I’d like to begin this column by acknowledging the tragic events that unfolded at Sydney’s Bondi Beach over the weekend. Such incidents have no place in our world, let alone in our beautiful country, and I encourage everyone to keep the victims and their grieving families in your thoughts and prayers. It’s tragedies like these that put life into perspective. They make us hug our loved ones a little tighter and question whether the minor inconveniences that normally frustrate us really matter at all. But it’s important to come together during times like this—when it’s all too easy to point fingers. That’s the essence of our nation. That’s being Australian. And there’s no place that embodies it better than the Burdekin. On a brighter note, local Christmas festivities are ramping up, with the Carols proving a blast and the highly anticipated Chamber Street Party just around the corner. Before long, the big man himself will be dropping by with all our presents. Is it too late to start being nice, or is his list already finalised? Maybe I’ll start saying please and thank you more often, as a last-ditch effort to get in the ‘good’ column.
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Local Initiative Brews Connection and Conversation for Mental Health Talika Pegoraro recently unveiled a beautifully heartwarming mental health focused initiative, Cuppa & Chat, in partnership with Fuel Me Up Café to start conversations and foster connections within the community. A proud Burdekin local, Talika hopes to combine her Certificate IV in Mental Health with her love for taking care of those around her to host a casual and relaxed meeting accompanied by a free beverage with whomever would like to connect. “If you’d like to connect, simply send me a private message on Facebook, and we’ll arrange a time and choose a place to meet – no agendas, no scripts, just genuine, open conversation over a coffee,” shared Talika. In the past, Talika has hosted a highly successful Women’s Circle focusing on self-care and wellbeing. “Giving people the opportunity to have a one on one, confidential conversation could make all the difference especially at a time of year where people can feel quite isolated, and I want to use what I’ve learned to connect with the wider community and just bring some happiness to any who would like it,” Talika explained. Manager of Fuel Me Up Café, Cindy Poletti, approached Talika earlier this year to offer a generous donation to support her previous and future initiatives, leading Talika to establish Cuppa & Chat, which has already been warmly welcomed by the wider community. “I’m hoping that people will use this as self-care or something just for them as an induvial. The conversation doesn’t have to be about mental wellbeing, it can be about whatever they want to talk about – however, I am more than willing to discuss some of the heavier topics that may be weighing people down.” Talika cannot wait to connect with more members of the local community and encourages anyone interested in having a Cuppa & Chat to send her a message today. Talika Pegoraro encourages anyone interested in a Cuppa & Chat to message her on Facebook. Photo supplied
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Three familiar faces in Burdekin healthcare are being celebrated for a remarkable milestone, with a combined 135 years of service marking a lifetime of service to the Burdekin community. Support Services Officer Bertilla Scodellaro, Clinical Nurse Joanne McBow, and Enrolled Nurse Jocelyn Tuffin all started as teenage trainees, and have seen the evolution of healthcare in the Burdekin first-hand. For Ms Tuffin, who began her career at just 15 years old, the technology may have changed over the last four decades, but the core of the job has remained consistent. "I just love looking after people and being there for them at, often, the worst time in their lives," Ms Tuffin said. "People really just want a caring, compassionate person to look after them; they remember it, and it gives you a good feeling at the end of the day to know you’ve made a difference." Ms McBow, who trained alongside Jocelyn, said working in a rural facility offered a unique "whole-of-life" career that specialised nursing couldn't match. "I can't imagine being specialised in one particular thing; I like that one minute I can be caring for someone who is ill, and the next minute I could be in theatre helping with a caesarean," Ms McBow said. "It is a privilege to have that trust to care for people you know in the community and be that support for them." While the clinical team keeps patients safe, staff like Ms Scodellaro ensure the hospitals operate smoothly. Working across both Ayr and Home Hill facilities, Ms Scodellaro was described by her colleagues as the “instrumental link” that keeps the service ticking, ensuring equipment and supplies are exactly where they need to be. "Every day is different, and that is what I like about it," Ms Scodellaro said. Together, all three embody the community spirit of the Burdekin, celebrating a rare, long-standing commitment to rural healthcare.
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A year after the Crisafulli Government reinstated the Bruce Highway Advisory Council, Member for Burdekin Dale Last is backing calls for new members to add their voice and knowledge to the future of the national artery. Mr Last said the success of the advisory council over the past twelve months was a testament to the combination of industry stakeholder representatives and local knowledge that only comes from those who travel the highway. “The Bruce Highway Advisory Council has played a vital role in shaping priorities for the historic $9 billion Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program and the development of a Fatigue Management Strategy,” Mr Last said. “These voluntary positions are a 12-month role for one representative from each of the six regions that intersect the Bruce Highway to join peak body representatives to have their say on the Bruce Highway.” “Since re-establishing the BHAC, we’ve made huge strides in improving safety and reliability, guided by the voices of those who know this highway best.” Chaired by the Minister for Transport and Main Roads, the Bruce Highway Advisory Committee brings together a group of diverse stakeholders from the Pine River up to Far North Queensland to discuss current problems along the Highway and where investment should be prioritised. Mr Last said the advisory council was not just about providing a platform for information about key concerns on the highway and had already brought about significant action. “After a decade of Labor burying their head in the sand when it came to safety issues and flood immunity on the Bruce Highway the Crisafulli Government has turned the tide with more than 40 projects fast-tracked under the Bruce Highway Target Safety Program.” “We are listening and we know there is more to be done and that is why I am encouraging stakeholders in the Northern Region to ensure those crucial concerns around areas prone to flooding, congestion and safety are given the right platform to be heard.”
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Let’s talk about something that affects all of us - what we flush and pour down our drains. Every year, Burdekin Shire Council spends a whopping half a million dollars clearing blocked pipes, and honestly, it’s money we’d all rather see spent on better things. Those blockages? They’re usually caused by households – wipes, nappies, fats, and other stuff that doesn’t belong in our wastewater system.
The good news is, there’s a simple fix. If it’s not Pee, Poo, or Paper, don’t flush it. That one rule makes a huge difference and can save Council thousands. Toss everything else in the bin and help keep our pipes clear, our rates down, and our waterways healthy.
I know we all want to look after our town - and teaching the kids the 3 Ps is a good place to start. Keep a bin handy in the bathroom and don’t pour fats down the sink. These small changes at home really add up.
Let’s make sure our money goes towards things that matter, not fixing avoidable messes. Got questions or want to know more? Check out Council’s Burdekin.qld.gov.au. Let’s cut the crap - literally - and protect our patch.
Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr was proud to take part in the Burdekin Shire Council’s Seniors Month Expo & Luncheon, held on Wednesday, 16 October at the Burdekin Memorial Hall.
The event once again brought together local seniors, community organisations, and service providers to celebrate Queensland Seniors Month and showcase the many supports available in the region. With attendance growing each year, the move to the Burdekin Memorial Hall proved the perfect choice to accommodate the wide range of information stalls and the strong community turnout.
The Expo featured a variety of exhibitors offering advice and resources around aged care, health and wellbeing, finance, and community support. Our team enjoyed connecting with attendees, sharing practical financial tips, and providing information about how Bendigo Bank is helping protect seniors from scams.
Scams targeting older Australians continue to be a growing concern, and Bendigo Bank is committed to helping the community stay informed and vigilant. The bank’s ongoing education campaigns aim to give seniors the knowledge and confidence to identify scams and protect their finances.
During the Expo, our team spoke with many locals about common scam warning signs, such as unexpected calls, suspicious investment offers, and requests for personal details. We also shared information on how to report scams and get support through Bendigo Bank’s dedicated security and fraud assistance services.
Acting Branch Manager Jade Bywaters said the event was a great opportunity to connect with the community and show support for local seniors.
“At Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, we’re passionate about helping our seniors feel confident and supported in managing their finances,” Jade said.
“Events like the Seniors Month Expo allow us to have those important face-to-face conversations — whether it’s about everyday banking needs, planning for the future, or staying safe from scams. It’s all part of our commitment to being a trusted, local bank that’s here for our community.”
The Seniors Month Expo & Luncheon was once again a wonderful success — full of connection, conversation, and care for our older community members. Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr thanks the Burdekin Shire Council’s Community Development team for hosting another valuable event and looks forward to continuing to support initiatives that celebrate and strengthen the local community.
On Tuesday, the 28th of October, Andrew Willcox MP attended Parliament House’s Head to the Hill event on behalf of Elenna Savorgnan’s mother, Maria.
Hosted by Brain Tumour Alliance Australia (BTAA), 2025’s Head to the Hill initiative marks the third year since the event’s debut, raising awareness for the unimproved life expectancy from brain tumours and highlighting the devastating financial, social, physical, cognitive and emotional impact on patients, families, carers and communities.
“I was honoured to attend the Head to the Hill event at Parliament House, a powerful gathering of patients, families, and advocates raising awareness of one of the most devasting cancers,” said Mr Willcox.
“It was incredibly emotional to put faces to the footprints represented by pairs of shoes, to meet families, survivors, and advocates and see firsthand the heartbreaking impact this disease has on so many lives.”
Elenna was diagnosed with Group 3 Medulloblastoma, an aggressive form of childhood brain cancer, last year at just two years old. After over a year of treatments and trails, little Elenna tragically lost her battle at three years old, changing the lives of her parents, Maria and Marty, forever.
“Brain tumours are the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in children and adults under 40, and survival rates have seen little improvement in decades. The voices of families like Maria’s must be heard. Their experiences should guide better policy, research, and support services for all Australians affected,” explained Mr Willcox.
The gathering stood as an opportunity for attendees to visualise the impact of brain tumours through the placing of shoes on the pathways of Parliament House courtyard. The display brought together a large number of shoes of varying sizes to clearly represent the impact that brain tumours have on people of regardless of age, gender or background.
“Events like this unite communities and remind us that behind every statistic is a life, a family, and a story that deserves to be told.”
For more information on Brain Tumour Alliance Australia and the Head to the Hill initiative, visit btaa.org.au.
Local organisations are calling on growers and residents to remain vigilant as the spread of Wild Sorghum and Itch Grass continues to threaten the Burdekin’s sugarcane industry.
Both weeds are difficult to identify in their early stages, often resembling sugarcane, and are extremely hard to control once established. Itch Grass, in particular, is listed as a declared pest under the Biosecurity Act 2014, requiring all landholders to take reasonable steps to destroy it if found on their property.
Queensland Cane Agriculture & Renewables (QCAR) Burdekin District Manager Angelo Licciardello said the weed’s aggressive nature and prolific seed production make it a major concern for local growers.
“Itch Grass can overtake cane paddocks very quickly. Its seeds are easily spread by wind, animals, machinery and soil movement, so early identification and control are essential,” Mr Licciardello said.
Wild Sorghum has also become increasingly problematic across the district. While native wild sorghum species naturally occur in Australia, introduced or hybrid types — such as Sorghum halepense (Johnson Grass) — can act invasively in cropping areas, competing with sugarcane and significantly increasing control costs.
Growers and community members are encouraged to help limit the spread by:
Burdekin Productivity Services (BPS) and Sugar Research Australia (SRA) are working closely to combat the issue. Current SRA research is focused on identifying the most effective herbicide options and exploring advanced technologies, such as camera sprayers that can detect and target weeds within cane rows — reducing both chemical use and costs.
Meanwhile, BPS staff are actively monitoring known weed hotspots and are offering a subsidy program to assist growers with control efforts. Producers are encouraged to contact the BPS office for further details on available support.
To strengthen local coordination, a Biosecurity Committee is being established, bringing together representatives from BPS, SRA, QCAR, Kalagro, CANEGROWERS Burdekin, and Burdekin Shire Council. The committee will focus on prioritising resources and developing strategies to effectively manage biosecurity risks across the district.
Burdekin Shire Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said collaboration is crucial in protecting the region’s agricultural future.
“Our region’s prosperity relies on strong partnerships between Council, industry and landholders. By working together, we can stay ahead of invasive weeds and protect our farming future,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
For more information on identifying or managing Itch Grass or Wild Sorghum, contact Burdekin Productivity Services on (07) 4783 1101.
Allan Parker (Kalagro), Angelo Licciardello (QCAR), Jack Edwards and Rob Milla (BPS), Greg Watson (CANEGROWERS) and Terry Granshaw (SRA) with wild sorghum from a local cane paddock (Photo Supplied)
The 2026 Rotary NQ Field Day is shaping up to be a celebration of everything that makes North Queensland extraordinary: resilient producers, curious kids, cutting-edge tech, and a whole lot of heart.
The iconic Talangalook herd returns to the spotlight. Known for their tropical toughness, calm temperament, and powerhouse genetics, these Santa Gertrudis cattle are a cornerstone of North Queensland beef production. Their presence is a proud nod to tradition and a bold step toward the future.
Attendees can get ready for feathers, flair, and fast feet—Melville’s Racing Ducks will be there to stir up laughter and friendly competition. These waddling wonders will be a Field Day favourite, drawing cheers from all ages.
Kids will be able to grab their Farmers Passport and embark on a hands-on journey across the Field Day. From machinery displays to livestock exhibits, they’ll collect stamps, complete challenges, and learn about agriculture in a fun, interactive way. It’s education disguised as adventure—and a brilliant way to inspire the next generation.
The 2026 Rotary NQ Field Day Committee are thrilled to welcome Travearth back, showcasing their cutting-edge mapping and geospatial technology tailored for agriculture. From precision farming to land management, Travearth’s live demonstrations will reveal how data-driven insights are transforming the way we grow, graze, and plan.
Whether you're wanting to talk genetics, chase ducks, explore the paddock, or dive into ag-tech, the 2026 Rotary NQ Field Day promises something for everyone. Come for the cattle, stay for the quacks, explore with the kids, and leave inspired by the future of farming.
Home Hill State High School (HHS) representatives recently took part in the prestigious Gatton AgTech Showcase, an event celebrating innovation and technology in modern agriculture.
Agriculture teacher Louise Nicholas and agricultural assistant Kim Anderson attended the two-day event, which brought together more than 1,400 growers, industry members, students, and innovators from across Queensland. Hosted at the Queensland Government Smart Farm, the showcase provided a platform to explore the latest in protected cropping, ag-tech advancements, and sustainable farming solutions.
The work being undertaken by students at Home Hill SHS and Ayr SHS was proudly shared at the event, with attendees describing their efforts as “impressive.” The showcase featured cutting-edge technologies such as laser weeders, smart sprayers, and drone-based data systems, highlighting how rapidly the agricultural industry is evolving.
These advancements will directly support the school’s mission of preparing students for future careers in agriculture, ensuring they are skilled, adaptable, and industry-ready.
Home Hill SHS expressed its gratitude to the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) for supporting the school’s involvement and providing ongoing guidance in their protective cropping journey. The school also acknowledged the partnerships and connections developed through the event, which will continue to enhance the agricultural program and deliver valuable real-world learning experiences.
The school extended its thanks to Hort Innovation, the Queensland DPI, and event sponsors for backing such a forward-thinking initiative. The strong turnout at the showcase reflected a growing interest in sustainable, technology-driven agriculture, something Home Hill State High School is proud to be a part of.
Before games commenced at the Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex last week, players and parents paused for a moment’s silence in support of Ben Austin’s family, friends, and teammates following the tragedy earlier in the week.
The Home Hill Cricket Association extended its thoughts and condolences to all affected during this very difficult time. Players wore black armbands, and a bat was placed at the boundary for the duration of the match as a mark of respect.
Blue Group
The Blue Group didn’t post many high totals this week, mainly due to a late start caused by technical issues with the iPad electronic scoring system. As a result, the game was shortened, and the balls-faced retirement target was reduced for each batter.
Kyle Wilkie was the top scorer with 5 not out, and also claimed a wicket and a catch in the field. Other wicket-takers were Kip Nicholas, Mazlyn Smith, and brothers Henry and Royce Cohen.
Kyle and Mazlyn were awarded the McDonald’s Sports Awards for their strong performances.
Gold Group
In the Gold Group, Oscar Mahoney hit two fours on his way to 20 not out, and also contributed a run out and a stumping in the field. For the opposing team, Ben Watkins struck two fours in his 17 not out and took a catch.
Mark Wilkie and Oliver Calligaro added 12 and 13 runs respectively, with Oliver remaining not out and performing strongly with the ball, taking 2 for 20. Tyler Schultz and Billy Muilwyk each took a wicket, while Mark Wilkie, Oliver Calligaro, Tyler Schultz, and Alex Cullen all effected run outs.
Oscar Mahoney and Oliver Calligaro received the McDonald’s Sports Awards for their all-round efforts.
Challengers
The Challengers division saw Doug Cohen record the highest score of the week with 14 runs, including two fours, followed closely by Flynn Sullivan, who finished 13 not out with three fours. Jack Gorey added nine runs, including a boundary.
With the ball, Jaxson Wilkins, Amaya Goggi, and Flynn Sullivan each took two wickets, while Everly Nicholas, Aria Bryant, and Doug Cohen claimed one wicket each. Claire Cross bowled a maiden over.
The McDonald’s Sports Awards went to Nate Ryder for his excellent fielding and batting, and to Doug Cohen for his strong batting performance.
Contributed with thanks to Scott Heidke
Challengers -Jack & Nicholas
Blue and Gold - Kyle, Oscar, Oliver & Mazlyn
Students and staff at Burdekin Christian College (BCC) showed their support for child safety last Friday, taking part in Day for Daniel—Australia’s largest child safety education and awareness event.
Dressed in red, the national symbol of child safety awareness, BCC students participated in classroom discussions and activities centred on the key messages of Recognise, React and Report—tools that empower young people to protect themselves and others from harm, both in the community and online.
Held annually on the last Friday in October, Day for Daniel honours the memory of 13-year-old Daniel Morcombe, who was abducted and murdered in 2003 while waiting for a bus on the Sunshine Coast. His disappearance sparked one of the country’s largest police investigations and led his parents, Bruce and Denise Morcombe, to establish the Daniel Morcombe Foundation—a not-for-profit dedicated to child safety education.
Since then, the event has grown into a nationwide movement, uniting schools, families and communities under a shared goal: keeping children safe.
A Burdekin Christian College staff representative said the day was an important reminder that child safety is everyone’s responsibility.
“We’re proud to stand together as a college to promote child safety and honour the legacy of Daniel Morcombe,” they said.
Across Australia, thousands wore red on the day, standing together to remember Daniel and continue his legacy of awareness and action.
Zonta Club Burdekin Inc (Zonta) and the Burdekin Domestic and Family Abuse Prevention Network (BDFAPN), BCA, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, Police and Burdekin Shire Council are coming together to mark the campaign, 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, with a community vigil at the Burdekin Theatre forecourt on Monday, 25 November 2025.
The16 Days of Activism, commencing on 25 November, is a global campaign that unites individuals and organisations worldwide in calling for the prevention and elimination of gender-based violence in all its forms.
As part of this campaign, Zonta and the BDFAPN BCA, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, Police, Burdekin Shire Council will be hosting a series of local initiatives in the lead-up to the vigil, including sharing powerful first-hand stories, awareness-driving activities, and social media campaigns designed to spark conversation and drive change.
The vigil at the Burdekin Theatre will be held in remembrance for those who have lost their lives as a result of gender-based violence, while also standing in solidarity with survivors and their families.
Zonta’s President, Isabel Stubbs, says that this vigil is an opportunity for our community to come together, reflect, and take a stand against violence.
"We want to do our part in the community by showing our support and helping raise awareness. By doing so, we can help create a culture of respect and safety for all," she said.
"This vigil is a time for reverence, remembering, and determination. We honour the survivors, light candles for the departed, and renew our commitment to building safer communities."
The event is open to all members of the community. We encourage all to attend and show their support.
Event details
Date: Monday, 25 November 2025
Time: 7pm
Location: Burdekin Theatre Forecourt, 161 Queen Street, AYR
The Vigil Committee. Photo supplied
BCA’s Accredited Exercise Physiology Program has been specifically designed to help individuals of all ages. Sessions are delivered from our fully equipped and friendly Burdekin Community Rehabilitation Centre located at 12A Chippendale Street, Ayr.
Our Accredited Exercise Physiologists (AEPs) supervise all AEP Program participants and provide best practice exercise prescription to ensure that everyone performs exercises that are safe and appropriate for their goals and health conditions. Sessions are delivered one-on-one and face to face.
Our AEPs specialise in helping people to manage a chronic disease or injury, provide post-surgery rehabilitation support, recover from a cardiac or cancer event, improve strength and mobility, reduce cholesterol, manage or improve arthritis and joint pain, and maintain or reduce body weight.
There are several ways you may be able to access AEP Program services, including through a Chronic Disease Management Plan (CDM), the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) for Gold and White card holders, the Home Care Packages Program (HCP), the Support at Home Program (SaH) which is expected to commence on 1 November 2025, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), a Private Health Fund, or by paying a private fee for service.
If you are accessing the program through a CDM or DVA, please speak with your GP. For Aged Care Packages or NDIS, please speak with your service provider or contact BCRH if you are self-managing your Package or Plan. For Private Health Fund enquiries, please speak with your Fund, and for private fee-for-service options, please contact BCRH directly.
For information, please contact the Burdekin Centre for Rural Health (BCRH) located at 12A Chippendale Street, Ayr.
P: 4783 2711
E: bca@bcaburdekin.org.au
W: www.burdekincommunityassociation.org.au
F: www.facebook.com/bca1975
Contributed with thanks to Debra Cochran
A couple of weeks ago, I was driving south down Queen Street, debating whether I felt more like pizza or Maccas. That’s when I noticed sirens and a crowd gathered outside the Queens Hotel, and, like clockwork, my journalistic instincts kicked in. I slammed a U-turn and headed straight for the scene, sensing story potential—and my instincts were right, though not in the way I expected.
I parked and wove through the crowd, asking a few people what all the fuss was about. Nobody seemed to know for sure, but i heard murmurs of a small kitchen fire. Just as I was about to give up, I spotted someone unmistakable: Karrie Webb. Burdekin local. Global legend. I’d been trying to reach her for a story over social media for months, without success. This time, though, no spam inbox stood in my way.
I greeted her, and we got to chatting. I explained the situation and floated the idea of featuring her in my Burdekin to Big Time series, which she happily agreed to. When the interview rolled around, she was a fantastic subject—decades of experience with the media clearly showed. We had a wonderfully candid conversation about her journey to the top and the role our beloved Burdekin played along the way.
Stay tuned for the story - we'll be running it in the paper next week!
The treasured generational entrepreneurial spirit of the McCathie family has been nationally recognised following the nomination of McCathies Furniture Plus in the 2025 Australia’s Favourite Family Business Competition.
Just over 50 years ago, Jack and Milly McCathie founded the business in the heart of the Burdekin Shire, and half a century later, the business continues to operate with the same trustworthy, family values as it did in 1974. John and Lyndy McCathie joined the family business in 1978 where John worked alongside his parents to introduce new furniture pieces and help relocate the business to its current location at 262 Queen Street, Ayr.
In 2013, John and Lyndy’s daughter, Kari and her husband Rob Ravizza joined the family business, becoming the third generation to own and operate McCathies Furniture Plus. More recently, Kari and Rob’s son, Jye Ravizza, has taken up a casual role in the business, excitingly becoming the fourth generation to proudly wear the McCathies logo.
“We’re extremely proud of our small business to be recognised and to be a finalist,” explained Lyndy.
Having now been named a finalist in the competition, Kari believes it’s more than just an achievement, it’s a celebration of their shared history, hard work, and the enduring values that have been passed down through generations.
“Coming from a teaching background rather than a business one, I was anxious at first taking over the family business – worried I might be the generation to end what my grandparents, Jack and Milly, and my parents John and Lyndy worked so hard to build,” shared Kari.
“Being shortlisted feels like a real acknowledgement that I can do this – that I’m capable of continuing our family legacy with the same honesty, kindness and community mindedness that have always defined McCathies Furniture Plus - for my family and me, it’s a moment of pride, gratitude and reassurance that values we’ve carried forward still matter and make a difference.”
To vote for McCathies Furniture Plus in the 2025 Australia’s Favourite Family Business Competition, visit businessbuilders.com.au/australias-favourite-family-business-2025.
“To have been nominated is an incredible honour and a very proud moment for our family and team and to be recognised among so many wonderful family businesses across Australia is truly special,” said Kari.
“McCathies Furniture Plus has always been built on family values – honesty, integrity and community, so being shortlisted feels like a celebration of all the hard work, heart and generations that have gone into our business. It’s also a reminder of how lucky we are to have the ongoing support of our loyal customers and our local community. We wouldn’t be here without them!”
Three generations; Lyndy McCathie, Kari Ravizza, Rob Ravizza, John McCathie – holding a photo of Milly, Jack McCathie and also Murphy the dog. Photo supplied
The spirit of service was front and centre over the weekend as Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) Burdekin volunteers were recognised as founding members of the new statewide organisation.
In a ceremony attended by Member for Burdekin Dale Last, Mayor Cr Pierina Dalle Cort, emergency services colleagues, and proud families, the crew received their official MRQ Citations—along with commemorative coins struck to honour the unit’s decades-long legacy.
From its early days as Air Sea Rescue to Volunteer Marine Rescue and now MRQ, the Burdekin team has been a constant presence on local waters, answering the call whenever lives are at risk.
The formation of MRQ, which unites the Volunteer Marine Rescue and Australian Volunteer Coast Guard under one banner, marks a new era for marine safety in Queensland. Despite the change, the mission remains the same—saving lives at sea.
When the full transition wraps up in 2025, around 2,700 volunteers across 47 units will respond to 4,000 activations a year under MRQ, operating as part of the Queensland Police Service.
For the Burdekin crew, the occasion was a salute to history, mateship, and unwavering service.
While the Burdekin has not seen a dramatic increase in housing construction, Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, believes a recently announced government initiative offers numerous advantages for the construction industry across the state and closer to home.
An election commitment, the Small Business Apprenticeship Pilot Program will deliver wage subsidies to small businesses in the construction sector that employ apprentices.
“A reduction in tradespeople in the construction industry is both a major challenge in addressing housing issues and for families and rental property managers,” Mr Last said. “Regardless of whether it’s a minor repair or a major project, we all know that usually you have to join the queue when it comes to getting a quote, let alone getting work underway.”
“Trades in the construction industry are rewarding careers and, as a government, we want to make it as easy as possible for local small businesses to hire apprentices. Not only does that address current issues, but local apprentices are more likely to stay in the area and provide services for years to come.”
“We recognise that taking on an apprentice represents a financial commitment for small business, especially when the apprentice is participating in off-site training like TAFE. Just over $10,000 per apprentice is available for construction businesses employing apprentices aged under 21 and, for apprentices over 21, the subsidy is almost $14,000.”
Mr Last said the range of trades that were eligible for the subsidy was comprehensive but stressed that support was limited to the first 2,000 eligible registered apprentices employed by businesses with fewer than 20 employees.
“The commitment made by a small business that hires an apprentice is far larger in proportion than it is for a large construction company.”
“The message is that if you are an apprentice, or employ an apprentice, in the construction, plumbing, engineering or electrical fields you need to apply for this funding as soon as possible. Regardless of whether the apprenticeship is full-time, part-time or school-based, if the apprentice commenced after July 1st in a construction related trade, they are eligible.”
“Fixing the housing shortage will take a multi-faceted approach in order to get the right results. That’s why we have taken steps to assist with making land available, provided financial assistance for headworks and why we are now helping to boost apprentice numbers.”
“We can’t just make the construction of new dwellings the sole focus. If people aren’t happy in their current home, or can’t live there due to needing repairs, you end up with more people waiting on new homes.”
“Just as it has with other issues, the government’s focus is on finding practical ways to address what has become a statewide issue."
Wilmar Sugar and Renewables’ Kalamia Mill crushed out on the weekend, making it the first
sugar factory in Australia to finish the 2025 season.
The last bins of cane were tipped at Kalamia Mill in the Burdekin just after 1am Saturday (25
October) and the last batch of raw sugar went up the belt in the early hours of Sunday
morning.
General Manager Operations James Wallace said it was great to see one of Wilmar’s
factories take line honours for the 2025 season.
“The start and finish of the annual sugar production season are important milestones for all
of the cane-growing communities in Queensland and New South Wales,” he said.
“It’s not often you get to be first past the post, so we’re really pleased that one of our eight
factories was the first in the industry to crush out for 2025.”
Mr Wallace said two more of Wilmar’s factories – Invicta Mill in the Burdekin and Proserpine
Mill in the Whitsundays – were on track to finish in the next few days.
“We’re in a much better position than we were last year, due to improved factory
performance and fewer rain disruptions,” Mr Wallace said.
“Based on our current crop estimates and no significant downtime from unplanned factory
stops or wet weather, we’re expecting all of our sites to be finished the season by the end of
November.”
Mr Wallace said the key focus was on safely wrapping up the final weeks of the season.
There are currently 21 operational sugar mills in Queensland and New South Wales. Wilmar
Sugar and Renewables owns eight of these factories, located in Ingham, the Burdekin,
Proserpine and Sarina.
Wilmar Sugar and Renewables’ Kalamia Mill was the first in the Australian industry to crush out for
2025.
Kalamia Mill Operations Coordinator Mark Nicolaides watches the last bins go through the tippler for the 2025 season.
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