Unemployment rates in Mackay are down. Australian Bureau of Statics data shows an unemployment rate of 5.5% in May which is down point 3 percent on April. While Treasurer Curtis Pitt says they'll continue to work on pushing them down even further.
A scheduling mistake and seen a video release news about council's proposed budget early. A video was posted on Mayor Greg Williamson’s Facebook page but then taken down this week where he said ratepayers should expect to see a modest increase in their rates. Mayor Williamson tells the Mercury after a massive decrease in revenue in water and waste there are only two ways to maintain the current level of services. They're to cut operating costs and increase rates.
One Nation senator Malcom Roberts is hitting back following Whitsundays MP Jason Costigan telling him to get his head out of the sand over black lung disease. It's after Senator Roberts claimed the disease is "not a problem when it is managed properly”. While Senator Roberts says Mr Costigan needs to get his facts straight.
There are plans to fill the old Bunning’s warehouse in Mount Pleasant with three stores. Mackay Property group submitting an application to council for one big warehouse and two small stores.
A seminar is on next month that’s set to give locals some top tips in winning work at a few major projects. They include the Carmichael project and the Mackay Ring Road
LOCAL SPORT
The Mackay Cutters will go head to head with the guys from up north this weekend It’s an away game for our boys but they're hoping to claim a win after a week off. Coach Steve Sheppard says the Norths Devils won't be going easy on them.
Fingers are crossed for five North Mackay Saints Aussie rules juniors. They've been selected in the Mackay Crows representative under 14's side. The five will compete in the Country Champs in Airlie Beach this weekend.
WEATHER
Partly cloudy. Medium (40%) chance of showers. Light winds becoming south to southeasterly 20 to 25 km/h in the morning then becoming light in the evening.