Mackay Life

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WEEKLY PROPERTY GUIDE INSIDE

Rural Lifestyle, 240 Degree Views Close To Town

Anew chapter of aviation love took flight on Valentine’s Day, as the new Aussie airline, Bonza, made its debut direct flight from the Sunshine Coast to Mackay.

A local couple from the Sunshine Coast, who share the same endearing nicknames as Bonza's aircrafts (Shazza and Bazza), marked this special occasion by renewing their wedding vows at the airport on the tarmac before boarding the flight. The couple, who were celebrating 41 years of

marriage, were honored guests of Bonza, where a festive pool party and BBQ awaited them and other passengers at the Ibis Hotel in Mackay.

As passengers arrived at the Mackay terminal, players from the Mackay Cutters greeted them on arrival dressed in bright purple Bonza budgie smugglers before a celebratory cake was cut to mark the momentous occasion.

"Bonza is soaring to great heights. On the 27th

of January, we went on sale for the first time and sold over 10,000 seats in just three days," said Tim Jordan, CEO of Bonza.

"Since then, customers have been embracing our app-first approach, and on the 31st of January, we took to the skies for the first time.

On Valentine’s Day, we shared our love with our friends in Mackay."

Continued on page 3

Passengers and players from the Mackay Cutters enjoyed a cheeky pool party at the Ibis Hotel in celebration of the inaugural Bonza flight from the Sunshine Coast to Mackay on Valentine’s Day

300 BLOOD DONATIONS Mackay Nurse Says It’s “The Right Thing To Do”

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A BONZA Week For Mackay

The surf and sand of the Sunshine Coast was brought closer to Mackay earlier this week, with Bonza’s inaugural flight taking off between the lands of pineapple and sugar.

It’s part of Bonza’s promise to open up more regional pathways via air services, with a Mackay to Cairns route opening for ticket sales in March.

It’s a promising indication for our region’s economy to see a new airline place its faith in Mackay and the Whitsundays from the get-go. Bonza’s first flight was last month from the Sunshine Coast to Proserpine, and Mackay was the second cab off the rank. The airline's launch has been met with much enthusiasm from both the travel industry and locals, with many people eager to take advantage of the new carrier's competitive prices and unique flight

COMMUNITY THANKED FOLLOWING POLICE MEMORIAL

schedules.

At this stage, the destinations which will become available direct from Mackay will be the Sunshine Coast, Cairns and Melbourne. An announcement on Melbourne pricing is set to come in the next fortnight.

Tim Jordan, founder and CEO of Bonza, spoke at the Mackay press conference and said he was keen to hear what other routes Mackay locals wanted to see added in the future, and encouraged people to reach out on Bonza’s social media to let them know. Of course, we will have to make sure the initial three destinations are well supported first. So, where are you planning your next Bonza vacation? Amanda

Certificates of Appreciation were presented to civilians who volunteered and donated for the Memorial of Constable Arnold and Constable McCrow by the Superintendent. Photos supplied

Australia was left in shock when two young police officers, Constable Rachel McCrow and Constable Matthew Arnold, lost their lives in the line of duty on a property at Wieambilla, west of Brisbane, on December 12.

Memorials were held across the country, including here in Mackay a week later at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre.

The service was conducted with the assistance of many throughout the community and Mackay Police recently thanked those who assisted.

“We are very lucky here in the Mackay Whitsunday District

to have an astounding amount of support around us from our community,” a statement from myPolice Mackay reads.

“We wanted to give back to those who played a special part in the Memorial of Constable McCrow and Constable Arnold, that was held at the MECC in Mackay.

“Whether it was by donating or assisting with the organisational aspect, we are very grateful for their kindness and support.”

A morning tea was recently held where members of the public received Certificates of Appreciation to thank them for their support.

Bonza Brings Lovers Closer With Historic Flight On Valentine's Day

A celebratory kangaroo cake was cut at the Mackay Airport to celebrate Bonza’s inaugural flight to Mackay.

L-R: Richard Barker, CEO Mackay Airport, Al Grundy, Mackay Isaac Tourism CEO, Tim Jordan, CEO Bonza, Greg Williamson, Mackay Mayor, Andrew Brodie, CEO Sunshine Coast Airport with a young passenger from the flight. Photo credit:

Bonza launched its first direct flight from the Sunshine Coast to Mackay earlier this week, offering customers a chance to reunite with loved ones on Valentine’s Day. The airline’s goal is to connect communities and provide affordable flights to explore more of Australia with its regional network.

Flights from the Sunshine Coast to Mackay can be booked through the Fly Bonza app, with prices starting from $59 per person, one way. The Mackay to Cairns route, starting on the 29th of March, is also available for $49 per person, one way.

The Melbourne base of Bonza is

expected to go on sale soon, which will include a twice-weekly service between Melbourne and Mackay.

Tim Jordan, CEO of Bonza said, “We want to make it affordable to explore more of Australia, and Mackay is a prime example of a stunning, yet undiscovered destination.

Mr Jordan added that the possibility of other destinations in the future comes down to how well the community supports the routes available now, and for the public to reach out on social media to Bonza to let them know which new destinations they would like to see added.

Mayor Greg Williamson welcomed Bonza to Mackay and thanked the airline for choosing the region as its second destination to be serviced from the Sunshine Coast.

“Here’s a company that recognises what the north of the state can do, that recognises the ability of our region to pump this airline up and make sure the connections they are offering us are well supported, which I know our community will do.”

Andrew Brodie, CEO of the Sunshine Coast Airport, and Richard Barker, CEO of North Queensland Airports, were also on board to celebrate this historic flight. Mr. Brodie emphasized the significance of this milestone for the region, as they ea-

gerly anticipate welcoming travellers from Mackay.

"Sunshine Coast and Mackay are both renowned for their beauty and rich history," said Mr. Brodie.

“With the introduction of this new route, travellers can now spend some time on the Sunshine Coast before heading north, saving time and money and giving them greater freedom and choice in planning their holiday."

“Once the schedule is ramped up, we expect this new Bonza service to add thousands of additional seats to the Mackay market each week," he said.

Amanda Wright

The first passengers on Bonza’s inaugural Sunshine Coast to Mackay flight were treated to a pool party at the Ibis Hotel

SKILLED WORKERS IN REGIONAL COMMUNITIES DENIED PRIORITY PROCESSING

Car Collides With Train North Of Mackay

Andrew Willcox, Member for Dawson is calling on the Federal Government to immediately reverse its decision to impose a de facto regional processing penalty on skilled workers in priority sectors hoping to take up one of thousands of jobs that need to be filled in regional communities.

Mr Willcox said, “As rural and regional communities in Dawson are crying out for skilled healthcare workers, nurses, disability support workers, teachers and doctors are being unfairly prevented from priority visa processing because of Government imposed red tape.”

Mr Willcox added that thousands of critical workers are being unfairly denied prioritisation of visa because they want to live in regional and rural Australia.

“By failing to recognise Skilled - Regional visa (subclass 887) visa in its prioritisation the Government is effectively encouraging skilled workers to move to the city.”

The Home Affairs website indicated 90 per cent of Skilled - Regional visa (subclass 887) visas are being processed in 27 Months and information released under FOI indicates there could be as many as 19,000 Skilled - Regional visas awaiting processing by the Department.

The Deputy Leader of the Opposition and Member for the regional New South Wales seat of Farrer, Sussan Ley said the Federal Government is failing regional, rural and remote communities through this shoddy decision made by a rookie minister.

“Minister Giles’ inbox is overflowing with mail on this issue and we’ve heard nothing but crickets from him, it is simply not good enough and needs to be fixed immediately,” the Deputy Leader of the Opposition said.

“As a result of this complete stuff up by Minister Giles, workers that are desperately needed in regional communities are missing out on priority processing.”

Andrew Willcox, Member for Dawson called on the Federal Government to immediately prioritise processing of regional workers in Dawson.

“Our community deserves better than being relegated to the slow lane of visa processing just because we live in rural and regional Australia, it is just not good enough and I am calling it out,” he said.

The Shadow Minister for Health and regional South Australian Senator, Anne Ruston said communities in rural, regional and remote Australia are currently crying out for critical healthcare professionals, yet the Government continues to sit on their hands when it comes to this workforce crisis.

“This extremely disappointing action comes on top of their decision to rip overseas-trained doctors out of country towns through changes to the Distribution Priority Areas and to cut 70 telehealth-related Medicare items that were providing immediate primary care access to mostly rural Australians.”

week.

The incident occurred at 8:40am on the morning of Tuesday, February 14 at the Pratts Road level crossing at Calen, just off the Bruce Highway. Emergency services arrived on site shortly after as did Queensland Rail’s emergency response teams, maintenance and electrical staff.

The driver and sole occupant of the vehicle suffered head injuries and was taken to Mackay Base Hospital in a stable condition while 161 passengers were aboard the train, with some being treated for shock and minor cuts from broken glass.

One passenger reported that 18 windows were smashed across most carriages of the train.

“The impact sounded like (a) gun shot,” said the passenger.

The service was consequently cancelled and customers were transferred to their destination by bus.

Queensland Rail Acting Head of Regional Scott Cornish said Queensland Rail is committed to ensuring safety at railway crossings.

“The Pratts Road level crossing is fitted with active protection in the form of flashing lights, which were working at the time of the incident,” he said.

“The crossing also has warning signs on all approaches.

“This is an important reminder for road users to pay attention to the signs and signals in place for everyone's safety.”

Repairs to the level crossing were completed Tuesday afternoon and the line has reopened.

Andrew Willcox, Federal Member for Dawson (left) is championing the cause for skilled workers in rural and regional communities

Emergency services were called when a vehicle collided with a train north of Mackay on Tuesday. Photos supplied

Passengers were left in shock after the Spirit of Queensland train, travelling from Brisbane to Cairns, was involved in a collision with a road vehicle north of Mackay earlier this

“The Right Thing To Do” Volunteer Recognised At State Celebrations

Mackay Nurse Hits 300th Blood Donation

Kim Baker with Mackay Donor Centre staff on the day of her 300th blood donation

Kim Baker has donated 33 human beings’ worth of blood in the past three decades across three states -- accounting for roughly a person worth a year.

The Mackay registered nurse completed her 300th donation in mid-January at the Mackay Donor Centre after 30 years of what she said had developed into something of a lifesaving “habit”.

“It started with wanting to help the community; it was something which seemed like the right idea at 18 years old,” Kim said.

“It became a routine, something I would do every fortnight, and next thing you know it’s been 30 years and you’ve donated 300 times – it’s really that simple.”

On the day of her 300th donation, Kim was surprised by her husband, Andrew, and the staff at the centre, who presented her with a few gifts: pink, blood-drop-shaped macaroons, a cake, and a 44-gallon drum her husband had painted in secret which represented the roughly 166 litres of blood Kim had thus far donated.

Starting in Perth in 1992, Kim be-

gan donating blood in its whole form before moving on to plasmathe liquid in which blood cells float - which allowed her to donate on a fortnightly basis and rack up such a volume.

Kim said that helping someone in need was all the reward anyone could ever ask for when donating blood, something she had seen firsthand as both a nurse and in May when she lost her son under tragic circumstances.

“When we went to see him in the hospital [before he passed], he had a lot of health products, and so I know that giving blood and plasma gives someone a second chance,” Kim said.

“It lets them have a life, allows them to function normally, have a family, or come home to a family each night.”

Kim said giving blood was one of the best decisions of her life and she wouldn’t be stopping anytime soon.

“I think everyone should give blood if they can,” she said.

“It’s just the right thing to do.”

Mr Williamson (far right) was recognised for eight years of service at BTC’s 10-year anniversary celebrations in Brisbane

Alocal volunteer has recently been recognised at the state level for his commitment to the PCYC Braking the Cycle (BTC) program as the program celebrated its 10th anniversary last year.

Alan Williamson was flown to Brisbane last December and recognised for eight years of service to the program at a presentation at Parliament House.

“Alan is our longest running mentor in Mackay,” said BTC Program Coordinator Tanya Brown.

“He has done it since the program started in Mackay, so eight years, he’s been doing it weekly for eight years now.”

BTC is a volunteer driver mentor program supporting learner drivers without access to a supervisor or registered vehicle to complete their logbook hours by pairing them with a volunteer driving mentor.

Alan got involved after a long career of driving buses, trucks and taxis in New Zealand and Australia, hearing a radio ad that seemed perfectly timed.

“I was doing runs around Nebo area and listening to the ABC every morning,” he said.

“When my wife was alive, she encouraged me to try to teach kids how to drive, even adults how to drive, and this came up.

“It was exactly what I wanted to do.

“Over the years, since I started driving buses, I’ve had a lot of people, and I mean heaps of people, compliment me on my driving skills.

“Those are the skills I’ve got, and I’d like to pass them on,”

Alan thanks a defensive driving course for his driving skills – something he says all young drivers should have access to.

“Defensive driving in New Zealand is totally different to what it is here,” he said.

“It helps younger people, it doesn’t cost you anything, volunteers teach you and I think it should be something we really need to look at.”

With 25-30 participants active in the program at one time and plenty more on the waitlist, Ms Brown said there’s high demand for volunteers.

“You need to have a really patient demeanour,” she said.

“They end up being that listening ear for the kids.

“The kids do tend to trust and unload.”

Vehicles are provided by PCYC for sessions, as is insurance, and volunteers need to have held an open driver’s license for 12 months and hold a blue card or be willing to obtain.

For more information, contact Tanya Brown on 0437 597 736 or email tanya.brown@pcyc.org.au.

Braking the Cycle Volunteer Alan Williamson and Program Coordinator Tanya Brown

THE CULTURE OF GARDIAN

VALUES

like to gather together and enjoy a feast. When you start work at Gardian you join a huge TRIBE and we make sure we do everything to ensure staff have the best working environment possible"

All staff in the Gardian Tribe are working through development plans to ensure individuals can strive to reach their full potential. Some staff start work with Gardian in one department and grow through the business to develop their career in another area. Joining a group this large opens so many doors of opportunity. Training is a TOP priority along with support to enable each member to reach their individual goals. Flexible working arrangements ensure high performance teams deliver to locals the best in Finance, Insurance, Financial Planning and ALL aspects of Real Estate.

Gardian support many local charities every week and chose to add this day's efforts to the Daniel Morcombe Foundation established in honour of Daniel Morcombe to make Australia a safer place for children.

Part of working in the Gardian Group is definitely Family Village TRIBE. With the Group serving the needs of locals for everything Finance, Financial Planning, Insurance, Real Estate Sales, Property Management and Commercial Sales Leasing & Management a team of 70 staff are needed.

Joining The Gardian Group brings you into the TRIBE where you will belong to your Village (Service offered) and lastly part of your immediate work team will be your Family. The WHOLE TRIBE gets together for a Lunch every 2nd month. A theme is chosen and everyone cooks something to lay out a spread.... The month a Valentines Day theme to share the love within the TRIBE. Staff wore RED for the day to raise funds for the Daniel Morcombe foundation.

"It's more about gathering together and giving back to our community and extended family members" said Denise Phillips Co Founder of The Gardian Group. "this is something we do naturally, bringing enjoyment into the work place. Living the Gardian VALUES is high focus for all within the group, we

It was founded by parents Bruce and Denise after their son was abducted and murdered in December 2003 while waiting to catch a bus on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland. The aims of the Foundation are to educate children and young people about how to stay safe in physical and online environments and to support young victims of crime. The Daniel Morcombe Foundation would like to see a future where all children and young people are provided with education, protection, and support to be safe from abuse and risk of harm.

The Daniel Morcombe Foundation provides personal child safety education to children and young people at no cost, to prevent abuse and promote lifelong health and wellbeing. They support educators, parents, and carers through the provision of resources and education and directly support young victims of crime.

Social Housing Tenant Makes The Right Move

After previously living in a three-bedroom house, Mackay social housing tenant Stephen recently had to move to a two-bedroom unit after coming out of hospital.

“I couldn’t get up the stairs at my house so the occupational therapist with Mackay Housing Service Centre found me a ground floor unit in a newly-built complex,” he said. At first, Stephen was unsure of the move.

“When the move was suggested, I thought that I didn’t want to do it but sometimes you just have to,” he said.

“I’m really happy with the place because it’s so spacious.

“They’re nice units and things are so much easier now because I can do things like washing.

“In my old place it was too hard because of the stairs.

“It’s been a great move and I have no regrets.” Moving to the unit complex provided a surprising benefit for Stephen.

“My cousin lives in the same unit complex,” he said.

“I didn’t know until we both moved in so that was

another positive about the move.”

Having good neighbours is important for Stephen.

“When we moved into the complex, a lady who lives down the road came to see us all and brought us a caramel tart to welcome us to the neighbourhood,” he said.

“She said she had watched the complex being built and wanted to come and welcome us.

“I thought that was very nice.”

With neighbours new and old, Stephen’s maintained solid connections to the people around him.

“I only moved down the street, so I keep in touch with my old neighbours,” he said.

“I still ring them up or I hop on my mobility scooter and visit them for a cup of tea.”

If you need housing help, call 13 QGOV (13 74 68), visit your nearest Housing Service Centre or go to www.qld.gov.au/housing to find out about available products, services and supports.

If you are experiencing, or at risk of homelessness, contact the Homeless Hotline for free on 1800 474 753 (24/7).

Stephen recently moved apartments after coming out of hospital. Photo supplied

LARGEST COHORT OF NURSING GRADUATES JOIN LOCAL HEALTH SERVICES

Some of the 84 graduate nurses who were welcomed to Mackay Hospital and Health Service last week

Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) welcomed a strong intake of graduate nurses, as 84 newly qualified nurses have been recruited to the 2023 Mackay HHS Nursing and Midwifery Graduate Program.

Executive Director Nursing and Midwifery Karen Wade said, “We are delighted to welcome our largest annual cohort of graduate nurses to the health service where they will consolidate and further develop the clinical skills they learned at university.”

Nurse educator Julie Phillipson said it was a busy but exciting time of the year.

“It’s always exciting to see students grow and develop from undergraduate to graduate nurses,” Ms Phillipson said.

“You get a lot of satisfaction seeing them succeed and go on to deliver a service to the community.”

The Mackay HHS Nursing and Midwifery Graduate Program is twelve months in duration consisting of either two 6-month clinical rotations or one 12-month rotation across Mackay Base Hospital and rural hospitals.

“Graduate nurses undertake placements across any of the 25 clinical areas in the Base Hospital including mental health, emergency, renal, medical, cardiac, surgical, oncology and theatres, as well as across our rural facilities,” Ms Wade said.

66 nurse graduates will join the team at Mackay Base Hospital, five will be based in Proserpine, one at Sarina and 12 will undertake rural rotations.

20 Year Service Recognition For Dedicated Teachers

“They will be supported with mentoring, theoretical and clinical guidance to ensure we build safe, confident and competent nurses,” Ms Wade said.

“Most graduates studied at CQUniversity and James Cook University and are from the Mackay region,” Ms Wade said.

“More and more of our new nurses are locals, so it is no surprise they want to develop their career close to home.”

This is certainly the case for grad nurses Chloe Langridge and Sara Herringe. Chloe, who is now working in the Intensive Care Unit at Mackay Base Hospital, is following in her father’s footsteps.

“My dad was a paramedic and a nurse, so I’ve grown up around emergency nursing.”

Sara decided she didn’t want a desk job.

Experienced St Patrick’s College teachers

Angela Beardmore and Dorota Cook were two of several local educators recognised by Catholic Education – Diocese of Rockhampton in the Mackay region at the recent Opening Year Schools Mass held at St Joseph’s Catholic Church North Mackay.

Both Angela and Dorota received special plaques on the day for over 20 Years of distinguished service to Catholic Education – Diocese of Rockhampton.

Angela taught at St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, North Mackay in 2001 and 2002 before serving 15 years at Emmanuel Catholic Primary School, Mount Pleasant from 2003 to 2017 where she assisted immensely with Eisteddfod and sporting events.

Since joining the staff at St Patrick’s College Mercy campus in 2018, Angela has proven a fine acquisition in the classroom and a successful Cricket Coordinator along with fellow teachers Adam Knezevic and Chris Dunn with the school Boys & Girls Cricket Excellence Program.

In recent years Angela has helped guide the Girls Cricket team to Queensland and North

“During my studies I went to Alpha for a placement and loved it,” she said.

“I am looking forward to doing a hinterland rotation across Moranbah, Dysart and Clermont.”

Matt Vella is another Mackay local.

“I have a very accident-prone family; we have a cattle property, so I spent quite a bit of time in the Emergency Department with family members with broken limbs,” Matt said.

“I also had a Nan who had a stroke and watching her being cared for also reinforced the idea that I wanted to do nursing.”

Matt spent time in the local Critical Care Unit as a student nurse and they’re thrilled to have him back as a graduate.

Queensland State Secondary Schools Twenty20 Challenge titles and is a great stalwart of the Brothers Mackay Cricket Club. She has also assisted with Mercy netball and rugby league teams during that time.

Dorota spent nearly a decade teaching in the Northern Territory which included three years at Alice Springs High School and six years at the Senior College, Centralian before moving to Mackay.

She taught Senior Maths and Physics and Year 10 Science for six years at Holy Spirit College and has spent the past 15 years at St Patrick’s College where she has served as the Head of the senior school Science Department since 2016. A tireless staff member, Dorota continues to teach Senior Maths and Physics at the college and is the Physics Panel Chair for the Mackay region.

She has spent 18 years on the Physics Panel and the past three years as the Lead Confirmer Physics for the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA).

We congratulate both Anglea and Dorota on their many years’ service.

By Chris Karas

Nursing graduate Matt Vella

St Patrick’s College Mackay teachers Angela Beardmore (left) and Dorota Cook display their Catholic Education 20 Year Service Recognition plaques

Rental Transformation To The Rescue

Reader Question

Dear reader,

We understand that renting a home or unit can limit your ability to make changes that reflect your personal style and taste, but we would be delighted to assist you in creating a space that feels like home.

However, with the help of an interior designer, you can still achieve a stylish and functional space without breaking any leasing agreements.

Engaging with an interior designer can benefit you in many ways when it comes to making changes to your rental.

Firstly, we can help you create a space that meets your specific needs and pref-

erences.

Working with you as a team to understand the look you are trying to achieve, and then offer ideas and solutions that are unique to your space.

This way, you can create a personalised space that feels like home even if you’re renting.

Secondly, an interior designer can help you maximise the functionality of your rental space.

A rental home or unit may have its limitations, such as a small kitchen, limited storage, a lack of natural light or could just look outdated. We can help you find creative ways to work within these lim-

itations and create a space that is both functional and stylish.

Thirdly, we can help you stay within your budget.

Renting a home means you may not want to invest too much money into it, especially if you plan on moving out at the end of the lease. We can help you make the most of your budget by prioritising design elements that will have the most impact on your space. We will also be carefully choosing items together that you will absolutely love so you will want to take them with you and re-create the look again.

Finally, engaging with an interior designer can save time and stress.

Decorating and designing a space can be time consuming and overwhelming, especially if you’re not familiar with design principles.

During our consultation, we will start from the entry and work our way

throughout the space, including outdoor areas. You will be inspired and educated on how to bring your ideas into reality so you can enjoy all the areas. We can assist in selecting furniture and accessories, and coordinating with contractors and suppliers on your behalf. This way you can truly enjoy the process and have peace of mind that everything will be in perfect scale and cohesive. The main goal is that when you come home you feel relaxed and happy to be there.

At Style Central Home it is all about YOU! Your lifestyle is taken into consideration and all the things that are important to you. We certainly want you to smile every time you walk in the door and knowing that you were a part of all the decision making as we work as a team.

If you would like assistance to style your rental home, reach out for a complimentary no obligation initial 20-minute phone consultation.

Gift Vouchers Available

“I am moving into a rental property after moving out of my own home I owned due to a change of circumstances. I really want to make it feel like home but there are so many limitations as a tenant. Can you help me create my new happy place?”

A GUIDE TO GROWING EDIBLE FLOWERS

Edible flowers are not only beautiful but also delicious, adding a unique flavour to dishes and providing a colourful and ornamental touch to any garden. Growing edible flowers can be a rewarding and simple task, even for the novice gardener. Here are a few tips for growing your own edible flowers.

1. Choose the right location – Edible flowers grow best in well-drained soil with good sunlight exposure. Choose a spot in your garden that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.

2. Choose the right plants – Some popular edible flowers that are easy to grow in Australia include nasturtiums, calendula, borage, lavender and violets. Make sure to select non-toxic varieties that are safe to eat.

3. Planting – Sow seeds directly into the soil or start seedlings in pots. Follow the instructions on the seed packet and keep the soil moist.

4. Watering – Edible flowers require regular watering to thrive. Water

This Is Not A Drill

your plants in the morning or evening to avoid evaporation and to allow the water to penetrate deep into the soil.

5. Fertilizing – Use a balanced fertilizer every two to three weeks to promote healthy growth and good yields.

6. Harvesting – Edible flowers can be harvested for use in cooking or for decoration when they reach their peak of bloom. Harvest them in the morning when the flowers are at their most fragrant and flavourful.

In addition to being delicious, edible flowers also provide many health benefits. For example, violets are high in vitamins A and C, while calendulas contain anti-inflammatory properties. Roses are also a good source of antioxidants, which can help protect against damage from free radicals. So, if you're looking for a fun and rewarding gardening project, consider growing edible flowers. Not only will you enjoy the beauty and flavour of these delicious flowers, but you'll also reap the many health benefits that they have to offer.

Knowing the right tool for the right job is a skill that all tradies learn early in their careers. Knowing the difference between each tools important features and functions will make a major difference in your productivity and completing a project on time.

Whether you’re an electrician, carpenter or a plumber - power tools are your best friend when it comes to getting the job done. With tool bags and boxes filled with drills and drivers, power saws, sanders, grinders and spare batteries, it can become overwhelming for a first-year apprentice to know where to start.

Completing a job safely takes top priority on the work site. Using tools incorrectly, tools that are not fit for purpose or not suited to the user, can lead to injuries. It’s important to select the tools that are designed for a specific task, and are comfortable to hold, to reduce strain on joints and

muscles.

Shop where the tradies shop and visit Porters Mitre 10 Tool City at Mackay and Whitsunday to gear up this year. Stocking, Milwaukee, Makita, Dewalt, Stanley, and Hikoki, there is a brand suitable for anyone on any budget. The knowledgeable team will guide you through which power tools are suitable to your trade, using their extensive years of experience.

Porters Mitre 10 is offering apprentices a chance to win a $750 gift card!

Apprentices that spend $100 on power tools between Friday 3rd and Sunday 26th February 2023 at participating stores will receive an entry to win.

Porters Mackay Carlyle Street, Mackay

Porters Whitsunday

Corner Paluma Road & Carlo Drive, Cannonvale

An Ipswich-based historian is searching for any information, photos, letters, cards or memorabilia relating to his great grandparents.

Terence King reached out to Mackay Life in his journey to research Jens Lauritzen and Anna Cathrine Meng who migrated to Australia from Prussia in 1882.

“I’ve been working on it for a few years, so I’ve been able to gather quite a lot of information about them so far, tracing their life from when they were born in Denmark and their journey out here to Australia and their life out here,” Mr King said.

“I’ve got a fair bit of information, but I thought before I finish, I’d better try and flush out anybody in that Mackay area that might be harbouring some wealth of information tucked away in that pro-

verbial shoe box.”

Mr King has researched and written multiple books on different sides of his family history, self-publishing them to immortalise the stories for generations to come.

“It’s just fascinating to discover, not just the bare bones of their life, when they were born, what they did, but to try and look at the context in which they lived and what was going on at that time in history,” he said.

Jens Lauritzen and Anna Cathrine Meng settled in Walkerston after emigrating from Prussia, originally Denmark.

Mr King hopes to make contact with any descendants of them or their following children: Hans Christian (Christie) Meng, Anne Catherine Roots, Martha Maria

STATE SCHOOL’S LEADERS RECOGNISED

Letchford, Jens Peter (Hen) Meng, Frank Andreas (Bam) Meng, Christina Cecilia (Trinna) Stoneham, Hans Peter (Peter) Meng and William Jensen (Billy) Meng.

“I’ve been able to trace from when they were born in Denmark, and I’ve traced some of their lives up to the point of 1864 when there was a big war with Prussia,” he said.

“Where they lived was taken over by the Prussians and they came out here as Prussian citizens as opposed to being Danish citizens.

“They always dismissed any suggestion that they were German, particularly in the first world war, they were always adamant that they were Danish.”

Anyone with information or artefacts is asked to contact Mr King on 07 3282 3087 or email terenceking@bigpond.com.

Walkerston’s next generation of leaders were recognised on Monday, February 6 as Walkerston State School held its Student Leaders Induction Ceremony.

The ceremony celebrated and acknowledged the school’s 2023 student leadership group, with student leaders pledging their commitment to their roles and presented with their badges. The 2023 student leaders look forward to continuing to be positive role models and working with their peers and staff.

Congratulations to the following students:

School Captains: Anna and Eli

Vice Captains: Frankie and Noah

Cultural Captains: Mya and Tamyka

Fadden House Captains: Lelay and Nevaeh

Ross House Captains: Ruby and Oscar

Treacy House Captains: Madison and Heath

PILATES STUDIO - EQUIPMENT + MATWORK

Walkerston, Qld, 4751

Walkerston State School inducted their 2023 student leaders last week. Photo supplied: Walkerston State School

Anna Kathrine Meng and Jens Lauritzen with their son Lauritzen Jensen Meng, Terence’s grandfather

Probing Researchers Strike Gold To Stop The Trots In Pigs

Gnow be used to detect signs of a highly contagious and lethal virus that poses a major threat to the swine industry worldwide.

The state-of-the-art technology has been developed by Chinese and Australian biomedical scientists to diagnose porcine epidemic diarrhoea virus (PEDV), a

Researchers from Yangzhou University and the University of South Australia say the gold nanoparticle probe, designed for use on site, could replace existing PEDV detection techniques that are costly, time consuming and undertaken in laboratories.

PEDV is a devastating disease, causing hydration, and high death rates among suckling piglets. Outbreaks in the US in 2014 and in China in 2016-2017 cost local producers millions of dollars, exacerbated by the lack of an effective vaccine and slow diagnosis.

UniSA bioengineer Dr Chih-Tsung Yang, senior author of a recent paper describing the technology, says early diagnosis is critical to preventing future PEDV outbreaks.

“The current gold standard diagnostic test involves extracting samples from pigs and taking them to a lab, which is expensive and tedious, albeit accurate,” Dr Yang says.

“Our method uses a biofunctionalised chip and gold nanorod probe to capture and label PEDV pathogens. Under a dark field microscope, PEDV can be identified by counting software. It can be undertaken on site in rural areas at minimal cost, making it accessible, highly sensitive, and giving results within the hour.

“We envisage this technology will be invaluable for biosecurity systems, helping to limit the spread of the virus in Australia and other countries, ensuring the health of pigs and protecting the industry from economic losses. There are no effective vaccines for PEDV so early diagnosis is crucial.”

Sugar Terminals Were Forged By Whole Industry

The Queensland sugar industry has been rocked by what can only be described as a bold and arrogant move by Sugar Terminals Limited (STL) to announce that it would terminate its Operator Agreement with Queensland Sugar Limited (QSL).

The move was made without consultation with sugar industry organisations, or with the 4,900+ growers and millers who are its shareholders. STL claims the move has been “in order to reduce costs, drive greater efficiencies and to remove a clear conflict of interest which will better position STL to serve the industry into the future”.

It is felt by STL that the 2017 industry shift to multiple sugar marketers using bulk sugar terminals - which led to a new business model drawing distinctions between QSL as a sugar marketer and QSL as terminal operator – has changed the environment. STL claims it requires greater transparency. The announcement itself has lacked transparency, taking all industry players outside the STL boardroom by complete surprise. There is a feeling in the grower sector that in fact removing a successful third-party

Mackay Bulk Sugar terminal has a long and rich history as an asset built

management/operations structure will diminish transparency.

This move seems a leap, given that as recently as October STL Chairman Mark Gray said in his address to the STL Annual General Meeting, “Setting aside depreciation and insurance, where all industries have been subject to significant increases in premiums, STL’s controllable operating costs were lower in FY22 than in FY18, the first year of our new business model. After allowing for inflation, this is a significant decline in costs in real terms.” Given that success, growers applaud the present structure for returning those outstanding achievements. We trust it will continue to drive efficiencies and are concerned change would put future success in jeopardy.

Along Queensland’s seaboard, six bulk sugar terminals stand in testimony to what can be achieved when industry works cooperatively. Historically, they are the product of that spirit: for example- Central Region (ie: Mackay) terminal expansions in the 1980s were built using “Number 2”, or risk pool sugar returns. Growers took a reduced payment for their Number 2 Pool Sugar for several years to see a fourth sugar shed built at Mackay Harbour, dramatically increasing terminal capacity and efficiency.

These are sugar industry assets, and more-

over, they are “choke point” assets. That means the Bulk Sugar Terminals overseen by STL are the sugar industry’s only gateway to lucrative export markets. Growers would be irate if these assets were misused to prioritise returns to shareholders. Bulk terminals were never built with the intention of creating a cash-cow for shareholders, but for mutual benefit across the industry. The sugar industry needs a very clear explanation as to how taking a notfor-profit operator out of the equation will lead to improved cost-efficiency.

And what happens if STL is unable to improve cost-efficiency? Would it then shift back to outsourcing, potentially to a foreign-owned corporation? This would be unacceptable, and a sovereign risk to a significant agricultural export sector that returns some $2.5 billion to the Australian economy.

Originally built by industry and government, since the year 2000 Queensland’s sugar terminals have been overseen by STL, granted in a peppercorn sale from government, but operated and managed by QSL’s operations arm. QSL is a not-forprofit organisation that has quite distinct and corporately separated sections for sugar marketing and for terminal operations. Terminal operations – including storage, shipping and logistics- are executed by QSL on a cost-recovery basis only as

a service to the industry.

Under the terms of the existing Operating Agreement, QSL remains the operator of the state’s bulk sugar terminals (BSTs) until 30 June 2026.

It is also worth noting that STL has taken steps to diversify its commodity base, with the Bundaberg Common User Infrastructure Project. In locations like the Southern Region (which includes Bundaberg, Childers and Maryborough), where the sugar industry has reduced

output there is a logic to making better use of un-used bulk storage area. However, this is not something that we necessarily would like to see in regions of increasing output, such as Mackay. As an industry asset, it would be unacceptable to see these changes come at the expense of the sugar industry that has worked so hard to create terminal facilities that are a tribute to our strong industry’s efforts, toil and the foresight of our predecessors.

By Kevin Borg, Chairman,

Mackay

and maintained by the Queensland sugar industry- from paddock to port. Pictures: Contributed

PROPERTY POINT

If you believe the narrative of the climate change lobby, we are all doomed unless massive changes are made to how we live, work and operate our economy.

There’s a list of things we have to eradicate, most of them enjoyable and central to how our economy operates, if we are to survive.

Rib fillets are bad, vegan patties are good. Coal-fired power stations are evil, wind farms are angelic. The traditional motor car is Satan’s steed, an electric vehicle is heaven on wheels.

The imminent demise of the fuel-powered motor vehicle means it is only logical to think of petrol stations as the blacksmith shops of the early last century.

The writing was on the wall for blacksmiths when Henry Ford started rolling his cars off the production line over 100 years ago.

It was the same for video stores about 15 years ago. In the blink of an eye they went from being on every street corner to extinction.

Are petrol stations the video shops of our time? Apparently not, judging by the number of new ones dotting the Mackay landscape.

New petrol stations are popping up everywhere and, while it clearly means that the investors believe your SUV is going to be around for a while, it is also a significant vote of confidence in Mackay’s economy and that of regional Queensland.

I imagine setting up the infrastructure for

David Fisher

a service station is a little on the costly side and you wouldn’t do it unless you felt your product had a future and that the economy in that particular area was going to be strong enough to support your business.

It’s just another sign that the Mackay region is doing well and that our economy is powering along.

ANZ senior economist Catherine Birch recently spoke at a Resource Industry Network event and spoke at length about the positivity in our region.

She had good things to say about the resources sector and the strength of our economy generally.

One of the things she pointed out is that job vacancies in central Queensland are double the pre-pandemic level. So rather than having the challenge of unemployment, we have the challenge of finding people to do the work that local businesses need done.

And there is plenty of work to be done. She noted that our resources sector had diversified when we needed to find alternative markets when China put a ban on our coal. But Ms Birch also made the point that China is lifting those bans and we should be full steam ahead with exports to that country.

She didn’t say anything about all our new petrol stations but I’m sure she’d think the growth in that area is another vote of confidence for our region. That’s good for business and good for real estate.

Gardian Real Estate Sales Agent

0408 672 703

David@gardian.com.au

HOW’S THIS!

It’s halfway through February, and I reckon I’m the fittest I’ve ever been in my life, all thanks to my mates.

This month 4MK are all over Feb-Fit as usual. It’s a month of moving, eating right and becoming a better you than the month before. That involves eating better food, moving more with some extra activities, like what I do with Steve at City Fitness. Plus, it’s also a month of keeping track of what you’re doing as well as your mates, thanks to Intersport. Sure I’m giving away some cool prizes this month just for being part of it, but also we are changing people’s lives and making them live longer.

I’ll give you an example of what I’ve been doing lately. Well, if I’m correct, I did start this latest exercise stuff back in October but who’s counting right!

Every Saturday I head off to the gym and do one of those hour long exercise sessions that does a whole bunch of movements. You know the old lift kettle bells, box jumps, treadmill runs and a car flips. Just the usual stuff we do. Yes and I did say car flips. Actually when we did it for the first time it wasn’t part of the routine, some-

one actually parked their car too close to the wall, so, all of us got under the metal guards and flipped it.

I wouldn’t recommend it for a workout. They are heavy, plus the insurance company is still asking questions to this day, some 18 months later. If anyone asks, I wasn’t there.

The other things I’ve been doing are a few walks along the beach near Illawong and also some time when I drive out to Bucasia with my cut lunch. I take a cut lunch with me as the length of time it takes to drive out there, I might as well smash a few egg and lettuce sandwiches to pass the time.

I guess with all the walking and gym workouts I’m doing, I will be the fittest person around Mackay come March. If not, I’ll be laid up in Ward B at the Mater having surgery to repair something that didn’t do what it was meant to.

I’ll let you know how I go.

If you’d like to find out more about Feb-Fit give me a shout at 4MK. I’ll be the bloke in fluro leggings and sweat running down my face.

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

TWENTY YEARS

20 years ago, I had a job (a good job), but I pretty much did the same stuff every day. I joined the State Emergency Service (SES) because I wanted something more, to be part of “something that did something” different. I had no idea at the time that the SES would become such a profound part of my life. This week I clocked up 20 years of volunteering in the SES, it sounds like a long time, but it doesn’t feel like it. I work with two volunteers in the Unit that have volunteered for more than 40 years each. When I think of all the things we’ve done with the other volunteers over the years, I wish I had joined way earlier.

The SES empowers people to help themselves and others in their community during times of emergency and disaster and has been de-

fending our communities since the 70s. It’s grown into a unique emergency response organisation that’s the largest of its type in the world. It’s also the largest provider of road crash rescue in Australia and it’s the only emergency response agency volunteer or otherwise that is trained, equipped, and organised to do land, air, water, and forensic search.

Volunteers can train in vertical rescue, flood boat rescue, search and rescue, agency support, storm response, incident management, emergency traffic management, community education, and fundraising. These functions provide opportunities for almost anyone in our communities to volunteer. If you want, you can deploy all over Australia or just respond to your local community when needed. Over the years, your local SES unit has

searched for dozens of missing people, rescued and evacuated hundreds from flooding, protected thousands of homes and held whole rivers at bay with sandbags.

Mackay Regional Council was one of the first in Queensland to have a dedicated SES Levy to look after the vehicles and buildings of our local unit. Mackay Regional Council is also the only council in Queensland to have a Strategic Directions group to ensure the local SES has what it needs in groups, functions, training and funding so our Local Unit is well supported.

The SES has been one of the most significant aspects of my life. I completely recommend it to anyone, it will change your life for the better, as it has for mine. Just search “Join SES” on your preferred search engine, then do it.

Cr Justin Englert Mackay Regional Council

MAKE IT Mackay Isaac

Mackay Isaac Tourism (MIT) has launched a new destination events marketing campaign to align with the region’s exciting and diverse events calendar.

‘MAKE IT Mackay Isaac’, which will run from February 8 to July 31, 2023, is designed to entice the youth market, families, couples and empty nesters to visit our backyard, enjoy our events and stay a little longer to explore the region's natural wonders.

Mackay Isaac Tourism Chief Executive Officer Al Grundy said that with the amazing array of events on offer, now is the time to put a Mackay Isaac event in the calendar.

“With MAKE IT Mackay Isaac campaign launch and terrific travel deals, you can forget the southern winter and hustle of the city and MAKE IT a holiday in the Mackay Isaac Region,” he said.

“From coral reef adventures of the Great Barrier Reef to scenic flight experiences admiring the majestic landscapes of the Peak Range National Park.

“What we’re looking forward to is welcoming people from all over Australia to come for our events calendar and what we’re trying to do is say, ‘While you’re here, there’s lots to look at so stay a little longer.’”

The campaign will run across YouTube, catch up TV, social media, radio and television and is estimated to have a total combined social impression of over 9 million.

This year, Mackay Isaac Tourism partnered with Tourism & Events Queensland, Harrup Park & Great Barrier Reef Arena, Mackay Airport, Bonza, Virgin Australia, Queensland Rail, Mackay Regional Council (MRC), Isaac Regional Council (IRC), and Southern Cross Austereo to deliver a campaign which will allow travellers the ability to dream, plan and book their holiday.

Mackay Airport Head of Operations Adrian Miles said Mackay Airport was thrilled to support the campaign.

“This campaign comes at an ideal time, as the commencement of Bonza’s new direct services means we have never been better connected to other regional and metropolitan hubs,” he said.

“Our passenger numbers through the terminal are very exciting, and when the airport’s going well, you know the region’s going well.

“These campaigns by Mackay Isaac Tourism are critical for our local operators and everybody will benefit from it in the entire region.”

The Mackay Isaac region has evolved as a sought-after tourism destination, recently ranking eighth for growth in the top destinations in Australia over the last 3 years.

Great Barrier Reef Arena General Manager Adrian Young said the venue is excited to play a part in the Mackay Isaac region becoming one of the best event destinations in Australia.

“The way (the campaign’s) been put together by Al and his team to bring everyone together to create a bigger campaign

to be able to promote the region has been exceptional,” he said.

“Like this campaign, the arena’s only occurred and only got to where it is because of the community engagement, everybody getting together and understanding what the opportunity is.”

Mr Young promises a stacked calendar of events at the Arena, with the official launch to be held in May at Legends on the Lawn.

“We’ve got some big events with Legends on the Lawn being the opening event and we’ve got cricket and AFL and some other events later in the year.

“We’re hoping to open the arena with a bang.”

BURSARIES HELP TALENTED CREATIVES PURSUE THEIR DREAMS

ent of the MECC’s $1000 Jack Sturgeon Bursary for 2023.

It was one of three bursaries presented by Mayor Greg Williamson.

Mayor Williamson said the achievements of all recipients were inspiring.

“We have seen Sophie star in lead roles in the Mackay Musical Comedy Players performances of Chicago, Shrek and We Will Rock You,” Mayor Williamson said.

Sophie Novosel dreams of the bright lights of a career in musical theatre, and the St Patrick’s College graduate is on the right track.

Sophie was struck by the performing bug at the age of eight and has since starred in an impressive number of productions as well as receiving awards for performing in

school and at eisteddfods.

Sophie has been accepted to study a twoyear Diploma of Musical Theatre at the exclusive Brent Street Studio in Sydney where she hopes to access the intensive professional training that will open a pathway for her to be a triple-threat performer.

Sophie was named last week as the recipi-

“She is certainly a star on the rise, and we can all look forward to seeing where this opportunity will take her,” he said.

Artspace Mackay’s $1000 Rick Wood Bursary for 2023 was awarded to Anna Gavan.

Anna is a recent graduate of Mackay North State High School who is making

the move to Brisbane to begin a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Visual Arts and Creative Writing at the Australian Catholic University (ACU).

“Anna’s art has driven all of her achievements and success and it is her dream to pass that passion on to a new generation of students,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Anna aspires to undertake a Master of Education (Secondary) following her bachelor’s degree to be a high school visual arts and creative writing teacher so she can inspire young people to see the true beauty and essentiality of art,” he said.

The $3000 Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursary recipient for 2023 is animation and visual arts student Alana McAnulty.

Alana completed a Bachelor of Digital Media (majoring in animation and graphic design) at Central Queensland University and is currently completing a Master’s in Creative Industries through the SAE Institute.

Alana is a queer identifying creator who is passionate about creating works that both broaden and normalise queer experiences.

“Alana plans to use this bursary fund to create a short, animated film as part of her current Master’s degree. She plans to engage voice actors and a colourist to take her animated film to the next level. We wish her well,” Mayor Williamson said.

Great Barrier Reef Arena General Manager Adrian Young and Mackay Isaac Tourism Chief Executive Officer Al Grundy

Artspace Mackay Director Tracey Heathwood, 2023 Rick Wood Bursary recipient Anna Gavan, Artspace Foundation Bursary recipient Alana McAnulty and Mayor Greg Williamson at the presentation morning tea

EVENTGUIDE

FRIDAY 17 FEBRUARY

Conversations with Art

Friday, 1:00pm to 2:30pm

Held on the 3rd Friday of each month, Conversations with Art is a free and enjoyable discussion led by Artspace staff as they look at works on show and images from gallery and museum collections. Whether you’re an artist, an art and language lover, beginner, or expert, they’d love you to join. It’s an inclusive, thought provoking and satisfying way to spend an afternoon!

Artspace Mackay

Friday SUN.sets

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

Wake House Australia

Opening Event - Four new exhibitions

Friday, 6:00pm

Join Artspace Mackay to celebrate the official opening of four exhibitions. 'Davida Allen: Colourful Expressions' is a colour filled selection of works highlighting the artist’s connection to South East and Central Queensland, on show in the Main Gallery.

'Glen Skien: Summer of the Seventeenth Doll' and 'Great Australian Hoist' both feature works from the Mackay Regional Council Art Collection in the Foyer Gallery, and 'Deanna Hitti: M is for Madraseh (School)' explores themes of identity and misrepresentation, Foundation Gallery.

Artspace Mackay

Kath & Kim Drag Bingo at MECC

Friday, 8:00pm to 10:00pm

Kath & Kim Drag Bingo is coming to Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre hosted by two foxy morons: Prada Clutch & Conchita Grande. Play to WIN $1,000 cash & proizes. Enjoy 5-rounds of bingo plus live Kath & Kim shows. Dress as your favourite Kath & Kim character for your chance to win our best dressed proize. Doors open 7:00 pm for an 8:00 pm show. It’s noice, it’s different, it’s bingo!

MECC

SATURDAY 18 FEBRUARY

Mackay Officiating Induction Day

Saturday, 8:00am to 11:00am

Mackay & District Rugby League Referees Induction Day. Meet the MDRLRA Officiating Committee with special guest QRL - Queensland Rugby League Referees. Message Mackay & District Rugby League Referees on Facebook for more information.

Mackay Junior Rugby League

Exhibition Floor Talk – Davida Allen talks about her work and latest exhibition

Saturday, 10:30am

Davida Allen will be at Artspace Mackay for the launch of her latest exhibition Colourful Expressions, on show in the main gallery at Artspace Mackay. Allen’s colourful, expressionist paintings have documented her everyday experiences, for over 40 years. In this major exhibition of work from northern regional gallery collections and the artists’ archive, her joyful interrogation of daily life as artist, mother and grandmother is seen. Drawing on the artist’s connection to Southeast and Central Queensland, Allen’s paintings are honest expressions of everyday life.

Artspace Mackay

Mackay Twilight Market

Saturday, 4:00pm to 8:30pm

Market stalls, mini eat street, local musician, jumping castles and face painting. Come and browse the many local small business market stalls, then have a seat and listen to local musicians all while enjoying the yummy food Mackay food trucks have to offer. ATM on site for customers convenience. Come and enjoy a night out with your family. It's not just another market, it’s a great family night out!

Mackay Showgrounds

Rebel Rebel – The Bowie Anthology

Saturday, 7:30pm to 10:00pm

Rebel Rebel - The Bowie Anthology is a captivating live concert recreating the iconic sound of David Bowie. This live rock performance set in a rockumentary format

tells the story of David Bowie's life and music, from Bowie’s 1969 release "Space Oddity" to his last Album "Blackstar".

MECC

SUNDAY 19 FEBRUARY

Sunday Live Music – Barbs Wired

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

Steve-O – The Bucket List Tour

Sunday, 7:00pm

Every idea on Steve-O’s Bucket List was so ill-advised, he never expected to go through with any of them. Until it was time to prepare for this tour. Not only are the stunts more ridiculous than what you already know Steve-O for, he did them all, and made a highly XXX-rated, multimedia comedy show out of them. Not for kids, or for the faint of heart.

MECC

TUESDAY 21 FEBRUARY

BMA Kidspace

Tuesday, 10:00am to 2:00pm

Join local artists and performers for creative art activities designed for toddlers and their adults. BMA Kidspace, Artspace Mackay’s free and ever popular toddler’s program, gives children under five a chance to explore and have fun with art in a climate of cooperative learning. The program includes free artist-run craft activities in two sessions, Session 1: Anytime from 10 to 11:30am; Session 2: Anytime from 12:15 to 2pm with live musical entertainment 11:30am to 12:15pm. Bring your children along for a fun day of art-making, singing and dancing.

Artspace Mackay

WEDNESDAY 22

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 23

FEBRUARY

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

Mackay Officiating Induction Day

Rebel Rebel – The Bowie Anthology

Steve-O

Davida Allen talks about her work and latest exhibition

Barbs Wired

BMA Kidspace

ARTSPACE CURATES A TRIUMPHANT DAVIDA ALLEN EXHIBITION

The Main Gallery of Artspace Mackay is set to showcase one of Queensland’s most successful contemporary painters, Davida Allen.

Opening today (February 17), the exhibition, entitled Davida Allen: Colourful Expressions, has been completely curated by the Artspace Mackay team.

Artspace director Tracey Heathwood said Allen received one of Australia’s bestknown accolades in 1986 when she won the Archibald Prize.

“In this show some of Allen’s most intimate portraits are displayed, including Josephine, a portrait of the artist’s daughter,” Ms Heathwood said.

“Her signature, highly textural oil paintings are executed using anything and everything – from palette knives, large brushes and fingers, to sticks and other found objects,” she said.

“Tracing a period of almost thirty years, these works highlight Allen’s ongoing affiliation with Central Queensland and career-long refinement of an expressive, abstract and very colourful painting style.”

Mayor Greg Williamson congratulated the Artspace Mackay team on the exhibition, as well as the two other exhibitions opening on Friday, “Deanna Hitti: M is for Madraseh (School)” and “Glen Skien: Sum-

mer of the Seventeenth Doll”.

“Artspace Mackay is turning 20 this year, and to celebrate this, the team are focusing heavily on our own collections and are curating a series of celebratory exhibitions,” Mayor Williamson said.

“With Colourful Expressions, our Artspace Mackay curator Lauren Turton has brought together work from northern Queensland regional gallery collections – including our collection – and the artist’s archive to celebrate Allen’s impact as one of this state’s most revered painters,” he said.

“And it’s tremendous that we have Davida herself coming for the opening night and presenting a free artist’s talk on Saturday, February 18, at 10.30am.”

Ms Heathwood said Deanna Hitti: M is for Madraseh (School) was opening in the Foundation Gallery and contained an exciting large-scale installation.

“Hitti invites the viewer into a world gilded by imagery and language – her works are a symbolic response to her experience as a woman of Lebanese-Australia heritage,” Ms Heathwood said.

Glen Skien: Summer of the Seventeenth Doll is a series of twelve etchings that

proudly forms part of the print folios and artists’ book holdings by Skien in the Mackay Regional Council Art Collection. For more information on any of the exhibitions, or to book your spot at the Davida Allen artist’s talk, head to artspacemackay. eventbrite.com.au.

CHRISTMAS WRAPPING PRODUCES RECORD DONATION TO REGION’S RESCUERS

Arecord donation of $48,000 to those who rescue us in our greatest time of need was made possible thanks to the nimble hands and big hearts of ESA Alpha Rho. The club which is like the lady’s version of Lions volunteered before Christmas to gift wrap presents for a gold coin donation.

ESA Queensland President Faye Dennien said more people had become aware of the gift wrapping service, which last year was in its 19th year, with corporations and groups taking advantage of the time-saving initiative.

“We have families who will drop a trolley load of presents off for us to wrap while they keep the kids entertained in a different part of the shopping centre,” Faye said.

“I believe the largest amount of gifts to wrap in one go was around 130, dropped off by the organisers of the Carmila Christmas Tree, who host the community and provide presents for the children.”

ESA Alpha Rho Mackay Founding Member Judy Johnson said that while the donations to charity were impressive, they

wouldn’t be possible without a network of organisations and committed volunteers all lending their hands.

“I want to say a big thank you to all the volunteers, without them, this would not be achieved,” Judy said.

“We have many organisations to thank who donate their time to wrapping; the Neighbourhood Hub, RACQ CQ Rescue, members from the St Patrick's Mercy College, the Red Cross, Councillor Justin Englert, and the Kidney Foundation, to name a few,” she said.

The service was so overwhelmingly popular that at times the ladies struggled to keep up with demand, and went through more than 12km of wrapping paper in the process.

$42,000 of the funds raised were donated to RACQ CQ Rescue and the remaining $6,000 was given to Queensland Remote Area Tracking, a specialised emergency service based in Mackay.

RACQ CQ Rescue CEO Tim Healee said ESA’s dedication to fundraising is truly inspiring.

“It shows that an amount as small as a gold coin from someone in the community can soon grow into a figure like $42,000 with the collective efforts of organisations like ESA Alpha Rho. When you take 10 of these inspirational community groups it becomes half a million dollars, which is what keeps community-funded rescue services like RACQ CQ Rescue in the air.

“We’re probably the most supported com-

munity helicopter service in Australia, the passion behind our service in the region is humbling. I think it’s because almost everyone knows at least one person who has been rescued by RACQ CQ Rescue,” Mr Healee said.

“The demand is growing and our costs are significantly higher than they were two years ago, we estimate over the next two years we will need an additional two million dollars to keep the service in the air.”

Mr Healee thanked both Caneland Central and ESA Alpha Rho Mackay for their ongoing generosity and the countless hours volunteers spent manning the stall to benefit such crucial local charities.

L-R: ESA Alpha Rho Mackay Founding Member Judy Johnson, ESA Alpha Rho Mackay President Annette Wisnewski, Queensland Remote Area Tracking member Matthew Munchow. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

L-R: Judy Johnson, Center Manager Caneland Central Mark, Annette Wisnewski, RACQ CQ Rescue CEO Tim Healee

Davida ALLEN Josephine (detail) 1985, oil on Belgian linen. Image courtesy the artist

Remembering Shandee

Plan Management

The Mackay community was shocked by the murder of 23-year-old Shandee Blackburn in 2013, with Shandee’s life and legacy celebrated on the ten-year anniversary of her death on Saturday.

While the assailant is yet to be brought to justice, the incident has united the Mackay community and shone a light on certain failings of the Queensland justice system.

“I felt it was important for Shandee on the ten-year anniversary of Shandee’s death, to come back to Mackay and show you all that we are still fighting for justice for Shandee and justice for our community,” Shandee’s mother Vicki Blackburn said, addressing and thanking the supportive crowd on Saturday.

“We haven’t given up and we hope that you all will keep on supporting us in this fight and we can make some changes.”

In 2021, Ms Blackburn was approached by journalist Hedley Thomas who, after reading the findings of the 2019 inquest

into Shandee’s death, decided to lead a podcast investigation into the case.

“Before you can breathe life into an idea for an investigative podcast series, it can take a year, a year and a half to develop,” Mr Thomas said.

“It’s vital to have the support of the victim’s family, and in Vicki Blackburn, I’ve been supported every inch of the way.”

Vicki shared an external hard drive containing documents and case material with Hedley, with one document leading him to Forensic Scientist Dr Kirsty Wright.

“Finding Kirsty, thanks to a simple Google search, and showing her the documents from Vicki’s hard drive relating to the appalling conduct of Queensland’s DNA testing laboratory, changed everything in Shandee’s story and potentially in Shandee’s case going forward,” Mr Thomas said.

“The damning findings a couple of months ago from the public inquiry …

tell the story of a DNA lab which had effectively perverted the course of justice and allowed violent criminals to avoid detection.

“None of it would have been known but for Shandee and the bravery of Vicki and Dr Kirsty Wright.”

When Dr Wright read the documents from Hedley, she realised something was very wrong with the investigation into Shandee’s case.

Dr Wright and Mr Thomas’ discoveries contributed to an independent Commission of Inquiry into Forensic DNA Testing in Queensland, with the report delivered on December 13, 2022, by Mr Walter Sofronoff KC.

“We were all just so shocked at what we found with the inquiry,” Dr Wright said.

“We not only found bad science, scientific misconduct, deliberate deception of the police and the courts, a complete disregard for quality, new methods weren’t tested properly before they

were used on crime scene evidence, and we found proof that Shandee’s samples, they were put on this process that was failing.

“Shandee’s case didn’t get a fair go because of this lab.”

Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said the Queensland Government accepted Mr Sofronoff’s recommendations within two days.

“Since then, and as we speak, Queensland Health, Queensland Police Service, the Department of Justice and Attorney-General have been powering ahead with a multi-pronged hundred-billion-dollar effort to ensure these failings never occur again,” Ms Gilbert said.

“At the conclusion of this transitionary process, Queensland will have a world class forensic science agency.

“Queensland will have a forensic DNA service it can be proud of and a more trustworthy justice system.

“That will be Shandee’s legacy.”

Councillor Pauline Townsend and Vicki Blackburn

Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox and Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson

Local organisations such as Crime Stoppers and Mackay Police were present

Bubbles were blown at sunset in memory of Shandee

Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm and Journalist Hedley Thomas

Proceeds from the event were donated to Mackay Women’s Services

Tailored supporting people 30 years. We their families. re ectfulsp

Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

Tailored Lifestyle Connections is a small not-for-profit NDIS Provider that has been supporting people with disabilities and their families in Mackay & The Whitsundays for over 30 years. We seek to provide the best possible services and support for our clients and their families. We are committed to efficient and effective services which are individualized, re spectful and deliver client choice and control to further enhance independence for people with disabilities.

Tailored Lifestyle Connections is a small not-for-profit NDIS Provider that has been supporting people with disabilities and their families in Mackay & The Whitsundays for over 30 years. We seek to provide the best possible services and support for our clients and their families. We are committed to efficient and effective services which are individualized, re spectful and deliver client choice and control to further enhance independence for people with disabilities. admin@tlconnections.com.au

FOR NANNY, FROM ISABELLA Mackay Girl Donates Hair And Funds

An 11-year-old Mackay girl has donated her hair and $1,200 to two charities this week in memory of her grandmother who passed away in December.

Isabella Baretta gifted roughly 40 centimetres of her strawberry-blonde hair to Variety’s Hair with Heart program and $1,200 to The Trudy Crowley Foundation, a local charity with extreme significance to her late grandmother, Diane Bultitude, Kristy Baretta, Isabella’s mother, said her daughter had donated her hair twice before to the charity, and it had always made her nanny “so proud.”

“Isabella was my mother’s only granddaughter out of 11 grandchildren, which meant she was always very, very proud of Isabella; especially of her donating her hair,” Kristy said.

“People would always comment on Isabella’s hair, and when she was six, she decided to donate it to sick children for wigs, and again when she was eight. That was something which meant a lot to nanny.”

This year, after the passing of her nanny,

who was diagnosed with Ovarian cancer five years ago and was assisted by the Trudy Crowley Foundation, which helps those suffering from the disease, Isabella decided to donate her hair one last time and raise funds while doing it.

“It makes me happy to know that I’m doing something really special for nanny,” Isabella said.

On Wednesday, Isabella had her hair cut at The Trudy Crowley Foundation’s monthly meetings surrounded by people extremely important to her nanny.

Her mother, Kristy, said it was the least they could do for such an amazing organisation.

“They go above and beyond what you would expect from an organisation,” Kristy said.

“Rosie, the Foundation nurse, came around when mum was discharged from the hospital and brought her a special cake; they would come and visit her all the time. Mackay is extremely lucky to have a service like that.”

Isabella’s impact has not stopped with just her hair donation and the fundraising, she has inspired other Mackay little girls to do the same.

“One of my best friends from gymnastics wants to donate her hair now,” Isabella said.

“I’ve also inspired my friend, Amani, and two other mums reached out to us and their daughters are donating their hair too.”

And Isabella has contributed to something even greater: creating awareness for Ovarian Cancer, the Trudy Crowley Foundation’s biggest message -- her grandmother would be

more than proud.

You can donate to The Trudy Crowley Foundation at the link: https://www.trudycrowleyfoundation.com.au/donate-now

Cracking The Code BOOK WEEK DATES ANNOUNCED

Celebrating Women's Empowerment At Zonta Mackay's International Women's Day Luncheon

Zonta Mackay’s International Women’s Day luncheon fundraiser will once again take place at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) this March.

This year’s theme Cracking the Code: Innovation for a gender equal future, highlights the role that bold, transformative ideas, inclusive technologies, and accessible education can play in combating discrimination and the marginalisation of women globally.

The annual luncheon is a time to socialise with attendees enjoying delicious food, raffles, silent auctions and a cash bar. Auctions this year include original artwork by popular Get Smashed Art, and this year’s guest speaker, Karen Jacobsen will entertain the crowd. The original Australian voice of “Siri”, Karen Jacobsen was recently praised by Harry Connick Jr on his national US talk show for her hypnotic vocal abilities. Karen will entertain crowds with stories and songs.

The winner of the Zonta Young Women in Public Affairs Award will be announced, and all funds raised will go to local charities in addition to the international projects supported by Zonta International.

Proudly sponsored by Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal, the Mackay community is encouraged to join Zonta for this annual event celebrating International Women’s Day. Tickets available at themecc.com.au

The Children's Book Council of Australia have announced dates for the 2023 Children's Book Week, with festivities kicking off from August 19, 2023.

Make sure to get your costumes ready, with Mackay Regional Council Libraries to announce their Book Week events throughout the year.

Each year since 1945, the Children's Book Council of Australia has brought children and books together across Australia with the Book Week celebrations.

Mackay girl Isabella Baretta donated her hair to charity alongside $1,200 in memory of her grandmother, Diane Bultitude (pictured together)

Mackay Regional Council Libraries hold book week events every year, with 2023’s event happening in August. Photos supplied: Mackay Regional Council Libraries

Mackay Contingent In Queensland North Teams U18 Meteorettes Secure State Silver

There was a solid Mackay representation in the Under 15 Queensland North teams recently competing at the Southern Cross Challenge held in Victoria.

Congrats to the Mackay Basketball junior players who did Mackay proud.

Eden Catip, Isabel Smith, Maggie Thorburn, Skye Vaughn and Lily Mapp all made the girls team while Usai Bickley, Cooper Currie and Treyce Cianter represented the boys.

The Queensland North girls finished 4th with the Queensland North boys coming 8th.

Well done to all involved.

Mackay Netballers Set To Strike At Capricornia Trials

NETBALL

Australian Indigenous centre court sensation Ainsley Carey heads a strong St Patrick’s College netball contingent that will represent Mackay at next Monday’s Capricornia trials to be staged at Mackay Basketball Stadium. The gifted 17-year-old centre/wing attack, who shone for Queensland at the recent National Indigenous Netball Championships on the Gold Coast, is one of the brightest prospects in the State and a product of the Mackay Magpies Netball Club. Ainsley is one of five St Patrick’s College players in the Mackay District School Sport Netball Senior 16 - 19yrs squad that will push their claims for Capricornia representative selection.

Other St Patrick’s whiz kids to watch include outstanding defenders Mischa Dinsdale and goalkeeper Kacee Ziegeler, centre Lillian Newland and shooter Rebecca Symons.

They’ll be joined by promising Holy Spirit College defenders Elizabeth Lee and Stella Brooks; Whitsunday Anglican College

shooters Eden Bagley and Isabel Milful and Mackay State High School shooter Christa Nissen.

The squad will be coached by experienced and respected St Patrick’s College mentor Diana Bailey.

During the trials Mackay will compete against teams from Port Curtis, Central Highlands and Rockhampton.

ST PATRICK’S players also dominate selections in the Mackay District School Sport Netball 13 - 15yrs Junior squad which includes emerging goalkeeper Shaylah Pershouse and centre court ace Tenille Cotter.

Talented shooters/goal attacks Kiana Dunn and Tahlia Anderson and goal attack/wing attack Lacie Clark will also fly the St Patrick’s flag along with leading coach Christine Newland.

Other players featured include rising Holy Spirit College trio Ava Symons (goal attack/shooter); Mia Slater (wing attack/ centre/wing defender) and Alysse Atherton (goal defender/wing defence) and

The McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes recently travelled to the Gold Coast to compete in the Basketball Queensland Under 18 State Championship.

The girls made it to an epic Division 1 Grand Final, finishing second in their pool and defeating the Gold Coast Rollers 63-51 in the semi.

In a decider that went down to the wire, the Meteorettes ultimately went down to the Logan Thunder 73-72.

Monique Bobongie starred, scoring 30 points, with Charli Bliss contributing 22 and Hannah Jensen 12.

Congratulations to Ross, Troy, Kylie and the girls on their massive efforts to secure Silver Medals.

Mackay State High School’s sharp centre court/shooter Rhyanna Ape and impressive goalkeeper Addison Dee.

Exciting prospects Ziegeler, Pershouse and Cotter have been chosen to participate on the Wanderers Australia International Netball tour of England and France in 2024 where they’ll play eight matches against top club, county and representative teams in the United Kingdom.

The trio helped Mercy College capture the Division 6 Trophy at last year’s Queensland Independent Secondary Schools Netball

(QISSN) tournament after edging out rivals Marist College Emerald 16-15 in a thrilling Grand Final contest.

Dinsdale was named the competition’s Most Valuable Player after classy performances during the series and caught the eye of Australian Diamonds great Vicki Wilson, who labelled the Mercy school girl “an exceptional talent.”

The skilful Rebecca Symons was named St Patrick’s Most Valuable Player at the 2022 QISSN event.

By Chris Karas

St Patrick's College senior netballers Lillian Newland, Mischa Dinsdale, Rebecca Symons, Kacee Ziegeler and Ainsley Carey will represent Mackay Schools at next Monday's Capricornia 16 - 19yrs netball trials

Eight Mackay players represented Queensland North at the U15 Southern Cross Challenge in Victoria last month. Photos supplied

The Mackay Meteorettes secured silver medals in the Basketball Queensland Under 18 State Championship on the Gold Coast last month. Photo supplied

RAIDERS SIGN EMERGING MACKAY RUGBY LEAGUE FORWARD

From the warm tropics of northern Queensland to the frosty southern temperatures of the Australian Capital Territory, at the northern tip of the Australian Alps.

That is the future lifestyle for promising St Patrick’s College rugby league forward Mark Morrow after securing a three-year NRL contract with the Canberra Raiders.

The power running forward is bound for the nation’s capital when he completes his schooling in Mackay and has already impressed Raiders officials with his natural athletic prowess, work ethic and skill set while attending a pre-season camp at the club’s headquarters in Braddon.

As the 2023 season moves into full swing, the 15-year-old Morrow is determined to make every post a winner when he trots onto the field for St Patrick’s in the region’s schoolboys competition ranks; club side Mackay Wests Tigers in the Mackay & District Junior League or the Mackay Cutters in the Under 16 Cyril Connell Cup series.

It is undeniably a heavy match schedule but one the super fit Morrow will definitely relish when the first ball is officially kicked off for the new season.

A delighted Mark described his trip to the ACT as “a memorable experience” and a valuable introduction and education on NRL operations.

“I met the Raiders NRL squad at the camp and was over the moon when Kangaroos World Cup star Jack Wighton came over and made me feel welcome,” beamed Mark.

“We had a talk about my rugby league journey to date and Jack passed on tips on how to improve my game,” he added.

The impact forward was part of a squad of

CUTTERS SHINE IN COWBOYS TRIAL

24 top juniors aged between 15 and 18 from across Queensland and NSW invited to trial with the Raiders down south.

Morrow chalks up a 10-year service milestone with his beloved Tigers this season when he lines up for the Under 16 black and golds.

He remembers playing in his first trophy decider for the Tigers back in 2017.

“We lost to the Townsville Western Lions by three tries to one (12-4) in the final of the Gorden Tallis Cup,” Mark recalled.

Mark participated in the Broncos Rugby League Academy from the age of 12 and the Cowboys Academy since turning 14 before linking with the Raiders.

He represented Capricornia at the Queensland School Sports Rugby League State Championships in Under 11s, Under 12s and Under 15s and last year also lined up at the State AFL titles as a defender.

Mark is one of the big guns in a powerful and hungry St Patrick’s Year 10 team that is on the prowl for another Cowboys Challenge Shield title.

Having tasted defeat after the bell in last year’s Challenge Grand Final this Raider in waiting is determined to get his hands on the trophy in 2023.

By Chris Karas

Cutters’ halfback Adam Cook donned the Cowboys jersey for the first time on Sunday.

RUGBY LEAGUE

While the Mackay Cutters took to the BB Print Stadium field on Saturday, a few key players were absent after being called into the Cowboys squad for their first Pre-season Challenge match against the Dolphins.

Hooker Kyle Scheider and halfback Adam Cook took to the field in Cairns on Sunday as the Cowboys played out a 22 all draw against the NRL’s freshest franchise.

Winger Laitia Moceidreke and centre Gehamat Shibasaki also played for their contracted club after appearing for the Cutters 18 and five times respectively in 2022.

Moceidreke, who played one NRL game for the Cowboys in 2021 and was the top try scorer for the Cutters in 2022, starred with two tries, including a clutch final-minute four-pointer to guarantee the draw.

The Dolphins were the first to score in the seventh minute followed by Moceidreke opening the Cowboys’ account just four minutes later.

The Cowboys led 18-4 after 32 minutes before the Dolphins made their way back into the game, leading 18-22 with eight minutes to play.

Moceidreke crossed untouched in the final minute to even things up at 22-22.

Schnieder’s consistency in attack and defence was on display, including a pinpoint kick in the 62nd to set up a try that was ultimately disallowed, and Townsville junior Cook got his first taste of the big time, donning the Cowboys jersey for the first time and taking the field with about 30 minutes to go.

“It’s obviously something I’ve dreamed of since I was a kid,” Cook said after the game.

“When I got on there, I was just trying to do my role and make sure we completed the sets and I thought we did that.”

Looking to the 2023 Cutters season, Cook said he’s looking forward to a good year.

“We’re looking really good,” he said. “Commo’s (Coach Michael Comerford) got a good group of boys there ready to go so I'm looking forward to a good season.”

RUGBY LEAGUE

Emerging St Patrick’s College rugby league forward Mark Morrow will swap the sun and tropics for chilly winters when he takes up a three-year deal with the Canberra Raiders

Photo supplied: North Queensland Cowboys

PIONEER SWIMMING CLUB ATTEND QUEENSLAND SPRINT CHAMPIONSHIPS ON THE GREENS AT GOOSIES

Championship 4’s winners Chris

BOWLS

Monday - mixed pairs draw was won by Lidia McCarthy and Ray McCarthy. Second draw winners were Vic Gaudian and Peter Miller, and the lucky prize draw was won by Marie Duck and D Evans.

Wednesday - NMBC Ladies Section winners were Lyn Tennant and Isla Comelli. Runners up were Debbie Mackenzie, Gloria Sam and Doris Dodds.

Wednesday was also the semi-final of the ladies club championship 4’s with the final played on Thursday morning. The final winning team players are Marie Bragg, Chris Hall, Michele Stockton, Dorothy (Nuggie) Pratt. Valiant runners up were Donna Gordon, Coral Francis, Deb Mackenzie, Lorna

SWIMMING

On the weekend of 11-12 February 2023, Pioneer Dolphins travelled to the big smoke, Brisbane, for an action-packed weekend of competition at the Brisbane Aquatic Centre.

The fastest in the state battled it out for absolute supremacy in the “sprint” distance of 50m over the four strokes.

Pioneer Swimming Club celebrated a whopping 32 Dolphins having qualified for the event with 16 travelling to compete – Kylie Smith, Jade Bounden, Kailu Bellear, Kingston Baker, Yasmin Seedwell, Ella Bounden, Zahli Herring, Georgie Brand, Alex Moss, Ariah Corrigan, Isabelle Miles, August Baker, Madison Malagueno, Joleigh Strydom, Annaliese Miles and Yvonne Bellear.

Special mentions for highlights over the weekend include Jade Bounden placing 2nd in 18-year Freestyle, 3rd in Breaststroke and 4th in Butterfly; Kylie Smith placing 5th in Open Backstroke and 9th in Butterfly; Madison Malagueno placing 3rd in 10year freestyle; Alex Moss placing 7th in 11year breaststroke; and personal bests being achieved by most of our state team.

Igor joined the team on the trip to Brisbane and was one very proud Coach!

Our Dolphins celebrated their phenomenal weekend of swimming at the Brisbane Eat Street before returning to Mackay to start preparation for our next exciting event, NQ Championships to be held in Townsville on 4-5 March.

Contributed by Tahnie Malagueno

Bowers.

Thursday – Goosies first prize was taken out by Andrew Coates and Shayne Trannore. Second draw winners were Vern Mietzel and Pat Elgey.

Kitty Toucher was not won!

Friday - Mixed pairs best card winners were Col Crocker and Tom Crocker. Winners of the lucky draw were Vern Mietzel and Wayne Mietzel. Runners up were Eric Galletly and Shirley Bartolo.

Saturday - NMBC Men’s section winners were Kenny Dwyer, Shayne Trannore and Ernie Sealy. Runners up Eric Galletly, Asko Helenius and Kenny Lane.

Contributed by Ian Rowan and Suzanne Hazledine

Pioneer Dolphins travelled to Brisbane for the Queensland Sprint Championships over the weekend

“A” Grade Fours and NMBC Singles

Club

Hall, Marie Bragg, Nuggie Pratt and Michele Stockton

Runners up Lorna Bowers, Deb Mackenzie, Donna Gordon, Coral Francis

Jade Bounden received medals in breaststroke and freestyle and finalist in fly

Madison Malagueno receiving her bronze medal for freestyle Alex Moss received a finalist ribbon for breaststroke. Photos supplied

Kylie Smith finalist in Butterfly and Backstroke Finals

Mackay Marina Run Registrations Now Open

Early Bird registrations are now open for the 2023 BMA Mackay Marina Run to be held in June.

Now in its 15th year, the annual run is widely regarded as Queensland’s most scenic running event with a flat, fast course set against stunning sub-tropical scenery. Event Director Tim Magoffin advised the run was fast becoming a signature event on the national running event calendar.

“The BMA Mackay Marina Run offers a unique event with runners able to enjoy our flat, fast course set within a scenic sub-tropical location,” he said.

“Runners will wind their way through Mackay with the stunning blue water Pioneer River as a backdrop – it’s a pretty special experience that is unrivalled by other events.”

With the event taking place four weeks out from the Gold Coast Marathon, Mr Magoffin advised they were expecting competitors from all over Australia.

“The national appeal of our event has definitely grown,” he said.

“People are recognising what a great precursor we are for the Gold Coast Marathon and that’s presented a wonderful opportunity for tourism in our region.”

Over 3,500 competitors are expected for this year’s event which will raise funds for The Leukaemia Foundation.

The BMA Mackay Marina Run will take place on June 4, 2023, and includes a 21.1km half marathon, 8 and 5km, a 3km junior dash and the popular 5km Corporate Challenge.

Early Bird Registrations will close March 13.

A part of the suite of events involved in the Mackay Marina Run, Mr Magoffin launched the Twilight City Run last week with the announcement of its major sponsor, Mackay Airport, extending its naming rights sponsorship through to and including 2025.

The Mackay Airport Twilight City Run is scheduled to be held on Friday March 3 and is a popular and inclusive event that sees hundreds of runners, walkers and families take to the street for an evening of fun and fitness.

“It’s a way of launching the Marina Run and also a separate event to raise money for the local branch of the Leukemia foundation,” Mr Magoffin said.

“It’s a real community event and the sponsorship of the Mackay Airport allows us to absorb and pay for the expenses of putting the event on so that people’s registrations can go straight into the Leukemia Foundation.”

With over 700 participants in last year’s run, Mr Magoffin is expecting a record turnout of over 800 runners to hit the streets for a good cause in March.

“We’re hoping this year that we’ll get over $500,000 raised from Mackay Marina Run and City Run for the Leukemia Founda-

tion, so there’s half a million dollars that, without the community getting behind it, wouldn’t exist.”

Mackay Airport Head of Operations Adrian Miles said Mackay Airport’s shows event organisers and the community the Twilight City Run has a prosperous future. “Events like this are so important to my community and also visitors to the region,” he said.

“It provides an opportunity to promote physical health and social engagement and then also is a draw card for visitors coming to the region to stay and attend such great events.

“A big part of Mackay Airport sponsorship is for the community and is also for charity organisations where we can so all funds going to the Leukemia Foundation is one of the best outcomes from this event.”

To find out more, visit www.mackaymarinarun.com.

PEDALLING THROUGH THE PIONEER ONE STEP CLOSER

Council's landmark Pioneer Valley Mountain Bike trails project is clicking up a gear.

Last week’s ordinary meeting of council approved a development application for stage one of the mountain bike park. The material change of use application was lodged by council via Veris Pty Ltd. It includes 13km of trails and a purpose-built trailhead, with direct road frontage to Anzac Parade.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the planning approval, subject to conditions, was an important milestone for the signature project.

“Council had the vision to create a worldclass mountain bike park and trails between Eungella and Finch Hatton some years ago,’’ he said.

“Since then, we’ve been working hard on planning with all stakeholders, including

the community, State Government agencies and traditional owners.

“This approval clears the way for the start of construction.

“We envisage stage one will be open by Christmas this year.”

Mayor Williamson said the trailhead at Finch Hatton would include an amenities block, picnic area with shelters, maintenance shed, pump track, bike wash and car parking.

“There will also be entry statements, landscaping, recreational open space and pedestrian connections to Bagley Street and the town centre. We’ve also refurbished the former Cattle Creek mill administration building and retained it for community use.”

Mayor Williamson said the Pioneer Valley Mountain Bike trails would be a lucrative national and international tourism draw-

card.

“It is exciting that we’re about to embark on the construction of stage one of this project, which will have huge economic benefits for the region and the Pioneer Valley, in particular Finch Hatton and Eu-

ngella.”

To stay up to date on this project, visit connectingmackay.com.au and subscribe to project update emails.

Artist impression of the Finch Hatton trailhead

Event Director Tim Magoffin and Mackay Airport Head of Operations Adrian Miles

Cutters Show Positive Signs In Pre-Season Trials

RUGBY LEAGUE

Footy returned to BB Print Stadium on Saturday, giving punters a look at what they can expect from the Mackay Cutters in 2023 with four teams playing their first trials of the season.

The Cutters hosted the Central Queensland Capras with Cyril Connell Challenge, Auswide Bank Mal Meninga Cup, Harvey Norman Under 19 Girls and Hostplus Cup teams all facing off.

The Cyril Connell Challenge sides were the first to take the field, with the under-16 boys kicking off in the heat of the early afternoon.

The arm wrestle of the first half finished with the Cutters and the Capras tied at 8-8, but the home team kicked into gear in the second half, finishing strongly with a 20-8 win.

It was the under 18 boys to run out next, with the Mal Meninga Cup sides facing off in an edge-of-your-seat thriller.

It was looking dire for the Cutters, as the visitors went into half time with a 0-16 lead, but an inspired second half effort saw the Cutters score 20 unanswered points to finish 20-16 victors.

The difference couldn’t be split between the Harvey Norman U19 Girls squads, with an 8-8 half time score resulting in an epic 16-16 draw at full time.

Finally, the Hostplus Cup squad showed positive signs under new coach Michael Comerford, defeating their central Queensland rivals 24-10.

The Cutters travel to Airlie Beach this weekend with the Hastings Deering Colts, BMD Premiership and Hostplus Cup sides all taking the field at Whitsundays Sports Park on Saturday.

Road Runners Start The Season At Gooseponds

RUNNING

Over seventy runners braved the heat wave conditions as they competed in a one, two or three loop course around the beautiful, mostly shaded Gooseponds from the Willis Street dog park carpark.

The social event was a great start to the formal 2023 season with the first handicap points run on next Sunday morning at Wallmans Rd cul-de-sac, Rural View. All runners must register online so that they are immediately eligible for club championship and handicap points towards end of year trophies.

Also check out the 2023 calendar on the website www.mackayroadrunners.com for weekly events, times and locations. Please check regularly in case of any updates or changes to the program.

Many thanks to Mr Colin Meng who

has once again generously accepted to be the Mackay Road Runners Club Patron, bringing his reign to over 15 years.

Col also formally announced the first race of the season with a welcome speech before cutting the ribbon to open the 2023 season.

Thanks to Col and his family for also providing Zooper Doopers for a much needed boost of hydration post-race.

The continuing temperatures can be fatal; therefore, all runners must ensure they seriously maintain their hydration levels throughout the week as well as on training and race days.

Thanks to Tim Magoffin and Andrew Short for setting up the course for the event, merchandiser Jo Hughes, registrar Julie Whibley and timekeeper Arthur Dick as well as the many helpers assisting in pack-up afterwards.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

Over seventy Mackay Road Runners joined Patron Col Meng (standing far left) as he opened the first official run of the 2023 formal program

L-R Tim Magoffin, Therese Hackney and Alan Zamparutti share a laugh

Birthday boy Stuart Sprott turned 79 on the first run of the season and is going strong too

Toby Rule leads over seventy runners out of the starting chute. Photo credit: Janelle Tilse

Jordan Miller enjoyed a lap of the Gooseponds with his kids

Four Mackay Cutters teams took the field on Saturday resulting in three wins and a draw. Photos supplied: Mackay Cutters

Bridge Players Take Top Title In Townsville

Congratulations to the Mackay team on winning the Australia Day Swiss Teams in Townsville held 28th and 29th January 2023. This is a fabulous win, as it was a very competitive

Weekly Results

event. Team - Max, Diane, Janelle and Terry.

Big Congratulations to Eric Goodchild receiving first place in the James Sullivan Silver Master Award 2022 and Terry Sheedy receiving first place in the James Sullivan Grand Master Award.

Monday 6 February 2023 – Week 3 of 23 Nation Wide Pairs 8 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W

1st David Ting / Eric Goodchild 1st Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris

2nd Alan Brown / Frances Brown 2nd Margaret Lane / Barbara Tait

3rd Janelle Conroy / Terrence Sheedy 3rd Maria Setiyawan / Geoff Taylor

4th Monica Darley / Robert Carless 4th Angela Wilk / Ming Ting

Tuesday Evening 7 February 2023 – 5 Table Mitchell One Winner

1st Helen Van Den Broek / Terrence Sheedy 3rd Ken Seaniger / Maria Setiyawan

2nd Janine Rodgers / Jan Harris 4th Sandra Morris / Diane Morgan

Wednesday 8 February 2023 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W

1st Diane Holewa / Max Holewa 1st Janelle Conroy / Alan Brown

2nd Janet Hansen / Del Ryan 2nd Jan Harris / Sandra Morris

3rd Maria Setiyawan / Frances Brown 3rd Terrence Sheedy / Eric Leivesley

4th Monica Darley / Kath Poole 4th Joy Robinson / Robert Carless

Thursday 9 February 2023 –5 Table One Winner

1st Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

3rd Richard Wix / Patricia Garner

2nd Geoff Taylor / Faye Wright 4th Mick Robins / Ann Whitmore

Friday 10 February 2023 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W

1st Helen Van Den Broek / Don Poole 1st Christine Nice / Maria Setiyawan

2nd Monica Darley / Victor Mason 2nd Geoff Taylor / Joy Robinson

3rd Mary Rose Ramsden / Noel Saunders 3rd Terrence Sheedy / Janelle Conroy

4th Joyce Deguara / Toni Large 4th Anne Whitmore / Julie O’Neill

Saturday 11 February 2023 – 12 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W

1st Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger 1st Ted Cullinan / Noel Saunders

2nd Antonia Tarradas / Christine Nice 2nd Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild

3rd Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan 3rd Janine Rodgers / Terrence Sheedy 4th Vicki Taylor / Toni Large 4th Helen Van Den Broek / Joy Brunette

For

For

BRIDGE

Di, Max, Janelle and Terry won the Australia Day Swiss Teams in Townsville Eric Goodchild receiving first place in the James Sullivan Silver Master Award

Terry Sheedy receiving first place in the James Sullivan Grand Master Award

Feature Property

156 Jensens Road, Farleigh

A fantastic opportunity to acquire an Architecturally Designed rural home in the Farleigh hills, this 6.54 Ha (or 16 Acre) property is just 12-minutes’ drive from Mackay CBD.

Perched on the crest of the hill you are greeted by a home full of character and charm. The brick veneer and pitched roof home backs onto parklands and is accessed by an all-weather gravel & concrete driveway. It has fenced grazing paddocks, a three-bay steel framed shed with power, good quality bore water and a 40,000 litre storage capacity.

A modern state of the art kitchen is the centre point for this family friendly home, and the striking raked ceilings with dressed 200 x 80 exposed rafters in the dining and lounge areas set off a stunning interior.

Additional features within the home include:

• Five bedrooms with walk in robe and ensuite to main

• Additional second and third bathrooms

• Servery from kitchen to back patio

• Central/cassette air-conditioning and solar hot water

• Detached Poolroom and bar (or teen retreat/additional accommodation)

• Attached private Courtyard with access from main bedroom

• Open veranda’s and front patio area

• Detached double carport

• Terraced landscaping and surrounds

For enquiries call Peter Francis on 0409 095 703 or Peter Mills on 0436 034 187 at Blacks Real Estate.

156 Jensens Road, Farleigh

RURAL LIFESTYLE- 240 DEGREE VIEWS – CLOSE TO TOWN

A fantastic opportunity to acquire an Architecturally Designed rural home in the Farleigh hills, this 6.54 Ha (or 16 Acre) property is just 12-minutes’ drive from Mackay CBD.

Perched on the crest of the hill you are greeted by a home full of character and charm. Inside, the views are maximised by extensive use of glass, making the most of the picturesque surrounds, the Mackay Harbour and ocean views in the distance from the

rear and a beautiful view down the valley to the surrounding mountains from the front.

Backing onto parklands, the home is accessed by an all-weather gravel entry with fenced grazing paddocks, a three-bay steel framed shed with power, good quality bore water and 40,000 litre tank storage.

A modern state of the art kitchen is the centre point for this family friendly home, and the striking raked ceilings with dressed 200 x 80 exposed rafters in the

dining and lounge areas set off a stunning interior. Additional features within the home include:

• Five bedrooms, walk in robe and ensuite to main

• Additional second and third bathrooms

• Airconditioning and solar hot water

• Separate Poolroom (or teen retreat)

• Attached private Courtyard

• Open veranda’s and front patio area

• Detached double carport

22 Jorgensens Street, Bakers Creek 3 1 2

CORNER BLOCK & SO MUCH POTENTIAL!!

Conveniently located in a quiet street with ample room for children to play, a 6m x 6m powered shed on an 820m2 corner block and fully fenced.

King-sized master bedroom, two single bedrooms with fresh paint, new carpets, and air conditioning.

The oversized lounge room is air conditioned and adjacent to a kitchen with double oven and pantry. The original double garage has been converted into a large rumpus/games room.

PRIME DEVELOPMENT LAND ON PAGET’S DOORSTEP

Across the road from Mackay’s industrial precinct Paget and with convenient access to the Mackay Ring Road and Bruce Highway, these large parcels abound with future potential. Buy one, or all 3 of these lots giving you a whopping 41.76 ha, or 103 acres in the old scale. All offers will be considered when the expressions of interest campaign finishes today.

1-15

0409 095 703 |

2/9 Robin Street, Slade Point

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY

• Well maintained townhouse offers a fantastic investment opportunity.

• Currently returning $310pw. Strata fees available upon request.

• Two bedrooms upstairs – air con to the main. Single carport.

• Recently painted, internal stairs, separate laundry and small fenced & terraced courtyard.

• Located close to the beach and only minutes drive from Mackay Harbour and the CBD.

0409 635 724 | ablack@blacksrealestate.com.au

353

PIONEER VALLEY – 272 GRAZING ACRES

Situated in the productive Pioneer Valley just minutes to Pinnacle is this 272 grazing acres.

Tropical pastures establishing over gently undulating formerly cultivated land. Fully stock fenced.

2 Living dongers with septic & water reticulation. Modern 12 x 18m x 3.9m shed with one fully enclosed concreted & lockable bay.

Stand alone 8 kw solar system with battery storage & 8 KVA diesel generator as back up.

0428 182 569 | rural@blacksrealestate.com.au

Pinnacle Septimus Road, Pinnacle

Bruce Highway, Bakers Creek

Lot

Road, Mt Pelion

55 acres with a combination of cultivated land and timbered ridge country.

Absolute frontage to the tidal Murray Creek at Mount Pelion. Keep growing sugarcane or convert to lush pastures. Pleasant views from the elevated ridge would make a nice home site. Old one room cane cutters hut at present unliveable. Power along the bitumen road frontage. Five minutes to public boat ramp for incredible fishing and crabbing.

Rydges

Friday

Lot

Just off the Peak Downs Highway between Walkerston and Eton is this 433 acres of grazing/farming land.

200 megalitre allocation from the Eton Irrigation Scheme drawn from 1 outlet. Additional outlets approved. Power runs across the property past several possible home sites taking in incredible views from elevated positions.

Fully stock fenced into two paddocks with mostly new 4 wire barb. Level to undulating cleared and selectively cleared country rising to timbered ridges.

Not even 5 minutes from Sarina on 4.3 Acres of your own private land is this unique property with 2 houses on the 1 title. Completely separated the two house’s each have their own power supply & rain water tanks. There is also a back-up bore.

Auction at 0428 182 569 | rural@blacksrealestate.com.au | Royce Dunn 0428 182 569 | rural@blacksrealestate.com.au | Royce Dunn 0427 708 247 | twooldridge@blacksrealestate.com.au | Trent Wooldridge

Quattromanis Road, Walkerston

A PRIVATE OASIS…JUST 9 MINUTES FROM MACKAY CBD

These two residences are perched high on a 3,656 sqm block and enjoy spectacular views over the lagoon.

• Living areas that feature skylight, vaulted ceilings, exposed timber beams and Silky Oak trimmings.

• Master suite with stunning green outlook and barn door that leads through the walk-through robe to the ensuite. The exquisite sanctuary offers dual living options and additional land can also be purchased with the sale. Call Peter Francis on 0409 095 703 for further information.

Expressions of Interest closing Friday 10/3/2023 at 3.00pm OPEN Sat: 10.45 - 11.30am

FREESTANDING UNIT IN HANDY LOCATION

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

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

• Air-conditioned bedrooms and living area.

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

• No Body corporate fees involved.

WELL PRESENTED, EASY MAINTENANCE

Open plan kitchen/dining/living area with seamless transition to the undercover patio. Great kitchen with large breakfast bar and pantry.

Master bedroom with ensuite and walk-in-robe.

Remaining 3 bedrooms with fans and built in wardrobes. Fully airconditioned and security screens through-out. 2 bay secure garage with automatic doors. Fully fenced private back yard and handy outdoor patio area. Beautiful front landscaping which completes the well-presented home.

$320,000 OPEN Sat: 9.45 -10.30am $375,000 OPEN Sat: 12.15 - 12.45pm

4/5 Kate Street, East Mackay

OPEN SAT 11.00AM TO 11.30AM

A Sleek, Double Storey Unit in East Mackay

This sleek double storey unit is located in East Mackay and conveniently close to all necessities, schools, shops, the Mackay CBD and the beach.

The low maintenance unit is spacious and is equal in size to most homes. This unit features many modern-day luxuries such as air-conditioning, a double lock up remote garage and timber deck. Sprawled out over two levels, the expansive unit

In partnership with

contains both bedrooms and bathrooms on each floor. The unit is situated within walking distance of the newly revamped Queens Park and the beautiful ‘Town Beach’. The location is sure to be popular for not only this reason but for also being only 5 minutes to the CBD. Enjoy the lifestyle that this sleek, modern double storey unit will provide you. A life of convenience.

By Negotiation

Ben Kerrisk

Mick McLeod 0407 514 983 0408 777 971

Ryan Patton 0435 825 323

OPEN SAT 10.15AM TO 10.45AM

A Rejuvenated House for the Family to Enjoy

Carefully planned and ideally located in East Mackay this highset home is a must see. Rejuvenated with the family in mind, this outstanding property has been designed to cater for you and all your loved ones.

The beautifully presented family home includes a pool and has great street appeal. This home is ready to go.

Positioned just minutes from all the popular amenities of this sought-after area, the convenience of this home nearly exceeds its contemporary beauty. Town Beach, Sporting Precinct and Paget are all just moments away.

By

Ben Kerrisk

Mick McLeod 0407 514 983 0408 777 971

Ryan Patton 0435 825 323

In partnership with

1

Stunningly Renovated Queenslander in West Mackay

Discover this stunningly renovated Queenslander in the sought-after West Mackay neighbourhood. Boasting classic charm with modern updates, this property offers the perfect blend of old-world charm and contemporary living. Featuring spacious rooms, high ceilings, and natural light throughout, this home is perfect for families or entertainers. The gourmet kitchen with stainless steel appliances and spacious dining area that opens on the large outdoor deck, perfect for outdoor gatherings.

Upstairs, the bedrooms are generous in size with ample storage and modern bathrooms. With its convenient location close to all amenities, this property is a must-see for anyone looking for the ultimate in comfortable living.

This tastefully renovated home is ideally located in popular West Mackay, close to the botanical gardens, hospital, schools and shops and a mere short drive from the CBD or Paget. This Renovated Queenslander of West Mackay will not last long! Book an inspection today!

Auction

Ben Kerrisk

Mick McLeod 0407 514 983 0408 777 971

Ryan Patton 0435 825 323

7 Highcrest Street, Bucasia

OPEN SAT 10.00AM TO 10.30AM INSPECTION BY APPOINTMENT

Designed for Comfortable Modern Living

Designed for comfort, this modern home is located in the heart of Mackay’s popular Northern Beaches area.

The well thought out home has been designed for the whole family in mind. Internally, the home includes an open plan living area and 3 generously sized bedrooms.

Get in quick to secure this modern family home today!

By Negotiation

Ben Kerrisk

Mick McLeod 0407 514 983 0408 777 971

Ryan Patton 0435 825 323

Tait Street, West Mackay

The home is ideally located in the Mountain View estate. The estate is located only a few minutes from everything – shops, schools, and beaches.

16 Hill End Road, Glenella

OPEN SAT 10.00AM TO 10.30AM

Modern Renovation in Glenella

Upon entering 16 Hill End Road in Glenella, you'll immediately see that this traditional cottage has undergone a modern renovation. With a north-facing orientation, the eastern side of the house stays cool, making it ideal for gardening, relaxing, or entertaining guests in the afternoons.

The back room on the ground floor can be used as a home business and features side access from the front gate and two car parks across the street. The spacious two-car carport can also serve as a large entertainment area in pavilion style.

In partnership with

Located in the sought-after suburb of Glenella, close to schools and shops and a short drive from the CBD, this home offers convenience and comfort. It's fully air-conditioned with reverse cycle split systems, has a coded pedestrian gate for added security, and security screens throughout for peace of mind.

Within walking distance to Magpies sports facilities and convenient access to the Bruce Highway and Ring Road, this modern renovation is a must-see.

By Negotiation

Ben Kerrisk

Mick McLeod 0407 514 983 0408 777 971

Ryan Patton 0435 825 323

14/5 Megan Place, Mackay Harbour

OPEN SUN 10.00AM TO 10.30AM

Mackay Marina Lifestyle at its Finest

Spread over half a floor on level 7 of the prestigious Admiralty Towers is this luxurious apartment. With amazing views of the Mackay Marina, Harbour Beach and the islands that grace this beautiful part of the Whitsundays.

The open plan residence is spacious throughout and flows out onto a large waterfront balcony. The location is second to none with both the Marina and a number of restaurants only a short stroll away allowing one to enjoy the finest of lifestyles.

Apartment 14 has recently undergone a refurbishment including new lighting and a fresh coat of paint throughout. This centrepiece of the home is the quality kitchen that includes a breakfast bar.

What a great place to start the day from and take in the views of the peaceful waters of the Marina.

Auction

Ben Kerrisk

Mick McLeod 0407 514 983 0408 777 971

Ryan Patton 0435 825 323

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13c Wrights 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.