💪 Bring on 2032
$31.7 billion impact of Queensland ports | University brings Nuclear Medicine training to Mackay | Whale protects surfer from bloodthirsty shark and heaps more
Welcome back to the Mackay Minute, it’s March 27th.
Today's newsletter is 997 words and a 5-minute read.
Stay safe and dry out there. ☂️
In today's email:
One Big Thing: Building Mackay’s Olympic Future
Northern Beaches Hub: Nears stage 1 completion
New degree brings Nuclear medicine to Mackay
Trending: Moving to Mackay? 🏡
Around the web (Snippets): Leaked data reveals Chinese AI censorship and 133K examples, Parent Pathways Program, An 'owldorable' mystery and more
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1. One Big Thing: Building Mackay’s Olympic future
What’s Happening: Mackay and the Whitsundays will help host the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, with Harrup Park set for major upgrades and sailing events planned in the Whitsundays.
Why It Matters: The 2032 Delivery Plan promises lasting infrastructure, tourism, and sporting benefits for regional Queensland.
By the Numbers:
– $7.1B for Olympic venue upgrades across QLD
– $9B to upgrade the Bruce Highway
– $250M for grassroots sport via the Games On! program
Local Impact: Expect a world-class cricket venue at Harrup Park, a tourism boost for the Whitsundays, and improved transport at Goorganga Plains.
Gold on the Horizon: The Games will put Mackay on the map—before, during, and well beyond 2032.
What To Look For Next: Read full article👇
2. Northern Beaches Hub nears stage1 completion
Construction on Stage 1A of the Northern Beaches Community Hub is well underway, with the multi-purpose sports court and nature play area already taking shape.
Located near Mackay Northern Beaches State High School, this milestone project is set to be completed by May 2025, weather permitting. It marks a major step in delivering new recreational and social infrastructure for the region’s growing population.
Backed by $6.5 million in federal funding, Stage 1A includes spaces for basketball, netball, indoor soccer, pickleball, and interactive outdoor play.
Stage 1B—now open for tender—will expand the hub with a library, café, and community rooms, supported by an additional $15 million. Together, these stages aim to boost liveability and strengthen community connection across Mackay’s Northern Beaches.
Read more in the full article below 👇
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3. New degree brings nuclear medicine to Mackay
What’s Happening: RMIT University launched its Bachelor of Medical Radiation (Nuclear Medicine – Industry Practice degree brings hands-on nuclear medicine training to Mackay and six other QLD regions.
Why It Matters: It fills a major gap in Queensland’s healthcare training, helping speed up cancer and rare disease diagnoses.
By the Numbers
1 of 5 states without a program until now
7 QLD regions involved
2 days/week of local clinical placement
Local Impact: Mackay student Madison is training locally and plans to stay, easing pressure on regional services.
What The People Say: “I love Mackay and I want to keep living here long-term.” – Madison
What To Look For Next Read full article👇
The Weekly Dream Gig
This week- Green Leaves Early Learning Mount Pleasant is on the lookout for a passionate Early Childhood Teacher to spark imagination and guide little learners on big adventures.
Think weekly pay, 75% childcare discount, and even a shot at a study tour to New Zealand in 2026. With generous wages and retention bonuses on top (up to ~$90k+ depending on experience), you'll be shaping young minds while enjoying epic perks and brekkie on us. 🥐📚 Ready to grow where you’re planted? Apply now and let the fun begin!
Want to advertise a job here? Contact us!
4. Trending
Follow us on our social media, Facebook and Instagram
5. Around The Web (Snippets)
Free mentoring for Mackay parents: through MRAEL’s Parent Pathways Program
Check out this whale that protected a surfer from a: Bloodthirsty shark
Mackay, Hay Point & Abbot Point ports: Add $31.7B to Australia’s economy each year
Planning starts for a Mackay museum: to deliver a “hero” heritage experience.
An unusual Snowy Owl with: Orange feathers is an ‘Owldorable’ mystery
The auction for xbt.com, (the ultimate Bitcoin domain name) just: Started with bids already in the millions
Forensic Crash Unit investigates: fatal two-vehicle crash in Bowen last March 24.
One of the largest and most powerful healthcare companies in the world: UnitedHealth Group, just scrubbed divisive ‘DEI’ (diversity, equity and inclusions) content from its website
Celebrating 10 Years: of Creativity, Connection, and Impact at Everybody NOW!
Nick Kyrgios helped Disney+ launch: ESPN streaming through its platform for all Aussies and Kiwis this week
6. Upcoming Events
🎤 Björn Again - Waterloo Anniversary Tour: March 29, 2025 – Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (MECC). Celebrate the 50th anniversary of ABBA’s historic Eurovision win with this internationally acclaimed tribute show.
🌑 Aries New Moon Gathering: March 29, 2025 – Queensland Country Women’s Association, Mackay. Join a community event to set intentions and embrace new beginnings under the Aries New Moon.
🏉 Mackay Premiership Rugby League Matches: March 29, 2025 – BB Print Stadium and other local venues. Kick off the season with local teams competing in the Magic Round.
• Moranbah Miners vs. Wests Tigers Mackay at 12:15 PM
• Mackay Magpies vs. Souths Sharks at 2:20 PM
• Sarina Crocodiles vs. Mackay Brothers Leprechauns at 4:30 PM
🎭 The MECC presents YOAH: March 27, 2025 – Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre. Experience a groundbreaking performance blending Japanese traditions with cutting-edge digital artistry.
🏆 Just Saying Project Awards: March 29, 2025 – Mackay. Celebrate and acknowledge the contributions of women in the region at this inspiring awards night.