Christmas cheer spreads across the region

Council have kicked in $7750 to boost festive celebrations in regional areas like Dows Creek, Eungella, Finch Hatton, Habana, Calen and Sarina.

From carols to community barbecues, movie nights to festive markets and everything in between – the Mackay region will be buzzing with festive fun.

As well as 10 exciting events, Mackay City Band received a $750 grant to perform at a number of community carols and Christmas events like the Rotary Christmas Fair, Habana carols and various retirement village performances.

Annual report reveals recovery and growth  

Council’s annual report has been released to the public and it reveals a year of recovery and growth bolstered by a return to normalcy following a reduction of COVID-19 restrictions.

The report includes information on the usual roads, rubbish and rates, and also details key achievements and exciting major projects.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the 2021-2022 financial year was not without challenges but added that it also offered some unique opportunities for our region.

Tender awarded for Memorial Swim Centre 

DMR Leisure Pty Ltd will take over the management of Memorial Swim Centre next year after being awarded the tender at last week’s council meeting.

Prior to entering into the new agreement, council reviewed the term of the contract and extended it from a two-year contract (with the option of a one-year extension) to a five-year term (with the option of two one-year extensions at council’s discretion).

This will give DMR the opportunity to invest in staff and form a good working knowledge of the Memorial Swim Centre from both an asset point of view and a client point of view.

Sugar Shed Rum wins national silver

Sarina Sugar Shed has officially produced one of the best rums in the country.

The signature Sugar Shed Rum was awarded silver in the two-four year rum category at the inaugural Australian Rum Awards on Friday, November 4, in Brisbane.

An esteemed panel of rum and spirit experts rated the Sugar Shed Rum highly, with a score of 86 points, ranking it among the finest rums in Australia.

The silver award at the Australian Rum Awards adds to the gold award won by Sarina Sugar Shed at the Australian Distilled Spirit Awards in December last year for its Sugar Shed Classic, as well as numerous silver and bronze medals in previous years.