Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
When it comes to an assessment of Australia’s most annoying politician, it is an extensive field.
The politicians we hear from most-often are from the Federal Government so they are front of mind in the analysis but they certainly have some very strong competition.
There is insufficient space here to give a thorough run-down of all of them but we can mention a few of the most-annoying pollies.
The Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, is very annoying. His job means that he is on TV all the time trying to convince us that he has our high cost of living, high interest rate, high immigration, low productivity, high power bills, non-manufacturing economy under control. His voice is annoying and it’s embarrassing to watch.
Unfortunately, the Opposition Leader Angus Taylor is also annoying. Apparently he is a Rhodes Scholar, which means he is educated and must be pretty bright, but he certainly gives a great impression of being a boof head. If the question is, how do we communicate a sophisticated, surgical take-down of the Government and its policies? … The answer is not big old Angus.
As for the Greens, there is line-up that’s hard to beat because they all want to destroy the economy at the altar of net zero in the name of their fanatical climate change cult. But Senator David Shoebridge is definitely stepping up as a consistently annoying talking head for that party.
As I said, we don’t have space to go through all the names here but the title for the most annoying politician in the country would have to go to climate change and energy Minister Chris Bowen, the man who tells us that every time you see your power bill you need to remember that renewables are the cheapest form of energy. The transition to renewables is, clearly, unbelievably expensive and Bowen is the annoying face of the Government’s absurd denial of the facts.
For some reason the person I used to find annoying, Pauline Hanson, doesn’t seem so annoying anymore. Recent polls suggest voters think she is listening to them. We’ll see how she goes over the next few years.
But what I’ve found most annoying in recent weeks is the way Government politicians have responded to the reaction over the recent budget, particularly in relation to the changes to capital gains tax and the removal of negative gearing for new investors.
On one hand they say that the changes were designed to make housing more accessible for young people. But property markets around the country are falling and ordinary people are starting to see the value of their homes fall.
When the pollies are asked if their policies are leading to a fall in the value of people’s homes, it suddenly has very little to do with them. “Yes, we are making housing more affordable for young people but don’t look at us if the value of your home is dropping,” seems to be the message.
And the truth is the big city markets around the country have fallen in the weeks since the Budget. Clearance rates at auctions have fallen and there are now fewer buyers for properties in cities like Sydney, where negative gearing was an essential part of the investment strategy … high costs and lower rents.
First home buyers who recently paid 5 percent deposit on $1m properties in Sydney and have a $950,000 mortgage are now said to have negative equity.
Agents in Mackay are still getting calls from buyers agents with clients down south wanting to tap into our positively geared opportunities, so there is a belief among many that Mackay will survive any carnage … and our prices are relatively low in a national sense.
The key in Mackay is always coal as it is the main driver of our economy. Demand for our coking coal seems strong and the price is up compared to last year. Hopefully the pollies don’t stuff that up.
Ralph on top of the Bluff with the Marling Spikes in the background
Mackay Bushwalkers Club members recently chose the Homevale National Park for its weekend activities. There are several walks suited to cooler weather on offer in this area.
Ralph Morgan spent his 60th birthday leading a group up the Bluff. This prominent outcrop is in full view of the MT Britton Township and offers 360-degree views of the dramatic surrounding scenery.
Twelve members camped for the night at the historic township site. It was a wonderful outing with four more choosing to join Kevin Smith’s group on Sunday to explore “Podo” Pinnacles. All of the party managed to scale No 1 Pinnacle with some finding No 2 too exposed for comfort.
Everyone enjoyed a leisurely lunch on No 3. Kevin explained that he had first spotted the Pinnacles from the Bluff and a subsequent investigation revealed that they were easier to climb than he expected. He also shared that over 70 years ago it was nicknamed “Pod” due to its belly like a poddy calf and thus the naming of the pinnacles.
Future weekend activities include Hillsborough and Cathu area with a mid-week beach clean-up.
For more information go to https://mackaybwcq.org.au/
Contributed by Coral Morgan.
Image supplied
Pixie and Poppy are the last two sisters from their litter still searching for a forever home, and while the tiny black kittens may look alike, their personalities are wonderfully different.
Pixie is curious, playful and always the first to investigate anything new, bringing plenty of energy and mischief wherever she goes. Poppy, meanwhile, has a gentler nature and is happiest curled up beside her humans for a quiet cuddle after a long day.
Together, the pair bring a mix of chaos, comfort and laughter, with foster carers describing them as affectionate, resilient and full of personality.
Like many black kittens, Pixie and Poppy have often been overlooked despite their loving nature and strong bond.
Now ready for a family to call their own, the sisters are hoping to find a forever home where they can continue to grow together.
Anyone interested in meeting Pixie and Poppy can text foster carer Janet on 0423 768 805 for more information.
Coalition representatives are urging the Australian Government to strengthen protections for cane growers as the nation’s Sugar Code of Conduct undergoes a major review.
The review comes as the existing code, introduced by the former Coalition Government, approaches its 10-year sunset period and faces a decision on whether it will be renewed or remade.
Shadow Minister for Northern Australia Susan McDonald said the code had played a critical role in protecting growers during negotiations with large milling companies.
“The Sugar Code of Conduct was introduced for a reason, and it has proven effective,” she said.
“Cane growers often have limited leverage when negotiating with large mills, and the code provides important protections to ensure negotiations are fair and disputes can be resolved. We do not want to see growers lose the safeguards that have helped deliver certainty and stability across the industry.”
Senator McDonald said the review also presented an opportunity to consider how the code could apply to emerging sugar cane products including ethanol and biofuels.
“As the industry evolves into ethanol, biofuels and other value-added products, it makes sense to consult growers and industry about whether sensible adaptations are required,” she said.
“But any future changes must preserve the strong protections already provided under the code.”
Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox said the review needed to recognise the mounting pressures already facing cane farmers.
“This review must recognise that our cane farmers are the ones taking all the risk with mother nature, while dealing with massive global price fluctuations and rising input costs,” he said.
“This Code was designed to level the playing field and ensure that negotiations are handled in good faith. We have already seen Labor leave regional Australians out in the cold in this week’s Budget, and we cannot afford for them to do the same with the Sugar Code.”
Mr Willcox said growers needed to benefit from the industry’s transition into bio-manufacturing and renewable energy sectors.
“As our industry evolves into biofuels, ethanol, and other value-added products, the Code must evolve with it,” he said.
“We need to ensure that our cane farmers are rewarded for the innovation they bring to the sector, not just the raw product they deliver to the mill gate.”
Deputy Leader of the Nationals and Shadow Agriculture Minister Darren Chester said consultation with growers would be crucial throughout the process.
“The Coalition introduced the Sugar Code to give growers practical protections and a fairer playing field, and this review must strengthen those safeguards, not water them down,” he said.
Queensland Natural Resources and Mines Minister and Burdekin MP Dale Last said the Burdekin had previously experienced the uncertainty caused when negotiations between growers and mills stalled.
“A decade ago, the Burdekin witnessed first-hand what can happen when that safety net does not exist and those crucial negotiations are left at a stalemate,” Mr Last said.
Industry consultation and regional shed meetings are expected to form part of the review process in coming months, with growers and communities encouraged to provide feedback.
The Mackay Harvest is scheduled to begin on 4 June at Farleigh Mill. Photo credit: Kirili Lamb
Rollers moving for 2026 crush!
By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay
As you read this, the first bins of cane for the 2026 crushing season in the Mackay-Isaac region should have been tipped at Plane Creek Mill on 2 June, marking the start of a season that the industry is approaching with determination and care.
Mackay Sugar is following, with scheduled starts for its three mills from 4 June, beginning with Farleigh, followed by Racecourse on 9 June and Marian on 15 June.
Mackay Sugar’s estimate sits at 5.1 million tonnes with a starting CCS of 13.2, while Plane Creek’s initial crop estimate is about 1.4 million tonnes with a starting CCS of 13.83.
Across both mill areas, pre-harvest meetings have set a constructive tone. Growers, millers and industry leaders are realistic about the challenges ahead, but there is also a strong willingness to work together and make the most of the opportunities this season presents. That spirit of cooperation is helping underpin a sense of cautious optimism across the region.
Queensland Cane Growers Organisation and the Australian Sugar Manufacturers have worked together ahead of the season to identify the industry’s fuel and fertiliser requirements as harvesting begins and planning continues for the 2027 crop. Economic analysis suggests the Australian sugar industry will require about 99 million litres of fuel this year to complete necessary operations. Those discussions have also involved government, and there are encouraging signs that, despite ongoing tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, suppliers are securing alternative supply lines. While the situation will continue to be monitored closely, this progress is giving the industry greater confidence that harvesting and planting plans can continue as needed.
Seasonal conditions have been mixed. Reduced sunlight and drier weather in some parts of the region during April and May have affected growing conditions, and expectations are for an average crop overall. Even so, cooler weather is helping sugar levels rise, which may ease some of the usual concerns about low CCS levels early in the crush. It is one of several signs that, while conditions are not ideal, the season may still offer solid opportunities if the industry can maintain momentum.
If you are interested in working as a haulout driver this crush, Mackay Canegrowers has a farm jobs noticeboard: head to www.mackaycanegrowers.com.au to find out more!
For Mackay Canegrowers, the priority remains a safe and successful season for everyone working across the industry and for the wider community.
Tramlines, rail crossings and sidings will soon become busier, and slow-moving agricultural vehicles will be more visible on local roads. As farms enter one of their busiest periods, the community is reminded that farms are workplaces and an important driver of the regional economy.
With good preparation aimed at a strong start, and cooperation across the sector remaining strong, the industry enters Harvest 2026 hopeful, prepared and ready to make the most of the season ahead.
AgServices agronomists Drew McGilchrist (left) and Marc Tanizar (right) chat with Mackay grower Lee Blackburn about the positive outlook for Bio Dunder supplies. Photo supplied
From Jasmin Lewis
Customer Service & Logistics Supervisor, Wilmar AgServices
As the 2026 harvest begins, the Wilmar AgServices team has been working hard behind the scenes to ensure we are ready to support growers with their fertiliser needs throughout the season.
We recognise that global events have affected the supply of some raw material inputs, creating uncertainty across fertiliser markets and raising concerns about product availability.
We want to reassure growers that we are confident in our current supply position – both for our base Dunder stocks and key added inputs such as urea. Planning is also well advanced to ensure Bio Dunder liquid fertiliser applications can commence in line with harvesting operations.
While our supply outlook is positive, the current supply environment remains dynamic. We encourage growers to confirm their fertiliser requirements early to help secure supply and enable our experienced local contractors to schedule applications efficiently across farms.
Made in Sarina, Bio Dunder is an organic-based fertiliser trusted by generations of farmers. It delivers a comprehensive nutrient package of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and sulphur (NPKS), together with valuable organic carbon that supports long-term soil health.
Our agronomists and contractors consistently see the best yield responses when Bio Dunder is applied straight after harvesting. That’s why we encourage growers to ‘follow the harvester’ with their Bio Dunder application.
We know rising input costs are placing pressure on farming operations. Our sales agronomists continue to work closely with growers to optimise NPKS programs that help reduce fertiliser costs without compromising sugarcane yield potential. Our pricing remainscompetitive, particularly when considering the soil health benefits Bio Dunder provides.
Call us on 1800 881 957 to confirm pricing and supply for the season. Alternatively, email
AgServices@Wilmar.com.au
We’re ready and able to support your fertilising needs throughout the 2026 harvest.
Renewable energy companies operating across the Isaac region have announced a series of community-focused initiatives aimed at delivering long-term benefits for local residents, businesses and schools.
The package includes commitments to improve telecommunications, road safety, local employment pathways, education opportunities and regional resilience, following ongoing consultation with communities and collaboration with Isaac Regional Council.
Renewable energy companies Squadron Energy, CS Energy, Iberdrola Australia and Tilt Renewables have spent the past year working together through a regional collaboration group designed to better coordinate renewable energy projects and respond to priorities identified by the local community.
Among the headline initiatives is a joint $750,000 commitment from Squadron Energy, Iberdrola Australia and CS Energy to upgrade the existing Telstra telecommunications tower at Broadsound, improving internet and phone coverage for households, farms and businesses in the Clarke Creek area.
A contract with Telstra has now been signed, with works expected to begin shortly and be completed within the next 12 to 14 months.
Once complete, the upgrade is expected to improve emergency response capabilities, support safer travel and provide more reliable access to essential services across the region.
Squadron Energy Head of Community and Regional Development Jessica Kite said the collaboration aimed to ensure renewable energy developments created tangible local benefits.
“Working with Isaac Regional Council and Iberdrola is about making sure the clean energy future delivers real, lasting benefits for locals, from more local business opportunities through our local supplier forum to stronger pathways into education and work through scholarship programs,” she said.
“The Clarke Creek telecommunications tower upgrade is legacy infrastructure that matters, providing more reliable coverage that improves safety and access to services for households and businesses. We heard from farmers that feral pigs are a major issue, together with Council and Iberdrola we can deliver a coordinated control program that helps strengthen regional resilience.”
The collaboration group is also working with Isaac Regional Council to improve transparency and coordination around road infrastructure contributions linked to renewable energy developments.
Roadworks have already been completed along sections of Marlborough Sarina Road, while additional upgrades have recently been announced by the Queensland Government through the Department of Transport and Main Roads. Future priorities include speed management signage and further safety improvements around Clarke Creek.
Iberdrola Australia Chairman Ross Rolfe AO said the companies recognised the pressure major projects could place on regional infrastructure during construction phases.
“We know our projects have an impact on infrastructure and services, particularly during construction. Improving the connectivity of the Clarke Creek community is to support businesses and households is one important step.”
Tilt Renewables CEO Anthony Fowler said the transition to renewable energy needed to support regional communities as well as energy generation.
“The energy transition is more than just providing sovereign domestic energy to support our growing regions, it’s also about supporting the communities in those regions to thrive,” Mr Fowler said.
“Isaac Regional Council has provided invaluable feedback on how renewable projects can benefit regional communities and how we can maximise those benefits. This collaboration reflects what communities have been asking for - a more coordinated, collective approach. By working together, we can deliver outcomes that are more meaningful and enduring for regional communities.”
The group is also backing workforce and supply chain development initiatives following a Renewable Energy Supply Chain Forum in Moranbah earlier this year, which attracted around 90 industry, business and community representatives.
Renewable energy companies involved in the collaboration will also attend the Moranbah State High School Careers Expo on July 30 to promote future training and employment pathways in the region.
Additional projects under discussion include support for students through Country Universities Centre Isaac, a regional feral pig management program in partnership with the Invasive Species Council, coordinated community engagement efforts across projects, and potential future solar and battery solutions for Clarke Creek State School.
Isaac Regional Council Mayor Kelly Vea Vea said the collaboration demonstrated the importance of renewable energy companies working closely with local communities.
“Social licence is built through practical action and genuine engagement with communities, not just consultation,” Mayor Vea Vea said.
“Our communities want to see tangible benefits alongside development, whether that is safer roads, better telecommunications, local business opportunities, support for schools or programs that strengthen regional resilience.
“What is encouraging about this collaboration is that companies are working together with Council and local communities to focus on shared priorities and practical outcomes that will leave a lasting benefit for the Isaac region.”
The regional collaboration group said the initiatives represented a shared commitment to practical outcomes, stronger regional coordination and ongoing engagement with communities across the Isaac region.
Suspicious packages located at Midge Point have been found to contain 40kg of Cocaine. Photo source: QPS
Two Girls Seriously Injured in South Mackay crash
Two teenage girls were seriously injured after being struck by a vehicle in South Mackay on the 22nd May.
Police investigations indicate the girls, aged 13 and 14, were walking along McKenney Street shortly before 3:30pm when they were hit by a silver Toyota RAV4.
Both sustained serious injuries and were transported to Mackay Base Hospital for treatment.
The 42-year-old woman driving the vehicle was not physically injured and is assisting police with inquiries. The Forensic Crash Unit is continuing investigations and is appealing for witnesses to come forward.
Motorbike Rider Critically Injured at Bloomsbury
A 14-year-old boy was airlifted to Townsville Hospital with life-threatening injuries following a serious crash at Bloomsbury on the 23rd May.
Initial investigations indicate a KTM motorbike and a white Toyota Hiace collided on Lindeman Drive around 2:30pm while travelling in opposite directions.
The teenager was transported in a critical condition, while the 42-year-old Bloomsbury woman driving the Toyota was uninjured.
Police are appealing for anyone who saw either vehicle prior to the collision to contact investigators.
Officer Injured During Stolen Vehicle Incident
A police officer was injured after allegedly being struck by a stolen vehicle in South Mackay on the 24th May.
Police attended a Paradise Street address around 10am after receiving information a stolen white Toyota RAV4 was at the property. It is alleged the driver reversed from the driveway, colliding with two police vehicles before striking a male constable who had exited his patrol car.
The officer sustained a foot injury and was taken to hospital.
The stolen vehicle was later seen travelling through Paget and Oorlea before crashing on the Mackay Ring Road. The driver allegedly fled the scene on foot.
A 20-year-old woman was arrested at the Paradise Street address and charged with unlawful use of a motor vehicle.
The following day, detectives arrested a 25-year-old man in connection with the incident. He has been charged with multiple offences, including endangering a police officer while driving a motor vehicle, unlawful use of a motor vehicle, enter dwelling offences and damaging an emergency vehicle.
Investigations remain ongoing.
40kg Of Cocaine Discovered at Midge Point
Mackay Criminal Investigation Branch are appealing for witnesses after approximately 40 kilograms of cocaine was located near a vehicle fire at Midge Point on 30th May.
Around 8.05am, emergency services were called to a crane mounted truck on fire at a boat ramp on Jimmys Rock Road.
Upon arrival, the truck was fully engulfed, and a number of suspicious packages were located nearby.
Police conducted extensive patrols of the area including on land and in nearby water.
Following further investigations, police have confirmed that the suspicious packages contained cocaine.
Police believe the drugs may have come from overseas.
Investigators are appealing to anyone who may have been around Midge Point boat ramp between 12am and 8.15am and has relevant information, CCTV or dashcam vision to come forward.
The public are urged to contact police should further packages be located and to not touch them.
Up to $86.7 million has been made available nationally to help strengthen drought preparedness and resilience in regional communities. Photo source: Shutterstock
Farmers and regional communities across Mackay and the Whitsundays could benefit from a refreshed national drought resilience program, with the Australian Government opening applications for the next phase of its Future Drought Fund Drought Resilience Hubs initiative.
The program will establish seven Drought Resilience Hubs across Australia, designed to connect farmers with practical support, regional expertise, innovations and services that help build resilience before, during and after drought.
The latest funding round follows an independent review of the program and includes a renewed focus on delivering practical, place-based solutions rather than duplicating existing research or policy work.
Up to $86.7 million has been allocated nationally to support the hubs through to June 2032, providing long-term certainty for regional drought resilience initiatives.
The hubs aim to increase awareness and adoption of drought-resilient farming practices, strengthen collaboration between industry, researchers and government, and identify local challenges and opportunities through region-specific planning.
Eligible organisations, including companies, incorporated associations, cooperatives and Indigenous corporations, can apply to deliver hub services from 2027 to 2032.
Applications will close on the 10th of August with successful providers expected to be announced later this year. Visit www.grants.gov.au for more information.
A continued police crackdown on antisocial behaviour across Mackay has seen officers ramp up high-visibility patrols throughout the CBD, with mounted police, local crews and community engagement teams maintaining a strong presence across the city.
Officers from Mackay and the Mounted Police Unit have been patrolling the CBD, shopping centres, parks and community events, while also engaging directly with local business owners and residents.
The latest operation forms part of broader, coordinated efforts across the city, building on earlier joint work between police and Mackay Regional Council aimed at improving safety and amenity in key public areas including the CBD, riverfront and Queens Park. Those earlier efforts included community engagement and coordinated responses to antisocial behaviour in public spaces.
Since Operation Pioneer commenced in December, police have conducted 506 street checks, issued 29 move on directions and arrested 61 people for offences including public nuisance and possession of drugs. Officers have also engaged with more than 400 businesses and 1,325 people throughout the community.
Mackay Whitsunday District Officer Superintendent Dean Cavanagh said officers had focused on maintaining public spaces that could be safely enjoyed by the community.
“Our local police and Mounted Police Unit have looked to proactively maintain public spaces that can be enjoyed by everyone through engaging with local business and owners as well as residents to make the community be safe and feel safe,” said Superintendent Cavanagh.
“Ongoing operations and high visibility patrols such as this week’s Mackay CBD operation is one example of our commitment to proactive and targeting action to enforce and engage.
“We will continue to work closely with our community to ensure support is given to those need it.”
A continued police crackdown on antisocial behaviour across Mackay has seen officers ramp up high-visibility patrols throughout the CBD. Photo source: myPolice Mackay Whitsunday
Opinion Piece By Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox
Every federal budget should be a structural blueprint for a nation’s future prosperity. Instead, Labor’s latest budget has delivered a grim ledger of broken promises, toxic taxes, and skyrocketing debt that leaves everyday Australians footing the bill.
It confirms that Anthony Albanese is presiding over an incompetent executive and overseeing a country that is heading completely in the wrong direction.
Since Labor was elected, Australia has suffered the biggest fall in living standards in the developed world. Because this government simply cannot manage money, they are aggressively coming after yours.
Their record spending means the federal budget is now forecast to be in deficit for a decade, and total national debt is about to smash through the $1 trillion mark.
To put that into perspective, the yearly interest bill alone on that debt will top $42 billion. That is a crushing $80,000 per minute leaking out of the budget, money that should be funding highways, veteran wellbeing and providing dignity to those in their twilight years.
Rather than exercising restraint, Labor has locked government spending at its highest level in forty years, outside of a pandemic. To bankroll this spending spree, our economy is being burdened with $50 billion in higher taxes, including a massive $15 billion hit to personal income taxes.
These toxic taxes are a direct assault on aspiration. They are locking young Australians out of the stable opportunities afforded to older generations, whacking punitive penalties on housing, savings, investment, and small businesses.
This economic mismanagement is actively fuelling a homegrown inflation crisis. For communities across our region, this means interest rates will stay higher for longer.
The human cost of this failure is devastating. A typical Australian family with a mortgage is now $32,000 a year worse off under Labor, when you take into account higher mortgage repayments and higher cost of living factors.
At the same time, the actual buying power of your wages has declined by 3 per cent. You are working harder than ever, yet your pay packet buys less every single week.
Australians do not have to settle for this managed decline, and people will rightly ask, what would your party do differently?
The Coalition has put forward a comprehensive plan to restore our standard of living and protect our way of life. Our strategy will reward hard work, restore home ownership, and put Australians first.
We have promised to axe Labor’s toxic taxes. At the heart of our commitment is a Tax Back Guarantee. We will end Labor’s insidious inflation tax by permanently indexing income tax thresholds to inflation, ensuring workers keep more of what they earn.
To secure our financial future, we will establish a Future Generations Fund. We will bank resource windfalls to systematically pay down debt and build the vital national infrastructure our regional communities desperately need. By returning 25 per cent of resource windfalls directly to their regions of origin, the Coalition will deliver an incredible boost to Dawson, ensuring the wealth generated in the Bowen Basin gets reinvested to boost investor and business confidence.
This budget presents a fundamental choice for Australians to consider before this next election. It is a choice between a government that taxes your savings and shrinks your future, and a Coalition plan that rewards hard work, restores home ownership, and secures Australia’s future.
In the many conversations I have had with residents recently it is clear that the conversation around Gordon White Library goes beyond the library itself. It has become a conversation about how decisions are made and whether the community is being brought along on the journey.
There was an expectation that last week's council meeting would see this topic debated in the chamber. Instead, the matter was deferred for another month. The important point is that no decision has been made on the future of Gordon White Library yet.
Over the past few weeks, the Gordon White Library has been a frequent topic of conversation with residents across our community. What I am hearing is not opposition to change. People understand that council has to plan for the future and that libraries will continue to evolve over time. What they do want to understand is, what any proposed changes could mean for their community and why these ideas are only being raised now, rather than being part of earlier discussions.
The library means different things to different people. For some, it is where their children first discovered a love of reading. For others, it is a place for students to study or for seniors to socially connect or simply spend time. It is no surprise that the community want an opportunity to contribute to the discussion.
One of the reasons I put my hand up for council was to represent community and make sure local voices are heard. That is why I believe consultation and process matters. The questions I keep hearing are: Why has this proposal started to emerge now?What problem is it really trying to solve? What is the real social impact for the people who use and value the library? They are reasonable questions and people deserve clear answers.
Council is often faced with tough decisions and I appreciate that people may not agree with every outcome. What matters is that our community can have confidence that decisions have been properly considered and that the reasons behind them are clear.
The future of Gordon White Library is still to be decided. While that remains the case, there is an opportunity to have the conversation properly and make sure community is a part of it, while we consider the path forward.
Mackay Regional Council has adopted a new activation plan for the Sarina Field of Dreams Precinct, focused on boosting tourism, community engagement and collaboration across the popular Sarina destination. Photo supplied
Mackay Regional Council has adopted an activation plan for the Sarina Field of Dreams Precinct, aimed at strengthening the site as a vibrant community and tourism destination.
The precinct brings together attractions including the Mackay Region Visitor Information Centre, Sarina Sugar Shed, Sarina Art Gallery, Sarina Arts and Craft Centre and the new Sarina District Historical Centre, formerly Sarina Museum.
The plan focuses on attracting locals through regular events and experiences, increasing tourism visitation and strengthening collaboration between community groups and volunteers.
During consultation, the decision was made to hand the Sarina Museum collection back to the community through the newly incorporated Sarina and District Historical Society, which will operate the Sarina District Historical Centre from the former Sarina Museum building under a licence agreement provided by council.
Mackay Regional Council has launched its “Building our future – Powered for growth” campaign to secure State and Federal investment for key infrastructure, housing, tourism and industry projects across the region. Photo supplied
Mackay Regional Council has officially launched its “Building our future – Powered for growth” advocacy campaign, aimed at securing targeted State and Federal Government investment to support the region’s next stage of growth.
Adopted at council’s Ordinary Meeting on May 27th, the campaign outlines priority projects focused on infrastructure, housing, tourism, transport, water security and emerging industries.
Mayor Greg Williamson said Mackay was already a major economic contributor, with a $15.3 billion regional economy and strong industry sectors including mining, agriculture, manufacturing and tourism.
“Mackay is already one of Queensland’s strongest regional economies and this campaign is about building on that momentum,” Mayor Williamson said.
“We are not asking governments to start our growth – Mackay is already growing – we are asking them to partner with us to accelerate that growth in strategic areas,” he said.
Key priorities include the Mackay Waterfront Priority Development Area, expansion of the Finch Hatton Mountain Bike Trails, investment in industrial land and State Development Areas, and increased delivery of social and affordable housing.
Mackay student Erin Hanrahan has been selected as the new Youth Member for Mackay in the YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament (QYP), representing the region alongside young leaders from across the state.
Queensland Youth Parliament is a YMCA Queensland leadership and civic engagement program that gives young people aged 15 to 25 the opportunity to experience the parliamentary process firsthand. Participants work in committees, develop bills, and debate proposed legislation inside Queensland Parliament while building skills in leadership, public speaking and advocacy.
The Year 11 student said being accepted into the program was both exciting and unexpected, admitting she initially doubted she would be selected.
“When I first applied, I was almost certain that I would not be accepted, especially to represent a region like Mackay, but I decided it was worth the rejection letter,” Erin said.
As part of the program, Erin joined the Education and the Arts, Industrial Relations, Small and Family Businesses Committee — an area she said strongly reflects her own interests and experiences.
Having lived in Mackay for 14 years, Erin said she wants to ensure regional voices are represented in discussions affecting young Queenslanders.
“It feels easy to get caught up in the mundane side of regional life, but I’m ready to step back, appreciate how lucky we are to live here, and make sure a little part of the Mackay experience is reflected in our bill,” she said.
Queensland Youth Parliament gives young people the opportunity to debate proposed legislation inside Queensland Parliament while developing leadership, networking and public speaking skills.
Erin said hearing from previous Youth Members inspired her to apply.
“QYP was described as a way for young people to create tangible change and undergo meaningful growth by putting yourself out there and expressing your opinions in an environment that cares about what you have to say,” she said.
“It’s not every day that a 16-year-old gets to debate a bill in Queensland Parliament.”
During a recent meeting with Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton, Erin discussed her passion for education, the arts and youth advocacy, as well as the importance of equity across Queensland communities.
“If I was an MP, I think I would have a specific focus on Education and the Arts, and youth,” Erin said.
“Queensland is a very large place, with people from all socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds. I think instead of promoting for an individual, we should look for the spaces that need improving to achieve equity across the whole of Queensland.”
Mr Dalton congratulated Erin on her selection and praised her willingness to step forward and represent Mackay’s young people.
“It’s fantastic to see young people like Erin taking an active interest in leadership and the future of our region,” Mr Dalton said.
“She is already showing great insight and passion for her community, and I have no doubt she will represent Mackay incredibly well.”
River Reimagined officially opened in Mackay’s City Heart, showcasing community stories and memories of the Pioneer River through a large-scale interactive public art installation that will run until June 29. Photos supplied
The stories, memories and voices of the Pioneer River community took centre stage last Friday with the official opening of River Reimagined, a large-scale public art installation now on display in Mackay’s City Heart.
Created by Mackay artist Bonnie McCarthy, the interactive installation stretches along the Bluewater Trail across from the old Telstra building on River Street, inviting visitors to pause, wander and reflect on the community connections tied to the river.
Community members gathered for the opening event on Friday 29th May, where the Unheard Voices Collective performed an original river song created especially for the project.
Blending visual art, storytelling, music and digital media, River Reimagined was developed using stories and memories contributed by people across the region, with QR codes throughout the installation allowing visitors to further explore the project.
By scanning the codes, visitors can read stories shared by community members, listen to the collaborative song created with the Unheard Voices Collective, hear selected stories read aloud and view behind-the-scenes photos and videos documenting the making of the installation.
The project was funded through a Make Your Place grant from Mackay City and Waterfront and supported by MKY City Heart Collective, Yarn Bombers, Northern Beaches Our Community, Unheard Voices Collective, Mastermyne and community members who contributed their stories and memories.
Following the official opening, the installation is now accessible to the public and will remain in Mackay’s City Heart until June 29th.
Those who missed last Friday’s launch will still have the opportunity to experience the project through a free Public Art Walk on June 12th, where Bonnie McCarthy will present an artist talk as part of the guided tour.
A community favourite is set to return this June, as Pizza for a Purpose launches its fifth year in support of suicide prevention training and awareness across the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday regions.
Led by Grapevine Group, the campaign continues to blend community engagement with vital mental health education, raising $12,730 in 2025 and aiming to build on that momentum in 2026.
Throughout June, $5 from every large pizza sold at Laffos Bar & Pizzeria will be donated to Grapevine Group, helping fund free suicide prevention training programs and awareness initiatives across our local regions.
A new online fundraising platform has launched, allowing individuals and businesses to easily support the cause. Prize draws include a weekly $100 Caneland Central Gift Card draw and a major $5,000 Star FM/4MK advertising package for participating businesses.
The Pizza Hunt will continue throughout the month, encouraging children to follow a trail around Caneland Central and collect pizza names. Completed entries receive a prize and entry into a gift card draw.
As an added incentive, the first 100 organisations to book a Pizza Party will receive a party pack filled with balloons, party hats, lollies and more. This year, Grapevine is again encouraging workplaces and community groups to go a step further by hosting their own pizza parties and booking suicide prevention training for their teams.
Grapevine Group President Debbie Knight said the campaign was making crucial change.
“With an estimated 55,000 attempts nationally each year, that’s one every 10 minutes,” she said.
“Every dollar raised helps us continue delivering free training which empowers people with the skills and confidence to recognise when someone may be struggling and start conversations that could save life.”
The campaign is supported by major sponsors Caneland Central, Bright Light Marketing and Laffos Bar & Pizzeria, highlighting the impact of local collaboration.
You can get involved by purchasing a large pizza at Laffos throughout June, hosting Pizza Party, or tax-deductible donation via grapevinegroup.org.au.
Walkerston State School students raised funds for The Neighbourhood Hub’s Multicultural and Migrant Settlement program during a Harmony Week free dress day. Photo source: The Neighbourhood Hub
A free dress day at Walkerston State School has helped support Mackay’s multicultural and migrant community, with students raising funds for The Neighbourhood Hub during Harmony Week earlier this year.
Representatives from The Neighbourhood Hub recently attended a school assembly, where they learnt the student-led initiative had raised money to support the organisation’s Multicultural and Migrant Settlement program.
The Neighbourhood Hub said the donation would help support people building a new life in Mackay by assisting them to settle into the community, form connections and access support services.
The organisation thanked the Walkerston State School community for its generosity, describing the fundraising effort as a reflection of the values being fostered within the school.
Walkerston State School also praised its Student Council for leading the initiative.
“A little kindness can go a long way,” the school shared on social media.
The fundraiser was held during Harmony Week, which celebrates inclusiveness, respect and a sense of belonging for people from all cultural backgrounds.
The donation will help The Neighbourhood Hub continue supporting multicultural families and migrants as they establish themselves within the Mackay region.
The Rotary Clubs of Mackay Region’s Respect in Every Step march aimed to empower students and the wider community to denounce and report Domestic and Family Violence
Massive crowds turned out on May 30th to denounce Domestic & Family violence, in the Rotary Clubs of Mackay Region’s Respect in Every Step march.
1000 students were in the mix, with the march focused on educating and empowering students to understand the community’s expectation of respect and healthy relationships; and extend the message to the wider community to reinforce the importance of creating a safe environment for all.
Domestic Violence is a prominent issue across Queensland, with Police responding to 183,747 DFV-related call outs across Queensland between July 2024 and June 2025. That’s an average of 500 incidents every day – or one every 3 minutes.
“If you or someone you know is at risk, help is available,” QPS Deputy Commissioner Tims said.
“Reach out to police and specialist support services if you or someone you know is experiencing domestic and family violence – your report could save a life.”
Chants for change echoed through Mackay’s city centre last Friday as the community united to take a stand against domestic and family violence during a powerful march from the River Street carpark to Bluewater Quay.
Students, teachers, police officers from various departments, frontline emergency services, domestic violence advocates, business owners, community leaders and dignitaries marched side-by-side in support of Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month.
Among those attending was Mayor for Mackay Greg Williamson, Member for Whitsunday and Minister for Child Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence Amanda Camm, Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton, along with Rotary Club representatives and community members from across the region.
While the march itself may not directly change the circumstances surrounding domestic and family violence, Mayor Greg Williamson said events like these play an important role in educating and empowering younger generations.
“For us, domestic and family violence prevention in our community has got to start with the generations before us.” Mayor Williamson said.
He said the strong turnout, which included around 1,000 students, was encouraging and highlighted the importance of investing in young people to help create lasting change.
“They’re our future… and what we really need is for them to stay invested in preventing and stopping domestic and family violence.”
District Officer Superintendent for Mackay and the Whitsundays Dean Cavanagh said domestic and family violence continues to have a major impact across Queensland communities, accounting for around 80 per cent of police workloads.
He said the march was a powerful display of courage and unity, particularly with so many students involved.
“This march is a great visual representation of the community coming together with courage to speak out against domestic and family violence,” Superintendent Cavanagh said.
“It’s really good to see the students here.”
“Ultimately, it’s the next generation that needs to stand up, understand the impact this has on the community, and speak out against it.”
The march formed part of Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month activities held across the region, encouraging conversations around respect, safety and support within the community.
If you or someone you know is in a dangerous or life-threatening situation, call Triple Zero (000). If you don’t want to speak to the police you can also call DV Connect on 1800 811 811 or 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732 (24 hours, 7 days a week). You can also go to the Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month website for more details and support.
Meet some of this year’s QLD Day ambassadors, championing the essence and vibrance of Queensland.
We know Queensland has produced no shortage of rugby league royalty. Wally Lewis AM – also known as “The King” – is the face of his state yet again as a 2026 QLD Day ambassador.
“I’m a proud Queenslander, born and bred, and I’ve spent a lifetime representing this wonderful state,” Wally said.
“I’m inspired by everyday Queenslanders, the people who show up for their families, their communities, and each other; that’s the real strength of this state.”
One of rugby league’s greatest players, Johnathan Thurston AM; former three-time premiership winner for the Brisbane Broncos, Gorden Tallis; and captain of the Broncos, Maroons and Jillaroos, Ali Brigginshaw are also representing rugby this year.
There must be something in the water, with our best swimmers diving in as ambassadors: eight-time Olympic medallist, Cate Campbell OAM; Paralympic gold medallist Alexa Leary OAM; and four-time Paralympic medallist Grant ‘Scooter’ Patterson. Netball great Laura Geitz, raised in the Darling Downs town of Allora, joins Gold Coast AFL rising star Ethan Read.
One of Australia’s most beloved tennis champions, Pat Rafter said he proudly wears the title of ‘Queenslander’, while he secretly loves having a stadium with his name on it.
“I love being a Queenslander, I was brought up in Mount Isa, so I guess there is a fair bit of that country passion in me,” Pat said.
“Having a stadium with my name on it is so cool. The Queensland tennis crowd is pretty respectful; they enjoy their tennis but appreciate good players with good attitude.”
From the arts, didgeridoo virtuoso and composer William Barton sits alongside Pub Choir founder Astrid Jorgensen OAM, country music balladeer Lee Kernaghan OAM, and celebrity chef Alastair McLeod.
Rounding out the line-up is veteran journalist and child-safety advocate Kay McGrath OAM, a Queensland Great, encouraging all Queenslanders to celebrate the unique spirit of the Sunshine State.
“Queensland Day is a chance for us to come together and reflect on how fortunate we are to live in this extraordinary state,” Kay said.
What ties them together isn’t fame – it’s our state. Each ambassador’s story is rooted in a different patch of Queensland, from outback towns to coastal cities. Together, they paint a portrait of a state that’s as diverse as it is proud.
The QLD Day Awards shine a spotlight on the Queenslanders who go above and beyond – the community volunteers, local legends, young achievers and those shaping our state’s future.
From grassroots changemakers to everyday heroes, these awards celebrate Queenslanders from all walks of life who make Queensland a better place. Announced on QLD Day, the winners reflect a proud tradition of service, generosity and community spirit that has defined our state since 1859.
Jane Hedger, CEO of Volunteering Queensland, said the awards recognise the Queenslanders who often work behind the scenes to support others.
“The QLD Day Awards shine a light on those Queenslanders who quietly make the world go round and give us an opportunity to say thank you,” she said.
For Catherine Lamb, a Meals on Wheels volunteer from Ashgrove, Brisbane, giving back is simply part of who she is.
“It’s about the simple things – how good you feel doing something good, and how much it means to the person on the other end,” Catherine said.
This year’s recipients continue a strong legacy of community champions, following in the footsteps of the 2025 QLD Day Local Legends – all shining examples of the Queensland spirit in action.
Stacey Arlott, Property Consultant at RE/MAX Select Mackay. Photo source: RE/MAX Select Mackay
With 26 years of experience and a results-driven reputation, Stacey Arlott has firmly established herself as one of Queensland’s most accomplished real estate professionals.
She is widely recognised, receiving great industry acclaim, but prides herself most on the trust she has garnered from the community she serves in Mackay.
In 2021 Stacey reached a huge milestone in her career, being declared the number one agent in Australia by Real Estate Business’s dealmaker ranking - the first in Mackay to receive such an accolade. The win occurred during a volatile time for the market, with COVID-19 challenges failing to knock Stacey off-course.
What sets Stacey apart is not only her consistent sales performance, but also her disciplined work ethic and ability to foster long-term client relationships.
Her career is marked by a series of accolades, including the REMAX Lifetime Achievement Award (2024) and induction into the REMAX Hall of Fame (2020).
From 2022 to 2025, she has consistently ranked among the Top 10 agents in Queensland and Top 20 nationally - an indication of her ongoing push for excellence in a dynamic and demanding market.
Beyond industry recognition, Stacy’s success is strongly validated by client feedback. She has earned multiple “Agent of the Year” titles through RateMyAgent, including four consecutive wins for East Mackay (2021–2024) and the broader Mackay region in 2023.
These consistently high ratings across major platforms reflect a reputation built on transparency, communication, and results.
Having previously owned and operated her own agency and served as REIQ Zone Chairperson, Stacey does more than transactional sales.
She brings a comprehensive understanding of the real estate landscape, from regulatory frameworks to market strategy; a depth of knowledge that allows her to guide clients with confidence through every stage of the buying and selling process.
Known for her approachable style, Stacey’s secret to success is communication. She prioritises keeping clients informed to ensure they feel supported throughout their property journey. Her business is driven by referrals and repeat clients, a testament to the trust she builds and the outcomes she delivers.
remax.com.au/select/stacey-arlott
I was among the Mackay real estate agents who received calls from buyers agents from southern capitals last week saying they had investors who were more interested than ever in securing a property in this town.
That is not to say that investors around the country are not spooked and considering their options after the Federal Budget announcement that negative gearing would no longer be available for new investments other than brand new builds.
There will be plenty who will be watching the impact of the removal of negative gearing and it remains to be seen what happens with property prices both in Mackay and in the nation generally.
Someone told me the other day that they didn’t understand exactly what negative gearing is, which is fair enough because not everyone lives in my world of property prices, rental yields, capital gains and tax benefits.
So for those who are unsure, the basic meaning of negative gearing is that an investor can claim the losses they make on a property on their personal tax. So if an investor has a property that gives them a rental return after costs of $600 a week but their mortgage is $800 a week, they are able to claim the $200 a week loss as a reduction from their personal tax payments.
A lot of people are suggesting that the removal of negative gearing will have the biggest impact in Sydney because the cost of housing is high and rentals do not typically cover the mortgage if someone had a 20 per cent deposit on the property they had bought. The rent on a $2m Sydney property does not go anywhere near covering the mortgage so being able to claim the loss as a reduction on your PAYE tax is the only way most investors can do it.
Investors who had an investment property prior to this month’s Federal Budget will be able to continue to negatively gear their property but anyone who buys after Budget night will not be able to unless they are building a new home.
The impact in Sydney was immediate, with an auction clearance rate of under 50 per cent last weekend. Sydney is an auction town so the results send a clear message that investors there are spooked and possibly no longer see the value in buying an investment property at current prices and with current rental returns.
The impact on prices in Sydney, and around the country, will be the big real estate story this year.
As I said in my column last week, there is a theory – completely untested and not to be taken as gospel until the facts emerge – that the removal of negative gearing will not have a huge impact in Mackay because house prices are lower than in southern capitals and rental yields are much better. Investors with a decent deposit on a property don’t need negative gearing because rental returns cover the mortgage; so their properties are actually positively geared.
Will this make Mackay an attractive place for southern investors looking for an investment that doesn’t run at a loss? We’ll have to wait and see.
It is interesting to note what has happened to real estate prices in New Zealand in the years since the government there made changes to negative gearing; prices have dropped by 30 per cent (adjusted to inflation) since their peak about five years ago.
Other factors play into that: there has been a reduction in immigration and Kiwis prefer to live in Australia than in New Zealand (only joking!) but there is no doubt that the removal of negative gearing has had an impact.
With fewer investment properties coming onto Australian markets, we can expect to see fewer rental properties which, in a world of demand and supply, could push rental prices up.
And young people looking for an investment will not be able to claim the negative gearing that older Australians could access. It’s a nuanced world.
@Pilates 24/7 Mackay is a boutique reformer Pilates studio built around flexibility, recovery and real life. As Mackay’s first 24/7 Pilates studio, members can train any time, with no timetables.
The studio runs on a hybrid model combining on demand classes with in studio support during staffed hours. Using noise cancelling headphones, members follow sessions from a platform offering more than 500 classes, choosing their own pace, level and style.
Programs cater to all levels, including pregnancy and post-natal, with a focus on strength, mobility and safe progression. Memberships include reformer Pilates, infrared sauna and red-light therapy, creating a complete wellness experience in one space.
New clients can get started with our '10 days for $45' intro offer, with memberships starting from only $39 per week.
With premium reformers and full flexibility, @Pilates 24/7 Mackay makes consistency simple.
You lead. Our platform follows. Only @pilates
Get in touch:
Instagram: pilates247mackay
Facebook: At Pilates 24/7 Mackay
Website: atpilates.studio/location/mackay/
Phone: 0438 908 268
Dr Maddilyn Brown has dedicated her career to paediatric and women’s health chiropractic care, supporting Mackay families through The Nurture Haus. Photo supplied
Dr Maddilyn Brown is the passionate Owner and Founder of The Nurture Haus, where she specialises as an Advanced Paediatric Chiropractor dedicated to supporting women, babies and children through every stage of life.
A proud Mackay local, Maddilyn completed both school and university in the region before spending several years living and working in Brisbane, Dysart and Emerald, eventually making her way home after seven years away.
Her journey into chiropractic began following a gymnastics injury as a teenager, sparking a passion that would shape her entire career. Since then, Maddilyn has devoted herself to extensive postgraduate study in paediatrics, pregnancy, postpartum careand women’s health, completing a postgraduate diplomat in 2025 while continuing further study in women’s health. Since 2023, she has worked exclusively with women and children.
Outside of work, Maddilyn describes herself as “animated, nerdy and unflappable”. When she’s not studying or caring for patients, she enjoys weightlifting, walking her beloved American Staffy x French Mastiff, Askari, and spending time with her partner Josh after recently ending two years of long distance.
An ex-gymnast with an adventurous streak, Maddilyn also once flew planes before relocating to Central Queensland and enjoys aerial silks in her spare time.
Her happiest life moment? Witnessing the Northern Lights in Alaska — a lifelong bucket-list dream she says was the most remarkable thing she has ever seen.
“At Baby First Aid QLD, we understand that pregnancy is a time of both excitement and preparation. Our mission is to empower expecting parents with the confidence and life-saving skills they need before their little one arrives.
“Led by experienced health professionals, our hands-on workshops cover essential infant-specific first aid, including CPR, choking response, and managing common emergencies like fevers and burns. We offer flexible learning through public classes, private in-home sessions, and comprehensive online modules. By bridging the gap between pregnancy and parenthood, we ensure you’re not just ready for birth, but ready for everything that follows.”
If you too would like to share your opinions, stories, or experiences with us, please send your letter to the editor, rachael@lifepublishing.com
In response to Federal Member for Dawson’s recent comments regarding the Giggle vs. Tickle debate
Anonymous letter to the editor.
I was concerned and disappointed recently to read Andrew Willcox’s statement regarding same-sex spaces in the wake of the Giggle vs. Tickle Ruling, which awarded damages to Transwoman Roxanne Tickle after she was blocked from Grover’s app, Giggle for Girls, promoted as an online space for women. Disappointingly, Grover’s statements regarding Tickle have been littered with cruel and incendiary rhetoric poking fun at Ms Tickle’s physical attributes and reproductive abilities, as has general conversation regarding the ruling.
As a staunch believer that transwomen should have the right to exist and join safe spaces in a world where they face elevated levels of gender-based violence, I have been saddened by the instrumentalisation of the case to further harmful ideology that transwomen are a threat to women’s safety.
I for one would hope that in a warm, close-knit community like ours, any queer or transpeople could have access to resources, spaces and online circles formed to provide refuge for all those who need it - and would urge readers to take into account individuals' humanity, experiences, and struggles, rather than scapegoating them for issues predominantly enacted by cisgender men.
As a woman, I would invite transwomen to feel safe in my space, and ask why, if we are uncomfortable with the idea of letting men into bathrooms and online spaces, we are roping transwomen in to take the blame. They are not the problem.
This DV month I for one would like to focus on addressing the very real violence disproportionately experienced by women, cis or trans, and the systems and behaviours that enable it, rather than redirecting public fear toward an already marginalised group.
If your marketing feels ad hoc or enquiry slows down, we tend to put pressure on ourselves to “do more marketing”. Ramp up advertising, get onto all the socials, stand outside + wave a sign around. It’s not these things can’t help – but honestly, the best marketing you can do is the right things, more consistently. Ie not just when things are quiet or when you notice that you haven’t posted to FB for two months (no judgement – we have ALL been there!!!).
This Small Business Month, we’ve been sharing tips for our top five marketing activities that are relevant to most businesses. They are:
The other thing worth remembering is that these activities don’t necessarily work in isolation. Someone might discover you on social media, click through to your website, sign up to your emails, then finally enquire months later after hearing your name come up again through word of mouth. Marketing is rarely one magic post, ad or email that suddenly changes everything – it’s usually a combination of touchpoints that build familiarity + trust over time.
Just think of your own purchasing behaviour. What’s something you bought recently from a business you haven’t bought from before – did you just get a recommendation, call them up + pay them for their services? Chances are, no.
Good marketing usually comes back to the same thing – being visible with the right people, in the right way, often enough to be remembered when it counts. If you’d like a hand with that, the crew at Rebel Nation would love to help – check us out at rebelnation.com.au.
It’s not every day a local distillery takes home international honours, but for 74 Islands Distillery, this year’s World Drinks Awards in London delivered a milestone moment not only for the business, but for the Whitsundays region itself.
74 Islands Distillery received major recognition on the global stage, with its Rainwater Vodka awarded Gold and named Best Vodka in Australia at the World Vodka Awards, while its Rainwater London Dry Gin secured a Silver Medal at the World Gin Awards.
For founder Glenn Hitch, the achievement is confirmation of the brands vision and belief in the quality of what can be created in regional Queensland.
“As a boutique distillery based in Airlie Beach, the awards mark a significant milestone and a proud moment for our team.”
“From the beginning, we wanted to create spirits that genuinely reflected the beauty and quality of this region.”
The awards place Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays alongside some of the world’s most respected spirit producers, with Hitch describing the recognition as both exciting and humbling for the team behind the brand.
“There are so many outstanding Gin’s and Vodka’s in the market, it’s both humbling and validating to be recognised on the world stage.” he said.
“We set out to be authentic to our brand ethos of drink well and to show the Whitsundays in our product.”
Central to the success of the spirits is one ingredient found nowhere else: Whitsunday rainwater.
“The Whitsunday rainwater is very clean and free from contaminants, this combined with our distilling process, the botanicals we use, has resulted in a product which is unique and premium”
Now, with global recognition secured, the team at 74 Islands Distillery is encouraging locals, Queenslanders and Australians alike to experience the award-winning spirits firsthand and celebrate a distinctly Whitsunday success story.
Jump online and give us a try, grab a bottle and do some blind tasting against your favourite international vodka and let us know your feedback!
Free delivery (within Australia) on the London Dry Gin and Vodka until the end of June to celebrate the awards.
Free tastings are also available at Harry Brown in Cannovale each Friday between 3-4pm and at the Airlie Beach Markets on Saturdays, come down to try and have a chat.
As golden light settles across the paddocks and the canefields begin to glow at dusk, Oh Deere Farm Stay is preparing to host one of the Mackay region’s most distinctive country experiences — A Night in the Canefields.
Returning on Saturday 18th July from 4pm to 9pm, the highly anticipated event invites locals and visitors alike to step onto a working sugar cane farm for an evening of live music, authentic rural hospitality and the rare spectacle of a live canefire at sundown.
Owner and operator Karinda Anderson said the event offered a unique opportunity to experience a tradition rarely seen in the Mackay region.
“This is a rare event, and it’s not something commonly done,” she said.
Set against a stunning rural backdrop, the evening will feature live entertainment from Mango Junction, delicious food vans, a fully licensed bar, children’s activities, warming fire pits and camping for guests wanting to soak up the atmosphere beneath the stars.
More than just a night out, Karinda said the event was about reconnecting people with the land and celebrating the farming industry that supports regional communities.
“People, especially kids, don’t always get the chance to see where food comes from,” she said.
“This is a chance to experience life on a working farm and learn more about the sugar industry, while enjoying a night out with your friends and family.”
At just $55 per vehicle, A Night in the Canefields is shaping up to be a unique celebration of farming, community and top-notch regional Queensland hospitality.
ohdeerefarmstay.com.au
Matthew Perre, Senior Manager of Sales at Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant. Photo supplied
With 26 years at Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant, Matthew Perre, Senior Manager of Sales has built a career around helping clients create memorable travel experiences across the globe.
Driven by a passion for travel and connecting people with unforgettable destinations, Matthew said the industry offered the perfect opportunity to turn clients’ dream holidays into reality.
“I loved the idea of creating memorable experiences for people,” he explained.
“Over time, my passion for travel and sharing those experiences with others led me to help turn other people’s travel dreams into reality.”
Throughout his career, some of the most memorable moments have come during unexpected travel disruptions, where professional support and customer care become especially important.
“Helping clients during difficult situations has always stayed with me,” he said.
“Supporting people when things go wrong reminds me how valuable professional travel advice and genuine customer care really are.”
Matthew believes the supportive and relationship-focused culture at Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant is what continues to set the business apart.
“We genuinely care about our clients and each other while maintaining strong professionalism, teamwork and a commitment to delivering exceptional travel experiences,” he said.
Matthew has observed current travel trends are showing an increased demand for premium, experience-driven holidays, with river cruising, expedition cruising, Europe, Japan and personalised small-group touring among the most popular choices.
Having travelled extensively, Africa remains a standout destination for Matthew thanks to its wildlife, scenery and safari experiences, while Central Asia and the historic Silk Road remain firmly on his bucket list!
New Apprentices, from left: Oscar Bishop (Plane Creek, electrical), Korben Rappard (Proserpine, boiler making), Thomas O’Neill (Proserpine, fitting and turning), Leon Arena (Proserpine, electrical), and Daniel Pugh (Proserpine, diesel fitting. Photo source: Wilmar Sugar Australia
Wilmar Sugar and Renewables has welcomed 18 first-year apprentices across its operations this year, with the new recruits already settling into roles spanning electrical, fitting and turning, boilermaking and diesel fitting trades.
The apprentices officially commenced in February and are now working across the company’s Sugar and Renewables division as part of one of Queensland’s largest apprenticeship programs.
Group Manager Mechanical Engineering Tienie van Blerk said the new apprentices had adapted well to their roles and embraced the company’s workplace values.
“They've integrated really well into the business and are demonstrating the values of teamwork and passion in their day-to-day work,” Mr van Blerk said.
“I'm really impressed by how keen they are to learn from our experienced trades and become the best they can be.”
Group Manager Electrical Instrumentation and Control Chris Pickering said apprentices at Wilmar benefited from exposure to a wide range of advanced technologies and industrial systems.
“The sugar industry is known for turning out really well-rounded apprentices and our factories have some of the most advanced technological platforms available,” Mr Pickering said.
“Our electrical trades are working with advanced automation and control systems, modern power generation and distribution systems, and smart instrumentation. Most electrical apprentices only get exposure to a narrow range of equipment. Ours are trained across a large range of industrial plant.”
General Manager Engineering Istvan Torok said the apprenticeship program played an important role in the company’s long-term workforce development and retention strategy.
“We have one of the largest and most successful apprenticeship programs in Queensland,” Mr Torok said.
“Not only do we have a very high completion rate, but we have a high retention rate among our newly qualified tradespeople. These first-year apprentices will become the highly-skilled tradespeople we rely upon to keep our factories, locos and mobile fleet running efficiently. They'll also become mentors for future generations of apprentices at our sites.”
Wilmar Sugar and Renewables currently employs around 120 apprentices across the business.
Applications for the company’s 2027 apprenticeship intake will open on 9 June.
The Federal Government is seeking feedback on proposed Right to Repair reforms that would expand repair access for agricultural machinery and support independent repairers. Photo source: Shutterstock
The Federal Government is seeking feedback on proposed Right to Repair reforms aimed at expanding repair options for farmers, drivers and small businesses while helping reduce machinery downtime and maintenance costs.
Released last Thursday, the discussion paper proposes extending Australia’s existing Right to Repair framework to agricultural machinery, alongside improvements to the Motor Vehicle Information Sharing Scheme, which has operated since 2022.
The current scheme requires vehicle manufacturers to provide independent repairers with access to service and repair information at a fair market price, supporting competition and consumer choice.
According to the Federal Government, a review of the scheme found it had contributed to a $2.4 billion increase in annual turnover across the independent repair sector.
Under the proposed changes, farmers and regional businesses could gain faster access to repair information for agricultural machinery, helping reduce delays during critical planting and harvest periods.
The Productivity Commission estimates expanding Right to Repair laws to agriculture could increase annual GDP by $97 million through increased grain outputs alone by reducing downtime during harvest.
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins said the reforms would give farmers more choice and support regional repair businesses.
“By extending Right to Repair laws to include agricultural machinery, these changes will help reduce downtime, lower repair costs and keep farm operations moving when it matters most,” Ms Collins said.
The consultation period is open until Friday, July 3, 2026.
In a world dominated by scrolling, swiping and endless notifications, there’s something quietly powerful about print. The weight of a magazine or newspaper in your hands and the texture of the paper. The deliberate pause that comes with turning a page. While the digital world races forward at relentless speed, print continues to hold its ground not out of nostalgia, but because human connection still matters.
For many, print was predicted to become obsolete long ago. Yet publications like CORE Magazine and Mackay and Whitsunday Life continue to prove otherwise. Not only surviving but thriving. Why? Because print offers something digital often cannot, permanence, presence and trust. It asks us to slow down, absorb stories more deeply and connect with the people and places behind them.
Regional publications in particular play a role far greater than simply delivering content. They become a reflection of community identity. They celebrate local business, amplify important voices and preserve stories that might otherwise be lost in the noise of algorithms and fleeting online trends.
The latest awards and industry recognition Mackay and Whitsunday Life received at the QCPA [ Queensland Country Press Association ] reinforces an important truth: regional publications deserve their place alongside metropolitan media counterparts. In many ways, they offer something even more valuable, authenticity. The stories are personal; the impact is visible and the connection to their audience is genuine.
Yet perhaps the greatest achievement cannot be measured in accolades at all. It lives within the countless businesses supported, the local stories shared, the community conversations started and the people who feel seen within its pages.
Print remains powerful because people still crave connection. In an age of temporary content and shrinking attention spans, there is something extraordinary about creating work designed to be held onto, revisited and remembered.
Perhaps that is why print continues to endure. While technology changes, the human desire for meaningful storytelling never will.
The Mackay Community Foundation has successfully secured a $50,675 stamp duty refund through QCAT following the transfer of 7 Gregory Street, Mackay, donated as a community legacy gift in 2021. Photo source: Mackay Community Foundation
Mackay Community Foundation has secured a successful outcome through the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT), resulting in the refund of $50,675 in stamp duty paid on the transfer of 7 Gregory Street, Mackay, along with interest.
In early 2021, Mackay Community Foundation founding director Steve Lowry began discussions with a donor who was seeking to leave 7 Gregory Street to a worthy charity in Mackay as a legacy to the contribution the Mackay community had made to his business success.
The property was transferred to Mackay Community Foundation in August 2021.
As part of the conveyancing process, the Foundation applied for registration as a Charitable Institution in Queensland, which would exempt it from paying stamp duty on the property transfer.
Despite holding Deductible Gift Recipient status with the Australian Taxation Office, the application was declined, with the Commissioner of State Revenue determining that Mackay Community Foundation did not meet the definition of an “Institution”.
The Foundation objected to the decision on two occasions, however charitable institution status was not granted and the Foundation was required to pay $50,675 in stamp duty.
After seeking assistance from Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer, Mackay Community Foundation began the appeal process through QCAT in December 2022.
The hearing was held in May 2025, with Mackay Community Foundation Directors Frances Eason and Ian Joblin providing evidence on behalf of the Foundation.
In December 2025, QCAT decided in favour of Mackay Community Foundation and the Queensland Office of State Revenue was ordered to refund the stamp duty paid, along with interest – with the transfer now complete.
Mackay Community Foundation Director and Company Secretary Ian Joblin said the outcome was “significant” for the Foundation and the wider not-for-profit sector in Queensland.
“Providing a fairer assessment of what a Charitable Institution is, and therefore allowing a greater number of charitable organisations to access exemptions from Queensland Government taxes and duties, has made the work to achieve this outcome worthwhile,” Mr Joblin said.
“Not only have we secured the return of funds to the Mackay community, but we have also earned interest on those monies that will be donated to charitable organisations in Mackay in 2027.
“Mackay Community Foundation would like to thank Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer, Jennifer Batrouney KC, Bridget O’Brien and Genevieve Feely for their professionalism and dedication to this successful outcome.”
Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer said it was “pleased” to represent Mackay Community Foundation on a pro bono basis in its successful application.
“In its decision, the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal recognised the Foundation as precisely the kind of well-established, well-governed organisation with deep community engagement that Parliament intended to benefit from charitable institution registration.
“Together with pro bono counsel, Jennifer Batrouney KC, Bridget O’Brien and Genevieve Feely, we are proud to have assisted in clarifying an important area of law that affects charitable trusts across Queensland.
“This successful outcome serves to safeguard the Foundation’s charitable resources for the Mackay community and provides greater certainty for the broader not-for-profit sector.”
For more information about Mackay Community Foundation, visit www.mackaycommunityfoundation.com.
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox with Mackay RSL Sub-Branch President Ken Higgins OAM.
Government claims changes will support larger, ongoing veteran health investment.
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox has labelled the Australian Government’s budgetary decision to cap the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) allied health services to an annual limit of $5000 “a profound betrayal of the men and women who have sacrificed so much for our nation.”
The Australian Government stated that the cap was instated to support a larger investment in Veteran health, pledging $169.7 million over five years from 2025–26 (and $58.8 million per year ongoing), to increase allied health provider fees for Veteran Card holders from 1st July 2027.
They call it “the largest investment in veteran allied health provider fees in more than 20 years,” which “will improve choice and availability of services for veterans and families of veterans.”
According to the DVA, the cap will redistribute funds, whilst aiming to target overservicing from providers.
“Under this arrangement, Veteran Card holders will continue to access the treatment they need, while ensuring they are not taken advantage of by providers looking to increase profits through overservicing,” the DVA published.
“DVA is committed to supporting the health and wellbeing of veterans and recognises that health care needs are individual and can change over time. That is why this measure includes flexibility for DVA to fund allied health services above $5,000 amount where there is a valid clinical need, ensuring veterans receive the care they require.”
Mr Willcox has spoken out about the change, calling the cap a “cruel cost-shifting measure.”
“Getting regular help from an exercise physiologist or a psychologist is a massive part of preventing veteran suicide,” he said.
“It gets men and women sorted before they hit rock bottom. Keeping veterans well on the frontline saves lives, and it stops them needing much more expensive medical treatment down the track."
“To see this critical funding degraded is deeply disappointing.”
By Cr Belinda Hassan
Mackay Regional Council has launched an exciting new initiative called Amplify Mackay, designed to help local businesses tap into the opportunities created by major events across our region.
As a community, we already know that events bring energy, excitement and visitors into our region. From sporting fixtures and festivals, through to exhibitions, conferences and cultural events, they inject life into our city and create valuable economic opportunities for local businesses.
But Amplify Mackay is about taking that one step further.
The program encourages businesses to align what they already do with major event periods – whether that’s through special offers, themed experiences, promotions, activations or simply creating a welcoming atmosphere for visitors and locals alike. Those offers are then promoted through the Amplify Mackay platform to event organisers, visitors and the wider community.
Importantly, businesses don’t need to spend a fortune or completely reinvent themselves. In fact, one of the strongest messages behind the campaign is that participation can be simple, affordable and effective.
For cafés and restaurants, it might be a themed menu or event-night special. For retailers, it could mean decorating shopfronts, creating eye-catching displays or running a promotion tied to a major event. Accommodation providers might offer transport options, late check-outs or packages for visitors attending events.
There are some exciting events on the horizon that businesses can connect with, including Daly Bay Illuminate, QME, Mackay’s first international Test cricket match, Rhythm and the Reef, AFLW events linked to the Gold Coast SUNS partnership, and the highly anticipated Disney: The Exhibition – A Century of Magic, which is expected to attract strong visitation from December through to May 2027.
One event I’m particularly looking forward to is Daly Bay Illuminate in July, when Wood and Victoria Streets will light up as part of the Festival of Arts. The event encourages businesses to get creative with lighting, displays and promotions, helping transform the City Centre into a vibrant night-time destination.
What I really appreciate about Amplify Mackay is that it recognises major events don’t just benefit one venue or precinct – the benefits can and should flow throughout the wider community. When visitors come here, their experience is shaped not just by the headline event, but by the hospitality, atmosphere and local pride they encounter across our region.
This initiative is about showcasing the very best of Mackay – our creativity, our business community and our ability to work together to create memorable experiences for both visitors and locals. Get onboard at: https://mackayevents.com.au/events/discover-mackay-event-energy.
Let’s Chat – Council Connect
Residents can catch up with councillors in person at upcoming Let’s Chat - Council Connect sessions held across the region. The next session will be held at Seaforth Bowls Club on June 2 at 5pm.
Further details can be found on the Connecting Mackay website.
Community generosity has helped the Habana Rural Fire Brigade upgrade its boggy fireshed forecourt, improving emergency response access and allowing the brigade to move ahead with future improvements. Photos supplied
A wealth of community support has been on full display at the Habana Rural Fire Brigade, with local businesses stepping in to help repair the brigade’s boggy fire shed forecourt.
Brigade representative Maxine Godley said the muddy conditions had become a constant issue for volunteers, with trucks regularly becoming bogged after returning from emergencies.
“Every time the trucks left the shed and returned they were in the bog — muddied and had to be washed down,” she said.
The project quickly gained momentum thanks to the generosity of local companies.
Heidelberg Materials Australia Area Manager Danielle Bree advised the brigade the company was “delighted to assist”, while Steel Force Mackay Branch Manager Rick Biggin offered to supply the steel reinforcing for the foundation.
The concrete pour took place on April 21st, with fire trucks rolling in to complete the long-awaited upgrade.
Mrs Godley said the support had not only improved day-to-day operations but also allowed the brigade to move ahead with another important improvement project.
“The savings allow us to immediately proceed to the next major project — the second roller door at the front of the fire shed to allow our smaller ‘quick response’ fire truck to be first out of the shed and away in an emergency,” she said.
“On behalf of all brigade members and our community we want to sincerely thank these donors for their willing generosity providing assistance to Habana’s Rural Fire Brigade.”
She said the finished result had already made a noticeable difference for volunteers and emergency response efforts, describing it as “a clean and secure forecourt for emergency response and returns.”
Last year's event was a major success, and this year is set to be even better! Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
The 2026 Mackay Disability Expo is here for another year, drawing thousands into the Big Shed at the Mackay Showgrounds this upcoming Tuesday June 2nd.
The event will provide various opportunities for people living with disability, and their carers, with stalls and experts available on the day to help improve quality of life.
Organisers say the expo this year will focus on ensuring people living with a disability can live their best lives.
Mayor Greg Williamson said, “While these are all important aspects of disability support, there’s so much more on offer that can improve quality of life and assist people follow their interests and passions,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Exhibitors like That Place have created a space for people to interact and grow through play with their ‘Dragons on the Spectrum’ program, which is hugely popular,” he said.
“It’s a fantastic example of social skills building, which can greatly build the confidence and life enjoyment of participants.
“Organisations like Sport4All can not only help people with a disability be involved in sport, volunteering and administration, but can help local clubs ensure they are truly accessible.”
The event will include several demonstrations, including an inspiring performance by the Unheard Voices Collective.
The latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows 5.5 million Australians, which is 21 per cent of the population, live with disability, totalling up to 17.7 per cent since 2018.
Of the households where at least one person lived with disability, more than 60 per cent needed assistance with at least one aspect of daily life.
Mayor Williamson said those statistics show the importance of events like the Mackay Disability Expo.
“With an increasing number of people living with disability, it’s vital that our community knows that help is available. And the Mackay Disability Expo is a great place to learn what is out there and how it can assist you or your loved one.”
For more information on the Mackay Disability Expo, visit mackay.qld.gov.au/disabilityexpo
In an interview with Mayor Greg Williamson, Carol Masso said she was happy knowing the people around her felt supported and cared for.
Mackay Regional Council has continued its Legendary Neighbour program, with Mayor Greg Williamson undertaking surprise home visits to recognise residents nominated by their communities for outstanding acts of care and connection.
As part of Neighbourhood Month and Neighbourhood Week initiatives, the program highlights kindness, belonging and the everyday actions that help strengthen neighbourhoods across the region. This year, around 30 nominations were received, with selected recipients presented with certificates acknowledging them as Legendary Neighbours for 2026.
Among those honoured was Carol Masso, who was surprised at her home by Mayor Greg Williamson after being nominated by her neighbour Barbara and members of her local community, who described Carol as someone who consistently looks out for others and ensures neighbours are supported and included.
During the presentation, Mayor Williamson explained the purpose of the program is to recognise residents nominated by their own communities for acts of care that often go unnoticed.
Carol expressed genuine surprise at the recognition, describing it as completely unexpected. She spoke about her approach to community life, saying her focus is simply on ensuring people are coping and not left isolated. She also highlighted the importance of being available when needed, whether that involves checking in on others, offering assistance, or providing reassurance for families who may not always be nearby.
In an interview with Mackay Regional Council and the Mayor, Carol said the greatest satisfaction comes from knowing those around her are supported and secure.
The second recipient, Ian “Stringy” Smith, was also presented with a Legendary Neighbour award following nominations from members of his community. Mayor Greg Williamson acknowledged the strong community backing behind his nomination and the breadth of contributions attributed to him.
Ian was recognised for his willingness to step in wherever help is needed, particularly in situations involving community safety, emergencies and practical assistance across his local area. Those who nominated him described him as someone who notices what needs doing and takes action without hesitation, often going beyond what is asked or expected.
Community members spoke of his reputation as a dependable presence, someone who supports others in both urgent and everyday circumstances.
In an interview with Mayor Williamson, Ian said the recognition came as a surprise, noting that he simply gets on with helping where he can. He described it as something he enjoys, saying that contributing to the community gives him a sense of purpose and satisfaction.
The Legendary Neighbour program continues to highlight the value of everyday kindness and connection across the Mackay region, reinforcing Mackay Regional Council’s focus on building stronger, more resilient neighbourhoods.
Congratulations Carol and Ian!
Following strong community reaction to the proposed repurposing of the Gordon White Library, Mackay Regional Council says it is now exploring alternative options for the future of the facility ahead of next month’s Special Budget Meeting.
The update follows weeks of community discussion surrounding council’s earlier proposal to transfer the majority of library services from the Mount Pleasant site to the new Northern Beaches Community Hub once it opens in 2027.
Mayor Greg Williamson said council had listened to community concerns while also considering budget pressures and the financial impact on ratepayers.
“We’ve had about 800 survey responses and there are about 1500 signatures on a petition from locals, and those responses are mostly telling us what they value about Gordon White Library,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Overwhelmingly, it has been families that have responded and told us that Gordon White is a meeting place for them to socialise and support the early development of their children,” he said.
“With that in mind, we are exploring options around how we can still keep those services that people value so highly and retain a library facility at Gordon White.”
The response comes after residents raised concerns about the future of the library, with many describing it as an important and accessible community space for families, students, elderly residents and people living with disability.
Gerard Carlyon said councillors were currently considering three options ahead of the Special Budget Meeting on June 29th.
“Option one is where we consolidate our libraries on the north side and includes a minimal increase in cost to ratepayers,” Mr Carlyon said.
“It would see us transfer the majority of library services from Gordon White Library to the Northern Beaches Community Hub Library,” he said.
“Option two is a compromise based on residents’ feedback – we keep a library facility at Gordon White and prioritise the services the community is telling us they value most.
“We would then explore models where we could operate all our libraries, including the Northern Beaches, without any major staff increases but with some reduction of service across the branches.
“This would likely include some reduced operating hours and more strategic delivery of programming, but it would reduce the increased rate burden to about $1 million.”
Mr Carlyon said the third option would retain both libraries at full capacity.
“The third model is to keep both services (Gordon White and the Northern Beaches) at full capacity, which would have about a $2.2 million annual impact on rate payers,” he said.
“Our executive leadership team, in conjunction with staff, will work through these models as we approach the Budget Meeting so that councillors can make a decision that best suits the residents of the Mackay region.”
Community feedback on the proposal remains open until June 16th as discussions continue around the future of the Gordon White Library.
The 2026 Mayor’s Charity Ball has raised $67,305.38 for local charities, with funds split evenly between The Salvation Army’s Family Violence Service and The Neighbourhood Hub’s Food Diversion Program. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
A total of $67,305.38 has been raised for local charities through the 2026 Mayor’s Charity Ball, with sponsors and supporters gathering at the MECC Foyer on Tuesday 26th May to celebrate the fundraising milestone and formally recognise the event’s contribution to the Mackay community.
Held on Saturday 2nd May, the James Bond-inspired evening welcomed 373 guests to the MECC for a night of entertainment, glamour and generosity, with funds split evenly between The Salvation Army’s Family Violence Service and The Neighbourhood Hub’s Food Diversion Program. Each organisation received $33,652.69.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the long-running event continues to deliver significant support to local organisations doing important work in the community.
“The Mayor’s Charity Ball has been going since 2013, and during that time we’ve raised over a million dollars,” he said.
“Over $67,000 was raised in that one night at the 2026 Mayor’s Charity Ball.”
“This is one of the biggest ones we’ve had for quite some time, and it exceeded last year by about $10,000.”
“The Mackay community really gets behind things like this, even in economically challenging times.”
“We would like to sincerely thank everyone who attended, donated and supported the event.”
Sponsors were formally acknowledged at the morning tea, where they received certificates of appreciation for their support.
Platinum: Fergus Builders, Daly Bay, BMA, Mickala Group
Gold: Pentacon, Summit, Oral Health & Beyond Collective
Silver: CQ Soil Testing, NQ Bulk Ports
Media Partners: Mackay and Whitsunday Life, 7 News Mackay, Hit 100.3 and Triple M, Bishopp Outdoor Advertising, Tropical Exposure
In-Kind Sponsors: Signarama, Harvey Norman Mackay, Fitness Cartel Mackay, Splash Pool Care, Greg Neill & Son Fine Jewellers, Guzman y Gomez Mt Pleasant
A Mackay family has thanked Kim from Mackay Animal Rescue after she stopped to help following a frightening tyre blowout on the highway near Bowen. Photo source: Shutterstock
A frightening moment on the highway has become a heartwarming reminder of community kindness after a Mackay woman stopped to help a family stranded on the side of the road over the weekend.
Travelling to Bowen with a car full of goods and their baby on board, the family experienced a tyre blowout at highway speed, describing the ordeal as a terrifying experience.
They later shared their gratitude to Kim from Mackay Animal Rescue online, who stopped to check on them and offered support and assistance during the stressful situation.
“Thank you for stopping — not only to check if we were okay, but also for offering endless help and support,” the family shared.
“Your kindness meant so much to our family, and we are incredibly grateful.”
The family said the experience was a reminder of the compassion that exists within regional communities and the importance of helping others when they need it most.
“Moments like this remind us how beautiful our community really is,” they said.
“I always remember the saying: ‘Someone once helped me, so now I will help others too.’ Let’s keep passing this spirit on.”
Hannah McNamara Journalist from Mackay Life Newspaper, Sherie Hensler-Adams Sales Manager from Hinchinbrook Life, Bec Douthwaite Owner and Publisher, Jacob Casha journalist from Burdekin Life Newspaper, Victoria Velton Journalist from Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper, Rachael Smith Life Publishing Group Editor in Chief and Trish Jandt Sales Manager for Whitsunday Life.
Every paper within the Life Publishing Group umbrella is sharing in the glory of another successful Queensland Country Press Awards, where this small but mighty independent newspaper group brought home six awards.
Owner and publisher Bec Douthwaite said she was immensely proud of the team and delighted to see each newspaper thriving within their communities.
“In 2024 Mackay & Whitsunday Life won Best Free Newspaper in Queensland, it’s great to see the momentum continue this year and watch our team shine at state level!”
The team at Life Publishing Group are celebrating this week following one of their most successful years at the Queensland Country Press Awards which were held in the Sunshine Coast over the weekend.
Jacob Casha, journalist with Burdekin Life Newspaper, was announced as Best Young Journalist of the year and also received a silver for Best Single Story by an Individual Journalist.
Meanwhile, Chelsea Ravizza, who writes across all Life Publishing Group papers, including this one, received a silver in the Best Young Journalist of the Year category.
“Young journalists are the lifeblood of regional journalism,” said Life Publishing Group Editor in Chief Rachael Smith.
“We are proud to support the growth of our talented team and thrilled to see two of our journalists bring home awards.
“I would also like to take a moment to commend Mackay Lead Journalist Hannah McNamara who stepped up significantly this year and is one of the most hardworking, dedicated and passionate journalists I know.
“She is a winner too, and we are very lucky to have her on the team.”
In addition to the editorial awards, Life Publishing Group won three advertising awards.
A highlight was receiving gold for Best Print Community Advertising Promotion for the Life Publishing Group Enchanted Garden Charity Event.
A second gold was awarded for Best Locally Produced Print Advertisement of the year and was followed by silver for Best Locally Produced Advertising Campaign of the year.
“We had such an amazing result at the awards again this year. I am incredibly proud of our whole team, and deeply thankful to our designers who always go above and beyond to make our ads look incredible,” said Mackay Sales Manager Jess Clark.
“It was a special moment for me to see one of our community charity promotions win gold for the second year in a row – this particular event was our Enchanted Garden Fundraiser and it holds a special place in my heart because we raised $56,000 for seven regional charities.”
There are more than 60 independent news media publishers registered with Queensland Country Press Association.
“In 2024 we were thrilled to bring home Best Free Newspaper in Queensland,” shared Rachael Smith.
“I still vividly remember our name being called out on the night, it was one of the best moments of my life and I was deeply honoured to celebrate with our team again this year – watching Jacob being acknowledged for his talent and storytelling was a real highlight for the whole team.”
“Over the years we have consistently brought home awards, with this years’ being one of our best hauls!
“For me, 2026 represents a year where we continue to cement our presence within the newspaper community and are seen as high achievers among our peers – this is something I am truly proud of.
“Everyone in the team has contributed to the success behind all these awards and they are a result of us all striving for excellence in everything we do.”
Mackay father Phil Smith has been awarded the Queensland New Volunteer Award for 2026 in recognition of his asbestos awareness advocacy and fundraising efforts inspired by the loss of his wife Leah. Photos supplied
Mackay father Phil Smith has been recognised on the state stage, receiving the Queensland New Volunteer Award for 2026 for his tireless work raising awareness around asbestos-related disease.
Since the passing of his wife Leah in 2024, Mr Smith has devoted himself to advocacy and fundraising through Ride In Shorts For Leah, contributing more than 1,200 volunteer hours and raising over $42,000 to support education and prevention efforts.
Leah, who was unknowingly exposed to asbestos in childhood, was diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma at 49 and passed away just over eight months later. Her story has since become the driving force behind Mr Smith’s public mission to warn others about the risks hidden in many Australian homes.
Presented at Brisbane City Hall by the Governor of Queensland, the award recognises his ongoing commitment to community awareness and support.
What began in the shadow of personal loss has grown into a wider campaign of education, remembrance and prevention, carried forward in Leah’s name.
Peter Francis, Director and Sales Consultant at Blacks Real Estate. Photo supplied
With nearly two decades at Blacks Real Estate, Peter Francis has built a reputation across Mackay for honest service, strong negotiation skills and consistent results.
Joining the agency in 2008, Peter now serves as Director and Sales Consultant, helping vendors and buyers navigate the property market with a focus on professionalism and clear communication.
Originally trained as a surveyor at the University of South Australia, Peter later transitioned into real estate, where he went on to achieve national and international recognition, including National Top 20 rankings on seven occasions and a Hall of Fame award during a previous role.
Since moving to Mackay in 2004 with his wife Kylie and their family, Peter has become deeply involved in the local community, balancing a busy career with raising five children and contributing to school communities and the Mackay Chamber of Commerce.
Known for his calm approach and ability to mediate between buyers and sellers, Peter said building trust with clients has always been central to his work. His long list of repeat clients and referrals reflects the strong relationships he has developed across the region over the years.
Blacks Real Estate continues to operate from Wood Street in Mackay and Dysart Garden Plaza, servicing residential, commercial and rural clients across the region.
We need to talk about something that happens far too often – black kittens are usually the last to be chosen.
Yet they are often the very best companions. These kittens are not just “another kitten”.
They are the ones who follow you from room to room like your shadow. Who climb into your lap and stay there. Who greet you at the door like a dog and want to be involved in everything you do. They don’t just live in your home – they become part of your everyday life.
Our black kittens are incredibly affectionate – true lap cats who crave human connection. They are confident and curious, often the first to explore and investigate. Playful and cheeky, they are full of personality and mischief.
They are also highly social. They will chat to you, respond to you and connect with you. Once they choose you, they are yours completely.
And in real life, they are absolutely stunning – with glossy coats, striking eyes, and an elegant, sleek presence that photos simply don’t capture.
If you have ever wanted a cat that truly bonds with you, that seeks you out and becomes your constant little companion, come and meet our black kittens. Because once you meet them, you will understand.
To register your expression of interest, please contact foster carer Janet on 0423 768 805.
Contributed by Mackay Pet Rescue Inc
There’s a type of exhaustion many women carry that doesn’t disappear with a good night’s sleep.
It’s not just physical tiredness. It’s the constant mental juggling. Remembering school events, organising appointments, replying to messages, planning meals, checking homework, thinking ahead, caring for ageing parents, supporting friends, managing work deadlines, and somehow trying to look after yourself somewhere in between.
Even during moments of “rest,” many women describe feeling like their brain never truly switches off.
This invisible load is something women carry every day, and over time, the body often carries it too.
As a women’s and pelvic health physiotherapist, I often see women who come in with symptoms like pelvic pain, bladder urgency, tension, leaking, headaches, jaw clenching, shallow breathing, or a feeling that their body is constantly tight or “on edge.” Many are surprised to learn that stress and nervous system overload can play a significant role in how the body feels and functions.
When we’re stressed for long periods, the body naturally shifts into a protective state. Muscles tighten, breathing becomes shallow, sleep can be disrupted, and the nervous system stays on high alert. It’s a helpful response in short bursts, but when the body stays in that heightened state for weeks, months, or years, symptoms can begin to appear. And the pelvic floor is particularly influenced by this.
Many people think the pelvic floor only matters during pregnancy or after birth, but these muscles respond closely to stress, posture, breathing, and tension patterns throughout the entire body. Some women unknowingly hold tension through their pelvic floor all day long, almost like clenching their jaw without realising. Over time, this can contribute to discomfort, urgency, constipation, pain, or difficulty fully relaxing the muscles.
What’s important to understand is that this does not mean the body is “broken.” Often, it’s a body that has been coping, adapting, and carrying a great deal for a long time.
And while exercise and movement are incredibly important, healing isn’t always about pushing harder. Sometimes it’s about creating moments where the body feels safe enough to soften and let go.
That might look like slowing your breathing for a few minutes while sitting in the car before school pick-up. Going for a walk without turning it into another task to complete. Stretching before bed. Asking for help. Resting without guilt. Learning how to relax your pelvic floor, not just strengthen it.
Small moments matter.
Women are often exceptionally good at caring for everyone else while quietly ignoring their own symptoms. But tension, fatigue, and overwhelm are not simply things to “push through” forever. The body has a way of asking for attention eventually.
If your body feels tight, tired, or not quite like itself, it may be worth listening with curiosity rather than criticism. Support can make a meaningful difference, whether that’s through movement, stress management, pelvic health physiotherapy, or simply giving yourself permission to slow down occasionally.
Because women were never meant to carry everything alone, and the body shouldn’t have to either.
Photo credit: Coffee + Hops
Word of mouth is some of the most powerful marketing your business can get. It’s trusted, it’s personal + in regional areas especially, it carries a LOT of weight. Most businesses will proudly say, “Most of our work comes from word of mouth”. Which is awesome – but then they treat it like something that just magically happens.
The truth is – the businesses getting the most word of mouth are usually doing a few things really well.
People need a reason to talk about your business in the first place. And no, “good service” on its own usually isn’t enough anymore – that’s the baseline expectation from people! The businesses people tend to recommend are the ones that are memorable in some way. Maybe theycommunicate really well, make life easier, solve a specific problem, have a strong personality, do something unexpectedly fast or simply make people feel looked after.
Another big one? Visibility. People are far more likely to recommend businesses they remember (I know – what a shocker lol). If someone hasn’t seen or heard from you in two years, you’re probably not top of mind when a friend asks for a recommendation.
This is where consistent marketing does a lot of heavy lifting. Social media, email marketing, networking, community involvement, even signage – all of it helps reinforce who you are, what you do + why someone should choose you.
Clarity matters too. If people can’t easily explain what your business does, who you help or what makes you different, referrals get weaker. The easier you are to describe, the easier you are to recommend!!
One of the simplest things businesses can do is also be more specific when talking about the work they want. Instead of “let us know if you hear of anyone”, try “we’re looking for more commercial fitout work” or “we’d love more bookkeeping clients in construction”. Specific prompts help people connect the dots faster.
People can’t recommend a business they forgot existed. Word of mouth doesn’t just come from doing good work – it comes from being remembered when someone needs what you do.
Choosing the right shutters and blinds for your home or business can make all the difference between a space that simply serves a purpose and one that looks and feels polished. For many across the region, the search for the perfect fit begins with Deluxe Shutters & Blinds Mackay.
Established in 2010, the locally owned and family-run business has spent more than a decade helping Mackay homeowners and businesses enhance their spaces with high-quality, custom-made window furnishings and outdoor shading solutions.
Their product range includes internal and external plantation shutters, including aluminium, along with drapes, curtains, awnings and a wide selection of internal and external blinds.
Every project begins with a free onsite measure and quote, allowing the team to tailor each installation to suit the individual space.
A key point of difference is the company’s commitment to local manufacturing. Aluminium plantation shutters are produced in the business’s onsite Mackay workshop, which means they’re able to focus on strict quality control while supporting local industry.
Customers can also visit the fully functional showroom at 111 Sydney Street, where a range of exclusive products are on display, offering the opportunity to explore colours, finishes and styles firsthand.
QBCC licensed and proud members of Master Builders Queensland, the business is backed by a team of highly skilled tradesmen experienced across a wide range of installations.
Visitors can also meet the team at the upcoming Mackay Outdoor Adventure plus Home and Lifestyle Expo at Site OS126, where plantation shutters, a purpose-built external blind display and a fully erected Shadecube structure will be available to view.
deluxeblinds.com.au
Upgrade your caravan sleep with Dreamer RV and MeanderWild—two family-run Australian brands bringing comfort, quality, and thoughtful design to life on the road. The Dreamer RV Wanderluxe™ Mattress Topper is made of high-density memory foam for a soft yet supportive sleep surface. It’s designed to transform even the most uncomfortable caravan mattress into a place you genuinely look forward to at the end of the day. Finished with a breathable, removable Tencel-blend cover, anti-slip base, and secure straps, it stays perfectly in place and is built to handle the realities of travel.
Layered on top, MeanderWild brings elevated bedding designed specifically for the unique shapes and sizes of caravan mattresses. Their signature Zip Sheet Set features a clever two-way zip that connects the fitted and top sheets, keeping your bedding neatly in place and effortlessly styled. Crafted from buttery soft, cotton sateen and available in a range of modern, earthy tones, the collection extends to quilt covers, pillows, cushions, and coverlets. Made for caravan life, elevating both the comfort and the look of your caravan interior.
Dreamer RV and MeanderWild offer a complete bedding upgrade to help you sleep better on the road. Designed to work seamlessly together, taking the guesswork out of caravan bedding while delivering both comfort and style. With sizing options to suit most caravan beds and campervans, it’s never been easier to upgrade your caravan bed. Visit Dreamer RV & MeanderWild at site U442 at the Mackay Expo to experience the difference for yourself.
For more than five years, locally and family owned and operated ATS Expedition Outfitters has been helping drivers transform everyday vehicles into capable, adventure-ready touring machines built for Australian conditions.
Specialising in all things 4x4, the team at ATS Expedition Outfitters offers complete vehicle solutions designed to keep customers moving safely, legally and confidently — whether it’s for work, touring or the ultimate off-road adventure.
From GVM and GCM upgrades to complete touring setups, ATS Expedition Outfitters provides expert advice and premium-quality fit-outs tailored to every customer’s needs. Their services include bull bars and vehicle protection, trays and canopies, auto electrical solutions, lighting, dual battery systems, drawer and pantry systems, fleet fit-outs, wheel and tyre packages, and much more.
“Our goal is simple — we want to help customers build their dream vehicle while making sure it remains safe, practical and compliant,” the team said. “Whether it’s a daily driver, a serious touring setup or a commercial fleet vehicle, we take pride in delivering quality workmanship and reliable solutions.”
Visitors to the expo will have the opportunity to check out a range of vehicles on display, including everyday touring builds, a professionally equipped fleet fit-out, and several impressive full-sized American truck adventure rigs guaranteed to turn heads.
ATS Expedition Outfitters will also be running exclusive expo specials across a huge range of camping and 4WD accessories, giving attendees the perfect opportunity to upgrade their setup before their next trip. Plus, there’ll be giveaways happening throughout the event.
If you’re passionate about touring, camping or off-road adventures, make sure you stop by and chat with the team at ATS Expedition Outfitters — your one-stop shop for everything 4x4.
atsoutfitters.com.au
Helping people move better and live life to the fullest has long been at the heart of My Chiropractor Mackay City.
Owned and operated by Principal Chiropractor Dr Marti Harris and his wife Colleen Harris, the locally-loved clinic has continued to expand its services while investing in technology designed to improve outcomes for patients experiencing spinal and nerve related conditions.
One of the clinic’s most significant advancements is its spinal decompression therapy, with the practice operating two of only 17 Spine MT Core decompression machines currently available in Australia.
This advanced technology provides local patients with access to cutting-edge treatment for disc injuries and nerve compression, eliminating the need to travel to major metropolitan centres for care.
Patients attending the clinic have access to a wide range of services including spinal adjustments, spinal decompression therapy, dry needling, shockwave therapy, individualised rehabilitation programs and nutritional supplementation.
These treatments support people experiencing disc injuries, nerve related pain, arthritis, sporting injuries and those seeking alternatives to surgery or long-term medication.
The practice’s continued growth has also welcomed a new face to the team, with graduate chiropractor Dr Joly Albarracin recently joining the clinic.
Originally from Mackay, Dr Joly completed her studies in Brisbane at CQUniversity Australia, earning a Bachelor of Science (Chiropractic) and a Master of Clinical Chiropractic before returning home to begin her professional career.
“Now that I’m back, it’s like I never left… and it’s great to be back home,” Dr Joly said.
She is currently undertaking a mentorship program within the clinic, working alongside Dr Marti and Dr Rod while meeting both new and existing patients.
Dr Marti said the team was thrilled to welcome her.
“We’re very excited to have Dr Joly come and join our chiropractor family… and we are very blessed to have someone who is as passionate about family healthcare as Dr Joly is.”
Backed by a highly trained and collaborative team, My Chiropractor Mackay City continues to evolve its strong community presence, offering patient-centred care focused on spinal decompression and improved function. Those experiencing ongoing spinal or nerve-related symptoms are encouraged to book an assessment to explore whether this approach may be suitable for their individual needs.
mychiropractorqld.com.au
At On Point Eyecare, we believe good communication is one of the most important parts of good eye care.
Opening an independent optometry clinic in Mackay was never just about creating a place for eye tests and glasses. For Joel Bialy and Diana Lovadina Long, it was about building a clinic where people feel heard, understood and genuinely cared for - from the moment they walk through the door to the moment they leave with a clear plan for their eye health.
Eyes are incredibly complex but understanding them should not feel overwhelming. At On Point Eyecare, every appointment is shaped around the person in front of them. That means taking the time to listen properly, understand concerns, explain findings clearly, and make sure each patient feels confident about what comes next.
Whether it is a child struggling at school, a patient noticing changes in their vision, someone managing diabetes, or a person simply wanting reassurance that their eyes are healthy, the goal is always the same: to provide thoughtful, thorough care in a way that feels calm, clear and personal.
As an independent clinic, On Point Eyecare has been designed around patient-first care, not rushed appointments or one-size-fits-all recommendations. Advanced diagnostic technology supports detailed clinical assessment, but the heart of the appointment remains the conversation, asking the right questions, explaining results in simple language, and helping patients understand their options.
That same care extends beyond the consulting room. The clinic has been thoughtfully designed to feel welcoming, comfortable and accessible, with a calm environment, friendly team, child-friendly spaces and convenient on-site parking.
From comprehensive eye examinations and children’s vision testing through to contact lenses, dry eye care, glaucoma assessment and carefully selected eyewear, every part of the clinic reflects the same simple approach: take the time, communicate clearly, and care for the person, not just the eyes.
At On Point Eyecare, it’s personal, because you and your vision matters.
Mackay nurse navigator Shona O’Neill is being recognised during Palliative Care Week for her work supporting patients with life-limiting illness and improving quality of life through compassionate, coordinated care. Photo source: MHHS
As Palliative Care Week came to a close last week, the work of Mackay Hospital and Health Service’s Specialist Palliative Care team highlighted the important role compassionate, coordinated care plays in improving quality of life for patients with life-limiting illness.
For acting nurse navigator Shona O’Neill, palliative care is not simply about end-of-life support, but helping people live as well as possible during difficult circumstances.
“It’s not just about end-of-life care,” Shona said.
“It’s about helping people live as well as possible in the time they have — managing symptoms, supporting emotional needs, and helping people make informed choices about their care.”
Working within the Specialist Palliative Care Service at Mackay Hospital and Health Service, Shona helps coordinate care between medical teams, GPs and community services while supporting patients and families through emotionally challenging periods.
“No two days are the same,” she said.
“I might be attending outpatient appointments, visiting patients at home, or supporting them over the phone. A big part of what I do is making sure people feel connected — that they’re not facing this alone.”
Shona’s interest in palliative care developed during eight years working on a medical ward at Mackay Base Hospital, where she witnessed the impact coordinated care could have for patients and families.
“That experience really stayed with me,” she said.
“I could see how much better things could be for patients and families with the right support in place, and I wanted to be part of that.”
Since joining Mackay HHS in 2016, Shona has continued building her expertise, completing postgraduate oncology studies and currently undertaking a Master of Nurse Practitioner in palliative care.
Her current studies include developing a nurse practitioner-led palliative care model aimed at improving access to care, strengthening advance care planning and reducing avoidable hospital admissions.
While many people view palliative care as emotionally difficult work, Shona said she sees it as a privilege.
“It can be emotional, but it’s also a privilege,” she says.
“You’re supporting people through one of the most significant times in their lives. There’s a lot of meaning in helping someone feel comfortable, informed and supported.”
She said the work had also changed her own perspective on life.
“It’s taught me a lot about what truly matters to people, including relationships, comfort, dignity,” she says.
“It gives you a different perspective on life.”
With Kim McPherson, Ben Brightman and Chloe Watson from Valley Veterinary Surgery
From humble beginnings, Valley Veterinary Surgery has spent 25 years growing into a trusted network of family-run clinics, supporting animal-lovers on their best days and worst, and delivering next-level care to pets, livestock and native wildlife.
It all began with a single branch, opened in 2001 by Veterinary Surgeon Kim McPherson and her then-husband Brad Pullen, when their eldest daughter was just seven-months-old.
“I never planned on being a business owner, but it just happened, out of true necessity. We were going to be cane farmers, but the cane was in a real crisis,” Kim said.
Kim and Brad identified the potential for a vet surgery in Walkerston.
It was a risk that depended on the community giving them a chance.
“We were so appreciative of anyone who came to see us,” Kim shared.
Now, Valley Veterinary Surgery has 3 fully-staffed clinics.
“It's unbelievable to look back now and think where we began. It was such a small beginning. We didn't do anything fancy,” Kim reminisced.
“We just said: Let's do this. Let's listen to people, try and help, give good service... And you know, it's just happened.
“We barely had a holiday in six years when we first set up - but they were good times. It was really rewarding to be focused on supporting the Valley. Our girls grew up amongst after-hours emergencies, and sacrifices were endured, but I am so proud of them, one now a doctor and one about to graduate vet science.”
As demand grew, expansion followed, and Valley Veterinary Surgery opened clinics in central Mackay and Marian.
Ten years into the journey, Kim and Brad separated, but the business continued to thrive with his support.
Kim expresses gratitude for Brad’s founding role: “I wouldn't have done this on my own. We were a unit.”
In 2021, Brad’s shares in the business were taken over by Veterinarian Ben Brightman and Vet Nurse Chloe Watson.
Ben and Chloe were already on staff, dedicated to the team and to maintaining the clinic’s core family values.
Ben had grown up with a dream of working with animals. Valley Veterinary Surgery cared for his family pets, and Ben realised it was exactly the kind of clinic he wanted to work for.
“It was just always a great community-minded family vet clinic. They really cared about our pets and our livestock and wanted to do the best thing for us. You had that special relationship with them.”
Chloe was a nurse for Valley Veterinary Surgery between 2012-2018, before moving to the UK. When she returned in 2020, she became head nurse and took on clinic management.
“I never thought I would be a business owner,” Chloe said.
“I never thought it was an option for a vet nurse or a practice manager. But Kim mentioned it to me and said, with my work ethic, it’s something I’d be good at.
“I found myself thinking about it all the time, after that.”
Despite the business’s growth, a close-knit family-feel endures, with senior staff from day one now mentoring recent graduates.
An upcoming milestone for the business includes the addition of a CT scanner, the first between Bundaberg and Townsville.
Day to day, it’s all about making a difference in the community, treating every pet like it’s their own, and supporting owners on their best days and their worst.
What’s your favourite part of the job?
Kim: A client really appreciating our effort.
Ben: The people in the community.
Chloe: Training the young nurses.
valleyvet.com.au
This gorgeous Pioneer Valley property is perfect for the large family that loves an outdoor lifestyle.
Built-in 2003 this expansive, 5 bedroom + office, ranch style home is 420m2 under roof including the 120m2 massive wrap around verandah. With beautiful, timber floors in the living areas, new carpet in the bedrooms, new fans, lights and fresh paint, this home is ready for you to move in and enjoy a peaceful rural lifestyle.
The 12m x 18m powered shed has two 5m x 3.6m roller doors one at each end of the shed; providing ample room for a multitude of vehicles, machinery, toys and workshop space. There is also a 6 x 6 mezzanine and bathroom. The 7.2kW solar and new back up battery provides low cost off grid living without compromising on lifestyle.
Strategically positioned and set back from the road, the house yard includes garden beds and an abundant orchard.
Indoors:
-Massive open plan lounge, dining and kitchen with timber floors, opening out to the wrap around verandah
-Well-appointed kitchen with walk in pantry, quality appliances including a brand new, free standing gas cooker with electric oven, large fridge space and wide timber benchtops and breakfast bar.
-Separate king-size master suite, positioned at the West end of the home with a massive walk-in robe and luxurious master ensuite and study
-Central media room
-4 queen size, bedrooms all with walk-in robes and fans
-Large main bathroom with separate toilet
-Spacious laundry with plenty of storage
-2.7m ceilings and security screens throughout
-Ducted vacuum system
-Solar Hot Water
-New lights, fans, carpet and fresh paint throughout
Outdoors
-Wrap around verandah offering year-round outdoor living and 360 views
6m x 7m shed slab at house ready for garage
-12m x 18m powered shed has two 5m x 3.6m roller doors one at each end of the shed, designed as a drive through
-6 x 6 mezzanine, with bathroom
-Generator change over switch
-7.2kW Solar with new back up battery (2023)
-2 x 10,500Gal water tanks
-Bore, recommended for garden and stock use only
-Productive vegetable garden and orchard
-Septic system, all purpose tank + grease trap
-Purpose built 4T Hoist and ride on mower are available to be purchased separately
-Fully fenced in to three paddocks including the house yard + 8 panel cattle yard
-2.29ha, elevated and well drained.
INCLUDED:
Tractor with attachments and mower available. Both are 18 months old and in good condition.
Trident tractor includes a 4 foot slasher, 4 in 1 bucket , forks, auger attachment and tow hitch attachment.
Dewalt 42 inch ride on mower.
Rates: approx $1335 per ½ year
Build Year 2003
Zoning: Rural Residential
Price: $1.5M
Phone Robyn Agius to book your viewing 0419 216 364
Photo credit: Photos by Nell
Staff, supporters and business partners gathered at M&P Services last Saturday to celebrate 40 years in business with the iconic three Max Lambs who have helped shape the company’s success. The shed-style celebration, complete with a trailer stage, honoured the family-run business and its long-standing contribution to the region.
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox attended the event and praised the milestone, saying, “Congratulations to M&P Services on celebrating 40 years in business in Paget, Mackay!
“A brilliant achievement by this father and son duo, a milestone worth celebrating!”
Wilmar Sugar and Renewables has confirmed start dates for the 2026 sugar production season, with mills across the Burdekin, Proserpine and Plane Creek regions preparing to begin crushing in early June.
The company’s four Burdekin mills; Invicta, Pioneer, Kalamia and Inkerman, along with Plane Creek Mill at Sarina, are scheduled to begin operations on 2 June. Proserpine Mill and the Herbert region’s Victoria and Macknade mills will follow on 9 June.
General Manager Operations James Wallace said the start dates were determined by crop forecasts, factory readiness and expected paddock conditions.
“We've got a bigger crop than last year, and we're keen to get the season under way to minimise the risk of a late finish and the associated challenges of pushing into the wet season,” Mr Wallace said.
“Our goal is to have all of our factories crushed out by mid-to-late November.”
Wilmar is forecasting a statewide crop of 15.19 million tonnes for the 2026 season, almost one million tonnes higher than last year’s total throughput of 14.23 million tonnes.
Regional estimates include 7.97 million tonnes in the Burdekin, 1.67 million tonnes in Proserpine and 1.45 million tonnes at Plane Creek.
General Manager Engineering Istvan Torok said maintenance and upgrade works across factories, rail networks and rolling stock were nearing completion ahead of the season start.
General Manager Cane Supply and Grower Relations Dave Zeller said loco driver training was already under way and reminded motorists to remain vigilant around cane rail crossings.
“We’re reminding residents and visitors to take extra care on the roads and look out for cane trains,” Mr Zeller said.
Coalition representatives are urging the Australian Government to strengthen protections for cane growers as the nation’s Sugar Code of Conduct undergoes a major review.
The review comes as the existing code, introduced by the former Coalition Government, approaches its 10-year sunset period and faces a decision on whether it will be renewed or remade.
Shadow Minister for Northern Australia Susan McDonald said the code had played a critical role in protecting growers during negotiations with large milling companies.
“The Sugar Code of Conduct was introduced for a reason, and it has proven effective,” she said.
“Cane growers often have limited leverage when negotiating with large mills, and the code provides important protections to ensure negotiations are fair and disputes can be resolved. We do not want to see growers lose the safeguards that have helped deliver certainty and stability across the industry.”
Senator McDonald said the review also presented an opportunity to consider how the code could apply to emerging sugar cane products including ethanol and biofuels.
“As the industry evolves into ethanol, biofuels and other value-added products, it makes sense to consult growers and industry about whether sensible adaptations are required,” she said.
“But any future changes must preserve the strong protections already provided under the code.”
Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox said the review needed to recognise the mounting pressures already facing cane farmers.
“This review must recognise that our cane farmers are the ones taking all the risk with mother nature, while dealing with massive global price fluctuations and rising input costs,” he said.
“This Code was designed to level the playing field and ensure that negotiations are handled in good faith. We have already seen Labor leave regional Australians out in the cold in this week’s Budget, and we cannot afford for them to do the same with the Sugar Code.”
Mr Willcox said growers needed to benefit from the industry’s transition into bio-manufacturing and renewable energy sectors.
“As our industry evolves into biofuels, ethanol, and other value-added products, the Code must evolve with it,” he said.
“We need to ensure that our cane farmers are rewarded for the innovation they bring to the sector, not just the raw product they deliver to the mill gate.”
Deputy Leader of the Nationals and Shadow Agriculture Minister Darren Chester said consultation with growers would be crucial throughout the process.
“The Coalition introduced the Sugar Code to give growers practical protections and a fairer playing field, and this review must strengthen those safeguards, not water them down,” he said.
Queensland Natural Resources and Mines Minister and Burdekin MP Dale Last said the Burdekin had previously experienced the uncertainty caused when negotiations between growers and mills stalled.
“A decade ago, the Burdekin witnessed first-hand what can happen when that safety net does not exist and those crucial negotiations are left at a stalemate,” Mr Last said.
Industry consultation and regional shed meetings are expected to form part of the review process in coming months, with growers and communities encouraged to provide feedback.
As regional Queensland continues to grow, so too does the pressure on the services that keep our communities safe. One of the clearest examples of this is in the Pioneer Valley, where rapid population growth is beginning to outpace emergency service infrastructure.
The Pioneer Valley is no longer just a small rural community. Towns like Walkerston, Marian and surrounding areas are expanding quickly through new housing developments, attracting young families, retirees and workers looking for a great regional lifestyle close to Mackay. Today, more than 8,000 people call the Valley home, and that number continues to rise.
With that growth comes responsibility. We must ensure infrastructure and emergency services keep pace with the needs of the community.
Queensland Ambulance Service reviews service delivery across the state regularly, considering factors such as incident demand, response times, road access, demographics, health infrastructure and future growth. These reviews feed into annual local needs assessments to identify future infrastructure and resource requirements.
Recently, I tabled a community petition in the Queensland Parliament calling for a dedicated ambulance station in the Pioneer Valley. The petition, started by Marian resident Erin Sinnamon, has attracted more than 5,000 signatures, a strong sign that local families are concerned about emergency response times.
At present, ambulances responding to emergencies in the Valley are often dispatched from Paget, Beaconsfield or Finch Hatton when available. In some cases, it can take more than 25 minutes for an ambulance to reach Marian from Paget.
In an emergency, minutes matter. Whether it is a cardiac arrest, serious crash, farm accident or medical episode, those delays can have devastating consequences.
This campaign is not about politics. It is about planning ahead and recognising that regional communities deserve the same access to timely emergency care as anywhere else in Queensland.
The Pioneer Valley is growing, and the planning for emergency services must grow with it. Investing in a local ambulance station would not only improve response times, it would provide peace of mind for the thousands of families who proudly call the Valley home.
The excellent trainer team: from left, Zac Borg, Glen Brady, Ron Gurnett and Earl Neilsen
By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay
It is hard to believe that we are already nearing the middle of the year and, with it, the start of the sugar crush season. Millers are planning to steam up across the region on various dates from the first week of June.
This year’s crop has been estimated at 1.45million tonnes in Plane Creek area, and 5.1million tonnes in Mackay milling area.
Across the Mackay region, this is one of the most important times on the agricultural calendar.
The beginning of harvest signals far more than cane being cut and transported to the mill. It also marks the start of a busy period of connected activity across the entire industry, including planting, fertilising, haulage, maintenance, mill operations and the transport and application of valuable mill by-products.
For local communities, it is a time of energy, teamwork and opportunity.
Like many industries across Australia, the sugar industry continues to face a shortage of seasonal and skilled workers. From farms to mills and the many businesses that support them, there is strong demand for people who are willing to step in and be part of a vital regional industry.
Mackay Canegrowers is once again working hard to meet that demand by promoting our industry’s job opportunities locally and nationally. This outreach is about more than filling jobs: it is about inviting people to experience life in the tropical winter, to contribute to an industry that keeps regional communities strong, and enjoy meaningful work during one of the most productive seasons of the year. In particular, Grey Nomads continue to play an important role, bringing experience, reliability and enthusiasm while enjoying a Queensland winter.
As part of this commitment, Mackay Canegrowers has again delivered two haulout driver training courses this month with the support of Queensland Government Skilling Queenslanders for Work funding.
Interest was exceptionally strong, with a record number of nominations received from people of all ages and backgrounds: clear proof that there is genuine community interest in being involved. These four-day courses give participants practical knowledge and hands-on experience across all aspects of haul-out driving, helping them build the skills and confidence needed to work safely and effectively during the crush.
That comes about because of a great training team, with RTO support from Earl Nielsen and Ausintec, and with the real-industry, practical knowledge of the grower-trainer team led by Ron Gurnett, with Zac Borg and Glen Brady. It’s that team who give the course its greatest strength: reality, carved from years of experience.
Mackay Canegrowers sincerely thanks them for sharing their time and equipment. Their efforts are helping create pathways into the industry and building a stronger workforce for the season ahead. For anyone looking for a fresh opportunity, a new skill, or a chance to be part of a proud regional tradition, now is the perfect time to get involved in the sugar industry. Our training courses may be over for the year, but many harvesters are willing to train new workers.
Head to www.mackaycanegrowers.com.au to find out more, and see our jobs board!
Erin Ryley – Manager
With household expenses and personal circumstances constantly changing, now is a great time to make sure your money is still working as hard as possible for you.
A simple financial review can help identify opportunities to improve cash flow, better structure your accounts and potentially help you achieve your goals sooner – whether that’s paying off your home loan faster, building savings or simply feeling more in control financially.
For example – if you're looking to make your home loan work better for you, here are a few strategies to consider:
At Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank, we’re proud to support local people and focus on what matters most to them. As a profit for purpose organisation, every customer who chooses to bank with us also contributes towards investing in our community.
For assistance to review your personal circumstances, come in and see the friendly team at 37 Broad Street, Sarina or call us on 07 4943 2634.
Erin Ryley, Manager
Any advice provided in this article is of a general nature only and does not take into account your personal needs, objectives and financial circumstances. You should consider whether it is appropriate for your situation. Please read the applicable product disclosure statement(s) on our website bendigobank.com.au before acquiring any product. All loans are subject to the bank’s normal lending criteria. Fees, charges, terms and conditions apply and are subject to change. Credit provided by Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Limited ABN 11 068 049 178 Australian Credit Licence 237879.
The late Leah Smith, riding horses fearlessly in shorts. Photo sourced
After losing his wife to asbestos-related cancer in August 2024, Mackay father and widower Phil Smith has spent the past 22 months relentlessly advocating and fundraising through Ride In Shorts For Leah, an initiative to which he has devoted more than 1,200 volunteer hours and raised over $42,000 for asbestos education and disease prevention initiatives.
On May 15th, Mr Smith proudly, yet humbly, received the Queensland New Volunteer Award for 2026.
Advocacy Australia and its Asbestos Education Committee announced the win, presented by the Governor of Queensland, Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM, at Brisbane City Hall.
The recognition comes in the wake of profound loss, following the heartbreaking passing of his wife, Leah Smith.
Leah had unknowingly been exposed to asbestos fibres as a three-year-old when her parents built their family home. At just 49 years of age, and only eight months and one day after her diagnosis, she tragically succumbed to malignant mesothelioma.
She has since been remembered as a woman of great courage, often doing what she loved most – riding horses fearlessly in shorts, with a beer in hand.
It is a legacy now carried forward through Ride In Shorts For Leah.
Since her passing, Mr Smith has become a powerful voice in educating Australians about the dangers of asbestos exposure and the importance of safe renovation practices.
He said the award was dedicated to Leah and to every family impacted by asbestos-related diseases including malignant mesothelioma, lung cancer and asbestosis.
“Leah wanted people to be warned about the dangers of asbestos and how easily exposure can happen when asbestos-containing materials that remain in 1-in-3 Australian homes are disturbed during renovations, maintenance and demolition.
“I made a promise to Leah that I would share our story and if it helps prevent even one family from going through this heartbreak, then everything we’ve done will have been worth it,” Mr Smith said.
“This award doesn’t just acknowledge my efforts. It belongs to Leah, our sons, supporters and volunteers, especially Jade Flack and Stephanie Wood, who supported me through the toughest time of my life and continue to support our Ride In Shorts For Leah fundraising and awareness activities.
“The riders, donors and every person who’s helped raise awareness and funds to support asbestos education across the community; this award belongs to them all,” Mr Smith said.
Advocacy Australia chair and Asbestos Education Committee chair Clare Collins said, “Phil embodies everything volunteering is about - courage, compassion, leadership and service to others.
“What makes Phil’s contribution so remarkable is that his advocacy for asbestos awareness was founded on profound personal loss.
“And yet despite his grief, Phil continues to relive his loss publicly to keep a promise he made to his beloved wife Leah - to protect other Australians from exposure to asbestos fibres that can kill,” she said.
“Through Ride In Shorts For Leah, Phil has not only honoured Leah’s legacy but created a powerful and growing grassroots movement that is helping save lives through awareness and education about asbestos risks,” Ms Collins said.
One thing I’ve been reflecting on lately is how easy it is for all of us, myself included, to look at ideas for Mackay and think, that would be great to have here.
And honestly, many of them would be.
People want things for our region because they care about this place. Whether it’s major events, new facilities, upgraded infrastructure, beautification projects or tourism ideas, most suggestions come from a genuine desire to see Mackay continue growing and improving.
But one of the biggest things I’ve learned sitting at the council table is that wanting something and responsibly delivering it are two very different things.
Another important part of this role is learning perspective, not just pushing my own perception. Every decision carries a cost and a consequence. Not only the cost to build something, but the long-term cost to maintain, operate, repair and sustain it into the future. Those costs are ultimately carried by the community and the ratepayer. That’s perspective.
Everyone knows the cost of living has increased, but what many people may not realise is how unpredictable the broader economic and geopolitical landscape has become. Global instability, supply chain pressures, fuel prices, inflation and shifting economic conditions all flow downstream into local government in different ways. Councils don’t operate separate from those pressures. We feel them too.
That’s why local government has to think beyond announcements and individual ideas. Council has to weigh budgets, legislation, priorities, operational realities and long-term sustainability all at once. Sometimes leadership means asking not only, “would this be good to have?” but also, “is this realistic, achievable and responsible in the long run?”
I think people deserve honesty about that.
One important thing I’ve also learned is that the role of a councillor is strategic, not operational. Under local government legislation, councillors help set the strategic direction of council, represent the community and provide oversight and accountability. The operational side, the day-to-day management and administration, sits with the Chief Executive Officer and council staff.
That doesn’t mean councillors shouldn’t understand how things work. We need to understand projects, systems and community impacts to make informed decisions and remain strategically relevant. But there is a difference between understanding operations and interfering in them.
It’s also important to understand that councillors are not always privy to every detail at every stage. Some matters are legally confidential, commercial-in-confidence or subject to contracts and negotiations that restrict what can be publicly discussed at certain times. That can understandably frustrate people wanting immediate answers, but those protections exist for important reasons.
I also don’t claim to know everything. This is my first term on council, and there are councillors and mayors with several terms and decades more experience and understanding than I have. I respect that. Part of leadership is being willing to learn, ask questions and continue growing into the responsibility of the role.
What keeps me grounded is remembering the people behind the reports and agenda items. Financial decisions affect households already managing rising costs. Infrastructure decisions shape what future generations inherit.
Growing up in a working-class family taught me that most people value practicality, honesty and common sense. They understand that sometimes you can want something while also recognising the need to approach it responsibly.
That’s not negativity. That’s stewardship.
For me, this role has never been about headlines or monuments. It’s about contributing to meaningful and reasonably achievable outcomes that genuinely benefit our region over time.
A growing wave of community concern has emerged following a decision by Mackay Regional Council to repurpose the Gordon White Library in 2027, as part of broader plans linked to the new Northern Beaches Community Hub development.
The council has indicated the Mount Pleasant facility will no longer operate as a full-service library once the new hub opens, with the building instead potentially becoming a broader community-council facility.
The proposal has prompted a wave of feedback from residents who say the library plays an important role in the community.
An online petition titled “Save Gordon White Library”, started by local resident Kristy Dodt, has gathered significant support since launching on May 6th, with 1,913 verified signatures recorded.
The petition states: “The accessibility of this library for people of all ages and abilities makes it an integral part of this community, [which] offers so much to the people who utilise its resources, programs and staff.
“We are asking Council to reconsider any plans to reduce operations at this facility, if they are unable to offer an immediate, viable and accessible alternative option for the community.”
Community members have also shared personal reflections on why the facility matters to them.
One signatory, Irene, wrote: “Three generations of my family use this library because of its accessibility, resources, friendly staff and proximity to where we live.
“It’s such a shame that the community that actually utilises this community hub were not consulted further.”
More than 400 comments have also appeared on a social media post from Mackay Regional Council discussing the proposed changes.
Among them were comments from residents expressing disappointment or concern about the future of the library.
“Whilst I agree a library at northern beaches would be nice, it should not come at the expense of losing Gordon White!” wrote Kayla.
Another resident James added: “This is a terrible decision. The Gordon White library is used by so many people in the community; people from all walks of life: students, the elderly, people living with disability, parents with young children and families in general.”
Annette wrote: “This is the best Library in Mackay.
“Really should consider closing the Mackay city library instead. Much harder to park and sometimes can be quite confronting taking children too. Was a horrible spot to pick.
“Please don’t shut Gordon White.”
Mayor Greg Williamson and Mackay Regional Council CEO Gerard Carlyon have previously assured residents that the Dudley Denny City Library is safe, noting security guards are on site, and that the Northern Beaches Community Hub will feature a world-class library available for all to use.
Council has also stated that it would be unnecessary to have two libraries on the northern side of Mackay, at Mount Pleasant and the Northern Beaches, once the new facility opens.
Under the proposal, the Gordon White building would not be completely closed but could be repurposed as a community space similar to the Jubilee Community Centre, with meeting rooms and offices. A click-and-collect option for library books may also remain available at the site, though it would not be fully operated by library staff.
Discussion around the future of the Mount Pleasant facility continues, with residents and library users sharing a range of views on the proposed changes.
Residents wishing to provide feedback on the proposal can still do so until June 16th 2026 — as the community considers what the next chapter for the Gordon White Library could look like.
OPINION PIECE by Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox
The law is supposed to be the ultimate shield for the vulnerable, yet in Australia it has become a weapon used to dismantle the hard-won boundaries of women and girls.
The recent Full Federal Court decision in the Tickle v Giggle appeal is a watershed moment, representing a ruling that should deeply alarm every Australian who still believes that common sense, safety, and biological reality matter.
By dismissing the appeal of app founder Sall Grover and doubling the damages against her to $20,000, the court has effectively declared that single-sex spaces are no longer legally defensible in our country.
How did we arrive at a point where an Australian woman can spend years in court and hundreds of thousands of dollars just to defend her right to create a female-only network?
The root of this crisis lies squarely within the halls of parliament.
In 2013, the Gillard Labor government amended the Sex Discrimination Act, deliberately introducing the concept of "gender identity" while leaving the definition of "sex" entirely ambiguous.
The courts are now simply interpreting the flawed framework they were handed.
As the legal definition of sex is judicially expanded beyond biology, the protections for women’s changerooms, domestic violence shelters, hospital wards, prisons and sports are being quietly hollowed out.
As a father and a grandfather of girls, I believe this is a matter of absolute principle.
This ruling sends a chilling message to women and girls across our nation that their boundaries do not matter, their privacy is a secondary concern, and their desire for single-sex safety will be treated as unlawful discrimination.
We are witnessing the systematic erasure of female-only spaces, spaces that were built to ensure dignity, privacy, and fairness.
We do not need to look far for a blueprint of sanity.
The United Kingdom Supreme Court previously ruled unanimously that sex means biological sex. Five judges came to a single, common-sense conclusion, and our own laws should be just as clear.
The Coalition will not stand by and watch women's rights be compromised.
In the next sitting of parliament, the National and Liberal Parties will bring this matter forward as a matter of absolute urgency.
We will champion legislative amendments to define the two biological sexes within the Sex Discrimination Act as male and female, reflecting the unchangeable reality of the sex a person is born.
This initiative is not about stripping protections away from any individual, but rather about restoring the foundational right to preserve spaces reserved exclusively for women and girls, as well as men and boys.
The Labor Government created this problem, and consequently, it is up to parliament to fix it.
A society that refuses to define what a woman is will ultimately find itself entirely unable to protect one.
It is time to restore biological reality, eliminate ideological overreach, and return common sense to the laws of our land.
A 29-year-old woman has died following a serious single-vehicle crash at Sarina on May 13th, with the Forensic Crash Unit continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
Around 6.15pm, emergency services were called to reports a Toyota Hilux utility had lost control and crashed on Homebush Road.
The male driver, aged 25, sustained minor injuries, while the female passenger suffered life-threatening head injuries and was transported to Mackay Base Hospital, where she later passed away.
Police are appealing for any witnesses or dashcam footage. Tributes shared online describe her as a “beautiful young woman,” with heartfelt messages of love, loss and condolences from family and friends mourning a life gone too soon.
Volunteers from the Mackay SES are among the thousands of Queenslanders being recognised during the 2026 Queensland Volunteering Awards. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Community volunteers across Mackay and the Whitsundays are being celebrated as part of the 2026 Queensland Volunteering Awards, which recognised nearly 50,000 volunteers across the state.
This year’s awards featured 275 nominations, recognising volunteers working across emergency services, sporting clubs, charities, tourism events and community support programs.
Queensland Minister for Volunteers Ann Leahy said volunteers played a vital role in keeping Queensland communities connected and supported.
“Volunteers are at the heart of our communities, and our government is proud to be delivering practical support and recognition for the people who selflessly give their time to help others,” Minister Leahy said.
Mackay and Whitsundays communities rely heavily on volunteers across major events, surf lifesaving clubs, emergency response groups and local sporting organisations.
“These awards are about honouring the thousands of Queenslanders who step up every day to support others, strengthen communities and deliver real impact across our state,” she said.
CEO of Volunteering Queensland Jane Hedger said volunteers continued to support their communities during challenging economic times.
“At a time when cost of living pressures and increasing demand for support are placing strain on Queenslanders, volunteers continue to step up and be the steady hands helping to hold our communities together,” Ms Hedger said.
Since launching in 2016, the Queensland Volunteering Awards have highlighted the efforts of volunteers and organisations making significant contributions across the state.
The thing about the property market is that it doesn’t stand alone in its own little world untouched by the drama going on around it.
And there is a fair bit of drama at the moment. Let’s get all the dramas to form a conga line and point them out one at a time.
First there’s inflation, an annoying factor that adds to the cost of living and affects people’s ability to buy real estate.
Right behind inflation, and I mean very close, is its brother in arms/partner in crime/long-time bedfellow, interest rates. Interest rates have been particularly pesky lately as the Reserve Bank pushes them up in an attempt to bring inflation down. The idea is to make housing less affordable so you can make housing more affordable.
Then there’s a war in the Middle East. War is very good for business if you are a weapons producer and part of the military-industrial complex but it’s not very good for everyone else. It certainly isn’t good for confidence and housing markets are pretty big on the old confidence factor. So, not good.
This particular war has the additional benefit of taking place in the Persian Gulf, where a fair portion of the world’s oil is transported from Middle East oil producers to the rest of the world. The war has created a traffic jam in the Strait of Hormuz, which is restricting the supply of oil, meaning that in a world of demand and supply the price of fuel at the petrol bowser has gone up significantly. Which means our old friends inflation and interest rates give us another wave from the conga line and remind us of another impact on the property market.
The conga line of dramas was joined this week by the Federal Budget and its changes to negative gearing, up until now a key driver in property investment and the supply of rental properties.
Nothing changes for people who had negatively geared properties up until Budget night. My Pommy colleague Andy Collins, the Sales Manager at Gardian real estate, pointed out after the Budget that there was no way the changes would include investors’ existing properties because too many politicians own investment properties and the pollies wouldn’t do anything to hurt themselves. It’s up to you whether you think Andy is a sniping little Pommy whinger or an astute judge of human nature. Or can he be both?
What Andy correctly pointed out is that from now on investors will be looking for properties that provide such good rental returns that they are positively geared, removing the need for negative gearing.
That’s where Mackay’s strong rental returns come into it. Investors from southern markets have been active in the Mackay market because of those rental returns. When they can get returns like $750 a week on properties they have bought for $650,000, those southern investors realise Mackay offers better opportunities than the high-priced, low-rent options in their own cities.
Andy was suggesting that it is possible that the budget changes will spur even more investment activity in Mackay because the removal of negative gearing makes investments in other markets unviable.
I will delve further into the status of the Mackay market in upcoming columns but there are a few initial points to make.
There is no doubt that, like every other market, the conga line of dramas has had an impact and given buyers pause for thought. But we are still seeing strong buyer activity and properties selling.
As always, the buoyancy of our coal market and the jobs and business it provides will continue to be a driver of our economy and a key factor in the property market.
Will the budget changes create an additional spur to our market and bring more investors in or is that conga line going to have a bigger impact? Stay tuned over the coming months.
With more than three decades of experience and deep roots in the land, Royce Dunn brings unmatched insight to rural property across the Mackay region.
Joining Blacks Real Estate in 1991, Royce is a licensed real estate agent and auctioneer, who has spent the past 25 years as Director leading the agency’s rural department. Over that time, he has built a strong reputation for his knowledge across all areas of property sales and marketing, from farmhouses and grazing land to residential subdivisions.
Coming from a rural background and operating his own small farm, Royce understands the realities of life on the land, and the expectations that come with it. That lived experience allows him to connect with clients on a practical level, offering advice that is grounded, honest and tailored to the needs of farming families.
Known for his straightforward approach and strong work ethic, Royce is committed to delivering results, working closely with clients to navigate the complexities of rural property transactions and achieve the best possible outcome.
From wildlife caring, to country kitchens or supporting people with disability – a world of volunteering opportunities awaits at this year’s Volunteer Expo!
This year’s event is set to be one of the biggest on record, with 55 community, support and other organisations have registered.
The Volunteer Expo is being held at the Mackay Showgrounds on Sunday, May 17 from 9am until midday.
Deputy Mayor Karen May said volunteering is at the heart of sustainable and supportive communities.
“There are so many benefits to volunteering – from the people and organisations being supported, to those who so generously donate their time and skills. It increases community and individual wellbeing and drives positive change in the community,” Deputy Mayor May said.
“What’s great about events like our Volunteers Expo is it gives people a one-stop shop to see what’s out there – and it could be something you’d never thought of,” she said.
“Feedback from previous years shows how valuable this expo is to our community groups, with one organisation signing up more than a dozen volunteers on the day.”
Data from Volunteering Queensland shows that for every $1 invested in volunteering, there’s a $4.70 return to the community.
More than 110,000 jobs were created in 2024 through spending on volunteering – with the sector worth more than $117-billion to the state economy.
Cr May said volunteering gives people to build on their passions while learning new skills and meeting new people.
“It also opens up opportunities beyond the organisation a person volunteers with – it can help build new professional relationships and create new connections,” she said.
“Data from Volunteering Queensland shows the overwhelming majority of people (64 percent) volunteer because they want to help others and the Volunteers Expo has dozens of options for people to help others.
Entry to the Mackay Volunteer Expo is free.
For more information, visit the event page on Facebook
Last week the Whitsunday Counselling and Support organisation hosted their annual Candle Lighting Ceremony in Cannonvale to mark the beginning of Domestic and Family Violence Prevention month.
Each May, the annual initiative aims to raise awareness of domestic and family violence and coercive control. The theme for 2026’s DFV month is: Together Queenslanders can prevent domestic and family violence.
The event saw attendance from Mayor Ry Collins, Cr Jan Clifford and representatives from the Whitsunday Police Station and Whitsunday Counselling and Support.
An acknowledgement of country was provided by Vicky Brimble (Koa Banburi) with music performed by Nicke Di Gregorio.
Manager of Counselling Services at Whitsunday Counselling and Support Sharon Parker presented a powerful speech as she memorialised those lost, and put forward a call to action.
“In our commemoration today, I would ask you to not just think about these deaths as statistics, but to reflect on the people behind the statistics,” Sharon said.
“These were real people, with lives that mattered. They mattered.”
Clothes were displayed to mark the individuals who tragically lost their lives to domestic violence. A list was provided of individuals across Australia who had lost their lives to domestic and family violence over the past two years, with many of the cases still ongoing.
“This is not a comfortable thing to do,” Sharon said.
“I know that whilst compiling this list I got emotional thinking about the victims. However, commemoration is important, as without discomfort, we are rarely moved enough emotionally to make change.”
Sharon defined domestic and family violence, to improve awareness across the region.
“Domestic and family violence is behaviour that occurs between people who are, or have been, in a domestic or family relationship. It is not just physical violence. It can include abuse that is emotional, financial or sexual. Tragically, it can have fatal consequences.”
The speech touched on societal factors that contribute to domestic and family violence.
“We did not arrive here suddenly. This harm has been shaped over time by gender inequality, rigid power structures and attitudes that have normalised control, silence and excuse making,” Sharon shared.
“Misogynistic beliefs and patriarchal standards – when left unchallenged – can normalise control, silence and violence, particularly within homes and relationships.
“Such attitudes can affect women’s safety both at home and in public. Many women live with the risk of domestic and family violence and often are making constant decisions with behaviour, routine or clothes – just to feel safe.”
Sharon has also addressed the impacts of patriarchy and misogyny on men.
“For men it is also harmful. It creates pressure to fit into narrow ideas of masculinity which may discourage men from expressing feelings, showing vulnerability or asking for help. These expectations can negatively affect men’s mental health, relationships and wellbeing. Patriarchy can also limit men’s freedom take on caring roles, seek support or live in ways that don’t fit traditional gender stereotypes.”
Sharon then put forward a call to action, advising community members on how they could show their support.
“Each of us has a role to play. Speaking up matters. We must all challenge sexist or violent language. Refusing to make excuses matters. Listening, believing and supporting survivors matters. Changes comes when individuals choose to reject attitudes that devalue, dismiss or endanger others.
“So today, I challenge you with this call to action. I challenge you to reflect on how you view domestic and family. I challenge you to examine everyday behaviours, attitudes and conversations – and to choose to do better. Real change happens when individuals are willing to challenge what feels familiar and take responsibility for creating safer, more respectful relationships and communities.”
Following on from the vigil on Thursday 14th, a roundtable was led by the DFV Prevention Council at Shute Harbour Marine Terminal. The stakeholder roundtable focused on domestic and family violence (DFV) primary prevention, with a strong emphasis on community-led approaches and collaboration across the region.
The session brought together a range of local leaders and stakeholders, including representatives from council, police, community services and state agencies, to discuss opportunities for strengthening prevention efforts across communities including Airlie Beach/Cannonvale, Proserpine and Bowen.
The focus was to identify local drivers of DFV, map community strengths and resources and explore practical, place-based solutions to help prevent violence before it starts.
If you or someone you know is in a dangerous or life-threatening situation, call Triple Zero (000). If you don’t want to speak to the police you can also call DV Connect on 1800 811 811 or 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732 (24 hours, 7 days a week). You can also go to the Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month website for more details and support.
Australia Post and Beyond Blue are encouraging Mackay region residents to reconnect with loved ones through the nationwide Connection Postcards campaign, which this year celebrates the delivery of its 25 millionth postcard. Photo supplied
Millions of Australians, including households across the Mackay Shire, are being encouraged to reconnect with loved ones as Australia Post and Beyond Blue mark a major milestone in their national Connection Postcards campaign.
This month, four million prepaid postcards are being delivered to letterboxes across the country, with Queensland receiving more than 824,000 cards as part of the initiative aimed at tackling loneliness and social isolation.
The campaign also celebrates two significant milestones, the delivery of the 25 millionth Connection Postcard since the initiative began in 2021, and 25 years of Beyond Blue supporting Australians’ mental health.
Australia Post General Manager Community and Stakeholder Engagement, Nicky Tracey, said the campaign comes at a time when many Australians are feeling increasingly disconnected from their communities.
“More Australians are saying they’re feeling disconnected, and that sense of isolation can have a real impact on wellbeing,” Ms Tracey said.
“This year is particularly exciting as we celebrate 25 years of Beyond Blue supporting Australians’ mental health and deliver the 25 millionth Connection Postcard since the campaign began.
“Connection Postcards are a simple way to reach out, to let someone know you’re thinking of them, and to remind people they’re not alone.”
Recent research from Beyond Blue found only one-third of Australians feel a sense of belonging within their local community, with loneliness and isolation particularly affecting regional and remote areas.
The issue is especially significant for farming communities across regional Queensland, where financial pressures, cost-of-living challenges and extreme weather events continue to impact mental health and wellbeing.
Beyond Blue CEO Georgie Harman AO said simple acts of connection can play a powerful role in supporting mental health.
“Staying connected with others is so important for our mental health, but too many Australians, particularly those in regional and rural communities, are feeling lonely or disconnected,” Ms Harman said.
“Simple, everyday interactions that foster connection, like writing a postcard or saying hello to people in our neighbourhood, are some of the most effective ways to support mental wellbeing and strengthen the relationships we rely on for our mental health.”
Connection Postcards are available through participating Australia Post outlets and can also be ordered online through Beyond Blue’s Connection campaign page. The campaign encourages Australians to send a handwritten message to a friend, family member or neighbour as a reminder that support and connection matter.
When it comes to CPAP therapy, there are plenty of myths that can stop people from getting the sleep they need. The reality is that modern CPAP technology is quieter, smaller and more comfortable than ever. Let’s separate fact from fiction.
Myth 1: CPAP is for old, overweight men
Fact: Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), doesn’t discriminate based on age, gender or body type. While excess weight can often make symptoms worse, a 2025 meta-analysis suggests that roughly 60–70% of people with OSA are not obese at all. Meanwhile, Men are often diagnosed easier and earlier due to classic symptoms like loud snoring or choking during sleep. Women, also suffer from sleep apnea and tend to be overlooked or misdiagnosed as their symptoms differ. Women tend to present with more subtle signs such as insomnia, morning headaches or fatigue especially when approaching menopause.
Myth 2: CPAP machines are loud and bulky
Fact: Modern CPAP machines are quiet, compact and designed for convenience, with features like auto-adjusting pressure and ramp settings to improve comfort. There are even ultra-portable travel CPAP devices that are small enough to fit in your pocket!
Myth 3: CPAP masks are uncomfortable to wear
Fact: Whilst the mask is the most important part of your CPAP setup, technology has made them smaller, lighter and more minimalistic to maximise comfort. Some masks even use ultra-soft memory foam cushions that gently conform to your face. Most people adjust to modern CPAP masks within a few weeks of starting therapy.
The bottom line? CPAP therapy is supper common and the upsides of a great night sleep make it worth a try. At CPAP Direct, we regularly help fit, active individuals, as well as women of all ages, who never expected sleep apnea to be the cause of their symptoms. Ready to start a trial? Visit www.cpap.com.au or call 1300 133 298 to chat with CPAP Direct’s crew.
CANEGROWERS says Queensland’s growing biofuels industry could create major new opportunities for Mackay cane growers. Photo source: CANEGROWERS
Queensland’s push to kick-start a domestic biofuels industry could unlock significant new opportunities for Mackay’s sugarcane sector, according to CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan.
Mr Galligan welcomed the Crisafulli Government’s recent $25 million investment into biodiesel production at Ampol’s Lytton Refinery in Brisbane, describing it as an important first step towards building a stronger and more resilient economy while paving the way for future growth across regional industries.
“While this project may not directly involve sugarcane, it’s an important step in establishing the kind of industry that, with the right investment and policy settings, can unlock significant opportunities for cane growers,” Mr Galligan said.
Queensland’s sugar industry has long advocated for the expansion of a domestic biofuels sector, with the potential to significantly increase ethanol production, generate more green electricity through sugar mills and eventually produce advanced biofuels such as sustainable aviation fuel.
With the Mackay Shire recognised as one of Australia’s largest sugar-producing regions, Mr Galligan said local growers could play a major role in helping power Queensland’s renewable fuel future.
“This is about more than cleaner energy – it’s about building a stronger, more resilient economy, creating new markets for growers, adding value to every tonne of cane, and backing regional jobs and investment,” he said.
“It’s also about fuel security. Recent global disruptions have shown how exposed Australia is to supply shocks, and building a domestic biofuels industry helps reduce that reliance.”
Mr Galligan said ensuring sugarcane remained central to future biofuel production would be critical to delivering the industry at scale and strengthening long-term opportunities for regional Queensland communities.
The announcement comes amid growing national discussions around fuel security, regional manufacturing and reducing Australia’s reliance on imported fuel supplies.
In recent weeks, the Queensland Government announced plans to strengthen the State’s fuel security through expanded local drilling, refining and storage capacity, including unlocking additional infrastructure opportunities at ports across Queensland.
Official expressions of interest have also opened under the new Accelerating Fuel Infrastructure Program, inviting industry proposals for fuel refining and storage projects on government-owned land and ports in Townsville, Mackay, Gladstone, Abbot Point, Bundaberg and Brisbane.
Minister for Natural Resources and Mines and Minister for Manufacturing Dale Last said the focus was now on future-proofing the industry and creating long-term opportunities.
"We know what the challenges are and I’m looking at the opportunities going forward, because that's where we can make the greatest change and get the most benefit," Mr Last said.
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox said recent fuel shortages had exposed critical gaps in Australia’s fuel storage capacity, particularly for regional and agricultural communities.
“This crisis has exposed Australia’s vulnerability to global supply shocks of critical liquid fuels, including in Dawson,” Mr Willcox said.
“We must protect our economic foundations by scrapping the Safeguard Mechanism costs on refineries and lifting the minimum stockholding obligation. This is the only way to ensure that during global disruptions, our tractors keep moving and our supermarket shelves stay stocked.”
CANEGROWERS said it would continue working with government and industry partners to ensure momentum in the biofuels sector translates into practical outcomes for growers and regional communities across Queensland.
Strong, resilient communities are not built overnight, nor are they shaped by one person alone. They are built through the everyday actions of ordinary people who choose to contribute, connect and care about the place they call home; they are built through people working together.
Often, it is the small actions that have the greatest impact.
Simple gestures such as checking in on each other, volunteering at a local sporting club, supporting a local business or participating in a community event all help strengthen the fabric of our community. While these actions may seem minor at the time, together they create a stronger, safer and more connected region.
Across our communities, there are countless examples of people quietly going about their business, making a difference every day. Volunteers dedicate hours to local organisations, emergency services and community groups. Parents help run sporting clubs and school activities. Local businesses support events and sponsorships. Residents take pride in maintaining their streets, parks and neighbourhoods.
These contributions often happen without recognition, but they play a vital role in building community spirit and resilience.
For those looking to get involved, the Mackay Volunteer Expo is a fantastic place to start. Held this Sunday, May 17, from 9am to 12pm at the Mackay Showgrounds, the free event brings together local community groups, not-for-profits and volunteer organisations all in one place. It’s an opportunity to meet people face-to-face, learn about the wide range of roles available, and discover how you can contribute in a way that suits your interests, skills and availability.
Whether you have a few hours to spare or are looking for a longer-term commitment, volunteering is one of the most meaningful ways to support your community, build connections and make a real difference.
In challenging times, small acts of kindness and connection become even more important. Many people are facing all sorts of pressures, uncertainty and personal challenges, and a supportive community can make a real difference in someone’s life.
Community is about more than roads, buildings and infrastructure. It is about people feeling connected, valued and supported. It is about creating places where families feel welcome, young people have opportunities and residents feel proud of where they live.
As councillors, we can help support this by investing in public spaces, supporting local initiatives and listening to the priorities of residents. However, the strength of any community ultimately comes from the people within it.
Every positive action, no matter how small, contributes to the kind of community we want to build for the future.
By continuing to support one another and taking pride in our local area, we can ensure our community remains strong, welcoming and connected for generations to come.
Mackay State High School has celebrated the academic achievements of its students during the school’s recent Term 1 Academic Awards Ceremony.
Held on Thursday, the ceremony recognised students for their dedication to learning, commitment to excellence and strong academic performance throughout the term.
Awards presented included Bronze, Silver and Gold Academic Awards, alongside Principal’s Awards and Spirit Awards.
The school said the achievements reflected the hard work, persistence and high standards consistently demonstrated by students across a range of year levels and subject areas.
Staff, students and families gathered to acknowledge the recipients and celebrate the positive learning culture fostered within the school community.
Mackay State High School congratulated all award winners on their success and thanked staff and families for their ongoing support in helping students achieve their best.
The school shared the celebration online, highlighting the pride felt across the Mackay High community for the students’ accomplishments.
Youth Advisory Council students from Moranbah and Dysart explored autonomous mining technology during a visit to BMA’s Goonyella Riverside Mine, gaining insight into future industry careers. Photo supplied
The 2026 Youth Advisory Council (YAC) has launched into action with a hands-on visit to BMA’s Goonyella Riverside Mine, giving local students a front-row seat to the technology shaping the future of the Bowen Basin.
Students from Moranbah State High School and Dysart State High School explored the site last month, gaining firsthand insight into autonomous haul trucks and the Remote Operations Centre. The experience highlighted how innovation and automation are transforming mining operations—and the skills young people will need to thrive in the region’s evolving workforce.
The visit also marked an important milestone for the group, forming part of their early meetings for the year as they begin contributing their perspectives to local planning and development. During the session, Jo-Anne Birch from Smart Transformation shared findings from a recent student voice survey, prompting discussions around priorities, challenges, and opportunities for young people across Moranbah and Dysart.
Established in 2019 by Smart Transformation, the Youth Advisory Council is supported by BMA and the Department of Education, in partnership with Moranbah State High School and Dysart State High School. The program plays a key role in helping the community navigate the shift into the Fifth Industrial Revolution (5IR), ensuring young voices are included in shaping strategies that aim to future-proof local towns and support long-term sustainability.
With 16 students selected annually from Years 9 to 12, the council brings together a diverse group of young people, each contributing their perspectives through a series of meetings and industry engagements. Their input feeds directly into the Smart Transformation Project and the region’s Community Roadmap.
YAC Program Coordinator Jo-Anne Birch said the initiative was about preparing students for real-world change while giving them a meaningful platform.
“Our young people are already thinking about the future of their towns, and this program gives them the opportunity to contribute to real decisions,” Ms Birch said.
“Experiences like the Goonyella visit help them understand how industries are evolving and where they can fit into that future.”
A BMA Goonyella Riverside spokesperson said the partnership was an investment in both community and workforce development.
“We’re proud to support the Youth Advisory Council and give students insight into the technology and innovation driving our operations,” the spokesperson said.
“It’s important they can see the career pathways available right here in the Bowen Basin.”
As the program continues, students are preparing for an upcoming trip to Brisbane, where they will attend the Australian Manufacturing Week exhibition, and visit BHP’s Integrated Operations Centre. The experience is expected to further broaden their understanding of advanced industry and future career pathways.
With more opportunities ahead, the 2026 YAC cohort is building the knowledge, confidence and connections needed to help guide their communities through a time of rapid change.
Photo source: St Patrick's College Year 7-12 Mackay
St Patrick’s College students have achieved an outstanding result at the recent Science and Engineering Challenge Day, finishing first in the Mackay region. The competition saw students put their problem-solving, creativity and teamwork to the test across a range of STEM-based activities, including bridge building, plane design and flight challenges, and the “Grab Lab” lifting task.
Photo source: Holy Spirit College Mackay
Holy Spirit College is proud to celebrate its 30th anniversary in 2026, marking three decades of excellence in education, faith formation, and community spirit.
Since its foundation, Holy Spirit College has been dedicated to nurturing young people academically, spiritually, and socially. Guided by Catholic values and the spirit that inspires its name, the College has built a strong reputation as a vibrant and supportive learning community.
To commemorate this significant milestone, the College will host a full day of celebrations on Friday 22nd May 2026, bringing together students, staff, and invited guests to honour its rich history and bright future.
The day will begin with a Feast Day Mass, offering the community an opportunity to reflect with gratitude on the College’s 30-year journey. The College is especially honoured to welcome Bishop Michael McCarthy (Catholic Bishop – Diocese of Rockhampton), who will preside over the Mass. This occasion will also mark Bishop Michael’s final official Mass at Holy Spirit College ahead of his retirement, making the celebration particularly meaningful for the College community.
Following the Mass, the festivities will continue with a carnival celebration on the College oval, featuring a wide range of activities and entertainment. Students will enjoy dodgem cars, carnival rides, a rock-climbing wall, inflatables, a petting zoo, face painting, and a variety of food stalls, including a traditional sausage sizzle. A highlight of the day will be the ceremonial cutting of the 30th anniversary cake.
Principal Mrs Alison Wales said the anniversary is a time to reflect on the College’s achievements and the people who have shaped its story.
“This celebration is an opportunity to honour our past, celebrate who we are today, and look forward with hope and excitement to the future. Holy Spirit College has always been a place where our students are supported to grow in faith, learning and life, and we are incredibly proud of the community we have built over the past 30 years.”
The College looks forward to all students participating in this historic celebration and sharing in a day of joy, connection, and community spirit.
Mackay HHS Chief Executive Sean Birgan, Director of Midwifery and Nursing Operations Susan Sweeney, award winners Lisa-Maree Foscarini, Belinda Korneliussen and Natasha Walters, with Mackay HHS Executive Director of Nursing and Midwifery James William Jenkins. Photo supplied
Three Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) midwives have been acknowledged for their dedication in delivering skilled and compassionate care to women and their families.
Mackay HHS staff, including the Mackay Base Hospital Women’s Health Unit, celebrated the midwifery profession and acknowledged the outstanding contributions of their colleagues as part of International Day of the Midwife celebrations on Tuesday 5th May.
The Mackay HHS delivers more than 1650 babies every year so it is very important to recognise the vital work midwives do for women, babies and families, Mackay HHS Executive Director Nursing and Midwifery James William Jenkins said.
“Having a baby is one of the most significant and memorable events in a parent’s life and midwives play a vital role in helping care for that most precious of gifts,” he said.
International Day of the Midwife was an opportunity to recognise midwives’ ongoing commitment to maternal and newborn health and always placing women and families at the centre of care.
At an awards ceremony held at Mackay Base Hospital today, three awards were presented to staff acknowledging excellence in the profession.
The 2026 award recipients were:
Midwifery is a very rewarding career where unique relationships are established with women to make a real difference to their pregnancy, birth and early parenting, Mr Jenkins said.
“Today we congratulate our colleagues and the recipients of these awards and thank all midwives for your dedication to midwifery and the valued role you play in bringing new life into the world,” he said.
“It’s a privilege to be there at the beginning of new life as women become mothers and provide the best advice as families embark on the journey of parenthood.
“Midwives provide a safe place for women to discuss issues and build trusting relationships throughout the duration of pregnancy, labour, birth and the postnatal care.
“It’s through these relationships midwives become trusted members of families and communities,” Mr Jenkins said.
Each year on International Day of the Midwife, Proserpine Hospital also presents the Isabelle Morris Memorial Award. The award is named in honour of Proserpine midwife Isabelle Morris who worked at the hospital for over 30 years supporting women’s maternal health.
The award recognises an outstanding local midwife for their dedication and contributions to the health of women, babies and families across the Whitsunday region. This year the award was presented to Proserpine clinical midwife Shania Lade.
International Day of the Midwife is celebrated each year on 5th May by more than 50 nations and is co-ordinated by the International Confederation of Midwives.
Sarina Youth Centre students are gaining hands-on media skills through the SYC Create program, learning photography, videography and storytelling in a 10-week creative initiative. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Young people are discovering the power of media through a hands-on program designed to introduce them to the world of visual storytelling.
The SYC Create program is a ten-week initiative that teaches young people the basics of videography and photography while encouraging friendships and confidence.
Youth Development Officer PJ Burridge said the program was designed to give participants a practical introduction to creating their own visual content and using editing software, so they can begin producing their own projects.
“We’re running a ten-week program called SYC (Sarina Youth Centre) Create which gives younger people the basics of videography and photography, learn how to use cameras, a little bit of technology and how to do some editing,” she said.
Youth Worker Joshua Myers said learning creative skills remained important for young people, particularly as technology continues to evolve.
“I really do think it’s important for students to learn these skills, especially with the age of AI, because it’s such a useful skill to have. If you can make your own content it’s a fantastic route for young people to go down.”
“It’s important to stay creative,” he said.
Ms Burridge said the program also plays a valuable role in bringing young people together.
“We find it’s a good space for young people to meet each other and connect,” she said.
For participants, the program is already making a difference.
Student Georgia Little-Thompson said she has been learning how to film, take photographs and use a camera.
“It’s really good and it’s very informational,” she said.
While she hopes to pursue a Law career in the future, she said photography is also something she enjoys.
“It’s a very versatile and an inclusive hobby.”
She said the centre had helped her form strong friendships over the years.
Her advice to other youth people, is that, “You’re never alone.”
“There is always someone there for you even if you don’t know it at that moment,” she said.
Student Robert Jones said the program has introduced him to visual arts and the technical side of recording and photography.
“We’re learning about the visual arts and how recording and photography work – which has been really cool.”
Another student, Bonnie Sutton, said she had been involved in creating a short promotional video for the centre, helping with storyboards, directing and acting.
“I’ve made some new friends which has been good. People here are very kind and respectful,” she said.
Bonnie said the program had also helped her learn how to use a camera and build on her interest in taking and editing portraits, which she hopes the skills will support her future ambitions in photography and fashion design.
Mackay journalist Hannah McNamara from Life Publishing Group attended the evening, sharing tips, insights into journalism and photography, and answering questions from students alongside Ms Burridge and Mr Myers.
What if the next step toward your future was waiting just around the corner?
Students, job seekers and anyone exploring their next career chapter are invited to the 4th annual Mackay Careers Expo at the Mackay Showgrounds on Thursday, 6 August 2026, from 9am to 2pm. With free entry, the event opens the door to a world of possibilities, bringing together a wide range of career, employment and training opportunities available across Australia.
Presented by CareersEvent.com, the expo has specialised solely in career expos since 1995. Drawing on decades of experience and an extensive national database, the organisation has developed events that have grown to be recognised as some of the most comprehensive careers, employment and training expos in Australia.
For many young people, the transition from school to the workforce can feel uncertain. The Mackay Careers Expo is designed to make that journey clearer, offering students the opportunity to explore a wide range of academic and career pathways and discover a future that feels right for them.
Visitors can expect an engaging day of inspirational talks and practical advice on the application process, alongside interactive stands where organisations showcase the latest opportunities available across multiple industries.
Current student representatives will also be present to share firsthand insights about studying different subjects, giving attendees the chance to ask honest questions and gain a clearer understanding of potential study paths.
Don’t miss out on the chance to explore opportunities, gain insight and take the first step toward a meaningful career. This is an expo not to be missed!
Learn more at careersevent.com.au
Mary Steel with one of Mackay Riding for Disabled horses, Clancy. Photo supplied
Mary Steel has been described as a woman of great strength, faith and tireless generosity.
Her spirit of giving, humble leadership and compassion touched many lives and she is dearly missed by the communities she served so faithfully.
Mary passed away on May 3rd 2026 at Mackay Base Hospital, aged 66, following what her family described as a short but courageous battle with ovarian cancer.
Born on 15th April 1960, Mary spent much of her life giving back to the community she loved through Mackay Riding for Disabled, leaving behind a legacy defined by selflessness, service and kindness.
In a statement shared by her family on a social media platform, they reflected on the woman whose warmth touched so many around her.
“Mary will be remembered for her strength, warmth and the deep love she had for those around her. She leaves behind family and many friends who cherished her dearly and will carry her memory with them always.”
For more than two decades, Mary poured her heart into Mackay Riding for Disabled, becoming a pillar of the organisation and a champion for riders with disabilities across the region.
Mary first joined in 2003, assisting in lessons and learning to sidewalk and lead horses before gradually becoming involved in nearly every aspect of the organisation up until 2026. She learned about horse care, helped maintain the 12-acre property and took on hands on tasks such as paddock and fencing maintenance, which was no small undertaking.
Alongside the practical work, she helped drive fundraising efforts, selling raffle tickets, cooking sausage sizzles and speaking publicly and on television to attract sponsors and raise vital funds for the charity.
Within just a few years, Mary’s passion for the organisation saw her voted into the role of President.
“Within the first couple of years Mary was voted in to become President - even though she glared at everyone, (so funny and so Mary) - they all still wanted her,” Lisa said.
Despite her new leadership role, Mary remained hands on. While dedicating countless volunteer hours to the organisation, she also balanced a busy life running a business partnership, caring for her family and home and remaining actively involved in her church community.
After many years as President, Mary eventually handed the role to another volunteer but remained closely involved, joining the committee as Treasurer and using her knowledge to help computerise the charity’s financial records.
Still, she continued to do more. Mary began training to become a Riding for Disabled coach and later stepped into the role of Horse Master, helping care for the organisation’s five horses alongside other passionate team members.
Her extraordinary efforts were recognised nationally in 2024 when she received the Volunteer Service Excellence Award from Riding for the Disabled Association Australia.
Roslyn Ferguson, a fellow member and volunteer at Mackay Riding for Disabled, said Mary’s work often happened quietly, without recognition, but its impact was immeasurable.
“Mary was a quiet achiever, unknown to most of the community but extremely giving to the disabled adults and children of Mackay.
“We will miss her dearly.”
Mater Private Hospital Mackay nurse Catherine Chamberlain is celebrating 40 years in the profession, reflecting on a “very rewarding” career shaped by compassion, teamwork and meaningful moments with patients and families. Photo supplied
After more than four decades in nursing, Catherine Chamberlain says it is often the small moments with patients that stay with her most. A familiar face at Mater Private Hospital Mackay for 40 years, she has worked across nearly every ward in the hospital and spent the past three decades caring for palliative patients and their families.
Catherine first began working at the Mater in 1981 before taking time off to care for her family. She returned to the hospital in 1986 and has remained there ever since.
Working in palliative care, she said the experiences that stay with her most often involve simple appreciation from patients and their loved ones.
“When you walk into the room and their face lights up, and they say, ‘Oh, you’re here’… it’s just nice to know that they appreciate what you do for them,” she said.
Asked to describe her career in a few words, Catherine said it had been “very rewarding.”
“When you see the people’s smiles on their faces, even if they got pain and they’re smiling through their pain, it’s just so worth it,” she said.
Originally, she had planned to work as a surgical nurse, but a short-term opportunity in palliative care changed the course of her career.
“I always thought I would be a surgical nurse but there was a gap in the palliative ward about 30 years ago, I offered to help for a week or two and I’m still here,” Catherine said.
“I’m here for the people.
“When you walk in a room and instantly see relief on their face, that’s what I do it for.”
She also credits the supportive environment at the hospital as one of the reasons she has stayed for so many years.
“When you walk into the Mater… someone’s always got a smile, somebody will say hello, and you think, ‘Okay, I can do this today. I’ve got a good team’,” she said.
Nursing has also become a family tradition, with Catherine’s two daughters following in her footsteps.
“My eldest joined me on a few shifts when she was a student nurse.
“It was a proud moment,” she said.
“In my early years I also worked with my brother, who was an enrolled nurse, but he went onto teaching.”
While she once imagined becoming a science teacher during her high school years, having aunties and family members already working in healthcare led her to where she is today.
“You don’t need much reward in this job – just a nice smile is enough,” she said.
Outside of nursing, Ms Chamberlain is a grandmother of eight and enjoys gardening, reading and travelling, and hopes to spend more time exploring with her husband in the years ahead.
Labor’s Budget of broken promises and cuts has obliterated a fair go for Dawson, while doubling down on its tone-deaf reckless race to renewables and net zero fantasy.
The Prime Minister’s lies will increase taxes, lower living standards and cut funding to Dawson.
“Regional Australians in Dawson are the innocent victims of Labor’s all-out assault on aspiration,” Andrew Willcox MP said.
“Labor’s broken promises on tax betrays the trust of families in Dawson and will see regional Australians pay more.
“Even on Labor’s own figures, disposable income per capita will fall and real wages will decline.
“Labor knows that their Budget cheats Australians in Dawson, because they have issued a cheat sheet to all of their MPs.
“In the regions, not only does Labor’s Budget make people poorer, they also suffer cuts to the productivity-enhancing infrastructure that could make all Australians richer.”
Mr Willcox described this budget as a high-tax, high-spending blueprint that abandons the people of regional Queensland.
“Labor is attempting to distract families with a $250 tax benefit that most people won’t even see in their bank accounts until 2028.
“This is a slap in the face, it doesn't even cover the promised $275 power bill reduction that Anthony Albanese failed to deliver.
“The message from this government to every Australian who has worked hard to get ahead is clear: here come the taxes.
“By raiding the capital gains discount and scrapping negative gearing for future purchases of established homes, Labor is penalising success and making it even harder for the next generation to achieve the Australian dream.”
Across the Budget, regional Australians face at least $11 billion worth of cuts, including:
Mr Willcox said that despite cutting funding to essential services in the regions, Labor continues to blow a small fortune on its net zero obsession.
“This Budget reveals that Labor will spend another $18.2 billion on net zero,” he said.
“Labor’s net zero spending now equals at least $80 billion. This does not include the massively expensive Capacity Investment Scheme, because Labor continues to hide the cost of its renewable energy subsidies.
“Labor’s dodgy and disastrous net zero ambition is unravelling, but rather than admit defeat, Labor continues to waste taxpayer funds in Dawson, in a desperate attempt to keep net zero on life support.
“Net zero is dead and the sooner Labor recognises that, the more money Australians will save.
“The Nationals will dump net zero and we will fight tooth and nail at the next election to stop this madness, which has come to a terrible head in this Budget.
“All Labor’s extra net zero spending does is fuel inflation and see interest rates climb higher. Labor’s broken promises Budget adds another $12 billion in extra spending over the next two years from its policy decisions.”
Mr Willcox also noted that Labor’s addiction to mass migration is also adding to inflationary pressures.
“Labor plans for almost 300,000 people to migrate to Australia (in net terms) next financial year,” he said.
“Labor is ignoring the will of the Australian people who want to see lower migration so that the pressure on housing, hospitals and other services is reduced. This Budget sees Labor overshoot its migration target by 90,000 people over the next two years.
“Labor has flown the white flag on trying to increase the wealth of Australians. This Budget does not invest in new roads, new dams and new mines to increase Australia’s economy. Under Labor’s Budget, mining investment falls to ZERO in 2027-28.
“The Nationals believe that Australia can deliver higher living standards, but only if we unleash our nation’s latent potential by using all of our resources and talent.”
Contributed with thanks to the office of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox MP
Photo source: Mackay Noticeboard (Facebook)
A simple act of kindness has captured attention across the Mackay region after a stranger left a heartfelt card containing $20 on a car at a local shopping centre on Mother’s Day.
The gesture, discovered at Caneland Central, was shared online and quickly resonated with the community, gaining more than 2,000 likes and reactions on Facebook.
The recipient described the moment as deeply moving in a post to a local community page.
“So I went to Canelands today. And came back to this placed under my wiper blade. Whoever left it, I just want to say a huge Thank You! I was so humbled by your generosity. I will buy a little something to remind me that there are still kind and beautiful people in this world. And you can be assured that I will certainly pass on the Love. Thank You once again,” she wrote.
Residents responded warmly, with many calling it a “lovely surprise” for the woman to receive such a gift on Mother’s Day. Others praised the anonymous gesture, describing both the act and the person behind it as beautiful.
“There really are some amazing people in this world,” one commenter said.
While the identity of the kind stranger remains unknown, the moment has sparked widespread reflection online, with locals saying it is a reminder that there are still good people out there, that faith in humanity is slowly being restored, and good people like the secret giver deserve the same fate in return.
The 2026 International Nurses Day Awards celebrated outstanding nursing staff from across the Mackay Hospital and Health Service region, recognising excellence in patient care, clinical practice, education and community health. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Local nurses were celebrated for the immeasurable care, compassion and expertise they bring to the community during the annual International Nurses Day Awards at Mackay Base Hospital.
Hosted by Mackay Hospital and Health Service, the event recognised outstanding contributions from nursing staff working across the region’s hospitals, health services and community facilities. Observed worldwide on May 12th, International Nurses Day honours the legacy of Florence Nightingale and the vital role nurses play in healthcare.
Among those recognised were Clinical Nurse Consultant Samantha Bullman for her specialist work supporting patients with complex gastrointestinal conditions, and long-serving clinical nurse Sarah McDeed, whose decades of service earned her the McFadzen Perpetual Award. Together with more than 1,400 nurses working across the Mackay HHS region, the award recipients represent the passion, skill and teamwork that underpin healthcare across our local communities.
Nurses across the Mackay region were recognised for their immeasurable care and compassion at the annual International Nurses Day Awards held last Tuesday.
Hosted by Mackay Hospital and Health Service at Mackay Base Hospital, the ceremony celebrated the vital role nurses play in supporting the health and wellbeing of communities across the region.
International Nurses Day is observed globally each year on May 12th, marking the birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale. The day provides an opportunity to recognise the people who form the backbone of healthcare systems worldwide.
Across the Mackay Hospital and Health Service region, more than 1,400 nurses work in hospitals, multi-purpose health services and community health facilities, making up more than half of the workforce.
Among those honoured was Clinical Nurse Consultant Samantha Bullman, who received the Clinical Nurse Specialty Award for her work in gastroenterology.
Based at Mackay Base Hospital, Samantha supports patients living with complex gastrointestinal conditions, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
She said the recognition was particularly meaningful during Crohn’s and Colitis Awareness Month and highlighted the importance of specialist care in regional areas.
“Nursing for gastroenterology, especially Crohn’s and colitis in regional areas, is quite disparate, so having someone in this area that can provide expertise and care for these people is essential,” she said.
Having worked in nursing for about 11 years, Samantha said her motivation came from wanting to support patients and families during difficult times.
Long-serving clinical nurse Sarah McDeed was also recognised, receiving the McFadzen Perpetual Award.
Sarah began her training in Adelaide in 1971 and has spent decades working in the profession, witnessing significant changes in healthcare over the years.
“It was a huge shock… I was quite humbled,” she said.
She said nursing had always been about collaboration and teamwork, especially in regional areas like Mackay.
“You can’t do it on your own. You have to do it as a team,” she said.
Chief Executive of Mackay Hospital and Health Service, Sean Birgan, said nursing remained one of the most rewarding professions.
Sean began his own nursing career in 1984 and has since worked across Queensland and internationally, including helping establish a critical care unit in Indonesia following the 2002 Bali bombings.
“Nursing is a fantastic profession… it’s provided me with great opportunity,” he said.
“If you want to get into a profession that’s caring and makes a difference to the lives of many people, you really can’t go past nursing.”
2026 Mackay Hospital and Health Service International Nurses Day Award winners:
• Excellence in Patient Care (patient/consumer nominated): Jodi-Ann Maguire – Clinical Nurse Consultant, Mental Health, Mackay
• AIN Commitment to Care Award: Charli Clark – Assistant in Nursing, Clermont MPHS
• Clinical Excellence Award (Rural): Georgia Button – Clinical Nurse Consultant/NUM, Dysart Hospital
• Our Mob Together Strong Health Equity Nursing Award: Jenny Gething – Clinical Nurse Consultant, Better Connected Care, Mackay Base Hospital
• CQUniversity Graduate of the Year Award: Hazel Madziva – Registered Nurse, Clermont MPHS
• McFadzen Perpetual Award: Sarah McDeed – Clinical Nurse, Mackay Base Hospital
• Clinical Nurse Specialty Award: Samantha Bullman – Clinical Nurse Consultant, Gastroenterology, Mackay Base Hospital
• James Cook University Outstanding Contributions to Student Learning (Unit): F0 Medical Ward, Mackay Base Hospital
• James Cook University Outstanding Contributions to Student Learning (Individual): Jeffrey Dunbavan – Clinical Nurse, F0 Mackay Base Hospital
Police have released vision of a 46-year-old woman arrested today with the murder of a 71-year-old man following his reported disappearance from Mackay in November 2025. Photo source: QPS
A Mackay woman has been charged with murder following an extensive police investigation into the suspicious disappearance of a 71-year-old man last year.
Detectives from the Queensland Police Service Mackay Criminal Investigation Branch and Homicide Investigation Unit arrested the 46-year-old woman in Mackay at approximately 9:30am on Thursday, 8 May.
Police allege the woman was known to the missing man, who was last reported missing in November 2025.
Investigations into the man’s disappearance began after concerns were raised when he had not contacted family or acquaintances and had not been seen for several weeks. Detectives later formed the belief the disappearance was suspicious.
The woman has since been charged with one count each of murder and interference with a corpse.
She was expected to appear before the Mackay Magistrates Court later on Thursday.
Police have also released vision relating to the arrest as investigations continue.
Anyone with information is urged to quote the reference number: QP2502035864 and contact Policelink via www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or Crime Stoppers Queensland via calling 1800 333 000 or reporting online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Video Link: r2.mypolice.qld.gov.au/uploads/2026/05/08/033610_update-3-suspicious-disappearance-mackay-v2.mp4
Isaac small businesses can now apply for up to $15,000 in recovery grants to help cover costs and rebuild after recent severe weather disruptions. Photo source: Shutterstock
Small businesses across the Isaac region can now access fresh financial support, with new disaster recovery grants opening to help operators get back on their feet after a tough wet season.
The Small Business Recovery Assistance Grants, funded by the Albanese and Crisafulli Governments, offer up to $15,000 for eligible businesses indirectly impacted by recent severe weather through isolation, supply chain disruptions and limited access.
Part of a $990,000 package, the funding can be used for essential costs such as wages, rent, replacing damaged or spoiled stock, and marketing to rebuild customer bases.
To qualify, businesses must have been unable to trade or experienced at least a 70 per cent drop in revenue compared to the same period last year.
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said the funding recognises the long road to recovery.
“Recovery is so much more than what happens in the days and weeks following a disaster and I hope this latest support reinforces to people that the Albanese Government is are still there with them,” Minister McBain said.
“Small businesses are part of the heart and soul of communities, especially those in rural and remote areas, and by helping local business we are helping the whole community remain healthy and strong.”
Queensland Minister for Small and Family Business Steve Minnikin said the grants were designed to support those feeling the ripple effects of disasters.
“We are helping small businesses bounce back so they can continue to do what they do best, driving our economy forward,” Minister Minnikin said.
“The Small Business Recovery Assistance Grants are set up for small businesses who may not have been directly hit by severe weather or flooding, but experienced significant financial loss due to the disasters.”
The funding adds to existing disaster support measures already rolled out across Queensland, as communities continue to recover from a string of severe weather events.
Isaac businesses can apply now, with more information available via the Queensland Government’s business and disaster assistance websites; www.disasterassist.gov.au or www.qra.qld.gov.au.
Tenants across Mackay are increasingly sharing homes as tight vacancy rates and rising living costs reshape the local rental market. Photo source Mackay Regional Council
Living alone is increasingly out of reach for many Mackay renters, with new data showing more tenants are teaming up to share the cost of housing.
The latest report from the Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) found the state’s vacancy rate has tightened to 0.9 per cent, with Mackay sitting at just 1.2 per cent; well below what’s considered a ‘healthy’ market.
REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said rising living costs are changing how people approach renting.
“We are seeing a clear shift in rental behaviour, with more tenants forming co-tenancies - joining forces to share costs and expand their options,” Ms Mercorella said.
“Pooling resources can open the door to higher-quality properties or better-located homes that might otherwise be out of reach for individuals renting alone.”
She said while co-tenancy is offering short-term relief, it’s not a long-term fix.
“To ease pressure sustainably, we need to address the underlying issue of housing supply,” she said.
Despite slight easing in some areas, rental markets across Queensland remain tight, with affordability continuing to challenge renters across regional centres like Mackay.
“I tried Facebook ads, but they are not working for my company”
This is one of the most common frustrations in small business marketing. And while it’s easy to blame the platform, Facebook ads are rarely the actual problem; they simply amplify what’s already there.
If your ads aren’t working, the first place to look is your offer. Is it clear? Is it relevant? Would someone instantly understand why they should care? If not, ads will just push more people to ignore it faster.
Next is your creative. On platforms like Facebook and Instagram, you’re competing with endless content for attention. If your ad doesn’t stop the scroll within seconds, it won’t matter how good your product or service is; people won’t stick around long enough to find out.
Then there’s what happens after the click. Many businesses focus on getting traffic but forget about the experience that follows. A slow, confusing, or unclear website will lose potential customers quickly, making it seem like the ads failed when they actually did their job.
Finally, expectations play a big role. Ads aren’t an instant win. They require testing, refining, and learning from data. Turning them off too early is one of the fastest ways to guarantee they “don’t work.”
Instead of asking whether ads are broken, ask what they’re revealing. Because when used properly, they don’t just drive results, they show you exactly what needs fixing. If you don’t have the time or energy to learn them properly, it’s often smarter to work with a professional who can either teach you or manage them for you. In the long run, it usually costs less and, more importantly, it helps you make more.
My Hospital Foundation volunteers, proudly supported by Community Bank Sarina, pictured at a recent thank you morning tea alongside Community Bank Sarina and My Hospital Foundation board directors and staff. Photo supplied
Volunteers keep the wheels turning in our communities, whether it’s your local footy and netball coaches, a volunteer providing comfort to patients in hospital or a member of your children’s school P&C, they give their time and energy to support others every day.
National Volunteer Week (18–24 May) is Australia’s largest annual celebration of volunteering. It recognises the contribution of millions of volunteers across the country and invites everyone to discover how giving their time and talents can create connection, purpose and stronger regions.
This year’s theme, ‘Your Year to Volunteer’, encourages us to take a moment to thank those who already give their time and to invite others to discover how volunteering can create lasting positive impact.
At Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank, we see firsthand the difference volunteers make through our Community Engagement Program. Since 2005, more than $5 million has been invested into a wide range of organisations and initiatives, many of which are driven by volunteers who are passionate about strengthening our region.
From supporting local sporting clubs and groups to contributing to health services and education initiatives, these volunteer efforts build community capacity and create opportunities for connection.
That connection is reflected in the organisations we support, including Sarina Surf Lifesaving Club, My Hospital Foundation Volunteers and QCWA branches across our region, where volunteers play a vital role in keeping people safe, connected and supported.
Our approach to supporting community is guided by the four pillars of our Community Impact Strategy, which focuses on strengthening connection and leadership, enhancing health, wellbeing and liveability, fostering economic growth and improving youth engagement and education. Volunteers are at the core of initiatives across these pillars that support shaping a vibrant and resilient region.
National Volunteer Week is an opportunity to recognise and thank those who give their time so generously and perhaps consider how you might get involved. Whether it’s lending a hand at a local club, supporting a group or sharing your skills, volunteering is a powerful way to connect and truly make a difference.
From all of us at Community Bank Sarina, thank you to the volunteers across our region.
Photo 1) L-R Community Bank Sarina Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich, Community Bank Sarina Chair Karen May, CQUniversity scholarship recipients Angus Lynch, Shaylee Noy, Luke Reeves, Reed Beveridge and Jasmine Bourke, alongside CQUniversity Professor Rob Brown, Community Bank Sarina Director Anne Fordyce and Community Bank Sarina Director Rainee Shepperson. Photo supplied
New opportunities await six first year CQUniversity students after receiving scholarships from Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank, in association with CQUniversity.
Mackenzie Contor, Angus Lynch and Shaylee Noy were officially presented with higher education scholarships, while Reed Beveridge, Jasmine Bourke and Luke Reeves received apprenticeship scholarships at a special event held at CQUniversity Mackay City Campus.
Community Bank Sarina’s scholarships, delivered through its Community Engagement Program, are available to support students undertaking a range of study and training pathways.
This year’s recipients represent a diverse mix of study and training pathways, spanning Education (Secondary), Medical Laboratory Science (Honours) and Business (Accounting), alongside apprenticeships in Parks and Gardens, Plumbing at North Queensland Bulk Ports and Mechanical Fitting with Aurizon.
Community Bank Sarina Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich said Community Bank Sarina has prioritised a relationship with CQUniversity since 2012 to provide scholarships, encouraging students to pursue their careers locally.
“We were incredibly proud to present Mackenzie, Angus, Shaylee, Reed, Jasmine and Luke with these scholarships and look forward to seeing what they will accomplish in the years ahead,” Ms Franettovich said.
“Community Bank Sarina invests in scholarships because we know they offer students so much more than financial support – they strengthen young people’s connection to their community, open doors to new opportunities and build confidence and valuable leadership skills.”
Over the past 14 years, Community Bank Sarina has contributed $275,000 in scholarships to support local students.
CQUniversity scholarship recipients Angus Lynch and Shaylee Noy said receiving the scholarship felt incredibly rewarding.
“It felt great to receive the scholarship, as it will support me in relieving financial stress – so I can focus harder on my studies,” Mr Lynch said.
“I’ve found this scholarship will provide me with many opportunities to engage in my education but also supports me to work towards my future career in our community,” Ms Noy said.
“I strongly encourage all future students to apply!”
CQUniversity scholarship recipient Jasmine Bourke said that as a mature student changing career paths while raising a family, support like this makes it more achievable to commit to training and development.
“Becoming a scholarship recipient has been so surreal and rewarding, the recognition received has put a boost in my confidence and made me feel motivated to keep pushing forward.”
Community Bank Sarina also offers Senior Schooling Scholarships at Sarina State High School, with applications open in August. To find out more, email engage@sarinacommunity.com.au.
Mackenzie Contor – Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science (Honours)
Angus Lynch – Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
Shaylee Noy – Bachelor of Education (Secondary)
Jasmine Bourke – Certificate III Parks and Gardens
Luke Reeves – Certificate III Plumbing
Reed Beveridge – Certificate III Mechanical Fitter
The Fund aligns with Primary Industries Prosper 2050, Queensland’s 25-year blueprint to build a better future for primary industries, and its goal to boost primary production output to $30 billion by 2030. Photo source: QIC
The Government has unveiled a $30 million fund aimed at accelerating agricultural innovation across Queensland, as part of a broader push to grow the State’s primary industries sector to $30 billion by 2030.
The Sowing the Seeds of Farming Innovation Fund will support agri-innovators developing cutting-edge technology for on-farm use, with a focus on boosting productivity, profitability and sustainability. Delivered in partnership with the Queensland Investment Corporation, the fund is expected to fast-track new technologies from concept to application while attracting private investment.
The initiative forms part of the Government’s broader economic agenda, positioning innovation as a key driver of long-term competitiveness, while also being framed against claims the sector experienced declining support over the past decade.
Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said innovation would be critical to the future of farming.
"Sowing the Seeds of Farming Innovation Fund is a game changer for the future of farming because it will deliver the next generation of AgTech to boost on-farm productivity and profitability,” he said.
“We’ve heard loud and clear from industry there’s no shortage of innovation in Queensland, but what’s needed is stronger commercialisation pathways, and greater investment in practical technologies and this election commitment delivers that."
Treasurer David Janetzki said the fund would strengthen value chains and support long-term growth.
“These targeted investments will not only strengthen Queensland’s primary industry value chains but also position our State's long-term success including global recognition for its practical innovation,” he said.
Industry groups have welcomed the move, with Queensland Farmers’ Federation CEO Jo Sheppard stressing the importance of getting innovation onto farms quickly.
“It’s critical that we move practical innovations out of the lab and into the paddock, where they can deliver real productivity gains for Queensland producers,” Ms Sheppard said.
Businesses can submit expressions of interest through the Queensland Investment Corporation website, https://www.qic.com/Sowing-the-Seeds.
Canegrowers members have strength in unity, and in community. Photo credit: Kirili Lamb
By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay
As an elected member of Canegrowers, I have the privilege of working closely with sugarcane growers across the Mackay-Isaac region, and I see first-hand the resilience, passion, and grit that define our local farming community. There is no doubt that these are testing times for our industry.
Global sugar prices remain stubbornly low, input costs such as fuel and fertiliser are surging thanks to the ongoing conflict in Iran, and this year’s crop appears to have fallen short of expectations. Despite these challenges, it must be remembered that our greatest asset is our unity. Now, more than ever, being a member of Mackay Canegrowers is not just beneficial, it’s essential.
For over 100 years, our organisation has always stood for the principle that we are stronger together. Membership volume is at the heart of Mackay Canegrowers, ensuring that our collective voice is powerful and representative. When we come together, our concerns, aspirations, and needs are amplified, not just heard. Whether we’re negotiating with sugar millers, lobbying governments, or working with industry stakeholders, our unity means we punch well above our weight.
Consider the challenges we currently face. The international sugar market is unpredictable, and our growers are especially vulnerable to price fluctuations. Individually, it would be almost impossible to influence global trends, but as a united organisation, we have the leverage to advocate for fairer trade policies and the support our members need. Our advocacy work in Canberra and Brisbane is ongoing, and our persistence ensures that the unique challenges facing Mackay growers are never overlooked by decision-makers.
Canegrowers is about more than just advocacy; it is about sharing knowledge and resources. In tough times, it’s easy to feel isolated, but within our organisation, growers connect with each other, share ideas, and learn from those who have faced and overcome similar hardships. Our regular branch meetings and workshops are opportunities not just for professional development, but for building the camaraderie that sustains us through tough seasons.
The service and support offered to members is another key benefit. From compliance with ever-changing environmental regulations, to guidance on managing costs and accessing grants, Mackay Canegrowers is there every step of the way. Our dedicated staff are always ready to assist, and our network ensures that no member is left to navigate challenges alone. For many, this support has made the difference between surviving a tough season and thriving in the next.
But perhaps the most important benefit of membership is the sense of belonging. Mackay Canegrowers is more than a lobby group, it’s a community. In a challenging year, that sense of shared purpose and mutual support is invaluable. Members know that, whatever happens, they are not alone. They are part of a group with a proud history, a strong voice, and a commitment to the future of sugarcane growing in our region.
As the landscape continues to shift, the decisions we make today will shape the future of sugarcane farming in Mackay for generations to come. I urge all growers—whether you’re new to the industry or a fourth-generation farmer—to consider the strength and security that comes from standing together. Tough times require tough people and united, Mackay Canegrowers are as tough as they come. Together, we will weather this storm and emerge stronger than ever. Head to www.mackaycanegrowers.com.au to find out more!
Mackay Pet Rescue Inc. President Janet Ambrose with MPRI fundraiser coordinator Kiara Higgins. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Compassion and quiet dedication sit at the heart of the work carried out by Mackay Pet Rescue Inc (MPRI), where volunteers devote their time to helping animals in need across the region.
For carers at MPRI, the organisation’s work is often far more complex than it appears on the surface. While the public may see adoption posts featuring kittens and rescued pets, much of the effort happens behind the scenes.
“People think that it's just rehoming kittens,” said MPRI President Janet Ambrose. “What they don't often see is what goes on in the background.”
Behind every adoption is a coordinated network of volunteers responding to calls about injured or abandoned animals, arranging veterinary care, and supporting pet owners facing difficult circumstances. The rescue also works to reduce the number of unwanted animals through desexing programs for cats and dogs across the region.
Ms Ambrose said rising living costs have placed increasing pressure on households, impacting both people and their pets.
“A lot of people are struggling financially,” she said. “We’ve been helping the community to desex their cats, to desex their dogs, and to help with the rising cost of everything.”
Despite ongoing challenges, volunteers continue to respond wherever they are needed, often rescuing animals from complex situations and ensuring they receive the care and safety they deserve.
“Supporting the animals and helping the community is what we’re here for,” Ms Ambrose said.
MPRI fundraiser coordinator Kiara Higgins said the motivation comes from a shared love of animals and strong teamwork.
“We’re all very passionate animal lovers who are just doing the best we can to give these animals a second chance,” she said. “The way carers jump in without hesitation to help an injured animal is just amazing.”
Volunteers often balance full-time work alongside fostering animals, attending fundraising events, and providing support wherever needed. Their efforts are sustained by community generosity, with donations helping to cover veterinary care, food, microchipping, and essential medical treatment.
“You might think five dollars isn’t enough,” Ms Ambrose said, “but that buys a pack of cat food or some dog food. Everything helps.”
Ms Higgins encouraged the community to remain vigilant and proactive.
“If you see an animal in distress, report it,” she said. “Make a quick phone call to RSPCA or us and we’ll help out wherever we can.”
From rescuing a blind kitten running loose inside a Moranbah warehouse to carefully freeing injured ducks at the Gooseponds, volunteers encounter both challenging and unexpectedly light-hearted moments.
Some cases are particularly moving, such as “Squirt,” a kitten born without eyelids whose adoptive family has invested significant care to ensure a comfortable life. Other rescues highlight community compassion, including teachers who helped save a kitten trapped in a stormwater drain during heavy rain.
While not every story has a positive outcome, volunteers say providing dignity and care to animals like Frankie, an abandoned dog who was lovingly supported in his final days, is what their work is all about.
Through compassion, tireless volunteer effort, and community support, Mackay Pet Rescue Inc continues to give vulnerable animals safety, care, and a second chance.
To donate or learn more, visit mackaypetrescueinc.com.au
The family recently gathered for a major reunion at the Mackay Showgrounds. Photo credit: Deanne Woods
The Deguara-Schembri-Bugeja family story in Mackay traces its origins back to early Maltese migration in the 1920s, when pioneering family members left Malta in search of opportunity and a new life in North Queensland.
The first arrival of Salvatore (Sam) Deguara in 1912 would later lay the foundation for generations that would grow through hard work in the cane fields, strong family networks and a shared commitment to faith, land and community here in Mackay.
Over time, those early migrants established deep roots in the region, with descendants spreading across farming, business and community life while maintaining strong ties to their Maltese heritage. Today, more than a century later, that legacy continues to be carried forward by hundreds of descendants across Australia.
Mrs Maryanne Starrett, Mrs Lyn Deguara and Mrs Lorraine Schembri are among those who now help preserve and share that history, each connected through marriage or direct descent into the original family lines. Together, they represent both continuity and custodianship of a story that spans generations.
The family recently gathered for a major reunion at the Mackay Showgrounds, where more than 300 relatives and descendants came together under a heritage tree that has become a symbolic meeting point for storytelling, reflection and connection.
Mrs Maryanne Starrett said the strength of the family lies in its unity across generations.
“It’s a very united family,” she said. “It was so important to see those young ones there. As we get older, the young ones will hopefully be there to take over and continue our legacy.”
Mrs Lyn Deguara reflected on the family’s identity that was forged through farming and perseverance.
“They were incredibly hard workers, mostly all cane farmers… and they encouraged all the men to love the land,” she said.
Mrs Lorraine Schembri, who compiled an extensive family history publication over eight months, said preserving the story was essential for future generations.
“You’ve got to know where you come from, to know where you’re going,” she said. “I’ve researched the DeGuara family back to 1600, and the Schembri line back to 1355. It’s all there.”
She said the family book now available to purchase captures not only names and dates, but lived experience.
“I’m very proud of this book… it was quite an effort to complete in eight months,” she said.
Across the family narrative, early migration stories reflect resilience in the face of hardship, with settlers working the cane fields under difficult conditions while relying on strong community support.
Mrs Schembri noted, “There were certainly difficult times, but they all helped each other out and eventually became quite successful.”
Faith, family and respect remain central to the family’s identity.
“Faith is very important to us,” Mrs Deguara said.
Together, the three women reflect a living legacy, one built on endurance, unity and shared history, continuing to grow across North Queensland while remaining firmly anchored in its Maltese beginnings.
RDA GW Committee Chair Jeff Stewart-Harris strongly encourages local community and business leaders to join RDA GW committee. Photo supplied
Regional Development Australia Greater Whitsundays (RDA GW) is now accepting applications for Committee Members.
RDA GW is part of a national network of 50 committees across Australia, including the Indian Ocean Territories, Norfolk Island and Jervis Bay Territory.
The network is made up of local leaders who work with all levels of government, business and community groups to support economic and workforce development, local procurement, strategic regional planning and to inform government programs and infrastructure investments.
RDA GW Committee Chair Jeff Stewart-Harris strongly encourages local community and business leaders with the expertise and desire to generate economic growth opportunities for the region to apply.
“This is a great opportunity for individuals who are passionate about advocating for our region,” said Mr Stewart-Harris.
“Applicants can also take confidence in the fact that we are committed to ensuring a balanced gender perspective and diverse representation around the table, as this is key to achieving well-rounded outcomes.
“The stronger our RDA committee, the stronger our communities become.”
Successful candidates must possess strong advocacy skills and be capable of setting strategic direction and achieving outcomes. The appointment term is from 1 July 2026 to 30 June 2030, in a hands-on role.
Committee Members play an important role in shaping the future of the Greater Whitsundays region.
Applications close Friday 22 May 2026. To apply, visit www.rdagw.org.au/join-our-team or email CEO Rob Cocco at ceo@rdagw.org.au for more information.
A five-year-old boy has died following a tragic single-vehicle crash near Clermont, as two separate fatal incidents continue to impact the wider Mackay region.
Emergency services were called to the Gregory Developmental Road, about 75 kilometres north of Clermont near Kilcummin, around 3.50pm on Wednesday 29th April, after reports a white Foton Tunland lost control and rolled.
The young boy was declared deceased at the scene.
A 29-year-old Townsville woman and a three-year-old boy sustained serious injuries and were airlifted to Mackay Hospital, where they remain in stable condition. The driver, a 30-year-old Townsville man, along with a one-year-old boy, were transported to Clermont Hospital with minor injuries.
BMA CQ Rescue, Queensland Ambulance Service crews and additional aeromedical resources all responded to the incident, with the rescue helicopter transporting a female patient in critical condition to Mackay for urgent treatment.
BMA CQ Rescue CEO Tim Healee described the incident as an absolute tragedy.
“Our thoughts are with the family, and everyone impacted by this heartbreaking incident,” Mr Healee said.
“These are the types of jobs that deeply affect not only the families involved, but also our crew and all emergency services personnel who respond. I am incredibly proud of the professionalism and compassion shown by our BMA CQ Rescue crew in extremely distressing circumstances.”
The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash and is appealing to anyone with information or dashcam footage from the area at the time to come forward (reference: QP2600823345).
The incident comes as police confirm a second fatal crash linked to the Mackay region, following the death of a 44-year-old Eton man after a rollover in the Pioneer Valley.
The man was a passenger in a Toyota Landcruiser that left the road on Marian Eton Road at about 11:30pm on 1st April. He was transported to Mackay Base Hospital before being airlifted to Townsville University Hospital, where he died on 3rd May.
The 24-year-old driver from Marian died at the scene.
Investigations into both crashes remain ongoing, as authorities renew calls for motorists to take care on regional roads.
Police say dangerous driving behaviours, including speeding, fatigue, distraction, driving under the influence and failing to wear seatbelts, continue to put lives at risk.
“Every choice you make behind the wheel matters,” a Queensland Police Service spokesperson said.
“Road safety starts with you.”
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