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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Article by Jorja Brinums, QRL content producer

Josh Smith on the fly. Photo: Ben van Moolenbroek

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

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

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By Amanda Wright

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

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

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

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

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

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

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By Amanda Wright

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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