A partnership between two local organisations has resulted in countless happy faces among the remote villages of Papua New Guinea.

FMS Group, the major sponsor of Mackay skateboarding event Rumble on the Reef, travelled to PNG last week to hand-deliver skateboards, helmets and safety gear to Skate PNG – a small community group located in Taurama.

The delivery was part of the community engagement program within FMS Group, focused on giving back to the people who reside in mining regions. It was also thanks to a collaboration between The Rumble, FMS Group, TSG and Postal Skateboards to develop a world first Pacifika Cup, held at the 2024 Rumble on the Reef event in Mackay.

The winner of this competition was Josh O’Loughlin who represented PNG and donated his prize to the small skateboarding community – Skate PNG – who deliver development and coaching programs in Port Moresby.

FMS Group PNG Area Manager John Wilshere, who is also the former Captain of Rugby League Team PNG Hunters, said it was a privilege to support the PNG community in this way.

“Working in this country, it is important that we engage with and support the local community and this delivery of skateboarding equipment will have an immense impact on the children here who are learning to skate with limited resources,” Mr Wilshere said.

The Rumble Head of Partnerships Donny Fraser said it was a monumental moment for his team.

“This has put our entire crew on an emotional high,” he said.

“Thanks to FMS Group and their team for supporting the Mackay event for years, it has been a backbone of developing skateboarding in the Pacific, and it’s a privilege to work with them to be able to support PNG and developing skateboarding in our neighbouring countries.”

With operations across Australia and Papua New Guinea, FMS Group provides a wide range of services across all industries including mining, construction, marine and renewables. Their partnership with Rumble on the Reef began in 2023 and has produced remarkable opportunities for the Mackay skateboarding community.

Rumble on the Reef 2025 will be held at the Mackay Sugarbowl Skate Park on September 25 to 27.

‍

‍

FMS Group PNG Area Manager and former PNG Hunters captain John Wilshere shares a special moment with young locals in Taurama, after delivering skateboards and safety gear to support the growing skateboarding community. Photos supplied

Rainee Shepperson, FMS Group Marketing and Communications Manager, shares a moment with a local child in Taurama

‍

Applications Closing Soon

‍

Mackay Community Foundation (MCF) is accepting applications for its 2025 Grant Program, offering not-for-profit organisations the opportunity to access a share of up to $207,000 in funding for impactful community projects. But hurry, applications close next week on 15th April.

MCF is seeking applications for one-off projects that aid, relieve, or support individuals in distress in Mackay and surrounding districts.

While most grants are expected to range between $15,000 and $20,000, larger-scale projects are also considered.

MCF Board Chair Frances Easton highlighted the significance of this funding opportunity.

"MCF is committed to strengthening our local region by supporting projects that make a meaningful difference,” Ms Easton said.

“To date, we have awarded a total of $1,764,830 in community grants, empowering organisations to provide essential services and programs for those in need.

“We encourage local not-for-profits to apply and take advantage of this opportunity to create lasting positive change."

Ms Easton also encouraged those organisations applying to be very thorough in their submission.

"We want to ensure that every grant is allocated where it will have the most impact. To do this, we need applicants to provide as much detail as possible about their organisation and project.

“The more comprehensive your application, the better we can assess its potential to support and sustain our region’s most needy."

Eligible projects must build social capital, capacity, and/or resilience within the Mackay community.

It must also deliver economic benefits to the community, support local suppliers and be completed by June 2026.

The 2023/2024 Grant Program saw a wide range of projects funded, including a social support group for new mums, an inclusive arts program, an increase in beach access for youth and adults with a disability, an education program for children with cancer and the Australian Street Aid Project Medical Clinic.

Interested organisations should visit www.mackaycommunityfoundation.com for an application form – applications close 5pm 15 April 2025.

‍

The 2024 Mackay Community Foundation grant recipients. Photo supplied

‍

MIDGE POINT residents are now enjoying a renewed and refreshed water supply following the completion of significant works to water infrastructure in the region.

The most recent and final stage of improvements involved extensive cleaning of watermains suppling the Midge Point township, which required a planned water outage over several days.

Mayor Greg Williamson said council truly appreciated the patience of the community during this most recent phase of the project.

“While we tried to lessen the impact of the water outage by supplying bottled drinking water and restoring water at night for cleaning purposes, we recognise that this still required a level of planning and preparation for residents,” Mayor Williamson said.

“We understand this was inconvenient and we thank everyone for their patience,” he said.

“All planned improvements to the network have been completed but, as always, our water network teams are on standby to address any issues should they be raised.

“We often take quality drinking water for granted, but this project has showed just how much goes into getting water from its natural source to our homes and workplaces, and ensuring it’s of top quality once it gets there.”

Midge Point Tavern owner Neil Brooks said he was relieved to see the improvement in water quality.

“We are a proud community out here, and having our water issues resolved means that we can now be confident of our township’s future and potential growth.,” Mr Brooks said.

“It’s been a journey and together with council we’re glad we’ve been able to find a long-term solution.”

‍

‍

Photo caption: Midge Point Tavern publican Neil Brooks is pleased to see his business and township now has access to improved water quality. Photo supplied: Mackay Regional Council

‍

The much-anticipated Webberley-Paradise streets intersection upgrade is now expected to be completed in about three weeks.

This major project, being undertaken to improve traffic and pedestrian safety, has been delayed by the recent ongoing wet weather and contractor availability.

However, it is now planned to be complete and Webberley Street re-opened to traffic in early May. Temporary traffic arrangements, including in Paradise Street, will also return to normal.

Since construction resumed in January, council has completed all road surfacing works, constructed all traffic islands and started line marking work.

Due to wet weather and contractor availability, there are still works to be completed, including line marking, final landscaping and street lighting.

Until then, temporary traffic arrangements in the area remain in place.

Please slow down and take care when driving through this work area and obey all signage.

‍

‍

Photo supplied: Mackay Regional Council

‍

Mackay Welcomes Laffo’s Cookies

‍

Mackay is set to indulge in a delightful new business venture that combines homemade cookies, locally roasted coffee, and a heartwarming story of friendship and collaboration. Laffo’s Cookies will officially open its doors at Caneland Central, outside Target, today (Friday 11 April), offering the community a perfect blend of sweet treats and exceptional coffee for both everyday enjoyment and unique gifting.

The brainchild of lifelong friends Mark (Laffo) Laffin and Christeen McKeever, Laffo’s Cookies is the culmination of a shared passion for food, baking, and community. Mark, who secured the lease for the purple van outside Target, invited Christine to bring her lifelong dream to life by sharing her incredible homemade, artisan cookies with Mackay.

Christeen, a retired nurse and lifelong baking enthusiast, has always dreamed of sharing her creations with the world. After running a small shop at The Leap a few years ago while juggling her nursing career, she is now fully embracing her passion for baking.

“I’ve always wanted to bake for others, and now, with Laffos’s Cookies, I can finally do that on a larger scale,” Christeen said.

To complement her cookies, Christeen sought out a local coffee partner who shared her values and passion for quality. She found the perfect match in Dan Shaw from Primal Coffee, a Mackay-based coffee roaster and barista trainer.

“Dan’s passion for coffee and his commitment to the Mackay community align perfectly with my vision for Laffo's Cookies,” Christeen added.

Together, they aim to create a unique experience that combines Christeen’s signature cookie recipes with Dan’s expertly roasted coffee.

The business also plans to introduce custom cookie gift boxes, which can be purchased online and delivered the same day through services like Menulog.

“We want to build a brand that people trust and love,” Christeen explained.

“Our cookie boxes will be the perfect solution for anyone looking for a unique gift or a way to brighten someone’s day.”

Mark and Christine are thrilled to bring Laffos Cookies to Mackay and are excited about the future.

“This is more than just a business—it’s a celebration of friendship, passion, and community,” Mark said.

“We can’t wait to share our love for food and baking with everyone in Mackay.”

Laffos’s Cookies invites the community to join them for their grand opening TODAY (Friday 11 April) at Caneland Central. Follow their journey on social media for updates, special offers, and more.

‍

L-R: Nicole Laffin, Mark Laffin, Christeen McKeever and Dan Shaw are all smiles ahead of Laffo’s Cookies' grand opening at Caneland Central – blending friendship, freshly baked cookies, and locally roasted coffee into one sweet new venture. Photos supplied

‍

As the Federal Election in May approaches, the Greater Whitsunday region is setting the stage for a brighter future by unveiling its comprehensive election priorities, guided by the theme "Greater Possibilities."

Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) Chief Executive Officer Ms Kylie Porter said this strategic vision aims to drive economic growth, enhance community well-being, and ensure sustainable development across the region.

“The entire Greater Whitsunday region makes an oversized contribution to the Australian economy, with a total economic output of $75B annually,” said Ms Porter.

“Our region has three key asks of investing in the basics, driving economic productivity and support local projects to underpin our communities.”

Ms Porter said the Greater Whitsunday region is calling for a fairer funding model for local governments. Currently, councils receive just 0.5 per cent of total taxation revenue. By increasing this to 1 per cent, local governments can continue to provide essential services that make our communities liveable.

“Additionally, significant investment in critical road networks and digital infrastructure is essential to prevent economic losses and improve productivity.”

Ms Porter said the region is poised to boost economic productivity through several key projects.

“The Great Barrier Reef Arena Stage 2 will enhance local sporting and major events facilities, supporting inclusivity and driving tourism. This investment is particularly timely as Harrup Park is the cricket venue for the Olympic and Paralympic Games Queensland 2032.

“Investment in the Whitsunday Marine Discovery Centre will also capitalise on the tourism opportunity coming from Olympic sailing in the Whitsundays.”

The marine centre will also create educational and tourism opportunities related to the Great Barrier Reef, further stimulating the local economy Ms Porter said.

“Supporting local projects is crucial for the region's growth and sustainability.

“The Northern Beaches Road Network Improvements project will address congestion and improve productivity by getting residents out of cars and into workplaces more efficiently.”

Ms Porter said the Isaac Royalties Road Package aims to ensure safe roads for the Isaac region, supporting the coal industry and the broader economy.

“We are calling on all candidates to clearly articulate their commitment to funding priorities and driving greater possibilities cross the entire Greater Whitsunday region in the next term of government.”

Greater Whitsunday Alliance is the region’s peak, independent economic development body committed to making the Mackay, Isaac, Whitsunday region strong for generations.

‍

Michelle Landry

LNP, Member for Capricornia

"I’ve fought hard for our region, securing $7 billion for infrastructure and key projects.

"From major road upgrades like the Walkerston Bypass and Sarina Northern Access, to $11 million for local community groups, I’ve delivered real results. Recently, I committed $3 million to expand the Walkerston Tigers clubhouse and $200,000 to rebuild the shed lost to fire, supporting grassroots sport and our future stars.

"But there’s more to do. I want Capricornia to thrive with strong industries, like mining, agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing which drive local jobs and small business growth. I will always fight for better infrastructure and stronger regional services to keep our communities thriving.

"Under Labor, regional Australia has been neglected. They’ve ripped funding from our towns to prop up multi-billion-dollar inner-city projects, while the cost of living has soared. Rent is up 18 per cent, groceries are up 30 per cent and power over 30 per cent higher.

"Home ownership is slipping out of reach Australians. An LNP government will make home ownership achievable by cutting migration, banning foreign investors from buying existing homes and funding essential infrastructure for housing.

"Labor axed critical Bruce Highway funding, forcing me to fight to get $7.2 billion restored. Yet, they’ll only spend $432 million over three years. This has delayed vital road safety improvements.

"A Coalition Government will invest in regional health by bolstering the workforce through incentives to attract and retain doctors and nurses. We will also ensure more doctors become GPs in regional areas by providing the support they need to train and work locally. support local businesses, and Capricornia deserves a strong voice in Canberra.

"I’ve delivered before, and with an elected LNP Government, I’ll keep fighting to get our region, and Australia, back on track."

Mick Jones

Greens candidate for Capricornia

"I’m from Rockhampton and have lived in Regional Queensland my whole life.

"I studied at Central Queensland University and became politically active with the Greens after overcoming a life-threatening illness, which taught me the value of our universal health care system and the incredible work done by our local health care workers.

"I’m running for Capricornia because the major parties have failed to address the cost of living, housing and climate crisis, and we need a bold new approach.

"Too many people in our community are doing it tough and struggling to pay the bills. Our schools are underfunded and our hospitals are understaffed. Meanwhile, the major parties continue to give handouts and subsidies to big corporations, one in three of whom pay no tax.

"As a Greens candidate, I’m campaigning to make big corporations pay their fair share so we can fund things like dental and mental health into Medicare, free GP visits, and fully funded public schools and hospitals.

"We will cap rent increases, deliver cheaper mortgages for people, and make the price gouging at our supermarkets illegal. We will take strong action on climate change through a massive investment in publicly owned renewable projects, which will include a just transition for our workers in the coal and gas industry by creating better and safer jobs in clean energy.

"The Greens don’t take corporate donations, which means we will fight for the community, not corporations.

"A vote for the Greens in the Lower House and Senate at this election is a vote to keep Dutton out and get Labor to act on our cost of living, housing and climate crisis.”

_

This publication attempted to contact the candidates from Family First, One Nation, and Labor however received no response prior to print deadline. __

‍

Andrew Willcox, Member for Dawson

‍

“Having clocked up over 150,000km on the Bruce in my three years as the Federal Member for Dawson, I’m a passionate advocate for a better National Highway.

“I travel this highway every day, visiting and spending time with my constituents from Mackay to Townsville, and all the communities in between.

“I know the highway well, riding the potholes and the bumps. I know the risks travellers face, the delays they experience, and the frustrations they feel when the roads are cut.

“Not a day goes by without someone mentioning to me the poor conditions regional Australians face on this notorious stretch of road.

“Labor has neglected our highway, and in three years, it has only gotten worse. More needs to be done, and it cannot wait. I’ve been a fierce campaigner for the vital upgrades urgently needed for the Bruce Highway.

“My 'Back Our Bruce' campaign is something I'm incredibly proud to champion in Canberra, and it's a cause I will continue to fight for relentlessly.

“By securing another term on May 3rd, I can continue to drive action and fight for the necessary improvements. My Coalition colleagues support my voice for ‘Our Bruce Highway’.

“They know an improved Bruce is about improving safety, getting people moving, and that the Bruce is a key economic cog for not only North Queensland but Australia.

“A Coalition government will back our North Queensland road users and get to work on necessary upgrades. "Backing Our Bruce" means backing our farmers in getting produce to market, backing our miners getting to and from work, backing our Mums and Dads getting the kids to sport, and backing our truckies who ship our freight at all hours.

"With around a quarter of the Bruce Highway running through Dawson, getting real action is one of my most important priorities for the region.

"I want to see a better Bruce, a safer Bruce, a more reliable Bruce.

“Backing me is Backing Our Bruce!

"To join me in “Backing Our Bruce,” sign my petition and help get the wheels in motion:

www.andrewwillcox.com.au/back-our-bruce."

‍

Labor candidate for Dawson, Neil Wallace welcomed the policy announcement that a re-elected Albanese Labor Government will make batteries cheaper, with a 30 per cent discount on a typical installed battery through the Cheaper Home Batteries Program.

From 1 July 2025, there will be a 30 per cent discount on installing a typical virtual power plant-ready battery system alongside new or existing rooftop solar - with over 1 million installations expected by 2030.

Discounts will be based on the size of the system, with support for the first 50 kWh of usable capacity for eligible batteries sized up to 100 kWh – meaning batteries appropriate for small businesses and community facilities will also be eligible.

These batteries could save a household with existing rooftop solar up to $1,100 off their power bill every year, and $2,300 a year for households installing a new solar and a battery system.

The absolute value of the discount will decline over the next five years in line with expected battery cost reduction, in the same way discounts have tapered as the cost of rooftop solar has reduced.

The program will put downward pressure on bills by fully funding discounts by accredited installers. There is no cost to any other billpayer and everyone, battery or not, gets cheaper bills.

The initiative is expected to slash energy bills for households, small businesses and community facilities by up to 90 per cent.

Labor's plan is in stark contrast to Peter Dutton, who will cut critical services to pay for his $600 billion nuclear plan, driving up household energy bills by hundreds of dollars this decade alone and up to $1,200 when reactors are finally built.

‍

The Cost Of Ineffective Marketing

‍

Too many businesses sink money into marketing that simply doesn’t work. Some put their trust in agencies promising quick wins at unbeatable prices, only to be let down when the results don’t follow. Others take the DIY approach, spending time and resources on channels that miss the mark. To understand where things go wrong, and how to fix it, we sat down with Jody Euler, Director of award-winning agency Redhotblue, to uncover the biggest marketing mistakes and how businesses can make every dollar count.

How can a business owner tell if their marketing agency isn’t working for them?

If, as a business owner, you feel you are always pitching ideas to your agency, then it’s probably time to reconsider. A marketing agency should drive ideas and challenge the thinking of their clients - drawing on their experience and knowledge – not be providing cookie-cutter approaches.

What are the most common ways businesses waste their marketing budget?

Not having a plan is the quickest way to burn money. Activities decided on in isolation may seem like a good idea at the time, but collectively everything should work together. You need a plan to ensure you have allocated your budget appropriately. All too often clients chop and change based on the latest trends, a new offer, or what a competitor is doing.

Where do you see in-house marketing falling short in terms of budget allocation?

Lack of industry experience, media connections, and a narrow perspective are often what derail in-house marketing. While brand guidelines need to be respected, understanding how to navigate them without compromising the creative or producing bland outcomes comes with experience. It’s also common to see businesses invest in marketing that feels comfortable or familiar to themselves, but in fact doesn’t resonate with their audience.

What are some of the biggest misconceptions business owners have about marketing spend?

Often marketing is overlooked for two reasons.

1. Business is going well and therefore they believe they’re in a good position. If this were the case, we wouldn’t see the most well-respected brands continuing to promote their offerings.

2. They don’t believe it’s necessary. Business owners doing nothing in the marketing landscape will eventually fall behind, while their competitors forge ahead. In this day and age customers have access to so many options, so why would doing nothing be a good idea?

How does your agency help businesses avoid wasted marketing spend?

Strong messaging with tailored creative, delivered through the correct channels is how we approach everything regardless of budget.

How do you help clients shift from ineffective marketing tactics to a more strategic approach?

It starts with getting to know them, not just the business, but the person behind the decisions. We spend time in this space because experience has taught us that when clients understand the why, it changes everything. Often, it means going back to the fundamentals so we can build a clear, strategic path forward. True marketing strategy isn’t about chasing the latest trend or favouring a platform, it’s about intentional, purpose-driven decisions that align with long-term goals.

What would you say to a business owner who is sceptical about hiring an agency because they’ve been financially burned before?

One setback doesn’t mean the same outcome will follow, there is always a better path forward. My advice when choosing the right agency is to do your homework. Look beyond what they say and check their track record. Read client testimonials, review their past work, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. The right agency will welcome it.

Where possible book a consultation. It’s the perfect opportunity to see if the agency understands your goals. Whether you're looking to elevate your brand, grow your audience, or capture more market share, you need a team that not only has your back but also has the experience to take you there.

‍

Local students and aspiring automotive professionals are invited to the Automotive Career Expo, hosted by McCarthy Panelworks in collaboration with the Motor Trades Association of Queensland (MTAQ). This event promises to be a key opportunity for young people to explore the dynamic and rapidly evolving automotive industry.

Scheduled to take place on Wednesday April 16, the Expo will provide an interactive and hands-on training experience designed to introduce students to automotive operations. The training is part of the Autoready Training program run by MTAQ and offers three modules that, upon completion, contribute toward QCE points. This program gives students valuable insights into automotive careers while also enhancing their qualifications.

The Expo will feature a variety of exhibitors from the automotive sector, including local businesses and suppliers. This relaxed, informal event allows attendees to meet with industry professionals and learn more about the exciting opportunities the sector has to offer. Last year’s event saw over 100 people in attendance, and this year, McCarthy Panelworks aims to make the Expo even bigger and better.

For businesses, the event provides a unique chance to showcase their services, connect with potential apprentices, and engage with students and parents curious about automotive careers. Local businesses are welcome to participate, provided their displays are interactive. The event will be a great opportunity for those eager to hire or inspire the next generation to join the industry.

The evening will also highlight the broad spectrum of automotive roles available, from traditional mechanics to new careers in electric vehicle technology and automation. This is an excellent chance for students to gain insight into a future-proof, rewarding career.

Students and parents are encouraged to attend and take advantage of the chance to network with local employers and learn about vocational training, apprenticeship opportunities, and the exciting future of the automotive industry.

For more information or to register, visit the MTAQ website or scan the QR code. Don’t miss this chance to explore the possibilities in automotive careers and start paving the way for your future!

‍

‍

Students, parents, and local businesses are invited to the Automotive Career Expo on April 16 - an interactive event hosted by McCarthy Panelworks and MTAQ, showcasing career pathways, hands-on training, and opportunities to connect with the future of the automotive industry. Image supplied

‍

The wheels are turning once again as the much-loved BMA River 2 Reef Ride returns to Mackay on 6 and 7 September, promising a high-energy weekend of cycling, creativity, and community contribution. With registrations opening on Thursday 3 April, the festival invites riders of all ages and skill levels to take part in an event that not only celebrates fitness and fun, but also drives real change in the region.

A highlight of this year’s festival is the unveiling of the 2025 BMA River 2 Reef Ride jersey, featuring a vibrant, original design by emerging youth artist Abigail Preston of Whitsunday Anglican School. Selected from a competitive field of entries, Abigail’s artwork will be worn proudly by over 500 cyclists, earning her both regional recognition and a $500 cash prize.

This year’s runner-up, Bentley Mcloughlin of Clontarf Foundation Mackay Academy at Mackay State High School, received $250, while third place went to Oliver Galletly, also from Whitsunday Anglican School, who received $100 for his design.

The festival also delivered a major win for local charities, raising an impressive $40,000 for BMA CQ Rescue and Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay (DSRM). This brings the total raised over the past three years to more than $100,000, reflecting the event’s strong focus on community support.

Linda Murry, general manager of BHP Mitsubishi Alliance’s (BMA) Hay Point Coal Terminal, emphasised the importance of the ongoing partnership.

“BMA is proud to continue our partnership with river 2 reef ride, now in its 4th year, an event that not only encourages fitness and fun but also directly benefits vital local organisations.

“Seeing the community come together each year for such a fantastic cause is truly inspiring.”

Cyclists can look forward to a diverse line-up of rides designed for all experience levels, including both competitive and family-friendly options:

Saturday, 6 September:

• Criterium Race

• Family-Friendly Golding Kids Colour Ride

Sunday, 7 September:

• 30km Queensland Country Health Fund Dash

• 60km City Fitness Epic

• 100km Kaeser Compressors Gran Fondo

Registrations open 3 April. For more details and to register, visit www.river2reefride.com.au

‍

‍

Abigail Preston, Bentley Mcloughlin, and Oliver Galletly were recognised for their creative jersey designs as part of the 2024 BMA River 2 Reef Ride youth art competition. Photo credit: Deanne Woods | Deanne Woods Photography

Representatives from BMA CQ Rescue and Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay received a combined $40K from last year's event

Event organisers, student artists and charity representatives pictured following the announcement of $40,000 raised for local organisations and the unveiling of the 2025 ride jersey design

‍

Mackay Regional Council’s crackdown on illegal dumping is having a positive effect in the community, with a noticeable decrease in offences across the region.

Regular patrols and increased signage have helped deter offenders and word is spreading that illegal dumping can lead to hefty fines.

Mayor Greg Williamson said while it was encouraging to see fewer cases of general waste being illegally dumped, green waste remained a significant issue.

“Unfortunately, we’re still seeing green waste like lawn clippings, branches and palm fronds dumped in parks, reserves and bushland,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Some people think because it’s natural, it’s harmless – but that’s not the case,” he said.

“Dumped green waste can block drainage systems, attract pests, spread weeds and even become a fire hazard.”

Unlike household waste, illegally dumped green waste is nearly impossible to track back to an offender unless they are caught in the act.

“We’re asking the community to be extra vigilant and report anyone they see dumping green waste in public areas,” Mayor Williamson said.

Residents are reminded that illegally dumping green waste carries the same penalties as other forms of dumping, with fines of up to $2500 or more depending on the amount of waste that is dumped.

Instead of dumping green waste, it can be disposed of responsibly by being placed in residents’ red-lidded general waste bin or taken to one of council’s waste facilities to be disposed of for free using dump vouchers.

It is preferable to bag loose green waste, such as grass clippings and cuttings, as they tend to adhere to the bins and collection vehicles.

Alternatively, they can be used for mulching and composting at home.

If you see illegal dumping, report it to council by calling 1300 MACKAY (622 529).

‍

Redhotblue has once again been recognised as the Best Full-Service Creative Agency at the prestigious Australian Enterprise Awards, marking the agency’s third consecutive win in this category.

The awards, presented by Corporate Vision Magazine, celebrate the best in business across various sectors, and redhotblue’s achievement highlights its continued excellence in the marketing industry.

Melissa Bramall, Awards Coordinator of Corporate Vision, praised this year’s winners for their innovative approaches and significant impacts within their respective industries.

“This year’s winners have truly been making a positive impact on their spheres as they continue to innovate and update their business practices, services, and products," Ms Bramall said.

For Jody Euler, redhotblue founder, the recognition is a proud moment for both the agency and the Mackay community.

She said that she was proud to represent Mackay in a category showcasing talented businesses from all over Australia and to be recognised for three consecutive years is a tremendous honour.

Redhotblue’s success lies in its unique approach to marketing. The agency goes beyond traditional strategies, immersing itself fully in each client’s business to understand its dynamics and challenges. This deep level of involvement allows the team to craft bespoke marketing solutions tailored to each client’s specific needs and industry requirements.

The agency’s commitment to delivering fresh perspectives and innovative strategies has made a lasting impact on businesses like Primal Coffee Roasters.

Founder Dan Shaw shared his experience: “To have someone take the ramblings of my ideas and bring them to life was incredible and emotional.

"My advice… let the team at redhotblue do what they do so well and have done for nearly 30 years.”

‍

‍

Jody Euler and the redhotblue team celebrate their third consecutive win as Best Full-Service Creative Agency at the Australian Enterprise Awards. Photo supplied

‍

By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

‍

It is only a matter of months until the start of the 2025 crush, and CANEGROWERS Mackay is urging people thinking of a change to take a look at opportunities in the sugarcane industry. This year, the annual CANEGROWERS Mackay harvest labour campaign is taking an all-of-industry approach.

Our industry offers a broad range of opportunities from farming, harvesting, milling and service businesses. Having an adequate and skilled workforce from paddock to mill and beyond is critical in getting our cane processed and our sugar to market. The growing, harvesting and milling sectors are all interdependent on each other to succeed.

It is important that people see opportunity in the sugar industry. It is an industry with a diversity of jobs where drivers, skilled tradespeople, technicians and growers, and supporting professionals all play a valued role.

As a renewable resource, there is a strong potential future for cane across food, fibre and fuel. In this region alone, there is well over 6 million tonne of cane to harvest and process every year.

As it has been for 15 years, the heart of the campaign is the Canegrowers Mackay Haulout Driver courses, funded through the Queensland Government Skilling Queenslanders for Work program, and delivering 20 new workers every year to the harvesting sector, equipped with basic practical and safety skills.

The four-day courses are conducted on-farm and led by highly experienced grower harvesters. As an added bonus for people new to agriculture, it features RTO-accredited modules in Rural Operations Cert II, this year backed by our new RTO course partner, Civil Safety, who will work alongside the experienced grower-harvester training team of Ron Gurnett, Glen Brady and Zac Borg.

We are always thankful for the expertise these growers bring to the course, delivering practical advice and guidance to industry newcomers. Not to mention Ron Gurnett making his farm and machinery available for the trainee’s use.

It is vitally important for our harvest sector that all Haulout driver positions are filled. As a service to industry, CANEGROWERS Mackay are committed to helping people get basic training and become employed in our industry.

C Class (drivers) licenses are all that is required to drive the more common tractor/trailer haulout combination used in Mackay region, while HR and, in some cases, HC is needed for trucks. There is a demand for drivers that have HR and HC licenses across milling areas also.

The haulout course gives a great ‘bootcamp’ start to the industry, harvest contractors and growers will still need to deliver some on the job training and site-specific inductions.

We welcome people to apply for jobs and training. There are about 130 harvesting groups across the region. Many have people who return year on year, but many are looking for new staff also. Equally, there are millers and businesses right along the supply chain looking for staff.

In recent years, we have had interest from younger retirees looking to supplement their retirement income with work through the cooler months. We have had interest from all walks of life: backpackers, women, school-leavers. From people who become tired of working the drive-in-drive-out working away from home lifestyle, and instead be home every night.

Registrations are open now for the Haulout Driver courses, closing on Wednesday 16 April. The four-day courses start 13 and 20 May. You can find out more about Haulout Driver training and see the CANEGROWERS Mackay jobs board on our website. www.mackaycanegrowers.com.au.

‍

‍

Haulout Senior Trainer Ron Gurnett shares a lifetime's experience in harvest with course participants

Haulout Driver training is an excellent way to get acquainted with industry procedures. Photo credit: Kirili Lamb

‍

The Queensland Government is investing $2 million in targeted action to tackle the state’s escalating feral pig problem, easing the burden on regional communities and supporting the agricultural sector.

Following years of limited progress, feral pig populations have exploded across Queensland, causing widespread damage to crops, natural ecosystems and waterways. In 2023 alone, ABARES reported $95 million in production losses and control costs due to feral pigs in Queensland.

The new investment includes $1 million to develop a Queensland Feral Pig Action Plan, designed in consultation with key stakeholders and tailored to meet the unique challenges of different regions. The remaining $1 million will support the development of innovative control methods over the next three years.

This initiative adds to the government’s broader $50 million, four-year commitment to strengthening biosecurity across the state.

Regional feral pig coordinators, funded by the state government, are already on the ground in six key areas—Cairns, Longreach, Mareeba, Townsville, Mt Isa, and more—working alongside landholders, local councils, and agencies on coordinated control measures including baiting, trapping and aerial shooting.

Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said reducing feral pig numbers would take investment, innovation and teamwork.

“We need to make a dent in feral pig populations, not only to protect primary production but to mitigate biosecurity risks,” Minister Perrett said.

“Feral pigs cost primary producers millions of dollars every year.

“We know the only way to get on top of this growing problem is to have a coordinated plan with everyone from landholders to the Government working together.

“Whether you’re a grazier out west, a sugarcane farmer up north, a strawberry grower on the granite belt, a natural resource manager in the Wet Tropics, a traditional owner on the Cape, or part of a local, state, or Commonwealth government agency—your ideas, expertise, and action are essential.”

‍

With deer breeding season fast approaching, the Centre for Invasive Species Solutions is reminding communities of the heightened risk of feral deer on the road as well as increased activity and damage across Australia’s landscapes, including in suburban streets.

Dr Annelise Wiebkin, National Deer Management Coordinator, says feral deer cause serious damage in farmland, native bushland and urban areas and that the breeding season is a particularly critical time to notice their presence and manage their impacts.

“Feral deer activity will intensify in the coming weeks, so people may see deer more often or even for the first time in a new area. It’s important that the community reports sightings on the free DeerScan app,” Dr Wiebkin said.

“We have a small window of opportunity to track their spread and support control efforts, particularly in areas where feral deer numbers are still low.”

“Feral deer trash and eat native vegetation, ringbark trees, create wallows, trample undergrowth and spread weed seeds, all things that threaten the survival of native flora and fauna,” Dr Wiebkin said.

The Centre’s Chief Executive Officer, Shauna Chadlowe, warns that feral deer are becoming an increasing concern to communities across the country, with extreme weather events – such as droughts, floods and fires – pushing them into new areas.

“It’s astonishing – deer have now spread to every state and territory in Australia,” she said.

“We need everyone to stay alert.

“Every Australian can play a role by reporting feral deer sightings or signs, like tracks and damage. These reports are crucial – they help drive coordinated efforts to control new deer populations before they spiral out of control.

“By acting now, we can stop their spread and save Australia millions of dollars each year,” she added.

Feral deer also hit the farming community hard, with Ted Rowley, Independent Chair of the National Feral Deer Action Plan Committee, showcasing the importance of control efforts.

“Farmers are fed up: deer cause $69 million in agricultural productivity losses and $4.5 million in vehicle and train collisions each year. The Plan is key to stopping these losses," he said.

Jenny O’Sullivan, champion of Victoria’s Cape Liptrap community deer control group says “The free DeerScan app is really important for our community group. Reported sightings enable us to know where the deer are moving about in our community, and to focus our control efforts more effectively”.

Deer by the numbers: costing us ‘deerly’

• Six species of feral deer have become widespread in Australia.

• Deer numbers in Australia are estimated at between 1 and 2 million.

• Feral deer cost the Australian economy about $91.3 million in 2021, including:

o $69.1 in agricultural losses

o $17.8 million in public expenditure for control efforts

o $3.3 million in motor vehicle impacts

o $1.2 million in train collisions

‍

‍

1: Photo credit: Darryn Mundt

2: Photo credit: Peter Bradford

‍

Last Friday marked a significant milestone for the Sarina community, as Sarina Hospital celebrated one year since opening the doors of its state-of-the-art facility on Brewers Road.

Staff, volunteers, project teams and community supporters gathered to recognise the hospital’s first year of operation — a year marked by growth, resilience and commitment to delivering high-quality health care close to home.

Director of Nursing Pauline Maude reflected on the journey, commending her team and acknowledging the importance of taking time to celebrate achievements.

“We are incredibly proud of the facility we have today. Our team has experienced remarkable growth, adapting and streamlining our processes together,” she said.

“The celebration today is about taking a moment to recognise those achievements which ultimately contribute to the best possible outcomes for our patients.”

In its first 12 months, Sarina Hospital has become an essential part of the region’s health service network, with more than 9,400 Emergency Department presentations, over 4,000 inpatient days, close to 1,100 x-ray examinations, and upwards of 3,000 outpatient appointments.

The numbers tell a story of a busy hospital — but more than that, they represent real people in the community receiving timely, professional care when it matters most.

The hospital has quickly become a valued asset to Sarina, not just for its services, but for the dedication of the people behind it. Community member Leanne expressed her appreciation, and said, “Thanks to all the staff and fellow co-workers for the past 12 months!

“It really is a fabulous facility, and the effort put in to get it up, running and established has been nothing short of miraculous.”

The new hospital, which replaced the ageing original facility, was built to meet the current and future needs of the growing Sarina region. With modern infrastructure, advanced technology, and a focus on patient comfort, the facility has significantly enhanced the healthcare experience for both patients and staff.

Having access to quality health care locally is vital for regional communities like Sarina. It means patients can avoid long travel times for urgent or ongoing treatment, and families have the peace of mind that support is nearby. The hospital also provides local employment, training opportunities, and a sense of security for the entire community.

The one-year milestone served not only as a moment of reflection but also as a promise for the future.

“Happy Birthday Sarina Hospital, what an amazing team.”

‍

Sarina Hospital celebrated its first birthday last Friday, marking a year of delivering vital, high-quality healthcare to the local community and recognising the dedicated team behind its success. Photo source: MHHS (Facebook)

‍

After a heartbreaking fire tore through Sarina Junior Rugby League’s team shed earlier this year, the club was left without vital equipment and its young players without a home base. Now, there’s a flicker of hope on the horizon, with Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry, committing $200,000 to help rebuild the shed – if an LNP Government is elected.

Michelle Landry said she was proud to stand with the club and help restore what had been lost.

“Sarina Junior Rugby League is more than just a footy club, it’s part of the heart and soul of this community,” Ms Landry said.

“This club has helped shape some of Australia’s top NRL talent, like Reuben Cotter, Daly Cherry-Evans and Brianna Clark.

“We need to make sure the next generation of players has the same opportunities and support.”

Ms Landry said the $200,000 commitment would ensure the club can build back bigger and better, with upgraded facilities that support players, volunteers and the wider Sarina community.

“When local clubs lose essential infrastructure like this, the whole community feels it. This funding will help the team get back on their feet, rebuild their shed and boost the morale of everyone involved.

“This is what strong local representation looks like; standing up for the clubs and communities that make our region great.”

Club representative Aimee Korte said the support from Michelle Landry had lifted spirits and given the players and volunteers hope for the future.

“We’re incredibly grateful to Michelle for not just listening, but taking real action to help our club,” Ms Korte said.

“This funding will go a long way in helping us rebuild. It means our players will once again have a place to store their gear, gather as a team, and feel proud of their club.

“Our young players train hard and play with heart. Having the right facilities shows them that their efforts matter and that the community is behind them.”

‍

‍

Back row: Deslee Stevens, Aimee Korte, Lain Korte, Ian Korte. Front row: Shae Korte, Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry, Shannon Korte, Mackay Regional Council Deputy Mayor Karen May, Sophia Hussey, Zoe Hussey. Photos supplied

‍

A three-part social media training series has equipped local community groups with the skills and confidence to better promote their events, engage with their audience and maximise their online presence. Thanks to the sponsorship of Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank, participants attended free of charge, making the program accessible to a wide range of local not-for-profits.

Delivered by Rebel Nation, the training covered essential topics such as content planning, engagement strategies, social media insight, and the power of digital tools like ChatGPT and Canva. Participants walked away with practical knowledge and newfound confidence to grow their online reach.

Karen Perry from the Sarina Poultry Society said the training has transformed how she manages social media for her group. “Before, I felt I wasn’t very good at writing – I knew what I wanted to say but didn’t know how to express it. Now, I’ve started using ChatGPT to help write posts and it’s great. I’ve also been able to get organised ahead of time with our posts, so that when I go away, our page is still active.”

Marg Rowlands, Chaplain at Sarina and Swayneville Primary Schools, also saw a huge shift in her approach to managing the Sarina District Schools Chaplaincy Committee Facebook page.

“Previously, I was scared to post in case I got something wrong. But now, I feel 100% better about posting – and we’ve already got some live. I’m still a little nervous, but I’ve learned not to be afraid to try, experiment and see what works. That’s where the reviewing your data comes in – if something doesn’t work, it’s not a failure, it’s just a lesson for next time.”

Marg expressed her appreciation for the sponsorship that made the training possible. “The wealth of knowledge imparted over these three sessions was outstanding. For a not-for-profit to benefit from that wisdom without having to pay for it – thanks to the support of Community Bank Sarina – is phenomenal. We are so, so grateful.”

This training series has given community groups the confidence and skills to share their stories, promote their events and engage more effectively online. Thanks to Community Bank Sarina’s sponsorship, participants walked away feeling empowered, equipped with new tools and ready to take their social media to the next level.

‍

‍

The local community group members who attended the social media training series, sponsored by Community Bank Sarina, along with training facilitator Jade McAuley (Rebel Nation) and Board Chair Karen May (Community Bank Sarina)

‍

Council is seeking input from residents to help shape active transport in the Mackay region for the next 10 years.

Improving active transport networks was a clear priority for Mackay identified in the 2023 Australian Liveability Census.

This project looks to improve active transport networks across the Mackay region.

A survey has been launched as part of community consultation aimed at gaining community input about how best to improve walking and riding infrastructure across the region.

Mayor Greg Williamson said council was developing a Mackay Active Transport and Micromobility Plan and wanted to hear from residents.

“The community feedback will help shape the future of our pathways, cycleways, road crossings and connections to key destinations,’’ Mayor Williamson said.

“Those destinations include schools, shops, parks and public transport,” he said.

“Whether you walk, ride a bike or ride a scooter, or are simply interested in safer and more accessible transport options, your input will be valuable.”

Mayor Williamson said active transport included walking, riding and rolling on any device that required human power for movement.

He said micromobility referred to lightweight, electric powered transport services, such as e-scooters.

“These e-scooters, including hire scooters and privately-owned scooters, have become increasingly popular in recent years, so form an important part of active transport needs.

“But micromobility also includes other electric devices, such as mobility scooters.”

The survey, which takes about 10 minutes to complete, can be accessed at connectingmackay.com.au/active-transport

It will close on Sunday, April 27 at 11.59pm.

‍

Council is seeking community input on improving walking and riding infrastructure across the region. Have your say by completing the survey before April 27. Photo supplied

‍

Nothing says Youth Week like delicious food, an outdoor movie, a pool party and some live music.

Youth aged 12 to 25 years in the region are invited to kick back at three free events funded by council during Youth Week, beginning April 4.

Council’s Youth Development team has worked closely with the Mackay Youth Council, Sarina Youth Council and Valley District Youth Council to plan an event in each area.

The events to be held include:

An outdoor movie night featuring Cool Runnings, at the George Johnson Park, Mirani, Friday, April 4, 6pm to 8pm.
An outdoor movie night featuring Cool Runnings, at the Sarina Field of Dreams, Tuesday, April 8, 6pm to 8pm.
A Youth Poolside Market Fest featuring free pizza and slushies, youth run market stalls, live music and swim session at the Bluewater Lagoon, Thursday, April 10, 2pm to 5.30pm.
The week of activities will culminate in the inaugural Youth Week Exhibition that will showcase the works of young, upcoming artists who have been working alongside a coordinated group of local artists to hone their exhibition skills.

The exhibition will have an official opening night at the Jubilee Community Centre Exhibition Space on Friday, April 11 from 5pm to 7pm. It will run until April 25.

There will also be Youth Week events happening at Mackay Regional Council Libraries throughout the week. Download the Mackay Libraries app for all the details.

Queensland Youth Week is the annual celebration of young people aged 12 to 25 years and the positive contributions they make to Queensland.

‍

Youth aged 12 to 25 years in the region are invited to kick back at three free events funded by Council during Youth Week, beginning April 4. Photo supplied

‍

‍

Mackay residents are being urged to help shape future council improvements to enhance liveability in the region.

Residents are invited to have their say by taking part in the 2025 Australian Liveability Census.

Every two years, Place Score undertakes Australia’s largest social research project to measure liveability in communities throughout the nation.

The census identifies what matters to local communities and gathers ideas for making them better places to live.

Mayor Greg Williamson said liveability was simply “an assessment of what a place is like to live in”.

He said Mackay took part in the last Liveability Census in 2023 and there were some tangible outcomes from the feedback received.

“In the 2023 census, the Mackay community’s number one value related to the natural environment and our appreciation of our natural landscape, vegetation, access to water and coastal areas, and wildlife.

“Council supports the natural environment through initiatives, such as our Greening Strategy and the Free Native Plan and Gardens for Wildlife programs, which provide residents with free native plants for their gardens.

“We have also taken action to help protect an environmental reserve at East Point, including the coastal dunes that are crucial for turtle nesting and shorebirds.”

Mayor Williamson said another top priority for Mackay residents highlighted in the 2023 census was improving walking and bike paths connecting neighbourhoods to schools, workplaces, shopping and recreational areas.

“Council is preparing an Active Transport plan to help plan these connections,’’ he said.

“In 2023, just over 1140 residents responded to the census survey. This time around we are encouraging even more to compete.

“We especially want to hear from groups who were underrepresented in the 2022 census, including those aged under 25 and men, who only made up 30 per cent of respondents two years ago.”

The census opened last Sunday (March 30) and runs until June 30.

Residents can use their mobile phone or personal computer to access the census webpage at mackay.qld.gov.au/census

“Encourage your family, friends, and neighbours to participate,’’ Mayor Williamson said.

“To assist, residents can use the free public computers at any local library. A library membership is required,” he said.

“It only takes 15 minutes to complete and will directly inform future planning and investments in our region.”

There are also prizes up for grabs just for participating, including a $1000 grand prize and 40 secondary winners, who will each receive a $100 voucher.

Terms and Conditions apply.

‍

Queensland’s peak agriculture body— the Queensland Farmers’ Federation (QFF) and its members Cotton Australia, Queensland Fruit & Vegetable Growers (QFVG), and Canegrowers—are calling on the Queensland and Australian Governments to take a long-term approach to support the agriculture sector.

With two significant weather events already hitting Queensland this year and a possible third on its way, climate resilience, preparedness and response are front and centre with Queensland’s farmers who are once again facing devastating losses, including damage to crops, infrastructure, and essential farm resources.

As the sector works to recover, industry leaders are urging the government to review and enhance long-term disaster recovery measures to ensure farm businesses can rebuild quickly and build resilience against future events.

QFF CEO Jo Sheppard said urgent changes to disaster recovery support frameworks are needed to enable farms to build their capacity to prepare for natural disasters and also to return to full operation after an event with minimal disruption.

“Queensland is Australia’s most disaster-prone state and extreme weather events are unfortunately no stranger to our farmers and regional communities. Farmers have done an incredible job in proactively building their resilience and managing risk, but they need targeted, long-term support to recover quickly and prepare for future events. We need to ensure preparedness and response frameworks reflect the realities of modern farming and the weather risks that challenge the agriculture sector,” Ms Sheppard said.

“The cost of recovery is rising, and disaster funding needs to keep pace. We have seen some really positive announcements and reforms from the Queensland and Federal government which have been sincerely welcomed by industry, however further measures are needed so that we can be more effective in the way in which we support Queensland farmers to recover and prepare for future weather events."

Canegrowers CEO Dan Galligan said the State and Federal governments’ announcement earlier this month to increase disaster recovery funding for primary producers to $75,000 was a step in the right direction.

“We are grateful for both the Federal and Queensland governments’ recognition of the scale of the challenge faced by farmers when it comes to recovery efforts following a natural disaster,” Mr Galligan said.

“This increase reflects the increasing costs of recovery for growers who have been hit hard by recent flooding and will take years to bounce back. This month’s weather events have particularly impacted sugarcane growers at Rocky Point who have had their cane paddocks inundated and who are now playing the waiting game while they wait for flood waters to recede.

“We also welcome recent updates to disaster funding regulations, which formalise new rules allowing growers to use recovery grants for replanting lost crops – a long-standing gap in Queensland’s disaster recovery framework.

“Both of these are crucial steps forward, however there is still a need for a longer-term approach to disaster and recovery funding, with further on-the-ground resources needed.

“For the sugarcane industry, this includes updating the definition of a primary producer to reflect modern farm structures, including those with off-farm income, indexing grants to match rising recovery costs, improving workforce support to help businesses retain staff during recovery periods and establishing a dedicated pool of rural recovery officers embedded within industry groups to expedite recovery efforts.”

Queensland Fruit & Vegetable Growers (QFVG) CEO Rachel Chambers has called for urgent improvements in disaster response and recovery for the horticulture sector following recent extreme weather events.

“Horticulture faces a variety of challenges in disasters—damage impacts can differ widely due to factors such as farm infrastructure, crop types, and workforce structures. The impact on operations can also depend on the size and scale of the business, and in many cases, assessing crop impact particularly in the case of tree crops, can take months or even years,” Ms Chambers said.

“Given that availability of food has once again shown to be at risk in these events, QFVG is calling on behalf of the entire horticultural supply chain for a more resilient transport network along with urging policymakers to ensure that support for growers is timely and fit for purpose.”

Cotton Australia General Manager Michael Murray stressed the need for improved risk management strategies for farmers.

“We need to introduce preparedness grant funding for all natural disasters, similar to existing drought assistance, and remove the 9 per cent stamp duty on crop and parametric insurance to encourage independent risk management,” Mr Murray said.

‍

Construction of the first stage of a community hub to service the rapidly growing Northern Beaches is on track.

The project includes an undercover multi-purpose sporting court, adjoining kitchenette and storeroom, nature play and picnic spaces.

It also includes landscaping, pedestrian links and a parking area.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the Northern Beaches Community Hub was located opposite Mackay Northern Beaches State High School between Rosewood Drive and Eimeo Road.

He said the first stage of the key signature project began in November 2022 with the construction of Badyari Yalu Road (pronounced bud-jar-e yar-loo by traditional owners).

“The project is really taking shape on the ground now, with construction of the multi-purpose court and work under way on the nature play area.

“The renders of the nature play area show how fantastic this development will be.

“There will be climbing embankment nets, a balance beam, a slide down the embankment, exploration and adventure paths, as well as open and covered picnic areas.

“The multi-purpose court has line marking for basketball, netball, indoor soccer and pickleball.”

Mayor Williamson said Stage 1A remained on track for completion at the end of May, subject to weather.

He said work would keep rolling on the site though as tenders were currently being sought for Stage 1B.

“The next stage is a dynamic public facility that will include a library, flexible community rooms and café space.”

The Australian Government has committed $6.5 million of the estimated $10 million cost to establish Stage 1A and has committed $15 million in funding for Stage 1B of the Northern Beaches Community Hub.

The Northern Beaches Community Hub Stages 1A and 1B are funded by the Australian Government and Mackay Regional Council.

Visit connectingmackay.com.au and subscribe to project update emails to stay informed on this exciting project and view the latest master plan.

‍

Artist impressions reveal an exciting glimpse into the future of the Northern Beaches Community Hub, showcasing a vibrant space designed for sport, play, and community connection. Image credit: Mackay Regional Council

‍

If there's one day a year that truly tests my credibility as a journalist, it's April Fools’ Day. Every year, I tell myself this time, I'll be sceptical. I'll cross-check, verify, and not fall for a single prank. And every year, without fail, I come dangerously close to publishing nonsense.

This time around, it was a Shetland pony that almost made it to print. Mackay Regional Council announced they were trialling the use of ponies and goats to maintain parklands, reducing costs and overcoming workforce shortages. It was genius—practical, sustainable, even a revenue-raiser with sponsorship opportunities! For a solid minute, I envisioned Mackay’s parks dotted with tiny horses in high-vis vests, diligently munching their way through overgrown grass. I was fully on board, and frankly, I still think Mayor Greg should make it happen. Just saying.

Then came the political prank. A press release claimed former Dawson MP George Christensen was considering a return to federal politics because Canberra had grown too quiet without him. The reasoning? "Not in a peaceful way—more like when the toddler goes silent, and you know something’s about to be destroyed." Now, that was a line too good to be fake… or was it? Given Christensen’s track record, the joke was almost too believable. If his campaign slogan "Make NQ Unignorable Again" turns out to be real, I expect royalties for the advertising boost.

Beyond Mackay, Virgin Australia took April Fools’ to a personal level, offering to check-in passengers’ “emotional baggage” along with their suitcases. A tempting offer, but I fear my baggage might exceed the weight limit.

Meanwhile, I'm still unsure if Jimmy Carr is actually touring Australia and New Zealand next year. The announcement seemed legit, but in this climate of carefully crafted satire, who knows? I missed seeing him in Manchester in 2021 when Covid cancelled our big European trip (which we still haven’t rebooked—future goals!). But if Jimmy miraculously lands in Mackay, maybe the universe is giving me a second chance.

So, lesson learned? Probably not. April 1, 2026, will roll around, and I’ll be back here, nearly running with another too-good-to-be-true story. Until then, I'll keep my eyes peeled for Shetland ponies in Jubilee Park—just in case.

Amanda

‍

East Coast Steel’s Legacy Of Quality And Precision

East Coast Steel has built a reputation for excellence spanning generations, delivering steel solutions that endure. With a steadfast commitment to quality and precision engineering, the company has become the preferred partner for projects requiring the highest standards of service and craftsmanship. Whether for large-scale infrastructure or custom fabrication, East Coast Steel continues to set the benchmark in the industry.

In this article we get to know Simone Aitken from East Coast Steel Supplies.

If you think steel and fitness have nothing in common, think again—because Simone proves they’re both about strength, resilience, and breaking barriers. As the Owner of East Coast Steel Supplies, Simone isn’t just running a business, she redefines what it means to be a powerhouse in a male-dominated industry.

Simone’s entrepreneurial spirit and drive are as strong as the steel she supplies. She prides herself in being 100 per cent locally owned and operated, and she’s also a hands-on expert in the reinforcement steel industry.

She aims to deliver high-quality products with convenience and expertise, all while breaking the gender stereotype. Her fearless mindset is what saw her leap into business ownership, her proudest achievement yet.

But Simone isn’t all business, in Mackay, she’s known as a fitness trainer, she’s a wife, and a mum to three busy kids. When she’s not ensuring Mackay’s construction projects stay on track, you’ll find her chasing adventure with her family. From football and gymnastics to beach days and exploring local waterholes, she’s all about making memories and leading by example.

From reinforcing steel to reinforcing self-belief, Simone Aitken is proof that strength comes in many forms and she’s just getting started.

_Describe yourself with three fast facts?

Entrepreneur, fitness enthusiast, wife and mother of three._

East Coast Steel is the go-to provider for reinforcing steel, mesh, and concrete accessories. Located at 154 Glenella Connection Rd, Glenella, the team is ready to deliver quality solutions. For expert advice and service, contact them on 0450 901 655.

‍

Why Your Lawn Is The Secret Weapon When Selling Your Home

They say you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover—but let’s be honest, when it comes to buying a home, first impressions are everything. And nothing says “welcome” quite like a lush, emerald-green lawn. It’s the red carpet of real estate, the final flourish that takes a house from “nice” to “need to have.”

If you’re looking to sell, don’t underestimate the power of a pristine patch of turf. A well-maintained lawn not only boosts street appeal but can add serious value to your home. Buyers love the look of a fresh, green expanse—it suggests the house is well cared for and gives them visions of backyard barbecues, kids playing barefoot, and Sunday afternoons spent lounging under the shade.

Tips for a Show-Stopping Lawn

1. Ditch the Weeds – No One Likes an Uninvited Guest
   Weeds are the gatecrashers of the lawn party—ugly, stubborn, and impossible to ignore. In North Queensland’s tropical climate, they thrive in the warm, humid conditions, so getting on top of them early is key. A pre-emergent herbicide in the warmer months will stop them before they start, and for those already making themselves at home, targeted weed control is your best bet.
2. Keep it Thick and Lush – Because Bare Patches Belong on Cows, Not Lawns
   A patchy lawn screams neglect, and no buyer wants to inherit a project. Regular mowing at the right height (not too short, not too long) encourages dense growth, while aerating compacted soil allows water and nutrients to reach the roots. A good-quality fertiliser will also work wonders—look for one suited to North Queensland conditions to handle the heat and humidity.
3. Water Smarter – Not Harder
   With our climate, it’s tempting to turn the sprinkler on full blast and hope for the best. But too much water can be just as damaging as too little. The trick? Deep, infrequent watering in the early morning. This encourages deeper root growth, making your lawn more resilient in the dry months.
4. The Prickle Problem – Because Bare Feet Deserve Better
   Nothing kills a backyard dream faster than a prickle to the foot. Bindii and burrs are common culprits, and they’re best tackled before they seed. A targeted weed killer in early spring can keep them at bay, ensuring your lawn stays soft underfoot—perfect for barefoot buyers imagining themselves strolling across their new slice of paradise.

Call in the Experts for the Greenest Grass on the Block
While a bit of DIY maintenance helps, nothing beats expert advice when you’re aiming for a standout lawn. Professionals know the right grass varieties for our tropical conditions, the best treatments for weeds and pests, and how to get that deep, rich green that makes neighbours envious. If you’re selling your home, investing in lawn care is a small price to pay for maximum impact.

After all, when it comes to impressing buyers, the grass really is greener when you give it the attention it deserves!

‍

With Sandra Macklin From Mackay City Property

It’s true what they say, no two days are the same, and for Mackay City Property Principal, Sandra Macklin, she wouldn’t have it any other way!

Sandra’s position sees her manage and mentor both staff and office operations within the property management department of Mackay City Property. Day to day, Sandra finds great fulfilment in solving problems as they arise and tailoring her approach to real estate to suit the specific needs of each client from experienced landlords to first-time homeowners.

“There’s a lot of variations in my job, and I love the diversity of it all,” explained Sandra.

“Being a part of these exciting life transitions is really rewarding and heartwarming!”

Whilst she wears many hats in and outside the office, Sandra notes witnessing the growth of her colleagues as a career highlight in both professional and personal endeavours.

“I love watching our staff succeed, I feel like a proud Mum,” Sandra shared.

“I want success for them, and it’s wonderful to watch the journey.”

Uncovering the perfect work life balance has led Sandra to enjoy plenty of quality time with loved ones as well as an active lifestyle where she’s often exploring the great outdoors, meeting new people, trail running, and cycling.

“I always make sure I have something to look forward to, being a marathon, trail run event, or family holiday as it gives me the drive to do well at work so I can reap the rewards of hard work in the office.”

Consistency and resilience are values Sandra intertwines into her professional duties and describes her position with Mackay City Property as dynamic, challenging and rewarding.

“We all genuinely enjoy what we do and it’s rewarding to receive consistent feedback that our clients are happy,” added Sandra.

“Consistency is key, and honesty is invaluable.”

‍

Over the Christmas/New Year period my wife and I were in Airlie Beach for three or four nights and one afternoon I found myself standing at the bar waiting to order a couple of drinks at the delightfully refurbished Airlie Beach Hotel.

The bloke standing next to me was ordering several drinks and one of them was “a glass of wine”. I felt it wasn’t the first round he’d ordered that afternoon and the barman, just making sure that the wine order hadn’t changed, checked by asking: “Was that a Pinot Grigio?”

The bloke answered, “Yeah, something like that.”

Now, I’m no Sherlock Holmes but I was pretty confident that one of the beers he had ordered was for him and the wine was not. What didn’t compute for me was the line “yeah, something like that” when he was asked to specify whether the wine he was ordering was a Pinot Grigio.

If the wine was for his wife then he and I clearly occupy completely different universes. In my universe there’s none of this “something like that” stuff when it comes to ordering anything for my wife.

Anyway, I couldn’t resist. “Is the ‘something like that’ drink for your wife?” I asked.

He said: “Yeah, she gets exactly what she wants for the first drink and after that I usually just get her a house wine and she never knows.” His wife was lucky this time. The barman remembered that she was drinking the more expensive Pinot Grigio.

I find that in life, in business and in selling real estate, the attitude of “something like that” doesn’t cut it.

When you are selling a property for someone you need to be really clear on what you are promising to do and then deliver on it.

If you specify to a seller that you are going to highlight certain key features of their property in the advertising and marketing in order to attract a particular type of buyer, then you had better do exactly that. No something like that, specifically that.

For me there is a strategy around creating competition for a seller’s property involving the words and images that are used, the timing and length of open homes and private inspections and the crucially important addition that we have at Gardian of ensuring our entire team of agents inspect your property and each one then contacts their list of buyers who are potentially interested. That’s how we create competition for your home and get the best price.

That’s what is promised so that’s what has to be delivered.

Not something like that.

That.

It is the same with buyers. Give them the information they need, do what you say you are going to do. Not something like that.

Sometimes an agent can have incorrect information. The seller might have told the agent something about a property that turns out to be mistaken, incorrect.

Mistakes happen, information can be communicated unclearly or incorrectly. An agent can misunderstand what a seller has told them.

The important thing is that any mistakes, any accidentally incorrect pieces of information are corrected as soon as the agent becomes aware of it and before a contract is signed.

It’s a difficult but vitally important thing to do; ringing a buyer and telling them as soon as you realise they have been given incorrect information.

You ring them and apologise and say I’m sorry that yesterday I indicated something to you I now know is not incorrect. You do it straight away, as soon as you know. And you make sure they have all the correct information before a contract is signed.

Because after the contract is signed no one wants to hear the agent say they had said “something like that”.

‍

Queensland’s First Highwall Miner In Action

A Bowen Basin mine made history last month as the first in Australia to deploy an advanced high wall mining system to extract coal with cutting-edge efficiency.

Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dale Last joined Vitrinite staff and community leaders to mark the first use of the company’s HW300 Highwall Miner at its Vulcan South mine near Dysart.

The HW300 Highwall Miner provides access to coal seams that traditional methods cannot reach, improving operational safety, reducing production costs, and minimising land disturbance.

Vitrinite’s Vulcan South mine is an open-cut operation that produces steel-making coal with the mine expected to produce almost 2 million tonnes per annum of metallurgical coal and support around 450 jobs at peak in 2027.

Minister Last said he was proud to see a Queensland mine leading the nation with innovative technology that improved safety and boosts regional job opportunities.

“The HW300 Highwall Miner is a major leap forward for safety, efficiency and environmental impact reduction,” Minister Last said.

“It also reinforces Queensland’s reputation as a global leader in mining innovation.”

“This investment is not only improving the productivity of the operation but is also creating skilled employment opportunities for Central Queensland.

“It is a vote of confidence in Queensland’s resources sector, and a vote of confidence in the Crisafulli Government’s agenda to support new and expanded mining opportunities across the state.

“Queensland is open for business, and the Crisafulli Government is committed to supporting innovation that secures long-term opportunities for the state’s mining industry.”

Vitrinite Chief Operating Officer Michael Callan said there were only about 90 HW300 Highwall Miners in operation around the world.

“Today marks the culmination of six years of research on the high-wall mining method, the HW300 unit and our resource conditions,” Mr Callan said.

“The HW300 offers several key benefits for Queensland including reduced environmental impact, lower cost-efficient mining and enhanced safety and productivity.

“We're very proud to have the first dedicated unit in Australia and give this extraction method the dedicated focus it deserves.”

‍

The first coal extraction from the HWM300 Highwall Miner at Vitrinite’s Vulcan South mine near Dysart. Photo supplied: Office of Dale Last Member for Burdekin

‍

The mining industry might be in Trinnity McKeiver’s blood, but the skills, knowledge, and determination she’s acquired during CQUniversity’s and BHP’s Future Fit Academy (BHP FFA) program will inspire many generations to come.

The Future Fit Academy is BHP's innovative approach to training with a pathway to a career in maintenance with 'fit for purpose' training programs in dedicated learning centres in Mackay and Perth.

Trinnity graduated in a ceremony in Mackay on 18 March, the latest in a long line of McKeiver family members to join the ranks of BHP.

“I feel very excited about graduating and my accomplishments. I’m ready to see what’s next for my future with BHP,” Trinnity said.

“I have a few family members currently working with BHP. Both my dad and grandfather have employment history with BHP.

"My dad currently works at Saraji mine near Dysart.

“My great-grandfather was a boilermaker at BHP and a member of the Queensland Mines Rescue in Blackwater, so to be given this opportunity to follow in my dad’s footsteps is great.”

Employed as a Trainee Maintenance Associate, Trinnity said she was ecstatic to finally complete the Certificate II in Engineering Technology as part of the BHP FFA program.

“The training I received during this program was very beneficial to learn and gain experience. The combination of the theory in classes with learning in the workshop made it really interesting,” she said.

“The trainers are very helpful and shared many stories about their previous experiences and time working on-site.

“Living on-campus was great. I’ve made some great friends and gained relevant tickets along the way – I’ve got a dogging ticket, elevated working platform, forklift and a white card. After commencing, I needed some extra help with maths – and the support I received was relevant and beneficial, and the teachers were so helpful.”

Trinnity said she is soon to relocate to Western Australia to work on a BHP site.

“I will apply the knowledge gained during my traineeship to obtain more experience and then get a trade qualification to further my skills,” she said.

“I think that doing the studies coupled with the practical training in a workshop environment is really useful because you get to see how the knowledge is applied.”

For more information on the BHP Future Fit Academy please visit bhp.com/careers/get-to-know-our-business/operations-services/bhp-futurefit-academy

‍

Proudly following in her family's footsteps, Trinnity McKeiver celebrates her graduation from CQUniversity and BHP’s Future Fit Academy, ready to take on the next chapter of her career in mining. Photo supplied

‍

The 2025 Just Saying Project Women's Awards

The lights dimmed, the air buzzed with anticipation, and the room filled with energy as women from all corners of the region gathered to celebrate something extraordinary.

The Just Saying Project (JSP) Women’s Awards 2025 wasn’t just another evening of awards—it was a living, breathing testament to the strength, resilience, and brilliance of the women who make our community thrive.

On March 29th, the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre hosted a night unlike any other, marking 10 years of celebrating women who break barriers, create change, and lead with purpose.

Fallon Drewett, the visionary founder of the Just Saying Project, stood before the crowd, beaming with pride as she reflected on the incredible journey of the awards.

"10 years ago, I just had my first child. Prior to being a mum, I was a journalist. Not just a career for me, it was and still is part of my DNA," she shared with the audience.

"It was my Mum, who gave me the name of Just Saying, which became my blog, where I would tap away at the keyboards, hoping to make sense of my new role as a mum.

“After almost a year of writing, I decided to add a project to the end of Just Saying and host one event… to see how it went. It sold out. So, what was going to be one event has now become a movement in our community."

Read more on pages 24-25

A Celebration Of Strength, Resilience And Creativity

Continued from cover...

After the event, Fallon Drewett, founder of the Just Saying Project, reflected on the powerful impact of the night.

“This year's event was wonderful,” she said.

“Each year, the vibe and tone of the event change, based on the incredible stories of our finalists and winners.

“I love that stories have the ability to create an experience for us all to connect and take a moment for ourselves.”

Fallon shared that the diversity of 130 nominees made choosing the finalists challenging.

“This year was an incredibly hard one for the judges, with so many outstanding women in our community,” Fallon explained.

“I want to thank all those who took the time to nominate someone in their lives and for the Mackay community who has supported JSP in the past 10 years.”

“It is such a joy to celebrate these awards, to showcase the strength of the women and men in the community and give others a sense of purpose. It is very special,” Fallon said.

The evening’s keynote speaker, Jane Tara, delivered a powerful address on the theme of women’s visibility, drawing from her book Tilda is Visible, which explores the importance of embracing one's story. The Women Who Want to Sing (WWWS) also took to the stage, adding a special touch to the evening with empowering anthems that lifted the room and brought women together in song.

The award categories themselves were a reflection of the diverse and powerful ways in which women shape our lives and communities. Each category acknowledged a different aspect of personal strength, from creativity to resilience, health, and breaking boundaries.

The winners, each deserving of the spotlight, were chosen from a group of extraordinary finalists who represent the best of what our community has to offer.

The Magic Muse category recognises a woman whose creativity, vision, and artistic expression inspire and influence those around her. This award celebrates the transformative power of art and imagination.

Winner: Tanell Thomsett

The Mother of All Mothers award honours a mother who shows exceptional dedication, nurturing, and love in her role. This woman is a true embodiment of care and commitment to her family and community.

Winner: Lisa Versaci

The Rising Star category celebrates a young woman whose achievements and potential set her apart, showcasing her promise for the future. This award is for those who are already making an impact in their chosen field.

Winner: Arhamah Haider

The Resilient Rebel award acknowledges a woman who has overcome personal or professional adversity with strength, determination, and resilience. This category celebrates the ability to rise above challenges and lead by example.

Winner: Amanda Wright

The Health and Wellbeing Warrior award recognises a woman who has made a significant contribution to promoting health, wellness, and well-being in her community. She is dedicated to improving the lives of others through her work and advocacy.

Winner: Sari Jurczyluk

The Woman Who Breaks the Mould (Judges’ Choice) celebrates a woman who challenges norms, breaks barriers, and paves the way for others. This category acknowledges those who defy expectations and forge their own path.

Winner: Terri Lee Sharpe

The Equaliser award recognises an individual who has worked tirelessly to create a fairer, more inclusive world. This award celebrates a person committed to fighting for equality and justice for all.

Winner: Rod Francisco

Each of these categories highlights the diverse and powerful contributions women make to society, and the winners embody the strength, passion, and dedication that define them.

As Fallon so aptly stated, “Every woman has a story worth telling.”

It was a sentiment that rang true throughout the night.

The Just Saying Project Women’s Awards 2025 was not only a celebration of these remarkable women but a powerful reminder of the importance of storytelling in amplifying voices and creating meaningful change.

“We all wear a cape under those fabulous outfits,” Fallon said.

“Storytelling has allowed me to show women their superpowers.”

‍

Celebrating strength, unity, and joy—women coming together to shine at the 2025 Just Saying Project Women's Awards. Photo credit: Marty Strecker Photography

Photo credit: Marty Strecker Photography

‍

‍

The Mackay Women’s Service recently received a heart-warming gesture from Cherish Hampers and Gifts, a local business that understands the power of community support. The work done by the team at Mackay Women’s Service is incredibly important, providing vital assistance to women facing domestic violence, mental health struggles, and physical wellbeing challenges. The emotional toll of this work can be heavy, but it’s through these efforts that lives are changed, and women are empowered to rebuild.

When Zoe met Katrina, the owner of Cherish Hampers, at a recent Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce event, she shared the amazing work being done by the Mackay Women’s Service team. Without hesitation, Katrina offered to donate a beautiful hamper to show support for their cause. This thoughtful gesture speaks to the heart of Cherish Hampers’ mission: uplifting others in the community.

It’s moments like these that remind us of the importance of kindness and generosity. Just because you can, you should! Brightening someone’s day, whether it’s through a small donation, a thoughtful gift, or a kind word, has a lasting impact. Cherish Hampers is proud to contribute to this ripple effect of kindness, and the Mackay Women’s Service is grateful to receive such a meaningful gesture.

‍

Zoe from Mackay Women’s Service pictured with the lovely hamper donated by Katrina from Cherish Hampers and Gifts. Photo source: Mackay Women’s Service (Facebook)

‍

The Fight For Dawson And Capricornia Is On

By Amanda Wright

The 2025 Federal Budget isn’t just about economics—it’s about the future of Australia. With a 3 May election now locked in, Treasurer Jim Chalmers’ final budget before polling day is under scrutiny. Labor is pitching it as a responsible plan to ease cost-of-living pressures, while the opposition brands it a desperate pre-election bribe.

For regional Queensland, the stakes are high. Has the budget delivered for Dawson and Capricornia, or have these electorates been left behind?

What’s in the Budget?

Treasurer Chalmers handed down the Budget with an unmistakable focus: cost-of-living relief, health, and tax cuts.

At the centre of the budget is a $17.1 billion tax cut package over five years, with staged reductions in personal income tax rates, ensuring every taxpayer takes home more. The lowest tax bracket will drop from 16 per cent to 15 per cent in 2026, then to 14 per cent in 2027, giving the average wage earner $268 extra in 2026-27 and $536 in 2027-28.

Cost-of-living relief also comes in the form of energy bill assistance, with a $150 electricity rebate for eligible small businesses and an extension of household energy relief, projected to cut inflation by 0.5 per cent in late 2025.

Healthcare receives a major boost, with $8.4 billion over four years dedicated to increasing bulk billing incentives, aiming to lift bulk-billed doctor visits to nine in ten consultations. Pharmaceutical costs will be eased by capping PBS medicine prices below $25 per script and investing $793 million in women’s health, covering new contraceptive options, menopause treatments, and endometriosis support.

Education reforms include a 20 per cent reduction in student debt, though this relief only affects the amount owed rather than increasing disposable income. Additionally, graduates won’t need to start repaying student loans until they earn $67,000, up from $54,435.

Infrastructure spending continues, with $7.2 billion allocated to Bruce Highway upgrades, although much of the funding is earmarked beyond the next five years, with completion not expected until 2032.

Despite these measures, critics argue the budget fails to address long-term issues, particularly in regional health, road infrastructure, and cost-of-living relief beyond short-term payments.

Coalition: Labor Has Abandoned the Regions

Sitting LNP MP Mr Andrew Willcox dismissed the budget as “short-term sweeteners” that fail to address the long-term challenges facing regional Australia.

He was particularly critical of the lack of new investment in Dawson, stating that the government had neglected major regional issues.

“There is nothing major in this budget specifically for Dawson. No commitment for flood-proofing roads, nothing for regional GP shortages.”

Mr Willcox was highly critical of the Bruce Highway funding, claiming the government had failed to follow through on essential upgrades.

“Along the 1600km stretch, Mackay to Townsville is rated the worst. We have the worst sections here in Dawson.”

He also rejected the tax cuts as inadequate, saying they would do little to help struggling households.

“The tax cuts will average about 70c a day for people and won’t kick in for another 15 months. The cost of living crisis is happening right now. This is an insult considering the cost of everything has gone up so much in the past three years,” he said.

“Another electricity rebate is really just Labor giving us back our own money to help pay for higher power prices they created with their renewables-only energy policy.”

“An elected Coalition government will provide relief from the get-go, cutting the fuel excise, saving Australians 15 cents for every litre bought”

“For a family with two cars, that’s an average of $1500 per year,” Mr Willcox said.

Labor: Budget Delivers for Dawson

Labor candidate for Dawson, Neil Wallace, said the budget was focused on cost-of-living relief while maintaining responsible economic management.

“This budget delivers a tax cut for every taxpayer, something the Coalition refused to do,” Mr Wallace said.

“2.2 million Queensland households will receive an additional $150 in energy relief, along with 216,000 small businesses. Bulk billing incentives have increased, leading to an additional 3.6 million bulk-billed GP visits across Queensland.”

Mr Wallace said Labor was committed to regional investment, pointing to the new Urgent Care Clinic in Mackay as a major win for local healthcare.

“Families in Dawson will now have access to a free, bulk-billed Urgent Care Clinic in Mackay. This is a major step forward in providing affordable healthcare for our community,” he said.

Mr Wallace also said the $7.2 billion Bruce Highway investment was a historic win for North Queensland.

“This is the largest-ever investment in the Bruce Highway’s history,” he said.

The Greens: A Budget for Billionaires, Not Battlers

Greens candidate for Dawson, Paula Creen, said the budget failed to address housing, healthcare, and inequality, describing it as a “big disappointment.”

“This is a budget that looks after billionaires and big corporations while struggling Australians get barely anything,” she said.

“The government could wipe student debt, freeze rents, and add dental care to Medicare, but instead, they choose to keep handing out tax cuts to the wealthy.”

Ms Creen said Labor’s tax cuts did not go far enough to help those earning lower incomes.

“The Greens want a tax on corporate super-profits to fund real cost-of-living relief, including rent freezes, free healthcare, and public housing investment,” she said.

Capricornia Coalition: Labor Has ‘Ripped the Guts’ Out of Regional Funding

Sitting Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry, was scathing in her assessment of the budget, accusing Labor of gutting regional programs.

“This budget proves Labor takes the bush for granted. They’ve ripped the guts out of regional funding, cutting vital infrastructure programs,” she said.

Ms Landry said the Stronger Communities Program, Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program, and Growing Regions Program had been axed.

“These programs have built roads, bridges, and local facilities in Capricornia, but Labor would rather pour money into public service jobs in Canberra,” she said.

Ms Landry also said the budget had failed to fund a single major road upgrade in Capricornia.
“The Bruce Highway is falling apart, and Labor’s so-called record investment is all talk and no action,” she said.

She also criticised the lack of funding for childcare and regional health services, arguing that families in Capricornia were being left behind.

*Dawson candidates Amanda Nickson (Family First) and Michael Lockye (Trumpet of Patriots) could not be contacted for comment.

‍

A Family's Fight for Health

magine one minute you’re living a mundane life, and the next, your health takes a sudden decline. Suddenly, you're weighed down by the overwhelming costs of a major medical bill, left facing a whirlwind of emotions and uncertainty.

Unfortunately, this is all too true for Brandon and Ayanda Hodgson, a family whose world was turned upside down when Ayanda (known to many as Mary) was diagnosed with end-stage renal failure.

Mary has battled type 1 diabetes since she was just 10 years old, and now, her kidneys are functioning at just 10 per cent. She has been reliant on peritoneal dialysis for almost two years.

Last year, Mary was approved for a combined kidney-pancreas transplant, offering a chance at a new life free from dialysis and insulin pumps, though it brings its own set of challenges for her family.

As they await a call for a transplant at any moment, they remain determined in faith. But with that hope also comes a host of financial hurdles for their family.

Described as an “emotional rollercoaster,” Brandon assures that Mary is strong beyond belief. Now their mission is not only to raise enough funds for medical expenses but also to raise awareness – reminding everyone that tomorrow is never promised and health is often taken for granted.

In the face of hardship, Brandon and Mary refuse to let this circumstance defeat them.

“You just have to take life by the horns and do the best you can with what you’ve got,” Brandon says.

In just a short amount of time, almost $10,000 has been raised within the local community through their GoFundMe page, and the Hodgson family have been overwhelmed by the generosity.

“The community coming together like this is just fantastic, and it truly warms our hearts,” he says.

“It’s been amazing... we can’t thank everyone enough.”

While some financial pressure has been relieved, the future remains uncertain.

Once Mary receives the green light for transplant surgery, the couple will have to drop everything in Mackay, board a plane the very next day, and relocate to Sydney for further treatment. This means living away from their children for an extended period while facing significant travel, accommodation, and medical costs –all without a solid income.

Every donation, no matter how small, is a step closer to making this incredibly tough time a little easier for this Mackay family.

Aside from financial assistance, Brandon urges others to consider the life-changing impact of organ donation.

“What happens if you pass away, and a transplant of your organs could save someone’s life, but you haven’t checked a box on a website saying I’m an organ donor?” Brandon asks.

“I really hope this brings people together to start the conversation about organ donation.

“Most of all, I want the community to know that their support isn’t just paying for medical bills – it’s buying us ordinary moments we thought we’d lost…and that’s everything to us.”

To donate, visit gofundme.com and search for ‘Support Our Family During Mum’s Transplant Journey'.

‍

Caption: Brandon and Ayanda Hodgson are facing the challenges of end-stage renal failure and the need for a kidney-pancreas transplant. Photo supplied

‍

With a heart for community, two of Mackay’s most passionate volunteers, Rebecca Cooper and Julie Nieslen, recently had the opportunity to attend the Queensland Volunteering Conference in Brisbane. Supported by Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm and Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton, they joined leaders from across the state at the two-day event, themed ‘Inspire, Empower, Ignite,’ to explore strategies for volunteer engagement, inclusion, and sustainability.

Rebecca Cooper, Northern Beaches Community Wellbeing Series Project Manager, said the conference was a wonderful reminder of why she dedicates much of her time connecting with others.

“It was incredibly uplifting to be part of the conference... and it was very inspiring,” she said.

The event provided insights into volunteer engagement, with a focus on strategies like connection, invitation, and flexibility to attract and retain volunteers. One key discussion focused on the generational shift in volunteering.

Julie Nieslen, Emergency Relief Coordinator and volunteer with The Neighbourhood Hub, found the conference empowering, with an emphasis around gratitude and connection.

“At the conference, they focused on empowering volunteers, understanding why they do what they do, and showing appreciation,” she said.

Julie’s key takeaway was the importance of storytelling.

“Having conversations with your volunteers and learning about their interests outside of volunteering makes for greater engagement and a stronger connection,” she explained.

The conference also stressed the importance of recognising volunteers as individuals, not just unpaid workers.

Julie noted that, “It’s about making sure businesses understand that volunteers are not paid employees and ensuring they’re treated with respect and gratitude.”

It’s believed that simple acts of appreciation, such as providing uniforms or regular check-ins, can have a significant impact.

For Rebecca, the event reinforced her ethos of grassroots community action.

“I kept waiting for others to fill the gaps in our community, but then I realised – why can’t I be the one to step up and make a difference?” she said.

“There’s a huge group of people being overlooked – wheather it be people with disabilities, diverse cultural backgrounds, or young people – most are just waiting for the invitation to volunteer.”

The key message from the event was that volunteers are the backbone of communities.

“At the end of both days, the focus was on appreciation – recognising that without volunteers, many organisations wouldn’t function,” Julie said.

Both Rebecca and Julie expressed their deepest gratitude to LNP leaders Nigel Dalton and Amanda Camm for providing this invaluable opportunity.

“When you do good, you feel good. And when you feel good, you continue to do good. If we all take that approach, we can create something special – not just for our community, but for the world,” Rebecca said.

‍

Julie Nieslen, Emergency Relief Coordinator and Volunteer with The Neighbourhood Hub (right) with Work Colleague Zoe Sloan (left).

Rebecca Cooper, Northern Beaches Community Wellbeing Series Project Manager. Photos supplied.

‍

‍

Stakeholders Unite For Turtle Conservation

Mackay’s Harbour Beach is one step closer to becoming a safer haven for threatened turtles and shorebirds, thanks to the collaborative efforts of local stakeholders. Representatives from Yuwi Land and Sea Rangers, Pioneer Catchment and Landcare (PCL), Mackay Regional Council (MRC), and Mackay and District Turtle Watch recently gathered on-site to monitor progress and inspect 200 newly planted tube stock.

The native vegetation will reinforce a strategically placed post-and-rail fence designed to block illegal vehicle access and protect over 30 hectares of critical habitat, including foredunes, salt marshes, and mangroves. This area serves as vital nesting grounds for flatback turtles and roosting sites for shorebirds, including the critically endangered Eastern Curlew.

The fence, combined with boulders and surveillance cameras, has already significantly reduced 4WD and motorbike damage to the fragile dunes. During the site visit, the group also noted some success of MRC's fox control measures, which are helping to protect vulnerable turtle nests from predators.

“This project shows what can be achieved when Traditional Owners, conservation groups, and local government work together. We’re not just protecting fish nursery habitat and reducing beach erosion—we’re ensuring future generations can enjoy these threatened species as well.” - Carlos Bueno, Reef Catchments Senior Project Officer – Biodiversity.

With ongoing maintenance and community support, the project will continue to strengthen coastal resilience and support threatened wildlife.

Stay tuned for updates as the revegetation grows and turtle nesting season begins late in 2025.

This project is funded through the Queensland Government’s Threatened Species Recovery Action Grants program, focused on habitat restoration and protection for endangered flora and fauna in the region.

‍

The Queensland Greens have announced Paula Creen as their candidate for Dawson in the upcoming federal election, marking her second run at the seat after securing a 2.7 per cent swing to the Greens in 2022.

Ms Creen, who was raised and educated in Mackay, has lived in the region for 22 years and worked as a designer and drafter in the local building industry for 28 years. She is a dedicated volunteer with the Mackay Conservation Group, Whitsunday Conservation Council, and local disability support groups. She also spent 12 years rescuing stranded boaties as a volunteer with the Mackay SES and Volunteer Marine Rescue.

She said she is standing again to offer an alternative to the major parties, which she believes have failed to address cost-of-living pressures, housing affordability, and climate change.

“The people in our community are in the grip of a cost-of-living crisis, with soaring house and grocery prices, diminishing local job opportunities, and a climate emergency which is worsening every day,” Ms Creen said.

“The major parties have failed our community because they are too beholden to the corporate donors who fund their campaigns.

“We will make big corporations pay their fair share in tax so we can fund dental and mental health into Medicare and make GP visits free.

“We will make supermarket price gouging illegal, cap rent increases, regulate banks to deliver low-rate mortgages, and scrap tax handouts for wealthy property investors.

“We will take strong action on climate change by stopping new coal and gas projects and investing in renewables to create long-term jobs in clean energy.”

Ms Creen said support for the Greens was growing in the region, with more volunteers joining the local branch.

“Voters realise that not much changes no matter which major party is in government. To see real change, they have to do something different,” she said.

“People are comparing policies for themselves and like what the Greens are offering.”

Ms Creen said her advocacy stemmed from a commitment to community.

“I enjoy learning new skills and contributing to my community, and I do that through voluntary roles in different organisations,” she said.

“I’m proud to stand with the Greens because their policies align with my values. While the LNP and ALP write policies that allow big corporations to make eye-watering profits at our expense, the Greens reject all corporate donations.

“Our policies are written to benefit the community.”

She also called for stronger environmental protections and economic diversification.

“We need stronger environmental laws, real consequences for breaking them, and proper studies on how projects impact residents and the environment—whether they are mines, renewables, or property developments,” she said.

“Our farmers, tour operators, and ecology must come before corporate profit.”

Ms Creen sees tackling plastic pollution as an economic opportunity for the region.

“I’d like to see our farmers growing hemp for building materials, clothing, and alternatives to plastic,” she said.

“Hemp doesn’t need pesticides, so our reef and marine life could recover, benefiting tourism and fishing as well.”

“It’s also high time to legalise cannabis.”

‍

Paula Creen has been named as the Greens candidate for Dawson, aiming to tackle cost-of-living pressures, housing affordability, and environmental protection in the upcoming federal election. Photo supplied

‍

‍

Cowboys co-captain Tom Dearden has shown he'd have no trouble swapping footy boots for steel caps in the distant future when he’s ready to transition to a life after rugby league.

The superstar five-eighth looked right at home behind the wheel of a massive Caterpillar 796AC haul truck during a trip to the Carmichel mine to shoot the new "Digging Coal, Kicking Goals" campaign that celebrates the Platinum Partnership between Bravus Mining and Resources and the Cowboys.

Dearden said the visit, including a lap of mining operations sitting in the haul truck’s trainer's seat, gave him an even greater appreciation of what the partnership between the Townsville-headquartered business and National Rugby League club meant to regional Queenslanders.

“My dad worked in the mines when I was growing up, so to have that connection and to see how much Bravus does to help the community and the people back in Mackay, which is in my hometown, is what makes them such a great company to work with and to be a part of,” Dearden said.

“Then when you get to go to Carmichael and meet so many great people working there, and you see how much the Cowboys mean to them, it just makes it extra special to be involved with Bravus and these campaigns.

“The truck was massive; I don’t think many people get to go for a tour like that and drive down to the bottom of the pit, so that was a cool experience, but really it was just great to see how it all works firsthand and the way the team works with each other in that environment.

“That’s probably what impressed me the most and made it so attractive to me to want to go out there and work after footy. Hopefully, that can happen.”

Bravus Mining and Resources Chief Operating Officer Mick Crowe said it was a thrill for Carmichael’s workforce to appear alongside Dearden in the campaign, and to see his passion for what they do.

Bravus Mining and Resources has been associated with the Cowboys since 2019, becoming a Platinum Partner of the NRL squad and presenting partner of the Club’s Adopt-A-School program in 2021, and a Major Partner of the NRLW Cowboys in 2024.

“We’re all about regional Queensland. That's where we came from, that's where our support came from, and that's where we channel our support,” Mr Crowe said.

“There’s no greater representation of regional Queensland than the Cowboys so to be able to support the Club and what they do on and off the field is a perfect fit. This aligns with what we’re trying to do and aligns with what the people of North Queensland love and is something we’re incredibly proud of.

“Tom’s a great ambassador for North Queensland and heaps of our workforce are mad passionate about the Cowboys, so it was terrific to get him out on site among the crews, and for them to see how passionate he is about what they do.”

‍

‍

‍

Queensland has recently become the site of a remarkable paleontological discovery: the identification of a new ancient fish species, Palaeospondylus australis. This specimen, unearthed from the 400-million-year-old limestone deposits of the Georgina Basin in western Queensland, is believed to be one of the smallest known vertebrate fossils in Australia.

The fossil's exceptional preservation in three dimensions offers unprecedented insights into the creature's skeletal structure. This level of detail is particularly significant, as previous Palaeospondylus fossils from Scotland are typically compressed, with skeletal elements fused together, limiting anatomical analysis.

The initial discovery dates back to 2010 when a braincase was found, confirming the presence of P. australis and marking the first instance of this genus outside Scotland. Subsequent excavations have revealed additional fossils, including a nearly complete braincase, providing valuable information about the fish's internal structures.

Analysis indicates that P. australis retained many larval characteristics, suggesting a unique evolutionary position. Its features hint at a distant relationship to modern sharks, offering a potential link between ancient and contemporary vertebrate species.

This discovery not only enriches Queensland's fossil record but also enhances our understanding of early vertebrate evolution. It positions Queensland as home to both Australia's largest and smallest known ancient species, highlighting the region's paleontological significance.

‍

Photo credit: Queensland Museum Kurilpa

‍

‍

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.

‍

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

‍

‍

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.

‍

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.”

‍

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

‍

‍

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.

‍

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

‍

‍

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

‍

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

‍

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.

‍

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

‍

‍

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.

‍

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

‍

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

‍

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

‍

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.

‍

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

‍

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.”

‍

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

‍

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.

‍

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

‍

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.”

‍

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)

‍

Self defence starts with self protection.

By being aware of your surroundings, having a strong mental attitude and confident physical behaviour, you are less likely to be confronted by a threatening situation.

Knowledge of self defence provides confidence if you are confronted, and techniques to counter the attack.

Self defence has roots within martial arts; however basic martial arts techniques are easy to learn and if practised, combined with the right mindset, will provide you with the confidence and tools to defend yourself if required.

A Women’s introduction to self defence will be held on Saturday 5th April at the Community Hall, 24 Wallace Street Bucasia.

This course will be run by Helle Smith, and is designed to provide an overview of theoretical and practical foundations of women’s self defence. This is an inclusive workshop where Helle will tailor the session to meet your needs, so that you leave the session feeling more confident about your personal safety. All skill levels welcome.

This two-hour introductory course will provide insight into the comprehensive two-day Women’s Self Defence workshop, which Helle will coordinate the weekend of 24 May.

The comprehensive course in May is an in-depth program designed to empower women with confidence, knowledge and skills to protect themselves.

“When it comes to self defence, It is better to have the power and not need it
than to need it and not have it.”  - Kevin Shearer

For information and to book, call 0488 146 644

‍

Mackay Basketball players have passed the ball to a worthy cause – the Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia.

McDonald’s Mackay Meteors and Meteorettes players Jerron Jamerson and Nikita Van Wyk recently visited the Mackay Base Hospital, partnering with Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia to assist families in need. Their visit underscored the importance of compassion and community spirit, as even the smallest gestures can make a significant impact on those facing challenging circumstances.

Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of seriously ill children and their families through practical care programs. Their vision is to ensure that all seriously ill children can live their healthiest lives.

By taking time out of their busy schedules, Jamerson and Van Wyk not only showed support for a local cause but also demonstrated the power of teamwork beyond the basketball court.

Their efforts truly scored big, proving that when it comes to making a difference, it’s not merely just about shooting hoops…but about making an impact that lasts in the community.

McDonald’s Mackay Meteors and Meteorettes players Jerron Jamerson and Nikita Van Wyk recently visited the 𝑀𝑎𝑐𝑘𝑎𝑦 𝐵𝑎𝑠𝑒 𝐻𝑜𝑠𝑝𝑖𝑡𝑎𝑙 with 𝑅𝑜𝑛𝑎𝑙𝑑 𝑀𝑐𝐷𝑜𝑛𝑎𝑙𝑑 𝐻𝑜𝑢𝑠𝑒 𝐶ℎ𝑎𝑟𝑖𝑡𝑖𝑒𝑠 𝑁𝑜𝑟𝑡ℎ 𝐴𝑢𝑠𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑙𝑖𝑎 to help out families in need Photo source: Mackay Basketball (Facebook)

‍

Who knew that cuteness could come with such a big personality? Chilee Hope Hong has officially been crowned Mackay Life’s Cutest Baby! With her strawberry blonde curls, sparkling blue eyes, and a charm that’s equally sweet and spicy – this little superstar has a way of winning over everyone she meets.

Born on September 6, 2024, Chilee is now six and a half months old and already ruling the household with her charm. Her three big brothers, Knox (10), Kash (7), and Jett (2), have been head over heels for her since the day she arrived.

“There is definitely never a dull moment in our household,” says her proud mum, Celeste.

So, what’s a day in the life of Mackay’s Cutest Baby like?

When she’s not being entertained by her brothers, she’s keeping up with the latest gossip in her mum’s home salon, watching The Wiggles with great enthusiasm, or supervising kitchen activities from her favourite perch on the bench. And let’s not forget cuddle time with Dad, where she happily sits on his lap while he works away on his computer.

With nicknames like Chilee Girl, Chils, Chil Chil, and even Chilee Pepper, it’s clear that this little lady was born to stand out.

“I don’t do traditional names, so Chilee was the perfect fit,” said Celeste, “Plus I’ve always loved the name, but I had to tweak the spelling.

“She really was that little bit of sweetness and spice our family was waiting for.”

Exciting milestones are just around the corner as Chilee has just cracked her first tooth and is getting ready to crawl any day now.

“She’s always giggling and chatting away, becoming more vocal by the day and doesn’t mind being carried around by whichever brother grabs her first,” Celeste said.

With a personality as vibrant as her name, Chilee Hong is the sweetest new addition to her family, lighting up every room with her beaming smile.

Mackay Life extends our greatest congratulations to little Chilee!

‍

Chilee already had charm after only a week earthside

Chilee at six weeks old

Chilee is a bright and bubbly six-month-old

‍

The Eimeo Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) has been awarded a $400,000 grant from the State Government to address key issues at the back of its clubhouse. The funding will focus on enhancing drainage, stabilising the clubhouse surrounds, improving site safety, and reducing ongoing maintenance. Additionally, it will improve stormwater management at the site.

Currently, the club faces flooding issues during rainy weather, with water entering through the back wall and sides of the clubhouse. This flooding forces members to mop up water to maintain a safe environment. The remediation works will resolve this by removing existing structures and replacing them with effective drainage solutions, an engineered retaining wall, and enhanced storage for surf lifesaving equipment. These upgrades will improve the safety reliability, and functionality of the facility, better serving the needs of both members and the broader community.

Member for Whitsunday, Amanda Camm, expressed her support for the project, emphasising its importance to the club and the surrounding community.

“The Eimeo Surf Lifesaving Club (SLSC) has been successful in receiving $400,000 from the State Government to remediate the back of the clubhouse to improve drainage, stabilise the clubhouse surrounds, enhance site safety, reduce ongoing maintenance, and improve stormwater management,” Ms Camm said.

“The club is a hub for the Eimeo and Northern Beaches community, and I am pleased to be supporting these works along with our election commitment of $50,000 to progress a master plan for their site.”

Cynthia Hegerty, President of the Eimeo Surf Lifesaving Club, shared her thoughts on the project.

“Currently when it rains, we flood inside due to water coming in from the back wall and the sides.

“Our members have to mop up and remove the water from the building to make it safe.”

She is now confident that the project will eliminate these issues, adding that, “This project will remove the existing structures at the back of the Club House, put in effective drainage, an engineered and approved retaining wall, and provide enhanced storage for our essential surf lifesaving equipment.”

The $400,000 grant represents a significant step toward ensuring that the Eimeo Surf Life Saving Club remains a safe, reliable, and functional community resource for years to come.

The Eimeo Surf Life Saving Club has received a $400,000 State Government grant to address flooding issues, improve drainage, and enhance site safety and storage, ensuring a more reliable and functional facility for the community. Photo supplied

‍

Local band Tropical State of Mind will take the next step in their artistic journey, recording their debut EP thanks to a Regional Arts Development (RADF) Grant.

Tropical State of Mind (TSOM) is a five-piece alternative pop, soul and funk band from Mackay, whose aim is to break the misconception that only capital city artists can succeed.

They were successful in receiving $11,000 in funding, approved in round two of the RADF grants.

TSOM vocalist Jezzie Morton said the band would use the grant to record their debut five-track EP in Byron Bay, with Queensland producer Tom Kelly.

“This project will establish our professional presence in the music industry and provide invaluable recording experience for our five band members,” Ms Morton said.

“We hope it will also inspire other regional artists to create and release their own music,” she said.

“We will also hold a launch event in Mackay to showcase the EP, featuring local artists to strengthen the regional music scene and encourage collaboration.”

Mayor Greg Williamson said this was a fantastic example of how a RADF grant can launch local artists into the professional sphere.

“RADF has a legacy of creating new art and cultural experiences for audiences and communities, and a platform for professional development and growth across the regional arts sector,” Mayor Williamson said.

“We have so many talented locals and we want to encourage them to grow their practice and to share it with other creatives in our region,” he said.

“I want to congratulate all of the grant recipients in this round, and I look forward to seeing the outcomes of their work.”.

The Regional Arts Development Fund is a partnership between the Queensland Government and Mackay Regional Council to support local arts and culture in regional Queensland.

Minister for Education and the Arts John-Paul Langbroek said the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) has an impressive track record of supporting local arts and cultural programs across Queensland communities.

Successful recipients for 2025 are:

Mackay Chamber Music Festival Education Collaboration - $6250 - the celebrated Mackay Chamber Music Festival (MCMF) is presenting and expanding its education offerings for local music students through a collaborative performance project. Leading Brisbane-based musicians and educators, "The Boxties", will tutor 40 music students in a series of workshops, culminating in a public performance in the festival.

Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) Mackay Autumn Intensive Workshop - $7097 - A school holiday ballet workshop presented by the Royal Academy of Dance. This workshop brings highly experienced tutors and pianist to Mackay, to provide an opportunity for local students to learn and grow.

Mirani Swimming Centre and Caravan Park Mural - $11,000 - In the early 90s, a mural was painted on the wall (unknown artist) at the entrance of Mirani Swimming Centre and Caravan Park. This has not been maintained and is currently in poor condition. This project will replace the mural with an updated local mural showcasing Mirani and the Pioneer Valley.

Transformation - Life between the layers Art Exhibition Events - $9181 -Three interconnected exhibitions will bring together interdisciplinary local visual artists to create and showcase new works inspired by the environment. These exhibitions will celebrate biodiversity and sustainability and strengthen cultural connections between people and the natural landscapes of the Mackay region.

Printmaking Skills Development – Printbank Mackay - $6400 – Printbank Mackay will provide its members and the public with a series of printmaking skills development workshops presented by two highly qualified printmakers with an array of different skills.

Cape Hillsborough Masterclass Artists Retreat and ourSCAPE Exhibition 2025 - $8000 - Artists Connect Inc are partnering with Artspace Mackay to deliver a Masterclass Artists Retreat at Cape Hillsborough in September and October 2025. The Grand Tour Exhibition Artists, Tim Allen and Michelle Hungerfield, will be engaged for this four-day retreat. ourScape Art Auction will be held at Gallery31 in October.

Stepping Into Me, Natalia Valmadre - $9950 - Extending on the work begun with a RADF grant in 2021, Stepping Into Me will enable Mrs Valmadre to work under the mentorship of Catherine Clark Dowden and build her portfolio as an artist.

Photobook Development at Kyoto Paperoles Residency - $3000 - A three-week residency at Kyoto Paperoles, Japan, to produce a photobook exploring grief and the mother-daughter relationship. The residency includes three mentorship sessions with esteemed editor Yumi Goto, with the final artworks and book to be exhibited at Artspace Mackay in 2026.

Summertime, Leah McLean - $3000 - Summertime concept development will be a follow-on from Ms McLean’s Big Calm exhibition in 2022. A deeper dive into studying and manipulating light underwater, while capturing portraits of community members and their stories. Ms McLean plans to study the feeling of 'summer' and the nostalgia it can convey through 'kodak' moments.

‍

Mackay fan favourites, Tropical State of Mind, will use their Regional Arts Development Fund grant to record their debut EP. Photo credit: Cherrie Hughes

‍

Preliminary planning has started for the creation of a regional museum to showcase the region’s history and stories.

Following extensive community consultation around the Mackay Region Museums Development Plan in 2020 and the Mackay Arts and Culture Strategy in 2023, council is moving to refine and consolidate its museum collections.

Mayor Greg Williamson said council had an exciting opportunity to create a facility that would offer a “hero” experience for those with an interest in history and heritage.

“Museums can be huge tourism drawcards,” Mayor Williamson said.

“During the consultation of the museums plan, 87 per cent of respondents said they liked to visit museums while travelling, but only a very small percentage said they would visit more than two sites in the one trip,” he said.

“Respondents also listed amenities, like cafes and gift shops, and interactive, hands-on displays as high priorities, especially for younger visitors.

“We know that local interest and investment in our heritage offerings has waned over the years, and people are generally not attending the museums in their current state.

“That’s not a reflection on the tremendous volunteers or staff who put in an amazing effort to run these facilities; it’s a reflection that our current historical offerings just aren’t hitting the mark.

“We need a hero offering that can better service our community and visitors alike.

“The potential to have a facility that can host travelling exhibitions and interactive displays is very exciting.”

Mayor Williamson said one of the objectives of the Mackay Arts and Culture Strategy was enhancing and extending existing facilities to grow engagement with diverse experiences.

“With this objective in mind, there’s also the potential to activate one of our heritage-listed City Centre buildings that are currently sitting vacant as a stopgap while a permanent regional museum location can be decided on,” he said.

Director Community Services Janine McKay said rationalisation of the museum collections would help identify and protect the most significant artifacts in our collection and identify gaps.

“As the team focus efforts on the rationalisation process and planning for the regional museum, and considering recent damage from weather events and vandalism, it is just not feasible to reopen the Mackay and Sarina museums,” Ms McKay said.

“We will also need to make some changes at Pioneer Valley Museum. However, we are lucky that that facility is connected to the Mirani Library and the Library team can take over the management of the museum for the immediate future,” she said.

“This will not only free up our Museums team to work towards the museums consolidation, but it will also mean that we will be able to open the museum for the same hours as the library, Monday to Saturday.”

Discussions are under way with Mackay Historical Society and Mackay Family History Society around the future use of the Mackay Museum building.

Council is currently exploring options for the Sarina Museum building and will consult with museum volunteers around establishing rotating displays in regional areas showcasing the local history to residents and visitors.

‍

Museum team members Katrina Dunbar (left) and Trish Roderick working on the museum rationalisation project. Photo supplied: Mackay Regional Council

‍

The 2025 Mayor’s Charity Ball in May will bring a touch of vintage carnival to the MECC.

Think Hugh Jackman in The Greatest Showman, aerial acrobats and a sideshow alley of games, with prizes on offer.

Mayor Williamson said “vintage carnival” was the room theme for the MECC Plenary Halls for the Ball on Saturday, May 10.

“As always, the Ball isn’t a fancy-dress event. Ball-goers should come dressed to suit Mackay’s premier red-carpet night out," he said.

Mayor Williamson said the Community Committee that organised the event had made format changes based on feedback from previous Balls.

“There will still be a live auction, but it will only be one, short segment, with the focus on having a great social night out," he said.

“A silent auction and the ‘sideshow alley’ carnival games will help boost funds raised for charities.”

Musical entertainment on the night will be provided by world-class act The Diamonds, from Sydney, and local band Mango Junction.

Channel 7 presenter Chris Parsons, from The Great Outdoors, returns as emcee.

The Ball has raised more than $1 million since its inception.

Mayor Williamson said the Ball raised funds for two charities for two years to enable significant funds to be raised for each charity and make a real difference in our community.

“Proceeds this year will be split 50-50 between Grapevine Group, in its second year of being a beneficiary and new beneficiary, the Salvation Amy’s Samaritan House,” Mayor Williamson said.

Training coordinator Edie Weiss said Grapevine Group was honoured to be a Mayor’s Charity Ball recipient.

“Our focus is education and awareness. It can make a life-saving difference,’’ she said.

“The 2025 funds provide an opportunity to expand our network of suicide prevention trainers via our new In-house safeTALK Trainer Program.

“Grapevine Group is offering medium and large businesses the chance to have their own staff qualify as safeTALK trainers, then provide suicide prevention training to their colleagues."

Hannah Stephen, State Manager Family Violence Programs – NT/QLD, said the Salvation Army Family Violence Services were grateful for being selected as one of the beneficiaries for the funds raised through the Mayor’s Charity Ball.

“The costs associated with family violence and the long-term impacts on both adult and child victim survivors are significant,’’ she said.

“As a public health issue, a whole-of-community response to end family violence is crucial.

“The donation from the Mayor’s Charity Ball will support therapeutic services for victim survivors in Mackay, which will help ensure that women and children are not caught in the cycle of violence but have the opportunity to recover and thrive.”

‍

By Amanda Wright

Loneliness is an epidemic few talk about, but for many aged care residents, it’s a daily reality. In facilities across Mackay, Sarina, Proserpine, Bowen, and Mirani, there are countless individuals who spend their days without a single visitor.

The Mackay Community Visitors Association (MCVA) has been working to change that since 1990, but now, they need help. The organisation is calling for volunteers to be a source of friendship for residents who often have no one else.

MCVA President Justin Englert says a little time can make a world of difference.

“There’s something incredibly powerful about being the reason someone smiles that day.

"Many residents have family who live far away or are no longer in their lives, and a regular visit from a friendly face brings them comfort, conversation, and a sense of belonging.”

Volunteers are the heart of MCVA, giving their time to sit, chat, read, or simply share a cup of tea with residents who would otherwise be alone.

In the past year alone, MCVA volunteers made more than 4,500 visits to aged care residents across the region. Each of those visits represented a moment of connection, a reminder to someone that they haven’t been forgotten. But with demand for the service growing, more volunteers are needed to ensure every resident who needs a visitor has one.

The impact of volunteering isn’t just felt by those receiving visits—it’s transformative for those who give their time as well. Many MCVA volunteers say they get just as much joy out of their visits as the residents do, forming friendships that enrich both lives.

MCVA also facilitates welfare checks through the My Aged Care program, ensuring that vulnerable older adults have someone looking out for them. Those in need can contact My Aged Care directly to request a welfare check by MCVA staff.

The association welcomes not only those who can give their time but also financial contributions, with tax-deductible donations helping to sustain and expand this vital service.

For parents looking to foster kindness and empathy in their children, MCVA encourages an “adopt a grandparent” approach, where volunteers can bring their kids along on visits.

Coordinator Tracey Geaghan says this experience is incredibly meaningful for residents.

“So many of them light up when they see children. Many have long-term memory recall and remember their own time as parents," she said.

"The laughter, the chatter—it brings them so much joy.”

Beyond the emotional benefits, volunteering has been widely recognised for its positive effects on physical health. Studies have found that those who engage in regular volunteer work tend to have lower blood pressure, improved heart health, and even a stronger immune system. Acts of kindness release oxytocin, a hormone that reduces stress and promotes feelings of happiness and connection. Regular volunteering can also contribute to increased cognitive function, helping to ward off conditions such as dementia by keeping the brain active and engaged.

For older volunteers, staying socially and physically active through community work has been shown to improve mobility and decrease the risk of chronic illnesses. For younger participants, volunteering can boost self-confidence, enhance social skills, and provide a strong sense of community belonging.

Volunteers decide the length and frequency of their visits, making it a flexible and rewarding way to give back. Whether it’s an hour a week or a fortnightly check-in, every moment spent with a resident makes a difference.

MCVA is looking for caring individuals ready to brighten someone’s day, one visit at a time.

For more information, visit www.communityvisitorsmackay.org.au or contact MCVA President Justin Englert.

‍

One of CANEGROWERS’ primary roles is services to industry, and we have been tackling the issue of high valuations and rates applied to peri-urban agricultural land in Mackay region for several years now.

Council says the valuations set the pace for rates, but it is well known that there are many levers they can pull, structural changes like banding and capping. Residential properties are banded, but when it comes to rural rating, there is only Canefarming and Other Rural. The Cane-farming rate in the dollar is akin to a shopping complex or a commercial/industrial property. Other Rural is half the amount, be it aquaculture, high intensity horticulture, grazing, hay production. Mackay’s rural rating system is a blunt tool that literally canes one sector of agriculture. Whitsunday, for example, has eight banded rural categories across a variety of production types.

Over these past few years, we’ve had several meetings with council, including a recent meeting including a group of the affected growers. Yes, there was a small drop in the cents in the dollar rate, but this did not address the bigger problem. Cane should not be council’s cash cow, but it does seem to be addicted to the sugar hit.

It is a fact that councils across Queensland are trapped in an antiquated funding model with limited means of raising revenue. The budgeting seems to require that the cane sector pay the high rate. But equity an rural rating is paramount in ensuring a viable industry.

Frankly, it is a struggle to get council’s understanding on the pressure this places on the sugar industry. Yes, council did apply a rate reduction that resulted in a decrease for growers, but did not alleviate the pressure placed on growers near the edge of the city, with those people facing around 150-250 % increases in their rates bill since the last round of state land valuations.

In real terms, that can see these growers facing rates bills upwards of $6000 and beyond into the teens. One grower has said that it is a cost of the first $3 a tonne of his cane goes to paying his rates bill. Cane farms are small family businesses, by and large. In most cases, these properties are generational farms, and peoples homes as well. The city has grown out around them, with housing developments spreading the suburban footprint. Also, more people are going for lifestyle blocks, with affording high prices upwards of $41,900/ha made possible by high incomes from other industries but consequently skewing property valuations.

For the farmers, this increased nominal value is not something they will realise. Ideally, farms are passed down through generations or perhaps sold on retirement if there is no family succession.

Council has said that large rates increases “only” affect six growers. We have a list of 20+ growers whose cost of production has been severely impacted by steep rates increases, and we know that the footprint of affected cane land in the peri-urban space is around 5000ha in Mackay. Why does that matter? Two of our Mackay mills (Racecourse and Farleigh) are within that peri-urban footprint. Not only is the alluvial plain around the Pioneer some of our most productive agricultural land, it is also the closest to the mill, therefore the most affordable for the mills to transport for processing. Pushing farming away from the city increases costs for the millers, and incrementally challenges viability.

It is a fact: not all ag land is created equally and some places are more productive than others. They produce more tonnes to the hectare.

Cane is a big part of our regional economy, and potentially a massive part of a future biocommodities sector including fuels, fibres and food. So, it is worth supporting that with sound ratings practices that encourage industry viability. No mill means no growers, insufficient tonnes means no mill.

If we continue to drive a wedge between industry infrastructure and good quality agricultural land, our industry will certainly suffer, and the regional economy along with it.

Last of all. Mackay’s character – used prolifically in marketing the region - features a city flanked in cane, where green cropping spaces are part of the town’s character.

The sugar industry is what Mackay is built on. If we drive that away, it can never be recovered.

Is that what we want as a region?

‍

Much cropping land has been lost over time around Mackay’s expanding city edge This image is of The Sugar Research Institute in the 60s, showing cane where modern-day Paget now stands. Photo credit: MCL Archive

‍

Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank is proud to provide essential support to grow the impact of Mackay Hospital Foundation (MHF) volunteers. Through its ongoing sponsorship, Community Bank Sarina remains committed to supporting MHF volunteers in their vital work within the community.

MHF General Manager Kristi Algate highlighted the impact of Community Bank Sarina’s support.

“It’s been just over 12 months since MHF volunteers donned their new Community Bank Sarina-branded polo shirts, with the sponsorship supporting volunteers throughout Mackay Hospital and Health Service," Ms Algate said.

“These wonderful people donate their time assisting in all areas of the hospital and provide a positive first impression at the information desk."

From Oncology, the Specialist Outpatient Department, Rehabilitation, Eat Walk Engage, the Emergency Department, the Children’s Unit, Library and Convenience Trolleys, the Gift Shop and driving Patient Transport, the volunteers are an integral part of the hospital community.

“From wayfinding to companionship, the dedicated volunteers brighten the lives of those who are experiencing trauma or simply make someone’s day a little better," Ms Algate said.

"In 2024, volunteers worked approximately 8,563 hours supporting patients and visitors at Mackay Base Hospital.”

With 100 volunteers across the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday regions, the bank’s sponsorship remains a huge benefit to our local hospitals. MHF’s volunteers provide 12 services within Mackay Base Hospital, as well as Sarina, Proserpine, Moranbah, Dysart, Clermont, Bowen and Collinsville hospitals.

At Clermont Hospital, 21 volunteers assist in Montcler Aged Care, while in the Whitsundays, volunteers operate the Whitsunday Patient Transfer service.

Across the Mackay Hospital and Health Service, more than 340,000 patients annually attend appointments, admissions and births or receive treatment in the Emergency Department.

“Community Bank Sarina’s sponsorship of our hospital volunteers enables them to interact with and assist a significant number of visitors to our local hospitals," Ms Algate said.

"In many cases, the impact volunteers have on the people they interact with daily is incredibly profound.”

‍

Mackay Hospital Foundation volunteers, proudly supported by Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank, continue to make a meaningful difference in local hospitals through their dedication and compassion. Photo supplied

‍

The ports of Mackay, Hay Point and Abbot Point contribute an impressive $31.7 billion annually to the State’s economy (Gross State Product), a new economic impact study has revealed.

The study, conducted by independent experts Prominence and commissioned by North Queensland Bulk Ports (NQBP), also found the three east coast ports support around 40,000 jobs across the mining, construction, transport and wholesale trade industries.

NQBP CEO Brendan Webb said the report shines a light on the economic importance of the Mackay Isaac Whitsunday region to the State’s economy.

“The Port of Hay Point, one of the largest metallurgical coal ports in the world, helps inject more than $21 billion annually into the Queensland economy and facilitates around 30,000 jobs,” Mr Webb said.

“The Port of Mackay, which not only plays a critical role in the mining supply chain but is the cornerstone of the region’s powerhouse sugar industry, which contributes more than $1 billion annually and supports more than 2,000 jobs across Queensland.

“The Port of Abbot Point is Queensland’s most northern coal export terminal, supporting global energy markets and contributes nearly $10 billion annually and facilitates more than 8,000 jobs."

Mr Webb said the report also revealed the combined contribution of all NQBP’s four ports – Hay Point, Mackay, Abbot Point and Weipa.

“Together, our ports and the people who power them make a mighty contribution to the Queensland economy,” Mr Webb said.

“Our ports serve as critical gateways, but it is through our port partners—our terminal operators, customers, tenants, supply chains, and local businesses— that this contribution truly benefits Queenslanders.

“The ports handle over 54 per cent of Queensland’s international trade by volume; contribute $35 billion annually to Queensland’s Gross State Product and facilitate more than 47,000 jobs across the state.”

The study, released today at a breakfast hosted by NQBP in conjunction with the Resource Industry Network, shows total annual trade passing through NQBP ports is approximately $53 billion in value and around 150 million tonnes in volume. Metallurgical coal - a primary ingredient in steel making - is by far NQBP’s biggest trade by volume (86 per cent), followed by exports of thermal coal, bauxite and sugar.

The employment impact is greatest in regions where trade facilitated by the export of metallurgical coal drives significant economic activity.

While exports make up the bulk of NQBP’s trade, import volumes have grown by more than 25% since 2019. Imports for the region come through the Port of Mackay and while fuel makes up the majority, diversity of imported goods is increasing including break bulk cargo.

“NQBP sees Mackay as a critical port to enable future economic development of the Greater Whitsunday region and is investigating key capital improvements at the port,” Mr Webb said.

“These potential investments, including extending Wharf 1’s cargo handling capabilities and establishing purpose-built laydown areas, will facilitate competitive port services for the region’s existing industries and provide confidence to proponents of new projects whether they are in mining, agriculture, future fuels, tourism, Defence or renewable energy.”

NQBP’s economic contribution to Gross State Product (GSP) accounts for 44 per cent of total GSP contribution from all Queensland ports.

“This report is a fantastic initiative from North Queensland Bulk Ports, that focuses in on the local impact of these ports,” said Ports Australia CEO Mike Gallacher.

"As the data emphasises, NQBP plays a crucial role not only in the national economy but also in supporting regional economies and their investment back into these communities.”

In identifying the resources sector’s contribution to Queensland’s economy, Resource Industry Network general manager, Dean Kirkwood acknowledged that the ports are a key piece of infrastructure enabling this significant contribution.

“NQBP is an impeccable corporate citizen that is truly focussed on ensuring the continued prosperity of the Mackay Isaac Whitsunday region,” Mr Kirkwood said.

Mr Webb added that the trade results were only possible because of the commitment and hard work of the men and women from across the port supply chain.

“From terminal operators, customers and marine pilots, to miners, cane growers and so many more – safe and efficient ports are only possible because of the collective efforts of the pioneering people of our regions.”

Mr Webb said NQBP believed in a bright future for NQBP’s ports and the regions.

“With a track record of infrastructure improvements over the past decade, we will continue to invest in our ports, people and operations in support of the vital role they play in the prosperity of Queensland.”

‍

Assistant Minister of Regional Development, Resources and Critical Minerals Bryson Head MP, Trade and Investment Queensland CEO Justin McGowan, Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson, Ports Australia CEO Mike Gallacher, NQBP Board Chair Jane McTaggart, NQBP CEO Brendan Webb, Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton, Member for Mirani Glen Kelly, and Resource Industry Network General Manager Dean Kirkwood at the launch of NQBP's Economic Impact Study. Photo supplied

‍

By Amanda Wright

She came in like a wrecking ball—and left with the mirror ball trophy.

In a night filled with dazzling performances, surprise victories, and more than a few jaw-dropping moments, the 2025 Dancing with Heart event saw Usadee Phiraphak take centre stage with an electrifying routine to Miley Cyrus’ ‘Wrecking Ball.’ The Revolution Electrical representative left it all on the dance floor, proving that passion and perseverance can outshine even the most seasoned performers.

The crowd at the MECC was on their feet as the winner was announced, but no one was more shocked than Usadee herself. The moment was punctuated by a joyful shriek—an audible mix of disbelief and sheer excitement—echoing through the packed venue. The result of months of gruelling rehearsals, her triumph was all the more extraordinary given that she had never stepped onto a stage for a dance performance before.

A Night To Remember
Dancing With Heart Raises $85,000 For Local Hospitals

The MECC was alive with glitz, glamour, and an overwhelming sense of community as ten brave dancers took to the stage for the 2025 Dancing with Heart competition. Organised by the Mackay Hospital Foundation (MHF), the annual event saw competitors from across the region step out of their comfort zones in the name of charity.

The competition was fierce, with standout performances including Jason Barrett’s dynamic take on Rihanna’s ‘Umbrella,’ which earned him the People’s Choice Award, and Stacey Brownsey’s fundraising prowess, securing an incredible $9,111 for the cause. But it was Usadee Phiraphak’s breathtaking performance that sealed the deal, securing her the prestigious mirror ball trophy, presented by last year’s champion, Zach Spencer.

MHF General Manager Kristi Algate praised the dedication of everyone involved, particularly choreographer Dolly Louw from Fame Talent School, who worked tirelessly to turn complete beginners into stage-ready stars.

“Dolly puts her heart and soul into this event each year to choreograph participants’ routines, with many having no previous dance experience whatsoever,” Ms Algate said.

“We are so proud of what she achieves year after year, and the Fame Talent School backup dancers do an amazing task of helping to finesse each dance.”

The judging panel—Cathy Sullivan from Mt Pleasant Centre, Detective Inspector Emma Novosel from the Mackay Whitsunday District Queensland Police Service, and Josh Smith from Elders Insurance—had their work cut out for them, as each contestant brought energy and enthusiasm to the stage.

With each dancer tasked with raising $5,000, the event exceeded expectations, bringing in more than $85,000 to support local hospitals.

Ms Algate was quick to acknowledge the commitment of the participants and the broader community.

“To each of the dancers, the backup dancers, to Dolly Louw, prize donors, sponsors, and everyone who attended Dancing with Heart, we owe a huge gratitude to all for supporting the dancers and this event but most importantly, for supporting our local hospitals,” she said.

“These dancers are incredibly brave for putting their hand up to support a cause that benefits our entire community. The amount of hours dedicated by Dolly and each participant hasn’t gone unnoticed, and we are immensely grateful.”

With the 2025 competition now in the books, the countdown has already begun for 2026. As Ms Algate hinted, “With Dancing with Heart 2025 behind us, it won’t be long before we’re recruiting dancers for 2026. We can hardly wait.”

One thing’s for sure—next year’s competitors will have some big dance shoes to fill.

Usadee Phiraphak brought the house down with her powerful "Wrecking Ball" performance, leaving the audience in awe and securing the Dancing with Heart 2025 crown. Photo credit: Marty Strecker Photography

Capturing the energy, passion, and unforgettable performances of Dancing with Heart 2025, as local stars took the stage in support of Mackay Hospital Foundation. Photo credit: Marty Strecker Photography

‍

By Hannah McNamara

If there’s one thing Australians are known for, it’s their unshakeable determination and might in the face of adversity. Eighty-three years ago, Aussie soldiers fought on the frontline of Tobruk during World War II in 1941. Though Nazi propaganda attempted to belittle them by calling them the ‘Rats of Tobruk,’ these soldiers carried the name with an inspiring sense of pride.

Living in underground dugouts and tunnels, they endured relentless bombardments, dust storms, and dwindling supplies – yet they refused to surrender. Instead, they wore the title as a badge of courage, resistance, and resilience.

Now, four local schools gather each year at Queens Park, Mackay, to commemorate the heroes who served and ensure their sacrifices are never forgotten. Students from St Patrick’s College, Victoria Park State School, Mackay North State School, and Whitsunday Anglican School proudly honour their legacy.

Mayor Greg Williamson reflected on the significance of the occasion, standing before the Tobruk monument replica.

"It's eighty-three years ago that the battle took place… and here we are in Mackay standing before a replica of the Tobruk monument, which is in the cemetery of Tobruk,” he said.

“For 25 years now, students of the Rats of Tobruk schools in Mackay have come together to make this occasion very, very special.”

Drawing a powerful connection between past and present, Mayor Williamson noted that the courage of these soldiers continues to inspire today’s Australian Defence Force members.

“Just as they stood firm against terror, their courage and commitment continue to inspire serving men and women in Australia's military forces today.

“They lived in dugouts in the ground. They sheltered under whatever they could get, as the propaganda said, like rats in the night.”

Despite these conditions, the soldiers refused to be broken. In a true act of defiance, they even fashioned their own medals from captured German aircraft parts.

“That resilience, that determination, that bravery, is something that modern Australian soldiers, sailors, and airmen and women emulate today,” he said.

Most importantly, Mayor Williamson emphasised the duty of all Australians to honour this legacy for generations to come.

"What we must do to find that respect is ensure that their legacy is never forgotten."

Lest We Forget

‍

Mackay students gathered to honour the courage and legacy of the Rats of Tobruk, whose resilience in WWII continues to inspire generations. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

‍

Tammy Laval has cemented her place in the real estate industry, with integrity, humility and heart during her 17 years working behind the scenes with a highly prominent team.

As the heart of Mackay City Property, she manages the essential and support tasks that often go unnoticed, working 'under the radar' to drive the team's success. Notably, the team recently secured the Rate My Agent awards for No.1 Property Management Team and Top 5 Property Sales Team for Mackay 2025.

Tammy believes this success stems from three key pillars: people, passion, and purpose.

“I love our team, and the people within it,” she says with a smile.

“We’re like a family, within a family.”

In 2007, Tammy and her husband, Chris, made the bold decision to split from a business partnership and relaunch as a family-run agency. In 2021, they transitioned from a franchise group to an independent business, giving them the freedom to create something unique of their own.

Interestingly, Tammy’s entry into real estate wasn’t exactly planned. Following her family's sudden heartbreaking loss of her mother to cancer, she stepped up and into the business to assist with its operational and administrative setup.

“I had no experience in real estate – I just winged it,” she laughs. But her background in hospitality, event management, marketing, and small business operations later laid the foundation for success.

“Currently, the scope of my work centres around an operational role, collaborating with bookkeepers, accountants, advertisers, computer technicians, and other like professionals to ensure the effective delivery of our team's services.

“The diversity makes each day slightly different, and I love that,” she says.

“When things go wrong, it keeps me on my toes and it helps me to stay creative in solving problems.”

Whether it’s watching her children thrive, or celebrating milestones with her team, Tammy believes challenges ultimately pave the way for greatness.

“Every challenge comes with a reward,” she says.

“They circle each other, and that’s how I see it.”

Above all, Tammy loves working within her community. In fact, recently, she had the honour of helping revive Mackay’s art trail with The Bee Mindful Mural, and even led the Chinatown project with Mky City Heart Collective as project leader.

“It was lovely to bring back some of Mackay’s history that many weren’t aware of,” she says.

“The project had so much heart and soul.”

It’s no surprise her name was nominated for the Just Saying Project’s Magic Muse Awards 2025, set to take place in March.

Tammy sees life as a beautiful cycle of growth, giving back, and discovering new adventures.

“I think you go through stages – finding yourself, building your career, then focusing on family – and eventually, you reach a point where you can give back.

“When you give to the community, you feel that love return, and to me, that’s interchangeable… that’s where you’ll see the shine in me.”

mackaycityproperty.com.au

‍

Photo credit: Alyce Holzy

‍

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox has announced a funding commitment of $500,000 to the Eastern Swans AFL Club if a Liberal National government is elected.

"I’m thrilled to announce this funding for vital upgrades to the Eastern Swans AFL Club, which will ensure supporters and volunteers have access to modern, compliant and inclusive amenities, including new male and female change rooms and toilets and a new shed,” Mr Willcox said.

“The current amenities on the grounds are dilapidated and unusable, and this has forced the club to hire donga toilets which is obviously costly and unsustainable.

"The club's membership base is growing rapidly, and this also increases the need for expansion and enhancement of the club's facilities.

“This investment in Eastern Swans AFL reflects the important role local sporting clubs play in fostering community spirit, participation, and healthy lifestyles.

“By upgrading the facilities, we're ensuring this club continues to grow and helping to keep the cost of membership down and lessening the need to fundraise for capital works, at a time when families are doing it tough due to Labor’s cost-of-living crisis.”

Peter Kiegerl, Eastern Swans AFL Club President, said “We have been trying to improve facilities for more than ten years as currently our club change-rooms and toilets are condemned, and we have had to spend $40,000 a year in hiring portable toilets for home games.

“The club is over the moon with this announcement, and the money we will save on the portable toilets will allow us to grow and enhance the club well into the future.”

‍

Peter Kiegerl, Eastern Swans AFL Club President (left) and Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox. Photos supplied

The dilapidated and unusable amenities at the Eastern Swans AFL Club

‍

Flood-affected soybean growers say the best way concerned Aussies can help growers get back on their feet is at the supermarket checkout.

For North Queensland soybean grower, Christian Lago, it has been a season of constant weather challenges and lots of uncertainty.

“Our soybean season in the Burdekin region has been a challenge from the start”, said Mr Lago.

“Before Christmas, we were struggling to get soybeans in the ground thanks to wet weather and a delayed cane harvest, and then, the paddocks we did plant have been through flooding rains in early February, followed by more heavy rainfall in late March,” he added.

Soy Australia Industry Development Officer, Judy Plath, said growers in the Mackay region had also experienced difficulties getting soybeans planted before and after Christmas due to wet weather and the late cane season.

“There has certainly been a reduction in the area of soybeans planted in the Mackay region this year due to weather challenges,” said Mrs Plath.

Soybean grower Paul Fleming says the best way consumers can help soybean growers get back on their feet is by buying Aussie-grown when they shop.

“People wanting to help can support Aussie soybean growers by making sure they put Aussie-grown soybean products in their shopping trolley,” said Mr Fleming.

Mr Fleming, who is a Board member of the peak industry body for soybeans, Soy Australia, believes most people don’t realise that a lot of soy-based foods in the supermarket are made with soy ingredients imported from places like China.

“If consumers choose brands that support Aussie farmers, they can make a huge difference to local soybean growers and help us keep afloat during difficult times,” said Mr Fleming.

“Companies like Vitasoy, for example, buy a lot of soybeans from the Northern Rivers and exclusively use Aussie-grown soybeans in their soy milk and yoghurt range,” said Mr Fleming.

“In fact, Vitasoy are the only Aussie soy milk manufacturer using Aussie-grown soybeans in their milk,” she added.

“Other brands use clever marketing to stop consumers from realising they actually use imported soy in their milks.”

“When you see wording like 'made in Australia with 99 per cent Australian ingredients' on your soy milk, then you can be confident that the company is supporting Aussie farmers,” said Mr Fleming.

“The same goes for soy-based foods like tofu or tempeh.

“The ingredient list should be virtually 100 per cent Aussie.”

‍

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,

‍
Amanda

‍

You could hear the raucous laughter down the hallway as State Government ministers, lounging around the Parliament Cabinet Room, started joking about Mackay.

Politicians come up with new Mackay jokes every year around budget time and they just get funnier.

“Why did the Mackay chicken cross the road?”

“To drop off more money to the State Government!”  That cracked them up.

“What is it called when we get billions of dollars from Mackay region mining and then leave them to travel on goat tracks?”

“Highway robbery!” Another good one.

You might not see the funny side as you dodge the dangers on the single lane heading south from Mackay to Rockhampton. Nor while making your way north along hundreds of kilometres of single-lane, third-rate highway.

And you’re right; it’s not funny. But it is a joke.  I might have made up the joke-telling anecdote about the Queensland politicians, but it does reflect a joke that they and their federal counterparts have been playing on Mackay for years.

And, when you see how much money is produced for the state through royalties and for the nation through taxes, you wonder how it can be.

But what makes the joke pretty damn sick is the number of people, many young, who are killed on the roads north, south and west of Mackay.

This came to mind the other day when the CEO of North Queensland Bulk Ports, Brendan Webb, presented the organisation’s economic impact study to a Resource Industry Network (RIN) breakfast at Harrup Park.

NQBP’s ports, which include Abbot Point, Port of Mackay and Hay Point, facilitate 54 per cent of Queensland’s international trade by volume. The company and its tenants and trade partners, obviously including mining companies, create $35 billion a year for Queensland’s Gross State Product and 47,000 jobs.

It is not hard to note the billions of dollars our region contributes to the state and the nation and wonder why our highway makes a llama track in the Andes look safe and secure.

Apart from the massive amounts of employment and subsequent taxes that are produced, this region contributes billions in mining royalties. In the 2022-2023 financial year, coal royalties were $15 billion.

Mining creates other jobs, both in the sector servicing the mines and in other areas; miners need hairdressers and plumbers, and their kids need clothes and schools. And we have people here also pushing to diversify our economy.

The activity has created a demand for housing, both from long-term residents and recently arrived locals, as well as investors who see Mackay as a great opportunity.

People who bought property some years ago have now got greater financial security, and those who are buying now are still picking up property much cheaper than in southern markets.

Those figures that Brendan Webb produced add to the feeling of security, knowing that this is a powerful economic region in which it is worth buying a property and putting down roots.

In these strange days, dominated by the fanatical followers of the fundamentalist religion of Climate Change and its divine entity, Net Zero, there is one set of NQBP figures that should instil confidence in Mackay homeowners.

By value, 86 per cent of NQBP’s annual exports are of metallurgical coal (the stuff that makes steel) and 11 per cent is thermal coal (used for power plants).

It is true that large countries in our region, such as China, India, and Indonesia, are not slowing down on thermal coal, but there is global pressure to use alternatives.

But you can’t produce the steel for bridges, buildings and cars without metallurgical coal … and ours is the best.

Global demand for steel, particularly through Asian urbanisation, is good news for metallurgical coal demand, local jobs and Mackay homeowners.

The bad news is still the roads into and out of Mackay.

‍

Land clearing, when managed correctly, is not about destruction but renewal. Overgrown vegetation, particularly invasive species such as lantana, guava, and dense grasses, can suffocate forests, hinder native regrowth, and create an impenetrable barrier for both wildlife and landowners. Thoughtful clearing opens the land, allowing for better control, sustainable management, and long-term environmental benefits.

One of the most effective strategies in responsible land clearing is repurposing removed vegetation into nutrient-rich mulch. Rather than allowing cleared biomass to go to waste, it can be processed and used to support soil health and regeneration. Mulch plays a crucial role in stabilising land, preventing erosion, and enriching the soil with organic matter. This is particularly important on slopes, where exposed topsoil is vulnerable to degradation.

The benefits of using mulch after clearing include:
• Retaining topsoil and reducing erosion, protecting the land from degradation
• Suppressing weed growth and limiting the return of invasive species
• Enhancing soil fertility, supporting stronger and healthier regrowth
• Conserving moisture, reducing the need for excessive irrigation
• Creating an environment that encourages the return of native wildlife

By integrating responsible clearing with strategic land management, property owners can create accessible and sustainable landscapes. This approach allows for better regrowth control, the potential for seeding high-value forage, and the restoration of natural movement corridors for wildlife.

Rather than viewing land clearing as a means to remove vegetation, it should be seen as a way to reset and restore the land. When combined with the use of mulch, the process becomes not just a solution for overgrowth but a long-term investment in the health of the environment.

‍

Mackay Sugar has announced the resignation of Group Maintenance Manager Tasman Higgins, effective immediately.

Higgins, who joined the company in 2021, has played a key role in strengthening Mackay Sugar’s maintenance operations over the past three and a half years. His leadership and expertise have been instrumental in improving the efficiency and reliability of operations during a period of significant growth and development for the company.

In a statement, Mackay Sugar expressed gratitude for Higgins’ contributions.

“We sincerely thank Tas for his hard work, leadership, and commitment. His efforts have had a positive impact, and we wish him every success in his future endeavours.”

Interim arrangements for the Group Maintenance Manager position have been put in place as the company moves forward.

‍

Mackay and the Whitsundays have seen a steady demand for new homes, with building costs stabilising and approvals rising over the past year. However, the latest figures show a slight dip of 2.8 per cent in the last quarter, highlighting the ongoing challenges in meeting housing supply needs.

The figures from Australian Bureau of Statistics reveal all regions except the Gold Coast enjoyed a boost in the number of approvals of new houses and units in the 12 months to January, rising by 6.3 per cent across Queensland.

The cost to build also stabilised, helping to release some of the pent-up demand for detached houses, and increasing approvals statewide by 12.7 per cent over the year. Unfortunately, this was not the case for units, where approvals continued to struggle, down -6.9 per cent.

However, the three-month breakdown from November to January disappointingly confirms a return to a downward trend. Greater Brisbane (-14.9 per cent) and Wide Bay Burnett (-11.5 per cent) clocked double-figure negatives, along with Gold Coast (-8.3 per cent), North Queensland (-7.5), and Far North Queensland (-6.4 per cent), Mackay & Whitsunday (-2.8 per cent) and Downs & Western (-2.4 per cent). Central Queensland was the only exception, with a +3.9 per cent hike.

Master Builders Queensland CEO Paul Bidwell said the state government had made significant strides forward in slashing red tape, but those efforts were yet to translate into bricks and mortar.

“We applauded the Building Reg Reno announcement in February, with steps including a freeze on the unworkable Project Trust Accounts system, and more recently, the scrapping of unnecessary financial reporting for around 50,000 small businesses. But this is only part of the story and change won’t happen overnight.

“We now have the freshly reinstated Queensland Productivity Commission, which will spotlight our industry, and home in on the challenges hampering the delivery of low-rise housing, and large unit developments.

“From scrapping the already-frozen Best Practice Industry Conditions and Project Trust Accounts, to addressing barriers to more workers joining our industry as newcomers or from interstate; and making the Queensland Building and Construction Commission operate as a more balanced and robust regulator, these are issues we have long advocated on.

“In the 12 months to January, 35,727 new builds were approved across the state – well shy of the government housing target we’ve been set of 50,000 each year.

“The numbers don’t stack up, but these measures will help shift the dial on housing supply, while keeping safety and build quality at the top of the list.”

‍

Mackay Regional Council has announced Muller Park in Ooralea will be getting new “tower fun” playground equipment, which was chosen by residents.

The announcement comes after the original play equipment was removed late last year due to its age and poor condition.

Mayor Greg Williamson said Muller Park was a popular park that residents valued.

“Families told us loud and clear that Muller Park was a vital community space – whether that’s to ride the miniature trains, hold birthday parties and picnics, or just as a play space after school or on weekends,” Mayor Williamson said.

Extensive consultation to determine the park’s future use was undertaken with the community, including an on-site engagement session at Muller Park and an online survey.

About 114 individuals had their say on the park’s future and more than 60 per cent of those had young children.

Mayor Williamson said the community was given six options to choose from, which included tower fun, adventure climb, dig site, swing park, ninja warrior course, and jump and bounce park.

“Out of all the options, 58 per cent of residents voted for tower fun,” he said.

“Tower fun caters for a wide age range, from babies to teens of about 14, and offers many types of play that allow kids to be active and imaginative.

“The idea is that little ones will be able to explore the shaded lower-level areas, while the older kids can climb to the top.

“Online feedback also suggested the need for additional fencing around the playground.

“As a result, the new playground will be fully fenced and feature softfall underfoot.”

The detailed playground design is expected to be completed by the start of next year, with construction forecast to commence in the first half of 2026.

Visit connectingmackay.com.au to keep up to date on the project.

‍

About 114 individuals had their say on the park’s future and more than 60 per cent of those had young children. Photo and image supplied by Mackay Regional Council

‍

Visitors to the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens are being urged to take extra caution following a report of a possible crocodile sighting in the lagoons over the weekend. While there has been no visual confirmation yet, the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI) has installed signage and will conduct investigations this week.

As a precaution, authorities recommend that visitors and their pets remain at least five metres from the water’s edge. The public is also encouraged to report any confirmed sightings to DETSI by calling 1300 130 372.

This report comes as crocodile activity in Mackay continues to make headlines. So far this year, there have been nine recorded crocodile sightings in the region. Just last month, DETSI confirmed a sighting in the freshwater above Dumbleton Weir. Wildlife officers have since baited a trap in an effort to remove the animal.

DETSI urges residents to report all crocodile sightings, whether they are a cause for concern or not, as tracking movements and behaviour helps authorities manage the presence of these reptiles. The only exception is when crocodiles are legally held in captivity, such as in farms or zoos.

For those who frequent Mackay’s waterways, staying “Crocwise” is essential. Avoiding swimming in known crocodile habitats, keeping a safe distance from the water, and remaining alert are all key steps to staying safe.

While this latest report remains unconfirmed, it serves as a timely reminder that Mackay is crocodile country. If you spot a crocodile, report it via the QWildlife app, the DETSI website, or by calling 1300 130 372.

‍

Photo credit: Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens

‍

Birri Gubba Nation marked its second anniversary with a weekend of celebrations on March 8th and 9th, blessed by clear skies and vibrant community spirit.

Saturday’s festivities took place at Bluewater Quay, alongside the picturesque Pioneer River, bringing together community members for a day of celebration, cultural connection, and prize giveaways.

Invited guests included delegates from the Yidindji and Wakka Wakka Nations, who joined in the festivities, strengthening the spirit of unity and growth. The event also featured a variety of informative stalls showcasing natural health products and services.

A special ceremony saw new Ambassadors officially welcomed into the nation, receiving Ambassador certificates and a copy of the Birri Gubba Oath. Additionally, several members of the administration team were honoured with the Birri Gubba Community Award in recognition of their contributions.

As Birri Gubba Nation’s boundaries are defined by its language groups, Senior Tribal Elder Aunty Diwah was presented with a Birri Gubba language book, symbolising the importance of preserving and celebrating cultural heritage.

On Sunday, celebrations continued in a more relaxed setting at the stunning Conway Beach. Attendees had the unique opportunity to take part in a rock art painting workshop led by Aunty Diwah, offering a hands-on cultural experience.

Birri Gubba Nation has been reinvigorated to build a community of like-minded men, women and children, giving governance for all who exist within Birri Gubba territory. This is a coming together of all cultures walking hand in hand with each other to embrace a peaceful and free community.

‍

Birri Gubba Nation Ministers

Ambassador Ceremony

Celebratory cake. Photos supplied

‍

Art, creativity, and community spirit took centre stage earlier this month at the Isaac Coast Inspiring Women in Isaac event.

Around 90 guests embraced the opportunity to explore their artistic side through hands-on workshops, including silk scarf painting, leather earring crafting, and charcoal painting. Live music provided the perfect atmosphere as attendees connected and shared in the experience.

Health and wellbeing were also in focus, with Joanne Mulcahy from TRACC offering free blood pressure checks and valuable health tips.

Held at the picturesque Cape Palmerston Holiday Park, the event brought together women from across the Isaac region for a day of inspiration, creativity, and connection.

‍

Guests at the Isaac Coast Inspiring Women in Isaac event embraced creativity and connection through art, music, and meaningful conversations. Photo source: Isaac Regional Council

‍

A surprise power outage only added to the charm of Dysart’s Inspiring Women in Isaac event, transforming the evening into a beautifully intimate, candlelit gathering.

Held at the Dysart Bowls Club, the event welcomed 30 guests for a night of creativity and relaxation, guided by Lisa Reilly. Attendees embraced the hands-on accessory-making workshop, crafting their own unique earrings and keyrings to take home as keepsakes.

With laughter, conversation, and artistic flair filling the room, the evening proved that sometimes, the best moments come when the lights go out.

‍

Guests at the Dysart Inspiring Women in Isaac event enjoyed a night of creativity, connection, and candlelit charm while crafting their own beautiful accessories. Photo source: Isaac Regional Council

‍

Walking into Deja-Vu is like stepping into another world—one filled with antiques, charming gifts, and the inviting aroma of fresh coffee. For Elisabeth Ribeiro, the woman behind this hidden gem, it’s the realisation of a dream that began when she moved from Brazil to Australia at 20.

Arriving with little English, Elisabeth devoted 13 years to raising her children before finding her passion in business. Today, she proudly owns Deja-Vu, a gift shop café that offers more than just a place to grab a coffee.

“I wanted to give people a nice place to come sit and have a drink, whether it’s coffee, tea, or just to relax,” Elisabeth says. “Once you’re here, you feel like you’re in another country.”

Her success is in part thanks to former owner Kerri Ross, who ran the business for 21 years and offered invaluable support.

“She’s been lovely, and I can’t thank her enough for all the help she’s offered to me,” Elisabeth says.

Beyond coffee, her elegant high teas bring people together for baby showers, birthdays, or simple indulgence.

“People are always celebrating something, and I love that,” she shares.

When she’s not at Deja-Vu, Elisabeth runs Airbnbs, supports her husband’s landscaping business, and enjoys music, camping, and dining out with her family.

“You can do anything… God will give you the strength to do it,” she says—a philosophy that shines through every cup poured at Deja-Vu.

‍

Photo credit: Alyce Holzy

‍

For Jo Sainsbury, Founder of Kickass Women, growth doesn’t stop with age - it accelerates. With a passion for professional development, she embraces challenges, reinvention, and collaboration to help others thrive.

“I consider myself an ongoing project—heading towards my late 50s, and I’m allowed to be both a work in progress and help others grow at the same time,” Jo says.

Jo believes women over 50 are more empowered than ever, stepping into leadership roles, launching businesses, prioritising health, and even embracing adventure.

“Most women believe they’re now more likely to try new things since turning 50,” she explains.

Professional development is central to Jo’s philosophy. Having recently completed an 18-month leadership program, she now thrives as a Coal Mining Supervisor, equipped with tools to drive personal and professional change.

“What I’ve learnt puts a greater emphasis on emotional intelligence and tapping into the experiences of employees,” Jo notes.

“Heart-centred leadership is about being inclusive, compassionate, and responsive - qualities women leaders are famous for.”

She champions collaborative leadership, seeing it as a force that strengthens families, communities, and businesses.

“The investment you make in your professional development is a strong investment in yourself,” she adds.

Later this year, Jo will tackle the Three Capes Trek in Tasmania, a multi-day hike raising funds for CQ Rescue - proving once again that success is about pushing boundaries, no matter your age.

‍

Photo credit: Alyce Holzy

‍

Mackay’s business world just got a serious upgrade.

The Kollective Co. isn’t just another business hub - it’s a game-changing fusion of coaching, education, and strategy designed to elevate businesses from the inside out. Behind it all is Emma Armstrong, a fearless business growth strategist who blends sharp strategy with deep mindset work to unlock potential and drive real results.

“We’re in the business of growing businesses and people,” Emma says.

“It’s a Kollective house for strategy, education, and mindset shifts that get real results.”

Emma doesn’t sugarcoat the roadblocks holding businesses back. Whether it’s sales, marketing, team dynamics, or leadership, she delivers high-impact, psychology-backed solutions designed for long-term success.

Her Business Alignment program cuts through the noise, guiding businesses through four key pillars—sales, marketing, team, and leadership - to ensure they scale effectively and thrive.

Recognising a gap in Mackay’s networking scene, Emma launched The Ko Work - a high-energy business experience where fresh, innovative businesses get the platform they deserve.

“Mackay is full of hidden gems - businesses people don’t even know exist,” she says.

“The Ko Work is about creating real connections.”

With powerhouse speakers and bi-monthly themes, The Ko Work delivers inspiration and actionable strategies for busy entrepreneurs.

Beyond strategy, The Kollective Co. supports business owners with a signature range of essential oil energy sprays and rollers - crafted to enhance clarity, confidence, and success.

“Connection is at the heart of everything we do,” Emma says.

Through The Kollective Co., she’s not just shaping businesses - she’s shaping futures.

‍

Photo credit: Alyce Holzy

‍

Kate Collins isn’t just reshaping business in the Whitsundays - she’s redefining success itself. A powerhouse entrepreneur and philanthropist, Kate has transformed the Taste Whitsundays experience at Whitsunday Coast Airport, setting a new standard for regional travel dining.

Her high-tech, locally focused approach has played a key role in the airport’s recent award-winning success.

“We try to use as much local food and products as possible, putting a Whitsundays spin on everything we do,” Kate says.

Beyond business, Kate’s passion for giving back has made waves across Queensland. Recently named Emerging Queensland Philanthropist of the Year, she founded My Giving Table, a platform that turns gatherings into fundraisers - whether it’s a birthday, cocktail party, or dinner, guests donate to charity instead of bringing gifts.

Between My Giving Table and her Whitsunday Luxe Raffle for Women’s Legal Service, Kate has raised over half a million dollars for charities. She’s now supporting Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs in their latest fundraising efforts.

“If you are successful in life, the way to be more successful is to give back,” Kate says.

“At some point, focusing only on yourself no longer fills the whole story.”

Her impact doesn’t stop there. The innovations she’s introduced at Taste Whitsundays have caught the attention of major global brands, including Emirates.

As for challenges, Kate doesn’t dwell on them.

“I don’t define myself by my femininity - I’m a businessperson first. And in many ways, being a woman in business has actually been an advantage.”

From industry innovation to philanthropy, Kate Collins is proving that success is about more than just breaking the mould - it’s about lifting others up along the way.

‍

Photo credit: Alyce Holzy

‍

Dr Ritu Rana’s journey to Mackay began with a search for sunshine, but what she found was so much more - a thriving career, a supportive community, and a life where medicine, business, and family intertwine seamlessly.

One of Queensland’s leading fertility specialists, Dr Rana never set out to be a business owner. Born and trained in India, she moved to the UK for further medical training, specialising in obstetrics, gynaecology, and reproductive medicine. After over a decade working in high-risk pregnancies and advanced infertility treatments, she and her husband — both doctors — chose to relocate for their middle child’s health, seeking a warmer climate.

In 2018, she joined Dr Lance Herron’s fertility practice, initially seeking flexibility while raising three young children. But in 2020, when Dr Herron fell ill, she was faced with an unexpected decision: close the practice or take over. She chose the latter, stepping into business ownership overnight.

“Medical school teaches you how to save lives, not how to run a business,” Dr Rana admits.

With the guidance of mentors like Bill and Julie Boyd, she navigated the complexities of Medicare, private health, and business management. Today, her clinic is one of Queensland’s top-performing fertility practices, a testament to her expertise and patient trust.

But, she’s quick to credit her team.

“Without my staff, I’d be lost,” she says. “Their dedication allows me to focus on what I do best—helping my patients on their fertility journey.”

Balancing a high-demand medical career with motherhood requires meticulous planning. Dr Rana structures her work year around school holidays, ensuring time with family. A strong support system - including a home helper, a nanny, and a shared approach to parenting with her psychiatrist husband —helps her juggle it all.

Her philosophy? Say yes to opportunities — even when they’re daunting.

“If I’d hesitated when Dr Herron fell ill, I might never have discovered my talent for business,” she reflects.

Her advice to young women in medicine?

“Be clear about your goals, chase them relentlessly, and remember—success is about balance, not sacrifice.”

With 35 countries ticked off her travel list, a passion for cooking, and a thriving business, Dr Ritu Rana is proof that with structure, support, and a fearless attitude, you really can have it all — just not all at once.

‍

Photo credit: Alyce Holzy

‍

At just 23, Kelisha Day is proving that success in commercial real estate isn’t about age or gender—it’s about drive, expertise, and delivering results. As a Sales and Leasing Executive with Explore Property Commercial, she’s not just brokering deals; she’s shaping Mackay’s business landscape.

Kelisha’s journey began in 2019 with a determination that set her apart. She handed in her resume, followed up relentlessly, and landed a role as a personal assistant to director Jordan Miller. From there, she immersed herself in the industry, managing a property portfolio in Brisbane before returning to Mackay to specialise in sales and leasing.

“In commercial real estate, I’m here to make a difference,” she says.

“Yes, it’s a male-dominated industry, but I love proving myself, getting deals done, and earning that repeat business.”

Her hands-on approach and strategic thinking have led to major successes. One standout achievement was the sale of 135-137 Nebo Road, where she transformed a 60 per cent occupied property into a fully tenanted, high-value asset — boosting the sale price by 15 per cent. She’s also been instrumental in securing some of the largest leasing deals in the Mackay’s CBD, turning empty shells into thriving business hubs.

Kelisha credits her work ethic to her biggest inspiration — her mum. “She taught me that hard work brings results, and nothing comes to you by doing nothing.”

With an impressive track record already under her belt, Kelisha is excited to take on even bigger challenges, helping businesses find their perfect space while making her mark on the region’s commercial property sector.

With her passion, persistence, and proven results, she’s just getting started.

‍

Photo credit: Alyce Holzy

‍

In an industry traditionally dominated by men, Bec Gardner is rewriting the rulebook - balancing business leadership, family life, and a passion for rare sheep breeding with impressive finesse. As co-founder and Administration and Finance Manager of the ‘Cite’ Group of Companies, Bec’s day is a whirlwind of numbers, strategy, marketing, HR, and business development across CiteCon, CiteWorx, CiteHire, and CiteSpec.

“My husband jokingly calls me the ‘bean counter,’ but really, I’m across everything,” Bec shares. “I handle finances, compliance, HR, recruitment, marketing, and client relations — plus, I somehow fit in being a mum and wife.”

Bec thrives on problem-solving and process improvement, ensuring operations run smoothly while fostering a company culture that values both efficiency and people. “Every day is different, and I wouldn’t have it any other way,” she says.

The ‘Cite’ Group stands out in construction, civil, and equipment hire sectors by offering a tailored, all-in-one approach. “We listen, adapt, and deliver solutions that work for our clients.

"Safety, compliance, and technology are crucial, but our reputation for reliability and service sets us apart,” Bec explains.

Her leadership style is shaped by resilient women in her life — her mother, daughter, and aunties — showing her that strength and grace can coexist, even in male-dominated industries. Bec’s daughter Paige is now following in her footsteps as a contract administrator in the family business.

Outside work, Bec finds balance on her Valais Blacknose sheep farm — a passion project that keeps her grounded.

“The road hasn’t been easy, but the progress is exciting,” Bec reflects. “If I can inspire one young woman to step into this industry confidently, I’ve done my job.”

‍

Photo credit: Alyce Holzy

‍

The Mater Chicks in Pink International Women’s Day Fun Run last weekend in Mackay's Northern Beaches was the biggest yet, raising an incredible $6,245 to fight breast cancer across Queensland. Mater Mackay Chicks in Pink collected $4,194, while the Lazy Runners Club contributed $2,051.

Created to ensure no woman faces breast cancer alone, the event supports women—our mothers, daughters, sisters, and friends—by easing the emotional and financial burdens of diagnosis. Funds raised go towards free, personalised breast cancer support services and essential items like mastectomy bras, wigs, and scarves, making a significant impact on patients' lives.

Support also aids in investing in advanced health technology, providing rapid, potentially life-saving breast cancer testing, and accelerating treatment advancements. Mater’s collaboration with world-class researchers and clinicians ensures breakthroughs are quickly translated from lab to bedside.

Mater Foundation thanks the Mackay community for their phenomenal support and looks forward to next year’s event.

‍

Photos supplied

‍

Mackay MP Nigel Dalton recently called on locals to nominate women making a difference in the community—and the response was overwhelming. From healthcare to volunteer work, countless women were recognised for their dedication and passion.

To show his appreciation, Mr Dalton personally delivered flowers and certificates of recognition to four inspiring recipients during Queensland Women’s Week.

“On International Women’s Day, I had the privilege of delivering flowers and certificates to four of the inspiring women who were recognised during Queensland Women’s Week. Their dedication and passion truly make a difference in our community, and it was an honour to celebrate their contributions. Thank you for everything you do—here’s to empowering women today and every day!” he said.

The recipients included Dr Sally Rodrigues of NG Gyne Health, Michele Shepherd of Mackay Golden Years Group, and Katrina Reilly and Lesley Sabbo of Marabisda.

“Mackay is home to so many hardworking, passionate, and dedicated women who make a real difference in our community. Whether it’s in business, education, healthcare, sport, or volunteer work, these women go above and beyond every day,” Mr Dalton said.

He emphasised the importance of initiatives like this in ensuring women’s efforts are acknowledged.

“Too often, the tireless efforts of women—especially in unpaid or community roles—go unrecognised. This is our opportunity to publicly celebrate their hard work and let them know just how much they are appreciated.”

Queensland Women’s Week, held from March 2 to 9 in 2025, encourages reflection, awareness, and action towards gender equality. This year’s theme, March Forward, highlights progress while acknowledging the ongoing journey towards an equal future.

“All of us have a role to play in working together as a community to achieve gender equality,” Mr Dalton said.

‍

Michele Shepherd of Mackay Golden Years Group. Photos supplied

Dr Sally Rodrigues of NG Gyne Health

Katrina Reilly and Lesley Sabbo of Marabisda

‍

At Gardian, success is built on expertise and the people who drive it forward. Among them is an inspiring group of women who bring skill, passion, and professionalism to real estate, finance, insurance, and commercial asset management. More than experts, they are mentors, problem-solvers, and trailblazers shaping Mackay’s business landscape.

Navigating finance, real estate and insurance requires knowledge and trust—qualities that define Gardian’s professionals.

As a Financial Adviser, Nicole Geisler coaches clients through major milestones, from buying a home to retirement planning. She worked her way from assistant to adviser while earning a Master’s in Financial Planning, proving success is built on dedication and relationships.

In insurance, Taylah Park ensures clients are protected. As an Account Executive at Gardian Insurance, she simplifies policies and claims, providing peace of mind. She credits teamwork and strong mentors for her success.

With 17 years in the industry, Hayley Wynn knows property management is about people. As a Business Development Manager, she builds strong relationships with investors, ensuring their assets are well-managed.

Melissa Park, also a Business Development Manager, drives rental portfolio expansion. She believes trust and transparency are key, giving landlords confidence in every decision.

Behind the scenes, Adele Annetts keeps operations running smoothly as Office Manager at Gardian Real Estate, ensuring a seamless experience for clients and colleagues.

In commercial real estate, Cecelia Reed oversees multimillion-dollar properties as a Senior Commercial Asset Manager, proving persistence and expertise go hand in hand.

Nikita Denkewitz, a Loans Consultant at Gardian Finance, helps clients navigate home buying with confidence. A single mum to two energetic kids, she embodies Gardian’s values of family and balance.

Gardian isn’t just a company—it’s a community of professionals dedicated to excellence. These women drive the business forward, setting industry benchmarks while supporting one another.

At Gardian, success isn’t just about achievements—it’s about lifting each other up and blazing trails together.

‍

Photo credit: Tropical Petography

‍

Earlier this month, Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) celebrated the dedication of the more than 3,300 women who play a vital role in delivering healthcare across the region.

From frontline professionals to behind-the-scenes specialists, these women are the backbone of the health service—saving lives, driving innovation, and shaping the future of healthcare. As part of International Women’s Day (March 8) and Queensland Women’s Week, teams across Mackay HHS wore purple to show their support and acknowledge the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women in health.

Among those recognised was rural operations manager Amelia Elliott, a shining example of leadership and career progression in health support.

Amelia’s journey in Queensland Health began over a decade ago as a business manager at Roma Hospital, where she gained firsthand experience in the vital role rural hospitals play in small communities. Since moving to Mackay in 2017, she has held multiple business management roles at Mackay Base Hospital before returning to her passion—rural healthcare.

Now, as Mackay HHS rural operations manager, Amelia’s work spans seven rural hospitals, ensuring seamless patient care through patient travel assistance, HR guidance, corporate governance, financial practices, and funding opportunities. She played a key role in the 2023 refurbishment project at Collinsville MPHS, which upgraded aged care facilities with ensuite bathrooms, improving comfort and dignity for residents.

A crucial part of her role is bridging the gap between rural facilities and Mackay Base Hospital, ensuring patients across Mackay, Isaac, and Whitsunday communities receive the care they need.

During Queensland Women’s Week, Amelia encouraged other women to consider careers in rural health, highlighting the strong teamwork, diverse opportunities, and meaningful impact of working in these essential roles.

Mackay HHS was proud to recognise and celebrate the incredible women who make healthcare possible, honouring their expertise, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the wellbeing of local communities.

‍

Amelia Elliott

‍

Resource Industry Network (RIN) is proud to have hosted an impactful business lunch celebrating inclusivity and gender equity in the workplace. This year’s theme, "Accelerate Action," emphasised the urgent need to dismantle the systemic barriers and biases that women still face in professional environments.

The event featured Olympic Gold Medallist Kerri Pottharst, whose decades of expertise in goal achievement and competition provided invaluable insights. As one of the world’s top volleyball players, Ms Pottharst has represented Australia for more than 20 years and is now a renowned speaker, coach, and author.

The panel discussion was equally enlightening, with Taz Zammit, a leading Australian social media influencer and advocate for inclusivity, offering her perspective on the creator economy.

Dean Kirkwood, General Manager at RIN, highlighted how an inclusive workforce drives innovation, safety, and productivity.

“Our International Women’s Day (IWD) business lunch has sold out for five consecutive years because it brings together Queensland professionals who are committed to championing gender equality,” said Mr Kirkwood.

This event has become a key gathering for professionals of all genders who are dedicated to advancing women’s roles in the workplace.

With the 2025 event sold out, RIN encourages early registration for the 2026 IWD lunch.

‍

Last weekend, the Zonta International Women’s Day High Tea celebrated more than just a tradition—it honoured the extraordinary leadership, resilience, and community spirit of young women shaping the future. The prestigious Zonta Young Women in Leadership Award recognises outstanding young women aged 16 to 19 who go above and beyond in demonstrating leadership and a commitment to public service.

This year’s winner, Arhamah Haider of Whitsunday Anglican School, and runner-up Sanvi Rana, also from Whitsunday Anglican School, exemplify what it means to lead with courage, compassion, and determination. From advocating for global women’s rights and disaster recovery to working tirelessly to improve healthcare access in rural communities, these young women are not just shaping their communities—they are transforming them.

Zonta Mackay expressed their pride, saying, "We wish to congratulate all nominees. Thank you to the many Z-Clubs who attended and who work so hard for our causes—we appreciate you! The future is in good hands."

These remarkable leaders inspire us all, proving that with vision and dedication, young women can change the world—today and beyond.

Holy Spirit College Mackay

Natalie Logan
A Year 12 student at Holy Spirit College, Natalie Logan has long been passionate about STEM subjects, leading her to participate in the 2025 National Youth Science Forum.
Beyond her studies, Natalie is actively involved in her community as a netball coach and umpire. She previously served as the Mackay-Matsuura Youth Ambassador in 2023 and currently holds the position of Peer Support Chair on the college’s Student Representative Council. Additionally, she is the president of the school’s Z Club.
Inspired by the mentors she admired growing up, Natalie strives to be a compassionate, enthusiastic, and understanding leader. She plans to pursue a Bachelor of Medical Imaging, aspiring to become a radiographer or sonographer.

Stephanie Parchert
Stephanie Parchert, also a Year 12 student at Holy Spirit College, is serving as the Community Service Chair on the college’s Student Representative Council, overseeing groups such as the Z Club and the Environment Group.
Actively involved in both, she also contributes to the school’s IMPACT (Inspiring, Motivating, Promoting About Christian Teachings) program and choir.
Outside of school, Stephanie has been a dedicated member of the Scouting movement for 12 years, beginning at the age of five. Her experiences in scouting have inspired her to pursue a career in Outdoor Education.

Sarina State High School

Montanah McWaters
A Year 12 student at Sarina State High School, Montanah McWaters was recently inducted as School Captain for 2025. Her leadership extends far beyond her title, as she takes the initiative to create opportunities for others, ensuring inclusivity in all aspects of student life.
Passionate about reproductive health, Montanah participated in the 2024 Ovarian Cancer Workout 4 Women, where she was recognised for her outstanding early contributions.
She aspires to become a high school teacher, believing that by fostering critical thinking and the power of knowledge, she can help shape a brighter future for others.

St Patrick’s College Mackay

Elena Mathew
A student at St Patrick’s College, Elena Mathew is deeply committed to community involvement and intends to continue making a lasting impact, particularly on youth.
Elected as a councillor for the Mackay Youth Council, she will complete her term in 2026 and has also been appointed as the Gratitude Initiative Ambassador for the next two years.
In addition to her civic engagements, Elena aspires to study Radiology at the University of Queensland (UQ) and later specialise in neuro-radiology.

Mikayla Green
As the School Captain of St Patrick’s College, Mikayla Green enjoys gardening, sewing her own clothes, and spending time with family.
Her personal goal is to study a Bachelor of Law at Bond University on a full scholarship. She hopes to become the youngest female District Court Judge in Queensland’s history. After graduation, she intends to return to Mackay to work as a Crown Prosecutor before progressing to a Magistrate’s role.
Mikayla also plans to take the bar exam to become a barrister.

Whitsunday Anglican School

Amelia Bishop
A proud Aboriginal descendant of the Kamilaroi people, Amelia Bishop currently lives on Yuwi country in Mackay and is a Year 11 student at Whitsunday Anglican School. She aspires to study medicine and improve Indigenous health and well-being across Australia by establishing Indigenous GP clinics that serve rural and remote communities.
Amelia is highly active in her school and local community, engaging in volunteer surf lifesaving, serving as President of the Whitsunday Anglican School Zonta Club, volunteering for NAIDOC Week and the Mackay Road Runners, assisting with Zonta Birthing Kits, and competing in inter-school debating. She is also the founder of her business, Indigenous Scrunchies, and has been selected to attend several national university programs.

Arhamah Haider (Winner)
A Year 11 student at Whitsunday Anglican School, Arhamah Haider is a United Nations Youth Student Ambassador who believes in turning talk into action.
Her extensive achievements include representing Australia at the UN Youth Conference in New Zealand, competing nationally in the UN Youth Voice competition, working with UNICEF to amplify the voices of women in Gaza, and being the youngest Minister in Queensland Youth Parliament for Fire and Disaster Recovery. She was also accepted into Harvard University’s highly competitive ‘Justice’ course, co-founded 'The Gratitude Initiative' supporting women in need, and was a state finalist in both the Tom Stephenson Community Cup and national Slam Poetry competitions.
A talented speech and drama performer in Mackay, Arhamah is a passionate advocate for change.

Sanvi Rana (Runner-up)
A Year 12 student and current School Captain at Whitsunday Anglican School, Sanvi Rana plans to pursue a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery at Monash University in Melbourne.
She aspires to improve healthcare accessibility in rural communities, ensuring better medical services for remote populations.
Sanvi’s extracurricular activities include serving as Secretary and President of the WAS Interact Club, volunteering as a face painter for Troppo Market (raising over $1,500 for Rotary), assisting children with disabilities at Sony Camp, and contributing to events such as Open Day and the Whitsunday Voices Youth Literature Festival. She has also participated in UN Youth Voice competitions and nationwide Mathematics and Science competitions.

Congratulations to all nominees on their outstanding achievements and dedication to leadership and service.

‍

Sanvi Rana, Arhamah Haider, Natalie Logan, Stephanie Parchert, Elena Mathew, Mikayla Green, Montanah McWaters, Amelia Bishop. Photo credit: Cherrie Hughes

Winner: Arhamah Haider

Runner-up: Sanvi Rana

Natalie Logan

Mikayla Green

Amelia Bishop

‍

March is a powerful month of celebration and reflection, marking International Women’s Day, Queensland Women’s Week, and International Women’s Month. It’s a time to honour the incredible women in our community—mums raising the next generation of champions, grandmothers sharing their golden wisdom, business leaders breaking barriers, students striving to make a difference, frontline workers saving lives, and those who unite women through networking and support.

These women are the backbone of Mackay, shaping our community with strength, compassion, and resilience. From boardrooms to classrooms, from healthcare centres to local events, they make our region thrive every day.

As we celebrate their achievements and contributions this March, we acknowledge that while progress has been made, the journey toward equality continues. This feature shines a spotlight on just a few of Mackay’s remarkable women—champions in their own right—who inspire us all to build a stronger, more equitable future.

‍

Simon Hood, Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

As the ground dries out and activity picks up on farm, so does the activity of our Grower Marketing team. We are in the process of organising our popular shed meetings where we come on farm and update growers on our recent results, the global sugar market and new products or services we can offer.

This will be followed up in June with a regional tour by our Senior Sugar Trader Peter Bingham to deliver an in-depth analysis of global production and consumption forecasts and consequent price expectations. If you’re interested in attending one of these events near you, please reach out to your local consultant to
register your interest.

While talking with growers, consultants have also been setting up the pricing mechanisms for the 2025 season and checking that GEI nomination estimates line up with initial crop estimates. For growers who want to control their pricing more closely we recommend using the Grower Managed
Production Risk Scheme (GMPRS) for the last third of your 2025 season crop over the Production Risk Pool.

While the Production Risk Pool has been performing well over the past few years there is no guarantee of gaining a higher return versus pricing yourself and we have seen many growers achieve above average returns. Those growers who don’t market with Wilmar are unfortunately missing out even further, with our Production Risk Pool currently forecast to pay more than $23 a tonne higher than QSL’s Harvest Pool for the 2024 Season.

A quick reminder for growers that all Call, Target and GMPRS pricing for the 2024 season needs to be completed by 18 of April. On a similar timeline, the set-up of Call and Target pricing for the 2025 season needs to complete by the end of April, so the GMPRS nominations can be opened at the beginning of May. We are also getting plenty of enquiries about the opening of nominations for the 2026 season Managed Pool Plus, so stay tuned for further announcements on that opportunity.

When not helping growers with pricing and pooling information, the Grower Marketing consultants are out and about in the local communities. We are proud to have extended our sponsorship budget this year to include a range of sporting teams and community activities through the regions.

Recently several Wilmar Sugar and Renewables staff including our Burdekin Business Development Manager, Owen Richards, participated in an International Women’s Day Fun Run organised by Mater Chicks in Pink. The Sugar and Renewables team raised more than $1,200 for breast cancer research.

‍

Wilmar Grower Marketing’s Owen Richards, back right, was part of the Sugar and Renewables team that
participated in an International Women’s Day fun run. He’s pictured with (back, from left) Sarah Harding,
Renay Wyllie, Paula Scarabel, Peter Larsen, Helen Burbidge, Yvette Drysdale and Raymond De Lai. At
front are Clara Richards, Casey Drew and Miles Newman. Photo supplied

‍

International Women’s Day provides a highly visible lens to spotlight women’s contributions and elevate issues, however this special day should be only part of the story.

If we are to effect real change, we need to be influencing and advocating for change as part of ‘business as usual’.

Women’s influence is everywhere in society – as parents, sisters, aunts, grandmothers, friends, teammates, and colleagues – and historically while many of these roles are informal, they should not be underestimated in the positive impact they provide for girls and women.

There is however, in my view, an added responsibility for women who hold official roles of leadership and power, to play a pivotal role in challenging the status quo and advocating for change and importantly, choice and opportunity.

The increasing presence of diverse women in formal positions of power challenges stereotypes and provides highly visible role models inspiring future generations of female leaders – at a local, regional and national level. ‘You can’t be it, if you can’t see it’. The more women in these roles blazes trails, expands options, and breaks down barriers – plus, it creates momentum for other women to follow. It reshapes public perceptions about what leadership looks like and breaks ground for a changed narrative.

It may seem unbelievable to younger generations that, for much of history, women were financially excluded, only breaking through these barriers in the 20th century. In Australia, for example, it wasn’t until the Sex Discrimination Act of 1984 that women could obtain a loan or mortgage without a male guarantor.

It’s crucial we have not only gender diversity but also more importantly that women bring diversity of thought and perspective to push for systemic change and structural reforms, as well as influence cultural change. Critically, women in power have a unique platform to draw attention to issues that may have been overlooked – whether it be in a workplace, sport or society more broadly – that not only benefit just women but also our communities generally, and effect transformation.

To move forward as a society, we need both women and men to be bold advocates in business, industry, politics, and the community. By using their influence strategically, they can create positive change with a lasting ripple effect on society as a whole.

‍

Mackay has been blessed so far this year, avoiding the worst of natural disasters. But when ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred devastated Southeast Queensland, our local emergency services stepped up to help those in need.

Sixteen Mackay police officers, including newly promoted Superintendent Dean Cavanagh, deployed south to assist their counterparts. Their dedication embodied the Queensland spirit—showing up when it mattered most.

Our SES volunteers also answered the call, with 85 personnel from Mackay, Mirani, Rockhampton, Gladstone, Yeppoon, and the Whitsundays heading south to provide vital support in hard-hit areas like Redlands, Redcliffe, and Capalaba. They worked tirelessly alongside emergency responders from across the state, ensuring communities received the help they needed.

Behind the scenes, 12 staff from Central Region SES offices played a crucial role in managing operations at Coordination Centres, ensuring resources were effectively allocated. And the commitment doesn’t stop—another group of SES volunteers deployed last weekend, continuing Mackay’s legacy of support.

This level of dedication doesn’t happen without sacrifice. I want to extend my deepest gratitude to these volunteers, their families, and their employers for their selflessness. Their willingness to leave home and work to assist fellow Queenslanders is truly remarkable.

As we approach Easter, I encourage everyone to support regional Queensland. While Southeast Queensland is open for business, so too are Mackay and the Whitsundays. With stunning beaches, islands, natural wonders, staying in hotels or camping, lifetime memories will be made. Our region is the perfect place to relax and explore.

Choosing to visit Mackay this holiday season not only guarantees unforgettable experiences but also helps support local businesses and communities that rely on tourism.

The generosity of our volunteers and the resilience of Queensland communities is inspiring. Mackay’s emergency service personnel continue to make us proud, proving once again that when disaster strikes, Queenslanders stand together.

Nigel Dalton MP

Member for Mackay

‍

If your idea of marketing to women involves pastel packaging, soft imagery or throwing a “girl boss” in there, it’s time for a rethink. Women make up a massive part of the consumer market, but too many brands still rely on stereotypes that srsly miss the mark. The good news? It’s not hard to do better – here’s how >>

   Drop the stereotypes

Not all women are into babies, cooking + fashion (srsly – have you seen what I wear??!). Not all Mums want “Mum life” products. Women are just as diverse as any other customer base, so ditch the assumptions + get specific about who you’re really talking to.

   Dig into the data

Forget guesswork – what are your female customers actually buying? What are they searching for? What problems do they need solved? Social media insights, surveys + real purchasing history will tell you way more than outdated marketing playbooks. And this isn’t just for marketing to women – the more you work from data, the more informed your marketing decisions will be.

   Make your brand feel like it’s for them

If women (or any group of people) are an afterthought in your marketing, they’ll know. It’s 2025 peeps – accepting that it takes all kinds to make the world go round isn’t just “PC”, it’s actually better for your business. Do this by ensuring your branding, messaging + imagery reflect a mix of experiences.

   Talk like a real person

No one likes being spoken down to, and yet, so much marketing still talks at their audience, rather than to them. Ditch the fluff, the forced “feminine” tone + anything else that feels try-hard (especially when marketing to younger peeps!!!). Just be clear, and talk like you’re a human being, speaking to another human being (shock horror – the secret to marketing revealed right there!!!).

   Focus on what matters, to them

Just like any audience you are marketing to – the first Q is always >> What’s in it for them? Features are nice, but people want to know how a product or service actually improves their life. Does it save them time? Reduce stress? Make their day a little easier? That’s the good stuff – lead with that.

The bottom line

Great marketing isn’t about “targeting women” – it’s about knowing your audience + speaking to them in a way that actually connects (and sounds like you give a crap about them!). Get that right, and you’ll build a brand that people (women included) actually want to engage with.

Jade McAuley

Director at Rebel Nation

#marketingdigitaldesign

‍

The Zonta Club of Mackay’s International Women’s Day High Tea was bigger than ever this year, bringing the community together to celebrate women’s achievements and push for meaningful progress.

Held with the generous support of Area Specialist as the major sponsor, the event featured raffles, silent auctions, and thought-provoking panel discussions on the 2025 UN theme, March Forward – It’s Time to Turn Promises into Progress. The afternoon was a celebration of resilience, highlighting the contributions of women in the region while reinforcing the need for continued advocacy.

Zonta International is a global organisation dedicated to improving the lives of women and girls through service and advocacy. The Mackay club’s high tea reflected this mission, fostering community engagement and supporting initiatives that drive change.

With its biggest turnout yet, the event was a powerful reminder of the strength in unity and the collective effort needed to create a more equal future.

‍

Photo credit: Cherrie Hughes Social Media & Photography

‍