There’s a certain rhythm to life in the Burdekin—one I’m only just starting to catch. One moment you’re at a morning tea hearing stories that stop you in your tracks—the next, you’re standing in a cane field watching the sky catch fire to the sound of a cheering crowd and a roaring blaze.

In the past couple of weeks alone, I’ve seen this community in celebration, in reflection, and—maybe most importantly—in conversation. From the solemn honesty of the DV Awareness Morning Tea to the sparks and spectacle of Sweet Days Hot Nights, the region continues to reveal new layers. There’s no single tone that defines it, more just people turning up, again and again, for each other. I guess thats the rhythm.

Settling into the role, I’ve been grateful for the reception—not just polite nods or quick handshakes, but real conversations and a level of openness that, honestly, caught me a bit off guard. In the best way.

I’ve also been grateful for the warm reception from community leaders and colleagues—proof that strong relationships can quickly form with a little humility and a lot of listening.

So as I wrap up another week in the Burdekin, I’m beginning to feel a little more like a local, a little less like the new guy with the camera. The people here make that part easy.

Cheers!

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Home Hill's Hand Cane Cutter Monument

It’s no secret agriculture underpins the fundamentals of the Burdekin Shire, and in late September 2021, a wonderful artistic installation was unveiled in celebration of one of the region’s most treasured events.

After speaking with locals and witnessing the impressive efforts of competitors in Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival’s 2021 Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships, renowned chainsaw sculptor Matthew George was inspired to create a magnificent hand cane cutter monument to highlight the striking work of a bygone era.

Matthew, fondly known as Matty G, has been practising as a creative chainsaw artist for well over 14 years. Proudly self-taught, Matty travels the state, bringing his visions to life by crafting outstanding installations for townships, communities, and individuals to honour, celebrate, and recognise all things iconic and remarkable. With a passion for crafting animals, Matty recycles fallen timber to create his masterpieces, and over the years, he has perfected the balance between stamina and memory to carve with confidence and precision.

On numerous occasions, Matty’s keen eye and skilled attention to detail have been celebrated by local communities, and his commendable talents shine in each and every carving, whether it’s a kangaroo or a swordfish.

Standing tall alongside the Home Hill Lions Club Diorama facing the Bruce Highway, the monument features the mighty Burdekin River flowing between the cutter’s feet, as well as darkened tones to reflect the markings of cane ash on the sculpture’s legs.

A tribute to the region’s undying sugarcane industry, Matty’s installation will remain a long-lasting reminder of how far sugarcane production has come, while celebrating and cementing the uniqueness and history of the Burdekin Shire.

Proudly sponsored by the Regional Arts Development Fund, the sculpture was created under a partnership between Arts Queensland and the Burdekin Shire Council.

Visit the exceptional hand cane cutter monument for yourself and see Matty’s distinctive craftsmanship up close this crushing season!

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Matty G's hand cane cutter monument was unveiled in Home Hill in September of 2021 (Photo Credit: Burdekin Shire Council)

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Stephen Walker’s Enduring Gift To The Burdekin

A prominent art installation within the Burdekin Shire, Stephen Walker’s timeless Living Lagoon sculptures have stood in the forecourt of Queen Street’s Burdekin Theatre for almost half a century.

2025 marks exactly four decades since Walker’s work was unveiled in the region, and although 1985 was many moons ago, the sculptures continue to attract much attention and admiration from locals and travellers alike.

Hailing from North Balwyn in Melbourne, Stephen studied at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology and then later under the guidance of Launceston’s Jack Carington Smith at the Hobart Technical College before becoming a professional sculptor, painter, and educator in 1954.

In the early years of his career, Stephen worked alongside prestigious English artist Henry Moore in Britain, Rome, Florence, and Prague before returning home to study birdlife with ornithologists Don and Pat Serventy in Australia’s Furneaux Islands in Bass Strait.

Over the course of Stephen’s professional career, his talents were recognised and celebrated on several occasions. In 1983, Walker was presented with the Advance Australia Award for his contribution to the arts, an Order of Australia for Services to Sculpture in 1984, and he holds spaces in all major galleries across the country as well as over 30 major commissions.

Living Lagoon was designed to pay tribute to the abundance of wildlife and the significance of water within the Burdekin Shire. The sculptures were carefully cast in the Coal River Valley in Campania, Tasmania, where Stephen lived and worked until he passed away on 16 June 2014 at the age of 86. Now, 11 years on from his passing, Stephen’s talents have been forever immortalised across the nation, with four of his bronze works holding honourable listings on the National Heritage Register.

Take a moment to visit the granite and bronze sculptures to appreciate the outstanding talents of Stephen Walker and see Ayr’s very own piece of the artist’s impressive legacy for yourself.

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Photo Source: Burdekin Shire Council

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A magical Mixed Media Workshop will grace the Burdekin Art Society’s Clubhouse next month under the guidance of the talented educator, Cath Meharry.

With 40 years of teaching experience, Cath has led an impressive career, honing her skills as a talented mixed media artist where she infuses her work with life and texture using collage, paint, drawing and layering.

Upon her retirement, Cath was the head of the art department at Townsville’s St Margaret Mary’s College, and now she continues to share her wealth of knowledge with others through regular art classes and workshops. Now with plenty of time to pursue her own work, Cath fills her free time working at the Drill Hall where she produces exceptional pieces to showcase and capture intricate details of the beauty around her.

The enriching workshop will be held on Saturday the 21st of June from 10am to 3pm at 154 McMillan Street, Ayr, and attendees are asked to contact Lusia on 0448 509 927 for all booking inquiries.

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Join Cath Meharry’s creative workshop at the Burdekin Art Society’s Clubhouse this June (Photo Supplied)

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A 35-year-old man has been charged after an alleged domestic violence incident earlier this May in the Burdekin Shire.

Police allege that on the 16th of May, the man threatened a woman known to him with a firearm at a residence in Brandon. Thankfully, no one was physically harmed during the incident.

The woman reported the matter to police on the 21st of May and the following day, officers from the Ayr Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB) arrested the man at the intersection of Queen Street and Railway Street where a gel blaster was seized during the arrest.

The man has been charged with one count each of contravention of a domestic violence order (aggravated offence), breach of bail condition (domestic violence offence), possession of utensils or pipes, and threatening violence – discharge of firearms or other act (domestic violence offence). He was refused bail and was scheduled to appear in the Townsville Magistrates Court on the 23rd of May.

Detective Inspector Damien Smith said the swift action highlights the Queensland Police Service’s (QPS) commitment to addressing domestic and family violence.

“We are continuing to take a zero-tolerance approach to domestic and family violence in our communities,” he said.

“It’s important that while we hold perpetrators accountable, we also support victim-survivors and protect them from further harm.

“If you are in a situation where you need help, please contact police.”

For support, contact Triple Zero (000) in an emergency, or DVConnect on 1800 811 811, or 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732.

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NQ Wildlife Care is reminding residents that baby season for the Little Red Flying Fox is officially underway, and community support is critical to the survival of these tiny, winged mammals.

This is the time of year when mother bats give birth and raise their pups. The baby flying foxes are unable to fly for several weeks and depend entirely on their mothers for warmth, nutrition, and safety.

“Sometimes pups may fall off their mums and land in random spots around town,” explained a spokesperson from NQ Wildlife Care.

“If you see a baby bat alone anywhere, please call us immediately."

The group has just finished caring for a season of microbat and black flying fox pups, and although the work is non-stop, the volunteers at NQ Wildlife Care say they’re passionate about protecting native wildlife.

The public is asked not to approach or handle bats directly, as they can carry disease and require specialised care. Instead, concerned residents should immediately contact the team.

For assistance with baby bats or to report a sighting, contact NQ Wildlife Care on 0414 717 374.

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Photo credit: Cassowary Coast Regional Council

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Local community groups in the Burdekin Shire are being encouraged to apply for a share of $285,000 in funding, as the government opens applications for its Indigenous Languages Grants program during National Reconciliation Week.

With grants of up to $15,000 available, the funding aims to support the preservation, revitalisation, and promotion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages across Queensland. Eligible projects include initiatives in art, drama, music and film, Yarning Circles, audio recordings, workshops, signage, books, posters, and more.

The funding directly supports Closing the Gap Target 16 to increase the number and strength of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages being spoken. While Queensland was once home to more than 100 Indigenous languages and dialects, only around 50 are still spoken today, with fewer than 20 used as first languages.

Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Fiona Simpson said the Crisafulli Government is proud to back projects that preserve traditional languages.

“As we continue to celebrate National Reconciliation Week, keeping our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages thriving brings so many benefits to all Queenslanders,” Minister Simpson said.

“Amidst the United Nations’ Decade of Indigenous Languages, preserving, revitalising, and promoting Queensland languages has never been more important—especially as we look ahead to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games."

Minister for Education John-Paul Langbroek also highlighted the importance of language education in both schools and the wider community.

“We know learning languages expands our understanding of cultures and history, none more so than our Australian Indigenous languages,” Minister Langbroek said.

“These grants help ensure those languages are passed on through generations and are known and shared across communities, enriching our young people’s cultural awareness.”

Among last year’s recipients was the Gold Coast SUNS, who worked with the Yugambeh Youth Choir to recreate the club’s theme song.

“This support enabled us to produce a bilingual lyric video of our team song, which is now a feature of our Indigenous literacy program, Yalgan SUN,” Gold Coast SUNS Chief Executive Mark Evans said.

“Delivered in classrooms to more than 2,600 Prep to Year Two students last year, this AFL and industry-leading resource plays a vital role in our commitment to connect communities and celebrate the stories and languages of First Nations peoples.”

The grants are co-funded by the Department of Education and the Department of Women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships and Multiculturalism.

Applications for the 2025 round of Indigenous Languages Grants close on 27 June. Interested community organisations can find application details online at www.qld.gov.au/firstnations/grants-funding/languages.

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A new era of learning has begun for students across regional and rural Queensland with the launch of the state’s largest classroom, the Queensland Virtual Academy.

The initiative is providing more than 4,000 students from 365 state schools with access to specialist subjects that may not be available at their local school.

With a $12 million investment in 2025, the program is set to transform education delivery by livestreaming high-demand subjects such as Specialist Mathematics, Senior Physics, Japanese, and Senior Psychology directly into classrooms.

STEM enrichment programs are also being offered for students in Years 5 to 9, targeting those with a strong aptitude for science, technology, engineering, and maths. The initiative builds on the Government’s election promise to improve educational access and outcomes for all Queenslanders, regardless of postcode.

The Queensland Virtual Academy is designed to eliminate the limitations often faced by students in remote and regional areas—particularly those whose career goals require study in specialist subjects not taught at their school.

Minister for Education John-Paul Langbroek said the program ensures students no longer miss out on crucial learning opportunities due to their location.

“I’ve spoken to students who were disheartened their school doesn’t offer the subjects needed for them to pursue careers like medicine and physiotherapy—we’re making sure this is no longer a problem,” Minister Langbroek said.

“Not only will this help children to pursue their passions, but it helps to create a pipeline of skilled and talented graduates in regional communities.”

Queensland Secondary Principals’ Association President Mark Breckenridge also welcomed the launch of the Queensland Virtual Academy, praising its potential to broaden learning opportunities.

“Secondary schools have been actively involved in piloting this much-needed initiative,” Mr Breckenridge said.

“The QVA is a model that provides limitless virtual opportunities, while reinforcing the importance of students being enrolled in their local state school.”

The government said the virtual learning program is also part of a wider commitment to lifting educational standards across the state. With a strong focus on teacher support and innovation in the classroom, the Queensland Virtual Academy is a bold step toward ensuring no student is left behind.

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This week saw the Tour de Cure participants cycle through the Burdekin region. Travelling from Grays Beach in Bowen to Plantation Park in Ayr, then continuing to Mt Surround, and finally heading to Strand Park in Townsville.

For the participants this isn’t just a ride, it’s a powerful movement to help cure cancer. Tour de Cure is a cancer-agnostic organisation, meaning funds raised support a wide range of cancer research, support services, and prevention projects. The fundraising goal for Signature Tour 2025 is $2 million, and with $1,567,806  raised, they are so close to that goal.

Mark Beretta, Tour de Cure Board Member & Ambassadors, and Sports Presenter on Channel 7’s Sunrise commented that he was “Super excited to be experiencing this part of the world again on the bike! It’s just magic and we love the different landscapes and scenery, but best of all it’s the people that make it great!"

"They’re different up here – a bit more relaxed and friendly. And whether we’re on the bike or off it, they’re super generous and great to have a yarn with. The hospitality and the patience on the road are always great here and we are very grateful for the chance to enjoy this incredible part of the world and the finish in Port Douglas will be spectacular – and then we get to relax and really put our feet up!"

If you would like to cheer the cyclist along their route, see the tour information below. If you would like to donate, you can do so online: signaturetour.tourdecure.com.au/donate

Day 7 - Cairns to Atherton
Thursday, 05 June 2025. 97km, 1,429m elevation. Lexus, Cairns – Atherton Showgrounds, Atherton.

Day 8 - Atherton to Port Douglas
Friday, 06 June 2025. 137km, 636m elevation. Halloran’s Hill, Atherton – Mount Molloy – Mossman Park – Port Douglas Surf Club, Port Douglas.

signaturetour.tourdecure.com.au/donate

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Cyclone Jasper left a lasting mark on cane-growing regions across the Burdekin, including Giru, where widespread flooding and erosion in December 2023 caused significant setbacks for local farmers. Many are still recovering, with some forced to replant entire paddocks and stabilise creek banks to protect their operations into the future. The latest changes to disaster funding eligibility may offer long-awaited relief for those working to rebuild.

More Queensland primary producers will now be eligible for vital support under the joint Commonwealth–State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), following a significant change to how farming income is defined.

Under the amended guidelines, income from agricultural support services such as cane harvesting, contract mustering, artificial insemination, cattle droving and other similar services will now be considered part of a farming operation. This means many producers previously excluded from assistance—because they relied on a mix of on-farm and off-farm ag-related work—can now access grants, concessional loans, and freight subsidies after natural disasters.

Queensland Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said the changes would benefit local producers across the state every year, especially following a devastating 2024–25 disaster season.

“Agriculture is vital to every Australian, and when our producers suffer, we all do,” Minister Perrett said.

“These are men and women putting food on our tables, and in times of disaster, it’s vital all support avenues are available to them.”

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said the Australian Government had worked closely with Queensland to ensure the DRFA reflects how modern farming operates.

“These agricultural support services are essential for sustaining small-scale operations. This change will give more farmers confidence that help will be there when they need it most,” Minister McBain said.

Federal Assistant Minister for Agriculture, Anthony Chisholm, said the reforms would make a real difference in remote regions hit hard by summer storms and flooding.

“Queensland farmers are resilient, but they deserve meaningful support when disaster strikes. This is a commonsense reform to ensure no producer is left behind,” he said.

Importantly, the new eligibility rules apply retrospectively to disasters in early 2025. Any primary producer who was previously deemed ineligible is encouraged to contact QRIDA on 1800 623 946 to find out what the changes mean for them.

The move follows strong advocacy from industry bodies including CANEGROWERS and the Queensland Farmers’ Federation, who had been calling for a more inclusive approach to disaster support.

CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan welcomed the announcement at the 2025 FNQ Field Days in Mareeba, describing it as “a smart, sensible fix that brings disaster recovery support into line with how modern farms actually operate.”

“This is about making sure no grower falls through the cracks,” Mr Galligan said.

“Many farming families rely on both growing and contracting income to stay viable—it’s never made sense to exclude them.”

The reform builds on several recent wins for the sugarcane industry. Earlier this year, CANEGROWERS secured the inclusion of replanting costs in disaster grants, helped deliver extended application deadlines following Cyclone Jasper, and successfully advocated for increased funding caps of up to $75,000 for growers worst affected by summer floods.

“These are tangible outcomes that make a real difference on the ground,” Mr Galligan said.

“We’ll keep working to ensure disaster support keeps pace with the realities of farming in Queensland.”

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NFF CEO Troy Williams, Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett, NFF Chair David Jochinke, CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan and Membership Engagement and Innovation Manager Matt Kealley. Photo supplied: CANEGROWERS

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It’s been all hands-on deck this week at the Burdekin Christian College ahead of the school’s Open Day extravaganza on Sunday the 8th of June!

Right down to the school’s convenient door-to-door bus route to ensure children from Ayr, Home Hill, Brandon and Giru travel safely to the classroom, Burdekin Christian College will spotlight everything the fantastic school has to offer families this Sunday from 1pm to 3pm.

The afternoon will also offer attendees the opportunity to meet the school’s dedicated teaching team where families will have the chance to explore programs and ask questions to both junior and senior educators as well as teachers specialising in music, art, physical education and dance.

“Come and meet the incredible team behind our school success,” invited the school.

“From passionate educators to dedicated mentors, these are the faces guiding our students toward a brighter tomorrow.”

With campus tours, a free sausage sizzle, exciting rides, and a cream tea and coffee van also on the menu, this Sunday’s Open Day will be the perfect opportunity to see everything Burdekin Christian College has to offer.

“Whether you’re a future student, parent, or just curious about what makes our school special – come say hello and discover the heart of our learning community.”

The day will be held on school grounds at 2 – 12 Melbourne Street, Ayr and for all inquiries, phone the office on 07 4783 5552.

“Come see why so many families choose Burdekin Christian College – bring your questions, your curiosity, and your kids – and leave inspired!”

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By Amanda Wright

Andrew Willcox, the Federal Member for Dawson, has been appointed Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capabilities—an elevation that brings national attention to the critical role of regional Australia in shaping the nation’s future.

The announcement from Nationals leader David Littleproud has been met with widespread congratulations, but Mr Willcox is keeping his focus close to home as he steps into the role.

“I’m truly honoured to take on this role and welcome the faith placed in me,” Mr Willcox said.

“Manufacturing is a large contributing factor in our Australian economy, starting right here in Dawson, from Paget in Mackay through to Wulguru in the north.”

The portfolio is a weighty one, touching on national security, economic resilience, employment, and industrial policy. Mr Willcox sees sovereign capability as essential for safeguarding Australia’s future.

“There’s never been a more critical time to focus on our sovereign capabilities,” he said.

“From defence to food production, advanced manufacturing to aerospace—we must prioritise Australian-made at every level.”

The timing is apt. Dawson will soon host the launch of Australia’s first fully homegrown rocket, produced by Gilmore Space Technologies in Bowen. For Willcox, it’s a proud moment and a national signal.

“This rocket launch is a powerful symbol of what we can achieve when we invest in sovereign capabilities,” he said.

“We already build satellites in Australia. If we can launch them here too, we control the whole process—from the ground to low Earth orbit.”

Willcox argues the need for self-reliance is growing more urgent amid global uncertainty.

“If we’re relying on overseas rockets to launch our satellites, we’re exposing ourselves to risks—economic and strategic. We need to be able to stand on our own two feet.”

Rather than rushing into national consultations, Mr Willcox plans to start where he knows best.

“My first priority is to spend time in my own electorate,” he said.

“I want to talk directly to the manufacturers across Dawson, understand what’s holding them back and what policy levers we can pull to help their businesses thrive.”

Mr Willcox says Dawson’s diversity reflects the national landscape. Bowen is balancing horticulture with aerospace, the Burdekin is expanding industrial estates, and Townsville is exploring rail carriage and aviation fuel manufacturing.

“I didn’t want to be pigeonholed as the ag guy,” Mr Willcox said.

“I’m proud of my background in farming, and I’ll always advocate for rural Australia, but this role allows me to contribute to something broader. It’s a stepping stone into deeper national service.”

“A nation that can make things for itself is a nation that can grow and shape its own future,” he said.

“And that future starts here.”

Also this week, the Australian Electoral Commission made it official — Andrew Willcox was formally declared re-elected as the Federal Member for Dawson. The result was announced on Tuesday, 3 June in Mackay.

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Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox and AEC Divisional Returning Officer Sandra Sparti join AEC staff and volunteers to celebrate the official declaration of the Dawson result — with two volunteers proudly holding an "Awesome Dawson" sign crafted from the thimbles used to count ballots on election day. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox speaks at the official declaration of the Dawson result, reflecting on the campaign and his recent appointment as Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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There’s a new landmark on the Burdekin horizon in the form of a 72-metre boiler stack at Wilmar Sugar and Renewables’ Kalamia Mill.

The new steel structure has replaced two concrete stacks that towered over the factory and dominated the local skyline for more than 50 years.

With the 2025 crushing season starting this week, it means local residents will now see steam rising from a single stack at Kalamia Mill instead of the familiar two.

Senior Project Engineer Fabian Sataro said the $12 million stack replacement project was the biggest capital job for Wilmar’s four Burdekin mills this year.

He said the need to complete the project within a 20-week window also saw some innovative solutions come into play, such as using a demolition robot to remove the old stacks.

“We knew it was a big undertaking to demolish two end-of-life stacks and erect a new one in a single maintenance season,” Mr Sataro said.

“Our Engineering Design team and the principal contractor, EDMS Australia, came up with the idea of using a Brokk demolition robot, as well as some solutions to optimise the new stack design.

“The robot removed the need for personnel to be working at heights, which aligned with our safety requirements. It could also work around the clock, even in wet weather and high winds, so it could get the job done faster and safer than people working from a suspended work platform.”

The new steel stack was fabricated at EDMS’s Townsville workshop and erected in five sections at the Kalamia Mill site. Local subcontractors GPB Construction and Lancini Consulting Engineers completed the civil work for the new stack.

Wilmar’s General Manager Engineering, Istvan Torok, said the project reflected the company’s commitment to safety, innovation and regional investment.

“This is a great example of what can be achieved through smart planning, strong partnerships, and a focus on safety and performance,” he said.

“Fabian has been working on this project for six years, supported by a large number of people from the Engineering team and other parts of the Sugar and Renewables business.

“We had initially planned to execute this project over two maintenance seasons, but we challenged that and came up with a much tighter execution plan which delivered significant cost savings, greater efficiencies and key safety benefits.”

Mr Torok said he was extremely proud of what his team had achieved in partnership with EDMS Australia.

“This sort of innovative thinking and engineering excellence is critical to our ongoing success as a leading Australian producer of sugar and renewables,” he said.

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Key players on the Kalamia Mill stack replacement witness the final section being lifted into place. Pictured, from left, are Kalamia Mill Work Coordinator Michael Gianni, Kalamia Mill Operations Coordinator Raymond Goggi, EDMS Site Coordinator Jeff Drayton, Kalamia Mill Engineering Superintendent Vito Giarrusso, EDMS Construction Project Manager Jamie Hervey and Wilmar Sugar and Renewables Senior Project Engineer Fabian Sataro. Photos supplied

Wilmar Sugar and Renewables Senior Project Engineer Fabian Sataro

Demolition of the first concrete stack began in late December 2024

The last of five sections was lifted into place on the new steel stack last month (May 2025)

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Twelve-year-old Kip Nicholas isn’t just cycling for fun—he’s riding for a cause that affects millions of Australians. This May, the young Burdekin local signed up for the May50K challenge, an annual fundraising initiative supporting research into multiple sclerosis (MS), a disease with no known cure that affects three out of four women diagnosed and strikes the average patient at just 30 years of age.

Initially setting himself a target of 50 kilometres and $300, Kip had already surpassed both halfway through the month. Not one to coast, he upped the challenge to 80 kilometres and a new fundraising goal of $800.

“I really enjoy riding and I enjoy the fact that I am helping find a way to know more about MS,” Kip said. “It’s also a great way to stretch my muscles from sport and spend time with my family in the afternoon.”

Kip formed a riding team with his mum Louise, calling themselves the Barra Bike Duo—a nod to both their shared love of cycling and local pride.

“We started riding together before May50K kicked off,” Louise said. “Him deciding that he wanted to cycle made me really proud.”

When Louise isn’t available, Kip rides with his dad, and sometimes the whole family joins in. One of his longer rides took him 17km through Burdekin backroads and into town.

“He’s checking regularly—‘what are we up to, Mum?’—so he’s really gotten into it,” Louise said. “It’s heartwarming to know he’s contributing to something bigger, and the support from friends and family has been great.”

With just a few days left in May, Kip continues to tick off kilometres and donations. And while his sights are set on the finish line, he’s also looking further ahead—with purpose.

“Together, we can leave MS where it belongs—behind us,” he says.

You can support Kip’s 80km challenge by scanning the QR code.

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"I really enjoy riding and I enjoy the fact that I am helping find a way to know more about MS."

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Growers across the Burdekin are being urged to sign on with SKY Renewables before the end of May, as interest grows in the company’s plan to convert sugarcane tops and trash into renewable energy for export.

The immediate appeal lies in the opportunity to earn additional income from a by-product that is currently burned in the paddock. SKY Renewables is offering around $15 per green tonne of tops and trash, with all harvesting and transport costs covered by the company—not the grower.

For many in the region, the project represents more than just extra revenue. By tapping into a new market for cane waste, local businesses can diversify income streams and reduce reliance on global sugar prices, which remain volatile. Supporters say it’s a step toward future-proofing an industry that continues to underpin the Burdekin economy.

There is no shortage of demand. Singapore, where 95 per cent of electricity is powered by imported natural gas, is actively seeking cleaner alternatives. SKY Renewables has held talks with Singapore’s Energy Market Authority and is now negotiating long-term offtake deals with power companies owned by the Singaporean government.

While debate continues elsewhere about the motivations for renewable energy, the commercial argument is straightforward: a wealthy, stable export partner is prepared to pay for a product that would otherwise go to waste. That kind of opportunity is becoming increasingly rare in a global trade environment that is growing more protectionist.

SKY Renewables says more than 60 per cent of growers who attended its May 7 town hall have already signed on. A series of shed meetings and mini town halls are now underway across the district, ahead of the May 31 sign-up deadline.

For growers looking to strengthen their business and help secure the future of the region’s flagship industry, the offer is being seen as one worth serious consideration.

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Glenn Betteridge, Incoming CBL Chair & Simon Yim, CEO of Sky Renewables

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