Two lives have been lost on Mackay and Whitsunday roads in just one month, marking a tragic start to 2025. Authorities are pleading with all drivers to slow down, drive defensively, and stay vigilant. The recent fatalities are part of a growing road crisis across Queensland, with road deaths doubling compared to last year. Every decision made on the road can be the difference between life and death. The Queensland Police Service urges everyone to pay attention to road conditions, act cautiousl
Read the full storyBy Hannah McNamara Just three days after her 39th birthday, Sarah Munster was given the life-shaking news that would soon redefine her understanding of resilience. On the 5th of November, 2024, which also happened to be her son’s birthday, Sarah was devastated to learn she had breast cancer. "I found out about the diagnosis on my son's birthday, three days after my 39th birthday," Sarah shared. After noticing a sizable lump in her breast, measuring 4.2 centimetres, Sarah underwent a PET scan
Read the full storyThe Mackay community is mourning the passing of Dr. Lyall Ford, a beloved historian, author, and educator whose contributions to preserving the region’s history have left an enduring legacy. Lyall passed away on January 12, 2025, at the age of 80, leaving behind a wealth of knowledge and a passion for storytelling that resonated far beyond Mackay’s borders. Born on May 13, 1944, at Lister Hospital in Mackay, Lyall grew up in Walkerston before moving to Mackay. He excelled academically, attending
Read the full storyThe Forensic Crash Unit continues to appeal for witnesses following a fatal traffic crash at Alligator Creek on the 7th of January. At approximately 5pm, a black Holden Utility was seen traveling at high speeds and dangerously on Hay Point Road, before veering into oncoming traffic and colliding with a silver Kia sedan. The 58-year-old male driver of the Kia, from Ooralea, tragically died at the scene. Preliminary investigations reveal that around 4:30pm, the black Holden entered the Bruce H
Read the full storyClub Whitsunday is excited to announce its grand opening on January 24 2025, after eight years of dedication and hard work by their incredible team. This all-new sports bar will be a dynamic gathering spot, offering a welcoming space not just for local sports enthusiasts, but for everyone in the area to come together and connect. The Club has a fantastic range of facilities, including a modern restaurant, a fully-stocked bar, a spacious gaming floor, and a fun-filled kids’ play area, all set a
Read the full storyEvan was rescued from the Burdekin pound, where she narrowly escaped death row! Now, she's a lively bundle of joy who’s always on the move, only slowing down for a well-earned nap. Affectionate and loving, Evan enjoys being close to her pawrents and lounging on the couch, soaking up all the attention. With a playful personality and boundless energy, she’s not only quick on her feet but also an exceptionally fast runner. Evan’s social butterfly nature makes her great with other dogs, always eager
Read the full storyMeet Pascal, who is still looking for his furever home! Pascal is the zaniest feline teenager around! He's got swag and isn't afraid to show it. This self-assured adolescent kitty is still learning the ropes of being a social butterfly, so be prepared for some playful mischief. While still having some growing up to do, Pascal vacillates between caution and hyperactivity. If you have a feisty feline friend with comparable energy for him to play with, that'd be purrfect and would greatly enhance
Read the full storyLocal couple Kadi Hamers and Sam Reynolds have welcomed their second child into the family with a surprise early arrival that made local history this year. Little Hazel was born at the Proserpine Hospital in early the early hours of January 1, to the happy couple who were not expecting their new bundle of joy for another few days. Hazel was due on the 6th of January but in the early hours of 2025 she decided it was her time to come into the world. At a healthy 7lb 2oz, she was born at 1.22am wh
Read the full storyThis 100-acre homestead offers a rare opportunity
to own your very own hobby farm in the highly
sought-after Whitsunday region—a combination that
is becoming increasingly difficult to find in today’s
market.
The charming traditional Queensland-style residence
features 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, with
expansive open-plan living areas, 3-meter-high
ceilings, and stunning spotted gum timber floors. The
home is fully air-conditioned for year-round comfort.
The master bedroom includes a walk-in robe, while
the other bedrooms are equipped with built-in
wardrobes and offer flexible use.
The kitchen is a standout, with stone benchtops,
rosewood countertops, and a walk-in butler’s
pantry. Wraparound verandas provide the perfect
spot to relax and enjoy the established gardens and
surrounding fruit trees.
Outside, the property features a 10-meter magnesium
pool, complemented by 1km of river frontage on the
opposite side of the paddocks, and a creek that runs
through the property, creating a peaceful, natural
setting. Water security is ensured with two springfed
dams, a solar-powered bore, and four 25,000L
rainwater tanks, providing reliable water for both the
house and livestock.
The property is well-equipped for agricultural
use, with permanent steel cattle yards, loading
ramps, branding cradles, and crushes in place. It
currently supports 40 head of cattle with followers.
Additionally, there are two sheds: a 16m x 13m 4-bay
lockable shed and a 20m x 10m open machinery
shed, both with concrete floors and power connected.
Located just 10 minutes from Proserpine, 15 minutes
from Cannonvale, 25 minutes from Airlie Beach, and
20 minutes to Dingo Beach, this property offers the
perfect balance of convenience and seclusion. Nearby,
you’ll enjoy exceptional fishing, crabbing, prawning,
and boating opportunities.
This homestead offers endless potential for
agricultural, lifestyle, or investment ventures, making
it a truly unique and sought-after property in the
heart of the Whitsundays.
January 24, 2025
Australia Day has long been a paradoxical holiday—both a celebration of national pride and a poignant reminder of history’s complexities. This year, as a wave of national pride resurges, Australians are seeking ways to honour the day with a mindful balance that respects its layered meanings. For many, January 26 is a day to fire up the barbecue, toss a cricket ball, and celebrate what it means to be Australian: our laid-back nature, a love for community, and a determination to thrive despite th
Read the full storyJanuary 24, 2025
A heartwarming story unfolded in a local community when a mother reached out on Facebook, hoping to find someone to take her son fishing offshore. Her 13-year-old son, Cayden, is a passionate angler who spends “90% of his time out fishing and learning new skills from other like-minded people.” However, without a boat of their own, Cayden was eager to explore fishing in deeper waters. The mother’s post read, “He has the urge to go fishing offshore in a boat somewhere… happy to pay for your fu
Read the full storyJanuary 24, 2025
While the scorching heat in the region calls for a dip in our beautiful ocean waters, lifeguards and medical professionals are urging locals to stay out of the water as much as possible due to an influx of jellyfish stings. Mackay Hospital and Health Service (MHHS) reported five recent jellyfish stings in the Mackay region. This includes one box jellyfish sting in December, two Irukandji stings (one in November and one in December), and two other jellyfish stings (one in December and one in Ja
Read the full storyJanuary 24, 2025
Last weekend saw eight milestone recipients celebrated at Mackay parkrun’s latest event. Achieving 100-finish milestones were Teresa Hackney, Isabelle Cahill, and Kate Mumford. Reaching the 50-finish milestone were Shelby Freidman, Michael Davidson, Georgie Wilson, and Traccee Ramsamy. Trevor Hodgson was also recognised for his 25-volunteer milestone. Participants are encouraged to notify their Run Director before or after an event when they achieve a milestone. Age Category Record Smashed
Read the full storyJanuary 24, 2025
With the energy of a dojo in full swing and the pride of a community backing them, Sarina’s Little Ninjas and Samurais brought their term to an electrifying close on their Graduation Day on 5 December 2024. Held in the Sarina High School hall, the event was a celebration of discipline, resilience, and the joy of learning martial arts, proving that even the youngest warriors can pack a punch when it comes to perseverance and spirit. This transformative programme, sponsored by Dalrymple Bay Coal
Read the full storyJanuary 24, 2025
Mackay Wanderers Football Club is excited to announce that registrations for the 2025 season are officially open for the Whitsunday Coast community. Newly elected MWFC President, Greg Kliese, said the Club was thrilled to open registrations for the 2025 season and can’t wait to see their football family grow. “Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the sport, there’s a spot for everyone at Mackay Wanderers FC this year,” Mr Kliese said. The Club offers playing opportunities to boys, girls
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 storyJanuary 24, 2025
Friday 24th January Crochet and Conversation 9am Join the friendly group of Northern Beaches locals at Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade for a morning of crocheting, coffee, and conversation. BYO crochet tools or borrow from our communal box. All skill levels welcome. This is a great opportunity to connect, share experiences, and start our next project for the Northern Beaches community in 2025. Beachfront Bar and Restaurant, Bucasia Two Worlds Collide: Rackemann And Langer
Read the full storyJanuary 24, 2025
Lovers of contemporary circus and food enthusiasts are in for a treat, with an exclusive pre-show dinner and show event taking place on Friday 21 February at the Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (MECC). To celebrate First Nations, contemporary circus group, Circa Cairns visiting the Mackay region, the MECC are hosting a fine-dining experience like no other. Taking place in the Lynette Denny Space before the performance, this intimate experience features an exclusive menu carefully cura
Read the full storyJanuary 24, 2025
If your New Year's resolution is to read more, why not take advantage of the Mackay Libraries' vast collection? Librarian Sally has curated a list of must-read books to add to your summer reading list: 1. "Remarkably Bright Creatures" by Shelby Van Pelt This heartwarming novel follows Tova Sullivan, a 70-year-old widow working as a night janitor at the Sowell Bay Aquarium. There, she forms an unexpected bond with Marcellus, a giant Pacific octopus known for his mischievous nature. As their fri
Read the full storyJanuary 24, 2025
Cape Hillsborough’s Between the Tides has captured global attention, earning two prestigious accolades that cement its status as a leader in cultural tourism. Securing Silver in the Cultural Tourism category at the Queensland Tourism Awards and the Best Music Tourism Initiative at the 2024 Global Music Cities Awards in Riyadh, this event is set to shine as the centrepiece of the 2025 QLD Music Trails, The Reef. Held on Yuwi Country, the event has captivated audiences with its extraordinar
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