Local Publications Celebrate Community And Connection

A celebration of community and local journalism took place last Friday evening at Ocean’s International, as clients, advertisers, and community figures gathered to commemorate significant milestones for Core Life Magazine and Mackay & Whitsunday Life. The event, which served as both a celebration and networking night, marked 13 years of Core Magazine's presence in the region and over four years of delivering Mackay & Whitsunday Life to local homes.
The evening began with a speech from Rachael Smith, Editor-in-Chief of Life Publishing Group, who acknowledged the publication’s growth and reflected on its strong community roots.
“It’s incredible to see how far we’ve come,” said Ms Smith.
She paid homage to Life Publishing’s founder, Rebecca Douthwaite, whose vision laid the foundation for the success of both publications, as well as highlighting the success of Burdekin Life newspaper, which has been printing for more than a year.
“Rebecca’s passion for community-driven journalism is what brought us all together, and her belief in supporting local businesses is what keeps us growing today.”
Amanda Wright, Editor of Mackay & Whitsunday Life, echoed Ms Smith’s sentiments, reflecting on the publishing group’s continued commitment to the community with more than 4 years of a free, weekly newspaper.
“We knew people needed reliable, positive news during that time, and that’s what we set out to provide,” Ms Wright said.
“Today, those same values are stronger than ever.”
“We’re not just a publication, we’re a part of this community,” she said.
“Whether it’s celebrating local achievements or shining a spotlight on issues that matter, we are here for Mackay and the Whitsundays.”
Ms Wright acknowledged key team members, including  Jessica Clark, the sales manager who played a crucial role in organizing the event and fostering advertiser relationships.
“Jess is the powerhouse behind tonight’s celebration,” Ms Wright shared. “Her dedication to our advertisers keeps our pages full, and it’s because of her that we can continue to grow.”
Ms Wright also praised Hannah McNamara, a cadet journalist who joined the publishing group earlier this year, for her growth and contributions to the team.
“Hannah’s dedication to telling stories with heart has been an incredible asset. Her passion for journalism shines through in every piece she writes.”
The night wasn’t just about celebrating the publications’ milestones; it also reflected on the importance of community support. Both Mayor Greg Williamson and Federal MP Andrew Willcox spoke, acknowledging the role local media plays in connecting the community and supporting regional growth.
In addition to this, the Life Publishing Group used the evening to fundraise for three local charities; Chances House, Mackay Pet Rescue and Ronald McDonald House. Using prizes generously donated by local businesses, there were balloons of chance for purchase as well as silent auctions. More than $9,000 was raised which will be distributed evenly to the three charities in coming weeks.
As the publications continue to expand, with the upcoming launch of Hinchinbrook Life, the event showed that community-focused journalism can leave a lasting impression beyond the greater Mackay region. Core Life Magazine and Mackay & Whitsunday Life have not only become household names but also trusted sources of local news, reflecting the region’s heart and its people.

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Amanda Wright, Brydon and Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson
Christina Hawkins
Ellen, Michelle and Robyn
Jody Euler, Belinda Hassan, Allison Jones
Robyn Agius and Shirlz Russell
Laura Hamilton and Suzie
Christina Hawkins, Michelle Deane, Tiffany Clark and Jess Clark
Rachael Smith and Jan Smith
Regina Totorica and Jade Totorica
Tammy and Ethan
Bec Douthwaite and Jody Euler
Rachael, Bec, Jody and Melissa
Hasel and Georgia
Raylene Willcox and Andrew Willcox
Vanessa and Luke
Ruby and Robyn Gorlick
Ramona, Suzanne,
Emily, Monique and Ben
Kirili Lamb, Dale Chambers and Leonie Cridland
Andrew Willcox
Paul and Rebecca Douthwaite, Mayor Greg Williamson, Jessica Clark, Andrew Willcox
Adam and Hannah
Karen, Emma and Steve
From Gardian, Luke Phillips, Nanette De Guia, Denise Phillips, Kylie Darko, Ben Kerrisk
Rachael and Amanda
Hamish, Brydon, Amanda, Nell, Kitty, Lisa, Allison

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