Phoenix Powersports is preparing to roll in an impressive line-up of ATVs, SSVs and other top-tier brands at the upcoming Mackay Sugar Ag Trade Expo.
Among Segway's featured products are the ATV 5S Quad Pro, ATV 6S EPS and UT10 Rugged EPS, each boasting powerful engines and versatile functionalities, delivering high performance and durable solutions.
One of the standout features of Segway's UTV range is its impressive payload capacity, allowing farmers to transport all their gear in one trip with ease. These vehicles are designed to tackle various terrains with stability and reliability, ensuring farmers can reach their destinations safely and confidently. Safety features such as automatic traction adjustments and real-time monitoring further enhance the utility and security of the vehicles.
Can-Am's often impress with their strong capabilities, including increased payload capacity and versatile cargo bed options. Can-Am's Commander DPS 7 and HD9 XU will be on display, offering significant savings and robust performance for both work and play. With features like winches, drive functions, and LINQ attachments, Can-Am vehicles are designed to make farm work more efficient and convenient.
Need a repayment option? Phoenix Powersports offers a variety of financing options providing flexibility and financial relief to farmers and potential buyers.
Exclusive Segway buyers may be eligible for a buy now and first repayment will be delayed for 90 days, with specific terms and conditions for approved customers. This is provided by Urban Motor finance and is for specific models only, referring to the 2023 stock that will be on display.
Phoenix Powersports is committed to supporting local farmers and providing them with a range of options to suit their needs. By bringing another top-tier brand to the Mackay region, they aim to offer even more choices while continuing to support local companies and communities.
Attendees of the Mackay Sugar Ag Trade Expo can look forward to exploring these innovative vehicles and learning more about the benefits they offer for agricultural use.
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Visit Phoenix Powersports to discover the perfect vehicle for your farming needs!

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Phoenix Powersports have a range of options for all your work/play farming needs! Images supplied

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Mackay Containers and Mackay Trailers are gearing up to make a significant appearance at the upcoming sugar trade expo, showcasing their diverse range of equipment.
Offering FREE registration on all display trailers during the event, this means potential customers can explore their options without the added hassle of registration fees, making it easier than ever to find the perfect fit for their needs.
“Our expertise lies in providing top-quality solutions in secure storage including the hire, sale and modification of new and used containers. We can also custom-build a container to suit your needs.”
Looking to hire? Mackay Containers offer a diverse range of options, from new to near-new containers available for short or extended hires. Customers can opt for on-site storage or have it delivered to their premises, with assistance available for transport arrangements.
Wanting to buy? Mackay Containers maintain a well-stocked inventory of new and used containers in Mackay, ensuring a prompt delivery, with an extended reach beyond the local area, serving major Australian cities along with various other countries.
Need specific modifications? Mackay Containers specialise in modifying containers to suit both personal and industrial requirements.

With a reputation for industry expertise, durable products, secure storage, competitive pricing, extensive selection, specialised modifications, exceptional service and high customer satisfaction, Mackay Containers stands as the locally owned premier choice for your container solutions.

Mackay Trailers will also be in the spotlight at the expo. From standard box trailers to custom-built commercial trailers and everything in between, their ABCAR trailer range allows customers to find the perfect option with ease.
To sweeten the deal, attendees can snag a Mackay Trailers string bag filled with merchandise, including keyrings, pens, hats, coffee mugs, coolers, and stickers.
For a chance to receive more goodies, attendees are encouraged to take photos of the trade stand, share them to Facebook, and tag Mackay Containers and Mackay Trailers.
The highly experienced sales team will see you at the upcoming Mackay Sugar Ag Trade Expo to answer all your questions and inquiries. Don’t miss out on a cracking good deal on your next container or trailer!

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The Greater Whitsunday AgTech Hub online portal is reshaping the future of the region's agriculture sector through technology and collaboration.
The Greater Whitsunday AgTech Hub, an integral component of the Agribusiness Futures Alliance project, supported by Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) and key stakeholders, represents a bold vision for a world-class agriculture and agribusiness sector empowered by technology.
The Greater Whitsunday AgTech Hub developed the online portal to bring new ways of farming, people, and capabilities to the region. Central to this vision is building producers' capacity to leverage and implement cutting-edge agriculture technology solutions that enhance productivity and sustainability to build upon our already successful agriculture industry.
Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) Chief Executive Officer Ms Kylie Porter said the Greater Whitsunday AgTech Hub portal, is an online platform to support producers and businesses better understand agtech solutions and connect them with service providers and investors.
The portal encourages and supports adoption of agtech and improved practices that will deliver real benefit to producers and supply chain partners.
“The portal is a platform that will ensure Greater Whitsunday growers and producers have the knowledge to progress their businesses in the face of change across technology and skills,” Ms Porter said.
“Importantly, the portal will also promote knowledge sharing with agribusiness and producers so that we create a community of best practice.
“Agtech is becoming increasingly important within the agriculture sector and this portal is an important step in building upon our already successful agriculture industry.  GW3 is incredibly proud to be involved in the launch of this portal.”
Ms Porter said along with regional case studies and news updates from across the agriculture sector, the portal will showcase innovation and product releases, provide key information and education around agtech and ultimately, drive positive change for the sector.

The Greater Whitsunday AgTech Hub portal will also be the place to find:

•            Local agtech suppliers.

•            See examples of agtech in action.

•            Access resources and source funding.

•            Get Involved in the agtech community.

“It will also increase accessibility to agtech and associated digital support by inclusion of an agtech supplier directory of those businesses servicing the Greater Whitsunday region.
“Becoming a part of the new Greater Whitsunday AgTech Hub online community means being a part of a sustainable and productive agriculture industry,” Ms Porter said.

Discover more today: https://greaterwhitsundayagtechhub.com.au

The Greater Whitsunday AgTech Hub online portal is reshaping the future of the region's agriculture sector through technology and collaboration.
The Greater Whitsunday AgTech Hub, an integral component of the Agribusiness Futures Alliance project, supported by Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) and key stakeholders, represents a bold vision for a world-class agriculture and agribusiness sector empowered by technology.
The Greater Whitsunday AgTech Hub developed the online portal to bring new ways of farming, people, and capabilities to the region. Central to this vision is building producers' capacity to leverage and implement cutting-edge agriculture technology solutions that enhance productivity and sustainability to build upon our already successful agriculture industry.
Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) Chief Executive Officer Ms Kylie Porter said the Greater Whitsunday AgTech Hub portal, is an online platform to support producers and businesses better understand agtech solutions and connect them with service providers and investors.
The portal encourages and supports adoption of agtech and improved practices that will deliver real benefit to producers and supply chain partners.
“The portal is a platform that will ensure Greater Whitsunday growers and producers have the knowledge to progress their businesses in the face of change across technology and skills,” Ms Porter said.
“Importantly, the portal will also promote knowledge sharing with agribusiness and producers so that we create a community of best practice.
“Agtech is becoming increasingly important within the agriculture sector and this portal is an important step in building upon our already successful agriculture industry.  GW3 is incredibly proud to be involved in the launch of this portal.”
Ms Porter said along with regional case studies and news updates from across the agriculture sector, the portal will showcase innovation and product releases, provide key information and education around agtech and ultimately, drive positive change for the sector.

The Greater Whitsunday AgTech Hub portal will also be the place to find:

•            Local agtech suppliers.

•            See examples of agtech in action.

•            Access resources and source funding.

•            Get Involved in the agtech community.

“It will also increase accessibility to agtech and associated digital support by inclusion of an agtech supplier directory of those businesses servicing the Greater Whitsunday region.
“Becoming a part of the new Greater Whitsunday AgTech Hub online community means being a part of a sustainable and productive agriculture industry,” Ms Porter said.

Discover more today: https://greaterwhitsundayagtechhub.com.au

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Canegrowers Mackay
120 Wood St, Mackay
P: (07) 4944 2600
www.mackaycanegrowers.com.au

Elimix
P: 0467 689 997
Find us on facebook

Greater Whitsunday Alliance
Lev 1, 224 Victoria St, Mackay
P: 07 4845 8222
www.gw3.com.au

M&P Services
1 Diesel Dr, Paget
P: (07) 4898 0500
www.mpservices.net.au

Mackay Containers
Mackay Trailers
41 Malcomson St, North Mackay
P: (07) 49 400 722
www.mackaycontainers.com
www.mackaytrailers.com

Mackay Forestry
Dunwoody Road, Ball Bay
P: 1800 819 008
www.mackayforestry.com.au

Michelle Landry Office
71-73 Denham St, Rockhampton
P: (07) 4922 6604
Shop 8/13 Sarina Beach Rd, Sarina
P: (07) 4943 2722

Phoenix Powersports
165 Paradise St, Mackay
P: (07) 4952 2436
www.phoenixpowersports.com.au

Reef Catchments
Suite 1, 85 Gordon St, Mackay
P: (07) 4968 4200
www. reefcatchments.com.au

Western Suburbs Leagues Club
Branscombe Rd, Walkerston
P: (07) 4959 2480
www.weststigersmackay.com.au

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If the 2024 Mackay property market were a person, it would be spotted regularly emerging from the local gym with a smile on its face looking fit, strong and healthy and displaying the sort of energy required for continued intense activity.
Housing markets take on different looks, depending on location and their particular real estate cycle.
In recent years the Sydney market could be seen in its Dior gown and Prada bag stepping out of a limousine in all its finery and promenading along the red carpet into the latest on-trend nightclub.
At times various regional markets have been noticed working hard under the midday sun, glistening with sweat as they pour concrete and lay bricks. All hard work and no indulgence.
You would find other markets surreptitiously sneaking along darkened laneways, furtively looking over their shoulders in fear of something looming behind them.
Occasionally you would see a downtrodden real estate market in ragged old clothes begging on the street corner just hoping for a bit of luck from a passerby. “Couldn’t spare a fiver could you, old son?”
But today’s Mackay market is sporting a big grin, confidently striding along the street dressed in smart-casual clothes offering a friendly nod as it goes.  Full of optimism but not an arrogant show-off.
The first quarter of this calendar year was phenomenal. I remember kicking off the working year in the second week of January with five or six listings and being blown away by the number of inquiries.
I had groups of 20 and 30-plus at open homes with multiple offers coming in thick and fast. Buyers saw value in what was being offered and prices started going above what I expected.
It wasn’t the odd property, rather it was a trend. Properties I had appraised the year before at, say $450,000, were selling in the high $400,000s. Properties that late last year would have got $570,000 were selling for $620,000.
This trend continued in February and March … and April is just as strong.
Several factors are in play. Rental vacancies continue to be low so people in Mackay and those moving here are finding it difficult to find somewhere to rent. This makes it very difficult for a lot of people and it is a horrific challenge for many tenants who aren’t getting mining wages and cannot afford the increasing prices.
But, in terms of the sales market, many people are deciding to buy rather than rent and this is adding competition to the demand and supply dynamic.
Investors from southern states are also seeing great value in the Mackay market. They see rental returns of $550 a week for properties selling in the low-$400,000s and understand the yield on their investment is better here than pretty much anywhere in the country. They are now a source of additional competition for Mackay buyers.
The underlying source of market strength is, of course, the continuing confidence in the Mackay economy. Although the economy has diversified, coal mining continues to underpin the economy and those in the sector talk about how busy they are.
No one can predict what will happen in a given market but Mackay’s high per capita wages, low unemployment, strong economy and attraction as a sea change destination with all the services people need does put it in a good position.
Of course, there are external factors to take into account and Chinese economic growth is expected to slow down in the short and medium term. However, I just saw Mackay Market walk past and it still had a spring in its step.

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Repurposing household items is an eco-friendly and creative way to breathe new life into everyday objects while reducing waste. With a little imagination and resourcefulness, you can transform common household items into useful or decorative pieces for your home.
Here are six ways you can repurpose household items:
Glass Jars as Storage Containers: Empty glass jars from pasta sauce, pickles, or spreads can be repurposed as storage containers for pantry ingredients, spices, or dry goods. Clean and remove labels from the jars, then label them with chalkboard paint or adhesive labels for easy identification.

Plastic Bottles into Planters: Cut plastic bottles in half horizontally and use the bottom portion as planters for small herbs or succulents. Drill drainage holes in the bottom, fill them with soil, and plant your favourite greenery. These upcycled planters are lightweight, portable, and perfect for small spaces.

Empty Egg Cartons for Seed Starters: Use empty egg cartons as biodegradable seed starters for gardening. Fill each compartment with potting soil and plant seeds directly into the carton. Once the seedlings are ready to transplant, cut apart the compartments and plant them directly into the soil…carton and all.

Newspapers as Weed Barrier: Lay down layers of newspaper as an eco-friendly weed barrier in your garden beds. Wet the newspaper to prevent it from blowing away, then cover it with a layer of mulch or soil. The newspaper will decompose over time, smothering weeds and enriching the soil with organic matter.

Mason Jars as Bathroom Organisers: Repurpose mason jars as stylish bathroom organisers for toiletries, cotton balls, or makeup brushes. Attach the lids to the underside of a shelf or cabinet using screws, then screw the jars onto the lids to create hanging storage. This clever storage solution keeps bathroom essentials within reach and off the counter.

Old Books as Wall Art: Display old books as unique wall art by arranging them in a decorative pattern or stacking them to create shelves. Use books with colourful covers or interesting typography to add visual interest to your walls. This literary-inspired decor adds character and charm to any room in your home.
Repurposing household items is a creative and sustainable way to reduce waste and add personality to your home decor. With these ideas, you can give new life to everyday objects while saving money and minimising your environmental footprint!
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The National Fall Armyworm Symposium was held at Brisbane’s Ecosciences Precinct on April 17-18, bringing together industry, government, researchers, and funders to tackle the challenges posed by the invasive pest.
"Fall armyworm infestations are now found in every important growing area in Queensland," highlights Minister Mark Furner, stressing the severity of this year's infestations and the critical role of research and extension efforts.
Hort Innovation CEO Brett Fifield emphasises the collaborative approach taken by impacted industries in swiftly supporting growers and focusing on long-term research into combatting Fall Armyworm.
““As soon as fall armyworm arrived on our shores, the impacted industries swiftly leveraged their strong, collaborative relationships to support growers in Northern Australia.
"This symposium highlights the power of industry coming together and partnering on key biosecurity challenges," Fifield adds.
AUSVEG CEO Michael Coote underscores the urgency of the situation, especially as fall armyworm continues to spread to new areas and affect a broader range of crops.
“Fall Armyworm has caused significant damage to sweetcorn crops this year, and as it spreads to new areas, growers around the country are quickly trying to learn and apply best-practice management techniques.
"As a cross-agriculture problem, it’s heartening to see a broad range of industries working together to address the fall armyworm challenge," says Coote.
The symposium, hosted by the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, aims to share learnings, identify research priorities, and develop sustainable solutions for managing Fall Armyworm. With contributions from various industry leaders, researchers, and government agencies, the event provides a valuable platform to address this pressing agricultural challenge and safeguard Australia's farming sector.

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Fall armyworm was initially identified in Australia in the Torres Strait in January 2020 and has since extended its presence across the country. Photo source: Hort Innovation

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Queensland families are feeling the pinch at the supermarket as fresh produce prices soar while farmers struggle to make ends meet. To address this disparity, the Queensland Government says it is taking proactive steps by introducing a farm gate price monitoring scheme led by industry experts. This scheme aims to establish industry pricing standards and monitor trends across the top 20 products through collating and analysing farm financial performance and pricing data.
"As Premier, I shared a story earlier this year of a farmer selling watermelons by the road for $10 each, because he couldn’t afford to sell it for the $4 he was offered by the supermarkets," says Premier Steven Miles, highlighting the need for fair compensation for farmers' hard work.
"Gearing Up Growers is about levelling the playing field," emphasises Rachel Chambers, CEO of Queensland Fruit and Vegetable Growers.
“We know Queensland’s produce holds more value than what is currently being paid and we are going to do all we can to support our growers to achieve a fair return at market.”
Jo Sheppard, CEO of Queensland Farmers’ Federation, stresses the importance of market transparency and fair trading terms.

“Food insecurity in Australia and globally is rising. We cannot sit on our laurels. We must work to support a sustainable future for food and fibre production for the benefit of future generations.”
Premier Miles stated the importance of equipping farmers with the tools and knowledge to advocate for themselves effectively.
"My government will work with industry to capture and analyse the cost of products from the farm gate to plate.”

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'The Murder Game' opened at Kucom Theatre on Thursday night (11 April) for a two-week season. Directed by Maureen Coleman, the play has been described as ‘a gripping melodrama that delves into the complexities of love, betrayal, and the dark allure of a perfect crime’.
Not your straightforward ‘Whodunnit’ (the ‘who’ is pretty much apparent right from the start), more of a ‘Why-dunnit’.
Brian (played by Dennis Rozekrans) is financially dependent on his wife Sheila (Carolyn Roche), happily living off her money while planning to replace her with a younger model, June (Lani Seaton). It would be of considerable advantage to him if Sheila were to die.
Gerry, Brian's new friend (played by Michael Brennan), suggests a ‘foolproof’ method. Willingly complicit but naïve, Brian realises too late that Gerry has his own horrific agenda: to commit the perfect crime and subsequently take a hostage for life.
The script is crafted in such a way that makes the audience want to shout out ‘Don’t let him in’ or ‘Get out of there now’. Every step of the journey involves a choice, and in true thriller style, each choice that is made delivers the character into greater danger. We watch helplessly as the rebarbative Gerry oils his way into an already failing domestic situation, using it for his own nefarious purpose.
Rozekrans and Brennan play well off each other as the two main protagonists - Brian splutters with impotent rage as Gerry’s net tightens around him, while the smiling assassin calmly and inexorably takes control of their lives.
As Sheila and June, Roche and Seaton turn in strong performances as the wealthy wife and the grasping girlfriend.
The Kucom venue is relatively intimate and lends itself to subtlety, so every nuance can be appreciated. This was reflected in the lighting - unobtrusive but effective, with dramatic highlights at critical moments – and the sound, with a tense and foreboding musical background that you feel rather than hear, and the recurrent theme of 'Killing Me Softly' which takes on sinister connotations as the plot thickens.
A special shout-out to co-director Kath Evans, whose Elvira-inspired introduction to the performance set the tone for what was to come.
'The Murder Game' is now playing at Kucom Theatre, 1 Snow Wright Court, Andergrove.
Season dates: 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20 April at 7.30pm, with a matinee at 2pm on Sunday 14 April.
Bookings: https://events.humanitix.com/the-murder-game or phone Kucom’s Public Relations Officer on 0419756840.

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Carolyn Roche who plays Brian’s wife, Sheila
Lani Seaton and Dennis Rozekrans. Dennis plays Brian, who wants to get rid of his wealthy wife Sheila (played by Carolyn) and marry June (played by Lani)
Michael Brennan plays Gerry, the friend who offers to murder Brian’s wife for him

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An injured ibis, also renowned by locals as a ‘bin chicken’, was reportedly found lying in the Mount Pleasant carpark last week, helpless, unable to move and on the brink of death. A local soon spotted the native bird in distress and called multiple animal rescue services within the area, however, nobody was willing to assist.
Mackay Pet Rescue stepped up to the rescue once again, arriving on sight to help the injured ibis, sharing their newly rescued patient to Facebook to underline the importance of caring for all types of animals.
“We believe every life is important and no animal should suffer unnecessarily, so we immediately rendered assistance.

“The Ibis looked to be dead but once we approached, it tried to raise its head.”

The team scooped the ibis into a blanket and transported it to Northern Beaches Vet Hospital, where Dr Jackson said there was no broken bones or blood, although the bird was overwhelmingly dehydrated, underweight and extremely weak.

The ibis was given some much-needed water and even treated to some nutritious meal worms before it was taken to dedicated wildlife carer, Marie.

“At first, he just lay there but after a bit he regained some strength and was lifting his head and wanting to eat,” the rescuer added.

“We would like to thank Marie for her efforts helping both native birds and marsupials.

“Any donations of Wombaroo for marsupials, meal worms, bird seed, etc can be left in our donation bin at Petbarn in Greenfields.”

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Injured Ibis on the brink of death has been given a second chance at life by compassionate locals. Photos supplied

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By Amanda Wright
Cheers echoed through the Crater at Mackay McDonald’s Stadium last Friday night as our McDonald's Mackay Meteors dominated the court early on, clinching a thrilling victory against the Townsville Heat, In a high-flying display of hoops prowess, our boys soared to a spectacular 98-89 win, leaving fans on the edge of their seats and opponents seeing stars.
Leading the charge was the dynamic duo of Isaac White and Todd Blanchfield, whose lightning-fast moves and pinpoint accuracy kept the scoreboard ticking. With White netting an impressive 30 points while dishing out 8 assists, and Blanchfield commanding the paint with 22 points and 12 rebounds, the Meteors left their rivals trailing in their comet's tail.
But the victory wasn't just about individual brilliance. CJ Maran's hustle on both ends of the court, tallying 11 points and 4 rebounds, proved crucial in securing the win. Under the astute guidance of Head Coach Joel Khalu, the Meteors showcased their defensive prowess, stifling the Heat's offence and proving that they're not just shooting stars but defensive stalwarts too.
Reflecting on the game, Coach Khalu emphasized the importance of defensive intensity, stating, "We want to be known as a defensively strong team." He further elaborated, acknowledging areas for improvement, particularly in closing out games.
"Unfortunately I feel we did a poor job in the second half," he remarked. "We let them get back into it, it was a five-or-six-point game with three minutes to go so it was by no means over. We have to be better at closing it out."
Despite these challenges, Khalu remained optimistic about the team's prospects, saying, "For a round one win we'll take it and move forward from here."
Meanwhile, our McDonald's Mackay Meteorettes faced a tough challenge against the Townsville Flames, falling short with a final score of 84-66. Despite the loss, the Meteorettes displayed determination, led by Taylor Mole's 23 points and 6 rebounds, along with stellar performances from Sam Haiby and Nikita Van Wyk.
Looking ahead, Head Coach Jamiey Doevendans remains optimistic, stating, "We found our groove in the third quarter and I'm hoping moving forward we can translate that groove into all four quarters."
With a focus on execution and consistency, the Meteorettes are poised to bounce back stronger in their upcoming matchups.
As the excitement continues to build, mark your calendars for our next home games as our McDonald’s Mackay Meteors and Meteorettes gear up to face the Brisbane Capitals.
The action-packed games are set to take place at the Crater on April 19. The Meteorettes will hit the court first at 6:30 PM, followed by the Meteors at 8:30 PM.
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Kieron Place Art and Photography

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Introducing Bella Mackenzie, an emerging Mackay local singer-songwriter, who is set to grace the stage at the upcoming Broken Ballerina Charity Golf Day on Friday, August 2nd.
Attendees will gather for a day filled with golf, camaraderie, and most importantly, support for Broken Ballerina Inc., a non-for-profit organisation dedicated to aiding survivors of domestic violence in the region.
Behind Broken Ballerina Inc., stands its founder, Jules Thompson, a woman of courage and dedication. Alongside her husband Pete, Jules works tirelessly, seven days a week, to assist individuals and families throughout Mackay and surrounding areas.
Bella's highly anticipated performance at the event adds a layer of depth and entertainment, enhancing the day's atmosphere with her heartfelt music and a primary focus on raising crucial funds to assist those in need within the community.
Bella's song "She Don't Walk Like That Anymore," co-written with Steve Boom when she was just 16 years old resonates deeply with the hidden struggles of individuals and households affected by domestic violence.
Her musical journey began with mastering the guitar at 12 years of age, captivating audiences in local pubs and shocking those around her with her ability to reflect on causes close to her heart, including the fight against domestic violence.
In an exclusive interview, we spoke with Bella to uncover her point of view, in light of her involvement at the upcoming Broken Ballerina Inc. charity golf day event.

“I feel super strongly about the cause and it’s definitely one I’d like to support,” she said.

“As a young kid I was taught that everybody has their own struggles and you never know what’s going on in someone’s life.

“That topic came to mind when I wrote the song and it ties in with domestic violence because you just never know what people are going through at home.”
As Bella graces the stage, her voice will become a vessel for the stories of survivors, echoing their resilience and determination to break free from the cycle of violence. The event offers attendees not only a day of golfing fun, but also an opportunity to contribute to a cause that Jules Thompson and a rally of community locals are so passionate about.
Bella emphasises that “you just never know what’s going on in someone’s world and they can have the biggest smile on their face and be hurting the most they’ve ever hurt in their life so just be kind to everyone.”

Bella has new music coming out very soon and you can listen in on all digital streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple music and Google music etc.

If you would like to donate or find out more about the upcoming Broken Ballerina charity golf day event, please visit Broken Ballerina Inc online or via Facebook.

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19-year-old Bella Mackenzie will play live at the Northern Beaches Golf Club in honour of Broken Ballerina – a charitable organisation raising funds for survivors of domestic violence.

Broken Ballerina Charity Golf Day Event Information

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The Finch Hatton Mountain Bike Trails will be officially opened with a fun day for the whole community.
While the trails have been available to the public for about seven weeks, the official opening, on Sunday, April 21, will also mark the opening of the full trailhead site for visitors.
Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said the trails had been in the planning for many years and it was fantastic to now have stage one officially opened.
“The opening will include a fun community day, with market stalls and food vendors as well as a free barbecue, inflatable slide and rock-climbing wall for the kids,” Mayor Williamson said.
“We invite everyone to head out to the trailhead, bring your bikes, have a go on the pump track and check out the fantastic trails that are open for everyone to use,” he said.
Mayor Williamson said the trails had been built to international standards by global leaders in mountain bike trail design and construction – World Trail.
“World Trail has done a magnificent job and these trails will put Mackay on the national and international map as a mountain bike destination, with massive economic benefits for the entire region,” Mayor Williamson said.
“The trailhead site will be a place where you start and finish your mountain bike adventure and enjoy a family day out,” he said.
“There’s a pump track suitable for all ages and riding abilities, plenty of picnic shelters, amenities and some local historical features.”
Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said the Queensland Government was pleased to have invested $500,000 in the Finch Hatton MTB trail network.
“I want to thank Mackay Regional Council, the Mackay Mountain Bike Alliance and all other stakeholders for their dedication to this project that will put the region on the world map for mountain biking,” Mrs Gilbert said.
“The trails and the trailhead will further enhance Queensland’s great lifestyle, attracting visitors from around Australia and the world and strengthening our visitor experience,” she said.
The fun day will be from 10am to 1pm on Sunday, April 21, at the Finch Hatton MTB Trailhead, 44 Anzac Parade. An official plaque unveiling will take place from 9.30am for invited guests.
Uplift shuttles will be available by Off Camber Mountain Biking. Book ahead at offcamber.com.au/mtbshuttles.

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Family and friends of the newly elected Whitsunday Regional Council Councillors gathered to witness the Local Government Swearing In Ceremony at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre (PEC) last week.

Chief Executive Officer of the Whitsunday Regional Council, Warren Bunker, facilitated the ceremony, formally introducing the new Mayor, Ry Collins, and each of the six Councillors.

All signed and received their Declaration of Office and gave a few words.

Uncontested Councillors returning to seat are Jan Clifford, John Collins, Gary Simpson and Michelle Wright.

Clay Bauman returns to the role for the second time, but this will be his first full term having previously won the seat in a bi-election.

The only newly elected Councillor is John Finlay who now represents Division 6.

After the ceremony, the group went to the Whitsunday Regional Council Chambers where the Post-Election Council Meeting was conducted.

Mayor Ry Collins said he was truly humbled to be given this opportunity to serve the region.

During the meeting, Mayor Collins addressed a few priorities which included his desire to engage with youth and enhance the daily lives of people in the region.

“I will seek to foster economic growth, ensuring our businesses flourish, our sectors diversify, developing strong plans for our infrastructure development that will enhance our daily lives and support our economic ambitions,” he said.

“While sustainability remains at the core of our actions protecting our natural beauty that defines us.

“As we aim to advance our community, working hand and glove above the level of government to address affordable housing, enhancing health care, and supporting educational opportunities ensuring an opportunity for every resident so they can thrive.

“Today I accept the role of Mayor.”

The role of Deputy Mayor was also appointed at the Post-Election Council Meeting.

Councillor Michelle Wright was nominated by Councillor John Collins, seconded by Councillor Gary Simpson.

Councillor Michelle Wright accepted this nomination, the vote among councillors was unanimous.

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Mayor Ry Collins with his family.

Councillors Jan Clifford, Clay Bauman, John Finlay, Mayor Ry Collins, Councillors Gary Simpson, John Collins and Deputy Mayor Michelle Wright. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Hi Everyone,

Do you think Airlie Beach has a nice beach?

Despite the word ‘beach’ being in our local town’s name, many people have expressed their disappointment with the lack of ‘beach’ in Airlie Beach.

I remember when I first arrived as a 23-year-old backpacker almost 20 years ago on the Greyhound bus from Fraser Island.

After a long, sleepless night crammed into the single bus seat with nothing to view but black sky and the occasional servo, I was mesmerised by a sunrise that sprinkled over the new and exciting landscape that lay before us.

By the time we came into a very un-built-up Cannonvale I was alert and excited about arriving in Airlie and, as we rounded the hill I was captivated by the breathtaking view and turquoise ocean.

“This is a place I could live!” I remember thinking.

I hopped off the bus and decided to walk through the town to explore.

I passed a few party revellers left over from the night before and went to Airlie Point where I stared out to sea for some time.

I have to admit, that at no point did I wonder where the beach was.

It was the natural beauty that I fell in love with.

Flash forward 20 years and the modern world has changed our town, but it feels like our little lonely beach has been left behind.

The Foreshore has pert green grass, manicured garden beds and precise pavements.

The beach’s naturally rugged beauty acts as a stark contrast to this picture perfect scene.

Like a rundown house in a street of pristine new builds – does our local beach need a reno?

If so, what does this look like?

Our story on page 4 explores this, and we would love to hear your feedback too – do we leave it natural or enhance its beauty?

Simply scan this QR code to be part of the poll or jump on Facebook if you would like to share your comment.

Rach

Quote of the Week: “If you’re pretty, you’re pretty; but the only way to be beautiful is to be loving. Otherwise, it’s just ‘congratulations about your face” (John Mayer)

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Raising awareness and talking about your own experiences in order to break a stigma close to your heart can be one of the bravest and most powerful of good deeds.

Talented local artist, Donna Lawrence, is doing just this by using her art exhibition at the Whitsunday Sailing Club next week, to open the door to conversations and a broader understanding of mental health.

Diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder and Bipolar, Donna uses her art to help manage her mental health issues which have involved stints in hospital wards over the years.

She continues to use art for therapy and has found solace in Dialectical Behavioural Therapy.

“I am very open about my mental health despite experiencing both embarrassment and shame concerning current and past mental health experiences and a fear for the future,” shared Donna.

“I believe only through education and knowledge can we fight the stigma and prejudice for those learning in our community to accept and further understand diversity.”

Donna’s unique and impressive artworks are drawn in ink and pencil and incorporate three colours – red for passion and blood, and black and white to represent the light and the dark.

Heading down to Canberra later this year, Donna will be showcasing her collection of works entitled Light and Shade at a special Mental Health Month national exhibition.

Locals can get a sneak peak of this exciting exhibition at the Whitsunday Sailing Club on Friday 26th April where a gold coin donation will give you entry to browse the impressive display.

All proceeds will be given to Proserpine Youth Space.

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Local Artist Donna Lawrence

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