Mackay Life

Nigel Dalton’s impact on the Mackay community has been immense.

From teaching children road rules, teenagers how to stay safe online or at schoolies, or redirecting disengaged youth from reoffending, Nigel’s work saves lives and makes our community a better place.

For his work as our local Police District Crime

Prevention Coordinator and for the considerable volunteer community work he undertakes, Nigel was named the 2023 Mackay Regional Council Citizen of the Year at the Australia Day Awards Gala at the MECC on Wednesday night. Also recognised on the night was 2023 Young Citizen of the Year Keira Brown. Keira is an active member and current coordina-

tor of the Valley District Youth Council who volunteers countless hours to run events, fundraise and support her community.

The 2023 Lori Burgess Community Volunteer of the Year is Mackay Riding for the Disabled coach of 30 years Jody Burrows.

Nigel Dalton was named the 2023 Mackay Regional Council Citizen of the Year at the Australia Day Awards

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Editor’s Note

Happiness Or Hatred?

What feelings does Australia Day evoke within you?

Is it of pride for the nation you love, or of sadness for the Indigenous who feel that a celebration of the day they coined ‘Invasion Day’ is disrespectful? Perhaps you feel a little bit of both.

For me, it’s an opportunity to reflect on the past and celebrate today. I used the day to learn a little bit about Indigenous culture that I didn’t know previously before enjoying some time at the beach and cooking a BBQ.

Perhaps the biggest controversy for me is when it comes to Australia Day desserts. I’ll admit it, I don’t like lamingtons. See, I said it would be controversial. Secondly, I believe the pavlova is a Kiwi dessert. Ooooh, perhaps the biggest dessert debate of them all! I like to have a laugh over that one.

Another Australia Day tradition I enjoy is attending the Mackay Regional Council’s

Australia Day Awards every year. It’s an incredibly inspirational evening to hear about the people in our region who selflessly do so much for the community. Congratulations to this year’s Citizen of the Year, Nigel Dalton, and to all of the winners and nominees who were represented on the night.

Of course, this week was also the week our region’s kids headed back to school. I love to see the juxtaposition of emotions experienced by parents. Some can’t wait for the peace and quiet of having their kids back at school while others mourn the loss of holiday sleep-ins and dread the busy morning rush. School zones are back to 40km/hr during designated morning and afternoon hours. When you see the signs flashing, slow down and pay attention. A blink of an eye is all it takes for a child to make a fatal mistake. Amanda

Turtle Watch To The Rescue

When many returned to the beach after last week’s heavy rain, they were met with large piles of debris, washed up onto the beach in a row as the water reached high tide overnight.

This proved difficult for even the tallest of people to step over, meaning newly hatched turtles wouldn’t stand a chance of traversing the obstacle.

Mackay and District Turtle Watch volunteers and members of the public stepped into action last week in a great display of community effort, making pathways in the washed-up debris at North Wall Beach for the soon-to-hatch turtles to be able to make their way back to the water.

While on their mission, volunteers came across many interesting items washed ashore including

a post with a plaque on it.

The plaque reads: “10, Joseph Lyons, 1932-1939”.

The plaque refers to Joseph Lyons, who served as Australia’s tenth Prime Minister between 1932 and his death in 1939.

“I don't know where there is an outdoor display of PMs (except in Ballarat!), but no doubt someone will,” commented one person on Facebook.

“It doesn't look that old. I can't imagine anywhere public this may have come from,” added another.

The post has been placed above the high tide line in the hope that someone will claim it.

Mackay and District Turtle Watch has asked anyone who is missing it to get in touch via Facebook and they can pass on more accurate location details.

Mackay and District Turtle Watch created pathways in beach debris to allow turtle hatchlings access to the water at North Wall Beach

A mysterious post with a memorial to a former PM was also found on the beach. Photos supplied

t’s been a busy summer for some local businesses and community groups, with Orange Sky Laundry expressing their appreciation for the community’s support over the holidays.

The Teen Shed Mackay assisted Orange Sky each Wednesday and Friday morning, doing the breakfast shifts while the Mercy and St Patrick’s College Brekky Van went on school holidays.

The Brekky Van generously donated the food while four to six Teen Shed members cooked and served up breakfast each shift. “They’re really sad that they can’t keep doing it,” said Teen Shed Mackay Founder Lisa Versaci

“We made some amazing friendships with the disadvantaged people, and they were really, really lovely.

“Our whole thing is trying to get our kids volunteering and out into the community to see that there are other situations besides what they’re going through.

“There should be more places where 12–18-year-olds can volunteer because I feel it’s very important for those kids to see life in a different perspective.”

The Christmas breakfasts were added to with donations from the George St Butcher Shoppe for some added protein on the BBQ.

“Cliff and his team have been great sup-

porters and always make sure that there are snags to go on the barbie!” said Orange Sky Mackay Service Coordinator Lisa Jamieson.

A big shout out also has to be made to the year one’s at St John's Primary School Walkerston for their donations to the Brekky Van of healthy breakfast packs, consisting of cereal, milk and juices.

“These breakfast packs were gratefully received by our Friends to help them out at Christmas, when a number of the support services are not available,” said Ms Jamieson.

Orange Sky welcomed year 10-12 Mercy and St Patrick’s College students back to the Brekky Van this Wednesday, January

25, resuming their regular Wednesday and Friday shifts.

“While breakfast is happening, our washing machines are being kept very busy,” said Ms Jamieson.

“As soon as a load is finished, another one is started, to help ensure that we can get as many loads washed as possible during the shift.”

Orange Sky laundry shifts operate from 7:00-11:00am on Monday, Wednesday and Fridays in Mackay and 9:00-11:00am on Mondays and Thursdays in Sarina.

Each fortnight, a night shift is held on Mondays from 5:30-7:30pm with the next night shift to be held on Monday, February 6.

Teen Shed Mackay assisted Orange Sky over the summer holidays by cooking breakfast every Wednesday and Friday

Cliff and the team at George St Butcher Shoppe generously donated meat to Orange Sky Mercy and St Patrick’s College Brekky Van’s services resumed this week. Photos supplied

11 MERCY MISSIONS FLOWN BY RESCUE HELICOPTER LAST WEEKEND

OPINION SAFEGUARD MECHANISM WILL KILL JOBS IN REGIONAL AUSTRALIA

In order to reach their 2030 climate targets, the Federal Labor Government has announced they will force 215 of Australia’s biggest polluters to cut emissions by 5 per cent each year or pay for their emissions output.

“In effect it acts as a tax on families, a tax on businesses and a big tax on regional Australia. It’s Carbon Tax 2.0 and another major blow for the energy industry.”

“Labor is executing drastic climate targets with no consideration for the toll it takes on Australian jobs and household budgets.”

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox has opposed this decision saying that Labor is targeting regional Queensland jobs and inflicting more

pain on household bills.

“Labor’s Safeguard Mechanism affects facilities that emit more than 100,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide a year. If facilities exceed this amount, the business will need to buy carbon credits,” Mr Willcox said.

“We have 28 of the high emitting industry facilities in surrounding regions who will be impacted by these mandatory emissions cuts. These are Dawson jobs now put in jeopardy by Labor’s climate targets.

“Leading up to the 2022 Federal election, Prime Minister Albanese and his party promised there would be no carbon tax.

“This is just a fancy name for exactly that.”

RACQ CQ Rescue flew 11 missions between Friday and Sunday last week, including the airlift of an injured motorbike rider and two flights to Bowen and two to Clermont on consecutive days for seriously ill patients.

The Mackay-based rescue helicopter has now completed 39 missions in the first 22 days of 2023. RACQ CQ Rescue was tasked by Queensland Health to fly backto-back missions to Clermont on Friday to transfer two patients to Mackay Base Hospital including a two-year-old child with a serious abdominal condition who was accompanied by their mother.

A patient was also transported from Dysart to Mackay Base Hospital with a cardiac issue. That same afternoon, a woman in her 60s was airlifted from Victor Island, about 48km southeast of Mackay, after being bedridden and alone for two days.

The helicopter landed on the beach at sunset and the medical team walked to the island homestead to treat and administered pain relief to the woman. She was carried to the aircraft, flown to Mackay Airport and transferred to a waiting ambulance to be taken to Mackay Base Hospital.

Overnight Saturday, two patients were also airlifted from Bowen to Mackay Base Hospital. About 10.30am on Saturday, RACQ CQ Rescue was tasked by Queensland Health to airlift a dirt bike rider seriously injured in a crash at Yalbaroo, about 70km north-east of Mackay.

The 47-year-old man attempted to cross a culvert flowing with water on a remote dirt road in the Cathu State Forest, but a concrete slab underneath had dislodged in recent flooding, causing the rider to be thrown violently from the bike.

An RACQ CQ Rescue crewman said the force of the impact would have been like “hitting a wall at speed”.

The unlucky rider suffered injuries including a seriously dislocated hip and had to be relocated out of the water while they waited for the helicopter to arrive. Incorrect coordinates delayed the landing of the chopper at the scene, but it finally touched down on the dirt road about 500 metres from the accident site. The rider was treated and transferred to Mackay Base Hospital in a stable condition.

A helicopter Rescue Crewman was able to assist the local paramedic at the accident scene who was suffering heat exhaustion while tending to the injured dirt bike rider. The crewman drove the ambulance and his colleague back to the station at Calen.

Three training flights for new Queensland Ambulance Service paramedics joining the aeromedical team were also conducted on Sunday around the Mackay region, as well as the airlift of a patient from Proserpine hospital to Mackay.

Andrew Willcox Federal Member for Dawson

A 47-year-old dirt bike rider was injured in a crash in the Cathu State Forest on Saturday and was airlifted to Mackay Base Hospital. Photo credits: RACQ CQ Rescue RACQ CQ Rescue airlifted a woman from Victor Island at sunset on Friday

Mrs Charity Oceania Holds Inaugural Mackay Pageant

After almost a decade in modelling and pageantry, Jenna K has embarked on her latest challenge. She will represent her region of Oceania as Mrs Charity Oceania 2023, travelling to Perth next year as a finalist for Charity Pageant Intercontinental.

Jenna described the Charity Pageant Intercontinental as a pageant with a difference.

“It’s just one that has that really great motto of ‘uniting women in service’ and it just really is something to empower women to love themselves and be passionate and to give them a voice to speak with,” she said.

“I just really loved what it stood for, it just really aligned with me.”

Charity Pageant Intercontinental gives contestants from all over the world the opportunity to advocate and fundraise for important causes, with the oceans, self-confidence and breast cancer awareness three causes close to Jenna’s heart.

“I really wanted to represent Oceania because I’m so passionate about the ocean,” she said.

In 2017, Jenna held the title of Mrs Water Australia, a time during which she worked with local Wildlife Warrior teams to help reduce debris in the ocean.

“I’m going to be continuing that, I’m collecting plastics and recyclables and I’m really wanting to get involved in the Mackay turtle association,” she said.

During her time as Mrs Charity Oceania 2023, Jenna will fundraise for the Mackay Hospital Foundation and Breast Screen Mackay, a cause very close to her heart after watching her Nanna survive breast cancer.

“I’m just really passionate about advocating to do the process, get your mammo-

grams, get your checks done because early detection can save lives,” she said.

Another of Jenna’s passions is helping people to love themselves as they are and help them to find their self-confidence.

She plans to do this through her inaugural Beeyoutiful Charity Pageant, to be held on Saturday, March 18 at the Andergrove Tavern.

“I’ve always wanted to put an event together for people to experience some of what pageantry is like, but the extra fun side of it without the interview and public speaking,” Jenna said.

The pageant will consist of a confidence and mindset masterclass in the morning followed by the pageant that evening.

“There’s going to be a lot of people that might enter that have and no exposure to anything to do with modelling or pageantry, so I really want them to feel comfortable before they come back later in the afternoon to showcase what confidence they have established with themselves from the morning masterclass,” Jenna said.

The Beeyoutiful Charity Pageant is open to children and adults ages seven and older.

For more information and to register, go to the ‘Beeyoutiful Charity Pageants’ Facebook page or email beeyoutifulcharitypageants@gmail.com.

Jenna is also available for volunteering opportunities and appearances and hopes to use her platform as Mrs Charity Oceania to help her community.

“The shine and sparkle of the crown and sash draws enough attention, so it’s not about me,” she said.

“I’m just really trying to make a difference and make an impact in the community.”

POLICE OPERATION TO REDUCE CAR THEFT OPPORTUNITIES

Enforcing laws, investigating reported offences and prosecuting when appropriate takes place on a daily basis with regards to car thefts.

As the Officer in Charge of the Mackay Northern Beaches Acting Senior Sergeant Mitch Benson points out - all car owners have an opportunity to take action which will frustrate the thieves.

Statistics within the Mackay Northern Beaches division show that one in every two car thefts take place when thieves gain possession of your car keys.

As a result, officers will have dedicated time periods when they will perform foot patrols in residential streets and business locations in an effort to find unlocked cars and/or unattended cars with keys still present.

If face to face dialogue is possible, police will talk to the car owners about the likelihood of car theft taking place and how

we can disrupt the efforts of thieves who are looking to steal your hard-earned possessions.

Vehicle security information will also be made available - particularly when face to face dialogue is not possible.

If you see police officers walking the streets in your area - day or night - inspecting vehicles, don't be alarmed.

"Our efforts to identify car thieves and hold them to account are still going to take place, we are taking on these targeted foot patrols in addition to that,” Acting Senior Sergeant Benson said.

"By continuing our enforcement efforts, educating the public on crime prevention techniques and reducing the opportunities for car thefts to occur we hope to see fewer car thefts taking place,” he added.

Interns Boost Mackay Medical Team

Agroup of 44 intern doctors have joined the Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS), providing a boost to the medical team serving the region.

The intern group includes 37 doctors who are joining the team at Mackay Base Hospital, five at Proserpine Hospital and two at Bowen Hospital.

Interim Chief Executive Melissa Carter congratulated the new doctors on starting their journey in medicine and welcomed them to the Mackay HHS team.

“It’s exciting to welcome first-year doctors to our team and support them as they begin their career with the Mackay HHS,” Ms Carter said.

“They’re not only bolstering our workforce and making a real difference to our patients today, but they’re building the foundations of medical careers which will serve our community and Queensland for decades to come.

“Several of our intern doctors have already spent time with our team as medical students and, after positive experiences, have chosen to come back for the start of their career.

“Regardless of where their careers take them, they will develop strong foundations for the years ahead from the guidance of our experienced, dedicated and highly skilled team of Mackay HHS medi-

cal professionals.”

Thirty-two of the first-year doctors are from the Queensland Health program, six from the Queensland Rural Generalist Pathway and six from the Commonwealth-funded Junior Doctor Training Program.

Chief Medical Officer Dr Charles Pain said the interns will benefit from Mackay HHS’s friendly and welcoming atmosphere, its supportive medical culture and their broad exposure to a wide range of clinical cases.

“The interns will gain invaluable clinical experience during their first year as doctors, which will enable them to develop advanced skills as a foundation for their future medical careers,” Dr Pain said.

“Their diverse placements and experience in the MHHS will also help them make an

informed choice when it comes to which speciality they wish to pursue in their future careers.

“Last year 21 interns stayed in Mackay HHS for their second year, which indicates to us how much they appreciated

Mackay and valued the experience they obtained here.

“Our hope is that by providing excellent training experiences, many of our 2023 interns will also choose to build their future careers in the Mackay region.”

Student Placement Brings Dr Chamberlain Back To Mackay

Positive experiences as a student on placement at Mackay Base Hospital and his desire to become a general practitioner in a regional centre led to Dr Michael Chamberlain choosing to return as an intern.

Originally from Rockhampton, where his mother is a general practitioner, Michael studied at James Cook University in Townsville and returned to Mackay Base Hospital where he previously spent time on student placement.

“Comparatively I knew that this would be a very safe choice and being here just makes the start of my year easier,” Michael said.

“I think knowing that particularly the education support was really good and knowing people seem to be really happy here is what enticed me here as well.

Michael is joined in Mackay by his wife, who is a speech pathologist in private practice.

“Practicing in regional areas is definitely something I want to do long term - we don’t particularly like big cities and I’m less

inclined to rural or remote practice, but regional practice is very appealing to me as I really like the lifestyle.”

Though he was exposed to life as a general practitioner through his mother, Michael said he didn’t always want to practice medicine.

“Growing up I didn’t really want to be a doctor, but by the end of my schooling I decided it was probably a good fit and then the more I looked into it, the more I liked it.”

Michael said an important consideration for choosing Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) was the inclusion of general practitioner placement in the internship, which is rarely offered to first year doctors.

“Regional general practice would be ideal for me - you do really get to know the community more than you think and growing up in a regional town with similar size I definitely felt that, and I also really like being able to have a steady patient base,” he said.

“A big drawcard to Mackay HHS was the general practice rotation as it was something that I was pretty excited to do.”

While he is working towards general practice, Michael said he was looking forward to his rotations across all areas and the supportive environment within the Mackay HHS team.

“Everyone seems to be very well supported and happy, so I think I’m most looking forward to practising and learning in a very safe environment,” he said.

“I think another benefit for Mackay studying here and then staying on was that we already had a support network of people not just from the hospital, but also out in the community.

“I’m definitely looking forward to improving my knowledge and getting into a routine.”

Michael added that the Mackay lifestyle was a bonus whether it was heading to Eungella or enjoying a nearby beach or simply gardening at their home.

Mackay Base Hospital has welcomed 37 intern doctors

“They’re not only bolstering our workforce and making a real difference to our patients today, but they’re building the foundations of medical careers which will serve our community and Queensland for decades to come.”

Let’s Discuss Selecting The Perfect Shade Of White

Find your perfect shade match at Inspirations Paint’s newest store located in the Porters Homemaker Centre at 16 Carl Street, Rural View.

Now servicing the Mackay Northern Beaches area six days a week, the Porters Homemaker Centre is your local DIY home hub with a new store - Inspirations Paint. The experienced and knowledgeable team will provide the best advice for your next DIY home project, including how to choose the perfect shade of white for your home!

Choosing the right white isn’t as easy as it sounds. Furnishings, lighting, and the style of your home can all play a factor in choosing the perfect shade of white for your space.

Cool Whites

Cool whites have a subtle grey, beige or blue undertone. They are a popular choice in modern and contemporary homes and spaces when wanting to achieve a mini-

malist look.

Popular cool whites: Dulux Vivid White, Dulux Lexicon Quarter, Berger Ice Fountain, Porter’s Paints Snow White.

Warm Whites

Warm whites create a cosy feel to a room, popular with traditional and country-style homes. The subtle peach, yellow and pink undertones help create an earthy, organic and natural boho feel.

Popular warm whites: Dulux Natural White, Dulux Antique White U.S.A, Berger White Score, Porter’s Paints Lace.

Visit the new Inspirations Paint Mackay Northern Beaches store for the Grand Opening from 8-11am on Saturday 11 February. Share your paint project with the team and together, we’ll make amazing projects happen.

Inspirations Paint Mackay Northern Beaches store for the Grand Opening 8-11am, Saturday 11 February 2023, at 16 Carl Street, Rural View.

HISTORIC COLLEGES USHER IN EXCITING NEW EDUCATION ERA

Nearly one hundred and thirty years of combined history will be preserved with the amalgamation of two renowned Mackay educational establishments, St Patrick's College and Mercy College, in 2023.

Both institutions will operate under the one banner of St Patrick's College when the new school year commences this week – signalling the start of an exciting new era.

Boasting a rich history built on the Sisters of Mercy and Christian Brothers, who founded schools in the Mackay region in 1880 and 1929 respectively, St Patrick's –an established co-educational Catholic College - will continue to be committed to Catholic values which are at the core of all the school's learning.

"This merger marks a significant milestone for two of Mackay's leading educational facilities and will continue to provide a unique experience for students consisting of a dual campus concept," declared St Patrick's College Principal Janelle Agius.

"Our students are encouraged to excel in personal growth and faith development in a learning environment and will continue to specialise in lower and middle secondary years at our Mercy Campus in Penn Street and the Senior Years Campus located in Gregory Street in the city heart," said Mrs Agius.

"We value a broad-based curriculum that allows students to discover new interests and abilities, while focusing on higher levels of literacy and numeracy," she added.

"Our staff work collaboratively with students and their families and challenge students to become active learners, to prepare them for success in a variety of pathways for senior school and beyond. Students are offered many extra opportunities to allow them to become the best person they can be."

A proud Mrs Agius said her staff took satisfaction in fostering an environment of friendship and service, which is so important in developing students to become lifelong learners.

"This collaborative approach to learning is enhanced by the knowledge that in the wider community the College is known for our excellent academic results, community service, sporting successes and cultural achievements," Mrs Agius revealed.

St Patrick's College Vision Statement is fostering the holistic development of students to champion compassion, hope, justice and respect.

The College's Mission Statement is to provide a Catholic education following the example of Catherine McAuley and Edmund Rice.

They strive to be a nurturing community of faith with Christ's teachings at the heart of all that they do; inspire students to be courageous and defend the dignity of all persons; foster a quest for educational excellence and a desire to discern truth plus to recognise each student's uniqueness and dedicate themselves both to knowing them and meeting their needs.

By Chris Karas

St Patrick's College Mackay Leadership Team for 2023: Standing L-R: Tracey McLeod (Assistant to Principal Welfare/Administration); Brendan Gunning (Assistant to Principal Mission); Chris Sorbello (Assistant to Principal Students); Janelle Agius (College Principal); seated: Sean Geoghegan (Deputy Principal Senior Campus); Scott McSherry (Assistant to Principal Curriculum) and Adam Skoczylas (Deputy Principal Mercy Campus)

University Partnership Preparing Teachers With Mentorship

for our students.”

Mrs Kriz further advised that, “Our CAP allows us to foster high-quality teachers and immerse them in the practices and routines that we need in our teachers and that cannot always be explored fully in an undergraduate education course.”

mented by support from school leadership teams, and professional collegiality and collaboration from the whole school staff.

“We are in a position where we have great belief and faith in our teachers. With that comes the recognition that we need to provide support, over time, in a very safe and nurturing environment. That’s our work, to support teachers to be the very best that they can be. I think our Career Assistance Program gets pre-service teachers off to an amazing start: it is one of the key ways in which we invest in our people,” Mrs Kriz said.

STOLEN LAPTOP USED TO MAKE BANK TRANSFER

Anew partnership between Catholic Education-Diocese of Rockhampton (Queensland) and CQUniversity aimed at building the capability and confidence of pre-service teachers has attracted great interest in 2023 following a highly successful pilot in 2022.

From two successful applicants in 2022, the Career Assistance Program (CAP) has expanded in 2023, with 11 pre-service teachers being appointed to Catholic primary schools across the Diocese of Rockhampton. There are 15 schools in the Mackay region which are included in the Diocese of Rockhampton.

The Career Assistance Program (CAP) is designed to support pre-service teachers in the third and fourth year of their teaching degree, through on-the-job mentoring and coaching.

CAP pre-service teachers have the opportunity to practise and refine the routines and strategies that support well organised, highly functional learning environments and experiences. These might include managing transitions from lunch break to the classroom so that students are ready for learning; arranging students into purposeful groups; asking questions that elicit higher order thinking; helping students regulate their own behaviours in positive

ways; assessing student learning ‘on the go’ and responding ‘in the teachable moment’; and providing feedback that supports ongoing learning.

Student and 2022 CAP participant Hayley Wornum said she would highly recommend the program to fellow students.

“The CAP provides a flexibility for learning, through a hands-on approach in a realistic setting,” Hayley said.

For Hayley, the CAP has resulted in a permanent teaching position with Catholic Education at St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School Clermont.

The second 2022 CAP participant is continuing her placement at St Benedict’s Yeppoon while she engages in the final year of her Bachelor of Education Degree with CQ University. CEDR Assistant Director: Teaching and Learning, Carmel Kriz, said “The Career Assistance Program enables Catholic Education to nurture and support pre-service teachers more effectively than a short-term practicum placement, leading to beneficial outcomes for students and families.

“All the research shows us that it is the quality of teaching that makes the greatest difference for learning outcomes of young people. So, we want the very best teachers

CAP participants can access up to two years of working in a school community, being coached by mentor teachers, building skills and confidence and gaining a deeper understanding of the knowledge required by a contemporary teacher.

“Our CAP participants have the opportunity to grow in their professionalism on a daily basis. Over time, they build confidence and competence, ‘the mindset, toolset and skillset’ that make for a great teacher.”

Mrs Kriz said the program helps pre-service teachers learn in collaboration with a mentor teacher who supports them in targeted and responsive ways. This is comple-

Mackay Police reported that a home on McHugh Street in Rural View was broken into via an unlocked door last week.

An Asus laptop was the only item stolen from inside.

Police said that shortly after the laptop was stolen it was fraudulently used to access the victim’s online bank accounts and a significant financial transfer took place.

Anyone who might have information about this matter is encouraged to contact po-

lice as soon as possible.

Please refer to the report number QP230099136.

Thieves typically devote much of their time seeking easy entry points into homes - for example, unlocked doors or unsecured windows.

The simplest security measures cause thieves the most frustration. Police are asking homeowners to ensure their homes are properly secured either when unattended or during night-time hours.

If you’ve been trying to conceive, or would like to understand factors that can affect fertility, contact us for a chat today.

Mackay Fertility Clinic, 85 Willetts Rd North Mackay QLD 4740

(L-R) Alison Mann, a 2023 CAP participant based at St Paul’s Catholic Primary School Gracemere, with Anthony Greene, Principal and Mentor Teacher Kasey Gilbert

MACKAY’S LOCAL HEROES

Continued from page 1…

Mayor Greg Williamson said the judging panel was blown away by the number and quality of nominations submitted this year.

“Honestly, there were dozens of nominees who the judges felt were worthy of taking home these awards,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Narrowing the selection down was no small task and is a real testament to just what an incredible community we have in

our region – there are just so many amazing people doing tremendous things,” he said.

“However, what Nigel has done in our community over the last two decades is remarkable and the judges had no reservations in naming him our 2023 Citizen of the Year.

“Coming from a background of policing in the Royal Ulster Constabulary during the Northern Island conflict where he had friends and mentors murdered, Nigel

could easily have become hardened and bitter.

“Instead, he carries a message of forgiveness, kindness and healing that comes across in all his dealings with the community.

“Through his work with more than 8000 school students each year, plus PCYC, Safety Circus, Shed Happens, Neighbourhood Watch, the Mackay Mosque, Street Chaplains and many more, Nigel has helped to make our community safer and

instil real trust and appreciation for our local police service.”

Mayor Williamson said there were 173 nominations across all of the eight categories.

“I would like to personally thank the 87 individuals who submitted nominations – and many of them submitted multiple nominations – because without you we couldn’t have these awards and we couldn’t recognise these tremendous community members,” he said.

The full list of 2023 Mackay Regional Council Australia Day Award recipients are as follows

Citizen of the Year: Nigel Dalton

Young Citizen of the Year: Keira Brown

Jody has been a consistent force within this organisation for nearly 30 years. She is the coach that holds the necessary qualifications required to hold the riding lessons.

At a minimum, Jody ensures lessons run every second Tuesday. In all those years, volunteers report that Jody has only ever cancelled lessons once – and that was due to a cyclone.

Arts and Culture Award: Alison Richardson

shops and regular activities in our community.

Environmental Achievement Award: Dr Judith Wake

Sergeant Nigel Dalton is the Police District Crime Prevention Coordinator as well as being an active community volunteer.

Sergeant Dalton has been working in the Crime Prevention office since 2006 and he has shown enormous dedication to the role, often working almost as many hours off the clock as he does in the office. He has implemented a strong education plan for students of all ages, as well as working closely with business and community groups, Neighbourhood Watch members, victims of crime and other like-minded organisations and government departments.

Nigel was awarded the Queensland Police Liaison Officer Award in 2017.

His Police District activities are outstanding, particularly Choices and Safety Circus safety talks across various age groups. He recently led, created and launched a new assault reduction project “Anger Rage Regret” in the Mackay Police District.

Keira Brown is the current coordinator of the Valley District Youth Council. Keira has been instrumental in working towards the group’s main goals of giving a voice to Pioneer Valley youth, developing leadership and building a regional youth community.

Keira has recently become heavily involved in the YOL1000 initiative and in the initial planning stages of the Young Mayors project. Her feedback and opinions with these projects have been extremely valuable.

She often represents the youth of the Valley at events in Mackay and further afield.

She is also a member of her school’s Zonta Club and has been a coach and umpire in club netball for teams younger than herself.

Lori Burgess Community Volunteer Award: Jody Burrows

Alison Richardson is the artistic director and CEO of Crossroad Arts. She is passionate about creating opportunities for people with disabilities who are serious about developing their skills in contemporary performance.

She brings to Crossroad Arts more than 15 years of experience in the inclusive arts, theatre and disability sector. She has held various positions, including Creative Programs Coordinator for Accessible Arts, Creative Director for Beyond the Square at Riverside Theatres and Access and Inclusion Coordinator for Vivid Sydney and Sydney New Years’ Eve. She has also worked extensively as a theatre director and tutor for community theatre companies.

Dr Judith Wake’s life’s work has been focused on preserving, protecting and studying the local environment. Prior to retiring, Dr Wake was a member of CQUni's Land and Water Management Centre and in that role undertook vital research on mangroves in the Mackay district. Since retiring she has continued similar work on a voluntary basis.

For quite a few years Dr Wake has been contributing to the Healthy Rivers Partnership and the Reef Catchments groups. For much of that time, she was a member of the Technical Working Group that provides scientific advice on the assessment of river/reef health. For three years she was chair of that group.

Mackay Riding for the Disabled is a not-for-profit organisation that is fully self-funded by fundraising and donations. It is run fully by volunteers, and one of the longest serving and most committed volunteers is Jody Burrows.

Alison has a pivotal role in offering a rich and diverse arts program to Mackay and she has been the driving force of many outstanding local performance events. Alison also presents a rich array of work-

She is a long-time member of Native Plants Queensland (formerly SGAP) and vice-chair of the Mackay group. She is an active member of their management committee and regularly contributes to environmental events they support. She also volunteers with their Propagation Group at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens.

Nigel Dalton is a familiar face at most community events, like the Disability Expo in 2022, where he is the face of community crime prevention

Recognised At Australia Day Awards

Community Group Award: Pioneer Valley Machinery Preservationists Society

They also educate the community at events and older members are always teaching new members new skills. Younger members who have joined are being taught skills in problem solving, restoration, machinery, fitting, research and more.

Senior Sports Award: Brenda Windsor

it again in 2023.

The 777 involves running seven marathons, in seven states, over seven consecutive days. Each time she has had to raise $10k to be able to participate and in doing so has held numerous raffles. She even ran 77.7km (from Koumala to Mackay) to raise funds. She finished this run at Sarina State High School where she was cheered on by all the staff and students.

Brenda volunteers at Parkrun Mackay and has run over 180 events herself, often with her grandkids.

he was six years old. To the Mirani High School student, BMX is life, and his goal is to be chosen in the 2032 Olympic team. With a slew of local wins and high placings in regional, state and national competitions, he’s on the right track.

The Pioneer Valley Machinery Preservationist Society is a group that has a strong sense of community. Members are constantly looking after each other. They assist each other to finish projects or find parts, they share transport to shows and events and they are always watching out for members’ health and well-being.

The group is also integral in the preservation of local history. They are actively restoring local farming history and preserving this for future generations at their own cost.

Brenda Windsor has dedicated countless hours and kilometres to raise money and shine a spotlight on the child protection work that Bravehearts do. She has run their 777 twice now and intends on doing

Junior Sports Awards: Connor Parish

Connor and his brother Aiden recently competed in the Oceania BMX Championships in Brisbane where they qualified to represent Australia at the World Championships. Connor brought home a second (24”) and fourth (20”) at the competition.

The pair then travelled to Nantes, France in July 2022 where they competed alongside 3000 other riders from all over the world and rubbed shoulders with some of their idols. Connor made the semi-finals (24”) and he also qualified for the 20” competition.

INSPIRATIONAL AUSSIE DAY AMBASSADORS DELIGHTED ISAAC AUDIENCES

Amilitary veteran advocate with a passion to protect endangered species and a gold medal-winning Australian Paralympian swim star visited the Isaac region as part of Australia Day celebrations.

Kevin Hughes, who was awarded a Bravery Medal, and Queensland’s very own golden girl Lakeisha ‘Lucky’ Patterson shared their inspirational stories at selected Isaac region events on January 25-26.

Isaac Regional Council Mayor Anne Baker said it was a privilege to host Kevin and Lakeisha and for the opportunity for the rural and regional communities to connect with them.

“We’re all part of the story of Australia –

from those whose ancestors walked on Country for tens of thousands of years to the newest Australian citizens,” Mayor Baker said.

“On Australia Day, we reflected on our past, accepted the truth of our history and respected that we all have a contribution to make to the story of Australia.

“We celebrated being part of a diverse and multicultural nation and welcomed Kevin and Lakeisha to the Isaac region to hear their courageous stories.”

Having served in the military within Australia and overseas, as a firefighter in Brisbane and a professional pilot worldwide,

Kevin’s passion for Australian native animals started in the early 1990s.

He held the senior pilot position for the Wirrimanu Aboriginal Community in Balgo, Western Australia with aircraft based at Halls Creek. It was there his education of native animals grew along with the passion to assist in bringing awareness to as many people as possible. Kevin then founded Endangered Species Supporters Australia.

Lakeisha started swimming at the age of five to help ease her muscle stiffness from Hemiplegia, a form of Cerebral Palsy.

Lakeisha was a three-time Paralympic Gold medallist and dual World and Commonwealth Champion.

She represented Australia at two Pan Pacific Championships, two Commonwealth Games, three World Championships and two Paralympics with other international events, medals and records in between. An ambassador for numerous organizations and charities, as well as an Order of Australia Medal recipient, Lakeisha studied at university, volunteered within the community, spoke at numerous events, and raised education and awareness about inclusion, diversity and resilience. Council hosted eight events across the region in conjunction with the support of many local businesses and community groups.

Kevin Hughes

Lakeisha Patterson

Mayor Anne Baker

Connor Parish has been racing BMX since

Labor Says Local Roads Held Up To Big Wet

LNP Says That Couldn’t Be Further From The Truth

“Flood resilient upgrades along the Bruce Highway delivered by the Palaszczuk Government have stood up to the test of a recent heavy rain event which impacted Central and Northern Queensland,” the State Government said in a recent press release, however both federal and local LNP members have said this couldn’t be further from the truth.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey was in Mackay last week, inspecting some of the damage to the Mackay and Whitsundays region, saying many communities which would have once been cut-off in similar events have stayed connected.

"The Palaszczuk Labor Government has 106 Bruce Highway projects funded and underway right now, including 45 in construction, as part of a massive $13 billion pipeline of joint funding locked in over the next 15 years," Mr Bailey said.

"Flood resilience is one of the three major scopes of the current $13 billion Bruce Highway Upgrade Program, and the flood resilient projects we have delivered have stood up to the test of months' worth of rain hitting Central and North Queensland in just a few days.

Minister Bailey said he visited the $145 Mackay Northern Access Upgrade on the Bruce, which was opened late last year, saying it “has held up incredibly well despite the big downpour, as has the $500 million Mackay Ring Road on the Bruce, which we opened in 2020.

"We also contributed funding for the drainage upgrades at Archibald and Milton Streets in Mackay, which traditionally cut access to the airport when they flooded, and they too have held up well.”

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox hit back saying the minister’s comments couldn’t be further from the truth.

“I am very concerned that the Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Mark Bailey, came to Mackay to inspect how our roads have held up during the floods, and come to the conclusion that they are good,” Mr Willcox said.

“The fact that he only visited newly built roads to form this conclusion is pure madness.

“The State Member for Mackay should know her constituents are tired of battling constant road work delays and are now dealing with immense flooding damage on the Bruce Highway which is unsafe for motorists and costing locals thousands in repairs.

“It is negligent of the State Member for Mackay to be fully aware of the disgraceful and dangerous condition of our main highway and not lobby her Minister for action! Instead, they revisit recently completed roadworks,” Mr Willcox added.

“The Minister has accused me of “going rouge” all because I am calling for the State Government to take our road safety seriously – this is the same Government who has been in power for 27 out of 30 years.

“The first thing I have done since the roads have re-opened is drive from one end of the Dawson electorate to the other, from Mackay through to Townsville. I know exactly what condition the Bruce Highway is in.

“I invite Minister Bailey to do the same.”

Minister Bailey said that "Right up and down the Bruce, the projects the Palaszczuk Labor Government have delivered are doing their job.

"It's a stark contrast to the LNP who, when David Crisafulli was a minister in the Newman Government, delivered just four

projects on the entire Bruce Highway, one of them was an audit report, and two others were fully funded by the Federal Government.

"Just four projects from the LNP compared to 106 projects being delivered right now by the Palaszczuk Labor Government.

"Not to mention that David Crisafulli, Amanda Camm and the LNP lied to Queenslanders before the last state election with their Bruce Highway duplication hoax, which was exposed to be only a planning study with no funding for upgrades.”

Member for Whitsundays Amanda Camm said Minister Bailey’s comments were “disrespectful” and “out of touch”.

“Given the Minister flew in and out of Mackay to inspect an inner-city project that was 80 per cent funded by the former Federal demonstrated arrogance and out of touch he really is,” Ms Camm said.

“His comments were an insult to every resident across Mackay and the Whitsundays who was isolated from their jobs, their hospital, and critical services.”

“Minister Bailey demonstrates every day the lack of consultation and arrogance through the Hamilton Plains Project that has not commenced in seven years, the Shute Harbour Road upgrades that will now be littered with traffic lights against the communities wishes and the Northern Beaches Mackay-Bucasia Road where there is no plan for duplication, upgrades, or alternative access.

“A Minister who lists announcements yet has delivered no outcomes evidenced everyday by the sub-standard roads and boat-ramps our region must put up with." Mr Bailey said the Queensland Govern-

ment will continue to deliver more flood resilient projects along the Bruce Highway, and deliver a Second Bruce Highway to provide an alternative during rain events like the one we have just seen.

"At 1,679km long the Bruce Highway is a massive stretch of road, and there's no denying we still have work to do, but it's clear we are delivering and have a credible plan for the future," he said.

"Our future plan for the Bruce includes flood resilience improvements on projects like the 26km long Gympie Bypass project, the 15km long Rockhampton Ring Road, the 9km long Tiaro Bypass, and the almost 30km of flood resilient stretch being delivered as part of the Townsville Ring Road and Townsville Northern Access projects, just to name a few.

"But we know the North Queensland coastline usually cops it worst in summer during the wet and cyclone season, and that's why we're building a second Bruce Highway from Charters Towers to Mungindi which was bagged by the LNP when we announced it in 2020.

"The Inland Freight Route (or 'Second Bruce') will provide a genuine alternative to keep supplies coming into Central and Northern Queensland communities during the wet season or a cyclone.”

"There is more than $1 billion in joint funding committed to upgrade the Gregory, Dawson, and Carnarvon Highways to provide a real alternative to the Bruce during the wet season, and also get more trucks off the Bruce all year round.

"The inland link to Mackay will also soon be bolstered by the $186 million Walkerston Bypass where construction is progressing well and is on track to be completed next year."

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox said he has driven the length of the Bruce Highway in the Dawson electorate since the flooding event and challenged Minister Mark Bailey to do the same. Photo credit: Office of Andrew Willcox MP

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey met with Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert to inspect the region’s roads following this month’s flooding event. Photo credit: Office of Julieanne Gilbert

BIOMANUFACTURING FUTURE

The Queensland Government is funding the expansion of a pilot plant that converts biomass from a sugar mill into bioproducts. The QUT Mackay Renewable Biocommodities Pilot Plant (MRBPP) is a research and development facility that converts biomass into biofuels, green chemicals and other bioproducts. The expansion of the facility is expected to create regional jobs and build on Queensland's growing biofutures industry.

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development Steven Miles said, "Queensland is in a position to become an Asia-Pacific hub in biomanufacturing and bio-refining. Which is why we are investing in the Mackay Pilot Plant expansion through the Queensland Government's $350 million Industry Partnership Program."

The expansion of the common user research and development facility will enhance the development of regional biomanufacturing industries, attract further investment and create local jobs.

Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said the Government was bringing together traditional and new industries to build our biofutures sector.

"The Mackay region has been identified as a key location for biofutures industry, including the potential development of a Future Foods BioHub," Ms Gilbert said.

"The region is known around the world for its sugar cane, and the expansion of this facility, located on a sugar mill site, will have a strong appeal to companies looking to use sugar feedstocks for their products."

QUT's Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Queensland's Biofutures Industry Envoy, Professor Ian O'Hara said that the funding will be used to enhance the capability of the facility to be able to

test a wider range of new and emerging technologies at scale.

"This expansion is critical to support companies seeking to supply new products for the future foods and other biomanufacturing industries, enabling them to rapidly demonstrate their technologies and products for market testing," Professor O'Hara said.

"As a result, the facility will support the growth of a range of Australian companies and attract new investors into the Mackay region, creating new jobs and supporting a profitable future for the Australian Sugar industry."

The Industry Partnership Program is part of the $5.84 billion Queensland Jobs Fund which aims to boost the State's industry footprint, create jobs and strengthen the economy.

For more information on Industry Partnership Program: https://www.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au/queensland-jobs-fund/ industry-partnership-program.

To read the Queensland Biofutures 10Year Roadmap and Action Plan, visit: Biofutures | State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning.

WORKSHOPS WILL TURN THE TIDE ON COASTAL HAZARDS

See a wave tank in action when environmental consultants Alluvium visit our region next month.

The wave tank simulates the ocean’s movements to demonstrate how different combinations of coastal defences and wave and tide conditions can affect issues such as wave overtopping and flood risk.

Alluvium will be hosting four community workshops in February as part of the Mackay Coast Our Future program, which will include coastal erosion and storm tide inundation displays and maps, and opportunities to discuss possible adaptation options for the region.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the workshops would allow residents to gain a better understanding of what adaptation options would be most suitable for specific locations in our region.

“When you install a barrier like a seawall to help protect the coastline, the water has

to go somewhere,” Mayor Williamson said.

“The purpose of the wave tank is to demonstrate that not every adaptation option is suitable for every location,” he said.

“We want to take proactive action to protect our region’s coasts and foreshores from the future effects of climate change and coastal hazards, such as erosion, storm tide inundation and rising sea levels.”

The Mackay Coast Our Future study aims to determine what adaptation options are best suited to the areas that have the most risk of these coastal hazards in our region.

Council conducted two surveys last year to gather feedback on how residents use the coast and what knowledge they had in relation to coastal adaptation options.

“Next month’s workshops will be an opportunity for residents to learn from experts about what coastal hazards exist in their area and what adaptation options make the most sense,” Mayor Williamson

EXCITING YOUTH LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITY AT THE MECC

Becoming a MECC Youth Ambassador is a life-changing opportunity. Not only do you enjoy special access to arts events, but you also gain hands-on experiences in performing arts, technical productions, and media and marketing.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the MECC had just opened applications for the 2023 Youth Ambassador Program.

“If you are looking to undertake a career in the arts, media or marketing, this is an exciting opportunity” Mayor Williamson said.

“Our MECC Youth Ambassadors have exclusive access to workshops and events that link directly to their studies,” he said. The program has seen great successes over the years, with many students continuing their studies in the events industry post school.

“We have had a number of Youth Ambassadors successfully apply for the annual Jack Sturgeon Bursary, a $1000 bursary

to help with the expense associated with tertiary studies,” Mayor Williamson said.

“One former Youth Ambassador, Eddie Tiller, recently won Mackay Regional Council’s Jason Vassallo Trainee of the Year Award.”

Eddie Tiller spoke highly of the program.

“My experience as a Youth Ambassador was amazing,” Eddie said. “I met like-minded friends – who I would never have met otherwise,” she said.

“My favourite moment was volunteering at a Queensland Museum exhibition.

I was able to create life-like movements with animated puppets, it was a lot of fun.”

After completing the program, Eddie was successful with an application for employment at the MECC and has since completed a Certificate III in Live Production.

Budding performers, singers, dancers, sound designers, lighting technicians, curators, producers, marketers or anyone with an interest in the MECC can apply.

said.

RESIDENTS ARE INVITED TO ATTEND ONE OF THE FOLLOWING WORKSHOPS:

• Thursday, February 2, from 11am to 1pm at the Jubilee Community Centre

• Thursday, February 2, from 4pm to 6pm at Seaforth Community Hall

• Friday, February 3, from 4pm to 6pm at Llewellyn Hall, Armstrong Beach

• Saturday, February 4, from 1pm to 3.30pm at Eimeo Surf Life Saving Club

No bookings are required.

For more information on the Mackay Coast Our Future study and to subscribe to project updates visit connectingmackay. com.au/future-coast.

RECENT RESULTS OF THE MACKAY COAST OUR FUTURE SURVEYS REVEALED:

• The top three reasons that attract people to live and visit our region are:

• Outdoor experiences and recreational opportunities (boating, fishing, camping, 4WD etc)

• Unique landscapes and natural beauty

• Access to the beaches

• 68 per cent of respondents visited the beach or foreshore weekly, with 43 per cent visiting the beach two to three times a week

• 49 per cent of respondents believe there is a lot more planning and preparation required to prepare for coastal hazards

• 49 per cent of respondents have been affected by coastal hazards

• 63 per cent of respondents believe they have a good to expert understanding of potential coastal hazards such as sea levels rising and changing storm tide intensity.

CRITERIA:

• Must reside in the Mackay Regional Council area

• Enrolled in grade 10-12

• Must have parental permission

• Must be able to attend regular workshops, meetings or training sessions

• B e willing to positively advocate the MECC and its programs and perfor-

mances

• Have the support of one teacher at your school who will liaise with the MECC Engagement Officer

• This is a voluntary position

All entries must be received by Friday, 3 February 2023. Application forms available from themecc.com.au/schools/ youth_ambassador

The 2021 Youth Ambassadors, Sebastian Padget, Emilia Konopka, Savannah Vella, Laina Rudken, Jonte Tupaea, Jack Oliveira, Suzanna Elliott Haynes, Lisa Grobler and Jayde Readman. Photo supplied: MECC

Mackay Historian Shares South Sea Islander Story On TV

The Mackay region is home to the largest population of South Sea Islander people outside of the Pacific, their story seldom told until now.

‘Black Snow’, streaming on Stan, is a work of fiction created and written by Lucas Taylor and produced by Goalpost Television set in the fictional town Ashford but filmed in the sugarcane fields of Proserpine, producers saw an opportunity to tell the true story of the region’s South Sea Islander people.

Mackay resident Marion Fatnowna Healy has worked for over 30 years to share the history of the South Sea Islander people of the region, with her latest assignment being Cultural and Historical Consultant on the show.

The series follows a cold case investigation of the 1994 murder of seventeen-year-old Jasmine Baker, a crime that shocked the town and devastated Jasmine’s Australian South Sea Islander community.

“Because Lucas had that idea that he would feature this cold case in the cane fields, the opportunity then came for the story to be aligned with the Australian South Sea Islander community,” said Ms Fatnowna Healy.

“We got to tell a bit of our history and story through that via our families and you see it roll out.”

The first boatload of South Sea Islander people was brought into Mackay in 1867, seven years after John Mackay first discovered the region.

Over 62,000 South Sea Islander people were shipped to Australia between 1863 and 1904, mostly to Queensland, where

they worked mainly in the sugar industry in poor-to-terrible conditions.

After 40 years of labour, as Australia moved towards federation, the White Australia Policy was introduced.

“The big push was to remove all the South Sea Islanders out of Australia, so they deported 7,000 and 1,000 were left behind,” said Ms Fatnowna Healy.”

“They were left either by their choice, they had to plead to the government … or they hid, farmers hid them, and from that 1,000 you have us today.”

Ms Fatnowna Healy has worked in education for over 30 years, supporting Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and South Sea Island children and works to educate people on the untold history of South Sea Island people.

“We are the forgotten people,” she said.

“This year, we acknowledged that we’ve been in this country 160 years and the federal government only gave us recognition in 1994 and the Queensland Government, and I worked on it … we only got recognition in the year 2000.

“I have five children and we’re not even considered people of this country, but we helped build this nation.”

It’s Ms Fatnowna Healy’s rich knowledge of and advocacy for local and cultural history that got her the role of Cultural and Historical Consultant on ‘Black Snow’.

She was initially invited into the writer’s room to read through the completed script with Mr Taylor and other writers.

Ms Fatnowna Healy went on to workshop with the entire cast and crew, almost 170 people, telling the story of the South Sea Island people of Mackay.

“The commitment from Goalpost was … to educate everybody about the Australian South Sea Island audience,” Ms Fatnowna Healy said.

“People need to understand that it wasn’t all rosy, it definitely wasn’t rosy growing up.”

Working on the series for two and a half years, Ms Fatnowna Healy said she was honoured to share her culture’s story.

“What happened there was the feeling of compassion for us and the feeling of family amongst us, that we welcomed everybody into our community,” she said.

The cast features a large South Sea Islander contingent, many descendants of those who were brought over to the region in the 1800s and acting for the first time.

“We made sure that the application form gave the kids the opportunity to identify any which way they wanted, but when they did the lesson with me … many of those South Sea young people who were sitting at the table, it was the first time they were hearing their history,” said Ms Fatnowna Healy.

Less than a month after the show’s release, Ms Fatnowna Healy has already received glowing feedback from audiences.

“There’s been an amazing response from

so many people, so it builds pride in me,” she said.

“Just like those young people not knowing who they were, it’s opened them up to start asking questions and having those conversations about, ‘Who are we? How do I find my history?’

“It’ll help those young ones, it’ll help my community, wherever they are, to have pride to be able to identify, ‘Hey, I’m a proud South Sea Islander and I matter.’”

In 2023, Ms Fatnowna Healy will continue to build her business Mer Bar Wakai Consultancy offering cultural and professional development workshops, leadership programs, cultural heritage awareness workshops, cultural activities and tours.

“I want our story to be told more further and further,” she said.

“I formed a business that brings in awareness and I’m available to anybody, private or public, to sit down and talk about our local history, so white history, black history, where we’re at and how we move forward.”

Ms Fatnowna Healy also runs the Kanaka Proud Cup with her brother Joseph Fatnowna, which Mackay is hosting from November 4 to 5 this year.

“That was the way we built our connections between Mackay and Rocky, our family lineages and our stories,” she said.

“Black Snow was one part, but we’ve been doing it for a little while with Kanaka Proud Cup.”

To find out more about Ms Fatnowna Healy’s work, email merbarwakai@ yahoo.com.au or visit Mer Bar Wakai on Facebook.

Black Snow was released on New Year's Day after filming wrapped up in the Proserpine region. Photos supplied

Mackay resident Marion Fatnowna Healy worked as Cultural and Historical Consultant on Stan series ‘Black Snow’

PROPERTY POINT

My Christmas-New Year holidays were a wonderful mixture of beaches, beer, test cricket, family time, beer, time in a resort, jerky morning exercise and beer. Oh, and phone calls from real estate buyers.

The beaches and resort were on the Gold Coast, the cricket was in Melbourne, the jerky morning exercise was on whatever discreetly hidden grassy spot I could find, the beer was pale ale and the buyer phone calls were an indication of a strong market heading into 2023.

Sometimes the calls interrupted my morning exercise (“Oh, I’d better take that”), sometimes it interrupted the beer (“Bloody hell, can’t a bloke have a holiday”) but they kept coming and it instilled a great anticipation in me for the year ahead.

I only had a couple of listings left from 2022 but I also had a couple of listings that hadn’t gone on the market yet but some buyers knew about them and didn’t want to wait until I came back in the second week of January.

I work six days a week and need a decent break at Christmas just to keep my insanity below publicly perceptible levels … but don’t get me wrong, I am not complaining about the calls.

While I was away I got to see people who

live in other markets, I read newspapers that told a national story of real estate negativity and picked up a general vibe about mortgage stress in markets where people are trying to pay off $1 million properties.

The vibe I got from the callers inquiring about my Mackay properties was that they saw opportunity and value.

That positive feeling has continued now that I am back in Mackay and into the working year.

There is good buyer inquiry, plenty of activity at open houses and properties are going under contract.

All the fundamentals remain good. Rental vacancies of under 1 per cent, unemployment at the lowest levels in the country, a good bustling energy about the future, median prices that are far lower than other parts of the country.

It looks like peace has broken out in the recent trade war with China and word has it that their massive economy is ready to get moving again, which is a good sign for our coking coal production.

The Mackay region has managed to enjoy strong economic activity in recent years despite the trade ban from China so the détente in that area bodes well for local businesses … and real estate. Bring on 2023!

HELP SHAPE THE MACKAY REGION’S RV STRATEGY

An online survey has been released to help identify and prioritise key actions that will enable the Mackay region to increase its appeal to the growing recreational vehicle (RV) market.

Mayor Greg Williamson said camping and caravanning are an important part of the outdoor recreation experience for locals.

“The self-drive camping and caravanning market has a significant role to play in the region’s tourism product with outdoor recreation opportunities like camping, fishing, cycling and other related activities experiencing substantial growth annually,” Mayor Williamson said.

“We want to capitalise on this growth and ensure we are taking the right steps to plan for our future in regard to the RV industry.”

According to statistics released by the Caravan Industry Association of Australia, as of June 2022, there were nearly 800,000 registered RVs in Australia and over 150,000 on the roads at any one time.

Since the impact of COVID, the self-drive tourism market continues to strengthen and increase. "Van-life” and caravanning has started appealing to a wider demographic.

The Mackay region already offers a mixture of self-drive destinations and an established range of caravan and camping sites.

Mayor Williamson said the region had a strong self-drive market presence, demonstrated by the annual winter “migration” of retired travellers and a growing regional market looking for short-break destinations.

“To ensure this strategy hits the mark, we need to hear ideas and feedback from existing caravan and campground operators, tourism-related businesses, residents as well as tourists,” he said.

The survey closes at midnight on Wednesday, February 8, and can be found on council’s dedicated community engagement website, connectingmackay.com.au.

OF EDUCATION TO A YOUNG PERSON IN

YIRS One Stop Youth Shop Inc. (Youth Information Referral Service) is a non-government organisation operating in our region since 1996 and provides support to disengaged and disadvantaged youth between the ages of 8 – 21 years with the aim to remove barriers that young people and their families often face when accessing services relevant to their needs.

YIRS works alongside external organisations by offering numerous services in one location and offers an alternative distance education program for young people in years 8, 9 and 10 who have disengaged or are disadvantaged to continue their education in a mainstream education setting. Post year 10, YIRS assists youth to continue with further education,

and apprenticeship and employment pathways.

The YIRS team is small, but they deliver so much to the young people who present to the service for assistance. They are a trusted, safe space and they see and hear about heartbreaking situations every day and keep doing what they do because they are so committed and passionate. YIRS are always seeking opportunities to assist with the possible expansion of program delivery to continue to decrease margins and to benefit the youth of Mackay and the region.

The organisation is committed to helping young people with the most basic of needs that we often take for granted. Things like access to good quality food which they help to prepare, as YIRS is

seeing increasing numbers of young people who present because there is no food at home. YIRS also helps with budgeting, medical needs, identification needs, transport – basic everyday needs.

YIRS One Stop Youth Shop Inc. is currently seeking sponsorship to continue to educate young people who are disengaged from mainstream schooling. These are young people who are slipping through the cracks through no fault of their own because unfortunately, we know that not all young people have a roof over their heads, 3 meals a day and a safe and happy home environment.

If you can assist, or hear more about YIRS, please let me know. If you wished to contact them directly call 4957 7949 or email admin@yirs.org.au.

Cr Fran Mann

Mackay Regional Council

Kucom Theatre Quick To Start 2023 With A Playful Quartet New Swings For Eimeo

Eimeo residents are being advised that the swing set in Sunset Park will be out of action in February.

From Monday, January 30, Mackay District Council will begin work replacing it with a like-for-like swing set and soft fall sand surfacing. The work is expected to take four weeks to complete, weather permitting.

A Masterclass In Speaking

Having successfully weathered 75 years as Mackay's longest-running community theatre company, Kucom Theatre is kicking off the new year with a season of four one-act plays - two of them written by local Mackay playwright Paul Vander Loos. "Quartet", a season of one-act plays, is opening on 23 February.

The season includes:

“Murder Most Fowl” and “In Good Spirits”, by local author Paul Vander Loos, directed by Joe Clutterbuck and Brian O'Neill; “Putting Back the Fest”, by Australian playwright Michael Jeffrey, presented by Ken Sanders; and “A Lady of Letters”, from the “Talking Heads” series by Alan Bennett, presented by Tessa King.

What are they all about? “Murder Most Fowl” centres around a neighbourhood disagreement over a prized rooster that ends with a surprising twist!

“In Good Spirits”, performed as a radio play, follows four friends on a stormy night in which they experience some supernatural events.

“Putting Back the Fest”: the one-act play festival is over. Now it’s time for the presentations - and tonight’s adjudicator is taking no prisoners!

complaints to those whose behaviour she deems unacceptable.

Tickets are now on sale at the special price of just $20 each.

Just follow this link or scan the QR code to go to the bookings website: https://events. humanitix.com/one_act_plays_2023.

Is improving public speaking one of your New Year’s Resolutions?

If so, take the first step to make your goal a reality by attending Mackay Toastmasters Club's Presentation Mastery Class on Tuesday, 7 February.

The class will run from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm and cover the essentials you need to plan and deliver a presentation.

“We know many people want to improve their public speaking skills and build their confidence,” Mackay Toastmasters Club member Megan Dillon said.

“However, they often struggle to believe that they can do something about it.

“If that sounds like you, come along to our class to learn some practical skills that will help you be confident in front of an audience.”

The class is suitable for anyone who would like to be able to improve their presentation skills. It will cover what goes into giving a presentation; from the first time you sit down to plan it to the moment you step out in front of your audience.

Tickets must be purchased to attend the event. The price of $24.95 includes refreshments and education materials.

Megan Dillon said Mackay Toastmasters Club offers people an opportunity to practise their communication and leadership skills.

“Public speaking is like any skill,” she explained.

“You can learn what to do, but you’ll only begin to see improvement when you practise.

“Toastmasters can speed up this process because we practise our skills then get almost instant feedback on how we could improve next time.

“Plus, we make our meetings fun, so our members want to keep coming back!

WHAT: Mackay Toastmasters Presentation Mastery Class

WHEN: Tuesday, February 7 from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm

WHERE: Jubilee Community Centre

COST: $24.95 including refreshments and education materials. Purchase tickets at mackay.toastmastersclubs.org

“A Lady of Letters”: middle-aged Irene Ruddock observes the lives of those living around her, and writes letters of

For more information about Kucom Theatre, visit its website www.kucom.org. au or follow on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

REBEL REBEL – THE BOWIE ANTHOLOGY

Rebel Rebel The Bowie Anthology is a captivating live concert experience recreating the iconic sound of David Bowie.

This live rock performance set in a rockumentary format explores the journey of David Bowie's life and music.

From Bowie’s 1969 release "Space Oddity" to his last Album "Blackstar". This concert will have you cheering and wanting more, as vocalist Whalen Hughes together with an outstanding live band and a visually spectacular stage show, pays tribute to one of rock’s most influential performers.

Performing all of Bowie’s classic hits including” Starman", "The Man Who Sold the World", "Space Oddity", "Changes", "Ashes To Ashes”, “Ziggy Stardust", "Golden Years", "Fame", "Fashion", "Life On

Mars", "Let’s Dance", "China Girl", and many, many more. This is a concert not to be missed, book now!

Please note - This is a tribute concert

WHAT: Rebel Rebel – The Bowie Anthology

WHEN: Saturday 18 February, 7.30pm

WHERE: MECC Auditorium

Mackay Toastmasters Club is part of the worldwide network of clubs that make up the not-for-profit educational organisation: Toastmasters International.

EVENTGUIDE

FRIDAY 27 JANUARY

Birdlife Mackay Monthly Surveys

Friday, 6:00am to 8:00am

Join Birdlife Mackay with their monthly bird count in the Botanic Gardens. If you are a keen bird watcher or just love birds and keen to find out more, come along! Meet at the Viewing Deck next to the Café, off Lagoon Street. Bring a hat, water bottle, camera and binoculars (if you have them). Bird counts are held on the last Friday of each month.

Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens

Friday SUN.sets

Every Friday Evening From 6pm Knock off drinks, lakeside dinner, good friends, and LIVE MUSIC.

Wake House Australia

Significant Other Live at Souths Friday, 6:30pm to 10:30pm

Join Souths on Friday for live music with Significant Other performing from 6:30pm10:30pm. Come along for a great night.

Souths Suburban Bowls Club

Mango Junction @ Northern Beaches Bowls Club

Friday, 8:00pm

Shake off the working week with Mango Junction cranking out your favourite party tunes in the main bar 8pm.

Mackay Northern Beaches Bowls Club

SATURDAY 28 JANUARY

Broken Ballerina Inc. Fundraiser Saturday, 9:00am

Catch Broken Ballerina Inc. at Mount Pleasant Centre for their first fundraiser of 2023. They will be at the top of the escalators selling cupcakes, Pete’s caramel slice and

merchandise.

Mount Pleasant Centre

Saints Hottest 100 Countdown Party Saturday, 9:00am

Everyone is invited to Saints for a big day of fun to count down the hottest 100. Club opens from 9am till late, the bar opening from number 100. There will be a waterslide from 9am to 1pm. BBQ lunch will be served. A big cricket game planned and more games throughout the day. Rock up in your best party shirt.

North Mackay Saints AFL Grounds

Triple J's Hottest 100 Party Saturday, 11:00am

It's the hottest party of the year! Who is your number 1 pick? Harrup Park have Triple J's Hottest 100 countdown of 2022 live and loud in the Garden Bar from 11am. Live sport on the big screen, drink specials and live music after the countdown. Free Entry.

Harrup Park

Tiffany Grace at Red Dog Brewery

Saturday, 6:00pm to 9:00pm

Catch Tiffany Grace live at Red Dog from 6:00pm to 9:00pm.

Red Dog Brewery

VaMa Live at Souths Friday, 6:00pm to 10:00pm

VaMa will be performing live in the Sports Bar on Saturday from 6pm-10pm. Come along for a great night.

Souths Suburban Bowls Club

Mango Junction @ Moss on Wood Saturday, 9:00pm

Party time at Moss on Wood.

Moss on Wood

SUNDAY 29 JANUARY

Sunday Live Music – Viva Acoustics

Sunday, 2:00pm to 5:00pm

Music every Sunday from 2pm - 5pm. Head down to the Seabreeze Hotel this Sunday for some fresh tunes, delicious food, and ice-cold brews.

Seabreeze Hotel

WEDNESDAY 1

FEBRUARY

Teen Shed Mackay Teen Circle

Every Wednesday, 4:00pm to 5:30pm Teen Circle is a place for all teens in the community to come together. It's a safe space for them to connect, heal & learn from each other. They can be seen, heard & understood with no judgement. It's a space to honour the uniqueness of each individual, everyone is equal. They will be able to speak from their hearts about things that trouble, annoy, frustrate them. This gathering will be held every Wednesday, all teenagers are welcome to attend. It is a free event, but attendees are asked to register for numbers.

Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School

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 2 FEBRUARY

Wave

Tank Workshop

Thursday, 11:00am to 1:00pm

See a wave tank in action when environmental consultants Alluvium visit our region. The wave tank simulates the ocean’s movements to demonstrate how different combinations of coastal defences and wave and tide conditions can affect issues such as wave overtopping and flood risk. Alluvium will be hosting four community workshops in February as part of the Mackay Coast Our Future program, which will include coastal erosion and storm tide inundation displays and maps, and opportunities to discuss possible adaptation options for the region. No bookings are required.

Jubilee Community Centre

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 desert.

Bluewater Quay

Birdlife Mackay Monthly Surveys

Mango Junction

Tiffany Grace Wave Tank Workshop

BEE GEES TRIBUTE WITH A PERSONAL TOUCH

MORNING MELODIES DELIVERS DAYTIME DELIGHTS

Achild drumming protégé and an actor with three international films under his belt before he was a teenager, Colin Petersen didn’t realise he was to become the fourth Bee Gee when he met Maurice Gibb at a gig.

Maurice explained he was captivated by Colin’s film ‘Smiley’, in which he plays the titular character, and had begged his parents to move to Australia.

In 1966, Colin joined Maurice and his brothers, becoming the first official nonGibb band member of the Bee Gees.

Essential to the Bee Gees sound, Colin was driving the evolution of the supergroup on stage and in the studio over four albums and #1 singles Massachusetts, To Love Somebody, New York Mining Disaster, I Started A Joke and many more.

Colin joins The Best of the Bee Gees Show, bringing a massive catalogue of mega-hits and first-hand stories to the Mackay Entertainment Convention Centre on Saturday, February 4.

“I add that extra image to it - ‘Hey, I was there, this is the dialogue that was going on between the brothers, this is where we were when we recorded a particular song,’ and give the audience some sort of idea of what it felt like to be in the band in that extraordinary part of my life,” Colin said. “It just adds that extra layer onto it and adds depth to what we’re presenting.”

The Best of the Bee Gees has brought global audiences to their feet for more than two decades with Colin joined by Evan Webster (Barry Gibb), Russell Davey (Robin

Colin said he was blown away the first time he heard the band and had to get involved.

“I’m closing my eyes and I’m listening to it and it’s so close,” he said.

“(Evan’s) capturing little nuances, it’s not like he’s trying to superficially cover it, he’s got the emotion of it.

“They’re really great musicians, all of them.”

The band meld together to create an immersive Bee Gees experience, recreating hits like Saturday Night Fever, Stayin’ Alive, Spicks & Specks, To Love Somebody, Massachusetts, You Should Be Dancing and more.

“Those songs, they’ll live on forever, and you can see that with the audience,” said Colin.

“They sing along, and they know all the words.”

Tickets for The Best of the Bee Gees with Colin “Smiley” Petersen are on sale now, with a special Family ticket encouraging the little ones to come along and discover the music of the Bee Gees.

WHAT: The Best of the Bee Gees with Colin “Smiley” Petersen

WHERE: The MECC

WHEN: Saturday, February 4 from 7:30pm

TICKETS: On sale now through MECC Box Office 4961 9777 and themecc.com.

Each year, Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (MECC) presents the much-loved Morning Melodies season, featuring a stellar line-up of four captivating daytime performances programmed to bring music to Mackay's Friday mornings throughout the year.

Manager MECC & Events, Andrew Bobeldyk said “Our Friends of the MECC’s Morning Melodies season is a popular series of performances among the Mackay community, and we're excited about the line-up for 2023.”

Popular with the senior community and proudly sponsored by the Friends of the MECC, the Morning Melodies program offers four shows annually, celebrating musical hits and stars of the past, often with tributes or storytelling about the greatest musical stars of current and past generations.

“We have carefully programmed four shows that are sure to impress our music-loving audience and look forward to bringing them to Mackay in 2023,” Mr Bobeldyk added.

For the opening performance of the season, relive awe-inspiring musical moments from the past 50 years and let nostalgia flood your soul with Lovely Day. Lovely Day unites award-winning music theatre star Mat Verevis (Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, The Who’s Tommy) and soulful songstress Alisha Todd (Sisters Are Doing It For Themselves, Geniie Boy) for a captivating journey down memory lane. Immerse yourself in the soulful sounds of the past and relive inspiring

Promising soulful original arrangements, magical vocals, and a walk down memory lane, The Little Red Company’s Lovely Day will uplift and inspire.

"Lucky door prizes will once again take place during each performance. This year we have Whitsunday Biscuit Factory and Guardian Pharmacy Mackay supplying prizes. We're thrilled to have these two businesses on board," Mr Bobeldyk said.

The first Morning Melodies performance is on Friday, February 17th at 11am where patrons can enjoy a soulful morning of music with the opportunity to win exciting door prizes. There will also be complimentary coffee and morning tea before the performance, courtesy of the volunteer organization Friends of the MECC.

Tickets for Morning Melodies performances are capped at an affordable $15 per person thanks to the sponsorship The Friends of the MECC.

To avoid disappointment, the MECC strongly recommends booking in advance to secure your tickets and avoid the queues on the day.

WHAT: The Friends of the MECC’s Morning Melodies 2023 Lovely Day

WHEN: Friday 17 February, 11am

WHERE: MECC Plenary Halls

TICKETS: www.themecc.com.au

Gibb) and Greg Wain (Maurice Gibb).

Colin Petersen tells his stories of childhood fame, acting and drumming for the Bee Gees in The Best of the Bee Gees

Photo credit: John Elliot

Lovely Day takes the stage as the first Morning Melodies performance of 2023

musical moments from iconic artists such as Al Green, Stevie Wonder, Ray Charles, Otis Redding, Bill Withers, Jill Scott, Etta James, and Roberta Flack.

Mackay Christian College

Whitsunday Anglican School

PRIDE AND PASSION DRIVE NEW METEORETTES COACH

ON THE GREENS AT GOOSIES

BOWLS

Weekly Results

BASKETBALL

Awell-known local coach has accepted the top coaching role with Mackay’s premier ladies basketball squad, saying he is looking forward to creating a culture based around pride and passion.

Mackay Basketball announced the appointment of Jamiey Doevendans as Head Coach of the McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes for the next two NBL1 seasons.

Doevendans has a long history of involvement with the Mackay Basketball NBL1 program, having served in various coaching roles over the past decade. He was an assistant coach with the Meteors men’s team for three years, during which he was a part of two QBL championship-winning campaigns. He then transitioned to the Meteorettes program as an assistant coach for seven seasons, during which he won another QBL title and helped guide the team to two more grand final appearances. Additionally, the local Mackay mentor spent seven years on the sidelines as an assistant coach with the Queensland North under 16 and under 18 girls state representative teams.

Mackay Basketball President Tara Smyth stated that the club is excited about Do-

the Meteorettes NBL1 Head Coach position.

evendans'

“Jamiey has been heavily invested in our Mackay Basketball QBL and NBL1 programs for a long period of time, so it’s great to see his commitment, dedication and efforts be rewarded with this opportunity to take the reins of our women’s squad,” said Smyth.

“While it’s his first season as a head coach at this level, he brings extensive experience to the role.”

Doevendans expressed pride in the opportunity to step into the top job.

“Being a prestigious position and the program having a rich history of success, I am honored in leading the McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes for the next two seasons,” he said.

“My focus is to continue to create a culture and style of play built around working hard and competing with pride and passion. A team the local basketball community can be excited about coming to support.”

With Doevendans now locked in as coach, the club plans to announce Meteorettes player signings in the coming weeks.

Monday - mixed pairs draw was won by Lance Edwards and Lesley Baumgarten. Second draw winners were Trevor Laurens and Robert Masso and the lucky prize draw was won by Lesley Baumgarten and Greg Pembroke.

Wednesday – NMBC Ladies Section had their Past Presidents, Life Members and Opening Day for 2023.

Thursday - mixed pairs first draw was taken out by Lidia McCarthy and Ray McCarthy. Second draw winners were Hilary Jones Rowan and Ian Rowan. Greens vouchers were won by Robert Evans and Peter Cowling. Andrew Coates won the raffle. The kitty toucher jackpots.

Friday - mixed pairs best card winners were Jean Zamparutti and Debbie Mackenzie. The kitty toucher was not won. Contributed by Ian Rowan

Jamiey Doevendans will lead the McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes charge in the NBL1 North competition

transition into

"A" Grade Singles NMBC Championship for 2023 first rounds – the umpire measures the closest bowl

Bowlers approach the "head" to decide closest shot

Road Runners Hit The Beach

RUNNING

Lucky number thirteen of the Mackay Road Runners Shawn’s Summer Social Series was enjoyed by over thirty runners who gathered at the Bucasia Shopping Centre car park for a Sunday afternoon stroll through the beautiful Bucasia suburb onto the pathways and beaches towards Shoal Point and return.

The 12km loop course and 5km shorter distance option was made tougher by the humid conditions and the soft sand, however, all runners came through to the end with big smiles for their efforts.

Club Captain/Race Director Jim Ford as usual had a couple of optional courses for runners to enjoy at whatever speed or dis-

tance they chose.

Excellent performances came from the longer distance athletes Mick Scholer, Paul McKenzie, George Hannaford, Luke Leven, Oliver Rule, Andrew Wallace, June Bradley, Carmel Mahon and Stephen Oberg.

The 5km runners including Daniel Stampa, Julie Whibley, Jo Hughes, Mel Harris and Lily Leven had a great outing with Adam and Alana Knesevic hitting the paths with the double pram with Vivian and Harvey on board.

This Sunday’s penultimate Shawn’s Summer Social Series event will commence at 5:30pm for a snakes and ladders style event throughout the streets of the City Centre.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

PRESERVING HISTORY

TABLE TENNIS

Mackay Table Tennis stalwarts Donna and Kevin Abbott have put their money where their hearts are by donating a new honour board for the association.

The new honour board was installed late last year and stands beside the original, which holds the names of every president, secretary, treasurer, men’s and women’s champions, life members and patrons since the association was formed in 1937.

The original was installed at the new Mackay Table Tennis Centre in Bridge Rd when it was opened in 1972 and was donated by Jim Hardy and his son Peter, who formed the Kooyong Table Tennis Club in

the 60s and raised funds at the hotel for the new centre.

Donna and Kev, and Donna’s late uncle Frank DeCampo, have a long association with the club.

Frank was treasurer for five years between 1961-64 and was among those fundraising for the new centre at a time when the association was playing competitions at the Church of England Hall in Shakespeare St.

Both Donna and Kev followed Frank’s footsteps and have been long-time players, supporters and fundraisers for the club.

Donna is now in a record 10th year as treasurer, and she, Kevin and Frank are all life members of the association.

By Charlie Payne

Mackay Contract Bridge Club

Weekly Results

Monday 16 January 2023 – 6 Table Rover Switch

1st Lorna Shuttlewood / Faye Wright

2nd Griffin Bancroft / Nancy Wix

3rd Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris

4th Richard Wix / Geoff Taylor

5th Janelle Conroy / Terrence Sheedy

One Winner

Tuesday Evening 17 January 2023 – 4 Table One Winner

1st Helen Van Den Broek / Terrence Sheedy

2nd Diane Morgan / Sandra Morris

3rd Janet Hansen / Lorna Shuttlewood

Wednesday 18 January 2023 Nationwide Pairs Week 2 of 23 - 10 Table Mitchell N/S E/W

1st Janelle Conroy / Alan Brown

1st Ian Cruickshank / Antonia Tarradas

2nd Mary Rose Ramsden / Noel Saunders 2nd Terrence Sheedy / Ian Cruickshank

3rd Joy Brunette / Don Poole

4th Anne Lutz / Gwen Liddell

3rd Ian Gaskell / Carol Gaskell

4th Monica Darley / Kath Poole

5th Sandy Patterson / Geoffrey Patterson

Thursday Night 19 January 2023 – 5 Table One Winner

1st Geoff Taylor / Faye Wright

2nd Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore

3rd Janelle Conroy / Terrence Sheedy

4th Janine Rodgers / Jan Harris

Friday 20 January 2023 – Unders and Overs Team Event

1st Ted Cullinan – Ted Cullinan, 2nd Noel Saunders Team – Noel Saunders, Mary Rose Ramsden, 3rd Sandra Morris Team – Sandra Morris, Jan Harris, 4th Joy Block Team – Joy Block, Don Poole, Thomas Block & Helen Van Den Broek

Saturday 21 January 2023 – B4 Session 2 of 2 N/S E/W

1st Christine Nice / Faye Wright

2nd Geoff Taylor / Del Ryan

1st Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan

2nd Richard Wix / Geoffrey Patterson

3rd Frances Brown / Alan Brown 3rd Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless

4th Doone Mitchell / Lorna Shuttlewood 4th Debra Goodchild / Ian Goodchild

Winners of the B4 Final Two week Sessions

1st Christine Nice / Faye Wright

2nd Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan

3rd Frances Brown / Alan Brown

4th Geoffrey Patterson / Richard Wix

5th Geoff Taylor / Del Ryan

NEW HONOUR BOARD A SMASH HIT

Donna and Kevin Abbott stand beside the new honour board at the Mackay Table Tennis Centre. Photos: Charlie Payne The original honour board with the new board in the background at the entrance to the Mackay Table Tennis Centre

L-R George, Grant and Paul welcome the cold water and air con at George’s clinic, Northern Beaches Spine Care Chiropractor after their 10km efforts

Mel Harris in great form in the 5km event

Club Captain/Race Director Jim Ford (front right) presents George Hannaford with a trophy from the 2022 Mackay Road Runners Presentation night where George was unable to attend

Mick Scholer (right) was definitely the thorn among the roses with Jo, Julie, Helen and Lily with Dulcie (foreground). Photo credit: Janelle Tilse

RUGBY LEAGUE COLTS RICH IN TALENT

DECLAN FRASER JOINS TICKFORD RACING

When St Patrick’s College Open Boys rugby league team launches its 2023 Secondary Schools campaign in coming weeks, they will take the field brimming with confidence and parading a squad with an enviable depth of talent.

Under the tutelage of former international Test centre and Townsville legend Ian Schifilitti, the Mackay colts have been training the house down in preparation for another dominant season in the Capricornia region.

Just like their female counterparts, the St Patrick’s senior boys outfit are aiming to go one step better in 2023 and bring home the Confraternity Shield and Aaron Payne Cup trophies.

After finishing runners up to archrivals Ignatius Park College Townsville in both competitions last season, the Mackay marauders are keen as ever to impress new coach Schifilitti and again taste championship success.

With the nucleus of the 2022 squad back on deck this season and bolstered by the inclusion of a batch of up-and-coming Year 10 rookies the sky's the limit for one of the region’s proudest sporting nurseries.

Boasting a spine that includes Queensland Country Under 17 representatives in classy hooker Xavier Kerrisk and skilful half

back Jaxon Purdue plus dynamic fullback Will Shears, the St Patrick’s first grade line up shapes as a force to be reckoned with.

The much-vaunted trio along with promising lock forward Kayne Smith participated in a special pre-season camp in Townsville prior to Christmas as part of the North Queensland Cowboys Young Bucks squad.

They were joined by graduating St Patrick’s prospects in top forwards Liam Doherty and Matthew Watts and crack centre Kai Simon who attended the Cowboys’ Under 21 Young Guns camp.

Other experienced senior players returning for St Patrick’s College this season include sharp backs Bailey Anderson, Tenzin Contor and Bailey Caruana.

The decorated Schifilitti – who played three Test matches for Italy at the 2000 Rugby League Emerging Nations Tournament in England - will also get the opportunity to blood talented Year 10 recruits in Sportsman of the Year Reuben Saron, a powerful and tireless prop; Queensland Schoolboys Under 15 representative forward Cohen Jackson along with emerging colts Saxon Crofts, Hunter Harris, Javen Ramsamy, Hudson Smith, utility half Kooper Shears and centres Toby Woodall and Lachlan Whippy.

By Chris Karas

Tickford Racing has announced Mackay’s Declan Fraser as the newest member of their Tradie Racing team.

The talented Fraser will be joining the team for the 2023 Supercars Championship season, where the 22-year-old will take the wheel of the Tradie Ford Mustang for his first full season at the top level of Australian motorsport.

Fraser said it was a pretty special feeling to get the news.

“At the end of the Super2 season we didn’t really know where we were heading for 2023, so to get the call from Tim and everyone was pretty exciting,” he said.

“Getting from Super2 to the main game is a really tough step to make, especially from a financial perspective, so to have Tim and the team at Tickford Racing offer me this drive on performance is really special.

“It shows that Super2 is a great platform to prepare young drivers for the main game, and I’m really looking forward to the opportunity.

“It’s awesome to be representing Tradie as

well, I’ve actually done four years of apprenticeship and have my tradesman’s certificate as an electrician.

“It’s a funny coincidence, but really cool to partner up with such a fun brand in Tradie, I can’t wait to get started.”

The Mackay native, now based in southeast Queensland, joins Tickford after years in the Dunlop Super2 Series, having claimed the 2022 series crown on the back of four wins and four poles in the 11-race campaign.

Fraser also made his Supercars and Bathurst 1000 debut in 2022, driving a wildcard entry with Triple Eight Race Engineering to an impressive eighth-place finish in the Great Race, the best finish of any wildcard entrant.

Tickford Racing co-owner Rod Nash praised the team’s new arrival.

“We are delighted to welcome Declan to the team with Tradie Racing for the 2023 season,” Mr Nash said.

“Declan has come along well in Super2 over the last couple of seasons and has developed into a strong young driver, we’re very happy to have him join the team.”

St Patrick’s College Mackay’s exciting Rugby League Class of 2023 remain a force to be reckoned with

Mackay native Declan Fraser has signed with Tickford Racing for the 2023 Supercars Championship season

Fraser had a stellar 2022 including a Super2 Series crown and a Supercars debut. Photos supplied

Ralph’s a Record Breaker Pioneer Swimming Club Dominate Pool At Cannonvale Carnival

Pioneer Swimming Club travelled to Cannonvale for a weekend of competition from January 21-22.

The club’s attendance was high, with 43 swimmers attending to challenge the local teams in a short course carnival hosted by Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club.

The Dolphins swam strong, swam confident and swam with pride!

Many of our swimmers achieved personal bests with many bringing home quite the loot of medals.

Recently, a hot topic and focus for several swimmers has been to attain a qualifying time/s to attend the State Sprints to be held at the Brisbane Aquatic Centre on February 11-12.

More Dolphins met these qualifying times, swimming strong at the Cannonvale Carnival, and will now join the State Team.

The highlight of this carnival, and one all swimmers look forward to in the swim calendar, is the “Skins” Events.

The fastest 6 swimmers for each stroke (Backstroke, Butterfly, Breaststroke and Freestyle) in the age groups 8-9 years, 1012 years and 13+ years for both females and males are invited to swim in an elimination style process.

The races are 25m and the slowest swimmer is eliminated after each heat until there are 2 – the final being the decider. Each of the 6 finalists are awarded cash, increasing for each heat, the winner receiving the most prize money.

The following Dolphins were finalists and some even taking out the win for their event: Kylie Smith, Jade Bounden and Viktor Lee for 13+ years; Georgie Brand, Madison Malagueno, Alex Moss and Henry Porter for 10-12 years; and Olivia Smith, Makenna Malagueno, Ava Corrigan, Ralph Traeger and Isaiah Espartinez for 8-9 years.

What a representation and dominance by Pioneer!

Pioneer Swimming Club wishes to thank Cannonvale Cannons for hosting such a successful and fun meet.

Our calendar continues to be busy with Mirani Swimming Club hosting a carnival this coming weekend.

If you have a child who is interested in giving swimming a go, please reach out by emailing our Club Secretary secretary@pioneerswimclub.com.au or via our socials (Facebook or Instagram).

Contributed by Tahnie Malagueno

SWIMMING

What a year this superstar Dolphin has had!

Not just one record broken but two in the 2022-2023 season, and at the ripe young age of eight years old!

Ralph Traeger is a regular at swimming competitions for Pioneer Swim Club but his most memorable to date would have to be Caribeae Beef City Swimming Carnival held in Rockhampton on October 29, 2022 and the Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Carnival held in Airlie Beach on January 21-22, 2023.

At each of these meets, Ralph broke records – a feat reserved for swimming royalty.

At Caribeae (a Central Queensland event), Ralph broke a Beef City Record for 50m backstroke – previously set at 47.99 seconds.

Ralph swam the event in 47.07 seconds. Then on the weekend just gone, Ralph shocked the local swimming community again, breaking a Swimming North Queensland record for 25m backstroke –previously set at 20.60 seconds.

Ralph swam the event in 19.79 seconds. Watch this space because Ralph will continue to be a hot topic for our Club and the Mackay Community.

We have no doubt his aspirations include a path to future Olympics.

We congratulate Ralph on such amazing achievements.

We are incredibly proud of Ralph’s swim journey and honoured to call him a Pioneer Dolphin.

Contributed by Tahnie Malagueno

North Mackay Ladies Back Rolling In 2023

North Mackay Ladies Bowls welcomed back the 2023 season with an Open Day on Wednesday 18th January.

President Lidia McCarthy welcomed life members, past presidents, players and guests to the game day.

After bowls a lovely afternoon tea was enjoyed, followed by a successful cent sale.

Thank you to all those who attended and the best of success in the coming year.

Winners of the Open Day game were Lurline Ford, Jean Zamparutti and Donna Gordon.

Runners up were Ann Smith, Neddy Thomsen and Hilary Jones Rowan.

Contributed by Sue Hazledine

Ralph Traeger has broken records all over central and north Queensland. Photos supplied

Pioneer Swim Club dominated at a recent carnival at Cannonvale

Kylie Smith and Jade Bounden taking off

Alex Moss

Dylan Mende, Viktor Lee and Kailu Bellear

Coach Igor Demin chatting with the swimmers

The mum’s of Pioneer

Located on the riverfront, on the penthouse level of just seven residences, this immaculate two-story apartment is positioned at the top of the Lanai Apartments, Mackay. Balancing luxury with the convenience of living in a blue-chip city location, this north-facing property, has been thoughtfully crafted to showcase the breathtaking river and ocean views on offer. The sophisticated apartment is a harmonious fusion of vibrant natural light, cool breezes, and relaxed lifestyle living.

Inviting you to take in the extraordinary vista, a generous open plan living, dining area provides everything you need to relax and entertain in style. Featuring ample space for indoor entertainment, this airy central living area spills out onto a covered river balcony, overlooking the sparkling Pioneer River.

Avid cooks and entertainers alike will also appreciate the luxurious stone top kitchen. Equipped with a full suite of Miele appliances, this enviable culinary space also displays a built-in dishwasher, plumbed water for a refrigerator and plenty of cupboard storage. Additional

features of the apartment include fresh paint work, a wraparound balcony, new floor coverings, ducted air conditioner system, high vaulted ceilings, and a CBUS System.

The lavish master bedroom is sure to attract with twodoor balcony access, luxurious walk-in robe and utterly chic, well-designed ensuite that encompasses dual stone top vanities and a separate bath and shower. The bathroom has new fixtures and shutters above the tub so you can capture the view while taking a bath. Enjoy an abundance of natural light while you take in the magnificent views of Mackay’s City right within your bedroom!

Separated from the main area are the second and third bedrooms. Offering fans, new carpet, spacious built-in robes, 2 large sliding mirror doors and of course each with access to the balcony. The well-designed shared bathroom is just across the hall and is similar to the ensuite. Completing this main level is a tidy laundry area and opposite this is extra storage cupboards sitting underneath the staircase.

Leading up the wooden stairs presents the perfect space for entertainment. Offering a large, picturesque balcony surrounded by garden beds and spectacular views. This balcony is the highest of all surrounding apartments and overlooks the river and ocean. This second level also has a powder room.

Benefitting from secure parking with two carparks in the penthouse garage and an additional park in the basement. With a total of 3 carparks and a storage cage you are sure to have plenty of parking and storage options. This property complex also includes a general pool, BBQ Area, Sauna, Gym and Conference room on the ground level.

Minutes from Mackay’s CBD and a plethora of shops and dining options, this exquisite riverside home is in a blue-chip location.

This property will go up for Auction on Saturday 4th February at 12pm, if not sold prior. Don’t miss this rare opportunity. Call Peter Francis on 0409 095 703 today!

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13C Wright’s Rd, Glenella

Discrete grandeur sums up the feel of this home, nothing is too much and everything works together to capture the incredible views. Built into the side of a hill the builder constructed this home only with quality and our Mackay lifestyle in mind. Only appears to be one level from the street, stepping inside this home really opens up sprawling across three levels with a grand total of 590m2 underroof. Consisting of the main open plan living area on the upper level plus study, laundry and powder room, the lower levels comprise the three bedrooms and bathrooms, media and rumpus room as well as loads of storage.

Amazing views from elevated block at end of quiet cul-de-sac on offer from this special property with multiple living areas and fantastic pool in a private garden setting

Freshly painted and with beautiful polished timber floorboards in living areas and hallways and brand new carpet in the bedrooms, this unique home is ready to move into

Stylish, renovated kitchen with dishwasher and stone benchtops overlooks air-conditioned family room and is adjacent to dining room. Separate second lounge room

Living areas open out to a great deck with incredible views

Four bedrooms all have split-system air-cons, fans, built-in robes. Main has en suite and private deck

Near schools, shops, Magpies, sports grounds and the CBD

A modern two storey fully renovated Queenslander. The attention to detail in bringing this classic home to the magnificent property we see today is second to none, plus the potential for a home-based business including plenty of off street parking… this, along with its many features, put this Queenslander in a league of its own.

Positioned in the prime location of Mackay’s CBD, these possibilities are endless for this home with the 906sqm allotment being commercially zoned.

The raised property has potential to be built in underneath, commercial use or utilised as an additional entertaining area.