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Council Saves Sarina Residents Bucket Loads
Using innovative techniques and their world-class expertise, Mackay Regional Council’s Water Treatment team has saved ratepayers about $1 million in capital replacement costs. Major upgrades have recently been completed at the Sarina Water Recycling Facility, which processes sewerage for the Sarina area.
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The works at the facility involved a ‘slack adjustment’ on the membranes which filter recycled water and ensure it is of high quality for agricultural use or release back into the environment.
A slack adjustment refers to the tension under which the membranes, which filter the water, are held at. When the membranes are not held at the correct tension, they fail to filter harmful bacteria and suspended solids. Mayor Greg Williamson said the project highlighted the great teamwork within the department and the level of technical expertise we have both at council and in the Mackay region. “In general, the expected life of the membrane is seven years, but the ones at Sarina Water Recycling Facility are eight years old and we are looking at getting close to 15 years based on their condition,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Membranes are very expensive, close to $1 million to replace, so to get double the life expectancy and save those costs is a credit to our treatment team and highlights the care and attention the team gives to maintaining our assets,” he said. Mayor Williamson said it was essential that this project was undertaken to continue to provide the best outcome for our water recycling scheme and to future-proof it for the growing population of our region. “The project took place over only a week but took months of planning as it was a huge team effort between contractors, council’s own maintenance operations teams and our environmental and laboratory staff,” Mayor Williamson said.
“The slack adjustment overhaul was a technically challenging and labour-intensive process,” he said. “However, it was done by our own operators and engineers, with the assistance of contractors, and was planned and completed on time and within budget.” The project involved high risk activities with exposure to raw sewerage, working at heights and overhead loads. This marks the third major project completed this year by council’s water team. Over the past twelve months the team has completed the repair of the Southern Rising Main on Paradise Street and major maintenance upgrades of both the Mackay South Water Recycling Facility (MSWRF) and more recently the Mackay North Sewerage Treatment Plant.
Cowboys player Reuben Cotter, Mackenzie Falco and baby Sunny
North Queensland Cowboys player Reuben Cotter has spent his first Father’s Day with daughter Sunny, who gifted him a personalised book for them to one day read together. Cotter, 23, said his three-month-old had given him and partner Mackenzie Falco “so much love and happiness” since her arrival on June 11, at Mater Mothers’ Private Townsville.
“I don’t remember what things were like without her,” Cotter said. “Fatherhood has been exciting and challenging at times, but I wouldn’t change it for the world.”
Cotter cried “tears of joy” following the birth of his baby girl, just three days after making his Maroons debut earlier this year. He said he loved watching Sunny play with her toys and swinging on her play swing, laying outside and pulling funny faces at each other. After sustaining a hamstring injury and recently undergoing eight weeks of rehabilitation, Cotter said he was able to spend every day with his precious daughter. “That was the silver lining,” he said. “Looking back now I think it was important I was able to see her grow over the first eight weeks of her life.” Falco said watching Reuben become a dad was always going to be her favourite part of the parenthood journey. “Sunny is the luckiest little lady in the world to have a dad like him – he would do absolutely anything for her,” Falco said. The family of three went out to breakfast on Sunday morning to celebrate Father’s Day. Mater Mothers’ Private Townsville Business and Midwifery Unit Manager Rebekah Barrie said it was exciting to hear how the hospital’s first-time dads were celebrating such a special day together with their loved ones.
Cowboys star Reuben Cotter with baby Sunny Staff work on the membranes as part of the slack adjustment works at the Sarina Water Recycling Facility
Opening hours: Monday to Friday 8:30am to 6pm Sat 8:30am-2pm | Sunday 9am to 1pm
TO BOOK, GO TO
www.terrywhitechemmart.com.au
Services Help Farmers Keep Track Of Fall Armyworm
Growers dealing with fall armyworm (FAW) can now access the latest online resources using the new FAW engagement eHub, which features information on pest management, moth activities and research results.
Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said since the exotic plant pest arrived in far north Australia in early 2020 it had spread across much of the south, west and east of the country. “As part of providing better services to industry, the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries is leading research and extension through Queensland Government and Hort Innovation-funded projects to co-develop an integrated FAW management strategy,” Mr Furner said. “This involves field surveys and monitoring, control strategies, new techniques, compiling a literature review, and an economic risk analysis for horticultural crops in Australia.
“We have developed the eHub to share the outcomes of this work, including regular video and results updates from demonstration sites, event information, moth activities, insecticide resistance results, and to allow growers to engage in discussion.” For all your fall armyworm information, visit https://daf.engagementhub.com.au/ fallarmyworm. Fall armyworm is a tropical migratory pest and is expected to be present year-round in warmer areas, and for part of the year in temperate zones. In Australia, FAW has been mainly attracted to grass species with whorls, including sweet corn.
Fall armyworm on sweet corn
Weekly production figures Weekly production figures Wilmar Sugar Plane Creek Mill Wilmar SugarWeek 12, Week ending 03 September 2022
Week 1 Plane Creek Mill 2, Week ending 03 September 2022 This week Season to date Cane crushed 61,834 559,497 Average bin weight CCS This week3.95 13.66 Season to date 3.89 12.66 Cane crushed 61,834 Cane variety performance for region 559,497 Average bin weight Variety % CCS 3.95Variety %3.89CCS CCS Q208 32.0 13.6613.93 SRA9 12.665.9 13.21 Q183 21.9 13.54 KQ228 4.8 13.81 Q240 9.1 14.00 SP80 3.5 13.55 Cane variety performance for region Q253 8.2 13.51 Q138 1.6 12.85
Variety % CCS Variety % CCS
Q208 32.0 13.93Comments: SRA9 5.9 13.21
Q183 21.9 13.54 KQ228 4.8Plane Creek Mill passed the half a million tonnes 13.81
Q240 9.1 14.00 crushed milestone SP80 on Sunday morning. 3.5 13.55
Q253 8.2 13.51 Q138 1.6 12.85Just under 62,000 tonnes of cane was processed for the week, bringing the season total to nearly 560,000 Comments:tonnes. Overnight rain on Friday had a significant impact on harvesting operations. As a result, crushing was brought to a halt early Saturday afternoon. A reduced number of harvesting groups supplied cane on Saturday allowing crushing operations to resume on Sunday morning. During the wet weather stop, crews took the opportunity to conduct a chemical clean. The weekly CCS levels edged marginally higher by 0.1 of a unit taking the season-to-date CCS to 12.66 units. The highest CCS was 16.25 units from a rake of Q208 3rd ratoon from the Dawlish productivity district.
Comments:
Plane Creek Mill passed the half a million tonnes crushed mile-Plane Creek Mill passed the half a million tonnes stone on Sunday morning. crushed milestone on Sunday morning.
Just under 62,000 tonnes of cane was processed for the week, bringing the season total to nearly 560,000 tonnes. Just under 62,000 tonnes of cane was processed for Overnight rain on Friday had a significant impact on harvesting op-the week, bringing the season total to nearly 560,000 erations. As a result, crushing was brought to a halt early Saturday tonnes. afternoon. A reduced number of harvesting groups supplied cane on Saturday Overnight rain on Friday had a significant impact on allowing crushing operations to resume on Sunday morning. harvesting operations. As a result, crushing was During the wet weather stop, crews took the opportunity to conduct brought to a halt early Saturday afternoon. a chemical clean. The weekly CCS levels edged marginally higher by 0.1 of a unit A reduced number of harvesting groups supplied cane taking the season-to-date CCS to 12.66 units. on Saturday allowing crushing operations to resume on The highest CCS was 16.25 units from a rake of Q208 3rd ratoon Sunday morning.Jim Kirchner Cane Supply Manager from the Dawlish productivity district. Plane Creek Region Jim Kirchner Cane Supply Manager During the wet weather stop, crews took the opportunity to conduct a chemical clean.
Plane Creek Region
Jim Kirchner Focused on increasing yourCane Supply Manager production and profitabilityPlane Creek Region
Independent agronomic support for all your Cane, Cropping, or Livestock needs
Hello From Zonta Mackay!
As a member of the Zonta Club, I am delighted to let Mackay & Whitsunday Life readers know about our activities and events each month. But first, I would like to address some of our most frequently asked questions…
What is Zonta?
Maybe you have attended our International Women’s Day Luncheon, or you have noticed some of the ‘Orange Lady’ figures around town. Perhaps you haven’t heard of Zonta at all – you are not alone. The Zonta Club of Mackay is a not-forprofit group comprised of local women, who are passionate about addressing women’s issues, both in our community and worldwide. Since the Mackay club was chartered in 1992, our members have volunteered their time to address education, health and economic needs in the Mackay region. This year, we are excited to celebrate our 30th birthday. Our club is one of 1,200 Zonta clubs globally. The first Zonta club was formed in Buffalo, New York in 1919. ‘Zonta’ is a derivative of the North American Sioux Indian word, meaning ‘honest and trustworthy’.
What does Zonta do?
Locally, some of our activities include: • Service projects, such as assembling birthing kits for developing countries and sewing breast cushions for patients in the post-operative stage of surgery; • Raising awareness of important issues, such as the Zonta Says No to Domestic Violence campaign; • Collecting donations for vulnerable
women in our community, including expectant mothers in need; • Fundraising activities, such as the annual International Women’s Day event, sausage sizzles, raffles and cent sales; • Fostering leadership skills and community involvement in high school and university students via Z Clubs, scholarships and awards; and • Encouraging connections within our local community through networking and social events, in partnership with
Mackay Women. We also have the following event coming up, and we would love for you to be involved.
Zonta Monthly Dinner Meeting Event Details
• Date: Tuesday, 20 September (Third
Tuesday of each month) • Time: From 5:30pm • Location: Ocean International, Mackay We welcome guests at our meetings – if you are interested in attending, please contact us as soon as possible for catering purposes. Karlee Box Zonta Club Board Member
CLUB OF MACKAY INC
You Should Have A Hobby
Just recently we were talking about hobbies on Star Breakfast, and the more I thought about it, having a hobby makes you more interesting, gives you an escape from work… and home if you need it. It’s never too late to get a hobby, or, add a new one.
Paddling a kayak is one I only discovered in 2007 after friends took me out for a paddle down Cattle Creek at the tail end of wet season. It’s a great one to have because we have a few hidden creeks where you can sit in and paddle for hours, and see Platypus, but there’s nobody around. Get a cheap camera, there’s another great one. Photography costs you a camera at the start, but then with digital photography you can take thousands of images for practically no cost, other than driving to a location like Cape Hillsborough. Cheap hobbies are good. Expensive ones are better, and more fun though. Unfortunately, along with astronomy and astrophotography, which require equipment, which is expensive, every little bit, expensive; I’ve managed to stumble into home brewing in the last few years. Initially just dipping the toe in the water, or beer, with home brewing isn’t too bad. But then like with every hobby, you want more, you want better. Hobbies start with basic gear and before you know it your 5-bedroom home is a 4-bedroom home.
My home brew hobby is a cracker though, when you can have a beer as good as anything from the shops, made yourself on your back deck, it’s a real treat. It started with a 35L plastic bucket, but it’s now graduated to my own micro-brewery with 3 kegs of home brew chilled and poured from 2 beer taps on my own kegerator. Weekends are great. Over the last 12 months though, twice I’ve been given giant Lego projects as a present from my wife and kids, one was the International Space Station, which was 2-3 feet long, and the other a NASA rocket about nearly 1 metre tall. Not being a collector of Lego or a builder, the only thing I can take from these gifts is that my family don’t like me much and want me to leave them alone for several hours at a time.
If I receive a Millennium Falcon at Christmas or a giant Hogwarts, then I’ll know this to be true.
Scotty
You can join Scotty & Rach from 5am weekday mornings on Star 101.9 Mackay and 90.7 in Airlie Beach
Your Council Libraries Deliver More Than Books
Gone are the days when libraries were silent, dusty places, with rather stern looking women shushing even the slightest noise. Modern libraries are busy and vibrant centres for knowledge and community. This is certainly the case with our local council libraries. Our libraries deliver more than books. Our library spaces are increasingly being used for activities over and above collection use and study. Why not try these different, unique activities during September at our libraries (head to mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries for venues and dates)? • Participate in our adult therapeutic colouring in sessions to colour away your stress, or just relax in our Relaxation
Corner • Learn to play the bass guitar (no experience required and instruments are provided for ages eight and above) • Learn techniques that can help explore calmness and mindfulness at our
Breathing and Meditation classes • Enjoy craft? Come along to create and chatter with our likeminded and imaginative craft group. Library members can also enjoy unlimited access to thousands of online art and craft classes.
Watch classes anytime, anywhere. Since classes never expire, you can start and stop projects at your own pace • Interested in joining a book club? We have several book clubs available to members across the region • Home Library Membership (offered to residents or carers unable to visit the library). Items are selected by library staff and delivered by staff and library volunteers • Mackay Regional Council Libraries have developed all-abilities programs that provide opportunities to meet other community members in friendly and fun environments. September school holidays are fast approaching. Our school holiday programs are specifically designed for children aged five to 12 years and young adults aged 12 to 18 years. Programs include: • Shadow Puppet Workshops (discover, investigate, design, and create this traditional, theatrical form of entertainment • Write With Kat (aimed at young adults,
Grade 7 to Grade 12, these workshops provide an opportunity to encourage young people to embrace their writing creativity) • Sensational Spring Sand Art (create colourful sand art designs inspired by spring, the season of colour, joy and growth) • Movie Matinee - Turning Red (join us for an afternoon movie and popcorn)
Rating: PG. All these activities (and more), along with print and digital collections, are free to our library members. Our amazing, friendly and knowledgeable staff will be thrilled to meet you and discuss the services we provide.
First Look At The Pioneer Valley Mountain Bike Trailhead Design
A concept design of the Finch Hatton Trailhead showing shelters and picnic tables. Images supplied: Mackay Regional Council
The final design for the Finch Hatton Trailhead has been unveiled and it is packed with features you would expect from a world-class trail network. Mayor Greg Williamson said council went the extra mile and conducted extensive community consultation with the Pioneer Valley community and industry experts. “We needed to ensure the design met the needs of both the local community and visiting mountain bikers,” Mayor Williamson said.
“This trailhead site will be a place where you start and finish your mountain bike adventure and enjoy a family day out,” he said.
“There’s a pump track suitable for all ages and riding abilities, plenty of picnic shelters, amenities and some local historical features.
“The historic features include the bin shop where cane trains were repaired and the old Cattle Creek Mill Administration building, which has been restored back to its former glory. “This building will likely be used for tourism information and events.
“The area will be nicely landscaped, offer plenty of parking and feature footpaths and connections to the mountain bike trails and the township.” The Mayor said community consultation had also lead to the inclusion of a landscaped buffer zone between the local residential properties and the trailhead site. The design has been included in a development application that will now be considered by council and the State Government over the coming months. Council will hold another community update session before the end of the year. Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said the State Government had invested $500,000 in the Pioneer Valley Mountain Bike Network.
“The State Government’s $500,000 investment in trail design elements delivers on an election commitment and brings this wonderful project a step closer,” Ms Gilbert said.
“I want to thank Mackay Regional Council for its dedication to this project that will put the region on the world map for mountain biking,” she said. “The Finch Hatton Trailhead will enhance Queensland’s great lifestyle and help to create more secure jobs for the region’s visitor economy.
To stay up to date on this project, please subscribe to project update emails at connectingmackay.com.au/mountain-biketrails
The Queensland Government have contributed towards design elements of the project, including the detailed design of the trailhead and environmental assessments.
A concept design of the Finch Hatton Trailhead
Catch & Snap Fishing Competition Launched
It’s time to dust off those rods and reels – Mackay Isaac’s Lucky Catch & Snap competition launched last Saturday on September 3. Over 30 days through September and October, Mackay Isaac Tourism is proud to host the inaugural family-friendly fishing event which is set to be one of the most innovative in Australia.
Mackay Isaac Tourism Interim Chief Executive Officer Tash Wheeler said after years of analysing the region’s fishing strategy, Mackay Isaac’s Lucky Catch and Snap was an opportunity that was not to be missed.
“Our long-term vision is to build community pride, gain feedback and grow as a destination event that will attract visitors from right around the country over the coming years,” she said. Mackay Isaac’s Lucky Catch ad Snap organisers are anticipating that the annual fishing event competition will deliver and pump millions of visitor dollars in the Mackay Isaac region economy. Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said fishing competitions like this really enhanced the visitor experience and help to build repeat visitation year after year. “This is a really innovative initiative that we think will take visiting families’ holidays to the next level,” Mayor Williamson said. “We can see that the competition will create quite a buzz – you can imagine that there will be plenty of banter and friendly rivalry at our coastal tourism parks as families vie to catch different species and get their entries in,” he said. Winning this catch and release photo competition will be a game of chance. Everyday prizes will be picked based on the type of fish caught, where it was caught and how big it was. With daily cash prizes, merchandise, and prize packs (potentially a large cash jackpot at the end of the 30 days) it promises to be a fishing event like no other.
EVENTGUIDE
Light up the Lake for Suicide Prevention
Pancakes And Play In The Park ERTH’S Prehistoric World Tour
Rock Paper Scissors Art and Design Markets Nathan “Whippy” Griggs
Jazz in the Park
FRIDAY 9 SEPTEMBER
Lifeline Mackay $2 Clothing & Book Sale Friday, 9:00am to Saturday, 2:00pm
Lose yourself in the tables upon tables of pre-loved books, DVDs and clothes, all for just $2 apiece. With men’s, women’s and children’s clothes on offer, you can refresh the whole family’s wardrobe and maybe start your Christmas shopping early. Plus, it’s all for a great cause – funds raised go towards the 13 11 14 Lifeline Crisis Support Line. By purchasing books and clothes you are helping to save lives.
23 Creek St, North Mackay Friday Jazz @ the Con Friday, 6:00pm to 7:30pm
CQCM Music Staff present Friday Jazz @the Con featuring singer and multiinstrumentalist Aaron West alongside music staff Dr David Reaston (Guitar), Dr Peter McKenzie (Saxophone) & Jason SmythTomkins (Drums). Tickets available at the door or at https://cqcm.sales.ticketsearch.com/ sales.
Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music
Friday SUN.sets Every Friday Evening From 6pm
Knock off drinks, lakeside dinner, good friends, and LIVE MUSIC.
Wake House Australia
DBCT Kids’ Theatre Season 2022 presents ERTH’S Prehistoric World Tour Friday, 6:00pm and Saturday, 9:30am and 12:30pm
Bringing ancient creatures from land and sea together in one show, Erth’s Prehistoric World is the perfect combination of theatrical magic and charm. It takes the audience to the bottom of the ocean to discover ancient bioluminescent creatures and incredible marine reptiles, and then back to dry land to witness some of the most amazing dinosaurs to have ever walked this Earth.
MECC
Nathan “Whippy” Griggs Friday, 7:00pm
Aussie banter whip cracking show from a Guinness world record holder. Free entry, all welcome, fun atmosphere, merchandise available, bar, food and Nathan passes his hat for a crust.
Melaleuca Golf Course Adam Harvey & Beccy Cole - ‘The Great Country Songbook Volume III’ Tour Friday, 7:00pm
Adam and Beccy have taken their favourite list of country duets to the studio and fans across the country are set to benefit when they hit the road this year with ‘The Great Country Song Book Volume III Tour.’ Together they have brought back some of the most famous country combinations of all time; classic duets recorded by Johnny Cash and June Carter, George Jones and Tammy Wynette, Conway Twitty and Loretta Lyn and Kenny Rogers and his many duet partners…including Dolly Parton of course! Australia’s most entertaining duo will be onstage for two unforgettable hours as they bring you their versions of the greats, delivered with high energy and a few laughs in true Adam Harvey and Beccy Cole style…You won’t want to miss this, tickets are on sale now!
Mackay Northern Beaches Bowls Club Mackay Riding For Disabled Race Nite Friday, 7:00pm
Mackay Riding for the Disabled is holding a Race Night to raise valuable funds for their horse-riding program. The night promises plenty of high-paced action, with five mock horse races and one mock pig race to be projected on the big screen throughout the night. Tickets are $50 and that will get you entry into the races, finger food, entry in the door prize and $7000 of funny money to bet with, with more funny money available for purchase.
The Metropolitan Hotel Mackay
SATURDAY 10 SEPTEMBER
Pancakes And Play In The Park Saturday, 10:00am to 2:30pm
Shed Happens in partnership with Neighbourhood Watch Northern Beaches will conduct a family games day and serve pancakes, jam and cream for free. This was originally an Australia Day event, but weather conditions made it impossible to conduct. There will be traditional family games including a sack race, three-legged race and egg and spoon race. Mega Jenga will also be offered for families to challenge each other. Prizes will be awarded, courtesy of DGH Engineering Pty Ltd. ‘Shed interviews’ with prominent men in Mackay will also be conducted.
Mackay Sugar Bowl Skate Park PASIFIKA 2022 Sunday, 12:00pm to 4:30pm
The Queensland Multicultural Lions Club proudly presents Pasifika 2022. Pasifika celebrates the Pacific Island culture through crafts, food, awareness, religion, song, and performing arts. The event aims to represent our local pacific communities - Samoa, NZ, Cook Islands, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Fiji, Tonga, Tokelau, Niue, Tuvalu, and Kiribati. Invitations are also extended to the Aboriginal, Torres Strait and South Sea Island communities. Gather your family and friends and come along for a great afternoon showcasing the best of Pacific Culture.
Meadowlands Amphitheatre WSPD2022 Light up the Lake for Suicide Prevention Sunday, 6:00pm to 8:00pm
Real Mates Talk, MAD Cow Coffee Mackay and WakeHouse Australia are teaming up for World Suicide Prevention Day on Saturday to light up the lake with lanterns to remember those we have lost, support the survivors and honour those whose stories continue. Lanterns are free to anyone attending and can be decorated on the night or collected prior and decorated privately with family or friends. There will be local live music and the cafe will be open.
Wake House Australia
SUNDAY 11 SEPTEMBER
Rock Paper Scissors Art and Design Markets Sunday, 1:00pm to 4:00pm
Artspace Mackay’s ever-popular Art & Design Market returns in 2022 in the beautiful outdoor space of the Civic Precinct. Join in for a free curated market featuring a fabulous selection of stalls highlighting the talented artists, designers, makers and foodies of our region!
Artspace Mackay Jazz in the Park Sunday, 2:00pm to 5:00pm
Staff and students from the Bachelor of Music course present “Jazz in the Park” on Sunday 11th September from 2pm to 5pm at the historic Queens Park. This event will feature special guest Aaron West (singer and multi-instrumentalist). Come and relax in the beautiful surrounds of Mackay and listen to some of Mackay’s finest up-and-coming musicians studying at the Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music. Joining in on the fun will be Mackay’s very own Blue Water Big Band. Free event. Bring a picnic. BYO chairs.
Queens Park Sunday Live Music – One For The Road Sunday, 2:00pm to 5:00pm
Music every Sunday from 2pm - 5pm. Head down to the Seabreeze Hotel this Sunday for some fresh tunes, delicious food, and ice-cold brews.
Seabreeze Hotel
Afternoon Rock n Roll Sunday, 3:00pm
Join Sugar City Rock n Rollers Mackay hosting an afternoon of fun and rock n roll under the trees on the deck of The Old Station Teahouse. Everyone welcome. Inquiries: Anne 0419 790 589.
The Old Station Teahouse
TUESDAY 13 SEPTEMBER
BMA Kidspace Tuesday, 10:00am to 2:00pm
BMA Kidspace, Artspace Mackay’s free and ever popular toddler’s program, gives children under five a chance to explore and have fun with art in a climate of co-operative learning. The program includes free artist-run craft activities in two sessions, Sess1: Anytime from 10 to 11:30am; Sess2: Anytime from 12:15 to 2pm with live musical entertainment 11:30am to 12:15pm. Bring your children along for a fun day of art-making, singing and dancing.
Artspace Mackay
WEDNESDAY 14 SEPTEMBER
Mackay Farmers’ Market Every Wednesday, 6:30am to 10:30am
The market is a showcase of our region’s amazing produce direct from the farmer.
Bluewater Quay Sugar City Rock and Roll Mackay Club Wednesday Night Lessons Every Wednesday, 7:00pm
Why not come along and learn to rock ‘n’ roll in a friendly and fun atmosphere with the Sugar City Rock ‘n’ Rollers Mackay Club? Previous experience is not required. Everyone learns at their own pace and, even better, the first lesson is free on your way to learning the four step style of rock ‘n’ roll. $5 for members and $8 for non-members after that. The club caters for social activities for club members with regular dances with live bands in attendance and away trips. For further enquiries call 0408 983 911.
58 Macalister St, Mackay
A Day In The Park With A Side Of Pancakes
Is there any better way to spend a belated Father’s Day than enjoying pancakes and play in the park? The men’s group, International Men’s Day Mackay Incorporated, incorporating Shed Happens Mackay, is celebrating Father’s Day in partnership with Northern Beaches Neighbourhood Watch this Saturday, September 10 with a day of pancakes and family games, sponsored by DGH Engineering. Neighbourhood Watch will be offering pancakes, jam and cream for free on the day while Shed Happens will conduct the day’s games, all designed for the whole family to participate. Shed Happens is an organisation that treasures and celebrates the role men play in our society. It meets on the third Wednesday of every month and is a non-threatening, non-judgmental place where men can share their stories; the good, the bad, happy and sad. It is a place where men are encouraged to live a wholesome life. Neighbourhood Watch is a volunteer organisation that is integral to the effective
International Men’s Day Mackay Incorporated and Northern Beaches Neighbourhood Watch will bring the community together on Saturday for a day of Pancakes & Play In The Park. Photos supplied: Shed Happens Mackay policing of our city. The more people who sign up to the blog and register their email addresses with Neighbourhood Watch, the more they contribute to reducing crime in Mackay. The morning commences at 10:30am and finishes at 2:30pm, happening at the Mackay Sugar Bowl Skate Park in North Mackay. More information can be found on Shed Happens Mackay and Mackay Northern Beaches Neighbourhood Watch Facebook pages. This event is only possible with the financial support of Mackay Regional Council. WHAT: Pancakes & Play In The Park WHERE: Mackay Sugar Bowl Skate Park, Scriha St, North Mackay WHEN: Saturday, September 10 from 10:30am to 2:30pm This is a free community event
CALLING ALL DINOSAUR LOVERS!
The final performance for DBCT Kids’ Theatre Season 2022 will take place at the Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (MECC) this Friday and Saturday. Serving as a gateway to every dinosaur lover’s dream, Erth’s Prehistoric World Tour showcases some of the most incredibly detailed (and at times large!) dinosaur puppets ever to take the MECC stage. Erth has worked over the years with leading paleontologists, museums, and zoos to ensure that the content of the shows is accurate, up to date and a catalyst to inspire young minds. When asked what audiences could expect of the performance, Kristy Rushe, Acting Assistant Manager of MECC Events said; “Last time Erth’s visited the MECC, a giant Plesiosaurus magically floated over the audience. It was mesmerizing. This time – expect more lifelike dinosaur puppets, including a Velociraptor that will keep children on the edge of their seats”. Dinosaurs are a gateway to learning, inspiring children to consider an array of subjects from science to literature, geology to bio engineering, and natural history to mathematics. Dinosaurs have become a curious link between child and parent, grandparent, guardian and educator. “If you have a young dinosaur lover at home, bring them along. This will be a fun weekend activity” Mrs Rushe continued.
Focusing on Australian prehistoric life, with the majority of the creatures in the show having an Australian lineage – the show includes a host who acts as a zoologist, respectfully handing the wild animals to educate young minds. WHAT: Erth’s Prehistoric World Tour
WHEN: Friday 9 September 2022, 6pm Saturday 10 September 2022, 9.30am & 12.30pm WHERE: MECC Auditorium
TICKETS: www.themecc.com.au
Age Recommendation: Age 5+ Content Warning: Fog/smoke effects, loud noise, dinosaurs Show Duration: 55 mins, no interval
FILM & ARTS MACKAY and WHITSUNDAYS ARTS FESTIVAL
P R E S E N T
A WEEKEND OF EXCITING CINEMA
24th & 25th SEPTEMBER
PROSERPINE ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE
Saturday 24th September – 7.30pm
FILM & ARTS MACKAY HAVE TEAMED UP WITH WHITSUNDAYS ARTS FESTIVAL TO BRING 2 EXCITING FILMS TO THE BIG SCREEN
at the brand new Proserpine Entertainment Centre over the weekend of 24th and 25th September. Filmed entirely at Paronella Park, CELESTE is the story of a once-celebrated opera diva who prepares for her final performance. CELESTE will screen on Saturday 24th September at 7.30pm. Special guest (for the screening of CELESTE) is Paronella Park Marketing Manager Bridget Evans, part of the Evans family who own and operate Paronella Park, and who was there during the filming of CELESTE. Bridget will be sharing anecdotes from the time Paronella Park was turned into a film set. Then, on Sunday 25th September, viewers will be taken to the other side of the world with PARALLEL MOTHERS, the story of two single women who form a strong bond with one another as they both confront motherhood. PARALLEL MOTHERS is by the renowned Spanish Director, Pedro Almodovar who brings his own finesse to a story of motherhood and hope. Sunday 25th September – 1.30pm
CELESTE
TICKETS AVAILABLE FROM www.proserpineentertainmentcentre.com.au $20 ($15 for FAM and WAF members – use password provided) PARALLEL MOTHERS - OPTIONAL RETURN COACH TRANSFER FROM MACKAY, LUNCH AND FILM PACKAGE $80 ($70 for FAM members – use password provided)
Departing from Gordon Street (outside Artspace) at 10.30am, returning to Mackay approx. 5.30pm. PARALLEL MOTHERS
Historical images courtesy of CQUniversity Australia Library Capricornia CQ Collection - Image of Saltbush Park station and John and Margaret Shannon
Asignificant historical recognition was made in the country town of Nebo last month, with the unveiling of the John and Margaret Shannon memorial.
The memorial coincided with the 150-year anniversary of Salt Bush Park, which was purchased by John in 1872 for £600.
A HISTORY OF SALTBUSH
John married Margaret and the couple had 11 children. The Youngest, Alan, took over the management of Saltbush before acquiring the aggregation. Alan and his wife Irene had three children, their son Alan Jnr took over Saltbush in 1946. Ian Shannon took over the management in 1955 when Alan took over ‘Cardowan’ and he eventually purchased the property from the family. Ian and his wife Margaret have four children, their second son Stuart and his wife Leigh took over ownership of Saltbush Park. John Shannon’s living depended on horse teams. He had draught horses and over the years Saltbush Park’s horses achieved a great reputation amongst the cane farmers, which encouraged John to run a herd of 40 brood mares. When Alan Snr took over, he had a keen eye to breeding quality livestock, he purchased several Clydesdale Stallions to upgrade the stock. Auction sales were held in Mackay each year, and some enterprising local farmers used the Clydesdales for use in the cane fields. They were used for cultivating the fields and planting the cane and carting the cane to the mills. Johns cattle herd was mixed when he arrived on Saltbush, predominantly Shorthorns, over the next few years he purchased heifers to build up the herd. He eventually purchased some quality Devon Bulls to improve the herd further. Later the herd was infused with quality Hereford bloodlines. Alan continued this practice. The Saltbush herd was noted for its quality Hereford cattle. However, the arrival of the cattle tick meant they had to be dipped frequently. When son Ian took over in 1955, he was aware of the increasing benefits of cross-breeding with Bos Indicus bloodlines, and in 1965 he bought a Brahman Bull and it became apparent that the crossbreds were much more thrifty and able to forage and ticks were not as much of a problem. As a focal point for the early settlers, picnic race meetings were held in several sites through the Broadsound and Nebo Districts. One of these (Normanby) was on “Saltbush” and was an extremely popular gathering each Spring. The locals would sometimes travel for days in their sulkies and buggies and set up elaborate camps for the race period. There were even formal balls in the evenings, and the ladies reveled in dressing for the occasion: Ruby Shannon composed several pieces for the balls, and one, the Normanby Waltz, proved very popular for many years. To celebrate the centenary of John Shannon taking over Saltbush in 1872, the family arranged some significant activities around the weekend on 26th August 1972. The most significant event was a five event Picnic Race Meeting, which was staged to invite the local community to join the family to celebrate the survival and prospering of the family through the first 100 years. A great day and evening were had by all and as a result, a new ambulance was presented to the Sarina Q.A.T.B. The races
A bronze Plinth in Centennial Park was unveiled last weekend marking 150 years of the Shannon family in Nebo. Image: Mayor Anne Baker were held for another 10 years, however the decimation of the local community through the migration to the coal mines meant that there were eventually insufficient volunteer workers and local attendees, and the meetings closed. This year marks the 150th year of the Shannon Family and Saltbush Park with the unveiling of a bronze Plinth in Centennial Park along with other celebrations held in Nebo and surrounding districts. Last weekend saw two days of celebrations in Nebo and on the property, with more than 230 friends and family registering for the celebrations, some coming from as far away as Perth. Isaac Regional Council Mayor Anne Baker was in attendance and said the day was “absolutely beautiful”. “Congratulations to all involved in this wonderful project,” she said. Thanks to Angie Caldwell, manager of the Nebo Museum for the history of Saltbush Park
Lyre Bird Press History Told In New Artspace Exhibition
When Mackay opened its regional gallery in 2002, artist and master printer Tate Adams AM made a donation that helped establish the gallery as the artists’ book powerhouse it is today. Mayor Greg Williamson said Adams’ donation to commemorate the opening of Artspace Mackay is an important archive of Lyre Bird Press, of which he was a founder.
“For more than two decades, from 1977, Lyre Bird Press produced more than 50 artists’ books,” Mayor Williamson said. “Those works ranged from luxury publications to experimental book forms, involving creators of all kinds.” Some of those works, as well as bookplates and ephemera, will form an exciting major exhibition opening this week at Artspace Mackay. The exhibition, Tales of the Lyre Bird, opened in the Main Gallery last Friday, September 2, along with D. Harding: The Wall (Foyer Gallery) and Veronika Zeil: Echo Forest – the Eloquence of Trees (Foundation Gallery). Artspace director Tracey Heathwood said Tales of the Lyre Bird would follow the important output of the press from its Melbourne conception by Tate Adams AM to its reinvigoration in North Queensland in the early 90s. “This exhibition is curated by Ron McBurnie and Helen Cole and highlights the collaborative works that were conceived via the press, including collaborations with artists such as Tate Adams AM, George Baldessin, Anneke Silver, Ray Crooke and Juli Haas,” Ms Heathwood said. Ms Heathwood said Veronika Zeil: Echo Forest – the Eloquence of Trees was also an exciting exhibition. “It’s a multidisciplinary exhibition that features photography, sound, drawing and installation and offers a window into what she sees as fractured landscapes, focusing on the different growth stages of trees,” she said.
KEY SOLUTIONS GROUP AND M&P SERVICES
Continued from page 1 The 18-hole course at the Mackay Golf Club consisted of novelty holes and different challenges including longest drive, accuracy drive, a hole-in-one challenge and the Happy Gilmore-inspired Gilmore Shooter Drive.
The event raised funds for five beneficiaries including Mackay Surf Club, Mackay Cutters – Change the Game, CQ RACQ Rescue, Ronald McDonald House Charities and Broken Ballerina Foundation, with good times and a quality day of golf a bonus. Over $16,000 worth of raffle prizes were donated to the cause and over $35,000 had already been raised at the start of the day, with more to be tallied this week.
The success of the event was thanks to the many sponsors that supported the day including Key Solutions Group, Penske, GB Industries, DGH Engineering, Rimex, Roy Powell Security and MM Electrical.
Riding To Raise VALUABLE FUNDS
The BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival returned for its 12th year over the weekend, providing a great opportunity for family fun while raising funds for local charities.
The event encourages more people to become active and involved in cycling through a variety of categories across the two exciting days at Mackay Botanic Gardens.
Saturday afternoon saw approximately 150 children participate in the Golding Kids Colour Ride where kids rode as many laps as their legs could take them while getting splattered in all colours of the rainbow every time they passed the starting line. Food vans and live entertainment were also on offer throughout the evening, completing a day of family fun in the gardens.
Early the next morning, riders gathered at the amphitheatre to take on the 100km Corry Cycles Gran Fondo. Shortly after, riders participating in the 60km City Fitness Epic and the 30km Queensland Country Bank | Health Fund Dash took off.
Food vans, coffee carts, live entertainment and giveaways were again on offer, bringing an electric family atmosphere to the morning. “One of our goals was to make it more of a festival feel,” said Event Manager Nikki Giles.
“We had food vendors available and a coffee cart for when people finished to stay and soak up the environment of the Botanic Gardens and cheer each other on.
“It was Father’s Day, after all.” A total of 859 riders participated over the weekend.
Funds were raised through rider registrations and sponsorship and, while figures are still being finalised, organisers are predicting close to $50,000 raised to be split evenly between RACQ CQ Rescue and Sporting Wheelies & Disabled Association. Charity representatives and volunteers assisted in the organisation and running of the weekend.
“We’re really grateful to see the community get behind it,” said Ms Giles. “Everybody finished successfully, motorists were very respectful, so a thank you to the community for supporting the event.”
Over 850 riders took part in the BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival last weekend. Photos supplied
Not A Walk In The Park
Paul Mackenzie easily scaling the sandy undulations and trails of the local parklands in readiness for the Cairns to Port Douglas 120km Ultra Marathon Paul Mackenzie was in superb form leading up to the Cairns to Port Douglas 120km multi terrain course. Photos supplied: Janelle Tilse
RUNNING
Mackay Road Runner Paul Mackenzie had a magnificent outing over the weekend at the Cairns to Port Douglas 120km Ultra Marathon including the iconic Kuranda Railway Station and Kuranda ranges. The point-to-point race had everything from rocky trails, grassy paddocks, water crossings, steps, roads, bridges, rainforests, national parks, state forests, ranges and sandy beaches including the infamous final stretch of Four Mile Beach. The first 60km included a very impressive and challenging loop around the highest mountain point with 3600 metres elevation.
Paul’s impressive time of 20 hours, 10 minutes and 21 seconds, under six minute kilometre pace, earned him a coveted race buckle for completing the event in under 24 hours.
Paul finished 2nd in his age category and 6th overall male.
Paul said he was very fortunate to have a talented young Whitsunday runner, Jacob, with him most of the way which helped with mental focus as well as physical support to each other. The Rainforest to Reef event is a spectacular and well-organised event with several course options between 10km to 120km. Paul’s 120km race started at 5am on Saturday 3rd September from Crystal Cascades, Redlynch and finished at the Port Douglas Life Saving Club at Four Mile beach at 1:11am the next morning. Runners need to be carrying their own mandatory equipment with them the entire race; however, medical stations were also on the course to assist runners every step of the way. Tackling the humid and oppressive conditions, Paul was ecstatic with his race, being the longest he’s ever run. He is now hoping for a great recovery week so that he can tackle the Great Whitsunday Walk 58km this weekend which is relatively short in comparison. Paul’s ultra-running agenda is filling up fast with his next goal events of two 100km races in Blackall and Katoomba later in the year.
State’s Best At Junior Squash Tournament
SQUASH
Junior squash players from all over the state were given the chance to shine at the Mackay Junior Squash Tournament at Squash 52 last weekend. The one-day tournament welcomed competitors from Cairns, Emerald, Townsville and Brisbane to the sugar city. Local athlete Matt Brazier took out Division 1, winning all matches undisputed, with fellow local Kayce Hoani-Vincent vying for third position in a tight points competition but ultimately falling out of the top three. Matt and Kayce teamed up to take out first position in Doubles, with Mackay’s Charlie Jackson and Townsville’s Dusty Stratham finishing runners-up. Division 2 saw a tight competition complete with plenty of epic five-set matches with Cairns athlete Daniel Yanez taking first followed closely by Townsville athlete Dusty Statham and Mackay’s Angus Strang finishing in a hard-earned third position. Mackay took the top two spots in Division 3 thanks to Louis Mackay and Sophie Jackson followed closely by Cairns Squasher Chloe Baxter who took third position from Mackay’s Olivia McDermott in the finals playoff. The Novice Division gave emerging athletes a taste of the big stage in a wellplayed series of round robin with Mack-
Division 1 winners Matt Brazier (Mackay), Deep Maitra (Brisbane) and Sarbani Maitra (Brisbane) ay’s Harry Van De Linden and Carmila Cepeda and Sophie Roussounis from Emerald all performing well. Congratulations to the next generation of our state’s squash greats.
Doubles winners Kayce Hoani-Vincent (Mackay), Matt Brazier (Mackay), Dusty Stratham (Townsville) and Charlie Jackson (Mackay)
Exciting Challenge Ahead For New Cutters’ Head Coach
Mackay’s widely respected rugby league identity Michael Comerford (pictured) relishes a challenge. The 33-year-old school teacher is ready for the next chapter in his sporting life when he takes over the reins of the Mackay Cutters as Head Coach on a two year deal starting in 2023. Comerford will replace outgoing coach Dave Elliott, who will link up with Norths Devils at the conclusion of this year’s Hostplus Cup competition. The experienced Elliott, who helped transform the Cutters’ rugby league program as Head Coach this season, has signed a two year contract and will return to his native Brisbane with his wife and young family to begin the fulltime role from November 1 this year. With his vast experience and knowledge of the Mackay sporting landscape, the astute Comerford was a popular choice for the top job by club management. He will relinquish his position of Sports Co-ordinator at Mercy College Mackay on October 4 to take on his new full time coaching role. An excited Comerford will work closely with all the schools and Junior League clubs in the region to stamp the Cutters’ footprint across the grades. “My goal is to develop a big enough talent pool that will keep the Cutters at the forefront of rugby league in the region for many years to come,” he revealed.
Comerford praised the efforts of Elliott and Cutters’ Head of Football Kim Williams for their tremendous work in turning the club around in 2022.
The Cutters may have missed a finals berth in the Hostplus Cup this season, but the club remains in a strong position moving forward.
Comerford’s coaching journey through the local school system and the Cutters’ Junior Representative programs to top grade assistant coach have held him in good stead.
Respected by the current playing group, Comerford’s appointment highlights the club’s purpose to develop rugby league pathways for the Mackay community. Officials are extremely confident in his ability to build a strong and competitive team and look forward to seeing the club flourish under his leadership. Comerford fell just short of a fairytale premiership with his powerful St Patrick’s First XIII this season, guiding the College to Grand Final appearances in the Confraternity Shield Rugby League and Aaron Payne Cup competitions where they succumbed to Townsville titans Ignatius Park College. The local hero enjoyed a burgeoning league career in the north Queensland region before a damaged ACL forced him into retirement at the age of 24. Comerford began his league career with Souths Sharks in U/13s as a promising centre before bursting into A Grade in 2006. He played a prominent role when Souths defeated Moranbah to win the 2009 Mercury Cup Grand Final after earning a call up to the Mackay Cutters top grade side the previous year. Comerford chalked up 51 appearances during his six-season playing stint with the Cutters but missed the club’s 2013 premiership triumph after tearing his ACL in the early rounds. A highlight for Comerford was representing Australia at the 2008 World Universities Cup in Brisbane and touring South Africa (2009) as well as France and England (2010) with the national team.
Since hanging up his boots, Michael has turned his hand to coaching. In 2015 he was appointed Souths A Grade coach at the age of 26 – guiding the side to a preliminary final before joining the Cutters’ coaching panel in 2017. Comerford has mentored the U/21s and Brothers A Grade last season and proved a valuable voice as Senior Assistant Coach to the departing Elliott during the Cutters’ 2022 campaign. By Chris Karas
Picture credit: QRL
RUGBY LEAGUE
The Mackay Cutters Hastings Deering Colts squad wrapped up their season last weekend with a 40-20 defeat in the sudden-death final against the Sunshine Coast Falcons.
The Cutters came out strong scoring first, thanks to an Alfie Schultz try, converted by Brenton Baira. The Falcons desperate for the win regrouped and scored three times quickly to jump ahead, 18-6. A Hugh Arthur try before the half closed it back up to 18-10 but a penalty pushed that back out to 20-10. The Falcons capitilised first in the second half, followed quickly by a Cutters’ try to Jordan Hill. Brenton Baira then scored and converted his own try to close the gap to 26-20, but it was one-way traffic to the Falcons in the final 20 minutes, scoring 14 unanswered points with two converted tries and a penalty. The Cutters management praised the Colts on an excellent season.
“The Colts squad had shown immense improvement across the season and were one of the form teams entering the finals competition, playing with a level of skill and confidence that had seen them match it with the very best sides throughout the second half of the season on their run to the finals,” the club said in a statement.
“The coaching staff of Craig Kennedy, Davey Roberts, Caitlyn Simpson, James Poelstra and Dave Hoare are also to be congratulated on their efforts this year as they have created an excellent learning environment in which our young players were able to flourish.”
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