Urgent Call Out For Mackay Blood Donations

Mackay’s blood donor centre has put out an urgent call for donations this month. It's as the Easter and ANZAC Day break leaves a huge gap in appointments. Hundreds of locals are being asked to be a good egg and donate blood, but they also need blood plasma donations.

With the countdown to Easter well and truly on, plenty of Mackay retailers are looking to take advantage of those making the most of the upcoming holiday period. The Australian Retailers Association says whilst shelves have been brimming with Easter treats and delights since the early New Year, it's this week we see the most activity for local shopkeepers. Officials say plenty of us will be out in force this week buying up big when it comes to seafood, hot cross buns, fresh produce, liquor, and chocolate.

As holiday-makers flock to Whitsunday beaches and creeks over the long weekend, swimmers, boaties, and anyone else on the water, are being warned to be extra careful. A report by Royal Life Saving Australia has found the chance of drowning on a public holiday is nearly double that of any other day, while out-of-towners visiting the region are two and a half times more likely to get into trouble in the water. CEO Paul Barry says men need to be particularly aware of the dangers, and watch how much they drink.

North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation wants to give schools the opportunity to launch environmental projects. The annual EcoPorts program is now open with ten $1,000 grants available. Funds are aimed at increasing student involvement in sustainability projects and in turn deliver long term benefits for port communities. However, NQBP CEO Nicolas Fertin says only schools within port catchments are eligible to get involved.To find out more email NQBP.