The Whitsundays has long been a beloved destination for LGBTQ+ travellers, especially during the late 90s when Daydream Island was affectionately known as "Gay Dream Island", for travellers holidaying after Sydney’s Mardi Gras. Nathan Fleming, a pillar of the Whitsundays LGBTQ+ community for over 20 years, remembers those days fondly. "Back in the day, the late 90s, Daydream Island was a popular hot spot. After Sydney Mardi Gras, everyone would head up here and have a big party session in the Whitsundays," Nathan recalls.

But despite the excitement of that era, there was a long stretch of silence. Pride events were rare, and LGBTQ+ representation was all but absent. "There hasn't really been anything (Pride events). It's only this year they've actually sort of done something about Pride Week," Nathan explains. Pride Week 2025 saw a revival as for the first time in years, several local businesses embraced LGBTQ+ tourists with a series of events, from Sundowner’s Pride cruise to the Magnums drag shows, and the Airlie Beach Hotel’s Gaga vs. Pink tribute shows. This marked a hopeful turning point for the region.

Nathan, openly gay and well-respected within the Whitsunday community, reflects on his journey. "I was a drag queen representing the Whitsundays one year, and my drag name was Sandy Inlet," he laughs. His involvement in local events and initiatives helped bridge the gap, ensuring visibility for LGBTQ+ individuals. “People all know about me because I’m very open about it. I don’t hide anything.”

With his partner Benny and their two dogs, Jethro and Rufus, Nathan is proud to live and work in a place that is gradually becoming more inclusive. "The community are really accepting of it, and they're taking them in with open arms," he says. This growing acceptance has encouraged other local businesses to step up, hoping to make the Whitsundays a more welcoming destination for LGBTQ+ tourists. Nathan’s role in GALTA (Gay and Lesbian Tourism Australia) has further solidified the region’s commitment to inclusive tourism.

However, the journey has not been without its struggles, with Nathan reflecting on moments of exclusion. But his response? “You’ll respect the people in this group and everything that we have to say, we're a diverse group of people.” The resilience and spirit of the LGBTQ+ community are undeniable, and the local support has only strengthened over the years.

As the Whitsundays looks ahead, Nathan is optimistic. He hopes that Pride Week next year will see even more events, building on the success of 2025. “There’s a lot of support from local businesses, and it’s clear that the Whitsundays is becoming a place where LGBTQ+ travellers can feel welcome and celebrated,” he shares.

For now, Nathan and the community stand proud, waving the flag for progress. His legacy of openness, support, and inclusion continues to inspire. The Whitsundays, once a haven for LGBTQ+ travellers in the 90s, is experiencing a queer renaissance. With a commitment to growing acceptance and support from both locals and tourists alike, this beautiful corner of Australia is ready to welcome more LGBTQ+ with open arms into its Heart.

For more LGBTQ+ safe and welcoming tourist destinations, groups and travel advice, check out: visitgayaustralia.com.au

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Nathan Fleming, representing the Whitsundays as Sandy Inlet at GAYTE in 2023. Photo Supplied: Nathan Fleming
LGBTQ+ tourists enjoying themselves in the Whitsundays. Photo Supplied: Nathan Fleming
Nathan Fleming in his before and after transformation to Sandy Inlet at GAYTE 2023. Photo Supplied: Nathan Fleming

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Maree Franettovich has been providing career coaching over many years – guiding professionals with individualised support to find their purpose toward a fulfilling career. Whether it’s graduates looking to launch their careers, or professionals looking for career progression, Maree’s approach focuses on professional growth and personal wellbeing.

Feeling stuck in your career can be demotivating, and impacts other aspects of your life. You want to explore a change but are not sure where to start. If you choose to do nothing instead of taking action, then nothing will change. Whether you are considering a career uplift, switch or shift – that’s where Maree can assist.

“We’re here to help you take action and work through the steps to create your personal Career Action Plan.”

It helps to have independent support to explore your options and dream big! It’s about having someone ‘on your side’ and believe in you.

All too often women are self-sabotaging opportunities, often without realising. It can surface as procrastination, perfectionism, pressure paralysis, settling for second best, convincing ourselves it’s not the right time or the ‘Am I good enough?’

A Career Action Plan identifies your strengths, interests, opportunities and aspirations. By working through what you want to achieve, your Career Action Plan provides direction, motivation and clarity.

Maree’s extensive experience of working with women (and men) across a range of demographics and industries has assisted many progress their careers and navigate transitions with confidence. If you want to explore becoming ‘unstuck’ in your career, visit the CareerForce Australia website and get in touch.

careerforceaustralia.com.au

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Cent sales are always billed as ‘mega’ but Sarina Arts and Craft Centre’s upcoming event will be exactly that.

Centre manager Jenny Costello and a core group of helpers are putting together an amazing collection of prizes for the sale, at the Sarina Sporting and Services Club on Saturday, March 8.

“We’ve had a marvelous response from business, organisations and people within the Sarina and wider Mackay area as we’ve been collecting for the sale,” Jenny said.

“We have lots of high-quality prizes, and our major prizes are terrific.

“As well as the prizes there will be multi-draws, raffles, money boards and a lucky door prize.”

Doors open at 10.30 for a noon start.

Bookings can be made (not essential) by phoning Jenny Costello on 0414735787.

WHAT:  Sarina Arts and Craft Centre's Cent Sale
WHERE: Sarina Sporting and Services Club
WHEN: Saturday, March 8 at 10am

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Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) has welcomed another strong intake of graduate registered nurses for the year as the third orientation session reaches completion this week.

Mackay HHS Executive Director Nursing and Midwifery James Williams Jenkins said 79 newly qualified nurses have been recruited to the 2025 Mackay HHS Nursing and Midwifery Graduate Program.

The three cohorts were comprised of 16 new nurses in December, 38 in January and another 25 graduates welcomed to the Mackay HHS in February.

“We are delighted to welcome our large annual cohort of graduate nurses to the health service where they will consolidate and further develop the clinical skills they learned at university,” Mr Jenkins said.

The Mackay HHS Nursing and Midwifery Graduate Program is twelve months in duration across Mackay Base Hospital and rural hospitals.

“Graduate nurses undertake placements across any of the 25 clinical areas in the Base Hospital including mental health, emergency, renal, medical, cardiac, surgical, oncology and theatres, as well as across our rural facilities,” Mr Jenkins said.

Seventeen nurse graduates are undertaking rural placement across the Mackay HHS at facilities including Proserpine, Clermont, Bowen, Sarina, Moranbah and Dysart and there are three midwifery graduates in the program in 2025.

“They will be supported with mentoring, theoretical and clinical guidance to ensure we build safe, confident and competent nurses,” Mr Jenkins said.

“Most graduates studied at CQ University and James Cook University and many are from the Mackay region.

“We are also pleased to welcome nursing graduates from other parts of Queensland and New South Wales as well as New Zealand.”

Mackay HHS continues to support graduate registered nurses after their first year of professional practise with excellent retention rates, Mr Jenkins said.

Nursing graduate Jenna Grieve’s work experience in remote First Nations communities and her husband’s health battle has helped shape her career.

She moved to Mackay in 2022 to enable her husband to dialyse at Mackay Base Hospital three times a week and in December she started her post-graduate year in the Mackay Base Hospital emergency department.

“I never thought I’d want to work in ED when I started nursing,” she said.

“The chaos of ED scared me originally. Now I love it and it’s a place where you can use all your skills.

“I really like being able to educate people; to be there to help them through the toughest times,” she said.

Jenna was recently presented with the James Cook University Yuwi Award, awarded to the most deserving student in their final year of their Bachelor of Nursing Science degree on the Mackay campus.

“I thought that’s pretty cool; it’s a nice way to end my studies and I look forward to continuing to use my skills in the Base hospital ED.”

Moving to the small rural community of Clermont with her family, Selina Sale originally thought her career options were limited.

“So I started my diploma and working at Clermont Hospital seven years ago as an AIN (Assistant in Nursing),” she said.

“I’ve been there ever since working as an enrolled nurse and I also trained as a rural x-ray operator three years ago.”

Selina’s nursing degree took four years to complete and she did placement at Emerald Hospital in the emergency department as well as in the Rockhampton Hospital intensive care unit. Her post-graduate year will now be in Clermont.

Selina is proud to have graduated from Central Queensland University and be one of the 16 grad nurses in the December intake at Mackay HHS.

“I’m only the second person in my family to graduate from uni,” she said.

“It’s pretty big for them, my mum is super stoked.”

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Mackay Hospital and Health Service has welcomed 79 new graduate nurses for 2025, with placements across Mackay Base Hospital and rural facilities to develop their clinical skills and support regional healthcare. Photos supplied

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Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry, is backing Isaac Regional Council Mayor, Kelly Vea Vea, and the Nebo Showgrounds Committee as they push for vital funding to upgrade the Nebo Showgrounds.

They are lobbying for Stage 2A of the Nebo Showgrounds Master Plan, which includes upgraded camping facilities, a redeveloped undercover arena, and planning for a new outdoor arena.

Ms Landry previously secured $2.8 million in 2022 for Stage 1, delivering key infrastructure improvements, heavy vehicle access, camping upgrades and additional parking.

“Nebo Showgrounds is the heart of this region, driving our local economy and supporting our agricultural and rodeo communities.

“Stage 1 laid the groundwork, but we must keep investing to ensure this vital hub remains a top-tier facility for years to come,” Ms Landry said.

The Nebo Showgrounds injects $2.1 million into the local economy and hosts one of Australia’s biggest rodeos, attracting thousands from across the country. It is a crucial asset for the region’s economy, culture and community.

Mayor Vea Vea said the Nebo Showgrounds is a quiet achiever, but its impact is anything but quiet.

“It’s where agriculture, tourism, and community spirit come together to support regional Queensland and, by extension, the nation’s economy," Mayor Vea Vea said.

"Stage 2a will be part of the transformation of the Nebo Showgrounds into a first-class facility — fit to host major events, support agricultural growth, and drive regional tourism.

“This is about future-proofing a key piece of social infrastructure that underpins one of Australia's most productive regions."

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Simon Hood
Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

February was a positive month for prices with growers using the rally to tidy up 2024 season Target and GMPRS pricing.

Additionally, with 2025 season prices breaking through $650/t, there has been increased scale up selling from Target price growers. There is, however, still plenty of 2025 pricing to go with only about 25 per cent of Target prices locked in at this point.

The rally has also allowed our 2024 season pools to be forecasting higher returns. We have incrementally locked in prices on the rising market to ensure any potential correction will have less impact on final returns for the 2024 season. Likewise, we have initiated hedging on the #11 sugar contract to put a floor under a portion of the new Managed Pool Plus for the 2025 season.

This initial positioning combined with some sub 62 cent currency is providing a good foundation for that pool return. However, there is still a long way to go for 2025 season pool valuations to be finalised. With the focus on 2025 season and beyond, let’s have a quick review of the current outlook.

Most analysts are currently forecasting a small production surplus (Wilmar 3.5m tonnes) for the 2025-26 season based on a large Brazilian and Indian crop. Brazilian forecasts are starting to be scaled back as continued dry weather through February downgrade yield expectations. On the flip side, Indian forecasts are being maintained as high domestic prices encourage crop expansion and a very good monsoon filled storage and moisture profiles.

Nominations for our 2025 season GMPRS pricing mechanism are now open. This remains a popular choice among Target price growers due the flexibility of being able to price all GEI sugar exposure – excluding the US quota proportion – from mid-May in each season. Typically, growers are cautious about pricing too much of the final proportion early in the season as price risk is replaced with production shortfall risk.

During March we will be holding a series of shed meetings to update growers with the latest analysis from Wilmar on the outlook for 2025 season and beyond. Get in touch with your local Wilmar Grower Marketing consultant to find your closest meeting.

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Prices rallied in February, providing an opportunity for growers to tidy up 2024 season GMPRS and Target pricing

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Nigel Dalton is trading politics for pool laps this March, diving headfirst into Laps for Life – a nationwide swimming challenge making waves for youth mental health. The Member for Mackay and avid swimmer will take to the water with his North Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming Club teammates, raising funds for ReachOut Australia, which provides crucial mental health support for young people.

Mr Dalton has long been a dedicated advocate for suicide prevention in Mackay. As the region’s former Crime Prevention Coordinator, he played a key role in youth suicide prevention initiatives and deeply understands the critical need for early intervention.

“To reduce suicide in our community, we all need to help where we can.

“There are plenty of excellent referral services available, and Laps for Life helps ensure that young people have access to the support they need,” Mr Dalton said.

Every dollar raised through Laps for Life helps ReachOut provide free, confidential, and 24/7 mental health support for young Australians struggling with challenges such as anxiety, depression, and stress.

Mr Dalton encourages the Mackay community to get involved, whether by swimming laps, donating, or simply spreading the word.

“This is a cause that truly matters.

“Whether you swim regularly or just want to give it a go, I encourage everyone to take part.

“Every lap and every donation can help save lives,” he added.

The Laps for Life challenge runs throughout March, with participants setting their own swimming goals and fundraising targets.

For more information or to register, visit www.lapsforlife.com.au.
For donations, visit https://www.lapsforlife.com.au/fundraisers/NigelDalton

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Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton is diving into Laps for Life, swimming alongside his North Mackay Sinkers teammates to raise funds for youth mental health and support ReachOut Australia. Photos supplied.

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By day, Usadee Phiraphak is an electrical apprentice at Revolution Electrical, helping to keep the Mackay Base Hospital running smoothly. But when she’s not working behind the scenes, she’s lighting up the community in more ways than one.

“Something that most people don’t know about me is that I am always trying to help out my community whether it’s donating blood or being a member of Mackay Street chaplaincy to look after those at their most vulnerable and making sure people are safe.

“I want to be remembered as someone who gives back to my community,” Usadee shares.

Now, she’s trading work boots for dancing shoes as she steps onto the stage for Dancing with Heart, raising funds for the Mackay Hospital Foundation.

Usadee’s dance journey has been nothing short of ‘electrifying’.

“My dance routine has been amazingly fun so far, Dolly has been a great teacher and she sure is keeping me on my toes with some pretty cool moves.

“I won’t reveal too much at the moment but let’s just say I’m excited for the audiences to enjoy my performance.

“Towards the end of my performance the music does get faster and a lot harder to perform considering I have two left feet…and I definitely have to work on my cardio within these next couple of weeks before the show begins!”

Despite the minor challenges trying to keep up with the tempo, Usadee remains passionate about supporting the Mackay Hospital Foundation.

“I admire the aim of the Mackay base hospital foundation.

“I think it’s important that we help improve the health outcomes and experience for patients and their families and we can only achieve this by joining together as a community to help this great cause.”

From wiring circuits to wowing crowds, Usadee is proving that she can kick goals in any field…whether it's electrical or the performing arts!

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One of Mackay’s most popular community events will unveil a fresh, new course this year, with record-breaking participant numbers expected as ‘run-mania’ continues to surge.

The track for this week’s Mackay Airport Twilight City Run has been varied to accommodate more people while also giving participants additional sweeping views of the Pioneer River.

More than 1000 participants are expected to turn out for the event on Friday 7 March, the highest number yet.

Mackay Airport Head of Operations Adrian Miles said one of the best things about the annual 5km run was its fun and inclusive atmosphere.

“We know running has boomed in popularity in recent years, and the Mackay Airport Twilight City Run is the perfect way to involve loved ones,” he said.

“This is a family-friendly event for all ages and abilities, and everyone is encouraged to go at their own pace; whether that’s running, walking, pushing a pram or even dancing.

“The atmosphere just gets better every year; it’s easy to see why this event continues to grow.”

Mackay Airport is proud to support this iconic fun run, which enhances community
wellbeing and showcases our region as a vibrant destination.”

All proceeds from the Mackay Airport Twilight City Run will be donated to the Leukaemia Foundation.

BMA Mackay Marina Run Event Director Tim Magoffin said organisers were thrilled to be able to accommodate the growing number of participants.

“Not only does the Mackay Airport Twilight City Run benefit individuals, but as a community, we’re raising crucial funds for the Leukemia Foundation.

“We’re excited to be offering a new, improved course to allow for more participation and further fundraising for this important initiative.

“Last year’s Mackay Airport Twilight City Run raised over $7000, and with a record number of participants expected in 2025, that figure is expected to grow.

“Participants are also invited to raise their own additional funding by setting up a page on the Mackay Marina Run site and dedicating their run to the Leukaemia Foundation.”

Michael Vella, Co-Event Director for Mackay parkrun, said lots of local running enthusiasts were planning to take part in the Mackay Airport Twilight City Run, which is held in the lead up to the BMA Mackay Marina Run.

“It’s a great time of the year, a nice time of the day, and it gives people a chance to connect.

“It’s fantastic to see all the familiar faces enjoying the event and not taking it too seriously,” he said.

“The running community in Mackay continues to grow and I can’t see it slowing down. We’re seeing increasing numbers in the 25-30 age group particularly, and more interest in healthy living, which is really great to see.”

To register for the Mackay Airport Twilight City Run, visit mackaymarinarun.com and click on the ‘Events’ tab. Entrants will automatically go into the draw to win one of three $500 travel vouchers.

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BMA Mackay Marina Run Event Coordinator Chrissy Evangelou, Mackay parkrun Co-Event Director Michael Vella, Mackay Airport Head of Operations Adrian Miles and BMA Mackay Marina Run Event Director Tim Magoffin came together at Mackay Airport on Monday 3 March in anticipation of the upcoming Mackay Airport Twilight City Run to be held on Friday 7 March. Photo supplied

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Advocating for change and bringing people together makes Ash-Lee Johnson's heart sing.

As a Councillor for Mackay Regional Council, her passion for community betterment radiates through her kind, yet fiery spirit…and her drive for change is one of inspiration and purpose.

“I’m driven by a sense of purpose – the desire to see positive impact and to advocate for those who need it most,” she says.

Cr Johnson is a firm believer in the power of working together, and her passion lies in helping others achieve greatness.

“As a woman in a leadership role, I feel a deep responsibility to help pave the way for others, especially young women, to feel like they can step into positions of influence, whether in local government, business, or any other field.

“It's so important that we lift each other up, celebrate our achievements, and continue to break down barriers.”

Cr Johnson says she’s “Incredibly lucky” to be surrounded by resilient women who continue to uplift her.

“I feel so fortunate to be surrounded by inspiring women who show me that with the right support, anyone can achieve what they set their mind to.

“It’s the women in my immediate circle and community who have had the greatest impact on me.”

While her days can get quite busy, Cr Johnson likes to unwind by spending quality time with family.

“I am all about connection, and being present with the people who mean the most.”

What’s your go-to recipe to cook in the kitchen?

“This would have to be my mum’s apple pie. It’s delicious and a very easy bake. Every bite feels like comfort and it’s always a hit when I make it for others.”

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Businesses in Mackay and the Whitsundays are invited to make a meaningful impact by becoming a ‘Beacon of Hope’ Superhero Sponsor for Broken Ballerina Inc. (BBI).

This sponsorship provides essential support for survivors, including Escape Bags, emergency accommodation, and crisis assistance. With no government funding, BBI relies solely on community generosity to continue its impactful work in the region.

The sponsorship program features three flexible tiers—Bronze, Silver, and Gold—allowing businesses to contribute in a way that best suits their capacity. Each sponsorship level ensures that funds directly support essential services for those fleeing and recovering from domestic and family violence.

A Bronze Superhero Sponsor allows businesses to contribute a monthly amount of their choice, gaining recognition on the BBI website, social media, and invitations to key events, including the BBI Charity Ball and a VIP Christmas thank-you gathering.

The Silver Superhero Sponsor, at $2,000 per month, provides greater visibility, including priority seating at the Charity Ball, logo placement in event materials, media mentions, and sponsorship of essential survivor support services.

A Gold Superhero Sponsor, at $2,500 per month, offers premium benefits, including a full table at the Charity Ball, high-profile branding opportunities, and expanded sponsorship of crisis support services.

A representative from Broken Ballerina Inc said, “Our newly launched Superhero Sponsorships help with monthly donations for 12 months and offer fantastic benefits for those businesses who come on board for the year.”

These sponsorships ensure the sustainability and growth of BBI, allowing the organisation to continue assisting those in need.

Businesses interested in supporting this cause can learn more by visiting www.brokenballerina-inc.com.au.

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A recent stall outside Big W invited shoppers to donate, purchase merchandise and homemade treats, and capture a photo in a hot pink cape. Photo source: Broken Ballerina Inc. (Facebook)

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Mackay Regional Council has completed works to restore or replace six aged timber bridges in rural areas.

The bridges replaced were Palm Tree Creek Bridge (Pinnacle), Ash's Bridge (Devereux Creek), Barren Creek Bridge (Calen), Greens Bridge (Mt Charlton), Old Hampton Road Bridge (Marian) and One Mile Creek Road Bridge (Mount Pelion).

All the bridges have been restored to a 44-tonne (T44) loading capacity.

The final bridge in the project to be replaced was Barren Creek Bridge, which opened to the public on February 27.

The Barren Creek Bridge has new concrete approach slabs and an Australian hardwood timber superstructure with galvanised steel fixings.

A custom glue laminated deck was also custom made and imported.

The custom deck is stronger, lighter and harder wearing than other alternatives, enabling re-use of the existing timber foundations, which saved time and cost.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the Barren Creek Bridge was 90 years old.

“The project team actually found original construction drawings for it and Greens Bridge from 1935,” Mayor Williamson said.

“With these six bridges requiring significant maintenance, council initiated a project to renew them in 2024 and brought in specialist contractor, Timber Restoration Services (TRS) to undertake the works,” he said.

“Unfortunately, we hit a snag in late November (2024) when one of the custom-built decks was held in Customs, causing a delay.

“Council and TRS investigated other options to minimise further delays, and a new deck was constructed and shipped at no additional expense to council, so that was a great outcome.”

Council engaged closely with the rural communities impacted while the bridge works were under way.

Mayor Greg Williamson said local residents had been very understanding and great to work with.

“We realise that road closures are inconvenient, and a lot of residents were impacted by lengthy detours, but people were tremendous, and we really appreciate their patience.”

TRS General Manager Patrick Bigg said it had been a pleasure working with council and alongside a dedicated team of local subcontractors over the past 12 months, restoring and rehabilitating these six timber bridges.

“Each bridge presented a unique set of challenges which were successfully navigated using longevity-focused design solutions that extend the life of each asset,” Mr Bigg said.

“Thanks also to the community for your assistance, continued patience and support throughout the project,” he said.

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Barren Creek Bridge before renewal

Barren Creek Bridge completed

Palm Tree Creek Bridge before renewal

Palm Tree Creek Bridge completed

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Mackay Regional Council and Mackay Isaac Tourism have hit the launch button on an “ultimate calendar” for events in the Mackay region.

Launched today (Thursday, March 6) at the Mackay Event Connect Networking evening, the new platform, Mackay Events, was met with considerable excitement by local businesses owners, event planners and industry representatives.

Mackay Events is a user-friendly platform for managing, promoting and showcasing events in the Mackay region.

Mayor Greg Williamson explained that mackayevents.com.au automatically compiled local events from other popular ticketing and events platforms.

“Oztix, Try Booking, Eventbrite, Humanitix, the MECC, Australian Tourism Data Warehouse and many others are automatically picked up and added to this ultimate calendar,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Accommodation, hospitality and tourism business owners have for a long time called for a one-stop-shop where they can direct visitors who are asking ‘what’s on’ while they are in the region,” he said.

“Mackay Events is that one-stop-shop.

“It automatically captures all the local ticketing platforms and is also very easy to add events to directly.”

Mackay Isaac Tourism CEO Jeff Stewart-Harris said this ultimate calendar launch comes off the back of Mackay Isaac Tourism’s new destination events campaign, "Keep Up”.

“The Keep Up campaign encourages visitors to explore the endless adventure and vibrant events that make our regions so attractive.

“With this new calendar, visitors and locals will never miss an event again,” Mr Stewart-Harris said.

“Mackay Events has an excellent feature which allows users to create a profile that can be personalised so that they will be notified about events that they are interested in,” he said.

“This will be a fantastic opportunity to showcase all the amazing events that make our region such a vibrant, exciting place to visit, all in the one location.”

Mackay Events can be easily accessed via the Mackay Isaac Tourism and Mackay Regional Council websites or by going directly to the web address (mackayevents.com.au).

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To celebrate and acknowledge International Women's Day, Resource Industry Network (RIN) is thrilled to host
its annual business lunch to champion inclusivity and gender equity in the workplace.

The global theme for International Women’s Day is "Accelerate Action,” focusing on the need to
take swift and decisive steps to address the systemic barriers and biases that women face in
professional spheres.

At the current rate of progress, full gender parity won't be achieved until 2158, about five
generations from now, according to the World Economic Forum.

The annual business lunch features Olympic Champion Gold Medallist, Kerri Pottharst, who has
spent a lifetime decoding human high performance, and is a highly sought-after keynote
speaker, Global Sports Commentator, coach, and published author.

Renowned as one of the world's most fierce Volleyball competitors and Australia's most
decorated Indoor and Beach Volleyball player, Kerri has represented her country for an
incredible 20 years.

Business lunch attendees will be engaged by a thought-provoking panel discussion and have
the opportunity to network with accomplished professionals.

The panel will feature Taz Zammit, who is one of Australia's most followed personalities on
social media, with over 1 million global followers. Her dedication to inclusivity has led to
partnerships with global brands like Apple, Nike, and Netflix, and earned the TikTok LIVE
Creator of the Year Award and Best Business Creator Award. As a successful entrepreneur, Taz
is passionate about mentoring LGBTQ+ creators and young leaders, offering insights into the
creator economy.

"We believe a progressive and inclusive workforce is essential for driving innovation in today's
business environment. It is also proven that having women in the workplace increases safety
and productivity," says Dean Kirkwood, General Manager at RIN.

"Our International Women's Day business lunch has sold out for five consecutive years because
we bring together Central Queensland professionals to celebrate the unique and diverse roles
of women. This impactful event helps renew our shared commitment to creating more inclusive
organisations.”

This highly regarded business lunch is for professionals of all genders who are committed to
fostering inclusion and advancing the diversity of women's roles in the workplace.

Whether you're a business owner, manager, a team leader or team player, we are excited to
host you as we celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political accomplishments of
women across the region.

Early registration for our 2026 International Women’s Day is strongly encouraged since this
year’s business lunch is sold out.

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On 8 June 2005, Community Bank Sarina opened its doors for the very first time – built on the belief that banking should strengthen the community it serves.

From day one, their mission was clear: to provide essential banking services while investing in the people, businesses and organisations that make our region thrive.

Now, 20 years later, that commitment is stronger than ever.

Thanks to Community Bank Sarina’s customers, they have invested over $4 million into local schools, sports clubs, community groups and more across the Sarina and Mackay greater district.

Stay tuned to their social media profiles to find out about all the fun happening this year to celebrate this momentous milestone!

The celebrations kicked off with a lively Chamber of Commerce networking event at Ocean International, where guests enjoyed great company, delicious food, and plenty of poolside fun to mark the beginning of Community Bank Sarina's 20th birthday festivities.

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Photo credit: Leah McLean Photography

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