🚀 Bowen rocket back on track
Postie Bike Safari returns | New QLD boating fines begin | Meta wins copyright case and heaps more
Welcome back to the Mackay Minute, it’s June 26th.
Today's newsletter is 1,020 words and a 5-minute read.
In today's email:
One Big Thing: Bowen rocket launch back on track
New QLD: boating rules start this July
Future You Summit brings: Mackay students to Brisbane
Trending: Pioneer Valley Rail Trail is officially open
Around The Web (Snippets): Budget boost for Mackay, $120k for maritime projects, Meta wins copyright case and heaps more
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1. One Big Thing: Bowen Rocket Launch Back on Track
What’s Happening: Gilmour Space is targeting no earlier than 1 July for the Eris TestFlight 1 launch from Bowen, the first Aussie-built rocket to attempt orbit in over 50 years.
Why It Matters: It’s a bold move for Australia’s space industry, showcasing local innovation and laying the groundwork for sovereign launch capabilities.
By the Numbers
First orbital attempt by an Australian rocket in over 50 years.
May system fault resolved, fairing reinstalled and retested
Local Impact: The launch cements North Queensland’s role in Australia’s aerospace future, with flow-on benefits for Mackay’s tech and STEM sectors.
Eyes on the Sky: If successful, this launch could kick off a new chapter for Aussie space tech from satellite services to future defence and research roles.
What the People Say: “Each critical system is undergoing its first full end-to-end test.”- Gilmour Space
What to Look For Next: Watch for updates as Gilmour Space confirms the launch date. Read more in the full article below 👇
2. New QLD boating rules start this July
What’s Happening: From 1 July 2025, Queensland boaters must follow new lifejacket laws or face $333 fines.
Why It Matters: The education-first period that started in December 2024 is now over, and with over 1 million boat licence holders, the rules aim to reduce preventable deaths and improve safety, especially during busy holiday periods.
By the Numbers:
64 deaths (2019–2023) – Only 5 wore lifejackets
$333 fines – Now apply for non-compliance
1m+ Queensland boaties – Must now follow the updated rules
The new rules mandate that lifejackets must be worn:
While boating alone or with kids under 12 in open boats <4.8m.
During night travel (sunset–sunrise) in open boats <4.8m.
While crossing coastal bars, in open boats of any size or open deck areas.
By children under 12, always, in open vessels underway.
They are mandatory also for certain craft when crossing bars, including:
Lasers, herons, and other small sailing boats
Pedal boats, inflatable rafts, rowboats (excl. SLSA surfboats), sea/surf kayaks
What The People Say: “This is about saving lives,” said Maritime Safety Queensland.
What to Look For Next: The full article below👇
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3. Future You Summit brings Mackay students to Brisbane
What’s Happening: Mackay teens will join the 2025 QUT Future You Summit in Brisbane from 1-4 July for hands-on career and leadership workshops.
Why It Matters: The summit helps regional students explore future pathways, build confidence, and connect with mentors.
Local Impact: Students from Holy Spirit College, Mirani SHS, Northern Beaches SHS, and Whitsunday Anglican School are attending.
By the Numbers
28 CQ students attending
341 students total from 165 schools
69% of participants are female
Zoom Out
Fully funded by QUT, the program ensures equal access to uni experiences for students across Queensland.
What to Look For Next? Read full article 👇
4. Trending
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5. Around The Web (Snippets)
The 13th annual Postie Bike Safari departs: Mackay raising funds and awareness for cancer Support across 2,000+ km of outback QLD.
The Australian National Maritime Museum has awarded: Over $120,000 to 25 projects through the 2025 MMAPSS grants program.
In November 2026, a human-made object will reach a: Light-day from Earth for the first time in history.
The 2025–26 Budget delivers a fresh start for: Mackay Whitsundays with major investments in health, housing, tourism, infrastructure, and community safety.
Bluewater Lagoon will close from: 30 June to mid-September 2025 for essential pump and plant room upgrades.
Federal judge sides with Meta in lawsuit over: Training AI models on copyrighted books
Two Queensland companies have secured: Major contracts in Bravus Mining’s $40M Carmichael mine workshop project, supporting over 90 regional jobs.
Ancient DNA has revealed a mysterious new: Group of humans in Colombia with no genetic ties to people today.
The first details Toyota’s first ever: Toyota Land Cruiser 300 Hybrid 👇
Mount Isa Rodeo 2025 expands with: New local events, spotlighting Outback talent and regional pride this August.
🕰️ In Case You Missed It:
6. Upcoming Events
🧠 Tin Can Radio School Holiday Broadcasts: June 30 to July 4, 2025, Mackay Library. Kids can get hands-on with radio broadcasting, interviewing, and audio production during guided school holiday sessions.
🏃♂️ Run for MI Life Fun Run: Now registering June 1- July 31, choose your challenge (3 km, 5 km or 10 km) and run anytime during the period. Join a community-driven event supporting healthcare initiatives across Mackay with flexible entry and participation.
🎭 Confetti & Chaos: June 28, 2025, MECC Auditorium. Kick off the Mackay Festival of Arts with a family-friendly variety show featuring performances, confetti cannons, and vibrant energy.
🖼️ Mackay Festival of Arts Exhibition: June 28 to August 11, 2025, MECC & various regional venues. A month-long celebration of regional creativity including visual arts, theatre, music, community workshops, and more.
🚗 Mackay Motor Show Opening Cane City Cruze! July 3, 2025, The Mackay Rod & Custom Club. Be part of the action! Join the pre-show cruise and help fire up Mackay’s biggest Motor Show yet.