Community and Client Services - Monthly Review April 2021 - Mackay Regional Council
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Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1-30 April 2021
Community and Client Services
Monthly Review
April 2021
1
Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1-30 April 2021
Contents
1. Highlights of the Month ............................................................................................. 3
2. Workplace Health & Safety ...................................................................................... 4
3. Financial Performance - April 2021 ....................................................................... 6
4. Community Lifestyle .................................................................................................. 8
5. Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre and Events .............................. 19
6. Corporate Communications and Marketing ........................................................ 23
7. Emergency Management ........................................................................................ 33
8. Health & Regulatory Services ............................................................................... 37
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Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1-30 April 2021
1. Highlights of the Month
Across the Community and Client Services directorate, highlights for the month of April 2021 include:
• Staff commenced a collection inventory project at Pioneer Valley Museum with 461 items viewed,
assessed, and updated in the database as at the end of the month.
• Library Services held a book sale 10-16 April at Gordon White Library. More than 470 customers attended
over the week, collectively purchasing hundreds of boxes of books.
• Our Sport & Recreation team launched the Clubs Connect program via media and direct email to local
sport and recreation clubs on April 27. Clubs Connect is an online platform that supports the administration,
development and connectedness of the region’s sport and recreation clubs.
• Artspace Mackay officially launched their new online database of the Mackay Regional Council Art
Collection on Thursday 29 April.
• Over 3,000 patrons attended the Wiggles at the MECC for their “We’re All Fruit Salad” Tour.
• Council was involved in helping coordinate this year’s Mackay ANZAC marches and services, including
necessary road closures. Social media coverage of the Mackay dawn and main parades and services
reached a total of around 100,000 people.
• The four social media posts that ran as part of Council’s annual illegal dumping campaign had a combined
reach of more than 50,600 people. In addition to television and social media, the campaign also had a radio
component and featured on council’s digital billboards and staff’s email footers during the month of April.
• During April, our Emergency Management team were able to host the first in-person meeting of our
Emergency Liaison Officers since COVID began, with a fantastic turnout of 15 ELO’s attending.
• The Eungella Bushfires Creative Recovery Project concluded on 23 April with the official launch of the
Eungella Range Ablaze book and the Eungella short film, to an audience of 70 residents, Queensland Rural
Fire Service members, and Council’s elected members.
• During April 2021, Local Laws Officers conducted 37 proactive animal patrols across the region, with 90% of
owners found to be doing the right thing and walking their dogs on leashes.
• One of our Pest Management team hosted a stall at the annual Reef Catchments Grazing Forum on 22
April, providing information on restricted invasive matter and answering general questions for the 70 people
in attendance.
Angela Hays
Director Community & Client Services.
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Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1-30 April 2021
2. Workplace Health & Safety
Summary
In April 2021:
• Eight safety interactions were undertaken.
• Eight site safety inspections were undertaken.
• 99% of monthly action plans activities were carried out.
Five incidents were reported in April, involving MRC employees and members of the public.
Incidents and Injuries
The following injuries to MRC employees were reported during April:
• Two officers were verbally abused by a member of the public and were threatened with physical
violence.
The following near miss incidents involving an MRC employee were reported during April:
• Staff member lost footing upon exiting the workspace but was able to regain footing before falling.
• An oven door was damaged whilst in use, when the door handle failed and smashed the glass
window.
The following incidents involving a member of the public were reported during April:
• A child hit their head on a shelf unit located behind a couch at a library.
• A vehicle being driven by a SES volunteer collided with depot card reader.
Each incident is investigated, and appropriate corrective measures implemented to reduce future risks.
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Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1-30 April 2021
Lost Time Injuries & Days Lost
2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21
Days Days Days Days Days
Department LTI Lost LTI Lost LTI Lost LTI Lost LTI Lost
Corporate Communications
Community Lifestyle 1 3 1 13
MECC & Events 2 4 1 18 1 1
Emergency Management
Health & Regulatory Services 1 2 1 1
Community & Client Services 3 6 1 1 1 18 1 3 2 14
For the 2020-21 year, two lost time injuries have been recorded:
• In February 2021, a worker suffered a mild concussion after they bumped their head on a closing
door. One day was lost.
• In March 2021, a worker suffered a knee injury after they tripped and fell at a library. Thirteen days
over March and April were lost as they recovered. Afterwards, they returned to work undertaking
suitable modified duties.
Glossary
Incident Any unplanned event resulting in or having a potential for injury or ill health.
Lost Time Injury (LTI) Incidents that resulted in a fatality, permanent disability or time lost from work of one
day / part of a day or more
Total Recordable Injuries (TRI) Incidents that result in a Lost Time Injury (LTI), Suitable Duties Injury (SDI) and
Medical Treatment Injury (MTI)
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Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1 - 30 April 2021
3. Financial Performance - April 2021
Financial Performance Report % YTD Variance of YTD Budget
Community & Client Services
Period Covered: 1 July 2020 to 29 April 2021 YTD Variance favourable of budget
YTD Variance unfavourable, between 0% and 5% of YTD Budget
YTD Variance unfavourable, more than 5% of YTD Budget
Revised YTD YTD
Actual Comments
Budget Budget Variance
4.01 - Community & Client Services Management 359,056 285,240 326,415 41,175 Variance due to timing of staff leave.
4.03 - Community Lifestyle 8,167,759 6,499,541 6,324,217 (175,325) On track.
4.04 - MECC & Events 3,540,191 2,813,796 2,620,723 (193,073) Increased revenues, staff vacancies.
4.05 - Corporate Communication & Marketing 1,746,123 1,394,413 1,382,645 (11,768) On track.
4.07 - Health & Regulatory Services 3,452,162 2,583,169 2,250,887 (332,282) Ahead of budget from increased revenue and reduced operational
expenditure.
4.08 - Emergency Management 62,557 (60,457) (123,774) (63,317) On track.
Operating (surplus) / deficit 17,327,848 13,515,704 12,781,113 (734,590)
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Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1 - 30 April 2021
Financial Performance - 2018
Operating (surplus) / deficit
20,000,000
18,000,000
16,000,000
14,000,000
12,000,000
10,000,000
8,000,000
6,000,000
4,000,000
2,000,000
-
July August September October November December January February March April May June
YTD Budget YTD Actual
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Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1 - 30 April 2021
4. Community Lifestyle
4.1 Community Programs
Community Enquiries aligned to business plan objectives:
• Community Building - 271
• Lifelong Learning - 41
• Civic Participation - 17
Number of Emergency Relief Assistance Packages provided – 20
Sarina Neighbourhood Centre meeting rooms utilisation – 39 bookings
Occasions of JP Services provided to community – 19
Number of external bookings in Jubilee Community Centre for the month – 49
Total Jubilee Community Centre usage (internal/external) – 262
Community Development
Activity Comments
Outreach Services to Hearing Australia have begun providing free hearing test in the Sarina
Sarina community with 61 locals accessing the service in April.
My Community Training in the use of My Community Directory is being held through
Directory the Sarina Neighbourhood Centre to increase the number of groups,
organisation and services listed in the online directory.
Party in the Park Preparation for the inaugural Party in the Park is well under way for
this event on Tuesday, 18 May, 9 - 11:30am on the Civic Precinct
lawns. The event aims to provide opportunities for isolated parents
and carers of children aged 0-5 to connect with services, groups, and
each other. There will be 20 stalls on hand to showcase their services
and engage families in interactive activities.
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Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1 - 30 April 2021
Progress Associations The Community Programs Team has been busy across the region
supporting our Progress Associations. The team has met with 10
Progress Associations across the month to provide information and
support on a variety of projects.
The team has also successfully supported the establishment of 2 new
Progress Associations in the region with Eton and Marian both forming
during the month of April.
Volunteers Expo The Volunteers Expo is on again in 2021 with the event set to occur on
Sunday, 16 May, 10am - 2pm at the Big Shed, Mackay Showgrounds.
Registrations for stalls have been steadily increasing with 45
registered to date. There will be a variety of organisations available to
showcase their services and opportunities to attendees.
Community Meetings / Events / Interagency Meetings.
149 meetings and events were held, or attended, highlights include:
General Interagency The General Interagency Meeting convened on Tuesday, 13 May at
Meeting the Jubilee Community Centre and online. 30 participants
representing 18 agencies were in attendance.
The meeting welcomed a guest speaker on the upcoming Census and
how unrepresented groups can be supported to participate. May will
see a Toastmasters development opportunity provided to the
Interagency Network on Tuesday, 18 May.
Youth Week 2021 Youth Week 2021 was celebrated by over 50 young people at our
Youth Week event held in Mirani on Thursday, 15 April. The event
welcomed a bus load of young people from Sarina as well as young
people from around the region including the Pioneer Valley and
Farleigh.
There was a variety of activities on offer for the young people that
supported their ability to connect with one another and celebrate being
a young person in our region.
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Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1 - 30 April 2021
Sport and Recreation
Activity Comments
Clubs Connect The Clubs Connect program was launched via media and direct email
to local sport and recreation clubs on Tuesday April 27. Clubs Connect
is an online platform that supports the administration, development
and connectedness of the region’s sport and recreation clubs.
Clubs can register for the Clubs Connect program at
mackay.qld.gov.au/club registration.
Workshops to promote the program and encourage registrations will
be held at the Jubilee Community Centre on 5 and 13 May
commencing at 5pm. Further workshops will be held as demand is
determined. Workshop registration and or enquires can be directed to
sport@mackay.qld.gov.au.
Club Development Assistance was provided to Mackay BMX, Mackay Croquet, Mackay
Cricket, Pony Club - Eton with leasing and property related issues.
Provided Grant application support to Midge Point Fishing Club,
Souths Junior Rugby League, Mackay Hockey
Getting to know your Work is progressing on a web-based project to highlight active travel
Burb and physical activity options along with accessible public spaces within
our suburbs. Current focus centres on developing content and
appropriate software solutions.
Brewers Park Sporting groups located within the Brewers Park precinct were issued
with new leases for their consideration and sign off.
Museums
Museum Comments
Pioneer Valley Museum Open: March 29 – April 28
Number of days open: 14
Visitors: Unknown
Volunteer hours: Unknown
Sarina Museum Closed during April due to ramp construction
Volunteer hours: 103
• The ramp and stair replacement are ongoing.
Mackay Museum Open: March 29 – April 28
Number of days open: 8
Visitors: 9
Volunteer hours: 219
Greenmount Open: March 29 – April 28
Homestead Number of days open: 13
Visitors: 45
Volunteer hours: 20
10Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1 - 30 April 2021
Ongoing Projects • Staff commenced collection inventory project at Pioneer Valley
Museum with 461 items viewed, assessed, and updated in the
database.
• Construction of Greenmount arbour approved by the Department of
Environment and Science as part of the ongoing AGHS project
• Greenmount Homestead 3D garden tour launched as Museum’s
contribution to the National Trust’s Heritage Month 2021
• Greenmount Homestead and Outbuildings Heritage Conservation
Project Request for Quote released
• Filming undertaken for a new digital school resource, to be trialled
with local schools
• Pilot project undertaken for a Greenmount Homestead Art Camp
for 8- to 12-year-olds. This was a trial for a new program planned
for the September school holidays
Junior Sporting and Arts and Culture Grant
• No Junior Sporting Grants or Arts and Culture Grants were procesed this month.
InKind Assistance requests
• 3 InKind assistance requests were approved for the month of March, with a total value of
$1,082.87.
11Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1 - 30 April 2021
4.2 Libraries
Activity
Comments
Book Sale The library book sale was held from 10 - 16 April at Gordon White Library.
This event included the monthly Sunday opening in line with Troppo Markets,
and the second week of school holidays ensuring flexibility for attendees.
There were literally hundreds of boxes walking out the door and some very
positive interactions with customers. 476 customers attended over the week,
A great effort by the library team who embraced some unique upselling to
encourage customers with over $2600 raised. We were able to re-home much
of the remaining stock to Sarina Hospital, Townsville Prison, OzCare,
Homeless Expo and local Educators with only ten boxes returned to storage,
which is a great result for sustainability and the environment.
Young People’s First 5 Forever:
Services and First 5 # of events: 31 (14 Baby Bounce, 6 Toddler Time, 11 Story Time)
Forever # attendees: 438
School Holiday Activities:
# of events: 8 (4 Easter craft, 2 Bed Time stories, 2 Movies)
# attendees: 112
# new program initiatives: New OUTREACH playgroup session – facilitated
by Churches of Christ – Cultural playgroup for carers and bubs - 22 attendees.
This play group is a great opportunity for First 5 Forever team to connect and
support foster parents and their families in the community.
Baby Bounce: 14 sessions with 218 attendees
Toddler Time: 6 sessions – 89 attendees
Story time: 11 sessions – 131 attendees
STEAM: 2 sessions – 7 attendees
Despite having to wear masks and adhere to social distancing bedtime stories at both
GWL and DDCL were well attended by families in April.
Community Outreach # of events: 43
Programs # attendees: 1,685
MRC Collaborative Programs: Community Programs, Artspace and Local
Laws
12Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1 - 30 April 2021
Key Highlights: The entire Library Services Team and library members have
jumped on board with our Music at the Library Program. On any afternoon, the
strumming of a ukulele can be heard flowing through our spaces. The staff
hum along, the customers have a groove in their step, and those who are
playing are swept up in the moment.
Our Ukulele Program, made possible through a State Library of Queensland
and Telstra grant, provides our senior residents with an opportunity to re-learn
or discover a new musical skill. This hands-on learning experience is teaching
them new skills and empowering them to try new things in a safe and
encouraging environment.
Digital Literacy & # of events: 19
Young Adult Programs Programs # attendance: 126
Manga Workshop with David Lovegrove: DLYA staff collaborated with
manga (Japanese comic art) artist, David Lovegrove, to present a manga
drawing workshop for young adults in April.
The program was a roaring success, with all teenagers eagerly participating
and giving their input. Even a few parents joined in. Two programs were held,
one at Gordon White Library in the morning and later in the afternoon, at
Dudley Denny City Library. There were 14 attendees in total.
Movie Screening: Call of the Wild: DLYA staff successfully facilitated a
movie screening at Dudley Denny City Library, where young adults gathered to
watch Call of the Wild. 12 young adults attended in total. There was not a dry
eye in the house by the end of it, but it was thoroughly enjoyed by all.
Statistics
13Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1 - 30 April 2021
Monthly KPI Update
Service / Activity Annual KPI YTD Status Comments
Library Loans 1,000,000 830,701 On target
Online resources continue to
Database Hits 75,000 95,133
perform well.
Social Media
8,000 8,829 Steady increases observed
Followers
eNewsletter
N/A 17,309 Registrations remain steady
subscribers
84% of YTD target. Numbers
remain steady; however, unlikely to
In Person Visits 350,000 244,484 meet target with COVID restrictions
still impacting on both program
attendance and general visitation.
Web + Catalogue
300,000 398,429 Exceeding planned target
Visits
% of Scheduled
95% - 24 Programs were cancelled during
Programs 95.37%
105% March due to COVID-19 restrictions
Delivered
Number of new New initiatives and partnerships
10 23
program initiatives are continuing to be developed
73 events Outreach programs have been well
Outreach Events N/A
4,213 attendees received
New Virtual 292,343 reached Virtual programs are decreasing
Programs * N/A however engagement with content
Outcomes 15,404 engaged continues
14Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1 - 30 April 2021
4.3 Artspace Mackay
Artspace Exhibitions
Activity
Comments
Ron McBurnie: In Ron McBurnie is a leading Townsville-based artist and educator,
Search of Arcadia drawing inspiration from early traditions of British and European
printmaking and painting. In 2019 and 2020 McBurnie completed an
extended artist residency with Artspace Mackay, capturing beloved
26 Feb – 16 May landscapes and views of this region en plein air. The resulting suite of
FIELD Engineers Gallery work on paper is shown together in a major celebration of the beauty of
Mackay and its surroundings, from Cape Hillsborough beaches to cane
fields in Eton. The exhibition officially opened on Friday 26 February
(105 people attended) and will run until Sunday 16 May.
Drawing from historical and contemporary works held in the Mackay
A Changing Ecology
Regional Council Art Collection and Mackay Libraries’ Heritage
Collection, A Changing Ecology explores representations of Mackay
19 Feb – 16 May and greater Queensland’s flora and fauna since colonisation. The
Foundation Gallery exhibition features early local photographs and glass plate negatives,
historic botanical illustrations and floral still lifes alongside Indigenous
voices including Danie Mellor, Fiona Foley, and Archie Moore, whose
works look back on these past visualisations of Australia and its people.
Dylan Mooney: The Wall The Wall is an artist-in-residence exhibition program offering Australian
16 Feb – 12 May artists the opportunity to create a site-specific artwork directly onto the
Foyer Gallery gallery’s foyer wall. Now in its sixth iteration, Artspace Mackay hosted
Mackay-raised Dylan Mooney, an emerging Yuwi, Torres Strait
Islander, and Australian South Sea Islander artist from 2 – 12 February.
Mooney’s practice includes prints and drawings inspired by First
Nations history, culture, and personal ancestry. Mooney’s site-specific
mural is inspired by archival research and learning on country about
traditional Yuwi shield-making and other material cultures of this
region’s First Peoples.
15Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1 - 30 April 2021
Tony Druery: Horizons Tony Druery (b.1964–d.2016) was an artist and educator in the Mackay
4 Feb – 16 May community, creating images that spoke to his love of the water, the
Foyer Gallery Australian outback and scenes closer to home. His dynamic fish-eye
views of Mackay’s construction boom in the late 2000’s capture a rapidly
changing cityscape at an important time in the town’s recent history.
Druery’s linocut prints exploit the visual attractions of cranes and
scaffolding while also expressing the disorientation felt by many of
Mackay’s local residents at the time. In recognition of Druery’s untimely
death, the exhibition showcases well-loved works alongside unexhibited
pieces to commemorate his legacy within the local arts community.
Public Programs
Activity Comments
Guided Tours Artspace hosted five guided tours in April, for a total of 75 participants.
On 14 April we hosted a tour for Smith Family students (9 x year 9 - 11
students). 25 Mackay Probus Group members participated in a tour on
23 April and 11 x St Patricks College students (year 11) participated in
a guided tour on 28 April. 30 students from Mercy College attended two
tours over two days - 14 students on 27 April & 16 students on 30 April.
Kids holiday workshops
with Traci Lietzke:
For the first week of the school holidays Artspace hosted mixed-media
Mixed-media artists’
workshops for children aged 8 – 11, with local artist Traci Lietzke as
books
the tutor. There were four sessions over the two days, with a total of
10am – 12pm and 1pm –
21 participants.
3pm, Wednesday 7 &
Thursday 8 April
Smith Family Artspace collaborated with the Smith Family to host workshops for high
Workshops school students over three days. A total of 26 students participated in
9am – 4pm, workshops over the three days. The students worked alongside local
Wednesday 14 – Friday artists Jan Ward and Lesley Kane to produce artworks, which then went
16 April on display in the Jubilee Community Centre Foyer Exhibition Space
from 15 – 28 April. The students also participated in industry talks with
the local artists/tutors and galley staff to discuss careers in visual arts.
16Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1 - 30 April 2021
Conversations with Art In April’s Conversations with Art, visitors looked at artworks currently
1 – 2.30pm, Friday 16 on display in the exhibition A Changing Ecology. Artworks and objects
April featured in this exhibition come from the MRC Art Collection and the
Libraries Heritage Collection. Held on the 3rd Friday of each month,
Conversations with Art is a free and enjoyable discussion led by
Artspace staff as we look at works in the gallery, as well as images of
traditional and contemporary artworks from gallery and museum
collections from around the world. 8 visitors attended April’s
Conversations with Art event.
Drawing Workshop with To accompany Ron McBurnie’s show In Search of Arcadia, Artspace
Ron McBurnie hosted an outdoor drawing workshop led by the artist. Ron explained
10am – 2pm, Sunday 18 his techniques when using fountain pens and watercolours as well as
April his favourite drawing tools. This workshop was fully-subscribed with
10 participants.
BMA Kidspace BMA Kidspace was held on Tuesday 20 April and attracted 30 people
to gallery. Artspace Mackay’s ever-popular toddlers’ program gives
10am – 2pm, Tuesday 20 children under five a chance to explore and have fun with art in a
April climate of co-operative learning. The program includes free artist-run
workshops and live musical entertainment.
Launch of MRC Art Artspace Mackay officially launched their new online database of the
Collection Online Mackay Regional Council Art Collection on Thursday 29 April.
Featuring over 620 artworks from the Collection, the online database
enables access to council’s art collection like never before. The art
collection can be explored by colour, object type and/or artist and
features collection highlights such as contemporary Australian
Indigenous artworks and past winners of The Libris Awards. 40 people
attended the official launch, including Visual Arts Advisory Committee
members, local art educators and art lovers.
17Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1 - 30 April 2021
Monthly KPI Update
Annual Status
Service / Activity YTD Comments
KPI
Attendance numbers (as of 29 April) well
below average (2,200). Impacted by
travel restrictions brought about by
Visitors: Artspace 28, 000 13,799
COVID-19 and two-week requirement to
wear face masks over Easter school
holidays.
Significant increase of web visits in April.
Web Visits 14,000 10,055
Up by 231 from month of March.
Total Number of e-
Subscriber numbers increased by 16 for
Newsletter 1,800 1,845
the month of April.
Subscribers
116 new subscribers for the month of
Facebook
6,600 7,487 April. Combined total for Artspace and
Subscribers
Rock Paper Scissors Facebook pages.
No new exhibitions during the month of
Exhibitions 12 12
April.
Maximum number of participants for
Public Program public programs and activities still
7,400 2,068
Participants restricted due to COVID-19 social
distancing requirements.
Public programs
(Inc. tours, BMA
Kidspace,
140 108 On target
workshops,
exhibition openings,
markets, etc.)
Volunteer hours 2,500 2,327 On target
18Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1 - 30 April 2021
5. Mackay Entertainment & Convention
Centre and Events
KPI Measure Target YTD Status Comments
Number of Performances fully cost
50% 69% On Track
recovered
Minimum number of catered functions
120 125 Reached target
(excluding performances)
Auditorium 260 384 On Track
Average attendance at events Foyer/space 100 48 Impacted COVID-19
Halls 300 274 On Track
One Hall only 100 46 Impacted COVID-19
Number of non-utilised days 200 95 On Track
Number of Performances at the MECC 180 57 Impacted COVID-19
Number of Conferences / Expos 14 9 Impacted COVID-19
Number of Events with Attendance
from outside Mackay Region LG area 30 39 Reached target
(Post Code Data)
#Events at BB Print Stadium 10 15 Reached target
#in Attendance at BB Print Stadium 9,196 8,200 On Track
Number of Student Attendances 1,000 1,585 Reached target
Number of workshops > Youth 6 6 Reached target
Number of engagement
6 7 Reached target
workshops/activities
Yearly occupancy of facility 65,000 37,735 Impacted COVID-19
Customer Hire Satisfaction 80% 96% Exceeding target
Number of regional events
assisted through either 6 5 On Track
financial or in-kind assistance
Number of regional events ticketed 8 4 Impacted COVID-19
Friends of the MECC Volunteer Hours N/A 2008 Tracking well
19Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1 - 30 April 2021
Overview:
The MECC has had a strong finish to April welcoming thousands of patrons through the doors during
the last week of the month. Following a false start due to the snap 3-day lockdown in Brisbane which
affected a number of April performing arts events, the staff have delivered a number of events within
the MECC and also BB Print Stadium. Event momentum is expected to build leading into a heavy
events season May – November 2021.
Events delivered in April included:
• Two Mackay Cutters Homes Games – BB Print Stadium
• MRC Council Chambers Meeting
• DBCT Kids Theatre Season Free Workshop
• Digital Video Production Workshop – Stage Qld
• Circa – Peepshow
• The Ultimate Eagles
• Hastings Deering Function
• De Jonge Read Breakfast Seminar
• The Wiggles – 3 Shows
• Human Nature
Team Updates Actions Completed
Catering The team has successfully delivered a number of catered events this month.
Trade at Foodspace and BB Print continues to be strong in April.
Operations Rachel Barber has been appointed to the Operations Coordinator role with the
Front of House Functions Supervisor role now to be recruited.
Technical The technical services team has been extremely busy with a number of
Services performing arts events through the end of April. A number of capital projects
are also nearing completion in this period.
Sales and MECC Kids Club > The Midnight Gang Artist Workshop
Business
Development
The MECC Engagement Team delivered the second artist workshop on 15
April with fantastic results. Arts Educator, Lisa Roebig Holmes guided children
in the creation of their very own Midnight Gang Pillowcase and feedback post
event was great.
20Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1 - 30 April 2021
“It was excellent. Really worthwhile. The kids enjoyed it immensely. Thank
you!” said one participant.
“My grandchildren totally enjoyed the workshops and are keen to do more”
said another.
During the workshop, participants were offered a discount coupon to see the
performance of The Midnight Gang. 7 families took on this offer, with 19 tickets
sold.
Circa Peepshow Workshop
Circa’s contemporary circus delivered their workshop for intermediate students
on Thursday 22 April. The workshop was designed for intermediate students
to help develop existing skills, technique, and how to plan and create a
professional act. The workshop was hosted by Sensory Circus Tribe Mackay,
who kindly volunteered their venue space and teaching staff to ensure a
successful event.
“The sensory troupe hosted us in their small, renovated church-turned-circus
space for a brilliant 1.5-hour workshop focusing on handstands, tumble and
group acro.
The participants had expressed particular interest in balancing and tumble, so
after an efficient warm up we dived into a handstand masterclass focusing on
form, stability and 101 balancing in pairs. The tumble component was
structured in two parts, teaching, and correcting some of the most useful
fundamentals and then thinking creatively to put those skills into a very small
sequence and alter tempo, directions and flavour of the movements.
The workshop finished with a chunky group acro masterclass, with bodies of
all shapes and sizes volunteering to fly, toss, catch and two-high.
Overall a great vibe, participants were super keen and hungry to try new
things. Most have bought tickets for tomorrow night and wished the cast an
exuberant chookas.” Said one of Circa’s Teaching Artists.
21Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1 - 30 April 2021
Term Two Youth Ambassador Meeting
Youth Ambassadors met in the Lynette Denny Space to discuss upcoming
opportunities at the MECC. The group were joined by Ruth Matsen (MECC
Catering Coordinator) who gave the group an insight into what it is like to cater
for very large events and how to professionally set a table. These students
were also presented with their Youth Ambassador shirts, individually
embroidered with their names. Youth Ambassadors will be required to wear
these shirts when they volunteer at the MECC.
Shine Bright Festival
The MECC Marketing and Engagement Team have been working closely with
CQRASN to deliver the Shine Bright Festival on Saturday 1 May. MECC staff
have been responsible for organising musicians, comedians, food vendors,
fencing, technical requirements, and marketing. With Melbourne Comedy
Festival taking place after the event, MECC staff are expecting high numbers
for this free community event.
The Wiggles – We’re All Fruit Salad Tour!
Wiggles Fans visited the MECC for the “We’re All Fruit Salad” Tour. The
MECC came alive with the sound of close to 3000 patrons experiencing live
theatre, with lots of laughing and excitement filling the air.
Renew Mackay Presents: Toni Childs – One For our Heroes
The MECC Marketing and Engagement Team have been working closely with
ReNew Mackay in the lead up to their event, Toni Childs.
The MECC offered to assist event planner Sam Percival with the marketing of
this event after discussions on the work ReNew Mackay are doing in the
community.
Festival and The Festivals Team is finalising preparations for the Festival Launch – May 7th
Events will the full program release and on sale to the public.
Hayley Clancy has been appointed to the Festival & Events Officer role, with
coordinator recruitment in process. MECC Management continue to manage
all programming and Festival Coordination during this period.
22Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1 - 30 April 2021
6. Corporate Communications
and Marketing
Rain fails to dampen Anzac Day spirit in Mackay
Anzac Day commemorations in Mackay last month
faced challenges, ranging from weather to COVID
uncertainty in the lead-up, but the community turned
out in force throughout our region.
Mackay’s Anzac Day dawn and main parades and
services are organised by a committee made up of
representatives of the RSL and council, including
Corporate Communications and Marketing. Support is
also provided to the smaller RSL sub-branches in our
region that conduct services.
In 2020, commemorations in Mackay – like the rest of
Australia – were restricted to the Light Up the Dawn
driveway services and a virtual video service produced
by council.
COVID also created uncertainty in the lead-up to last
month’s Anzac Day, with the committee initially forced
to work on a plan for a ticketed service and no parade
due to restrictions before the State Government
announced parades and services could go ahead as
normal.
Council was involved in helping coordinate the Mackay marches and services, including necessary
road closures. Coverage of the Mackay dawn and main parades and services generated plenty of
interest on council’s Facebook posts. Four posts, including photos and a Facebook live video of the
main Mackay parade, reached a total of around 100,000 people.
23Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1 - 30 April 2021
Promotion of Heritage Festival helps residents take step back in time
Mackay’s contribution to
the 2021 National Trust
Heritage Festival got
under way in April.
Corporate
Communications and
Marketing has been
helping promote events
being staged during the
month-long festival, which
began on April 18 and
runs until May 19.
There has been a good
response from the
community to events,
ranging from guided
heritage tours of the City
Centre and cemetery
tours to a bus tour of the
Pioneer Valley. Online virtual tours of the City Centre and Pioneer Valley have also been promoted as
part of the festival.
Online tool makes checking
property’s flood risk simple
A new simple online tool
means checking a Mackay
region property’s flood hazard
risk is just a few clicks away.
Late last month council
launched its new Property
Flood Report online tool and
has produced an instructional
video on how to use it.
The easy-to-use tool replaces the customer or online request for Q100/Defined Flood Event/Defined
Storm Tide Event and Minimum Floor Level.
Corporate Communications and Marketing assisted with scripting for the video production. It also
promoted the video when it was released.
The instructional video can be viewed at mackay.qld.gov.au/propertyfloodreportvideo
The Flood Report Tool can be accessed via council’s website at
mackay.qld.gov.au/propertyfloodreport
A second promotional video on coastal hazards will be released and promoted this month.
24Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1 - 30 April 2021
Illegal dumping. Not in my backyard!
Message gains traction in region
Council’s annual illegal dumping
campaign ran over the month of April.
This year a new television and social
media advertisement was filmed
featuring Health and Regulatory’s very
own Jessica Flannery, which reached
10,626 people, had 71 likes, 74
comments and 37 shares on Facebook
and has had 7474 views on YouTube.
Filming of the advertisement was
funded by a State Government grant
and will be used by Isaac, Whitsunday
and Mackay regional councils.
The four social media posts that ran as
part of this campaign had a combined
reach of more than 50,600 people. In
addition to television and social media,
the campaign also had a radio
component and featured on council’s
digital billboards and staff’s email
footers during the month of April.
Jessica Flannery’s work in the Illegal
Dumping Compliance Project Officer
role featued on the front page of the May
edition of council’s internal eNewsletter, Grapevine.
2021 Mayor’s Charity
Ball a sell-out event
It seems Mackay people
are ready to party and
shake off the COVID
blues.
An advertising campaign
during April for the 2021
Mayor’s Charity Ball at
the MECC was a
massive success.
The ball on May 15,
which will raise funds for
Mackay’s Domestic
Violence Resource Service and Heartkids, is a sell-out, with a record of more than 400 tickets sold.
25Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1 - 30 April 2021
All website visits for April 2021
Trend of MRC website (mackay.qld.gov.au) visits
26Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1 - 30 April 2021
Facebook facilities for April 2021
MRC Facebook followers for March 2021 MRC social media for April 2021
MRC YouTube views for April 2021
27Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1 - 30 April 2021
Council Meeting Live Stream – April 2021
YouTube
Facebook
Note: Software issue on March 10.
eNewsletter Subscribers
Artspace: 1845 (Last month: 1850)
Botanic Gardens: 1153 (Last month: 1161)
Council Connect: 3377 (Last month: 3418)
Library: 17,059 (Last month: 16,872)
Recreation Services: 1099 (Last month: 1099)
Mackay Planning: 1216 (Last month 1216)
Connecting Mackay: 3230 (Last month 3246)
Sarina Sugar Shed: 216 (New)
28Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1 - 30 April 2021
Council featured in 169 news stories in April.
Media Monitoring Break-Down April 2021
News Clips/Articles
45
45 42
40
40
35
30
25
19
20
15
10
10 7
5 2 3
1
0
Advertising spend across council
29Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1 - 30 April 2021
Community Engagement
Koumala Water Treatment Plant
Meetings were held with key stakeholders – Koumala State School, Koumala Progress Association,
Koumala and District Bushman’s Carnival and Wilmar Sugar – prior to the construction of the
treatment plant. A temporary ramp is being built for the Koumala Bushman’s Carnival Committee as
the previous ramp was in the site office area. A permanent structure will be built once construction is
completed. Construction letters have been distributed to all Koumala residents, corflute signage
erected onsite, and media issued.
connectingmackay.com.au/admin/projects/koumala-water-treatment-plant
Pioneer River Levee Extension
The Pioneer River Levee bank extension works are taking place on council’s land that is being used
by Mackay Community Gardens. A meeting was held with Mackay Community Gardens to discuss the
scope of works, the construction timeframe and traffic management plans, prior to works starting. It
was agreed if access to the entry of the gardens was required for deliveries or plant collections, the
contractor would make temporary access available. Construction notifications were issued to nearby
residents and the project was publicised.
connectingmackay.com.au/pioneer-river-levee-extension
Yakapari Seaforth Road – Stage 1
Stage 1 of the Yakapari Seaforth Road Shared Pathway project has been delayed by about one
month, due to weather and Telstra works taking longer than expected. A letter has been distributed to
nearby residents and Seaforth State School, to inform them about the delay.
connectingmackay.com.au/admin/projects/yakapari-seaforth-road-shared-pathway-stage-one
Inglewood Close Park concept design
The concept design was sent to Inglewood Close residents to review and provide their feedback.
Residents were happy for the old playground equipment to be removed and the area turned into open
green space. The project will now move into the construction phase.
Connecting Mackay page to be established once construction begins.
Sunset Park concept design
A meeting was held with Sunset Park residents on April 19 to discuss the playground equipment
reaching the end of its useful life and council developing a concept design for the park. After the
meeting the design and the minutes were distributed to all Sunset Boulevard residents, so those who
couldn’t attend could review and have their say. Sunset Boulevard residents had until May to provide
any further feedback.
No Connecting Mackay page at this stage
Mirani Community Precinct
The concept design has been uploaded and Connecting Mackay page published. The page invites
subscribers to sign up to project update emails. A project update has been sent to the key
stakeholders who contributed to the planning phase.
A drone footage video is being prepared. The video will be embedded on the Connecting Mackay
page and uploaded to social media.
connectingmackay.com.au/mirani-community-precinct
30Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1 - 30 April 2021
Pioneer Valley Mountain Bike Trails
The Finch Hatton Trailhead Master Plan online consultation received 56 completed surveys. The data
analysis is now under way. Due to the strong promotion for the online consultation the project’s
Connecting Mackay page attracted 77 new subscribers to project update emails and 782 visits to the
Connecting Mackay page during the consultation.
Presentation material is being developed for upcoming events that will host a Pioneer Valley Mountain
Bike Trails stall or display.
connectingmackay.com.au/mountain-bike-strategy
Eungella local area planning framework
Communication material has been distributed to Eungella and Finch Hatton residents and businesses
and will be included in Eungella State School and Finch Hatton State School newsletters. The
Eungella Community Development Association and Finch Hatton Progress Association have assisted
by informing residents. Initial response to the survey looks promising, with 14 submissions received in
the first two days. The consultation period ends on May 25.
Connecting Mackay page not yet live.
Park amenity block decommissioning
Communications have been distributed to nearby residents and key stakeholders regarding the park
amenity blocks being removed due to safety concerns at Jack Badger Park, Boulder Creek Park and
Penn Road Park. Feedback was due to close on May 7.
40 Ocean Avenue encroachment
A public consultation is expected to occur during May. Communications material and a Connecting
Mackay page are prepared for distribution to the Slade Point community.
Connecting Mackay page not yet live.
Pioneer Fish Habitats
The Pioneer River artificial reefs project tender was awarded to SMC Marine. Works were due to be
completed in early May. Majority of works will be completed off-site with the final habitats being
deployed to their final location. The project aims to enhance recreational and tourist fishing
experience via complex marine habitat installations adjacent to three popular fishing platforms in the
Pioneer River. Media release has been done, social media has been done, 7 Local News covered the
last deployment on Thursday, April 29.
connectingmackay.com.au/pioneer-river-artificial-reef-habitat
Bridge Road separation kerb
Council’s maintenance team installed a yellow separation kerb in Bridge Road. The separation kerb
has been reinstalled to ensure that commuters are completing the correct manoeuvrers at the
intersection in front of the IGA and Australia Post. This will make the area safer. A letter drop was
completed, and phone calls made to businesses around the area and those who may have been
impacted by the works. No social media or connecting Mackay page was done for this project.
Absolon Street culvert replacement
Council’s Field Services started work on the Absolon Street culvert repair job mid-April. This work will
be carried out under a full road closure as the culvert is the full width of the road. A notification letter
was mailed out to the street informing them of upcoming works, phone calls were made to affected
residents regarding driveways. A media release and social media was completed.
connectingmackay.com.au/absolon-street-culvert
31Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1 - 30 April 2021
Canecutters Drive Park – stage two works
Stage one of the park renewal was planned to be completed by the end of April. The new train-
inspired playground was set to be open by the end of April, weather permitting. Works will begin on
stage two later this month. Works will include removing the existing equipment and installing a new
outdoor gym. Vegetation improvement works will be completed during this time. A notification letter
has been sent to residents, media release/update and social media. The Connecting Mackay page
will be updated to state stage two works are beginning and stage one is now complete.
connectingmackay.com.au/canecutters-drive-park-renewal
Temples Lane gravel road closure
Council was closing off access to the unformed section of road to the western end of Temples Lane
roundabout at Bakers Creek after concerns were raised by nearby residents. This section of road is
not approved, appropriately formed or maintained and was being closed to vehicles traffic in the
interest of safety for residents and pedestrians in the area. The road was to be closed off using a
concrete block barrier. Council was also to remove the nearby unapproved and damaged footpath
within the road reserve along with pipes used for an unapproved drain. Works were expected to be
completed within one day, weather permitting. A notification letter was been sent to residents.
Main Street, Bakers Creek culvert repair works
Council will be completing repair works to a culvert on Main St in Bakers Creek. Works are expected
to take two to three weeks, weather permitting. Works will be done under traffic control. Phone calls
have been made to stakeholders and followed up with an email. A notification letter has been mailed
out to residents. A media update, social media and Connecting Mackay page will be uploaded prior to
the start date.
Connecting Mackay page not yet live.
32Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1 - 30 April 2021
7. Emergency Management
Emergency Liaison Officer (ELO) Meeting
Held our first meeting since COVID at the end of April with a fantastic turnout of 15 ELO’s attending.
Mayor Greg Williamson welcomed the group and thanked them for their continued support to their
communities. We welcomed a couple of new ones and farewelled one off our first ELO’s to be
recruited, Charlie Symonds.
Our ELO’s are the point of contact within identified communities in the Mackay Regional Council
(MRC) area that are affected by a disaster event or emergency operation, natural or man-made –
giving the LDCC situational awareness when required.
Disaster Preparedness Session (Andergrove State Primary School)
Representatives of the Emergency Management Team recently attended a local Mackay primary
school to discuss local disaster impacts, resilient strategies, and SES functionality with their grade 5
students.
33Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1 - 30 April 2021
Eungella Range Ablaze – Official Launch of Short Film and Book
The Eungella Bushfires Creative Recovery Project concluded on Saturday 23 April with the official
launch of the Eungella Range Ablaze book and the Eungella short film. The community event was
attended by 70 residents, Queensland Rural Fire Service members, Councillors and Mayor Greg
Williamson at the Eungella Hub.
The book and film are two of the four elements which have made up the project; the other two being a
community arts day and two large felt murals created by children at Eungella State School. The event
incorporated an exhibition of works created in those latter two projects. Council has been pleased to
support the project through community recovery funding and the Regional Arts Development Fund, in
partnership with CQ University’s Central Queensland Regional Arts Services Network.
The launch event was opened by Ken Peters Dodd, Elder of the First Nations Widi Sovereign
Peoples, with a moving Welcome to Country. Local resident and Project Coordinator Jolene Robinson
was emcee, introducing the speakers which included filmmaker Donna Maree Robinson and Mayor
Williamson, and offering her heartfelt thanks to the many community members who were part of the
project.
The emotional film screening was all the more poignant as most of the people who star in the film
were present in the audience, with their families. After the screening, those who had contributed to the
project were presented with a copy of the book. Eungella Range Ablaze features stories, images,
artworks, and poems by local residents. Each Eungella household then received their own free copy
of the book.
Above left: Mayor Greg Williamson with Wanda Bennett from CQRASN and Mackay Regional Council, and
Project Coordinator Jolene Robinson. Above right: The Mayor and locals present Jolene with flowers for her
tireless efforts leading the project.
SES Operations
There have been several operations for Mackay Unit this month, two missing person, four storm
damage and one chain saw. Mackay unit members also attended Anzac celebrations in Mackay
Sarina Mirani Walkerston and assisted Police and Ambulance with two incidents involving casualty
handling.
34Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1 - 30 April 2021
SES Operational Capability
The Mackay Regional SES Unit has the capability to provide trained operators in all core SES
functions throughout the Mackay local government area.
Function Members / teams Notes
available
Flood boat 15 teams 1 team = 2 members
Storm damage 115 members Teams usually 2-4 members
Chainsaw 16 teams 1 team = 2 members
Working at heights Roof 24 teams 1 team = 4 members
Working at heights ground 27 teams 1 team = 4 members
Vertical rescue 10 members Team size varies on task parameters.
Operational performance target is 10
members per team
Land search 74 members Team size varies on task parameters
Traffic control 38 members Team size varies on task parameters,
but usually 2-4 members
Incident management 37 members Team size varies on task parameters
Mackay Regional SES Unit Hours
The following indicates hours put in by volunteers across various functions.
Community
Group Operational Training Maintenance Admin
Engagement
Calen 0 44 6 2 0
Mackay 63.6 146.15 4.75 8 0
Mirani 90 150.30 3 24.45 0
Sarina 0 120 8 4 0
Armstrong Beach 2 8 1 0 0
Information Night
Mirani SES Group hosted an information evening at their shed for all Emergency services to attend
and learn about each other’s capabilities and how we can work together better to support our
communities. Attendees included: SES, Rural Fire, Walkerston Auxiliaries, Mirani Police, Whitsunday
water police, Q-Rat.
35Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1 - 30 April 2021
Mackay SES Group attended both dawn and day services for Anzac Day in Mackay it was a great day
for all.
36Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1 - 30 April 2021
8. Health & Regulatory Services
Customer Requests
Throughout April 2021, 638 requests for service were received, compared with 792 requests for
March 2021.
82% were completed in nominated timeframes for this month. Health and Regulatory Services aim to
complete 85% of requests for service within nominated timeframes, however, depending on the
circumstances of each individual matter and the speed at which compliance can be achieved using
compliance processes, timeframes for completion can be influenced.
Customer Request Status Tracking
37Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1 - 30 April 2021
Animal Registrations - Number of Dogs & Cats Registered
Animal Type Registrations March 2021
Cat 43
Dog 161
The numbers of new and renewed cat and dog registrations have remained consistent compared to
previous years.
Animal Type Renewed Registrations New Registrations Total
Cat 1,988 439 2,426
Dog 10,824 2,309 13,133
Proactive Patrols
Proactive Patrols are conducted at times when dog owners are most likely to be walking with their pets.
During April 2021, 37 patrols were conducted across the region at locations including Blacks Beach,
East Mackay, Mount Pleasant, North Mackay, Ooralea, Shoal Point, Slade Point, Walkerston,
Andergrove, Bucasia, South Mackay, Eimeo, Rural View, Armstrong Beach, Blacks Beach, Sarina,
Farleigh and Mackay.
214 dogs were identified on leash, 24 people were cautioned and provided education at Andergrove,
Slade Point, Armstrong Beach, Bucasia, East Mackay and Blacks Beach, 1 person was issued an
infringement for their dog not being on a leash at Andergrove.
Vector Control
The table below represents the mosquito control work carried out by the Vector Control team in April
2021
Sites Inspected Sites Treated Hectares Treated
152 107 246
Fogging / Misting for reducing adult mosquito numbers was conducted throughout several areas of
the region during the early part of the month in response to customer requests.
38Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1 - 30 April 2021
Licensing and Approvals Summary for April 2021
Premises % Non - New and Renewal
Premises % Compliant
Inspected compliant Applications Approved
Accommodation 2 50% 50%
Temporary Food 7
Temporary Entertainment Event 4
Total 2 11
New and
Premises Renewal
Premises 5 Star 4 Star 3 Star 2 Star 0 Star
Inspected Applications
Approved
Food Business 11 2 9 12
Basic summary of star rating meanings:
Excellent performer – Excellent record keeping, procedures,
cleanliness and sustainable food safety practices.
5 Star
Very good performer – Very good cleanliness, food safety practices
and some records and procedures.
4 Star
Good performer – Good level of compliance and overall acceptable
standard. Clean and meeting legislation.
3 Star
Poor performer – Low level of compliance, more effort required. I.e.
Very unclean premises, poor hygiene practices.
2 Star
Non-compliant performer – A general failure to comply, with major
effort required to rectify issues. Critical non-compliances. I.e. Very
unclean premises, poor hygiene practices, incorrect temperatures and
presence of pests and vermin.
Note – Officers actively work with business operators to achieve compliance using appropriate
regulatory tools.
Eat Safe Overall Ratings
96% of all food businesses
have a rating of 3 stars or
greater.
39Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1 - 30 April 2021
Education and Training Sessions
Food training sessions are conducted for non-profit organisations and for festival and events.
Summary of sessions conducted:
Pest Management
The hours noted above include preparation activities and conducting baiting sessions. Baiting is not
conducted in wet weather due to the ineffectiveness.
Surveying and spraying are conducted on roads. Surveying is also conducted on private property
throughout the region.
40Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1 - 30 April 2021
Points of interest:
• Grazing Forum
The Pest Management team (Maria Ferraro) had a stall at the annual Reef Catchments
Grazing Forum on 22 April 2021. Information was provided regarding restricted invasive matter
and general questions were answered regarding weeds.
Approximately 70 people attended the event.
• Field Day
Field day held at Bloomsbury on 23 April 2021. Pest Management Officer, Maria Ferraro gave
an Elephant Ear Vine treatment demonstration and answered questions about pest and weed
management.
41Community and Client Services Monthly Review 1 - 30 April 2021
Monthly Infringements Activity
The graphs below provide a summary of infringement activity for Health & Regulatory Services over the
past 12 months.
Infringements Issued – April 2021
Environmental Development
Local Laws Infringements Services Compliance
Infringements Infringements
• Animal not registered within 14 days (6) • Nil • Nil
• Animal wandering at large (6)
• Fail to comply with compliance notice (2)
• Fail to comply with dangerous dog conditions (1)
Regulated Parking Infringements Issued
800
700
600
500
Total
400
300
200
100
0
Infringements Issued
Officers regulate 2,525 on street car parks, off street car parks, loading zones and car parks designated
for disabled people, daily.
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