Rod Francisco was recently honoured as the 2024 Mackay Man of the Year during the International Men's Day celebrations, which focused on men's positive contributions to society. This year’s events included an Art Show at the Jubilee Community Centre, along with the Mackay Man of the Year Award presentation breakfast at Souths Leagues Club, featuring insightful group discussions and an auction of the winning artwork.

Reflecting on the recognition, Rod said he was “truly humbled” and expressed deep gratitude for the journey that led him to this moment.

“Being nominated was unexpected, being a finalist just brilliant, and to be the winner has been an emotionally rewarding and levelling experience,” he said.

From the many nominations received for Man of the Year, the entrants were narrowed down to three finalists who were recognised at the breakfast.

Brett Comerford – Inspiring Educator and Role Model

Driven by a desire to make a difference, Brett Comerford became a primary school teacher to address the need for male role models in education. His passion for inclusivity shines through his work, establishing Auslan Clubs to promote awareness for the hearing impaired at every school he’s taught at. Overcoming his own dyslexia, Brett pursued postgraduate studies in special education to support children with learning difficulties. A devoted family man, Brett celebrates 42 years of marriage to Deirdre and their two adopted children. Humbled by his daughter’s nomination, Brett embodies compassion, resilience, and a commitment to mentoring future generations.

Rod Francisco – A Life of Service and Resilience

Rod Francisco is an Army veteran, HR leader, and published author who lives by the values of integrity, respect, inclusion, and kindness. His life’s work centres on leaving a legacy of hope and opportunity for others. Having experienced both the heartbreak of loss and the triumph of success, Rod’s journey reflects his resilience and passion for making a difference. Whether navigating adversity with courage or celebrating life’s joys, he approaches every challenge with unwavering commitment. A devoted husband, father, and community advocate, Rod inspires those around him with his steadfast belief in humanity’s potential for better.

Namarca Corowa – Champion of Cultural Healing and Change

Councillor Namarca Corowa is a dedicated leader and educator, steering impactful social change through his organisation, Reconcile Life Pty Ltd. With over a decade of expertise in youth justice and adult education, he delivers culturally-informed programs addressing behavioural change, domestic violence prevention, and family unity. Supported by his wife Vikki, Namarca’s initiatives, including a 15-week men’s behavioural change program and youth camps, integrate Indigenous perspectives to foster respect and cultural connection. As a Mackay Regional Councillor, he advocates for safety and resilience, partnering with the community to drive meaningful progress. Namarca’s work inspires healing and empowerment across diverse communities.

For someone who sees himself as “just an ordinary bloke,” winning Mackay’s Man of the Year highlighted not just Rod’s journey, but the values and virtues that have defined his life up until this point. He describes himself as a man who has “lived, loved, and learned a lifetime.”

Rod shared thoughts on what it means to be a man in today’s world.

“It is the way it has always been, just that we now have a different context, multiple ways of communication, and an abundantly clear opportunity to care more for other men and their role in society.”

He also mentioned the importance of individuality, quoting Oscar Wilde: “Be yourself, everyone else is taken.”

Over time, Rod’s life as a man has evolved, guided by three core values - Respect, Integrity, and Inclusion - and one defining virtue: Kindness. However, his journey wasn’t always without challenges. Reflecting on those struggles, Rod advised, “Be vulnerable, be self-aware, and don’t be too hard on yourself as you are good enough.”

Among these words of wisdom, Rod also shared five key lessons that have shaped him, hoping they inspire others.

Healing takes time: “If you are hurt, heal first and don’t try to heal alone.”

Stand for what’s right: “Do not accept what you would not do; bad things happen when good men do nothing.”

Learn from role models: “It’s not about perfection but persistence.”

Build resilience: “Resilience is more than just being able to get up; it is to avoid getting knocked down in the first place.”

And lastly, accept life’s unpredictability: “Sh*t happens—sometimes it’s funny, and sometimes it’s not.”

Rod extended his gratitude to Nick and Rowena from Minds Aligned for sponsoring the award.

From experiencing loss and adversity to celebrating love and achievement, Rod approaches challenges with his signature philosophy: “Let it rip and tear, at least it will be interesting.”

Rod’s humility, resilience, and dedication to his community has made him a deserving recipient of the 2024 Mackay Man of the Year award.

Mackay Life congratulates the three nominees on being recognised as outstanding men in our community.

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Frank Cowell, Rod Francisco, Mayor Greg Williamson

Rod Francisco and Nick Bennett from Minds Aligned. Photos supplied

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A talented and dedicated student from Mackay State High School was recently announced as the recipient of the 2025 Hill Family Scholarship, valued at $5,000.

The scholarship is designed to support a student with exceptional potential and motivation to embark on a tertiary education in law, accounting, or commerce.

Year 12 student Morgan Faulkner from Alligator Creek (Mackay) won the scholarship thanks to her tenacious attitude to success and commitment to personal development.

“Studying law provides the opportunity to fulfil a belief that everyone deserves a fair trial. I have a deep aspiration to make a meaningful impact and advocate for those who may be marginalised by the legal system,” Morgan said.

Balancing her success as an upcoming cross country and track athlete, Morgan is also navigating her path into the USA college system by applying her sporting and academic aspirations.

“This scholarship provides essential financial support to meet my goals, easing the burden and allowing me to direct more attention to my education and future professional endeavours,” she said.

Established in 2021 by Mackay SHS alumni Karl and Sarah Hill, the Hill Family Scholarship aims to empower regional youth to pursue higher education by removing some financial burdens such as accommodation, textbooks, equipment and travel.

Founder and Managing Director of Results Legal, a specialist commercial disputes and commercial law firm, Karl believes that without equality for all students willing to participate in higher education, Australia’s workforce will lack vital perspectives that comes only from regional experience.

“Where you live shouldn’t be a barrier to education. However, the recent Australian Universities Accord Report shows that Australians from regional, rural and remote backgrounds have far lower educational attainment than their urban peers,” Karl said.

“Many students from regional backgrounds also cite financial difficulties as a reason for considering leaving university early. This results in a loss of critical regional perspectives in the workforce,” he said.

“From personal experience, we know the unique challenges regional students face when pursuing tertiary education.

“The Hill Family Scholarship aims to help bridge this gap,” he added.

“We are committed to ensuring that talented regional students are not overlooked due to financial constraints.”

The Hill Family Scholarship supports Results Legal’s commitment to creating opportunities that have a meaningful impact and endure well into the future.

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Karl Hill ran a Q&A session for over 90 Year 10 and 11 students at Mackay SHS to openly discuss regional education challenges and provide advice to students that aim to pursue studies in the city. Previous recipients Pushti Shah and Ned Gething were in attendance, as well as the 2025 Hill Family Scholarship recipient, Morgan Faulkner

Karl Hill and Morgan Faulkner

Previous recipients: Ned Gething and Pushto Shah, with Karl Hill, and newest recipient Morgan Faulkner. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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By Amanda Wright

The old bones of Hotel Mackay are about to get a second lease on life, thanks to a dynamic revival driven by two of Mackay’s beloved business couples. When the Laffins and Phillips families set their sights on the heritage-listed pub, it was more than just a business deal—it was a chance to honour their deep family ties to the hospitality scene, breathe new life into a local landmark, and create a new hub for the Mackay community to gather, celebrate, and make memories.
For Ben Phillips, this venture is more than just a business; it’s a homecoming. Ben’s roots in the hotel industry run deep. He and his brothers, Peter (dec) and Luke, were raised in the iconic Leichhardt Hotel. Managed by his father, Keith Phillips, and before that, his grandfather and great-grandfather, the Leichhardt was the Phillips family's pride and joy. It stood proudly on River Street, its verandah offering a front-row seat to Mackay’s vibrant riverside community life.
Ben recalls how the pub was more than just a business; it was a way of life.
“There was always someone to talk to, and the customers became a part of our everyday life. It was a bustling place where everyone knew each other’s names.”
The Phillips family's lineage stretches back even further, to Ben’s great, great, great grandfather, a bootlegger with a reputation as colourful as the era itself. The Taylors, Ben’s maternal ancestors, were one of Mackay’s most influential families during the early 1900s. Known for their entrepreneurial spirit, they owned numerous businesses, including the historic Taylors Hotel, built in 1936. This family of trailblazers helped shape Mackay's economic and social landscape, contributing to the town’s rich tapestry with their chain of hotels, theatres, and other establishments.
“My grandmother was one of the seven Taylor daughters, and each of them was gifted a pub or business when they married. The Taylors Hotel, which still stands today, was one of their many ventures,” Ben said.
Ben’s father, Keith, took over the Leichhardt in 1949. The pub became legendary, not only for its infamous cabaret shows and live performances but also for its vibrant flood stories.
The most infamous tale? The legendary shooting of a 32-foot crocodile from the pub’s verandah after a massive flood—a story that has become part of Mackay folklore. The crocodile’s skin, so they say, once hung proudly in the hotel, though the details are now a blur between legend and fact.
While Ben grew up surrounded by the hum of pub life, Nicole Laffin’s connection to Mackay’s hotels is just as captivating, albeit in a different way. You could say Nicole was destined for the pub life—her birth certificate humorously lists McGuires Hotel as her birthplace, with her father noted as the publican.
“Growing up, I was always surrounded by that lively pub atmosphere,” Nicole says.
“It’s funny to think I was literally born into it.”
Nicole and her husband Mark, who has decades of experience running iconic pubs along the Queensland coast, saw in the Hotel Mackay an opportunity that was too good to pass up.
It all began over breakfast one morning at Laffo’s Bar & Pizzeria, another of Mark and Nicole’s successful ventures. When Ben casually asked Mark over breakfast, “Do you want to buy a pub?” the wheels were set in motion. Mark took charge of the negotiations, and soon the couples found themselves the proud owners of one of Mackay’s most beloved landmarks.
“We couldn’t have asked for a better pub to invest in,” Nicole said.
“We wanted something that truly represented Mackay’s spirit—a place that people are excited to come back to.” And that’s exactly what they’re creating—a destination where good food, cold beer, and community spirit will converge in the most welcoming of settings.
Rebecca Phillips is as much a part of Mackay's fabric as the very land her family has cultivated for generations. Born and bred in the region, she hails from a proud third-generation cane-growing family near Calen, an area rich with history and the hardworking spirit of the land. Her family’s longstanding connection to the agricultural community has instilled in her a deep appreciation for resilience, community, and the simple joys of rural life.
As part of the team behind the Hotel Mackay’s historic rebuild, she’s excited to help keep the CBD vibrant and alive, all while honouring the town’s rich heritage. In addition to her agricultural roots, Rebecca is an experienced financial controller at Gardian Finance, where her expertise in managing financial operations has been invaluable. Rebecca’s vision is to create a space where locals and visitors alike can come together to celebrate the spirit of Mackay, all while ensuring the hotel plays an integral part in shaping the town’s future.
The restoration of Hotel Mackay isn’t just about slapping on a fresh coat of paint; it’s about lovingly restoring a piece of Mackay’s history while infusing it with a new vibrancy. Mark, a veteran of North Queensland’s hotel scene, has been hands-on with Nicole in designing every detail. The pub will retain its distinctive Art Deco charm, paying homage to an era known for its elegance and glamour.
Inside, you’ll find big open spaces filled with natural light, a modern open-air kitchen, and a warm, inviting family-friendly restaurant. The new design extends into a neighbouring property, giving extra room for dining and socialising.
This includes the addition of “Puffa’s Sports Bar,” a heartfelt tribute to Ben’s late brother, Peter, known for his love of rugby and his larger-than-life personality.
“We want to create spaces that honour the past but also invite new memories,” Mark said.
Beyond his achievements in rugby league and business, Peter was a magnet for camaraderie, bringing people together with his infectious energy and love of a good time. Whether it was sharing a laugh over a cold beer, orchestrating one of his famous pranks, or cheering on his beloved Brothers Rugby League team, Peter had an unmatched gift for lighting up every room he entered.
The sports bar will be both a nod to his sporting legacy and a lasting celebration of his spirit—a place where friends, family, and the community can gather to raise a glass in his honour, just as he would have loved.
The revamped Hotel Mackay is set to become Mackay’s new favourite gathering spot. With a large outdoor beer garden featuring a permanent stage, this will be the place to catch some of the best live music acts heading through North Queensland.
For those looking to celebrate special occasions, the upstairs will be transformed into a luxurious series of rooms, blending the old-world Art Deco elegance with all the comforts of modern hospitality. Nicole promises that whether it’s a wedding, anniversary, or just a fun weekend away, Hotel Mackay will be a place where people can truly relax and reconnect.
“We’re aiming for something that’s both timeless and fresh, a nod to the past but also very much looking forward,” Nicole explained.
“The heritage will shine through in everything we do, from the decor to the menu, with affordable family fare our main focus.”
One thing’s for sure—Hotel Mackay will be a place where you won’t leave hungry. The Laffins have built a reputation for serving up hearty, family-friendly meals at Laffo’s, and they plan to bring that same ethos to Hotel Mackay. Think juicy steaks, comforting pasta dishes, and all-day breakfasts that will keep you coming back for more.
In true Mackay style, the menu will be crowd-pleasing, a celebration of local flavours and generous portions. The team is even looking to bring back Mackay’s reputation for the best steaks in town.
“We want families to feel like they can come here any time—whether it’s for a quick coffee and cake, a long lunch, or a big night out,” Mark said.
But it’s not just about food. It’s about creating an experience. From themed trivia nights to musical bingo, karaoke, and fun-filled Taco Tuesdays, there’ll always be something happening at Hotel Mackay.
“We’re putting the fun back into the pub scene,” Nicole added with a smile. “Everyone is talking about what’s happening here, and we’re just so excited to welcome everyone in.”
More than just a pub, Hotel Mackay is set to become a cornerstone of the community—a place where locals can unwind, celebrate, and make memories. The couples behind this venture are passionate about giving back to the town that has supported them.
“It’s not just about the business for us; it’s about the people,” Ben said.
“We’re locals, and we’re investing in Mackay’s future.”
The project is a labour of love, one that reflects the strong community values that have always been at the core of both Laffo’s and Gardian Group.
“We’re putting our hearts into this,” Nicole said.
“It’s more than just a renovation; it’s a revival. It’s about bringing people together in a place that feels like home.”
With plans to open in mid-2025, just in time for Mark and Nicole’s milestone birthdays, the anticipation is building. Hotel Mackay promises to be the go-to destination for everything from casual catch-ups to grand celebrations.
As the Art Deco gem on Victoria Street prepares to open its doors once again, it’s clear that Hotel Mackay is set to become a new favourite, where heritage meets hospitality, and everyone is welcome to join in the fun.
Cheers to that!

L-R: Mark and Nicole Laffin, Ben and Rebecca Phillips. Photo credit: Coffee and Hops

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Imagine stepping into a tranquil haven where time slows down, and the only task on your agenda is pure relaxation. As you and your partner (or bestie) sink into plush treatment beds, the world outside fades away, replaced by the gentle melodies of soft music, the delicate scent of tropical flowers, and the soothing touch of skilled hands. At the heart of Mackay’s beauty scene lies a secret oasis, designed for those who crave an intimate escape from the everyday hustle: welcome to Natural Body & Beauty Clinic.
This local gem, founded 26 years ago by Lynne Buckley, has evolved into a beloved destination for indulgence and rejuvenation. Lynne, along with her daughter Candy—who began her career as an apprentice under her mother’s expert guidance—has created a nurturing space where each visit feels like a mini-retreat. From the bustling streets of their original CBD location to their serene and spacious setting on Palmer Street, this mother-daughter duo has spent decades perfecting the art of skincare and soul care, turning clients into lifelong friends.
The latest glow in their repertoire is the new couple's treatment room, an experience designed for those looking to reconnect on a deeper level. Picture yourself side by side with your partner, receiving a luxurious full-body treatment that goes beyond the ordinary. Your journey might begin with an invigorating body scrub, gently exfoliating away the stress of the week, followed by a nourishing massage that melts away muscle tension and soothes the mind. As Pure Fiji's botanical elixirs cascade over your skin, you’re transported to a tropical paradise—where every touch is a promise of renewal.
But the experience doesn’t end when the massage does. As you emerge from your cocoon of relaxation, you’re treated to a beautifully curated platter, encouraging you to linger a little longer, savour each other’s company, and indulge in the art of simply being together. It's more than just a treatment—it's an intimate escape designed to rekindle connection and leave you both glowing, inside and out.
Natural Body & Beauty Clinic is dedicated to providing personalised skincare solutions, particularly to address the evolving needs of mature skin. Whether it's navigating the changes brought by menopause, combating dry skin, or reversing the effects of sun exposure, Candy and her team are dedicated to delivering results that truly transform. With state-of-the-art treatments like LED Light Therapy, IPL Skin Rejuvenation, and Dermapen Skin Needling, they bring the latest innovations in beauty to the heart of Mackay, all while maintaining a personal, down-to-earth approach that clients adore.
It’s not just about treatments, though. Lynne and Candy have cultivated a warm, welcoming community where clients feel valued and understood. Regular events, from skincare workshops to social gatherings, turn a visit into a social affair, making every client feel like a cherished part of the Natural Body family. Their philosophy is simple: beauty is about more than just skin—it’s about confidence, self-care, and the joy of feeling pampered.
With Christmas around the corner, there's no better time to give the gift of relaxation. Rather than settling for a standard gift voucher, why not spoil your loved ones (or yourself) with one of their thoughtfully curated Christmas packages? These bundles combine luxe products with a treatment voucher, offering a blend of luxurious skincare and a promise of pampering. And because Lynne and Candy believe in celebrating their loyal clients, they’ve created special Christmas discount vouchers that extend well into 2025—ensuring that the spirit of giving lasts long after the holiday season ends.
So why not step into this oasis of calm and make time for yourself? As life gets busier, there’s no better remedy than the healing touch of a massage, the glow of a rejuvenating facial, and the comfort of knowing you’re in the best hands. Let the team at Natural Body & Beauty Clinic take you on a journey of relaxation, where every treatment is more than a service—it’s an experience designed to revive both body and soul.
Indulge, unwind, and let 2025 be the year you embrace the art of self-care. After all, true beauty begins with feeling your best.
naturalbodyandbeautyclinic.com.au

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For many, the holiday season is a time for family, traditions, and creating lasting memories—and what better way to capture the magic than with a visit to Photos by Nell? Located in the peaceful suburb of Balberra, nestled between Mackay and Sarina, Nell Thomsett’s studio transforms each year into a festive wonderland where families can experience an intimate, stress-free session with the one and only Santa Claus.
Nell, a locally born and bred country girl, has built a diverse reputation for her creative photography. While she’s well-known for her racy boudoir sessions, professional headshots, product placements, and high-flying drone footage, it’s her holiday photography that really brings her artistry to life. Every year, Nell’s studio becomes Santa’s magical cave, a festive haven where families can book personal, private sessions with a Santa that’s as authentic as they come.
This Santa isn’t just any imposter—he’s a seasoned, professional performer who looks every bit the part. With years of experience engaging with children, he knows just how to calm nerves and ensure even the shyest child feels comfortable. The sessions are relaxed and unrushed, with plenty of time for little ones to chat with Santa about their Christmas wishes, all while Nell captures the moment with her expert photography skills.
The studio, decorated with twinkling lights, sparkling ornaments, and the warmth of the holiday spirit, creates a perfect setting for your family photos. And the best part? It’s all done in air-conditioned comfort, so no need to worry about sweaty kids or long queues. You can skip the chaos of crowded shops and enjoy a peaceful, personalised experience where your family’s holiday memories are the focus.
With session prices starting at just $55, this unforgettable Santa experience is not only magical but also incredibly affordable. Families can enjoy a collection of beautiful images, carefully crafted by Nell, to treasure for years to come.
Whether it’s capturing the joy in your child’s eyes as they meet Santa or preserving the tradition of your yearly Christmas photo, Photos by Nell offers an exceptional opportunity to create heartwarming memories in a comfortable, calm setting.

photosbynell.com.au

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It’s inevitable as we navigate life and career that we compare how we are doing and where we are at to others (in business, it’s akin to benchmarking). In reality, how much of their journey do we truly know?

This personal benchmarking is not all bad, depending on your approach, and it can be motivating and a catalyst for action.

Constantly measuring your life or career against others, even those you admire, can be detrimental if
   • it erodes your self-confidence
   • you feel ‘left behind’
   • it fosters resentment and dissatisfaction

From the outside looking in, and in our professional circles, it’s easy to think that someone has it all together. This of course is completely unrealistic, along with the assumption that you can cherry pick the great qualities of someone else’s life and just take that one part of it. The good in life has to come with the bad. It’s all one package. We are only seeing what we want to see in others (fuelled also by any self-dissatisfaction) or, as often is the case with social media, the carefully curated stories that show the highlights of others’ lives and not the struggles.

No one has it all good. Everyone has struggles. So if you are envious of someone else’s success, job, or whatever, it’s important to stop and take stock of the situation. And in your reflection ask yourself, do I want to trade all of my life, including my ‘struggles’, for theirs?

If we are to use this benchmarking process as a positive, it can be motivating.
   • Others’ success can be inspiring to pursue your goals (if they can do it, so can I)
   • Use it as a learning opportunity – apply any relevant lessons and strategies to your own life
   • Take action – identify areas where you’d like to grow and create a plan to achieve it

And as part of this self-reflection, put the focus on you and start with what you have to be grateful for, what you are proud of in your life, and what are your accomplishments. It will help to build a sense of appreciation. Feeling grateful helps shift to a positive mindset and provides a launchpad for personal growth.

Also ask yourself what does success look like for you based on your personal values and priorities? That’s where to focus your attention and efforts, not on comparison. Your journey is unique, with its own timing, challenges and success. Comparing yourself to where you were yesterday is a healthier focus, and whether you are heading in the direction for where you want to be, not for others. Do it your way and forge your own path.

Sometimes it helps to seek assistance to clarify and enact your plan. At CareerForce Australia, we can provide that individualised support - contact me at powerup@careerforceaustralia.com.au or 0409 894 131 to learn more.

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Works on the water mains supplying the Midge Point township will commence this week to help improve water quality in the area.
The works will be completed in two stages. Council has engaged a highly skilled contractor, Flo-Max Australia to undertake the specialised process known as “pigging”.
This process cleans the inside of the pipes and will remove the build-up of iron and manganese which creates a natural biofilm in the pipes.
Stage one will involve the cleaning of water mains from the Kelsey Creek Water Treatment Plant to Kunapipi Road.
These works will be undertaken from Tuesday, November 19, to Friday, November 22, weather permitting.
Stage two will involve the cleaning of the water mains from Kunapipi Road to the Midge Point Road and Conder Parade intersection.
These works will be undertaken from Monday, December 9, to Wednesday, December 11, weather permitting.
As a result of these works, water interruptions will occur. Affected businesses and residents will be notified directly by council’s Community Engagement Team and alternative drinking water sources will be provided for the duration of the works.
At the completion of the works, residents are advised to run their taps for a few minutes for the clean water to filter through. If the water continues to be slightly discoloured for 24 hours, please contact council on 1300 MACKAY (622 529).
Council apologises for any inconvenience caused and appreciates the community’s patience during these essential works.
For further information visit connectingmackay.com.au/midge-point-watermain-cleaning-works

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A two-vehicle crash in Booyal has claimed the life of a 68-year-old motorcyclist from Moranbah after being struck by a Ford Ranger on Sunday, November 17.

Investigations indicate that at approximately 11:10 am, the Ford Ranger was traveling north on the Bruce Highway, near Booyal Dallarnil Road, when it collided with the motorbike.

The motorcyclist sustained critical injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The driver of the Ford Ranger, a 69-year-old man from New South Wales, has been arrested and charged with dangerous operation of a vehicle causing death and failing to remain at the scene to provide assistance. He remains in custody and appeared in the Bundaberg Magistrates Court on Monday, November 18.

Police are appealing for witnesses or anyone with relevant dashcam footage of the incident to come forward.

Car Theft Reported In West Mackay

Police are investigating the theft of a vehicle from a business carpark on Nebo Road, West Mackay, which occurred between 9:15am and 10:30am on November 13.

The stolen vehicle is a 2004 white Ford Falcon sedan with registration number 737 YBN. No image of the vehicle is currently available.

Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding the car's location or the circumstances of the theft to contact police immediately.

Residents are also encouraged to report any suspicious activity near unattended vehicles.

Police remind vehicle owners to secure their cars and remove keys at all times to prevent theft.

Suspicious Death Investigation Underway In Mackay

Mackay Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB) detectives have launched an investigation into the death of a 67-year-old man earlier this month.

John Patrick Hackett was discovered at his Gold Street unit in Mackay around 7:18pm on Saturday, November 9, during a welfare check conducted by family members.

A crime scene was established, and following a post-mortem examination revealing evidence of an assault, police have initiated a homicide investigation under Operation Whiskey Glen.

Investigators are seeking information from anyone who may have witnessed an interaction or altercation involving John Patrick Hackett on the afternoon or evening of Tuesday, November 5.

Police are particularly interested in hearing from individuals with CCTV or dashcam footage from the vicinity of Gold Street on that date.

Anyone with information is urged to contact authorities immediately.

Tools And Fuel Stolen In North Mackay Break-In

Between 3:30pm on November 8 and 6am on November 11, a building on Swayne Street in North Mackay was broken into. Tools and fuel were taken from a vehicle parked inside.

This incident is recorded under QP2401935776.

Anyone with information about these incidents is urged to contact police immediately.

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By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

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November is the season of the Annual General Meeting, and CANEGROWERS Mackay is no exception.
The 2024 Mackay Canegrowers Ltd AGM will be held next week, on Wednesday 27 November, with a wrap on the events and issues across 2023-24, and guest speaker Dr John Pickering. Dr Pickering was instrumental in delivering the Cane Changer project some years ago. It was all about the practice change mindset, and was one of CANEGROWERS initiatives that was a companion to Smartcane BMP.
A decade on, and that industry shift towards sustainable land and water stewardship practices has reaped rewards for the industry. It was an unintended result, but that shift has attracted new markets for sugar and potentially fibre and fuels as the world looks to more renewable and carbon neutral feedstocks.
We encourage our members to get involved- it’s a forum to ask questions of your association, to hear about the year past and how CANEGROWERS is speaking out and taking action on growers’ behalf. It’s also a great chance to catch up with fellow growers socially over afternoon tea and a few drinks, in what is proving a difficult season. Camaraderie is important.
Beyond CANEGROWERS Mackay, we encourage growers to take an interest in their industry organisations. Sugar Research Australia, Sugar Terminals Ltd, Queensland Cane Growers Organisation- all are having AGMs across the month. If it isn’t possible to attend in person because often these state events are held in Brisbane, then it is worth making sure you direct your proxies and, if provided, watch via video streaming.
In forming these industry boards there has been a TREND to include board members who are independent of the industry. Whilst I realise the intention is of bringing a different perspective to the board, there is in actual fact no replacement for actual experienced grower and miller directors who can convey the needs of the industry in decision-making. This is why we ask that growers make serious consideration when voting for grower directors, as we have done recently around the Sugar Terminals Ltd AGM.
It’s important for growers to be active and ensure that they as a group maintain an equal footing with miller representation in industry organisations. Active participation is fundamental in getting balanced representation in those organisations that require it.
Plane Creek Productivity Services also held its AGM on 11 November. It’s been mentioned before but our district prod services are instrumental. They are out in the paddocks, at the front line in working with growers in an attempt to increase productivity, managing pests and diseases, refining their sustainable practices for Smartcane accreditation. This year, Sugar Services Proserpine’s Frank Millar presented on the work around tissue culture and clean seed distribution being carried out by the Proserpine prod service.
It was an informative presentation, and a timely piece of information sharing, as both districts combat Ratoon Stunting Disease and value the importance of clean seed techniques in preventing the spread of the disease.
The meeting was also the final AGM for outgoing Chair Mal Langdon, who has served in the role for MANY years. Mal has put in a great effort into being the Chairman of Plane Creek Productivity Services, contributing much to moving productivity in the Plane Creek area forward and helping to protect our crops against disease. It is a difficult task. As a Plane Creek grower and on behalf of CANEGROWERS, I thank Mall for all he has done, and that hope he and his wife Jane have a great retirement.

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Frank Jacobs, Leahanna Lacey, Frank Millar and Mal Langdon

At the PCPSL 2024 AGM, District Manager Frank Jacobs, Productivity Officer Leahanna Lacey, guest speaker Frank Millar from SSP, and PCPSL Chairman Mal Langdon. Photo credit: Kirili Lamb

This week
Season to date
Cane crushed
58,394
1,055,307
Average bin weight
3.86
3.90
CCS
14.83
14.13
Cane variety performance for region
Variety
%
CCS
Variety
%
CCS
Q183
34.0
15.38
Q253
11.3
13.98
Q240
10.1
14.66
SRA9
7.6
15.11
Q208
19.0
14.56
SP80
8.2
15.29
Q252
1.9
13.94
Q138
2.8
13.76
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Comments:
Plane Creek Mill processed 58,394 tonnes of cane for the week, passing the million-tonne milestone on Sunday morning, 10 November.
Average CCS increased by 0.22 of a unit over the previous week, closing out at 14.83 units.
The year-to-date average is now sitting at 14.13 units.
Standover cane again made up approximately three per cent of the week’s cane supply.
The highest CCS honour for the week was a rake of Q183 first ratoon from the Yukan productivity area with a CCS of 17.30 units.
Please remember to use your train brain and always give way to cane trains.
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Lindsay Wheeler
Cane Supply Manager
Plane Creek Region

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Marking National Agriculture Day last week (November 15), Queensland’s Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett reiterated the Crisafulli Government’s commitment to supercharging the state’s agricultural industry.
With a bold target to boost farm gate output to $30 billion by 2030, the LNP say that Queensland is poised to become a national leader in food and fibre production.
The Crisafulli Government has also said it will strengthen Queensland’s biosecurity frontline, with a $50 million boost including 100 additional biosecurity cops on the beat to build defences against pest and diseases.
A $4.5 million investment in Beef Week 2027 will showcase Queensland’s beef industry and support its continued growth.
Minister Perrett said the State Government would deliver a fresh start to Queensland’s primary industries sector.  
“Our farmers and regional communities are the backbone of Queensland’s economy,” Minister Perrett said.
“This plan is about unlocking potential, driving investment, and delivering long-term certainty for the sector and we are committed to putting Queensland agriculture first.
“From our sugar cane fields to the timber industry, and from biosecurity to AgTech, we’re delivering a comprehensive plan for the future of Queensland agriculture.
“This strategy is designed to support every sector of our diverse industry, bringing long-term prosperity to our rural and regional communities.”

Ag workers were also encouraged to “play it safe” for National Agriculture Day and review their safety practices, with agriculture being one of Australia’s most dangerous
industries.

Australian Institute of Health and Safety (AIHS) CEO Julia Whitford said the agricultural
industry was unique in the number of safety challenges workers must manage, which can
impact physical and mental health.

Safe Work Australia statistics show the agriculture, forestry, and fishing sector is ranked
number two on the list of industries with the greatest number of worker fatalities in 2024,
with 30 deaths so far this year.

“Over the past five years we’ve seen an average of 38 deaths a year in agriculture, forestry
and fishing, and any death is one too many,” Ms Whitford said.

“Ag workers face a range of hazards that they must mitigate every day. Among the risks is
the operation of heavy equipment, being struck by an animal, handling chemicals,
exposure to weather and dust, slips, trips and falls, and vehicle accidents, including
those involving tractors and quad bikes.”

Data reveals fatal quad bike accidents and rollovers are on the rise, with 18 deaths
recorded so far in 2024, up 38 per cent on last year and 63 per cent on 2022.

“To help bring those numbers down, we encourage ag workers to do a registered quad
bike training course, install a crush protection device, ride on familiar tracks, and avoid
riding in bad weather, on rough terrain, and on steep slopes wherever possible,” Ms Whitford said.

As well as physical risks, there are considerable psychological safety challenges due to
high stress seasonal pressures like intense periods of planting, harvesting, shearing,
lambing, felling, fishing, or calving.

“Agriculture is key to Australia’s economy, but unfortunately the long hours ag workers
put in often go unrecognised, and they have little to no control over variables like the
weather, disease, or market conditions, making for an unpredictable and stressful work
environment,” Ms Whitford said.

“We urge our hard-working ag workers to review and update their safety procedures to best protect their physical and psychological health.”

Resources can be found on the AIHS website.

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ANZ and the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) have awarded $250,000 in grants to 22 community groups and not-for-profit organisations through the ANZ Seeds of Renewal program.

Now in its 22nd year, the program provides grants to community groups across remote, rural and regional Australia. The awarded funds will support projects that align with one of four key areas: improving access to housing; increasing financial wellbeing; advancing environmental sustainability; or helping communities to thrive.

ANZ Head of Agribusiness, Mark Bennett said, "For over two decades, Seeds of Renewal has provided more than $6 million to approximately 930 projects, helping around 870 communities in remote and regional Australia build their resilience, sustainability and vibrancy.

"We are proud to provide funding for a diverse mix of projects that will support lasting economic and social growth for rural communities.

“These targeted and well-informed grants allow local organisations to implement initiatives that will have a meaningful impact and ensure the ongoing prosperity of regional Australia."

FRRR CEO, Natalie Egleton said, "Across remote, rural and regional Australia, not-for-profit organisations play a vital role in helping address the critical environmental, financial, housing or wellbeing needs of their communities.

"Through partnerships, such as our longstanding association with ANZ, we can support and fund these groups to lead local initiatives and continue to strive for, and celebrate, the liveability, sustainability and vibrancy of Australia's remote, rural and regional communities," Ms Egleton said.

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Vegetation management crews working on behalf of Ergon Energy and Energex have trimmed trees along more than 800,000 spans* of powerlines in Queensland over the last year to help reduce the risk of power outages.  

Three natural disasters that impacted Queensland communities last summer left extensive damage in their wake – Ergon and Energex crews had to replace 220 power poles, 820 cross arms and more than 200,000 metres of conductors and cables.  
 
Some of that damage was caused by street trees and plantings on private properties.  

Local Councils and residents can help by following smart planting tips and choosing the right species in areas with overhead powerlines.  

“You can use our online Plant Smart search to find powerline-friendly plants in your local government area before you hit the nursery or get the gardening gloves out.  

“If you see any trees growing near powerlines, report them to Ergon if you’re in regional Queensland or Energex if you’re in the south-east.  

“Do not attempt to prune any plants near powerlines yourself because electricity can pass through trees when branches or foliage touch the live wires.  

“We use experienced vegetation management teams, including qualified arborists when more intricate jobs are undertaken, so please leave it to the professionals who are trained to work safely near powerlines,” Mr Dunn said.   

Fallen powerlines can be hidden in tree branches and other debris, so everyone needs to stay alert when they are cleaning up storm debris or simply going about their business in the community. 

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It’s certainly a special day for many people around Mackay and the Whitsundays. We’re just about a month away from Santa coming to town in his Kingswood Sleigh, and I’m sure he’s bringing his hungry reindeers along for the ride to eat up a few sugar cane sticks for energy.

Today is a good day if you want to get your Christmas shopping started. The Paxtons Night Markets are on at the PCYC this afternoon, plus there’s even more markets at the Mackay Showgrounds tomorrow, and the Troppo Markets next Sunday at Mt P.

So many ways to get Santa to have the best time this year.

Another way is to get your houses decorated in readiness for Dec 25. If it’s massive lights and trees out the front of your pad, or if it’s a small decoration on the front window, let us know so we can check out the locations and get into the Christmas spirit.

We love having the lights’ locations on the 4MK website to make it super easy to find the great light displays. If you’re riding shotgun in the car of a night, you can see where you are, and how close the closest lights are to you. It really is a great way to get into the spirit.

Oh, and another thing, have you got the annual Christmas Carols in the Gardens in your diary yet? Saturday Dec 7 at the Meadowlands Amphitheatre from 5:30. Santa will be making a very special entrance with all the kids there, there will be heaps of food vans, and kids’ activities. Plus, some of the best carols with the Mackay Big Band ready to get you singing your hearts out in West Mackay.

Plus, something cool too. Last year our Grinch was there running amok, well this year his lair is even bigger, and cooler, so you and your kids can get photos with the green guru and keep the shots as a memento of the great night with the family.

If you have a calendar on the wall, have a look at how many weeks there are left before Christmas. There’s five weekends left to get stuck into shopping and getting the house in order. Five weeks to start working out food, presents and of course how many bon-bons you must buy.

So many decisions. I hope it all works out for you.

If you are going to get that great spot by the beach for camping, get in now otherwise it may already be taken.

You can join Rob Kidd from 5am weekday mornings on 4MK 1026 AM in Mackay and Proserpine, 91.5FM in Airlie Beach or just ask your smart speaker to play 4MK on iHeartRadio!

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Last night, the Whitsundays experienced a remarkable event as corals across the region simultaneously spawned, releasing millions of egg and sperm bundles into the water. This annual reproductive phenomenon is crucial for reef restoration, and Reef Catchments, along with key partners from the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS), Southern Cross University, Traditional Owners and local tourism operators, were on-site to collect coral spawn as part of the innovative Boats4Corals program.    
The project team were strategically positioned around the Whitsundays to find the best coral spawn slicks thanks to surveys delivered last month, which looked at the presence or absence of coral eggs.    
AIMS project lead Dr Deborah Foote said: “This year’s coral assessments were a great success. Participants from four local organisations took part in the checks, building capacity in the region for future reef restoration initiatives. The team identified plenty of coral colonies with eggs, which provided valuable information when choosing sites for collection of coral spawn.”
The collected spawn was promptly transported to specially designed larval pools at Hook Island, where it will develop into coral larvae over the next five to six days. Once the larvae are ready to attach themselves to the ocean floor, they will be strategically released into degraded reef areas, providing these habitats with a much-needed recovery ‘boost.’
Reef Catchments Manager, Cass Hayward, says, “Coral spawning is an amazing event. It brings so much new life into the system. Through Boats4Corals we are trying to funnel some of that new life into particular areas which need a helping hand.”
Since the inception of the Boats4Corals project in 2020 which builds on a technique pioneered by Southern Cross University’s Distinguished Professor Peter Harrison, hundreds of millions of coral larvae have been successfully released into sites that have suffered considerable damage from Cyclone Debbie, with a focus on areas that have shown slower recovery than others. These efforts are vital as we work towards understanding how best to help enhance the resilience of the Great Barrier Reef’s coral ecosystem and supporting the long-term health of marine biodiversity.
A significant outcome of this project has been the training and upskilling of local tourism operators and Traditional Owners, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to participate in this important conservation work. By involving local communities in these efforts, the project is fostering a deeper connection to the reef and promoting sustainable tourism practices.
Great Barrier Reef Foundation Managing Director Anna Marsden said: “Right in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, the Whitsundays is a critical sanctuary for the Reef’s diverse marine life. 
“The Foundation is pleased to be working hand in hand with scientists, the tourism industry, local community, Traditional Owners and Reef Catchments in the Whitsundays to help reefs recover from the impacts of climate change, including coral bleaching and increasingly severe cyclones using an innovative larval reseeding technique,” Ms Marsden said.
“The combination of the tourism industry’s leadership, boats, local knowledge, and people-power with scientifically-backed knowledge allows us to achieve reef restoration at a greater scale than researchers can achieve alone.” 
Reef Catchments Manager, Cass Hayward, elaborates, “Larval reseeding has been pioneered by scientists and researchers. Boats4Corals is all about the sharing of that information and method with local people. Building local capacity, such as within the tourism industry and Traditional Owners, is really the crux of this project.”
Reef Catchments invites the Whitsunday community to stay tuned to their social media channels for updates on the final numbers of spawn collected and larvae released.
The Reef Islands Initiative is a Great Barrier Reef Foundation program, supported by funding from Lendlease, the Australian Government’s Reef Trust, the Queensland Government and the Fitzgerald Family Foundation. Delivery of the Whitsunday Reef Islands Initiative is managed by Reef Catchments and is in partnership with the local Reef community including Traditional Owners, reef managers, scientific researchers, and tourism operators.
For additional details about this project and Reef Catchments’ ongoing efforts to restore reef health in the Mackay Whitsunday Isaac region, visit www.reefcatchments.com.au.

“Coral spawning is an amazing event. It brings so much new life into the system. Through Boats4Corals we are trying to funnel some of that new life into particular areas which need a helping hand.”

Coral spawning. Photo credit: Johnny Gaskell

Tourism operators around a larval pool. Photo credit:  Johnny Gaskell

Boats4Corals team releasing coral larvae. Photo credit:  Cass Hayward

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Simon Hood
Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

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As you know, October 31 marked the close of marketing nominations for the 2025 season.
With the dust now settled, we have registered a pleasing increase in the number of growers and GEI tonnes nominated through to Wilmar Grower Marketing in our milling regions.
A common theme with growers who nominated us is the financial benefits Wilmar has delivered over the last few seasons.
Wilmar’s Production Risk Pool continues to outperform QSL’s Harvest Pool, and the Allocation Account is adding a significant premium to the forward price that growers lock in through the Target price mechanism.
We will continue to work hard to maximise that premium as, being a large grower ourselves, it has a direct impact on our financial return.
Other positive commentary from growers relates to the work done by our local Grower Marketing consultants. Most of the team have direct agricultural backgrounds, so have an affinity with the challenges growers face each day. Their willingness to go over and above on a personal level, and their passion to see our growers succeed financially, means very few growers choose to leave Wilmar marketing.
Another pleasing result was the interest shown in our new Managed Pool Plus. The launch of this product for the 2025 season was in direct response to feedback regarding sugar price volatility.
The last 24 months have seen some big swings in sugar prices. Many growers who like the control of forward pricing are fatigued by the market gyrations. By laying off some of that control into the Managed Pool Plus, they get the benefit of having longer-term price management without the worry of having to watch the market on a day-to-day basis. Additionally, the concept of having access to the pool manager on a quarterly basis through a webinar format, provides further education around price risk management.
Again, thank you to all growers who chose Wilmar to manage their GEI price exposure for the 2025 season. Our team will work hard to ensure your trust is repaid.

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Proserpine Grower Marketing Consultant Shirley Norris with Grower Marketing Manager Simon Hood.

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One of the things I noticed about my father when I was a kid was that he would tuck his shirt into his underpants.
The idea was to keep the shirt tight and tidy and never untucked. But it was one of those “daggy” things your father did, so in the interests of being young and “cool” you would never do it yourself.
He would always carry a handkerchief as well, as did most people in those days, although they were more commonly known as a hankie.
I didn’t have much choice about the hankie because my mother would make sure I had one before heading off to school. But I reckon I stopped using hankies when I was about 17, when mum wasn’t as involved in such matters.
Two incidents, involving a couple of friends, reminded me of these old practices the other day.
I’ve got a Pommy mate who starts the working day looking okay but as it goes on he looks scruffier and scruffier, usually with his shirt partially untucked.
He’s not very good at keeping secrets and is known as a bit of a “canary”. So for some reason he told a colleague the other day that he had tucked his shirt into his underpants to keep himself looking tidy during the day. So everyone knew about the shirt-tuck. Too much information.
But it was a case of Back to the Future for me as I recalled my dad’s shirt-tucking practice.
Later in the day it was a case of Back to the Future II. I saw a gentleman from a very nice, established Mt Pleasant address take a sip of a beverage, proffer a comment on young people or something like that, and reach for his handkerchief.
The Mt Pleasant gent is a mate of mine and I have written about him previously, in particular his opposition to the practice of people wearing fishing shirts into places he deems unacceptable, like dining establishments.
I know what you are thinking: Please spare us from the affectations of this Mt P dandy with his leafy neighbourhood, pretentious kerchiefs and tut-tutting about fishing shirts and the like. Fair enough.
But the truth is my Mt Pleasant mate grew up in the tough streets of South Mackay in the 1960s and ’70s and, while he has worked his way up to a nice life, he hasn’t forgotten his roots.
For him, it’s not a handkerchief but a hankie. And, while seeing him bring out a hankie was a blast from the past for me, I reckon he had never stopped carrying one.
Some things in real estate might also seem like a blast from the past but, in fact, never went away and are now very popular.
Witness low-set brick veneer houses built in the 1970s and 1980s with their archways and sunken lounges … they are being snapped up for prices much higher than just a couple of years ago.
Not long ago people looked down their noses at the old brick veneer houses with archways, lino and shaggy old carpet. They seemed so “dated”.
But the truth is they are well-built, on decent-sized blocks with good vehicle access, all on one convenient level for people of all ages.
And they are in very central locations such as Mt Pleasant, South Mackay, Glenella, Beaconsfield and Andergrove. Investors love them because they know tenants will be lining up with rental applications.
Before the new owners or tenants move in, the orange carpet is usually replaced with more neutral-coloured carpet and the lino is replaced with vinyl planking.
The archways are left as they are because, just like tucking your shirt into your undies and carrying a hankie, they are back baby.

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Celebrating Mackay's 1900s Chinatown and bringing the essence of it into the modern day is the inspiration behind a new city heart project.
Mackay’s historic Chinatown sat between Wellington and Macalister streets, and from River Street to Gordon Street, from 1880 to 1930 and was an area of market gardens and Asian grocers.
It’s this area of River Street that the Mackay City Heart Collective plans to activate, thanks to $12,200 in funding approved in the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) round one of grants.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the grant would be used to create a fusion of celebrations.
“Mackay City Heart Collective is well-known for producing high quality activations in our city, the new BeeMindful mural in Seventh Lane being one of their most recent,” Mayor Williamson said.
“They have received this grant to bring a series of Chinese Lunar New Year celebration events into the area that was historically our Chinatown,” he said.
“The events would fuse Chinese New Year, the Lantern Festival and Spring Festival, and take place between January 29 to February 12, 2025, to create an 'Asian Spring' inspired festivity.
“The City Heart Collective artists will beautify the area with fish-related elements place in a variety of locations in the City Heart.”
Artist Lalune Croker has also received $7756 to create Asian lanterns to hang from both the Whitsunday Hotel and Ford petrol station during Chinese New Year to celebrate Mackay’s historic Chinatown.
Also funded in this RADF grants round were:
   • Tiffany Grace Music - $9900 to record five news songs ready for release with photos and videos.
   • Grace McDonald Azure Glass - $8540 to deliver a masterclass in printing techniques on thick kiln formed glass.
   • Noosa Film Academy - $7756 to deliver narrative video therapy digital storytelling workshops and red-carpet community screening events for Mackay disadvantaged and low socio-economic youth.
   • Home, Heart and Heritage: A Culinary Journey through the Mackay Region by Michelle Camilleri - $5940 to produce a series of video documentaries that celebrate the region’s diverse cultures, local art and the artistry of home cooking.
   • Mangrove: Peeling back the Past by Janet Ambrose - $5505 to complete a publication of portraits, stories and artworks to showcase artists and Elders from the Multigenerational Multicultural community of Mackay.
   • Creative Connection Workshops with Fiona Flohr - $4730 to deliver a series of pottery workshops through The Neighbourhood Hubs and Migrant Women’s Group.
   • A Very Merry YarnBomb with the Northern Beaches Community Network - $1870 to deliver four crochet workshops, mentoring a community group to create a Christmas-themed yarnbomb installation.
The next round of RADF is now open and closes on February 5, 2025. Speak with the Arts Development Officer to discuss your project on phone 1300 MACKAY (622 529) or by email creative@mackay.qld.gov.au.

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Chinese greengrocer in Mackay circa 1880 -1930. Image source: Mackay Historical Society

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The Mackay Isaac region was celebrated in full force at the Queensland Tourism Awards last Friday night, with local operators, businesses, and events gaining state-wide recognition for their commitment to excellence in tourism. 

Mackay Isaac Tourism's CEO, Jeff Stewart-Harris, said he was proud to witness the Mackay Isaac region shine at the prestigious black-tie event.
 
“I had the privilege of attending the Queensland Tourism Awards on Friday night alongside some of our local operators, businesses, and stakeholders, and it was fantastic to see our region represented,” said Mr. Stewart-Harris.
 
“It’s a real testament to the exceptional talent and hard work of our local tourism community here in the Mackay Isaac region.”

Award Placements:
Oh Deere Farm Stay, Bronze in Unique Accommodation
Between the Tides (Queensland Music Festivals), Silver in Cultural Tourism
Windmill Motel and Events Centre, Bronze in Business Events Venues
St Lawrence Wetlands Weekend (Isaac Regional Council), Bronze in Festivals and Events
 
In the crowd amongst over 1,000 attendees were owners of Oh Deere Farm Stay Karinda and Dale Anderson who were just ecstatic at the achievement.
 
“Receiving Bronze is an incredible honour and a reflection of our dedication to providing visitors with a genuine, memorable farm stay experience”, said Mrs Anderson.
 
“This award highlights our commitment to sustainable tourism and authentic storytelling, and we’re thrilled to share this success with our team and community.
 
“We look forward to welcoming even more visitors to the Mackay Isaac region into the future”.
 
Property Manager of the Windmill Motel & Events Centre Leanne Green said they are incredibly honoured to be acknowledged at the Queensland Tourism Awards.
 
“This recognition is a testament to the hard work and passion of our team, who strive every day to provide exceptional experiences for our guests.” 
 
Isaac Regional Council Mayor Kelly Vea Vea said the recognition for St Lawrence Wetlands Weekend highlights the strong relationships between community and council to promoting a sustainable tourism event.
 
“Winning the Bronze at the Queensland Tourism Awards is a testament to the hardworking volunteers, our valued partners and the entire Isaac team.
 
“Their commitment has brought to life an event that immerses visitors in the natural beauty and cultural richness of the St Lawrence Wetlands,” Mayor Vea Vea said.
 
CEQ of Queensland Music Festivals Daryl Raven was humbled by the announcement at the Queensland Tourism Awards. 

“We would like to especially thank the Yuwi people, the traditional custodians of the region, for sharing their stories and heritage, which were central to this project,” Mr Raven said.
 
“I’d also like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mayor Greg Williamson for his continued support and commitment to fostering a thriving tourism landscape in Mackay.”
  
As the region celebrates this achievement, it looks forward to building on this momentum and showcasing even more of what makes Mackay Isaac unforgettable in the years to come.

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Dale and Karinda Anderson from Oh Deere Farm Stay won a bronze award in the Unique Accommodation category at the Queensland Tourism Awards. Photo credit: Oh Deere Farm Stay

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The Importance Of Remembering Those Who Served

By Hannah McNamara

Last Monday marked the 106th anniversary of the armistice in 1918. On the 11th of November each year, we come together as a nation to remember and honour more than 103,000 names that remain imprinted on both the bronze panels in the Australian war memorial, and on the hearts of their loved ones. Known as the ultimate sacrifice, many young men and women were sent out to fight - for our country, for our communities, for our families, and ultimately, for our freedom. Though the years go by, let us never forget the imprint they’ve had on our lives, and let us be grateful that we now get to live a life that some veterans never got to live. Lest We Forget.

“It’s going to be young people who will be the ones to continue to tell these stories,” said Mr. Mike Goodwin OAM.

As the years go by and new generations arise, the call to remembrance has never been so urgent. Each year, veterans young and old, gather with fellow survivors of the war, each tarnished with memories of serving either in the field, in the Air Force or on a ship. Most under the age of eighteen, they were sent out to defend our country, entering with fear and the uncertainty of their return.

More than 416,000 Australians volunteered for service in World War I. 324,000 served overseas, more than 60,000 Australians died, 4,000 became POWs and more than 100,000 were wounded.

As veterans, families and community representatives gathered at Jubilee Park Cenotaph last Monday, honourable men and women adorned themselves in badges, suits and red poppies on the 11th of the 11th, in remembrance of the day in 1918, where World War I ceased.  

To fully grasp the relief and joy of knowing that the battle was over, mixed with feelings of overwhelming grief for their mates that didn’t make it out alive is something that, we - as civilians will never be able to comprehend.

Image the heavy guns…falling and hitting the ground, the skies no longer filled with smoke and debris, the sound of birds chirping, and the thought of coming home to their families. Though most were injured physically, the shockwaves of the emotional scarring remained for years to come.

As the years go by, and the last of the World War veterans grow old, their greatest wish is to share their stories with the upcoming generations in fear of their sacrifice being forgotten.

Mr. Mike Goodwin OAM is a history teacher, and was honoured to be a guest speaker at this year’s Remembrance Day ceremony. He reflected on the importance of educating the next generation.

“I’d like to take a few moments, if I could, to talk about using the positive ideals of the ANZAC legacy to celebrate our future, because as we know, our future is with young people.

“When I talk about the future, of course, I’m talking about young people and the role they play in our ANZAC legacy.”

Mr. Goodwin then shared a memorable experience from a school trip to Anzac Cove and the “beautiful” Ari Burnu Cemetery, where he aimed to bring the history of the ANZACs to life for his students.

“They were so connected,” he said.

“They didn’t want to leave.

“Just as we were about to leave, I noticed there was one student sitting at a grave…so I went over to get her, and I'll never forget the next few moments…

“She looked up at me, her eyes were full of tears and there were tears rolling down her cheeks, and she looked into my eyes and she just shook her head.

“And she said, ‘Sir’, And she looked back at the grave, she looked back up at me, she said, ‘Sir…he died on my birthday,’ she said, ‘now I'm going to have to live two lives.’

The audience was moved by the many touching anecdotes shared by Mr Goodwin.

Through continuously teaching the next generation, Mr Goodwin along with the RSL hopes to prolong the vitality of remembering those who laid down their life for our country.

Attending his first Remembrance Day Service, was the region’s newly appointed Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton MP, who said the day was a “very emotional moment” for him.

“It’s a very emotional time, and there are no words of thanks that you can ever give to a youngster going off and fighting for our freedom… but I think the legacy we have here in Mackay is just wonderful.”

A Mackay Tiger Moth Museum flew past around 11:11am.

As the years pass, may we never forget the impact they’ve made on our lives, and remain grateful for the life we enjoy - one that some veterans never had the chance to experience.

Lest We Forget

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Veterans,their families and distinguished guests gathered at the Jubilee Park Cenotaphon the 11^th of the 11^th to remember the fallen andcommemorate those still standing. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Mayor of Mackay Greg Williamson, CEO Scott Owen, Deputy Mayor Karen May, and Councillor Heath Patton

Mayor Greg Williamson

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton MP and Mr Andrew Willcox MP Federal Member for Dawson

Student Musicians Kayla Lovern on the violin from Mackay State High School and Billy Hancroft on the trumpet from North View State School.

Mackay RSL Sub-Branch President and Vietnam Veteran, Ken Higgins

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton MP

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Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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This week, we gathered in quiet reflection for Armistice Day on Monday, 11th November—a day that marks the end of the First World War in 1918. It was a moment to remember that, on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, the guns fell silent after four years of relentless warfare. It’s more than a date etched in history; it’s a solemn reminder of the price paid for our freedom—lives cut short, families forever changed, and dreams left unfulfilled.

Across our towns, people stood together in silence, united not just in grief but in gratitude. We remembered the men and women who gave everything in the hope that future generations would live without the shadow of war. It’s a powerful call for all of us to learn from the past, to understand the weight of those sacrifices, and to cherish the peace they fought so hard to secure. You can read more from our journalist Hannah about the ceremonies and reflections from our community on pages 4, 10, and 11.

Yet, remembrance is not only about looking back; it's about shaping a better tomorrow. It was heartening to see the newly sworn-in youth council stepping up, ready to carry the torch forward. These young leaders, featured on page 5, remind us that the future is in capable hands—hands that are eager to build a world worthy of the sacrifices of the past.

We do have a more clear and present danger upon us. With the dry conditions across our region, the threat of fires is on the rise. In recent weeks, we've seen multiple blazes, including one devastating fire that left a local family with nothing but the clothes on their backs (see page 12). This is a stark reminder of how quickly disaster can strike, turning lives upside down in a matter of moments. As we head into disaster season, it's crucial for all of us to stay vigilant, be prepared, and look out for one another. There’s more on what you can do to get ready for storm season on page 9.

As we remember those who sacrificed so much, we’re reminded that the responsibility for our future lies in our hands—shaped by the choices we make today, and the strength we draw from each other.

Amanda

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The North Mackay Bowls Club Ladies have shown a generous spirit by clearing out their former club uniform shirts to support those in need.

Since merging with the men's team and adopting a new club shirt, numerous high-quality garments - some never worn - have been left unused in closets. Rather than letting these shirts sit idle, the club decided to donate them to a third-world country, where they will be put to good use.

Helen Fleming, the club’s Ladies Secretary, expressed her amazement at the number of shirts collected, with many in pristine condition.

“It was unbelievable how many shirts came to light, some have never been worn,” she noted, grateful for the members' willingness to contribute to the project.

The initiative was brought to fruition with the help of Ladies President Lidia McCarthy, Vice President Hilary Jones-Rowan and Secretary Helen Fleming. Together, they organised the collection and arranged for the garments to be sent off. St Vincent de Paul generously agreed to ship the shirts, ensuring they reach their new home where they can make a real difference.

Through this donation, they are helping provide clothing to those in need, showing that even the smallest acts of kindness can mean the world to someone else.

How can you make a difference in somebody’s life today?

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Ladies President Lidia McCarthy, Vice President Hilary Jones-Rowan and Secretary Helen Fleming. Photo supplied

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The Mackay Torres Strait Islander Cultural Group recently achieved an unforgettable victory at DanceRites 2024, Australia’s premier national dance competition for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander groups. Hosted at the iconic Sydney Opera House, this event brought together nearly 300 dancers from all over the country to showcase their culture, language, and heritage. For the Mackay group, it was their very first time entering the competition, and they brought home the win.

“Pretty much, we practiced all year around,” explained Frank Cook, a proud member of the group.

“We were preparing for NAIDOC events, Reconciliation Week, and other celebrations, so we kept practicing and perfecting our routine for DanceRites,” Frank said.

This dedication paid off, especially in the final round, where the group’s unique performance captivated the judges and audience alike.

Reflecting on what set them apart, Frank noted, “Our final performance was really special. It wasn’t something that had been done before.

“We used flag signals to represent the Mackay postcode which tied into the uniqueness of the song, and the dance was inspired by a captain using the environment around him with the winds and the tides.

The Mackay Torres Strait Islander Cultural group’s win is not just a personal achievement for the dancers but a significant victory for the whole Mackay community. Frank shared that “we’re still trying to comprehend what happened it was such a spontaneous entry…There was eighteen groups all up, and we came out on top.”

Frank says the group represents a holistic approach to culture, including singing, dancing, language, and traditional practices like cooking and hunting.

“We’re not just a dance group,” Frank explained.

“We try to represent our heritage and identity in everything we do.”

He encourages the youth to go and sit down with their elders and get that cultural knowledge.

“There’s only a few elders left and once it’s gone that’s pretty much our walking library, so take that time to sit with the elders, get that story, get that language and get that history.”

The group extends their gratitude to all supporters, sponsors and community members who backed them all the way up to their victory with fundraisers and encouragement. Their victory is a shared achievement that honours the strength of culture. Next year, the group will return to DanceRites 2025 as honoured guests, leaving a lasting mark at the Sydney Opera House in 2024.

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The Mackay Torres Strait Islander Cultural Group danced their way to victory at DanceRites 2024, celebrating culture, language, and heritage on the iconic stage of the Sydney Opera House! Photo credit: mkytsiculturalgroup (Instagram)

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Twelve young people from across Mackay were sworn in as Youth Councillors last month to represent local young people at Mackay Regional Council for the next 18 months.

At a ceremony held at the Mackay Regional Council chambers the 2024/2025 Youth Council became the second in the region to be sworn in, marking the beginning of their term in office.

More than 2000 young people aged 11 to 17 cast votes at 18 polling locations across the local government area in August to elect the 12 members.

Youth councillor Nate Ralph said the swearing in ceremony was a powerful event that begin the second term of the youth council, which can provide the youth of Mackay a voice.

“I am extremely privileged to speak on behalf of the young people of Mackay and give them a seat at the table,” Nate said.

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said this program, now in its second year, gave youth a voice in shaping the community’s future.

“It's inspiring to witness such a diverse group of young leaders ready to make a difference.” he said.

“I had the privilege of swearing in our new Youth Council. The ceremony started with a meaningful smoking ceremony, setting the stage for positivity on this important journey.”

The Mackay Youth Council will serve an 18-month term in office from October 2024 to May 2026. They will have a $10,000 budget to deliver their priority agenda.

The Mackay Youth Council is part of a partnership between Mackay Regional Council and the Foundation for Young Australians, a pilot program being delivered with local councils in Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria.

Meet the Mackay Youth Council

●Amelia Webber

●Elena Mathew

●Ethan Forde

●Lila Munt

●Lily Cheyne

●Logan Ivory

●Magenta Arthy

●Natacha McKay

●Nate Ralph

●Nathaniel Espartinez

●Soham Rana

●Zena Ali

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The 2024/2025 Mackay Youth Council, pictured with Mayor Greg Williamson, was sworn into office in October. Photo supplied: Mackay Regional Council

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Do you know what can go into our recycling bins?

This National Recycling Week (November 11 to 17), Mackay Regional Council is encouraging residents to check out the new sorting guide available on council’s website.

Recycle Mate is a web-based app which provides users with tailored information to ensure it is relevant to our Materials Recovery Facility (MRF).

Recycle Mate can be accessed on council’s website or directly via Recycle Mate’s website or mobile phone app.

Users can search or simply take a photo of the item they wish to dispose of and within seconds find out which bin it can go into – it’s that easy!

Mayor Greg Williamson said anything that council could do to assist residents in “recycling right” was a positive step forward.

“Council is committed to reducing our contamination levels. Contamination is simply putting the wrong item in the wrong bin,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Common contamination items we find at the MRF range from nappies and green waste to bottle top lids and soft plastics,” he said.

“Contamination is costly – council pays a fee to dispose of contaminated recycling to landfill, so anything we can do to reduce the rate of contamination, benefits not only our environment, but our ratepayers.

“We understand that it can be confusing, especially when what each council accepts as recycling can differ from region to region.

“Recycle Mate eliminates the confusion by ensuring the information is specific to each council and their recycling facility.”

With National Recycling Week kicking off on Monday, November 11, now is the time to get familiar with what can and can’t be recycled.

To find out more head to mackay.gov.au/sortmywaste

Recycle Mate is a nation-wide project led by the Australian recycling industry though strategic direction from the Austrian Council of Recycling (ACOR). Both state and federal governments have invested in the app as part of a joint waste management strategy.

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Council's new website feature is making recycling easier than ever

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Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank has provided a $20,000 community grant to fund a new trailer fit out for the 131 Army Cadet Unit (ACU) Sarina, creating an off-grid headquarters for field training activities and community events.

Equipped with sustainable solar and battery technology, the trailer features communication device chargers, a refrigerator to keep vital supplies fresh, whiteboards, lighting, new signage and a dedicated first aid area.

For over 50 years the 131 ACU Sarina has provided a safe and challenging environment for local youth, teaching them essential life skills and playing a crucial role in youth development.

Community Bank Sarina Board Chair Karen May emphasised that both Community Bank Sarina and 131 ACU Sarina share a commitment to nurturing future leaders in the region.

“We have previously supported the Sarina Cadet Unit with community investments for portable toilets and a sun safe marquee, and this trailer will further enhance the unit’s training capabilities, keeping cadets and volunteers safe and prepared in all environments,” Ms May said.

“The 131 ACU Sarina has produced cadets who have gone on to contribute significantly to our community, many of whom credit their experiences at cadets as significant to their growth and success.

“For many young people in Sarina, the 131 ACU is a space where they feel respected and supported, and we take great pride in backing such an important program for our community.”

Captain Amy Bradford, Officer Commanding 131 ACU Sarina, said the cadets had been “trying to get the trailer on the road for over two years” and was grateful for Community Bank Sarina’s support in bringing it to completion.

“We’re a not-or profit organisation that relies on fundraising to deliver this national youth development program, that proudly shares the character and values of the Australian Army,” Captain Bradford said.

“The trailer is a modern addition for us and will create interest in our program, encouraging new cadet recruitment and reinforcing our role in serving the Sarina community.”

For more information on applying for Community Bank Sarina Community Grants, please contact executive@communitybanksarina.com.au.

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Photo caption: Cadets at the 131 Army Cadet Unit Sarina stand proudly with their new trailer, provided with a Community Grant from Community Bank Sarina

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A fast-moving vegetation fire broke out in West Mackay on Thursday, November 7, blowing thick clouds of smoke across the area as emergency services from multiple agencies assisted on scene.

The fire ignited near the old cemetery on Cemetery Road around 12:30pm, rapidly spreading across dry grassland and threatening nearby businesses, including Meals on Wheels and the Mackay Women's Centre. Evacuations were quickly carried out as a precautionary measure.

Ten fire crews were dispatched to the scene, with police redirecting traffic and establishing roadblocks to ensure the safety of local residents. The blaze was fuelled by dry vegetation, making it difficult for heavy equipment to access the fire's core.

In response, fire crews conducted strategic backburns to contain the fire to the North and West. Aviation rescue crews remained on standby with long-range water cannons in case the fire spread.

The fire’s intensity was exacerbated by the dry conditions, with thick grass and high winds making containment a challenge. As smoke spread across the region, authorities issued advisories for residents to stay indoors, close windows and doors, and avoid driving through areas affected by smoke. While no properties were at risk, emergency services continued to monitor the situation closely.

Parts of Hume Street, Cemetery Road, Holland Street, and Shakespeare Street were closed to traffic to allow emergency crews to manage the fire safely.

By the end of the day, after several hours of firefighting efforts, all roads in the vicinity of West Mackay were reopened.

Though the fire was contained, authorities are now urging locals to exercise caution and “be very careful,” particularly smokers who may carelessly dispose of cigarette butts from their vehicles. With the scorching season approaching and the fire risk escalating, it is more important than ever to act responsibly and prevent further incidents.

Discover general safety guidelines and stay updated on future developments via www.fire.qld.gov.au.

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Multiple roads were closed to protect local businesses and residents as thick smoke billowed from a fast-moving vegetation fire in West Mackay on Thursday, November 7. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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Year 6 students at Bucasia State School are putting their creativity and business skills to work, transforming old toys into renewed treasures to help raise funds for their school.

Inspired by a UK charity, students Mitch, Jenson, Zac and Parker have designed a fundraiser that transforms unwanted stuffed toys into “adoptable” gifts. Each toy will come with an adoption certificate and a hint of scented oil, offering a unique and affordable gift option for all at the school’s Christmas fair.

The project acts as both a fundraiser and a key component of a business and economics assessment, challenging the students to create a budget-conscious business plan. With a starting budget of just $20, they devised their idea in a group whilst taking into account factors such as cost management and marketing.

Mitchell’s mum, Nicole, praised the project, saying, “It’s a really good initiative for them… and they’re working very hard on it.”

“The boys’ idea is to reuse unwanted stuffed toys, clean them, put a little bit of nice-smelling oil on them, and then make up little adoption certificates… and ultimately adopt them out for gold coin donations at their school Christmas fair as gifts.”

The project has already drawn a multitude of community support around her neighbourhood after she pitched the idea to her neighbours in a community Facebook page. Since her call for donations, many locals have contributed their pre-loved toys to be restored, including a senior who generously donated her entire collection of cherished stuffed bears, knowing they would bring joy to the next generation.

“The little community here really gets in and behind projects like this,” Nicole added.

As Mitch, Jenson, Zac and Parker continue their preparations, they’re still welcoming more stuffed toy donations to expand their selection. The students hope their efforts inspire future classes to find creative ways to support their school and give back to the community.

The Bucasia State School Fair is an event that brings together students and families, and this year, with creative initiatives like the boys' adoption booth, it promises to be even more special. The fair will offer students across all grades a chance to enjoy festive shopping, games, and activities, all while supporting school resources.

If you would like to donate a stuffed toy to this cause, please contact nicoleandray2@gmail.com

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Through creativity, community support, and a touch of business savvy, Mitch, Jenson, Zac and Parker – who is absent from the photo - are turning unwanted stuffed toys into 'adoptable' gifts for their school Christmas fair. Photos supplied

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Council would like to advise residents in the Devereux Creek area that their bin collection day will be changing.

The change will take place on Monday, November 18, with both the general waste and recycling bins being collected on this day.

Collection day is required to change due to population growth in the area, and as such, needs to change to fit in with the schedule to ensure all bins are collected.

Reminder stickers have also been placed on residents’ bins advising of the change of collection day.

Residents are asked to place their bins on the kerb by 6am on Monday, November 18.

General waste bins will continue to be collected weekly and recycling bins will be collected fortnightly.

Council apologises for any inconvenience caused. For enquiries, please contact council on 1300 MACKAY (622 529).

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By Hannah McNamara

Walkerston State School students recently paid tribute to Australia’s heroes with a vivid chalk art display in honour of Remembrance Day on Monday, November 11.

Covering a wall with colourful illustrations, they created intricate drawings of poppies - both red and purple - symbolising soldiers and the animals that served alongside them. Crosses, flags, and wreaths also added a meaningful touch to the artwork, reflecting a deeper understanding that radiated through their creative expressions.

Among the artists were Year 6 students Matilda Brand, Chloe Schatkowski, Heath Rogers, and Iyla Hill, each contributing their perspective to the artwork and explaining what the day meant to them.

Chloe shared, “It represents the soldiers who gave their lives as the ultimate sacrifice during all the conflicts that they served in trying to protect our country.”

Matilda reflected on the respect embodied by the tribute, saying, “It shows respect and that we are thankful that they served for our country for us.”

Heath emphasised the importance of freedom, remarking, “It’s to remember the people who died for our freedom.”

Iyla acknowledged not only the soldiers but also the animals that served, adding, “It’s to remember all the soldiers that have passed in the war and the animals that died during each and every war.”

The children’s tribute didn’t go unnoticed, as Walkerston RSL Sub Branch member and veteran Rod Francisco attended the event to engage with the students about the significance of Remembrance Day.

Francisco, a veteran with multiple medals for his service in Iraq, East Timor and the Middle East, shared his thoughts on the day.

"For a lot of veterans, the most important thing for us is our connection to community," he explained.

"It’s really important that we maintain that connection, and by doing that here with the school… it really is important for us that they connect back to the service and recognise the sacrifice that some people have made."

Francisco explained the significance of wearing medals over the heart in a tradition that honours the lives lost during service.

“On days like today, a lot of people put their hands over their medals… One of the medals are over your heart to symbolise that importance.

“Another tradition is to just shield your medals for those that made the ultimate sacrifice and didn't return.”

For Francisco and his fellow veterans, the students’ curiosity and respect are always touching.

“There’s a real strong and genuine interest in it… and it’s aways great to see.”

Walkerston State School hopes to make next year’s Remembrance Day an even bigger one, with a focus on bridging generations and preserving the memory of service and sacrifice.

By teaching the next generation through creativity and respect, the legacy of those who served will be remembered for decades to come.

Lest We Forget

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Year 6 students from Walkerston State School: Matilda Brand, Chloe Schatkowski, Heath Rogers, and Iyla Hill with Walkerston RSL Sub Branch member and veteran Rod Francisco. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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A devastating house fire on Wednesday, November 6, has left a single mother and her five young children with nothing but the clothes on their backs.

Firefighters arrived at the Napier Street home just after 2pm to find it fully engulfed in flames. While the fire has left the house in ruins, it is believed to have been caused by a faulty electrical appliance.

Just an hour before her children were due to arrive home from school, the Mackay mother was alerted by the smoke alarms and managed to escape the house in time without obtaining serious burns or lung damage. Though treated for smoke inhalation at Mackay Base Hospital, she was not seriously injured.

In the wake of the fire, family have since reached out for help through a local Facebook page, asking the community for donations of clothing, food, and household items. The response was overwhelming as the comment section quickly flooded with offers of support, including donations of furniture, accommodation and food vouchers, all aimed at helping the family rebuild.

The mother expressed her gratitude in a sincere comment that read: "Thank you all. I don't have many words but thank God I was safe in this house today and my girls were at school.

“I thank God for some of the neighbours that helped, as well as the emergency crew. Our past just went up in flames, but thank God my car is okay.

“I just thank God my girls and I are okay at the end of the day and that we weren’t hurt."

The community's response has been nothing short of a blessing, with family members, friends and local residents offering their support in a magnitude of ways. While the mother is heartbroken over the loss of her family’s possessions, she is grateful for the outpouring of kindness from her community as they face the challenge ahead of rebuilding their lives.

With Christmas just around the corner, the timing of the fire only adds to the emotional and financial strain. However, despite the monumental task of replacing everything, the community is determined to get this mother and her children back on their feet. A GoFundMe page has been created by a family member to assist with the financial and emotional burden, offering hope that they can regain a touch of normality in time for Christmas.

“We will need support in this hard time, and thank you to those that are willing to help. It honestly means a lot,” said the mother.

For those willing to help, please consider donating at www.gofundme.com.

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A single 40-year-old mother to five has lost everything in a Napier Street house fire just weeks before Christmas

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The long-awaited transformation of North Wall Beach is one step closer to reality, with the final design officially revealed. North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) CEO Brendan Webb, who first announced the project back in April, confirmed that the design is now heading to tender for construction.

“We’re excited to announce the design for the North Wall Beach recreational area has been finalised,” Mr Webb said.

“Community engagement has been at the forefront of this project.

“We have worked closely with representatives from our key stakeholders such as Yuwi Aboriginal Corporation, Mackay and District Turtle Watch and members of NQBP’s Port of Mackay Community Reference Group (CRG) on the final design.

“We also received more than 60 submissions from the broader community through our online survey.”

Thanks to the great response and positive feedback received during the community consultation, some adjustments were made to the final design.

Key themes from the community consultation included the desire to maintain North Wall’s natural environment, improve accessibility and an increase of facilities such as parking, seating and shade.

Included in the updated design is an increase in the number of car parks, and an overflow area adjacent to the car park to address these concerns.

The project budget also increased, with the investment doubling in size to two million dollars.

Mr Webb said the project had been initiated to provide port community members with improved amenities.

“At NQBP, we share the passion the community has for safeguarding the local environment and are ensuring continued recreational access to North Wall Beach,” Mr Webb said.

“We’re looking forward to enhancing the area’s natural beauty while maintaining its unique and peaceful outlook for the community and future generations."

With a local office based in Mackay, Queensland-based landscape architects RPS leveraged its extensive experience in coastal landscape development to prepare and finalise the design.

RPS Principal Practice Leader Tim Connor said RPS was pleased to deliver this project for the Mackay community.

“Our goal was to deliver landscape design that met the community’s needs, and was true to the distinctive character, climate and culture of the North Wall site; I believe we’ve achieved this,” Mr Connor said.

Pending the tender process, construction is expected to begin in early 2025 and be completed in mid-2025.

Information on the project, including the final design is available on NQBP’s website.

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Aerial image of North Wall Beach recreational area as it currently stands

North Wall recreational area final design. Images supplied: NQBP

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Moranbah’s much-anticipated new hospital is nearing the finish line, with staff currently moving furniture and equipment into the modern facility. The hospital’s interior design features neutral tones of light blue, timber, and marble, creating a calm and welcoming environment for patients, visitors, and staff.

Outside, a newly constructed ambulance entry road leads directly to the Emergency Department, which now boasts four treating bays, a resuscitation bay, as well as procedure and plaster rooms, all in the final stages of fit-out.

Residents driving past the hospital on Mills Avenue will notice new entry and exit points, complete with updated facade signage. The exterior landscaping, road markings, and navigation signage have been completed to ensure smooth traffic flow and enhance safety for all visitors.

Inside, the hospital has been designed for efficiency, with three main reception and triage areas located at the main entrance, Mental Health wing, and Emergency Department. The Community Health wing is a highlight, featuring a large rehabilitation gym, consultation rooms, and spaces designed for group sessions such as the Best Beginnings program.

Each of the hospital’s 10 inpatient rooms now includes its own ensuite, with 8 rooms offering single-bed occupancy for added comfort and privacy.

With final preparations underway, the new Moranbah Hospital is on track to open its doors by the end of November, 2024, providing a significant boost to healthcare services in the region.

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Photos supplied: Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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Wilmar Sugar and Renewables has reached the three-quarter point of the 2024 crushing season, with its eight North Queensland mills collectively processing 11.78 million tonnes of cane. This represents 77% of the estimated 15.34 million tonne crop for the season.

The Mackay Region, serviced by the Plane Creek mill, continues to crush towards Christmas with an average yield of approximately 86 tonnes per hectare. Fine weather has supported strong CCS (Commercial Cane Sugar) results, with the weekly average at 14.38 units and a season-to-date average of 14.06 units. Wilmar expects the Mackay Region to continue crushing into January, focusing on processing the entire crop before the season concludes.

Ian Davies, Wilmar’s General Manager of Cane Supply and Grower Relations, praised the consistent performance of the Mackay Region. "The Plane Creek mill is achieving excellent yields, and the team is doing a fantastic job to stay on track despite the challenges posed by weather fluctuations," he said.

Meanwhile, other regions are also progressing well. The Burdekin mills are set to finish before Christmas, with CCS levels hitting budgeted targets, while Proserpine is cutting above estimates at 103.6% of its original forecast. As the 2025 season planning begins, Wilmar encourages growers to update their farm maps on GrowerWeb for accurate crop predictions.

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By Sonia Ball (QCAR Central District Manager)

There is nothing like an ‘over the fence’ whisper to travel like wildfire through sugarcane – the ever-reliable speed of the bush telegraph if you wish. You can rely on these back-paddock conversations to get the goss on nearly everything going on in the industry.

The trouble is it can end up a bit like Chinese Whispers where your first sentence ‘My mother lives in a cottage by the sea and raises cochin chickens’, can wind up being ‘I’m an apple and I’ve got a chocolate labra-poodle with three legs’.

Following my drift, you will understand the obvious – be like the three wise men and let your decision-making be based on facts, and the way to get those delicious little morsels is straight from the horse’s mouth.

So, shunting the nose bag aside, we’ve got a way to help you achieve this without a getting a nasty nip or a kick from a well-shod steel-capped hoof.

Save the date, RSVP and join the QCAR Central District team for an informal Meet & Greet and Information Session where you can enjoy a bite to eat, a cold beverage and importantly, get the latest information on our QCAR-ACFA integration, our actions, growth, plans and meet the team driving change across Proserpine, Mackay and Plane Creek.

Consider yourself invited, and bring your cane farming friends, we can’t wait to see you or meet you.  

The QCAR Central District Committee is hosting its November meeting in Proserpine on Wednesday 20 November. Proserpine growers with any discussion points or issues are invited to contact myself or one of our committee members beforehand.

Our December committee meeting will be held in the Plane Creek region on December 17 with a time and venue TBC.

Events:

Proserpine

Wednesday 20 November

Hotel Metropole at 5.30pm

Mackay

Wednesday 4 December

Wests Leagues Club, Walkerston @ 6pm

RSVPs are required so text, call or email so we can save you a bite of something.

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Central District Mill Stats as at 12 November, 2024

Wilmar Sugar’s Proserpine Mill, week ending 9 November, had processed a season-to-date total of 1,353,507 crushed cane with the week’s crushing at an over-budget rate of 91,792 tonnes. CCS for the week was 13.71 with the season-to-date CCS sitting at 14.03. Wilmar Proserpine Mill reported a derailment on the southern line, saying despite this there was minimal impact on overall cane supply.

Wilmar Sugar Plane Creek Mill’s throughput for the week ending 9 November was 57,647 tonnes brining the season-to-date total to 996,913 tonnes. CCS dropped marginally by 0.12 units from the previous week’s recording an average for this week of 14.61. Season-to-date CCS is 14.09 units. Wilmar Plane Creek stated 3% of the cane supply for the week was standover cane.

Mackay Sugar’s three mills (weekly performance update to 3 November).

Throughput for Mackay Sugar’s mills reached a season-to-date total of 3,551,664 tonnes for week 27 October to 3 November, with an estimated 1.7 million tonnes remaining based on the current crop estimate of 5.2M. Mackay Sugar has an end of crush date set for 5 January 2025 dependent on weather, mill performance and crop. The individual mill throughput to this date for the week (and season-to-date) was: Farleigh 62,124 (1,209,276), Marian 84,994 (1,157,508), Racecourse 59,544 (1,184,880). CCS for this week was 14.5 units and season-to-date 13.7 units.

With the end of the 2024 season now within sight for those blessed with 20-20 long distance vision, all Queenslanders should now be feeling the wet season lumbering ever-closer toward us. I know we desperately need rain in some areas, but on the other hand… What could go wrong?

The QCAR Central District team is wishing you all a safe finish to the season on whatever day that may be.

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Steve Mck and Blair Watt: QCAR Central District Chairman Steve McKeering with new Central District Committee Member and Mackay grower Blair Watt. Meet them and the rest of the committee at Proserpine on 20 November

Minions: Anyone travelling around the back-blocks of Sarina-Homebush will know exactly where these colourfully painted bales are located

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As I approached the front door of the old West Mackay cottage I could see an elderly woman through the fly screen. She was sitting in a lounge chair and I could hear the unmistakable sound of the cricket commentary. It was very loud.

It was the summer of 2014 and two things were happening that day. Australia was playing a test match against Pakistan and I was a fairly new real estate agent desperately trying to get listings in the midst of a serious Mackay downturn.

The market had fallen dramatically and listings were difficult to get and, being a commission-only real estate agent, I had to create some business or I was going to lose my own house to the bank. Not ideal when you have a wife and a couple of young kids.

So I  started knocking on doors offering people printed market updates that gave them information on sales in their area. I would also offer an appraisal on their property … which might just lead to a listing.

Most people were pleasant enough but said “no thanks mate”. But every now and then, during a two-hour door knocking session, someone would say, “Oh yeah, come in.”

When I knocked on the metal frame of the flyscreen on the West Mackay cottage that day, the elderly lady told me to come in. Her name was Winifred and she was listening to, not watching, the cricket because she was pretty much blind.

We mainly chatted about the cricket but she did say that her husband was in an old people’s home and she was planning to join him there soon so she would have to sell her house.

I could see a whiteboard on her loungeroom wall that had, in very big writing, the first names and phone numbers of people I assumed were her family members. I asked if it would be okay if I called one of those people and she said, yes and told me to call the number of the one called Neil, her son.

The next day I called Neil and told him what had happened the day before. I reassured him that I wasn’t going to bother his mum but if she did decide to sell her house I would love the opportunity to talk to her and any other family members.

It turned out that Neil went by the name Norm and he was a friendly bloke who was not surprised that his dear old mum had been sitting in her lounge room with a stranger listening to the cricket and having a chat. He said it would be okay for me to call him in a couple of months.

We kept in contact and a bit over a year later I sold Winifred’s house. I got to know Norm pretty well.

I sold Winifred’s house to a mother and daughter who wanted to renovate and flip it. They got me to sell it. They then bought and renovated another house and they got me to sell that as well. A few months after that I sold another one for them.

A little while later Norm rang me and asked me to sell his house, which I did.

Knocking on Winifred’s door that hot summer’s day led to work and sales that helped me survive a terrible downturn, pay my mortgage and feed my kids.

It’s amazing how the important lessons in life happen during the tough times, not the good times. There’s a saying about how hard times create strong men and good times create weak men.

I reckon it means that no matter what times we are living in, we should all keep knocking on doors.

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The Pioneer-Burdekin Pumped Hydro Energy Storage Project, once a key part of Queensland’s energy future, has officially been scrapped by the newly-elected LNP Government. After releasing a detailed report into the project’s feasibility, Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie confirmed it was neither financially viable nor environmentally sustainable, citing an overwhelming $36 billion cost. For many local residents, the decision brought a sense of relief after years of uncertainty, with concerns about transparency and community consultation now coming to light. As Mr Bleijie put it, “Queenslanders were kept in the dark.” The LNP now looks to shift its focus to smaller, more feasible energy solutions for the state.

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton, Queensland Premier David Crisafulli and Glen Kelly spoke to locals in Eungella last weekend to confirm the Pioneer-Burdekin Pumped Hydro scheme would not proceed. Photo supplied

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LNP Confirms Pioneer-Burdekin Pumped Hydro Project Axed

The newly-elected State Government has officially confirmed that the Pioneer-Burdekin Pumped Hydro Energy Storage Project will not proceed, following the release of the project’s Detailed Analytical Report.
The report highlighted that the proposed project was deemed not financially viable and not environmentally appropriate, with significant concerns raised about the lack of community consultation. Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie said that the analysis revealed that the estimated cost of the project would have imposed a staggering $15,653 burden on each Queensland household, contributing to the total projected cost of approximately $36 billion—an amount that he said the previous government had not disclosed during its campaign.
Mr Bleijie addressed these concerns at a press conference held in Mackay on Tuesday November 5, and said, “Steven Miles during the election campaign refused to release the costings of the Pioneer-Burdekin Pumped Hydro scheme, and now we reveal that it was a $36 billion project.
“Not only that, the government’s own report says it was not commercially viable. It didn't stack up and recommended it not proceed.
“The Labor government had a lot of questions to answer. How is it that the Liberal National Party government within 48 hours of forming government was able to ascertain that the project was not commercially viable and cost $36 billion?”
Newly elected Member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton echoed Mr Bleijie's sentiments in Mackay, reflecting on the emotional response from the community following the announcement.
“It was a relief to hear the news,” he shared.
"Just a few days ago, I was with Premier David Crisafulli up in Eungella, witnessing incredibly emotional scenes as residents of Netherdale, Eungella, and Finch Hatton learned that the pumped hydro project would not go ahead. For many, it was a moment of relief, and they finally felt as though their voices had been heard and their concerns valued once again.
“There were emotions which I had rarely seen when there’s an announcement from a politician.
“This is actual politics in our regions.”
The LNP said that the report also indicated that the project could not be built in time to meet Queensland’s emissions targets, highlighting a need for a shift in focus.
“We want to explore smaller pumped hydro projects that can be delivered without burdening the taxpayer,” Mr Bleijie remarked.
“It’s crucial that we look for viable solutions that work for our communities and our environment.”
As the LNP government moves forward, it aims to resettle communities impacted by the project’s halt and support local businesses.
“We want to resettle those communities,” Mr Bleijie said.
“We want businesses that are struggling to thrive again and people back in their communities to support those local businesses.”
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‍Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie and Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton held a press conference in Mackay on Tuesday to confirm the Pioneer-Burdekin Pumped Hydro Energy Storage Project would not proceed. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Cancer brings with it a profound sense of uncertainty, a reality that can feel overwhelming at times. Each stage of this journey, from the jarring moment of diagnosis to the draining side effects of chemotherapy, presents its own unique challenges. Now, as I await my PET scan results just one day before my next round of chemotherapy, I find myself in a particularly daunting moment, grappling with the weight of what those results may bring.
By the time this paper goes to print, I’ll know the outcome, and I’ll have had a couple of days to process it. There’s really no in-between, either the news will be good, or I’ll be bracing myself for the next round of obstacles. Regardless of the results, treatment will continue; chemotherapy number seven will be on the horizon, potentially with adjustments if things haven’t gone the way we hope.
Each time I sit in that chair, my port accessed with a deep breath and a long needle, I feel the side effects take hold as the chemo enters my bloodstream yet I remind myself I’m not alone in this battle. Every three weeks, I’m surrounded by other brave patients in oncology, all of us sharing silent looks that speak volumes. We understand each other in a way others might not, knowing nods that acknowledge the exhaustion, the fear, and the determination we all carry. Though our paths differ, many of the hopes, fears, and challenges overlap. My own journey is unique in many ways, as is every cancer patient’s journey, but the struggles resonate across the room.
What differs for me, is that I’m fortunate to have this platform to share it. I write about my journey to highlight both the unique aspects of my experience and the common threads that bind us as cancer patients. Each path is distinct, yet there are universal truths that resonate within our stories.
Bridgeen Doherty, an ambassador for the Trudy Crowley Foundation who is under palliative care, has brought us all powerful advice: “Know your body, know your normal.” If something doesn’t feel right, keep asking until you get the answers you deserve. The difference time makes is immeasurable. If my own questions had been answered sooner, perhaps I wouldn’t be sitting here undergoing chemotherapy.
When it comes to "knowing your normal," sometimes it's the small, seemingly insignificant moments that can be the most telling. I think of stories like that of Ailsa Millewski, a dedicated nurse who spent years caring for others, but whose own health issues first became apparent in the most ordinary of ways, forgetting a simple recipe she’d cooked hundreds of times before. One evening, she found herself standing in her kitchen, unable to remember how to finish a chicken stir-fry. For her husband Gary, that moment was a clear sign that something wasn’t right. It took until the end of that year to work out that Ailsa had developed a tumour in her adrenal glands, but a biopsy and PET scan revealed it was already a stage 3 carcinoma and had spread to her spine.
Tragically, Ailsa passed away in the very same palliative care unit where she had once provided compassionate care for so many patients. Her legacy lives on through her family and friends, and the story of her journey is a powerful reminder of how even the smallest changes in our health can signify something more. You can read this deeply emotional story on page 9.
Ultimately, many of us have the same goal, to reach the day we can ring the ‘all clear’ bell, signalling the end of treatment and the start of hope for a brighter tomorrow.
That’s the sound I long to hear.
Amanda

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The waterfall and slide at the Bluewater Lagoon has been temporarily closed due to a water pump failure.

A new pump has been ordered and will be installed as soon as it arrives.

Mackay Regional Council aims to have the slide back in action by Saturday, December 14, just in time for the summer break.

Council apologises for any inconvenience caused and appreciates your understanding while they complete these essential repairs.

The rest of the lagoon will be unaffected by the repairs and will continue to operate as normal.

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The Bluewater Lagoon slide is temporarily closed. Photo credit: Mackay Regional Council

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A snorkelling trip turned into a high-stakes rescue when a woman in her 50s was bitten by a shark approximately 200 kilometres off the Mackay coast. On October 30, around 4:30pm, the Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) received an urgent call reporting the woman had sustained severe lacerations to her lower leg, requiring immediate first aid and a coordinated rescue effort.

The first responders on board acted swiftly, applying a compression bandage to control the bleeding, which proved essential for stabilising her condition throughout the 10-hour journey to Mackay.

Shane Tucker, QAS Senior Operations Supervisor for the Mackay District, commended the quick thinking, saying it was “absolutely critical that first aid was done and done well.” He added, “Given that they’ve left the bandage on the patient throughout the whole incident… hats off to their first aids on scene.”

The remote location posed significant challenges, demanding a complex, coordinated response. The Royal Australian Navy vessel HMAS Warramunga, which was nearby, was mobilised to assist, arriving around 9:30pm to provide medical support and prepare the woman for transfer.

“Being 200km out was quite a coordinated effort from all services,” Tucker noted. The operation involved precise communication between QAS, clinical teams, and Navy personnel to ensure the patient’s safe and timely transport.

The woman, who remained conscious throughout, reported that the bite caused two deep lacerations, each about 30 centimetres long, on her lower leg.

“The patient was stable and responsive, despite experiencing significant pain,” said Tucker, mentioning that she was likely in shock given the trauma of the encounter.

When HMAS Warramunga arrived at Mackay Harbour around 12:45am, paramedics took over, transporting her to Mackay Base Hospital for further treatment.  

Reflecting on the rescue, Tucker once again acknowledged the teamwork and precision displayed by all emergency services involved.

“Obviously being quite a distance away there was quite an extensive co-ordination to retrieve this patient,” he remarked.

Details about the shark remain unknown, as neither its species nor its size was observed following the incident. Reports indicate that the attack occurred near a reef roughly 200 kilometres offshore. Addressing questions about the specific location of the attack, Tucker explained, “Unfortunately, we don't know too much of that in detail…particularly as it was so far off the coast…we are just concentrating on the patient and her injuries.”

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QAS was notified at 4.30pm on October 30, that a woman in her 50s had sustained lacerations to her lower leg from a shark bite while snorkelling about 200 kilometres off the coast. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Take a moment to think about the people around you, the quiet achievers, the volunteers who go the extra mile, the sportspeople pushing their limits, and the local legends making a real difference. Now is your chance to shine a light on their extraordinary efforts, and this year, a powerful new category has been added shining a light on inclusion.
Now is the time to nominate residents for the 2025 Australia Day Awards.
Mayor Greg Williamson said there was a new award category this year – the Brenden Borellini Access and Inclusion Achievement Award.
“This award honours individuals or groups who have gone above and beyond in their efforts to remove barriers, implement innovative solutions and advocate for the rights and needs of those who may be experiencing disability and/or mobility and access concerns,” Mayor Williamson said.
“This new award is named in honour of Brenden Borellini, who was the Mackay region 2021 Arts and Culture Award winner but was also Young Australian of the Year in 1989,” he said.
“Brenden broke down the boundaries of what was thought possible for someone who was deaf and blind.
“He was an actor, workshop facilitator, photographer and researcher, and he was strong advocate for people with disability and those that use alternate communication.
“Brenden passed away this year, and with his family’s blessing, we have introduced this award to celebrate those who follow in his footsteps as champions of access and inclusion.”
Nominations are also now open for the following categories: Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, Arts and Culture, Environmental Achievement, Lori Burgess Community Volunteer, Community Group, Senior Sports and Young Sports Award.
Mayor Williamson said there had been so many tremendous nominations last year and our region was extremely lucky to have so many amazing groups and individuals that stepped up for our community.
“We had 183 nominations across the eight categories and this year we’d love to get to 200,” he said.
He said nominating someone for an Australia Day Award took just minutes and was as simple as filling out a nomination form on council’s website or grabbing a hard copy at council’s customer service centres.
“One thing that every nominee says each year is just how much it means to them to be nominated and recognised for the work they do,” he said.
“If there’s someone you know who goes above and beyond for our community or is achieving great things, then please recognise them today with a nomination.”
Nominations close January 5, 2025.
Online nominations can be found at mackay.qld.gov.au/australiaday
All award winners and nominees will be recognised at a special awards ceremony at the MECC on Saturday, January 25, 2025.
The Australia Day Awards are proudly sponsored by P. Comino and Sons and Tropical Exposure and are supported by Triple M and 7NEWS Mackay.

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Peter Reedman was named the 2024 Mackay Regional Council Citizen of the Year due to his unwavering dedication to junior rugby union in the Mackay region.  
 
There is a new award named in honour of the late Brenden Borellini (pictured with Mayor Greg Williamson and his late mother Marlene 'Merle' Mitchell). Photos supplied: Mackay Regional Council  

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Police are investigating a serious vehicle and pedestrian traffic crash and assault at Homebush, southwest of Mackay, earlier this week on November 2.
The Mackay police unit said that initial investigations indicate that at around 9:45pm, a white utility was driving dangerously along Homebush Road before a red Mazda 3 travelling westbound collided with a 17-year-old girl who was on the roadway.
The Mazda continued for a short distance before stopping, its then alleged several people nearby approached the vehicle and assaulted a 53-year-old male passenger.
Officers arrived on scene a short time later and broke up the group.
The 17-year-old Glenella girl was transported to Mackay Base Hospital in a serious but stable condition.
The 53-year-old Sarina man was also transported to hospital for treatment.
The other occupants of the Mazda, the 16-year-old female driver, a 12-year-old male passenger, and a 56-year-old female passenger, were physically uninjured.
The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating the circumstances of the crash and is appealing to anyone who may have relevant information or CCTV, dashcam footage or mobile phone footage to come forward.

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A flood study for Finch Hatton was adopted at last week’s ordinary meeting of council.
The Finch Hatton Flood Study was undertaken by engineering consultants Water Technology Pty Ltd to update the existing flood data and inform planning for the Finch Hatton township.
Mayor Greg Williamson said council was continually expanding and re-assessing its flood hazard studies, which were prioritised based on various factors including the potential risk to the community and other development drivers.
“The new Finch Hatton Flood Study helps us to understand flood behaviour in Cattle Creek and the local catchments that influence the risk to Finch Hatton and its infrastructure,” Mayor Williamson said.
“The flood hazard information improves existing flood knowledge and will be used to inform flood risk assessment and management, planning and disaster management,” he said.
As part of the flood study, council commissioned updated ground level data – both survey and LiDAR – to update topography information.
Data from the rainfall and river height gauges, installed in the past decade, was incorporated and the latest industry flood guidance (ARR19) was used to ensure the new flood study uses the best available information.
“This study has found that peak flood levels are lower than those that were used to inform the Temporary Local Planning Instrument (TLPI) mapping,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Now that the study has been adopted, it can be used to prepare a Flood Risk Assessment to identify effective land use planning and development controls in Finch Hatton,” he said.
The study does not consider any projects upstream of the township.
Council will host a drop-in session at the Finch Hatton MTB Cattle Creek Administration Building on Thursday, November 27, from 4pm to 7pm should residents have any questions.

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Hundreds of members from the Queensland Country Women's Association (QCWA) gathered in Mackay for the first time in over a century to participate in the 101st Annual State Conference, held from October 22 to November 1. With 300 registered attendees, the conference aimed to unite women from rural and regional communities, addressing pressing issues affecting their lives and reinforcing the importance of camaraderie and support across Queensland.

Throughout the conference, participants engaged in a wide range of activities, where attendees had the opportunity to view the results of the judging from various State contests, which included categories such as Handcraft, Cookery, Sewing, Photography, Floral Art, Knitting and Crochet, as well as Agricultural and Environmental projects, Patchwork, and international contests.

In addition to these displays of creativity and skill, a significant resolution by the Pioneer Division called on both state and federal governments to reassess the growing shift towards a cashless society. This resolution raised important concerns about the implications of decreasing cash usage on budgeting practices, financial inclusion, and the reliability of payment methods during technological failures or emergencies.

Key events included a State Handcraft meeting and workshops designed for handcraft teachers and trainees, fostering skills development and community engagement. On Monday, October 28, Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson officially welcomed delegates, followed by a Thanksgiving service at St Paul’s Uniting Church. Notable presentations featured representatives from Chances House, who discussed their initiatives supporting the homeless community in Mackay.

As the conference progressed, members showcased their skills in various competitions, concluding in a gala dinner that celebrated QCWA achievements. A special display at the Jubilee Centre highlighted the rich history of the QCWA and local memorabilia, setting the tone for the historic gathering.

The event not only marked a significant reunion for the QCWA but also reinforced the association's commitment to advocacy and community support for women throughout Queensland.

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Over 300 women registered to attend the Queensland women’s association's 101st annual conference, celebrating a century of empowerment and community. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Annie Wood Park playground in Mount Pleasant is getting a makeover.
As part of the work, one of the open top slides on the existing play structure is being replaced with a larger closed tube slide.

Other minor maintenance work is also being completed.

The playground will be closed from Monday, November 4, to Friday, November 15, weather permitting, to allow for the installation of the new slide and associated foundation work.

Council apologises for any inconvenience caused by this closure.

To find an alternative playground during this work, please visit knowyourburb.com.au.

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The blue slide at Annie Wood Park is being replaced with a closed tube slide

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Friday November 15, marks the 150th birthday of one of our region’s oldest schools – Walkerston State School. The school community is excited to celebrate this significant event with the outside community.

Walkerston State School started as Alsatia Provisional School with 20 students, opening in November 1874, 12 years after Captain John Mackay settled at Greenmount.

Over time the school has grown, moving to its current site in 1880, with the original 1880 building still standing. Over time several new buildings have been established and the grounds now host a number of renovated classrooms, two playgrounds and a dedicated outdoor learning area.

This sesquicentennial has given the school the opportunity to shine a spotlight on the Walkerston community itself – who without, the school would not exist. The school has a proud history with multi-generations of families who have attended the school and boasts being the education centre of excellence for the 13th prime minister of Australia.
The school would like to invite all to their celebration on Friday 15th November. The official ceremony starts at 9.30am.

Contributed By Chantel Kay

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Walkerston State School celebrates 150 years with the community, tracing its roots back to 1874

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It has been a year since nurse Ailsa Millewski passed away peacefully in the Mater palliative care unit where she once worked, but the legacy of her care has not faded.
Ailsa joined Mater Private Hospital Mackay in 2010, working in the maternity team and coordinating the hospital’s Health Hearing Program. She made a positive impact on her patients and colleagues from the very beginning.
“People said that when Ailsa smiled, it wasn’t just a smile. She smiled with her whole face,” her husband Gary Millewski recalled.
“She loved working with the babies and young children.
“Whether these children and parents remember her or not, she had made a real difference.
“The ENT specialist who she worked closely with, Dr Luke Reid, said she was special for the patients – her presence alone would calm them.”
Ailsa worked across many areas of the hospital, but felt a special draw to the Palliative Care Unit on St Catherine’s ward. The unit has grown over the past 30 years to provide holistic support to patients experiencing lifelimiting illness. Ailsa soon became close friends with fellow Palliative Care Nurse, Miechelle Williams, who said she had ‘fallen into’ this demanding and specialised field of nursing.
“I graduated from university a few months after all of my friends, and one of the areas that became available to me straight away in Townsville was an introduction to oncology and palliative care nursing through Queensland Health,” Ms Williams said.
“That was the first time I actually experienced caring for a patient from their diagnosis all the way through to end of life.
“I was still relatively new to Mackay when I met Ailsa. From the get go, I just thought, ‘This is an extremely lovely person.’ You knew if she was on shift with you, it wouldn’t feel like work.”
Miechelle and Ailsa grew closer when Ailsa was part of the nursing team who cared for Miechelle’s husband Warren when he was in Palliative Care Unit. Warren passed in 2018.
“It was only two and a half years from the time of my husband’s diagnosis to his passing,” Miechelle said.
“In that time, everything about my kids’ lives was disrupted – but once he was in Palliative Care here at Mater, Ailsa just brought that extra little bit of compassion.
“She was so nice, and so softly spoken, and my 12 and 14-year-olds at the time just connected with her on an extra level because of not only the care she was giving their dad, but how she was there for all of us.”
Last year roles were reversed when Ailsa was admitted as a patient in Mater’s Palliative Care Unit.
“Ailsa had fond memories working with Miechelle right up until she took ill – she first showed symptoms that something was wrong in 2021,” Gary said.
“She was always an amazing cook so the first I noticed something was wrong was one night when she was cooking a chicken stir-fry and she came out to me and said ‘Gary, I don’t know what I’m supposed to do.’
“It took until the end of the year to work out that Ailsa had developed a tumour in her adrenal glands which we had removed in Townsville – but a biopsy and PET scan revealed it was already a stage 3 carcinoma and had spread to her spine.
“She opted not to have chemo and wanted to pass away at home.
“I cared for her at home, bought all the equipment, but didn’t want to be the one to tell her that it was getting too much for me.
“She could see though. I just couldn’t do that last bit – our GP had been doing home visits and we went into him one day. He visited her and she said to him, ‘I think I’ll have to go across the road to the Mater.’
“He said, ‘I guess you’ll want the penthouse,’ and she said, ‘Yes, room 116.’
“The first time I laid eyes on Ailsa was 12 September 1984. On 12 September 2023, she was admitted to Palliative Care.”
Miechelle cared for Ailsa throughout her admission.
“Caring for Ailsa at the end was difficult because this was a colleague I had worked with, but it was also such a beautiful experience to be able to support her and her family like she had done for me and my family previously,” Miechelle said.
“The night of her passing, Gary and their daughter were both there and it all just felt like it happened at the right time for everyone.”
“Miechelle didn’t have to say anything in those final moments, just her presence there with us was fantastic,” Gary said.
“Ailsa’s wish was that she didn’t want anyone else to be with her when she passed, only me – and it turned out that, at five to two in the morning, our daughters were dozing off to sleep, I was holding Ailsa’s hand, and I just said, ‘I think she’s taken her last breath.’
“She had - and it was just the two of us.”
Gary shared Miechelle’s appreciation for the staff, saying Ailsa was provided with the same care she had given to countless other patients over the years.
“The feeling whenever you are at the Mater is always different to other places. It is so personal and you never feel like a number; you know every person is there for you and nowhere more so than with the palliative care team,” he said.
“The important part, from my perspective, is to have that assurance and feeling that the people caring for Ailsa understood the situation and supported her just as much as they were there for me and my family.
“Ailsa had always said ‘Gaz, don’t be sad because dying is just as much a part of life as living.’
“She said it’s such a privilege to see a baby born, but also a privilege to be able to support a patient at the other end of their care too.”
Echoing Ailsa’s thoughts, Miechelle said she believes the care the team provides is just as much for loved ones as it is for patients.
“We had a cry with Ailsa’s family, but we also laughed too,” she said. “It’s a time where you do just have to take the good with the bad.
“I’ll always happily remember Ailsa and the impact she has had on my life will remain with me for a very long time.”

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Ailsa Millewski

Gary Millewski with his favourite photo of Ailsa, taken during a shift at Mater

Miechelle Williams and Gary Millewski. Photos supplied: Mater Private Hospital Mackay

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Last month on October 25th, the Mackay Hospital and Health Service acknowledged the outstanding contributions of their healthcare staff at the Let’s Celebrate Mackay HHS People Awards.
 
The gala event was held at the Ocean International and recognised the individuals and teams who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and innovation in their roles, embodying the core organisational values of collaboration, trust, respect and teamwork.
 
The Mackay HHS team extends their congratulations to the following award winners:
   • Clinical Excellence Award – Medical Imaging Team, Mackay Base Hospital
   • Non-Clinical Excellence – Tina Mansell, clinical director support officer, medical and critical care.
   • The Golden Boot Award – Kaleena Bradwell, operational officer, Sarina Hospital
   • Innovation & Productivity Award – Post Operative Discharge Support Service (PODSS)
   • Closing the Gap Award – Philip Kemp, cultural practice coordinator, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Unit
   • Volunteer of the Year Award – Jeffrey Timor (JT)
   • People’s Choice Award – Bowen District Home Care 
   • Chief Executive Values Award – Dean Rokic, operational officer, Mackay Base Hospital.
 
A representative from the team said “Thank you to all our skilled, compassionate and dedicated staff members for delivering vital health care to our communities across the Mackay HHS.”
 

CE Values Award Winner – Mackay Base Hospital operational officer Dean Rokic
 
WINNER 1 – Volunteer of the Year Award winner Jeffrey Timor, Non-Clinical Excellence Award winner Tina Mansell and Closing the Gap Award winner Philip Kemp.
 
WINNER 2 – Bowen District Home Care team won the People’s Choice Award
 
WINNER 3 – Post Operative Discharge Support Service team, from left, Sarah Johnston, Erin Sherry, Samantha Sanders and Chelsea Presley.
 
WINNER 4 – Golden Boot Award winner and Sarina Hospital operational officer Kalenna Bradwell
 
WINNER 5 – Mackay Base Hospital Medical Imaging Team won the Clinical Excellence Award
 
SOCIAL 1 – Attending the Let’s Celebrate Mackay HHS People Awards are Sharelle Liles, Tracy Falbo, Jennifer Lindsay, Jenny Adams and Sarah Schneider.
 
SOCIAL 2 – Mackay Hospital and Health Board members, from left, Dr Luke Lawton, Kerry Maley, chair Helen Darch, Andrea Ransom and Bill Cooper 
 
SOCIAL 4 – Mackay Base Hospital Pharmacy team members
 
SOCIAL 5 – Alice Cameron, Khannah Poppi, Lynda Marchitto and Natalie Williams were at the Mackay HHS staff awards.
 
SOCIAL 6 – Attending the Let’s Celebrate Mackay HHS People Awards were Deb Anderson, Emma Hess, Kylie Ludwick and Kylie Clark,
 
SOCIAL 7 – Marion Nelis, James William Jenkins and Deb McConnell at the Mackay HHS staff awards held at the Ocean International on Friday 25 October. Photos supplied

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Eleven months after a debilitating stroke changed her life, Susan Kynaston is still
working hard to “retrain her brain”.

Susan suffered a number of small brain bleeds in December last year and was flown
to Townsville Hospital where she was operated on and spent four days in ICU. She
spent four months in hospital in total including Christmas, her 71st birthday and her
wedding anniversary.

The stroke left her bed-ridden and unable to eat or drink – she spent months having to
be fed via a tube both in hospital and at home.

Recovering from a stroke was a long and frustrating experience with many difficulties
along the way. But Susan was dedicated and willing to work towards improvement.

She set herself small goals including getting to church on Easter Sunday.

“I always led a very active life so sitting in a wheelchair for the rest of it just wasn’t an
option for me,” she said.

“I’ll never be the same and I have to embrace that and be realistic moving forward.

“Life has changed and we have to adapt – but you’ve got to do what you’ve got to do.”

Susan shared her stroke rehab journey to highlight the vital and life-
changing work of Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) staff for Allied Health
Professionals Day last month.

Susan left hospital on April 8. Beside her every step of the way on her health journey,
both in and out of hospital, has been her devoted husband, Allen.

Susan’s ongoing rehabilitation program started when she was in hospital and included
different therapies designed to help her relearn both physical and cognitive skills. This
included learning to walk again.

Her rehab was centred around repetitive actions and tasks and creating new
communication pathways in her brain.

Susan describes Mackay Base Hospital’s Community Health and Therapy Services
(CHATS), a multidisciplinary team of allied health and nursing professions, as “warm,
compassionate and caring” and the reason she has regained so much dignity and
independence.

Physiotherapists helped improve the movement and functioning of her body; occupational therapists worked to re-wire her brain and improve daily function as well as make some home safety modifications; speech pathologists enabled her to finally transition from being tube bed to re-introducing texture in food and drinks and assisted with swallowing exercises; the dietetics team provided nutrition supplements and advice on nutrient absorption.

CHATS senior occupational therapist Jemma Ryan said Susan had consistently demonstrated her motivation, positivity and determination throughout the highs an lows of her stroke rehab journey in the last six months.

“Susan started in the Transition Care Program (TCP) with CHATS upon discharge
from hospital and has achieved many goals such as independently applying her own
make-up,” she said.

“One of Susan’s big occupational therapy goals was to return to playing the piano -
this has had great meaning and purpose throughout her life.

“With hard work and persistence, she is now able to play the piano and is close to
playing an entire favourite song of hers.”

CHATS physiotherapist Darcy Bogaart said Susan’s major goals in hospital were
around building strength and they worked on sitting, standing, stepping and walking
for two to three hours a day. After she returned home, the goal was to get back to the
hobbies she enjoyed including church, shopping, singing and seeing shows at the
MECC.

“Since day one she has held this incredibly positive and optimistic mindset despite all
she has faced and her strong work ethic has been a major part of her recovery,” she said.

“She has never shied away from having big scary goals to work towards including her
dream of returning to volunteering at the hospital in the paediatric ward.”

Susan still attends both one-on-one and group therapy sessions every week, including
a falls and balance class.

“The staff are all so wonderful and I’ve had the absolute best care, both in the hospital
and here at CHATS – they even picked me up and brought me to my appointments for
the first 12 weeks after I went home,” she said.

“It’s been very hard work, sometimes we are visiting up to four times a week for
appointments, but just look at what we’ve been able to accomplish.

“I never thought I’d be back up on a treadmill and walking, so for me that’s a real
milestone.

“It’s been a long and trying journey but I have a lot of peace as I never would have
thought I’d have the gumption to get to where I am now after my stroke. It’s
miraculous.

“I’m proud of myself and it shows anything is possible when you have the right
support. My life really is blessed.”

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Mackay woman Susan Kynaston pictured with CHATS physiotherapist Darcy
Bogaart and allied health assistant Peter Treloar. Photo supplied

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For many people, recovering from COVID-19 isn’t always straightforward. While most recover fully after a few weeks, some continue to experience symptoms long after their initial illness. This condition, known as Long COVID, can affect everyday life, making it hard to work, socialise, and manage day-to-day activities.

Long COVID includes a range of symptoms that can last for weeks or even months. These can include extreme tiredness, shortness of breath, difficulty concentrating (often called “brain fog”), joint pain, and sometimes mental health struggles like anxiety or low mood. These lingering effects can be frustrating, and for some, even limiting.

Studies suggest that one in ten people who have had COVID-19 may experience these long-lasting symptoms. Those at higher risk include people with other health conditions, older adults, and those who had severe symptoms during their COVID-19 illness. However, Long COVID can be unpredictable, and it can affect anyone, regardless of their age or health before the illness.

Managing Long COVID often requires patience and support. While there’s no specific cure yet, healthcare providers can help manage symptoms with a personalised plan that might include gentle physical activities, breathing exercises, and support for mental health. It’s usually recommended to take things slowly, listen to your body, and gradually get back into daily activities.

If you or someone you know is dealing with Long COVID symptoms, reaching out to a healthcare provider is important. They can suggest ways to ease symptoms and may refer you to other specialists if needed. For people in rural or remote areas, phone and online consultations can make it easier to access care without having to travel.

Recovery from Long COVID can take time, but with the right support, many people find relief and can slowly return to their routines. Staying connected with your healthcare team and taking care of yourself are key steps in managing this condition and feeling better over time. 

Yours in Good Health 
Dr Mags 

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Last Saturday, the 2024 Annual Mackay Women’s High Tea, hosted by the Zonta Club of Mackay, was held at Ocean International, bringing together a diverse group of attendees for a morning of connection and engagement. The venue was elegantly decorated, providing a welcoming environment for all.
Guests enjoyed an interactive session led by speakers from Rhythm Business, who incorporated song, drumming, and music-making into their presentation. This engaging approach encouraged participation and fostered a sense of community among attendees.
The event also served a charitable purpose, with a significant amount of donations collected for the Salvation Army, showcasing the community's commitment to supporting those in need.
The morning was marked by laughter, meaningful connections, and inspiration, making the 2024 Annual Mackay Women’s High Tea a successful gathering that celebrated the strength and unity of Mackay women.

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Zonta Club of Mackay

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After competing in her very first pageant, eight-year-old Cindy proudly took home the title of Miss Photogenic and placed in the Top 5, ultimately winning the Miss Ruby International crown. This remarkable achievement of ranking second among five levels: Amethyst, Sapphire, Emerald, Ruby, and Diamond, has brought immense joy to Cindy and her supporters.

Cindy’s mother, Monique, expressed her pride, saying, “Cindy was really happy with her crowns and sashes.”

This success is just the beginning for Cindy, whose passion for modelling has opened doors to new and exciting opportunities. She is thrilled to announce her role as a brand ambassador for Harper Bee, a community loved Mackay family business offering “all things teens and tweens.”

Cindy was introduced to modelling last year under the supportive guidance of her teacher assistant, Miss Alexis, who also participated in the Fashion vs Beauty event, creating a special bond between them. In a lovely twist of fate, Miss Alexis’ mother, Lisa, is the owner of Harper Bee.

When Monique spotted a flyer on Instagram about becoming a Harper Bee ambassador, she applied for Cindy and Lisa graciously welcomed her into the Harper Bee family. Through this partnership, Cindy feels inspired to use her platform to support causes that are close to her heart.

Just six months ago, Cindy began fundraising for the #Love Your Ovaries Campaign, motivated by her mother’s own health scare and in memory of her late Grandad Colin, a war veteran who sadly lost his battle with cancer.

Recently, Cindy’s beloved Lola passed away on October 16 after her own courageous fight with cancer. While Cindy carries the weight of this loss in her heart, she can hopefully find strength in honouring Lola’s memory through her fundraising efforts and wonderful achievements.

With her natural talent and a heart full of compassion, Cindy aspires to make a positive impact wherever she goes.

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Cindy with her Lola, who passed away on October 16, 2024. Photos supplied

Alexis Versaci and Cindy at the Miss Diamond International pageant

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Over time, the things we want and need in a home can change. This is when you ask yourself ‘do I renovate and create exactly what I need?’ or ‘do I relocate and find something new?’. Here’s some tips to help you consider what may be best for you.
 
Choosing to renovate
Renovating allows you to customise your plans and create a home that is exactly how you want it to be. An office space, another bathroom, a second living area. Although a renovation may cost you money upfront, any upgrades or additions can add value to your property in the long term.
 
However, renovation budgets can blow out. The cost of building materials can rise, and delays can push out completion dates. There's also the risk of overcapitalising your home. This happens when the renovation costs more than the value you’ve added.
 
Choosing the relocate
If you choose to relocate, you can look for a property that meets your needs, rather than having to work with a property that’s no longer suitable. You’ll have more freedom over location, and you might be able to leverage equity in your current home to buy a property with greater growth potential.
 
Depending on where you want to live, relocating may come with significant costs. This is especially true if you need to sell your existing home before you buy. Real estate agent fees, stamp duty, moving and solicitor/conveyancing costs can quickly mount up.
 
So, which is best?
If your current location isn’t right for you, that’s a significant reason to relocate. But, if you’re happy where you are and you think a renovation could transform your home into what you need, staying put might be the better option for you.
 
Your friendly team at Community Bank Sarina are here for you. For more information on funding options when renovating or relocating, call 4943 2634 or visit us in branch at 37 Broad Street, Sarina.
 
Bendigo Bank – the better big bank.

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If you’re on the hunt for a new addition to your wardrobe, look no further than the North Mackay Kidney Support Network (KSN) Inc Community Op Shop on Evans Avenue.

This week, from 8-15th of November, they’re offering readers a special offer of 50% off all clothing!

Here’s the best part… every dollar spent at KSN’s Op Shop directly supports individuals living with kidney disease in the community, with proceeds going towards essential services, particularly door-to-door transport for patients attending dialysis or medical appointments.

Operations Manager Paula O'Neill emphasises the importance of this initiative.

“All of the revenue from the op shop goes towards supporting kidney patients in the Mackay region, particularly providing transport to and from the hospital,” she said.

The Kidney Support Network not only aids individuals with kidney disease but also extends support to their families and carers. All KSN shops are staffed entirely by dedicated volunteers, ensuring that every dollar spent is reinvested into vital services for those affected by kidney disease.

Their transport service is crucial for patients requiring dialysis treatment up to three times a week, however, this initiative is not government funded and relies solely on donations, volunteering and community support. This means that your purchases play a critical role in sustaining these indispensable services.

“We’re definitely always looking for volunteers to work in our Op Shops to help support our service,” says Paula.

If you’re interested in making a difference and have some spare time, consider stopping by the Evans Avenue Op Shop to discuss volunteering opportunities with the team. From sorting donations to assisting customers, every bit of help contributes significantly to supporting patients and advancing KSN’s mission.

By shopping at the KSN Community Op Shop, you’re not just grabbing a bargain, you’re also funding life-saving services for those navigating the challenges of kidney disease.

Their Op Shop offers a diverse selection of items and sizes, from trendy tops and versatile trousers to cozy winter wear. With new items arriving frequently, there’s always something fresh and exciting on the racks, making it the perfect opportunity to update your wardrobe while supporting a worthy cause.

In addition to the Evans Avenue location, KSN operates four Op Shops throughout the region, including sites in the Mackay city centre, Sarina and Mirani.

As you shop, Paula also encourages everyone to consider their eligibility to become a donor, noting that it could be the “gift of life to someone.”

Stay informed about great weekly items and promotions on clothing and other goodies by following KSN on their Facebook page.

Find something fabulous and be part of something extraordinary!

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Get in quick as the 50% off sale ends November 15th! Photos supplied

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The Pioneer Swimming Club is excited to announce their new club captains for the 2024/25 season, Zahli Herring and Stevie Brand.

A representative from swimming club said, “The role of captain is given to those athletes whom the rest of the team respect and trust to lead them in the right direction - Zahli and Stevie nominated for these roles, and agreed to lead and inspire their junior swimmers for the season.”

Members from the club also expressed their gratitude to WHF Constructions - Building Contractors Australia for sponsoring the captains this season. .

At the Pioneer Swim Centre itself, pride is taken in offering a variety of programs that cater to the diverse needs of the community. The facility boasts an 8-lane, 50m swimming pool surrounded by ample lawn space, making it the perfect spot for families to swim and relax. Programs include swimming and water safety lessons, Junior Squads, birthday party packages, and aqua aerobics, all designed to ensure everyone can enjoy a positive aquatic experience.

Centre Hours
Monday - Friday: 5:30 am - 7:00 pm
Saturday - Sunday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Public Holidays: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Pioneer Swimming Club announced Zahli Herring and Stevie Brand as club captains for the 2024/25 season. Photo credit: Pioneer Swimming Club (Facebook)

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By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay
This being our first column post-election, on behalf of CANEGROWERS Mackay I would like to congratulate the successful candidates across the region. We look forward to continuing to work with them as the new term of a new government for Queensland takes office and implements policy and programs.
CANEGROWERS, throughout the election was clear about the needs of the industry to continue to raise productivity, sustainability in an effort to continue to reach and supply our diverse markets. We hope that the Crisafulli Government has taken these matters on board.
We are confident that we can work with our local members to achieve good outcomes on local issues.
The top issue for the Mackay area is cost of electricity, which is preventing irrigators making use of their water allocations and challenging the viability of irrigation schemes.
We will continue to press the case for a food and fibre tariff for electricity, but in Mackay’s case, there is another option. We have a mill that is supplying electricity to the national grid. It would require only a change to legislation to allow Mackay Sugar to establish a virtual microgrid with it supplying its own electricity to its growers as its customers, and without any extra infrastructure.
Irrigation has been proven through projects like the CANEGROWERS Mackay Irrigation Project to deliver benefits not only for productivity, but for reducing nutrient runoff by increasing the cane plants Nitrogen Use Efficiency (NUE). It makes sense to increase the industry’s capacity to affordably irrigate.
Which leads to Smartcane BMP. It is vital that the State Government continue to support the funding for this and to increase incentives for growers to make the practice change that has been proven across (almost) a decade of the best management practice program.
Strong research and development remains a critical area for maintaining the industry, and helping build productivity, sustainability and biosecurity. Funding to continue to improve research into practices and products remains an important way government can keep the sugar cane industry strong. However, it is a fallacy if we think growers can implement change on their own. Previous Federal and State Governments have spent massive amounts of money on water quality, however change is slower than it should be. Actual change and results happen at farm level, leaving us asking the question: why isn’t more of the funding targeted at changes on the farm.
Feral pigs remain one of the region’s major pest species problems, across all agriculture. Helicopter shoots are an effective way to deal with the ever-increasing population. However, these are costly. Farmers are working to control the pest on their land, but the reality is that pigs are using unmanaged state and federal land as a breeding ground. Governments are as big a landholder as it gets, so realistically there needs to be far greater investment by state and Federal Government in control measures, including subsidising community pest control projects like helicopter shoots.
We also encourage our new State Government to continue to support the work that has been done in market diversification by its predecessor and the sugarcane industry. This is work across the development of a sustainable aviation fuel manufacturing sector that sources sugarcane waste as a feedstock, and alternate proteins production that uses sugar as a base. Moreover, we would like to see government policy and practical support for mill co-generation plants to take an increasing role in the State’s energy generation mix. The capacity has been proven at Mackay Sugar’s Racecourse Mill, delivering a third of Mackay’s energy demand.
We also need to see clear support that across any value-add to sugarcane, whether molasses, ethanol, SAFs, or cogenerated electricity, that there is a clear benefit to the feedstock producers: the cane growers. There must be a value proposition across the paddock to mill supply chain.

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Feral pigs remain a serious pest in this region, posing threats across biosecurity, environment and productivity. Photo credit: Reef Catchments

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This week
Season to date
Cane crushed
62,004
942,058
Average bin weight
3.93
3.91
CCS
14.73
14.06
Cane variety performance for region
Variety
%
CCS
Variety
%
CCS
Q183
20.8
15.04
Q253
24.2
13.91
Q240
13.3
15.15
SRA9
10.0
15.04
Q208
13.3
15.57
SP80
5.9
14.63
KQ228
2.6
14.34
Q138
4.4
14.44
Comments:
Plane Creek Mill processed just over 62,000 tonnes of cane for the week, bringing the season total to just over 940,000 tonnes.
Average CCS dropped by 0.14 of a unit over the previous week, closing out at 14.73 units. The year-to-date average is now sitting at 14.06 units.
Standover cane made up approximately four per cent of the week’s cane supply.
The highest CCS honour for the week was a rake of Q183 plant cane from the Dawlish productivity area with a CCS of 17.40 units.
Road users are urged to use their train brain as they travel in and around our sugar milling districts.
Approach all cane rail crossings with caution and always give way to cane trains.
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Lindsay Wheeler
Cane Supply Manager
Plane Creek Region

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The Mackay Farmers' Market is excited to announce the expansion of its offerings to include a wider range of artisan products, with a focus on items crafted using local, Queensland, or Australian materials. From handmade massage oils to expertly blended spices and freeze-dried produce, the market aims to become a vibrant hub that highlights the creativity and quality of regional artisans.
This expansion is a fantastic opportunity for small businesses and local makers to showcase their products to the community. The initiative is part of the market’s ongoing commitment to supporting local producers and providing customers with unique, high-quality items that reflect the diversity and richness of our region. Whether you're passionate about sustainability, locally-sourced goods, or just love discovering new artisanal creations, the market promises an exciting variety of offerings.
If you're an artisan or know someone who might be interested, the market is now accepting applications for new stallholders. All applications will be reviewed by the committee, and those who meet the criteria will have the chance to join this growing community of passionate producers.
The market runs every Wednesday morning from 6:30am to 10:30am at Bluewater Quay. For stall applications, email: mackayfarmersmarket21@gmail.com.

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A time to celebrate and a time for action! November is National Rural Health Month and it’s time to spotlight rural communities and health care.
 
Throughout November, the National Rural Health Alliance is excited to share rural healthcare stories and highlight the success stories of rural healthcare champions. We will also draw attention to the myriad of issues faced by rural, regional and remote communities in Australia when trying to access health care.  
 
“We all know that Australia’s rural, regional and remote communities experience poorer health outcomes compared to their urban counterparts,” said the Alliance Chief Executive Susi Tegen.
 
“National Rural Health Month highlights health sector stakeholders who are working towards tangible and sustainable healthcare solutions for rural Australians.”
 
“On average, a person living in rural Australia receives $848 less in healthcare funding each year, which equates to a $6.55 billion underspend across the country. This is despite rural industries generating about 80 per cent of Australia’s exports and providing about 90 per cent of the fresh food in our markets,” she said.
 
Rural people experience a triple health disadvantage: poorer circumstances in terms of social determinants of health, a lack of service availability, and higher costs of access and delivery, all resulting in poor health outcomes.
 
“Rural communities are amazingly resilient and innovative in their solutions to overcome healthcare challenges. As such, National Rural Health Month is also a time to reflect on their achievements that help bring positive changes.
 
Keep your eye on the Alliance’s social media accounts and the hashtag #NationalRuralHealthMonth and #NRHM24 throughout November for day-to-day stories of rural Australians and their healthcare journeys.

The National Rural Health Alliance (the Alliance) comprises 53 national organisations committed to improving the health and wellbeing of the over 7 million people in rural and remote Australia. Our diverse membership includes representation from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health sector, health professional organisations, health service providers, health educators and students.

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National Rural Health Alliance Chief Executive Susi Tegen

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Prepare to have some spooky fun as you enter the majestic haunted house this Saturday, November 9, located at 67 Peak Downs Highway, Ooralea.

If clowns give you nightmares, Jazz Party Hire, MAD Animal Addiction and Let’s Just Face It Entertainment have got you covered, with jumping castles, a petting-zoo and face painting for the whole family…as well as fairy floss, slushies and popcorn to satisfy your sweet tooth!

A sensory-friendly break with no lights or animatronics will take place from 5:30pm to 6pm for those who require a quiet space and all money raised at the event will go to a charitable cause.

This year, event organiser Rebecca Ryan chose Broken Ballerina as the fundraiser’s recipient.

“As a family, we always choose local charities,” said Rebecca, “Last year, we raised nearly $3,000 for Mackay Pet Rescue, and this year I just hope we’re able to help Broken Ballerina.”

Reflecting on the rising demand for support, she added, “Over the past year, I’ve seen a significant increase in people needing help from Broken Ballerina.”

Jules Thompson, founder of Broken Ballerina Inc said that “Funding like this enables us to continue our mission to help survivors of domestic violence in our community.

“We save lives and we change lives… and we do it all with the help from community donations, sponsorships, and fundraising events like this.”

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Get ready for a spooky family adventure this Saturday at the haunted house, 67 Peak Downs Highway, Ooralea. Image supplied

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CQUniversity’s Safety Circus production is set to bring its impactful musical theatre performance Safety Circus back to the classrooms of Mackay primary schools from 28 October – 15 November.
The iconic show will continue to share essential safety skills to Year 2 students with engaging storytelling, fun, and unforgettable characters. 
This tour is made possible by a long-standing partnership between CQUniversity’s Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music (CQCM) and the Mackay Crime Prevention Unit of the Queensland Police Service, with funding from the Daniel Morcombe Foundation and the Friends of the Conservatorium Inc.
The 2024 production features eight CQU Bachelor of Theatre students, directed by CQU graduate Hannah Herwin and CQCM Director Professor Judith Brown AM as producer.
“This production makes safety relatable for children, and our cast’s vibrant performances really connect with the young audience,” Prof Brown said. 
“Through an engaging storyline and memorable songs, Safety Circus teaches kids to recognise, react, and report unsafe situations – core principles of the Daniel Morcombe Foundation’s Child Safety Initiative.”
Safety Circus first premiered in 2013 and has since become an impactful, research-backed program in the Mackay region, reaching thousands of children.
 “We’re proud to support the community with an outreach program that’s fun, effective, and timely," Prof Brown said. 
"Safety Circus doesn’t just entertain – it equips children with safety skills they’ll use for life.”

By Tiahna Fiddling, CQUniversity

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Safety Circus cast in Day for Daniel shirts
Students at Walkerston State School and Eton State School enjoying the Safety Circus performance
The Safety Circus comes to town at Alligator Creek State School. Photo source: Safety Circus (Facebook)

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With The Mackay Woodturners

Get ready to deck the halls and spread some holiday cheer at the Mackay Woodturners Craft Expo, taking place at Snow Wright Court, Beaconsfield, on the weekend of November 16th and 17th from 9am to 3pm.

This festive event is a wonderful opportunity to discover unique, handcrafted treasures that make perfect gifts for everyone on your holiday shopping list…especially the little ones. You’ll find everything from quirky tables and intricate pots to beautifully crafted boats and whimsical toys. Explore a variety of intricately designed clocks that are both functional and artistic, alongside beautifully crafted ornaments and figurines.

Step into a summer wonderland of creativity where local artisans will showcase their stunning woodwork through woodturning, pyrography, intarsia, scroll sawing and carving, resulting in beautiful decorations and one-of-a-kind gifts. Among the intricate designs are a charming wooden Christmas tree and a mini wine rack crafted by talented Scroll Saw artist Rose Ware. These delightful pieces add a touch of elegance to any home and are sure to become cherished keepsakes for years to come.

The Mackay Woodturners Craft Expo is all about celebration, bringing together the community to share in the joy of the season. With a range of unique items available, you'll find something special for everyone, from handcrafted toys that spark imagination to exquisite ornaments that brighten your holiday décor. This is the perfect opportunity to shop locally and support talented artisans who pour their heart and soul into their creations.

Come along for a weekend filled with festive spirit, creativity and the joy of giving. Whether you’re searching for that perfect gift or looking to add a personal touch to your holiday celebrations, the Mackay Woodturners Craft Expo promises something for everyone. Mark your calendars and don’t miss out on this chance to create lasting memories while finding unique treasures that embody the true spirit of Christmas!

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Check out the Mackay Woodturners Christmas Expo and give the perfect gift to your friends and family this year. Photos supplied

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This is a question I ask my kids each year, in the hope that I can get an early mark to all the festive fun here in the north.

Now the question remains, is that OK?

I’ve got two kids and they both have differing views on this. My son is with me, the earlier the better. My daughter however is a little different. She has always given me a timeline of December 1 and not before. No challenges. No arguments. That is her rule, and she will not let me change it.

On my travels over the last two months, yes two, I have seen a lot of Christmas paraphernalia already on the store shelves. I am talking about the beginning of September where I’ve seen lots of Santas helpers gracing the shelves in the hopes that people like me will take them home and start to decorate to be ready for December 25.

Some say that even September for having festive materials for sale is way too early, let alone October, but you know what, each to their own. Just because it’s on sale, doesn’t mean you have to buy it.

I’ll let you in on a little secret. Each year my kids and I get a couple of new decorations to continue our Christmas tradition of making the house look great. We get a couple of new pieces like tree ornaments and wall hangings each year and we’ve been doing this for years. Most times we also get something cool for my daughter’s bedroom so she can get into the spirit too. My son, however, couldn’t care less so that’s easier and cheaper on my hip pocket.

If you’ve got something similar at your place let me know. Decorations or even modifications to the house to get it ready for the festive season? There are many people who have been working all year to get their homes ready for the season, and some who never stop.

Remember we will be heading out in December for a few nights to check out the light displays around Mackay, the Pioneer Valley and Sarina. If you have a place that’s putting lights up, let us know where and what time they will be on. We will have the annual map on our website to make it easy when you’re driving around.

Oh yes, we can’t forget when we’re talking Christmas, our annual 4MK Carols in the Gardens is on Saturday December 7 at the Meadowlands Amphitheatre. Santa will be there, Mackay’s big band with the best festive tunes and a lot of fun with the Grinch and family fun, food, dancing and more.

Put it in the diary and get ready to get festive.

You can join Rob Kidd from 5am weekday mornings on 4MK 1026 AM in Mackay and Proserpine, 91.5FM in Airlie Beach or just ask your smart speaker to play 4MK on iHeartRadio!

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By Amanda Wright

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In a historic swing, the Liberal National Party (LNP) has won the seat of Mackay, a long-held Labor stronghold, with former police officer Nigel Dalton capturing the seat through a grassroots campaign focused on tackling youth crime and supporting community safety. Dalton expressed gratitude, saying, “The community chose change, and I’m here to deliver it.”
Amanda Camm retained her seat in Whitsunday, celebrating the strengthened LNP presence in the region, which she believes will amplify regional voices in parliament. “We’re entering government with a clear mandate for regional Queensland,” she said.
Dalton expressed pride in the diversity of the newly elected LNP team across Queensland, describing them as “community champions” representing various professions, including police officers, electricians, and teachers—all dedicated to standing up for the needs and future of the state’s regions.
Meanwhile, at the time this publication went to print, the contest in Mirani remains tight between the LNP’s Glen Kelly and incumbent Stephen Andrew of the Katter Party, demonstrating the competitiveness of this election year and the community’s desire for change.

A change in swing across regional Queensland has marked a historic LNP landslide, with the LNP winning the local seats of Mackay and Whitsunday, while Mirani is a close contest. Photo supplied

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LNP Claims Victory in Queensland State Election: A Shift in Power for Regional Seats

In a decisive turn of events, the Liberal National Party (LNP) has claimed victory in the Queensland state election, securing local seats in Mackay, Whitsunday, and Burdekin, with the race in Mirani still too close to call as votes continue to be counted. The election results reflect a clear mandate from regional Queenslanders prioritising law and order, amid growing dissatisfaction with the previous government's handling of crime.
LNP leader David Crisafulli announced the party's victory late Saturday night, marking only the second instance since the merger of the Nationals and Liberals in 2008 that the LNP has formed government in Queensland. The results indicate a notable shift in political dynamics, particularly outside Brisbane, where the LNP secured 11 electorates in regional centres, needing just 12 for a majority. Several electorates experienced double-digit swings towards the LNP, highlighting a palpable desire for change among voters.
One of Labor's most significant losses was in Mackay, a seat it had held for over a century. Former police officer Nigel Dalton, who retired this year, claimed the electorate for the LNP with an impressive 17% swing. Dalton’s victory reflects a broader trend of police officers being elected to the LNP in regional Queensland, driven by a campaign focused on youth crime and public safety.
The LNP's gains extended to Townsville, where electrician Adam Baillie defeated former resources minister Scott Stewart. Other notable victories included LNP candidate Natalie Marr, who unseated Aaron Harper in Thuringowa.
Additionally, the LNP secured the coastal seat of Hervey Bay, where David Lee defeated Labor's Adrian Tantari. Crisafulli himself garnered over 70% of the vote in his blue-ribbon electorate of Broadwater, while former housing minister Meaghan Scanlon now faces a formidable challenge against LNP candidate Bianca Stone in the central Gold Coast seat of Gaven.

Dalton Wins Mackay, Camm Retains Whitsunday As Regional Queensland Rallies Behind The LNP
In a historic shift, former police officer Nigel Dalton has claimed the seat of Mackay for the Liberal National Party, ending over a century of Labor control in the electorate. Dalton’s win comes as Amanda Camm also retains her seat in Whitsunday, marking a significant victory for the LNP in North Queensland. The close contest in nearby Mirani, where LNP candidate Glen Kelly is challenging Stephen Andrew of the Katter Party, reflects the intensity of this election cycle and the drive for change in the region.
Dalton’s victory highlights his commitment to addressing pressing local issues, notably youth crime and victim support, which he emphasised throughout his grassroots campaign. He expressed deep gratitude for the community’s faith in his vision:
“I’m incredibly thankful to the people of Mackay for this opportunity. For a town with such a strong Labor history, it’s remarkable to see this shift. The community chose change, and I’m here to deliver it.”
Dalton, who retired from a long career in law enforcement earlier this year, said he’s ready to bring his expertise to his new role as MP.
“With my background as a police officer, I can handle all aspects of the job,” he noted. “But listening to people is something I’ve done all my life, and now I want to make sure their concerns translate into real change.”
He spoke passionately about the need for better victim support, saying, “Too often, victims of crime are overlooked. They need to be heard, supported—whether it’s through counselling or compensation.
“Victims often hold key insights, and their voices should help shape how we move forward.”
One of Dalton’s career passions has been promoting community-based safety initiatives, such as Neighbourhood Watch.
“Community is about looking after each other,” he said. “Checking in with neighbours, knowing who’s around—it’s these small steps that keep our streets safer.”
Dalton celebrated his victory modestly, reflecting his community-oriented style.
“All I wanted was a strong coffee,” he said, smiling. “A volunteer brought me a long black—it was the best coffee of my life. My daughter was visiting for the election, so it was wonderful to just slow down and spend time with family.”
Amanda Camm, who has held the seat of Whitsunday since 2020, expressed her excitement at having fellow LNP representation in nearby Mackay. Reflecting on her early years in office, Camm said, “Four years ago, I was the only LNP member elected locally, which felt daunting and isolating. Now, having Nigel here in Mackay and a close race in Mirani, the situation has completely changed. We’re entering government with a clear mandate and a united force for regional Queensland.”
Camm emphasised the importance of grassroots campaigning, crediting it with helping her team understand the issues that matter most to their constituents.
“Listening to real concerns in our communities has been essential. Those are the issues we’re taking to government,” she said.
“With this cohesion across our region, our voices will be stronger than ever.”
Looking forward, Camm said she’s focused on delivering much-needed infrastructure projects, including vital road improvements and a comprehensive review of local healthcare.
“Delivering on roading projects is a massive priority,” she stated.
“The Bruce Highway runs through all our electorates, and it’s critical to our communities. We need to make sure frontline workers are supported, and that healthcare planning is sustainable. Recent issues, like the temporary closure of the cardiac unit and the hospital’s helicopter landing debacle, are stark reminders that we need better foresight and planning in our health system.”
Camm believes the LNP is ready to govern and credits David Crisafulli’s leadership in setting a decisive tone.
“In just his first days as Premier, David has demonstrated a genuine concern for public services, acknowledging past missteps to ensure they aren’t repeated. That’s what gives people confidence that the LNP will move Queensland forward,” she said.
“We are ready, and we mean business.”
Dalton is excited by the diversity of the newly elected LNP representatives.
“It’s a unique group,” he said.
“We have people from all walks of life—police officers, electricians, teachers.
“These are community champions in their own right, and now they’re standing up for our regions and for Queensland.
“To my campaign team and volunteers, thank you does not seem to cover my appreciation to you.
“To the public of Mackay - I am honoured that you put your faith and trust in me to be your first ever LNP representative, and I ask you to come on this journey with me.
“Together we can ensure that our community is safe and that our community can thrive.
“I am so excited to be representing you.”

Nigel Dalton and Amanda Camm with Tegan Parnicott (centre) at the Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce B2B event on Tuesday October 29
Glen Kelly and Nigel Dalton with Senator Matt Canavan during campaigning
Nigel Dalton listening to locals during his campaign

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On election night, as results poured in and history was being made, some Queenslanders were glued to their screens, caught between the thrill of politics and the comfort of home.  I was trackside in Townsville at the velodrome, with one eye on my husband competing and the other trying to wrangle a very active toddler, all while refreshing my phone screen to watch the vote tally tick along.
Geoff from the Chamber of Commerce let it slip at the B2B coffee event on Tuesday that he was riveted to the election coverage, wine and cheese in hand.
The results in Mackay mark a monumental shift, as Nigel Dalton’s victory closes over a century of Labor representation. But Mackay isn’t alone—the wave of change was felt across Queensland, with voters signalling strong support for the Liberal National Party. Now, it’s the LNP’s time to shine, and many of us look forward to seeing the results of their campaign promises delivered in real action.
With federal elections on the horizon, Labor may well be feeling the pressure after witnessing the swing across Queensland. The coming months in politics promise to be just as engaging, and we’ll be here to follow every development closely.
I would like to extend my congratulations to all the candidates who poured their time, energy, and resources into this year’s state election campaigns. Running for office requires a major commitment, both personally and financially, and it’s a true testament to their passion for shaping the future of our communities.
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Amanda

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A leisurely outing to Bucasia turned into an unforgettable experience for a local couple last week when they found themselves stranded by a flat battery after enjoying the shoreline at Shoal Point.

After picking up some items they had ordered online, the pair planned a quiet moment by the sea before returning home. However, their plans were disrupted when their car refused to start.

The husband, suspecting a dead battery, began seeking help from passing drivers. Although several people stopped, no one had a jump starter on hand, leaving the couple uncertain of how they’d get home. Calling a friend was an option, but with the nearest friend an hour away, they felt they were in a challenging situation.

Determined to find a solution, the husband walked toward a nearby intersection, hoping for assistance. That’s when Calen stepped in to save the day. When he realised, he didn’t have his jump starter with him, Calen drove all the way home and returned within minutes, bringing the equipment needed to revive the couple’s car.

In minutes, their car was back up and running, and the grateful couple couldn’t thank Calen enough. His generosity and willingness to go the extra mile turned a potential ordeal into a moment of gratitude.

Reflecting on the incident, the couple shared their appreciation to a community Facebook page: “We were so relieved and grateful for his kindness. He didn't even hesitate to help us. We learned from here and we win a friend. We can't thank you enough Calen. God bless you more!”

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Fatal Collision With A Cow Ends The Life Of A 27-Year-Old Father-To-Be

Jofarn Tapim, a 27-year-old father-to-be from Sarina, sadly lost his life on the morning of October 27 following a collision between his motorcycle and a cow in Glenella.

Police responded to reports shortly before 2am of a motorcycle collision with a cow on Sugarshed Road near Glenella Connection Road in Glenella.  

He was rushed to Mackay Base Hospital in critical condition but sadly passed away shortly after.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the motorcycle was attempting to overtake another vehicle when it collided with the cow in the oncoming lane.  

The Forensic Crash Unit is currently looking into the details surrounding the incident.

Jofarn’s family have started a GoFundMe page to help with funeral service costs. A friend posted on the page saying that Jofarn had been riding home from a friend's place when the tragic accident occurred.

Earlier that day, members of the public had reported seeing unfenced livestock roaming the road and had posted to warn others on Facebook community pages. It has led to a debate on whether there needs to be more accountability placed on the owners of livestock who fail to keep animals sufficiently contained in a paddock.

46-Year-Old Motorcyclist Rear-Ended By Truck On Peak Downs Highway
 
A 46-year-old motorcyclist has lost his life following a collision with a truck on the Peak Downs Highway in Strathfield, just inland from Mackay, on October 28.  
 
The crash occurred around 8.30am, when a white side-tipping truck turning onto the highway rear-ended the motorcyclist.
 
Despite efforts from Emergency services, the motorcyclist was pronounced deceased at the scene.  
 
The truck driver, who was not physically injured, remained on site following the incident.
 
Police are appealing for anyone who has information or dashcam footage that can assist investigations, to contact police.
 
The Queensland Police Forensic Crash Unit has launched an investigation into the crash and is actively seeking information from the public.

Two Truck Drivers Killed In Bloomsbury Head-On Collision

On October 28, two truck drivers, aged 38 and 59, were killed when their cane trucks collided head-on on private property near the Bruce Highway in Bloomsbury. Both men died at the scene.

These tragic incidents have led to four lives lost over just three days in the Mackay region.

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Jofarn Tapim, a 27-year-old from Sarina, tragically lost his life on October 27 after his motorcycle collided with a cow in Glenella. Tapim and his partner, Phoebe, were expecting their first child. Photo supplied

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The Mackay Hospital Foundation’s recent Giving Day raised a remarkable $146,079, thanks to generous community support and the vital contributions of Matched Donors.
Held on Friday, the 12-hour fundraiser saw donations double in impact thanks to matched contributions from local supporters including Abbot Point Operations, Anglo American, Isaac Regional Council, the Mining and Energy Unions (Goonyella Riverside, Grosvenor, Moranbah North, and Peak Downs), Pembroke Olive Downs, and Whitsunday Regional Council.
Mackay Hospital Foundation General Manager, Kristi Algate, expressed her gratitude, noting the funds would make a meaningful difference across the Mackay, Isaac, and Whitsunday regions.
“Giving Day is one of our most successful fundraising avenues, allowing us to keep more people close to home for their medical care,” she said. "Thanks to the generosity of our community, we continue to fund essential medical equipment, projects, and training that benefit our hospitals and health services.”
The Foundation’s ambassadors this year were representatives from within Mackay Hospital and Health Service departments that have directly benefited from previous funding. Last year alone, the Foundation supported hospitals in the region with $558,734 worth of equipment, projects, and professional development.
The Gardian team played a crucial role in the success of Giving Day, dedicating their time and energy to manning the phones throughout the day. Staff reached out across the community, connecting with local supporters and encouraging pledges over the phone. Their efforts not only boosted donations but also helped rally community spirit, reinforcing how much local involvement means in supporting our hospitals.
Ms. Algate highlighted the commitment from the community and matched donors: “Every dollar truly counts toward creating a health service that serves our community well. With your support, we can continue to improve local care, reducing the need for patients to travel far from family networks.”
The success of this year’s Giving Day strengthens the Foundation's mission, ensuring local hospitals receive ongoing support to meet the healthcare needs of the Mackay, Isaac, and Whitsunday regions.

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Photo credit: Coffee and Hops

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Approximately 100 locals used their resilient voices on the streets of Mackay last Friday, in an attempt to present a battle cry for the long line of women and children who have been impacted by violence.

As the crowd cheered “What do we want, safe streets, when do we want it, now,” the sound of the drums echoed in the hearts of those present – led by Rhythm Business.

Held on the last Friday of October during Sexual Violence Awareness Month, this annual gathering is a reminder of not only the experiences, but also the hope and freedom that comes from speaking out and uplifting others in the community.

The march originated back in the 1970s in England, following a series of murders of women on the streets of Leeds. In response, women were advised to stay indoors at night for their safety. This prompted the start of the March, which soon gained traction worldwide.

This year, on October 25, the Zonta Club of Mackay, in partnership with The Neighbourhood Hub and the Domestic Violence Resource Centre, hosted the event at the Bluewater Quay.

Families, friends, and neighbours assembled at 6pm to march in hope of a future where every woman is able to walk freely, without fear, under the stars.

The event concluded with a warm community gathering and a free sausage sizzle, supplied from the Walkerston Rotary Club and The Services Union.

Fiona Koutlis, President of the Zonta Club of Mackay said, “Safe streets were relevant in the 1970’s for women. It is more relevant today…every man, woman and child has the right to be out in public spaces and be safe, and that is what the march brings to public attention.
 
“Zonta Club of Mackay was pleased with the community response to the march, approximately 100 people were in attendance, we’d love to build on that for next year.”

Next year’s march will be held on Friday 24th October

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locals gathered at the Blue Water Quay last Friday in a battle cry for change, in hopes of a violent-free future for women and children. Photo source: Zonta Club of Mackay Inc and The Neighbourhood Hub (Facebook)

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The calendar may have only just turned over to November, but Mackay Regional Council staff will begin decking the region’s streets with Christmas cheer this week.
From Saturday, November 2, Christmas decorations will start popping up at various locations across the region and the installations will continue each weekend until the end of November.

The long lead time is necessary to ensure the decorations are in place for the festive season and so that work can be done at times that won’t inconvenience the public.

This year, the Mackay City Centre is also set to feature a brand-new set of Christmas decorations.

The decorations will be installed mostly on weekends, with early morning work scheduled to minimise any public disruption. Motorists are urged to take extra care on the roads, as staff will be working near traffic during these times.

The installations are scheduled to take place on the following dates, weather permitting:
   • November 2 – Sarina tree, banners and pole units.
   • November 3 – Evans Avenue banners and pole units and Sarina tree.
   • November 9 – Calen tree.
   • November 10 – Mackay banners and pole units.
   • November 16 – Bluewater Quay tree and garland.
   • November 17 – City Centre banners and pole units and Old Bank balcony tree.
   • November 20-21 – City Centre banners and decorations.
   • November 23 – Walkerston tree, banners and pole units and Marian banners and pole units.
   • November 24 – Mirani tree, banners and pole units.

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Fitzgerald State School has captured a major accolade on the national stage, receiving an award for storytelling excellence and creativity in the performing arts at the 2024 National Wakakirri Story-Dance Festival.
Their performance, Salt meets Sand, stood out for its thoughtful portrayal of unity, culture, and respect, winning acclaim among 180 participating schools from across Australia. The Wakakirri Story-Dance Festival, Australia’s largest performing arts event for schools, embraces the ethos that “great stories inspire change,” encouraging students to share stories that embody their thoughts, ideas, and hopes for the future.
Wakakirri Festival Director Adam Loxley expressed his admiration for the students’ effort and creativity.
"The standard this year was exceptional, so Fitzgerald State School should be very proud of their award,” Mr Loxley said.
“This acknowledgment reflects the high quality and creativity that Fitzgerald State School brought to their participation in the Wakakirri festival.”
With a powerful theme, Salt meets Sand conveys the connection of two cultures uniting over their respect for land, sea, and sky, inviting audiences to celebrate diversity and shared spaces. It tells the story of forming a community where everyone finds belonging, emphasising both unity and respect.
Wakakirri Ambassador Samuel McKeown described it as “A performance that felt authentic in its storytelling, dancing, and costuming, beautifully presented to tell the heartfelt story of coming together.”
Sam Scott-Girgenti, Fitzgerald State School’s performance coordinator, celebrated the achievement.
“We are so excited to win a National Award! Fitzgerald has been participating in Wakakirri for over 20 years and it’s such a great experience for the students.
“We had the privilege of working and collaborating with Torres Strait Islander Cultural Advisor and Choreographer Patrick Thaiday (First Nations Coordinator, PCYC Queensland) and his family, who assisted in consultations with First Nations Traditional Land owners to present our story of belonging.”
The Wakakirri Story-Dance Festival is a national program that aims to foster student engagement and wellbeing through the performing arts. Through live performances in theaters nationwide, and even via Wakakirri Video for schools in more remote areas, schools across Australia bring their stories to life.
Wakakirri’s partners, including Greenfleet, Kids Helpline, Planet Ark, and Reconciliation Australia, support its mission to make meaningful connections through the arts.

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Fitzgerald State School students bring Salt Meets Sand to life, earning a National Wakakirri Award for their moving celebration of cultural unity. Photos supplied

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Oh Deere Farmstay, a family-run agricultural retreat owned by Dale and Karinda Anderson, stood out at the recent Mackay Isaac Tourism (MIT) Awards Gala, clinching multiple awards that reflect its popularity and dedication to agri-tourism.
The farmstay took home the Outstanding Contribution by an Individual award for Karinda, as well as two People’s Choice Awards for Favourite Accommodation Provider and Favourite Operator or Experience Provider. These wins highlight the deep connection Oh Deere has built with its guests and community.
Oh Deere Farmstay’s awards haul also included gold for Unique Accommodation and silver for Tour & Transport Operators, making it five wins in total at the MIT Tourism Awards.
For Karinda, who has worked tirelessly to share the importance of farming, this recognition feels especially rewarding.
“It’s a huge step forward from last year, where we came away with a silver. To take out a gold and two people’s choice awards is absolutely incredible,” she said.
Set on 400 acres of working cane fields, Oh Deere offers guests a unique blend of rustic charm and agricultural insight. Accommodation options range from grassy sites for tents and caravans to cozy, farm-style amenities like a communal kitchen and fire pit, creating what Karinda calls a “home away from home” for returning guests.
The Sugar Farm Tours are another major draw, offering visitors a real taste of farming life.
“We have endless stories that capture what it means to be cane farmers,” Karinda shared.
“It’s about our highs, our lows, and our life on the land. I love seeing the excitement in a child’s face when they experience the farm.”
The tour includes a visit to “The Love Shack,” a John Deere Museum filled with vintage memorabilia, a nod to the farm's namesake.
As Karinda explains, “Farming isn’t just about farming. It’s about helping others understand where their food comes from and the work that goes into it.
“My father-in-law used to say, ‘Until we run the cities out of food and water, they’ll never understand what it takes, because farmers will work to feed the nation.’”
With plans to expand community outreach, Karinda hopes to continue bridging the gap between urban and rural life.
“I’d love to work with others in agri-tourism. Our kids don’t know where sugar or milk comes from beyond the supermarket,” she said.
For Oh Deere, this year’s MIT wins celebrate that mission and the farm’s growing impact on the Mackay Isaac tourism landscape.

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The Oh Deere Farmstay team celebrates their five MIT Tourism Awards wins, including gold for Unique Accommodation and the People’s Choice Award for Favourite Experience Provider. Photo credit: Mackay Isaac Tourism

People of all ages enjoy the farm tour activities and serenity at Oh Deere

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This week
Season to date
Cane crushed
36,743
880,115
Average bin weight
3.91
3.90
CCS
14.87
14.01
Cane variety performance for region
Variety
%
CCS
Variety
%
CCS
Q183
19.6
14.86
Q253
23.3
13.92
Q240
20.5
15.05
SRA9
10.7
15.58
Q208
12.1
14.15
SP80
1.5
13.63
KQ228
1.6
13.70
Q138
5.7
15.14
Comments:
Plane Creek Mill processed just under 37,000 tonnes of cane for the week, bringing the season total to just over 880,000 tonnes.
Average CCS rose by 0.03 of a unit over the previous week, closing out at 14.87 units. The year-to-date average is now sitting at 14.01 units.
Standover cane made up approximately three per cent of the week’s cane supply.
The highest CCS honour for the week was a rake of Q183 plant cane from the Koumala productivity area with a CCS of 17.0 units.
Please remember to use your train brain and always give way to cane trains. A fully loaded cane train can take up to one kilometre to stop.
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Lindsay Wheeler
Cane Supply Manager
Plane Creek Region

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Central Queensland’s endangered koala population is facing a dire future if nothing is done to prevent the number of animals being killed by vehicles.

That’s according to CQUniversity and Griffith University koala researchers who have released findings from two separate studies focused on a stretch of the Peak Downs Highway, between Mackay and Nebo in Queensland.

Lead researcher CQUniversity’s Dr Rolf Schlagloth said Koala Research-CQ and its collaborators have analysed koala roadkill data spanning nearly a decade, and the outcomes aren’t good.

Over this 51km section of highway, 145 koalas were struck by vehicles in 2023 (to November 25), with 83 per cent of the koalas dying as a result. These koalas were otherwise in good health.

In comparison, 365 koalas in the entire South East Queensland region are sent into care due to vehicle collision each year. 

“There are horrendous numbers of koalas getting hit and killed by vehicles every year on this relatively short stretch of road, with no reduction in sight,” Dr Schlagloth said.

“We’ve found that because of the amount and the mostly uniform distribution of good quality habitat, koalas are unfortunately killed nearly anywhere along this highway.

“Driver visibility is also a contributing factor. We know that the better or greater the visibility a driver has, the less likely it is for a koala vehicle collision to occur.”

Separating koalas and vehicles is difficult on the existing highway, but researchers believe future avoidance of high-quality koala habitat for highway infrastructure, in addition to constructing or retrofitting protective or diversionary infrastructure – which has already been started by the managing authority in several locations – could help reduce roadkill.

However, initial attempts to separate traffic and wildlife via retrofitted bridges are yet to bring good news to researchers – and the koala population.

“We have monitored three bridges that had been retrofitted with short sections of wildlife exclusion/diversion fencing to encourage koalas (and other wildlife) to pass underneath the road rather than taking the risk of crossing the road proper,” Dr Schlagloth said.

“While rare usage of other, similar structures by koalas has been reported, unfortunately, despite monitoring these underpasses, we have not found any evidence of koalas having used them to get to the other side of the road, while we do have evidence of koalas having crossed the highway successfully and unsuccessfully near those underpasses.”

Researchers said there was evidence that wildlife exclusion fencing may be assisting in keeping koalas away from particular stretches of road (three study sites), but it did not facilitate koala crossings under the highway.

“Maybe koalas will use underpasses over time, or maybe more and longer fencing would be of benefit – further research here is paramount.

“Improving driver attention and their awareness of the potential for koalas to be on the road could also go a long way to reducing the deaths.

“This is most definitely not a sustainable situation for this endangered species.”
Dr Flavia Santamaria, a co-author of these studies stressed: “The Central Queensland koala population is also under threat from diseases like Chlamydia and retrovirus, and opportunities for specialist treatment for injured or sick koalas are not readily available in the region, making it even more important to reduce the number of koala vehicle collisions.”   

Griffith University researcher Dr Douglas Kerlin believed governments needed to step in to protect this koala population.

“Unfortunately, these koalas are not receiving enough protection from the Government. In Queensland, koalas are listed as ‘endangered’ under the Nature Conservation Act, but policies enacted by the State Government are currently focused on populations in South East Queensland, while koalas in places like Central Queensland are largely ignored.

“Similarly, much of the traffic along this highway is supplying mining activities in the Bowen Basin, but the Federal Government Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act approvals process has only focused on the direct impacts of industry on koalas, and has largely ignored the wider indirect impacts, such as increased traffic volumes on transport infrastructure corridors.”

Dr Schlagloth also commended the tireless efforts of former citizen scientist, now CQUnversity Honours student, Charley Geddes who dedicated her time to monitoring the stretch of road all hours of the day or night to pick up dead koalas.

“Our understanding of this koala population is down to her dedication … given the level of population attrition caused by the road, this could be a koala population of national significance, one we would know very little about if it wasn’t for her work.”  

The latest studies were funded by the Department of Transport and Main Roads, and researchers believe further funding needs to be allocated to conserving this koala population.

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By Sonia Ball (QCAR Central District Manager)

Up she goes and what a beauty it is! This week our QCAR signage finally arrived at the doorstep of R&T Pumps in Mackay.  
The QCAR Central District is located on the first floor of R&T Pumps at 8 Tennyson Street, and now even people passing by will see that – it’s colourful and inviting and clearly states who we are as an organisation, and what we do.  
QCAR Central District is a mobile operation travelling throughout the Proserpine, Plane Creek and Mackay districts, so make sure you call first if you’d like to drop in to the office for a meeting rather than on your farm.  
For Plane Creek region mill suppliers, we park up at the QCWA Hall at Koumala every second Wednesday, and soon will be ducking down to Carmila on every third Plane Creek Day.
Catching up with growers is our priority and we can meet anywhere in the district on any other day when this doesn’t suit.
On every alternate Wednesday we are in the Proserpine region, but again able to meet on any other day.
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Changing of the guard
While some of us are relatively new to QCAR, there are a couple of our team members who have been talking, negotiating and working with former Mackay Sugar CEO Jannik Oleyas for years.
On behalf of these members QCAR Central District Chairman Steve McKeering and I dropped in for an informal meeting with Mr Olejas to wish him well in his future pursuits with Nordzuker in Denmark.
As a token of thanks for his role in negotiating the MSL-QCAR CSPA, we engaged award-winning cartoonist Harry Bruce to draw a caricature of Jannik, which we presented at the meeting.
And now as a region we move into a new era with Mackay Sugar where Carl Morton is officially the CEO. The QCAR Central District Committee and I look forward to working closely with Carl going forward.
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Reef Catchments AGM
QCAR Central District attended the recent Reef Catchments AGM hosted by Chair Julie Boyd and CEO Katrina Dent.
There’s a couple of big items on the agenda for Reef Catchments this year with the celebration of their 21st birthday as an incorporated natural resource management organisation, and with this being Chair Julie’s final AGM and year leading the strategic direction of the organisation with the Reef Catchments Board of Directors.
But that’s not all. The Reef Catchments Annual Report is where you can find an overview of all the projects and activities carried out during the financial year 2023 to 2024. You’ll find it at www.reefcatchments.com.au

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The Resource Industry Network’s Professional Development Conference took place on October 23, offering participants valuable skills, knowledge, and insights to enhance their leadership journey. Attendees learned the significance of fostering a healthy workplace culture and motivating their teams for optimal performance.
The conference focused on cultivating a culture of learning through personal development. Participants benefited from new skills, ideas, and perspectives to support their professional growth. The event equipped teams with the insights needed to become strong, informed, and inspiring leaders while promoting a healthy workplace atmosphere.
Hosted by broadcasting personality Kat Davidson, this year’s event featured two of Australia's leading keynote speakers. Kate Munari and Ashleigh Paholek took to the stage, sharing their stories, practical experiences, and leadership lessons.
Kate inspired attendees with real and raw stories from her time in Afghanistan. She shared strategies for empowering teams, making decisions under pressure, and the importance of positive mentoring and accountability. Kate emphasised that great leadership truly begins and ends with the team.
Ashleigh explored the powerful connection between confidence and peak performance, breaking down how mastering strategic soft skills can enhance both personal and professional life. She highlighted how effective communication fosters better relationships and outcomes, and how cultivating a supportive mindset can transform the way individuals live and work.
Other notable speakers included Judy Porter, Rick D’Amato, Shannon Robert Gibbs, Maddy Avery, Maria Langford, Joe Bonanno, Deb Rae, and Richard Wainwright, who led engaging breakout sessions throughout the day.

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Attendees gather for the Resource Industry Network's Professional Development Conference, sharing insights and strategies for effective leadership and team collaboration. Photo credit: Resource Industry Network

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Queensland’s Moranbah North mines rescue team have been named overall winners at the 2024 Australian Underground Mines Rescue competition that was held at Chain Valley Colliery near Newcastle yesterday.
The annual event brings together the top mines rescue teams to demonstrate their expertise and commitment to safety in the mining industry.
Four teams from NSW, each having won their respective regional competitions, and four teams from Queensland mining teams (also decided by a series of competitions), competed for the 2024 title.
The MG3 Appin team (Southern Mines Rescue, NSW) were runners-up, followed by Centennial Coal’s Springvale team (Western Mines Rescue, NSW) who took out third place.
Moranbah North Mines Rescue team proved their resilience and dedication by securing their spot at the Australian nationals after a hard-fought qualification in the State Cup in September. Remarkably, they achieved this just a day before flying to Colombia to compete in an international competition, showcasing their skills among top global contenders. Returning home, they clinched the national title, and their impressive performance has now earned them an invitation to compete at the next international competition in Zambia.
Now in its 60th year, the competition features a series of challenging scenarios that replicate real life emergencies faced in mining operations in both underground and surface environments.
Teams were assessed on their technical skills, teamwork and communications as they navigated simulated incidents such as hazard awareness, underground search and rescue, first aid and firefighting.
The competition not only highlights the critical skills required for emergency response but also fosters camaraderie and teamwork among participants from across the two states.

Photos supplied: Anglo American

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The Resources Centre of Excellence (RCOE) Stage 2 featuring Future Industries Hub (FIH) has commenced construction with earthworks beginning in October.
The project is set to transition and support an emerging new economy minerals sector which will help secure jobs for the future and the local economy.
The RCOE has been working closely with metallurgical test work experts Core Resources and world leading research experts The University of Queensland Sustainable Minerals Institute on the design and operation of the processing plant which will be the key delivery for Stage 2 FIH project.
Local Mackay engineering firm, DGH Engineering has been engaged to support the electrical and mechanical engineering design work and will commence fabrication of bespoke FlexiLab componentry, providing tangible evidence of the economic value and job creation provided to the local economy.
Together, RCOE and DGH are progressing with detailed mechanical and engineering designs, including digital and autonomous controls.
Resources Centre of Excellence CEO Steven Boxall said they are extremely excited to see construction commence.
“Reaching this milestone has been the direct result of working collaboratively with key stakeholders through the management or support of various projects across the Greater Whitsunday region”, Steven Boxall said.
“RCOE Stage 2 which features the Future Industries Hub will aim to take our region to the world, showcasing innovation and collaboration across traditional and emerging sectors, and forging a path as a global leader on how to connect resources across our region and the world.”
Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said the expansion will bring new opportunities and growth to the region.
“Once completed, the Stage 2 Future Industries Hub will put Mackay at the forefront of design and innovation and enable the region to become a key player in Queensland’s new critical minerals sector,” said Mayor Williamson.
“It’s a major investment that will ensure Queensland has access to a skilled workforce to capture, incubate and grow the industries of the future,” he said.
Currently, an $11.97m project, there is potential should the project receive further funding which will extend its offering and capabilities through an expanded mineral processing plant, a common use 'Class A Laboratory” and four tenancies for innovative and industrial businesses to occupy, allowing continued growth in industry connections and partnerships; gaining greater exposure to agriculture, sugar and bio futures sectors; and leading technology-based initiatives.

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Earthworks underway at the Resources Centre of Excellence as Stage 2 construction begins, setting the foundation for Mackay’s Future Industries Hub. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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Anterior hip replacement has been an area of focus in my practice for several years.
Recognising the need for advanced training in this specialized technique, I pursued opportunities in leading centres across Europe and North America, complementing the foundational education available in Australia.
 
This procedure is technically demanding, requiring precision and a thorough understanding of patient anatomy. Research indicates that surgeons who successfully navigate the steep learning curve often see improved patient outcomes. While the learning curve is commonly associated with performing around 100 surgeries, the actual number can vary depending on individual factors and training quality. Through years of experience, I have worked to refine my approach to provide the highest standard of care.
 
I am committed to advancing the field through education and mentorship. I regularly work with both international and Australian orthopaedic surgeons, providing hands-on learning experiences to help them develop proficiency in anterior hip replacement. We also offer fellowship programs that allow surgeons to deepen their expertise through extended learning opportunities.
 
In collaboration with the University of the Sunshine Coast, I am involved in developing a graduate certificate in anterior hip replacement, scheduled to launch in February 2025. This course aims to equip surgeons with the necessary skills to perform this procedure effectively.
 
While hip replacement surgery is widely recognised as successful, it is important for patients to understand that all surgical procedures carry inherent risks. My goal is to ensure each patient receives care tailored to their specific needs and circumstances.
 
 

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In a world that constantly evolves, occupational therapy reminds us that everyone has the potential to thrive, no matter the challenges they face.

For Mackay HHS acute senior occupational therapist Alicia Eden, her role sometimes requires her to be a little “like MacGyver” and to get creative with solutions for her patients.

“Occupational therapists consider ‘occupation’ to be all of the everyday activities that people find meaningful and important; not just their jobs,” she said.

“This can be as simple as brushing your teeth or going to the toilet; from basic independent living to much broader goals including accessing the community and leisure activities like shopping or gardening.”

Occupational therapists optimised independence through a patient-centred approach based on what a patient wanted to achieve combined with their values and priorities.

“Illness, injury or disability can change a person’s ability to engage in their occupations and do them in their own environment – our goal is to help make all those things match up again and optimise their independence, however this looks very different for everyone,” Alicia said.

“You sometimes have to find a very creative solution as the same approach, intervention or piece of equipment is not going to work the same way for everyone and in their individual environment.

“That’s why the first step for us as OTs is to find out about the person; what they were doing before hospital and how well they were doing it. We then look at their current level of function and from there can help patients to identify their goals.

“Education is a big part of what we do so ultimately they are better equipped to support themselves.”

Alicia derives great satisfaction from her role, whether it’s a simple intervention or a long-term and complex solution which enables people to “not just live, but live in a way they find meaningful.

“It can be simple things – I had a patient with COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) who I organised equipment for so she could more easily look after herself; she thought this was fantastic as she hadn’t been able to shower herself for two weeks,” she said.

“Small things can be lifechanging; I’ve also been working with a teen with a brain injury and he just moved his fingers for the first time –  it’s amazing and he’s so excited with his progress.

“Every patient’s journey is different based on their age, their motivation and the reason they are in hospital.”

The Mackay HHS OT team consists of 45 clinicians who are compassionate, dynamic individuals offering patients a holistic approach to health care, addressing physical, emotional and social factors to promote overall wellbeing.

World Occupational Therapy Day was celebrated on 27 October.

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Alicia highlighted the vital role of occupational therapy in fostering independence and well-being. Photo source: Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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Skip intense stretch sessions and forget pushing past pain barriers – when it comes to maximising flexibility, ground-breaking new research from the University of South Australia shows that stretching takes as little as eight minutes per week to optimise progress.

The study found that holding a stretch for up to three minutes – or eight minutes accumulated over the course of a week – was the optimal amount of time required to maximise improvements in flexibility.

Importantly, the study found that stretching beyond three minutes per muscle within a single session (or eight minutes per muscle per week) returned no further meaningful benefit in flexibility. And that stretching to the point of discomfort or pain was entirely unnecessary, as it added no further benefit.

UniSA researcher Dr Lewis Ingram says this is the first study to identify optimal parameters for stretching.

“Static stretching - where you lengthen a muscle and hold this position for a predetermined amount of time - is the most common type of stretching and is considered a very safe and effective form of stretching,” Dr Ingram says.

“By systematically reviewing and meta-analysing data from 188 studies consisting of 8095 adults from 25 countries (representing six of the seven continents), we found that a single session of static stretching leads to a moderate increase in flexibility; and that longer-term static stretching training – regularly undertaken over a few weeks or more – leads to a larger increase in flexibility.

“These improvements occurred irrespective of the specific muscle group, the intensity of the stretch, the person’s sex, their health or training status, and the frequency of weekly stretching sessions or overall length of the intervention.

“But the surprising factor was that improvements in flexibility ‘maxed-out’ at three minutes per muscle per session, and at eight minutes per muscle per week.

“Specifically, in the case of the latter, it doesn’t seem to matter how often a week you spend stretching, so long as you accumulate eight minutes over the week.”

The researchers hope that the findings will provide simple and practical guidelines to help prescribe static stretching to improve flexibility.

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This Melbourne Cup Day, Goosies Sport & Recreation Club is ready to “giddy-up” with a tempting lunch buffet that promises to delight every guest while offering a stylish spot to enjoy the race-day excitement.

Kicking off at 11.30am on Tuesday, November 5, the spread boasts a variety that’s sure to please every palate, with selections ranging from savory mains and fresh, light options to indulgent desserts.

Start your meal with a well-stocked charcuterie table featuring a selection of flavourful salamis, artisan cheeses and creamy dips, paired with Melba toasts - an ideal way to sharpen your appetite. For the mains, guests can choose from savory options like mustard-crusted slow-roasted beef sirloin, honey-glazed baked ham and crispy Southern-style fried chicken. Seafood lovers won’t be disappointed, either, with lemon and caper-grilled salmon adding a refreshing twist to the line-up.

The buffet also offers an array of colourful, hearty vegetable sides, including roasted potatoes, sweet potato and pumpkin, alongside steamed seasonal vegetables. Fresh salads such as a classic garden mix, roasted pumpkin with feta, and a crunchy Wombok salad add balance to the table, with fresh bread rolls and butter rounding out the meal.

And for those craving something sweet, the dessert table won’t disappoint. Petite treats and fresh seasonal fruits await, with a rich chocolate fountain as the showstopper - perfect for dipping fruit and other delights.

With tickets priced at $45 for members and $55 for non-members, this buffet is a wonderful way to enjoy race day, at a great price, with great food, drinks and company. Book early at (07) 4942 3393 or email events@goosies.com.au to secure your table for this popular celebration.

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Fancy a stress-free Christmas lunch this year? Escape the stress of a traditional home-cooked Christmas lunch this year and indulge in a luxurious buffet at Ocean International, where the whole family can enjoy a festive feast without the hassle of cooking!

On Christmas Day, from 12pm to 2.30pm, Ocean International invites you to a seamless celebration where great food, good music and a welcoming atmosphere come together to create an unforgettable experience for you and your loved ones.
As you and your favourite people savour each exquisite dish, imagine the gentle sound of waves lapping against the shore and the cheerful melodies of holiday music filling the air, creating the perfect backdrop for your celebrations. The ambiance is warm and inviting, enhanced by beautifully set tables adorned with festive decorations, inviting laughter and joy to linger.
Ocean International prides itself on creating a dining experience that showcases the finest local produce and flavours. Guests can indulge in a remarkable variety of dishes, beginning with fresh local Hay Point prawns, South Australian Pacific oysters, and marinated green lip mussels. The menu continues to impress with poached Moreton Bay bugs and creamy garlic Ilbilbie prawns, perfectly complemented by handmade pasta.
For those with a penchant for exquisite seafood, the baked Tasmanian salmon fillets with champagne cream sauce and chili-glazed beer-battered cauliflower will delight the palate, alongside roasted seasonal vegetables drizzled with caramelised garlic butter. Meat enthusiasts will devour the 24-hour slow-cooked local beef brisket with a Merlot jus, roasted free-range chicken breast with ginger and cranberry glaze, and the ever-popular garlic and rosemary roasted pork loin with Murray salt crackling. The meal is further elevated by the inclusion of a Manuka honey glazed ham with seeded mustard, a festive classic.
To round out the culinary experience, guests will enjoy a thoughtfully curated selection of Australian cheeses accompanied by dried fruits and crisp-breads, alongside freshly baked bread and sliced smoked and cured meats with marinated vegetables. The cherry on top awaits in the dessert section, featuring an exquisite handmade patisserie selection, created by Ocean International’s talented pastry chefs using fresh tropical produce. This includes a variety of cakes, slices and tarts, ensuring a delightful conclusion to your festive feast.
Limited tickets are still available, with prepayment required to confirm your reservation.

Prices are set at $195 for adults, $95 for children under 12, and children under 3 dine free. To book your table for this exceptional holiday experience, please call 07 4957 2044.

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When futureproofing your career, remember that while certain trends may be universal, it’s essential to adapt them to your personal situation. We’re already seeing ongoing advancements in technology, impacting all job roles, however, the ways in which it affects each role, and the pace of adoption, may differ.

Forbes (2024) emphasises the ‘landscape of work is undergoing a seismic shift, driven by technological breakthroughs and evolving societal dynamics’. Other factors driving change are not only skills shortages but also people shortages, changing demographics and workforce expectations, along with economic uncertainties.

To futureproof your career, focus on these three important aspects.

Automation and Productivity: Yes, as technology advances roles are becoming automated. However, there is an increasing focus on using AI tools to enhance human capabilities and to increase productivity. The prediction is that technology will handle more routine tasks, leaving humans to become even better at the ‘human’ side – enhanced communication and collaboration, emotional intelligence and strategic thinking. Upskilling to work alongside the tech and AI will be critical.

Reskilling and Continuous Learning: The reports that jobs are changing are not new. Jobs are continuously evolving and some jobs will eventually cease to exist and new ones are created. The key is to be adaptable and open to learning new things and new ways of working. Inevitably, this means adapting to new systems and technologies. Regardless of age or career stage, be prepared to take advantage of reskilling and upskilling opportunities in the workplace and/or outside of work. Explore the options and be proactive about your learning. Invest in you and your future!

Adaptability and Agility: Change is a constant and is unavoidable. The dynamics of the work environment are forever changing; therefore, adaptability is a vital skill in futureproofing your career. It’s useful to embrace the mindset that nothing stays the same forever; this gives us room to look for new opportunities to grow personally and professionally. Resisting change that you truly have no control over is wasted energy. Focus on what you can control and/or what you can influence. Futureproofing requires both personal and professional agility.

Staying up to date with industry trends and gathering insights on the future of work, as well as being proactive, adaptable, and open to new learning opportunities, will allow you to futureproof your career in an increasingly unpredictable world.

If you're interested in exploring ways to future-proof your career, we're here to help. Contact me at powerup@careerforceaustralia.com.au or call 0409 894 131 for more information.

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Essential maintenance works on the Glenpark Street rail overpass bridge began on Monday, October 21.
Mackay Regional Council contractors, Fressinet Australia, are undertaking the works to extend the life of the bridge.
Traffic management will be in place as Glenpark Street will be closed to single lane traffic only.
Minimal delays are expected as the works will be undertaken at night from 9pm to 5am, Sunday to Thursday only.
The works are expected to take eight weeks, weather permitting.
Council apologises for any inconvenience caused and appreciates your patience during these essential works.
For enquiries, please contact council on 1300 MACKAY (622 529).

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Mackay Regional Council's Australia Day event grants are now open and local community groups are encouraged to apply.
Mayor Greg Williamson said council was excited to offer the Australia Day event grant funding once again.
“A number of our 2024 Australia Day community events had to be postponed due to a cyclone, so we are really looking forward to a ripper Aussie Day event line up in the new year,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Not-for-profit community groups can apply for up to $1000 to support their Australia Day event and celebrate what they love about our beautiful region,” he said.
“From beach games and park barbecues to awards ceremonies and morning teas, the events are a great way to celebrate our vibrant community spirit.
“The events will run at various times throughout the day and are a celebration of the amazing region we call home.”
To be eligible for funding, events need to be held on Australia Day 2025 (Sunday, January 26), be free for all to attend and held within the Mackay Regional Council area.
Organisers also need to be a registered not-for-profit group or have a letter of support from a registered group.
Applications are now open via the council website and will close midnight Sunday, November 24.
Australia Day event grant application forms and guidelines can be found on the council website at mackay.qld.gov.au/ausdaygrants.

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Celebrating Australia Day at Mackay Contract Bridge club, from left to right, Jewel Schmidt and Tricia Garner

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For more than two decades, Reef Catchments has played a significant role in protecting and restoring natural resources in the Mackay Whitsunday Isaac region. From the mountains to the sea, they have worked to support resilient regional environments, build strong community partnerships, and lead initiatives in conservation, land management and ecosystem restoration.

As an independent not-for-profit Natural Resource Management (NRM) organisation, Reef Catchments are involved in the integrated management of natural resources like land, water, soil, plants, and animals, with a focus on balancing human needs with environmental health to ensure a sustainable future.

With offices based in both Mackay and Proserpine, Reef Catchments operates with a dedicated team working across 5 key project groups: Waterways, Biodiversity, Sustainable Agriculture, Great Barrier Reef and Healthy Rivers to Reef, all working together to drive positive environmental outcomes in our region.

Together their work includes:

   • Repairing landscapes
   • Monitoring and Improving water quality flowing through the catchment area to the reef
   • Sustainable agriculture practices
   • Habitat conservation
   • Revegetation, Weed and pest programs
   • Collaborating with Traditional Owners
   • Reduction of sediment loss, erosion mitigation and chemical run-off
   • Stewardship and community initiatives
 

Early Beginnings
In the early 2000’s, both the Federal and State Governments made a commitment to regionalise NRM and introduced 56 regional NRM organisations throughout Australia covering land, estuarine and coastal areas. This included the establishment of the Mackay Whitsunday Natural Resource Management Group (MWNRMG) in 2003, which would later be renamed Reef Catchments.

Starting with a small team, they worked closely with community stakeholders, including regional catchment and Landcare groups, to create the first Mackay Whitsunday Natural Resource Management Plan. This plan provided a collaborative assessment of the regional landscape and prioritised actions for enhancement and rehabilitation. This was followed by the Mackay Whitsunday Regional Water Quality Improvement Plan, marking the first time funding was secured for a regional water quality assessment and monitoring program. Strategic plans such as these have been the cornerstone for ongoing activity at Reef Catchments.. They have provided clear guidance, established accountability, and enabled measurable outcomes for both the organisation and the partners they work with.

Getting down to business
From the very beginning, the team got to work sourcing project investment to deliver on the recommendations outlined in the NRM plan. These early programs allowed the Reef Catchments team to develop an intimate knowledge of the region, build strong stakeholder relationships and gain crucial on-ground experience. Each plan and project laid the ground for the next, leading to the implementation of a host of programs over the years covering streambank remediation and maintenance, sustainable agriculture, reef resilience and biodiversity projects.

A vision for the region
Reef Catchments firmly believe a healthy environment and well-managed ecosystems are integral to a resilient region, strong economy, and a healthy community. By prioritising environmental conservation, they endeavour to protect natural resources while enhancing the well-being of residents and visitors. Investing in these initiatives fosters economic growth, creates jobs, and drives innovation, ensuring the region's long-term sustainability.

“Our strength lies in our people and our ability to observe, listen, and collaborate. We're all-in, because we believe in the collective power of working together to improve the natural resources that support both our community and our economy”
Katrina Dent – Chief Executive Officer

Over the past two decades, Reef Catchments has grown through dedication, strategic vision and positive action. Evolving from modest beginnings to becoming a key player in environmental stewardship, they have continuously adapted to the region’s changing needs, turning challenges into opportunities. Looking to the future, Reef Catchments is committed to using its rich history, regional expertise, and innovative approach to drive meaningful change.

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The Sustainable Agriculture team partners with farmers and landholders in the Mackay Whitsunday area to implement on-farm practice change. This collaboration produces on-farm benefits to productivity and profitability while directly contributing to important reductions in sediment, nutrient, and chemical losses.
These activities span multiple agriculture sectors and are centred around providing agronomic support in the adoption of holistic farm management and best management practices. As well as supporting the distribution of knowledge through the dissemination of water quality trials, monitoring, modelling, and reporting.
Our Sustainable Agriculture Facilitator (SAF) connects with farmers, landholders, and the broader agricultural industry to promote climate-smart and sustainable agriculture projects in the region. The SAF facilitates partnerships to help projects achieve outcomes that enhance productivity, build resilience, and protect natural resources.

Strong Foundations
Between 2006 to 2008, the first Mackay Whitsunday Regional Water Quality Improvement Plan (MWRWQIP) was developed. This marked the first time funding had been received for a regional water quality assessment, modelling, and measurement program. It aimed to identify a range of specific land management practices to improve on-farm economic and environmental sustainability. The delivery process focused on increased adoption of these land management practices across agricultural properties in the region.
Significant programs that followed include the Reef Rescue initiative - part of the Australian Government’s Caring for Our Country Program, Project Catalyst - a groundbreaking leader in sustainable farming within the sugarcane industry, and the Great Barrier Reef Foundation’s Mackay Whitsunday Water Quality Program (MWWQP).
Alongside on-ground programs with landholders, the Sustainable Agriculture team organises regular events, forums and field days that bring together a wide range of regional landholders, industry experts, community groups and businesses.  The popular two-day Grazing Forum has been drawing large audiences for 11 years.  Events such as these introduce new technologies and perspectives, allowing attendees to network and share ideas.
Cultivating the future
Several long-standing projects were successfully completed in the 2023-24 period and the team has been actively planning and securing funding for a range of new projects, many of which are set to be announced and launched over the next year.
With a rich history and extensive experience to draw on, the team is focused supporting the grower’s and the agriculture industry’s efforts towards shared environmental goals and stewardship.

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The Reef Catchments Waterways team is a dedicated group of professionals committed to working with landholders to improve the health of our region’s waterways. With extensive experience in streambank and gully remediation, the team works closely with local landholders and stakeholders to achieve meaningful, long-lasting outcomes for water quality and riverine health.

The team achieves this by focusing on reducing fine sediment runoff, particularly in areas like the O’Connell Basin, which is a priority for protecting the Great Barrier Reef lagoon. They collaborate with contractors and landholders to implement a range of engineered solutions, such as pile fields, rock revetments, rock groynes, and root ball structures, alongside natural streambank protection measures like revegetation, weed control, riparian fencing, and off-stream watering points.

Additionally, the team also co-designs engagement activities offering upskilling opportunities for landholders, promoting best-practice riparian management and fostering sustainable on-ground change.

Creating Opportunities from Challenges

In 2017, Cyclone Debbie caused significant damage to our region, impacting local communities and ecosystems. Reef Catchments responded proactively to provide a rapid and comprehensive assessment of regional environmental damage. The speed with which the assessment was compiled and submitted led to the receipt of significant funding toward regional environmental disaster recovery works. Efficient delivery of landscape remediation not only ensured the successful completion of the initial project but also paved the way for subsequent work, establishing Reef Catchments as an innovative and efficient delivery vehicle, outstanding for a not-for-profit organisation.

Building on strong foundations

The last 24 months have seen the successful completion of several significant projects including Reef Trust IV and Reef Trust VII. With the team currently executing other projects such as the Streambank Remediation Program - O'Connell, West Hill Creek Recovery and the Nature Based Solutions to Build Regional Resilience project.
Beyond this important on-ground work, the team has also been deeply involved in securing funding for streambank remediation projects across our NRM region. Efforts have been rewarded with the commencement of the Mackay Whitsunday Landscape Repair Program, one of six projects to be delivered under the Australian Government's $200 million dollar commitment to improving water quality.
This program helps the team enhance priority catchments by restoring eroding gullies, rehabilitating streambanks, and improving groundcover through sustainable grazing. These actions aim to reduce sediment runoff and protect the Great Barrier Reef.

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One of the largest teams at Reef Catchments, the Biodiversity team - formerly Conservation and Communities - undertakes a diverse range of projects with a focus on wetland conservation, safeguarding priority species (flora and fauna), and fostering community collaboration to manage invasive species and enhance habitat health in the face of a changing climate.

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Getting Started
In 2004, the first funding for a Coastcare Facilitator was received from the Department of Environment and Heritage. Their role was to facilitate community involvement in coastal and marine management, participate in regional natural resource management delivery and support the delivery of the Natural Heritage Trust (NHT). The NHT was established in 1997 as one of the most significant environmental programs in Australian history, and continues to fund Reef Catchments projects today.  This was complemented by the Caring for our Country Program (phase 1 & 2) between 2008 -2018 when Reef Catchments expanded to also tackle Biodiversity Conservation, Sustainable Farm Practices, Water Management, and Indigenous Engagement.
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Working with Traditional Owners
From the outset, Reef Catchments has engaged with local Traditional Owners, with the Traditional Owners Reference Group (TORG) being formed in 2005.  Working with the TORG allows us to incorporate their deep knowledge of Country and help build stronger connections to the land with a view to improving environmental outcomes for everyone.
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Current Focus
Over the years, the Biodiversity team has continued to focus on maintaining our region’s unique flora and fauna through a range of programs. We launched our first ever koala conservation project last year and have already improved over 50ha of koala habitat across Sarina.  Earlier this year we deployed 30 habitat reef modules into Mackay’s coastal waters through the Rubble to Reef Program to expand fish habitat. The team are currently working to determine if the endangered Red Goshawk persists in our area as well as ensuring that our beaches remain a safe stopping place for the Eastern Curlew as they undertake their epic annual migration.
With 12 active projects across the region, this team is busily delivering practical on-ground activities and engaging with stakeholders to help protect and preserve biodiversity for years to come.

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In 2017, Cyclone Debbie hit the Whitsunday coastline causing extensive the regional landscape and also heavily impacting underwater ecosystems. This disaster was a key factor underpinning the formation of a Great Barrier Reef Foundation project - the Whitsundays Reef Islands Initiative (WRII). Managed by Reef Catchments, this groundbreaking project focuses on positioning the Whitsundays as a global hub for inshore fringing reef stewardship.
The WRII coral and seagrass restoration projects were Reef Catchments' first venture into ‘in-water’ projects, marking a significant shift in its conservation strategy.
Local stewardship enhances reef health and community ties by promoting responsibility, sustainable practices, and regional tourism.
As 2022 unfolded Reef Catchments recognised the need to formalise its efforts towards preserving the Great Barrier Reef. This led to the establishment of a dedicated Reef Team. Since then, the team has expanded, adding a Senior Project Officer and developing a strategic plan. This plan not only outlines potential Reef research partnerships but also pinpoints critical marine ecosystems to prioritise moving forward. Establishing the Reef Team and plan underscored Reef Catchments’ ongoing commitment to enhancing reef resilience and conservation efforts.
More information on these projects is available on the Reef Catchments website.

Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
The Reef Catchments GIS team uses a computer system that captures, displays and analyses geographically referenced information. In other words, you can accurately map data in its true location on the earth’s surface and overlay it to reference other data layers.
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GIS has been an integral part of Reef Catchments project management, monitoring and evaluation processes since the start of the organisation. GIS data is collected by field staff and project stakeholders and is key to measuring project progress and success, it allows us to provide accurate data to program funders for reporting purposes.
The purchase of a light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) sensor is allowing Reef Catchments to expand into the drone space, assisting in project prioritisation, monitoring and evaluation. The drone will detect changes in the landscape caused by erosion to streambanks and gullies using pulsed laser light to measure elevation changes on the Earth's surface.This data helps prioritise areas for rehabilitation investment, focusing on the most valuable regions for restoration.

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LiDAR images showing changes in a gully over time.

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The Healthy Rivers to Reef Partnership, hosted by Reef Catchments, is a leading network of organisations working together to maintain and improve waterway health in the Mackay-Whitsunday-Isaac region, through monitoring, education and collaboration. The Partnership has representation from all sectors, including industry, agriculture, research and science, ports, conservation, tourism, traditional owners, government, and more.
The Healthy Rivers to Reef team collate data from more than 40 data providers to produce an annual waterway health Report Card. They also manage a range of data collection projects, on-the-ground initiatives and community education activities to enhance understanding of local waterways.
Celebrating 10 years in 2014, the Partnership has worked with Reef Catchments as it’s host organisation for a decade to build a solid foundation in the region, supporting each other through knowledge sharing, teamwork and collaboration.

Corporate Shared Services (CSS)
The CSS team are the backbone of the organisation, supporting staff and ensuring the smooth operation of day-to-day organisational functions. Comprising Human Resources, Accounts, and Administration, this group ensures that essential support functions are running smoothly, enabling the entire organisation to focus on delivering practical and effective project activities.

Communications & Media
Reef Catchments has a dedicated in-house communications and media team focused on raising awareness, engaging stakeholders, and fostering community involvement. Their expertise covers everything from graphic design and video production to social media, web content, and media outreach, supporting both project-specific communications and corporate branding. Stay connected and informed by following Reef Catchments on social media or visiting their website.

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When it comes to using clichés, I avoid them like the plague. Boom boom.
Some readers will pick up the vague humour in my use of the cliché “avoid them like the plague” to emphasise my dislike of clichés.
Others will feel they have more important things to worry about in their busy, stressful lives than to be on the lookout for feigned hypocrisy and lame attempts at humour in a real estate column.
To them, I say:  Laughter is the best medicine; he who laughs last laughs loudest; read between the lines; and, If you can’t stand the heat get out of the kitchen.
One of the worst features of real estate write-ups is the boring use of cliches.
You know the ones: “Million-dollar views”, “renovate or detonate”, “cute cottage”, “state-of-the-art kitchen”.
They are a big yawn. Predictable and lazy.
But the thing about clichés generally is that they have an element of truth about them: Better safe than sorry; You can’t judge a book by its cover; There are plenty more fish in the sea.
So it’s not that a cliché is wrong but that it has become overused and boring.
The worst real estate cliché of all is also probably the most correct: Location, Location, Location.
I won’t ever use the term because it is so over-used that it means nothing to buyers anymore. So when the location is the big thing about a property, I need to use different words to convey the same idea.
As a property owner and real estate agent, I feel location is often the most important thing. That changes, depending on what a buyer wants: Sometimes block size is more important because a buyer wants a big house or a big shed or acreage; sometimes it’s the age of the house because the buyer wants something with no maintenance.
But buyers who are looking for those features will always try to get them in the best possible location … a big block as close as possible to town, a modern house as close as possible to schools and community facilities.
Sometimes the value of the location is determined not by a property’s convenient access to everything but the lifestyle and views it creates.
Seaforth is a great example in our part of the world. I tend to sell properties more in suburban Mackay than anywhere else but I have sold quite a few properties in Seaforth and it has become a very popular part of the world, particularly anything with water views and access to the beach.
I was first blown away by the interest in water-front locations in Seaforth about four years ago when I had an old, unrenovated property to sell in Frangipanni Avenue. In a matter of days, dozens of people inspected the property and I had about 10 offers after the first open house.
No one cared that it was a 40-minute drive to Mackay. What mattered was the good-sized block with water views across the road from the beach. And that it was only a 40-minute drive to Mackay.
Some people buy there to have a weekender and holiday home for their family while they are still working. It might become their primary home after retirement.
And price is always the thing. When you can pay many millions of dollars for beach-side properties with ocean views in NSW and Victoria, the much, much lower prices in Seaforth and other similar Mackay  region areas provide a great opportunity for local people.
I sold another water-front block in Poinciana Avenue recently and, again, the interest was enormous.
So, if you’ve got a cute cottage with million-dollar views that’s ready to renovate or detonate, you could be sitting on a gold mine.

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Across the Mackay region, a poignant tribute now graces our streets: newly redesigned signs featuring red poppies, honouring the sacrifices of World War I and II casualties. In the lead-up to Remembrance Day, the Mackay Regional Council has started installing these new commemorative street blades, replacing the M150 street signs first introduced in 2012 as part of Mackay’s 150th anniversary. The poppy signifies that the street is named after a soldier who was a casualty of war and whose records show they were born in Mackay, enlisted from our shores, or had lived in the district.
This initiative stems from a community-driven effort, where residents were invited to submit the names of family members who lost their lives in these conflicts. In 2012, the council launched the ‘Lest We Forget Soldier Street Naming Project’ to commemorate our fallen soldiers and raise awareness of their histories. Local history enthusiast Basil Graham, along with students from Mackay North State High School, played a crucial role in researching and documenting these stories.
Now, as the streets of Mackay proudly display these poppy-adorned signs, they serve as a daily reminder of the bravery and dedication of our local heroes.

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For CQUniversity alumnus Fiona Mann Bobongie, starting her own First Nations consultancy as a way to facilitate a path towards cultural connection, respect and understanding.

The Mackay resident started Cyclic Konnectionz (CK) in 2018 to create tailored programs that support community engagement, professional growth and reconciliation through culturally-informed frameworks and initiatives in the region. 

CK also delivers cultural capabilities training and development to improve professional spaces through Walk on Country (Country is Curriculum©️), Reconciliation Action Plans, and a personally-developed framework on cultural diversity.  

"For over 15 years, I’ve been delivering professional development, and recognised a significant gap in the way workplaces were approaching cultural capabilities,” Ms Mann Bonbongie said. 

“Cyclic Konnectionz was born out of a desire to fill that gap and help both individuals and organisations develop meaningful cultural understanding and connections."

As a proud Darumbal woman with family ties to New Caledonia and Vanuatu, Fiona attributes the success and core of CK to her First Nations heritage. 

“Cyclic Konnectionz is my heritage. The business operates on First Nations theories, using ancient methodologies of sitting in circles and enacting protocols that have been in place for thousands of years.

“I chose the name Cyclic Konnectionz to represent the cyclical connections between Country, Sea Country, Sky Country, Ancestors, Elders and future generations. It also reflects the interconnectedness with other First Nations peoples and their lands.

"Konnectionz is about connectedness to all of the above – to make movement for our mob," she said. 

"My goal is to make change for my people so that one day, First Nations peoples won’t need to do what I do because the respect for our culture will be ingrained in everyone."

Reflecting on her education, Ms Mann Bonbongie said that gaining a Bachelor of Learning Management (BLM) from CQUniversity had been pivotal to her journey. 

“The BLM enabled me to achieve a teaching degree, but also to build confidence in achieving, believing, accomplishing and futuristic thinking through digital technology. 

“It built a foundation for me to help guide our mob to become stronger, healthier and more resilient.

“I choose CQUniversity for its local, personalised approach - and the small campus environment in Mackay was supportive and empowering. 

"My experience at CQU continues to influence my work today in both my academic and cultural knowledge to drive CK’s mission.”

As CK continues to grow, Ms Mann Bonbongie said she remained focused on relationships, and ensuring that First Nations standpoints and methodologies were authentically represented and respected. 

"To build harmonious relationships and for Reconciliation Action Plans to be truly enacted, these methodologies can only be shared by First Nations peoples.

“They have been enacting the practices for 1000s of years - from the time they took their first breath within family, community and mob.”

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Fiona Mann Bobongie. Photo supplied

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Whitsunday Anglican School’s Junior School began Term 4 with a ‘superb’ display of talent and dedication.

Special Acknowledgements:

Miss Walker and the Junior Concert Band – Recognised for their outstanding performance, showcasing musical opportunities for students and the extended school community.

Eason Wang – Acknowledged for his beautiful renditions of the national anthem and School song at assemblies.

Dare to Care Award Winners – Celebrated for demonstrating kindness, empathy, teamwork, and perseverance, serving as excellent role models.

Uday Singh – Commended for his recent achievements in tennis, showing promise as a future talent.

Kash Rowe and Rosie Ma – Recognised for their dedication to gymnastics, pursuing their goals in the sport.

Mackay Eisteddfod Participants – Applauded for their impressive efforts, making the school proud.

Spelling Spectacular Participants – Congratulated for their enthusiasm and hard work in the competition.

Australian Mathematics Competition Students – Awarded certificates for their achievements, with Distinction recipients to be honoured at the Awards events.

State Chess Team – Celebrated for their exceptional performance at the recent competition.

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Jackie Froyland clearly remembers the hardest part of being diagnosed with breast cancer at age 44.
She dreaded telling her four children, aged 15, 13, 7 and 5 and her partner, but telling her mum was absolutely “heartbreaking”.
“I went for a mammogram for no other reason than my mum’s neighbour had breast cancer picked up from a routine screening. So I decided I had better go for one at BreastScreen as well,” she said.
“I booked in and had it done and a week or so later they phoned and said they wanted me to come back in so they could look further at something.
“They told me ‘It might be nothing, we might do a biopsy, people have these all the time’.”
Jackie had the follow-up ultrasound and a biopsy done on Wednesday 17 March and returned to the BreastScreen clinic for her results two days later on her way to work.
“The doctor told me that I wasn’t going to go to work that day,” she said.
“They told me there was a cancer. ‘You will need surgery, you will need to make some phone calls, make appointments, get a referral, pick a surgeon’; it was really very overwhelming.
“You just automatically think the worst and afterwards I sat in the carpark and cried.
“Ringing my partner and loved ones who were waiting for me to advise I’d been given the ‘all-clear’ and repeating those words, that was the worst.”
Fortunately, Jackie’s 1.2cm Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS), a type of cancer found in the milk ducts, was found early.
“They said it was actually good because the mammogram did exactly what it was supposed to do – it detected my breast cancer early,” she said.
“I probably wouldn’t have even gone for that screening that day if I hadn’t heard from my mum about her neighbour’s cancer diagnosis.”
Jackie had two surgeries to remove the cancer and a lymph node followed by 15 radiation sessions.
“I had radiation every day after work for three weeks in June and started on the hormone medication Tamoxifen in July,” she said.
“I was given the all-clear in February 2022 although I still have yearly blood tests and see my surgeon and oncologist twice a year, as well as now having to take the hormone blocker tablets for five years.”
Jackie, who is now an administration officer in the Emergency Department at Mackay Base Hospital, recognises that her BreastScreen visit that day helped detect changes that were too small to be felt during a physical examination.
“As important as self-examination is I would never have picked this up myself without that mammogram. I was lucky,” Jackie said.
“So I really feel like I owe it to others to tell my story. I hope it’s the encouragement they need to go and get a breast check.
“If you are aged 40, please book in for a routine mammogram – those 10 minutes of discomfort just might save your life.”
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FACTS:
• October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
• Breast cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia and the most common cancer among females.
• Everyday 58 people in Australia will be diagnosed with breast cancer. That equates to over 21,000 people in Australia being diagnosed with breast cancer each year.
• Book an appointment at the mobile screening by phoning 13 20 50 or visit https://www.breastscreen.qld.gov.au/make-an-appointment

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Jackie Froyland was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 44. Photo credit: Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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By Amanda Wright

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In a split second, the world shifts—what began as a routine moment of motherhood becomes a thunderous alarm bell, revealing a hidden enemy within, as the stark discovery of a breast cancer lump ignites an unrelenting battle, forcing an extraordinary journey of resilience, courage, and the fight for survival.
This was the case for Louise Bennet, whose world shattered when a lump she thought was harmless turned out to be aggressive breast cancer.
At just 34, with her baby in her arms, she faced a brutal battle of mastectomy, chemotherapy, and radiation. Her 10cm scar is not just a mark of survival but a battle cry for every woman to trust their instincts.
From Louise’s story, a clear message emerges. No one is too young for breast cancer. If something feels wrong, act now. Your life could depend on it.

Embracing each moment together, Queensland mother Louise Bennet and her daughter Evie remind us that love and resilience shine brighter than any battle scar. This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, they embody the strength of a mother’s heart and the joy of life's precious journey. Photo credit: Annette Dew

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The Stories Behind The Scars
Breast Cancer Awareness Month

The 10cm scar across Louise Bennet’s chest is a lasting symbol of her battle with breast cancer.
The 34-year-old mother discovered a lump in her breast while breastfeeding her daughter Evie in January last year. Initially, she thought it might be a common breastfeeding issue, like mastitis, but months later, scans revealed the shocking reality: Louise had aggressive triple-negative breast cancer, along with DCIS (Ductal Carcinoma in Situ), a form of cancer in the milk ducts.
Louise, like many others, hadn’t anticipated a diagnosis like this at such a young age. Her message is clear—being breast aware is critical, and no one is too young to be diagnosed.
“I share my story because if I can be open about my experience, I hope I can empower other women to be proud of their bodies.
“My scar is a reminder of the journey I have been on—the journey that has kept me alive and will continue to keep me alive. I don’t feel any less, and I am able to walk through the world as I am—my body is still accepted wherever I go,” Louise said.
Louise underwent a mastectomy followed by 15 rounds of chemotherapy and 16 rounds of radiation. Despite the physical and emotional toll, she remains positive, urging others to be proud of their own journeys.
"From the very moment I found out I had cancer, I was determined to heal, and I am grateful for the multidisciplinary team at Mater, and my friends and family, for making that happen.
“I wasn’t concerned about my physical appearance and did whatever I could to be healthy and look to the future."
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Louise’s story is a timely reminder for all women to take their health into their own hands. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Australia, and early detection is key. Women are encouraged to be their own health advocates—perform regular self-examinations and seek medical advice if anything seems unusual. If concerns persist or if you feel your concerns aren’t being fully addressed, don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion. Advocating for your own health is crucial, as early intervention can be life-saving.
Breast surgeon Dr. Sally Meade, who treated Louise, noted that mastectomies, while visually and emotionally impactful, have a surprisingly quick recovery time.
“There’s not too much pain, and most patients are able to go home within a day or two,” Dr. Meade said. She emphasised that the management of breast cancer is highly personalised, with multidisciplinary teams supporting women every step of the way.
"At Mater, we have compassionate teams of radiologists, oncologists, reconstructive surgeons, breast care nurses, and therapists all working together to provide holistic care."
Louise’s treatment journey concluded in April, but she will continue regular check-ups to monitor her health. She credits her family, friends, and the expert team at Mater for helping her stay strong throughout her cancer battle.
“After 15 rounds of chemotherapy and 16 rounds of radiation, I am still smiling.
“I was determined to heal from the disease and being able to care for my Evie was a priority,” she said.
For Louise, survival has become a source of empowerment.
“I have learned that before anything else, I need to love myself. With various markings and scars on my body, I certainly look like I’ve been through some stuff, but it’s just evolution."
Louise’s story serves as a powerful reminder to all women: Be proactive, trust your instincts, and never be afraid to seek a second opinion. Your health is in your hands, and early action could make all the difference.

Are You Breast Aware? It’s vital to perform regular self-breast examinations to monitor for any changes. Statistics show that 40 per cent of breast cancers are detected by women who feel a lump. Regular self-exams can help with early detection, and the sooner cancer is identified, the better the chances of successful treatment.
Dr. Cindy Mak, Director of Breast Services at Chris O'Brien Lifehouse, emphasises that while mammograms are essential for early detection, self-exams play an equally important role.
“Mammograms can catch cancer before you feel a lump, but self-examinations help women become familiar with how their breasts look and feel, which can make it easier to spot any changes,” Dr. Mak said.

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Louise Bennet and her daughter Evie radiate love and resilience. This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, they remind us that even amid life’s battles, the bond of family shines brighter than ever. Photo credit: Annette Dew

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On Saturday, October 19th, Rover Matthew Vella was presented with the prestigious Baden Powell Scout Award, the highest honour in Scouting for his age group.

The award ceremony was attended by notable figures, including Mayor Greg Williamson and Region Commissioner Dougal McWhinney, who both commended Matthew for his well-deserved achievements.

Mayor Williamson even recalled presenting Matthew with his Queen Scout Award as a Venturer in 2019, highlighting his ongoing commitment to Scouting.

Matthew, supported by his family, received his award from Joanne Hamilton, with Rover Unit Chair Kat Allen outlining the significant work involved in achieving this accomplishment. The Baden Powell Scout Award requires completing six challenging elements, each demanding at least 18 hours of effort, along with a personal development course, an adventurous journey, and proficiency in outdoor adventure skills.

Since joining Rovers in 2019, Matthew demonstrated a remarkable work ethic, quickly setting his sights on the award. He earned a Certificate II in Outdoor Recreation, provided service to younger Scouts and took on leadership roles in large Scouting events. His passion for the outdoors extended beyond Scouting, as he also completed a Diploma of Outdoor Leadership.

One of Matthew’s personal achievements has been mastering Greenland-style rolling for sea kayaking, a difficult skill that requires intense practice. He can now execute seven consecutive rolls and sometimes adds an eighth for fun. This passion for kayaking will continue, as Matthew has accepted the challenge of coordinating the water base for the Australian Scout Jamboree (AJ2025) in Maryborough, where 9,000 Scouts will participate in water-based activities over 10 days.

As part of his personal development, Matthew earned his Wood Badge and a Certificate IV in Leadership and Management. His adventurous journey involved a 5-day sea kayaking expedition around the Keppel Bay Islands, covering 88.4 km and visiting nine islands.

In his speech, Matthew reflected on his Scouting journey and encouraged others to embrace the opportunities Scouting offers.

“Scouting offers opportunities you can’t even begin to imagine. It challenges you to grow, to explore, and to lead. So, when life presents you with a new opportunity, take it.

“Step into the unknown, because that’s where growth happens…You never know what doors it will open or where it might lead, but I can promise you this—it will lead to something extraordinary.”

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Pictured with Mayor Greg Williamson and Joanne Hamilton, Matthew celebrated this milestone alongside his family and fellow Scouts. Photos supplied

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As the Queensland elections loom, we find ourselves in a familiar yet invigorating cycle of public discourse and spirited debate. It’s no small feat for candidates to step up and put themselves out there for scrutiny, juggling the expectations of their communities while navigating the often turbulent waters of politics. I have immense respect for those who have dedicated months to their campaigns, genuinely listening to locals and identifying the pressing issues that affect us all.
Elections are not just a referendum on individual candidates but a litmus test for our collective aspirations. They present a pivotal moment for reflection—on the values we uphold, the issues we prioritise, and the vision we collectively embrace for our future.
With the polls approaching, it’s a prime opportunity for fresh ideas and policies to take centre stage—policies that could truly position Queensland as a leading place to live and thrive. Our elected officials have a critical role to play; from supporting the most vulnerable in our community to championing the business leaders who drive our economy, their decisions will shape our collective future.
True leadership isn’t just about making grand promises; it’s about fostering a community where everyone has the opportunity to flourish. It’s a delicate balancing act—ensuring that the needs of the many are met while encouraging innovation and growth. When we support one another, we build a stronger, more resilient society that benefits all.
You can find our election feature on pages 9-13, covering the Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce debate, key announcements from candidates as well as a list of locations throughout the region where you can cast your vote.
In a world increasingly driven by polarising rhetoric, it is vital that we champion leaders who are attuned to the pressing challenges we face. Ultimately, the integrity of our democracy rests on the premise that every voice matters, so make your vote count.
Amanda

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