Let's bring back our Mackay Pride together by allowing me to be your voice in OUR Mackay Regional Council.

I'm Melissa (Mel) Fowler, a proud mother of 4 sons and Nana to 2 adorable grandsons. I am very excited to share my journey with you. As the proud owner of Stellarossa Rural View & Parkside Plaza, I've been deeply rooted in the Mackay region for my entire life. Born and raised here, my love for our town runs deep, fuelling my passion for its growth and prosperity. Whether through sponsorships, team management, or fundraising for events, I've always been eager to support and uplift our local talents and charities.

Running for council is a natural progression for me. I believe I can make a positive impact by embracing fresh ideas and serving as a positive voice for our residents. If elected, I would be honoured to represent Mackay, striving to understand the needs of our community.

My vision for Mackay is centred on dialogue and collaboration. I want to engage with as many local businesses and residents as possible, to truly comprehend what matters to them. Whether it's the development of our riverfront, road repairs, beautification efforts, or addressing concerns such as youth crime, tourism, aged care, farming, festivals or sporting events – I am open to discussions on all fronts.

Being elected as a councillor means the world to me. It's an opportunity to be a driving force for positive change, working towards bringing back our pride and making Mackay a more appealing place to live. I am committed to listening, learning, and acting on behalf of our community, ensuring that together, we can shape a brighter future for ourselves, families and businesses across the Mackay Region.

I’m George Christensen, and I’m asking for your vote to represent you on council.

As a 5th generation local, I understand the Mackay region like the back of my hand.

And having a three-year-old daughter, I understand the needs and aspirations of local families.

I’m a proven strong local leader, having served this community for 11 years as the Member for Dawson and, before that, as a local councilor for 6 years.

I’ve got a track record of delivery with projects like the Mackay Ring Road, the Walkerston Bypass, and the Mackay Headspace only here because I fought for them.

And that proves I’m a fighter, not just for our region but for you. I’ve been part of a team before, but never a lackey. I crossed the floor in parliament on key issues and spoke out for you when needed.

As part of Jacko’s Team — Mackay First, I want to lower residential and rural rates, and get council out of your life and focused on what matters: delivering key local services.

So vote for me, George Christensen, part of Jacko’s Team — Mackay First.

I am running for council because I don't like the way my rates and taxes are squandered away unnecessarily and I want to make sure the whole region is looked after, not just the city of Mackay. The rural areas need a fair go too.

My name is Kylee Stanton. I am a mother of 5, a local business owner and have a background in small business across many industries. I have also worked in the corporate sector.

I live in the beautiful Pioneer Valley, and frankly, I am sick to death of paying an exorbitant amount of our hard earned money in taxes and rates, only to see it squandered unnecessarily by all levels of government, instead of seeing funds being fairly allocated to where they are most needed. Originally from Brisbane, I moved to Mackay in 2014 after visiting the region. My husband and I wanted a sea change, less stress and a better place to raise our kids. We absolutely love it up here and will never go back to the South East.

One of the biggest things we noticed upon moving to the region, is how left behind regional Queensland is, compared to the South East Corner. Since we have moved to the Pioneer Valley, we realise our rural areas are almost left to their own devices. I am a great believer in all citizens getting their fair share, especially our all important small business owners and our farmers.

With five children, I have always been involved with their schooling and in the past, sporting clubs etc as my children were growing up. With only 2 at home now and almost doing their own things, I have turned my energies to other community work. I am the Treasurer of Save Eungella and a member of our local Rural Fire Brigade.

I love horse riding and am so fortunate to have that back in my life since moving to the Valley. I am also enjoying my veggie gardens and when I find the time, the odd dance class for fun and fitness.

If elected as your councillor, I really want to focus on assisting our farmers. We should be asking them how we can help instead of hindering with more and more red tape, gradually strangling them out of their livelihood. As a council, we should be serving the people of our region, not robbing them under the guise of ‘rates’. I want to be part of a council that can take measures to provide our locals with more services, events and things to do. If locals can ‘get what you pay for’, the bi-annual rates notice would not be paid so begrudgingly, and our youth would not be in such a hurry to flee down south as soon as they graduate.

It is about time our elected officials remember who they work for. They work for us, not us for them, and it would be an honour and a privilege to be elected by the people of Mackay to serve this amazing community.

My love for Mackay motivates me to build a brighter future for our children’s children.

I'm Nathenea MacRae, and I'm thrilled to be running for council. With a diverse background that spans the Hospitality, Retail, Dentistry, and Education sectors, I've always been deeply ingrained in the fabric of Mackay. Currently, I'm managing the administration of my father's business, Professional Inspectors Pty Ltd, and have previously owned small businesses in the region.

As a fifth-generation Mackayite, born and raised in this wonderful city, I am proud of my family heritage, the “Keioskie’s” and “Camilleri’s”. I've always had a biased love for our community. My journey in Mackay spans a lifetime, and I believe we live in paradise. However, my aspiration is to enhance the quality of life for our residents. If elected, I am committed to working tirelessly to achieve great things for the businesses and families of Mackay.

In my community involvement, I have dedicated many years to the Mackay Street Chaplaincy and currently hold a volunteer position on the management team of the ADRA Op Shop Mackay. Additionally, in the past, I was engaged in volunteer work with the Dancing Together Initiative, fostering the inclusion of children with disabilities in dance.

Being elected as a councillor means having the opportunity to serve the community I hold dear.

I am passionate about preserving Mackay's history while simultaneously propelling the Mackay region forward. My heart is set on fostering pride among Mackay residents and witnessing our community thrive. I envision Mackay as a sustainable and affordable place for all its residents. My goal is to support businesses of all sectors, working collaboratively with people across the region to encourage their ideas and initiatives. I am driven by the desire to see Mackay move forward, joining the ranks of our thriving northern cities. Together, let's build a brighter future for Mackay.

I'm Heath Paton, a proud father of two and a true Mackay local. My roots in this town run deep, having been born and raised here. Currently, I'm the owner of HPHFM barber store in Canelands, a venture that grew from my journey starting on a cane farm to eventually owning my own small business.

Throughout my life, I've been involved in various industries, particularly in sports and music. From coaching and playing in the senior ranks of Mackay's soccer scene to organizing music and alternative sporting events, I've always sought ways to contribute to the vibrant tapestry of our community.

The love I have for this town is the driving force behind my decision to run for council. I see immense potential for growth and community development, and I genuinely believe that I can be an asset in fostering a stronger community culture.

Being elected as a councillor presents a fantastic opportunity for me to contribute to the evolution of local events and enhance the events calendar. My childhood memories of the Sugar Time and Youth Fringe Festivals have fuelled my desire to recreate that sense of community spirit and unity. If elected, I aim to foster a united Mackay, instilling a growing sense of community pride that will inspire our people to support and contribute more to our town. Together, let's build a stronger, more vibrant Mackay.

I'm Lindsay Temple, and I'm eager to share a bit about who I am and why I've decided to run for council. Currently wrapping up my 30-year role in mining, I'm preparing to return to work on my small farm and take on essential family commitments. Alongside my beautiful wife of 42 years, we've raised ten children—seven girls and three boys. Mackay has been my home since birth, and I've never entertained the idea of leaving this region. My view of our area has always been positive, and it's not just for my benefit, but for the well-being of all Mackay residents, both present and future.

In the community, I've been involved in various endeavors. Previously, I volunteered my time to drive a bus from Mackay to the Rockhampton Correctional Centre, helping family members connect with their incarcerated loved ones. Recognising the importance of family, I took it upon myself to facilitate these trips. Additionally, my dedication to politics over the years reflects my passion for our area, and I continue to devote myself to making positive changes.

Running for council was a decision fuelled by my commitment to the progress of Mackay. I bring an old-school mindset, always looking forward to avoiding stagnation and keeping pace with our evolving needs. I advocate for improvements such as additional turning lanes, upgrading roads, and promoting transparency in council operations. My goal is to remain open-minded and attentive to the voices of the Mackay community. If elected, I aim to implement changes that benefit the majority, not just a smaller minority. Let's work together to ensure Mackay continues to move forward, leaving no one behind.

I am Ian Christensen, a lifelong resident of the Mackay region, having spent my entire life here since my primary school days at the now closed-down Te Kowai School. My roots in the Mackay region run deep with my paternal grandparents settling in Sarina in 1901 and my maternal great-grandfather actually being one of the pioneers of the region. I raised my family of three children here in this region – Kathleen, Antony, and George, who went on to become a local councillor and then a Federal Member of Parliament. They've blessed me with five grandchildren who also call the Mackay region home.

My experiences in this vibrant community have been diverse, from my youth at Mackay State High to owning and driving taxis, and later venturing into small business ownership. In the 1990s, I embraced the exhilarating world of semi-professional drag car driving, racing a supercharged HQ Monaro as part of the Wild Bunch alongside the legendary Victor Bray.

Despite being an amputee since the age of 19, I've achieved a great deal, and these experiences have given me a unique understanding of our community. It is this understanding and a profound sense of gratitude that fuel my passion for giving back to the place that has shaped me. Whether it's driving taxis, racing cars, or caring for my late wife Margaret, who battled epilepsy, my journey has instilled in me a strong sense of community and service.

As a council member, my commitment is unwavering. I am determined to bring back the cherished Sugar Time Festival, breathing new life into our local heritage and community spirit. My passion extends to launching sustainable but profitable initiatives, such as transforming plastics and used tires into fuel for council fleets, with the aim of reducing rates and contributing to environmental sustainability.

Additionally, I plan to support our veterans by working to establish a rest and relaxation retreat right here in the Mackay region, addressing the critical issue of veteran suicide and enriching our community with their invaluable presence. My involvement with the Parents Against Ice group underscores my commitment to tackling local issues head-on, as crystal methamphetamine has posed a significant challenge in our region. Further, my support for local groups and charities, such as Mumma's Boys Choppers and the RSL, reflects my dedication to community welfare. Together, let's build a thriving and compassionate community that reflects the values we hold dear.

I'm Keith Hicks, and I'm excited to share my journey with you. As a former soldier and tradesman, my path to Mackay is marked by a deep appreciation for the beauty of the Pioneer Valley. In 2021, I visited Mackay and was instantly captivated by the charm of the Pioneer Valley. Without hesitation, three months later, I made the decision to purchase a property (sight unseen) and relocate my family. Since then, we've firmly established ourselves as proud residents of this wonderful region.

In the community, I'm an active contributor, finding fulfilment in volunteering with the Scouts and dedicating time to the veteran community. My commitment to service reflects my belief in giving back to the community that welcomed me and my family with open arms.

Running for council, I envision bringing a fresh perspective and a unique skill set to enhance the Mackay region. My goal is to bring out the best in the community, leveraging my background as a former soldier and tradesman to contribute to the region's growth and development. For me, being elected as a councillor means an opportunity to make positive changes, fostering a vibrant and thriving Mackay that benefits both long-time residents and newcomers alike.

With a passion for innovation and a dedication to community service, I am poised to bring a dynamic and forward-thinking approach to the council, ensuring a brighter and more prosperous future for the Mackay region.

I'm Namarca Corowa and I have a deep heritage to Mackay and I am very proud to represent my whole community as I share my journey with you. Together with my wife, we share deep roots in the region, forging strong ties to our community that extend through generations. Our commitment to Mackay is a family affair, with our three adult children actively assisting us in building resilience and betterment for our beloved community.

In my professional journey spanning various sectors, including Youth Justice, Education, Employment and Training, the music industry, and both Sugar and Mining, I've gathered diverse experiences. Currently, as the founding Director of Reconcile Life Pty Ltd, I focus on delivering Healthy Relationships services in our community.

For more than two decades, I have dedicated my time to community service, actively engaging with local families in distress, participating in foster care initiatives, and supporting individuals facing challenges. My involvement as a local musician extends to volunteering for community events, rallies, and festivals. I've taken on leadership roles in coordinating local men’s groups and community music groups and programs. I have also been on advisory committees for the Mackay Base Hospital, Men’s Community Wellbeing, Domestic and Family Violence Task force and local decision making body for the Indigenous Community here in Mackay.

As your elected representative, I am committed to prioritizing crucial issues affecting our community, with a particular emphasis on tackling youth crime and contributing towards addressing domestic and family violence issues. My vision is to transform Mackay into a safer, more affordable place to live, work, and play. Being elected as a councillor means an opportunity to actively contribute to these changes, working towards a brighter and more secure future for Mackay.

I want to bring a vision of present and future planning for the Mackay Region.

I'm Jeffrey (Jeff) Keioskie, proudly serving as the owner of the local family business Professional Inspectors' specialising in Building Inspections and Pool Safety Fence Inspections. My journey in the building industry, ranging from being a Carpenter to a Building Contractor and Site Project Manager, has allowed me to contribute significantly to various projects in the Mackay Regional Council area, earning recognition through several Housing Industry Building Awards (HIA).

However, beyond being a businessman, I am a dedicated family man with three adult children and four grandchildren. The Keioskie family has been an integral part of Mackay's history since 1874, establishing deep ties to the community. My commitment to Mackay is unwavering, and my drive stems from the desire to work solely in the best interest of the community and city.

As a proud member of 'Jacko's Team, Mackay First,' I am part of a family-minded group of community individuals united on core issues. While sharing financial resources during the election campaign, each member maintains independence to serve the families, pensioners, and the community once elected as councillors.

My involvement in community issues dates back to my 20s, where I played a significant role in the 'Divided City Mackay' campaign from 1986 to 1994, advocating for the amalgamation of Mackay City Council and Pioneer Shire Councils. I have been a vocal critic of forced council amalgamations, emphasizing the importance of community consultation and transparency.

Beyond community campaigns, I have served as the SES Welfare Manager for my church and have been a frequent contributor to 'Letters to the Editor' for over 25 years, addressing issues at all levels of government that impact families, the community, the state, and Australia.

With deep roots and a vast understanding of Mackay, I believe my background, experience, and work history in the Building/Construction Industry uniquely qualify me to serve the community as a Councillor, with planning and development.

I envision a Mackay that operates as a 'Can Do Council,' prioritising community needs and fostering a sustainable, affordable living environment for all residents. As a servant to the community, I see myself as a libertarian, focused on forming policies that support residents, businesses, and farming communities. My goal is to encourage local growth, job opportunities, and keep families together by retaining local talent. During challenging times, I advocate for fiscal responsibility, believing that when the community tightens its belt, the Council should do the same. Elected as a councillor, I am dedicated to being a strong advocate for the people of Mackay.