Issuu

Friday, 5 March, 2021

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

Circulating in the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday Regional Council areas

www.mackaylocalnews.com.au Issue 4 • $2.50

Friday, 5 March, 2021

‘Standover Tactics’ Local farmer accuses ADANI/Bravus of bullying COAL miner ADANI/Bravus has been accused of “bullying its neighbours and ignoring years of requests and agreements with the Isaac Regional Council”. Next door neighbours, David and Katie Luke at Lignum Station, 150 km north west of Clermont, said their “contract or compensation agreement with ADANI has been deliberately ignored over years and years, despite our endless requests”. “Bravus is trying standover tactics and has been deliberately ignoring what was written down on paper in our joint contract and signed on March 16 in 2016,” Mr Luke explained. “I’ve tried to do the right thing and I’ve tried to help Bravus and I’ve repeatedly been treated with arrogance. “The Mine Manager Gerard Madam even said ‘he didn’t have to talk to me’ . “I told him that I was sick of trucks going past my house. “I rang him to try and work out a compromise and requested a new mine access road, just bypass my house. “The way he spoke to me, I felt that he was doing me a favour even talking to

me, so it didn’t matter what I thought. “Bravus management has reneged on our contract and its totally wrong not to honour it.” I’ve wasted hours and hours trying to negotiate with them and it’s all come up empty. “To help Bravus, I even graded the road around Moray Homestead for them and the Isaac Council backed me up when I helped ADANI/ Bravus. “But Bravus keeps trying to do a deal and spin things out and not build their own access road. “They just want you to do things when it suits them, you have to jump.” The irony is ADANI/Bravus is in conflict with two of its biggest coal mining supporters David and Katie Luke and with the very procoal mining Isaac Regional Council. The Isaac Regional Council passed a Motion late last week supporting its ratepayer David, or ‘Blue’, who readily agreed to do a land swap as they both said they wanted to help the mine proceed. However, last week the Isaac Council condemned BRAVUS for “not being a

SARINA FOOD BANK - P4

COVID JABS? - P8,9

REAL ESTATE

Local farmer David Luke is not happy with ADANI/Bravus good corporate citizen” and stated that “it had lost patience with the behaviour of this company”. The ADANI/Bravus next door neighbour, David and

Katie Luke signed a compensation agreement with ADANI on March 15, 2016 to swap land. “This included a clause that within 21-days of the

grant of (ADANI’s) mining lease and survey completion, the laneway easement fences would be pegged,” they said. CONTINUED ON PAGE FIVE

GUIDE INSIDE

CHRISTENSEN SLAMS GREEN OPPONENTS OF DAM - P3

"We are the innovators not the imitators" Call us for your heavy haulage needs

David Collins Ph: 0448 302 042 E: david@davkathh.com.au

Tristan Collins: Operations Ph: 0437 370 642 E: tristan@davkathh.com.au

NEWS

• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

Friday, 5 March, 2021

Christensen slams dam’s opponents FEDERAL Member for Dawson George Christensen has used a Parliament speech to attack what he calls “extreme Greens”. This was on February 21, in reference to the Urannah Dam about Urannah Dam. Mr Christensen said the project was under threat from “extreme greens and their newly appointed paid activist”. He said Mackay Conservation Group campaign organiser Annabel Gorman Deanneas is allegedly against jobs out at the Carmicheal mine and rail site. “Now she’s turned her attention to the Urannah Dam,” “The extreme greens claim the numbers don’t stack up for the Urannah. “Urannah Dam will create 1800 jobs and will transform

the Whitsunday, Bowen and Collinsville region and Mackay region,” Mr Christensen said. “The fact is, the Urannah Dam has the highest benefit cost ratio of any proposed dam in the country would amounts to where is every dollar the government spends, the taxpayer will get two dollars in return.” He said the greens highlighted their concern for the biodiversity and future of the yellow headed snapping turtle. “Research indicates this turtle has been found in a number of creeks and rivers as far away as the ratters near Townsville, just to the side of the dam,” he said. “People of North Queensland have no tolerance for these extreme green activ-

ists – they have no tolerance for paid extreme green activists that are out there to destroy local jobs, destroy opportunities for the North, destroy opportunities for new farming. “I got to say, as a member for Dawson, I’m very proud to be a fighter for local jobs in my region and projects will create local jobs. “I will not let the greens destroy this dam.” The $2.9 billion project has been identified as an option to meet future water needs for the northern Bowen Basin Coal Fields. It also has the potential to provide water for future growth in the Whitsundays, Burdekin and Isaac regions. Ms Deanne however, said she was concerned about the environmental impact and

footprint that it would leave behind. “It’s a project that has failed multiple feasibility studies the last thirty years,” Ms Deanne said. “It’s been brought to the forefront multiple times and for environmental and predominantly economic reasons, it just keeps on failing. “It’s interesting, once again, the predominantly National party is bringing it forward again and trying to bolster support for this.” She said there were many people out there who were opposed to the project and had concerns it could negatively impact and severely damage many farms, along with the surrounding land. “What we’ve seen with the Burdekin Falls Dam already

is that reduced river flow has meant that a reduction in groundwater for farmers and this means increased salination,” Ms Deanne said. “That means paying for water you were previously getting for free.” Another potential impact which concerns Ms Deane is the reduction of flowing water within the basin and groundwater recharge. “I think it’s been put forward quite a few times that this is something farmers are for, but I think that’s a big assumption,” she said. “In our own independent economic assessment of the project, one of the big issues that did kind of come up, this is going to be a lot of assumptions around the benefits for farmers.”

Mr Christensen said the project was affordable and could provide water at $250 per megalitre, compared to other dams. “Therefore Urannah also fits the bill on economic viability,” he said. “The Urannah Dam will be transformational for Bowen, the Whitsundays and the surrounding region and it’s benefiting from the Morrison Liberal National Government’s focus on building dams to secure our water future,” Mr Christensen said. “The Urannah Dam project will be a game changer for the region and progressing this project at the back of the Clarke Range will unlock the potential of 20,000ha of agricultural land adjacent to Collinsville and Bowen.”

Deaf, blind artist is inspired SITTING in an elaborate and well decorated office with a keyboard in front of him, this artist has developed different ways of communicating. CrossRoad Arts ambassador and artist in Residence Brenden Borellini is both blind and deaf. Brenden talks through his braille keyboard, but also has a translator do hand signalling on one of his hands. However, Brendan can paint normally with a paint brush in his hands but can feel the completed artwork with his hands. He is able to capture some of his amazing photos by placing the camera to his forehead, where he is able to feel the shutter open and close. “These images can be printed out in 2D or thermal raised images through a machine called a PIAF that shows representations of raised bumps, lines and dots that outline the image for people who happen to be blind or vision im-

paired,” he said. Since 2011, he has been practising as a professional artist at Crossroads Arts and works every Friday as an Artist in Residence and Ambassador. “It has been a decade and I still enjoy working with people with and without disability in learning artistic, performance and movement skills,” he said. “I am also an advocate for the arts and accessibility and enjoy speaking in public about ways to assist the community to be more inclusive and accessible. “I enjoyed learning using the camera and its settings and exploring where I could take photos in a wide range of environmental settings. “My recent inspiration in photography was from the work of Ansel Adams. “I have some images here at Crossroad Arts of landscapes I visited in the US.” He said these themes were based on landscape, people, objects and environmental settings. They stem from his

interest in travel, connections, meeting new people and making art. However, he also takes great pride in both his work and his beard, proudly showing it off to everyone at Crossroad Arts. “Trying out different art forms has inspired me to learn different skills in the field,” Mr Borellini said. “The artistic work I do includes photography, performing, arts consulting, poetry and research. “Recently people have been very interested in my photographs. “I have had numerous exhibitions and they normally feature natural landscapes like beaches or mountains. “When I create these photographs I have an Artist Support audio-describe to me the landscape in front of me.” He said they speak to him through either the deaf-blind alphabet or writing to him on his braille machine.eing classical style and natural.

Brenden Borellini is an inspiration

Locally Owned

CAREFULLY CRAFTED CABINETS FOR YOUR HOME KITCHENS , VANITIES,

aft

ed Kitc

Care

3 Fursden Street, Glenella

ets

Ph: 4942 2223

bin

ROBES, LAUNDRIES

CABINET MAKING SERVICE

mackaycabinetmaking@bigpond.com www.mackaycabinetmakingservice.com.au

SShhh . . . IT’S A SECRET. I can’t tell.

“28 years servicing Mackay and surrounding areas, quality, reliable service at competitive prices”

NEWS

Friday, 5 March, 2021

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

Queen tribute breaks free THE Killer Queen Experience thrilled the crowd at the MECC last Friday, with renowned Freddie Mercury impersinator John Blunt at the front. The band performed carbon copy ver-

sions of Queen classics such as We are The Champions, Radio Ga Ga and Another One Bites The Dust. The band has toured worldwide and that experience was clear on Friday night.

Angry Bravus hits back at Isaac Council NORTH Queensland coal miner, Bravus (ADANI), has angrily attacked the Isaac Regional Council and Mayor Anne Baker’s criticisms that it has breached contracts and failed to fence-off and build a proper access road to its Carmichael mine. The David and Katie Lucas Moray Homestead, 150 km north of Clermont, is constantly covered in never-ending clouds of dust as they are under siege from a constant barrage from thousands of truck and triple road trains passing every few minutes along a dirt road, just 50m from their front door. Bravus has angrily responded to criticism by the strongly pro-coal mining Isaac Regional Council and coal-supporting Mayor Anne Baker. An unnamed Bravus spokesman said that it “was

disappointed the Isaac Council had embarked on what can only be described as a smear campaign against our business”. Bravus/ADANI was responding to Mayor Baker announcement that “Bravus was not being a good corporate citizen” and she “expressed strong dissatisfaction over the Bravus/ADANI handling of the Carmichael Mine project. “I have lost patience with the behaviour of Bravus/ ADANI and its ongoing failure to meet its obligations,” Councillor Anne Baker explained. “This includes the failure by BRAVUS to meet its obligations for Stage One works and its requests for concession (including repeated extension of deadlines) from Council under the Infrastructure Access Agreement.

Isaac Regional Council Mayor Anne Baker “In my Mayoral Minute, Australian arm of ADANI.” I have instructed Council’s The Bravis spokesman reCEO to take all action reason- sponse included that “the cost ably open to Council to ensure to upgrade the access road is Bravus/Adani’s compliance in excess of $100 million and with its obligations under legwill provide more than 100 islation. jobs over the next two years. “We will continue to work “We are focussed on prowith Bravus neighbour and viding safe and reliable infraratepayers David and Katie Luke and with Bravus, the structure and (we) only ask

KERRISDALE GARDENS ANNOUNCES EXPANSION

that the Isaac Regional Council take a pragmatic, sensible and commercial approach to such matters. “In some instances, this means (the Isaac Regional Council) keeping an open mind and being prepared to consider new alternatives, different timing or options that provide safer and better outcomes. “Bravus is disappointed that Mayor Cr Anne Baker and the Council has ignored formal processes. “We are surprised that Cr Baker did not first contact the Bravus CEO, David Boshoff, prior to publicly stated this is an issue of concern to her. “Bravus does not dispute that we are not aligned with the Isaac Council on some elements. “Some of these elements

that are in dispute include road upgrades to a council-owned road in the Isaac Region. “All of the maintenance work and upgrade work on this council-owned road is being funded by Bravus and there is no cost to the Isaac Council, or to the ratepayers within the Isaac Region. “Whilst we are not arguing about having to pay for this work, the Isaac Council is wanting Bravus to provide a level of flood immunity greater on this local council road than some parts of the Bruce Highway. “This request does not make technical or commercial sense and as such we are in dispute with the Council. “Meanwhile, we have we have already completed $20 million worth of road maintenance in the IRC region.”

Our premium retirement living includes: 10 Apartments and 37 Care Suites. FUNCTIONAL, PURPOSE BUILT AND DESIGNED FOR SENIORS

PRE-SELLING NOW! Established gardens & walking paths Activities Cafe & Bar area Physio & Wellness Centre Function room Pharmacy Chapel Hairdresser Library Kerrisdale Gardens is located between 2 major shopping centres, community amenities, a local hospital and the Mackay Golf Course.

07 4965 4404

35 Norwood Parade, Beaconsfield QLD E: rlm@gslmky.org.au W: gslmky.org.au/kerrisdale-gardens

NEWS

• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

BMXers keen for new track MORANBAH BMX Club has set its sights on a new pump track. What inspired the Club president Shaun Isaacs to investigate the possibility of building a pump track atMoranbah were the tracks at Gladstone and Gracemere. A pump track can be best described as a series of looped sequence of rollers and swoopy, banked turns for bike riders. They are desigend in a way that it maximises momentum so there is little pedalling. The pump tracks at these cities proved to be popular with the local communities as residents and teenagers flock to the parks, wanting to have fun with their mates. Mr Isaacs soon realised this would be a brilliant way to keep older teenagers enter-

Artist’s impression of the pump track tained and spending countless unused. Mr Isaacs said an ishours in front of the TV, play- sue with this was the majority of the land was owned by varing video games. For the last six to 12 ious mining companies, which months, Mr Isaacs and his he admitted was confusing at club members discussed the times as some people thought idea with each other and with it might be Council owned. Council. While he is uncertain of the exact cost and pricing for the So far, things appear to be going well but he said they track, he believes it could cost were seeking approval from up to $200,000. the Isaac Regional Council. For now, the plans are in However, he said they need the early stages and still have to find appropriate land that is a long way to go.

Friday, 5 March, 2021

Giving people a hand up in Sarina SARINA food bank must be applauded for giving free food for people in need. Sarina Food Hands Up coordinator Mareesa Cunneen said there was an urgent need to provide food for people who cannot afford to pay for it. Mrs Cunneen said poor retirees and young families come in who were out of work. The free food in stock is unwanted food that supermarkets don’t need. “We started Sarina Food Hands Up because we could just see a need for people who have nothing to eat in Sarina,” Mrs Cunneen said. “In fact, there was enough food for everyone in Sarina if it is not wasted but shared.

Mackay Family History Society started in April 22, 1981 and helps locals discover their family history. These five Mackay ladies have been preserving the history of people and their families in Mackay. “It’s good fun trying to find these people and then find out you’re related or somebody else you know is related,” Mackay Family History president Carolan Hill Said.

dowling

columnist — pioneer valley

NOT so long ago I relocated to the upper Pioneer Valley from southern Queensland and city life, as it is refreshing and comforting to experience once again the sound values and open-heartedness that built this country. Finch Hatton was the third largest township in the Pioneer Valley and in its heyday boasted the Cattle Creek Mill, three pubs and the Cedar Theatre. The picture theatre entertained the community on a weekly basis and Finch Hatton also had a Showground, a butcher, a mechanic, plus hardware and grocery stores. Finch Hatton and other Valley townships now struggle to survive and retain our young people We compete to be heard by governments and

copy, the lack of this essential piece of equipment was challenging to say the least. However, Go Office Automation in Peel Street, Mackay, heard of our plight and kindly donated a secondhand machine to help us until we can raise enough funds to purchase the model we are after. Also, Go Office Automation’s owner also arranged for an NBN truck to be in attendance at the Pioneer Valley Agriculture Show Day this year to make sure online scanning can be provided to meet COVID advice instructions from Queensland Health. The township’s wholehearted thanks goes to these thoughtful businesses in Mackay. The event calendar for 2021 in the upper Pioneer Valley from Mirani through to Eungella looks exciting this year. We look forward to welcoming you the next time you visit.

Most of the time, their requests will come from everyday Mackay residents who just want to learn more about their long lost family. Mrs Hill’s introduction to the world of genealogy began when she had to get a lost birth certificate. This birth certificate allowed her to prove eligibility to receive a visa to visit and work in England. “I had to get my grandfather

– mum’s father’s – birth certificate so I could get a visa to go over to England to work,” Mrs Hill said. “I knew that he was born in Battersea, London. “That’s all I knew. Mrs Hill said she didn’t really explore much of her family history until she returned home in 1995. “I had a couple of other certificates and thought ‘why not start?’,” she said.

Mon & Tues 430pm till late Wednesday to Sunday 10am till late Enjoy Lunch on the Balcony- 11am-3pm After work food & drinks, Platters (pre order) Hot & Cold

Country life beats life in South’s big cities by Mackay Regional Council services.So, it is truly amazing when individuals and companies lend assistance in helping us obtain what for many are considered to be bare essentials. This newspaper, the Mackay Local News recently donated a Canon printer to our local newsletter, Hatton News. Even though the final run of the monthly newsletter is printed in Michelle Landry’s office, we are very thankful for the new Canon which assists greatly with the many pre-runs needed for editing, proofing and modelling flyers. Our Finch Hatton Progress Association was recently awarded a Community Council Grant to assist us in building a Communications Hub in Finch Hatton. The funds however, fell short of providing a photocopier. Living in a community where internet is not stable and many still prefer to read hard

a week from 9.30 to 10.30am every Wednesday. “But we may get emergency calls, to help people who are really desperate and don’t have any thing to eat,” Mrs Cunneen said. “Regardless of the time or day of week, we go out of our way to prepare food parcels to help any struggling individual. “We don’t want to see people go hungry in Sarina.” “There’s no need for red tape to get a food parcel to collect as a concession card is not required and there’s mp limits on what you could grab. Sarina Food Hand Up is a New Life Church initiative and uses their facilities.

Family history a passion for ladies

Tabitha and Danny Treveton of Go Office Automation

virginia

“We also need to let those in need know that we can help. “All the food that we give away is generously donated.” For example, the Mackay Electrical Union would sometimes put together a food parcel and send it down to Sarina Food Hands Up. “We also blessed with local people contact us on Facebook asking ‘what food are you low on?” she said. The organisation relies on word of mouth and networking to reach out and support people in need, so they can help them. “It’s wonderful when people help each other,” Mrs Cunneen said. The food bank is open once

DJ from 8.30pm

FREE pool

‘Where people meet and g�eet’

4- 8pm EVERYDAY

0432 244 717 83 Victoria St, Mackay

Catering for your tastes

GRAB & GO HOT MEALS Salad, wraps, Sandwhiches, Carvery DINE IN OR

TAKEAWAY

0412 978 896

Open 6am - 4pm

Shop 3/39 Wood St, Mackay

NEWS

Friday, 5 March, 2021

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

Local employers struggle to find skilled workers David Luke on his property

Local farmer not happy with miner

FROM PAGE ONE “They did everything until they got to the road where they stopped, as they didn’t want to spend any money on their own access road,” David ad Katie said. “They wanted some of our land and I was more than happy to oblige and help them and everything went well. “If they build a short, three kilometre bypass road, then it would take their trucks and everything away from the house. “But the Bravus senior managers have failed to honour their promise and fence off their land and build their own access road. This means that thousands of truck and triple road trains constantly go past our homestead and cover us in dust, noise and we have health

issues. “We also can’t overtake and get past these road trains, as we can’t safely see through the dust clouds “It also means that the Moray homestead paddock around the house is not fenced off, which is a danger to people, dogs, horses and livestock. “There is no way in the world that anyone should have an unsealed mine access road in front of their house and about 50 metres from their front door. “These old dirt roads were only built to go from one station to another. “Bravus can’t keep sending trucks past our Moray Homestead and use our old station bush track as a major construction trucking highway to a very big coal mine,” they added.

NATIONAL employment agency APM has revealed there are people in Mackay who refuse to work and are dependent on government handouts APM Mackay business Manger Laura Hanbridge said heaps of job vacancies are currently around in Mackay with job sectors such as hospitality, age and disability support, traffic control and even trucking struggling to fill in the gaps. Ms Hanbridge said that during the pandemic there was no consequence for job seekers turning down job offers. When the COVID pandemic was in full swing and lives were disrupted, many employers were struggling to fill in these positions. “We really didn’t see a dip in job vacancies,” she said. “We saw an increase in jobs during COVID-19 last year. “One of the industries we found most challenging was hospitality. “We had multiple employers regularly come to us, desperately trying to find people

and they just weren’t able to fill the vacancies. “What we’re finding now is that there is a skill shortage, so areas such as age and disability support, that’s a booming industry. “We were also in a similar position where we weren’t able to fill the vacancies as well,” she said. “Lot of job seekers didn’t want to work – they wanted to stay on the COVID-19 supplements.” However, one of the biggest turns-offs for many job seekers was not working for some hard earned cash – it was the cost of studying. She said that most had to pay for their own equipment for work and even trying to find a company willing to take them on for placements, which could help with experience. She said that APM will help supplement some studying costs, but said it was often very expensive for people to pay for their studies. this is still the case – especially with age and disability care.

APM staff struggle to connect job seekers with employers “The issue we have with that is that it is a six month course, minimum,” she said. “And they had to do a hundred hours of work placement. “We got a quite few clients doing their study, but we can’t place them into employment

straight away because it takes at least six months. “We’ve got employers crying out to employ people. We have so many employers even willing to start people before they finish their course.”

NEWS

• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

Cyclone settles down By LIAM LEONARD AS TROPICAL Cyclone Niran leaves us for the cyclone graveyard, the weather should return to normal autumn conditions. After today, the wind will begin to die down a little bit and lead us into a mostly fine weekend. Just the slim chance of an afternoon thunderstorm and temperatures hanging around the low 30°C mark. So time to try and keep the lawn under control. Out on the water: This weekend is definitely the weekend to keep to the creeks and rivers. With TC Niran travelling, the swell will be up around 2m offshore.

The cyclone leaves FNQ With 1.5-2.5m seas and winds around the 20-30knots. There is currently a strong wind warning in place. It might just be the best weekend to stay home and check your boating safety kit. Check your EPIRB and

flares. Make sure they are still in date and haven’t expired. Replace if required. Follow L&K Mackay Severe Weather on Facebook for all your up to date, local and accurate information.

Friday, 5 March, 2021

‘No danger’ after gas alert HIGHER than normal gas levels at the Moranbah North Mine caused Anglo-America to evacuate miners last month. Anglo-American CEO Tyler Mitchelson said he is investigating the cause of the Moranbah North coal heating incident with an external technical expert review. “We are also keeping our workforce updated,” Mr Mitchelson said. An Anglo-American spokeswoman said there was no explosion, as methane levels on the longwall were well within regulatory levels. “However the expert review will provide a comprehensive risk assessment prior to re-entry, which will require regulatory approval,” the spokeswoman said.

“The trigger for the underground withdrawal was elevated levels of some gases which would indicate a coal heating issue and an overpressure event,” she said. “An over-pressure event was a change in ventilation on the face and the evacuation was done ‘as a safety precaution in accordance with our procedures.” Mr Mitchelson said technological solutions, such as remote long wall operation, would in future improve safety in the underground mine. “Conditions underground are normalising in response to the measure being taken. “Technological solutions offer the best opportunity to deliver a step-change improvement in safety in underground mining and we are investing in

a number of areas. “Moranbah North is piloting some of this pioneering work including remote longwall operation and other technological innovations. “Ultimately our processes worked to keep people safe, but we are always striving to find solutions to detect and address issues before they arise.” “We have internal and external experts assessing various information sources in order to more accurately determine the cause of the event,” she said. “At the time of the incident, we had been mining through some particularly challenging geology and every precaution was being taken. “The safety of our workforce remains our priority and we are keeping them closely informed.”

Traffic congestion at frustrating levels POPULATION growth within the Mackay and Whitsunday regions has seen traffic congestion on the Mackay-Bucasia Road grow to frustrating levels. Whitsunday MP Amanda Camm said the Mackay-Bucasia Road is a critical access road for individuals and businesses who commute to work. The Whitsunday MP has expressed frustration about the current upgrades to the roads and believed the Queensland Government could do more. She said that at peak traffic time, traffic has often slowed down to a crawl, where many drivers have described the conditions as being frustrating and hellish. Part of the problem comes down to the large levels of growth the Northern Beaches has experienced. It is predicted that, by 2036, there will be an increase of 10,673 residents or 53.6 per cent. Currently, one in six residents live within the Northern Beaches. “The lack of infrastructure to support growth directly impacts on the Mackay region’s productivity and liveability,” Ms Camm said. “The Queensland Transport Roads Investment Plan has allocated only $750,000

towards planning for capacity upgrades and duplication of Mackay-Bucasia Road. “The Palaszczuk Labor Government have only provided an indicative date for planning to commence, scheduled for 2023-2024. “The Queensland Government needs to bring forward road upgrades to support the growth, liveability and safety in the Northern Beaches of Mackay.” Refuting these claims, Transport Minister Mark Bailey said in a statement the State Government would deliver their funding for the Mackay-Bucasia Road, in contrast to the Liberal National Party. He said they “tried to cut $89 million from Mackay and Whitsunday roads in their election costings two days before the election to re-allocate it and pay for a second M1 on the Gold Coast. “The Palaszczuk Government is delivering the jointly-funded $120 million Mackay Northern Access Upgrade to duplicate the Bruce Highway between Mackay and the Northern Beaches community,” Mr Bailey said. “We’ve also locked in $750,000 to prioritise and begin the business case for the next phase of local upgrades: to duplicate Mackay-Bucasia

Local State Member Julieanne Gilbert and State Transport Minister Mark Bailey with the road plans Road between Bucasia and the Rural View Roundabout. “That’s part of a record $1.33 billion road and transport program for the region over the next four years, building on the $497 million Mackay Ring Road, with con-

struction on the $150 million Walkerston Bypass to start soon.” There are also $6 million in works on the road, including: • $2.524m; Mackay-Bucasia Road, Downie Avenue and

Hennessy Street (Mackay), intersection improvements. Design is complete and RoadTek to start construction this financial year. • $2.876m; Mackay-Bucasia Road, Holts Road, Golf Links-Habana Road and

Eimeo Road roundabouts, bike-riding facilities. This was completed in December 2020. • $0.6m Mackay-Bucasia Road, rail overpass, install guardrail. This was completed in November 2020.

What’s up mate? Real mates talk to each other – they ask how their mates are going and they let their mates know if they need help. This is the intention of the Real Mates Talk men’s campaign. Real Mates Talk is about mates helping mates in the Whitsunday, Isaac and Mackay region. Check out our website:

NEWS

Friday, 5 March, 2021

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

Engineer turns hand to fashion

Mackay RSL’s Col Benson (left) with Mayor Williamson

Mayor welcomes good news for Anzac Day NEWS that ANZAC Day celebrations are to be resumed this year has been welcomed by Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson. After being cancelled by COVID-19 concerns last year, the Queensland Government has allowed the day to be marked this year on March 25 instead of the usual April 25 date. This was after it seemed unlikely that ANZAC Day would go ahead again this year. Mayor Williamson described the state Government’s announcement as a win for the Mackay community. “Our ANZAC Day service will go ahead as normal,” Cr Williamson said. “That means also, in our regional communities as well, all those ANZAC Day services that happen right throughout the region from Half Tide

to Bloomsbury – they all go ahead. “It requires a lot of work now, on behalf of the RSL branches, to make all of this happen. “Our RSL Subbranch will step up to the mark - they’re always very keen members “I attended last Friday and they were very keen at that stage. “So this is good news.” The Mayor admitted this was a good surprise he appreciated and said it was recognition of Mackay’s efforts against COVID. “Now this is a very good outcome for our community – for Queensland,” “Right now, we’re in full planning for normal ANZAC Day commemorations in the Mackay region. “ANZAC Day is a com-

memoration we need to have – it is our largest national day and so we need to do this, however the conditions placed upon us. “At the moment, it’s full steam ahead.” RSL Mackay vice-president Col Benson said the RSL was well were ‘so far down the road in organisaing ANZAC Day’. Mr Benson said that one of their contingency plans was to have a ticketed events at Jubilee Park, if the march was unable to proceed due to COVID. “Now we are rethinking and reorganising and our district deputy president John Edwards has said ‘a simple march will make it easier for our small communities around’.” “Everyone can have their own ANZAC Day Services,” he said.

THE BIRTH of her first child, a son, made this local business owner realise that she no longer desired to drive in and out of the Bowen mines. West of the Waves owner Sarah Hayles said she used to work as a mining engineer for 15 years before she started a family with her husband. “I am actually a masters degree qualified mining engineer and I’ve had over 15 years in underground coal out at the Bowen Basin,” Mrs Hayles said. “I still do some mining consulting now but when I stopped fulltime work to start a family, it was always in the back of my mind I would like to do a bit of a business myself. “I guess it was one of those things where I didn’t really want to go back to that mining life. “I didn’t want to go back to living in a camp and all that travel because I had a newborn baby. “I knew that, mentally, I needed a bit of an outlet for myself – to do my projects or something. “When you’ve got that mental energy from working in a high capacity job for such a long time, I was just going a bit stir crazy.” This realisation helped her understand how important it was to be close to her family and enjoy every moment that she had with them. She then decided to start up an online boutique. “This business allows me to stay home with my kids and

contribute to what we’re doing as a family,” Mrs Hayles said. “It’s not so much about becoming a big fashion label, it’s more about creating something I can do from home and manage around my family. That is not say it is not gaining international traction as some of her clothes have been shipped to as far as Wales and even the US. Mrs Hayles said she started off stocking and selling sea shells and other jewellery before she moved into baby, men’s and children’s fashion. “I decided I was going to design and manufacture my own clothes, my own designs,” she said.

“I do all the designs but we manage it all remotely and the people who manufacture the clothes are all based in Melbourne. “It started on my kitchen table.” She said the business was 100 per cent true blue Aussie and that she has the license to display the Australian-made logo. While her business is still growing and gaining traction, her clothing range and design is currently being worn by Mamia Mia owner, Mia Freedman. Mrs Hayles describes her clothing as being of classical style and natural.

Students take on journalism MACKAY Local News this weeek welcomed two young High School students into the newsroom on work experience. Orlando Cran and Isabella Roberts, both 15 and in Year Ten at Mackay Northern Beaches State High, are are considering a career in the media once they have left school. The newspaper’s Editor John Bell said he was happy to see two young students showing an interest in the media. “It’s really important that the community understands the role of journalism in supporting the local community and as a watchdog on behalf of the public,” he said. “This watchdog role is is an essential part of Australian democracy and helps to keep in check public officials such as politicians, the Church and the Public Service. “This newspaper started up recently as we saw a community need to report on local news, local events and local sport. Our role is to serve the community and I commend these two young people who will leave with a broader vision of our role in the community.” Pictured (L-R) are news reporter Andy Sorensen, Orlando, Isabella and reporter Jacob Cumner.

FEATURE

• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

Phoebe Holmes, Brooke Jensen, Charli Kenny, Lukass Blicavs, Laycee Carter and Paris Santacaterina

Friday, 5 March, 2021

Brooke Jensen throws the ball around

Future looking bright for Meteorites jacob

cumner Staff Reporter

THE five local girls who made it into the U18 North Queensland Girls team are looking forward to competing in the Basketball Australia Under 18 Nationals in Victoria from April 10 to 17. The five, out of a team of 12, are Paris Santacaterina 17, Charli Kenny 15, Laycee Carter 15, Brooke Jensen 15 and Phoebe Holmes 15. This is an amazing outcome and just shows how strong our Mackay girls’ program really is. Each of the players started reasonably young to the sport with Paris being only eight when she started with her club. The younger players began their experiences at seven, eight or nine. When asked what the most important thing was about being on the court, Phoebe told this newspaper “playing for each other is the key. Brooke said her dad was a real driving force for her to get in to basketball. “Dad (Ross Jensen) made state

teams and he was also assistant coach,” Brooke said. Laycee said Brooke got her into the sport and Charli said she jumped into the sport due to a school training event she attended. Asked if they wanted to take their love of the sport further, Phoebe said it was too early to tell. “I don’t know, yet,” she said. “I’ve a couple of years to decide, yeah just keep on working. I think the younger ones have a few years (to decide). I know Charli and I are only in year ten so we have a lot of time to decide what we wanna do.” Paris, who is older, can see a future for herself in the sport. “Yeah, I defiantly wanna go further,” she said. “College in the US is probably my next move if Covid-19 goes away. But yeah just see where it takes me. I wanna go to college over there and play in division one and study.” When asked what was so appealing about studying in the US, Phoebe said, “I would say just the opportunities that come with that and the high level that you play at every single – you get a free education – if you get a scholarship, you get a free education.

So you get a degree and you can play your sport.” Paris said, “It’s just like the next level, like it’s a different whole game over there, so you know, just the next step into making myself a better player and yeah, taking that next step in your career and getting more exposure to better things after the us, like WNBL, yeah Euroleague.” The other young ladies also have huge dreams for the future with Charli aiming for a teaching degree and Laycee hoping to land something in an office somewhere Phoebe said she wants to do something with sports, whether its travelling the world like teammate Paris wants to do or staying here and continue play here. Brooke’s dreams seem to mirror that of team mate Laycee. “Yeah, I’m much the same as Laycee, like whatever comes, I guess,” Brooke When Brooke’s dad Ross worked with the girls as assistant coach, they won the gold medal in the under 16s. Paris: “We just competed at our state championships Lukass Blicavs was our coach and we played well so we won sliver medals.”

Mr Bilcavs has been guiding the girls for several years and is proud of the progress they have made. “It’s been really good because it’s been a few years in the works,” he said. When they were under 16, they had a lot of team success, but they didn’t necessarily have the recognition they deserved from a Basketball Queensland standpoint. Whereas this year we had the team success and we had the individual recognition, which is great, considering it’s taken five years or so. “It’s really good they can all come together and keep that momentum,” he said. “It was just good they finally got recognised because for someone reason us in Mackay, we don’t really get that recognition, it’s taken a lot of hard work.” The coach said being chosen for the North Queensland team was a real credit to the girls program, “especially at the moment, we’ve got a lot of kids coming through. We’ve got a really strong NBL young Metereottes program, which hopefully a lot of these girls will feature in this season or the coming season. The coach said the girls have shown a lot of dedication to the sport.

The Club competition is held on a Monday night and some of the girls also play on a Sunday night. “These girls have pretty much every weekend a state camp. So they might have to go away to Townsville or here in Mackay or maybe Rocky or Cairns, wherever it might be,” he said. “They drive back and may play at the local competition on Sunday night as well. “Every week or nearly every second week they drive in to Townsville to do four or five sessions over the weekend, drive back, sometimes play Sunday night and back to school Monday. So it’s a pretty big commitment, they play again Monday night. “It makes it harder, we’ve got five Mackay girls but they still hold the camps up in Townsville, so it’s even a bigger commitment, considering I don’t think there’s even a Townsville girl in the team.” The girls also usually attend a State Camp every second or third weekend where all 12 girls on the team travel to Townsville for two days. These five dedicated young ladies are doing their local community proud and are real role models.

Mackay Whitsunday Funerals & Crematorium

FEATURE

Friday, 5 March, 2021

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

Aiming for cane farming sustainability George Williams is a fourth-generation cane farmer who grew up on the family farm at Dawlish, just north of Sarina. After school he became a fitter and turner at Plane Creek Mill with the aim of eventually going back on the family farm. He finally did this full time in 2011, after successfully running a distribution business in Mackay for several years. For the past eight years George has worked as Operating Partner for Racecourse Projects but he still runs the family farm under a share farming agreement with the company. While George doesn’t get to sit on a tractor much these days he oversees four farm managers who do. They also make the day-to-day farming decisions for the company about what to spray, what to fertilise, what to fallow, and so on. There are some very well-known local farming names among them. George sets the framework and the overall direction for the operation. Then, throughout the week the team gets together to discuss the big picture. The farming decisions change, of course, from one day to the next due to weather conditions and the other challenges on the ground every farmer faces. Racecourse Projects began operation in October 2013. Today, the majority shareholder is Proterra Investment Partners, an American private equity company which invests in natural resources – agriculture, food, metals and mining. Racecourse Projects is their only sugar investment in Australia, but they also own sugar mills in Brazil. Mackay Sugar is also a major shareholder and Company Secretary Peter Gill sits on the Company’s Board. 5000 HA INVESTMENT The company has invested in more than 5000 ha of caneland in the Mackay/Plane Creek districts. More than 400,000 tonnes of cane were delivered last year by the company’s four harvesting groups to Mackay Sugar and Wilmar Sugar mills from three areas: Marwood/Dawlish (two farms), Blue Mountain area at the top of Eton Range (three farms) and Claireview (two farms). George estimates that the harvesting team has more than 200 years of experience between them. The total tonnage was made up of 300,000 tonnes from Racecourse Projects’ own farms and 100,000 tonnes cut for surrounding farmers. The company also undertakes other contract work such as spraying, laser levelling and earthmoving for local farmers at farmer friendly rates. Racecourse Projects employs up to 50 staff during the season and as a result has invested heavily in health and safety initiatives. SafeAg (www. safeagsystems.com) is an app that all staff at Racecourse Projects use to report hazards, incidents and daily prestarts. Over the past eight years, the farms have all been converted to a 2.4 metre, 800 mm dual row, controlled traffic system. “It’s an efficient system. There is less compaction than traditional methods which will lead to improved water retention over time. We only cultivate the ‘grow zone’ and our harvesters only have to travel 4,166 me-

tres per ha, saving over 2 km per ha in travel compared with a 1.6 metre row farm setup. That’s 10,000 km per year,” said George. EFFICIENT SYSTEM “This system also reduces the amount of turning at the end of the paddock. It has given us huge savings in fuel and labour. Using less horsepower by travelling slower also means a better quality cut with less damage to the stool giving us improved ratoons.” The farm machinery runs on GPS, all chemical and nutrient records are electronic and come directly from the tractor. For the past three years the harvesters have had yield monitors fitted. The data the yield monitors provide allows inputs to be matched with yield potential within the paddock. “We now have enough yield monitors to cover our entire property. This technology ensures we are not applying fertilser, where there are yield limiting factors like water logging, grubs or just poor soil,” said George. “We believe that matching inputs to yield potential is good economics for the business and benefits the environment by maximising input utilisation.” George has an accountant in the office next door to his and they talk numbers daily. “We are constantly looking for something that will reduce our cost of production by 10 or 20 cents a tonne. Our aim is to make Racecourse Projects the most efficient, sustainable cane farming operation that we can be. We have the same challenges as every other cane grower in terms of crop yields, sugar prices and milling performance, of course – we are not different to anyone else there. We all want to see the Indian subsidy go and for electricity and water prices to be lower. “Our principal limiting factor here is not always being able to have the right person at the right place at the right time when things get busy.On an average sized farm there is one farmer farming about 100 to 150 ha. For us to do that we would need to employ 50 farmers. “We can’t afford to do that and keep everyone gainfully employed all year round, so we get around it by having bigger, more efficient equipment to be able to cover more hectares per day. What used to take my Dad and me a month to do on the family farm now takes us only a couple of days. “For instance, Dad and I used to have one planter and one tractor to plant 40 ha a year, but Racecourse Projects uses one planter and one tractor to plant 2000 ha a year. That economy of scale means the equipment is not so expensive when calculated on a dollar per ha basis,” George said. Cane is ratooned for six years, with a 15 per cent fallow factor. The

George Williams runs the family farm variety selection is up to farm managers with only limited input from George. They work with MAPS and an agronomist to determine the selection based on soil types and early/late harvest factors. Soybeans are grown in rotation with the cane to reduce nitrogen requirements for top dressing and plant cane. The soybeans have been sold to market in previous years but where this has not been possible, they are ploughed back in as a green manure crop. TRIALS UNDERWAY Two trials are under way on Racecourse Projects farms. The first is a multi-species trial over 12 hectares. This has looked at seedling viability and efficiency using an air seeder on a harvester during harvesting compared with using a wavy disc cultivator. Soybean crops have been planted in the trial as a control. The second trial has involved using an app, 1622-WQ (https://research.csiro.qu/digiscape/961-2/), developed by CSIRO agricultural researcher, Dr Peter Thorburn, to look at reducing nitrogen rates late in the season for ratoons cut in October, for instance. “For me, the ratoons we cut in October don’t have the same yield potential as the ratoons cut in June, so why are we putting on the same amount of nitrogen?” said George. “How far can we cut the nitrogen rate back in October without having an impact on yield? The initial results are looking good.” Racecourse Projects’ farms are in the Sandy Creek, Fitzroy and Styx Basin catchment areas. Environmental scrutiny in past years from local conservation groups has been intense and the company has been regularly audited by the government. “We are in constant communica-

tion with the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries and the Department of Environment and Science. We have positive relationships and have found them good to deal with,” said George. “Coming out of any audit process there are always things to learn and things to improve. An auditor wouldn’t be doing their job if they didn’t find something. I look at the audit process as an opportunity to improve and be better in the future. “Whether we like it or not, this is not only a government expectation of us but a community expectation. The community expects Australian farmers to be the best in the world, so we need to show the community that we ARE actually the best farmers in the world. “We are proud to be producing a food product. It is not enough to say, ‘oh, trust us, we are the best in the world’. At some point we have to prove it.” The first priority for the company was obtaining Bonsucro accreditation in 2017. Now the company is working with CANEGROWERS Mackay’s agricultural economist, John Eden, to obtain Smartcane BMP accreditation this year. “For an operation our size, it’s not easy, which is the way it should be,” said George. “We need to do the work to prove to people that we have best management practice by keeping the records. And like all farmers, it’s finding the time to do it. We’re all a bit busy! “The actual farming practice in the paddock is the important part of BMP and we’ve been very focused on getting that right, rather than the certificate on the wall We are constantly improving drainage and creating spoon drains and recycling pits as we fallow paddocks. But our stool can be in the ground for six years. It can be a decade before we can work on a bit of ground again to get it right. Then we

might have a one in 50 year weather event with half a metre of rain over night and we have to start again.” STRICT RULES George says the operation has the same issues as others in the industry and has to play strictly by the rules when it comes to minimising sediment runoff on slopes: “We have sediment control plans in place and our spray operators do training every year to make sure they are meeting the requirements around buffer zones and slopes. We work very closely with our agronomist to make sure we comply with chemical label rates and government requirements for chemicals.” George says he believes the sugar industry is more beneficial to the environment than it is given credit for: “When I look out over our caneland I see 5000 ha of solar panels converting energy into sucrose, bagasse and molasses. “Mackay Sugar produces one third of Mackay’s electrical energy needs renewably from bagasse. For every kilowatt hour the sugar industry produces, that’s a kilowatt hour not produced from other sources. We also produce the feedstock for making ethanol. “For every litre of ethanol we produce we are using less fossil fuels. Cane is also a crop that should be getting credit for carbon sequestration. I talk to people in Brisbane about these things and they are blown away. “They have no idea of our effort and investment into the renewable energy sector. I think the future for the industry is bright, not just for Racecourse Projects but the industry as a whole. “Of course, we’d love to strike a year when we have both a good crop and a good price, like every other grower, but I think the Nordzucker investment has restored some confidence in the industry and the next few years will bring real improvements for all.”

COMMUNITY

• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

Friday, 5 March, 2021

MY THOUGHTS | Would you volunteer for the COVID-19 vaccine?

Michelle Bates

Trinity Bates

Helen Caddy

Michael Madsen

“Absolutely! Certainly going to have the injection when it’s available, so we can all get back to normal and keep our community safe.”

“I think I will get it.”

“Yes I’ll get the jab because my mother is in Victoria in a dementia ward and I haven’t been able to see her for over a year.”

“Yeah I will because we have to, basically.”

Quote of the week “ANZAC Day is a commemoration we need to have COMMENT

Sending our brains spinning IF COVID hasn’t done our heads in enough, refuse to have automated do it yourself then there’s the tsunamai of changes in our checkouts while other swear by their machines everyday lives that’s sending our brains which certainly aren’t always perfect. spinning. I went to a supermarket in Japan once that had My least favourite are the number of zero people – just deal with screens. It was the businesses (mainly big and distant) and most soulless experience of my life. government departments No matter how young and and authorities which now “Everything that’s already in the tech savvy people are, the have a computer phone world when you are born is just human touch still works answering system with normal. wonders. none of the seven choices Anything that gets invented between So it is interesting to being anywhere close to see many local business birth and when you are 30 is being your issue at hand. incredibly exciting and creative owners report how so That’s almost as useful as and with any luck you can make a many customers were the radio Cyclone Message just so happy to go back career out of it. that says to jump on the to a person to person internet to report power Anything invented after you are experience when the last lines down – hello, we 30 is against the natural order of lot of major lockdowns, want to report we haven’t things and the beginning of the bans and blockages were got electricity and mobile end of civilisation as we know it lifted. towers have been knocked until it has been around for at least We still have to zoom out so we can’t use the 10 years” - Douglas Adams on our phones onto the code internet! Technology and modern life square going into pubs, It is fairly obvious cafes and some businesses that Covid is being used by many large – a small inconvenience to going in to enjoy organisations to make cuts to personal service some human interaction. and have us all hanging on call centres or And that’s why as your local newspaper and queued on crashing internet services. website, we employ local people, have a local You can see that in the rounds of bank branch phone number and publish our local address. closures announced over the last month or so. Good luck trying to speak to an actual human Just as bad is when you go to the office address at Facebook or Google (and if you did the to be met by a blank wall and a phone hanging closest would be 1900 kms south). there which rarely anyone answers – and if Speaking with your neighbours, workmates they do could be a thousand or many more and community members is one of the great kilometres away. joys of life. It seems arrogant in the extreme when No matter how techy the world gets, how much organisation promote personal service, then some top CEO wants to dumb down service have you talk to a computer, or a very distant to computerised voices or digital clicks, as person who might as well be a computer human beings we still need the human touch. because they can’t do any more than read off a screen. We’re listening It’s bad enough when someone in Melbourne What do you think of the state of tells you to ‘just’ go to their now only personal service? We encourage your remaining branch to sign a document, when thoughts, feedback and insights via with the two closest branches closed you have email: a 260 km round trip into Mackay along the lovely Bruce Highway. news@mackaylocalnews.com.au That’s apparently ‘just around the corner’. or if your preference is mail: It is also instructive to see how then different PO Box 1025, Mackay 4740 supermarkets handle their checkouts – several

– it is our largest national day”

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson

Show us your tatts

REWBEKAH sent us this picture of her tattoo. “My fox tattoo is dedicated to my first child Abigail. I’m so happy with this tattoo and it’s definitely my favourite. Every time I see it, I’m reminded of my little girl playing with her fox toy that I could never get from her. The tattoo artist was Dave Monk at Mad Monk. I love that my daughter can look at the tattoo and say it’s hers. And a lot of people have said randomly up town how nice it is. It will be a long-loved memory and I’m sure I’ll continue to add to it as she gets older.” DO you have a tatt or two? If so, we’d like you to send in a picture of your tattoo. Tell us what your tattoo means to you and how it makes you feel. The best answer will win a mystery prize every month What are you waiting for? Send in your tattoo pics to news@mackaylocalnews.com.au

COMMUNITY

Friday, 5 March, 2021

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

MY THOUGHTS | Would you volunteer for the COVID-19 vaccine?

Jordyn Sutton

“I don’t really know too much about it but I would consider getting it if I had to volunteer for it. Only because of all the crap that’s going on with it with people being sick and that, like something needs to change.”

Raymond Tocklor

Lauren Williams

Joan Flood

“I’m only aware of the publicity of it, but if it’s guaranteed to solve problems, I’ll take it.”

“I’m a little bit hesitant at the moment, I think I’ll wait and see how it rolls out over the course of the year.”

“To protect myself from getting COVID and I also think it’s the right thing to do.”

Letters to the Editor SITTING VACANT AFTER reading your article on Friday about the shortage of houses in Mackay this is one that has just been sit tingthere. The house is number 6 Apsley, Andergrove. The house in my opinion has been abandoned (no one has been there) since just after Christmas. After a period of time around two months ago, I and three other neighbours complained to Queensland Housing about the state of the yard as there was an influx on snakes. After a bit research we were told ring the council and hous-

ing had two weeks to act after the complaint about a mouth ago. One neighbour has done the whole process twice. I am appalled that there has been a vacant house just sitting there and as neighbours we have to live this eye sore and the pests it brings. Name and Address Withheld Upon Request BITE THE BULLET IT’S time the Mackay Regional Council bit the bullet and provided portable toilets at Platypus Beach. What a load of crap re ame-

nities! Solar power can be used for lighting, or better yet no lighting so as to deter camping. Lock them at night? If you think there is no camping there already, then think again! No water, you say...it’s on the river bank!! Check out Windy Loo at Boulder Creek!! What about a long -drop composting dunny?? “No amenities” has probably in part caused the river to be used for ablutions! If it’s about cost, Mackay Regional Council, it’s time you rearranged your priorities and created amenities for tourism.

Mackay Council, you are so archaic at times. What are the village upstream issues with ablutions....? That’s two issues that the Mackay Regional Council needs to attend to! I wondered if the faecal matter was from the workmen attending to repair work there just days before ? However the matter needs to be fully investigated full stop and Mackay Council needs to notify it’s consumers of the findings asap. Is it open for swimming yet ? Elaine Alderslade

Send your letters, responses or comments to: Mackay Local News, PO Box 1025, Mackay 4740 Email: john@mackaylocalnews.com.au

Mackay Local News • ABN 11 646 648 848

Published Weekly on Friday Circulating local news throughout the Mackay, Whitsunday and Isaac Regional Council areas. CONTACTS Office: Suite 5, Level 1, 45 Victoria Street, Mackay. Q. 4740 Postal: PO Box 1025, Mackay. Q. 4740 Office Hours: Monday to Friday — 8.30am to 4.30pm Email: Editorial and Letters news@mackaylocalnews.com.au Advertising Material ads@@mackaylocalnews.com.au Advertising Sales • brooke@mackaylocalnews.com.au Advertising Support • jodie@mackaylocalnews.com.au Accounts accounts@mackaylocalnews.com.au General Manager • Dallas Frakking dallas@mackaylocalnews.com.au Editor • John Bell john@mackaylocalnews.com.au Deputy Editor • David Lornie david@mackaylocalnews.com.au ADVERTISING DEADLINES Display: Classified:

Booking close ............... 3pm Tuesday Booking close ............... 3pm Tuesday

Booking deadline changes may occur due to Public Holidays PRINTER: Townsville Print Centre

DISTRIBUTION AGENT: Carrolls News distribution@mackaylocalnews.com.au PUBLISHER: Mackay Local News Pty Ltd

mackaylocalnews

@mackaylocalnews

www.mackaylocalnews.com.au

Seniors report back Mackay Local News staff and newspaper distributing agent Juanita Shepperson from Carrolls News enjoyed catching up over coffee and cake with the wonderful locals at Eaglemount Resort late last week.

• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

Jasmine and Isaac McEwan

SNAPPERAZI

Friday, 5 March, 2021

Jock Hansen, Kirra Tully and Col Mietzel

Bec Heyer, Anita Hamillon, Ashleigh Morris, Naomi Reid, Sharelle Liles, Nicolette Frost, Lorna Graham-Jenkins, Stacey Finlay,Angela Lanson, Justine Casey and Nicole McDonald

Jason and Louise Brough

Ashleigh Neill and Chloe Wilson

Friday, 5 March, 2021

Christine Burton and Marnie Martin

SNAPPERAZI

Todd De La Torre, knox De La Torre, Cruez De La Torre and Bohdee

Back row: (L-R) Thomas Teys, Henry Westcott. Front row: James Teys, Melissa Westcott, William Westcott and Arthur Westcott

Deborah Griffiths and Sue Kirkpatrick

Is your business taking advantage of this local initiative?

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

Ian Devenish and Emily Reed

Theo Koukouvas and Gabriella Koukouvas

• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

OPINION

Well done ATG and Deputy

Friday, 5 March, 2021

GIG GUIDE with

skinhead

EMILY PASSMORE

UNDER MY SKIN

NOT often do I say nice things about our Premier Annastacia The Great (ATG) or her Deputy Dawg Steven “The Mauler” Miles, but today’s the day. Why? Because ATG has apparently, to her credit, acknowledged her government’s responsibility for some unbelievable medical mistakes, and The Mauler has advanced, by decades, the push to abolish Australian States and Territories. Just in case you missed these two history-making events (or deliberately At least we still have the Mighty Maroons! blocked them from your mind), let me Mauler had gone for the jugular. He Now to The Mauler give some background. First, an amazCongratulations Dr Miles. You did a missed by a body length and came out ing confession. brilliant job. It will take time for us to smelling, but he was still smirking. He ATG recently levelled the blame for accurately measure the positive results was so proud of himself. the vaccine overdose of two aged care that will accrue from your public theresidents “entirely” on the Morrison atrics in relation to your government’s What a Statesman government. decision not to pay previously-agreed Queenslanders should burst with “This doctor had no training — now costs of COVID-19 quarantine. pride when we produce politicians of we have two elderly people that could The “job” I’m referring to is The this calibre. be anyone’s mother or father, or aunt Mauler’s efforts to abolish State GovI must admit I have not been kind or uncle, that are now in hospital,” she ernments. In one fell swoop, and with to our former Health Minister and said. (NB: The “no training” bit was all the finesse of two of the Three now Deputy Dawg. I have called him not correct). Deputy terrible things — the Clown Prince ‘We have arguably the worst Stooges, “I don’t Dawg sealed the fate of Covid, Pinocchio, Mad Dog, and want to see government this State has ever of the States. the love child of Mr Magoo and Dr this happen No one could Doolittle — but I’ve only done that to had and an unelectable again. Let’s have said and done demonstrate my profound disrespect make sure Opposition’ more, in such a short for him. the training time, to convince Australians that the Some commentators have been even happens. It’s too crucial.” states are an abomination — a total more cruel to The Mauler, labelling Given her government’s “integrity waste of time, resources, and energy. him everything from buffoon to ratand accountability”, this means ATG, Of course he had no idea what he on behalf of her government, must was about to achieve when he em- bag, raving loony, and fruitcake. That is insulting — insulting to all take some responsibility for the doz- barked on his cringeworthy, embarus self-proclaimed buffoons, ratbags, ens of mistakes, or sentinel errors, that rassing pantomime. raving loonies and fruitcakes. We have occur every year in the Queensland For those of you lucky enough to public health system. have missed it (or purposely ignored some standards. Some of us are still proud AusTwo years ago it was revealed, “Al- it), the Hon. Dr Miles produced a most 100 cases of patient harm have well-rehearsed but oh so sickening tralians and want to be referred to as been linked to Queensland’s new elec- “Nah nah nah nah nah” speech in Par- Aussies. We love this country. Yes, we are (were until recently) tronic medical record system in just liament. over a year, including instances of He then took to social media to also proud Queenslanders who love patients being administered incorrect childishly tell NSW where they can goading all Mexicans. But why have we started playing this doses of drugs. shove their $30 million hotel quaranpathetic political game of pitting Auss“Alleged documented cases in- tine account, and with all the flamboyie against Aussie, depending on what clude a child being given 10 times the ance of an extremely bad ham actor, side of an invisible line, called a State amount of insulin prescribed and a pa- tore up the document. tient being administered morphine in The Mauler then started raving on, border, you happen to find yourself? We have arguably the worst governmilligrams, not micrograms.” in his trademark incoherent way, about OMG ATG, according to your own horses, dogs and cows, Common- ment this State has ever had, and an accountability standards, that makes wealth responsibilities, and a futuristic unelectable Opposition that seems so consumed by its own internal machiyour government responsible for med- quarantine station at Toowoomba. ication-dispensing errors in your hosBut oh how he stuck it up NSW. nations it is not fit to govern either. Where does this leave us? What did pitals. Never, even in rugby league’s State of I can’t wait to hear ATG’s respon- Origin, has NSW been put in its place we do to deserve this? sibility acceptance speech next time with so much showmanship. It was a We really have reason to despair for brilliant performance. He loved it. The the future of this once great State. parliament sits.

and and "Where shopping meets history " GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

Old Walkers Market Complex, 78 Harbour Road, North Mackay Open 10-4 Tuesday to Saturday Phone Deb on 0431930515

FRIDAY MARCH 5 Hot Dr – 7pm – Langford’s Bella Mackenzie – 5pm – Moss On Wood Mark Thomas – 6pm - Sails Marcus Meier – 7pm – Railway One For The Road – 7.30pm – O’Shea’s Shaun Diver – 8pm – Carlons Jan Anns – 8pm – Black Nugget

SATURDAY MARCH 6 Shaun Diver – 3.30pm – Langford’s Bella Mackenzie – 5pm – Moss On Wood Significant Other – 9pm – Moss On Wood Jezzie Duo – 2pm – Seabreeze Shaun Diver – 8pm – Black Beach Tavern Niki – 7pm – Carlons Jan Anns – 8pm – Black Nugget

SUNDAY MARCH 7 Jam with Shannon – 3pm – Langford’s Mango Junction – 4pm - Sails Simon Briley – 2pm – Seabreeze Nathan Kennedy – 8pm – Northern Beaches Bowls Club Jan Anns – late lunch - Calen Country Music Gig – 1pm – Sarina Leagues Club Geoff Rowdsfell – 11.30am - Eungella Chalet

THURSDAY MARCH 11 E.J. Barker – 7.30pm – General Gordon Open Mic Night – 7pm – Langford’s COVID 4740 Show – 7pm – Seabreeze McCain – 8pm – Black Nugget

Friday, 5 March, 2021

REAL ESTATE

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

REAL ESTATE

• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

Friday, 5 March, 2021

OPEN HOMES

Saturday March 6

TIME

SUBURB

ADDRESS

TYPE BED BATH CAR AGENT

9:30 - 10am

Mt Pleasant 21 Maranark Ave

Duplex 4

My Real Estate Qld

9.30 - 10am

Sth Mackay 3/3 Rolston Street

Unit

Blacks Real Estate

10.30-11.15am Armstrong Beach 5 Rosemarie Crt

House 5

Blacks Real Estate

10.30-11.15am East Mackay 22 Reef Parade

House 4

Blacks Real Estate

11-11:30am

House 3

My Real Estate Qld

12.45 - 1.30pm Rural View

35 Kidston Avenue House 4

Elders Real Estate

12.30 -1.30pm Hay Point

7 Rasmussen Ave

Blacks Real Estate

Sarina

9 Brewers Road

House 5

Sunday March 7 TIME

SUBURB

ADDRESS

TYPE BED BATH CAR AGENT

9-9:30

Beaconsfield 18 Mod Crescent

House 4

My Real Estate Qld

10-10:30

North Mackay 7/63 Grendon St

Unit

My Real Estate Qld

11-11:30

Racecourse

2 Meadowlands Rd House 3

My Real Estate Qld

HOME BUYERS CHECKING GUIDE: Home hunting is exciting with so much to see and explore. With so many homes to go through it’s easy to forget what was what and where. Here’s our basic and easy guide to assist you in what to look out for while viewing your potential short list of homes:

FOUNDATION:

p p

No large/wide cracks (Check bases of walls and ceilings)

No evidence of past leaks, water stains in and around all wet areas

Foundation appears straight

All light switches in working order and firmly fitting to walls

ROOF:

No evidence of excess rusting, wood rot/pest damage

Gutters free from decay, rust and sagging

EXTERIOR:

Water drains away from the house. Grounds drainage

No/limited tree, vegetation root damage to buildings possible water/seweage lines

p p

No trees, branches touching, overhanding the property dwellings Assess for low lying/water pooling areas

INTERIOR:

p p

Paint and walls in good condition

Climate control units/devices all in working order

Neutral/nil smells throughout the property

Appliances in good, working order

Solar panel/s visual and in good working order

Pipes in all wet areas clean and unstained in good condition without signs of damage or leaks

p No unusual noises when flushing toilets or draining sink/basins

REFERRALS:

p p Walls, ceilings and floors appear p straight, level and undamaged p Doors in good, sturdy condition p p with ease of movement, closing/ opening and locking p p No sgnificant cracks in floors, p walls or ceiling

No brownish marks/stains down walls or around aircond units from pest activity

Sturdy window frames and windows, function and lock with ease

All toilets and sinks drain away with ease and without delay

Climate control (fans/aircon/ heaters) in all bedrooms, living spaces

Plumber/s Electricians Pest Control Professionals Building Inspectors Conveyancers Bankers, Mortgage Brokers

............................................................. ............................................................. ............................................................. .............................................................

mackaylocalnews.com.au

REIQ Mackay Zone Chair Allison Cunningham

Mackay finishes strong decade MACKAY real estate has experienced one of the steadiest growth periods for nearly a decade with 2020 finishing the year equal strongest of all major regions across the State. Mackay Zone Chairman Allison Cunningham said Mackay’s growth led the state for two consecutive months throughout last year. “The Mackay rental market dropped to 0.5 per cent vacancy rate in the last quarter, which has seen the demand for vacant homes squeezing prices higher by nearly 10 percent across the region,” she said. “The MacKay region welcomed many new residents over the past 12 months and COVID-19 travel restrictions has also forced the relocation of those wishing to keep their mining jobs. “Others have taken advantage of the increase in job

openings in the government sector of health, police and ambulance.” Mrs Cunningham said there are only 236 properties available across the greater Mackay region for lease and just over 1500 properties for sale. “These are numbers that haven’t been seen in at least 5 years. “Many people are finding themselves in temporary accommodation struggling to secure permanent housing due to the high level of competition for each rental listing. “Rents on the rise and with no immediate sign of slowing down, government grants are still available for first home buyers and interest rates at a stable all-time low, so buying a property may not be such a bad idea. “So whether you are seeking to purchase or lease, organisation is key.

“Have your application ready and bond money available if applying for rentals, sign up to alerts with realestate.com.au so you get immediate notifications of new listings to market. “If buying, then make that sure you arrange your pre-approval with a financier before making offers. “For anyone with a current rental agreement, renewing your lease should be high on your list of priorities. “If you don’t want to move, please don’t underestimate how hard securing another rental can be at this time. “There are many applicants trying for properties with excellent references, all hoping to receive an approval and unfortunately for every acceptance there is at least another eight who have been declined.”

Friday, 5 March, 2021

REAL ESTATE

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

REAL ESTATE

Friday, 5 March, 2021

10 Honeysuckle Street, Andergrove

$375,000

THE PERFECT FAMILY HOME - 2nd CHANCE

OPEN By Appointment HOME

• Back on the market is this newly renovated family home. • Offering a great deck, expansive front and back yards. • A large rumpus room downstairs. • All bedrooms with built-in-robes and two have airconditioning. • Featuring stylishly renovated bathroom.

• Front deck leads to the air conditioned lounge with polished floorboards. • Side access with single lock up garage and off street car parking for another 4 cars.

0409 095 703 | pfrancis@blacksrealestate.com.au | Peter Fancis

31 George Milton Street, West Mackay

$489,000

BIG WEST MACKAY HOME - TWO EXTRA ROOMS DOWNSTAIRS

OPEN By Appointment HOME

• Large family home set on a 809m2 corner block in “Blue Chip” West Mackay. • Features three bedrooms & bathroom upstairs • Two rooms, a second bathroom downstairs – all five bedrooms with airconditioning. • Generous kitchen and large loungeroom with internal stairs.

• Extra-long garage that could also be used as a rumpus room. • Side access to a 10m x 6m block shed with power and shelving. • Ideal for a large or extended family.

0409 095 703 | pfrancis@blacksrealestate.com.au | Peter Fancis

Unit 3/3 Rolston Street, South Mackay

$200,000

TROPICAL OASIS IN SUBURBIA

OPEN By Appointment HOME

• This low maintenance unit is both peaceful and private offering a tranquil outdoor courtyard surrounded by tropical gardens. • Situated at the rear of a secure complex of only three, in the convenient suburb of South Mackay. • Sparkling brand new bathroom

• Extra-long single garage and convenient storage room • Ideal for the astute investor, those just starting out or looking for a quiet place to retire.

0409 095 703 | pfrancis@blacksrealestate.com.au | Peter Fancis

07 4963 2500

43 Wood Street, Mackay

blacksrealestate.com.au

Friday, 5 March, 2021

REAL ESTATE

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

High set home + pool + shed = SOLD

SOLD - Marian - Big Block - Big Shed

SOLD - Rural property always wanted

SOLD - Smaller acreage out of town

SOLD - Display Homes in hot demand

REAL ESTATE

• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

Friday, 5 March, 2021

eldersmackay.com.au

6/82 Evan Street, Mackay -

Get SOLD with Renee Saroglia Properties are selling in record time above list price! If you have been thinking of selling, please call me today. Contact Renee Saroglia 0423 073 969

Quality living space over 3 levels Two large built in bedrooms on upper level Good sized neat and tidy bathroom Close to all amenities, parks & minutes to CBD Deck on middle level

Contact Trevor Field 0407 164 959

$149,000 - Ground floor kitchen and dining - Lock up garage - Middle level open plan living

Interested to find out the value of your home? With my local market knowledge and experience combined with the latest industry data 4

35 Kidston Avenue, Rural View

View Saturday 6th March 12.45 - 1.30pm -

Great location Catch the breeze high on the hill Open plan living Two living areas

Contact Debbie O' Dea 0413 804 688

Air Conditioned throughout Under cover patio Side access, land 857m2 Single bay shed

2 3 $475,000

For a no obligation free appraisal call or email me today. Elders Real Estate Mackay Janine Walsh 0407 678 670 jwalsh@eldersmackay.com.au

Real Estate 171 Victoria Street, Mackay

Sales - 4951 9000 Rentals - 4951 9099

REAL ESTATE

Friday, 5 March, 2021

Cheaper to buy a home than to rent in Mackay MACKAY’S acute shortage of homes to lease has encouraged people to buy a home instead. Fortunately, it’s now cheaper to buy than rent a house in Mackay and in the Shires of Whitsunday and Isaac. For example, it costs $350 to $450 a week to rent a basic cabin in Mackay, (which are rarely available) depending on whether the renter is a single person or a family. In comparison, it only costs $330 per week in total repayment, to buy an average priced $330,000 house in Mackay. Home Loan: ouse in Mackay is now even easier as banks will now lend up to 95 percent of the valve of a new house. GRANTS FIRST HOME OWNERS GRANT of $15,000 IS available from the federal government for a brand new home. A BUILDERS BOOST GRANT of $15,000 is available from the Australian Government for Australians,

It is cheaper to buy than rent a house in Mackay where the value of their home and land is less than $750,000, (as long as home-owners income is less than $125,000, or a couple’s joint income is less

than $200,000). QUEENSLAND REGIONAL BOOST GRANT of $5,000 is available for people in Mackay and in northern re-

gional areas, which is paid by the Queensland State Government after a new home is built. Source: Mortgage Choice Mackay (Graham Bowling)

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

1500 workers to benefit from site OVER 1500 drive-in/drive out workers at the proposed Olive Downs coal mine will benefit from Sarina’s new 580 lot housing development. Sentinel Property Group Executive Chairman and Chief Investment Officer Warren Ebert (pictured), said Sarina’s $300M new home project, which will enable about twohour bus rides to work for coal workers, will also help solve the greater Mackay region’s housing shortage. There are less than eight residential land blocks for sale in Sarina and there are no new houses for sale in Sarina that are less than five years old. The 70-heactre housing site is next to Sarina Supa IGA/Kmart and Sarina Showgrounds adjoins the Bruce Highway, Sarina Beach Road and Brooks Road includes larger and more family orientated 750 plus sqm lots, which will suit boat and caravan owners Housing lots will be cheaper than in Mackay and cost $160,000 to $200,000 for 750 sq to 1,000 sq, while similar blocks in Mackay sell for $230,000. Complete house and land

packages will cost high $400,000 to low $500,000, for four bed, two bath homes, with an en-suite and a two-car car garage, plus there are backyard shed options. The Sentinel Property Group’s project includes a $40 million commercial development for a petrol station, fire and ambulance centres, plus childcare, medical facilities, aged care and caravan and tourist parks. Sarina’s more open space lifestyle and closeness beaches is near major employment hubs at Aurizon’s wagon overhaul facility at Jilalan, the Hay Point Terminals and the major coal mining employers in the Bowen Basin. Sentinel Property Group is negotiating with the Mackay Regional Council and civil works for stage one is expected to start in mid to late 2021.

That moment when a property feels right An award Winning Quality Home in Belmont Estate, this C.J. Smith home is on the market for the first time since being built in 2017 and is ready to become yours. Featuring quality appliances and fittings you will get a touch and feel of luxury in a highly sought after location. Aluminum doors and timber planking floorboards, are but some of the features normally reserved for prestigious properties that you will find within this classy property.

property of the

week

from blacks real estate

Some of the many features of the home include; four bedrooms plus a built-in study nook, stylish kitchen with modern appliances, an open plan living that flows out onto the alfresco dining area. You maybe pleased to find the master bedroom comes complete with a walk-in

robe and an ensuite. Both bathrooms are fitted with only the best of tapware. Climate control with ease is taken care of with split system air-conditioning and ceiling fans throughout. Outside there’s a fully fenced and turfed yard for easy maintenance and room to move. The home is ideally located in the very-popular Belmore Estate. The location offers convenience to many amenities, Mount Pleasant

Shopping Centre, State and Private Schools, Sporting Fields, Parks with the CBD only a short flowing drive.

By Negotiation 5 Albion Crescent Mount Pleasant My Real Estate Qld Cheryl Mulder 0411 164 968

REAL ESTATE

• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

Friday, 5 March, 2021

Drastic reduction of housing stock By ANTONIA MERCORELLA – CEO, The Real Estate Institute of Queensland THERE is plenty of media around at present regarding the low volume of stock that is currently for sale in Queensland, but why is it so important for market conditions? However, one of the knockon effects of the pandemic is something that many people didn’t predict, which is a drastic reduction in stock for sale in many parts of the State including Mackay. In fact, some property commentators thought the opposite would happen when the virus landed on our shores a year ago, but that situation never came to pass. According to the latest CoreLogic Market Indicators, the number of properties listed for sale in Mackay was down more than 15 per cent in early February compared to the six months prior. The volume of sales listings is also down on the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast, in particular, where total property listings are the lowest in more than a decade with strong price growth already under way.

There are a number of possible reasons for the low volume of listings for sale, with the better-than-expected economic conditions likely one of the main ones. Similarly, homeowners are enjoying the lowest interest rates on record, which is no doubt helping them to manage their mortgage repayments. Investors are seeing strengthening rents across Queensland which, when coupled with historically low interest rates, is assisting them with cash flow and yields. Both of these scenarios mean that the usual flow of people who may need to sell has been curtained. The inflows of people migrating to Queensland is also having an impact on supply levels, with many buying before they’ve even arrived in their new home towns. That said, an interesting insight from the most recent interstate migration figures shows something else happening – or not happening as it seems. Queensland has long had strong interstate migration because of our superior climate as well as affordable property prices.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics provisional regional internal migration estimates, Queensland gained the most people from net interstate migration over the September 2020 quarter of anywhere in the nation. There was a net gain of 7,200 people from internal migration in the September 2020 quarter, compared with 6,800 in the previous quarter and 5,500 in the September 2019 quarter, according to the ABS. In fact, the net gain for the 2020 quarter was the largest since the December 2017 quarter, up 7,700. However, an interesting statistic in the data set was also the reduction in the number of departures from Queensland to other parts of the country, which decreased from 17,400 to 15,100. So, with fewer people leaving Queensland but more people arriving, it becomes quite simple to understand why stock on market can’t keep up with demand. The volume of people who may have usually left the Sunshine State for, say, Sydney and Melbourne have fallen, which correspondingly means the properties that they own or rent are not put on the market for sale or lease.

Houses are in short supply in the region

1619M2 CORNER BLOCK

HIGHSET RURAL LIVING

UNDER CONTRACT 3

UNDER CONTRACT BY CHERYL MULDER 25 Kellys Road, Walkerston

OFFERS AROUND $380,000

3 Huge corner block in quite neighbourhood. 3 Large spacious kitchen/dining combo with plenty of cupboard space. 3 Second dwelling on the large 1619m2 block easily renovated or removed.

Cheryl Mulder 0411 164 968

2 Meadowlands Road, Racecourse

Zachary Manning 0408 321 103

My Real Estate QLD

8 Evans Avenue, North Mackay www.mreqld.com.au

Zachary Manning 0408 321 103

BY NEGOTIATION 4

3 Powered three bay shed with two roller doors. 3 Spacious kitchen dining combo with a clear backyard view. 3 Open, airy lounge room with high ceilings and large ceiling fan. 3 Three aircond bedrooms with BIR to the master bedroom.

9 Brewers Road, Sarina

STYLISH DUPLEX

$299,000 1

separate living and dining rooms. 3 1032m2 block including two bore water pumps and large water tanks. 3 3 bay shed, plenty of room for hobbies and the toys. 3 Rural living close to town.

BIG BLOCK - SOLAR 3

3 Highset three bedroom home with

On offer within each duplex is: 3 Master bedroom with ensuite and walk-in robe. 3 Second bedroom has a semi-ensuite to the main bathroom with built-in robe. 3 Fully airconditioned throughout. 1 & 2 /21 Maranark Ave, Mt Pleasant

Emilee Walters 0408 231 402

07 4898 5999

COMMERCIAL

Friday, 5 March, 2021

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

New shopping leases sought

New shop units are up for lease

MACKAY’S strong and expanding economy is attracting new shops leases in the Central Business District. Knight Frank Retail Leasing Executive, Louise Slater said there has been a trend of strong inquiries from home businesses expanding into the city. “We have received about a dozen inquires each week from lessees who are happy to sign two to five year leases,” Louise explained. “These home businesses are predominantly from rapidly growing home businesses like beauty therapists who care for ladies’ lashes, nails and make-up. “Often, they are also selling home-made products online and now need a shop front. “These businesses are doing well and smaller 50 sqm to 100 sqm city office rents are quite affordable, suit their budget requirements and are cheaper than shopping center rents. “Knight Frank are also receiving rent inquiries from local food operators who are

looking for a second and third location, as they see gaps in the market.” Miss Slater added that there has been positive interest from national brands who are looking to come into the Mackay market for the first time. “Knight Frank is also getting about five inquiries each week from firms like the NDIS provider, ITec who have leased office space at 65 Sydney Street, Post Office Square. “This is a 70 sqm site which was only advertised for eight weeks. “ITec has signed a threeyear lease, which mirrors their funding. “Another new small CBD lease holder is SuperVape. “They have leased space at 116 Victoria Street and this property was only advertised for six weeks and taken sight unseen. “Clearly, this entrepreneur saw a gap in the retail market and wanted to quickly capitalise on that.

It’s hard to sell a secret! Some believe all you need in order to sell something, is to go online. We just debunked that idea, here you are. Where are the property buyers looking? Answer: everywhere, including their local Real Estate Guide. Are the current available buyers that are looking today, seeing your property for sale here in their local Real Estate Guide? All local real estate companies have our effective marketing packages available to them for your benefit as the property seller to best sell your home. This newspaper is not owned by real estate agencies like other publications.

My town my paper

COMMERCIAL

• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

Friday, 5 March, 2021

Lot 10, 12 Heaths Road Mackay 12 Grendon Street, North Mackay SALE BY EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST OWNERS COMMITTED TO SELLING - SUIT INVESTOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST CLOSING 29TH MARCH 3:00PM • Prominent high exposure corner location - land size 1,463m2. • Building comprises of 6 tenancies totalling 696m2 (5 currently leased) • Quality tenants with quality fitouts. • 10 onsite carparks.

0408 017 917 | eeverett@blacksrealestate.com.au | Ellen Everett

PROFESSIONAL OFFICE SPACE WITH WAREHOUSE STORAGE AT THE REAR • Area approximately 250m2 • Large professional office space with reception area • Large open plan work area off reception • 4 x separate offices, 1 x boardroom • Kitchen and toilet facilities • Large warehouse at the rear of the property, suitable for storage • Plenty of onsite customer parking • Busy retail centre with plenty of passing traffic

0400 354 800|commercial@blacksrealestate.com.au|Melanie Hartmann

B06/216 Harbour Rd, Mackay Harbour

41 Wood Street Mackay

MINUTES NORTH OF THE CITY

INNER CITY PRIME OFFICE SPACE FOR LEASE

FOR LEASE

GROUND FLOOR: • Fully airconditioned - large glass shop front with meeting area • Two separate offices and open plan work area • Large kitchenette / staff room area • 2 toilets - 1 off street carpark available FIRST FLOOR: • Long, rectangular, open plan office space • 2 toilets, shower • Airconditioned, carpeted • Large kitchen area

• Close proximity to Mackay Marina, North Mackay industrial area and Mackay City. • Office upstairs • High clearance roller door • Disabled toilet • Kitchenette • 1 Car park

0418 776 855

FOR LEASE

glewis@blacksrealestate.com.au

Greg Lewis

0400 354 800 | commercial@blacksrealestate.com.au | Melanie Hartmann

10 Heinrich Court, Paget INDUSTRIAL SHED WITH OFFICE SPACE AND HARDSTAND AREA

S1 Sydney Street, Mackay OFFICE LOCATION INNER MACKAY CBD

FOR LEASE Shed/Office 266m2 approx

FOR LEASE

• Land: 800m2 approx • Built in reception / office space with 2 x separate offices • Full amenities including mens & ladies toilets, shower & kitchenette • Large shed space at rear of building & further covered area beside building • Large hardstand area at rear of property • Access up both sides of building to rear of property

• Office space currently set up with 2 interview rooms and several offices • Including open plan office/filing/ storage area • Reception area complete with space for chairs for waiting area • Male and female toilets • Kitchenette & lunch room area at back of tenancy. Also undercover outdoor area suitable for table & chairs

0400 354 800 | commercial@blacksrealestate.com.au | Melanie Hartmann

07 4963 2500

43 Wood Street, Mackay

blacksrealestate.com.au

COMMERCIAL

Friday, 5 March, 2021

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

LONG TERM INVESTMENT

EXPOSE YOURSELF

41 Michelmore Street, Paget QLD

2/88 Sydney Street, Mackay QLD

For Sale by Offers to Purchase closing Friday, 26 March 2021 at 4pm (AEST)

For Lease Floor Area : 365 sqm

On behalf of the Vendor, Knight Frank is pleased to exclusively present to the market this industrial asset addressed as 41 Michelmore Street, Paget.

Knight Frank is pleased to present for lease 365 sqm* of prime showroom on the prominent Mackay city corner of Sydney and Alfred Streets.

Key Features: - 7 year lease to Coalroc - $270,000 net return pa* - CPI or 4% annual increases

Expose your business to thousands of passing vehicles daily, your customers can enjoy parking at your front door with 16 onsite designate carparks.

- 2,872 sqm* NLA - 5,717 sqm* site area - 2 x 5 tonne overhead cranes

For more information or to arrange an inspection, please contact Mark Kelly 0418 776 789 or Paul Dury 0448 476 006 * Approximate

The tenancy includes mezzanine level, disability entry ramp, bathroom facilities and generous branding opportunities.

For more information or to arrange an inspection, please contact Louise Slater 0409 213 089 Sarah Bartolo 0428 405 305 * Approximate

Paul Dury

Mark Kelly

Sarah Bartolo

Director - Agency

Senior Industrial Consultant

Retail & Commercial Leasing Executive Retail & Commercial Leasing Executive

Louise Slater

Connecting people and property perfectly Knight Frank is the only full service Commercial Agency, Property Valuation, Project Sales and Asset Management firm in North Queensland. Local ownership means Knight Frank is in North Queensland for the long haul – we are here to stay and service the region. The partners and staff of Knight Frank in North

Knight Frank Mackay Suite 5/69 Sydney Street, Mackay Queensland 4740

Telephone (07) 4940 0100 knightfrank.com.au/contact/mackay

Queensland not only work in the region, they remain active within the wider community as leaders within Resource Industry Network, Chambers ofCommerce, Property Council of Australia,Urban Development Institute of Australia andthe Australian Property Institute, as well as local community and charitable associations. In this way, we provide our clients with the property service available. Our Agency Sales and Leasing

WE’RE NOW HIRING: Agency, Valuation and Asset Management team members. We welcome your contact with confidentiality assured.

teams work with other KnightFrankoffices across Australia and the SouthPacific,including Cairns, Townsville and Rockhampton. Our Asset Management Services manage a series of major commercial assets in the Mackay and Townsville regions. The Valuation and Research team operate from Gladstone most informed, comprehensive, and holistic to Townsville, including Mt Isa.

RURAL

• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

Friday, 5 March, 2021

Sarina - Homebush Road, Homebush FORMAL TENDER Large sugar cane farm of 684 acres across 3 freehold titles in a prime position just 20 mins South of the thriving Mackay City. Total 548 acres of laser levelled and irrigated cane production area in the tightly held Homebush area owned and operated by the same family for nearly 90 years. Water abundantly provided from reliable high output bores and Kinchant Irrigation Scheme allocation. Reticulated to crop via modern underground mains system. Good sized farm sheds provide plenty of garaging and workshop space. Plant and equipment included. Graziers and hay producers should note the fertile loam soils would easily convert to tropical pastures. Owners will consider offers to purchase the whole farm to the one buyer or the back portion of 241 acres can be sold separately.

07 4963 2500

FOR SALE BY FORMAL TENDER TO CLOSE THURSDAY 8TH OF APRIL AT 12:00 NOON 0428 182 569

rural@blacksrealestate.com.au

43 Wood Street, Mackay

Royce Dunn

blacksrealestate.com.au

PUZZLES

Friday, 5 March, 2021

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

BRAIN TEASE

FILL-IN PUZZLE 1

24 28

33 41

49 54

102

103

55 61

67 72

78 82

88 94 98

52 56

Grab your pen, can you help little Kitty get to the milk ...

100

104

105

107

108

101

How many people do you see?

106 109

Fill-ins are just like crossword puzzles but with words instead of clues. Your challenge is to fill in the puzzle by fit in all the given words. Keeping If you Oval letter words words can fit into a space. 3 letter wordsin mind that two or4more Rear Airynot be able to fit in all the words. Ace choose incorrectly, you may

Ado 3 Letter Words Aim Ace Air Ado Ate Aim Eat Air EEC Ate Era Eat EST Eec Eve Era Gin Est GMT Eve Inn Gin Log Gmt Mar Inn MBA Log Née NHS Mar Oct Nba Pen Nee Rag Nhs RNA Oct Ron Pen Tau Rag Tax Rna Tie Ron Tis Tau USA Tax Van Tie Tis

Usa Van 4 Letter Words Airy Aloe Asps Auld Bake Brio Disc Dish Done Eddo Eggs Ever Feta Flit Goat Gran Hens Ibis Iced Idea Itch Item It’ll Kerb Lacy

Easy

Aloe Lair Asps Lint Auld Lund Bake Nibs Brio Noir Disc Ogee Dish Oleo Done Omsk Eddo Oslo Eggs Oval Ever Rear Feta Roan Flit Sere Goat Sets Gran Sexy Hens Ibis Slop Iced Solo Idea Stun Itch Tala Item Talc It'll Tong Kerb Trot Lacy 5 Lair Letter Words Angst Lint Asean Lund Brush Nibs Davit Noir Drama Ogee Oleo Olio Omsk Oslo

Roan Unesco Sere 7 Letter Sets Words Brutish Sexy Slop Reheard Solo 8 Letter Words Stun Enshrine Tala Erasable Talc Ilmenite Tong Outdoors Trot 135 Letter letter words Words Angst Easylistening ASEAN OutdistancBrush ing Davit 15Drama Letter Eerie Words Elvis ShetlandIs6 Letter Words Gates lands Apemen Inure StoredetecArnold Isaac tives Biotin Isles Byline 19Ketch Letter Words Latte Ingest SatelitenavigaLocke Oblige tion Lutes Sayers VoiceauthentiMunro Tatami cation Naiad Troche Ogles Orate Scorn Medium Sneak Treat

Venom 6 letter words Ape-men Arnold Biotin By-line Ingest Oblige Sayers Tatami Troche UNESCO

Eerie Elvis Gates Inure Issac Isles Ketch Latte Locke Lutes Munro Naiad Ogles Orate Scorn Sneak Treat Venom

4 8 3 3 6 9 2 1 3 6 5 7 9 7 8 5 8 2 1 9 7 3 9

8 5

7 letter words Brutish Reheard 8 letter words Enshrine Erasable Ilmenite Outdoors 13 letter words Easy listening Outdistancing 15 letter words Shetland Islands WARNINGStore - DAD JOKE: If a child refuses to sleep during detectives

nap time, are they guilty of resisting a rest? 19 letter words Satellite within navigation Answers this edition’s Classified pages. Voice authentication Hard

4 1 8 9

8 9

7 6

1 6

3 5 1 3

7 9 4

1 7 2

8 8 7

5 9

7 6 9 1 4 5 3

4 5 3 1 6 2

WHAT’S ON

• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

Friday, 5 March, 2021

WEEKLY TELEVISION

Get out and explore this weekend with our top 10 ...

1 2 3

Eat the best Steak Sandwich in Mackay at the Austral Hotel - The Austral’s famous Graziers Steak Sandwich - grilled beef steak on Turkish bread, bacon, fried egg, beer braised onion, tomato, lettuce, BBQ sauce, chips, aioli - Available in the Public Bar from 11:00am - 5:00pm Friday - PCYC Mackay playtime for the kids Looking for somewhere to take the little ones for a play under cover with plenty of room. We have our toddler playtime on each week day from 9am11am. Dine at Seaforth Bowls Club for the chance to win a new Rover Mini Rider valued at $2,799

4 5 6 7

Bushwalk the Red Cliff Islands at Seaforth - The perfect location for an adventure today just 30mins out of Mackay! Make sure you time your visit right with low tide, this way you can walk across to the islands for a day of fishing and turtle spotting! Go Kart fun at Sidetrax - Fun times at Sidetrax, Indoor go-Karts. Out of the sun and rain. Family Day at Kinchant Dam - Swimming, fishing, boating or a picnic in serenity, Kinchant Dam in the picturesque Pioneer Valley is the perfect place to retreat for some peace and quiet. Dinner at Magpies – Kids Eat Free from the Pee Wee’s Kids Menu when a member purchases a main meal 5-6pm Tuesdays to Saturdays.

8 9 10

Sign up for fitness at Shred with Tegan - Shred, women’s fitness studio runs classes everyday from HIIT, Tabata, Weights, Booty Burn & Boxing. All fitness levels and abilities are encouraged. Visit the Mackay Orchid House - Relax and enjoy the beautiful Orchid House, intricately placed in the historic Queens Park gardens, boasting a broad collection of unique and exquisite orchids. Wake early Sunday morning to go see the Kangaroo’s on the beach at Cape Hillsborough National Park.

Friday, 5 March, 2021

WHAT’S ON

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

PET PROUD

Friday, 5 March, 2021

Alaska

Puddin

NAME: Alaska SEX: Female AGE: 12 weeks BREED: Mastiff X CARER: Kate from M.A.R.S Ph. 0400830065 Hi! My name is Alaska and I am going to make a perfect companion for your family! I love to run around and play with my brother and foster brothers. Though I haven’t been with any cats I do get along great with kids.

Foster pet name: Puddin Foster pet breed: DSH Foster pet sex: Female Foster pet age: 1 year Carer’s name: Rachael from M.A.R.S Ph. 0439357827 Hi my name is Puddin. I was a very young mother but now my babies are all grown up and adopted, and I’m ready to find my forever home too. I’m very shy and would would suit a home that doesn’t have lively children or dogs. I beautiful natured.

Samuel

Rummi

Meow! My name is Samuel. I am a black male kitty with a white spot. I’m a very relaxed and laid back young cat. Mum says I am a softy. I purr all the time and I am very partial to tummy tickles. I am a vocal boy.. I am very social and I like other cats. I am desexed and all my vet work is up to date. If you would like to come for a meet and greet please call/text Nicole from Pound Rescue on 0423756686.

Hello Rumi! This sweet little girl is approx 1 year old. She is a snuggly kitty but also likes a play, she has a gentle personality with emerald green eyes and gorgeous markings. This little Rockstar has settled in well with her foster family, she is kids and cat friendly and has had all her vet work done. Sweet Rumi is ready to find her forever home. Please contact Dee from Pound Rescue on 0408146100 to meet this gorgeous little girl.

Sylvanna Scott (in red) with her loyal staff

Innovative service MACKAY pet owners have been blessed with an innovative new service. Happy Tails Paws Pet Minding now has a special house-sitting service which will care for your pet in your own home. Proprietor Sylvanna Scott, who has 20-years experience in working with animals, plus eight years managing a local pet care business, where she looked after dogs, cats and birds. Sylvanna explained that they have a highly recommended house sitter, Lisa, who just loves caring for pets. “Lisa is very experienced and has extensive training with

animal behaviouralists,” Sylvanna said. Sylvanna added that her company also provides a novel new pet service of in-home puppy training. “This will take the stress out of taking your puppies to puppy training classes, where they often get distracted,” she said. “Puppies need a lot of training and our in-home trainer is an animal behaviourist and an animal welfare mediator. “Based on our extensive experience, we believe that puppies can be more easily and better managed in a home environment.”

Pet Care Pet Sitting House Pet sitting Puppy training Dog walking Animal Welfare Mediation

PawPrints on My Heart

Friday, 5 March, 2021

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

CLASSIFIEDS

ads@mackaylocalnews.com.au | Booking and copy deadline: 3pm TUESDAYS prior to publication | Camera ready material deadline: 5pm TUESDAYS prior to publication | Jodie 0428 062 562

DEATH NOTICES WRIGHT Patricia Joan (Pat) of Glenella Care, formerly of Brisbane Street,11/10/1927 – 18/02/2021. Dearly loved Wife of Norman (dec’d). Dearly loved Sister of Jack, and Rita (both dec’d) and loved Aunt of her many Nieces and Nephews. City Funerals PARROTT, Lois Adell ‘Dell’ of Alexandra. Passed away peacefully on February 16, aged 85 years. Dearly beloved Wife of Eric (dec), Mother and Mother-in-law of Susan and Howard, Deanna and Stuart, Mark and Melanie. Grandmother to Beau, Eddie and Kristy, and Darci.Great Grandmother to Oliver. City Funerals SIMPSON, Dorothy Jean (Dot) of Breezes Mackay Age 94 Years. Dot passed away unexpectedly on February 22. Much loved and loving Wife of Tommy (dec’d). Cherished Mother and Mother-in-Law of Lyn and John, and Ross and Faye. Grandmother, Great Grandmother and Friend of many. Gone to play BINGO and the Pokies in her Reserved seat in Heaven. Mackay Funerals Supplied by www.mackayfuneralnotices.com.au

FUNERAL NOTICES

JAMES,

Anthony John ‘Tony’

PUBLIC NOTICES PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE A MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION AT WEST MACKAY

•The installation of ancillary equipment including the feeder cables and works within the existing Optus compound area. 2. Optus regards the proposed installation as a Low-impact Facility under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 ("The Determination") based on the description above. 3. In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to Lendlease via Wireless Consultation through Wannan Bao, 0428 684 927, optus.enquiries@wirelessconsultation.com.au by 5pm, 22 March 2021. 4. If you would like to know more about this site, further information can be obtained from www.rfnsa.com.au/4740028

June Chetcuti

Erika Gosling

Jason Chetcuti

Principal Director

Sales and Property Management

0488 705 405

0418 700 623

0437 661 331

POSITIONS VACANT Expression of interest

Graphic Designer Creative advertisement builder and campaign designer for maximum customer effectiveness Mackay’s new local weekly newspaper, is inviting interest for a creative advertisement builder to excel with us in complimenting the sales team to deliver effective and dynamic advertising to the businesses in Mackay.

POSITIONS VACANT WE’RE EXPANDING OUR TEAM

07 4953 3733

31.12.1994 ~ 24.02.2021

We are committed to excellence

•The installation of three (3) new MHAs;

209 Shakespeare St, Mackay QLD 4740

Daniel Charles

Residential Property Sales Property Management

•The removal of three (3) existing Mast Head Amplifiers (MHA), to be replaced by three (3) new MHAs;

We deeply appreciate your expression of sympathy during this time.

HACKETT,

Our team offers an exceptional real estate experience

1. The proposed facility consists of:

15.04.1960 ~ 11.02.2021 Tony's family would like to thank all of his friends and family, who helped andsupported Tony during his time of need. Your love and support did not go unnoticed.

Tony is survived by his mother, Margaret, his sister Catherine and his two nephew's, Axel and Thomas, the mother of his eldest children, Lynne and children Ryan and Shannon and the mother of his youngest children, Teanna and children Matthew and Emma.

Preparing your home for sale or rent?

Optus plans to upgrade a telecommunications facility at Powerlink Transmission Tower Bridge Street, West Mackay QLD 4740 (RFNSA No. 4740028).

Our Ultra Essence team consists of 5 therapists and a spa co-ordinator, together working as a tightknit group that share the responsibility of both traditional beauty, lash and brow, and advanced dermal and skin treatments. We are seeking a candidate that would work across all area’s of our treatment menu but equally, would contribute to the excellent team culture and high level of customer service that is so important to us.

Much loved Son of Stephen Hackett and Michelle & Clive Stephenson. Beloved Brother of Jarryd. Adored Grandson of Danny (dec) & Desley Cash, and Charlie (dec) & Bernice Hackett. Daniel was loved by all who knew him and will be dearly missed.

Your role will initially be casual with a view to quickly move into a full-time position. Team and individual bonuses are offered. We are hoping to begin a training program for our new team member in the March period.

Family and Friends are respectfully invited to attend Daniel's Graveside Service to be held 11.00am on Tuesday 9th March 2021 at Mt Bassett Cemetery.

CVs to: karen@ultraessence.com.au

Encompassing digital and print we are seeking a pro-active, driven individual who embraces the true sense of customer service. Interview essentials include: 3 Ability to communicate ideas visually and verbally while equally open to customer alternatives and feedback. 3 Honest, ethical communication with strong spelling and attention to detail. 3 Self- motivated solution-based thinking/outlook in creative campaign advertising 3 Proficient and confident skills with Adobe Suite software with In-Design and Photoshop empahsis essential. 3 Desire to belong within a genuinely likeminded can-do, performance team. 3 Previous media, advertising agency or trade experience is an advantage. We are open to discussions for three to four days casual or full time employment with respectable renumeration dependant on experience. Our office and working environment is modern and a great place to work within a close-knit, can-do team.

07 4969 6073

My town, my paper

PUBLIC NOTICES

Birth Notices 12/02/2021

6th July 1966 ~ 25th February 2021 Beloved Daughter of Shirley Young and Rodney Harp, Beloved Mother to Jasper Dezorzi, Beloved Sister of Janine, Gaylee, Melissa, Michelle and Jodie and their Partner's, Children and all extended Family and friends. Family & Friends are respectfully invited to attend Donna's Service to be held 1.00pm on Friday 12th of March 2021 at Whitsunday Funerals Chapel, 209 Shakespeare Street, Mackay.

07 4953 3733

209 Shakespeare St, Mackay QLD 4740

renting your property?

We are looking for quality properties to rent

0411 164 968

Emilee Walters, Wendy Tucker and Cheryl Mulder

07 4898 5999 My Real Estate QLD

8 Evans Ave, Nth Mackay

mreqld.com.au

ROLE REQUIREMENTS:

209 Shakespeare St, Mackay QLD 4740

Donna Maree

Thinking of

We welcome your CV and cover letter email: dallas@mackaylocalnews.com.au

Experience: Diploma Beauty Therapist or Cert 4 Preferred

07 4953 3733

HARP,

FISHING PHOTOS we’re keen to publish your catch. Send us your photos, names and brief description news@mackaylocalnews.com.au

2 x Sheet Metal Tradesmen needed

SHOW US your Tatt we’re keen to publish your favourite tattoo. Send us your photos, names brief description news@mackaylocalnews.com.au MAYBE NOT aware, classified line adverts such as these are only $25.00 for 25 words. Online www. mackaylocalnews.com.au or Jodie 0428 062 562

This week’s Puzzle page answers:

Publish the new arrival of your loved one. A wonderful keepsake they’ll cherish for years to come. Call Jodie on 0428 062 562 or ads@ mackaylocalnews.com.au

We’re looking for tradesmen to join our team and help with our high demand of Custom Canopies and Toolboxes. For these positions you must be highly motivated and experienced with aluminium fabrication and welding. There is also opportunity to develop a role into leading hand/supervisory. $100,000 a yr for 48hr week on offer for the right tradesmen. CVs to: gdpmetalworx@gmail.com Geoff Pacey 0466547384

63 People

• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

FISHING AND BOATING

Friday, 5 March, 2021

Fish feeding frenzy peter

bonanno columnist - fishing

WE DEPARTED Mackay Marina at 0600 with five keen amateur fishermen in our 30 foot Contender named, The Gun. Jeremy Kelland arranged charter with his father and with some of their close friends. Everyone had a great day on the water as we had perfect conditions. The Gun is powered by twin 300hp Yamahas and so we cruised at a fast 30 knots. There was less than 10knots on the forecast and so we had no need to go slow and we shot out to the shipping channel to try and catch the first change of tide. We arrived at our first spot to find a lively looking sounder. Our first drift looked promising with a number of hook ups, only to get sharked . We gave it a few goes, but the sharks only got worse so it was time to move on. Then we went targeted some reef species on the edges of Credlin Reef. However we

didn’t have a lot of luck and just collected some small reef fish (Stripys) to use for bait. Next we decided to head back to the deeper water to chase some red fish. As the tide started to slow again and as we arrived at the first spot everyone got excited. We landed four quality Large Mouth Nannygai, but the trevally were beating most of the Nannys to the baits as they often do. So we moved on once again to try the next spot where the sounder was full of life and it was right on the bottom of the tide. The fish were on a feeding frenzy and the guys filled our eski with Nannygai, Spangled Emperor and Grassy Sweetlips. Then Jeremy landed a Cobia while bottom bait fishing and we landed a good size Spanish Mackeral to finish off the day. We fished with Shimano Saragosa reels and Daiwa monster mesh max rods. We use 50lb braid and 80lb leader generally, with a paternoster rig for the deep water, or a running ball sinker around the reef.

The boys caught a heap of good fish on their day out on the boat

NEXT GENERATION

Control, Integration, Styling and Reliability

V6 OFFSHORE Starboard side 300

Rear 300

Port side 300

Friday, 5 March, 2021

FISHING AND BOATING

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

Matilda, Adrian and William Brand with a small bream at Constant Creek

Above: A nice haul of Nannygai, Cobia, Mackeral and Spangled Emperor. Below: Hayden Watt with his 1.3-metre Barramundi

• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

MOTORING

Above: Robert with his car in his 20s. Above right: Robert Quetti and his wife Karen recently. Middle: That’s not an engine, THIS is an engine! Below: The Holden HX GTS proving its mettle.

Friday, 5 March, 2021

Classic Monaro is Robert’s pride and joy

THIS BLOKE has travelled around a fair bit in his car, making it as far as Sydney on occasion. This 1976 Holden HX GTS Monaro has plenty of history and fond memories in a life well lived. From the days when he drove it as his main car, Robert Quetti went out on many shopping trips in it and would even take his tinny with him. His constant travel in the distinctive yellow and black Holden car soon made Robert a recognisable man around town. Even today, while he does not drive the Monaro as much as he once did, it is yet to let him down. Robert’s Monaro has now become his secondary car, after he bought a new car back in 2010. That same year saw him join the Proserpine Valley Classic Car Club, which inspired him to continue to regularly upkeep and dedicate some hard work to the car. During the month of March, Robert plans on putting in some more work, and will get some help in to remove some rust from the car. He said he bought his Monaro when he was 25 in 1985.

He and a friend initially travelled down to Brisbane in an effort to find a suitable car. With only $7000 to his name, he found that either cars were too expensive or just simply did not do it for him. They soon returned from Brisbane to Mackay disappointed, but he came across an ad in the local newspaper that caught his attention. The car had only just come out of an accident but had been repaired. While the car did not run perfectly at the time, over the years, he put in a lot of tender loving care. He has done most of the work on his car himself, except for his tyres, where he got done at JAX Tyres twho put on a reliable set of Bridgestone tyres. The Bridgestones he currently drives on are the sf-340 250/r14 series. The original 60 series are no longer made. As the price of petrol rose over the years and the thirsty eight-cylinder engine demanded to be nourished Robert actually considered selling the car. But he found he couldn’t bring himself to do that and now plans on passing the car to his two sons.

NEW MANAGEMENT $139 LUBE SERVICE SPECIAL

Oil filter change, grease and oil up to 5ltrs Brake inspection Safety inspection Road test and report

NEW LOCATION Cnr Boddington and Juliet Streets MACKAY Ph: 4843 3050 CONDITIONS APPLY. SOME VEHICLES MAY ATTRACT A SURCHARGE. VALID UNTIL 06-05-2021

SPORT

Friday, 5 March, 2021

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

$45K on offer nugget’s notes racing columnist

COUNTRY racing in Moranbah will kick off for 2021 at Treasure Park on March 13 when the Moranbah Race Club hosts its Autumn meeting in conjunction with the Moranbah Community Workers Club, the major sponsor of the meeting. Ash Dowd from the Moranbah Workers Club said the club was delighted to be getting behind and supporting such a great community event in these difficult times during Covid -19. He said the normality of a community gathering will be a breath of fresh air for the community and he hoped as many come out for the day to support the meeting which will run under a COVID-safe plan. Moranbah Race Club President John Juhas and club secretary Olivia O’Neill, along with the hard-working Moranbah Race Club committee, have promised a feast of Autumn racing and entertainment throughout the day. Olivia O’Neill said the fashions on the field will be back

and as always will be hotly contested. There will also be a licensed bar, full catering, tote facilities and bookmakers’ betting on local and southern races. Gates open at 11am and after the races there will be a live music band, who are sure to rock the house until late in the evening. Buses will be running to and from Moranbah Workers Club before and after the races until late. Moranbah Race Club president John Juhas said he hoped the $45,000 in prize money on offer will ensure top quality racing and was looking forward to the battle of the big three trainers, the king of Treasure Park Johnny Manzelmann, resident trainer Bevan Johnson and Olivia Cairns who is always hard to beat at Treasure Park. The feature event will be the $10,000 Moranbah Workers Club Community Cup over 1550 metres. Tickets, tables and cold platters can be purchased online at Eventbrite. Tickets go on sale Monday March 1. Due to COVID restrictions, ticket numbers will be capped so get in quick to secure your ticket. Richard (nugget) Turnbull

Tough tourney at bowls 52 starters – 8 remain. That is the result after some tough competition in the 2021 Mackay District Mixed Pairs Championships. With the possibility of reaching a State final, bowlers from eleven of the fifteen district clubs showed their skill on the carpet at Souths Suburban and Mackay City, with some of the favoured teams eliminated in the preliminary rounds. Among them were 2020 runners-up Lorna Coad and Peter Blackburn who were beaten at Souths Suburban by fellow clubmates Dal MacKelvie and Les Rodgers. Also, Chris Hall and Bob Kinnane lost to Sharon Dusting and Peter Grant 17-22. State champion Cooper Whitestyles is playing great

bowls as skip for his mother Anne-Maree and State Under 18 squad member Ashlee Knight has impressed everyone with her consistent ability to draw close to the kitty. In the quarter finals to be played at 9.00am at Mackay City on Saturday week, City’s Ashlee Knight and Vince McSherry play Mackay Club’s Karina Dunn and Kees Struik. Sarina’s Bertha and Bruce Archer play Mackay Club’s Carol Savage and Barry Brown. Karli Burns (Mackay) and Rick Dunn (Souths Suburban) play Anne-Maree Whitestyles (Mackay) and Cooper Whitestyles (Souths Suburban). Gil Meng and Rob Harris (Souths Suburban) play City’s Anna Forsyth and Barry Cook. The final will be played at City at 9.00am Sunday 14 March.

Chris Dunn gets in a bit of batting practice before opening for Brothers over the weekend

Cricket defeats wet weather DESPITE constant downpours, a 65-run win by Brothers over Pioneer Valley has ensured the Brethren will finish the 2020/2021 Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal Poole Cup One Day Competition as minor premiers. Brothers set a target of 210 despite Pioneer Valley’s Brock Wood recording a haul of five wickets for 27 runs. For Brothers, Ian Kelly (51 runs) and Nathan Fowler (48 runs) were key contributors.

In reply, Pioneer Valley were only able to manage 145 runs from their 40 overs. Pioneer Valley skipper Tim Cridland scored 43 runs. Chris Dunn was the best with the ball for Brothers taking four wickets for 19 runs. As minor premiers, Brothers have now qualified for the Grand Final which is to be played at Harrup Park on Saturday, March 20. In Saturday’s day/night

match between Norths and Walkerston, Walkerston opener Jacob Frerichs top scored with 85 runs. Frerichs featured in a 135run opening stand with Neil Gustavson (48 runs) which helped set up the win for Walkerston Scrubby. Norths’ best performers were Lane Kohler who took four wickets for 38 runs and Daryn Dyer who scored 53 runs. Walkerston’s victory could

prove a psychological edge as the teams find themselves lining up against each other in two weeks’ time during the semi final to be played at Harrup Park on Saturday, March 13. This weekend’s final round matches will see Pioneer Valley play Souths, Brothers play Walkerston and Norths play Magpies. Play will commence at 12:30pm tomorrow at Harrup Park.

Mackay darts players hit bullseye THE Queensland Darts tournament was hosted locally over the weekend. The tournament, called the Zone 7 Open, is held every year. Darts Queensland is made up of 10 zones, with each zone made up of different darts associations. Mackay Darts Association, along with Moronbah makes up Zone 7, with its Open Tournament available to all zones and associations within Darts Queensland. Players travelled from all over to compete in the tournament. There was $3500 in prize money on offer over the weekend, with some extraordinary skills shown and incredible darts thrown. All up there were 80, 180s thrown and these guys managed to make it look easy. Competition fixtures are

Donny Lottering took out the Mens Singles held every Wednesday night

Murphy said the events are

with Potluck Darts every Fri-

open to all members of the

day night starting from 7pm.

public, whether new to darts or

Association

experienced.

member

Sam

“It’s a really fun night and we welcome everyone to come along and give it a go,” she said. “We draw names out of a hat and assign everyone with a partner and we play doubles for the night with the same partner. There’s small cash prizes to be won to the winners of the night. “We have a fully licensed bar, with a nice range of beers and other options, but no eftpos.” The weekend tournament winners were: Mixed Doubles, Jeremy Fagg and Judy Taylor; Ladies Doubles, Chrissy Sheerin and Amanda Loch; Mens Doubles, Jeremy Fagg and Jamie Rundle; Ladies Single, Nancy Myers; Mens Single, Donny Lottering; Mens Highest, Peg Chris Krabbe 156; and Ladies Highest, Peg Judy Taylor - 157

David Collins Ph: 0448 302 042 E: david@davkathh.com.au

Tristan Collins: Operations Ph: 0437 370 642 E: tristan@davkathh.com.au

Mackay and Surrounds

• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

SPORT PICTURES

Friday, 5 March, 2021

MACKAY City Roller Derby Club held open days for juniors last Saturday morning and seniors on Sunday evening at the PCYC. These pictures show the juniors having a good old roll and the seniors posing for a group shot (below).

Friday, 5 March, 2021

SPORT PICTURES

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

CLOCKWISE LEFT:

FROM

The Whitsunday Martial Arts Gym Brazilian Jiu Jitsu youth team with their trainers Swimmers get ready for the backstroke at the Pioneer Swimming Club meet Pioneer Valley Club bowls Brothers

Cricket against

North Mackay Cricket Club team poses for a group shot Michelle King, Georgie Townsend,Vicki Barberler and Vicky Black from Boxers go through their moves at PCYC outdoor training

SPORT

• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

Friday, 5 March, 2021

Hours of fun at table tennis

Geoff Hamilton, Jim Ford, Edward Collyer, Daniel Stampa, Jamie Patten and Brian Keogh

Sinkers host annual sanctioned comp THE annual sanctioned swim meet hosted by the North Mackay Sinkers took place on Saturday at their Valley Street home pool. The pool is owned and operated by the Mackay North State High School who have allowed the Sinkers to call it their home for many years. Over 60 individual swimmers registered for this swim and came from as far as Brisbane, Maryborough, Airlie beach and Townsville. In addition to a pre-event postal swim 400/1500m, competitors new and old entered up to six individual events for the day from 25m to 200m across all strokes. “On the day” relays were also a popular and fun event.

Plenty of personal bests kept them all keen and there was the joy of watching a lone swimmer battle through a 200m fly event. A single Branch Queensland record fell on the day with a great 200m backstroke by Tracy Clarkson from Brisbane Northside in 3:29.37, eclipsing the 2007 record by some 16 seconds. Results for the teams saw the North Mackay Sinkers take out the team event assisted by the sheer weight of numbers. They were followed, in order of merit, by the Long Tan Legends, Whitsunday Warriors, Maryborough Masters, Brisbane Northside, Townsville Aquaholics, Brisbane Southside, Barbarians and

the Rats of Tobruk. One of the benefits of Masters swimming, in addition to health and well-being, is the ability to attend similar events in various regions as well as State and National Championships. Other programs such as the Endurance Program or Lane Warriors offer recognition to individuals and clubs for participating in a series of swims without leaving home. Whichever form of swimming you choose in the Masters, assistance is available through support for the clubs with these programs and recording. The events, regardless of the swimmers level of ability, provide a focus and motivation to improve all aspects involved.

Great day out for Souths Bowls THE Annual Belle of the Green – six ends knockout – was held at the Souths Bowling Club recently. It was a great day with a full green, many good games and surprises as the six ends knockout is not easy. In the

end Lorna Coad defeated Rhonda Meng 4-2. Lorna produced the bowl of the competition to win the last end. A great day and fellowship was had by all. Suburban Bowls Club has a certified coach for both Men

and Ladies available for all newcomers and any bowler who wants to sharpen their skills. This program will be restarting on March 13 at Souths Suburban Bowls Club in Wardrop Street from 2pm till 4pm. All welcome.

HARVEY Norman’s crew gave table tennis a good bash this week. A group from Harvey Norman Mackay used the Bridge Rd centre for four hours of fun and laughter. “They gave our sport a good bash,” club president Janice Kent said. Challenges were played off within the group for the entire night and abilities and agilities of everyone were well documented by Janice as she kept an eye on the proceedings. “Our centre is a community facility and coming down with a group from your workplace is a fantastic way of introducing people to our sport,” Janice said. “Even past members rekindled their passion for the sport on the night.”

Harvey Norman group at the Mackay Table Tennis Centre Janice said the Mackay Ta- like most groups, have lost ble Tennis Centre was built in income and members and we 1971, and although it’s now 50 would love for other groups to years since its inception it is contact us and give our sport a still regarded as one of the best go for an evening.” in the state. Contact Janice Kent on “Because of COVID we, 0420 251622.

Kuttabul Camelsboks are proud of their ethnic diversity

Team’s season taking shape THE season for rugby union team the Kuttabul Camelboks is starting to take shape with a great mix of youth and experience from throughout Mackay. Coach Scott McPherson said “we have a broad range of players and they are coming together nicely. We have senior leadership from our club captain Tassman Higgins and he will be well support-

ed by some old heads like Nick Mansfield and Gareth Mitchell. “The club want to drive inclusiveness and be the club that involves not just the players but also family and friends as well. “We are not here to make up the numbers this year, we are going to give the premiership a red-hot shake.” Mr McPherson said.

Kuttabul Rugby’s players, families and supporters are made up of a diverse range of cultural backgrounds, with Australians, Samoans, Tongans, New Zealanders, South Africans, Zimbabweans, English and Fijians to name a few. The club is proud of its cultural diversity and is committed to being a welcoming and inclusive club.

Rover Ride On ‘Revolution’ ty

rran a W ar 5 ye

Rover Mini Riders From $2550

rran a W ar 5 ye

Rover RZ From $5990

Cub Cadet Hydro Drive From $4200

Humm 90 Interest Free Finance Available

We are the ‘MOWER MEN’

Ph: 4957 2499 | 21 Peel Street, Mackay QLD | sales@jgcentre.com.au

rran a W ar 6 ye

SPORT

Friday, 5 March, 2021

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

Boxers in ‘Masters Massacre’ bout WHITSUNDAY Martial Arts Gym (WMA) recently hosted two Masters boxing bouts going toe to toe in Caloundra at the Annual ‘St Valentines Day Massacre’ Masters Boxing Event. This was a national event with competitors travelling from across the country. The club’s two fighters came away with amateur titles in their divisions and competed incredibly well Chris Smith and Carle Parkhill both fought bigger and more experienced opponents in their bouts. Chris won a unanimous points decision and Carle stopped his opponent at the end of the second round. The gym, founded by Anton Zafir and Dan Zealand, is based on a personal passion for the sport, the physical and mental challenge, and a desire to share this experience with

others. The gym has been operating for eight years now and offers classes in Boxing, Kickboxing, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Submission Wrestling, Mixed Martial Arts. Also available is group fitness, women’s only boxing class and personal training options. The WMA Youth’s Martial Arts program is growing every term with classes running five days per week across boxing, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts. We train youths from five to 15 years of age in these disciplines. There are about 50 plus continuous athletes training and the gym offers over 22 Martial Arts and Fitness Classes per week PICTURED right: Anton Zafir, Dan Zealand, Chris Smith, Carle Parkhill and Joe Bishop

Moranbah BMX day a success Mackay to host State meet MORANBAH BMX Cub held their annual “come and try day” on Sunday February 21. The event attracted 24 new riders who attended with their families and friends to participate on the day. The new riders were given guidance from coaches Brett Wilson (Mackay and District BMX Club) and Glenn Shaw (Dysart BMX Club) who also attended to assist riders. There were six new riders under the age of five who participated off the Mini Wheelers gate and sped along the track on the Balance Bikes. The remaining riders were quick to get the hang of riding a bike on the track and with the assistance of some racing bikes were shooting out of the gates in no time. The Moranbah BMX Club thanked both coaches Brett Wilson and Glenn Shaw for travelling to Moranbah to assist with the event. The club

The Mini Wheeler warm up for the youngsters volunteers were instrumental Community. in keeping everyone fed, hy“With today’s turnout and drated and cool, and looking the amount of families presafter all the riders and their ent I believe we have achieved families. that.” When asked how successful The club received plenty the day was, Club President of praise for the event with Shaun Isaacs said, “The aim of a commitment from several our ‘come and try day’ is to not families to become members only attract new members to the sport but to also showcase and start participating in local BMX to the wider Moranbah racing.

PONY Club instructors and trainee coaches gathered at Pioneer River Valley (PRV) Pony Club over the weekend for the annual Mackay Zone 10 Instructor Preschool and Refresher clinic. The clinic was a chance for up and coming coaches to learn the basics of instructing at the Pony Club as well as for current coaches to brush up on their skills. Zone 10 is made up of six Pony Clubs including Mackay, Mackay North, PRV, Sarina, Nebo and Moranbah. Zone Chief Instructor Tracey Camilleri conducted the clinic, which this year delivered training to 13 participants from Sarina and PRV clubs. An important focus for the weekend was the new Syllabus of Instruction for Proficiency Certificates. This program is designed to provide a safe and solid foundation for riders to prepare for

Riders are brushing up on their skills their life with horses. The Pony Club has been teaching young people to ride and care for horses since 1939. It continues to be a strong movement that is well supported with hundreds of members riding regularly across the Mackay region. Unfortunately the rainy weather limited activities over the weekend and so horse work was replaced with demonstra-

tions for some of the content. The next event for Zone 10 is the Dressage and Combined Training Championships which will be held at Mackay North Pony Club tomorrow and is the first opportunity for Pony Club members to test their skills in a competition environment.

SPORT 40

SPORT

• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

Friday, 5 March, 2021

ISSN 2652-998X

9 772652

998004

Shooting Stars pumped for U18 Nationals Five local girls going for gold

THE five dedicated young local sporting stars who have made it into the U18 North Queensland Girls team are looking forward to representing their local community in the Basketball Australia Under 18 Nationals in Victoria from April 10 to 17.

To have five Mackay players out of the total 12 team members from Mackay is a testament, not only to the players themselves, but to the coaching staff and the local league’s program. See inside on Page Eight for a feature story on the girls.

Classic Holden Monaro Pride and Joy - P34

Join today and pay

1/2 price

joining fee BOTH GYMS

Ph: 07 4944 0119

E: info@musclegarden.com.au W: www.musclegarden.com.au