Mackay Life

Orange has been the colour of choice over the past two weeks with schools, businesses and organisations coming together as a community to celebrate Harmony Day. Harmony Day is the celebration that recognises diversity, bringing together Australians from all backgrounds.

Mackay Regional Council and The Neighbourhood Hub held an event last Tuesday, March 21 to celebrate Mackay’s multicultural community. Multicultural groups shared their culture by wearing traditional dress and guest speaker Indriani shared her story as an Indonesian migrant.

Meanwhile schools such as Whitsunday Anglican College, St Joseph's Catholic Primary School and Mackay North State High School all held events to celebrate the diversity within their school communities.

See the photos on page 14

EVERYTHING WE CREATE HAS PURPOSE AND STRATEGY...

Mackay Regional Council, The Neighbourhood Hub and Mackay’s multicultural community came together to celebrate Harmony Day. Photo supplied: Mackay Regional Council

CONTACT US

Office/Classifieds - 0429 035 046

: editorial@mackayandwhitsundaylife.com Advertising: bookings@mackayandwhitsundaylife.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Amanda Wright – 0428 697 421 amanda@mackayandwhitsundaylife.com

PUBLISHER

Rebecca Douthwaite bec@mackayandwhitsundaylife.com

JOURNALIST

Sam Gillespie sam@mackayandwhitsundaylife.com

Declan Durrant declan@mackayandwhitsundaylife.com

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT MANAGER

Mike McCann - 0427 897 960 michael@mackayandwhitsundaylife.com

Jessica Clark - 0419 710 218 jess@mackayandwhitsundaylife.com

SUBSCRIBE FOR FREE www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com

Publishers Indemnity. Those who make advertising placement and/or supply copy material or editorial submissions to Mackay and Whitsunday Life Paper, undertake to ensure that all such material does not infringe any copyright, trademark, defamation, libel, slander or title, breach of confidence, does not contain anything obscene or indecent, or does not infringe the Trade Practices Act or other laws, regulations or statutes. Further to the above mentioned these persons agree to indemnify the publisher and/or its agents against any investigations, claims or judgements. All material is correct at time of printing and is copyright of CORE Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.

Sit Down with Sam

Hi Readers

This paper marks the first full edition since our dedicated Editor took her maternity leave break. Firstly, I want to wish Amanda and Hamish all the best as you embark on such an exciting chapter. I know you will cherish this time with your family and welcome baby Wright with plenty of love.

This week, I’ve taken on a few of Amanda’s responsibilities, the most interesting one being pagination. I wasn’t unfamiliar with the process before now, but it took me actually doing it myself to truly appreciate the work our editors put in every week. Pagination is the mapping out of the paper – planning what article, ad, photo goes on what page; how much space to allow for it; what should go next to it. It’s a never-ending juggle of puzzle pieces and there’s an element of challenge, fun and satisfaction to fitting all the pieces together – although perhaps my editors will warn that the shine wears off with repetition. We will see.

“As Simple As Putting The Right Thing In The Right Bin”

If you flick to the event guide on page 18, you’ll see there’s no shortage of things to do this weekend. Being a fan of sport, I’m excited to see the Cutters, Meteors and Meteorettes getting plenty of home games. I went to my first basketball game ever last week and the energy inside the Crater was electric. I urge you all to check it out tonight if you can. Read my recollections of last week’s games on Page 21 before you do. Being a beer fan, I’m also looking forward to celebrating Red Dog Brewery’s first birthday tomorrow. One year ago tomorrow, a relatively fresh journalist in a relatively new town, I dropped in at the corner of Victoria and Chain Streets, had a yarn to Woodsy and enjoyed my first schooner of Red Dog’s Red Ale. That year has flown by, and I’ve enjoyed plenty since. You can read Red Dog’s story on page 19.

Whatever you’re getting up to, I hope you have a good weekend and enjoy the read.

A“thirsty workforce” is responsible for donating $50,000 to RACQ CQ Rescue Helicopter thanks to a partnership between Bravus Mining and Anything Environmental.

Since 2018, workers at the Carmichael Mine have been putting their empty bottles into dedicated recycling bins which are collected by Anything Environmental

These are then cashed in for 10 cents a bottle and, thanks to the generosity of Bravus, the money goes straight to RACQ CQ Rescue to assist with emergency airlift operations.

Bravus Mining and Resources

Chief Operating Officer Mick Crowe said the success of the program was due to its simplicity, and a hungry and thirsty workforce.

“Mackay-based group Anything Environmental developed the program and they do the heavy lifting for us. They put the bins in place, collect the recyclable materials, and tally up the donation

– all of which goes to RACQ CQ Rescue,” he explains.

“Our people are enthusiastic about doing what they can to reduce, reuse, and recycle on site, and Change for Choppers makes it as simple as putting the right thing in the right bin.”

Mick encourages other businesses to get behind the initiative, which can turn your costly waste into dollars that help provide the region with a vital service.

RACQ CQ Rescue CEO Tim Healee said the community was indebted to their corporate partners.

“RACQ CQ Rescue is a vital part of emergency support for all residents, visitors and workers in this region and it’s reassuring to know corporate organisations like Bravus appreciate the value of supporting our helicopter and that with their support we can continue to provide our vital, lifesaving service to anyone in a time of crisis,” he said.

(L-R) Bravus Mining and Resources COO Mick Crowe with RACQ CQ Rescue aircrewmen Grant Bollington and Ben McCauley.

Photo supplied

Long Hospital Waiting Times – Solved!

Anew concept in nursing has arrived in Mackay and it promises to help residents receive the healthcare they need in the comfort of their own homes, enabling them to also avoid lengthy waiting times along the way. Data has revealed that Mackay Hospitals are clogged with too many patients waiting for appointments.

Earlier this month, Queensland Health said the waiting-list-for-the-waiting-list at Mackay Hospitals increased by 16 per cent in the past 12 months for the December quarter.

Leader of the Opposition David Crisafulli said that “better resourcing, improving triaging, real time data monitoring and giving power back to local doctors and nurses to run our hospitals” could provide a solution.

“Behind these 9332 patients waiting for their specialist appointment are stories of Mackay patients desperate for a better quality of life,” Mr Crisafulli said. A real-time solution is now on its way and, while it cannot replace the need for specialist appointments, it is hoped that it will take some of the pressure off by providing services such as complex bowel care, urinary catheters, wound management, and subcutaneous injections.

Nurse Next Door Home Care Services is operated by local residents Sarah Ryan

and George Blackie who wanted to find a solution to support the local community by providing care and nursing services in people’s homes.

“While working in the disability sector, I’d often hear stories from clients about how hard it was to get the proper care they needed and going to hospital was the last thing they wanted to do because of how limited the resources were,” said Sarah.

“We wanted to find a way to help the vulnerable people in our community access healthcare from the comfort and safety of their own homes, on their own terms.” added George.

Almost 20 per cent of the Mackay population is either over the age of 65 or living with a disability.

Nurse Next Door aims to help people continue living independently at home, with the care they need, and to continue to par-

CONSTRUCTION SITE BREAK IN, PAGET

ticipate in the community safely, with an added personal touch of compassion from locally employed caregivers and nurses.

“We are focused on getting Mackay’s residents that require some level of care back to doing the things they love, and we want

Police report that an unknown person has illegally gained entrance to a portable construction site office in Paget between 5:00pm on March 27 and 6:00am on March 28.

Secure doors were damaged to allow access and Milwaukee brand batteries and chargers have been stolen along with a radio.

Police report that Milwaukee brand commercial tools are being targeted by thieves

each and every one of our residents to live their best lives,” explained Sarah. The couple hope their services will help to address the growing demand on the healthcare system for Queensland’s ageing and special needs population.

at multiple business locations and construction sites around the Mackay city area and the Pioneer Valley in recent weeks. Police urge builders and business owners to ensure sufficient security is in place at their locations.

Information on the matter can be and should be reported to police as soon as possible – quote Report number: QP2300519975.

New Rules For Council Meetings Willcox Prepares To Make A Stand

New regulations that aim to streamline meetings and avoid time-wasting will soon be imposed in Council meetings thanks to a motion carried at the ordinary meeting last week.

The changes, which will take effect next month, were adopted following a consultation between Council CEO Scott Owen, Mayor Greg Williamson, and the elected members.

The outcome confirmed that Council will begin to hold their ordinary meetings monthly instead of fortnightly.

They will continue to meet internally every Wednesday.

Mayor Williamson said.

“This will ensure matters of public participation are local government specific and appropriate channels within Council have already been used in trying to further the matter.”

There will be a maximum of three speakers per matter and the time of three minutes per speaker, currently in place, would remain.

Under the new stricter rules, there will also be firmer regulations around late business items raised by councillors.

Concerned that local community groups and infrastructure investment are suffering from a series of newly imposed taxes, Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox says he is preparing to stand up and fight for “our fair share” leading up to the budget in May.

Mr Willcox asserts that our region has suffered “slashes and cuts to vital regional programs” since the Labor Government took over 10 months ago.

He warns that Dawson has been completely left behind by the new Government.

“The Mobile Blackspot Program, Building Better Regions Fund, Community Development Grants and Improving Mobile Coverage Round have all been slashed,” Mr Willcox said.

“When I was Mayor of the Whitsunday Regional Council, programs like the Building Better Regions Fund launched us into overdrive. Investments like the $3.75 million Cannon Valley Reservoir future-proofed the region for years to come.”

He also cites the Community Development

Grants, which he believes are now amongst the programs on the chopping block.

“In Dawson, the Northern Beaches Community Hub, the Home Hill State School Hall, the Burdekin Multipurpose Outdoor Stadium, and the Mackay Basketball Seating Upgrades, were all supported by the Community Development Grants,” he explains.

“Cutting these programs is a huge kick in the guts to regional Australia, and it’s slamming on the breaks for our communities.

“There are delays galore, and our community groups and organisations have been left in limbo, with no certainty for our future.”

Mr Willcox says he is standing up for regional Queensland and standing strong with his Nationals colleagues to get Dawson’s “fair share”.

“I’ve always said I’ll work with anyone to grow a stronger Dawson, but what Labor’s doing to our region needs to be called out,” he said.

“Leading up to the budget in May, I’m definitely not going to be quiet on this.”

Another main amendment is that any person or group wishing to attend and address Council, or provide a deputation at a local government meeting, must now make a written request to the CEO at least seven days prior.

This is in line with the length of time Council staff deliver reports and agenda items prior to any meeting.

It is hoped that this system will help Council discern whether the topic is suitable to add to the public participation agenda, or whether it is better if the applicant follows a more appropriate channel.

Mayor Williamson said that previously speakers could turn up on the day and put their names on the list to speak.

This immediate platform meant that Council could not filter subjects that were outside of their jurisdiction.

“What that means is sometimes speakers are talking about matters not related to local government that council has no involvement in,’’

Scott Owen said he believed the meeting changes, developed in consultation with the elected members, were positive.

“They are in line with Council’s focus on becoming more agile and efficient,’’ he said.

“There will also be changes to the monthly reporting at the council meeting to have more of a forward-looking and strategic focus, which will assist with preparing the region for the future.”

IN BRIEF:

• Council ordinary meetings will take place monthly instead of fortnightly

• Anyone wishing to address Council must write a letter seven days prior

• If the matter is better suited, it may be redirected internally

• There will be a maximum of three speakers at a meeting

• An individual will have three minutes to speak

• There will also be stricter rules around late business items raised by Councillors

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, demands a “fair share” for our region. Photo supplied

Youth Council To Pave Democracy Pathway In Mackay Calls For More Youth Funding

A Queenslandfirst Young Mayors program has begun in Mackay with election canvassing to start in May for a ‘Youth Council’ Image: Supplied

The Sugar City's young political aspirants are being given the opportunity to run for Youth Councillor positions and become Young Mayor of Mackay in May through a Queenslandfirst initiative.

Through an Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) and Foundation for Young Australians (FYA) partnership, young people will be able to participate in a ‘Young Mayors’ program, vote in the region’s first Youth Council election, and get their first look at democracy in action.

Mackay Regional Council will be the first Queensland local government to pilot the program which hopes to promote electoral participation among young people.

Despite recent Federal Election results in which young voters turned out in record numbers, concerns for local- and state-level electoral enrolments remain – a recent Australian Electoral Commission study stated participation by youth was a “great concern in many democracies today”.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said ECQ is delighted to be supporting this initiative which “will help young people to improve their knowledge about elections and be ready to vote when they turn 18.”

“Importantly, the program will inspire young people to learn about the electoral system and how they can influence decisions that impact their community,” Mr Vidgen said.

“The Young Mayors program will support people aged 17 and under to get elected to a youth council, positioning young people

as decision-makers on issues that impact their future in the Mackay region.”

Over a week in May, young people will experience an election campaign and a week of voting to elect a 12-seat Youth Council.

Elected by their peers, the Youth Council will then nominate a Young Mayor, set an agenda for their 12-month term in office and work with the Mackay Regional Council on specific issues.

FYA’s Executive Director of Civic and Cultural Engagement Molly Whelan said local governments play a huge role in the everyday lives of people in Queensland communities, and “that includes young people. But young people are often locked out of power – consulted but never in charge”.

“This program puts young people in the driver’s seat – ensuring that council policies and programs better reflect the concerns, needs, and desires of local young people,” they said.

The Young Mayors program was designed by Foundation for Young Australians and is based on successful United Kingdom models.

Other Australian councils - in Victoria, and New South Wales – will launch their iterations of the program across 2023 and 2024, with Mackay the first of a proposed number of Local Councils in Queensland to participate.

Youth Council members can be as young as 11, and more information can be found online at: https://www.fya.org.au/young-mayors-mackay/

With 57 homeless young people turning to youth support service YIRS in the month of February, calls are being made for more funding to be funnelled into youth services.

YIRS (Youths Information Referral Service) is a youth service for young people aged between 8 and 21 and their families, with the most commonly seen issues facing Mackay’s young people being homelessness, mental health and education.

An average of 20,000 young people present to YIRS a year, and, with only four staff, Service Manager Dee Chapman said more funding is required to provide intervention and support to our young people.

“There’s just not enough manpower,” Ms Chapman said.

“The demand is high, ongoing and increasing.

“We talk about crime in youth but, basically, their basic needs aren’t being met.

“If we put more supports in place for this youth, we’re going to see less crime.”

Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm welcomed changes to breach of bail legislation that was passed in the Queensland Parliament earlier in the month criminalising breach of bail for children aged 10 to 17 years.

“Juvenile repeat offenders are causing havoc in the community and to deter these young criminals it was crucial that we reinstate the breach of bail offences,” Ms Camm said.

Ms Camm is now calling for increases to funding for youth services in regional communities to prevent children from becoming involved in criminal activity.

“This government talks about early intervention and supporting young people with complex needs, yet for my community of Mackay, Isaac and Whitsundays there has been not one increase in funding in the past decade,” she said.

“My local community’s service, YIRS, is now using reserve funding and making a loss each year to support young people — young people with complex mental health issues who are known to Child Safety and the youth justice system.”

53 per cent of the young people that present to YIRS are victims of abuse, trauma or neglect, 41 per cent are under a current child protection order and 49 per cent have mental health issues.

Ms Chapman said, with more funding, these young people will have better access to the support they need.

“Young people bounce back from trauma if we intervene early enough and put those supports in place,” she said.

YIRS Service Manager Dee Chapman and Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm at YIRS One Stop Youth Shop Mackay. Photo supplied: Office of Amanda Camm

Local Author Revitalises Beloved Character FOR ANIMAL CONSERVATION

When Rose-Marie Dusting née

Ecenarro was growing up in the western Queensland town of Richmond, she would frequently run into the bush to play, explore and build cubby houses.

One March night in 1968, when a nineyear-old Rose-Marie had run away in tears after getting in trouble at home, she experienced a surreal encounter that set her on a course of animal conservation.

“This little bilby came up, a baby bilby, it was limping, and it came up and snuggled into me underneath my arm,” Rose-Marie recounted.

“I couldn’t believe it because they’re wild animals.

“I picked him up and looked at him, kissed him on his long snout and I said, ‘You look like a bunny rabbit, so I’m going to call you Billy the Aussie Easter Bilby.’”

The encounter inspired Rose-Marie to write about Billy the Aussie Easter Bilby, and his best friend Bob the Kangaroo, for a

school essay for which she received an A+.

“The teacher who taught me, I had the same teacher for seven years, she kept the story because she thought, ‘That girl is going to be a famous author one day,’” she said.

Rose-Marie moved to Mackay years later as a 12-year-old before moving to Adelaide to pursue nursing.

It was in 1979 while living in Adelaide that she self-published Billy the Aussie Easter Bilby, a book that would cement the bilby as Australia’s alternative to the Easter bunny worldwide while crowning Rose-Marie as the “bilby lady”.

“I was told nobody knows what a bilby is and since then, I’ve been educating the public about the bilby,” Rose-Marie said.

“I’ve had so many people come up and say to me, ‘We grew up with Billy Bilby and we want to teach our kids the same thing.’”

Rose-Marie’s characters have become mascots for animal conservation.

Her name and characters were used for the Save the Bilby Fund, and she is continuing to work with Australia Walkabout Wildlife Park and Taronga Zoo, while chocolate Easter bilbies can be found lining the supermarket aisles.

“That says to me that the bilby hasn’t died and it’s coming back,” Rose-Marie said.

Now in her 80s, Rose-Marie is rewriting the original Billy the Aussie Easter Bilby, due for release next easter, and has been working on a swag of other characters to bring attention to Australia’s growing list of endangered and extinct species.

“I just love animals, especially Australian species,” she said.

“They’re so unique and we’re so blessed to have them.

“We need to take action now.”

She’s hoping Paddles the Playful Platypus will deliver that message while putting Mackay on the map.

“What I want for Mackay is to use Paddles

the Playful Platypus, it would put Mackay on the world market,” she said.

“He’s a good friend of Billy Bilby’s so it’d be a perfect platform for Mackay.

“I want to use my God-given talent and gift to save endangered species and to write books for children, not just about our wildlife, but about kindness and bullying.”

Rose-Marie has been hard at work over the last few years, creating hundreds of books and characters, and she is looking for local illustrators to get involved.

“I’m looking for a couple of illustrators and I’d like to give the people of Mackay a chance to be able to illustrate the new books,” she said.

Anyone interested is asked to contact Rose-Marie at radusting@outlook.com. With the support of her husband Anthony, her two children Chloe and Samuel and her three grandchildren Levi, Gatlin and Henry, Rose-Marie Dusting’s mission is far from over.

Rose-Marie Dusting (middle) holding Billy the Aussie Easter Bilby at Australia Walkabout Wildlife Park, New South Wales. Photo supplied

Billy The Aussie Easter Bilby became a muchloved children’s book character

The ‘bilby lady’ encourages everyone to celebrate the endangered bilbies instead of bunnies at Easter

Students Reflect On The Time Of Their Lives FOR ARTSPACE BIRTHDAY PROJECT

Artspace Mackay has enlisted the assistance of Crossroad Arts to help celebrate its 20th birthday in a big and bright way.

Crossroad Arts, along with local artists Donna Maree Robinson and Kate Brunner, facilitated a series of workshops teaching participants the skill of stop motion animation.

The animations will then be compiled into one piece of work to be projected onto the façade of Artspace Mackay, celebrating the gallery’s 20th birthday and Mackay Festival of Arts.

“We came up with a partnership to allow those members of our community that don’t always get opportunities like this to

partner and give them some skills in creating their own digital animation films,” said Artspace Director Tracey Heathwood.

Students from Sarina State High School, Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School and Crossroad Arts participated in weekly digital animation workshops throughout the month of March to create the work, titled ‘Time of Our Lives’.

“The theme of ‘time of our lives’ means what happens in our lives, what we did, things we’ve faced or things we’ve gone through,” said Kutta Mulla student Echo Hankin.

“Me and Elena put flowers because, in my culture, we have to dance with flowers in our hair.”

“I loved working on the animations and learning how to use the app and it was fun meeting all the new people,” agreed fellow student Theresa Malayta.

Crossroad Arts Director and CEO Alison Richardson said students have taken their own drawings and collage creations and used an application to create animations.

“It’s been very hands-on, very practical and the app that we’ve been using is very user-friendly,” she said.

“They’ve been looking forward to seeing what a largescale projection of themselves and their work will look like.”

Contemporary visual artist Donna Maree Robinson, who has had her work displayed

Iceland, New York, London, Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Kingaroy and Mackay will take the students’ work and edit it into a cohesive piece before projecting it onto the Artspace building.

“It’s always amazing to see what people create,” Ms Robinson said.

“I think it reflects a lot about their personalities or their experiences in life.

“Once they get the skills, they roll with it, and you can see some of the really beautiful aspects of people’s creative minds and abilities and talents.”

Time of Our Lives will be projected onto Artspace Mackay for all to see every night from Monday, July 3 to Friday, July 9.

Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School students Echo Hankin and Elena Murray Larrance

Crossroad Arts Director and CEO Alison Richardson leading the digital animation workshop. Photos supplied: Mackay Regional Council

Valuable Week Of Work Experience For Local Students

Year 10 students from St Patrick’s College Mackay recently spent a productive week exploring their career goals and interests through Work Experience.

With the guidance of the College’s Careers & VET Head of Department Cherie Hess and Teacher Assistant Vikki McGrath, some 249 students secured placements in an array of occupations with the diversity of the locations demonstrating the variety of students’ career interests.

Placements were found locally and in the wider community with some students travelling as far as Brisbane, Sarina, Hay Point, Eton, Mirani, Leap, Dumbleton and Seaforth and were processed by the local KP Placement Agency.

“Work experience is a valuable opportunity for Year 10 students to gain insight into the world of work and understand the expectations of the workplace,” said Mrs Hess.

“It gives students an opportunity to explore connections between their school studies and career pathways, while also as-

sisting them to become more aware of the realities of the workplace and to develop skills, knowledge, and experience that will benefit them in their future careers” she added.

The St Patrick’s students spent time experiencing workplaces including trades, tugboat operators, daycare centres, outdoor activity camps, hair salons, law firm, optometrist, pharmacies, fitness centres, allied health, real estate agents, vets, dance teachers, diesel fitters, builders and many more varied forms of employment.

As a result of seeking Work Experience places, four students – Billy Cruden (HPHFM); Elliott Hamilton (Mac’s Engineering) and Zed Stickland (Ryan Scott Building) have been offered school-based apprenticeships while Rebekah Papavasiliou was offered a part-time administrative position at the Mackay electorate office of Dawson MP Andrew Wilcox.

One female student will be completing her Work Experience in Week 10 from March 28-30 at the Army Aviation Familiarisation program with Defence at the Swartz

Barracks in south-east Queensland. Fifty students completed their Construction White Card.

“Each student was contacted by a staff member in person to speak to both the employer and student to ascertain how the student was coping in the world of work, “ said Mrs McGrath.

“Students also completed a log book as a way of reflecting on their Work Experience and employers completed an assessment of the student” she added.

The College received positive feedback from employers who commended the stu-

dents on their work ethic, punctuality and people skills with many bosses keen to obtain their services on a permanent basis.

“We would like to thank each employer for the valuable contribution to students’ career planning and research provided through work experience,” said St Patrick’s College Principal Janelle Agius.

“Our Year 10 students are to be commended for their initiative to seek out Work Experience in these challenging times and the Careers Team hopes they have enjoyed and benefited from their week,” Mrs Agius added.

By Chris Karas

St Patrick’s College Year 10 student Gabrielle Roberts (left) completed work experience at the Peak Family Chiropractic in West Mackay

St Patrick’s College Year 10 student Billy Cruden (left) with Heath Paton Hair For Men (HPHFM) barber shop owner Heath Paton. Photos supplied

ALL ABOARD!

So much has changed recently with the introduction of Electric Vehicles and Automation - bringing about significant changes and opportunities. This Expo is about inspiring and educating parents and students on the over 40 trades and roles available within the sector. We welcome parents and students to attend the expo to gain inspiration and information on:

WEDNESDAY 5TH APRIL 2023

4.30PM TO 7:00PM

MCCARTHY PANEL

AUTO CAREER EXPO THIS WEEK

2 OLOUGHLIN STREET

• The wide range of opportunities are available

Hidden amongst the trees at Ooralea’s Muller Park, miniature trains weave along miniature tracks, welcoming passengers young and old to ride.

ride on the trains.

• Benefits of a secure and future proof career

“My interest is around seeing the kids’ faces light up as we ride around,” Mr Hamelink said.

• How to get into the industry

• Connect with employers

Simon Hamelink grew up near the park where the Mackay Society of Model Engineers have been operating for between 30 and 40 years.

“It was only around the corner from where I lived with mum and dad,” Mr Hamelink said.

“As I moved out of home, I had two kids who became interested as well.”

YNORTH MACKAY, QLD 4740

“I have first-hand experience of how tight the labour market is at the moment,” she said.

Motor Trade Association Qld has joined

“I enjoy interacting with them, getting them to come over and toot the horn and just getting them involved.”

oung people who are interested in pursuing a career in the automotive industry are invited to come along to the MTA Queensland Auto Career Evening which is due to be held at McCarthy Panel Works on Wednesday evening.

LIGHT REFRESHMENTS WILL BE SERVED.

“I want to help give people more opportunity to talk to employers so they have a direct link to the industry – this is bigger than McCarthy Panel Works, this is for the industry as a whole.”

• Learn about Vocational Pathways and next steps

The club also cater to private functions on Saturdays, costing $90 for a two-hour session including a private train and a driver for up to 50 people.

Automotive business’s in Mackay to showcase the many and varied opportunities available your city within the Automotive Industry.

Mr Hamelink said the club is looking for more people to get involved to ensure its future.

With the introduction of Electric and Hybrid Vehicles in recent years, there are a lot of changes happening within this exciting industry.

The Expo is an opportunity for people to connect with employers, learn more about the different careers available and vocational pathways that can lead to the next step in securing an apprenticeship.

The Expo has a capacity of 100 people and 70 people have already registered so, if you are interested in attending, scan the QR code to reserve your space.

The Mackay Society of Model Engineers is inviting the public to an open run this Sunday, April 2 from 10:00am to 2:00pm, as well as the following Wednesdays during school holidays.

Mr Hamelink said it’s the perfect opportunity to become familiar with the electric, petrol and steam locomotives used and owned by the club.

Picnics are welcome and a gold coin donation and closed in shoes are required to

The club holds weekly Monday working bees and you can find the Mackay Society of Model Engineers on Facebook for more information.

WHAT: Miniature Trains Public Run Day

So much has changed recently with the introduction of Electric Vehicles and Automation - bringing about significant changes and opportunities. This Expo is about inspiring and educating parents and students on the over 40 trades and roles available within the sector.

TO ATTEND PLEASE RSVP HERE. FOR MORE INFORMATION: LEANNAT@MTAQ.COM.AU

WHEN: Sunday, April 2, Wednesday, April 5 and Wednesday, April 12 from 10:00am to 2:00pm

WHERE: Muller Park, Ooralea

On the night, The Snap-On Pantech Truck will be attending which will showcase the latest scanning equipment, there will also be Nissan and Tesla vehicles on-site and attendees will see the latest calibration machines.

WEDNESDAY 5TH APRIL 2023

WHAT: MTA Queensland Auto Career Evening

WHERE: McCarthy Panel Works, 2 O’Loughlin Street, North Mackay

4.30PM TO 7:00PM

We welcome parents and students to attend the expo to gain inspiration and information on:

There are over 40 trades and roles within the sector and Andrea McCarthy, who sits on the board of the Motor Traders Association of Queensland, says she is passionate about helping young people realise their potential.

WHEN: Wednesday, April 5 – 4.30pm –7pm

• The wide range of opportunities are available

• Benefits of a secure and future proof career

• How to get into the industry

• Connect with employers

• Learn about Vocational Pathways and next steps

MCCARTHY PANEL 2 OLOUGHLIN NORTH MACKAY, QLD 4740

LIGHT REFRESHMENTS WILL BE SERVED.

TO ATTEND PLEASE RSVP HERE

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

LEANNAT@MTAQ.COM.AU

PROPERTY POINT

The rental crisis is real in Australia and in Queensland and Mackay is no exception to the rest of the country.

Anyone who is renting or looking for a rental property will be aware of the challenges and costs involved.

It is a perfect storm for renters because landlords are facing increased costs because of interest rate rises … their mortgage payments have gone up and they are looking to increase rents to help cover the extra expense. This coincides with a lack of available rental properties so the old story of economics, demand and supply, comes into play and landlords are able to increase rents and take advantage of the lack of supply.

In Mackay, and in many parts of the country, rental vacancies are around the 1 per cent mark.

Meanwhile the Queensland Government is wanting to be seen to do something about the crisis in this state.

The Government recently announced a plan to limit rent increases to once a year. While that might provide some certainty for renters, it is not going to stop the increases nor deal with the lack of supply; in fact it could contribute to a dwindling of supply and make things worse.

Demand and supply is the thing and governments need to create an environment where new residential houses and apartments are built.

Michael Matusik, the excellent real estate com-

David Fisher

mentator, recently addressed the issue in his regular comment piece the Matusik Missive. He said: “Rising costs, labour shortages alongside fixed price contacts has stuffed up a lot of building businesses, with many facing the wall.

“Some major construction firms are now thinking of pulling out of the residential sector altogether.

“Working for the practice isn’t fun for anyone and even when there is a profit it is increasingly negligible making it hardly worth the risk.

“Yet all states and territories – with the exception of Victoria and the ACT – aren’t building enough new dwellings to cater for underlying demand. See charts 3 and 4.

“Over the past year we approved some 187,000 new dwellings but we needed 220,000 or 33,000 more.”

When the Greens and state governments talk about limiting rents we have to remember that the socialist approach has a history of failure in pretty much all walks of life and what governments should be doing is creating an environment that encourages a greater supply of rental properties.

Let demand and supply do its job and get the balance right between a decent return for investors and more affordable rental costs for tenants.

Post-Covid immigration is about to crank up so things are not going to get better.

Gardian Real Estate Sales Agent

0408 672 703

David@gardian.com.au

This time next week, it will be Good Friday, and you know what that means right?

One month until I’ll be in Brisbane for Magic Round. One month until Dad comes up to say hello to the grandkids. It will be three months until I head down south with my daughter to see Lizzo, and 5 months until I have to run a silly amount of k’s for the Sydney Marathon.

This year is turning into one of the best and busiest on record. I’m excited for it to all happen.

But I can’t stop thinking about Easter next week, because it will be a chance to see my kids, have some days off and relax, and eat a fair bit of chocolate.

It’ll be a pretty busy time around the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsundays regions too, because everyone will be getting out and about to explore the area. From camping at Eungella, to grabbing a cabin at Broken River or Cape Hillsborough, or even pitching a tent at Seaforth, we surely have it all. If I may make a suggestion, flick the radio on 4MK, and I’ll give you plenty of chances to win some school Easter Holidays stuff in the breakfast show, then you can get in the car with the family and just drive and

stop somewhere that looks interesting. You know the feeling when you drive up the road, and you go past something that you’ve never noticed before? Like the sheep heading to Seaforth? Perhaps the hay bale art sculptures out near Sarina? What about the colourful signs along the road heading off to Habana?

So many gems in our backyard. We just need to find them.

If you’re unsure of where to go, go and see our wonderful volunteers at the tourism info centres. There’s the Field of Dreams in Sarina, the Bluewater Lagoon on River St. We’ve also got places to see at Bowen, Clermont, Airlie, Proserpine and more. Call in and see what you can do.

Here’s a few must dos over the next two weeks. Wakeboarding at Beaconsfield, Forest Flying at Finch Hatton, Beach Walks at sunrise at Bucasia, Feed the ducks at the Gooseponds, Walk the rainforest trail at the Botanic Gardens, and also grab a coffee at the Proserpine Bakery. There’s so many hidden beauties in our area, we just need to flick the TV remote off, jump off the lounge, get in the car and drive. Plus have fun.

Why I Joined The Pioneer Catchment & Landcare Group

In 2020, I expressed an interest in being the council representative on (PCL) Pioneer Catchment & Landcare Group Inc Management Committee. I have to say that being part of this committee is so rewarding and I have learnt so much, but still have much more to learn. The committee is made up of some very passionate people who bring skills, knowledge and experience to the committee and that is what makes it successful. Add to this the amazing PCL staff who come to work each day with a positive mind set, and we have a dynamic organisation that is very much looking to the future and the longevity of PCL, and how we can contribute to ensuring the natural environment in this region is cared for and protected well into the fu-

ture.

PCL is a non-profit community based, natural resource management organisation. It was formed in the early 1990’s as one of the first catchment groups in Queensland and was then called Pioneer Integrated Catchment Management Association (PICMA). The Pioneer Catchment area includes sub-catchments of all coastal streams from the Whitsunday region in the north to Sarina and the Isaac region in the south and extends west to Eungella and the Clarke Connors Range.

Pioneer Catchment and Landcare promotes the planned and sustainable natural resource management of the Pioneer catchment lands, rivers and coastal regions. We do this in many ways including:

• Fostering connections between landholders, community groups and government agencies in land, water and vegetation management activities

• Promotion of community and government understanding of the interactions between land use, water, soils, vegetation and wildlife

• Promotion of the value of a coordinated, catchment-wide approach for managing resources

• Identification and prioritisation of interrelated land and water resource issues in the catchment

• Encouraging and promoting regenerative agricultural practices

Cr Fran Mann Mackay Regional Council

• Encouraging conservation of native flora and fauna

If you would like to see some of our current activities, check out the group on Facebook. If you want to chat about becoming a member or a volunteer, contact us on coordinator@pioneercatchment.org. au or admin@pioneercatchment.org.au or phone the office on 4944 1979.

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

Training Available In A Call Out For Haulout

By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

The Mackay region is steamrolling towards the 2023 crush and now is the time to get on board with CANEGROWERS Mackay’s Haulout Driver training courses.

There is a high demand for haulout drivers at farms across the region during harvest season, and CANEGROWERS Mackay goes out hard to attract labour from the local workforce, but also from outside the region, with travelling rural workers and “working holidayers like backpackers and grey nomads.

Training is an important part of helping make sure we have the harvest workers we need, and CANEGROWERS Mackay has developed an outstanding grower-led, RTObacked training course. The course was developed and is delivered by fully qualified trainer growers who have had a longstanding connection to the program.

Last year, the two four-day courses attracted people across different ages, backgrounds and genders, we are hoping to see that again when they run on 2 and 8 May, training 20 people new to the cane harvesting sector. This training is important for our members, for new workers, and for our industry. For over 14 years we have run this training program, which builds safety and capability in people looking to join the cane harvesting sector.

While you can drive the haulout tractors on a C class driver’s licence, these are big machines that have their own demands. We want new drivers to be safe, competent, and confident behind the wheel, and working with experi-

enced grower harvesters, on the farm with real machinery, gives them a great start.

Last year a collaboration between Queensland Agricultural Workforce Network (QAWN) supported running a second course for the first time, bolstering the original course funded by the Queensland Government through its Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative.

We are proud to say that because of that success, the Queensland Government has not only funded us directly for two courses in 2023, but that this will extend for the next three years. That means, over the next three years, CANEGROWERS Mackay is assured of 60 trained haulout drivers being supported into the region’s sugar industry, responding to ongoing critical labour shortages at harvest season.

The courses are fully funded (ie: free for participants) and open to a wide range of job-seekers, with women returning to the workforce, ATSI and under-employed workers all encouraged to apply.

Training is backed by a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) trainer-assessor, and participants will also gain four units of competency towards a Cert II in Rural Operations.

We were able to make some interesting observations during last year’s running of the course, which included the participation of older workers just past - or near - retirement age. Several had worked across other agricultural sectors in their career and were now looking to the pleasures of the warmer winter climate of Mackay.

Older workers have a great deal to offer: they are typically reliable, and more careful with equipment. They come with a lifetime of working experience, and the seasonal work suits the work/life balance they are looking for

There have been significant shifts in employment trends over recent years, and this avenue into agriculture also presents a great opportunity for people looking to shift industries.

To find out more, and to register for screening, contact CANEGROWERS Mackay

Training Co-ordinator Deborah Fowler on 4944 2600. Applications close Friday, April 14. You can read more on the web at mackaycanegrowers.com.au.

This training is proudly funded by the Queensland Government through its Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative.

Grower and lead trainer Ron Gurnett talks trainees through features of a harvester in last year’s training

Training is a mix of practical and theory. Photo credit: Kirili Lamb

HARMONY DAY IN MACKAY

Schools, businesses and organisations across the region came together last week to celebrate Harmony Day.

Grade 6 students at St Joseph's Catholic Primary School celebrated Harmony Day by hosting a play, scavenger hunt, chalk art and eat street markets, celebrating the 46 different cultures represented in the school.

“We’ve been learning about refugees and asylum seekers and their cultural backgrounds and the culture they bring into Australia that creates Australia’s cultural diversity,” said St Joseph’s School Captain Farrah Hamilton.

“It’s important to celebrate cultural diver-

sity and to thank everyone for coming into Australia and making it the amazing place that it is,” added fellow School Captain Mila Hinschen.

Mackay North State High School celebrated similarly with chalk art, dumplings and plenty of orange.

Meanwhile, Mackay Regional Council teamed up with the Neighbourhood Hub to celebrate Mackay’s multicultural community.

Multicultural groups shared their culture by wearing traditional dress and sharing information and guest speaker Indriani shared her story as an Indonesian migrant.

St Joseph's Catholic Primary School celebrated Harmony Day last week. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

Mackay Regional Council and Neighbourhood Hub held a Harmony Day event. Photos supplied

Mackay North State High School put their chalk art skills to the test. Photos supplied

PHARMACY CHANGES HANDS AFTER 90 YEARS IN THE FAMILY

After 60 years in the industry, a local pharmacy icon is moving onto her next chapter after selling her Mount Pleasant based business.

Lynette Dupuy started working in a pharmacy at the age of 15, following in her father’s footsteps, and will finish her tenure this weekend.

Ms Dupuy’s father opened K M Dupuy Chemist in Sydney Street in 1934. He passed away 19 years later and inspired Ms Dupuy to take up the profession to keep the family business going.

“I was 12 or 13 and then my fate was sealed,” she said.

Travelling to Brisbane to acquire her registration, Ms Dupuy worked in Brisbane and Cairns, all the while owning the family pharmacy.

She and her husband opened a new pharmacy in Mount Pleasant before building the current pharmacy in 1996.

Throughout her 60 years in the industry, Ms Dupuy specialised in a variety of areas including clinical nutrition, medicine compounding and vaccinations.

“All of those sorts of things I enjoy because originally I wanted to do medicine,” she said.

“I enjoy looking after people.

“I’ve had people coming in here the last few days begging me to stay.

“In all those things that I do, people come in here and ask me something and I usually know the answer.

“My brain never stops!”

The industry has changed aplenty over the years and Ms Dupuy has seen it all, striving to stay on top of the evolution of pharmacy.

“When I became a pharmacist – I’ve still got some of my dad’s books – it was the end of writing things in books in pharma-

A WHEELY GOOD MORNING FOR RIDING YOUR BIKE

cy; we started using a computer and software,” she said.

“It’s been a progression to the state it is now that everything is becoming electronic over the period of about 10 years.”

Ms Dupuy’s career has taken her across the world, with pharmacy conferences leading her and her husband to over 80 countries.

“I’ve made a lot of friends in Australia, Canada, England, everywhere,” she said.

“I enjoyed the company of pharmacists, doctors and physiotherapists.

“I enjoyed interacting with other people outside Mackay and I learnt a lot.”

Travel is one thing that Ms Dupuy hopes to do more of in the future.

“I’m looking forward to having Easter off, being with my family, going to see plays, going to do things, that’s what I’m looking forward to,” she said.

While she looks forward to retirement, she’s considering returning to the workforce in either clinical nutrition or pharmacy, plans to write books about her family history and her career and may even further her study.

“After about three months, I’ll make a decision,” she said.

“I just want some time to myself.”

an action-packed week for St Joseph's Catholic Primary School, hundreds of students, parents and siblings jumped on their treadly and rode to school for National Ride to School Day.

Meeting and departing from Pioneer Swim Centre, students rode their elaborately decorated bikes through the Gooseponds to the school where they were met with breakfast provided by Mackay Regional Council.

Information sessions were then held by Corry Cycles and Mackay PCYC before a brand new bike, donated by Corry Cycles, was given away.

“It’s an initiative to put bike riding to school at the forefront of kids minds,” said Corry Cycles owner Evan Corry.

“This school’s got bike racks at the front gate and you always see a few bikes there but it’d be great to see a few more after to-

day.”

Mr Corry informed students of the safety of helmets and bike maintenance while Sargent Dorinda Freeman, Relief Branch Manager at Mackay PCYC, elaborated on road safety.

“We’ll be making students aware of what they need to look out for to get to school and how to navigate streets safely,” Ms Freeman said.

253 students, parents and siblings participated in the ride including Kristen Kachel who has two children at the school.

“It was a good opportunity to have the morning off, be with the kids, get involved with the school community and support a healthy approach to life,” Ms Kachel said.

“I think it’s a great opportunity for the kids to get outside and be active and see how much fun it is to be on a pushy.”

Sargent Dorinda Freeman of Mackay PCYC and Evan Corry of Corry Cycles led National Ride to School Day information sessions at St Joseph's Catholic Primary School. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

In

This weekend is Lynette Dupuy’s last weekend as a full-time pharmacist. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

An Easter Message

From The Venerable Dr Rosemary Dunn

An Easter Message

Reverend Dr Julia Pitman

This Easter you are invit ed to attend church to celebrate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the di vine Son of God.

sacrifice of his life for the world and his resurrection from the dead.

Christ dies, and Christ lives. Sure, but what difference does it make to my life? Well, the Easter story is actually about everyone’s life. Jesus endures what all of us face at some time: betrayal, injustice, hurt, insults, suffering.

OK, most mightn’t face literal crucifixion –although some do. But suffering is a part of life and humans don’t seem to be able to stop this suffering.

But Christians understand that God, who created this universe in love and is love, comes into this world in Jesus to face all the rubbish that we do.

And although he suffers like us, he responds to that suffering in a way that most of us

can’t- with love and forgiveness. Jesus faces his tormentors and says: ‘Father forgive them for they know not what they do’. Jesus hands his accusers to God, for God’s will to be done: that his creatures find new life.

Jesus will not participate in the cycle of human vengeance – and so he breaks the cycle of death.

In a world of destruction and cynicism, Easter reminds us that God continues to share his compassion, love and grace with us, so that we can bring new life to our lives, now and forever.

Be blessed as you share Easter love with others!

Mackay Anglican Community

2023 ANGLICAN EASTER SERVICES

Maundy Thursday

7.00pm Eucharist - Holy Trinity, Mackay

Good Friday

9.00am St Ambrose, North Mackay

9.00am Holy Trinity, Mackay

9.00am St Charles, West Mackay

12.00 – 3.00pm Meditation - Holy Trinity, Mackay

Easter Saturday

6.30pm Easter Vigil - St Charles, West Mackay

Easter Day

5.30am Dawn Easter Eucharist - Bluewater Quay, River Street [Please bring a chair]

9.00am Easter Eucharist - Holy Trinity, Mackay

9.00am Easter Eucharist - St Ambrose, North Mackay

3.00pm Easter Eucharist - St Margaret’s, Nebo

Please call or email the office for further enquiries 07 4957 3341 | admin@mackayanglicans.org.au

At Easter, Christians are called to put aside the cares of work, family, and holidays to worship the triumphant risen Lord. ‘Up from the grave he arose’, is the first line of the 1874 gospel song by Baptist pastor and church musician, Robert Lowry, ‘with a mighty triumph o’er his foes.

He arose a victor from the dark domain, and he lives forever with his saints to reign. He arose, He arose! Hallelujah, Christ arose.’

REV. DR JULIA PITMAN Minister, St Paul’s Uniting Church

The Bible invites us to follow Jesus in his

As we live our lives every day as baptised believers, we follow the path of Christ’s death and resurrection.

When we sacrifice our lives and live in the light of the resurrection, then we abolish fear, restore confidence, and abound in joy!

In the final verse of Charles Wesley’s famous hymn, ‘Christ the Lord is risen today’, our resurrection life is transcendent, like the path of an eagle: ‘Soar we now where Christ has led, Alleluia! Following our exalted Head; made like him, like him we rise, ours the cross, the grave, the skies.’

EASTER SERVICE TIMES FOR THE UNITING CHURCHES IN THE MACKAY REGION

‘Up from the grave he arose’

ARMITAGE, cnr Evan and Kennedy Streets, South Mackay

Maundy Thursday 7pm Rev. Dr Julia Pitman

ST PAUL’S, Macalister Street, Mackay

Good Friday 9.15am Rev. Dr Julia Pitman

Easter Sunday 9.15am Rev. Dr Julia Pitman

Community Radio MY105.9FM Mackay, MY95.9FM Sarina and MY88FM

Proserpine and the Whitsundays www.my105fm.com.au/listen-live

Good Friday 7am Rev. Dr Julia Pitman

Easter Sunday 10am Rev. Dr Julia Pitman

NORTHSIDE, cnr Bedford Road and Fleurs Way, Andergrove

Maundy Thursday 7pm Rev. Wayne McHugh

Good Friday 8am Rev. Wayne McHugh

Easter Sunday 9am Rev. Wayne McHugh

Live-stream https://northsideseaforth.org.au/live-stream/

IONA WEST, 7 Brooks Street, West Mackay

Good Friday 8.30am

Easter Sunday 8.30am and 5pm

Live-stream https://ionawest.org.au/stream

SARINA, Range Road

Good Friday 7am Ps Jeff Grant

Easter Sunday 8.30am Ps Jeff Grant

THE PIONEER VALLEY, Walkerston and Mirani

Good Friday 8am St Andrew’s, 5 Bold Street, Walkerston

Easter Sunday 8am St Andrew’s, 5 Bold Street, Walkerston

Easter Sunday 10am The Valley, cnr Louise and Victoria Streets, Mirani

The MECC Will Bring The Funny To Mackay UNIFY In Mackay

The Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow is bringing its stellar line-up to Mackay in April

One of the country’s largest Comedy Festivals is sending its best and brightest on the road to arrive in Mackay on April 27.

The Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow will return to the Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (MECC) with familiar favourites from this year’s Festival line-up, alongside the most talked-about breakthrough stars of the moment.

Comedian, self-proclaimed beer enthusiast, and cheeky scallywag Brett Blake MCs the evening alongside internationally recognised comedian Anirban Dasgupta.

Blake brings his brilliant digs at Aussie culture and Dusgupta – who vaunts an Instagram following of over 155 thousand and over 15 million views on excerpts of his skits – his effortless stage presence. Joining them on the line-up are Bronwyn Kuss, Stuart Daulman, and He Huang –certainly a guaranteed great night out.

Manager of MECC & Events Andrew Bobeldyk said comedy is always a popular choice for Mackay locals.

“Laughter makes us feel good and helps us relax. Each year we receive great feedback following the Melbourne Comedy Festival Roadshow. Our audiences always enjoy their night” Mr Bobeldyk said.

“The festival has visited the MECC 15 times in 15 years. It’s quite popular!” he continued.

The night of entertainment will begin at 6.30pm with live music in the MECC North Foyer by local musician Jonte Tupaea.

For a one-way ticket to laughter, those looking for their next comedy fix should book now.

WHAT: Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow

WHERE: The MECC

WHEN: Thursday, April 27 from 6.30pm

Some of Australian music’s heaviest hitters are heading to Mackay after Unify Gathering announced their touring festival UNIFY Off The Record 2023.

The rock, metal and punk festival, usually held in South Gippsland, Victoria, announced it will be taking a break in 2023, touring a mini festival around Australia instead visiting Mackay, Wollongong, Adelaide, Hobart and Frankston.

“When we made the decision to skip the 2023 gathering, we knew right away that we wanted to do something to fill the space left,” the festival said in a statement.

UNIFY Off The Record will feature a diverse roster of acts, celebrating heavy music at an intimate club show at the Seabreeze Hotel.

Thornhill, Void of Vision, Young Lions, Wildheart and locals Arcade Stories will all be taking the stage in May.

The event will also include pop up stores, artist signings and workshops before and after doors, with the aim to bring as much

of UNIFY on the road as is possible.

“UNIFY is obviously a music festival, but it’s also always been an opportunity to bring our heavy music loving community together to share our experiences and learn,” the statement continued.

“We’re taking that ethos with us on the Off The Record road trip, working alongside APRA AMCOS and Support Act to host some real-talk sessions on everything from song writing to mental health, and providing exclusive insight into some of the Off The Record artist’s own stories.

“You’ll also be able to hit up the travelling pop up merch shop, selling our exclusive UNIFY Off The Record merch and other hard-to-find goodies.”

WHAT: UNIFY Off The Record 2023

WHERE: Seabreeze Hotel

WHEN: Saturday, May 20

TICKETS: unifygathering.com

A powerful pop orchestral dive in Julia Gillard’s famous misogyny speech...

Melbourne’s Thornhill will headline the UNIFY Off The Record in Mackay. Photo supplied

EVENTGUIDE

FRIDAY 31 MARCH

Autumn Orchid Show

Friday, 8:00am to 4:00pm and Saturday, 8:00am to 3:00pm

Mackay and District Orchid Society Inc presents their Autumn Orchid Show at the Sporting Wheelies Hall. Orchids for sale. Pots, Potting Medium, Tags etc. Orchid Culture Demonstrations. $2 coin donation. Raffles Email: mdos.secretary@gmail.com. Phone 0435002990. Webpage: www.mdos. com.au.

Sporting Wheelies Hall, 78 Bridge Road, South Mackay

CASA Monthly BBQ

Friday, 10:00am to 12:00pm Come down for a snag and a yarn.

CASA - Community Accommodation & Support Agency Inc.

Open Mic Night

Friday, 7:00pm

The headliner for Open Mic Night is Patricia O’Brien-Price visiting from Maryborough, with MC Deanne from North Queensland hosting the night. If you have thought about giving stand-up comedy a go, send Mackay Open Mic Comedy Group a Facebook message and they will put you on the list (strictly five minutes or less). Doors open at 7PM. $10 Entry at the door.

Ambassador Hotel

Film & Arts Mackay Film Night: FULL TIME

Friday, 7:30pm

The marvellous Laure Calamy demonstrates the phenomenal range of her talents in writer/director Eric Gravel’s gripping new drama FULL TIME, as a single woman pushed to her limits when the delicate balance between her home and work life is upended. AGM prior to screening from 7.00pm.

Central Queensland Conservatorium Of Music

Karlie Wise Live at the Seabreeze Hotel

Friday, 8:30pm to 11:30pm

Cap off your work week at the Seabreeze Hotel and dance the night away.

Seabreeze Hotel

SATURDAY 1 APRIL

Mackay Cutters Round Four

Saturday, 9:15am

9:15am | GATES OPEN. 10:00am |Cyril Connell Challenge. 11:30am | Mal Meninga Cup. 1:00pm | Harvey Norman Women's. 2:30pm | Hastings Deering Colts (TRIAL). 4:15pm |BMD Premiership. 6:15pm | Hostplus Cup. Get around game day and cheer on the Cutters as they take on CQ Capras.

BB Print Stadium

Come, Try N Play Wheelchair

Rugby League

Saturday, 1:00pm to 3:00pm

Wheelchair Rugby League is not just a sport for people with disabilities. It is an inclusive sport that is a variation of the rugby league running game. People with and without disabilities play on the same team. Men, women, boys and girls can all play Wheelchair Rugby League. NRL Wheelchair invites you to come along and try this allinclusive recreational activity. Whether you are interested in playing, volunteering or supporting – or would like to know more about the game – everyone is welcome. People who register and attend will receive a free participation pack. This is the perfect way to see what the sport is all about.

Mackay PCYC

Red Dog Brewery’s 1st Birthday

Saturday, 1:00pm

Celebrate one year of fine brews at Red Dog Brewery. With plenty of prizes on offer, the pizza kitchen open and Wild Sky performing from 7, it’s sure to be a worthy celebration.

Red Dog Brewery

SUNDAY 2 APRIL

Calen Chappy Chat and Dedication Service

Sunday, 12.30pm-1.30pm Chappy Chat

Sunday, 2.15pm Dedication of signage and school chaplain

Join the Calen Uniting Church for their free Chappy Chat informal question and answer session at lunchtime.

Stay on into the afternoon for a church service and sumptuous afternoon tea with Lesley Tunnah on guitar, children’s talk and activities, and a dedication of new signage with signwriter Maree Gutschlag and Alun

Tunnah as the new Calen District State School Chaplain. All welcome! Calen Uniting Church, 42 McIntyre Street, Calen

MONDAY 3 APRIL

Free Eggciting Easter Activities

Monday to Saturday

Hippity hop, Easter’s on its way and Caneland Central have plenty of FREE Easter Activities to keep your little ones entertained! You can get your face painted, enjoy crafts, meet the Easter bunny and take part in the Mega Easter Egg Hunt! Caneland Central

Free Teen Confidence Building Workshop

Wednesday, 9:00am to 3:00pm

First day of school holidays and what better way to start the two weeks off than with a fun-filled day learning all things self-confidence and Teen building. Phil will guide you in how to feel good within yourself, stand up and be proud, work through certain situation and stand strong and proud. Phil’s training style is second to none and he just gets the Teens. He is enthusiastic to make a change in our Teenagers’ lives. Your teen will be wanting to come back for more.

Get It Done Training

TUESDAY 4 APRIL

Yoga for Youth

Tuesday, 4:45pm to 5:45pm

Welcoming all teens aged 12 - 18 to the Yoga for Youth Class over the school holidays. Join in for a 60-minute Vinyasa (flowing) Yoga Class exclusively for teens. This class is suitable for beginners through to advanced yoga students and is a safe and supportive space for teens to explore the many benefits of yoga, to connect with other teens and more importantly, yourself. BYO: yoga mat and water bottle. Attire: Comfortable clothing for movement. $10 per student. Online bookings essential as tickets are capped.

Mackay Northern Beaches State High School

WEDNESDAY 5 APRIL

Soul Jam Wednesdays at The Kooyong Hotel

Every Wednesday, 6:00pm to 11:00pm

Soul Jam has an intimate room to itself where they will be hosting another friendly space to share your originals, jam with others and experiment with music. They supply a drummer and guitarist, bass also available. All artists are welcome including Slam Poetry and comedians.

The Kooyong Hotel

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

THURSDAY 6 APRIL

Chair Yoga in North Mackay

Every Thursday, 2:00pm

Using a chair for support (either sitting or standing) Chair Yoga is a practice of gentle movement, combined with mindful breathing & meditation. It's an excellent choice for anyone who wants to focus on a gentle, nurturing practice. Chair Yoga can improve your balance, flexibility, concentration & strength while boosting your mood, and reducing stress and joint strain. Bookings are essential. Call or text your full name to 0434 940 300 or message the Wellness With Deb Facebook page. Palmview Village Community Centre, via Oasis Drive / Bradford St.

Mackay Riverside Market

Every Thursday, 3:00pm to 7:00pm

Come and meet your local growers, bakers and makers, chill on the lawn listening to some beautiful tunes and grab some delicious dinner and dessert.

Bluewater Quay

CASA Monthly BBQ FULL TIME

Mackay Cutters

Open Mic Night

Karlie Wise

Eggciting Easter Activities at Caneland

Call for Artists Now Open

For Woollam Art on Show Awards 2023

Entries are now open for Mackay`s prestigious Woollam Art on Show Awards.

Mackay Show Association announced the launch of Mackay`s highly popular, non- acquisitive 2023 National Art Prize, returning August 4-7, with new additions to further highlight art and culture in the region.

Celebrating seventeen years of art excellence, The Mackay Show Association’s initiative behind establishing The Art on Show Awards was to take the arts to a higher level of professionalism within the context of a community art competition in the show “arena”.

The Association strives to seek a significant level of participation from artists locally, interstate and nationwide while providing a high standard of presentation.

Art on Show plays an integral part in Mackay’s cultural future as a high-profile arts event and provides an educational role, raising awareness and promoting the arts to patrons who attend the event and

the Mackay Regional Show. The Art on Show Awards have five sections of entry with the major prize the Woollam Art on Show Award being $3,000 and the total prize purse increasing to $12,000.

As always, Mackay Show Association has secured the services of a high-profile judge with nationally and internationally acclaimed Australian artist Anneke Silver judging this year’s competition.

Townsville Artist Dr. Anneke Silver loves the tropical North as a place to live, and the diversities of subject matter it offers,

Celebrate Red Dog’s First Birthday

Woodsy and the team are celebrating one year of Red Dog Brewery tomorrow.

It was one year ago that the Mackay community excitedly came together to check out the new watering hole in town, Red Dog Brewery.

Offering fresh and flavourful beers made onsite, as well as a unique range of independent spirits and drinks, Red Dog clearly filled a gap in the market because, one year on, the brewery is going stronger than ever and is excited to invite everyone back for a big first birthday celebration.

Celebrations will kick off with beers pouring from 1:00pm tomorrow, Saturday April 1.

The brewery’s “Win Your Weight in Beer” promotion will get underway at 4:00pm, with draws every half hour until the main draw at 7:00pm, followed by a headline set from local band Wild Sky to entertain crowds into the night.

Head Brewer Jamie “Woodsy” Woods reflected on the year; the result of a bold decision to leave his office job and follow his passion for beer.

“It’s been a great ride so far,” he said. “Everyone’s been really supportive, and we just keep doing what we do, and people keep showing up and supporting us.”

Throughout the year, the team at Red Dog has experimented with 10 different beers, all suited to the Mackay market, with their red ale even

claiming 34th spot in the GABS Aussie Craft Beers New Releases Hottest 100.

The newest drop launches tomorrow, a session XPA that has become Jamie’s favourite.

“It’s a mid-strength, hoppy American pale ale,” he said.

“It’s right where I want it to be; it’s not super heavy in terms of alcohol content but it’s got all the flavours that you want in a craft beer.

“I think it’ll be popular.”

You may have also enjoyed a schooner of Red Dog at other venues including Hotel Mackay, The Duke of Edinburgh Hotel, Bar 94, Rare and Mackay Golf Club, with the brewery selling wholesale throughout the region.

They’ve also expanded to include a truck bar and are about to begin canning their beers, so enjoying a Red Dog beer is about to become easier than ever.

Not only has Red Dog provided the Mackay community with a unique watering hole, but the brewery has fostered many local musicians over the year, serving as an ideal location for live music.

The brewery has extended their license area for tomorrow’s celebrations and will have the pizza kitchen pumping out delicious hot pizzas.

“For those people that are thinking, ‘Should we

from interpretations of landscape to rainforests, vast expanses of the outback as well as the typical architecture.

Most of her life has been divided between art practice and art teaching, enjoying the interaction between the two.

Art on Show is the starting point for many local artists to exhibit and launch their careers, also focusing on unearthing new talent amongst emerging high school senior art students by working closely with our region’s Art Educators

All works will also be available for pur

come?’ definitely come out because we’ve got plenty of extra space for everyone,” Jamie said.

After a year of highlights, celebrations and memories made, Jamie is looking forward to commemorating the milestone in style and said there’s more to come.

“There’s something exciting in the works that

chase during the exhibition.

Art on Show will open on the evening of Friday, August 4 and the exhibition will be open until Monday, August 7. Visit artonshow.com.au for more information and to enter.

WHAT: Art on Show

WHERE: Mackay Showgrounds

we’ll be able to share with everyone shortly,” he said.

WHAT: Red Dog Brewery’s 1st Birthday

WHEN: Saturday, April 1 from 1:00pm

WHERE: Red Dog Brewery

Skin cancer screening

Skin cancer treatments

Total body photography

LED wound care

Sun damage repair

Mole removal

Winner of the 2022 Art on Show Award Artist Emily Jayne Carroll and her work entitled Fredrick

Artist Dr Anneke Silver, nationally and internationally acclaimed Australian artist, will judge the 2023 Art on Show Awards competition

Coordinator Melissa Broadhurst and Cynthia Williams view entries in 2022 exhibition. Photos supplied

Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

Meet The Dancers Part

3

Cathy Sullivan – Mount Pleasant

Why did you get involved in Dancing with Heart?

I am very passionate about the Mackay Community and like to do what I can to help where I can. At Mount Pleasant, we are committed to giving back to our community and this is one way I can do that, by raising funds for the Hospital Foundation and having some fun at the same time.

How have your dance lessons with Dolly been?

Dolly is an amazing teacher and I am learning so much! She is very patient. I have about 80% of the dance done, now I need to practice what I’ve learnt so far to be ready for the final moves.

Mackay Hospital Foundation is wellknown for signature events that bring the community together, and Dancing With Heart is no different.

Tonight, Friday March 31, eight local identities will take to the dance floor

Kay Nyenuh – Muscle Garden

WHAT: Dancing With Heart

WHERE: MECC

WHEN: Tonight, Friday March 31

to showcase their individual dance styles in support of our local hospitals. Each dancer has been working with Dolly Louw from Fame Talent School to fine tune their skills on the dance floor, with each dance choreographed

Why did you get involved in Dancing with Heart? Dancing is not something I’d usually put my hand up for let alone doing it on stage in front of a crowd! But anyone who knows me well would know that I’d do anything for charity, especially for the Mackay Hospital Foundation. So here we are!

How have your dance lessons with Dolly been?

Dolly is amazing. I am not a natural at a lot of things and dancing is definitely one of those but what I don’t have a shortage of is the ability to put in the work to get better. Dolly is patient and she knows her stuff so we’re getting there.

What song gets you on the dance floor faster than any other?

I can’t let an opportunity to do the Nutbush pass me by. What is your go to dance move?

I don’t really have one, although if I don’t really know the song, a bit of a side step sway will do! What are you expecting from everyone else’s dance moves on the night?

I’m expecting nothing but the best from everyone on the night. We are all community-oriented people and although everyone is extremely nervous, like me, they are all willing to step outside their comfort zones to provide the audience with a once in a lifetime show!

Dolly Louw

Dance Teacher (Fame Talent School)

How and why did you get involved in Dancing with Heart?

I was contacted by the Hospital Foundation to see if I would be interested in choreographing and training the dancers. I had heard a similar charity event had been held in Brisbane and that it was a huge success. I love helping out and thought it was a great opportunity for me.

How has your work with all the dancers been?

It’s been an absolute blast. I have enjoyed meeting and getting to know everyone. Dancing on stage really takes you out of your comfort zone. The dancers have all worked hard and are bringing lots of energy to their performances. The audience is going to love it. It’s very hard to compare teaching adults for performances like

especially for the individual performer.

Read on to meet the last two dancers taking to the dancefloor tonight and the dance teacher behind it all.

What song gets you on the dance floor faster than any other?

I don’t know about getting on the dance floor but I can definitely move my body to any RnB, Hip Hop or any Rock song with a good beat and sound, lyrics and melody.

What is your go to dance move?

I’m African so dancing with the hips is a given. What are you expecting from everyone else’s dance moves on the night?

Given that they’re working with Dolly, I think it’ll be very entertaining.

this, with teaching my regular students. These guys are complete novices, but the really cool thing is, they can dance better than they ever imagined they could.

What song gets you on the dance floor faster than any other?

I love all 80s music.

What is your go to dance move?

I love a good chair dance.

This has been pretty epic to put this show together because everybody works different hours and personally, I am busy with the studio and family life. My Fame backup dancers have been fabulous and have given up their free time to come and rehearse on both weekdays and Sundays. I really appreciate the effort they have put in. On the night, I hope we raise the roof and a whole lot of money for the Hospital Foundation. It’s a very grassroots and practical cause.

Image credit: Cairns Post

Basketball Returns In Positive Night For Mackay

BASKETBALL

Basketball fans turned out in force as the Mackay Metorettes and Meteors kicked off their NBL1 seasons last Friday night.

Welcoming Rockhampton to the Crater for Rivalry Round, it was the Meteorettes taking on the Cyclones first in what ended up an absolute thriller.

With each team taking the lead throughout the first quarter, the Cyclones took control of the game early, going into the first break with a 15-26 lead.

The momentum started to shift in an evenly matched second quarter, with the Meteorettes staying in the game at 35-44 at halftime.

Led by US import Davida Dale, who was hitting threes for fun and finished the game with 28 points, the home side hit back hard in the third quarter, taking a 6559 lead into the final quarter.

The visitors started their fourth quarter strongly, with Samantha Bowman leading the way and finishing with 38 points for the match.

Tied up at 80-80 with eight seconds to go, the visitors were given free throws in the

final four seconds to seal a hard-fought 80-82 win against an impassioned Mackay outfit.

“We had a pretty good start,” said Meteorettes Head Coach Jaimey Doevendans.

“We lost our way with ball movement for a little while and it could’ve come down to fatigue.

“Our crowd helped us in that third quarter, the girls responded, and we found our way a little bit.

“The girls played with character and that’s what we’re building our team on.”

The next match between the Meteors and Rockets started off in a similarly even fashion, a fast-paced first quarter finishing with the visitors in the lead 26-30.

The match remained in the balance throughout the second quarter, both teams scoring rapidly with the halftime score 48-49.

The home side started to pile on the points in the third quarter, with Isaac White finding his rhythm on debut and leading the team with infectious energy, finishing with 40 points for the match.

The home side went into the final quarter with an 87-76 lead, finishing the match

convincing 106-90 victors over their central Queensland rivals.

“It’s always good when we get the win, against Rockhampton, particularly,” Meteors Head Coach Joel Khalu said.

“We’ve had a really good preseason, so that’s helped the personalities find a way to gel.

“If you can get guys to buy into the system and buy into each other, then it makes it a whole lot easier as a coach.

“We’re a group that have got different threats in different ways on the floor.

A Fully Inclusive Sport

“Whitey (Isaac White) was outstanding tonight.

“I thought CJ (Christian) Maran was amazing.

“I thought his defence really changed the course of the game.

“Overall, defensively, while we gave up 90, I think, for the most part, we had a good day on the court.”

The Mackay teams return to the Crater tonight, Friday, March 31, to take on the Townsville Flames and Heat.

RUGBY LEAGUE

Wheelchair rugby league allows the beautiful game to be played by anybody and everybody, allowing people with and without disabilities to play on the same team

The inclusive rugby league variation was founded in France around 2008, being taken up by Queenslanders in 2016 and seeing a steady growth ever since.

It’s grown to incorporate north Queensland and southeast Queensland zones that compete for selection in a Queensland team that takes on New South Wales in an annual state of origin clash.

An NRL Wheelchair Come, Try N Play event is coming to Mackay this weekend to give locals a taste.

“The main difference is, obviously, you’re in a wheelchair,” said NRL Wheelchair Participation Programs Officer Zac Schumacher.

“We play on an indoor court that’s 46m x 20m and we play five a side.

“The jerseys have tags on their shoulders and removing one tag constitutes a tackle.

“Kicking is done by an AFL hand pass or conversions are done with kicking tees but with a fist.

“It’s open to everybody: men, women, abled, disabled – it’s a fully inclusive sport.”

Mr Schumacher discovered wheelchair rugby league after attending a Come, Try N Play event himself in 2016, the sport helping him with a hip injury at the time.

“I love the teamwork,” he said.

“Being able to play with mates that I wouldn’t necessarily be able to play sport with due to injury on a level playing field.

“I’ve been lucky enough to represent Australia twice, Queensland four times and I’m now a Participation Programs Officer for Veterans Engagement.”

The NRL Wheelchair team will be running a Come, Try N Play event tomorrow, Saturday, April 1, inviting anyone to give the sport a go.

“We’ll run some skills and drills, a little bit of gameplay, just getting people familiar with the chairs and the rules and the game and obviously having fun is our main priority,” Mr Schumacher said.

“Just come along, give it a try.

“It’s something different and it’s great fun.”

These Come, Try N Play events also allow NRL Wheelchair to gauge interest in the sport.

“Hopefully if we have enough interest, we can start a local Mackay competition to verse Townsville and possibly Cairns, to then pick the north Queensland team from that for the state cup later in the year,” Mr Schumacher said.

WHAT: NRL Wheelchair Come, Try N Play

WHEN: Saturday, April 1 from 1:00pm to 3:00pm

WHERE: PCYC Mackay

REGISTER: https://www.nrlwheelchair. com.au/nrl_events/come-try-play-northqueensland-1-april-2023/

Basketball returned to the Crater last Friday

Wheelchair rugby league is a 5-a-side inclusive variation played on an indoor court. Photos supplied

Townsville Too Good For Cutters

Returning to BB Print Stadium for the second week in a row, the Hostplus Cup Mackay Cutters were once again unable to capitalise on a close match, finishing off a huge day of local rugby league last Saturday.

The Townsville Blackhawks were off and racing early, with fullback Jodeci Baker-Tiraha scoring in the second minute. The Cutters were quick to hit back after second rower Luke Webley crossed to even things up in the first 10 minutes.

It was to be the only first-half try for the home side, with Mckenzie Baker scoring in the 15th and Baker-Tiraha scoring his second in the 23rd, giving the visitors a

6-18 lead at half time.

The Blackhawks started their second half in a similar fashion, with tries in the 44th and 61st minutes to Mitchell Dunn and Robert Derby all but sealing the deal.

At 6-28, the seemingly insurmountable lead narrowed in the 67th minute as winger Jake Riley crossed for the home side’s second try.

Inspiring a late comeback, tries to Logen Dillon in the 71st minute and Hiale Roycroft in the 77th got the Cutters within striking distance but it was too little too late.

The Blackhawks hung on to win 22-28, handing the Cutters their third loss of the

RUGBY LEAGUE

season, losing by six points or less two weeks in a row.

Meanwhile, the BMD Cutters travelled to Townsville on Saturday to take on the Burleigh Bears, suffering the first loss of their inaugural season.

The Bears showed their intent early, scoring twice in the first 11 minutes before Sareka Mooka scored for the Cutters in the 25th.

Tazmin Gray scored her second try for the Bears late in the first half, with the visitors hitting the sheds with a 4-16 lead.

The Bears piled on the tries in the second half, with a Caitlyn Ah Fook hat-trick helping them to a 34-4 lead with five min-

utes to go.

Two late consolation tries came to the Cutters thanks to Shannon Mato and Tahlulah Tillett, resulting in the Cutters going down 14-34.

Earlier in the day at BB Print Stadium, the Hastings Deering Colts Cutters went down to the Blackhawks 18-40, the Harvey Norman U19s went down 16-20, the Mal Meninga Cup squad went down 16-50 and the Cyril Connell Cup Cutters went down 4-24.

The Cutters return to BB Print Stadium this Saturday, with all six teams taking the field in a massive day of rugby league; gates open at 9:15am.

Last week was a winless one, with all six Cutters squads experiencing losses.

Photo credit: Marty Strecker Photography

From The Table With Mackay Table Tennis

Mackay Bowls Club News

BOWLS

Mackay bowls club launched into full competition last week with rinks holding social or competition bowls. This Saturday, teams will be competing in Wilma Plane Creek Shield. Teams: C Molloy, G Luck, P Molloy, B Bridger B Williams, T Crocker, C Marks, R Dunstan K Tranberg, J Crocker, G Edmonds, N Wilson.

The Mackay Club (Ladies Section) PAH will be conducted on Friday April 14. All ladies wishing to attend register your name on nomination form in the Clubhouse.

Members wishing to play in the 8-a-Side Champion of Champion competition: this has to run as a CH of CH Competition and played on Easter Monday April 10. The district Competition will be played on June 24 and 25. Make sure you are available for all events.

WEEKS RESULTS

Tuesday Social Play(24)

TABLE TENNIS

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night results March 23, 2023:

Division 1:

Donic (Graham Drury, Andrew McHugh, Barry Patterson) d Tibhar (Mick Ruhl, Allan Edwards, Vince Boeske) 6-5. Andrew d Mick 8, 5, -3, -8, 4.

Joola (Emma Widdup, Neil Brown, Robbie Richards) d Victas (Geoff Denman, Anne Sheridan, Steven Whiting) 6-5. Rob d Geoff -7, 9, -2, 9, 8.

Division 2:

Radak (Lee Brake, George Camilleri, Rhymer Tabulo, Andrea Nicholson) drew Stiga (Graham Brake, Tony Bowman, Steve Mathieson, Matthew West) 7-all. Lee d Graham 12, -8, 7, -8, 8.

Yasaka (Ian McKay, Duncan Treloar, Peter Goodson, Lily Boland) d Andro (Janice Kent, Graeme Walker, Mark Sleeman, Will VanDeKaa) 10-4. Lily d Graeme 3, -8, 12, -3, 9.

Division 3:

Gewo (Simon Hogan, Tiffany Camilleri, Craig VanDeKaa) d Butterfly (Virginia Clayton, Val Austin, Trent Day) 6-2. Simon d Trent -9, 7, -8, 9, 10. Simon d Trent -9, 7, -8, 9, 10.

Nittaku (Noreen Fredericksen, Duncan Sheridan, Steve Crocker) d Xiom (Donna

Abbott, Leo Gilbert, Ollie Hamelink) 8-3. Leo d Noreen 6, -7, 8, -8, 8.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures March 23, 2023:

Division 1:

Cockatoos (Tony Bowman, Steve Mathieson, Peter Goodson, Don Boettcher) d Pelicans (Charlie Payne, Branko Vucurovic, John McGee, Veronica Keioskie) 8-6. Tony d Branko -10, -5, 9, 4, 11.

Magpies (George Camilleri, Delma Knight, Judy Zahn, Noreen Fredericksen) d Doves (Michael Ibbotson, Pam Joyce, Kevin Abbott, Coral Morgan) 10-4. Pam d Delma -2, 9, 7, -10, 7.

Division 2:

Owls (Kim Challender, Robyn Bushell, Helen Ware) d Ibis (Iris Grasso, Louise Gould, Fred Saliba) 8-4. Iris d Robyn -9, 13, 10, 9.

Parrots (Bryan Marshall, Judi Hicks, Marie Taylor) d Kookaburras (John Hamelink, Ken Best, Kim Daffy) 7-5. John d Judi 12, -6, -10, 9, 10.

Division 3:

Hawks (Pam Keune, Gloria Vella) d Storks (Madge Saunders, Allison Day) 7-3. Gloria

d Madge -9, 4, 8, -10, 9.

Eagles (Sharon Muller, Frank Caruana, Glenda Dutton) d Pigeons (Thelma Caruana, Bill Hey, Myles Dutton) 10-2. Sharon d Bill 8, 7, -9, -8, 9.

Winner of Winners

Alan Bartlett, Whare Herewini, Barry Paskins.

Winner of Losers

Peter Nelson, Col Stevens, Brian Williams Thursday Scroungers (15) Karina Dunn def Peter Carter

Friday Social Play

Leanne Jenner, Peter Carter, Whare Herewini, def Liz McIntosh, Barry Jenner, R Schatkowski.\

Club Championships were played in Triples, Singles, Pairs, for Women and Mens Competition with some very close games played.

This Friday Ladies Championships Singles will be played Saturday Afternoon. Ladies Championships Pairs with Mens B Pairs, Open Singles and Senior Singles and Sunday Mens Open Triples.

Good close games should be witnessedspectators welcome to come and enjoy the weekend, the bowls and friendly atmosphere.

Contributed by Mike Irving

Kevin Abbott takes on Noreen Fredericksen in Tuesday morning table tennis fixtures. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

Photo credit: Mike Irving

Abundance Of Mackay Talent Tenacious St Patrick’s Succumb To Mighty Mackay State High In Capricornia Rugby League Squads In Girls Rugby League Trophy Decider

RUGBY LEAGUE

Six of Mackay’s best young rugby league prospects will showcase their skills in coming weeks at one of the State’s best showpiece schoolboy tournaments.

Emerging St Patrick’s College colts in halfback

Jaxon Purdue, hooker Xavier Kerrisk, fullback Will Shears, lock forward Kayne Smith, centre Tenzin Cantor and prop Tyler Shandiman are players to watch when they line up for the Capricornia 18yrs team at the Queensland School Sport State Championships in Townsville on May 22-23.

The tournament is the breeding ground for future NRL, State of Origin and Kangaroos stars and a stepping stone into the code’s highly competitive professional ranks.

Queensland Country Under 17s playmaker Purdue and classy number nine Kerrisk along with dashing custodian Shears and ball playing lock Smith are already contracted to the North Queensland Cowboys and have bright futures in the game.

Shears and Smith impressed Cowboys officials during a Young Guns pre-season camp in Townsville while Cantor and Shandiman

add size and strength to a powerful and well drilled Capricornia representative squad that is tipped to figure in the State Championship play-offs.

All six are key players for Ian Schifilliti’s much vaunted St Patrick’s College Open Boys team that are strong contenders for this year’s Confraternity Shield and Aaron Payne Cup titles. The super six are also trump cards for the Mackay Cutters Under 18s side that are currently entrenched in the top six of the Auswide Bank Mal Meninga Cup competition after five rounds.

Meanwhile five St Patrick’s College students feature in the Capricornia 14-15yrs rugby league representative squad that will also compete at the Queensland School Sport State Championships in Townsville on May 22-23.

Young guns Adam McSherry, George Gofton, Sam Anderson, Norm Campbell and Eli Cookson were selected after strong performances at schoolboy and Junior League level.

McSherry, a premiership winning five eighth with the Brothers Bulldogs, will skipper the Capricornia team.

By Chris Karas

RUGBY LEAGUE

Mackay State High School are the Mackay School Sport Girls Year 7/8 Rugby League champions for 2023. The Milton Street school staved off a spirited challenge from St Patrick’s College in wet conditions to claim the title with a 20-6 Grand Final victory at the Mackay Junior League Fields.

Bolstered by the recruitment of ace playmaker Vitea Parter from St Patrick’s in recent weeks, the Mackay State High girls showed their class and power to bring home the trophy.

Under the coaching of talented Mackay Cutters utility Harry Thorpe, the St Patrick’s outfit finished the season on a strong note.

“The girls improved with each match and recorded some impressive victories during the competition,” revealed a proud Thorpe postmatch.

“Highlight was the recent win over Mackay State High where the girls played smart football in a top team effort,” he said.

“Unfortunately, they couldn’t reproduce their best in the Grand Final but the girls tried valiantly in abysmal conditions against a very strong MSH side” Thorpe added.

The loss of Magpies rugby league star Parter, an outstanding all round sportswoman, on the eve of the finals was a savage blow to the St Patrick’s camp.

Coach Thorpe and manager Nicole Martin praised the efforts of promising hooker Jade Williams, hard working second rower Jess McLennan, fullback Jacqueline ‘Gee Gee” Walsh, centre Stella Cullen, winger Indy Jorgensen, centre and utility forward Chelsea Webb and strong running forward Brianna Renehan.

“They led the way with strong performances each week and showed that determination and a never-say-die attitude can take you a long way,” said Nicole.

“Our girls were brave against a powerful MSH team and thoroughly deserved a crack at the title” she added.

By Chris Karas

Fred Quod Blast H20

Luke Hillery Hillery Group

Max Lamb M&P Services

Harvey The Dog Whitsunday Mowers

SCORE

Steve Pilcher Pilcher’s Mitre 10

St Patrick’s College Mackay rugby league stars l to r Xavier Kerrisk, Tyler Shandiman, Kayne Smith, Jaxon Purdue, Will Shears and Tenzin Cantor will represent Capricornia at the Queensland School Sport Rugby League State Championships in Townsville from May 22-23. Photo supplied

St Patrick’s College Girls Year 7/8 team Standing L-R Cleo Daly, Chloe Townsend, Chelsea Webb, Jess McLennan, Isla Linwood, Asher Grigg, Mia Pullen, Lilah Lewis, Rose Bradley; front Hannah Ness, Mia Hill, Indy Jorgensen, Brianna Renehan, Jade Williams, Layla Bungay, Zakayah Day, Stella Cullen, Jacqueline Walsh. Absent: Rihanna Andrew. Photo supplied

Ella Bounden – Pioneer Superstar

lla Bounden is a name to watch in the world of swimming. At the young age of 13 years, she is already piquing interest and achieving goals one can only dream about.

Ella started swimming at six years old, always having swam with the Pioneer Swimming Club. Ella’s growth as an athlete and focus to her goals in the sport of swimming is phenomenal at such a young age.

She tells us her favourite coach to date is “Igor of course” – he has fostered this love and mentored a strong and formidable athlete. Ella tells us she loves how Igor can tailor training for each of the swimmers in the squad to ensure they are each being challenged every session.

Ella’s “pet” stroke is Backstroke –the 50 or 100 metre events. The 2022-2023 season has seen Ella

break an extraordinary number of personal bests but also achieve qualifying times for State and National events! Ella swam at the December 2022 McDonald’s Queensland Championships, the February 2023 Hancock Prospecting Queensland Sprint Championships and now has qualified and will attend the 2023 Australian Age Championships in April. Ella’s next goal is to join the Junior World Championship Trials – watch out!

She tells us she looks up to Australian Swimmer, Isaac Cooper. He also loves Backstroke but she loves his determination to keep trying despite what gets thrown at him.

Ella is excited for Nationals in April – not just because it is Nationals, but because it is something different, exciting, and new to experience. The Pioneer Swimming Club has not had a swimmer qualify for nationals in

Classifieds

POSITIONS VACANT

a long time and she is excited to represent the club on this stage. The Club is certainly proud of her!

Ella is such a delight in our club –she is always happy, always smiling and always focused and eager to swim. She tells us she loves her club – “it is fun, inclusive and a great environment” but she also loves how the club is always doing something, be it training, club nights, carnivals, dinners and barbeques.

The Club looks forward to hearing Ella’s experience at Nationals and wish her the best of luck!

Contributed by Tahnie

Malagueno

TRAVEL SERVICES

Inclusions:

Darwin and Kakadu | Litchfield Park | Katherine & 2 Gorges | Knots Crossing | Uluru &Olga’s | Sounds Of Silence Dinner | Coober Pedy | Flinders Ranges | Bungaree Station | Adelaide | and much, much more!

7 July 2023 for 20 days. $10,995 per person. Single Supp available.

Seniors friendly. Hosted all the way and staff on call 24/7. Excellent food, accommodation and customer service. Wipe out so many bucket list items in one adventure!

The moment Ella Bounden knew she made a national time

Ella at NQ Champs. Photos supplied

The secret benefit of print is that it attracts buyers to your home that didn’t know, or didn’t think your suburb or home was available to them

Quality Designer Build in Private Estate

They say locations are ‘sought after’......... bewildering that some don’t even spell the saying right.

18 Northview Terrace and the private Illalangi Estate however would certainly fall under any Oxford dictionary as just that.

11 Illalangi Estate in Mount Pleasant is an exceptional property that offers privacy, luxury, and space. Situated on a private road within one of Mackay’s most tightly held estates, this architect-designed home is surrounded by peace, quality homes and nature.

With features different to the normal fibro/ plaster of today, throughout this home you will find beautiful high raked ceilings, local original timber throughout but with the inclusion of some of the most meticulous renovations. Spilt over three levels, the interior of the home is spacious and perfect for both easy living and entertaining. The formal and multiple dining and lounge areas are covered by towering timber ceiling, adding character and drama to the interiors. For more casual moments, the spacious living and dining zone is perfect. Glass

doors provide natural light and overlook the beautiful outdoor and pool area in multiple areas.

The stylish kitchen has been tastefully renovated and features quality appliances, stone benchtops and quality cabinetry whilst connecting the indoor and outdoor living beautifully, looking both east to the pool and west to the private parkland.

The home features four oversize king bedrooms, all with extra-high raked ceilings, large built-inrobes, modern split-system air-conditioning and quality carpet. The master bedroom features an additional classy ensuite.

Two of the bedrooms are practically situated on the middle level and situated within close proximity to the main bathroom that has been renovated to the highest contemporary standard, with beautiful neutral tones and classy stand-alone bathtub to relax in.

Outside, the pool area sits as the centrepiece of the home. It is private and tranquil whilst being surrounded by the established gardens, giving the sense that you are a whole other world away

in your own rainforest oasis.

The home not only features beautiful elements but oozes practicality and embraces the way it is designed on the plot. There are numerous spacious storage spaces, some are concealed and some that are not, everything from lofts/ attics to extra office or even wine cellar storage spaces. This is truly a trophy property in a trophy location.

A full sized tennis court, path to parklands and extra visitor carparks are additional features to this estate.

This ideal location is only a short stroll to schools, parks and Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre. Illalangi Estate in 18 Northview Terrace is a location where everyone wants to live, but few have the chance.

This is certainly ‘sought after’ not sort after, so move quick on this one.

For your opportunity to have an inspection, or for more information, please contact Sales Agent Joseph Rickman.

OPEN SAT 11.15AM TO 11.45AM

Stunning Family Home in Walkerston – Ideal for Entertaining

Indulge in luxury living with this stunning four-bedroom home that boasts fantastic street appeal and perfect presentation. Located on an elevated 860m2 block, this home showcases a massive 302m2 under roof.

The home offers multiple livings areas that flow seamlessly throughout the home. Outdoor tiled patio perfect for entertaining all year round.

Only 10-15 minutes to Mackay CBD, this home offers the perfect balance of luxury and convenience. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to own a truly remarkable home!

By Negotiation

Ben Kerrisk

Mick McLeod 0407 514 983 0408 777 971

Ryan Patton 0435 825 323

OPEN SAT 10.00AM TO 10.30AM

Convenient Comfortable Living in Ooralea

Nestled at the end of a peaceful cul-de-sac, this exquisite four-bedroom family home boasts an array of exceptional features that will captivate your heart!

Expansive open-plan living, dining and kitchen area, fully tiled and air-conditioned for your comfort. At the heart of the home is the well-equipped kitchen with stainless steel appliances, plentiful cupboards, a practical island bench and a breakfast bar.

Stunningly designed and thoughtfully built, this residence boasts a blend of convenience, comfort and low-maintenance living, making it an ideal choice for families.

By Negotiation

Ben Kerrisk

Mick McLeod 0407 514 983 0408 777 971

Ryan Patton 0435 825 323

17 Aprile Court, Dumbleton

OPEN SUN 10.00AM TO 10.30AM

Live the Life We All Yearn For

Designed for memorable alfresco enjoyment. Uninterrupted views of the Mackay surrounds, a stunning entertainment zone with relaxing outdoor spaces overlooking the pool perfectly balance inside and outside treating both areas as equals.

Large glass doors lead inside to sun-blessed living and dining rooms adjacent to the beautifully sleek kitchen which combines functionality with elegance and style.

In partnership with

Additional features include the utmost in premium fixtures and fittings, air-conditioning. The creators of this masterpiece have also managed to incorporate some European touches into the design of the home. A formal timber entrance that creates an allure of what is yet to come.

Priceless in position, this rare lifestyle opportunity is only moments from the Mackay CBD and all that this wonderful city has to offer.

Contact Agent

Ben Kerrisk

Mick McLeod 0407 514 983 0408 777 971

Ryan Patton 0435 825 323

63

McKenney Street, South Mackay

OPEN SAT 10.00AM TO 10.30AM

Queenslander with Character and Charm

With its high ceilings, polished timber floors, and stainedglass windows and doors, this stunning Queenslander radiates charm and character. Unlike modern homes, it evokes a feeling of nostalgia that is sure to captivate you.

This charming property boasts an array of traditional features, including internal vj walls, high ceilings, stained glass windows, and polished timber floorboards.

The home offers two spacious bedrooms, with the master bedroom featuring a bay window and built-in robe and ensuite. The convenience of split system air-conditioning throughout ensures comfort all year round.

The timber kitchen is equipped with a modern gas cooktop, perfect for those who love to cook. Enjoy the front sunroom for a peaceful retreat or utilize the extra office space for work or study.

By Negotiation

Ben Kerrisk

Mick McLeod 0407 514 983 0408 777 971

Ryan Patton 0435 825 323

Lot 52 - Offers From $1,000,000

- 3.29 Hectares (8 Acres) approximately

- Suitable to run a few head of cattle

- 360 degree views – ocean and hinterland

- Less than 15km to Mackay CBD

- Power available

- House Pad and fully fenced

- Plenty of room for shed/s

Lot 50 - $765,000

- Land area 2.08 hectares

- Fully fenced for livestock

- Power available to boundary

- Plenty of options to be creative with build plan

- Room for shed/s

- Only 15 minutes to Mackay

Disclaimer: Border is for illustration purposes and meant as a guide only.

39 Cummings Street, Eungella

OWN YOUR OWN PIECE OF THE RAINFOREST

High on the hill fringing the Eungella township and within walking distance to the Eungella Chalet is this private 4 bedroom home. Rainforest trees provide privacy to the East, and access to the property is via a laneway off Dalrymple Rd. This home needs some TLC and would be the perfect weekender or lifestyle property. The property also includes 2 bay shed and solar. The property is being sold “as is where is”.

When you need an agent with the knowledge and experience

18 Rural View Dr Rural View

Built on 2.5ac and only 10 minutes to town, with a 460m2 underroof home, this rare find has presented to market. Positioned at the top of the block to capture the breezes and views of the property, built over 4 levels each joined by light breezeways and connect or disconnect from one another. Follow the gravel driveway from the front of the property down to the 20x12m high clearance powered shed, with recently added carport, also including bathroom and mezzanine storage. Step out onto the rear deck overlooking the pool and landscaped gardens or head relax under the poolside cabana pizza oven and outdoor kitchen. Price

Fresh Listing

6 Francey Dr Glenella

With a strong presence and unrivalled position, this federation style home is an opportunity you don’t want to miss. Sprawling across its 870m2 corner block and amassing some approx. 400m2 underroof, this bespoke property offers space and convenience. Across this home enjoy formal lounge and dining spaces, open plan living, air conditioning throughout and huge covered outdoor entertaining area. There is also a double garage and 9x5m shed with great side access. Plus, you’ll be in the hub of it all surrounded by quality schools and terrific shopping centres and less than a 10 minute dash into the Mackay CBD.

Price By Negotiation

17 Kensington Crt Glenella

Glamorous and expansive, this double-storey home displays the ideal combination of practicality and luxury. Boasting 5 bedrooms, 3 separate living zones, formal dining, a study, a music room, 3 bathrooms, an inground saltwater pool and a 2-bay shed, this perfectly positioned property is ready to impress! Wonderfully suited to growing, large, or multi-generational families, this regal, fully A/C residence welcomes you to a grand style of living. A striking timber staircase leads up to the palatial master suite and a large retreat zone. This outstanding property will certainly tug at your heartstrings…

Price Offers Over $1M

FREESTANDING UNIT IN HANDY LOCATION

• Handy to City, Shops, Clubs, Sporting facilities. Walk to Milton Street High School.

• Lowset two-bedroom, brick veneer unit with a single lockable garage.

• Air-conditioned bedrooms and living area.

• Private “stand alone” unit in a three-unit complex.

• No Body corporate fees involved.

0401 835 806 |

• Modern airconditioned open plan unit close to all amenities in beautiful Blacks Beach.

• The single bay carport offers direct access to the units dining, lounge and well-appointed kitchen with pantry and plenty of cupboard space.

• The carpeted bedrooms have ceiling fans, built-in robes, the main with air-conditioning and a tiled two-way bathroom with the convenience of a separate toilet.

• The property has a neat undercover back patio, lockable garden shed, rainwater tanks and is fully fenced for privacy and security.

MODERN UNIT – NO BODY CORPORATE AFFORDABLE UNIT – CITY FRINGE LOCATION

• Lowset Brick Veneer Unit, very conveniently located on the City Fringe of the Mackay CBD.

• Comprising of 3 Bedrooms, a very tidy and modern kitchen, dining and living area and a tiled bathroom. There is also a remote-controlled single car lock up garage which has a convenient internal access door into the unit.

• Large Split System Air conditioner in the Living Room, Ceiling Fans, Security Screens & NBN connection.

AHEAD OF ITS TIME!!! – PANORAMIC VIEWS

If you are looking for the “ultimate LARGE family home” 8 Norris Road, is your answer. With panoramic views over North Mackay to the city skyline and out to Flat Top and Round Top and as far south as Hay Point, I challenge you to find something as unique!

This hilltop residence in the most commanding of positions offers expanses of living and entertaining areas spread over three levels. Positioned in a highly sort-after area on an 809 m2 block…. This is your opportunity to make this house your home!

0409 095 703 | pfrancis@blacksrealestate.com.au

Auction on site Saturday 22/4/2023 at 12 noon

| Peter Francis

LOW

• Well maintained lowset brick unit located on the fringe of the CBD.

• Tiled throughout with new split system air cons.

• Well appointed kitchen with plenty of cupboard and bench space.

• Private rear courtyard and front garden area for exclusive use.

• Situated in a complex of only 4 this unit is within close proximity to Harrup Park Country Club, schools, shopping and airport.

0409 635 724 | ablack@blacksrealestate.com.au

1603

GRAZING, FARMING OR NURSERY OPTIONS

• Located about 10 klm North of Kuttabul or 45 klm North of Mackay.

• Currently operating as Greenstock Nursery and Tree farm, the owner will sell as a “going concern” or alternatively sell the land and improvements for alternate usage.

• Suitable for cane farming, orchard, small crops or grazing.

• “Walk-in Walk – Out” sale price is negotiable and will include $500k of stock plus plant and equipment. Experienced staff available if required.

| Andrew

| Dan Cronin

Black 0401 835 806 | dcronin@blacksrealestate.com.au

Modern brick home set on 5 pastured acres. A pretty creek forms the back boundary.

Fantastic outdoor entertaining area with 8.3 metre pool and sunken fire pit overlooking a small stock water dam.

Lots of room for big boys’ toys here. Main shed is a modern high clearance 3 bay and there is another as well.

Water abundantly supplied from a solar equipped bore and huge rainwater storage.

0427 708 247 | twooldridge@blacksrealestate.com.au

Offers from $1,250,000 OPEN Sat: 12 - 1.00pm

Trent Wooldridge

One of the standout features of this property is the direct access to the river, you will search far and wide to find a property of this standard right on the river’s edge. There is unlimited opportunities to row, kayak, fish and enjoy the beautiful waterway.

Formal tender closing Friday 19/5/23 at 12pm

20 minutes from the famous Eungella chalet is this 358 acres of grazing land.

Well established stands of kikiku cooch & other tropical pastures. Several spring fed dams. Small set of portable stockyards, with loading ramp and vet crush.

Old weatherboard 2 bedroom cottage and recently renovated machinery shed which includes a new kitchen & bathroom, built into one end.

Claudia Francis 0428 182 569

Royce Dunn