A heartwarming show of community spirit was on full display in the Burdekin Shire earlier this month, as hundreds of locals banded together to reunite a much-loved dog with his family after more than a week on the run.

Ayr resident Machelle Slatcher raised the alarm on social media on 5 February after her border collie–kelpie cross, Rusty, went missing from Lisa Drive.

“MISSING in Ayr 4807. Border collie x kelpie went missing yesterday from Lisa Drive. Rusty is extremely friendly,” she wrote, sparking an outpouring of support.

What followed was an extraordinary community effort. Hundreds of people shared posts, phoned in sightings and kept watch along roadsides, paddocks and riverbanks, many for a dog they had never met, but were determined to help bring home.

As updates rolled in, Rusty was spotted across several locations, with Machelle regularly posting updates to keep the search going.

“He loves a ball, so he’ll become your best friend immediately,” she wrote.

Despite days passing and sightings becoming less frequent, the community didn’t give up. Then, in the early hours of 13 February, the message everyone had been hoping for arrived.

“STOP LOOKING!!! Rusty is home safe,” Machelle posted.

“I want to thank everyone and I mean everyone, literally half of the Burdekin has been out looking for him. I can’t thank you all enough, people I don’t even know have been contacting me and have been out and about. I can’t successfully put into works how grateful I am. I am so blessed to be living in such a caring community - thank you from the bottom of my heart!”

After eight days and an incredible community-wide effort, Rusty is now safely home, and his family are determined to keep it that way!

“He’s currently soaking up the aircon in the house, and I’m glad he’s stopped making that movie,” Machelle joked.

“GPS tracker is on its way- he’s not going on an eight-day journey ever again!”

CAPTION: Rusty is now home safe and sound. Photo credit: Machelle Slatcher

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The countdown is on to the Next Gen 2026 Cane Forum, with the event now just weeks away in the Burdekin and Herbert regions on 3–4 March.

Co-organisers Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR) and Aglantis are urging attendees to register, with limited spots remaining — including only five seats left on the dedicated bus from Proserpine, Mackay and Plane Creek.

“The clock is ticking for next-gen farmers, new-to-industry farmers and anyone else interested in the advances in technology, innovation and systems in the sugarcane sector,” Aglantis event spokesperson Luke Malan said.

As Managing Director of Aglantis and co-organiser of the event, Mr Malan said he was excited to help revive a platform dedicated to promoting the future of farming, with a strong focus on practical application.

"This is about giving our nation’s growers real-world examples; helping them to see and pave the way to what the future of sugarcane farming could look like," Mr Malan said.

The forum has attracted significant backing from industry-leading sponsors, reinforcing a shared commitment to the long-term sustainability and profitability of Queensland’s sugar industry.

Mr Malan said the strong industry support had enabled a high-calibre program featuring practical, on-farm demonstrations of automated irrigation and precision agriculture tools.

“Our incredibly supportive sponsors allow the showcasing of advanced agricultural technology, directly supporting the next generation of sugarcane farmers,” he said.

Among the key highlights for 2026 will be smart and automated irrigation systems, offering growers the chance to see efficiency-driven technology operating in real time. Precision agriculture and GPS technology will also take centre stage, with a focus on how these innovations translate into real-world profitability.

Carbon and reef compliance — an increasingly important consideration for emerging industry leaders navigating a changing regulatory landscape — will form a critical part of the discussion.

“Over the past year we’ve seen something powerful happen when farmers are simply given the space to come together. Conversations around dinner tables turn into real practice changes on farm, ideas shared on bus trips sparked new trials and connections made between growers can lead to lifetime friendships,” Mr Malan said.

He said the momentum behind the forum would not have been possible without the Queensland Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and its investment through the RP84 Peer to Peer Farming Groups program.

“Their support backed ‘farmers backing farmers’ — creating opportunities to explore new technology, challenge thinking, and building confidence to adopt practical improvements. We are incredibly grateful to DPI for recognising the value of grower-led learning and for investing in stronger, more connected farming communities across Queensland.”

QCAR Chair Russell Hall said the forum was specifically designed to deliver hands-on, boots-on-the-ground value.

“While we’ll have industry veterans in attendance sharing their wealth of experience, the program focuses on the high-level innovation and practical technology required for modern farming,” Mr Hall said.

QCAR’s Senior Technical Agriculture Officer and event co-organiser Lawrence Di Bella said the event was about bringing the industry together and putting the tools of tomorrow into growers’ hands.

“We could not be more proud or more excited to be bringing this event back to the industry,” Mr Di Bella said.

“By combining high-level innovation with practical field trips, we are making sure our next generation of leaders can see how new technology translates to profitability and sustainability."

The program includes immersive on-farm demonstrations, site visits to progressive farms, and direct insights into how ag-tech tools can improve yield while managing environmental footprints. Attendees will also have opportunities to connect with industry leaders and peers from the Burdekin, Herbert, Proserpine and Mackay regions, as well as experts who can help navigate the complexities of modern farming.

Event schedules and ticket details are available via the Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables and Aglantis Facebook pages or by calling (07) 3496 9555. Tickets are also available at https://nextgen2026.eventbrite.com.au.

CAPTIONS:

1. Luke Malan, Managing Director Aglantis and Event Co-Organiser. Photo supplied
2. Lawrence Di Bella, QCAR Senior Technical Agricultural Officer and Event Co-Organiser. Photo supplied
3. Aglantis will host an in-field demo of its solar-powered smart valve actuator, shown here operating flood irrigation in the Burdekin. The system fits onto existing valves, allowing farmers to remotely control water without cables, power, or complex installation. Photo supplied
4. SwarmFarm Robotics will have their automated tractors, pictured here with a broadacre boom attachment, at the 2026 Next Gen Cane Forum. Photo supplied

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Recreational and commercial fishers across the Burdekin Shire are being urged to take note of upcoming seasonal fishing closures, with the annual Spanish mackerel closed season set to affect local waters later this year.

The Burdekin falls within Queensland’s northern Spanish mackerel management zone, which applies to east coast waters north of latitude 22 degrees south, slightly north of Stanage Bay. As a result, popular local fishing areas will be subject to extended closures aligned with new moon periods.

In 2026, northern Spanish mackerel closures will run from 8 October to 29 October, followed by a second closure from 6 November to 27 November. During these periods, Spanish mackerel must not be taken, possessed or sold.

The closures are part of Queensland Fisheries’ seasonal management strategy aimed at protecting fish stocks during key breeding periods and ensuring long-term sustainability.

Several other closed seasons will also apply throughout the year. Barramundi will be closed on the Queensland east coast from 1 November to 31 January, while snapper and pearl perch will be off-limits from 15 July to 15 August.

Additional restrictions include two five-day coral reef fin fish closures in October and November, a tropical rock lobster closure from 1 October to 31 December, and a spanner crab closure from 1 November to 15 December in managed areas.

Fishers are reminded to check closure dates and boundaries before heading out, as penalties apply. With Spanish mackerel a prized local catch, fishers are encouraged to plan ahead and target alternative species during closure periods.

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Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr continues to demonstrate its strong commitment to the Burdekin region through its ongoing support of local rugby league at Bendigo Bank Park.

For generations, rugby league has played a vital role in bringing Burdekin families together. From juniors lacing up their boots for the first time, to parents volunteering on game day and grandparents cheering from the sidelines, local sport is woven into the fabric of the community.

As a community owned bank, Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr understands the importance of backing initiatives that keep regional towns connected and thriving. Supporting rugby league is about far more than what happens on the field — it’s about investing in opportunities for young people, strengthening family bonds, and building pride across the district.

Through its sponsorship of Bendigo Bank Park and support of the Burdekin Roosters, Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr is helping ensure the long-term sustainability of the sport locally. This support assists with facilities, programs and the continued development of players and volunteers who dedicate countless hours to keeping the game strong.

The Club of Origin, held in November last year, showcased the very best of local rugby league, uniting over 100 players both men and women, volunteers, sponsors and families from across the Burdekin region for a full day of community connection and club pride. The event delivered quality facilities, professional operations, live entertainment, and recognition for players, referees and support staff, reinforcing rugby league as a positive, well-run focal point for community involvement and future regional rugby league development. The winners of the competition were Colts who beat Brothers in the Grand Final.

Spokesperson for the Community Bank said supporting grassroots sport aligns strongly with the bank’s purpose.

“Our Community Bank exists to make a real difference locally,” she said. “When we invest in sport, we’re investing in young people, families and the long-term wellbeing of the Burdekin.”

“Local clubs rely on community support to survive and grow. We’re proud to play a role in helping rugby league remain strong for future generations.”

By standing alongside local sporting organisations, Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr continues to reinforce its commitment to building a stronger, more connected Burdekin—on and off the field.

CAPTION:

The Club of Origin, held in November last year, showcased the very best of local rugby league. Photo supplied

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With a portfolio overflowing with exceptional achievements across academia, sport and community service, 2026 Young Citizen of the Year Grace Ogomeni was recently recognised for her humble contributions to the local community at the 2026 Burdekin Shire Council Australia Day Award Ceremony.

“Hearing my name announced, followed by the applause, was overwhelming in the most heartwarming way. I felt incredibly grateful and proud, not just of myself, but of the community that supported me and has given me so many opportunities to get involved – this moment meant a lot to me because it reinforced my sense of belonging and connection to the Burdekin community,” she explained.

“I hope that people understand my achievements and involvements were not done to receive recognition - I hope everyone sees instead that they are a reflection of my values and my commitment to make a positive difference wherever I can.”

In the past year alone, Grace’s resume of success welcomed several prestigious titles including Home Hill State High School Valedictorian, House Captain, School Captain, Burdekin Secondary School Athletics Age Champion, Lloyd Memorial Sportswoman of the Year, as well as several Subject Dux honours.

“I would say leadership came naturally to me; however, I still learnt and developed many leadership skills through leadership programs and personal experiences,” Grace said.

“Staying organised and knowing what needs priority at different times helped me manage academics, sporting commitments and community service - when my motivation dipped, I reminded myself why I was doing what I did – for example the goal of getting into medicine really pushed me to stay focused.”

Grace’s dedication to crafting an efflorescent future will see her commence medical studies at James Cook University this year.

“I am very excited to start studying medicine at JCU, especially for the chance to go on placement in rural and remote regions,” Grace enthused.

“In the future, I hope to make a positive impact by helping close the gap in healthcare access for rural communities like the ones I grew up in. I want to make sure people in these often-overlooked towns have the care and support they deserve.”

Grace credits the local community for shaping her into who she has become, explaining how the interconnectedness and small-town nature of the Burdekin Shire was instrumental in her upbringing.

“Growing up in the Burdekin shaped my values of community, belonging and kindness. In a small town you see the impact of community-wide support,” she explained.

“Through school, sport and community activities, I felt a sense of belonging, which made me want to make sure others felt the same. These experiences inspired the path I want to take in medicine, where I can continue to give back.”

CAPTION: Grace Ogomeni was named Young Citizen of the Year at the 2026 Burdekin Shire Council Australia Day Awards. Photo credit: Melanie Napier Photography

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The vital skills and job-ready training opportunities of apprenticeships are being brought to the fore during National Apprenticeships Week with Member for Burdekin Dale Last echoing the Crisafulli Government’s commitment to backing apprentices and their employers.

Boasting more than 200 enrolments in the local TAFE facility in 2025 and more than 1000 technicians and tradespeople in the district, Mr Last said the State Government’s investment in apprentices was vital in supporting essential trades and services relied on by the Burdekin’s major industries.

“Our major industries rely on our tradespeople every day in the Burdekin to keep machinery running, pumps operational and for the supply of everyday goods and services. It’s incredibly important the people who want to take up a career in sectors like manufacturing or construction are afforded every opportunity to do so,” Mr Last said.

“Having the opportunity to earn and learn through an apprenticeship without having to leave your hometown is crucial to securing the future of our local industries here in the Burdekin and that’s why the Crisafulli Government is backing them.”

Mr Last said National Apprenticeships Week ran from 9 to 15 February and marked a total investment in training the tradies of tomorrow of $270 million.

“Investing in our apprentices and the small businesses backing them means we are not only supporting our key sectors now but fostering growth for the future of our industries right across the state,” he said.

“The Crisafulli Government knows it is a serious decision to take on an apprentice with plenty to consider, which is why we are supporting small businesses with apprentice wage costs under a $19 million Small Business Apprenticeship Pilot Program.

“$40 million in 2025-2026 has been invested into programs supporting apprentices as part of the Crisafulli Government’s broader focus on strengthening skills, supporting employers and increasing workforce participation.”

Contributed with thanks to the Office of State Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP

CAPTION: Dale Last MP recently discussed traineeships and apprenticeships opportunities locally at QMN Manufacturing. Photo supplied

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By Jacob Casha

Two Burdekin teenagers, stung by Irukandji jellyfish earlier this month, were reunited with the Marine Rescue Queensland Burdekin (MRQ Burdekin) team whose quick actions helped save them.

Teens Recover After Cape Upstart Irukandji Ordeal

What began as a routine day trip to Cape Upstart quickly became a race to the hospital after two Burdekin teenagers were stung by Irukandji jellyfish on Sunday, 1st of February.

Guardian Dan Horan, son Hudson Horan, 14, friend Tanner Cole, 13, and two others set sail from Molongle Creek to the Cape at around 9am, eventually anchoring the boat and snorkelling just off the shore.

At around 10:30am, Tanner and Hudson emerged from the water with red marks after feeling a mild stinging sensation.

Hudson recalled, “I got hit… then about five seconds later Tanner got got hit on the leg.”

Tanner said the sting initially didn’t feel serious.

“It was just itchy and that was it, really,” he said.

Within minutes, however, the boys’ conditions worsened.

“By the time we got to the boat, Tanner was really sick and started vomiting, and Hudson said he had stabbing pains in his legs and his back down into his feet. He couldn't feel his feet, and he was starting to shake,” Dan recalled.

They soon realised their symptoms were consistent with Irukandji syndrome, a potentially life-threatening reaction to the venom of Irukandji jellyfish.

Initial attempts to call Triple-0 were unsuccessful due to lack of mobile coverage, and tensions on deck began to heighten.

“I was very panicked… obviously your brain goes to the worst-case scenario,” said Dan.

“I'm thinking, are we gonna have to stop? Should I Just stay here? Am I gonna have to resuscitate them?”

Dan turned to the boat’s VHF radio system and contacted MRQ Burdekin, where volunteer Dawn Ordorica answered and organised for emergency services to be contacted within minutes.

Through the radio, fellow MRQ Burdekin volunteer Paul Quagliata coordinated with Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) to meet the group at the boat ramp.

“I was able to talk to Dan on the radio while I had the dispatcher and QAS on the phone, so we were able to relay that information quite quickly so they [QAS] knew what they're dealing with when they got there,” recalled Quagliata.

Within five minutes of Dan pulling up at the ramp, paramedics were on scene.

Quagliata said the quick coordination between MRQ Burdekin and QAS likely prevented a longer ordeal.

“I think we saved the boys probably 40 minutes of more agony.”

Paramedics immediately administered first aid on-site before providing pain relief and transporting the teenagers to Ayr Hospital, where doctors confirmed the stings were consistent with Irukandji jellyfish.

The pair was monitored until their symptoms subsided at around 5am the next morning.

A relieved figure, Dan lauded the efforts of emergency services in handling the situation.

“The fact that they [MRQ Burdekin] were able to have the ambulance there in five minutes of us pulling up the ramp, was a big, massive relief for me, and also the boys,” he said.

Quagliata said the situation served as testament to the importance of volunteer-led emergency services like MRQ Burdekin.

“It just goes to show what we're about in times of need and what we're capable of doing,” he said.

Cover—Dan Horan, Hudson Horan, and Tanner Cole with MRQ Burdekin volunteers Paul Quagliata and Dawn Ordorica, who coordinated their rescue. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

2— “The fact that they [MRQ Burdekin] were able to have the ambulance there in five minutes of us pulling up the ramp, was a big, massive relief for me, and also the boys,” said Dan Horan. Photo supplied

The Burdekin Shire Council has announced changes to the Clare Transfer Station’s operating days following a six‑month trial and clear community feedback on opening times.

Councillors received a report at the Ordinary Council Meeting on Tuesday 10 February 2026, reviewing the trial conducted between 4 July 2025 and 2 January 2026. During the trial, the facility’s schedule shifted from weekly Sunday openings in 2024/2025 to a fortnightly Friday service in 2025/2026.

According to a council media release, the trial aimed “to assess community usage patterns, determine whether Friday openings were more convenient for residents, and identify any potential operational efficiencies.”

Community feedback was collected via email submissions, Customer Request Management entries, and a QR code feedback tool. While the number of responses was limited, the council reported several consistent themes. Feedback showed a clear preference for Sunday operations, with only a small number of residents advising that Friday openings suited their needs. No feedback opposed the facility operating on a fortnightly basis.

Comments also highlighted the comparative suitability of Sundays versus Fridays, and the need for clearer signage and better communication to help residents know which fortnight the site is open.

Friday 13 February 2026 was the final Friday opening. From 1 March 2026, the Clare Transfer Station will return to Sunday openings on a fortnightly schedule, coinciding with the same fortnight that yellow‑lid recycling bins are serviced.

Residents seeking further information are encouraged to contact Council’s Customer Service Centre on (07) 4783 9800.

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I love Home Hill.

I’ve lived here for the last, what… 10 months now? And can wholeheartedly say that I’ve not regretted a single second.

But what I’ve come to realise is that, according to most locals, it’s a shell of what it once was—and the signs were staring me right in the face the whole time.

The boarded-up shops are perhaps most telling. Everyone I talk to says that where these barren shopfronts on Main Street now lie, businesses used to bustle. Streets full. Lines out the door.

Then, naturally, I ask them, “What happened?”

That’s where answers begin to diverge, and breed more questions.

Does this business drop-off correlate with the issues pertaining to volunteering that I discussed last week? Or do they merely coincide? Can community spirit thrive in any meaningful sense if the local business sphere is compromised?

I think they go hand in hand. As good as Home Hill is in its current form, country towns need economies to sustain themselves both financially and socially.

But what do I know? I’m no local.

So, as I embark on this quest to uncover the why—and potential antidotes—please do get in touch with any helpful information or observations.

And on that note, if you have any story you think deserves to be told in our paper, please do not hesitate to contact us.

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By Jacob Casha

Trevor Elton has lived his whole life in Home Hill.

Born and raised, true blue.

That’s why, when he caught wind that the town’s beloved community sports club was on the brink of demise at the turn of the decade, he knew he had to step in.

And that, he did.

Faced with dwindling numbers, unpaid rates, and the looming threat of closure, the Home Hill Community Sports Club had been one of the big losers when COVID struck in 2019.

The stream of travellers had run dry, membership had fallen to single digits, budgets were evaporating, and the greens of the near-century-old venue were in complete disrepair, often doubling as a makeshift soccer pitch.

“The club was pretty much on its knees,” said Trevor.

But he never remembered it that way.

For decades, the club had been the steady lifeblood of the community; a haven for locals from all corners to connect and unwind, and often the venue of everyone’s special occasions.

When Trevor took on the role of club president five years ago, he vowed it would see these days again, not only for the sake of its members, but the community as a whole.

“It was never about any kind of personal applause,” he said.

“It was about keeping alive something that means so much.”

The road to revival began with the club bus.

Costly to maintain and no longer viable, it was sold, freeing up much-needed financial wiggle room and giving the struggling club its first real breath of life in years. From there, the snowball began to pick up momentum.

With the proceeds, Trevor moved quickly to clear outstanding debts and steady the club’s finances, laying the foundation for a broader revival.

From that foundation, he spearheaded working bees to restore the grounds, applied for and secured a $200,000 grant to rebuild the green, and transformed the hall with new carpet, air-conditioning, and aesthetic upgrades that gave the club a new lease on life.

With that, members began to pour back in, with numbers soon eclipsing triple digits. The club grew stronger by the day, and the venue once again began to reflect its local stature as a storied pillar of the community.

And even as the club continues to surpass anything it had ever been before, Trevor refuses to rest. His current pursuit? A brand new cover for the greens, which he admits is a mammoth task, but given his history, more a matter of when rather than if.

His exploits saw him awarded Volunteer of the Year at this year’s Australia Day Awards at the Burdekin Memorial Hall; an award he said was a bonus rather than the end goal. Characteristically, he was quick to acknowledge the role of the team behind him, giving special credit to wife Judy.

“It was a proud moment—for myself and for my wife, who’s always backing me up and being there with me. It’s just as much hers as it is mine,” he said.

“These clubs rely on volunteer work, and I'm only just part of the club The award I got wasn’t my award—it was everybody's award, and if you look around the Burdekin, there are so many other people out there who deserve it.”

When Trevor took on the role of club president five years ago, he vowed it would see its glory days again, not only for the sake of its members, but the community as a whole. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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The Forensic Crash Unit is appealing for witnesses or anyone with relevant dashcam footage following a fatal traffic crash in Ayr on Tuesday, 3 February.

Investigations indicate that around 3.05pm, an orange Yamaha motorcycle was travelling along Rutherford Street when it collided with the rear of a Kia Sorrento that was turning into a driveway.

The rider of the motorcycle, a 40-year-old man, was transported to Townsville University Hospital with life-threatening injuries.

The male rider has since died from his injuries.

The 35-year-old female driver of the Kia Sorrento was not physically injured.

Anyone who witnessed the crash or has relevant dashcam footage is urged to contact police.
Investigations are ongoing.

Quote this reference number: QP2600221205

If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24 hours per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.

Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au

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The Forensic Crash Unit is appealing for witnesses or anyone with relevant dashcam footage following a fatal traffic crash in Ayr on Tuesday, 3 February. Photo source: QPS

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Ayr State School teacher Shanoa Young has been nationally recognised for her teaching excellence this month, pipping thousands of contenders to Twinkl’s inaugural Aussie Teacher Legend award.

Part of Twinkl’s Aussie Teachers Gratitude Awards, the accolade honours teachers who ‘go above and beyond’ each day, with 10 of the nation’s most-loved educators celebrated as winners.

Young, one of the 10 winners, said her emotional reaction was equal parts pride and surprise.

"When my name was announced, I was honestly shocked,” said Young.

“I didn’t even know… I had been nominated. I felt overwhelmed, excited, and genuinely so honoured that I had even been considered, let alone selected.”

The award carried a deeper meaning for Young, who had been juggling full-time work, studying, and raising a family before the victory.

“This recognition feels like the icing on the cake—a reminder that the effort, dedication, and long hours have been seen and valued. It’s very affirming both personally and professionally,” she said.

A teacher at Ayr State School since June 2025, Young credits her students and colleagues for much of her success.

“The support from parents, students, and colleagues has been absolutely essential. Teaching is never a solo effort—it’s a team journey,” said Young.

"I love how unique and diverse my students are, and I truly believe I learn just as much from them as they learn from me.”

Principal Mrs Nikki Schell said the award was a deeply deserved recognition of an educator who leads with heart, purpose and authenticity.

“She is the kind of teacher who makes students feel seen, valued and safe—someone who shows up every day with kindness, humour and an unwavering belief in her students,” said Mrs Schell.

“We are incredibly proud of the impact she has already made at Ayr State School, and this recognition is a wonderful celebration of the care and passion she brings to our school community.”

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Ayr State School teacher Shanoa Young has been nationally recognised for her teaching excellence this month, pipping thousands of contenders to Twinkl’s inaugural Aussie Teacher Legend award. Photo supplied

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It was when Janet Hughes began caring for dementia patients decades ago—while her own mother was also affected—that she experienced firsthand the toll the disease takes, not just on those living with it, but on their carers as well.

Since then, she has dedicated herself to ensuring carers receive the support they need.

Drawing on decades of experience in dementia support groups across the region, Hughes now serves as the facilitator of the Burdekin Dementia Support Group—a meeting point for dementia sufferers and carers alike to bond over shared experiences.

Meeting at the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre at 10am on the first Tuesday of every month, the group comes together to connect, converse, and learn, says Hughes.

“Caring for someone with dementia is a 24/7 concern. Even a short break is valuable,” she said.

“The group is meant to provide a comfortable space for people to relax. If they need to shed a tear, they can. Even just learning about the disease itself and its different aspects—‘this works for me, it might work for you’—helps tremendously.”

The group often welcomes guest speakers and draws on resources and educational programs created by Dementia Australia to provide carers with guidance and support.

But Hughes said that while the need for such support is growing, groups around the nation are struggling to attract attendees.

“Ours is a small group, but I don’t mind if only one person shows up. If I can help one person, that’s okay by me,” said Hughes.

She emphasised that the group is open to anyone, no matter where they are in their journey.

“Even if you’re grieving the loss of a loved one or your loved one has moved into permanent care, you’re still welcome,” she said.

“The stresses don’t end just because your role changes.”

The group also enjoys a morning tea each meeting. Anyone interested in learning more about the Burdekin Dementia Support Group is encouraged to contact the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre on 07 4783 4243.

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The Burdekin Men’s Shed Mental Health Week Event proved a great success, connecting groups from Townsville, Rollingstone, and Vincent.

Men’s Shed members offering a helping hand at the AGnVet Rural
Annual BBQ.. Photos supplied.

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Since opening its doors in 2011, the shed on Young Street in Ayr has been a place for local men to gather, share skills, and look out for one another. A place where modest, unassuming conversation can mean the difference between isolation and connection.

The brainchild of a group of community members, health workers, and local government officials, the idea first took form at a public meeting in 2010. Men in the region wanted a space where they could tackle health issues together, away from the pressures of daily life. The response was overwhelming, and by June 2011, the Burdekin Men’s Shed Association was officially born.

From the beginning, the focus has always been on connection, says BMSA Secretary Charles Ford.

“I call it health without a pill,” he said.

“Men come along, and instead of regurgitating their illness at home, they come here… and by the time they’re talking to somebody else, it disappears.”

The ‘shed’ is home to five separate spaces, hosting workshops, mentoring sessions, and meet-and-greets several mornings a week, serving as a connection point where like-minded men of all ages can make new friends, share their skills, and pick up new ones while looking after their physical, emotional, and social wellbeing.

2025 was another big year for the shed. Members hosted an Inter-Shed visit with groups from Townsville, Rollingstone, and Vincent, sharing ideas and learning from each other. Others attended the North Queensland Zone QMSA President’s Conference in Townsville, connecting with fellow leaders and exploring new programs and funding opportunities.

Closer to home, members lent a hand wherever it was needed, repairing and repainting four Zonta Club bench seats to raise awareness of domestic violence, mentored local students, hosted workshops for Scouts, and cooked at the annual Christmas AGnVet Rural barbecue. Their Mental Health Week “Cuppa, Chat and Chew” event brought the community together to connect, discuss wellbeing, and celebrate Seniors Week.

The Men’s Shed is hoping for another fruitful year ahead, with plans to continue to strengthen the school mentoring program, welcome new and younger members, and continuing to improve facilities and activities.

The group is always welcoming new faces; men looking for a place to share a cuppa, learn new skills, and reconnect with community. With five sheds, regular meet-and-greet mornings, monthly luncheons, and guest speakers, there are plenty of ways to get involved.

Membership is open to men aged 18 and over, with a $10 joining fee and $50 annual membership. Application forms are available at the shed or through Secretary Charles Ford on 0417 401 303 or charlesford@iinet.net.au.

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By Chelsea Ravizza

Stanley Walter Simpson, fondly known as Stan, passed away on Thursday, 8 January 2026, leaving behind a lasting legacy of community service and a lifelong commitment to supporting the younger generation.

Mr Simpson grew up in Charters Towers and moved to the Burdekin Shire in 1944 where he met his late wife, June, and had three children, Stanley Jnr, Collette and the late Rachelle.

After completing his schooling at Ayr State High School, Mr Simpson worked alongside his father as a motor mechanic before joining a fertiliser company, where he was employed from 1969 to 1971. He later ventured into the automotive industry, spending many years in both new and used car sales before retiring in 2000. Retirement marked the beginning of a new chapter, with Mr Simpson hosting a news program on Sweet FM for six years while continuing to dedicate himself to a range of community and media endeavours, most notably his passion for mentorship.

Mr Simpson’s quest for knowledge and vested interest in the proper use of language saw him take to the stand for the first time at the Ayr Apex Club where he went on to win several speaking competitions. After retiring at the compulsory 40-year age limit with Life Membership honours, Mr Simpson joined the Home Hill Choral Society and wrote several Theatre Restaurant acts for the organisation.

In 1968, Mr Simpson joined Rostrum Club 18 (Ayr) and held the position of Club President for over a decade. Mr Simpson was elevated to Freeman of Australian Rostrum in 2009, and his dedication to coordinating Rostrum Voice of Youth (RVOY) within the Burdekin Shire ensured its survival for half a century.

Mr Simpson held a deep passion for seeing young people thrive, a commitment that became a defining part of his legacy through his coordination of RVOY workshops across the Burdekin Shire and the education of Burdekin Junior Water Festival Ambassadors.

Through this work, he championed the values at the heart of Rostrum; “for those who desire to improve themselves in the practice of effective speaking, and who hold that freedom of speech, loyalty to truth, clarity of thought, and a love of the English language are of utmost value to the community.”

Over the course of his public speaking career, Mr Simpson was awarded two Rostrum Australia Bronze Medallions for outstanding service beyond the duties undertaken and was runner up in the 2011 Arch Williams Memorial “Speaker of the Year”.

In 2011, Mr Simpson first delivered a tuition paper on public speaking to ASHS students, and with the cooperation of Mrs Linda Attard in 2014, a high number of students began to enrol in RVOY.

“There were many facets to Stan’s life… his family, his business, his passion for orchids, his musicality, just to name a few, yet he still found the time to inspire and motivate the Ayr High family, through another of his passions – public speaking,” said Mrs Attard.

“Through Stan’s belief about the importance of public speaking, a connection was forged with Ayr State High School that spanned over a decade.”

Mr Simpson’s passion and enthusiasm for seeing students succeed saw him become a beloved mentor to the youth of the shire.

“Stan would generously share his wisdom among our group of enthusiastic students who had nominated for the public speaking competition,” Mrs Attard recalled.

“He spoke to the students about what the adjudicators were looking for in a persuasive speech, the do’s and don’ts of public speaking, how to structure and deliver speeches and how to involve the audience.”

In addition to ASHS, Mr Simpson became heavily involved in several schools across the district in the years to follow, including Burdekin Christian College (BCC) and Burdekin Catholic High School (BCHS), where he voluntarily ran several youth developmental programs like RVOY, and Burdekin Toastmasters Club as well as conducting personalised public speaking and tutoring classes.

BCC Principal, Miss Debra Creed, recounted the tremendous impact Mr Simpson had on her students, recalling how affective he was in mentoring the younger generation to find a voice and stance on current world issues.

“The wonderful Stan Simpson had a massive impact for the better with our students – he would always appear with the brightest smile, and his support and efforts were never ending,” said Miss Creed.

“The staff and students at BCC are heartbroken to hear that Stan has passed, he was an icon of the Burdekin and will be greatly missed.”

In 2023, an inaugural award was introduced to ASHS’ Voices of the Future competition, known as the Stan Simpson Encouragement Award, which is presented to a student who has shown outstanding commitment, courage, and improvement in their speaking skills.

ASHS has committed to continue recognising Mr Simpson and his strong advocacy for public speaking within the school community as well as his unwavering support to generations of students.

“Stan has left a lasting legacy at Ayr High and his passion and dedication for public speaking will live on, not only through the award, but also for future generations of Ayr High students who participate in the Voices of the Future competition,” Mrs Attard said.

“The Ayr High family extend our deepest condolences to Stan’s family and friends.”

Mr Simpson led a life filled with generosity and passion for learning. Photo source: Stanley Jnr
Mr Simpson with ASHS RVOY students, Clara Hutton, Ryan Kastner, Mrs Linda Attard, Sarah McDonnell, and Lauren Raitelli. Photo source: Mrs Linda Attard
ASHS welcomes Mr Simpson to the school regularly for RVOY workshops and competitions. Photo source: Mrs Linda Attard
Mr Simpson also led RVOY workshops with BCC students. Photo source: Miss Debra Creed

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