News Headlines For Mackay & The Whitsundays, Friday 17th August 2018

An investigation has been launched after a two kilometre stretch of the Bruce Highway between Mackay and Rockhampton turned into melted tar, damaging dozens of vehicles. Transport Minister Mark Bailey criticized his own department for the dodgy roadworks.

Whitsunday water Police are seeking public assistance to locate a sail kayak and wing paddle. It was left behind by a tourist camping on Whitsunday Island last weekend when high tides  cast it adrift. The yellow and white 5 metre kayak was last seen in the Solway Passage. If you have any information call Police Link

Sarina can breathe easy as a safer intersection is just around the bend. Design works are finalised and tenders are being called for the $14 million safety upgrade of the Bruce Highway and Sarina Coast Road intersection. A new dual lane roundabout at Sarina Beach Road and rehab of the pavement on the immediate approaches will reduce congestion and travel times

It can all start with just a single crazy idea. That's what happened for the founders of Orange Sky Laundry and this week they're in Mackay checking up on their latest venture. The organisation uses a tricked out van to supply free laundry and shower services to homeless people in the region. Head of Operations David Tubb says it's been a positive 10 months for the MACKAY branch

The Official Aussie Helpers are giving back to Queensland's Drought affected farmers. They're hosting a plant sale tomorrow at 9 at the Ooralea Race Course with plants donated from the community

LOCAL SPORT

Mackay Cutters are feeling confident for a home game win. The side will take on Norths Devils Saturday night and are hoping for a case of history repeating after they beat them back in May. Devils are coming off the back of a loss while Cutters have had a string of strong performances in recent weeks. The game kicks off at 6

The Magpies Crusaders are looking to redeem themselves. They're coming off a 3-2 loss against Redlands last week and will take on Brisbane City at home tomorrow night. Coach Carlos Garcia says it's going to be a tough game.

WEATHER

Areas of fog in the early morning. Sunny day. Light winds becoming E/NE 15 to 20 km/h in the early afternoon then becoming light in the evening. Overnight temperatures falling to between 6 and 11 with daytime temperatures reaching around 30. 

CatchUp with Jay and Dave from this week below!