlines can be hidden in tree branches and other debris, so everyone needs to stay alert when they are cleaning up storm debris or simply going about their business in the community. 

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It’s certainly a special day for many people around Mackay and the Whitsundays. We’re just about a month away from Santa coming to town in his Kingswood Sleigh, and I’m sure he’s bringing his hungry reindeers along for the ride to eat up a few sugar cane sticks for energy.

Today is a good day if you want to get your Christmas shopping started. The Paxtons Night Markets are on at the PCYC this afternoon, plus there’s even more markets at the Mackay Showgrounds tomorrow, and the Troppo Markets next Sunday at Mt P.

So many ways to get Santa to have the best time this year.

Another way is to get your houses decorated in readiness for Dec 25. If it’s massive lights and trees out the front of your pad, or if it’s a small decoration on the front window, let us know so we can check out the locations and get into the Christmas spirit.

We love having the lights’ locations on the 4MK website to make it super easy to find the great light displays. If you’re riding shotgun in the car of a night, you can see where you are, and how close the closest lights are to you. It really is a great way to get into the spirit.

Oh, and another thing, have you got the annual Christmas Carols in the Gardens in your diary yet? Saturday Dec 7 at the Meadowlands Amphitheatre from 5:30. Santa will be making a very special entrance with all the kids there, there will be heaps of food vans, and kids’ activities. Plus, some of the best carols with the Mackay Big Band ready to get you singing your hearts out in West Mackay.

Plus, something cool too. Last year our Grinch was there running amok, well this year his lair is even bigger, and cooler, so you and your kids can get photos with the green guru and keep the shots as a memento of the great night with the family.

If you have a calendar on the wall, have a look at how many weeks there are left before Christmas. There’s five weekends left to get stuck into shopping and getting the house in order. Five weeks to start working out food, presents and of course how many bon-bons you must buy.

So many decisions. I hope it all works out for you.

If you are going to get that great spot by the beach for camping, get in now otherwise it may already be taken.

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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Last night, the Whitsundays experienced a remarkable event as corals across the region simultaneously spawned, releasing millions of egg and sperm bundles into the water. This annual reproductive phenomenon is crucial for reef restoration, and Reef Catchments, along with key partners from the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS), Southern Cross University, Traditional Owners and local tourism operators, were on-site to collect coral spawn as part of the innovative Boats4Corals program.    
The project team were strategically positioned around the Whitsundays to find the best coral spawn slicks thanks to surveys delivered last month, which looked at the presence or absence of coral eggs.    
AIMS project lead Dr Deborah Foote said: “This year’s coral assessments were a great success. Participants from four local organisations took part in the checks, building capacity in the region for future reef restoration initiatives. The team identified plenty of coral colonies with eggs, which provided valuable information when choosing sites for collection of coral spawn.”
The collected spawn was promptly transported to specially designed larval pools at Hook Island, where it will develop into coral larvae over the next five to six days. Once the larvae are ready to attach themselves to the ocean floor, they will be strategically released into degraded reef areas, providing these habitats with a much-needed recovery ‘boost.’
Reef Catchments Manager, Cass Hayward, says, “Coral spawning is an amazing event. It brings so much new life into the system. Through Boats4Corals we are trying to funnel some of that new life into particular areas which need a helping hand.”
Since the inception of the Boats4Corals project in 2020 which builds on a technique pioneered by Southern Cross University’s Distinguished Professor Peter Harrison, hundreds of millions of coral larvae have been successfully released into sites that have suffered considerable damage from Cyclone Debbie, with a focus on areas that have shown slower recovery than others. These efforts are vital as we work towards understanding how best to help enhance the resilience of the Great Barrier Reef’s coral ecosystem and supporting the long-term health of marine biodiversity.
A significant outcome of this project has been the training and upskilling of local tourism operators and Traditional Owners, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to participate in this important conservation work. By involving local communities in these efforts, the project is fostering a deeper connection to the reef and promoting sustainable tourism practices.
Great Barrier Reef Foundation Managing Director Anna Marsden said: “Right in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, the Whitsundays is a critical sanctuary for the Reef’s diverse marine life. 
“The Foundation is pleased to be working hand in hand with scientists, the tourism industry, local community, Traditional Owners and Reef Catchments in the Whitsundays to help reefs recover from the impacts of climate change, including coral bleaching and increasingly severe cyclones using an innovative larval reseeding technique,” Ms Marsden said.
“The combination of the tourism industry’s leadership, boats, local knowledge, and people-power with scientifically-backed knowledge allows us to achieve reef restoration at a greater scale than researchers can achieve alone.” 
Reef Catchments Manager, Cass Hayward, elaborates, “Larval reseeding has been pioneered by scientists and researchers. Boats4Corals is all about the sharing of that information and method with local people. Building local capacity, such as within the tourism industry and Traditional Owners, is really the crux of this project.”
Reef Catchments invites the Whitsunday community to stay tuned to their social media channels for updates on the final numbers of spawn collected and larvae released.
The Reef Islands Initiative is a Great Barrier Reef Foundation program, supported by funding from Lendlease, the Australian Government’s Reef Trust, the Queensland Government and the Fitzgerald Family Foundation. Delivery of the Whitsunday Reef Islands Initiative is managed by Reef Catchments and is in partnership with the local Reef community including Traditional Owners, reef managers, scientific researchers, and tourism operators.
For additional details about this project and Reef Catchments’ ongoing efforts to restore reef health in the Mackay Whitsunday Isaac region, visit www.reefcatchments.com.au.

“Coral spawning is an amazing event. It brings so much new life into the system. Through Boats4Corals we are trying to funnel some of that new life into particular areas which need a helping hand.”

Coral spawning. Photo credit: Johnny Gaskell

Tourism operators around a larval pool. Photo credit:  Johnny Gaskell

Boats4Corals team releasing coral larvae. Photo credit:  Cass Hayward

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Simon Hood
Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

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As you know, October 31 marked the close of marketing nominations for the 2025 season.
With the dust now settled, we have registered a pleasing increase in the number of growers and GEI tonnes nominated through to Wilmar Grower Marketing in our milling regions.
A common theme with growers who nominated us is the financial benefits Wilmar has delivered over the last few seasons.
Wilmar’s Production Risk Pool continues to outperform QSL’s Harvest Pool, and the Allocation Account is adding a significant premium to the forward price that growers lock in through the Target price mechanism.
We will continue to work hard to maximise that premium as, being a large grower ourselves, it has a direct impact on our financial return.
Other positive commentary from growers relates to the work done by our local Grower Marketing consultants. Most of the team have direct agricultural backgrounds, so have an affinity with the challenges growers face each day. Their willingness to go over and above on a personal level, and their passion to see our growers succeed financially, means very few growers choose to leave Wilmar marketing.
Another pleasing result was the interest shown in our new Managed Pool Plus. The launch of this product for the 2025 season was in direct response to feedback regarding sugar price volatility.
The last 24 months have seen some big swings in sugar prices. Many growers who like the control of forward pricing are fatigued by the market gyrations. By laying off some of that control into the Managed Pool Plus, they get the benefit of having longer-term price management without the worry of having to watch the market on a day-to-day basis. Additionally, the concept of having access to the pool manager on a quarterly basis through a webinar format, provides further education around price risk management.
Again, thank you to all growers who chose Wilmar to manage their GEI price exposure for the 2025 season. Our team will work hard to ensure your trust is repaid.

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Proserpine Grower Marketing Consultant Shirley Norris with Grower Marketing Manager Simon Hood.

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One of the things I noticed about my father when I was a kid was that he would tuck his shirt into his underpants.
The idea was to keep the shirt tight and tidy and never untucked. But it was one of those “daggy” things your father did, so in the interests of being young and “cool” you would never do it yourself.
He would always carry a handkerchief as well, as did most people in those days, although they were more commonly known as a hankie.
I didn’t have much choice about the hankie because my mother would make sure I had one before heading off to school. But I reckon I stopped using hankies when I was about 17, when mum wasn’t as involved in such matters.
Two incidents, involving a couple of friends, reminded me of these old practices the other day.
I’ve got a Pommy mate who starts the working day looking okay but as it goes on he looks scruffier and scruffier, usually with his shirt partially untucked.
He’s not very good at keeping secrets and is known as a bit of a “canary”. So for some reason he told a colleague the other day that he had tucked his shirt into his underpants to keep himself looking tidy during the day. So everyone knew about the shirt-tuck. Too much information.
But it was a case of Back to the Future for me as I recalled my dad’s shirt-tucking practice.
Later in the day it was a case of Back to the Future II. I saw a gentleman from a very nice, established Mt Pleasant address take a sip of a beverage, proffer a comment on young people or something like that, and reach for his handkerchief.
The Mt Pleasant gent is a mate of mine and I have written about him previously, in particular his opposition to the practice of people wearing fishing shirts into places he deems unacceptable, like dining establishments.
I know what you are thinking: Please spare us from the affectations of this Mt P dandy with his leafy neighbourhood, pretentious kerchiefs and tut-tutting about fishing shirts and the like. Fair enough.
But the truth is my Mt Pleasant mate grew up in the tough streets of South Mackay in the 1960s and ’70s and, while he has worked his way up to a nice life, he hasn’t forgotten his roots.
For him, it’s not a handkerchief but a hankie. And, while seeing him bring out a hankie was a blast from the past for me, I reckon he had never stopped carrying one.
Some things in real estate might also seem like a blast from the past but, in fact, never went away and are now very popular.
Witness low-set brick veneer houses built in the 1970s and 1980s with their archways and sunken lounges … they are being snapped up for prices much higher than just a couple of years ago.
Not long ago people looked down their noses at the old brick veneer houses with archways, lino and shaggy old carpet. They seemed so “dated”.
But the truth is they are well-built, on decent-sized blocks with good vehicle access, all on one convenient level for people of all ages.
And they are in very central locations such as Mt Pleasant, South Mackay, Glenella, Beaconsfield and Andergrove. Investors love them because they know tenants will be lining up with rental applications.
Before the new owners or tenants move in, the orange carpet is usually replaced with more neutral-coloured carpet and the lino is replaced with vinyl planking.
The archways are left as they are because, just like tucking your shirt into your undies and carrying a hankie, they are back baby.

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Celebrating Mackay's 1900s Chinatown and bringing the essence of it into the modern day is the inspiration behind a new city heart project.
Mackay’s historic Chinatown sat between Wellington and Macalister streets, and from River Street to Gordon Street, from 1880 to 1930 and was an area of market gardens and Asian grocers.
It’s this area of River Street that the Mackay City Heart Collective plans to activate, thanks to $12,200 in funding approved in the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) round one of grants.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the grant would be used to create a fusion of celebrations.
“Mackay City Heart Collective is well-known for producing high quality activations in our city, the new BeeMindful mural in Seventh Lane being one of their most recent,” Mayor Williamson said.
“They have received this grant to bring a series of Chinese Lunar New Year celebration events into the area that was historically our Chinatown,” he said.
“The events would fuse Chinese New Year, the Lantern Festival and Spring Festival, and take place between January 29 to February 12, 2025, to create an 'Asian Spring' inspired festivity.
“The City Heart Collective artists will beautify the area with fish-related elements place in a variety of locations in the City Heart.”
Artist Lalune Croker has also received $7756 to create Asian lanterns to hang from both the Whitsunday Hotel and Ford petrol station during Chinese New Year to celebrate Mackay’s historic Chinatown.
Also funded in this RADF grants round were:
   • Tiffany Grace Music - $9900 to record five news songs ready for release with photos and videos.
   • Grace McDonald Azure Glass - $8540 to deliver a masterclass in printing techniques on thick kiln formed glass.
   • Noosa Film Academy - $7756 to deliver narrative video therapy digital storytelling workshops and red-carpet community screening events for Mackay disadvantaged and low socio-economic youth.
   • Home, Heart and Heritage: A Culinary Journey through the Mackay Region by Michelle Camilleri - $5940 to produce a series of video documentaries that celebrate the region’s diverse cultures, local art and the artistry of home cooking.
   • Mangrove: Peeling back the Past by Janet Ambrose - $5505 to complete a publication of portraits, stories and artworks to showcase artists and Elders from the Multigenerational Multicultural community of Mackay.
   • Creative Connection Workshops with Fiona Flohr - $4730 to deliver a series of pottery workshops through The Neighbourhood Hubs and Migrant Women’s Group.
   • A Very Merry YarnBomb with the Northern Beaches Community Network - $1870 to deliver four crochet workshops, mentoring a community group to create a Christmas-themed yarnbomb installation.
The next round of RADF is now open and closes on February 5, 2025. Speak with the Arts Development Officer to discuss your project on phone 1300 MACKAY (622 529) or by email creative@mackay.qld.gov.au.

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Chinese greengrocer in Mackay circa 1880 -1930. Image source: Mackay Historical Society

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The Mackay Isaac region was celebrated in full force at the Queensland Tourism Awards last Friday night, with local operators, businesses, and events gaining state-wide recognition for their commitment to excellence in tourism. 

Mackay Isaac Tourism's CEO, Jeff Stewart-Harris, said he was proud to witness the Mackay Isaac region shine at the prestigious black-tie event.
 
“I had the privilege of attending the Queensland Tourism Awards on Friday night alongside some of our local operators, businesses, and stakeholders, and it was fantastic to see our region represented,” said Mr. Stewart-Harris.
 
“It’s a real testament to the exceptional talent and hard work of our local tourism community here in the Mackay Isaac region.”

Award Placements:
Oh Deere Farm Stay, Bronze in Unique Accommodation
Between the Tides (Queensland Music Festivals), Silver in Cultural Tourism
Windmill Motel and Events Centre, Bronze in Business Events Venues
St Lawrence Wetlands Weekend (Isaac Regional Council), Bronze in Festivals and Events
 
In the crowd amongst over 1,000 attendees were owners of Oh Deere Farm Stay Karinda and Dale Anderson who were just ecstatic at the achievement.
 
“Receiving Bronze is an incredible honour and a reflection of our dedication to providing visitors with a genuine, memorable farm stay experience”, said Mrs Anderson.
 
“This award highlights our commitment to sustainable tourism and authentic storytelling, and we’re thrilled to share this success with our team and community.
 
“We look forward to welcoming even more visitors to the Mackay Isaac region into the future”.
 
Property Manager of the Windmill Motel & Events Centre Leanne Green said they are incredibly honoured to be acknowledged at the Queensland Tourism Awards.
 
“This recognition is a testament to the hard work and passion of our team, who strive every day to provide exceptional experiences for our guests.” 
 
Isaac Regional Council Mayor Kelly Vea Vea said the recognition for St Lawrence Wetlands Weekend highlights the strong relationships between community and council to promoting a sustainable tourism event.
 
“Winning the Bronze at the Queensland Tourism Awards is a testament to the hardworking volunteers, our valued partners and the entire Isaac team.
 
“Their commitment has brought to life an event that immerses visitors in the natural beauty and cultural richness of the St Lawrence Wetlands,” Mayor Vea Vea said.
 
CEQ of Queensland Music Festivals Daryl Raven was humbled by the announcement at the Queensland Tourism Awards. 

“We would like to especially thank the Yuwi people, the traditional custodians of the region, for sharing their stories and heritage, which were central to this project,” Mr Raven said.
 
“I’d also like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mayor Greg Williamson for his continued support and commitment to fostering a thriving tourism landscape in Mackay.”
  
As the region celebrates this achievement, it looks forward to building on this momentum and showcasing even more of what makes Mackay Isaac unforgettable in the years to come.

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Dale and Karinda Anderson from Oh Deere Farm Stay won a bronze award in the Unique Accommodation category at the Queensland Tourism Awards. Photo credit: Oh Deere Farm Stay

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The Importance Of Remembering Those Who Served

By Hannah McNamara

Last Monday marked the 106th anniversary of the armistice in 1918. On the 11th of November each year, we come together as a nation to remember and honour more than 103,000 names that remain imprinted on both the bronze panels in the Australian war memorial, and on the hearts of their loved ones. Known as the ultimate sacrifice, many young men and women were sent out to fight - for our country, for our communities, for our families, and ultimately, for our freedom. Though the years go by, let us never forget the imprint they’ve had on our lives, and let us be grateful that we now get to live a life that some veterans never got to live. Lest We Forget.

“It’s going to be young people who will be the ones to continue to tell these stories,” said Mr. Mike Goodwin OAM.

As the years go by and new generations arise, the call to remembrance has never been so urgent. Each year, veterans young and old, gather with fellow survivors of the war, each tarnished with memories of serving either in the field, in the Air Force or on a ship. Most under the age of eighteen, they were sent out to defend our country, entering with fear and the uncertainty of their return.

More than 416,000 Australians volunteered for service in World War I. 324,000 served overseas, more than 60,000 Australians died, 4,000 became POWs and more than 100,000 were wounded.

As veterans, families and community representatives gathered at Jubilee Park Cenotaph last Monday, honourable men and women adorned themselves in badges, suits and red poppies on the 11th of the 11th, in remembrance of the day in 1918, where World War I ceased.  

To fully grasp the relief and joy of knowing that the battle was over, mixed with feelings of overwhelming grief for their mates that didn’t make it out alive is something that, we - as civilians will never be able to comprehend.

Image the heavy guns…falling and hitting the ground, the skies no longer filled with smoke and debris, the sound of birds chirping, and the thought of coming home to their families. Though most were injured physically, the shockwaves of the emotional scarring remained for years to come.

As the years go by, and the last of the World War veterans grow old, their greatest wish is to share their stories with the upcoming generations in fear of their sacrifice being forgotten.

Mr. Mike Goodwin OAM is a history teacher, and was honoured to be a guest speaker at this year’s Remembrance Day ceremony. He reflected on the importance of educating the next generation.

“I’d like to take a few moments, if I could, to talk about using the positive ideals of the ANZAC legacy to celebrate our future, because as we know, our future is with young people.

“When I talk about the future, of course, I’m talking about young people and the role they play in our ANZAC legacy.”

Mr. Goodwin then shared a memorable experience from a school trip to Anzac Cove and the “beautiful” Ari Burnu Cemetery, where he aimed to bring the history of the ANZACs to life for his students.

“They were so connected,” he said.

“They didn’t want to leave.

“Just as we were about to leave, I noticed there was one student sitting at a grave…so I went over to get her, and I'll never forget the next few moments…

“She looked up at me, her eyes were full of tears and there were tears rolling down her cheeks, and she looked into my eyes and she just shook her head.

“And she said, ‘Sir’, And she looked back at the grave, she looked back up at me, she said, ‘Sir…he died on my birthday,’ she said, ‘now I'm going to have to live two lives.’

The audience was moved by the many touching anecdotes shared by Mr Goodwin.

Through continuously teaching the next generation, Mr Goodwin along with the RSL hopes to prolong the vitality of remembering those who laid down their life for our country.

Attending his first Remembrance Day Service, was the region’s newly appointed Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton MP, who said the day was a “very emotional moment” for him.

“It’s a very emotional time, and there are no words of thanks that you can ever give to a youngster going off and fighting for our freedom… but I think the legacy we have here in Mackay is just wonderful.”

A Mackay Tiger Moth Museum flew past around 11:11am.

As the years pass, may we never forget the impact they’ve made on our lives, and remain grateful for the life we enjoy - one that some veterans never had the chance to experience.

Lest We Forget

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Veterans,their families and distinguished guests gathered at the Jubilee Park Cenotaphon the 11^th of the 11^th to remember the fallen andcommemorate those still standing. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Mayor of Mackay Greg Williamson, CEO Scott Owen, Deputy Mayor Karen May, and Councillor Heath Patton

Mayor Greg Williamson

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton MP and Mr Andrew Willcox MP Federal Member for Dawson

Student Musicians Kayla Lovern on the violin from Mackay State High School and Billy Hancroft on the trumpet from North View State School.

Mackay RSL Sub-Branch President and Vietnam Veteran, Ken Higgins

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton MP

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Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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This week, we gathered in quiet reflection for Armistice Day on Monday, 11th November—a day that marks the end of the First World War in 1918. It was a moment to remember that, on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, the guns fell silent after four years of relentless warfare. It’s more than a date etched in history; it’s a solemn reminder of the price paid for our freedom—lives cut short, families forever changed, and dreams left unfulfilled.

Across our towns, people stood together in silence, united not just in grief but in gratitude. We remembered the men and women who gave everything in the hope that future generations would live without the shadow of war. It’s a powerful call for all of us to learn from the past, to understand the weight of those sacrifices, and to cherish the peace they fought so hard to secure. You can read more from our journalist Hannah about the ceremonies and reflections from our community on pages 4, 10, and 11.

Yet, remembrance is not only about looking back; it's about shaping a better tomorrow. It was heartening to see the newly sworn-in youth council stepping up, ready to carry the torch forward. These young leaders, featured on page 5, remind us that the future is in capable hands—hands that are eager to build a world worthy of the sacrifices of the past.

We do have a more clear and present danger upon us. With the dry conditions across our region, the threat of fires is on the rise. In recent weeks, we've seen multiple blazes, including one devastating fire that left a local family with nothing but the clothes on their backs (see page 12). This is a stark reminder of how quickly disaster can strike, turning lives upside down in a matter of moments. As we head into disaster season, it's crucial for all of us to stay vigilant, be prepared, and look out for one another. There’s more on what you can do to get ready for storm season on page 9.

As we remember those who sacrificed so much, we’re reminded that the responsibility for our future lies in our hands—shaped by the choices we make today, and the strength we draw from each other.

Amanda

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The North Mackay Bowls Club Ladies have shown a generous spirit by clearing out their former club uniform shirts to support those in need.

Since merging with the men's team and adopting a new club shirt, numerous high-quality garments - some never worn - have been left unused in closets. Rather than letting these shirts sit idle, the club decided to donate them to a third-world country, where they will be put to good use.

Helen Fleming, the club’s Ladies Secretary, expressed her amazement at the number of shirts collected, with many in pristine condition.

“It was unbelievable how many shirts came to light, some have never been worn,” she noted, grateful for the members' willingness to contribute to the project.

The initiative was brought to fruition with the help of Ladies President Lidia McCarthy, Vice President Hilary Jones-Rowan and Secretary Helen Fleming. Together, they organised the collection and arranged for the garments to be sent off. St Vincent de Paul generously agreed to ship the shirts, ensuring they reach their new home where they can make a real difference.

Through this donation, they are helping provide clothing to those in need, showing that even the smallest acts of kindness can mean the world to someone else.

How can you make a difference in somebody’s life today?

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Ladies President Lidia McCarthy, Vice President Hilary Jones-Rowan and Secretary Helen Fleming. Photo supplied

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The Mackay Torres Strait Islander Cultural Group recently achieved an unforgettable victory at DanceRites 2024, Australia’s premier national dance competition for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander groups. Hosted at the iconic Sydney Opera House, this event brought together nearly 300 dancers from all over the country to showcase their culture, language, and heritage. For the Mackay group, it was their very first time entering the competition, and they brought home the win.

“Pretty much, we practiced all year around,” explained Frank Cook, a proud member of the group.

“We were preparing for NAIDOC events, Reconciliation Week, and other celebrations, so we kept practicing and perfecting our routine for DanceRites,” Frank said.

This dedication paid off, especially in the final round, where the group’s unique performance captivated the judges and audience alike.

Reflecting on what set them apart, Frank noted, “Our final performance was really special. It wasn’t something that had been done before.

“We used flag signals to represent the Mackay postcode which tied into the uniqueness of the song, and the dance was inspired by a captain using the environment around him with the winds and the tides.

The Mackay Torres Strait Islander Cultural group’s win is not just a personal achievement for the dancers but a significant victory for the whole Mackay community. Frank shared that “we’re still trying to comprehend what happened it was such a spontaneous entry…There was eighteen groups all up, and we came out on top.”

Frank says the group represents a holistic approach to culture, including singing, dancing, language, and traditional practices like cooking and hunting.

“We’re not just a dance group,” Frank explained.

“We try to represent our heritage and identity in everything we do.”

He encourages the youth to go and sit down with their elders and get that cultural knowledge.

“There’s only a few elders left and once it’s gone that’s pretty much our walking library, so take that time to sit with the elders, get that story, get that language and get that history.”

The group extends their gratitude to all supporters, sponsors and community members who backed them all the way up to their victory with fundraisers and encouragement. Their victory is a shared achievement that honours the strength of culture. Next year, the group will return to DanceRites 2025 as honoured guests, leaving a lasting mark at the Sydney Opera House in 2024.

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The Mackay Torres Strait Islander Cultural Group danced their way to victory at DanceRites 2024, celebrating culture, language, and heritage on the iconic stage of the Sydney Opera House! Photo credit: mkytsiculturalgroup (Instagram)

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Twelve young people from across Mackay were sworn in as Youth Councillors last month to represent local young people at Mackay Regional Council for the next 18 months.

At a ceremony held at the Mackay Regional Council chambers the 2024/2025 Youth Council became the second in the region to be sworn in, marking the beginning of their term in office.

More than 2000 young people aged 11 to 17 cast votes at 18 polling locations across the local government area in August to elect the 12 members.

Youth councillor Nate Ralph said the swearing in ceremony was a powerful event that begin the second term of the youth council, which can provide the youth of Mackay a voice.

“I am extremely privileged to speak on behalf of the young people of Mackay and give them a seat at the table,” Nate said.

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said this program, now in its second year, gave youth a voice in shaping the community’s future.

“It's inspiring to witness such a diverse group of young leaders ready to make a difference.” he said.

“I had the privilege of swearing in our new Youth Council. The ceremony started with a meaningful smoking ceremony, setting the stage for positivity on this important journey.”

The Mackay Youth Council will serve an 18-month term in office from October 2024 to May 2026. They will have a $10,000 budget to deliver their priority agenda.

The Mackay Youth Council is part of a partnership between Mackay Regional Council and the Foundation for Young Australians, a pilot program being delivered with local councils in Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria.

Meet the Mackay Youth Council

●Amelia Webber

●Elena Mathew

●Ethan Forde

●Lila Munt

●Lily Cheyne

●Logan Ivory

●Magenta Arthy

●Natacha McKay

●Nate Ralph

●Nathaniel Espartinez

●Soham Rana

●Zena Ali

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The 2024/2025 Mackay Youth Council, pictured with Mayor Greg Williamson, was sworn into office in October. Photo supplied: Mackay Regional Council

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Do you know what can go into our recycling bins?

This National Recycling Week (November 11 to 17), Mackay Regional Council is encouraging residents to check out the new sorting guide available on council’s website.

Recycle Mate is a web-based app which provides users with tailored information to ensure it is relevant to our Materials Recovery Facility (MRF).

Recycle Mate can be accessed on council’s website or directly via Recycle Mate’s website or mobile phone app.

Users can search or simply take a photo of the item they wish to dispose of and within seconds find out which bin it can go into – it’s that easy!

Mayor Greg Williamson said anything that council could do to assist residents in “recycling right” was a positive step forward.

“Council is committed to reducing our contamination levels. Contamination is simply putting the wrong item in the wrong bin,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Common contamination items we find at the MRF range from nappies and green waste to bottle top lids and soft plastics,” he said.

“Contamination is costly – council pays a fee to dispose of contaminated recycling to landfill, so anything we can do to reduce the rate of contamination, benefits not only our environment, but our ratepayers.

“We understand that it can be confusing, especially when what each council accepts as recycling can differ from region to region.

“Recycle Mate eliminates the confusion by ensuring the information is specific to each council and their recycling facility.”

With National Recycling Week kicking off on Monday, November 11, now is the time to get familiar with what can and can’t be recycled.

To find out more head to mackay.gov.au/sortmywaste

Recycle Mate is a nation-wide project led by the Australian recycling industry though strategic direction from the Austrian Council of Recycling (ACOR). Both state and federal governments have invested in the app as part of a joint waste management strategy.

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Council's new website feature is making recycling easier than ever

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Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank has provided a $20,000 community grant to fund a new trailer fit out for the 131 Army Cadet Unit (ACU) Sarina, creating an off-grid headquarters for field training activities and community events.

Equipped with sustainable solar and battery technology, the trailer features communication device chargers, a refrigerator to keep vital supplies fresh, whiteboards, lighting, new signage and a dedicated first aid area.

For over 50 years the 131 ACU Sarina has provided a safe and challenging environment for local youth, teaching them essential life skills and playing a crucial role in youth development.

Community Bank Sarina Board Chair Karen May emphasised that both Community Bank Sarina and 131 ACU Sarina share a commitment to nurturing future leaders in the region.

“We have previously supported the Sarina Cadet Unit with community investments for portable toilets and a sun safe marquee, and this trailer will further enhance the unit’s training capabilities, keeping cadets and volunteers safe and prepared in all environments,” Ms May said.

“The 131 ACU Sarina has produced cadets who have gone on to contribute significantly to our community, many of whom credit their experiences at cadets as significant to their growth and success.

“For many young people in Sarina, the 131 ACU is a space where they feel respected and supported, and we take great pride in backing such an important program for our community.”

Captain Amy Bradford, Officer Commanding 131 ACU Sarina, said the cadets had been “trying to get the trailer on the road for over two years” and was grateful for Community Bank Sarina’s support in bringing it to completion.

“We’re a not-or profit organisation that relies on fundraising to deliver this national youth development program, that proudly shares the character and values of the Australian Army,” Captain Bradford said.

“The trailer is a modern addition for us and will create interest in our program, encouraging new cadet recruitment and reinforcing our role in serving the Sarina community.”

For more information on applying for Community Bank Sarina Community Grants, please contact executive@communitybanksarina.com.au.

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Photo caption: Cadets at the 131 Army Cadet Unit Sarina stand proudly with their new trailer, provided with a Community Grant from Community Bank Sarina

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A fast-moving vegetation fire broke out in West Mackay on Thursday, November 7, blowing thick clouds of smoke across the area as emergency services from multiple agencies assisted on scene.

The fire ignited near the old cemetery on Cemetery Road around 12:30pm, rapidly spreading across dry grassland and threatening nearby businesses, including Meals on Wheels and the Mackay Women's Centre. Evacuations were quickly carried out as a precautionary measure.

Ten fire crews were dispatched to the scene, with police redirecting traffic and establishing roadblocks to ensure the safety of local residents. The blaze was fuelled by dry vegetation, making it difficult for heavy equipment to access the fire's core.

In response, fire crews conducted strategic backburns to contain the fire to the North and West. Aviation rescue crews remained on standby with long-range water cannons in case the fire spread.

The fire’s intensity was exacerbated by the dry conditions, with thick grass and high winds making containment a challenge. As smoke spread across the region, authorities issued advisories for residents to stay indoors, close windows and doors, and avoid driving through areas affected by smoke. While no properties were at risk, emergency services continued to monitor the situation closely.

Parts of Hume Street, Cemetery Road, Holland Street, and Shakespeare Street were closed to traffic to allow emergency crews to manage the fire safely.

By the end of the day, after several hours of firefighting efforts, all roads in the vicinity of West Mackay were reopened.

Though the fire was contained, authorities are now urging locals to exercise caution and “be very careful,” particularly smokers who may carelessly dispose of cigarette butts from their vehicles. With the scorching season approaching and the fire risk escalating, it is more important than ever to act responsibly and prevent further incidents.

Discover general safety guidelines and stay updated on future developments via www.fire.qld.gov.au.

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Multiple roads were closed to protect local businesses and residents as thick smoke billowed from a fast-moving vegetation fire in West Mackay on Thursday, November 7. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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Year 6 students at Bucasia State School are putting their creativity and business skills to work, transforming old toys into renewed treasures to help raise funds for their school.

Inspired by a UK charity, students Mitch, Jenson, Zac and Parker have designed a fundraiser that transforms unwanted stuffed toys into “adoptable” gifts. Each toy will come with an adoption certificate and a hint of scented oil, offering a unique and affordable gift option for all at the school’s Christmas fair.

The project acts as both a fundraiser and a key component of a business and economics assessment, challenging the students to create a budget-conscious business plan. With a starting budget of just $20, they devised their idea in a group whilst taking into account factors such as cost management and marketing.

Mitchell’s mum, Nicole, praised the project, saying, “It’s a really good initiative for them… and they’re working very hard on it.”

“The boys’ idea is to reuse unwanted stuffed toys, clean them, put a little bit of nice-smelling oil on them, and then make up little adoption certificates… and ultimately adopt them out for gold coin donations at their school Christmas fair as gifts.”

The project has already drawn a multitude of community support around her neighbourhood after she pitched the idea to her neighbours in a community Facebook page. Since her call for donations, many locals have contributed their pre-loved toys to be restored, including a senior who generously donated her entire collection of cherished stuffed bears, knowing they would bring joy to the next generation.

“The little community here really gets in and behind projects like this,” Nicole added.

As Mitch, Jenson, Zac and Parker continue their preparations, they’re still welcoming more stuffed toy donations to expand their selection. The students hope their efforts inspire future classes to find creative ways to support their school and give back to the community.

The Bucasia State School Fair is an event that brings together students and families, and this year, with creative initiatives like the boys' adoption booth, it promises to be even more special. The fair will offer students across all grades a chance to enjoy festive shopping, games, and activities, all while supporting school resources.

If you would like to donate a stuffed toy to this cause, please contact nicoleandray2@gmail.com

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Through creativity, community support, and a touch of business savvy, Mitch, Jenson, Zac and Parker – who is absent from the photo - are turning unwanted stuffed toys into 'adoptable' gifts for their school Christmas fair. Photos supplied

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Council would like to advise residents in the Devereux Creek area that their bin collection day will be changing.

The change will take place on Monday, November 18, with both the general waste and recycling bins being collected on this day.

Collection day is required to change due to population growth in the area, and as such, needs to change to fit in with the schedule to ensure all bins are collected.

Reminder stickers have also been placed on residents’ bins advising of the change of collection day.

Residents are asked to place their bins on the kerb by 6am on Monday, November 18.

General waste bins will continue to be collected weekly and recycling bins will be collected fortnightly.

Council apologises for any inconvenience caused. For enquiries, please contact council on 1300 MACKAY (622 529).

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By Hannah McNamara

Walkerston State School students recently paid tribute to Australia’s heroes with a vivid chalk art display in honour of Remembrance Day on Monday, November 11.

Covering a wall with colourful illustrations, they created intricate drawings of poppies - both red and purple - symbolising soldiers and the animals that served alongside them. Crosses, flags, and wreaths also added a meaningful touch to the artwork, reflecting a deeper understanding that radiated through their creative expressions.

Among the artists were Year 6 students Matilda Brand, Chloe Schatkowski, Heath Rogers, and Iyla Hill, each contributing their perspective to the artwork and explaining what the day meant to them.

Chloe shared, “It represents the soldiers who gave their lives as the ultimate sacrifice during all the conflicts that they served in trying to protect our country.”

Matilda reflected on the respect embodied by the tribute, saying, “It shows respect and that we are thankful that they served for our country for us.”

Heath emphasised the importance of freedom, remarking, “It’s to remember the people who died for our freedom.”

Iyla acknowledged not only the soldiers but also the animals that served, adding, “It’s to remember all the soldiers that have passed in the war and the animals that died during each and every war.”

The children’s tribute didn’t go unnoticed, as Walkerston RSL Sub Branch member and veteran Rod Francisco attended the event to engage with the students about the significance of Remembrance Day.

Francisco, a veteran with multiple medals for his service in Iraq, East Timor and the Middle East, shared his thoughts on the day.

"For a lot of veterans, the most important thing for us is our connection to community," he explained.

"It’s really important that we maintain that connection, and by doing that here with the school… it really is important for us that they connect back to the service and recognise the sacrifice that some people have made."

Francisco explained the significance of wearing medals over the heart in a tradition that honours the lives lost during service.

“On days like today, a lot of people put their hands over their medals… One of the medals are over your heart to symbolise that importance.

“Another tradition is to just shield your medals for those that made the ultimate sacrifice and didn't return.”

For Francisco and his fellow veterans, the students’ curiosity and respect are always touching.

“There’s a real strong and genuine interest in it… and it’s aways great to see.”

Walkerston State School hopes to make next year’s Remembrance Day an even bigger one, with a focus on bridging generations and preserving the memory of service and sacrifice.

By teaching the next generation through creativity and respect, the legacy of those who served will be remembered for decades to come.

Lest We Forget

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Year 6 students from Walkerston State School: Matilda Brand, Chloe Schatkowski, Heath Rogers, and Iyla Hill with Walkerston RSL Sub Branch member and veteran Rod Francisco. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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A devastating house fire on Wednesday, November 6, has left a single mother and her five young children with nothing but the clothes on their backs.

Firefighters arrived at the Napier Street home just after 2pm to find it fully engulfed in flames. While the fire has left the house in ruins, it is believed to have been caused by a faulty electrical appliance.

Just an hour before her children were due to arrive home from school, the Mackay mother was alerted by the smoke alarms and managed to escape the house in time without obtaining serious burns or lung damage. Though treated for smoke inhalation at Mackay Base Hospital, she was not seriously injured.

In the wake of the fire, family have since reached out for help through a local Facebook page, asking the community for donations of clothing, food, and household items. The response was overwhelming as the comment section quickly flooded with offers of support, including donations of furniture, accommodation and food vouchers, all aimed at helping the family rebuild.

The mother expressed her gratitude in a sincere comment that read: "Thank you all. I don't have many words but thank God I was safe in this house today and my girls were at school.

“I thank God for some of the neighbours that helped, as well as the emergency crew. Our past just went up in flames, but thank God my car is okay.

“I just thank God my girls and I are okay at the end of the day and that we weren’t hurt."

The community's response has been nothing short of a blessing, with family members, friends and local residents offering their support in a magnitude of ways. While the mother is heartbroken over the loss of her family’s possessions, she is grateful for the outpouring of kindness from her community as they face the challenge ahead of rebuilding their lives.

With Christmas just around the corner, the timing of the fire only adds to the emotional and financial strain. However, despite the monumental task of replacing everything, the community is determined to get this mother and her children back on their feet. A GoFundMe page has been created by a family member to assist with the financial and emotional burden, offering hope that they can regain a touch of normality in time for Christmas.

“We will need support in this hard time, and thank you to those that are willing to help. It honestly means a lot,” said the mother.

For those willing to help, please consider donating at www.gofundme.com.

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A single 40-year-old mother to five has lost everything in a Napier Street house fire just weeks before Christmas

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The long-awaited transformation of North Wall Beach is one step closer to reality, with the final design officially revealed. North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) CEO Brendan Webb, who first announced the project back in April, confirmed that the design is now heading to tender for construction.

“We’re excited to announce the design for the North Wall Beach recreational area has been finalised,” Mr Webb said.

“Community engagement has been at the forefront of this project.

“We have worked closely with representatives from our key stakeholders such as Yuwi Aboriginal Corporation, Mackay and District Turtle Watch and members of NQBP’s Port of Mackay Community Reference Group (CRG) on the final design.

“We also received more than 60 submissions from the broader community through our online survey.”

Thanks to the great response and positive feedback received during the community consultation, some adjustments were made to the final design.

Key themes from the community consultation included the desire to maintain North Wall’s natural environment, improve accessibility and an increase of facilities such as parking, seating and shade.

Included in the updated design is an increase in the number of car parks, and an overflow area adjacent to the car park to address these concerns.

The project budget also increased, with the investment doubling in size to two million dollars.

Mr 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 ensuring continued 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."

With a local office based in Mackay, Queensland-based landscape architects RPS leveraged its extensive experience in coastal landscape development to prepare and finalise the design.

RPS Principal Practice Leader Tim Connor said RPS was pleased to deliver this project for the Mackay community.

“Our goal was to deliver landscape design that met the community’s needs, and was true to the distinctive character, climate and culture of the North Wall site; I believe we’ve achieved this,” Mr Connor said.

Pending the tender process, construction is expected to begin in early 2025 and be completed in mid-2025.

Information on the project, including the final design is available on NQBP’s website.

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Aerial image of North Wall Beach recreational area as it currently stands

North Wall recreational area final design. Images supplied: NQBP

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Moranbah’s much-anticipated new hospital is nearing the finish line, with staff currently moving furniture and equipment into the modern facility. The hospital’s interior design features neutral tones of light blue, timber, and marble, creating a calm and welcoming environment for patients, visitors, and staff.

Outside, a newly constructed ambulance entry road leads directly to the Emergency Department, which now boasts four treating bays, a resuscitation bay, as well as procedure and plaster rooms, all in the final stages of fit-out.

Residents driving past the hospital on Mills Avenue will notice new entry and exit points, complete with updated facade signage. The exterior landscaping, road markings, and navigation signage have been completed to ensure smooth traffic flow and enhance safety for all visitors.

Inside, the hospital has been designed for efficiency, with three main reception and triage areas located at the main entrance, Mental Health wing, and Emergency Department. The Community Health wing is a highlight, featuring a large rehabilitation gym, consultation rooms, and spaces designed for group sessions such as the Best Beginnings program.

Each of the hospital’s 10 inpatient rooms now includes its own ensuite, with 8 rooms offering single-bed occupancy for added comfort and privacy.

With final preparations underway, the new Moranbah Hospital is on track to open its doors by the end of November, 2024, providing a significant boost to healthcare services in the region.

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Photos supplied: Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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Wilmar Sugar and Renewables has reached the three-quarter point of the 2024 crushing season, with its eight North Queensland mills collectively processing 11.78 million tonnes of cane. This represents 77% of the estimated 15.34 million tonne crop for the season.

The Mackay Region, serviced by the Plane Creek mill, continues to crush towards Christmas with an average yield of approximately 86 tonnes per hectare. Fine weather has supported strong CCS (Commercial Cane Sugar) results, with the weekly average at 14.38 units and a season-to-date average of 14.06 units. Wilmar expects the Mackay Region to continue crushing into January, focusing on processing the entire crop before the season concludes.

Ian Davies, Wilmar’s General Manager of Cane Supply and Grower Relations, praised the consistent performance of the Mackay Region. "The Plane Creek mill is achieving excellent yields, and the team is doing a fantastic job to stay on track despite the challenges posed by weather fluctuations," he said.

Meanwhile, other regions are also progressing well. The Burdekin mills are set to finish before Christmas, with CCS levels hitting budgeted targets, while Proserpine is cutting above estimates at 103.6% of its original forecast. As the 2025 season planning begins, Wilmar encourages growers to update their farm maps on GrowerWeb for accurate crop predictions.

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By Sonia Ball (QCAR Central District Manager)

There is nothing like an ‘over the fence’ whisper to travel like wildfire through sugarcane – the ever-reliable speed of the bush telegraph if you wish. You can rely on these back-paddock conversations to get the goss on nearly everything going on in the industry.

The trouble is it can end up a bit like Chinese Whispers where your first sentence ‘My mother lives in a cottage by the sea and raises cochin chickens’, can wind up being ‘I’m an apple and I’ve got a chocolate labra-poodle with three legs’.

Following my drift, you will understand the obvious – be like the three wise men and let your decision-making be based on facts, and the way to get those delicious little morsels is straight from the horse’s mouth.

So, shunting the nose bag aside, we’ve got a way to help you achieve this without a getting a nasty nip or a kick from a well-shod steel-capped hoof.

Save the date, RSVP and join the QCAR Central District team for an informal Meet & Greet and Information Session where you can enjoy a bite to eat, a cold beverage and importantly, get the latest information on our QCAR-ACFA integration, our actions, growth, plans and meet the team driving change across Proserpine, Mackay and Plane Creek.

Consider yourself invited, and bring your cane farming friends, we can’t wait to see you or meet you.  

The QCAR Central District Committee is hosting its November meeting in Proserpine on Wednesday 20 November. Proserpine growers with any discussion points or issues are invited to contact myself or one of our committee members beforehand.

Our December committee meeting will be held in the Plane Creek region on December 17 with a time and venue TBC.

Events:

Proserpine

Wednesday 20 November

Hotel Metropole at 5.30pm

Mackay

Wednesday 4 December

Wests Leagues Club, Walkerston @ 6pm

RSVPs are required so text, call or email so we can save you a bite of something.

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Central District Mill Stats as at 12 November, 2024

Wilmar Sugar’s Proserpine Mill, week ending 9 November, had processed a season-to-date total of 1,353,507 crushed cane with the week’s crushing at an over-budget rate of 91,792 tonnes. CCS for the week was 13.71 with the season-to-date CCS sitting at 14.03. Wilmar Proserpine Mill reported a derailment on the southern line, saying despite this there was minimal impact on overall cane supply.

Wilmar Sugar Plane Creek Mill’s throughput for the week ending 9 November was 57,647 tonnes brining the season-to-date total to 996,913 tonnes. CCS dropped marginally by 0.12 units from the previous week’s recording an average for this week of 14.61. Season-to-date CCS is 14.09 units. Wilmar Plane Creek stated 3% of the cane supply for the week was standover cane.

Mackay Sugar’s three mills (weekly performance update to 3 November).

Throughput for Mackay Sugar’s mills reached a season-to-date total of 3,551,664 tonnes for week 27 October to 3 November, with an estimated 1.7 million tonnes remaining based on the current crop estimate of 5.2M. Mackay Sugar has an end of crush date set for 5 January 2025 dependent on weather, mill performance and crop. The individual mill throughput to this date for the week (and season-to-date) was: Farleigh 62,124 (1,209,276), Marian 84,994 (1,157,508), Racecourse 59,544 (1,184,880). CCS for this week was 14.5 units and season-to-date 13.7 units.

With the end of the 2024 season now within sight for those blessed with 20-20 long distance vision, all Queenslanders should now be feeling the wet season lumbering ever-closer toward us. I know we desperately need rain in some areas, but on the other hand… What could go wrong?

The QCAR Central District team is wishing you all a safe finish to the season on whatever day that may be.

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Steve Mck and Blair Watt: QCAR Central District Chairman Steve McKeering with new Central District Committee Member and Mackay grower Blair Watt. Meet them and the rest of the committee at Proserpine on 20 November

Minions: Anyone travelling around the back-blocks of Sarina-Homebush will know exactly where these colourfully painted bales are located

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As I approached the front door of the old West Mackay cottage I could see an elderly woman through the fly screen. She was sitting in a lounge chair and I could hear the unmistakable sound of the cricket commentary. It was very loud.

It was the summer of 2014 and two things were happening that day. Australia was playing a test match against Pakistan and I was a fairly new real estate agent desperately trying to get listings in the midst of a serious Mackay downturn.

The market had fallen dramatically and listings were difficult to get and, being a commission-only real estate agent, I had to create some business or I was going to lose my own house to the bank. Not ideal when you have a wife and a couple of young kids.

So I  started knocking on doors offering people printed market updates that gave them information on sales in their area. I would also offer an appraisal on their property … which might just lead to a listing.

Most people were pleasant enough but said “no thanks mate”. But every now and then, during a two-hour door knocking session, someone would say, “Oh yeah, come in.”

When I knocked on the metal frame of the flyscreen on the West Mackay cottage that day, the elderly lady told me to come in. Her name was Winifred and she was listening to, not watching, the cricket because she was pretty much blind.

We mainly chatted about the cricket but she did say that her husband was in an old people’s home and she was planning to join him there soon so she would have to sell her house.

I could see a whiteboard on her loungeroom wall that had, in very big writing, the first names and phone numbers of people I assumed were her family members. I asked if it would be okay if I called one of those people and she said, yes and told me to call the number of the one called Neil, her son.

The next day I called Neil and told him what had happened the day before. I reassured him that I wasn’t going to bother his mum but if she did decide to sell her house I would love the opportunity to talk to her and any other family members.

It turned out that Neil went by the name Norm and he was a friendly bloke who was not surprised that his dear old mum had been sitting in her lounge room with a stranger listening to the cricket and having a chat. He said it would be okay for me to call him in a couple of months.

We kept in contact and a bit over a year later I sold Winifred’s house. I got to know Norm pretty well.

I sold Winifred’s house to a mother and daughter who wanted to renovate and flip it. They got me to sell it. They then bought and renovated another house and they got me to sell that as well. A few months after that I sold another one for them.

A little while later Norm rang me and asked me to sell his house, which I did.

Knocking on Winifred’s door that hot summer’s day led to work and sales that helped me survive a terrible downturn, pay my mortgage and feed my kids.

It’s amazing how the important lessons in life happen during the tough times, not the good times. There’s a saying about how hard times create strong men and good times create weak men.

I reckon it means that no matter what times we are living in, we should all keep knocking on doors.

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The Pioneer-Burdekin Pumped Hydro Energy Storage Project, once a key part of Queensland’s energy future, has officially been scrapped by the newly-elected LNP Government. After releasing a detailed report into the project’s feasibility, Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie confirmed it was neither financially viable nor environmentally sustainable, citing an overwhelming $36 billion cost. For many local residents, the decision brought a sense of relief after years of uncertainty, with concerns about transparency and community consultation now coming to light. As Mr Bleijie put it, “Queenslanders were kept in the dark.” The LNP now looks to shift its focus to smaller, more feasible energy solutions for the state.

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton, Queensland Premier David Crisafulli and Glen Kelly spoke to locals in Eungella last weekend to confirm the Pioneer-Burdekin Pumped Hydro scheme would not proceed. Photo supplied

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LNP Confirms Pioneer-Burdekin Pumped Hydro Project Axed

The newly-elected State Government has officially confirmed that the Pioneer-Burdekin Pumped Hydro Energy Storage Project will not proceed, following the release of the project’s Detailed Analytical Report.
The report highlighted that the proposed project was deemed not financially viable and not environmentally appropriate, with significant concerns raised about the lack of community consultation. Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie said that the analysis revealed that the estimated cost of the project would have imposed a staggering $15,653 burden on each Queensland household, contributing to the total projected cost of approximately $36 billion—an amount that he said the previous government had not disclosed during its campaign.
Mr Bleijie addressed these concerns at a press conference held in Mackay on Tuesday November 5, and said, “Steven Miles during the election campaign refused to release the costings of the Pioneer-Burdekin Pumped Hydro scheme, and now we reveal that it was a $36 billion project.
“Not only that, the government’s own report says it was not commercially viable. It didn't stack up and recommended it not proceed.
“The Labor government had a lot of questions to answer. How is it that the Liberal National Party government within 48 hours of forming government was able to ascertain that the project was not commercially viable and cost $36 billion?”
Newly elected Member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton echoed Mr Bleijie's sentiments in Mackay, reflecting on the emotional response from the community following the announcement.
“It was a relief to hear the news,” he shared.
"Just a few days ago, I was with Premier David Crisafulli up in Eungella, witnessing incredibly emotional scenes as residents of Netherdale, Eungella, and Finch Hatton learned that the pumped hydro project would not go ahead. For many, it was a moment of relief, and they finally felt as though their voices had been heard and their concerns valued once again.
“There were emotions which I had rarely seen when there’s an announcement from a politician.
“This is actual politics in our regions.”
The LNP said that the report also indicated that the project could not be built in time to meet Queensland’s emissions targets, highlighting a need for a shift in focus.
“We want to explore smaller pumped hydro projects that can be delivered without burdening the taxpayer,” Mr Bleijie remarked.
“It’s crucial that we look for viable solutions that work for our communities and our environment.”
As the LNP government moves forward, it aims to resettle communities impacted by the project’s halt and support local businesses.
“We want to resettle those communities,” Mr Bleijie said.
“We want businesses that are struggling to thrive again and people back in their communities to support those local businesses.”
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‍Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie and Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton held a press conference in Mackay on Tuesday to confirm the Pioneer-Burdekin Pumped Hydro Energy Storage Project would not proceed. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Cancer brings with it a profound sense of uncertainty, a reality that can feel overwhelming at times. Each stage of this journey, from the jarring moment of diagnosis to the draining side effects of chemotherapy, presents its own unique challenges. Now, as I await my PET scan results just one day before my next round of chemotherapy, I find myself in a particularly daunting moment, grappling with the weight of what those results may bring.
By the time this paper goes to print, I’ll know the outcome, and I’ll have had a couple of days to process it. There’s really no in-between, either the news will be good, or I’ll be bracing myself for the next round of obstacles. Regardless of the results, treatment will continue; chemotherapy number seven will be on the horizon, potentially with adjustments if things haven’t gone the way we hope.
Each time I sit in that chair, my port accessed with a deep breath and a long needle, I feel the side effects take hold as the chemo enters my bloodstream yet I remind myself I’m not alone in this battle. Every three weeks, I’m surrounded by other brave patients in oncology, all of us sharing silent looks that speak volumes. We understand each other in a way others might not, knowing nods that acknowledge the exhaustion, the fear, and the determination we all carry. Though our paths differ, many of the hopes, fears, and challenges overlap. My own journey is unique in many ways, as is every cancer patient’s journey, but the struggles resonate across the room.
What differs for me, is that I’m fortunate to have this platform to share it. I write about my journey to highlight both the unique aspects of my experience and the common threads that bind us as cancer patients. Each path is distinct, yet there are universal truths that resonate within our stories.
Bridgeen Doherty, an ambassador for the Trudy Crowley Foundation who is under palliative care, has brought us all powerful advice: “Know your body, know your normal.” If something doesn’t feel right, keep asking until you get the answers you deserve. The difference time makes is immeasurable. If my own questions had been answered sooner, perhaps I wouldn’t be sitting here undergoing chemotherapy.
When it comes to "knowing your normal," sometimes it's the small, seemingly insignificant moments that can be the most telling. I think of stories like that of Ailsa Millewski, a dedicated nurse who spent years caring for others, but whose own health issues first became apparent in the most ordinary of ways, forgetting a simple recipe she’d cooked hundreds of times before. One evening, she found herself standing in her kitchen, unable to remember how to finish a chicken stir-fry. For her husband Gary, that moment was a clear sign that something wasn’t right. It took until the end of that year to work out that Ailsa had developed a tumour in her adrenal glands, but a biopsy and PET scan revealed it was already a stage 3 carcinoma and had spread to her spine.
Tragically, Ailsa passed away in the very same palliative care unit where she had once provided compassionate care for so many patients. Her legacy lives on through her family and friends, and the story of her journey is a powerful reminder of how even the smallest changes in our health can signify something more. You can read this deeply emotional story on page 9.
Ultimately, many of us have the same goal, to reach the day we can ring the ‘all clear’ bell, signalling the end of treatment and the start of hope for a brighter tomorrow.
That’s the sound I long to hear.
Amanda

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The waterfall and slide at the Bluewater Lagoon has been temporarily closed due to a water pump failure.

A new pump has been ordered and will be installed as soon as it arrives.

Mackay Regional Council aims to have the slide back in action by Saturday, December 14, just in time for the summer break.

Council apologises for any inconvenience caused and appreciates your understanding while they complete these essential repairs.

The rest of the lagoon will be unaffected by the repairs and will continue to operate as normal.

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The Bluewater Lagoon slide is temporarily closed. Photo credit: Mackay Regional Council

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A snorkelling trip turned into a high-stakes rescue when a woman in her 50s was bitten by a shark approximately 200 kilometres off the Mackay coast. On October 30, around 4:30pm, the Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) received an urgent call reporting the woman had sustained severe lacerations to her lower leg, requiring immediate first aid and a coordinated rescue effort.

The first responders on board acted swiftly, applying a compression bandage to control the bleeding, which proved essential for stabilising her condition throughout the 10-hour journey to Mackay.

Shane Tucker, QAS Senior Operations Supervisor for the Mackay District, commended the quick thinking, saying it was “absolutely critical that first aid was done and done well.” He added, “Given that they’ve left the bandage on the patient throughout the whole incident… hats off to their first aids on scene.”

The remote location posed significant challenges, demanding a complex, coordinated response. The Royal Australian Navy vessel HMAS Warramunga, which was nearby, was mobilised to assist, arriving around 9:30pm to provide medical support and prepare the woman for transfer.

“Being 200km out was quite a coordinated effort from all services,” Tucker noted. The operation involved precise communication between QAS, clinical teams, and Navy personnel to ensure the patient’s safe and timely transport.

The woman, who remained conscious throughout, reported that the bite caused two deep lacerations, each about 30 centimetres long, on her lower leg.

“The patient was stable and responsive, despite experiencing significant pain,” said Tucker, mentioning that she was likely in shock given the trauma of the encounter.

When HMAS Warramunga arrived at Mackay Harbour around 12:45am, paramedics took over, transporting her to Mackay Base Hospital for further treatment.  

Reflecting on the rescue, Tucker once again acknowledged the teamwork and precision displayed by all emergency services involved.

“Obviously being quite a distance away there was quite an extensive co-ordination to retrieve this patient,” he remarked.

Details about the shark remain unknown, as neither its species nor its size was observed following the incident. Reports indicate that the attack occurred near a reef roughly 200 kilometres offshore. Addressing questions about the specific location of the attack, Tucker explained, “Unfortunately, we don't know too much of that in detail…particularly as it was so far off the coast…we are just concentrating on the patient and her injuries.”

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QAS was notified at 4.30pm on October 30, that a woman in her 50s had sustained lacerations to her lower leg from a shark bite while snorkelling about 200 kilometres off the coast. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Take a moment to think about the people around you, the quiet achievers, the volunteers who go the extra mile, the sportspeople pushing their limits, and the local legends making a real difference. Now is your chance to shine a light on their extraordinary efforts, and this year, a powerful new category has been added shining a light on inclusion.
Now is the time to nominate residents for the 2025 Australia Day Awards.
Mayor Greg Williamson said there was a new award category this year – the Brenden Borellini Access and Inclusion Achievement Award.
“This award honours individuals or groups who have gone above and beyond in their efforts to remove barriers, implement innovative solutions and advocate for the rights and needs of those who may be experiencing disability and/or mobility and access concerns,” Mayor Williamson said.
“This new award is named in honour of Brenden Borellini, who was the Mackay region 2021 Arts and Culture Award winner but was also Young Australian of the Year in 1989,” he said.
“Brenden broke down the boundaries of what was thought possible for someone who was deaf and blind.
“He was an actor, workshop facilitator, photographer and researcher, and he was strong advocate for people with disability and those that use alternate communication.
“Brenden passed away this year, and with his family’s blessing, we have introduced this award to celebrate those who follow in his footsteps as champions of access and inclusion.”
Nominations are also now open for the following categories: Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, Arts and Culture, Environmental Achievement, Lori Burgess Community Volunteer, Community Group, Senior Sports and Young Sports Award.
Mayor Williamson said there had been so many tremendous nominations last year and our region was extremely lucky to have so many amazing groups and individuals that stepped up for our community.
“We had 183 nominations across the eight categories and this year we’d love to get to 200,” he said.
He said nominating someone for an Australia Day Award took just minutes and was as simple as filling out a nomination form on council’s website or grabbing a hard copy at council’s customer service centres.
“One thing that every nominee says each year is just how much it means to them to be nominated and recognised for the work they do,” he said.
“If there’s someone you know who goes above and beyond for our community or is achieving great things, then please recognise them today with a nomination.”
Nominations close January 5, 2025.
Online nominations can be found at mackay.qld.gov.au/australiaday
All award winners and nominees will be recognised at a special awards ceremony at the MECC on Saturday, January 25, 2025.
The Australia Day Awards are proudly sponsored by P. Comino and Sons and Tropical Exposure and are supported by Triple M and 7NEWS Mackay.

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Peter Reedman was named the 2024 Mackay Regional Council Citizen of the Year due to his unwavering dedication to junior rugby union in the Mackay region.  
 
There is a new award named in honour of the late Brenden Borellini (pictured with Mayor Greg Williamson and his late mother Marlene 'Merle' Mitchell). Photos supplied: Mackay Regional Council  

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Police are investigating a serious vehicle and pedestrian traffic crash and assault at Homebush, southwest of Mackay, earlier this week on November 2.
The Mackay police unit said that initial investigations indicate that at around 9:45pm, a white utility was driving dangerously along Homebush Road before a red Mazda 3 travelling westbound collided with a 17-year-old girl who was on the roadway.
The Mazda continued for a short distance before stopping, its then alleged several people nearby approached the vehicle and assaulted a 53-year-old male passenger.
Officers arrived on scene a short time later and broke up the group.
The 17-year-old Glenella girl was transported to Mackay Base Hospital in a serious but stable condition.
The 53-year-old Sarina man was also transported to hospital for treatment.
The other occupants of the Mazda, the 16-year-old female driver, a 12-year-old male passenger, and a 56-year-old female passenger, were physically uninjured.
The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating the circumstances of the crash and is appealing to anyone who may have relevant information or CCTV, dashcam footage or mobile phone footage to come forward.

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A flood study for Finch Hatton was adopted at last week’s ordinary meeting of council.
The Finch Hatton Flood Study was undertaken by engineering consultants Water Technology Pty Ltd to update the existing flood data and inform planning for the Finch Hatton township.
Mayor Greg Williamson said council was continually expanding and re-assessing its flood hazard studies, which were prioritised based on various factors including the potential risk to the community and other development drivers.
“The new Finch Hatton Flood Study helps us to understand flood behaviour in Cattle Creek and the local catchments that influence the risk to Finch Hatton and its infrastructure,” Mayor Williamson said.
“The flood hazard information improves existing flood knowledge and will be used to inform flood risk assessment and management, planning and disaster management,” he said.
As part of the flood study, council commissioned updated ground level data – both survey and LiDAR – to update topography information.
Data from the rainfall and river height gauges, installed in the past decade, was incorporated and the latest industry flood guidance (ARR19) was used to ensure the new flood study uses the best available information.
“This study has found that peak flood levels are lower than those that were used to inform the Temporary Local Planning Instrument (TLPI) mapping,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Now that the study has been adopted, it can be used to prepare a Flood Risk Assessment to identify effective land use planning and development controls in Finch Hatton,” he said.
The study does not consider any projects upstream of the township.
Council will host a drop-in session at the Finch Hatton MTB Cattle Creek Administration Building on Thursday, November 27, from 4pm to 7pm should residents have any questions.

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Hundreds of members from the Queensland Country Women's Association (QCWA) gathered in Mackay for the first time in over a century to participate in the 101st Annual State Conference, held from October 22 to November 1. With 300 registered attendees, the conference aimed to unite women from rural and regional communities, addressing pressing issues affecting their lives and reinforcing the importance of camaraderie and support across Queensland.

Throughout the conference, participants engaged in a wide range of activities, where attendees had the opportunity to view the results of the judging from various State contests, which included categories such as Handcraft, Cookery, Sewing, Photography, Floral Art, Knitting and Crochet, as well as Agricultural and Environmental projects, Patchwork, and international contests.

In addition to these displays of creativity and skill, a significant resolution by the Pioneer Division called on both state and federal governments to reassess the growing shift towards a cashless society. This resolution raised important concerns about the implications of decreasing cash usage on budgeting practices, financial inclusion, and the reliability of payment methods during technological failures or emergencies.

Key events included a State Handcraft meeting and workshops designed for handcraft teachers and trainees, fostering skills development and community engagement. On Monday, October 28, Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson officially welcomed delegates, followed by a Thanksgiving service at St Paul’s Uniting Church. Notable presentations featured representatives from Chances House, who discussed their initiatives supporting the homeless community in Mackay.

As the conference progressed, members showcased their skills in various competitions, concluding in a gala dinner that celebrated QCWA achievements. A special display at the Jubilee Centre highlighted the rich history of the QCWA and local memorabilia, setting the tone for the historic gathering.

The event not only marked a significant reunion for the QCWA but also reinforced the association's commitment to advocacy and community support for women throughout Queensland.

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Over 300 women registered to attend the Queensland women’s association's 101st annual conference, celebrating a century of empowerment and community. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Annie Wood Park playground in Mount Pleasant is getting a makeover.
As part of the work, one of the open top slides on the existing play structure is being replaced with a larger closed tube slide.

Other minor maintenance work is also being completed.

The playground will be closed from Monday, November 4, to Friday, November 15, weather permitting, to allow for the installation of the new slide and associated foundation work.

Council apologises for any inconvenience caused by this closure.

To find an alternative playground during this work, please visit knowyourburb.com.au.

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The blue slide at Annie Wood Park is being replaced with a closed tube slide

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Friday November 15, marks the 150th birthday of one of our region’s oldest schools – Walkerston State School. The school community is excited to celebrate this significant event with the outside community.

Walkerston State School started as Alsatia Provisional School with 20 students, opening in November 1874, 12 years after Captain John Mackay settled at Greenmount.

Over time the school has grown, moving to its current site in 1880, with the original 1880 building still standing. Over time several new buildings have been established and the grounds now host a number of renovated classrooms, two playgrounds and a dedicated outdoor learning area.

This sesquicentennial has given the school the opportunity to shine a spotlight on the Walkerston community itself – who without, the school would not exist. The school has a proud history with multi-generations of families who have attended the school and boasts being the education centre of excellence for the 13th prime minister of Australia.
The school would like to invite all to their celebration on Friday 15th November. The official ceremony starts at 9.30am.

Contributed By Chantel Kay

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Walkerston State School celebrates 150 years with the community, tracing its roots back to 1874

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It has been a year since nurse Ailsa Millewski passed away peacefully in the Mater palliative care unit where she once worked, but the legacy of her care has not faded.
Ailsa joined Mater Private Hospital Mackay in 2010, working in the maternity team and coordinating the hospital’s Health Hearing Program. She made a positive impact on her patients and colleagues from the very beginning.
“People said that when Ailsa smiled, it wasn’t just a smile. She smiled with her whole face,” her husband Gary Millewski recalled.
“She loved working with the babies and young children.
“Whether these children and parents remember her or not, she had made a real difference.
“The ENT specialist who she worked closely with, Dr Luke Reid, said she was special for the patients – her presence alone would calm them.”
Ailsa worked across many areas of the hospital, but felt a special draw to the Palliative Care Unit on St Catherine’s ward. The unit has grown over the past 30 years to provide holistic support to patients experiencing lifelimiting illness. Ailsa soon became close friends with fellow Palliative Care Nurse, Miechelle Williams, who said she had ‘fallen into’ this demanding and specialised field of nursing.
“I graduated from university a few months after all of my friends, and one of the areas that became available to me straight away in Townsville was an introduction to oncology and palliative care nursing through Queensland Health,” Ms Williams said.
“That was the first time I actually experienced caring for a patient from their diagnosis all the way through to end of life.
“I was still relatively new to Mackay when I met Ailsa. From the get go, I just thought, ‘This is an extremely lovely person.’ You knew if she was on shift with you, it wouldn’t feel like work.”
Miechelle and Ailsa grew closer when Ailsa was part of the nursing team who cared for Miechelle’s husband Warren when he was in Palliative Care Unit. Warren passed in 2018.
“It was only two and a half years from the time of my husband’s diagnosis to his passing,” Miechelle said.
“In that time, everything about my kids’ lives was disrupted – but once he was in Palliative Care here at Mater, Ailsa just brought that extra little bit of compassion.
“She was so nice, and so softly spoken, and my 12 and 14-year-olds at the time just connected with her on an extra level because of not only the care she was giving their dad, but how she was there for all of us.”
Last year roles were reversed when Ailsa was admitted as a patient in Mater’s Palliative Care Unit.
“Ailsa had fond memories working with Miechelle right up until she took ill – she first showed symptoms that something was wrong in 2021,” Gary said.
“She was always an amazing cook so the first I noticed something was wrong was one night when she was cooking a chicken stir-fry and she came out to me and said ‘Gary, I don’t know what I’m supposed to do.’
“It took until the end of the year to work out that Ailsa had developed a tumour in her adrenal glands which we had removed in Townsville – but a biopsy and PET scan revealed it was already a stage 3 carcinoma and had spread to her spine.
“She opted not to have chemo and wanted to pass away at home.
“I cared for her at home, bought all the equipment, but didn’t want to be the one to tell her that it was getting too much for me.
“She could see though. I just couldn’t do that last bit – our GP had been doing home visits and we went into him one day. He visited her and she said to him, ‘I think I’ll have to go across the road to the Mater.’
“He said, ‘I guess you’ll want the penthouse,’ and she said, ‘Yes, room 116.’
“The first time I laid eyes on Ailsa was 12 September 1984. On 12 September 2023, she was admitted to Palliative Care.”
Miechelle cared for Ailsa throughout her admission.
“Caring for Ailsa at the end was difficult because this was a colleague I had worked with, but it was also such a beautiful experience to be able to support her and her family like she had done for me and my family previously,” Miechelle said.
“The night of her passing, Gary and their daughter were both there and it all just felt like it happened at the right time for everyone.”
“Miechelle didn’t have to say anything in those final moments, just her presence there with us was fantastic,” Gary said.
“Ailsa’s wish was that she didn’t want anyone else to be with her when she passed, only me – and it turned out that, at five to two in the morning, our daughters were dozing off to sleep, I was holding Ailsa’s hand, and I just said, ‘I think she’s taken her last breath.’
“She had - and it was just the two of us.”
Gary shared Miechelle’s appreciation for the staff, saying Ailsa was provided with the same care she had given to countless other patients over the years.
“The feeling whenever you are at the Mater is always different to other places. It is so personal and you never feel like a number; you know every person is there for you and nowhere more so than with the palliative care team,” he said.
“The important part, from my perspective, is to have that assurance and feeling that the people caring for Ailsa understood the situation and supported her just as much as they were there for me and my family.
“Ailsa had always said ‘Gaz, don’t be sad because dying is just as much a part of life as living.’
“She said it’s such a privilege to see a baby born, but also a privilege to be able to support a patient at the other end of their care too.”
Echoing Ailsa’s thoughts, Miechelle said she believes the care the team provides is just as much for loved ones as it is for patients.
“We had a cry with Ailsa’s family, but we also laughed too,” she said. “It’s a time where you do just have to take the good with the bad.
“I’ll always happily remember Ailsa and the impact she has had on my life will remain with me for a very long time.”

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Ailsa Millewski

Gary Millewski with his favourite photo of Ailsa, taken during a shift at Mater

Miechelle Williams and Gary Millewski. Photos supplied: Mater Private Hospital Mackay

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