Three little words can save a life

8 SEPTEMBER 2016: R U OK? Sometimes it’s the simplest words that are the hardest to say, but today we are being encouraged to start a conversation with someone if we notice they are struggling to cope. Today is R U OK? Day, a day to take the first step, check in and reconnect with those around us - after all, we are stronger together.

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Register shows who owns our land

7 SEPTEMBER 2016: The first report from the Register of Foreign Ownership of Agricultural Land was released by the Liberal National Government today. I have long been an advocate for the register and this report provides the basic transparency needed to ensure oversight and confidence in agricultural investment.

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$55,000 boost for community groups

A small business incubator, a school and a long day care centre were all given a boost today with the announcement by Federal Member for Dawson George Christensen that almost $55,000 in Stronger Communities Programme grants had been approved.I joined Split Spaces general manager Jarryd Townson to congratulate him on his successful application.Jarryd is creating a business incubator here in Mackay called Split Spaces which will provide support services and collaboration for start-ups and small businesses, and I was happy to recommend his project for funding of $19,800 under the Stronger Communities Programme.This funding is just the beginning of the project for Mr Townson, but it will allow for the renovation and fit-out of a co-working space as well as provide some office equipment and kitchen facilities.

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