Local Headlines for Mackay & the Whitsundays, 25th July 2017

The Mackay community is banding together following the death of loved local, Bill Molloy. The former councillorm, businessman and tourism ambassador passed away on Friday night at age 87.

More pressures mounting on the federal government to assist Shute Harbour in its recovery efforts following the destruction by Cyclone Debbie. Emergency Services Minister Mark Ryan has dropped into the region and says Shute Harbour is essential for the recovery of the Whitsundays region. He adds the State Government is urging the Federal Government to come to the party and fund these essential local projects.

StopAdaniMackay are sending a message to Commonwealth Bank. They're delivering letters to the local Branch manager asking them to rule out funding the Adani Carmichael Mine Project. Maggie Mckeown from the Mackay Conservation group says she's hoping the local manager will reply the message further up the company

The Mackay region has welcomed 67 new citizens. Mayor Greg Williamson says last night's citizenship ceremony was a big success.

Mackay locals are taking a stand against violence. 40,000 stars have been woven by the Mackay community is support of the One Million Stars to End Violence Project. Mackay MP Julieanne Gilbert says she's surprised by the amount of stars made.

LOCAL SPORT

Magpies Crusaders United are after help in the lead up to their 2018 National Premier League Football season. They're recruiting, looking for coaches, assistant coaches and managers. They're also on the hunt for a head coach and have already seen interest from around the nation and overseas.

While the Eastern Swans AFL boys are celebrating a win over the Mackay Magpies. They finished up on top by 20 points in round 14 of the Allied Pickford's Cup at the weekend.

WEATHER

Mackay Mostly sunny. Light winds becoming southeasterly 20 to 25 km/h in the morning then becoming light in the late evening.

Whitsundays Mostly sunny. Slight (20%) chance of a shower about the islands, near zero chance elsewhere. Light winds becoming southeasterly 15 to 25 km/h in the morning.