Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
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A draft 20-year plan released for North Queensland has pledged to protect the Burdekin's productive agricultural land while planning for new housing, infrastructure and economic growth.
Burdekin Shire is one of just five council areas directly covered by the North Queensland Regional Plan, meaning decisions made through the planning process will help shape the district's future development.
The draft plan is accompanied by a North Queensland Infrastructure Plan, bringing future land use together with planning for transport, water, energy, digital connectivity and social and community infrastructure.
For the Burdekin, where agriculture remains a cornerstone of the local economy, Member for Burdekin Dale Last said protecting productive land must remain central to decisions about future growth.
“The Burdekin is an agricultural powerhouse and an important contributor to Queensland’s economy and protecting our productive land must remain a priority as the region grows,” Mr Last said.
“This draft plan provides an opportunity for local communities, farmers, businesses and industry to have their say on how North Queensland grows over the next two decades.”
The regional planning framework is particularly significant for agricultural communities because Queensland's planning system recognises priority agricultural and strategic cropping areas when managing competing land uses.
Alongside protecting established industries, the North Queensland planning process is focused on housing supply and economic development and will provide direction for future local planning and development assessment.
That gives Burdekin residents and industry an opportunity to weigh in on how growth should be accommodated while retaining the productive land and economic strengths already supporting the district.
Farmers, businesses, industry groups and residents can make submissions on the draft plan during the public consultation period.
Feedback closes on Tuesday 29th September.
Remembered by peers as a "true gentleman" and a stable, calm presence on the regional Lions cabinet, Max Tavasci devoted his final years entirely to service. Photo: supplied
Long before Max Tavasci became a fixture at Lions Club fundraisers and children’s eye screenings across Outback Queensland, he was a young North Queensland swimming star making Australian sporting history.
A 1970 Commonwealth Games silver medalist, former sugar cane farmer, and dedicated volunteer, Max passed away suddenly on the 29th of July while traveling out west with his caravan to bring vision screening to school children in Mount Isa and the Gulf country. He was 72.
Born and raised in Ayr to Italian farming parents, Battista and Margaret Tavasci, Max grew up on the family property. Encouraged by his mother to stay active, he developed into an elite swimmer alongside his siblings, training in local waters and rubbing shoulders with visiting athletes.
His hard work culminated in 1970 when he represented Australia at the Edinburgh Commonwealth Games, claiming a silver medal in the 1500m freestyle while his father served as a race timekeeper. His legacy endures in his hometown, where the 'Max TavasciTrophy' is still presented annually at the Ayr School Swimming Carnival.
Following his athletic success, Max worked on the family farm, laboured in Tasmania and Maryborough, and drove trucks before returning to North Queensland. Known for his love of colourful shirts, fast cars—which his son fondly noted he rarely drove fast—and Meat Loaf records, Max lived a full and colourful life.
"He had the heart of a champion, handed down from my dad," said his sister, Paula Dowson. "He died doing what he loved to do."
In the second half of his life, Max found a renewed sense of purpose through Lions Australia. Over 18 years of service with the Burnie City, Cleveland Bay, and Townsville Castle Hill Lions Clubs, he became a tireless community worker.
Alongside his partner of more than 20 years, former District Governor Michael MacLaren, Max traveled across Queensland conducting paediatric vision checks, running raffles for Lions Assistance Dogs, delivering meals for Eat Up Australia, and assembling disaster relief hampers for flood-affected regions.
Remembered by peers as a "true gentleman" and a stable, calm presence on the regional Lions cabinet, Max devoted his final years entirely to service.
"I feel Dad found himself and his place with Michael, Lions Australia and the church, evidenced by the lasting happiness he displayed over the last two decades,” said his son, Scott Tavasci.
Max is survived by his partner, Michael MacLaren; his son, Scott; his granddaughters, Scarlett and Eloise; his sister, Paula; and his extended family. His funeral was held at Kirwan Uniting Church on the 20th of August.
A century, extensive renovations and multiple ownership changes later, the Kalamia still stands at its original location on Queen Street. Photo: Jacob Casha.
The Kalamia Hotel is turning 100, and it wants the Burdekin there to celebrate. After a century of beers, meals, friendships and memories, ‘The Locals’ Local’ is marking the milestone with a massive day of entertainment, music, prizes and family fun.
A century, extensive renovations and multiple ownership changes later, the Kalamia still stands at its original location on Queen Street. Photo: Jacob Casha.
It was 1926 when the Kalamia Hotel served its first beer.
The Burdekin looked a little different then. Queen Street was still dirt. The Silver Link was still about 27 years off.
Yet, the region had its very own new pub at the end of Ayr’s main street.
A century, extensive renovations and multiple ownership changes later, it’s still perched there—a fixture of the region’s history, a monument of its evolution, and a modern-day favourite in its own right.
Through all the changes, one thing has stuck.
“People come in here and they feel at home,” said Manager Kellie Elton.
She knows that feeling better than most.
Kellie first came to the Kalamia as a customer before joining its staff, and has now spent a decade behind the scenes of one of Ayr's most recognisable pubs.
She has watched it change, too.
Once known for its late-night party atmosphere and popularity with backpackers, the Kalamia has gradually become a more family-oriented venue, with its beer garden and function spaces now playing a much bigger role.
But Kellie doesn't think becoming more modern means losing what made the pub special.
“The traditional front bar is the heart and soul of the pub—without that, it’s not really a pub in my eyes,” she said.
“We also have staff that are down to earth, can take a joke, and dish a bit of banter. It’s just giving it that small-town country vibe, and not trying to make it something that it’s not.”
The pub’s role in the community extends beyond its own walls.
Every Saturday, meat-tray raffles raise money that goes straight back into the Burdekin, helping support schools, sporting clubs and community groups.
Returning the favour.
“We’re in a position to give back to the community that has supported us for generations—so we do,” Kellie said.
“We couldn’t do what we do without the support of the community, so we’re just so very thankful for their support.”
The pub is now preparing to celebrate its centenary with those very locals.
And while the milestone offers a chance to look back at a century of history, the Kalamia is already looking ahead, with major renovations set to begin next year.
But while the pub may continue to evolve, it will never stray too far from what it was when that very first beer was poured 100 years ago.
A place where locals can pull up a stool at the front bar and feel at home.
The Locals’ Local.
Kalamia Hotel is inviting the community to become part of its history this weekend as ‘The Locals’ Local’ celebrates a century in style.
The pub will welcome families, regulars, and everyone in between to its historic Queen Street venue on Saturday 29th August for a full day of free entertainment on the house.
Kickstarting at 10am, the festivities open with a mega raffle giveaway that would make even Santa jealous. A massive lineup of 21 meat trays, six seafood trays, four $100 Kalamia vouchers, and exclusive merchandise will all be up for grabs.
The action will move to the beer garden at 2pm for live music, kids' activities, and complimentary tastings.
Representatives from Diageo, De Bortoli Wines, and Burdekin Rum will be pouring a selection of vodkas, rums, wines, and signature cocktail concoctions, while youngsters are kept busy by face painting, crafts, and colouring stations.
Local up-and-coming bands Makeshift and Tribute will supply the tunes until 6pm, when Joel Blacklock takes the stage for the headline set.
Nearly a year in the making, Kalamia Hotel Manager Kellie Elton said the event would be a “relaxed family event” with something for everyone.
She said celebrating the historic milestone with locals would make it all the more sweet.
“100 years for a pub to always be open and running is a major achievement—and it’s still going strong today,” she said.
“It would mean so much to see the community there—to see that they care about the place as much as we do.
“Come down, have a few drinks, listen to some live music, and have some prizes on us.”
Commemorative stubby coolers will be available for $10 on the day, with limited-edition 100-Year shirts available to order.
KELLIE ELTON
Venue Manager | 10 years at the Kalamia Hotel
What other positions have you held at the Kalamia?
I’ve worked as a casual front bar attendant, duty manager and assistant manager.
What work did you do before the Kalamia?
I worked in retail, banking and community services.
How long have you lived in the Burdekin, and did you know the Kalamia before joining?
I’ve lived in the Burdekin my whole life and had visited the Kalamia from time to time.
How did you join the Kalamia team?
I wanted a second job and was offered a position.
What do you love most about working at the Kalamia?
The team spirit, fun environment and seeing people enjoying themselves because of us.
What are you looking forward to most about the centenary?
Seeing the young local talent showcase their skills and seeing people come together.
What do you enjoy outside of work?
I actually enjoy my alone time on my days off.
LUCAS HUTLEY
Apprentice Chef
What does your role involve?
Prep work and coming up with special ideas.
What work did you do before the Kalamia?
I worked at a Chinese restaurant, The Reject Shop and McDonald’s while I was at school.
How long have you lived in the Burdekin, and what did you know about the Kalamia before joining?
I’ve lived in the Burdekin for 12 years. I’d heard the Kalamia was a good place to work.
How did you join the Kalamia team?
I knew people who worked here.
What do you love most about working at the Kalamia?
Serving good-quality food and learning skills to progress into fine dining.
What are you looking forward to most about the centenary?
I’ll just be doing my thing in the kitchen.
What do you enjoy outside of work?
Catching up with mates.
KEIRAN NOLAN
Head Chef | 15 years at the Kalamia Hotel
What does your role involve, and what other positions have you held at the Kalamia?
Stock ordering, quality control and rostering. I started as a cleaner, then worked as a kitchen hand and apprentice chef before becoming Head Chef.
What work did you do before the Kalamia?
I worked in a butcher shop in Ireland and in my family’s tree-logging business in Ireland.
How long have you lived in the Burdekin, and what did you think of the Kalamia before joining?
I’ve lived here for 15 years. I knew it would be a good place to work.
How did you join the Kalamia team?
I needed a job when I relocated from Ireland.
What do you love most about working at the Kalamia?
The staff morale.
What are you looking forward to most about the centenary?
Hopefully catching up with past and present staff.
What do you enjoy outside of work?
I was a Muay Thai fighter in Ireland.
MEGHAN-ROSE BEST
Duty Manager | 10 months at the Kalamia Hotel
What does your role involve, and what other positions have you held at the Kalamia?
Before becoming a Duty Manager, I was a Food and Beverage Attendant. My current role involves customer service, floor management, compliance and safety, administration and stock, shift supervision and team leadership. I’m also responsible for closing the venue at night and managing money.
What work did you do before the Kalamia?
I’ve worked in childcare and hospitality. Both have taught me responsibility, communication, teamwork and customer service.
How long have you lived in the Burdekin, and what did you think of the Kalamia before joining?
I’ve lived in the Burdekin for almost three years. My first impression of the Kalamia was that it had a great atmosphere when I came in for dinner.
How did you join the Kalamia team?
I handed in my resume, had a chat with the Venue Manager and started my training shifts that weekend. The Kalamia has lovely staff and great service, so I wanted to become part of the team.
What do you love most about working at the Kalamia?
I love the atmosphere, the team and, most importantly, the patrons.
What are you looking forward to most about the centenary?
I’m looking forward to being part of something so amazing. I’m so grateful and proud to be part of the Kalamia.
What do you enjoy outside of work?
I love relaxing with a book, doing something crafty or simply watching movies.
While President Uli Liessmann, Vice President David Jackson, and Treasurer John Woods retained their roles, local Lydia Flores stepped in as secretary following the departure of long-serving Robert Antoniazzi. Photos: Jacob Casha.
The Home Hill Chamber of Commerce announced it will move forward with a refreshed executive committee following its Annual General Meeting last week.
The Wednesday meeting welcomed members to the Home Hill Community Sports Club as officials presented financial reports, recognised member achievements, and confirmed the incoming leadership.
While President Uli Liessmann, Vice President David Jackson, and Treasurer John Woods retained their roles, local Lydia Flores stepped in as secretary following the departure of long-serving Robert Antoniazzi.
Mr Liessmann said Mr Antoniazzi’s contribution would be missed, but expressed confidence in incoming Ms Flores.
Local business owners Scott and Candace Young of Salted Roots, along with Neil Machin and Patricia Thomas of Scrubby’s, filled the remaining executive roles for the year ahead.
Despite reporting a marginal financial loss, Mr Woods said the Chamber had performed better than in the previous year. He also announced the organisation’s new website was live.
Mr Liessmann presented veteran journalist David Jackson OAM with a Certificate of Appreciation on behalf of the Chamber for his 11 years of commitment to Home Hill News.
The meeting also heard from three guest speakers, beginning with local clay target shooter Joseph Rossato, who shared his experience representing Australia overseas and captaining the Queensland shooting team.
Eddie Smallwood of the Gudjuda Rangers detailed his group’s work and future plans, before Ms Young outlined ambitious plans to rejuvenate the streets of Home Hill (find out more on page 7).
Visit the pharmacy at 101 Eighth Avenue, Home Hill, to browse the meals on offer in-store. Photo supplied.
The team at Alliance Pharmacy Home Hill knows how busy life in the Burdekin can be, but believes a full-on schedule shouldn't stand in the way of a nutritious meal.
That’s why the pharmacy has joined forces with Farm Door, a family-run NSW kitchen, to bring delicious, affordable, ready-made meals straight to you.
With free delivery across the shire, Burdekin locals no longer have to make do with forgotten leftovers at the back of the fridge. Instead, they can explore a menu spanning everything from traditional comfort foods to flavours inspired by Asian, Middle Eastern, African and European cuisines.
The range covers pork, chicken, beef, lamb, and seafood favourites, as well as a selection of desserts to satisfy your sweet tooth. Meals come in 400g ‘main’ and 280g ‘petite’ portions, alongside soups and snacks, with many suitable for vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, high-protein and high-energy diets.
Each dish is prepared using fresh, nutrient-dense produce in Farm Door’s Wagga Wagga kitchen, designed to save you time without compromising on quality or flavour. Now available at Alliance Pharmacy Home Hill, Burdekin locals can experience thatconvenience themselves.
Visit the pharmacy at 101 Eighth Avenue, Home Hill, to browse the meals on offer in-store, or head to the Farm Door website to explore the full menu and delivery options.
Residents on a Support at Home (SaH) or NDIS package may also be eligible for subsidised meals, paying as little as 30 per cent of the cost. If you think you might qualify, contact your SaH or NDIS provider to confirm.
Earlier this week, the government launched consultation on a national demand mechanism for low-carbon liquid fuels, including ethanol and biodiesel.
Australia has reached a turning point in the push for a national biofuels industry, with CANEGROWERS joining industry leaders at Federation Mall today to build on the Federal Government’s cleaner fuels announcement and help ensure the opportunity delivers for growers.
Earlier this week, the government launched consultation on a national demand mechanism for low-carbon liquid fuels, including ethanol and biodiesel.
“This is a big deal for growers, and CANEGROWERS is right at the heart of it,” CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan said.
“We’re helping lead the conversation and working alongside the milling sector and government to make sure improving grower profitability is central to what comes next.”
“The Federal Government deserves credit for the consultation. It is the most significant development in national biofuels policy in decades.
“Having grower representatives and millers here alongside biofuel producers, researchers, regional leaders and national security experts shows how seriously this opportunity is being taken.”
CANEGROWERS is backing calls for a nationally consistent, enforceable and progressively increasing blending requirement on fuel wholesalers for Australian-made ethanol and biodiesel.
It is also supporting calls to develop sovereign capability in sustainable aviation fuel, renewable diesel and the manufacture of critical chemicals and materials from sugarcane.
“We already have feedstocks, production capacity and expertise we can use today,” Mr Galligan said.
“We should build on that now while developing the next generation of fuels and bioproducts.
“For growers, the measure of success is straightforward – new markets for cane, more value from every tonne and more profitable farming businesses.
“Biofuels policy cannot stop at the factory gate. The benefits must reach farming families and communities.”
Mr Galligan said the consultation had created real momentum.
“The industry is ready to work with government. Now we need to get on with it.”
The Federation Mall gathering follows a week of meetings in Canberra, where Mr Galligan and CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens have put the grower case directly to federal ministers and senior officials.
Burdekin residents experiencing domestic and family violence will now have access to around-the-clock crisis support following the launch of a new dedicated North Queensland service.
The 1800NQSAFE phoneline will operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week, providing immediate assistance and connecting victim-survivors with local services across the Burdekin, Townsville, Hinchinbrook and Palm Island local government areas.
The service forms part of the new North Queensland Domestic and Family Violence Networked Hub, backed by a $21 million Queensland Government commitment over two years.
The hub will work across key pathways including police, hospitals, housing services and specialised domestic and family violence providers, with the aim of making it easier for people to access appropriate support when they need it.
Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence Amanda Camm said the service would provide greater access to local assistance across the region.
“We said we’d deliver this service in North Queensland and from today victims from Ingham to Ayr will be able to pick up the phone and receive the local help they deserve,” Minister Camm said.
“Staff at UnitingCare, which is operating the 24/7 phoneline, know firsthand the complexity of domestic and family violence and understand that everyone who has the courage to make a phone call to seek help deserves to have that call answered.”
UnitingCare is operating the new phoneline, with staff able to listen to callers, discuss their options, assist with safety planning and connect them with further services.
UnitingCare General Manager, Targeted Support, Family and Disability Services, Joanne Trentin said having assistance available outside traditional business hours was particularly important for people experiencing domestic and family violence.
“Domestic and family violence can escalate at any hour, and when someone is ready to reach out for help, it's critical that support is there,” Ms Trentin said.
“Having support available 24 hours a day, seven days a week means people can reach someone when they need to; someone who can listen, help them understand their options, support safety planning and connect them with the services they need.
“1800NQSAFE is about making that pathway to support simpler and more immediate, so people experiencing domestic and family violence don't have to navigate those moments alone.”
The new service sits alongside other Queensland Government domestic and family violence measures, including Police Protection Directions and the rollout of GPS monitoring that courts can impose on high-risk perpetrators.
Burdekin residents needing support can contact 1800NQSAFE at any time, day or night.
Burdekin tourism operators looking to develop new attractions and experiences could receive up to $300,000 through the latest round of the Queensland Government’s Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund.
Applications have opened for round two of the $20 million program, designed to support new tourism products and infrastructure across regional Queensland.
For the Burdekin, the funding presents an opportunity for operators to develop experiences that encourage travellers to venture beyond the Bruce Highway and spend more time exploring the district.
Eligible projects range from new attractions and upgrades to existing visitor facilities to glamping, alternative accommodation, eco-tourism, farm-gate experiences and other infrastructure that increases capacity or improves visitor access.
With the district’s agricultural identity, coastal communities and natural attractions, the fund could provide opportunities to further develop the Burdekin’s agritourism and nature-based visitor offerings.
Minister for Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the government wanted to support regional operators to bring new ideas to life.
“Queensland is the best place in the world to live, work and visit, and our regions are home to some of the most incredible tourism experiences anywhere in the country,” Mr Powell said.
“The Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund is about backing Queenslanders with the support they need to turn great ideas into new attractions, better experiences and more opportunities for local communities.”
Mr Powell said strengthening tourism infrastructure could encourage visitors to stay longer and explore more regional communities while generating economic benefits.
“By investing in tourism infrastructure and experiences, we are backing local businesses, creating jobs and strengthening the regional economies that are the backbone of Queensland,” he said.
Applications close on 9th September.
Ayr residents and motorists are advised to expect temporary road closures and changed traffic conditions during the 2026 Burdekin Water Festival on Saturday 5th September.
The closures will allow for the popular Water Festival Float Parade, food stalls, show rides and sideshow activities to take over the heart of Ayr.
Affected areas will include sections of Queen, Edwards, Soper, Parker, Young and Macmillan Streets, with signage to be placed at relevant intersections to help motorists navigate the changes.
Different closures will apply throughout the day depending on festival activities, with restrictions beginning from 6am on Saturday 5th September and some remaining in place until 1am on Sunday 6th September.
Access along key surrounding streets will be maintained where possible, however motorists should allow extra travel time and follow all temporary traffic signs and directions.
The road closures have been approved by the Queensland Police Service as part of the festival’s Special Event Permit.
Residents heading into Ayr on festival day are encouraged to plan ahead and keep the changed traffic conditions in mind while enjoying one of the Burdekin’s biggest community celebrations.
This Saturday I’ll be at the Home Hill Newsagency from 8:30am to 10:30am, and I'd love the opportunity to meet with residents, answer questions and hear directly about the issues that matter to you. Whether you have a concern, a suggestion or simply want to have a chat, please feel free to stop by. I look forward to meeting members of our community and listening to your feedback.
A matter currently receiving significant attention across Queensland is the future of disaster recovery funding arrangements. The Local Government Association of Queensland has made a submission to the Federal Government calling for the retention of current Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), which play a critical role in helping local governments and communities recover following natural disasters.
The submission advocates for the continuation of existing funding levels, appropriate activation thresholds, eligibility for Counter Disaster Operations expenditure, and the retention of Betterment funding provisions that allow infrastructure to be rebuilt stronger and more resilient. For regional communities such as the Burdekin, maintaining these arrangements is essential to ensuring we can recover effectively and continue delivering services when disaster strikes.
Across the Shire, Council continues to deliver projects that improve community spaces and essential infrastructure.
At Memorial Park in Home Hill, Council is partnering with the Home Hill RSL to undertake improvements to the Cenotaph and War Memorial precinct. Funded through the Queensland Government's Honouring Our Veterans Program, works will include new garden beds, Indian Mast trees, rosemary plantings and electrical upgrades to enhance this important commemorative space.
Residents will also start to see footpath replacement works commence in Mackenzie Street, Ayr, and bitumen upgrades undertaken on sections of Jerona Road as part of Council's ongoing infrastructure renewal program.
Thank you for your continued support of our community, and I hope to see many of you at the Home Hill Newsagency on Saturday morning. 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.
Back in the day, the “three ‘R’s’” were taught in schools…Reading, (W)Riting and (A)Rithmetic. They were the foundation of our education system and were to stand us in good stead as we navigated the world. In the education system todayhowever, there is a totally different curriculum and today’s “three ‘R’s’” need to be taught at home. Respect, Responsibility and Repercussion. Respect for others and their property, responsibility for one’s actions and repercussions for actions taken. The onus for teaching this starts with parents and begins in the home. How incredibly sad that we have youth in our towns who feel entitled to vandalize not only public property but private as well.
Once again, you can’t let the facts get in the way of a good tale. Good old Social Media and the keyboard warriors strike again. A teacher of mine from my Saint Colman’s Primary School days in Home Hill, a Nun, was fond of saying to us “Empty vessels make the most noise”. People certainly don’t disappoint. The Mayor has her phone number and email address in her Councillor Column every week, or you can find all the Councilor’s contact details on the Council webpage. Pick up the phone and ask your question or voice your frustrations/concerns. But that doesn’t get the desired public reaction does it? Sad.
On the positive side of Social Media, the Burdekin has been the hot topic in a number of Facebook groups; Hayden’s Hut Bowen, Australian Art Trails, Roadside Art Australia Group and Art by Lavinia. Each of these groups sing the praises of the Burdekin, the beautiful murals and Living Lagoon as well as numerous other tourism features. How very refreshing. The Burdekin definitely has a lot to offer and word of mouth is the best form of advertising.
The Home Hill Chamber of Commerce held their AGM followed by their General Meeting last Wednesday night. Congratulations to the new executive, Uli Liessmann, David Jackson, Lydia Flores and John Clark. I was so happy that I attended as it meant the opportunity to hear from the proprietors of Scrubby’s Teahouse and Salted Roots Café, both new businesses to Home Hill. Their investment is a great economic boost to the district and what wonderful, proactive ideas they have for the town! (I’m lead to believe Scrubby’s scones are pretty good too). Jump onto the Home Hill Chamber website and see when their upcoming social and networking meetings are, particularly if you have a business in Home Hill. Come along and have a say in the future of Home Hill…they don’t bite.
Saskia Volmer-Creek is putting together a book about “Growing up in Home Hill”. If, like me you have fond memories of being a kid in Home Hill please email Saskia with your story on creekys@outlook.com.au. Surely there are many wonderful stories out there.
Lastly, the mobile Breast Screen van will be in Ayr from 17th August to 18th December. Take a few minutes to look after your health and book your appointment by phoning 13 20 50.
As always, you can contact me on 0427 827 386 with any concerns or queries.
God Bless.
Dawson MP Andrew Willcox joins Nationals colleagues in Canberra to address the media on the National Party’s push to repeal Labor’s new firearms laws and abolish the Federal Government’s proposed gun buyback scheme. Photo supplied.
The Nationals are moving in Parliament this week to repeal Labor’s new firearms laws and abolish the Albanese Government’s National Gun Buyback Scheme.
Nationals MP and Member for Maranoa David Littleproud is introducing the Firearms Legislation Amendment (Repealing Unfair Gun Laws) Bill 2026, with Dawson MP Andrew Willcox seconding the Bill, to call on the Albanese Government to repeal its unjust firearms legislation.
The Bill will reverse the federal firearms and importation laws rushed through Parliament by Labor earlier this year.
Mr Willcox said almost one million law-abiding firearms owners had been unfairly targeted by legislation that did not address the real problem of illegal firearms in the hands of criminals.
“The Prime Minister needs to address the real issue, which is radical Islamic terrorism,” Mr Willcox said.
“I am proud to second David Littleproud’s Bill and stand alongside my Nationals colleagues in Parliament calling on Labor to repeal these terrible laws.
“These laws target licensed, law-abiding Australians who have done everything right, while doing nothing to address the people who actually obtain and use firearms illegally.
“The people who will comply with this buyback are the same people who already follow the law, licensed firearm owners with registered firearms.
“Does the Prime Minister seriously believe criminals are going to line up and hand their weapons in?”
Mr Willcox said the cost of Labor’s buyback would ultimately fall on Australian taxpayers and have consequences for regional communities.
“This isn't just an issue for firearm owners. Every Australian taxpayer is being asked to foot the bill for a scheme that is unlikely to get illegal firearms out of the hands of criminals.
“Farmers rely on firearms to protect livestock, manage feral pests and keep their properties safe. They use them responsibly because they are an essential tool of the job.
“If you make it harder and more expensive for farmers to manage feral pests, those costs don’t simply disappear. They flow through to the cost of producing food and fibre, and ultimately to consumers at the checkout.”
Mr Willcox said the Nationals would continue to stand up for responsible, law-abiding firearms owners and welcomed the Queensland Government’s decision not to participate in the Federal Government’s proposed buyback.
“It is great to see the Queensland Government standing strong and refusing to join Labor’s scheme.
“That is what commonsense government looks like, listening to regional communities instead of imposing a one-size-fits-all solution from Canberra.”
Mr Littleproud said the Nationals had led the fight against Labor’s firearms laws.
“Almost one million law-abiding Australians were blamed for a crime they did not commit. That was wrong.
“The Bondi massacre was an act of Islamic terrorism. It had nothing to do with licensed firearm owners, and no evidence has ever linked them to it.”
Mr Littleproud said the Nationals would continue fighting until the laws were repealed.
The Nationals’ Bill is backed by a petition with more than 71,000 signatures calling for Labor’s firearms laws to be repealed.
The Federal Government’s proposed buyback remains stalled, with Queensland, the Northern Territory and Victoria declining to participate, while Tasmania is pursuing its own arrangements and South Australia has refused to change its laws.
Only New South Wales and the ACT have committed to the Federal scheme.
Mr Willcox said he would continue to fight for law-abiding firearm owners in regional Australia.
“I will always support responsible, law-abiding firearms owners.
“I refuse to support any agenda that spends taxpayers’ money on legislation that achieves nothing except punishing people who already follow the rules.
“Labor should focus on keeping illegal firearms out of the hands of criminals, rather than targeting the farmers, sporting shooters, hunters and collectors who have done nothing wrong.”
The Bill is expected to be considered by the House of Representatives this week.
Supplied by the Office of Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox
The Burdekin community united to commemorate the Battle of Long Tan and honour the bravery and sacrifice of Australian soldiers during the Vietnam War at a solemn ceremony last week. Photo: Rob Ritchie.
The Burdekin community joined Australians across the country in commemorating Vietnam Veterans’ Day and the 60th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan at a solemn ceremony last week.
Hosted annually by the Vietnam Veterans Burdekin Sub-Branch at its Deep Creek retreat, the service welcomed veterans, dignitaries and families to honour the bravery and sacrifice of Australians who served during the Vietnam War.
Among attendees was Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, who addressed the crowd alongside VVBB President Richard Kelly after a parade opened proceedings. Attendees were then invited to lay wreaths, with a rendition of The Last Post and a bagpipe lament rounding out the service.
Mr Kelly said he felt “honoured” to see so many people in attendance.
“It was great to see a lot of people come all the way in from Townsville and the Burdekin—it’s a fair way up there,” he said.
“It was a great honour to have so many up there this year. It just goes to show that there are still a lot of local people who pay respects to our past figures.”
Dale Last has been recognised for 25 years of service with the Queensland Police Service, receiving a National Police Service Medal at a special awards ceremony in Brisbane last week. Photos: Office of Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP
Dale Last has been recognised for 25 years of service with the Queensland Police Service, receiving a National Police Service Medal at a special awards ceremony in Brisbane last week.
The Member for Burdekin was presented the medal by Minister for Police and Emergency Services Dan Purdie, honouring his service from 1983 to 2008, which culminated in his role as Officer in Charge of Townsville Police Station.
The National Police Service Medal recognises ethical and diligent service by sworn police officers, with a minimum of 15 years’ service required for eligibility.
Mr Last spent his police career at stations across regional and remote Queensland, including postings in Indigenous communities and smaller centres, before being appointed OIC of Townsville Police Station in December 2000.
He remained in the role until leaving the QPS for local government in March 2008, saying his years as a police officer taught him lessons that continue to shape his work today.
“Policing taught me a great deal about service, responsibility, and the importance of standing up for the communities you represent,” he said.
“I have been proud to carry those lessons through to my current role as the Member for Burdekin, as I continue to advocate for the services and infrastructure to support our community.
“It was an honour to wear the uniform, and I’m grateful to receive this recognition of that service.”
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