Simon Hood, Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

The growing season rolls on, and the weather gods continue to throw curveballs to sugarcane growers.

After a relatively dry period following the February onslaught, the recent rain events may well cause a further downgrade in crop expectations.

The southern Wilmar crushing regions would appear to be a beneficiary of rain, however, the Burdekin and Herbert regions are looking for some sunshine to get the crop growing again.

With crop estimates released in early April, it is important for growers to cross-check that their GEI-nominated cane tonnes are aligned with their mill crush estimate.

The sugar market continues to find export support on price dips and scale-up trade selling on market rallies. This sideways trading pattern may well continue until the harvesters roll into the Brazilian crop in April.

In general, analysts are pulling back their forecast for Brazil as dry weather persists, and a delayed harvest will increase anxiety in the market as export stock levels are always low at this time of the year. The Indian harvest is nearing completion, with Wilmar estimates of 26.3M tonnes of sugar looking to be very close to final production.

The AUD continues to be bounced around by a gyrating USD reacting to the latest policy changes in the US. The risk of an escalated global trade war through reciprocal tariff hikes bodes poorly for the AUD. In addition, the recent Australian employment data suggests that the jobs market may be weakening, which could open the door for further rate cuts from the RBA. This should also keep the AUD under pressure.

In more positive news, we will be hosting information sessions ahead of the start of the 2025 crush to update growers on the sugar market and how marketing with Wilmar can benefit them.

Those attending will also get the opportunity to meet our new consultant, who will be taking over from Angus McKerrow in Plane Creek after his seven years of service to the region.

If you’re interested in attending an information session near you, please complete the registration form or contact your local consultant.

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Grower Marketing Consultant Angus McKerrow and Risk Manager Bevan Patterson presenting to growers at an information session in Plane Creek. Photo supplied

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The Northern Beaches is about to come alive with the launch of the Northern Beaches Community Wellbeing Series, an exciting initiative proudly supported by a Mackay Regional Council Community Impact Grant. This collaboration between the Mackay Northern Beaches Lions Club and the Northern Beaches Community Network is designed to bring people together, foster connection, and offer a wide range of activities that support wellbeing, creativity, and community spirit.

“Building upon the momentum and success of the Northern Beaches Community Week in 2024, we have expanded upon this concept to offer the Northern Beaches Community Wellbeing Series which provides regular, affordable and accessible opportunities for our community to Gather, Create and Activate,” said Project Manager and Community Volunteer, Rebecca Cooper.

With a focus on gathering, creating, and activating, the series offers something for everyone. Whether it’s pilates in the park, yoga, art classes, or rhythm circles, the program encourages people to explore new activities in a welcoming space. Residents can also join workshops in women’s self-defence, boxing for fitness, crochet, kite-making, and even sound healing sessions.

“As a rapidly expanding and diverse community, it’s important that we have opportunities to come together and establish connections with each other and to our neighbourhood.

“We are calling upon Northern Beaches locals to not just join in for the Series, but to share their ideas for what would be fun, interactive gatherings that foster connection and a sense of belonging,” Ms Cooper added.

She also acknowledged the vital partnerships behind the project, noting that the Wellbeing Series would not be possible if it weren’t for the collaboration between the Northern Beaches Community Network and the Mackay Northern Beaches Lions Club.

Northern Beaches Community Network Founder and Mackay Northern Beaches Lions Club Member, Antoinette du Toit, highlighted the deeper purpose behind the initiative.

“The Wellbeing Series isn’t just about the workshops, it’s about getting to know each other and harnessing the power of connection and conversations to bring out the best in a community,” she said.

The program also aims to promote local businesses and community groups, helping residents discover the many great things already happening in their area.

One highlight of the series will be a National Tree Planting morning, designed to bring like-minded people together while enhancing the local environment.

“We’re also really looking forward to hosting a National Tree Planting morning with the aim of meeting like-minded people and longer term that these seedlings will one day provide additional shade as well as create more inviting spaces for people to gather and be active in their local area,” Ms du Toit shared.

To get involved, email nbcweek@gmail.com, follow Northern Beaches Our Community on Facebook and Instagram, or visit the Humanitix page for event updates.

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Mackay Tourism A Main Focus For 2032

By Hannah McNamara

Known for its incredible opportunities, Mackay is on track to growing some of the world’s most talented athletes, with regional sporting facilities contributing much to that success. In a bid to expand these opportunities and gain international recognition, The Crisafulli Government is taking ambitious steps to provide bold investments in the lead up to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

As Mackay tourism leaders prepare to tie their laces and leave an impressionable mark on the upcoming 2032 Games, they’ve constructed a “game-changing” plan to not only foster grassroots athletes, but also boost the tourism economy like never before.

The Crisafulli Government has significant plans to invest in Mackay with the recent release of their 2032 Delivery Plan. Ahead of the Games, grassroots sporting clubs will receive major funding boosts to improve their facilities and encourage regional growth. This includes major upgrades to the ever-popular Harrup Park, in preparation to host cricket matches for the highly-anticipated second-ever Summer Olympics cricket competition.

Additionally, the Bruce Highway will undergo extensive improvements at Gooranga Plains to ensure competitors, families, supporters and visitors alike can travel safely around the Mackay and Whitsunday regions.

This commitment comes as part of the $9 billion investment between Brisbane and Cairns.

The 2032 Delivery Plan is already driving major tourism growth, with Queensland totalling a record of $35.3 billion overnight in visitor expenditure.

Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the Mackay region was ready to bring home the win.

“The green and gold runway leading up to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games is the perfect opportunity to bring home the gold for Queensland,” Minister Powell said.

“During the Games itself, hundreds of millions of eyes will be on Mackay and the Whitsundays, delivering an unparalleled opportunity to sell Queensland to all those potential visitors.”

Local MP for Mackay Nigel Dalton said tourism operators were excellent allrounders, who were ready for the next seven years and beyond.

“This is our chance to show the world everything Mackay has to offer,” Mr Dalton said.

“Whether it’s adventure tourism such as wakeboarding and river rafting, or cultural tourism like our South Sea Islander huts, Mackay is playing on the front foot."

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox noted his personal excitement for the 2032 Games and said, “Some of the world’s best cricketers will take to the field at Harrup Park in Mackay which is a great result.

“Over 12 months ago, I requested a Senate inquiry at Harrup Park along with Nationals Senator Matt Canavan to push for Cricket to be played in Mackay.

“Now to see this become a reality, is really exciting.”

Premier David Crisafulli affirmed that 2032 would be the year of the Queensland Games.

“These Games are a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver an infrastructure, tourism and grassroots sports legacy to benefit all of Queensland,” Premier Crisafulli said.

“Come 2032, through better connectivity and the right infrastructure, Mackay and the Whitsundays will be ready to open their doors not only to the Games but to more tourists, more employment, and more opportunities.”

Expanding Opportunity And Growing Potential

**Local Sporting Clubs To Benefit From Games On! Program **

Adding to the excitement of the 2032 Games, five local sporting clubs will receive epic funding to improve their facilities with a focus on delivering Olympic and Paralympic opportunities across the state.

Mackay’s Hockey Association, Mackay Football Park, Mackay Netball Association, Harrup Park and North Mackay Saints AFL Club will all benefit from this investment, as part of the 2032 Delivery Plan.

Regional Sporting Clubs that will benefit from the funding:

North Mackay Saints AFL Club will receive $450,000 to replace outdated lighting at Zeolla Park in Andergrove, improving visibility and safety for players and spectators.

Mackay Hockey Association will use $800,000 to add a second floor to its facility, creating more space for players, officials, and community events.

Mackay Football Park will receive $800,000 to construct a new large car park, making access easier for players and fans.

Harrup Park’s Great Barrier Reef Arena will benefit from $23.5 million to deliver stage two of its upgrade, providing new indoor courts, change rooms, and training areas, adding capacity for netball, basketball, and all-abilities sports.

Mackay Netball Association will see $1.6 million go towards building shade protection over four courts, improving conditions for players and spectators.

Member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton said this program will transform local sporting facilities, making them safer, more accessible, and more enjoyable for members of the community.

“Grassroots sport is the backbone of our region, and this funding will help clubs grow, attract new players, and give our young athletes the facilities they deserve.

“We want our young athletes to train here and become future Olympians – athletes we will proudly watch as they represent Australia across the world globe.”

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Mackay is set to benefit from major investments ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, with upgrades to sporting facilities, infrastructure, and tourism initiatives aimed at fostering local athletes and boosting the regional economy.

Minister for the Environment and Tourism, Andrew Powell, met with Member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton, and Mackay WakeHouse Australia owners, Daniel and Amanda Probert, last Thursday to discuss the region’s growing opportunities. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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How MRAEL Is Helping A Local Mum Thrive

Amanda’s journey hasn’t been easy, but she refuses to let her past define her future. With determination and the right support, she’s turning setbacks into stepping stones, creating a brighter life for herself and her son – all thanks to the Parent Pathways program, delivered by MRAEL (part of the IntoWork Group).

“This is the strongest, clearest, most driven, and most supported I’ve ever felt,” Amanda said.

“It’s because I’ve put in the hardwork myself, and I’ve reached out to the right support groups.”

Parent Pathways is a voluntary program designed to support parents and carers of children under six who are not in paid employment and receive a Parenting Payment, Carer Payment, or Special Benefit. The program provides flexible support, with a qualified mentor guiding parents toward personal, training, and career goals.

For Amanda, the support has been life-changing. She has not only gained direction but has also developed a mindset focused on giving back.

“They’re helping me build my future and my kids will also benefit in the long run,” she said.

“To help me, I’ve got to help others and give back to what’s given to me.”

She believes Parent Pathways is a vital bridge for mothers returning to the workforce.

“I think it’s a really good transition for mothers, especially to get back into the workforce. That’s what these guys are all about, which is amazing.”

MRAEL was awarded the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations Parent Pathways contract in the Mackay region in late 2024. The program operates across ten locations, including Mackay, Bowen, Cannonvale, Clermont, Collinsville, Dysart, Moranbah, Nebo, Proserpine, and Sarina.

Since November 2024, more than 100 parents have received vital support, including career guidance, childcare assistance, Allied Health services, transport aid, clothing, financial support, and domestic violence resources.

MRAEL CEO Jason Allen is incredibly proud of the program’s impact.

“Our team is committed to making a positive difference in the lives of parents and carers in the Mackay region,” he said.

“We are dedicated to helping them build more vibrant futures for themselves and their families.”

As part of the IntoWork Group, MRAEL has spent 40 years providing education, training, and employment services across Queensland. Its programs continue to empower individuals like Amanda, giving them the tools they need to thrive.

For Amanda, the future is full of opportunities, and she couldn’t be more thankful for the supports who have guided her through every step.

“It feels like all those wrong doors have just been slammed closed, and all the right ones have been opened – that’s what we need in life,” she said.

Amanda credits much of her personal success to the team at MRAEL, along with her family, friends and church.

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Mackay mum Amanda with Parent Pathways Mentor Patrice Nash

The team: IntoJobs Regional Leader Rebekah Griinke-Nott, MRAEL CEO Jason Allen, Parent Pathways Coordinator Dianne Mooney, Parent Pathways Mentor Patrice Nash, Parent Pathways Mentor Jazz Fabian, Business Admin Trainee Mia Mille.

With determination and the right support from MRAEL’s Parent Pathways program, Amanda along with many others have transformed their hardships into opportunities. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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With Anytime Tours Australia

Discover the beauty of Mackay with Anytime Tours Australia – where each step leads you towards an immersive adventure. Whether you're a visitor or a long-time local, there's always something new to uncover.

Anytime Tours Australia, founded by Vanessa Harrower and her husband Luke, offers a fresh perspective on the region, from fascinating history to vibrant food experiences…Which one will you choose?

“I was on holidays a few years ago and did a tour in another country, and I thought, ‘Why not do this in our region?’” Vanessa said.

That spark of inspiration led to the creation of Anytime Tours Australia, a family-run business dedicated to showcasing the best of Mackay.

“Mackay has so many cool features about it. The more I learn, the more I talk to locals who've lived here their whole lives, and the more I love sharing these stories,” Vanessa added.

From historical landmarks to hidden local favourites, each tour is designed to be immersive and engaging.

"We actually take participants inside. We’ve partnered with some wonderful local organisations to give people access to buildings they wouldn’t normally see from the street.”

Whether it’s exploring the region’s history or indulging in a foodie voyage, every stop has something unique to offer, and while Mackay isn’t yet known as a major tourist town, Vanessa sees its growing potential.

Vanessa notes that locals might just be surprised by how much they still have to explore. Choose from Historical Tours, City Food Tours, or even Private Tours – all designed to be flexible and accessible for all ages and abilities.

“We always test our tours beforehand to make sure it's easy for everybody of all ages to participate in,” Vanessa exclaimed.

Local businesses with accessible venues can become part of this growing experience too. To participate, the business must have ramp access to ensure the tours are accessible to all.

To celebrate their upcoming first birthday, Anytime Tours Australia will be offering exclusive deals…so stay up to date on their socials for a chance to grab a special discount!

Ready to discover Mackay like never before?

Contact Anytime Tours Australia today to book your tour and start your next adventure.

@ Anytime Tours Australia

www.anytimetoursaustralia.com.au

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Representing our community is a privilege that I take seriously, and this past month has been incredibly busy and rewarding. Whether in Mackay or Brisbane, I’ve been out listening to locals, advocating for our region, and working to ensure our communities have the support they need.

One of my key focuses has been meeting with local businesses and industry leaders to discuss the challenges and opportunities they face. Alongside the Minister for Primary Industries, I had the chance to visit Mifsuds Fresh Fruit Barn, Meat on Shakespeare, Lighthouse Takeaway, Mackay Reef Fish, Greater Whitsunday Alliance, and North Queensland Bulk Ports. These conversations are vital in ensuring our region’s industries get the support they need to thrive. I also attended the Cane Grower Industry Forum with Glen Kelly MP, where we discussed the future of agriculture in our region.

Community events are always a highlight, and I was proud to attend the Crime Stoppers Awards, Mater Hospital International Women’s Day Fun Run, and the Sports Super Star Recipients event. Recognising and celebrating the achievements of our community members is important, and I’m always inspired by the dedication of those working to make a difference.

I had the pleasure of visiting Beaconsfield State School, Carlisle Adventist College, St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, and Clontarf Foundation, which is part of Mackay State High School. My visit to Clontarf allowed me to see the incredible leadership and mentoring work being done for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young men.

In Brisbane, I spent three days in Parliamentary sittings, ensuring that our region’s concerns were represented on key issues. I also attended committee hearings on Elder Abuse in Hervey Bay, Maryborough, and Cherbourg—an issue that demands serious attention to protect some of our most vulnerable community members. Elder abuse is a hidden scourge affecting our seniors, and this inquiry focuses on enhancing education, improving reporting mechanisms, and expanding referral options to address the issue effectively. The committee is committed to delivering a comprehensive report on our findings by the end of the year.

Back home, I met with key stakeholders, including the Greater Whitsundays Council of Mayors, Queensland Fire, and Queensland Ambulance for the handover of a new and improved ambulance vehicle to the North Mackay Ambulance Station, and toured North Queensland Bulk Ports' sugar sheds. I also had the opportunity to host Minister for Tourism Andrew Powell, visiting Harrup Park and meeting with local tourism operators, including Tiger Moth flights, the South Sea Islander Huts, and Wake House Australia.

Every engagement—whether a business visit, school tour, or community event—is an opportunity to listen, learn, and advocate for the people of our region. I look forward to continuing this work and hearing more from you about the issues that matter most.

Nigel Dalton MP

Member for Mackay

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Empowering Central District Farmers Ahead Of Crushing Season

Sugarcane farmers across the Central District have been bombarded with invitations to attend what seems like a trillion events over the past couple of months, and this is terrific to see so many organisations and businesses step up to benefit growers and their businesses.

The busyness of this time of the year is not without one good and obvious reason, and that is that, leading up to the start of the season and during crushing, farmers have a far more difficult time getting away from the workplace.

Consequently, QCAR too is throwing its annual QCAR Roadshow into the mix.

We are inviting all our members, all interested parties and stakeholders to come along for our CEO and Information Updates, details below.

Never has there been a more opportune time to learn more about QCAR, your local District Committee and election outcomes and join some of our QCAR team members from the Herbert River and the Burdekin districts.

RSVP is essential for these events, so please phone or text QCAR Central District Manager Sonia Ball on 0467 573 321 or email Sonia.ball@qcar.org.au.

Event details as follows:

Proserpine: Monday April 14 at Hotel Metropole at 5.30pm.

Mackay: Tuesday April 15 at 10am (venue to be confirmed).

Mackay: Tuesday April 15 at Shamrock Hotel at 5pm.

Plane Creek: QCWA Hall at Koumala at 5.30pm

Can’t make it? Let us know, and we’ll make sure you get an update following these events.

QCAR Local District Election Update

In other news, the QCAR local district election nominations have closed, and all nominees are with the Returning Officer for validation.

Once the nominees are approved, QCAR Central District Manager Sonia Ball said QCAR would advise if any elections would take place – so the districts where there are more nominees than positions available.

“In addition, we’ll be providing our members with some information about each of them, keeping in mind it is voluntary for them to provide, to help our members make informed decisions,” she said.

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CDC Jan Meeting CAPTION: The QCAR Central District team is inviting all members, sugarcane farmers and stakeholders to attend their upcoming roadshows across Proserpine, Mackay and Plane Creek, back from left are Deputy Chairman Steve Fordyce, Blair Watt, front from left, Chairman Steve McKeering and Craig Keating (Plane Creek).

Christian Lago: Central District sugarcane farmers are invited to hear QCAR Chairman Christian Lago’s address at the Proserpine, Mackay and Plane Creek roadshow events on April 14, 15 & 16.

Stephen Ryan: QCAR CEO Stephen Ryan will give his annual CEO Update in the Central Region this month. Photos supplied

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R U OK?’s Conversation Convoy is coming to the Whitsundays region, aimed at raising awareness for suicide prevention and offering an opportunity for the community to come together, learn, and show support. The convoy will be parked up on the hill by the Coral Sea Marina carpark, on April 6th from 4:30pm to 7pm.

Matt Stokes of the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network highlights the significance of this event, saying, “It’s a great reminder for our friends, and asking that one important little question.” He continues, “We’re all going through something and asking that question opens up the door for the conversation they need to have.”

The event offers a chance for individuals to learn, engage, and ask questions in a relaxed setting. It will feature a caravan display, presentations, games, free resources, and a BBQ, with hot drinks and a free sausage sizzle available. Families, friends, and colleagues are encouraged to attend, whether to learn how to support others or to seek help themselves.

The R U OK? Convoy is part of a nationwide initiative to equip regional Australians with the knowledge and tools to start vital conversations around mental health. As it’s not always easy to keep the conversation going when someone says they’re not OK, but it could change a life.

Bring along your loved ones or just yourself, grab a free sausage, chat over a game of checkers, watch the sunset and come together to support the message of hope and help in a safe space.

WHAT: R U OK? Conversation Convoy
WHEN: Sunday, April 6th from 4:30pm to 7pm
WHERE: Coral Sea Marina, 1-3 Shingley Drive, Top Carpark

The Conversation Convoy. Photo Sourced: R U OK?'s website

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A Mackay HHS spokesperson has confirmed a significant rise in melioidosis cases across North Queensland this year, attributed to wet weather events. With this increase, individuals are urged to take sensible precautions when engaging in outdoor activities to minimise the risk.

There have been seven cases of melioidosis in the Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) region and there have now been two deaths attributed to the bacterial disease. An elderly woman died in February and the death of an elderly man last week has been attributed to the disease.

There have now been 142 cases of melioidosis across Queensland this year and a total of 21 confirmed deaths.

Taking Precautions

Those working with soil and surface water - especially after high rainfall - can be exposed to melioidosis.

This is a potentially fatal bacterial disease found in ground water and soil and people most at risk of infection are those with an underlying medical condition such as diabetes, kidney or lung problems, those who use alcohol excessively and who are immunocompromised.

Symptoms of melioidosis vary and may include fever, cough, chest pain, difficulty breathing, disorientation, headache, seizures, abdominal discomfort, skin abscesses or ulcerations, joint pain and swelling. The effects can be severe and often require hospitalisation for antibiotic treatment.

To reduce your risk of melioidosis infection:
• wear a mask if you’re using a hose or high-pressure cleaner around soil. This is to prevent breathing in bacteria that causes the disease.

• Wear protective footwear and gloves and wash your skin thoroughly after exposure.

• Avoid contact with soil and floodwaters, particularly after heavy rain.

• Cover open wounds and broken skin with waterproof dressings and wash thoroughly after exposure to soil or muddy water.

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Thirteen local producers were sponsored by Regional Development Australia Greater Whitsundays (RDA GW) and Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) to attend EvokeAG in 2025, the premier global agrifood technology and innovation event held in Brisbane.

Bringing together industry leaders, researchers, and innovators from across the agrifood sector, EvokeAG provided a vital platform for knowledge sharing and cross-sector collaboration.

Attendees explored the importance of funding synergies across the global agrifood supply chain and engaged in discussions on how to collectively navigate complex challenges while developing impactful, future-focused solutions.

RDA GW CEO Robert Cocco said they were proud to be able to assist local producers to take time from their everyday work to attend EvokeAG.

“It’s important to have those at the face of the industry attend events such as EvokeAG, as having access to global insights, new technologies, and potential business partnerships future-proofs their operations and drives our region forward,” Mr Cocco said.

“The ability to collaborate on a national and international scale is crucial in keeping the Greater Whitsundays’ agricultural industry at the forefront of innovation.

“EvokeAG reinforced the importance of industry-wide collaboration in addressing key challenges, from supply chain efficiencies to sustainable farming practices.”

Local producer based in Mackay, Tony Bartolo, reflected on the experience, highlighting the networking opportunities and exposure to innovative ideas.

“RDA GW brought together a fantastic group of producers from different agricultural industries to attend this event, creating an environment full of energy and collaboration,” Mr Bartolo said.

“For the sugar industry, discussions around biofuels were particularly insightful, providing a clearer picture of regulations and the potential for Australian producers to supply or manufacture biofuel locally.

“Additionally, learning about funding avenues for start-up technology was invaluable, offering a glimpse into how innovative ideas can be commercialised to shape the future of agriculture.”

RDA GW remains committed to working with local producers, industry stakeholders, and government bodies to drive regional economic growth and prosperity through innovation and strategic partnerships.

To stay up to date with RDA GW news, visit www.rdagw.org.au

RDA GW CEO Robert Cocco with the RDA GW and GW3 sponsored cohort of local producers at EvokeAG in Brisbane. Photo supplied

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It was a little wet and windy but that didn’t stop the MAD March Twilight Carnival from going ahead on Saturday March 15.  There was plenty of action with 284 Riders travelling from all over the State to compete at MAD BMX Clubs first carnival of the year.

The Mini Wheeler energy was high with 23 riders in this category, these little racers (aged 2-5 years old) know how to have fun and were a definite highlight for the crowd.

‘MM Electrical’ Superclass Men winners:
• 1st Hayden Fletcher (Mansfield Mt Buller)
• 2nd Joseph Costa (Cairns)
• 3rd Zac Hutton (Bundaberg)

‘Pinpoint Property’ Superclass Women winners:
• 1st Ashleigh Gunn (Burdekin)
• 2nd Elisha Nesbit (Cairns)
• 3rd Mackenzie Crocker (Harbour City)

‘Thiess’ Junior Superclass Men winners:
• 1st Matthew Fox (Cairns)
• 2nd Dylan Secher (Mackay)
• 3rd Louis Cauchi (Mackay)

‘Pirtek Mackay’ Junior Superclass Women winners:
• 1st Chelsea Evans (Mackay)
• 2nd Willow Pogmore (Mackay)
• 3rd Gabbi Reichelt (Moranbah)

Special mention to “Local” MAD riders Dylan Secher, Louis Cauchi, Chelsea Evans and Willow Pogmore for their fantastic results in Junior Superclass showing their local knowledge and skills on track claiming Podiums in Junior Superclass.

A huge congratulations to all MAD BMX Riders for your amazing effort on the weekend, representing the club and giving it all on the track, we are very proud of you all

MAD BMX is already looking forward to September when the Club is proud to be hosting the QLD State Championships on September 26th and 27th.

Contributed by Kerry Bolger

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Dylan Secher – 2nd -  Jnr Superclass Men

Louis Cauchi – 3rd – Jnr Superclass Men

Chelsea Evans – 1st - Jnr Superclass Women
 
Willow Pogmore – 2nd  - Jnr Superclass Women

Mini Wheelers
 
Sprockets. Photos supplied

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Last Tuesday, Queensland Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett, invited by Members for Mirani and Mackay, Glen Kelly MP and Nigel Dalton MP, addressed local producers in Homebush about the state’s 25-year Blueprint for Primary Industries.

Appearing at a forum hosted by Mr Kelly and Mr Dalton, Minister Perrett went over the process for the development of the blueprint which is the biggest industry consultation and collaboration in primary industries in at least a decade.

The blueprint will be a 25-year plan to help build the Queensland agricultural, fisheries and forestry sectors to ensure long term prosperity of the industry, and is being developed with farmers, industry leaders, and regional communities to set a long-term strategic vision.

“The goal to increase the value of agricultural production to $30 billion by 2030 was deliberate and shows a unifying position for all relevant government departments to get behind and back, with tangible outcomes,” Minister Perrett said.

"This plan will be practical, deliverable, and built on the collective knowledge of those who work, live, and breathe our primary industries.

“We went to the election promising to return the department to being a valued partner, trusted advisor and enabling force for agriculture, forestry and fisheries.

“The work today has shown we are going to deliver on that promise,” he said.

The Crisafulli Government will work closely with farmers, industry leaders and regional communities to set the strategic vision which will be complimented by 5-year operational plans tailored to meet regional and sector needs.

“Today’s forum was incredibly positive, by having the Minister come here today to listen to the needs and concerns of our producers we’re making sure the communities in Mirani are heard in the development of the Blueprint,” Mr Kelly said.

“Agriculture is an incredibly important industry for the electorate of Mirani, and as a farmer myself I know about various challenges that come along with farming and processing.

“Our producers can be sure that they’ve got a government that will work with them to achieve what’s best for the industry and for the state.”

Critical considerations will include the impact of global megatrends, technological advancements including agtech and diversification, advanced manufacturing, and new international trade opportunities as well as environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations.

“The sugar industry is essential to Mackay, providing jobs and opportunities to the people in town,” Mr Dalton said.

“It’s not just the canefields, but the mills that provide well paid processing jobs for people in and around the city, and we’re committed to making sure that as a government we’re working with them not against them.”

Queenslanders who want to contribute can visit the primary industries 25-year blueprint
engagement hub engagement hub and subscribe to updates on consultation activities.

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Queensland Minister for Primary Industries, Tony Perrett, discussed the state's 25-year Blueprint for Primary Industries in Homebush, focusing on boosting agriculture, fisheries, and forestry sectors, with a goal of reaching $30 billion in agricultural production by 2030. Photos supplied

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In an exciting discovery, a biologist from James Cook University has uncovered a previously unknown species of lizard on the remote Scawfell Island, located just 50km off the coast of Mackay in North Queensland.

Associate Professor Conrad Hoskin named the new skink species the Scawfell Island Sunskink (Lampropholis isla) after discovering it with Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) and Partnerships Rangers.

The newly discovered skink has distinct orange markings on its sides and inhabits rocky, rainforest gullies.

“It is exciting to find a new species in Australia in this day and age, and particularly exciting to find a beautifully coloured species entirely restricted to this paradise of an island,” Assoc Prof Hoskin said.

Scawfell Island, in the South Cumberland Islands National Park, came to fame in 2023 with the naming of a spectacular leaf-tailed gecko also unique to the island.

Assoc Prof Hoskin said surveys on surrounding islands in the South Cumberland Islands National Park failed to find the sunskink and leaf-tailed gecko, making Scawfell a stand-out among Queensland islands for its number of unique vertebrate species.

“A handful of other islands have one endemic vertebrate species, including K’gari, Hinchinbrook and Magnetic Island, but no other island is known to have two until now,” he said.

“So, it's great to know about these special places like Scawfell Island that may be tiny but have really unique wildlife that we can now be careful to look after.”

Now that the skink has been formally recognised, Assoc Prof Hoskin said steps can be taken to help ensure its conservation moving forward.

“Until you discover it’s not on anyone's radar, it takes the discovery and the naming of it before you can start conserving it,” he said.

“We don't recognise any particular threats to them at the moment and there's good numbers. They might be doing quite well now, but anything that's just found in one spot you’ve got to be keeping a close eye on.”

Senior QPWS Ranger for the Whitsundays region Sarah Jordan said it’s important we understand the biodiversity of our island national parks.

“The recent discovery of these endemic species on Scawfell Island highlights the intrinsic value of the island national parks that we manage,” she said.

“Our conservation efforts focus on safeguarding these unique ecosystems against potential threats.”

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A new skink species, the Scawfell Island Sunskink, has been discovered on Scawfell Island, making it the second unique species found there after the 2023 discovery of a leaf-tailed gecko. Photo credit: Conrad Hoskin

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People living with coeliac disease across Central and North Queensland are being sought to take part in two clinical trials of new treatments for their condition.

Dr James Daveson, a gastroenterologist at Mater Private Hospital Mackay, said an estimated 10,500 people living between Rockhampton and Cairns had the disease, which is caused by an abnormal reaction to gluten.

“Coeliac disease can be very debilitating for patients, but researchers are working hard to find new ways to prevent it and reduce its symptoms,” Dr Daveson said.

“Most clinical trials in Australia are run in metropolitan cities and only recruit local participants, but it's important that regional patients have access to innovative therapies too.

“The treatments we are looking at have passed early phase trials and are some of the most advanced clinical trial therapies yet available for coeliac disease.”

Coeliac disease is a chronic autoimmune disease that damages the small intestine and can cause a range of symptoms, including abdominal pain, bloating, fatigue, migraines and even osteoporosis.

The disease affects around one in 70 Australians and is two to three times more likely to affect women than men.

Dr Daveson is seeking adults whose coeliac disease has been confirmed by a biopsy and have been following a gluten-free diet to take part in the trials, which will be run by the Coral Sea Clinical Research Institute based at Mater Private Hospital Mackay.

“These therapies have the potential to treat patients globally,” Dr Daveson said.

“Having local residents involved in the studies mean that if they work, they are working for Australian participants – not just those from overseas who may have slightly different immune responses.”

Participants living in the Rockhampton, Mackay, Townsville and Cairns regions are able to join the trial. The trial sponsors will reimburse travel and accommodation costs.

Dr Daveson said the first trial involved a drug designed to turn off the body’s immune response to gluten, while the second trial aims to help coeliac patients whose symptoms persist while on a gluten-free diet.

An information night will be held on Wednesday 2 April at Harrup Park Country Club, Mackay, with presentations by Dr Daveson and Dr Robert Anderson, a fellow expert in coeliac disease.

To take part in the trials or find out more, phone 1800 69 27 27, visit www.coralseaclinical.com or email elizabeth@coralseaclinical.com.

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Dr James Daveson is a gastroenterologist at Mater Private Hospital Mackay, specialising in coeliac disease research and clinical trials aimed at developing advanced treatments for the condition. Photo supplied

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Delivering with compassion, Member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton MP, recently handed over a brand-new ambulance vehicle to the North Mackay Ambulance Station last Friday on March 21. The event took place at the North Mackay Ambulance Station on Holts Road, marking a significant milestone in the continued improvement of emergency services in the Mackay District.

The new vehicle, a Mercedes Sprinter 419 Van equipped with a single stretcher, replaces an older model, enabling the Mackay District to modernise its fleet and continue providing the highest standard of care to the local community.

Mr Dalton said, “This upgrade is a significant step forward for our emergency services.

“Modernising our fleet not only improves our operational capability but also ensures that our community receives the best possible care when it matters most.”

This handover highlights the continued collaboration between local government and emergency services, reinforcing the commitment to enhancing safety and service delivery in Mackay.

“Investing in modern, well-equipped ambulances strengthens our frontline services and ensures our community receives the care they need when it matters most,” Mr Dalton added.

He also thanked local paramedics for their tireless efforts in assisting those most vulnerable in the community.

“A huge thank you to our hardworking paramedics for their dedication – I’m proud to support the incredible work you do every day.”

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Member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton MP, recently handed over a new Mercedes Sprinter ambulance to the North Mackay Ambulance Station, marking a significant step in modernising the Mackay District's emergency services fleet and ensuring top-quality care for the local community. Photo source: Nigel Dalton MP (Facebook)

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