Big Moves, Big Money, Big Games

If this week has shown anything, it’s that Queensland is playing for keeps—on the sporting field and in the political arena.

Let’s start with the Olympics. For anyone still calling it "Brisbane 2032," think again.

The Games are set to shine a global spotlight well beyond the River City, with Queensland’s regions getting their moment in the sun.

Mackay is poised to host Olympic cricket matches at Harrup Park, provided the sport is included in the 2032 program. Meanwhile, the Whitsundays will co-host sailing events alongside Townsville, showcasing our region's natural beauty to the world.

Premier David Crisafulli put it bluntly: "We've mapped out a plan to deliver not just the Games but generational infrastructure for every part of Queensland."

In other words, this isn’t just Brisbane’s party—everyone’s invited.

Then there’s the other big game: politics. The Federal Budget landed this week, and with an election looming, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The question is: do we tighten the belt to bring down mortgage rates, or loosen it with tax cuts to help households keep spending?

Either way, every voter will be weighing up what matters most when they hit the polls in the next few months.

Next week, we’ll break down the budget, the opposition’s reply, and—importantly—get insight from the three candidates vying for the seat of Dawson.

With everything from the cost of living to national infrastructure in the balance, this election will be a defining one.

As always, there’s a lot happening around the region this weekend. This Saturday night promises to be an inspiring one as both our Mackay Life journalist, Hannah McNamara, and I attend the JSP Women's Awards 2025 at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre.

Hannah has been nominated in the Rising Star category, while I am delighted to be a nominee for the Resilient Rebel award. The event shines a spotlight on the magic-making women who bring joy, strength, and passion to our community.

Enjoy your weekend,

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Amanda

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