Mackay Life

TURNING THE TIDE

PREMIER ADDRESSES CRIME CRISIS IN MACKAY

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli visited Mackay last week to address the growing issue of crime in the region. During his visit, the Premier stopped by Corry Cycles, a local business that has suffered repeated break-ins throughout the year. Highlighting the challenges faced by small business owners, he acknowledged the toll that ongoing crime has taken on their operations.

Premier Crisafulli reaffirmed his commitment

to tackling youth crime, stating, "I made the promise before the election that we would put youth crime front and centre, and I’m honouring that promise.

“I wanted to come back to Mackay as early as possible after the tabling of those laws to let the city know that we are serious about driving change."

He emphasised the importance of addressing

youth crime while also acknowledging the difficulties small businesses face.

"A small business owner who’s been broken into a couple of dozen times…that shouldn’t be the case," said the Premier.

"No one’s suggesting that you won’t have crime, but we have to turn the tide on it.

“It just can’t be more victims every single year."

Continued on page 3

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli met with Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton, Member for Mirani Glen Kelly and business owner Evan Corry at Corry Cycles in Mackay last week to discuss youth crime. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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UNEXPECTED LESSONS FROM A RUNAWAY SHOPPING TROLLEY

ver had one of those moments where you can see a disaster brewing, like something is about to go horribly wrong, but you’re powerless to stop it? That was me last week, watching my rogue shopping trolley at ALDI gain momentum on a car park slope that rivals the skate park around the corner— or at least, that’s how it felt at the time. Consider this a friendly PSA: the gradient at ALDI is not to be underestimated, and neither is a runaway trolley.

Picture this: I reach into my car to straighten another shopping bag that had fallen over, but when I turn to unload my trolley, it’s gone. I’m in jandals (thongs), wearing a dress, dealing with post-chemo numb feet and hands. I see my trolley that’s accelerating away from me on an angle like it’s in some kind of trolley Grand Prix. I immediately thought, “There’s no way I’ll make it in time.” But instinct took over, and despite looking like a spooked hippo who had just been fired upon by poachers (my sincerest apologies to any onlookers), I launched into a sprint. Considering I don’t remember the last time I actually ran any distance, this was already a surprise.

I thundered across that car park and with mere millimetres left, I put everything I had into a final lunge, arm outstretched as far as it would go…and stopped that trolley just 10 centimetres from a parked car.

Lesson learned: you never really know what you’re capable of until you’re forced to test your limits—whether it’s saving a car from an untimely dent or surprising yourself in other ways. Yes, I may have pulled a glute in the process, but I also proved to myself that even when you think you’ve hit your limits, there’s always a little more gas in the tank.

So, here’s my challenge to you for 2025: pick something you think you can’t do—or haven’t done yet—and give it a crack. For me, it’s composting. I’ve no idea where to begin, but I hear the council runs workshops, so that’s my starting point. It doesn’t have to be monumental; it just has to be meaningful. Whether it’s mastering sourdough, learning a language, or finally tackling that DIY project, push yourself a little further. Who knows? You might even save a trolley—or a car—along the way.

MACKAY RADIO AUCTION RAISES OVER $4,000 FOR LOCAL FAMILIES THIS CHRISTMAS

Star 101.9 Mackay’s Christmas Auction, hosted by Rach and Jake, was a resounding success, raising an incredible $4,225 to support local families in need this Christmas season. The live charity auction, held on November 29, featured a range of exciting items, including two Broncos NQ membership packs, a 55-inch TV from Betta Mackay, a threenight stay at the Mirage Whitsundays, a thrilling ride in the new Stinger Police Car, and a scenic flight over the Whitsundays, all generously donated by local businesses.

The community rallied together to make a difference, with all proceeds going directly to Mackay Women's Services. The funds will support their Christmas Hamper drive, providing families in need with gift cards to select gifts and essentials for the holiday season.

A representative from Star 101.9

Mackay expressed their gratitude, saying, “A massive thank you to everyone who bid on the items for Rach and Jake’s Christmas Auction!

“Together, we raised an incredible $4,225, with all proceeds going to Mackay Women's Services.”

Mackay Women's Services also shared their excitement, saying, "Wow, what a whirlwind of a morning…this generous amount will go straight into our Christmas Hamper drive, where we'll transform it into gift cards so families can pick out the perfect gifts or essentials, they need this Christmas season.”

Both Mackay Women's Services and Star 101.9 Mackay extended a special thank you to the businesses who made this possible: Brisbane Broncos, Betta Mackay, Mirage Whitsundays, Queensland Police Service, and Sailing Whitsundays.

‘ADULT CRIME, ADULT TIME’ PREMIER TALKS YOUTH JUSTICE REFORM

Continued from cover...

The LNP state government introduced the Making Queensland Safer Bill into parliament earlier this month and the legislation has been considered by a parliamentary committee for a week before its fast-tracked and discussed this week.

The law changes include the LNP's "adult crime, adult time" policy, which would apply adult sentences to juveniles who commit certain serious offences, which includes dangerous use of a motor vehicle and burglary.

Premier Crisafulli stressed that stronger laws would send a clear message that there are consequences for criminal behaviour. However, he also highlighted the need for early intervention to prevent a lifetime of crime.

"It’s equally important to intervene early and

try to turn people away from a lifetime of crime."

The Premier’s visit highlighted the ongoing struggles faced by businesses like Corry Cycles, which has experienced multiple breakins in recent years. Evan Corry, co-owner of the business alongside his brother, Ryan, recounted a recent incident in which a thief stole a bike in broad daylight while staff were unloading a truck with Christmas stock.

“It’s disappointing and quite scary,” said Corry, who noted that his shop had been broken into nearly ten times this year alone, prompting him to invest tens of thousands of dollars in security upgrades.

Corry shared his frustration, and said, "You just shake your head.

“These people don’t even care anymore.

“They’re not afraid of the consequences."

Despite spending significant amounts on security, including metal bars and Crimsafe for windows, he continues to face the reality of frequent break-ins.

"To be honest, I got sick of sweeping up glass at 2am after break-ins…but now, it seems we also need to stand watch while unloading trucks, which is really disappointing," he added.

Member for Mirani Glen Kelly MP echoed these concerns, calling for action across both urban and rural areas.

"Crime just doesn’t only happen in the cities.

“Crime happens everywhere.

“When you go to bed at night, you want to sleep in peace…you don’t want to go to bed

at night with one eye open."

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton MP also emphasised the importance of early intervention in tackling youth crime.

Premier Crisafulli also noted the need for better support for youth leaving detention.

"Stronger laws send a consequence that there is a repercussion for doing something wrong…but it’s equally important to intervene early and try to turn people away from a lifetime of crime."

He highlighted that more than half of those leaving youth detention currently lack access to a 72-hour plan.

"We are going to ensure every single person has a 12-month plan, with six months of intensive support, to stop the repeat cycle," the Premier said.

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli met with Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton, Member for Mirani Glen Kelly and business owner Evan Corry from Corry Cycles. Queensland Premier David Crisafulli Evan Corry, co-owner of Corry Cycles. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Police Awards Recognise Dedication And Courage

Last month, over 70 police officers and community members were honoured for their exceptional contributions to combatting crime and ensuring safety across Mackay and surrounding districts. The Mackay Police District Honours and Awards Presentation, held on November 28 celebrated the bravery, selflessness and dedication of Queensland Police Service (QPS) members. The event outlined the critical role our local officers play in protecting their colleagues, families, and communities.

Superintendent Shane Holmes and Assistant Commissioner Chris Hodgman, senior officer for the QPS Central Region, extended their congratulations to the awardees and acknowledged the support of families and friends who help officers face the inimitable challenges of their demanding roles.

“We thank you for your very significant role in supporting our officers and staff members,” said Superintendent Holmes.

“It’s very important to acknowledge that.”

Among the most prestigious awards was the National Emergency Medal, presented to officers who demonstrated sustained service during national emergencies. This year, the medal honoured those who played a vital role in responding to the devastation caused by Tropical Cyclone Debbie back in 2017. Their tireless efforts in the face of destruction were described as nothing short of heroic.

A memorable moment of the event was the presentation of the Queensland Police Bravery Medal for extraordinary courage in hazardous situations. Senior Sergeant Trevor Robson was honoured for his actions on June 19, 2008, when, despite suffering severe injuries, he restrained an armed offender after a violent confrontation. His bravery and resilience left a lasting impression on all in attendance.

Similarly, Senior Constable Oliver Gordon and two Queensland Ambulance officers received the Group Bravery Citation for their courageous response to a triple murder on a remote cattle property in August 2022. Despite the threat of gunfire and poor communication, they acted quick-

ly to secure the scene and assist victims, demonstrating unmatched professionalism and bravery.

The Queensland Remote Area Tracking (QRAT), a non-profit organisation of dedicated volunteers, was also recognised with an Assistant Commissioner’s Certificate for their exceptional service during the investigation and recovery efforts following an air crash in Finch Hatton that occurred in November, 2023. QRAT’s volunteers provide vital assistance in locating missing persons, often in remote and challenging environments. Their work is driven by a shared sense of duty, with volunteers ready to leave personal plans behind to contribute to search and rescue efforts.

Nathan Gelhaar, QRAT treasurer humbly reflected on the recognition.

“It was quite an honour to receive this award.

“It’s quite hard to describe what it feels like… I guess it just feels like what we train for is worthwhile.”

Other awards recognised exceptional service in areas like investigation, disaster management, and community safety. One award acknowledged an officer for their quick thinking during an attempted suicide in July 2023. Their swift administration of CPR until emergency services arrived helped save a life. Another team was honoured for their leadership and professionalism during a large-scale evacuation in 2013, where their ability to make life-saving decisions under dangerous conditions was critical, yet successful.

Superintendent Shane Holmes emphasised the importance of community collaboration in maintaining safety, saying, “Having those relationships with the community makes our jobs so much better.

“We could not do it alone, and it’s great to know that we can rely on our community.”

The Mackay Police District Honours and Awards Presentation was a fitting tribute to the bravery, professionalism and selflessness of the Queensland Police Service and the broader community. It was a tender reminder of the invaluable work that goes on, well beyond the badge.

Senior Sergeant Trevor Robson. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

The Queensland Remote Area Tracking (QRAT) volunteers

Over 70 Mackay police officers and community members were honoured for their bravery, dedication, and service in ensuring safety throughout the region at Ocean International last Thursday, November 28.

Superintendent Shane Holmes

Whitsunday Anglican School Secures Top 25 In NAPLAN Rankings

Recent NAPLAN results highlight Whitsunday Anglican School’s commitment to an exceptional education for students, after ranking as the top secondary regional School in Queensland.

Whitsunday Anglican School was featured in the top 25 NAPLAN rankings attaining 10th for Year 9 and 24th for Year 5. Principal Mr Andrew Wheaton said he believed that the school’s phenomenal outcomes were driven by Whitsunday’s exceptional teachers, who are committed to academic growth for every student, which is strongly grounded in evidence-based research and practice.

"We are truly dedicated to fostering academic growth through a focus on personalised learning that is realised through effort and continuous improvement—ensuring that every student has opportunities to make progress and reach their potential.

"Although we take pride in these results, the true heroes are our exceptional educators, who work tirelessly every day with our students—not only to achieve high levels of literacy and numeracy but also to apply these skills in critical and creative ways."

Mr Wheaton said the school invests in specialist teachers who are experts in their disciplinary field; and works diligently to develop partnerships with leading educational institutions to inform evidence-based decision-making.

Critical to this success is a strong culture of learning in the classroom.

“We have partnered with The University of Melbourne’s Graduate School of Educa-

tion to research innovative learning environments that impact the way our teachers teach and develop deep learning.

“We’re also conscious that strong academic outcomes are balanced with a focus on the student’s emotional intelligence, and we proudly partner with Swinburne University to implement an evidence-based Emotional Intelligence (EI) programme for our students.

“Balance through cocurricular pursuits in the Arts, music and sport is also critical for ensuring that our students perform at their best.

“As a school we view NAPLAN holistically and do not see it as a sole indicator of performance by any means.

“However, it is a strong measure of the exceptional work being done in our classrooms to progress our students’ literacy and numeracy at Whitsunday Anglican School.”

Mr Wheaton added, “Our approach to learning is multifaceted where creativity and innovation were also fundamental to the school’s progress.

“Central to the School’s approach is an understanding that critical skills required for future success include creativity, curiosity, and innovation.

“We invite our students to develop a new way of thinking that is engaging, multifaceted and inclusive, with diversity of thought and global-mindedness.

“Critical thinking and problem-based learning is a real focus area, and we have captured this in the build of our new award-winning STEAM Centre, opened

in late 2023.

“The STEAM Centre has been a tremendous vehicle to inspire our students with critical skills for the future and it is designed to link in with the region’s industry strengths in STEAM - Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Design, and Mathematics.

“From its inception, the school had the vision to design a cutting-edge, research driven educational building that will inspire innovative teaching and learning into the future,” Mr Wheaton said.

“At Whitsunday we are confident that our regional students receive world class edu-

cational

opportunities, and these NAPLAN results are further evidence of this.”

To determine how each school performed in 2024, the scores for all five test subjects for the student cohort (Yr 5 or Yr 9) were combined and the average found. Special schools, schools with fewer than 20 students enrolled, and schools that did not report any results for NAPLAN subjects were excluded from the analysis.

The figures were independently compiled from the Federal Government's MySchool website. Data was not collected for Western Australia.

Scrap metal Clean-up

Bring

Whitsunday Anglican School topped NAPLAN rankings as the leading regional school in Queensland, driven by exceptional teachers, personalised learning, and a strong academic culture. Photo credit: Whitsunday Anglican School

A Very Merry Yarnbomb Brings Festive Cheer To Northern Beaches

‘A Very Merry YarnBomb’ has struck Northern Beaches, bringing the festive and community spirit to Bucasia Esplanade. ‘A Very Merry YarnBomb’ is a crocheted public art installation completed by a group of volunteer women who attend a Friday morning Crochet and Conversation Gathering at the Beachfront Bar & Restaurant each week for the last five months.

What started as a small vision to inspire creativity and community wellbeing, grew into a vibrant and festive large-scale project and a thriving community of women with a strong bond. The installation is not just an artwork for viewing and spreading Christmas cheer. The women have cro-

cheted specific features into the artwork, which a Scavenger Hunt has been created from, with prizes on offer thanks to the generous donations of local businesses.

Entry forms can be collected from, and entered in the competition at the Beachfront Bar & Restaurant and KBs Barbershop in Bucasia. The Scavenger Hunt creates the invitation for a fun and FREE family outing or a nice immersive stroll for adults through the installation. Thanks to Mackay Northern Beaches Lions, Plant Engineering Solutions, Toomas Drycleaners, CARE4MH, Beachfront Bar & Restaurant and Jamie Wilcox Art for sponsoring prizes. The installation will be on display for all of December, however the Scavenger

Hunt Competition will close on Sunday 22nd December at 4pm.

‘A Very Merry YarnBomb’ has been a collaborative effort through group donations and a small funding grant from the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) which allowed for the engagement of Tracey Robb Arts to mentor the group in its first community YarnBomb and host a number of ‘FREE Learn to Crochet Workshops’.

Rebecca Cooper, one of the event’s organisers, said, “Thank you to Mackay Regional Council and the State Government for supporting our vision for a more connected community through arts initiatives and

Nominate your local hero

Greater Whitsunday Communities for auspicing the project.

“The Northern Beaches Community Network and Mackay Northern Beaches Lions are proud to have guided this project for the community.”

The Network and Lions collaboration are currently seeking ideas for community wellbeing events in 2025 and would love to hear from motivated individuals who want to be involved in big and small ways in creating a more connected and active community.

For specific opening hours, check out their Facebook page. Competition terms and conditions apply.

‘A Very Merry YarnBomb’ has transformed Bucasia Esplanade into a festive crocheted art installation, featuring a scavenger hunt with prizes donated by local businesses, on display throughout December. Photos supplied

Painting A Brighter Future For Day Of People With Disability

Throughout his early years of primary school, being on the spectrum, Logan Ivory’s educators needed strategies to help him through moments of unease.

The advice given to them was "Give him blank paper, pencils and a quiet corner...".

That advice was the catalyst for an amazing creative journey that will see him headlining his own Community Showcase Exhibition to celebrate International Day of People with Disability.

The exhibition will launch on Monday, December 9, in the Jubilee Community Centre and will showcase the evolution of Logan’s art practice.

The launch will run from 5pm to 7pm and residents can register to attend via Eventbrite.

Mayor Greg Williamson said Logan has pursued this creative journey with support from his mum and local artist Kylie Ferriday, who introduced him to the world of paint.

“He has never looked back, and now attends weekly art classes and paints and creates in his spare time,” Mayor Williamson said.

Logan Ivory has taken a disability and focused it into a catalyst for creating fantastic artworks.

Photo credit:

Jen Porter Photography

“Logan is also a leader in our community having recently been elected to the Mackay Youth Council as part of the Young Mayors program,” he said.

“The theme for International Day of People with Disability 2024 is ‘Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future’.

“It’s tremendous to be able to give a big community shoutout to Logan who has taken a disability and focused it into a catalyst for creating fantastic artworks.

“And in doing so he has gained the self-confidence and experience to take on a leadership role within our youth community.

“I would like to invite everyone to come along and help us recognise this talented young artist's achievements as we celebrate his creativity and leadership as a young person with disability.”

Logan’s exhibition will run until Friday, December 20.

This Community Showcase is supported by the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF), a partnership between the Queensland Government and Mackay Regional Council to support local arts and culture in regional Queensland.

WHY SO HARD TO FIND ANSWERS AND ASSISTANCE?

G’day, little adventurers!

I’m Patty the Platy, and I’ve paddled out of the freshwater streams of Eungella to dive into this newspaper!

I’m a bit shy, though, so each month I’ll be hiding somewhere in the paper, just like I’d hide in a cozy riverbank burrow with my flat bill and webbed feet.

I’m really good at blending in, but with a little patience and sharp eyes, you’ll spot me!

Here’s the fun part: If you find me, you could win the chance to see your very own photo in the paper!

Take a peek at the picture right next to this article for a fun clue - I'll be showing up as

a cartoon version of myself.

When you find me, snap a photo with the page where I’m hiding, and send it to ruby@lifepublishinggroup.com.

Alright, little adventurers…it’s time to waddle off and find me!

Good luck!

~ Patty the Platy

HINT: I’m feeling sporty this week

Split Spaces Secures Funding To Drive Digital Transformation

Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday businesses and community organisations will have better access to the tools and training they need to grow and thrive in an increasingly digital market thanks to funding secured by Split Spaces.

Split Spaces Manager Kirra Tully said the funding would enable Split Spaces to provide valuable training to enhance digital innovation for businesses, start-ups, and communities throughout the entire Mackay Isaac Whitsunday (MIW) region.

She said the REP program aimed to drive regional growth by enabling organisations like Split Spaces to promote digital transformation and innovation.

“This funding is a significant step for our region,” Ms Tully said.

“It will allow us to enhance digital innovation and provide essential tools for local businesses to thrive in the digital economy.

“This is training that businesses across the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday regions have been calling for, for a long time.

“Now, we have the opportunity to deliv-

er this in a way that suits businesses and provide clear and useful training they can immediately use to work more effectively and efficiently in their businesses.”

Ms Tully said other key initiatives to be delivered as part of the training included:

Enhancing Digital Capacity: Digital toolkit to provide local businesses with insights to improve their digital maturity and operational efficiency.

Tech Verge Event: To showcase the region's innovation capabilities across small business month.

Fostering Collaboration: Strengthening partnerships among regional stakeholders to create a collaborative innovation ecosystem.

Supporting SME Growth: Offering tailored mentoring and workshops to equip businesses with the skills and resources needed for effective digital scaling and innovation.

“These initiatives reflect the strategic goals of the Split Spaces Future Growth Strategy, positioning the MIW region as a leader in digital growth,” Ms Tully said.

HELP INSPIRE MACKAY’S NEWEST MURAL CHRISTMAS COMES

Artspace Mackay needs your help to create the next City Centre mural.

Residents are being encouraged to enter their idea of the perfect “Mackay Moment”.

It may be a photo or a story, a place or even an animal that you feel captures Mackay.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the installation of other murals in the City Centre had activated area and created a real buzz.

“Following the completion of the latest mural – BeeMindful – public art guided walks conducted by Artspace Mackay have seen a huge increase in numbers,”

Mayor Williamson said.

“We are so pleased to see that these murals really are helping to build interest in our city. Tour numbers are now consistently at capacity, with 20 people signing up,” he said.

“Many participants in the tours are visitors to our region, so we know that they are then naturally spending more time and money in the area before and after the tour.

“The next mural will be a fabulous addition to our series of City Centre murals which help to connect our city and activate areas identified in the PDA.

“We know that murals are artworks with limited lifespans but that’s a large part of their appeal, because they can evolve and change with our growing city.

“Not only will we have a mural that locals have had a part in creating, but the artists completing the mural will hold workshops with our local upcoming artists, helping to build their skills for the future.”

To submit your ideas, head over to the Artspace Mackay website.

Submissions close on Sunday, January 5, 2025 with artists scheduled to commence planning in May 2025.

Even if your image is not selected, it may still be used for promotional purposes on council’s platforms. All images selected will be credited.

A bit about the artists…

Nationally renowned Queensland street artists, the Brightsiders will be complet-

ing the mural and, while in the region, will be holding workshops with our local artists.

The Brightsiders have an impressive portfolio of public artworks, including the Fifth Lane in Mackay City Centre, the Airport Train line mural in Brisbane (which locally born artist Dylan Mooney assisted in creating), the Yelarbon grain silo mural and the Point Cartwright water reservoir mural, located on the Sunshine coast.

Mackay Regional Council will begin work upgrading Alsatia Park in Walkerston this week, weather permitting.

Works will commence on the western side of the park and this area will be fenced off. However, the playground, skatepark and half basketball court will remain accessible.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the work being completed was based on feedback that was gathered in 2022.

“We will be constructing new footpaths and installing new public toilets to make the park more accessible, including a unisex disability cubicle and unisex ambulant toilet,” Mayor Williamson said.

“A new children’s playground will be installed to cater for a wider range of ages and it will be relocated away from the skatepark,” he said.

“For the older kids, we will be improving the skatepark’s half-pipe and riding surface and installing a new backboard and hoop at the southern side of the basketball court.

“We will also convert the shelter next to the skatepark into a hang-out space featuring a table tennis table.”

Other work being carried out as part this project will include the installation

to Mackay and the

Palliative Care Nurse Miechelle Williams with Mackay’s Gary Millewski.

The spectacular “BeeMindful” mural, which connects Wood Street Park with Seventh Lane

COMES EARLY IN WALKERSTON

of additional seating and new shelters, new football posts, a drinking bubbler with a dog bowl, additional bins and fencing, drainage improvements, shade trees and new signage.

Vassallo Constructions Pty Ltd will be completing this work on behalf of council.

No works will occur from late-December to early-January.

Works will recommence from Monday, January 6, 2025, and are expected to be completed by mid-April, 2025, weather permitting. The entire park will be closed

during this time.

Works will be undertaken from Monday to Friday, between 6.30am and 6.30pm throughout the construction.

As part of these works, some trees will be required to be removed. However, they will be replaced with native tree species.

There will also be some noise and dust disturbances with various plant and equipment on-site.

For more information on this project visit connectingmackay.com.au/alsatia-park-upgrade.

From Ports To Community: NQBP

Earlier this month, approximately 90 stakeholders from across the port industry and local community gathered at the Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club to celebrate their collective achievements at the North Queensland Bulk Ports (NQBP) end-of-year stakeholder event.

NQBP CEO Brendan Webb thanked attendees for their strong teamwork, resilience, and adaptability during 2024. Mr Webb also shared NQBP’s significant economic contributions to the port communities and Queensland, with the Ports of Hay Point and Mackay facilitating around 47,000 jobs and an economic contribution to the state of more than $22.2 Billion.

Also announced on the night were the fourteen recipients of NQBP’s Community Fund for this year, another reflection of NQBP’s commitment to their port communities.

North Queensland Bulk Ports is a government-owned corporation with ports at Hay Point, Mackay, Abbot Point and Weipa. NQBP delivers essential port services for the benefit of the people of Queensland. Their ports connect North Queensland to the world while balancing the needs of their iconic surroundings, communities, and stakeholders.

NQBPs Board Chair Jane McTaggart

Daltug’s Andrew Ramsamy, NQBPs Carissa Mansfield, DBCTs Glenn Anderson

Vassallo’s Damian Vassallo, Stantec Tracey Doyle, GHD Stephanie Somerville

NQBPs CEO Brendan Webb and Board Chair Jane McTaggart with Peter Marshall from Mackay Surf Lifesaving

NQBPs CEO Brendan Webb and Board Chair Jane McTaggart with Pauline Harris from Stella Maris Seafarers

NQBPs CEO Brendan Webb and Board Chair Jane McTaggart with the Crossroad Arts team

QCS Brent Casey, NQBPs Paul Heagney, Mackay Sugars Carl MortonNQBPs CEO Brendan Webb and Board Chair Jane McTaggart with Maree Sturdy from Zonta Club of Mackay

NQBPs Belinda Kenny, Andrea Ranson and Mackay Isaac Tourisms Emmagen Mula

NQBPs CEO Brendan Webb Mackay Surf Lifesaving Clubs Peter Marshall, NQBP CEO Brendan Webb, Daltug’s Andrew Ramsamy

NQBP Marks 2024 Achievements

Mackay and Hay Point Community Reference Groups

North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) invites nominations from local residents to volunteer for membership of the Port of Mackay and Port of Hay Point Community Reference Groups (CRGs).

The CRGs provide a forum for discussion between NQBP and representatives of the community and key stakeholder groups on issues relating to the operation, development and planning activities within Mackay and Hay Point communities.

As a CRG member you will be expected to:

• contribute constructively to CRG discussions;

• attend meetings a minimum of three times a year; and

• communicate information to the broader community and/or your interest group.

NQBPs Nick McDougall with Debbie Ellwood and Michael DePinto Wisely’s Chris Bugjea, Daniel Sanderson, NQBPs Hossein Saadai and Wisely’s Dan Wisely

NQBPs Monica McKendry, Tropical Exposures Amanda and Ben Bishop

Cr Ash-Lee Johnson, Aurecon’s Steve Cutting, Mackay Marina Run’s Tim Magoffin and BMAs Brett Ross

Ben Line Agencies Danielle Murray, NQBP Deane Alty, Stella Maris Pauline Harris and Ben Line Agencies Ashley Cage

A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE AT VICTORIA PARK STATE SCHOOL

For over 75 years, Ron “Mengie” Meng has been a cherished figure in the Victoria Park State School community. As a former student, proud graduate and lifelong supporter, Mr Meng’s bond with the school has only deepened with time.

Last Thursday evening, he made a remarkable contribution to the school’s tradition of celebrating academic excellence, donating $5,000 to fund future Ron Meng Academic Excellence Shields at the year 6 graduation awards ceremony.

“I started at Victoria Park in Grade One after moving schools a couple of times,” he reminisced.

“It was at Victoria Park that I was given the nickname Mengie, and it has stuck with me 75 years later.

“I am 85 years old now and I'm still known around town only as Mengie.”

For Mr Meng, the school was more than just an academic institution, but rather a place that shaped his character and gave him lifelong memories. He fondly recalls playing cricket on the school grounds, including one memorable match where his powerful hit shattered a passing car’s windscreen.

"My effort was enough for us to win the match,” he chuckled.

Beyond academics and sports, Meng was

also instrumental in building the school’s first swimming pool.

“I sold tickets at the Metropolitan Hotel on Friday afternoons after school to help fund the construction of the Victoria Park Swimming Pool,” he shared.

“To this day, I’ve never stepped foot in that pool, but thankfully, my grandchildren learned to swim there.”

In 2002, Meng initiated the Academic Excellence Shield to celebrate the achievements of the school’s top students. The shield has since become a symbol of dedication, perseverance, and success, with engraved names inspiring generations of learners.

“The Head Teacher mentioned they couldn’t afford another one, so I said, ‘Leave it to me.’”

This latest donation ensures the tradition continues, with new shields now proudly bearing Mr Meng’s name.

His grandson, Dylan Meng, and Dylan’s wife, Holly, attended the recent presentation to show their support. Dylan highlighted his grandfather’s dedication, calling the initiative “a fantastic way to encourage students,” and “something to strive for.”

Victoria Park State School Principal Sarah Mutton praised the shield’s impact.

“The Academic Excellence Shield recognises outstanding student achievements in academics, extracurricular involvement, and results from diagnostic testing,” she said.

“Recipients receive a medallion, their name on the school’s honour board, and a place on the perpetual shield donated by Mr Meng.”

GOT A SPARE ROOM OR TWO?

Greater Whitsunday Communities can fill them for you!

The Greater Whitsunday Housing Alliance has rallied residents to step up and fill a gaping accommodation hole by renting their spare bedrooms to teachers hoping to live and work in the Mackay-Isaac-Whitsunday regions.

Greater Whitsunday Communities (GWC) Chief Executive Carol Norris said the Housing Alliance, operated by GWC, was appealing to individuals, families and community members linked to the region’s schools and care organisations, with a room or granny flat to spare to take in a lodger.

Mrs Norris said the critical shortage in affordable rental accommodations throughout the region was making it almost impossible for teaching, care and support staff arriving in the region to find a place to call home.

“We have some dedicated and highly skilled people coming to our region through December this year and then early next year to work in our education and care sectors and they have nowhere to live,” Mrs Norris said.

“It’s not good enough. This is a gap that has not been filled by the State Government, so we are hoping that under a new government, we will see something actioned

to better support the housing needs of these vital workers coming to our region.”

Mrs Norris said the number of rental properties available throughout the Greater Whitsunday region had dropped by about 40 per cent in the last 24 months.

She said this, coupled with the slow pace of new houses being built, was making it extremely challenging for people moving to the region for work to find accommodation. However, she said Greater Whitsunday Housing Playbook showed there were many people in the region with spare bedrooms.

“With this in mind, the quickest way we can help employers bringing new staff to the region is to encourage people to consider taking in a lodger, Mrs Norris said.

“Already, GWC is helping care organisations to house some of their nurses and carers with women over 55 years of age being assisted to sustain their tenancies as their rents continue to rise.

“This is vital to enable care organisations to grow and deliver services in our community.”

Mrs Norris said the Greater Whitsunday Housing Alliance had reported most schools in the region had been asking the parents of their students to help house teachers.

“School principals and teachers are taking

It’s no doubt that Mr Meng's generous contributions will be highly cherished by the teachers and students of Victoria Park State School for years to come.

to Facebook to find lodgings for newcomers.”

Mrs Norris cited a Facebook post from Sian Burrows at Northern Beaches State High School, which stated: “We attract quality teachers to Mackay and our school, but availability of accommodation means that they then cannot find somewhere to live (and can’t come!).”

She said the problem was further compounded by the fact many existing teachers in the region had not been able to find accommodation.

“Some of our regions’ existing teachers cannot find somewhere to live because their landlords have sold their home to owner-occupiers,” she said.

“Teachers are forced to move out and then

they cannot find anywhere else to live.

“If schools cannot attract and retain teachers it affects the stability and consistency of tutelage and quality of education our children receive.

“Similarly, If carers cannot attract and retain nurses and carers it affects the quality of care our elders and disabled in the community receive.

“This lack of affordable housing is having an impact on the levels of service available in our region and peoples’ willingness to live here and visit.”

Anyone with spare rooms or a granny flat, who are willing to consider taking in a lodger, should contact Greater Whitsunday Communities, via tonia@gwcommunities. org.au

For over 75 years, Ron "Mengie" Meng has supported Victoria Park State School, recently donating $5,000 to continue the Academic Excellence Shield tradition. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Your local QCAR Teams:

Central District - Sonia Ball 0467 573 321

Burdekin - Angelo Licciardello 0437 401 837 Herbert River - Lawrence Di Bella 0448 084 252

Broken Mills, Broken TrustDriving Growth, Building Connections Farmers Demand Solutions

Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR) has shared its dismay at the Australian Sugar Milling Council, saying it has lashed out at farmers for their criticism of the performance of mills this crushing season.

QCAR has said that ASMC CEO Ash Salardini accused cane farmers of taking “pot shots” at mill workers and alleged they were “seemingly blaming the mills for not controlling the weather”.

Mr Salardini further said he was “frankly dismayed” at commentary from grower collective groups as he claimed a senior Canegrowers representative had suggested mill breakdowns had cost farmers billions.

QCAR CEO Stephen Ryan said it was ridiculous for the AMSC to claim cane farmers were blaming mills for rain-induced delays.

“ASMC has conveniently glossed over what is at the core of farmers’ concerns, that is the year-after-year poor performances of the mills combined with delayed starts to the season and belligerently extended industrial activity,” Mr Ryan said.

“These factors combined, which are in the miller’s control and not Mother Nature’s or the growers, have significantly contributed to standover crops and a big hit to farmers’ incomes.

“ASMC is using mill workers as a pawn to try and draw a wedge between them and the farmers.

“QCAR members, and cane farmers as a whole, actually value the mill workers and we thank them for their service as many are literally our friends and family members.”

Mr Ryan added mill workers had themselves criticised the millers, demonstrated by the strikes and industrial disputes at Wilmar mills earlier this year.

“Some milling companies are the ones pulling strings in terms of their poor decisions to cut back on investment and not inject the necessary funds to get mills up to par,” he said.

“Mill workers keep telling us management is not listening to the advice of experienced, long-term employees, which is clearly contributing to the embarrassing predicament millers now find themselves in.

“Even when there’s not standover cane, unduly extended crushes have been progressively destroying our industry.”

QCAR said it invited ASMC and millers to attend a public forum in Ayr in July but neither attended.

“Earnest attempts by grower groups to raise legitimate issues in private hasn’t worked and farmers have been forced to go public with concerns,” Mr Ryan said.

“The next generation of farmers are looking on in dismay as the industry they love and want to succeed is being hollowed out before them, dashing their hopes and dreams.”

Mr Ryan said QCAR was not alone in its criticism with Canegrowers Mackay chair Kevin Borg also speaking out on behalf of growers’ frustrations with millers.

He said millers, instead of shaming growers over their legitimate concerns, should focus on performing to Australian expectations and standards.

“They must shape up, now,” he said.

By Sonia Ball QCAR Central District Manager

The QCAR Team delivered with a clear purpose and a strong and memorable message last week at Mackay’s QCAR Meet & Greet and information session at Wests Leagues Club.

That message, delivered by QCAR Board Chairman Christian Lago, CEO Stephen Ryan and QCAR Director and Central District Chairman Steve McKeering, was sound and compelling and indicative of the driving forces behind the growth and ever-broadening footprint of QCAR-ACFA across Queensland and into NSW.

We are strong, we are growing, and we are here to stay.

The Mackay event can be deemed a success with all three of the senior team attending grower meetings on both sides of the event.

And now we are going to do it again in Plane Creek.

These meetings are every grower’s opportunity to meet the team, but also ask questions about the things that are important to them.

QCAR Central District is extending an open invitation to all Plane Creek mill suppliers to do one of two things:

• Attend our Meet & Greet and information session at Sarina Leagues Club (TBC) at 6pm on Tuesday 17 December, or

• Give QCAR Central District Manager Sonia Ball a call to arrange an on-farm visit

At a local level we have representation in Proserpine, Mackay and Plane Creek and we are always keen to talk with the movers and shakers in these areas seeking change and striving to strengthen our sugarcane industry from the ground up.

There has been a lot of media around the sugarcane industry in recent months and not all of it is good, but not all of it is bad either.

Being familiar with the media machine, and speaking generally, it can help to understand why it has such an attraction to the contentious, the tragic and dramatic. Bad news unfortunately has its own attraction to the consumer hence the evolution to the status quo – bad news sells.

It is the very nature of the beast and has been for millennia. This is good news, yes? It is good news because we know there are a great many good things going on in our industry that do not make the newspapers (print and online), television or radio. I hope you feel better now, I know I do. This of course does not change the fact that the ‘bad news’ is real, is happening, and in our industry we need to work together to turn this ship around and tack back to the point where, in the land of media, there is nothing to see here.

Be assured QCAR as a collective is making its mark and step-by-step will drive change. Are you with us? Give me a call, let’s talk about it!

QCAR CEO Stephen Ryan

The waiting game continues

As we move into December and the much-anticipated drop off in the Brazilian 2024 crush, the ICE #11 contract continues to trade in shallow downtrend pattern.

The recent UNICA report covering the first half of November crush finally saw the season to date numbers drop below last year’s record cumulative total. The data was roughly in line with expectations and the consensus for total Brazilian sugar out is narrowing into the mid to high 39 million tonne range.

Given the specs’ lack of conviction on pushing the market up or down due to trade resistance on either side, the futures price continues to zig zag sideways. At some point the market will break out of this pattern but we may have to wait a bit longer to get a decisive move.

India has received some focus in the near term with both this year and next in the frame. For the 2024 crush, which is getting under way, the latest Wilmar forecast has been revised down to 26.7M tonnes. This is primarily due to a poor monsoon in 2023 limiting national planting along with recent flooding and disease in Uttar Pradesh.

We remain of the view that India will not be a player in global trade for the immediate future as ethanol production absorbs future sugar juice production. Low sugar stocks this season will build slightly next

year thanks to a very good 2024 monsoon, replenishing reservoirs and allowing more widespread planting of cane, which remains a highly viable crop for growers. If the 25/26 crop is as large as expected, India may resume an export campaign in late 2025 to early 2026.

The Thai crop has enjoyed a good growing season and is expected to produce a large

SIMON HOOD Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

crop of 11M tonnes of sugar this year. For the raw sugar market, the expectation is that exports will remain limited as local refining and liquid sugar exports into China absorb the majority of raw sugar consumption.

Overall, the anticipated move higher for sugar futures in the first quarter of next year remains a possibility. The longer-term outlook for the #11 contract looks less encouraging on an anticipated large Indian crop for 25/26 season.

#11 March 25 Futures Contract (USc/lb) – Daily price movement over the last six months.

A New Chapter For STL Governance

Paul Schembri's election as grower-director to the Sugar Terminals Limited (STL) board has been met with strong approval from grower advocacy organisations CANEGROWERS and Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR). This milestone highlights the increasing demand for transparency, accountability, and grower-focused decision-making within the sugarcane industry.

CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens hailed Mr Schembri’s election as a victory for growers, emphasising the significance of his leadership.

“Paul Schembri’s election is a win for growers and the industry as a whole,” he said.

“Paul’s decades of experience and dedication make him an invaluable addition to the STL board. His presence signals a renewed focus on ensuring the voices of growers are not just heard but respected.”

QCAR Chairman Christian Lago also acknowledged the overwhelming support for Mr Schembri, describing him as a “bona-fide grower” and expressing optimism about his contributions.

“We congratulate Paul on his election,” Mr Lago said.

“He’s a bona-fide grower who QCAR

wholeheartedly endorsed, and we look forward to working with him and fellow G Class director Steve Kirby, who are wellplaced to represent the interests of G Class shareholders.”

The election outcome follows a contentious period for STL. Delays in finalising the voting process after the Annual General Meeting (AGM) were compounded by growing frustrations with STL’s leadership and its decision-making approach. CANEGROWERS and QCAR were among those critical of STL’s controversial 2023 move to insource terminal operations, which many growers view as unnecessary and poorly communicated.

“Most farmers do not support the plan— it’s a business model STL has no track record with,” Mr Lago said.

“STL’s claims that it can outperform Queensland Sugar Limited (QSL) are unsubstantiated, and we are yet to see any proof.”

CANEGROWERS also pointed to the rejection of STL’s remuneration report for the second consecutive year at the AGM as evidence of shareholder dissatisfaction. While a motion to spill the board was ultimately defeated, the result underscored the demand for change.

“This election is more than just a win for Paul—it’s a wake-up call for STL,” Mr

Menkens said.

“Growers are demanding a change in leadership style and decision-making. They want transparency, accountability, and a commitment to the industry’s long-term interests.”

Both organisations have called for reform to address diminishing grower representation within STL. Mr Lago highlighted the decline in voting power among active G Class shareholders, which has dropped from 64% in 2000 to just 36% in 2024.

“Active growers must make up the majority of shareholders as was intended in STL’s founding charter,” he said.

“STL must focus on fixing the share registers and deal promptly, decisively, and fairly with dry shareholders.”

As Mr Schembri steps into his new role, there is cautious optimism that his leadership will help bridge divides and refocus STL’s priorities.

CQUniversity Drives Innovation In Agricultural Education For Queensland Schools

CQUniversity has been selected as the new agribusiness provider under the Queensland Government Gateway to Industry Schools Program through to 2028.

The Gateway to Industry Schools Program builds partnerships between schools and key Queensland industries to enable young people to acquire the knowledge, skills and attributes to participate effectively in the State’s economy and provides opportunities for industry and the education sector to work together to deliver outcomes for students, local communities and businesses.

Each project is led by industry organisations which develop and implement tailored school engagement activities in line with their industry's key skills and workforce priorities.

As the new provider for the Agribusiness Gateway to Industry Schools project, CQUniversity will partner with AgForce Queensland, AgriFutures Australia and the Queensland Agricultural Teachers Association (QATA) to activate school

engagement and education programs for 15 schools, with the goal of introducing young Queenslanders to the many careers available in the State’s agriculture industry.

Associate Professor Amy Cosby, head of CQUniversity’s Agricultural Education and Extension team welcomed the announcement and said the University was well-placed to work with high schools and the agricultural industry across Queensland.

“CQUniversity has a strong track record in working with industry and schools across Australia to offer programs which raise the aspirations for students to pursue a career across the agricultural supply chain and highlight the vital contribution the of sector to the Queensland economy.

“We look forward to building on the great work of the QLD Department of Primary Industries (formerly DAF) who have delivered the project for the past three years,” said Assoc Prof Cosby.

“Our activities are designed to showcase the many different skills needed in the sec-

“These terminals represent generations of growers’ hard work and investment,” Mr Menkens said.

“Unilateral decisions that ignore grower input erode trust and unity. Paul’s election is an opportunity for STL to rebuild trust and honour the legacy of the sugarcane industry while preparing it for a sustainable future.”

The industry now watches closely, expecting STL to address concerns, restore grower representation, and provide clarity on its contentious insourcing model.

“This is a critical moment for STL to prove it can genuinely act in the best interests of the growers who built its foundation,” Mr Lago said.

A full STL update is available online: nsx. com.au/ftp/news/021744120.PDF.

tor including on-farm roles and those that support the industry such as marketing, finance, science, technology, trades, and supply chain and logistics.

“It is our aim to introduce kids in high school to the industry and to build excitement and interest in agriculture – especially among those from non-farming backgrounds.”

Assoc Prof Cosby said the CQU project will offer two activity streams for schools to get involved in, the first is to apply to be a Gateway School where the project team will work closely with school staff over 12 months to create connections with industry and build capacity to embed agriculture across the curriculum.

“The second offers the chance to participate in teacher professional development or to host the project team in class to deliver curriculum aligned lessons focused on science and technology of agriculture,” she said.

CQUniversity will commence as the service provider for the Agribusiness Gateway to Industry Schools project in February 2025 and schools interested in becoming involved in the project will be able to apply from early 2025.

For more information, and project updates please visit CQU’s Agri-Tech Education and Extension website or email ageducation@ cqu.edu.au.

Former CANEGROWERS Chairman Paul Schembri's election to the STL board is a powerful step towards accountability and collaboration say cane growing advocacy groups. Photo supplied

QCAR Chairman Christian Lago

FARMING SMARTER, NOT HARDER The Rise Of AI-Powered Irrigation

Asmart irrigation system powered by artificial intelligence will tell sugarcane farmers when and where to water their crops in an advance that could one day revolutionise agriculture – and help preserve the health of the Great Barrier Reef.

Developed by Victoria’s La Trobe University for far-north Queensland ag-tech company Aglantis, the intelligent irrigation system uses the Internet of Things to automate water pump management and monitor sunlight, temperature, and humidity levels without human interaction.

The system was initially conceived as a project to improve land management and prevent fertiliser run-off from farms into the Great Barrier Reef, but with new technology making smart irrigation more affordable, Aglantis managing director Luke Malan said the potential of the product

was almost limitless.

In addition to saving water, future AI additions could teach the system how to conserve energy, responding to solar or energy tariffs. It could also examine soil profiles and make intelligent choices around crop selection and yields.

“It essentially takes the guesswork out of farming,” Luke said.

“With growing pressures on profitability, it’s more imperative to know what you’re doing and how you can do it better.

“This flips conventional thinking on its head and opens the doorway to new possibilities.”

Professor Wei Xiang, Cisco Research Chair and Director of La Trobe University’s Cisco Centre for AI and the Internet of Things, said the smart irrigation system was the centre’s first commercial product

and showed how industry could drive research to tangible and ground-breaking results.

La Trobe is already working with the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS), creating the world’s first AI-powered three-dimensional digital twin of the Great Barrier Reef to monitor its health.

“Now we've proven the technology, the next step is to add additional features to improve productivity and crop yields through leveraging cutting-edge AI technology,” Professor Xiang said.

“This will make farming on the whole more sustainable."

Researchers Kamyar Karimi and Aravindan Madasamy, who developed the system for La Trobe under the supervision of Professor Xiang, said it would reduce labour costs, increase water efficiency and allow more precision in farm decision-making.

We currently have junior and senior roles across grazing and sugar cane available on our Sustainable Agriculture team.

We’re looking for the right people to help us launch an exciting series of sustainable agriculture programs focused on advancing land management and boosting environmental resilience. It’s a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of sustainable change in the field of agriculture.

If you're dreaming of professional and personal growth in a switched-on supportive team environment then Reef Catchments is the place for you. These roles offer plenty of variety, and the chance to make a meaningful impact, driving positive environmental outcomes for the region. You’ll enjoy flexible work arrangements and competitive benefits to help you thrive and make a difference.

Ready to help shape the future of sustainable agriculture? Explore your next step at Reef Catchments:

Ultimately, the system design could include intelligent sequencing to determine the perfect order of irrigation across different farm sections, predictive maintenance and continuous learning from historical data, seasonal patterns and crop responses.

"This technology represents a major shift towards data-driven, sustainable agriculture where AI and IoT optimise every drop of water for maximum farming efficiency," Kamyar said.

Aravindan said the development of the smart irrigation system was a transformative step forward for farmers.

"By automating labour-intensive processes and putting control in the hands of advanced technology, farmers can save time, conserve resources and focus on other priorities without the stress of manual management.”

Reef Catchments is the Natural Resource Management (NRM) group for the Mackay Whitsunday Isaac region. We facilitate change and work for long-term solutions to sustain, protect, and improve our region’s natural resources and environment, now and into the future.

AI-powered irrigation revolutionises sugarcane farming, optimising water use, reducing labour, and preventing runoff to protect the Great Barrier Reef, ensuring sustainable, data-driven agriculture.

VINNIES SPREAD CHRISTMAS CHEER WITH HAMPERS FOR FAMILIES IN NEED

The holiday season is looking brighter for local families thanks to the hard work of the team at Vinnies. Volunteers have been busy packing multiple hampers, filled with essential items and festive goodies, to help those facing hardship this Christmas.

Local businesses and schools have generously donated handmade toys for children, ensuring they can experience the joy of Christmas. Families receiving the hampers are invited to select toys and wrap them, giving children a special gift to open on Christmas Day.

This year, Vinnies is responding to a major increase in requests for assistance, with demand rising due to the tough economic climate. Unfortunately, donations have decreased, making community support even more crucial. Vinnies continues to rely on the generosity of locals to provide for those in need, particularly as many families face difficulties during this time of year.

As the team prepares for Christmas, Vinnies remains a vital lifeline for many, of-

fering support and hope when it’s needed most. Volunteers and staff are committed to making this holiday season a little easier for families who might otherwise struggle.

OPENING HOURS:

Monday: 9am–4pm

Tuesday: 9am–4pm

Wednesday: 9am–4pm

Thursday: 9am–4pm

Friday: 9am–4pm

Saturday: 8:30am–12pm

Sunday: Closed

All stores are closed for the Christmas holidays from 25th December - 2nd January.

Visit Vinnies, Evans Ave at 2 Canberra St, North Mackay to grab a sale and support those less fortunate.

Reflecting On 2024 Regional Queensland Investigations

A YEAR OF MILESTONES AND MOMENTUM

As the year draws to a close, we at Alman Partners take this opportunity to reflect on an incredible 2024. It’s been a year of growth and triumphs, culminating in being recognised as a Financial Advice Association of Australia (FAAA) finalist in three national award categories. This achievement reflects not only the dedication of our team, but the trust and support of our valued clients and we thank them for being an integral part of our journey.

The past year has reminded us of the importance of proactive financial planning. Markets have seen the normal ebbs and flows, but as always, staying the course with a well-crafted strategy has proven its worth. Whether helping families secure their futures or assisting retirees live their

dreams, we remain committed to helping every client live a life of true wealth.

As we step into the festive season, we encourage you to prioritise mindful spending. While it’s tempting to splurge during the holidays, consider setting a budget that balances joy today with goals for tomorrow. Small steps, like tracking expenses or making thoughtful gift choices, can keep the holiday cheer alive without the January blues.

Looking ahead, we’re excited to continue delivering excellence and innovation in financial planning in 2025. For now, let’s celebrate the successes of the past year and the opportunities of the next.

From all of us at Alman Partners, here’s to a joyful and prosperous holiday season!

EXPERIENCE YOU CAN COUNT ON

Facing a complex, time-consuming case that requires expert guidance?

While investigations can seem quite messy, costly and even unresolvable, cracking the code to a complicated investigation has never been so easy, thanks to Regional Queensland Investigations.

Regional Queensland Investigations aims to eliminate the common challenges most locals face, by introducing a highly regarded former law enforcement professional with a Security Firm Licence (Class 1), a Master of Laws (LLM), and a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) (Hons) degree to regional towns like Mackay.

Formerly known as J&D Online Investigations, Jason King has built up an impressive reputation over the last decade, relocating from Melbourne to regional Queensland to provide clients with invaluable service right in their backyard.

Whether it's general investigations, cybercrime, workplace bullying or harassment, fraud, local government investigations, corporate matters or even undercover operations, Jason is ready to tackle all legal and investigative matters with confidence and precision.

Jason is well-known throughout Australia,

with appearances on popular TV shows and in major news outlets further highlighting his success. His ability to unravel some of the nation’s most complex investigations and deliver a positive outcome has made him a trusted leader in the industry. With experience in conducting investigations across both Commonwealth and state jurisdictions, there’s no case too big or small.

As a former Federal Agent with the Australian Federal Police, and now the director of a private investigations company, Jason’s extensive experience across a variety of crimes positions him as an experienced resource for clients in need of top-tier investigative services.

Add Virtual Reality To Exercise To Ease Chronic Pain

Boosting exercise is often on the agenda in the new year, but if you’re struggling to stick to a new fitness regime, University of South Australia research shows that virtual reality (VR) will not only make exercise feel easier but also ease chronic pain.

Using a novel bike system, researchers found that when people combine VR with cycling, their exercise enjoyment increases by 20% and they exercise for 15% longer.

Importantly, for patients with chronic pain, the technology distracts them from their condition, enabling them to engage in exercise and improve their recovery.

In Australia, exercise guidelines recommend that people exercise for 30 minutes at least three to five times a week. Yet statistics show that only one in five people actually achieve this.

There are 3.4 million people living with chronic pain in Australia. Globally, one in five people struggle with chronic pain.

“Being active is essential for people to stay physically and mentally fit and healthy, but it’s also incredibly important for helping people both recover from injuries and manage chronic conditions such as arthritis,” says PhD candidate Erin MacIntyre.

“We also know that exercise can play an important role in rehabilitation, often reducing pain and disability.

“But the challenge is that there are often barriers to exercise – many find it boring, or say that it requires too much effort, or can be painful. So, we’ve been looking at ways to help overcome these barriers.

“In our study, we combined VR with cycling, so when a rider started exercising with the VR headset on, it made it seem like they were riding in a digital countryside.

“We found that the VR experience distracted cyclists from the exertion of exercise and made the exercise feel easier, which together contributed to increased enjoyment and engagement.”

The study used a stationary bike system with a head-mounted VR display. The system was wirelessly linked to a bespoke VR program that allowed for remote control of the stationary bike’s resistance, as well as the ability to record how hard participants were working (power output in watts).

Participants rode the VR bike for up to 30 minutes but were able to end their session early for any reason.

The study was funded by the Hospital Research Foundation Group.

Your Guide To Staying Healthy This Festive Season

As we approach the holiday season, many of us look forward to time with family and friends, indulging in delicious festive meals, or simply unwinding after a busy year. For some, the season is a joyful time, while for others, it can be challenging, with food and drink often becoming primary sources of comfort. Between office Christmas parties, New Year celebrations, and holidays, this period often comes with increased food and alcohol intake, coupled with a drop in physical activity. Studies show that Australians tend to gain between 1-3 kilograms over this period, and many don’t lose it in the following months. Over a decade, these small annual gains can add up to 10-30 kilograms, with significant effects on long-term health and quality of life.

Living in rural areas, our community faces unique health challenges. Demanding jobs in farming, mining, and small business ownership mean long hours, and limited access to fitness facilities and fresh produce can make staying active and eating healthily more challenging. As a result, our rural communities have higher rates of overweight and obesity compared to urban areas. Carrying excess weight, especially when it crosses into obesity (a BMI over 30), is associated with a higher risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, infertility, joint problems, and mental health issues. As a community, we have much to gain from managing holiday weight and supporting each other in making healthy choices.

Practical Tips for a Healthier Holiday Season

The good news is that it’s possible to enjoy the season’s treats without gaining unwanted weight. A few mindful changes can help us keep holiday weight gain in check and start the new year feeling our best.

Portion control allows us to enjoy festive foods without overindulging. Instead of piling up your plate, opt for smaller servings of each dish, giving you a taste of everything without excess.

2. Balance Indulgences with Healthier Choices

Add salads, vegetables, and lean proteins alongside holiday treats. Swapping sugary or alcoholic drinks for water or sparkling water is another easy way to cut down on extra calories without sacrificing the celebration.

3. Stay Active

Even brief physical activity can help offset extra holiday calories. Walking, playing sports, or even helping out with post-meal cleanup all add to activity levels. Try to keep moving, even if you can’t stick to your usual exercise routine.

4. Practice Mindful Eating Slow down and savor your food, focusing on flavours and textures. Eating mindfully helps you feel satisfied with less and enhances your enjoyment.

Taking small, mindful steps now can make a big difference in our long-term health. This holiday season, let’s look out for each other and aim to start the new year healthier and ready for what’s ahead.

Yours in Good Health , Dr Mags Swenson

Oaktree Family Medical and Occupational Health Centre

(A clinic coming soon to Mackay!)

1. Practice Portion Control

Wrapping Joy For Local Charities At Home Co

The hustle and bustle of the holiday season is in full swing, and with only a couple of weeks left until Christmas, gift wrapping often becomes a last-minute headache. But thanks to the volunteers from Mackay’s SCOPE Club, you can turn that chore into a moment of relaxation – all while supporting local charities.

From now until Christmas Eve, the SCOPE team will be stationed at Home Co between Thrifties and Spotlight, offering their expert gift-wrapping services daily from 9am to 4pm. For just a gold coin donation per gift (please consider donating more for larger items), they’ll transform your presents into beautifully wrapped treasures, with proceeds going to local causes like Chances House (Australian Street Aid Project), Orange Sky, and

Sheryl Cuttriss and Joan Williams were gift wrapping last year at Home Co. SCOPE are wrapping gifts for charity again this year. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

Mackay Animal Rescue Society (MARS). What’s even better? Your gifts don’t need to be purchased at Home Co. Bring in your items from anywhere, drop them off in the morning, and return later to collect your perfectly wrapped presents. With a wide selection of colours available, the volunteers can even try to match a theme if you have one in mind. Try to separate gifts for specific people into separate bags, so once they are wrapped, you know who to label them for.

While you wait, why not take a wellearned break? Nearby K&Co Café offers the perfect spot to enjoy a coffee or a bite to eat, giving you a few minutes off your feet during the holiday rush. Support the community, tick gift wrapping off your to-do list, and enjoy a little holiday cheer – it’s a win-win for everyone!

Mackay Local Paving The Way For Women In Surveying

(L to R) Dale Atkinson, Megan Dillon, Michael Mulliss and Michelle Blicavs Megan Dillon (Mackay Regional Council), Michael Mulliss (Locus Surveys)

For Mackay local Megan Dillon, a career in surveying wasn’t something she expected for herself.

As a female entering a male-dominated industry, she decided to not let it deter her and is now the leader of a team of nine –who are all men.

Megan was recently honoured on Monday December 9th for achieving her registration as a surveyor in Mackay.

She hopes to encourage more women to step into the industry – as new data reveals only 4 per cent of surveyors in Queensland are female.

For over two decades, Reef Catchments has worked to repair and restore our region’s natural resources. Along the way, the team have built an in�mate knowledge of the region and the community. This accumulated knowledge and experience, teamed with strong community connec�ons, has created a solid founda�on to con�nue much needed support for the future of our environment and community.

2025 will see more than 35 new and ongoing projects being ac�oned across the region, including an innova�ve new agricutural water quality strategy, a six year landscape repair project, threatened species mi�ga�on and reef restora�on. Each project is carefully targeted to address specific issues iden�fied across the region.

Together with the community, Reef Catchments is shaping a future where our natural resources thrive, working toward a sustainable and resilient environment for genera�ons to come.

Learn about news, events, and opportuni�es: register for our newsle�er online.

“If we were living in the 1800’s I wouldn’t be doing this job, but I love being outside and working in the region that I live.

“Working for the local government with equal employment opportunities has cre-

ated a safe space for me”.

CEO of Surveyors Australia Michelle Blicavs is also strong on this call of getting more females interested in pursuing a career in the profession.

She says there is so much opportunity for women in surveying and with technological advancements, the career opportunities continue to grow.

“As an industry we have networks to provide support and connection, and we want more women getting on site and taking on leadership roles like Megan.”

Megan was awarded the Women’s Leadership Award at the 2017 Queensland Spatial Excellence Awards where judges commented, “Megan leads by example and is a great role model for women in the spatial industry.”

MP HITS THE GROUND RUNNING IN PARLIAMENT

Newly elected Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly, has wrapped up his first week in Queensland Parliament, delivering his maiden speech and stepping into his roles as a member of the Primary Industries and Resources Committee and Deputy Government Whip.

A proud grazier and passionate advocate for regional Queensland, Mr. Kelly is focused on ensuring the voices of the Mirani electorate are heard loud and clear in Parliament.

Reflecting on his first week, Mr. Kelly said, “It has been an incredible honour to stand in Parliament as the voice of Mirani. My maiden speech was an opportunity to highlight the values and resilience of our community while laying the foundation for the work ahead. Being entrusted with roles on the Primary Industries and Resources Committee and as Deputy Whip reinforces my commitment to representing the interests of our region and our industries.”

Mr. Kelly emphasised his eagerness to transition from Parliament to working on the ground, connecting directly with constituents as his electorate office prepares to open.

“I am currently working hard on recruiting my team, to ensure my office is fully operational by Janu-

ary. This will be a vital hub for the Mirani community—a place where residents can share their concerns and ideas, and where we can work together on the solutions that will move Mirani forward,” Mr. Kelly said.

In his role on the Primary Industries and Resources Committee, Mr. Kelly is determined to advocate for the region’s vital industries, including agriculture, mining, and resources.

“These industries are the backbone of our electorate, and I’m committed to ensuring they have the support they need to grow and thrive,” he said.

As Deputy Government Whip, Mr. Kelly is also looking forward to playing a key role in fostering collaboration and unity within his parliamentary team.

Over the coming months, Mr. Kelly will focus on connecting with residents, local businesses, and community groups, ensuring Mirani remains a priority in government decision-making.

“This first week is just the beginning. I am committed to fighting for better infrastructure, supporting our industries, and addressing the needs of our families and communities. There is a lot to do, and I’m ready to get started,” he added.

SARINA BANK DELIVERS RECORD COMMUNITY IMPACT

Record shareholder returns, a Social Enterprise certification and significant investment into the community were just some of the highlights mentioned at this year’s AGM of Sarina and District Community Financial Services Limited (SDCFS), which operates Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank.

Strong business results were outlined, including $160,195 injected directly into the community across 82 projects and initiatives in the 2023/24 financial year, bringing Community Bank Sarina’s total community investments to over $4 million since 2005.

nity Bank company in Queensland to earn this recognition.

Community Bank Sarina Board Chair Karen May thanked customers for choosing to bank with Community Bank Sarina - “as without them, we wouldn’t be able to provide this level of community investment”.

“We have supported many local organisations, including the Mackay Hospital Foundation Volunteers, Sarina Schools Chaplaincy, Sarina Cadets, QCWA, as well as local schools," said Ms. May.

The strong financial results also provided a fully franked dividend of 14c per share to the company’s local shareholders, a record return.

“We have achieved strong results by maintaining a steadfast presence in the wider Sarina community, assuring both new and existing customers that we’re here to stay, particularly in light of recent bank closures,” Ms May said.

A major milestone for the year was SDCFS’s official certification as a Social Enterprise by Social Traders Australia, making it the first Commu-

“This certification reinforces our commitment to creating genuine societal impact as a profit for purpose organisation and aligns deeply with our mission to feed into the community’s prosperity, not off it,” Ms May said.

At the AGM, former Sarina State High School student and recipient of two Community Bank Sarina scholarships Georgia Beveridge was congratulated, having successfully completed her electrical apprenticeship with Aurizon seven months ahead of schedule.

An advocate for the Bank’s scholarship programs, Georgia exemplifies the benefit of these scholarships for young leaders, boosting both their careers and the community.

Another achievement reflected on was the Bank’s 19th Anniversary Dinner in June, which brought together 175 attendees to hear from Shane Webcke, with 19 donations made to community groups to support their ongoing efforts.

You can view the Community Bank Sarina annual report on their website.

FEDERAL FUNDING BOOSTS VOLUNTEER EFFORTS IN CENTRAL QUEENSLAND

Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry, is thrilled to announce that the latest round of the highly popular Volunteer Grants program is now open for Expressions of Interest. Over $66,000 in funding is available to support local community groups and their dedicated volunteers.

The 2024-25 Volunteer Grants are focused on funding items or services that enhance the work of volunteers and support activities that benefit the development and wellbeing of children under 18 years of age. Ms Landry highlighted the critical role volunteers play in strengthening our communities.

“Our volunteers are the backbone of our society. They are resilient, selfless and work tirelessly to make our community a better place to live,” Ms. Landry said.

The grants provide funding between $1,000 and $5,000 to help organisations purchase essential items such as laptops, tablets, electronic payment devices, training, or equipment that supports volun-

teer-run initiatives.

Ms Landry expressed confidence that these grants would have a meaningful impact.

“Whether it’s a not-for-profit needing a new laptop for bookkeeping or a local football club requiring portable goals, the Volunteer Grants program provides vital financial support to improve these organisations and the work they do,” she said.

Ms Landry also extended her gratitude to local volunteers for their unwavering dedication.

“To the volunteers of Central Queensland, I say thank you for your tireless efforts to make our communities better places to live and raise families.

“Programs like the Volunteer Grants are just one way we can give back to those who give so much of their time to support others.”

Community groups interested in applying are encouraged to contact the office of Michelle Landry MP at Michelle.Landry.MP@ aph.gov.au or call 4922 6604.

Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry, has announced the opening of the 2024-25 Volunteer Grants program, offering over $66,000 in funding to support local community groups and their dedicated volunteers. Photos supplied

Community Bank Sarina Board Directors (L-R) Ann Fordyce, Karen May (Chair), Nicholas McDougall, Maree Franettovich and Rainee Shepperson

Season’s Greetings from Ray White Rural Sarina

As the festive season approaches, we take a moment to reflect on the incredible year that has been. 2023 has seen our wonderful Sarina community thrive, and we are truly humbled to have been part of it.

This year, we were proud to give back in countless ways—from sponsoring the Sarina Saints and supporting the Sarina Little Athletics Association to contributing to local events that celebrate the unique rural and coastal lifestyle we all cherish. Our commitment to our community has been at the heart of everything we do.

We also want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to you, our valued clients and community members. Your trust and support have not only helped us grow but have also enabled us to achieve the milestone of becoming the #1 agency in Sarina. Thank you for making this possible!

As we pause to celebrate Christmas with our loved ones, our office will close on Friday, 20th December and reopen on Monday, 6th January. We look forward to another year of helping you achieve your property dreams in 2024.

From our family to yours, we wish you a joyous Christmas filled with laughter, love, and all the beauty that Sarina has to offer. May the New Year bring happiness, prosperity, and plenty of cherished moments.

Warm regards,

Richard Murphy & the Ray White Rural Sarina Team

Why Listing Your Property Now Sets You Up for a Successful New Year Launch

As the year winds down, many homeowners pondering a property sale might think it’s better to wait until after the holiday season to begin the process. But what if we told you that now is the perfect time to start? Preparing your property for sale now and launching it in the new year offers unique advantages that could make all the difference in a competitive market like Sarina and the surrounding areas.

1. Beat the Rush of New Listings

The new year often brings a surge of properties to the market, as many sellers wait until January to list their homes. By starting the process now, your property can be among the first to hit the market when buyer activity peaks. This early exposure ensures your property stands out before the market becomes crowded.

2. Capitalize on Serious Buyers

Even during the holiday season, there are always serious buyers looking for their dream home or investment. Many of these buyers are motivated to finalize their search at the start of the new year, making your well-prepared listing a prime choice.

3. Maximize Your Marketing Timeline

Listing your property now gives real estate agents time to create a comprehensive marketing plan, including professional photos, virtual tours, and promotional strategies. By the time the new year begins, your property will be ready to make a strong impression with a polished campaign.

4. Leverage the Holiday Spirit

The holiday season brings a unique charm that can be highlighted in property presentations. Festive touches, warm lighting, and cozy decor create an inviting atmosphere that resonates with potential buyers. Buyers often imagine themselves hosting family gatherings or enjoying holidays in their new home, adding emotional appeal to their decision-making.

5. Get Ahead with Pre-Holiday Preparation

Starting the listing process now allows you to take advantage of quieter periods to get your home sale-ready. This might include decluttering, making minor repairs, or even staging your home to enhance its appeal. By the time the new year begins, your property will be picture-perfect and ready to shine.

6. Stay One Step Ahead in 2024

Entering the market early in the year sets the tone for a smooth sale process. With your property already live, you’ll have a head start while other sellers are still preparing. Additionally, the real estate market often sees a surge in activity after the holiday season, driven by new resolutions, relocations, and financial planning for the year ahead.

Start Your Journey with Ray White Rural Sarina

At Ray White Rural Sarina, we understand that timing is everything in real estate. Our local expertise and commitment to tailored marketing strategies ensure your property receives the attention it deserves. Listing your property now means you’ll be ready to launch into 2024 with confidence and a competitive edge.

If you’ve been thinking about selling, now is the time to take the first step. Let us help you prepare your property for a successful new year launch. Contact our team today, and let’s make 2024 your year for success.

CAPRICORNIA'S FUTURE SPORTING STARS RECEIVE $22,250 IN FUNDING

Aspiring athletes in Capricornia are scoring big, with Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry delivering $22,250 to support 40 local young sportspeople through the Local Sporting Champions program.

The Local Sporting Champions program, managed by Sport Australia, helps athletes, coaches, and officials aged 12-18 cover costs for eligible state, national, or international competitions.

Ms Landry emphasised the importance of the program for local families and the community.

"Local Sporting Champions gives young athletes in Capricornia the chance to compete at higher levels.

"This funding eases the financial burden on families by helping cover expenses like travel, accommodation, uniforms, and equipment.

SELECTABILITY SARINA: LOCALS SUPPORTING LOCALS

Sarina residents now have a safe and welcoming space to connect, learn new skills, make friends, and have fun, thanks to the recent opening of selectability's Mental Health Hub on Broad St. The hub is focused on improving mental wellbeing and promoting independent living, offering a wide range of tailored services, including one-on-one support and group activities to suit a variety of interests.

Metta Sands-Paton, the region's team leader, said programs at the hub were personalised to meet each individual's unique needs.

"Our aim is to ensure that everyone feels heard, supported, and empowered to take control of their wellbeing," Metta said.

“Being a local I have been able to use my experience, expertise and knowledge of Sarina to establish a service that supports the region’s needs.

"Sarina is a close-knit community, and it’s wonderful to see locals accessing the support they have traditionally had to travel out of town for.”

Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry, has supported 40 local young athletes with $22,250 through the Local Sporting Champions program, helping them cover costs for state, national, and international competitions. Photo supplied

"Sport is about more than competition; it's about keeping young people active, fostering social connections and building confidence,” Ms Landry said.

Local Sporting Champions continues to invest in the region’s bright future, ensuring young athletes can chase their dreams without barriers.

“Capricornia has a long and impressive track record of producing athletes like Anna and Kerrie Meares, Amy Hetzel, Daly Cherry-Evans and Jamie Dwyer.

“Programs such as the Local Sporting Champions helps to foster the next generation of athletes.

“I congratulate the successful recipients of the latest round of Local Sporting Champions and wish them all the best in their sporting endeavours.”

With a focus on building self-confidence and independence, the hub provides an environment where locals can take part in a diverse range of activities, from creative classes to skill-building workshops and social gatherings.

Metta said group programs were a great way to overcome loneliness, make friends and stay connected to the community.

“The Clubhouse program offers something for everyone. Whether it’s art and craft sessions, life skills workshops, social activities, or games and a cuppa – we welcome everyone from all walks of life,” said Metta.

“Our team provides support under the NDIS – and if you don’t have a plan, don’t worry – we also provide services government-funded wellbeing programs.”

If you are curious and would like to find out more, drop into 29 Broad St Sarina and chat to Metta and the team – or you can visit selectability.com.au/sarina.

KOALA HABITAT RESTORATION THRIVES ACROSS SARINA REGION

Efforts to restore critical koala habitats in the Sarina region are gaining momentum, with the Ranges to Reef team making significant strides in Oakenden, Sunnyside, and up the Sarina Range. As part of Reef Catchments' Sarina Koala Habitat Restoration Project, the team has been diligently conducting revegetation planting and weed control throughout the year.

Last month, Reef Catchments Senior Project Officer Sandy Whittington-Shaw joined Ranges to Reef to plant habitat and food trees for koalas. This initiative is funded by the Australian Government's Saving Koala Fund, underscoring a national commitment to conserving the species.

A key contributor to the project’s success is Des, a dedicated local landholder who has prepared the ground by spreading mulch and installing irrigation to keep

over 600 plants thriving. These plants, generously donated by the Mackay Regional Council’s Natural Environment Centre (MNEC) nursery, were expertly grown by the MNEC team, whose efforts continue to support the region’s environmental projects.

“These collaborative efforts are vital for creating healthier habitats and boosting koala populations,” said Ms. Whittington-Shaw.

“It’s inspiring to see how teamwork and community dedication can make such a tangible impact.”

The Sarina Koala Habitat Restoration Project is not only enhancing the local environment but also fostering a sense of community stewardship. For more information about the project, contact Sandy Whittington-Shaw at sandy.whittington@ reefcatchments.com.

26 Community Chat

PROPERTY POINT

Acan’t keep secrets either.

He works in the city and when he jumps in the car around 11.30am on a weekday, it announces: “The Austral Hotel is three minutes away.”

A bit forward, in my view. The car thinks it knows him pretty well and feels it can predict where he is going and what he’s likely to be up to. My friend would like to hear a bit less talk and a bit more keeping your thoughts to yourself, thank you.

But in the world of artificial intelligence and digital everything there are all sorts of traps and challenges.

I walked past a busker outside a shopping centre the other day and couldn’t toss him a coin because I don’t carry cash these days.

The business model of a busker has to have changed now that people like me tap their phones to pay for everything. Do buskers now need an Eftpos device? It’s not really the same.

We all face challenges of the modern world. Technology helps us, so it is important that we understand it and make the best use of it that we can.

That is definitely the case in real estate, where we now use drones for photos and digital sites and social media for a large portion of the advertising.

But I feel there is a general push for “back to basics” service.

There have been a couple of elections this year that I feel were decided by the “back to basics” demands of voters. First the Queensland State election and then the US election.

Rather than focusing on fringe issues and agendas identified by the woke brigade, voters were more interested in cost of living, the economy, the rule of law and feel-

ing safe. Bill Clinton summed it up years ago when he was running for president and said: “It’s the economy, stupid.”

When people went to vote this year they wanted candidates to show they were going to focus on them and the basic, important things that really affect their lives … not the peripheral stuff.

Those of us in business, and definitely in real estate, need to remember that among all the digital wizardry that is part of what we do, the basics still count.

Taking and returning phone calls, providing information that buyers and sellers need, being friendly and available no matter how busy and stressful our jobs can be.

The algorithms that help us target potential buyers for a property on social media are important and must be used. But they don’t replace the “back to basics” work that we need to do.

I recently advertised a property for sale in this magazine. It was slightly out of the Mackay suburban area so many potential buyers hadn’t gone on to the digital sites and searched under that particular suburb.

Those buyers saw the property in this magazine after flicking to the real estate section. It wasn’t in the suburbs they had been looking in on the digital sites. But they came across it in the magazine and it ticked the boxes in terms of size, features and still being close to town.

It was a great sale that relied on getting the basics right and making use of a bit of traditional advertising.

Speaking of tradition, I wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. This will be my final column for the year and I look forward to refreshing and being back on these pages next year.

Meanwhile I need to try to find a coin for the Christmas pudding … you definitely can’t do that with a digital scanner.

If you want to sell, give David a call on 0408 672 703

The Horizontal Season Is Upon Us

School is winding down, workloads are becoming lighter, and people are making fools of themselves at the Christmas party.

Christmas time for me is always a question of where am I now?

Flying home from wherever life has us at the time, whether it’s Canberra, Darwin or Mackay, I’m always flying home.

But, not this year. I’ll be driving down the beautiful coastline to Byron Bay, shout out to Mum and Dad for organising our family holiday.

It just goes to show, that even at 27, Mum and Dad are still sorting family getaways, so hang on for as long as you can kids.

Whether you’re staying in the Mackay/ Whitsunday region or heading away, be safe this Christmas, and enjoy the time with your friends, family, pets, or whoever you’re spending the time with.

2025 will soon be here, and it’s gonna be a fantastic year.

Star Mackay and the Whitsundays will be right there with ya.

Jake

Catch the STAR Breakfast Show - Rach and Jake - from 5am weekdays, Mornings with Scotty from 9am, Afternoons with Kaley from 1pm, your drive home with Will and Woody from 5-7pm and the Hour of Power with Kyle and Jackie-O from 7pm every weekday!

The team at Mackay and Whitsunday

extends our warmest

to Mr Paul O'Connor as he embarks on his well-deserved retirement.

Throughout his remarkable career in radio, Mr O'Connor has been a mentor and leader to the energetic teams at STAR and 4MK, shaping the region's media landscape and supporting the growth of count-

less young professionals. His commitment to excellence and passion for the industry have left a lasting legacy.

While we’ll miss seeing you in action, we hope retirement brings you ample time to enjoy with your family. Congratulations, Mr O'Connor, on a stellar career, and thank you for your invaluable contributions to our community!

Life

wishes

Paul O’Connor and Mayor Greg Williamson. Photo credit: Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce

Live music on Friday and Sundays

Ocean International Hotel - 1 Bridge Rd, Mackay (07) 4957 2044 | oceaninternational.com.au

EVENTGUIDE

FRIDAY 13TH DECEMBER

Crochet & Conversation

9am

Join a friendly group of Northern Beaches locals for crocheting, coffee, and conversation at Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade. Bring your own tools or borrow from the communal box. Everyone is welcome, whether crafting or just enjoying the vibe. Look for the yarn under the shade sails or inside, weather permitting!

Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade.

Ceramic Fish Workshop

10am Paint, construct and add your personal touch to these elements that will be featuring in the Placemaking Mky's Chinatown urban beautification project for the old petrol station in Nelson Street.

57 Wood St, Mackay

Mackay Show Xmas Mega Market

5pm

The 2024 Mackay Show Christmas MEGA Market is set to take place on December 13th at the Big Shed, Mackay Showgrounds. This event promises to be an enjoyable evening for the entire family! It begins at 5 PM, with a special visit from Santa at 6 PM Mackay Showgrounds

LIVE Music

6-9pm

Enjoy Nathan Kennedy LIVE at Ocean International – it’s a performance you won’t want to miss! Pizzas & tapas available on the deck! Call 4957 2044 to make your booking! Ocean International

SATURDAY 14TH

DECEMBER

Christmas Bake Sale

8am

Pop on down for some homemade goodies and Christmas treats

Portside Takeaway & Conveniance

Calligraphy Workshop With The Neighbourhood Hub

1pm

Learn the wonderful calligraphy art with local generational Mackay Chinese family, Lyla and Mark Shew. Learn why these prayer cards are made for the Chinese New Year and make your own, or contribute to the #PlacemakingMkyChinatown project leading into Chinese New Year + Spring & Lantern Festival for the 29th Jan - 12th Feb, 2025.

$10 p/p for materials @ Mackay Masonic Centre – please bring cash.

57 Wood St, Mackay

Pickleball Mackay Christmas Party

3pm

Pickleball Mackay invites everyone to a festive season celebration to mark an incredible year with its amazing pickleballers. Join in for an evening of fun, food, and, of course, plenty of dinking!

125 Kippen Street

Twilight Pinnacle Markets

4pm

Mighty Fungi AU welcomes you to a world of fresh, local goodness. Offering a variety of mushrooms, honey, and more, Mighty Fungi AU focuses on providing high-quality, locally sourced products.

37 Sapphire Ct, Mackay

SUNDAY 15TH DECEMBER

Live Music At The Pinnacle

11.30am-3pm

Enjoy live music from 11:30 am to 3 pm!

Indulge in delicious pies, crumbed steak, and in-house sweets for a perfect day out with great food and tunes.

Pinnace Family Hotel

Epoxy Resin Nibbles Set

2pm

Participants are invited to enjoy a relaxed afternoon of creativity while crafting a beautiful epoxy resin nibbles board and wine glass set. Creations will need at least

24 hours to cure, with collection details provided during the workshop. Hosted by Michelle, the session includes all art supplies—just bring yourself. Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks. Ages 16 and 17 must be accompanied by a participating adult, and the workshop is not suitable for those under 15. Seats are limited, and bookings are essential.

The Creative Art Studio by Michellemdv Designs

Al’s Rock & Roll

5-7pm

Enjoy dinner, a cold beer, and incredible rock and roll tunes by the talented Al at the Goosies…A perfect night of music, food, and fun awaits!

Goosies Sport and Recreation Club

Christmas Light Ride

6.30pm

Cycling enthusiasts are invited to a festive and social ride to light up the night in celebration of the season. Participants are encouraged to decorate their bikes and attire with tinsel, baubles, stars, and lights, with helmets being a mandatory part of the dressup. The ride will maintain an average pace of 23km/hr. An updated map of Mackay's festive lights will be shared in this post, so stay tuned!

Corry Cycles

TUESDAY 17TH

DECEMBER

MKY City Heart Collective Meeting

5.15pm

The Mackay Chinatown Project, set for January 2025, is calling for passionate individuals to get involved and transform the streetscapes of Mackay's CBD. Join a dynamic group of like-minded contributors eager to inspire change. With exciting activations, creative ideas, and bold plans on the horizon, the upcoming team meeting offers an opportunity to discuss and reimagine the city centre.

Moss On Wood

WEDNESDAY 18TH

DECEMBER

Mackay Farmers’ Market

6:30 – 10:30am Shop local at the Mackay Farmers' Market and enjoy a morning on the Pioneer River. Grab your reusable coffee cups, drink tumblers, water kefir bottles, produce and carry bags and stop in at the Mackay Farmers' Market every Wednesday. Bluewater Quay

Explore A Gym 9am

Bring your child along for a morning of FUN! Explore-A-Gym is a 2 hour play session that is designed to give your child the opportunity to learn and explore in a nonstructured environment. Suitable for ages 18 months to 5 years. Cost is $12/child 5 Snow Wright CRT, Beaconsfield. Mackay

THURSDAY 19TH

DECEMBER

Kids Xmas Watercolour 10am

This Christmas school holidays, kids 6+ and their guardians can join a fun workshop. Children can attend alone, or guardians may join in. The session includes a live demonstration, practice time, and guidance to create personalized A4 watercolour artworks (Festive Llama or Gingerbread House). It's a fun, group-friendly session with beginner-friendly instructions. Bring a water bottle; no snacks provided. Limited seats available, bookings essential. Shop 1, 3 Ungerer St , Mackay Riverside Markets 3pm-8pm

Come along and browse collections of unique and colourful creations crafted by local talents. Explore clothing, handmade cultural items and delicious food and drinks from local vendors by the river, every Thursday!

Bluewater Quay

Last Friday marked the final game of the Disability Bows Program, and while it was a bittersweet occasion, their smiles and cheerful spirits lit up the day.

Dressed in festive Christmas attire, the bowlers celebrated their last session alongside their cherished volunteer coach, Ann Putland. For years, the group gathered every Friday at 9am to enjoy a game of disability bowls, creating countless memories filled with joy, laughter, and camaraderie on the green.

The lively group of bowlers are now searching for a new lawn to continue their games and warmly welcome any offers or recommendations.

Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Cutters Look To Turn The Tide In 2025

The QCCS Mackay Cutters are focused on a strong start to the 2025 Hostplus Cup season, eager to avoid the setbacks that plagued them last year. Losing early matches in 2024 left the team struggling to gain momentum, but with a renewed squad and strategic leadership, hopes are high for a resurgence.

Central to the club’s aspirations is the appointment of Adam Cuthbertson as head coach. A veteran of more than 300 games in the NRL and Super League, Cuthbertson brings extensive experience to the role, having coached successfully in the UK with Leeds Rhinos and Featherstone Rovers before returning to Australia. Over the past two years, he has served as Football Operations Coordinator for the Cutters, setting high standards for the playing group and establishing himself as a key figure in the organisation.

Cuthbertson’s coaching philosophy is influenced by top mentors such as Wayne Bennett, Des Hasler, and Brian McDermott, and he is committed to aligning the men’s and women’s pathways at the club.

“The Mackay region has a proud rugby

league history, known for producing great talent and having a strong connection to the sport,” Cuthbertson said.

“My goal is to build on that legacy by developing a squad that competes at the highest level and reflects the values and spirit of our community. I’m committed to leading a program that will make our region proud and set the bar for excellence and dedication.”

Club CEO Dave Roberts expressed confidence in Cuthbertson’s leadership.

“Adam’s experience as a player and coach, combined with his dedication to the Cutters over the past two seasons, makes him the perfect fit to lead our team forward and oversee the club’s entire football program.

“We are confident that under his leadership, the Cutters will continue to grow and achieve new heights.”

Adding to the optimism is the signing of 21-year-old front-rower Sheldon Diaz from New Zealand. Diaz, who played with the Melbourne Storm Academy and their NSWRL Jersey Flegg Squad, is expected to bring fresh energy and skill to the forward pack.

RUGBY LEAGUE

The 2025 Hostplus Cup season begins with seven games scheduled for March 8-9, including the Cutters’ opening clash against the PNG Hunters, a team that reached the preliminary finals last year.

HOSTPLUS CUP ROUND 1

Saturday, March 8:

Ipswich Jets v Townsville Blackhawks @ North Ipswich Reserve, 4pm

Mackay Cutters v PNG Hunters @ BB Print Stadium, 5pm

Burleigh Bears v Central Queensland Capras @ UAA Park, 5pm

Tweed Seagulls v Wynnum Manly Seagulls @ Piggabeen Sports Complex, 5pm

Northern Pride v Brisbane Tigers @ Barlow Park, 5.30pm

Souths Logan Magpies v Western Clydesdales @ Marsden State High School, 6pm

Sunday, March 9:

Norths Devils v Redcliffe Dolphins @ Bishop Park, 2.10pm

North Mackay Sinkers Launch 13-Month Membership For 2025

SWIMMING

The North Mackay Sinkers are offering a special 13-month membership for 2025, giving new members the opportunity to join in December and enjoy a club dedicated to helping swimmers achieve their fitness goals in a supportive and enjoyable environment.

Members will receive free entry into the club’s new and returning member raffle, which features a prize valued at over $100. Financial members will also enjoy complimentary access to Wednesday club sessions, providing significant savings. New and returning members will be welcomed with a free swim cap upon signing up.

For those looking to take their swimming to the next level, the membership includes exclusive access to state, national, and in-

ternational events specifically designed for Masters swimmers. Members can also participate in unique programs like the Vorgee e1000, Million Meters, and Lane Warrior activities, which keep swimmers motivated and engaged throughout the year.

The club provides early and guaranteed entry to its major events, including the February Short Course meet, the Balnagowan Open Water Swim, and the highly anticipated signature event at Whitehaven Beach in October. In 2025, an exciting new event is also set to be introduced, adding to the club’s dynamic calendar.

In addition to swimming, the club fosters a strong sense of community with an active social program. Activities like the Saturday

“Jim Session” are a particular highlight, blending pool training with opportunities for members to relax and connect. A recent session featured a Secret Santa event, bringing laughter and fun to an already vibrant morning.

The North Mackay Sinkers also cater to non-swimmers or those unable to participate in swimming activities by offering a “dry” membership for just $20. This option allows individuals to take part in nonswim activities, including volunteering, social events, and committee or executive roles, ensuring everyone can be part of the club’s inclusive and welcoming environment.

Training sessions are held three times a week, including “Millie Monday” at the

Memorial Pool at 5:15 pm, “Whiteboard Wednesday” at North Mackay State High School Pool at 5:15 pm, and the popular Saturday “Jim Session” at the Memorial Pool from 8:00 to 9:00 am, followed by treats and refreshments.

With the last swim of the year scheduled for Saturday, December 21, and the first 2025 session kicking off on January 4, the club invites anyone interested to join a supportive and progressive group that’s committed to helping members reach their swimming and fitness goals in a fun and inclusive way.

For further information visit www.facebook.com/NthMackaySinkers

Contributed by Dan Stampa

Paul’s gift was a good book but not on waterproof paper

Pierre swims hard enough to enjoy some post swim calories

Tania was happy to select the swim googles from the presents, but 3 “Thieving” Santas made sure possession changed hands

The Saturday session drew some 16 swimmers who enjoyed music by Elena later in the session as the popular Mackay Aqua Fitness drew a large crowd and kicked on. Photos supplied.

MACKAY CYCLONES TO MAKE WAVES AT STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS

SWIMMING

It’s not long now until Queensland’s fastest swimmers battle it out at the 2024 Hancock Prospecting Queensland Championships! Mackay Cyclones have 11 swimmers attending over the next week from the 14-20 December. This also marks the first time eligible to attend, due to age, for two of the team’s younger 12-year-old swimmers, Dakota and Tamika.

COMPETITORS:

Audrey Bryan - Audrey will be competing in 7 events: 50 Freestyle, 100 Freestyle, 50

Breaststroke, 100 Breaststroke, 200 Breaststroke, 50 Butterfly and 50 Backstroke  Ariah Corrigan - Ariah has 2 events: 100 Breaststroke and 200 Breastroke.

Maverick Curtis - Maverick will be competing in the 13 years 50 Freestyle.

Dakota Daniels - Dakota has a big list, consisting of 9 individual swims in her 12 years age group: 200 Freestyle, 100 Butterfly, 100 Freestyle, 50 Butterfly, 400 Individual Medley, 200 Individual Medley, 50 Freestyle, 200 Butterfly and 400 Freestyle.

Anisa Helou - Anisa will compete in all 4,

50-meter events in the 15 years age group:  50 Freestyle, 50 Butterfly, 50 Breaststroke and 50 Backstroke.

Ehsan Helou - Ehsan has 7 events over the week: 100 Freestyle, 50 Freestyle, 200 Breaststroke, 50 Breaststroke, 100 Breaststroke, 50 Backstroke and 50 Butterfly.

Ava Kearns - Ava also has 7 events over the week: 200 Individual Medley, 50 Freestyle, 50 Backstroke, 50 Breaststroke, 100 Butterfly, 100 Freestyle and 50 Butterfly.

Tamika Ness - Tamika also has a whopping 10 events in the girls 12 years: 200 Breaststroke, 100 Butterfly, 100 Freestyle,

100 Breaststroke, 400 Individual Medley, 200 Individual Medley, 50 Backstroke, 50 Butterfly, 50 Breaststroke, and 100 Backstroke.

Zanthia Noon - Zanthia has 3 events in the 17 years age group: 50 Backstroke, 50 Breaststroke and 50 Butterfly.

Jarek Taylor - Jarek will be competing in 6 events: 200 Backstroke, 50 Freestyle, 100 Backstroke, 100 Freestyle, 50 Backstroke and 50 Butterfly.

Vaughn Wyatt - Vaughn will be competing in 2 events: 100 Breaststroke and 200 Breaststroke.

Eleven Mackay Cyclones swimmers, including first-time competitors Dakota and Tamika, are set to compete in multiple events at the 2024 Hancock Prospecting Queensland Championships from December 14-20. Photos supplied

CHARITY, CRAFT, AND COMMUNITY SPIRIT WITH THE MARIAN BOWLS LADIES

BOWLS

On Wednesday 27 November the Marian Ladies Bowls Club brought along their Share the Dignity Bags for the year, with a total of 20 bags to be given to charity. The Marian Ladies have been doing this for the last six years to “help those who are needing help.”

The ladies are now crocheting and knitting squares to create small blankets, which will be donated to aged care homes for wheelchair users during chilly days.

They have officially finished bowls for the year and are not playing again until around February next year, depending on the weather in early 2025. Contributed by Lyn Jackson

MACKAY TABLE TENNIS TUESDAY NIGHT FIXTURES DECEMBER 3, 2024:

Division 1:

Azalea (Mark Sleeman, Barry Patterson, Janice Kent) d Barra (Anne Sheridan, Lee Brake, Trent Day) 6-5. Slee d Trent -6, -6, 6, 8, 11.

Andro (Allan Edwards, Emma Widdup, Graeme Walker) d Aqua (Neil Brown, Geoff Denman, Ian McKay) 8-3. Emma d Neil -9, 6, 4, 3.

Alfa (Vince Boeske, Goncalo Serra, Tony Bowman) d Corgi (Robbie Richards, Lily Boland, Will VanDeKaa) 7-4. Vince d Will -9, 4, -3, 2, 8.

TABLE TENNIS

Division 2:

Cockatoos (Craig VanDeKaa, Jye Callander, Matt West) d Cheetahs (Simon Hogan, Rymer Tabulo, Val Austin) 6-5. Simon/Ryber d Jye/Craig 12, -6, 11, -8, 7.

Cats (Tiffany Camilleri, George Camilleri, YiLin Jiang) d Bulldog (Delma Knight, Peter Goodson, David Symons) 6-5. Delma/Peter d Tiffany/George 10, 7, -4, -6, 10.

Ants (Daniel Warfield, Andrea Nicholson, Mark Stam) d Canaries (Leo Gilbert, Kade Wright, Duncan Treloar) 6-5. Andrea d Duncan 6, -9, 8, -17, 9.

Andrea Nicholson had a close battle against Duncan Treloar, with one set going to 19. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

A Fours Winners Betty Matson, Annette Hansen, Sandra Zarb and Helen Pietzner with President Thelma Johnston. Photos supplied

Marian Ladies Bowls Club with the Share the Dignity bags they will donate to charity

A Pairs Winners Judith Miller and Lyn Jackson with President Thelma Johnston

A Triples Winners Sue Austin, Judith Miller and Lyn Jackson with President Thelma Johnston

A Singles Winner Laurel Morrow, pictured with President Thelma Johnston

Mackay Contract Bridge Club

MACKAY REGIONAL COUNCIL - ADOPTION OF PSP ADMINISTRATIVE AMENDMENT 2, MINOR AMENDMENT 6 AND ADMINISTRATIVE AMENDMENT 9 TO THE MACKAY REGION PLANNING SCHEME

Notice is given in accordance with the Planning Act 2016 that Mackay Regional Council resolved to adopt:

• Planning scheme policy (PSP) administrative amendment 2 on November 27, 2024, and

• Minor amendment 6 and Administrative amendment 9 on December 11, 2024.

These amendments will commence on December 13, 2024.

The amendments from Minor amendment 6 and Administrative amendment 9 will form version 4.1 of the Mackay Region Planning Scheme.

The purpose and general effect of PSP administrative amendment 2 is to make administrative changes to PSP

– Stormwater drainage design and PSP – Landscape, to align terminology used in these PSPs with the Land Act 1994 and Land Title Act 1994.

The purpose and general effect of Minor amendment 6 is to:

• incorporate flood hazard mapping from the adopted McCreadys Creek Flood Study into the Flood and coastal hazards overlay map, and

• change zones of certain properties to reflect approved development.

The purpose and general effect of Administrative amendment 9 is to:

• update land use definitions and administrative terms as per the Planning Regulation 2017,

• include reference to the Mackay State Development Area as an “other plan” in Part 10,

• update the list of variation approvals in Schedule 4 as per section 89 of the Planning Act 2016, and

• remove redundant references and update legislative references.

From December 13, 2024, PSP – Stormwater drainage design, PSP – Landscape and version 4.1 of the Mackay Region Planning Scheme:

a. will be available for inspection or purchase at Council’s Customer Service Centre at 73 Gordon Street, Mackay; and

b. can be viewed online and downloaded online at www. mackay.qld.gov.au/planningschemes.

Celebrating the 70th Year Wedding Anniversary

For more information contact Council’s Strategic Planning Program on 1300 622 529 or email strategic.planning@ mackay.qld.gov.au.

Janice Joymarie Flack

31 December, 1996 - 30 November, 2024

Friends and Family are advised that Janice's Funeral Service was held on Thursday the 12th December, 2024, at Whitsunday Funerals Chapel, 55 West Street, Bowen. Followed by Interment at Bowen Cemetery.

IN LOVING MEMORY OF

15 July, 1936 - 23 November, 2024

LOVING MEMORY OF

11 November, 1935 - 5 December, 2024

Friends and Family are welcome to attend Elaine's Funeral Service to be held on Tuesday the 17th December, 2024, at Whitsunday Funerals Chapel, 55 West Street, Bowen. Commencing at 11:00am. Followed by Interment at Bowen Cemetery.

Meet Our New Owners

Simon & Kayleen come from the small coastal town of Ulladulla on the NSW South Coast where they have raised their 2 children. Bailey now in Townsville as he is studying Marine Science & Phoebe finishing her last year of high school.

They boast over 50 years of experience in the funeral industry, 20 years of owning Milton Ulladulla Funeral Services which they purchased from Simon’s parents. They strive for exception funeral service standards, where everyone is treated like their own family. Family Owned, Family Operated, Family Values.

They are community minded with Simon a board member of the Ulladulla Exservos club, 20 plus years in the State Emergency Service, Life Member of the Milton Ulladulla Football (Soccer) Club, whilst Kayleen is part of the horsing community giving back to our youth at pony club, local and afar to name a few.

Simon & Kayleen are excited about the challenges ahead here in Mackay & Whitsundays and look forward to working with the amazing team at Whitsunday Funerals, helping these communities celebrate the lives of those we love.

PROVIDING COMPASSIONATE FUNERAL SERVICES FOR YOUR LOVED ONES.

BOWEN

55 WEST ST (07)4786 1015

bowen@wfcs.com.au

87 MAIN ST (07)4945 3448

proserpine@wfcs.com.au

MACKAY

209 SHAKESPEARE ST (07)4953 3733

mackay@wfcs.com.au

of North Mackay

Beloved Wife of William (dec) Dearly beloved Mother and Mother – in – law of Ida & Reg, John & Lynda. Adored Grandmother and Great Grandmother of their respected families. Loved Sister and Sister – in – Law of Cole and Chivers Families.

Friends and Family are welcome to attend Catherine's Funeral Service to be held on Friday the 13th December, 2024, at Whitsunday Funerals Chapel, 209 Shakespeare Street, Mackay. Commencing at 10:00am.

By Negotiation

with

2 MACKENZIE STREET, WEST MACKAY 223

Charming Renovated Cottage in Picturesque West Mackay

Nestled on a prestigious street in sought-after West Mackay, this beautifully renovated cottage seamlessly combines timeless character with modern convenience. Set on a lowmaintenance 708m² block, the home boasts polished timber floors, an open-plan living and dining area, and a modern kitchen complete with designer appliances and ample storage.

The main bedroom includes a walk-in robe and ensuite. Air conditioning throughout ensures year-round comfort, while a versatile multipurpose room adds to the home’s appeal. Perfect for entertaining, the property features a spacious timber deck and immaculately landscaped gardens. Additional highlights include a fully fenced yard, a generous 8m x 6.5m open shed, and manicured hedges that enhance its street appeal. Offering a serene yet connected lifestyle, this property presents a unique opportunity to enjoy the charm of cottage living with all the modern amenities you could desire.

7 BRAKE STREET, NORTH MACKAY

SAT 10:15AM – 10:45AM 214

Fully Renovated Home with City Views

Located in the ideal suburb of North Mackay, this property has been impeccably revitalised into a quality home with many prestigious finishes. The neutral colour palette throughout the home allows the buyers to simply add their furniture and truly make this one their own.

Another one sold by Ben, Mick and Ryan in the suburb of Richmond

The stunning home features a stylish bathroom, modern kitchen with an abundance of storage, vinyl planking, air conditioning throughout, a front deck with stunning views of the Mackay city and ocean views, an outdoor deck for all entertainers and beautifully manicured gardens.

Ben Kerrisk

McLeod 0407 514 983 0408 777 971

Patton 0435 825 323

By Negotiation

Kerrisk

McLeod 0407 514 983 0408 777 971 Ryan Patton 0435 825 323

Designer Living in

Richmond

Situated in the prestigious Sugar View Estate, 7 Audrey Circuit in Richmond combines modern style with family functionality. Built by renowned local builder Fergus, this home features premium finishes and a designer kitchen with stone benchtops, a gas cooktop, integrated fridge, and a walk-in pantry with garage access.

The master bedroom includes a walk-in robe and ensuite with dual vanities, while a separate wing houses three air-conditioned bedrooms with built-in robes, serviced by a stylish bathroom.

Outdoor features include a tiled entertainment area, lowmaintenance lawn, a powered 1-bay shed, and a fenced allotment with an electric gate and side access. Additional highlights include a 2-bay garage, extensive storage, full air conditioning, and security cameras.

Close to town and surrounded by quality homes, this property offers the best of designer family living.

By Negotiation

MERRY Christmas

To our valued people, and those we’ve yet to meet we wish you a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year!

Our offices will be closed from midday Friday 20th December and will reopen at 8:30am on Thursday 2nd January 2025

7 AUDREY CIRCUIT, RICHMOND 324