Mackay Local News - 26 Feb 2021

Friday, 26 February, 2021

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

Circulating in the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday Regional Council areas

Friday, 26 February, 2021

www.mackaylocalnews.com.au Issue 3 • $2.50

Housing Crisis 400 applicants compete for 34 rental properties Renting a house or a flat in the Mackay region is now almost impossible.

Rental availability is at an all-time low, with a vacancy rate of only 0.5 percent and so there are dozens of unsuccessful applicants for a handful of flats and houses for rent.

In Sarina there have been an impossible 400 applicants for just 34 rental properties and My Real Estate explains that there are at least a dozen lease applications for each rental property in Mackay.

Mackay Regional Mayor Greg Williamson’s statistician has the best information and advises that “Mackay’s current rental vacancy rate is actually 0.5 to 0.6 percent.

“This shows just how tight Mackay’s rental market is, with only 136 houses and 116 flats available for rent in Mackay’s total rental market of 12,800 rental properties,” Mayor Williamson said.

In comparison, during 2014/15, in the greater Mackay region there were 1300 rental properties advertised online for rent and the vacancy rate was 9.8 per cent.

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HOLDEN CLUB-P30 Andergrove Caravan Park Manager Ryan Skaife says his cabins are fully booked “In total, Mackay has is just one of reasons for the ing for longer-term rentals 54,000 rateable properties rental shortage. Mackay’s for our cabins,” he said. and 40,000 homes.” normally vacant caravan “They are really desperate Mackay’s residents and park cabins in the wet season and have tried everything to Queenslanders are enjoy- are now completely booked get somewhere to rent. ing boom conditions with out and park nanagers are “We have had to turn quite 7000 people relocating from turning renters away. a few away which is unfortuAndergrove Caravan Park southern Australia in a year, compared with just seven Manager Ryan Skaife said nate. More and more people people reported to move to his cabins have been booked are coming to Mackay for out for the past two months work and normally during South Australia.

The exodus of multiple and he could double their 25 summer’s rainy season we locked-down Victorians cabins and still be booked out. have to advertise to try and “Potential renters are ap- get bookings.” seeking our healthier land of opportunity in Queensland proaching us every day askAs a result, Blacks Real

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Estate advise that rents in Mackay have risen by 10 per cent. It is expected that rents may rise even higher by 20 per cent, as demand in the rental market is increasing.

In comparison, other northern Australian property rents have risen in Darwin by 11 per cent, while rents have fallen by 11 per cent in inner Melbourne and by in Sydney by 10.8 percent.

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NEWS

• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

Friday, 26 February, 2021

Community spirit boosted

Chairs of the Sarina Community Bank, Councillor Karen May and former Sarina School Deputy Principal Ralph Johnson

Sarina bank bucks trends

ONE of Australia’s most impressive self-help community projects is Sarina’s Community Bank.

Bank Chairman and former Sarina High School Deputy Principal, Ralph Johnson smiled as he explained that about 425 Sarina residents contributed an average of $1,700 each to raise over $750,000 to start the Sarina Community’s own Bank.

“At the time in 2002 to 2004, the big banks were closing branches around Australia and here in Sarina, both Westpac and the Commonwealth shut their doors, Mr Johnson said.

“We didn’t know if the NAB would also shut down and leave Sarina without a bank at all.

“We were worried that in our small Sarina economy, businesses and households would have been literally strangled, if we were left with-

out a bank. We’d seen case studies elsewhere in Australia, where after the banks closed in country towns, then shops closed one by one.

“So, we looked around and saw community banks starting-up in Victoria, which encouraged us to speak to the Bendigo Bank.”

Mr Johnson said that the Sarina community’s self-help bank began when community leaders formed a steering community which searched for solutions.

“The steering committee spent 12 to 18 months doing a feasibility survey, which was funded by the then Sarina Shire Council.

“Then followed a pledging process where individuals made promises of business and shareholder investment. When we reached our target, we formed a company to hold the franchise, listed on the stock exchange and launched a pro-

spectus in February 2005.

“We were blessed with a high functioning Board and it was tremendous in kicking goals.

“I can’t say enough about everyone’s contribution but must mention Lesley Ward and Rodney Nunn’s energy, dedication and attention to detail.

“Bendigo Bank itself was hugely generous and had an expert team guiding us towards the model of sharing expenses and profits by running a branch of the Bendigo Bank.

As a franchise, 80 per cent of the Sarina Community Bank’s profits arereturned to the community.

“Sarina residents embraced our community banking model and gradually we have seen many local groups benefit from large and small grants, dispensing profits to community projects.”

Sarina’s Community Bank has seen livability and community spirit strengthened.

In turn, Sarina residents have loyally supported their own bank.

Bank co-founder Ralph Johnson said that 80 per cent of profits are returned to the community through a system of grants and sponsorships.

One example of an early grant was to the Sarina Surf Club.

“The Board of our Community Bank decided that an equipment grant would free-up the surf club to do what they do best and train junior lifesavers and nippers.

“This enabled the surf club members to focus on what they are good at, rather than having to spend half their time raising money.”

Mr Johnson said that in his former capacity as Deputy Principal of Sarina High, he’d seen more funding going to the state and high schools in Mackay, while local schools were disadvantaged especially by distance.

“So the Sarina Community Bank gave the school’s very active P&C a grant of $50,000 to add to their funds to buy a 22-seat Mitsubishi Rosa school bus. One of the conditions was that the bus would be available to other schools and groups in the community when the school wasn’t using it.”

Mr Johnson commented that the Sarina Community Bank had also helped fund the Sarina skate park which turned into a much larger project than initially anticipated.

“We donated $20,000 as seed funding to help start this project and Sarina Rotary Club matched this. Sarina BMX Club agreed to facilitate the application process.

“Sarina earth moving contractor Vic Norton immediately chipped in as he promised to donate earthworks worth $50,000 for clearing, filling, levelling and compacting the site.

“Councillor Karen May was instrumental in gaining Mackay Regional Council’s support, funding and provision of a site which helped obtain a further $100,000 State Government grant to build the skate park.

All up the completed project came in above $320,000. This was a wonderful result for Sarina.”

MACKAY, Sarina and Airlie Beach homebuyers have been blessed with a perfect storm of buying opportunities This has made it harder and harder to rent properties.

Mortgage Choice Principal Graham Bowling explained that buyers are benefitting from the lowest home loan interest rates in history, at just 1.99 percent for a four-year fixed term loan.

“This means that homebuyers with an average valuation for a Mackay house of $330,000 will only have to pay interest fees of $520 a month, even when they are borrowing 95 percent of the value of their home,” Mr Bowling said.

“In addition, the total cost of bank loan mortgage insurance, with just a five percent deposit is only $9500 (over the life of the loan).

“This reduces to $7500

with a ten per cent deposit, plus buyers with a 20 per cent deposit don’t have to pay mortgage insurance.”

Past Mackay Zone Chair of the Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) Peter McFarlane added that concerns of threats to employment from the COVID-19 pandemic means renters aren’t keen to move on and are remaining in rented properties.

“There are also numerous unfilled job vacancies in Mackay and across northern Queensland,” Mr McFarlane said. “This is attracting job seekers from southern Australia who are moving to northern Queensland seeking a job.

“These new Queenslanders’ first option is to rent, but if they can’t get a property to rent, then they are buying homes instead.

“Then they discover that it is cheaper to buy than rent be-

cause home loan repayments are so low, which is boosting the sale price of existing homes.”

Mr McFarlane added that Fly-in/Fly-Out employment in Queensland is also falling out of favour with some mining companies.

“The repeated pandemic lockdowns in Victoria, where more are possible, plus border closures by Queensland’s Premier Annastia Palszczuk, has prevented workers from returning to work,” he said.

“As a result, some mining companies are now encouraging more and more workers to live nearby, so workers are never more than a few hours away by bus.

“Plus, often these workers prefer the lifestyle of living on the coast, which has also increased the demand and the cost of renting and buying homes.”

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Friday, 26 February, 2021

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

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Jon Stevens rocks MECC The MECC was at sold out last Friday night for a show by veteran Aussie rocker Jon Stevens Jon turns 60 in October and he still showed the same energy and stamina that he had in his concerts back in the ‘90s.

Jon covered all the greats from his Noiseworks career, like, Take Me Back, No Lies, Hot Chilli Woman and Love Somebody.

Jon also fronted INXS from 2000-2003 and he didn’t miss a beat when he belted out some of their favourites, New Sensation and Never Tear us Apart last Friday.

Jon received several standing ovations and returned to the stage due to the overwhelming crowd response.

Support act Erin Reus was an eye opener and has an in-

teresting back story. During Brisbane’s three-day recent pandemic lockdown she split with her band and decided to pack-up her car up with everything she owned and head north.

She stopped off at Airlie Beach and hasn’t left!

Over time, Erin has picked up gigs at local pubs, at clubs and at big events.

She has now shared a stage with one of Australia’s most iconic singers, Jon Stevens.

On Friday night, Erin wooed the crowd with her songs and witty comments, bringing the crowd together when she sang the lullaby that her mother sang to her as a child, John Denver’s classic country tune, Take Me Home Country Road.

Pictured is Jon Stevens and guitarist at the MECC.

Pollies call for Govt insurance crackdown A growing band of Labor and Liberal National politicians have called on Prime Minister Scott Morrison to use his federal regulatory power to crack down on insurance companies who have more than doubled home insurance costs.

This comes after a story on the front page of this newspaper two weeks ago focussed national interest on our region.

Three federal and one state Labor politicians have now joined north Queensland’s three Liberal National parliamentarians George Christensen, Warren Entsch and Phillip Thompson in calling for Scott Morrison to intervene and rescue North Queenslanders.

North Queensland’s out of control home insurance also seems destined to become a major election issue at an expected federal election later

this year. Queensland Labor’s Queensland Senator Anthony Chisholm said he will raise skyrocketing home insurance costs with his federal Labor counterparts ahead of the next federal election.

“The Morrison Government has had years to act and to stop insurance companies from unfairly overcharging North Queenslanders,” Senator Chisholm told the Mackay Local News.

“Home insurance companies are out of control and it beggars belief that Scott Morrison and the Federal Liberal National Government has allowed it to get to this.

“They’ve been in power for seven years and have done absolutely nothing to fix the problem. In fact home insurance costs have more than doubled and gotten progressively worse on their watch.”

Senator Chisholm accused both the Prime Minister and Mackay based Dawson MP George Christensen for doing nothing to protect North Queenslanders from being unfairly treated by insurance companies.

“North Queenslanders shouldn’t have to bear the brunt of spiralling insurance costs, and I call on the Federal LNP to act now to protect families and businesses from facing dire financial consequences.”

“There needs to be a solution to this ASAP. “Insurance premiums in North Queensland have skyrocketed in recent years and particularly in recent months, with affordable insurance now totally out of reach for thousands of households and businesses, Sen Chisholm told this newspaper.

Minister defends skyrocketing costs

Prime Minister Scott Morrison’s government has defended criticisms that it has allowed North Queenslanders’ home insurance costs to skyrocket.

In a statement to the Mackay Local News, Housing Minister and Assistant Treasurer Michael Sukkar has issued a statement saying the Morrison Government is committed to supporting measurable reductions in insurance premiums and increased coverage in northern Australia.

“In December, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission delivered its Northern Australia insurance inquiry final report,” Mr Sukkar said.

“The report makes 38 recommendations for the Commonwealth, states and territo-

ries, and industry to consider and the Government will take time to further consider these recommendations and its response.

“During the period the ACCC was considering this matter, the Royal Commission into National Natural Disaster Arrangements also handed down its findings.

“In response to the Royal Commission, the Government has committed to establishing a new National Resilience, Relief and Recovery Agency by 1 July 2021, to help Australia better prepare for natural disasters and drive long-term resilience policy outcomes.

“It has been a long-held position of the Government that relieving pricing pressure for policy holders in northern Australia requires shared ac-

tion from all levels of government and industry.”

Mr Sukkar said the Government encourages state and territory governments to act on the ACCC’s recommendation to remove or reform stamp duties on insurance products.

“By a stroke of a pen, this one simple action could immediately cut the cost of an insurance policy.

“Importantly, the Federal Government has already undertaken steps to assist lower insurance costs for residents of northern Queensland through mitigation and resilience works.

“Furthermore, the Government is extending unfair contract term protections to insurance contracts as part of the response to the Financial Services Royal Commission.”

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• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

Friday, 26 February, 2021

Tradie writes hard-life book

Local communications technician Rick Larkin with the book he has written

A LOCAL Communications Technician in Mackay has written about his now-deceased wife in a book called My Girl Bill.

Rick Larkin married Indigenous woman Joslyn Billy Larkin, had children and enjoyed each day together.

Rick Larkin said his deceased wife had a tough upbringing.

She had to endure abuse and neglect, along with having to raise and help feed and provide for her siblings.

His wife also struggled with bipolar disorder, but still managed to overcome them and be there for her family.

Unfortunately, Mr Larkin said ‘people gave ‘em cheek’ because of his love for Indigenous Joslyn and even wrote unsavoury things on his cabin wall, when he was in the navy.

Mr Larkin said his wife was later diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer

Lemon Myrtle fascination

THESE guys are about people – they’re about making a difference by providing a solution to their needs, whatever it may be.

Whitsunday Myrtle started back in 2013, when Director and Founder Grace Evans took a short break from her accounting studies and was finalising them.

During her study break, she became curious about a lemon myrtle tree she had in her backyard.

“I needed a distraction and I had a lemon myrtle plant in my backyard, so I thought ‘let me see what I can do with this plant’,” Mrs Evans said.

“Can I cook with it?

“Can I make cake?

“What can I do with this plant?

Much to her delight, she discovered it had many uses.

“At that stage, I was fascinated with the plant itself and it’s medicinal properties – the plant of itself is anti-viral, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and antiseptic.”

This fascination soon blossomed into six months of trial and error – the end result being Mrs Evans can now make many countless skin and healthcare soaps and products that can help reverse disorders

such as eczema.

“When we look at the Australian standards, the lemon myrtle is five times stronger than the tea tree and eucalyptus,” she said.

“Tea tree and eucalyptus, come between 16 to 18 per cent more what they call a citral content, which is that potency.

“Lemon myrtle come between 90 and 98 per cent – five times stronger.

“I just got hooked – I finished off my studies in that and I started really getting into the experimental side of things.”

As the months progressed, not all of her experiments panned out well, but she continued to persist.

Eventually, she made lemon myrtle the base of her product line but discovered that not everything would mix well with the product.

Mrs Evans soon researched other oils to see what could mix well with lemon myrtle.

“With every plant, there is what is called an essential oil or carrier oil,” she said.

“The plants have medicinal properties, so we started off with the plants which are in the backyard and experimented with it.”

She did everything out of

and fought a long, hard battle.

It wasn’t just the cancer – it was the chemotherapy and various treatments which took their toll.

Mr Larkin developed a desire to start writing but was struggling to come up with an idea.

His wife suggested he write a book about her and he initially was going to focus on her upbringing.

But he was then informed that his wife would die from the cancer.

He wrestled with the news to the point where he had to stop writing for a couple of months.

His wife finally passed away and, though he struggled to sleep, decided he would return to writing his book.

Between running his business and raising his two children, he would toil away at the book, writing in his spare time.

The book was completed in

three months and has 110,000 words over 394 pages.

His luck took a turn for the better as he found love again and the new love of his life helped refine and edit the book.

After the book’s completion, everybody was shocked and amazed at how fast he had written the book.

For Mr Larkin, writing the book was a therapeutic process he enjoyed, but struggled with at the same time.

The writing helped him with the grieving process by giving him a project to focus on.

Mr Larkin said that, once he finished the book, he fell into a deep depression that lasted five to six months.

But, with the help of professionals he was able to overcome his loss and, with his new book in hand, is looking forward to a bright future.

A heart for animals

Lemon Myrtle products being made the kitchen using what she had Mrs Evans has recently available and soon realised completed her herbology studthat every oil had a specific ies and plans to further expand purpose. into the marketplace of alterNowadays, each product is native medicine. based on a need but she stressShe has now started a sister es that she respects convencompany called Whitsunday tional medicine and the procedures that are put in place.

Herbal.

Emmett Withers, 18, is the founder of Emmett4Animals, a Mackay charity with a mission to support lost or abandoned animals.

He said the charity was formed “to help solve a problem that I hate, where once loved animals are thrown away like trash.

Emmett4Animals accepts community donations to provide food, bedding, medications and toys for distressed which have been discarded by their owners.

“When I was five, it broke my heart to see these adorable creatures, great and small, be abandoned by their families within our Mackay community,” he said.

“We need to change community behaviour so pets are not dumped when owners can’t afford to feed them, or just simply because ‘they don’t want it’.”

Emmett (pictured) said that instead of waiting around for someone else to make change, she took the initiative on her fifth birthday to ditch normal birthday gifts.

“Instead, I wanted my friends to give me animal food to give to local foster carers.

Thirteen years on and now that I am 18, Emmett4Animals is still serving our community of furry friends.”

Emmett4Animals accepts many tonnes of animal products from kind and generous members of the Mackay community each year and tens-oftonnes of food has been donated over the past ten years.

“Emmett4Animals has been delighted to be blessed with some great success stories,” said Emmett. “For example, a lovely dog called Daisy was rescued after being abandoned at a young age and because she was not a pure bred, she struggled to find a new home.

“Until, one fateful day, a young family took responsibility for inviting a dog into their family. Leah, and her two daughters contacted their local animal rescue service to inquire about their animals in foster care.

Mackay Animal Rescue Service and Pound rescue and cares for these unwanted and dumped animals. Emmett4Animals’ vision has been to support such agencies and give unwanted animals a second chance at life.

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Friday, 26 February, 2021

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

5

Slade Point on track for new boat ramp THE SLADE Point Community had enjoyed launching their boats from Seagull Street for 30 years.

This all changed when a homeowner became annoyed with boaties and fishers who would go out into the waters at the very wee hours of the morning.

With the constant early morning wake-up calls becoming a nuisance, he purchased the strip of land, without community consultation, to render the ramp unusable and filled that land and put up a fence.

This left the local boaties without any ramps, who soon lobbied the then Pioneer Shire

Council to have another ramp built, but without success.

Slade Point resident Alison Jones said she worked with various members and groups, who were concerned about the lack of boating ramps.

“I went into bat for the boys as they had been using a beach in the same street to launch their tinnies for quite a few years and were sick of getting bogged,” Mrs Jones said.

“We put a 650 signature petition together and presented it to Mackay City Council.

“The answer was,‘it would not be an all-tide ramp and would cost a considerable amount of money to build’.

“After much to and fro, I asked for a compromise where the Council installed a sand ladder for them to drive their vehicles on so they wouldn’t get bogged.

Years later, Mackay MP Julieanne Gilbert was approached by a couple of community groups at Slade Point, who presented her with two petitions that both had 500 signatures.

She presented these petitions to Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson, who asked for some funding for the boat ramp.

After much discussion, $1 million in funding was se-

cured for the Mackay Regional Council to build a boat ramp out at Slade Point.

“The community told us they wanted a new facility at Slade Point,” Mrs Gilbert said.

“I’m glad the Palaszczuk Government has been able to secure vital funding to help council build a new ramp. It’s a real win for boaties and our region.

“It’s rare to find flat foreshore land in key locations like this to build new boatie infrastructure.”

Works are expected to start in the middle of 2021, with completion pending construction approvals by late 2021.

Platypus Beach lacks facilities MANY people would flock to this popular beach to cool down and relax after a hard week’s yakka, especially on a hot summers day.

However, this all changed on February 15, when the beach was closed due to swimmers coming down sick with illnesses such as gastroenteritis and vomiting.

Because of this, Platypus beach has now become a public health hazard where bathers, young children and adults are now unable to swim safely.

Sample testing subseqeuently took place, and it was announced on February 17 that bacteria such as e. coli and intestinal enterocci were found, which were normally present in faeces.

Mackay Regional Council said Platypus Beach would remain closed until continuing sample collection and testing was completed.

Mackay Regional Council CEO Michael Thomson said a way forward to managing the site would be investigated.

“Options such as implementing a Recreational Management Plan (RMP) will be discussed,” he said.

He said an RMP involved

Platypus Beach is extremely popular with residents across Mackay. Photo: Michael Giles surveying the area to develop water quality objectives and a regular monitoring plan.

The Council said that the quality of Platypus Beach’s water can fluctuate greatly due to many variables, such as the environment, rainfall and local wildlife.

However, the Council admitted they were uncertain about the exact origins of the faeces.

It has been reported that around 30 people came down with the various bacteria re-

lated sicknesses. as a result of swimming at the beach.

Platypus Beach also lacks public facilities, such as toilets, and it was reported that swimmers had to drive two minutes down the road into Mirani – just to use the toilet.

Mackay Regional Council’s Land Management Plan for Platypus Beach has acknowledged that the “nearest public facility is Mirani.

“Toilet Facilities will not be installed within the Recreation Reserve,” the Land Manage-

ment Plan stated. “Council has installed permanent directional signs, directing users to the amenities located at George Johnson Park.

“Platypus Beach has no access to power, water or sewerage services.

“Maintenance of toilets (if installed at Platypus Beach) would be costly and may encourage camping.

“Provision of temporary amenities, for one-off, events may be considered in future.”

Artist’s impression of the proposed boat ramp. Pic: Council

Love and passion for Irish dancing

GROWING up in her home country of Scotland, this Aussie lass begged and begged her parents to let her take up Irish dancing.

Years later, Claddagh School of Irish Dancing owner-operator Colette Shields graduated from her primary education degree in 2006, where she specialised in early education.

However, her love and passion for dance was never quenched – in fact, she wanted to share it with others.

Fast forward to 2008, Colette was given an opportunity to take over an old church hall.

She soon converted the old church hall into a room that was fit to teach children.

She then sent out a call to the wider community to see if anyone was interested.

Her call was answered as five lovely kids showed up and took an interest in Irish dancing.

Students came and left as they grew up.

Mrs Shields said that when some of them graduated from their studies at University, it

was not uncommon for her to receive invitations to attend the graduation ceremony.

She said one child in particular started her classes at the age of five and 11 years later, now helps teach the children.

Mrs Shields said the curriculum covers Irish history, culture, dancing and even teaches the students to learn speaking Gaelic.

However, dancing is the main focus and Colette said she loveds seeing the children have an absolute blast, even pushing themselves beyond their boundaries.

It is important to note that the students are only there to be better than themselves, but at the same time are given comprehensive instruction on how to be better.

Colette said a particular example that always makes her proud is seeing her students stand out on the stage at a yearly competition and dance away, growing out of their shells and comfort zones.

This makes both the children’s parents and Mrs Shields absolutely proud.

6

NEWS

• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

Friday, 26 February, 2021

Locally grown superfood eats up greenhouse gas THIS is the superfood of the future that can eat greenhouse gas for breakfast and give you 45 to 55 grams of protein, just by you eating seven grams.

Now, these are not wild claims coming from an outlandish salesman who wants your money.

No, this is coming from Biogensis Bowen manager, Frank Mason, who is absolutely passionate and believes algae has the potential to change the world for the better.

In contrast to other foods that may be produced, from various sources, algae relies upon carbon dioxide for food and can be used for many different purposes.

Biogensis has branches all around Australia and exports their locally grown algae to every corner of the planet.

Mr Mason said algae is a sustainable form of food that,

while it is difficult to grow, was able to be nurtured in freshwater ponds out in the open.

“The great thing about this is it’s a package deal - it really is,” Mr Mason said.

“You eat that and that’s all you need, other than a few carbs, which might be an apple or a banana.

“It has the ability to significantly improve the environment.

“It is a game-changer, environmentally.”

He said the super food is grown in plastic ponds out at Bowen and said the only food it really needs is carbon dioxide, along with some plantbased fertiliser.

Mr Mason said that for every tonne of algae, it is able to consume to three tonnes of carbon dioxide and has a very small environmental footprint.

“It doubles everyday, it’s super efficient at turning sunlight and carbon dioxide into food,” Mr Mason said.

“We could retire a lot of broad-scale land use and make it more sustainable by reducing the need for productivity from that space.

“The Mackay sugar industry is about 90 to 100,000 hectares.

“If we had 30,000 hectares under ponds, with a third of the Mackay sugar industry under ponds, we could produce enough food to feed half the population of India or China.”

He went on to say that any of the algae that dies can be used as food for either any animal or be consumed by the plants themselves.

The Bowen farm grows the algae naturally and Mr Mason said it can be used for many different purposes, such as animal food, oil and even for gen-

Laughs, dinner, drinks at Haunts

There’s much spooky fun to be had at Haunts

LAUGHS galore are guaranteed at this comedic dinner theatre, where punters will leave with their voices raw and faces red.

Haunts Dinner Theatre offers a three-course meal and show run by owner-operators, Stuart and Debbie Read who have an entertainment background.

The married couple used to run a karaoke company for a while, before they were asked to start a new dinner theatre at the Northern Beaches Bowls Club.

They were asked to produce a variety of entertaining shows, rather than the club having the same show run continuously as had been the case previously.

KERRISDALE GARDENS ANNOUNCES EXPANSION

Locally grown algae is a superfood He said one day everyone could be eating algae due to it’s sustainability and how nutritionally dense it was.

eral everyday consumption.

Compared to meat, algae is relatively easy for the human

body to break down and digest, which means it does not require much energy to consume.

Mr Read said they took up the challenge and soon started brainstorming ideas, then came up with their own take for the Rocky Horror Picture Show.

While they used the original songs from the show, they also added other songs.

The tribute show was initially for one night only, but soon expanded as it proved to be popular.

The couple then started searching for a permanent venue.

They soon came upon an old bar that was up for lease and signed in 2019.

That was before 2020 hit and introduced COVID-19 which disrupted everything.

For a while, they were forced to close but took the first opportunity to open up when it arrived.

They soon overcame huge odds and are now back in swing of offering top-notch entertainment.

Head down to Hunts for what could be the night of your life!

Theatre AGM on KUCOM Theatre has announced their plans to hold an annual general meeting on March 23 and everybody is welcome.

No doubt the theatre will be taking about the many plays and wonderful actors they produce, along with the exciting ideas they have in the works.

Kucom Theatre vice-president Bronwyn Grannall said people would often restrict themselves to certain roles when they were acting.

She said it takes a real eye to find and cast the right person for an advertised acting role.

She said that acting can often require people to leave their shells and comfort zones.

She added that creativity is a key trait that can really help people unlock their potential.

Some roles, however, were difficult to fill for various reasons.

Her current play, Five Women Wearing The Same Dress,

was able to cast five ladies with relative ease.

However, she said they had a difficult time filling the role of the usher.

The play is “all about bridesmaids, very funny, and we’re hoping it will be relatively easy to cast because it requires five women and only one man,” Ms Grannall said.

She added they were starting to get some interest for parts but had to find the right fit.

The difficulty in auditioning and casting men in any role can come down to their employment, as some worked various shifts at the mines around the region.

However, she said they might have been able to narrow their search down to three men, who are interested in the key role.

The American play is not set to come out until July, where it will be part of the Mackay Fringe Festival.

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NEWS

Friday, 26 February, 2021

Virgin announces local destinations PROSERPINE was just one of the many wonderful locations that were included as part of Virgin Australia’s expanded frequencies and new destinations announcement on February 18.

These destinations will be added across the Easter holiday period as border restrictions ease and airlines start to rebuild their domestic capacity.

Whitsunday Regional Council aviation and tourism Chief Operating Officer Craig Turner said he was excited about this announcement.

The flow-on effects of Virgin Australia’s announcements iare certainly expected to provide a boost to the Whitsunday region’s economy.

Mr Turner said he believes the real winners of this announcement would be local businesses across the region.

He said that the announcement was not a surprise but certainly was happy news for him and everybody across the region.

Mr Turner said he would regularly holds talks with Virgin Australia and said the airline had to take into consideration many factors to create an informed decision. The Whit-

sundays would now receive up to 25 flights per week, as he said the region was the first point of call.

He said the airport was performing really well over the past 12 months, in spite of COVID-19.

Virgin Australia Group CEO Jayne Hrdlicka said now was the time time to support the many local businesses and regions who are doing it tough this Easter.

Ms Hrdlicka was encouraging every one to go out and explore the many wonderful holiday experiences on offer across Australia.

“The tourism industry depends on all of us getting out and safely enjoying the company of family, friends and great adventures,” Ms Hrdlicka said.

“We have all worked hard to get to a place where we can enjoy these travel opportunities once again, with the added benefit of supporting vital jobs in our tourism destinations.

“Our flexible flying policy gives confidence for travellers planning ahead these Easter School holidays, and the rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine adds to the positive momentum around us.”

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

Good Samaritan restores teen’s faith in humanity

Kaydence with her returned phone and mother Kacey

A local teenager has had her faith in humanity boosted, after she lost her smartphone and $50 on a family day out.

Kaydence Beveridge, 14 from Sarina visited Mackay Leisure Centre recently with her family and, when she returned home, realised she no longer had her Samsung S10 with her.

She started desperately looking for her phone but it was nowhere to be found.

“Kaydence said she had put it in my bag,” mum Kacey Beveridge said. “But when I checked in there, there was no phone.

Kaydence and her father went back to the Centre to look for the phone.

“So then my hubby Gordon went with Kaydence to have a look at the couch where we were bowling, no phone,” said Ms Beveridge.

“So then they went to ask the lady at the front counter.”

A good Samaritan had found and returned the phone.

“The lady asked her to describe the phone and she described it ... Samsung S10

7

with a clear case with $50 (her birthday money) inside the case,” said Ms Beveridge.

“So then the lady handed her phone back to her. My hubby asked if (they people who handed the phone in) were still in the area as he wanted to thank them personally but they had left.”

Kaydence was delighted that she had her phone back and couldn’t wait to return home to give the good news to her mother.

“When I saw her walking back to me she had a kick in her step but I had my doubts (that the phone has been found),” said Ms Beveridge.

“Until she pulled her phone out with the biggest smile on her face.

“I told her how lucky she was and she wasn’t getting another one, if she’d lost this one,” Ms Beveridge laughed.

“Kaydence and all of us were very relieved and thankful to know there are still honest people in our region.

“It has definitely restored our faith in humanity with how the world is today.”

8

NEWS

• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

Friday, 26 February, 2021

Emergency committee meets over airstrip virginia

dowling

columnist — pioneer valley

Finch Hatton RSL sub-branch vice presidents Andrew Sutherland (L) and Peter Zigmantas

Finch Hatton RSL going strong Finch Hatton’s RSL luncheon meeting was held at the RSL building last Saturday.

Visitors and members from Mackay and Eungella were welcomed along with Mr John Edwards, the Deputy President of the Pioneer Fitzroy Highlands RSL District.

AGM Chair Tammy Sprott complimented the Finch Hatton group for keeping their sub branch alive and added that it was a pleasure to attend

the meetings out there in the Valley.

A new addition to the RSL display is the stunning handmade quilt donated and made

by Del Smith who has also donated another quilt to be raffled.

Andrew Sutherland and Peter Zigmantas, both vice presidents of the Finch Hatton sub branch, proudly wore their distinctive RSL Finch Hatton shirts.

Andrew told the meeting

that a RAV Bike Ride will occur later this year and is expected to terminate in Finch Hatton with a community barbecue.

John Edwards asked all members to support the Commemorative Anzac Game between Wests vs Souths on Saturday April 24 at Tiger Park.

The community is asked to join them as they honour our fallen. It promises to be a great day so come along and cheer on the Mighty Tigers.

THE Finch Hatton Emergency Air-Strip Committee met last week to discuss the official opening of the airstrip on April 17.

Members at the meeting were Chairman Dan Argent (pictured) , Secretary Paul Argent, Dennis O’Neill, Jim Peoples, Norm Drew and Treasurer Steve Crittenden.

The last stages of top and fill as well as situating the runway markers are being finalisaed and just waiting for completion when there is a clear weather.

The Finch Hatton Emergency Air-Strip Committee holds regular meetings and would welcome all visitors and new prospective members.

Please contact Chairman Dan Argent, or Hatton News for further information, please call them on 0459 536 152.

The need for Finch Hatton’s Emergency airstrip was highlighted on February 18, 1958, when 878 mm of rain

fell in 24 hours. The flood peaked at 9.14 meters (29.99 ft) and within hours, the water flowed down the valley and flooded Mackay.

The Officer in Charge of the Finch Hatton Police Station,

by Sergeant J. Brennan called a meeting to find emergency solutions, as the township of Finch Hatton was still trying to deal with the aftermath of this devastating event.

Twenty-nine community members agreed to form a 12-member committee to construct an all-weather emergency air strip.

They also voted to open a subscription list and a motion for voluntary labour was carried. The committee met at the Criterion Hall to canvass

financial support from the surrounding area from Pinnacle through to the QDO at Eungella and further afield to the stations in the Hinterland.

Theree were no emails or grants in those days and mail took the long route. The Balance of funds rose to a resounding £470-8-0 in July.

Working Bees were held on most weekends with only twodays’ notice.

A note of these notices was advertised widely at the Mill office, hotels, and broadcasts through 4MK. The owners of machines used for clearing and construction were asked for their record of hours worked and amounts of payment.

Farmers who had promised donations were canvassed to pay their outstanding funds.

By June, the strip was too wet to work and further drainage work did not recommence until 12 July.

Mirani Shire Council assisted with heavy equipment at half the normal contract fee and permission was granted to Hatton School for use of the strip as a football field.

FEATURE

Friday, 26 February, 2021

Ted (right) with his famous father Ted Sr

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

9

Ted was known as a keen fisherman and diver. Pictures supplied

Indigenous leader greatly missed Many in Mackay are saddened by the loss of one of its justifiably proud Indigenous community leader, Edward (Ted) Edward Royce Ramsamy, 75.

Ted passed away on February 6 this year from Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma and chronic Monocytic Leukemia This chiasmatic, hard-working, successful self-made man and former National Serviceman was a champion Golden Gloves lightweight division title holder in his youth. Recently on January 26, Ted celebrated his 56th wedding anniversary at the Townsville Hospital, surrounded by his wife Nita and his sons, Edward, Andrew and Wade and family.

Nita has happily described the man she married, when they were 19 and 17, as “a dark boy who was shy, handsome and athletic”.

Ted retired in 2017/18 at 70, after making a success of everything he turned his hand to,. He then gave so much back to Mackay’s Indigenous community.

Together with uncles, aunts, brothers and younger cousins, Ted played a key role in establishing the Mackay Coloured Co-op and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Health Service. Ted was also a founding member of the Mackay and District Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders Legal Service, which later became part of a State-wide service.

The Legal Service continues to operate from the John Marmin Ramsamy Memorial Building in Sydney Street. Ted has also been acknowledged by the traditional custodians, the Yuwibara people as an honorary member of their clan

Ted Ramsamy with family members which he accepted with pride. and was awarded “Most ImTed’s last venture was ac- proved Soldier”. Then around quiring Kerwin Land Man- 1970/71, Ted worked for Fluor agement, which later became at Goonyella Mine as a rigRamsamy Landcare. This was ger and then on the Hay Point his vehicle for Indigenous Coal Terminal Jetty and Wharf enterprise and employment, Construction as a Supervisor which continues to provide and Barge Master. landcare and maintenance serNext, Ted, his brother vices to Mackay’s and the re- and good friend Ray Waring gion’s commercial businesses. formed a rigging company, ArAs a young man in 1967, row Constructions. Ted quoted Ted began his working life on and won the rights to steel with Maros Brothers as a rig- erection on an impressive list ger, building the Farleigh Mill of clients including Tilses Gift Sugar Shed and the Gladstone Store, Mackay Junior Rugby Alumina Plant.

League, Besser, Fields, Hodge He joined the Army in 1969 Machinery, Commercial Minto serve in the Vietnam War erals, Tube Makers, Bertoldi’s,

MREB, various large sheds, sugar warehouses, Milliquin Sugar Mill Gladstone, Moranbah Civic Centre, Jay Block and Harbour Control Tower.

In Townsville, their jobs also included the Industrial Builders Warehouse, Phillip Leong Warehouse, Evans Deacon, Foxwood Sawmill, Wilson Heart Timbers, Gordon Lees and in Cairns, Coles Westcourt.

Ted was an excellent commercial diver and dived on the Hay Point 1 & 2 Projects and for Walkers Ltd inspecting tugs, ships and in salvage and marine recovery.

He was also a keen spearfisherman and Indigenous hunter and gatherer. There were numerous times that he returned to the surface after a commercial dive job and asked the dive attendant for one of his home-made spearguns.

Then Ted took a short break on company time, to spear his favourites meals of Blue Tusk Fish, Trout and Cod. Ted always wanted his ashes spread on the sea, but in the end, he gave in to island tradition which remained at the core of his character, which was evident in the way he behaved and carried himself through-

out his life. This love of the sea drew Ted to buy, restore and improve prawn trawlers including the MercStar, New Providence and Erika.

Then in 1987, Ted and his brothers started a crocodile breeding farm, where they jointly purchased a property, captured breeding stock and did the preliminary site works to farm and cull crocodiles.

Around 1991, Ted’s fishing and prawning businesses were lucrative, but increasing regulation and being away from home prompted him to sell his boats and start NJ Industries to run the Mackay Harbour Slipway.

In 1993, after offloading the slipway lease and some property, Ted bought a small, 320-acre cane farm at Mt Blackwood and an additional 70-acre cane farm at Mt Ossa.

There Ted’s can-do style included cutting and carting his own cane, after his good mate, Col Mathews taught him to operate a cane harvester.

Farming and part-time mill work kept Ted busy for a while, but in 2006/7 the mining boom lured this able and experienced 60-year-old back into the construction Industry, as a rigging supervisor with Bucyrus for the Lake Lyndsay Dragline Construction.

Ted leased his cane farm to a neighbour and then went on to work for Walter Wright Cranes as a rigger foreman.

He enjoyed his role at Walter Wrights and remained there until 2015, where he worked with family members and taught those around him the value of hard work.

Ted was widely acknowledged as a doer and not a talker in the company.

Vale Ted Ramsamy

and and

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

10

COMMUNITY

• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

Friday, 26 February, 2021

MY THOUGHTS | Are police under-resourced and not immediately responding to crimes?

Tom Richardson

Jemma Grzybowick

Daisy Duell

Matt Jung

“Depends on the severity of the break-in.

I guess all break-ins are a priority, like is the person still on scene or not on scene?”

“I guess I would feel pretty unsafe, considering I live alone too.”

“I think it’s very disappointing and upsetting at the fact they can they (can’t) help and prioritise the community and trying to help them whenever there’s an issue.”

“They should definitely be responding to crime immediately.”

Quote of the week “The Morrison Government has had years to act and to

COMMENT

stop insurance companies from unfairly overcharging North

Power up these towers

- Senator Anthony Chisholm

JUST off the western side of my farm at Proserpine is a big mobile phone tower.

But on the eastern side of town mobile service can be patchy, especially in high wind (mainly from the southeast) and rain.

A couple of years ago a couple of young engineers in a van covered in aerials asked if they could do mobile phone tests around the farms.

They couldn’t believe how poor the signal was in the blustery easterly winds, so they asked to go around again twiddling their dials.

Given NBN had decided that internet would be delivered by wireless (over the mobile network, rather than lay all that cable we were promised) the tech heads reported that the tower’s power was inadequate.

Over a cuppa, they explained how mobile signal depended not just on the height of then tower but also the direction of the tower vanes and how much they were powered up.

Now these engineers were from the mobile equipment supplier not from NBN or the telecoms providers so they could get past the marketing palava and tell the technical truth.

Not reaching maximum output And the truth was that the telecoms, especially the biggest had from the time it was run by a couple of vastly overpaid americans, skimped on the electricity pumped into the mobile towers, so they weren’t reaching the maximum output.

I explained how at out other farm just 12 kms off the Bruce highway, we had no signal unless you climbed to the top of the fuel bowser tower, hardly a safe communication hub, and then only a bare one bar occasionally.

They also explained that many of the towers weren’t maintained according to standard so they often weren’t pointing correctly along highways or to growing population centres. Farming areas were often ignored because farmers didn’t need mobile because they had two ways! This was confirmed to me by a senior Telstra executive at a farming seminar in Melbourne.

But don’t forget the many urban blackspots. Why do people at Blacks Beach in urban Mackay get such poor to zero mobile service?

Telstra puts out maps swamping the country with its alleged mobile service coverage, as does NBN for its wireless internet coverage.

The maps are believed by regulators who never leave their Canberra, Sydney and Melbourne cosy

offices bristling with mobile signal and fibre NBN. But they are lies – outright porkies.

I asked the young tech heads to report how much ‘continuous’ coverage they got between Mackay and Proserpine, allegedly full highway coverage.

They laughed. They’d had seven complete breaks in mobile even with their van full of antennae.

It hasn’t got better.

It should and it must.

If only for safety, the mobile coverage in regional Queensland needs to be far better.

For safety, the busy Peak Downs Highway should have complete end to end mobile coverage.

Queenslanders”

Show us your tatts

Fading every kilometre As anyone with an old mobile phone knows, 3G coverage was far longer and stronger than 4G. Now we are promised 5G, which is already served to the inner city hipsters. Its coverage area is even worse.

Huge capacity close to a tower, but its fades fast every kilometre from the tower.

Telstra has announced it is cutting 3G from 2024.

That will be a disaster in regional areas. Their ‘mini 4G cells’ around some regional towns are too small, but 5G will mean you will have to be within hundreds of metres of the mini cells to get coverage.

Doling out a few towers, most small and underpowered, in the so called ‘blackspot’ program is a joke just meant to hold the tide of complaints about appalling bad mobile coverage.

More of the tropical north and coalfields is blackspot than has reliable coverage. If the federal government is serious about ‘connecting;’ the regions, it needs a heck of a lot more towers, fully powered up, and quickly.

The most common phrase on a mobile in this region - hello, hello…….I think we have another drop out…..

We’re listening How is your mobile phone coverage?

What is going on in your neck of the woods? We encourage your thoughts, feedback and insights via email: news@mackaylocalnews.com.au or if your preference is mail: PO Box 1025, Mackay 4740

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 be chosen by our tattooed Deputy Editor Dave Lornie and will win a mystery prize. What are you waiting for? Send in your tattoo pics to news@mackaylocalnews.com.au Pictured above is Miranda Roberts getting tattooed by Inkredible Tatttoo studio owner, tattoo artist Fletch.

COMMUNITY

Friday, 26 February, 2021

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

11

MY THOUGHTS | Are police under-resourced and not immediately responding to crimes?

Chris Malayta

Shannon Van Moolenbrook

Sam Duell

Asinate Waqa

“It’s not good.”

“They should be responding still, if something was to happen and it’s going to be a disaster.”

“I think it’s kind of bad because, you know, there’s possible danger?

“That timeframe they could come in that time could make a difference, you know?”

“I would prefer them coming straight away, because being a mum of kids and all that sort of stuff.

“I would feel safer.”

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

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Come in for a ‘butcher’s cook’

mackaylocalnews Justin Reid from CQ Butchers and Catering Supplies has a large range of storage and catering supplies in stock for the butcher trade and others. They can be found at Shed 2, 20 Victoria Street, Mackay from 7.30am to 4.30pm. If it’s quality and a friendly smile you’re after, Justin’s your man.

Is your business taking advantage of this local initiative?

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12

SNAPPERAZZI

• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

Jane Nicholson, Jenny Allan and Ruby Baldemoro at Canelands City Centre

Friday, 26 February, 2021

Zac, Sarah, Taleia, Heather and Michael at Mackay harbour

Joanne Malahoff, Tina Michelmore, Mania Langford, Simone Aitken,Jade Readdy, Trish King, Jenna Godfrey and Kelly King Andrea Orr and Donald Orr at Mackay harbour with Frankie

Karen Neale, Debbie Robson and Cheryl Robins

Amy Clark and Darcy Clark

Emma Reginate, Kiera Thomas and Mikeely Blee

Susannah Binkley and Brooke Cousins out on the town

SNAPPERAZZI

Friday, 26 February, 2021

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

13

Queensland Country Bank 50th

The Penning family

Deidre Comerford and Bill Paton

Above: Canelands branch staff. Below: Sherie Jones and Lyn Thomsen

Heather Mullins and Casie Hamilton

Above: Kay Direen and Josephine Sukroo. Below: Caneland staff

Queensland Country Bank celebrated their 50th birthday on Tuesday with a public brunch at both branches, Mt Pleasant and Canelands.

Those celebrating enjoyed cake, sandwiches and drinks.

The bank is a pillar in the community, sponsoring sporting clubs and raising money for various community causes.

Every couple who dine in our Bistro & order two main meals from our menu, will receive a FREE bottle of

Lindemans Cawarra Wine

to share or a pot of beer each or a can of soft drink each.*

DRAWN SUNDAYS

*bring in newspaper coupon to go in the draw.

NO PHOTOCOPIES.

14

OPINION

• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

Friday, 26 February, 2021

LOCAL GIG GUIDE with

EMILY PASSMORE TONIGHT E.J. Barker, 6pm Hotel Mackay; Mango Junction, 9pm Moss On Wood; Nathan Kennendy, 6.30pm Souths Bowls Club; The Flying Tigers, 7pm Langfords; Killer Queen Show, 7.30pm MECC; Leon Namai, 6pm Wakehouse Mackay, 6pm Lighthouse Sails; Jay-C, 7pm Kuttabul Hotel; Luke Miller, 8pm Carlons Hotel Sarina; ACCA/

DACCA, 7pm Northern Beaches Bowls Club; Evan Daly, 7pm Railway Hotel Marian; 2 Maoris, 7.30pm O’Shea’s Hotel Walkerston SATURDAY FEBRUARY 27 Mango Junction, 9pm Moss On Wood; Luke Miller Band, Langfords; Mark Thomas, 6pm Lighthouse Sails; Scott Brodie, 8pm Blacks Beach Tavern; Significant Other, 8pm Northern Beaches Bowls Club; Lucid Wings, 7pm Carlons Hotel Sarina

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 28 E.J. Barker & Sunday BBQ,12pm General Gordon; Sunday Jam with Rory, 3pm Langfords; Mark Thomas, 4pm Lighthouse Sails; Gypsy Soul, 2pm Seabreeze Hotel; Hybrid, 1pm Calen Hotel; Shaun Diver, 1pm Sarina Leagues Club; Bella Mackenzie, 2.30pm Palms Beach Bar Sarina THURSDAY MARCH 4 Open Mic Night, 7pm Langford’s; E.J. Barker, 7.30pm General Gordon

Doggonit and it really stinks!

Under My Skin…

WEEKLY columnist Skinhead is,a self-described “old hack” who retired from the workforce but cannot give up writing about his favourite subjects — things that really get under his skin.

As a regular contributor to Mackay Local News you will soon get to know where he stands on a number of issues.

Sometimes he gets serious, but where possible he gives his views in a humorous style. As he says, “life is too short to waste on serious stuff.”

“The previous customer sitting on that chair was butt naked and unfortunately had fleas and an offensive body odour, but we know you won’t mind.”

The likelihood of being told that by a coffee shop worker these days is about the same as my chances of winning Gold Lotto, but it should be a mandatory warning.

Why, considering how much I like dogs, are so many of them (excluding assistance dogs, of course) upsetting me at the moment? Hold on, is it the dogs or the owners who are getting under my skin?

I’m reaching boiling point because dogs are doing my head in when I’m “doing coffee”.

Last week I added another coffee shop to my list of “Gone To The Dogs” premises. It’s the third such eatery in a four-minute walk of my place that I’ve struck off.

Tell me, why do I (we) have to put up with dogs eating off plates on tables at eateries? It must be against health regulations but no one

in authority seems interested in doing anything about it. Dogs, and their owners, apparently have more rights than anyone else.

Why are dogs allowed to bark, fight, sniff butts (usually belonging to other dogs, but not always), lick customers, urinate on chair legs, and much more?

The thought of dodgy doggy deposits being left on café chairs and tables stirs more than my emaciated skinny organic decaf soy latte, but another issue worries me more than annoys me.

Recently I saw a woman, carrying a baby, walk through an outdoor eating area and luckily escape injury after tripping over a dog’s leash. A young couple had allowed the dog to wander around as far as the long leash extended.

Would you believe the lady apologised to the dog owners for not watching where she was going, and the dog owners accepted her apology? Apparently the dog was upset. The owners should be kept at home on a short leash.

Have you watched someone pour water from a coffee shop-provided water bottle into a dog bowl, let the dog lick the neck of the bottle, and then put the bottle back on the table for people to use? I have, and I know which of these two animals upset me the most.

Let me assure you I’m not paranoid about health risks but I hate sickening hygiene practices.

Staff at two establishments I used to patronise regularly pat, pick up, and cuddle customers’ dogs.

Those staff members don’t even wash their hands before continuing on with their work.

That’s right, they go straight back to handling dishes and serving food.

I’ve seen them do it. I have never returned.

With that in mind, how’s this for a classic piece of irony. Food Standards Australia and New Zealand has a message for people who take their dogs to eateries: “Patting dogs can increase risks of contamination for you and for the

An unnamed pampered pooch business’ staff. You hould refrain from touching dogs while eating and not encourage food service staff or other customers to pat your dog.”

That’s right. People can take dogs into outdoor dining areas but no one should touch them because touching dogs can “increase the risk of contamination.”

Do we have to be told that? Are we really that dumb?

When I was a kid we always had dogs. They were working dogs but later in life my own family became urbanised so dogs were pets.

At all times however there were rules (common sense) about dogs. We ate our food at the table from our plates.

The dogs ate their food on the floor from their bowls.

If dogs were touched, hands were washed.

We knew some of the things our dogs ate out in the paddock, where our dogs’ noses had been when greeting other dogs, and some of the things they licked on a regular basis. Why wouldwe let the dogs lick our lips?

Cop this. Recently I witnessed a big dog sitting on a chair at a coffee shop and wondered if that dog had left any doggy deposits on the cushion for the next customer, or the customer’s child, to touch or sit on.

I wondered what the chances were of that dog having a not-so-clean bum before wiping it on the coffee shop cushion.

Later that day I stopped at traffic lights and saw a young lady picking up a deposit left on the footpath by her canine friend. I silently congratulated her. She then proceeded to wipe the dog’s

butt with toilet paper and place the used paper in the plastic bag with the doggy dunnit.

I was amazed and was about to silently congratulate her again when she proceeded to push the “walk” button with the same, unwashed, hand she used to wiped the dog’s rear end.

What she touched between the dog butt-wiping act and finally washing her hands I can only imagine. I deliberately went in the opposite direction.

FOOTNOTE: I wonder what will happen when I walk into a coffee shop with my pet pig on a leash. It’s smaller than a Great Dane and only marginally bigger than a Dachshund — and it doesn’t lick its private parts. ..or anyone else’s.

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:

Friday, 26 February, 2021

REAL ESTATE

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

15

16

REAL ESTATE

• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

OPEN HOMES

Saturday February 27

TIME

SUBURB

9 - 9:30am

ADDRESS

House

3

1

2

My Real Estate Q

10 - 10:30am Racecourse 2 Meadowlands Rd House

3

1

3

My Real Estate Q

9:30 - 10am 10 - 11am

Andergrove 22 Maguire Street

TYPE BED BATH CAR AGENT

Nth Mackay 12 McKinley Street House Nth Mackay 28 Green Street

10:30 - 11am Beaconsfield 12 Culloden Place

House

House

11 - 11.45am Mackay Harbour 41/2 Mulherin Dr Unit 11:15-11:45am Andergrove 3 Albert Court 11:15-11:45am Sarina

9 Brewers Road

House

House

11.30-12.30pm East Mackay 8/4 Prudhoe Street Unit

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

1

1

2

2

2

1

2

2

1

4

2

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1

TIME

SUBURB

ADDRESS

12-12:30pm Beaconsfield 18 Mod Crescent 1:00-1:30pm Nth Mackay

Blacks Real Estate

Coral Tree Property Blacks Real Estate

Coral Tree Property My Real Estate Qld Blacks Real Estate

TYPE BED BATH CAR AGENT House 4

7/63 Grendon Street Unit

2

2 1

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My Real Estate Qld 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

p

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

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

p

Foundation appears straight

All light switches in working order and firmly fitting to walls

ROOF:

p

No evidence of excess rusting, wood rot/pest damage

p

Gutters free from decay, rust and sagging

EXTERIOR:

p

Water drains away from the house. Grounds drainage

p

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

p

Climate control units/devices all in working order

p

Neutral/nil smells throughout the property

p

Appliances in good, working order

p

Solar panel/s visual and in good working order

p

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

p

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

p

Sturdy window frames and windows, function and lock with ease

p

All toilets and sinks drain away with ease and without delay

By MILLY BAKER of FRANK KNIGHT THE collective stimuli of building incentives and JobKeeper has had an immediate impact on the Mackay and Whitsundays residential market, which with activity increasing immediately in July 2020. Prior to July 2020, the six-month average sale

price for houses in Mackay was $389,000 and with about 150 house sales each month The lift in activity was immediate in July 2020, with more than 222 and the average monthly volume of house sales remaining above 220 through to December.

The increased sales activity has lifted prices, although the six-month moving average price is stable at $392,000, largely due to high activity at the lower end of the market.

The unit market is experiencing similarly increased sales, with 20 sales per month, generally before July 2020, then increasing immediately to an average of 33 sales each month through to December.

The bottom end of the unit market is the most active and median unit sale prices in Mackay are below $225,000 The Whitsundays are also experiencing the same bounce in activity. Monthly sales of units and house sales from July to December 2020 increased by 50 percent compared to prior to July 2020. The six-month average sale price for a house in the Whitsundays is higher than Mackay at $404,000.

New dwelling approvals increased has increased by nearly 70 percent between July and December 2020, though this rate will reduce from March onwards, as the incentives subside.

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

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

Collective stimuli impact market

Coral Tree Property

Sunday February 28

Friday, 26 February, 2021

Plumber/s Electricians

Surprise over COVID impact

Pest Control Professionals Building Inspectors Conveyancers Bankers, Mortgage Brokers

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

mackaylocalnews.com.au

By WENDY TUCKER of MY REAL ESTATE When COVID-19 hit, we all thought were out of a job, the market would crash and we would all be hurting.

Much to our surprise, the exact opposite happened and we have been busier than ever.

Mackay’s rental vacancy rate in June 2020 was 1.9 percent, which has fallen to an all-time low of 0.9 percent in September 2020. The rental vacancy rate in February 2012 has fallen to 1 percent, as renters don’t want to move as the market is so tight.

There are only 229 properties available.

Rental prices have also seen an increased in the past four to six months due to this higher demand.

Interest rates are low and so there has been an increase in tenants purchasing their first homes, but Mackay Real Estate has little stock to fill this need.

It doesn’t seem to matter whether the property is city, rural, flats or apartments.

Properties are just so popular.

What we have found is that people are moving away from the big cities and coming to Mackay as we are booming with jobs, infrastructure and real estate.

Existing owners have been the real winners as they have been able to sell and get good money for their properties whichare flying out the door.

As a result, real estate agents are working our fingers to the bone to find more housing stock to keep up with the demand.

REAL ESTATE

Friday, 26 February, 2021

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

Stylish, practical and functional package A quality built home with modern neutral tones to suit any décor and furniture on an elevated block settled within popular Plantation Palms Estate.

This contemporary, clean, open plan home brings together an excellent balance of style and functionality.

Including quality finishes and easy to use appliances (dishwasher, electric oven and glass stove top), the kitchen is spacious overlooking the large dining/ living.

Featuring an undercover alfresco area, it’s perfect for outdoor meals or entertaining with the rear yard enclosed by a high timber fence and side gates for privacy.

property of the

week

from blacks real estate

Offering four generous size bedrooms, the master bedroom is carpeted with ensuite, walk in robe, ceiling fan and split system airconditioner.

The remaining three bedrooms, all carpeted with built in robes and ceiling fans. The bathroom is spacious with a full size bath and separate shower.

Cleverly planned for the busy home is a separate toilet, the laundry has a built in cupboard and dryer rack.

The home has many other features such as blinds for privacy, security system, security screened front door, custom made cyclone braced garage roller door for the storm season, spacious double garage with storage area and Eco feature large rain water tank connected to internal and external taps.

This property is an excellent investment opportunity while interest rates are at an all time low and rental properties are in high demand. Currently leased to an excellent long term tenant for $440 per week until May 2021 with further rent increase potential May 2021.

Plantation Palms has been designed to cater for

families, 22 Flintwood Street is within walking distance to an undercover children’s playground, local parks and walking paths.

Just a few minutes drive from the beautiful Blacks and Eimeo beaches, public and private schools, medical facilities, Bunnings, Mackay Golf Course, and so much more this delightful home is absolutely worth an inspection.

$475 000 22 Flintwood Street Rural View Blacks Real Estate Glenis Wilson 0427 423 553

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REAL ESTATE

• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

1455M2 4 BED CORNER ALLOTMENT Price $420,000 • Air con Bedrooms and lounge room • 2 entertainment areas • Ceiling fans throughout • 2 km Solar system

4

2

4 SOUTH MACKAY AFFORDABLE UNIT Price $225,000

• Modern kitchen with dishwasher • Fully fence yard • Plenty of storage and space • 2 Bay shed Plus 2 car remote garage

Crystal Webb 0408 787 170

9 AMHURST ST, SLADE POINT reception@hotpropertyrealty.com.au

3 ACRES SEAFORTH WITH NEW 3 BAY SHED Offers over $195,000

There are many options for this 11,810m2 approx 3 acres of cleared land with a fresh water creek through the centre. Features include; New 9m x 7m colourbond shed with 2 roller doors, sliding glass door and 3 sliding windows, town water, power available, walk to school, 3 minutes drive to Seaforth Beach and shops, great exposure for business etc, partly fenced, corner of Cape Hillsborough and Seaforth Road.

Max Stewart 0413 879 943

LOT 1 YAKAPARI-SEAFORTH RD, SEAFORTH max.stewart@hotpropertyrealty.com.au

Friday, 26 February, 2021

SLADE POINT GEM Price $290,000 • 3 Bedroom main with air con • Spacious back deck • Polished timber floors • Fully fenced back yard

3

2

Crystal Webb 0408 787 170

8 EAGLE ST, SLADE POINT reception@hotpropertyrealty.com.au

• Completely renovated inside • 3 Bay shed 11m X 8m one bay has been built • Air conditioners and Ceiling fans • 2,706m2 block

www.hotpropertyrealty.com.au

1

• Air con to Lounge/Dining • Garden shed and bore • Ceiling fans through out • 660m2 block

4153m2 This is arguably one of the greatest views in Mackay. Wake up with the birds perched high on a hill at the end of a quiet cul de sac with amazing Ocean and Mountain views, just 30 minutes to Mount Pleasant. Seriously, what are you waiting for ? Underground Power & town water to the front of the block. Only 2 Klms to the Seaforth Beach, Bowls Club, Shops and Primary School located just 2 minutes away. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to secure a magnificent 1 acre (approx) allotment with privacy and views. Build your dream home, soak up the scenery and enjoy the good life.

SALES PH: 4942 8855

1

Crystal Webb 0408 787 170

2/1 KENNEDY ST, SOUTH MACKAY reception@hotpropertyrealty.com.au

BIG SHED BIG BLOCK MIRANI Price - $410,000.00

Max Stewart 0413 879 943

1

• 2 large bedrooms with built ins • Air con to living area • Security screens • Fully Fenced yard • Open plan living and dining • Single remote garage • Ceiling fans

DON’T MISS THIS DREAM BLOCK Offers From $200,000

33 VIEW CRT, SEAFORTH QLD 4741 max.stewart@hotpropertyrealty.com.au

2

3

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• Security Screens • Rain water tank plus town water • Big entertainment area • Fully Fenced

39 MARY ST, MIRANI QLD 4753 reception@hotpropertyrealty.com.au

RENTALS PH: 4942 8864

Cnr Sams and Willetts Road, North Mackay

Crystal Webb 0408 787 170

2

REAL ESTATE

Friday, 26 February, 2021

1619M2 CORNER BLOCK

25 Kellys Road, Walkerston OFFERS FROM $310,000

3

1

1

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Cheryl Mulder 0411 164 968

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

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

NO BODY CORPORATE

55 Brisbane Street, Mackay $555,000

3 3 3 3

7

5

5

5

Cheryl Mulder 0411 164 968

Fantastic location - great investment opportunity Fantastic positive rental return Located close to Mackay CBD, schools and Mackay TAFE Five fully tenanted flats on a big 1012m2 block

UNDER CONTRACT

BY CHERYL MULDER

BIG BLOCK - SOLAR

9 Brewers Road, Sarina $299,000

3 3 3 3

3

1

1

2

Zachary Manning 0408 321 103

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

HAPPY SELLERS HAPPY BUYERS

6 Chapman Court, Eimeo UNDER CONTRACT

3 3 3 3

3

1

1

3 Master bedroom with built-in wardrobes 3 Two bedrooms with built-in wardrobes 3 Open plan kitchen and dining 3 Massive three bay shed, 2 bays for cars and one bay for man cave

mreqld.com.au

2

Cheryl Mulder 0411 164 968

BY ZACHARY MANNING

4

16 Pratt Street, South Mackay SOLD Cheryl Mulder 0411 164 968

8 Evans Avenue, North Mackay

2

SOLD

BY CHERYL MULDER

My Real Estate QLD

3

Situated in an exclusive private Court Ocean and rural views Polished timber floors and two level dining Concrete constructed in-ground pool and entertaining area

SOLD HIGH-SET QUEENSLANDER

4

Integrity: We demonstrate to each other, our customers and the community, qualities of steadfastness and honesty in character.

LAND AT HIGHLY SOUGHT AFTER LOCATION

22 Joseph Court, Glenella SOLD Zachary Manning 0408 321 103 3 386m2 vacant block situated in Valetta Gardens 3 Located close to schools, shops. sporting facilities and hospitals 3 Flat, fully fenced with underground power

Respect: We treat all people with respect and appreciate their individual worth and qualities.

07 4898 5999

19

20

• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

REAL ESTATE

Friday, 26 February, 2021

Friday, 26 February, 2021

REAL ESTATE

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

22 Flintwood Drive, Rural View

$475,000

CONTEMPORARY, STYLISH, OPEN PLAN HOME OF FUNCTIONALITY

OPEN

By Appointment HOME

• A spacious kitchen equipped with easy to use appliances overlooking a large dining/ living.

• Offering 4 generous size bedrooms, the master is carpeted with ensuite, WIR, ceiling fan and split system air-cond. The 3 remaining carpet bedrooms have BIRs, ceiling fans.

• Spacious bathroom with full size bath and separate shower.

• Further great features include blinds, security system, security screened front door, custom made cyclone braced garage roller door, spacious double garage with storage area and large rain water tank connected to internal and external taps.

4

2

2

0427 423 553 | gwilson@blacksrealestate.com.au | Glenis Wilson

39 Hamilton Street, North Mackay

Offers over $550,000

SUPERB HIGHSET QUEENSLANDER, BOTH LEVELS FULLY SELF CONTAINED

OPEN By Appointment HOME

• 7 Bedrooms in total – 4 bedrooms upstairs and 3 downstairs.

• Lower level features an undercover timber deck area overlooking the inground pool and landscaped gardens.

• Large allotment of 1012 sqm with good side access to the 3 bay shed.

7

2

3

1

0419 781 816 | rbrunke@blacksrealestate.com.au | Roy Brunke

27 Paradise Street - South Mackay

$219,000

PRIME ALLOTMENT - 762M CONVENIENT LOCATION 2

• Extra wide frontage of approx: 25 meters and 30 meters deep.

• Level land, flood free, right on the city fringe.

• Zone higher density residential.

• Previously had development approval for 4 units which has recently lapsed.

OPEN

By Appointment HOME 0419 781 816 | rbrunke@blacksrealestate.com.au | Roy Brunke

07 4963 2500

43 Wood Street, Mackay

blacksrealestate.com.au

21

22

REAL ESTATE

• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

Friday, 26 February, 2021

Impressive w’house leased near airport

LEADING resources logistics company Bis has leased an impressive new warehouse near the Mackay airport from the Sentinel Property Group.

The 6449sqm site at 40 Gateway Drive, Paget, has a completed value of approximately $7 million and is leased for five years for an estimated gross rental of A$268 per sqm per annum.

The 2215 sqm warehouse/ office facility has a 173 sqm awning and 2, 25 tonne cranes.

Sentinel Executive Chairman and Chief Investment Officer Warren Ebert, said he has invested heavily in the Mackay region.

“I have a development pipeline of approximately $42 million worth of industrial projects in Paget this year,” Mr Ebert said.

“There will be three more similar industrial projects in Gateway Drive, another on Maggiolo Drive and two, 2,000sqm high clearance workshops on Enterprise Street, plus two similar major workshops on Margaret Vella Drive.

“In addition, Sentinal has

recently bought a 4000 sqm warehouse in Paget on two hectres of land, which is available for lease.

“This medium project at 40 Gateway Drive took about six months to construct. Woollam has been Sentinel’s builder for the past 15 years, as it completes projects on time and on budget.”

Mr Ebert said Sentinel has the advantage of scale with approximately $120 million of commercial property in Mackay.

“As a result, we continue to receive enthusiastic support from our financiers for developments of this nature.

“Not many, if any, other developers in Mackay will be able to boast this support from their lenders and this is a testament to the strength of the market in Mackay.”

Mr Ebert’s Brisbane-based Sentinel was established in 2010 and has a national portfolio with a total value of over $1.18 billion and more than 50 retail, industrial, office, land, tourism infrastructure and agribusiness assets.

Mr Ebert said “Sentinel

holdings in Mackay include: • The Northpoint Homemaker Centre; • The Birch Carroll & Coyle cinemas complex; • The Hub at the Greenfields office building, which includes the Mackay Centrelink office; and •An office building on Wood Street.”

Mr Ebert said Sentinel’s five other completed industrial properties in Paget, include; the Toll Distribution Centre, Sandvik’s, Emeco’s, Nepean Longwall’s and PBE Rutherford’s workshop facilities.

“Considering the challenges posed in the COVID era, it’s a tremendous achievement to have the 40 Gateway Drive lease deal negotiated in the middle of a national lockdown period.

“We are grateful for the support we have received for this development from Mackay Regional Council and the other from contractors involved.

“Paget is 7.8 km south of the Mackay CBD, with good road access for heavy industrial vehicles and direct access to the rail network.”

FOR SALE

$995,000

39 Burnell Drive Alligator Creek Mackay 4740

Prestige Property - 180° Views

OPEN HOME 13 FEB - 10AM -12PM ■ 1.69 Ha

An exquisite lifestyle property set over 3 levels, incorporating the main house on the top level with sensational views back to Mackay & Whitsunday Islands.

■ 4 Bedroom House

A four bay powered shed is on the second level, and a 1 bedroom guest house is on the first level.

Combine all of this, including designer landscaped gardens, native trees and this hilltop paradise is sure to impress.

■ 4 Bay Shed

A short drive to Mackay airport, makes this property a perfect way to enjoy a luxurious rural lifestyle with the accessibility to commute between capital cities.

■ 1 Bedroom Guest House

■ Panoramic Views to Mackay & Whitsunday Islands ■ 150k litre combined water tank capacity

SALES AGENT JASON CHETCUTI

■ 20 minutes to Mackay Airport

Think Real Estate Mackay

■ Low maintenance designer landscaped gardens

0418 700 623

Friday, 26 February, 2021

REAL ESTATE

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

23

24

COMMERCIAL

• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

Friday, 26 February, 2021

Unit 5, 16 Iridium Drive, Paget LARGE MODERN WAREHOUSE WITH OFFICE SPACE FOR LEASE • 319m2 approx.

• Large modern warehouse with high clearance roller door • Large office on first floor • Disabled toilet • Kitchen / lunch room • Air-conditioned server room • Undercover parking directly in front.

0400 354 800 | commercial@blacksrealestate.com.au | Melanie Hartmann B06/216 Harbour Rd, Mackay Harbour MINUTES NORTH OF THE CITY FOR LEASE

20 - 22 Peel Street, Mackay

• Close proximity to Mackay Marina, North Mackay industrial area and Mackay City.

• Office upstairs • High clearance roller door • Disabled toilet • Kitchenette • 1 Car park

SALE BY EXPRESSION OF INTEREST

INVESTMENT/REDEVELOPMENT CORNER GORDON AND PEEL STREETS • This Mackay CBD freehold property comprises a L-shaped site on approximately 1,536m2 commercially zoned land.

• 2 titles with 2 lettable sheds with office and car sales yard.

• Currently rented to 2 long-term tenants.

0418 776 855 | glewis@blacksrealestate.com.au |

Greg Lewis

3 Peel Street, Mackay LONG TERM TENANTS

0418 776 855 FOR SALE

|

glewis@blacksrealestate.com.au

|

Greg Lewis

|

Greg Lewis

FOR LEASE • Large industrial shed, becoming vacant early June 2021.

• 115.30m2 • Toilet facilities available.

• Be Quick, this shed is sure to be snapped up fast.

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

Shop 2, 79 Victoria Street, Mackay DRAMATIC PRICE REDUCTION OWNER WANTS LEASED

Suite 3/54 Gregory Street, Mackay CBD FRINGE OFFICE SPACE WITH FULL AMENITIES AND CAR PARKING

FOR LEASE

FOR LEASE

THE PLACE TO BE - START TRADING TODAY! BEST LOCATION IN MACKAY CBD

• The office has loads of natural light!

• Reception area • 2 x meeting rooms • 3 offices • 2 open plan works areas • 1 x large board room opens onto deck • Full amenities include kitchen, toilets and bathroom.

• Car parking on-site.

• 75m2 & 25m2 licensed veranda • Ex coffee shop / takeaway • Most fit-out remains in place • Some furniture available • Grease trap in place - council compliant • Great exposure

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

07 4963 2500

glewis@blacksrealestate.com.au

Shed 30, 20 Hamilton St, Nth Mackay LARGE INDUSTRIAL SHED NORTH MACKAY

• 2,021m2 block located directly across from the Caneland Shopping Centre.

Minutes to the Mackay CBD and 10 minutes from the Mackay Airport.

• The property is Improved with a 1,440 m2 building.

• Onsite parking, front and rear of the property. Direct access from Wellington St warehouse at the rear.

• Leased to Discount Warehouse Chemist to 30th April 2022 with 5 yr option. The tenancy has air-cond retail at front and warehouse at rear.

0418 776 855

|

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

43 Wood Street, Mackay

blacksrealestate.com.au

RURAL

Friday, 26 February, 2021

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

Mackay’s latest treat is a schnitty in a box IN JUST a few days, Mackay will have a new restaurant at 94 Woods Street called Schnitty in a Box. Knight Frank’s Commercial Property Consultant Mark Kelly has signed a five-year lease with successful hospitality owners D’artagnan (Dee) Caldicott and his partner Dan Eaton.

Mr Caldicott also owns Oliver and Stutchbury’s Espresso Bar and said that in less than a year from opening, this business had outgrown its Victoria St takeaway shop.

“We just can’t hold enough stock to get us through a busy weekend anymore and Schnitty in a Box restaurant is just a natural progression,” he said.

“We’ll still be doing all the delicious takeaway and home-delivered meals which people can pick-up.

“Our new restaurant is a big improvement, as we will have both indoor and outdoor dining for 120 people, plus a bar stocking all the favourite drinks and a few locally brewed Goanna beers.

“Schnitty in a Box to be a family-orientated eatery and we’ll still provide our $10 Egg Benedict and all our delicious brekkies that we do at Oliver and Stutchbury’s on Saturday and Sunday.

“There’ll be grilled banana French toast, berry waffles, bacon and eggs, big breakfast and Eggs Benedict.

“Schnitty in a Box will trade from 11am until late during the week and from 7am until late on the weekend.

“We will also provide $14 lunch specials including schnitzels, steaks and grilled chicken.

“Schnitty in a Box will have giant serves of schnitzels and diners will be treated to our

25

in-house speciality, of crunchy coleslaw and grandma’s secret recipe potato bake.”

Mr Caldicott his awesome team and partner, Dan Eaton inspired our business expansion.

“We wouldn’t be able to make this move, without amazing staff working with us.”

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

26

RURAL

• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

Friday, 26 February, 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 separaely.

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

|

rural@blacksrealestate.com.au

45 Acres - 5 Minutes to Nebo

|

Royce Dunn

Reduced $399,500

• Just 5 minutes from Nebo you’ll find 45 acres of selectively cleared country. Set up for stock grazing with 3 paddocks & portable yards. Approx. 12 acres established to Leucaena will boost carrying capacity.

• Comfortable low set 3-bedroom hardiplank home has a new kitchen but needs some further updating.

• Plenty of shed space. Main shed in 25 metres x 13 metres steel and timber frame with some areas concreted and lockable. Power connected.

• Hay shed of 13m x 11m with some concrete floor. Water supplied from solar equipped bore and plenty of rainwater storage tanks.

0428 182 569 | rural@blacksrealestate.com.au | Royce Dunn

07 4963 2500

43 Wood Street, Mackay

blacksrealestate.com.au

PUZZLES

Friday, 26 February, 2021

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

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THE WORD “THE” HAS BEEN7 REPEATED letter words CelestaTIME. TWICE EVERY

Fill-ins are just like crossword puzzles but with words instead of clues.

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9 letter words Clarifier Insoluble Meandered Monoplane Take sides Tyrannise 11 letter word Meritorious 13 letter words Field hospital Rearrangement Stabilisation 19 letter words Foot-and-mouth disease Unemployment benefit

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28

• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

WHAT’S ON

Friday, 26 February, 2021

WEEKLY TELEVISION

ONE

FREE

GARLIC BREAD with any pizza purchased ...

3/106 Nebo Road, West Mackay

07 4805 6622

Bring in newspaper coupon to receive garlic bread. No photocopies. Offer ends March 12, 2021

Friday, 26 February, 2021

WHAT’S ON

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

29

30

• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

MOTORING

Friday, 26 February, 2021

Mackay and District Holden Club for enthusiasts A GROUP of enthusiastic Holden owners were keen to find a group of people who shared common interests such as restoring, repairing, driving and racing their cars.

This interest soon resulted in The Mackay and District Holden club starting in late 2003.

The family-orientated club has more than 120 members

but also includes singles. They have a variety of Holden models that range from the 48/125 to the latest model – however this now includes a plethora of General Motors-branded cars.

Some of their members are enthusiastic racing fans and will travel interstate to attend motor sporting events.

The club meets every second Tuesday of each month at 7pm, where they discuss the

latest club news and arrange the monthly cruises for the last Sunday.

“The club has welcomed a lot of new members over the past 12 months, which is great in a pandemic. We waived membership for members to help them out over uncertain times,” Mackay and District Holden Club President Wayne Shannon said.

“We are a family club ca-

tering for all types of Holden & GM vehicles, with regular meetings held at PCYC, Norris Road, second Tuesday of every month, which sees 25 to 30 in attendance, as well as club outings to various places of interest and have lunch towards the end of run.”

The club holds two major car shows, first of which is the All Holden Day and the popular Cars 4 Kids.

“Our annual car show is held on May long weekend,” Wayne said.

“So this year, it is on May 2 (and is) called Cars For Kids, and held at Andergrove Tavern, with all makes of cars welcome from Vintage to brand new.

“Money raised goes to PCYC as they do so much for children in the area, CQ Rescue, Blaze Aid and other

worthwhile causes.”

These events encourage club members to attend and the shows are held bi-annually.

Regardless of the condition of your car, so long as it is a Holden or General Motors compliant plate, you’re more than welcome to join.

However, people who just have a general love and enthusiasmHoldens are just as welcome to join.

MOTORING

Friday, 26 February, 2021

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

31

Whitsunday Sporting Car Club welcomes all IMAGINE it is a Saturday afternoon and you are working on that dream car of yours.

You find it thrilling to drive it out on the open roads but wish to compete against other drivers.

If that is you, then look no further than the Whitsunday Sporting Car Club.

The car club was founded in October, 1995 by various people who were interested in motor sport, dirt racing and rallying.

Rallying was soon selected as the preference and the club was formed and incorporated.

Since then, the club has continued to expand and now

has their own land.

The grassroots motorsports club is the cheapest out there and is willing to accept anyone, regardless of what their budget maybe.

“Our club is a grassroots club, which is aimed at giving families and people of all driving capabilities a safe and controlled place to come out and have bit of fun in the dirt and bitument,” Whitsunday Sporting Car Club Secretary Kelly Horder said.

The club holds many different events that take place both the tarmac and the dirt and is a Confederation of Australian Motor Sports affiliated car club.

Khanacross events are regarded as an introductory level of motor sport which offer competitors an opportunity to learn car control and judgement under conditions that avoid many public road hazards.

“We have an Idrive section, which helps kids from the age of 12 years old to learn the important skills they to keep a car’s maintenance up-to-date, as well as the basics to be able to drive a car on the dirt with some confidence,” Mrs Porter said. There are timed events conducted, with one vehicle on the circuit at a time and can be enjoyed in everything from a standard road car all the way through to a purpose-built car.

Any vehicle can compete,

with classes ranging to suit anything from a three-cylinder Daihatsu up to a V8 Holden Commodore.

“We also have NQ rounds, which sees us travel to Mareeba, Mossman and Townsville as well,” Mrs Horder said.

They have a raceway and driver training facility located at Lanscelles Avenue at Proserpine and is situated on 25 acres of a reclaimed cattle property.

This property is rich with many dirt tracks that go from tight and natural to open flowing terrain.

These tracks will surely test the acceleration, braking and handling of your mighty car.

‘Our club is a grassroots club, which is aimed at giving families and people of all driving capabilities a safe and controlled place to come out and have bit of fun’

"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

32

• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

Friday, 26 February, 2021

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

PUBLIC NOTICES

POSITIONS VACANT

NAIRN-WEST, Margaret Alice

Late of Atherton Tablelands, formerly of Mackay and Blackwater.

Thinking of

WE’RE EXPANDING OUR TEAM

renting

Sadly passed away 8th February 2021 Aged 81 years Cherished Wife to Lloyd West.

Loving Mum to Joy, Kathleen (dec), Patrick (dec), Jamie, Geoffrey (dec), Elizabeth (dec), Dale, Karen and Sherenne.

Margaret has been laid to rest with two of her children at Mt Bassett Cemetery Mackay.

She will be forever missed. xxx

07 4953 3733

209 Shakespeare St, Mackay QLD 4740

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.

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.

2 x Sheet Metal Tradesmen needed 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.

Birth Notices

We are looking for quality properties to rent

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There is also opportunity to develop a role into leading hand/supervisory.

ROLE REQUIREMENTS: Experience: Diploma Beauty Therapist or Cert 4 Preferred

$100,000 a yr for 48hr week on offer for the right tradesmen.

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07 4969 6073

BIRTH NOTICES

your property?

07 4898 5999 My Real Estate QLD

8 Evans Ave, Nth Mackay

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PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICES

12/02/2021 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

Preparing your home for sale or rent?

Our team offers an exceptional real estate experience Residential Property Sales Property Management We are committed to excellence

PUBLIC NOTICES

Thinking of selling your property?

We are looking for quality properties to sell

Zachary Manning Wendy Tucker Emilee Walters Luke Walters Cheryl Mulder

0408 321 103 0472 736 424 0408 231 402 0478 746 213 0411 164 968

07 4898 5999 My Real Estate QLD

8 Evans Ave, Nth Mackay

mreqld.com.au Did you you can now place your classified advert with easy online:

www.mackaylocalnews.com.au

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

June Chetcuti

Erika Gosling

Jason Chetcuti

Principal Director

Sales and Property Management

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Annual General Meeting Saturday February 30th Yes correct, there is no February 30th. This advert is an example for Associations, Clubs, Organisations in advertising their AGMs, Special Meetings or Community accouncements.

Often referred to as “our local paper” Mackay Local News is a perfect medium for your Association, Club or Organisation to have your operational proceedures printed as public record.

An advertisment this size with your logo and all the relevant information is only $133.00 appearing in newspapers distributed from Bowen to Sarina and through the inland mining regions as far as Moranbah.

Naturally you can go smaller or larger in size, those options are up to you.

If you’d like further information, call Jodie 0428 062 562

Volunteering This week’s Puzzle page answers:

POSITIONS VACANT Expression of interest

Graphic Designer

LARGE VARIETY OF

COLOURS to choose from.

Unique handmade wooden rose arrangements.

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Stockists a large range of gift ideas

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.

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.

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

My town, my paper

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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

TENDERS

Construction Tender Opportunities for local contractors

This advert is an example size for business to call on local contractors and sub contractors to tender for work.

Often referred to as “our local paper” Mackay Local News is a perfect medium to publically offer all local business opportunity.

An advertisment this size with your logo and all the relevant information is only $133.00 appearing in newspapers distributed from Bowen to Sarina and through the inland mining regions as far as Moranbah.

Naturally you can go smaller or larger in size, those options are up to you.

If you’d like to now more, call Jodie 0428 062 562

Construction Tender

NEWS EXTRA

Friday, 26 February, 2021

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

33

Called on to throw a great big party Joel

Bow

entertainment columnist

I GOT the call from the Connors lads saying round two of Dragspensary was on the cards, and that I had to find some showgirls and throw a bloody huge party.

Sounds like heaven! After the roaring success of the first instalment, it is encouraging that a venue like the Dispensary is woke enough to provide this kind of entertainment for their beloved Mackay audience.

Sorry hip cats, this event sold out quicker than it takes to drink one of the Dispensary’s signature cocktails.

The Mackay Show will be back! The usual carnies, clowns, carry-ons, show bags and show ponies will be ready for a massive year and is scheduled for her regular June timeslot. 2019 saw Palaszczuk and her crew in the beautifully renovated stands witness circus star Brophy get shot out of a canon, dazzling fireworks and the Mercy College drumming band pound out to The Base Coats electrifying Fleetwood Mac classic.

The Mackay Association has spent some well-placed coin developing the site into something excellent and I have always thought it is

the perfect venue for wine and food day…Oh, and I still fondly remember the ALF show bag I got one year.

Swoonsound is Mackay’s premier music school teaching guitar, drums, songwriting, music production and more. The dynamic duo of Angie Smith and Joshy J Notting are known throughout QLD as a one of the finest bands you could book, and recently have been writing a bunch of stuff with Fez and the Fox. The Base Coats was born, and the foursome have recorded an album on the coast.

I can guarantee that their upcoming film clip is absolutely smashing and if your little ones are keen to jump around like rock gods, then look no further then Swoonsound Rock School.

Kucom Theatre is Mackay’s longest operating not-for-profit community theatre company, creating art since 1947. The company has recently seen a transformation with its fabulous new residence and a series of successful one-act plays.

This year will see local cultural cop Victor Scott direct When The Rain Stops Falling and Big Bad Mouse will have the magnificent Geoff Stewart-Mclean - a local theatre treasure on and off stage return to the company to direct.

Geoff worked professionally for QLD Theatre Company before making the Mackay stages his very own. A highlight of my teen years was performing in the Australian premier of Will Rogers Follies directed by MMCP co-founder Jack

The ALF showbag is fondly remembered Sturgeon starring Mr Stewart-Mclean. The man can crack a whip, lasso a showgirl and create characters like magic.

The Eimeo pub has been a hot bed of delicious activity since gin and milk was a rad concept and recently cleaned up the 90’s hangovers, which has enhanced the breathtaking views.

As a kid, pub raspberries and tunes were all the rage, and it seems the Sunday sesh is back with live music kicking off just after you’ve mowed the lawn and had a four-stubbie nap.

There is a lot of buzz around town to the tune of a much-needed Theatre Sports reboot. The former staple of the Festival of Arts throughout the 90s, it inspired the theatre fiend in everybody and the MECC would roar.

If you’re not sure what Theatre Sports is (it’s not a spot, us theatre folk hate the name) remember that TV show Who’s Line is it Anyway.

It’s that. In teams. A place where jazzy CFO’s, tuck shop ladies, real estate sharks and confident sparkies could gather and create a hilarious and fun night out.

Check socials for all the jazz in town and go right ahead and share events like crazy on facey.

The arts might not be an essential service, but it is nice to listen to a band, see live theatre, feel cabaret and experience burlesque. Ball change kick to a fabulous weekend!

About Joel Bow: Joel was ranked in the 50 most influential people in Mackay, is a local cabaret and theatre producer who does terrible cartwheels and is excellent at patting cats.

Find something to do in under 10 secs UP UNTIL now, it’s been very hard to find “something to do”, especially here in our beautiful town of Mackay.

With LETSDOSOMETHING.COM.AU, it’s now possible to find something to do in under 10 seconds. Think of realestate.com.au but for things to do.

Advanced search features allow this through a simple ‘Tick box’ filter. Simply tick the ‘Mother’s Day’ tick box to find a list of things to do with Mum on Mother’s Day. Another simple yet effective feature is the use of QR codes. A simple scan of aQR code will land you to everything to do in Mackay.

The platform was born right here in Mackay, from Mackay locals. Their vision is simple,

to make it easy for the locals and our visitors to find things to do. Thousands of people visit our region for business and pleasure every year and now it’s easy for them to browse “What’s On” & “What’s Happening” at Mackay’s local businesses to fill in their time while they’re here.

LETSDOSOMETHING. COM.AU is working with industry bodies like Mackay Council and Mackay Tourism to help increase the average nightly stay by one night. The economical benefits to the region are amazing if achieved.

The platform is launching a campaign starting this month promoting all the awesome ‘Things to do’ in the Mackay Region on offer for locals and travellers in our region.

They are doing this by utilising QR Codes directing the public to our directory of ‘Things to do’ at Mackay businesses, simply by scanning a QR Code.

The platform’s mission is to give them more options to choose from and make it easier to find those options.

Businesses are encouraged to get on board now and list theirs “Things to do”. It’s free to list a single event.

LETSDOSOMETHING. COM.AU is a multi-dimensional platform designed to get Australians and our visitors out and about, engaging with local businesses and discovering new events.

The platform caters for two distinct markets; people who are looking for something to

DO, and the businesses who provide us with things to do.

LETSDOSOMETHING. COM.AU makes it super easy to post your event, activity, sale or special, where it will be visible to all potential visitors.

Simply select your preferred categories (they cover everything from ‘indoor’ to ‘BYO’, ‘pet friendly’ and everything in between).

Before you know it, you’ll be putting your phone down and heading out to DO something!

LETSDOSOMETHING. COM.AU make it really easy to post your event.

In three easy steps you’ll have your business or event on display like never before.

Tim Watson and Kevin Patroni from LETSDOSOMETHING

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

1 2 3

CR Senior Skater Come and Try day - For skaters 18+ Looking for more excitement in your sporting endeavours? Want to be able to pull off spectacular moves on 8 wheels? Come to Mackay City Rollers’ Come and Try session!

Hibiscus Coast On Sundays - Seaforth Markets - Sunday on the Hibiscus Coast. Come out for the day! So much to see and do! Seaforth Markets on every Sunday 8am to 11am Paint & Sip - Flip cup technique - This is a fluid art workshop that is not only fun but raises money for The Cancer Council. Participants create and take home 2 unique pieces of art. No “talent” or experience required. All materials are included in the cost, as is a glass of wine or soft drink.

4 5 6 7

MCR Junior Skater Come and Try! - For skaters aged 8-17 - Looking for more excitement in your sporting endeavours? Come along to Mackay City Rollers’ Come and Try session!

The Killer Queen Experience - Get ready experience your favourite QUEEN songs and memories live on stage, presented by the Worlds #1 Freddie Mercury performer, John Blunt Marabisda Bingo - Marabisda Friday Night Bingo at Magpies Sporting Club upstairs at Skys Function Venue.

Dodgem Cars by Sidetrax Mackay - Sidetrax’s newest fun addition caters for the young and young at heart too.

8 9 10

The Sunday Roast - The Sunday Roast at Magpies’ Centro Restaurant every Sunday for lunch 12-2pm and dinner 5-8:30pm - get your meat and veg without the hard work and washing up.

Kommo Toera Trail - Fantastic little walk through the trees, nice and short moving from a wooden board walks to bitumen and back again.

Bucasia Esplanade Park & Bike/Pedestrian Trail – Pack the kids in the car and have a family day in Bucasia. Walk or ride the Bucasia Esplanade Park & Bike/Pedestrian Trail then relax in the park.

34

BOATING and FISHING

• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

Friday, 26 February, 2021

Prawns and crabs on the go this weekend This weekend there will be perfect tides for those anglers wanting to chase mud crab or a feed of prawns.

If you are chasing mud crabs, remember there are big day and night tides, so best options will be putting crab pots along the flats at the mouth of the creek’s or running them high in gullies out of the run.

The bag limit for mud crab is seven per person or 14 per

boat, size limit is 15cm for mud crabs and 11.5cm for sand crab or blue swimmer crabs, which have a bag limit of 20 per person.

Hot spots will be Sandy Creek, Rockydam Creek and Boundary Creeks to the South, or if you are heading North, Mather’s Creek, Victor Creek or Blackrock Creek.

For those anglers chasing a feed of prawns, there have

been reports of prawn from Armstrong Beach, Sarina Inlet, Murray Creek and Constant Creek.

Try working the last two hours of the run out tide and the first hour of the run in tide. The bucket limit for prawns is a 10 litre bucket per person and 20 litre bucket per boat with two or more people on board.

Below Left: Trent Brown with a nannygai Bottom: Colin Becker and flathead Below: Max Rugeri with a nice barra.

‘Id make a knife pun, but I would probably butcher it...’

07 4957 6888

www.cqbutcherssupplies.com.au SHED 2/20 VICTORIA STREET MACKAY

Friday, 26 February, 2021

BOATING and FISHING

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

35

Above: Luke Macrae with a brassy Bottom: Brett Brownset with a nice catch

Wet and windy conditions

By Liam Leonard On the weather front: Wet and windy weekend ahead.

Coastal Showers are likely from Friday all the way through to next week.

Less likely in the Pioneer Valley. Temps are hanging around the 30°C mark during the day.

With the SE change that came through Wednesday, the humidity has somewhat settled down again.

NEXT GENERATION

We do have our eyes on the Coral Sea at the moment on some possible tropical low development.

Information will be updated on our Facebook page regarding that possible development.

Boating: 10-15knots SE on Friday increasing to 15-20knots over the weekend.

Large swings in the tides with the full moon on Satur-

Control, Integration, Styling and Reliability

day. Might be a good weekend to hide in the creeks.

Remember for all your information regarding all severe weather around the Central Coast and Whitsundays, follow L&K Mackay Severe Weather on Facebook.

Page is regularly updated with the latest, accurate and local information regarding weather

­

V6 OFFSHORE Starboard side 300

Rear 300

Port side 300

36

SPORT

• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

World class Qld facility And they’re off!

nugget’s notes racing columnist

IT’S ONWARDS and upwards for the Blackall Boy, Dan Fletcher and Tambo girl Rae Fletcher’s venture into breeding world-class thoroughbreds at their Telemon Stud in South East Queensland.

The Fletchers have purchased the neighbouring breeding operation Running Creek Stud from prominent businessman Gary Pemberton and his wife Marg.

Running Creek is 140 acres of prime land which has been developed to an extremely high level by its former owners.

Fletcher said the newly acquired running creek complex will complement their Telemon operation and the combination of Telemon and Running Creek together will give Queensland racing and breeding a world-class facility.

Dan and Rae Fletcher, a well-known racing family in Emerald and throughout the Central West, made the move to reside on Telemon in December 2019.

They stand Champion 2yo Colt and Champion 1st Season Sire Sidestep and dual Group 1 winning sprinter Jungle Cat as well as Group Winning 2yo Sun City.

Fletcher explained that their plans for Running Creek may, in time, include the development of a purpose-built stallion complex.

“We’ve got a good set up already which we partially renewed prior to the commencement of the last breeding season, so we’re in no rush” he said. “In the long run, the ability to segregate our stallions and serving area and create a dedicated parade facility in a beautiful setting has a lot of appeal.

The acquisition of Running Creek is another significant milestone for Dan and Rae Fletcher who are bush people at heart and are in their element in rural surroundings.

Purchasing Running Creek is all about our

long-term goals,” Fletcher said. “When we launched Telemon we spoke about helping progress the industry in Queensland.

This is another foundational step and hopefully the market and our clients appreciate both our ambition and our long-term commitment.”

The Fletchers have plenty of excitement ahead in upcoming weeks with Russian Camelot kicking off his campaign enroute to the All Star Mile. His other target will be The Championships where he will be aimed at the $4M Queen Elizabeth stakes. Russian Camelot is a northern hemisphere colt who only turned four in early January, which means this preparation will be his first where he does not race at a weight for age disadvantage against his older Southern Hemisphere bred rivals.

Fletcher said Russian Camelot has muscled up and grown into a spectacular individual. Russian Camelot has a big hole to fill as the Fletchers had previously been in the partnership that raced Multiple group one winner Sunlight. The Champion mare last year sold for a record $4.2m at the Magic Millions broodmare sale.

Fletcher said Russian Camelot has not quite filled the hole yet but is on the way. He assured me that he could never complain. He is more than thankful to the racing gods for what he has had in his time in racing.

Many try for years and sometimes lightning just doesn’t strike for them at all, let alone twice.

Moranbah trained galloper Fabs Cowboy made it win 41 wins from 100 starts and over $300000 in prizemoney for Bevan Johnson at Roma last Saturday.

The country iron horse racing first up took out the Bendemere cup over 1000 metres and with Angela Jones in the saddle the 9yo came from a long way back in the field to dive through late.

Johnson made it a winning double when Geng again with Angela Jones in the saddle took out the last race on the program.

Richard (Nugget) Turnbull

Friday, 26 February, 2021

Locals win most prizes VISITING bowlers from throughout the State put up a good fight at North Mackay’s $12,000 Fours Carnival last weekend but it was the locals who took home most of the prize money on offer.

Only one of the thirty-two teams went through the two days undefeated,Rob Spence’s team of Paul Foot, David Blackburn and Steve Mau. Second place went to Peter Blackburn’s team of David and Don Peet and Wayne Handley while third place went to Allen Bennett, Rob Harris, Les Rodgers and Rick Dunn.

Locals also came in fourth and seventh while a visiting team took some money home by coming fifth and sixth.

It was a great weekend of bowls “Under the Shed” at North Mackay, with tough competition on the greens matched by the spirit of friendship and camaraderie that is a feature of this sport.

This weekend will see some of Mackay’s best bowlers on the greens at Mackay City Club and Souths Suburban.

Betty Nicolle, Manny Isgro, Lorna Coad and Peter Blackburn The annual District Mixed Pairs has attracted a record number of nominations, 52 in total this year, a 30 per cent increase on previous years.

Last year’s runners-up, Lorna Coad and Peter Blackburn, will be hoping to go one better but they are in a tough section of the draw at Souths Suburban.

Games at City Club start

at 9.00am tomorrow and at Souths Suburban at 1.00pm.

Just eight teams will remain by the end of play on Sunday.

Mackay ladies’ selectors have chosen their side to contest the State District Sides Championships in Brisbane’s Gateway District in April.

The side is Ladda Purdie (Airlie Beach), Heather Brown (Proserpine), Leanne

McGeough (Sarina), Nug Pratt (North Makay); Carol Savage (Mackay), Lorna Coad (Souths Suburban), Rhonda Meng (Souths Suburban), Carol Crosbie (Airlie Beach), Leaane Lewis (Northern Beaches), Karli Burns (Mackay), Sarah Hamilton (Northern Beaches) and Betty Nicolle (Airlie Beach).

Farewell from Sarina LONGSTANDING Sarina Golf Club Secretary Pam Lindeberg and her committee member husband Mick are moving to Hervey Bay so will no longer be with the club.

Both Pamela and Mick have put an immense amount of time and dedication over the last 15 years to the golf course.

The club ran its Tandara Hotel Motel Monthly Medal last weekend.

The results are: Ladies Winner: Nola Giddins 78 2nd Sue Allsopp Least Putts: Sue Farrell 27 Pin Shot No 9: Nola Giddins

Men’s A Grade Winner Darryl Blyth 70 Men’s B Grade Winner: Fraser Steele 69 A Grade R/UP: Guy Stuckey 71 B Grade R/Up: Jake Farrell 75 2nd Michael Dunn BS 71 3rd Taureon Ruston 72 4th Ralph Pritchard 73 5th Terry Wallace 73 6th Blair Southward 73 Pin Shots No 9: Darryl Blyth No 16: Steven Penfold Birdy Pool: No 9: Darryl Blyth Visitors Birdy Pool: No 6: Skinner Eagles Nest: No 1: Darryl Blyth

Pam and Mick Lindberg

Mackay Golf Club Results February 15-21 Monday 15th February 2021: Competition: Veterans Competition – Men Single Stableford Sponsor: Maguire Breeding & Racing (Paul Maguire) No. of Players in the Field: 69 Winner: Peter (Fluff) Woolcock – 40pts Runner Up: John Snape – 36pts Third Place: Peter Wellington – 36pts

Runner Up: Mary Keid – 36pts

Monday 15th February 2021 Competition: Veterans Competition – Ladies Single Stableford Sponsor: Trish Weatherley No. of Players in the Field: 24 Winner: May Laurie Petersen – 38pts Runner Up: Alison Cooper – 35pts

Friday 19th February 2021 Competition: Single Stableford (Medley) No. of Players in the Field: 11 Winner: Michael Lyall – 32pts Competition: Single Stableford (Medley 9 Holes) Sponsor: CQ Point of Sale No. of Players in the Field: 3 Winner: Chris Hudson – 17pts Runner Up: Stephen Gard – 17pts

Tuesday 16th February 2021 Competition: Titleist Tuesday Order of Merit Event - Single Stableford (medley) No. of Players in the Field: 32 Winner: Frank Forsyth – 40pts Runner Up: Anthony Barrow – 37pts Wednesday 17th February 2021 Competition: Ladies Single Stableford Sponsor: CMR Recycling No. of Players in the Field: 45 Winner: Margaret Griffin – 37pts

Thursday 18th February 2021 Competition: Mens 4BBB Single Stableford No. of Players in the Field: 127 Winners: Graham Brown and Duncan Pratt – 48pts Runners Up: Neville Pearse and Phil Vaughan – 47pts

Saturday 20th February 2021 Competition: Single Stableford (medley) No. of Players in the Field: 3 Winner: Brandon Steele – 34pts Sunday 21st February 2021 Competition: Single Stableford (medley) No. of Players in the Field: 45 Winner: Sue Allsopp – 39pts Runner Up: Matt Young – 38pts

SPORT

Friday, 26 February, 2021

Sweaty times at table tennis

TUESDAY morning table tennis is lots of fun, as local players proved this week at the Mackay Table Tennis Association.

Cheryl Pearson and Helen Ware played a big fivegame match at the club which proved to be highly entertaiining. Cheryl concentrated on the ball most of the time and managed to celebrate after actually hitting a winner. And luckily, they remained friends after Helen won the match.

Meanwhile, Sharon Muller

hung out ion the background, catching her breath on a cool break while the girls sweated away.

Two of the four matches in B grade Tuesday morning table tennis fixtures last week were six-all draws, with plenty of close, hard-fought games.

More players are welcome to join in. You don’t have to have played before and all equipment is available free if you’re starting out. If you’d like to give it a go, call Iris on 0419 702 392.

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

37

Helen Ware and Cheryl Pearson during a break in their match

Training intensifies for Boxing Queensland 100 boxers hit town THIS weekend the Mackay Boxing Club will host a Boxing Queensland development camp at their gym located at the Mackay PCYC. The camp will be held over two days and include techniques in both attack, defence and sparring.

Day one of the camp will consist of four sessions of the latest most up-to-date modern techniques based on Olympic-style boxing, delivered by Boxing Queensland development coaches.

Boxing Qld is the peak body for amateur boxing in this state and produces some of the best amateurs in Australia. Some of that talent will be on display this weekend.

There will be clubs from all over the state, including Brisbane, Rockhampton, Blackwater, Mt Isa, Cloncurry, Townsville, Dysart, Middlemount, Innisfail, Cairns and of course Mackay. Over 100 boxers will be participating.

A couple of boxers who will be in attendance are local girls Jessie Ann King and Nikki Ek. Jessie has been with Mack-

ay Boxing Club for a few years now and has had seven fights.

She is a very keen and enthusiastic boxer who enjoys the challenge and physicality of the sport.

Nikki has trained with Mackay Boxing Club on and off for a couple of years but has not competed recently.

This year she has decided to jump back in the ring and give it a red-hot crack.

Nikki also has had seven fights, some of those in NSW. She is a technical boxer with very good speed and is very competitive.

The Mackay Boxing Club expect big things from both these girls and the rest of our boxers in 2021.

The development camp is an open camp and doesn’t cost anything. Boxing Qld has put these camps on to develop boxing at the grass-roots level to assist the regional areas of Qld. If anyone has any questions or would like more information, please feel free to contact Sam O’Malley on 0400 537 176.

Boxer Jessie King in red, with her arm raised in victory

72

cartons!

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

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

VISIT THE CLUB FOR DETAILS TERMS & CONDITIONS APPLY

(07) 49 656 100 1 Glenella Road, Mackay QLD www.magpiesmackay.com.au

Mackay and Surrounds

38

SPORT

• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

Friday, 26 February, 2021

Sinkers Masters Swimathon for MS THE North Mackay Sinkers Swim Club is proud to announce the Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Swimathon 2021 in Mackay on Sunday September 12.

Organise your teams for this great event, which is a regular event for the Sinkers.

The Swimathon is a Queensland-based fundraising initiative where teams of at least four people are sponsored by friends, family and work colleagues.

They swim in a 12-hour

relay, raising vital funds for Queenslanders living with multiple sclerosis.

The MS Swimathon raises funds to provide services and support for people living with the disease across the state.

The event is not only an action-packed day by the pool, taking on a challenge in your favourite sport, but also an opportunity to make an impact by raising much-needed funds.

The Swimathon is an awesome chance for team building and challenging your fellow

teams to a friendly competition. If you’re up for the challenge, don’t wait and register your interest at msswimathon. com.au The Sinkers received their much-deserved fundraising rewards from the 2020 Mackay MS Swimathon.

Although the event was cancelled due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, the team raised over $6000 for the MS cause, a new record for the club.

The 2021 series has eight great MS Swimathons at re-

gional locations: Toowoomba, March 6, Sunshine Coast March 20, Townsville May 8, Redcliffe May 16, Mackay September 12, Rockhampton October 9, Gladstone October 17 and the Gold Coast November 14.

For further information on masters swimming contact, Dan Stampa on Tel: 0413 805 156 or email: nthmkysinkers@ gmail.com or visit Master Swimming Queensland or on Facebook North Mackay Sinkers - Masters Swimming Club.

(Front) Margaret Kennedy, Sue de Meer, Geoff Robinson. (Back) Jaime Patten, Nigel Dalton, Debra Cody

Clubs come together

All four Mackay swimming clubs come together

jacob

cumner

jacob@mackaylocalnews.com.au

Duo beat personal bests MORANBAH HIGHLANDERS Swimming Club swimmers Dolcie Blackwood 11, (above left) and Ava Kearns 10 (above right), recently competed at the RMHC Queensland Sprint Championships in Brisbane.

Ava represented the Highlanders in 50m freestyle, swimming a personal best entry time 38.72, swimming 37.06 with an improvement of 1.66.

Dolcie competed in the 50m freestyle with an entry time of 33.27, swimming 32.56, an improvement of 0.71. Her 50m backstroke had an entry time of 41.79, where she swam 38.97, an improvement of 2.82. Dolcie swam personal best times in both events. Coach Fiona Hassal said “the girls have worked extremely hard to achieve these results. They always turn up to practice, participate in carnivals and try their absolute best.”

PIONEER SWIM CLUB (PSC) hosted an interclub meet recently for over 80 local swimmers to come together for a fun competitive swim night.

The Interclub was introduced by Mirani Swim Club a few years ago where all four clubs were encouraged to host an invitational so all swimmers could compete on a local level. However, due to Covid-19, clubs were restricted in their ability to host events.

Pioneer hosted a successful meet in October last year under the strictest of Covid-19 regulations for almost 200 swimmers, so hosting a local function seemed an easy task.

Pioneer Club Secretary Nikki Bounden noted that these interclub events are great for younger swimmers or for swimmers that are not into competition just yet.

“Competition ranges from five-year-olds all

the way up to 16 years and older. We just love seeing the kids excited to be poolside,” Nikki said. “These nights rely heavily on parent volunteers, as the organising and set up can be consuming but we have a fantastic club with can-do parents” There were also some great results from the night with Mirani Coach Bob Davie advising there appeared to be a lot of personal bests being swum.

PSC meets weekly on a Thursday night from 5:30pm at Pioneer Swim Centre.

The season will soon be wrapping up with Pioneers Club Champs to take place on March 18, followed by the annual presentation night.

The PSC squad will operate as per normal during the off season, with coach Igor Demin running his program daily from 3:45pm.

Squad inquiries can be made directly with the coach on 0404 762 072. All club inquiries can be made through club secretary Nikki on 0410 662 345.

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SPORT

Friday, 26 February, 2021

MACKAY LOCAL NEWS •

39

Rock along to sign up for Mackay roller derby Roller Derby Club, Mackay City Rollers, are having their sign-on tomorrow morning at 8.30am at the PCYC. But what is Roller Derby?

It’s a hard hitting, fast paced, full contact sport on roller skates. It’s also great exercise and a great form of stress relief.

Rollers’ Club President Breanna Deguara said, “Come along for a skate and give it a crack! We welcome anyone and everyone from ages eight to 88 and all skill levels.

“Don’t know how to skate?

Don’t let it stop you, our coaches will teach you everything you need to know.”

Mackay City Rollers is a non-profit organisation run by the members, for the members.

It is Mackay’s first roller derby league and was established in 2010.

The club is dedicated to

promoting the sport of flat track roller derby and supporting, encouraging and developing skaters in their skating ability. They also promote the values of goodwill and good sportsmanship.

They host both a junior and senior training squad, so check out their facebook page for training times.

Want to join? New skaters aged 16-plus are encouraged to join them any Sunday from 4-6pm at the PCYC in North Mackay.

“Our Junior intakes occur each term, our next sign on day for juniors is Saturday the 27th of February at 8.30am at the PCYC, Ms Deguara said.

“On your first session, whether you’re young or old, wear comfortable clothes and don’t forget socks. We can provide the rest, or feel free to bring your own.”

The Mackay City Rollers pose for a group shot

TRX steamrolls Beach Boys in beach volleyball Smashing start for tennis

John Woolcock shows off his volleyball moves

Last week’s feature beach volleyball game was a social three-a-side affair between TRX and The Beach Boys Greatest Hits.

The Beach Boys actually had a fourth player, but they took turns rotating on and off the court.

Having a fourth player provided some advantages in that players got a breather, helped with communication from the sideline but more importantly could enjoy a beer while they waited.

TRX got off to a great start with a solid serving run from 15-year-old Xander Davis.

Hannah Bailey took up the main defensive position for the Beach Boys, throwing herself across the court to get to the ball.

Karli Henri made some valiant efforts to hit the ball back with speed but TRX were hard to crack defensively between Xander and his teammates Rheanen Davis and Andrew Clayton.

At half time, TRX were

steaming ahead with a lead of 31-14.

In the second half, Rheanen and Andrew both had good serving runs as they kept Hannah diving to keep control.

Beach Boys’ Tom Sleeman pulled off some fantastic sets for team captain Hannah but TRX showed their experience to widen their lead.

John Woolcock found his eye late in the game, pulling off some impressive serves, but unfortunately it was much too late, with the final scoreline 64-27.

This was the last game for each of the teams before the semi-finals.

Both teams had good fun, though it appeared that young Xander was extra content with the win after discovering his opponents were teachers!

Grand final night will be on tonight, starting either 5.30pm or 6pm until around 9pm and spectators are welcome.

The new season commences March 1. Teams and interested people can sign up now.

THE recent ladies fixtures have commenced at Mackay Tennis Centre at 125 Kippen Street, welcoming new and old players.

Four teams compete with seven players in each team.

It’s early days but some great matches have already been held.

Smashes, the team captained by Vicki Black, smashed Volleys team, captained by Michelle King 51to 27. Some good rallies were played during the sets but Smashes were too good on the day.

Volleys are looking forward to playing Smashes again in the weeks to come.

The other match on the day was between Lobs, captained

by Nicole Petersen, and Top Spin, captained by Kim Craig.

Lobs went on to win convincingly 44 to 21.

Set of the day was between Janine Barrow and Val Edwards against Kim Campman and Raylene Wales. These ladies battled it out for an hour

Val Edwards or more, with Janine and Val finally winning six to four.

The hot weather didn’t deter any of these ladies during the morning play. The Tenniss Association said any ladies out there wanting to get back into tennis are more than welcome to come along.

Wednesday night fixtures have commenced, with 12 teams competing in two divisions. There are still spots available for anybody wishing to play.

SPORT 40

• MACKAY LOCAL NEWS

Friday, 26 February, 2021

ISSN 2652-998X

9 772652

998004

ROLLER DERBY ROCKS MACKAY (L-R) 077 Tiarne Tattingham (Turtle), Jemimah Vanderloos (Smackbeth) and 96 Breanna Deguara (RodieHoe) from Mackay City Rollers in action

Roll on in for more sport inside

Roller Derby is a hard hitting, fast paced, full contact sport on roller skates. It’s also great exercise and a

great form of stress relief.

Turn to page 39 for information on how to get involved in this exciting sport.

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