The Coastal Rag - Discovery Coast

17/06/2026

👩🏼‍💻Regional students cannot afford Canberra’s TAFE cuts 👩🏼‍🎓

Thousands of regional Queenslanders have embraced Fee-Free TAFE opportunities, but proposed changes to Commonwealth funding arrangements threaten to put those opportunities at risk.

The North Coast region could be one of the hardest hit by Labor’s cuts, with 5,425 Fee-Free TAFE places undertaken in the region since the start of 2025.

The Crisafulli Government has warned that the Albanese Labor Government’s proposed funding changes would leave Queensland $208 million worse off, placing around 11,000 Fee-Free TAFE places across the State at risk.

Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett said protecting training opportunities was critical for communities across the Wide Bay.

“Fee-Free TAFE has opened doors for people across our region who are looking to gain new skills, change careers or secure an apprenticeship,” Mr Bennett said.

“Since the start of 2025 to date, almost 600 students have commenced a Fee-Free TAFE course across the Bundaberg and Burnett electorates.

“Regional Queensland relies on a strong pipeline of skilled workers and we cannot afford to see opportunities taken away from local students and employers.

“The Crisafulli Government is doing the heavy lifting because we know how important these courses are for our communities and our economy.

“People in Bundaberg and across the Burnett deserve certainty when it comes to education and training opportunities, not cuts that jeopardise their future.

“We should be expanding opportunities for regional Queenslanders, not putting them at risk.

Federal Member for Hinkler David Batt MP said Queensland students should not lose training opportunities because of a funding dispute between Canberra and the states.

“Australia needs more skilled workers, more apprentices and more people completing qualifications that lead to real jobs,” Mr Batt said.

“State governments need funding certainty so they can continue delivering training opportunities for students, apprentices and employers.

“Governments should be focused on outcomes: more completions, more qualified workers, more apprentices, and more people entering shortage occupations.

“That is what Queensland communities need, and that is what taxpayers deserve.”

16/06/2026

☕ Bundy’s Biggest Morning Tea Breaks Record with $3,350 Raised for Cancer 🧁

The kettle was on and generosity overflowing at the 12th annual Bundy’s Biggest Morning Tea this morning that raised a record-breaking $3,350 for Cancer Council Queensland.

Hosted by Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett and the Bundaberg branches of the Queensland Country Women’s Association (QCWA), the much-loved event brought together cancer survivors, carers, families and supporters for a morning of fellowship and fundraising.

Burnett MP Stephen Bennett said the continued success of the event reflected the community spirit that defines the region.

“Every year I’m humbled by the incredible support shown by our community, and this year we’ve broken another record by raising $3,350 for Cancer Council Queensland,” Mr Bennett said.

“Cancer impacts so many local families, and events like Bundy’s Biggest Morning Tea are about standing together and ensuring no one faces that journey alone.

“I want to sincerely thank the wonderful ladies of the QCWA, our guest speakers, everyone who attended and all those who donated so generously to make this our most successful event yet.”

Bundaberg QCWA Branch President Lyn Rehbein said the overwhelming support shown by the community was a testament to the dedication of members and volunteers.

“It was fantastic to see such support in the room today to raise funds for Cancer Council Queensland,” Ms Rehbein said.

“Our members are extremely willing to help raise funds for our community and we could not be prouder.

“Thank you to our members, to Stephen Bennett MP, and our community for their generosity.”

Funds raised from the event will support Cancer Council Queensland’s research, prevention programs and support services for Queenslanders impacted by cancer.

15/06/2026

🚧Night-time road closure required
for roundabout works 🚧

Motorists are being urged to plan ahead with a temporary night-time closure of a busy Bundaberg West intersection required as construction of a new roundabout reaches a key stage.

The Branyan/Crofton Street intersection will be closed to all through traffic from Sunday 21 June to Thursday 25 June between 6 pm and 5 am to allow works to be completed safely and efficiently.

Bundaberg Regional Council Mayor Helen Blackburn said the temporary closure was necessary to keep workers and road users safe while major construction activities were carried
out.

“These works are an important milestone in delivering a safer intersection
for motorists, pedestrians and cyclists but they do require a short-term closure to ensure they can be completed safely,” she said.

“We appreciate this may cause some inconvenience for road users as well
as nearby residents and businesses, however undertaking the works at night helps reduce impacts on traffic during peak daytime periods.”

Suitable detours will be in place throughout the closure period and include:

• Northbound traffic diverted via Electra Street, Mulgrave Street and
Woondooma Street before reconnecting with Branyan Street.

• Southbound traffic diverted via Woondooma Street, Bingera Street
and Electra Street before returning to Branyan Street.

Mayor Blackburn encouraged motorists to follow all traffic management
directions.

“We ask motorists to take care in the area, obey all signage and allow a
little extra time for their journey while these works are underway,” she said.

“Council and contractor HEH Civil will work to complete this stage of the
project as quickly as possible and minimise disruption wherever we can.”
Access to adjacent businesses and private properties will be maintained
wherever possible during construction.

About the project:
The upgrade will deliver a major safety boost for Bundaberg West through the construction of a new roundabout, raised pedestrian crossings and upgraded street lighting.
The Branyan and Crofton Street intersection has been identified by Bundaberg Regional Council as a priority site for improvement, with the upgrades designed to slow traffic and improve safety for all road users.

The project is funded through the Australian Government’s 2025-26 Black Spot Program, which supports safety improvements at high-risk locations across the country.

15/06/2026

🎙️Delivering Destination 2045: Crisafulli
Government invests $40,000 in iconic Agnes
event 🎹🎷🎸

The Crisafulli Government is investing more than $1.17 million through Destination 2045 to support 21 events across eight regions of Queensland.

One of those events is being delivered right here on the Discovery Coast, the Agnes Blues
Roots & Rock Festival, backed by a $40,000 funding boost.

Statewide, event recipients are expected to inject more than $90 million into the state’s
economy.

Destination 2045 is driving Queensland’s tourism resurgence, with more homegrown events creating unforgettable visitor experiences and supporting the industry’s recovery after a decade of decline under Labor.
Funding will support marketing, program enhancements and capability building to boost visitation and strengthen economic outcomes.
Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett said becoming the events capital of Australia was
central to the Crisafulli Government’s long-term Destination 2045 tourism plan.

“Queensland is fast becoming the events capital of Australia, and we’re investing in more homegrown events to keep that momentum going,” Mr Bennett said.

“Events like Agnes Blues, Roots & Rock Festival, bring more visitors to the region, fill hotels and support our local cafes and businesses.

“With something for everyone, the festival will be standout for locals and visitors alike and
I’m already counting down.

“We said we would deliver through Destination 2045 and that’s exactly what we’re doing.

“In stark contrast, the former Labor Government had a secret plan to cut tourism funding by 95 per cent.”

Discovery Coast Tourism and Commerce General Manager Alistair Tavares said the
festival delivers a significant boost for local businesses, accommodation providers and
tourism operators each year.

“We’re already excited about what’s shaping up for the 2027 festival, with some fantastic
artists announced like the Round Mountain Girls and a strong line-up beginning to take
shape that we know music lovers will be eager to experience.

“The festival has become one of the region’s signature events and creates a real buzz
throughout Agnes Water and 1770, with visitors filling local accommodation and spending
money in cafes, restaurants and businesses right across the community.

“We’re grateful to the Queensland Government for this $40,000 investment, which will help
us continue building and enhancing the festival experience and ensure the event remains a
major drawcard for the Discovery Coast.

“The support provides us with the opportunity to invest in key areas of the event and
continue delivering a festival that not only entertains hundreds of visitors but also provides lasting economic and tourism benefits for the region."

For more information, visit

Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ) promotes Queensland tourism experiences and events around the globe. Discover opportunities for your region.

14/06/2026

14/06/2026

Press clippings, sea air, and stories from the shoreline.

13/06/2026

New issue is out on the shelves!

DEAR READERS EXTRACT:

For a small coastal town, we certainly manage to pack a lot into a fortnight.

One week it's a classic car cruise, the next it's a market, a fundraiser, an art show or a community event. Sometimes it feels like if you blink, you'll miss something.

Amongst all the activity, this issue also touches on something a little more important.

As part of Men's Health Week, local Forge Brotherhood founder Michael Stuth shares a thoughtful reflection on the importance of connection, purpose and community. Elsewhere in this edition, one of our contributing writers shares a heartfelt story about loneliness and finding your place in a regional town.

It struck a chord with me because while there is always plenty happening around the Discovery Coast, life here can sometimes feel surprisingly isolating. Many people live a long way from family and lifelong friends, and not everyone has a ready-made support network around them.

It's easy to assume everyone else already has their circle sorted, but the reality is that many people have felt exactly the same uncertainty at some point. Often the hardest part is simply walking through the door for the first time, starting a conversation, or saying yes to an invitation.

Thankfully, there are plenty of good people around. The sort who stop for a chat, lend a hand, or make you feel welcome when you least expect it. Sometimes a friendly conversation is all it takes to remind someone they're not as alone as they thought.
As the cooler weather settles in, I hope you enjoy finding a cosy spot and spending a little time with this latest edition of The Coastal Rag.

Your support is appreciated.

Until next issue, Sarah 🫶