With Christmas just around the corner and excitement jingling in the air, the jolly man in red is dusting off his sleigh for a special visit next week—ready to spread cheer and make spirits bright! Mount Pleasant Centre brought festive cheer earlier this month with their Santa’s Breakfast event, spreading holiday spirit while supporting a great cause. The community gathered to enjoy delicious treats from Gloria Jean’s Coffees and Donut King, with all proceeds benefiting the Mackay Hospital Found
Read the full storyMackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) has recognised the valuable contribution of the Australian South Sea Islander community at a flag-raising ceremony held at Mackay Base Hospital last week. Representatives from Australian South Sea Islander organisations QUASSIC (Queensland United Australian South Sea Islander Council) and MADASSIA (Mackay and District Australian South Sea Islander Association) as well as other members of this community joined Mackay HHS leaders for the event. As the fir
Read the full storyEvery year, RSPCA Inspectors respond to calls about pets being abandoned. This trend spikes over Christmas and School Holidays when people are away from home. From December 2023 to January 2024, RSPCA Queensland responded to 402 complaints about abandoned animals. “We usually receive reports from worried neighbours about dogs that are barking more than normal and when they can’t confirm if food and water has been left for the animal. “If we attend a property and no one is home at the time,
Read the full storyA Queensland bus operator has selected the recipients of its inaugural community grant program, Moving Communities, with two organisations in Mackay set to benefit from in-kind support and grants of up to $10,000. The Moving Communities Fund, awarded by Kinetic, is designed to support community organisations and not-for-profits that improve the livelihoods of the communities where Kinetic operates. Launched in September 2024, the program attracted more than 200 applications from across Austra
Read the full storyAs we head into the Christmas-New Year holiday season, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on my first nine months serving as Mayor since being elected in April. To date it has been a journey filled with many challenges, some achievements, and plenty of invaluable lessons. Stepping into the position of Mayor has been both an honour and a great responsibility. It has been a year of listening, learning, and laying the foundation for an exciting future. From day one, my focus has been on hea
Read the full storyRoger a beautiful Huntaway cross Shepherd, is looking to find the rest of his pack. Roger is heartworm positive but his treatment is fully covered by Bowen and Collinsville Rescue. Due to this, he needs a calm space to recover and a loving family to call his own. Although he's smaller than a Kelpie, he's just as smart and clever as one, he is also extremely active so needs to go to a home where he can get lots of stimulation. Therefore, he would be perfect for a hobby farm or an exercise-loving
Read the full storyAs summer heats up in the Whitsunday region, so do your cars. Leaving children or pets in the car, even for a quick errand, may seem harmless, but it can have serious, potentially life-threatening consequences. Recently, Whitsunday community members have raised concerns on social media after spotting individuals leaving children or animals unattended in vehicles locally. One Facebook post on the Whitsunday Chat group captured the growing frustration: “Nothing is so urgent that you need to pay
Read the full storyThis Christmas, Pets Domain Bowen is partnering with Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc. to bring some extra holiday cheer to rescue animals in need. Pets Domain Bowen invites the community to visit the store and explore the stories and photos of the incredible rescue pets currently available for adoption. To participate in the Secret Santa initiative, simply choose a name from the board. Then, purchase a toy, treat, or other special goodies for that furry friend! Gifts will be wrapped and placed
Read the full storyNestled on a generous 4,007 sqm corner block, this
well-presented home offers an exceptional lifestyle
opportunity in the heart of Cannon Valley. Perfectly
positioned just minutes from the vibrant Cannonvale
Shopping Centre and Airlie Beach, this property
combines space and privacy, offering the best of both
worlds – a peaceful retreat with easy access to all the
amenities the Whitsundays have to offer.
The home features 4 bedrooms, and 2 bathrooms,
including a master with ensuite, ensuring comfort
and privacy for the whole family. A practical separate
laundry and a large 2-car garage provide plenty of
room for storage and everyday convenience.
Outside, the property truly shines. At the rear, a
massive 6x9m shed with an additional 6x9m concrete
pad offers the perfect space for a workshop or to
store your toys. The home also comes equipped with
a 5kW solar system, bore, irrigation system, and 3 x
25,000L water tanks.
The expansive corner block offers endless
possibilities – with ample space to create your dream
outdoor oasis, including room for a pool, and a blank
canvas to landscape your garden.
The vendor is moving to Brazil and is committed
to selling. Offers are welcome prior to the auction.
Don’t miss out on this rare opportunity to secure a
fantastic family home in one of the Whitsundays’ most
desirable locations.
December 19, 2024
As we approach the end of 2024, I find myself reflecting on a year that has tested me in ways I never expected. This has certainly been the hardest year of my life. But, as with any challenge, it’s made me more determined to rebuild in 2025—stronger, wiser, and more focused on what really matters: less stress, more time with my family, and a little more 'me-time'. With a one-week break ahead, this is our final edition for the year. Looking back, we’ve covered a lot of ground in 2024—from communi
Read the full storyDecember 19, 2024
When the St Pat’s Brekky Van students went on an eight-week summer break, they made sure their friends visiting Orange Sky laundry shifts wouldn’t go without. Generously donating their food supplies, the students ensured the breakfasts they usually provide could continue uninterrupted. To keep the BBQs fired up, Mackay Regional Council’s Community Development network reached out for volunteers to step in—and the community rallied. Organisations including Mater Hospital, Street Chaplaincy, Uniti
Read the full storyDecember 19, 2024
As the festive season approaches, Ergon Energy is reminding residents and businesses to take extra precautions when setting up Christmas lights and other mains-powered decorations. Area Manager Craig Brown emphasised the importance of following safety guidelines to avoid electrical hazards, fires, and potential injuries. “We want everyone to enjoy their Christmas displays without compromising safety,” said Mr Brown. “By taking the right steps, buying good quality electrical decoratio
Read the full storyDecember 19, 2024
The Mackay Cutters are delighted to announce the signing of half-back Ryan Rivett from Toulouse Olympique on a one-year deal. Rivett joins the Mackay Cutters after one season in the Betfred Championship with Toulouse Olympique, for whom he made 27 appearances combined. The 22-year-old began his semi-professional career first at the Newtown Jets, then signed to the Newcastle Knights playing in the NSW Knock on Effect Cup. The half-back was called up to play one game in the NRL during season 202
Read the full storyDecember 19, 2024
Last week, Mackay Bowling Club welcomed 35 residents from Homefield Nursing Home for a Christmas lunch filled with good food and festive cheer. Bowling club members prepared and served the meal, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for their guests. The event gave residents a chance to enjoy a delicious meal, reconnect with familiar faces, and soak up the holiday spirit. The lunch not only celebrated the season but also highlighted the power of community connections. Residents and club membe
Read the full storyDecember 19, 2024
Mackay Magpies rule the roost in Mackay Cricket Association after clinching the 2024-25 Poole Cup first grade championship trophy. The Magpies were crowned one day champions after toppling rivals Pioneer Valley in a Grand Final thriller at Great Barrier Reef Arena last weekend. Sixteen year old young gun Myles Cochrane starred with the ball and the experienced trio of Andrew Borg, Wesley Dyer and Ben Zurvas produced superb knocks as the Magpies secured their third Poole Cup premiership title i
Read the full storyNovember 18, 2024
The annual Mackay Children’s Christmas Party at the Showgrounds welcomed up to 1,200 children with special needs, invited through schools and care providers. This long-running event, held for over 30 years, catered to children with serious illnesses, physical or intellectual disabilities, and complex needs.
Read the full storyDecember 19, 2024
Bring your “relaxing chair” to the Bluewater Quay for the New Year’s Eve River Party, because this year’s family entertainment features two of the world’s biggest stars. Better yet, entry to the family-friendly event that runs from 6pm to 9pm won’t cost you a single “dollarbuck”. In case you haven’t guessed yet, this year’s children’s entertainment will be Bluey and her little sister Bingo appearing for a Live Interactive Experience and meet and greet with families. Get ready to play Magic Aspar
Read the full storyDecember 19, 2024
SummerSalt is set to shine in 2025, announcing a new show in Mackay, coming to Harrup Park for the first time. This dazzling event features an iconic, all-Aussie line-up of music greats, promising a vibrant celebration of Australian talent with Missy Higgins, Birds of Tokyo, Fanning Dempsey National Park, The Waifs, The Whitlams, and Josh Pyke. Since its debut, SummerSalt has become a premier outdoor festival across Australia, known for bringing world-class Australian and international artists
Read the full storyDecember 19, 2024
Friday 20th December Crochet & Conversation 9am Join a friendly group of Northern Beaches locals for crocheting, coffee, and conversation at Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade. Bring your own tools or borrow from the communal box. Everyone is welcome, whether crafting or just enjoying the vibe. Look for the yarn under the shade sails or inside, weather permitting! Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade. Christmas Holiday Kids Craft 9.30am Santa’s elves are bringing
Read the full storyDecember 20, 2024
Head to Coral Sea Resort on Sunday, January 19th, for an unforgettable afternoon of smooth jazz, Latin rhythms, and timeless classics, as the extraordinary Domenico takes the stage at the Coral Sea Resort’s Pavilion. A true musical prodigy, Domenico’s journey began at the age of 4 in 1971, when he first picked up the piano accordion. His exceptional skill quickly earned him recognition as a specialist of the instrument. In 1986, he began performing with a three-piece cabaret band, captivating au
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