Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Not every business starts with a blueprint. For some, it begins as a calling… in more ways than one. Burdekin local Robert Hayward had been in the hydraulics industry since he was 18. A diligent worker who loved his job, he quickly built a reputation locally as one of the best in the business. But despite a mutual affinity with the industry that had formed over years, he stepped away in the early 1990s to help his father-in-law maintain a cane property in Clare. Until he received a call. Then another… and another. Rob quickly realised that, despite his brief hiatus, his reputation in hydraulics had not faded. With that, he was pulled back into the game, this time with nothing but a $2,000 ute, a toolbox, and work up to his neck. And the only way to keep himself from drowning in it was, ironically, to go in deeper. “As the Burdekin is, if you do a very good job, word travels quickly between the community. One farmer talked to another, he talked to another, he talked to another… “Until I sat down with my wife one day and said, ‘I think we can make a business out of this.’” His ute would eventually make way for a permanent space—a small sub-shed at Larry Hudson Engineering in the Ayr Industrial Estate that would serve as his headquarters for the following four years. He tackled the first year solo, before demand forced him to put an apprentice on in the second year, and a qualified tradesman in the third. By the end of the fourth, Rob’s work had outgrown its humble base, moving down the road into a new purpose-built shed that would become the home of Hayward Hydraulics. That shed would officially open in 1996, spurring a 30-year legacy sustained by three defining pillars. Growing with the industry “I had no idea how to use computers,” Rob said with a smirk. Admittedly, he hadn’t realised he signed himself up for a three-decade, three-fold evolution between an entire industry, his own business, and himself. What he did know was that he was ready to learn, and eager to grow. It started with the basics. For Rob, that meant wrapping his head around modern computers, attending TAFE courses on emerging welding techniques, and becoming a leader. “I went from being a very good tradesman to having to be an employer,” he said. “You have to be a people's person, you have to treat people the right way, treat your workers the right way. That part I never even thought of until we started getting into it.” Rob treated this evolution as a marathon rather than a sprint, dedicating the business's first decade cementing its reputation as a local leader. After striking up deals with major companies, including Queensland Rail and Wilmar Sugar in the mid-2000s, he decided to take the leap into the mining industry in the early 2010s as a safety net for the unpredictable sugar industry. With that growth, Hayward Hydraulics’ shed would undergo its third structural expansion to accommodate its continuously increasing popularity and modernised technology. He built a habit of gleaning ideas from various online hydraulic magazines, and then building on them to not only keep up with the industry, but to will it into the future himself. “I eventually built a reputation for thinking outside of the square. If somebody's been doing something for 20 years, I'll look at a better way of doing it,” he said. Albeit, he admits he and the business are still evolving today. “I've seen harvesters and planters go from chain and sprocket to hydraulic motors, to hydraulic motors being linked to satellite GPS,” he said. “The industry has changed in leaps and bounds, and you have to keep finding ways to move with it.” Doing it the right way Hayward Hydraulics’ evolution was founded on something Rob didn’t need to be taught. Care. And he makes sure his staff do, too. “I didn't come from a real wealthy family, so we were brought up to work; you work, you do the job right, you get paid,” he said. “So if I'm not happy with something, I'll ask my workers: ‘would you pay for that?’” When the mining industry began to boom in Queensland, Rob admits he had a difficult time retaining workers. To compete, he was forced into paying top-dollar for what he called “good quality workers,” causing financial tension. When asked if compromising staff quality for cost was ever an option, with the conviction of a true-blue purist, he said: “No.” “I've always maintained that a business is only as good as your employees. You can be the best boss in the world, but if you've got workers that people don't like, they don't come through the door,” he said. “My current staff are up there with the best that I've had. I just try to make sure they’re happy to come to work every day.” With quality and care as its engine, Hayward Hydraulics became known not just for technical know-how, but for doing things the right way. As its stature in the industry continued to grow, so did the scope of its customer base. Calls started coming in from as far north as Tully, all the way to Mackay and Western Queensland, all saying the same thing: “We heard you were the guy to talk to about this problem.” Family and community at its heart For the last 10 years especially, the business has made a point of supporting local organisations and sports clubs, most notably the Burdekin Roosters Rugby League Club. Rob described it as a duty to a community that has given so much to him and the company. “The community has been so important to it all. I’ve got some customers that have been with me from day one, and with some, I’m onto the third generation of the same family,” he said. “The’ve given a lot to me. They've helped me grow and supported me, so it's about time I supported them back.” Beneath it all, though, he points to his family as the driving force. “I remember those early days when we were setting up the new workshop, building benches and all that, my two brothers-in-law and my father came out and gave me a hand,” he said. “But my biggest support is my wife. Especially in the early days when I wasn't home, and she solely looked after the kids and everything. “It got to the stage where I was working seven days a week, 12 hour days, and my wife would bring the kids on a Saturday and Sunday, and we'd sit on the shop floor and have lunch. “She's been with me through the lows and the highs, and that I thank her for.” Now, thirty years later, it’s his family pulling him out of the industry. Driven by the desire to make up for lost time with his wife and kids, Rob has loosened his grip on business operations, working four days a week with plans to eventually let his brainchild find its own footing. As for right now, he’s not yet ready to call time on a chapter that was, perhaps, never meant to last this many pages. “I still love what I do,” he said. “The early days come with sacrifices, but when I look back now, it was all worth it. “I remember when it all first started, looking on the ATO website and coming across that statistic that most businesses fail within five years. “When I read it, I said to myself, 'well, I'm gonna make sure I’m not that statistic.’” And that, he did. CAPTION: Rob and his current team. Back L-R: Chase Pearce, Stephan Du Plessis Front L-R: Kade Pearce, Renee Viero, Robert Hayward, Tina Dennis, Bryan Parison Absent: Sam Tomasetig Photo credit: Jacob Casha
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The Burdekin has rallied behind a local family after a sudden medical diagnosis turned their life upside-down. Ryan and Holly Davenport dropped everything when their two-year-old son, Rowen, was diagnosed with a brain tumour last month, temporarily relocating to Brisbane for his ongoing treatment. In response, a GoFundMe fundraiser has since raised over $55,000 in support of the family. Created in late May by Shannon Malone, a close friend of the Davenports, the fundraiser has been shared all over Facebook and Instagram by local organisations, garnering comments of support on top of 271 individual donations. “Words can’t describe how much it means to us to have everyone’s support behind Rowen as he begins his journey,” Ryan said. “They have given us precious time to spend with Rowen without the everyday worries.” The money will help fund hospital stays, travel, time away from work, and ongoing treatment expenses as the Home Hill family navigates a medical journey that began in April. Already on edge after daughter, Ally, underwent brain surgery to have a cavernoma removed just before Easter, Ryan and Holly acted promptly when they noticed a twitch in Rowen’s eye. Following weeks of consultations with Townsville doctors and specialists—which included MRI scans and a Royal Flying Doctors flight—Rowen was eventually diagnosed with pilocytic astrocytoma, a slow-growing brain tumour. He has since been transferred to Queensland Children’s Hospital in Brisbane for chemotherapy, with the couple leaving their two young daughters with their grandparents in the Burdekin to be by his side. In their absence, locals have offered meals, helped on the family’s sugar cane farm, assisted around their home and helped look after their daughters, along with the generous donations. Ryan said the funds raised would not just help relieve the financial burden of Rowen’s treatment, but allow the flexibility to fly their daughters down and spend some time as a family. “(The toughest part has been) the unknown, not having our family together … and watching Rowen go through these traumatic times and … not being able to do anything,” Ryan said. “It has been a very emotional journey so far, and it is hard to believe we are only at the start.” Anyone wanting to support the Davenports is urged to donate using the following link: https://www.gofundme.com/f/supporting-the-davos-and-little-rowen?attribution_id=sl:75c20475-06e5-4752-8e11-d1b7a07c7728&lang=en_AU&ts=1779705595&utm_campaign=fp_sharesheet&utm_content=amp20_t1&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link CAPTION: Funding will allow the family to fly their daughters down and spend more time together during Rowen’s treatment. Photo supplied
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The Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, has slammed the Albanese Government for an unacceptable ambush on regional communities, accusing the Commonwealth of abandoning disaster-prone areas to balance its own budget. The Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Kristy McBain, used a late Friday afternoon media release to quietly flag sweeping alterations to the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA). The proposed changes dismantle the long-standing, scalable framework, which historically provided an average of 64 per cent federal coverage and capped support at 75 per cent for catastrophic events. In its place, Canberra intends to implement a rigid 50-50 funding model. This policy shift arrives at the worst possible time for the state; it follows a volatile severe weather season that caused widespread damage across 71 of Queensland’s 77 local government areas. Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, is warning that the sudden funding shortfall threatens the future viability of essential infrastructure, local water treatment facilities, and emergency evacuation operations. Mr Willcox, drawing on his extensive experience as the former Mayor of the Whitsunday Regional Council, stated that the Federal Government is completely detached from the realities of regional recovery. "This decision is a direct hit to the heart of North Queensland," Mr Willcox said. "Canberra is treating natural disasters like a corporate budgeting exercise; however, out here, it is a matter of community survival. To penalise the very regions that drive the nation’s agricultural wealth and mining export revenues is a profound betrayal. "During my time steering the Whitsunday community through the wreckage of Severe Tropical Cyclone Debbie in 2017, I learned exactly what it takes to rebuild. We relied heavily on scalable federal assistance to restore our shattered rural road networks. Under a flat 50-50 split, local councils across Dawson would be forced to find millions of dollars in matching revenue; that is a financial burden our regional ratepayer base simply cannot sustain." Mr Willcox emphasised that major historical recovery operations would have been completely unviable under the newly proposed guidelines. "The total reconstruction of the Shute Harbour marine terminal and the $5 million federal package required to replace the decimated Proserpine Entertainment Centre occurred because the previous framework allowed for exceptional circumstances," Mr Willcox said. "Small regional councils do not possess the independent asset base to fund multi-million-dollar rebuilds alone. Furthermore, the historical system guaranteed that funding flowed directly into local economies, ensuring that regional earthmoving businesses and contractors were awarded the repair work. By lowering the funding floor, the Commonwealth is forcing cash-strapped councils to delay vital resilience works; this leaves our communities dangerously exposed before successive wet seasons. "It is a coward’s tactic for the Minister to leave this announcement until the day after the parliamentary sitting concluded, ensuring they avoided any real scrutiny or accountability in Question Time. “This is yet another calculated deception from a government that knows exactly how damaging these cuts are; this is absolutely not what the Australian people voted for, and I truly hope this betrayal is remembered at the next election. "This is yet another chapter in the ongoing federal neglect of regional Australia. The government is hiding behind the cover of an independent review to justify cutting essential frontline services. I call on the Emergency Management Minister to reverse this decision immediately; regional Queenslanders refuse to be treated as second-class citizens.” Supplied by the office of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox CAPTION: FIGHTING FOR THE NORTH: Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP outside Parliament House in Canberra, condemning the Albanese Federal Government's plan to slash scalable disaster recovery funding for regional councils. Photo supplied
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"As the final week approaches for public submissions into the Sugar Code of Conduct, Member for Burdekin Dale Last has renewed his calls for growers to unite and make their voices heard. Mr Last said the public submissions for the sunsetting review of the Sugar Code of Conduct should be an opportunity for sugarcane growers from across the Burdekin to outline the benefits of the code for both farmers and the wider community. “Over recent weeks I have taken the liberty of providing a submission on behalf of the community, because ultimately the flow-on impact from changes in our sugar industry stretch beyond the paddock and the mills,” Mr Last said. “I recently met with several grower representatives which provided the opportunity to bring key stakeholders together, reaffirm my support as the Member for Burdekin and emphasise the need to work collaboratively as the review period unfolds.” Mr Last said while it was important stakeholders took the time to make their voices heard during the public submissions there was no better way to understand the impact of the Sugar Code of Conduct than to visit the area and speak directly to representatives. “A decade ago this district played a central role in bringing this code of conduct to fruition so I would expect our stakeholders receive a seat at the table they deserve,” Mr Last said. “If the Federal Labor Government was serious about consulting with the industry, the responsible Assistant Minister would be looking for every opportunity to listen to those who are most impacted by the Sugar Code.” Anyone wishing to have their say in the review can visit https://haveyoursay.agriculture.gov.au/sugar-code-review"
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The Feast of the Three Saints in Silkwood has become known for its generosity, donating the proceeds of their annual feasts to organisations across North Queensland each year.
This year, the committee chose to support CORES Queensland, a community-based suicide prevention organisation based in the Burdekin.
CORES provides vital services including training, self-care workshops, school presentations, and free counselling—all aimed at saving lives and supporting mental wellbeing across the region.
“I personally think it’s great what they do for the Burdekin and I think there needs to be more of it," said Feast of the Three Saints committee member David Pennisi, referring to the work of the team at CORES.
"We wanted to support that and help him to keep doing what he’s doing."
The donation will help CORES continue its life-changing work throughout North Queensland.
Feast of the Three Saints committee members David Pennisi and Sibby Torrisi with CORES Queensland coordinator Ross Romeo. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Masaki Golding is a key part of the Harvey Norman Burdekin sales team and an expert in his field. He’s the go-to guy for everything tech-related in the store, from helping staff get their heads around new gadgets to jumping in wherever the team needs an extra hand.
Masaki’s relationship with technology runs deep, though it wasn’t always that way. Born in Japan but growing up mostly in Bowen, his love affair with computers developed gradually.
“When growing up, I actually was not around tech at all… But while going to school, I found out that my favourite thing was to be around computers, and I taught myself how to work with them. I’ve just run with it.”
Before retail, Masaki’s career path was more hands-on than tech-driven. “I’m mostly certified in construction. I went from doing solar farms to retail!"
Transitioning from operating machinery to explaining computer specs might sound like a leap, but for Masaki, it was just another way to help people.
And helping people is what drives him. “We treat people how we want to be treated,” he says. “I’m able to empathise more and assure the people of Burdekin that someone is here to listen. It just feels good.”
Outside the shop floor, it’s all about family. Masaki and his wife, childhood sweethearts, are busy raising four kids. Between reading sessions, family walks, and a bit of exercise, the household is always full of life.
“My kids are my number one hobby,” he admits with a grin.
Masaki feels right at home in the Burdekin. Coming from a small town himself, he values the slower pace and tight-knit feel of regional life.
“There aren’t as many cars, not as many people, but it just feels right,” he says. “If you walk around the corner, you’ll probably run into someone you know. That’s how a community should be.”
Friendly, enthusiastic, and down-to-earth, Masaki is the kind of team member who makes Harvey Norman feel less like a store and more like a community hub.
“Me and my team—we’re definitely here for the people of the Burdekin. We care, and we’re always happy to help.”
At 10am last Thursday, PCYC Burdekin welcomed community members, support agencies, and high school students for a heartfelt Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) Awareness Morning Tea, held as part of Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month.
Guest speaker Foxie Eleoyze, an intuitive coach, NLP trainer, and energy healer, headlined the event with a focus on empowerment and healing. The atmosphere was informal and welcoming, encouraging open conversations about DFV in a safe setting.
Sergeant Dan Dew, who helped organise the event alongside support agency partners like the Burdekin Community Association, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, and Zonta, said the aim was to foster face-to-face connections between police, support services, and the public.
“We wanted it to be more than just a police perspective,” Sergeant Dew said. “We wanted to try and have all our support agencies in the room together, so that members of the public can come in, mingle chat, have a friendly chat over a coffee, and get different perspective on how things happen."
He highlighted the value of involving students, saying education must begin early. “Having the schools here is huge. Education starts in school, and the more we normalise these conversations, the better.”
Domestic violence continues to be a pressing issue in the Burdekin. “Since 2016, police domestic violence calls of service have increased by 111% in the region,” Sergeant Dew said. “But police staffing levels haven’t increased by 111%, and the scope of what we deal with has grown—especially with recent changes to coercive control legislation.”
Despite the challenges, he’s optimistic about the future of the initiative: “It’s worked out really well this year, and we’re already thinking about how to go bigger and better next year.”
Burdekin Community Association representatives
Sergeant Dan Dew, Fina Vasta, and guest speaker Foxie Eleoyze
Ayr Police
Burdekin Christian College and Ayr State High School
The Burdekin region is known for its strong community spirit, and that spirit is on full display through the ongoing support by the Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr for the Burdekin Combined Chaplaincy.
The community bank, operated by a local board with a deep commitment to community wellbeing, has once again stepped up to support the work of local school chaplains. Through generous funding and public advocacy, the community bank is helping ensure chaplaincy services remain a vital support for students across ten local state schools.
Senior Branch Manager Chantel Michielin said the board understands the critical role chaplains play in supporting young people through their education journey.
“Our board recognise the vital contribution this group makes in our schools—not just in emotional and social support, but in helping students feel seen, safe, and connected,” she said. “We are proud to back a program that delivers such meaningful outcomes right here in our own backyard.”
The Burdekin Combined Chaplaincy currently employs six chaplains who run breakfast programs, lunchtime clubs, and mentoring groups, while also providing in-class support and one-on-one care for students navigating challenges. Many of these services extend beyond the scope of government funding, relying on community contributions to continue.
Operating under the umbrella of SU Australia (Scripture Union), the group plays a pivotal role in providing chaplaincy services to schools throughout the area. SU Australia works alongside churches and communities to give children, young people and their families opportunities to discover life and remind them of the story of hope.
A story where young people are invited to be part of something bigger than themselves – to find purpose and connection.
The Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr recently announced a $30,000 donation to the chaplaincy program, helping to ensure its sustainability. The support was warmly welcomed by the Chaplaincy Committee, who say community partnerships like this are essential to keeping chaplains in schools.
The support reflects the core mission of the Community Bank model—returning profits to local causes and fostering a stronger, more resilient Burdekin.
For more information about the Burdekin Combined Chaplaincy or to get involved, visit their Facebook page – Burdekin Chaplains.
Sweet Days Hot Nights festival took the Burdekin by storm over the weekend, reaffirming its status as the region's premier destination event with two days of electrifying entertainment, colourful celebrations, delicious food, and, of course, swinging blades.
Attendees were greeted with a lively mix of music, movement, and mouthwatering aromas from the moment they stepped through the gates, funnelling through the array of food options to the main stage for the official opening at 6pm.
After the official kicking-off of proceedings, festival-goers flocked to the cane field viewing area, brimming with anticipation for the symbolic First Fire. Although it didn’t quite hit the heights of previous years due to unfortunate weather conditions leading up to the event, it still served as a striking spectacle for newcomers, and an insight into the realities of farm life.
Then, the event blossomed into a vibrant cultural showcase, where a diverse array of groups proudly shared their unique traditions and stories with the audience through dance, song, and even the smashing of plates.
The evening culminated in an open dance floor, where attendees showcased their best moves, spinning and stepping to the lively rhythms of the Burdekin’s very own Four-Tune Band.
Day two kicked off bright and early with the Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships (AHCCC), as competitors from across the region put their skills to the test across a series of age and experience-based heats. From the 55-and-over veterans to the fierce Ladies Cup and Novice events, the action was relentless.
Between cuts, the Sweet Stage kept things flowing with live music from Josie and a series of community presentations—including the crowning of St Colman’s Catholic School as the winner of the Burdekin’s Sweetest School competition.
The energy built toward the afternoon’s big moments: a smoky BBQ Cook Off and the Final of the AHCCC, where Burdekin local Mark Vass emerged victorious with an impressive time of 14.08 minutes.
With a weekend packed with community, culture and competition, this year’s Sweet Days Hot Nights festival once again proved why it’s one of the Burdekin’s most anticipated events of the calendar year.
See the pics here: https://tinyurl.com/2a8nog9l
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What a fantastic weekend it’s been with Sweet Days Hot Nights once again delivering an unforgettable celebration of our region’s people, produce and culture. From the Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships to the vibrant Canefield Cook-Off and cultural performances, it was wonderful to see so many locals and visitors enjoying everything that makes the Burdekin so special. My thanks to everyone involved from volunteers to organisers and sponsors for making the festival such a success. Without your support, events like this simply wouldn’t be possible.Looking ahead, I encourage our community to take part in the upcoming Macroalgae Bioremediation Facility Open Day on Saturday 21 June. This free event is a great opportunity to learn more about innovative research and industry right here in the Burdekin, and how macroalgae could play a role in diversifying our local economy and protecting our environment for future generations. Tours of the facility will kick off from 8:00am, and everyone is welcome to come along. You can find more information by visiting Council’s website at Burdekin.qld.gov.au.This week, you may also notice the Queen Street Fountain turning red and Lloyd Mann Park lit up in recognition of World Haemochromatosis Week. Haemochromatosis is Australia’s most common genetic disorder, and this is an important opportunity to raise awareness and encourage early testing and diagnosis.As always, please stay connected with Council’s website and social media for updates on local events, programs and projects.Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone at 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.
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Wow that was great weekend!! The Sweet Days Hot Nights once again did not disappoint. The rain may have taken the spectacle out of the fire but rain could not dampen the spirits of everyone who attended.
I spent a little bit of time at the gate taking postcodes and it was pleasing to see the support from the locals and also pleasing to see some postcodes starting with 2’s and 3’s. Official numbers through the gates show with over 4000 locals and visitors attending the event.
The bands sounded amazing. The dancing and the culture that was on display, highlighted that Burdekin is second to none in talent.
I may have to train a bit harder this week to burn off the cannoli’s and all the other delicious food that i could not say no to.
Perhaps I should have burned off the extra calories in the hand cutting!! Every participant gave it their all and it was a great tribute to the hard work that the Burdekin was built on.
The Burdekin’s sweetest school and the Canfield cook off were both fantastic new event s and very well received.
I would like to take this opportunity to thanks all the sponsors for their continued support. I would like to thank all those who organised and volunteered their time to help run this amazing event.
Finally, thank you to all those who supported and attended this showcase of the Burdekin’s history, diverse culture and its people.
Ensuring the federal government better understands the work undertaken by primary producers has resulted in more Queensland farmers being eligible for assistance following this year’s severe weather events.
Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, said the changes would herald welcome assistance, especially given they will be applied retrospectively.
“Until now producers whose income included activities like cane harvesting, for example, were mostly exempt from receiving assistance,” Mr Last said. “Not only does that affect those people directly, but it also has flow on effects across industries.”
“Some farming operations simply are not of the size where the primary production income can support a family so taking on agricultural support services is a good fit that adds extra income. The fact is, though, that all primary producers play a key role in the financial strength of our community and in our food security as a nation.”
“Following the severe weather events, farmers across the state were left without assistance due to off-farm income, including here in the Burdekin. The Premier, Minister for Primary Industries and I, as the Minister responsible for QRIDA, heard the message loud and clear and we gave a commitment to do our best to fix the problem.”
“Because the funding is offered jointly by the state and federal governments, we needed to basically present a case to the federal government to change long-standing rules. We had people tell us that we wouldn’t be able to secure support from the federal government, but I guess we proved them wrong.”
“For a long time, there was very little done to support Queensland’s primary production sector, let alone when it came to recovering from severe weather events. The difference now is that the government wants to see our ag sector thrive and, as a result of that, we work with the sector towards a better future.”
“This is the second win we can celebrate with primary producers after we secured funding to allow farmers to replant which, also, had never happened before. Naturally, I’d prefer the severe weather events didn’t happen in the first place but, if and when they do, we need to be able to respond in a way that supports all of our key industries, including agriculture.”
Mr Last said that securing more support for the agricultural sector had already been welcomed by key industry groups but that, for the wider community, there was more work to do.
“There are still areas of the electorate that, for some reason, have not been activated for federal government grants aimed at families and households,” he said. “Work is continuing with an aim of ensuring that people in the district that need help are able to access it; just like families in other areas.”
“Frankly it is disappointing that we need to fight for access to programs that have been made available by the federal government in other areas. The Crisafulli LNP government has proven that we will work cooperatively for the right outcomes but, at the end of the day, I’ll do whatever is needed to ensure Queenslanders aren’t left without the help they deserve.”
Contributed with thanks to Member for Burdekin Dale Last.
Changes to eligibility criteria for disaster assistance means more primary producers can get back on their feet sooner. Photo supplied
There’s a certain rhythm to life in the Burdekin—one I’m only just starting to catch. One moment you’re at a morning tea hearing stories that stop you in your tracks—the next, you’re standing in a cane field watching the sky catch fire to the sound of a cheering crowd and a roaring blaze.
In the past couple of weeks alone, I’ve seen this community in celebration, in reflection, and—maybe most importantly—in conversation. From the solemn honesty of the DV Awareness Morning Tea to the sparks and spectacle of Sweet Days Hot Nights, the region continues to reveal new layers. There’s no single tone that defines it, more just people turning up, again and again, for each other. I guess thats the rhythm.
Settling into the role, I’ve been grateful for the reception—not just polite nods or quick handshakes, but real conversations and a level of openness that, honestly, caught me a bit off guard. In the best way.
I’ve also been grateful for the warm reception from community leaders and colleagues—proof that strong relationships can quickly form with a little humility and a lot of listening.
So as I wrap up another week in the Burdekin, I’m beginning to feel a little more like a local, a little less like the new guy with the camera. The people here make that part easy.
Cheers!
It’s no secret agriculture underpins the fundamentals of the Burdekin Shire, and in late September 2021, a wonderful artistic installation was unveiled in celebration of one of the region’s most treasured events.
After speaking with locals and witnessing the impressive efforts of competitors in Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival’s 2021 Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships, renowned chainsaw sculptor Matthew George was inspired to create a magnificent hand cane cutter monument to highlight the striking work of a bygone era.
Matthew, fondly known as Matty G, has been practising as a creative chainsaw artist for well over 14 years. Proudly self-taught, Matty travels the state, bringing his visions to life by crafting outstanding installations for townships, communities, and individuals to honour, celebrate, and recognise all things iconic and remarkable. With a passion for crafting animals, Matty recycles fallen timber to create his masterpieces, and over the years, he has perfected the balance between stamina and memory to carve with confidence and precision.
On numerous occasions, Matty’s keen eye and skilled attention to detail have been celebrated by local communities, and his commendable talents shine in each and every carving, whether it’s a kangaroo or a swordfish.
Standing tall alongside the Home Hill Lions Club Diorama facing the Bruce Highway, the monument features the mighty Burdekin River flowing between the cutter’s feet, as well as darkened tones to reflect the markings of cane ash on the sculpture’s legs.
A tribute to the region’s undying sugarcane industry, Matty’s installation will remain a long-lasting reminder of how far sugarcane production has come, while celebrating and cementing the uniqueness and history of the Burdekin Shire.
Proudly sponsored by the Regional Arts Development Fund, the sculpture was created under a partnership between Arts Queensland and the Burdekin Shire Council.
Visit the exceptional hand cane cutter monument for yourself and see Matty’s distinctive craftsmanship up close this crushing season!
Matty G's hand cane cutter monument was unveiled in Home Hill in September of 2021 (Photo Credit: Burdekin Shire Council)
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A prominent art installation within the Burdekin Shire, Stephen Walker’s timeless Living Lagoon sculptures have stood in the forecourt of Queen Street’s Burdekin Theatre for almost half a century.
2025 marks exactly four decades since Walker’s work was unveiled in the region, and although 1985 was many moons ago, the sculptures continue to attract much attention and admiration from locals and travellers alike.
Hailing from North Balwyn in Melbourne, Stephen studied at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology and then later under the guidance of Launceston’s Jack Carington Smith at the Hobart Technical College before becoming a professional sculptor, painter, and educator in 1954.
In the early years of his career, Stephen worked alongside prestigious English artist Henry Moore in Britain, Rome, Florence, and Prague before returning home to study birdlife with ornithologists Don and Pat Serventy in Australia’s Furneaux Islands in Bass Strait.
Over the course of Stephen’s professional career, his talents were recognised and celebrated on several occasions. In 1983, Walker was presented with the Advance Australia Award for his contribution to the arts, an Order of Australia for Services to Sculpture in 1984, and he holds spaces in all major galleries across the country as well as over 30 major commissions.
Living Lagoon was designed to pay tribute to the abundance of wildlife and the significance of water within the Burdekin Shire. The sculptures were carefully cast in the Coal River Valley in Campania, Tasmania, where Stephen lived and worked until he passed away on 16 June 2014 at the age of 86. Now, 11 years on from his passing, Stephen’s talents have been forever immortalised across the nation, with four of his bronze works holding honourable listings on the National Heritage Register.
Take a moment to visit the granite and bronze sculptures to appreciate the outstanding talents of Stephen Walker and see Ayr’s very own piece of the artist’s impressive legacy for yourself.
Photo Source: Burdekin Shire Council
A magical Mixed Media Workshop will grace the Burdekin Art Society’s Clubhouse next month under the guidance of the talented educator, Cath Meharry.
With 40 years of teaching experience, Cath has led an impressive career, honing her skills as a talented mixed media artist where she infuses her work with life and texture using collage, paint, drawing and layering.
Upon her retirement, Cath was the head of the art department at Townsville’s St Margaret Mary’s College, and now she continues to share her wealth of knowledge with others through regular art classes and workshops. Now with plenty of time to pursue her own work, Cath fills her free time working at the Drill Hall where she produces exceptional pieces to showcase and capture intricate details of the beauty around her.
The enriching workshop will be held on Saturday the 21st of June from 10am to 3pm at 154 McMillan Street, Ayr, and attendees are asked to contact Lusia on 0448 509 927 for all booking inquiries.
Join Cath Meharry’s creative workshop at the Burdekin Art Society’s Clubhouse this June (Photo Supplied)
A 35-year-old man has been charged after an alleged domestic violence incident earlier this May in the Burdekin Shire.
Police allege that on the 16th of May, the man threatened a woman known to him with a firearm at a residence in Brandon. Thankfully, no one was physically harmed during the incident.
The woman reported the matter to police on the 21st of May and the following day, officers from the Ayr Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB) arrested the man at the intersection of Queen Street and Railway Street where a gel blaster was seized during the arrest.
The man has been charged with one count each of contravention of a domestic violence order (aggravated offence), breach of bail condition (domestic violence offence), possession of utensils or pipes, and threatening violence – discharge of firearms or other act (domestic violence offence). He was refused bail and was scheduled to appear in the Townsville Magistrates Court on the 23rd of May.
Detective Inspector Damien Smith said the swift action highlights the Queensland Police Service’s (QPS) commitment to addressing domestic and family violence.
“We are continuing to take a zero-tolerance approach to domestic and family violence in our communities,” he said.
“It’s important that while we hold perpetrators accountable, we also support victim-survivors and protect them from further harm.
“If you are in a situation where you need help, please contact police.”
For support, contact Triple Zero (000) in an emergency, or DVConnect on 1800 811 811, or 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732.
NQ Wildlife Care is reminding residents that baby season for the Little Red Flying Fox is officially underway, and community support is critical to the survival of these tiny, winged mammals.
This is the time of year when mother bats give birth and raise their pups. The baby flying foxes are unable to fly for several weeks and depend entirely on their mothers for warmth, nutrition, and safety.
“Sometimes pups may fall off their mums and land in random spots around town,” explained a spokesperson from NQ Wildlife Care.
“If you see a baby bat alone anywhere, please call us immediately."
The group has just finished caring for a season of microbat and black flying fox pups, and although the work is non-stop, the volunteers at NQ Wildlife Care say they’re passionate about protecting native wildlife.
The public is asked not to approach or handle bats directly, as they can carry disease and require specialised care. Instead, concerned residents should immediately contact the team.
For assistance with baby bats or to report a sighting, contact NQ Wildlife Care on 0414 717 374.
Photo credit: Cassowary Coast Regional Council
Local community groups in the Burdekin Shire are being encouraged to apply for a share of $285,000 in funding, as the government opens applications for its Indigenous Languages Grants program during National Reconciliation Week.
With grants of up to $15,000 available, the funding aims to support the preservation, revitalisation, and promotion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages across Queensland. Eligible projects include initiatives in art, drama, music and film, Yarning Circles, audio recordings, workshops, signage, books, posters, and more.
The funding directly supports Closing the Gap Target 16 to increase the number and strength of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages being spoken. While Queensland was once home to more than 100 Indigenous languages and dialects, only around 50 are still spoken today, with fewer than 20 used as first languages.
Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Fiona Simpson said the Crisafulli Government is proud to back projects that preserve traditional languages.
“As we continue to celebrate National Reconciliation Week, keeping our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages thriving brings so many benefits to all Queenslanders,” Minister Simpson said.
“Amidst the United Nations’ Decade of Indigenous Languages, preserving, revitalising, and promoting Queensland languages has never been more important—especially as we look ahead to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games."
Minister for Education John-Paul Langbroek also highlighted the importance of language education in both schools and the wider community.
“We know learning languages expands our understanding of cultures and history, none more so than our Australian Indigenous languages,” Minister Langbroek said.
“These grants help ensure those languages are passed on through generations and are known and shared across communities, enriching our young people’s cultural awareness.”
Among last year’s recipients was the Gold Coast SUNS, who worked with the Yugambeh Youth Choir to recreate the club’s theme song.
“This support enabled us to produce a bilingual lyric video of our team song, which is now a feature of our Indigenous literacy program, Yalgan SUN,” Gold Coast SUNS Chief Executive Mark Evans said.
“Delivered in classrooms to more than 2,600 Prep to Year Two students last year, this AFL and industry-leading resource plays a vital role in our commitment to connect communities and celebrate the stories and languages of First Nations peoples.”
The grants are co-funded by the Department of Education and the Department of Women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships and Multiculturalism.
Applications for the 2025 round of Indigenous Languages Grants close on 27 June. Interested community organisations can find application details online at www.qld.gov.au/firstnations/grants-funding/languages.
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