LETTER TO THE EDITOR

The following is a copy of the letter I sent to the Community Service Manager of MI Care that I would like you to consider for Letter to the Editor.

Dear Jasmine Gibson,

As a 22-year resident of Magnetic Island, I’ve seen firsthand the importance of locally focused aged care services. With MI Care now having a Registered Nurse on staff, their continued presence on the island has never been more critical.  

Over the years, MI Care has provided invaluable support to our community, despite recent challenges in adjusting to new legislative requirements. Their commitment to our island remains steadfast, and I believe they are uniquely positioned to serve us in ways that mainland providers simply cannot.  

Once again, Townsville-based aged care businesses are treating Magnetic Island as just another suburb—overlooking the reality that we are not connected to the mainland by a bridge. This ongoing oversight leads to isolation and staffing shortages, leaving many of our residents without the support they need. History has shown that mainland providers struggle to make their services viable here. Until they recognise that having locally based support staff and contractors is essential, they will continue facing the same hurdles.  

Crucially, MI Care should maintain support staff on both sides of the island, as has been consciously ensured in the past. During times of greatest need—such as cyclones or road blockages due to fallen rocks—the island is frequently cut in two, making locally stationed staff a necessity rather than a convenience.  

While dissatisfied clients may point out that other providers have approached MI Care’s clients and staff in the past, this has historically been unsuccessful. MI Care has long been recognised for its high client satisfaction and holistic service delivery, ensuring residents received care when and how they needed it. For over 20 years, MI Care set the standard for client-focused aged care, making it the provider of choice for both residents and staff.  

Unfortunately, in recent times, this standard appears to have declined—something that must be addressed as a matter of urgency. Without a renewed commitment to the high level of care and responsiveness that once defined MI Care, clients and staff will continue to face uncertainty. It is vital that MI Care realigns with its original strengths, ensuring Magnetic Island residents receive the reliable, localised care they deserve.  

I want to offer my full support to MI Care. Given my long-standing presence on the island as the founder, executive chef, and co-star of Stage Door Theatre Restaurant in Arcadia for its first 15 years, I am eager to use my platform to help them secure the resources and recognition they deserve.  

It is also concerning to hear that Townsville-based businesses are actively approaching MI Care’s dissatisfied clients, attempting to lure them away. While competition can be healthy, our priority should be ensuring that residents receive consistent, dependable care from providers who truly understand the unique challenges of living on Magnetic Island.  

I encourage all island residents and stakeholders to stand with MI Care and support local solutions for our aging population.  

Warm regards,  

Phill Stephenson

Arcadia Qld 4819