More than 6000 people scanned in Mackay Whitsunday District under Jack’s Law

In continued efforts to detect and deter unlawful possession of weapons across Mackay Whitsunday District, officers have scanned more than 6000 people under Jack’s Law since the expansion of legislation last year.

Since 17 July 2025, a total of 6,706 people have been scanned, and 14 weapons have been seized.

Police have utilised handheld metal detecting wands throughout all public spaces such as Safe Night Precincts, shopping centres, public transport hubs and at community events.

Between 17 and 21 June, officers conducted high-visibility patrols to address crime and enhance public safety at licensed premises, community events, and other public spaces throughout Mackay utilising wanding activities and static random breath test (RBT) sites.

Police engaged with more than 40 licensed venues and scanned 157 people, where two knives were seized.

On 19 June, police allegedly located a knife on a 44-year-old Bakers Creek woman inside a licensed premises in Mackay Harbour. She was issued with an adult caution for one count of possession of a knife in a public place.

Officers also conducted more than 1,226 RBTs, where three people returned a positive result.

Mackay Whitsunday District Superintendent Dean Cavanagh said police will continue to detect, deter and disrupt knife crime across public spaces.

“Through ongoing proactive patrols, we are removing weapons from our community that have the potential to cause harm,” said Superintendent Cavanagh.

“Everyone deserves to feel safe and enjoy public spaces and venues, and operations under Jack’s Law are pivotal to protecting our community.”

Under Jack’s Law, Queensland Police Service (QPS) has the authority to conduct handheld metal detection (knife wanding) operations throughout public spaces across Queensland.

Police proactively engage with relevant stakeholders to co-ordinate wanding operations, including in co-operation with business owners.