Inka is a sweet-natured and easy-going young pup who loves nothing more than lounging in the sun and watching the world go by. She enjoys playtime with her foster siblings and gets along wonderfully with a variety of animals in her foster home. With her friendly and gentle nature, she’s a perfect match for families with kids, and she especially loves splashing in the water and trying out new games.

Still a young pup, Inka is working on her training, but with her excellent listening skills, she’s proving to be an A+ student! If you’re looking for a playful and loving companion to brighten your days, Inka is ready to be by your side.

Adoption Details:
   • Fee: $450 (includes desexing, microchipping, up-to-date vaccinations, flea/tick/worm treatment & ProHeart)
   • DOB: 03/07/2024
   • Sex: Female
   • Breed: Bullarab X
   • Kid Friendly: Yes
   • Cat Friendly: Yes
   • Dog Friendly: Yes
   • Fence Requirement: 6ft
   • BIN: BIN0000268254643

Could Inka be the perfect addition to your family? Don’t miss your chance to meet this wonderful girl!

To meet Inka and start your forever adventure together, fill out an inquiry form at www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html.

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As Australia fights to protect its most vulnerable wildlife, the use of 1080 baiting remains a controversial yet critical tool in managing major threats to native species. While some conservationists advocate for its role in reducing predation pressure, concerns persist over its impact on non-target species and the need for alternative control measures.

Australia has some of the most unique wildlife and biodiversity in the world, but two invasive predators, feral cats and foxes, have already snuffed out 32 native animal species and are helping to drive over 200 more to extinction.

Together with the Centre for Invasive Species Solutions, the National Feral Cat and Fox Management Coordinator, Gillian Basnett, is sounding the alarm as misinformation surrounding sodium fluoroacetate (commonly known as 1080) undermines what she calls its critical place as a lifeline for native species.

“Effective 1080 baiting is the ‘thin green line’ that protects many of our threatened and other native species from extinction,” said Ms Basnett.

“The facts around 1080 are clear: native animals have a higher tolerance to this toxin than introduced predators. Native species that live in the south-west of WA, where more fluoroacetate-bearing plants naturally occur, have an even higher natural tolerance to 1080.”

As a result, only tiny amounts of the toxin are needed for effective feral cat and fox baits. If native animals such as eagles, goannas, brush-tailed possums or quolls ingest a bait, they will not receive a lethal dose.

“It’s important to remember that baits are not 100 per cent toxin and only authorised and properly trained operators are permitted to handle 1080 and prepare baits. Each bait is carefully developed to contain the minimum amount of 1080 required for the target species, in this case a feral cat or fox,” continued Ms Basnett.

She said that a fox bait contains 3mg of 1080 and a feral cat bait 4.5mg.

“For context, in eastern Australia, a wedge-tailed eagle would need to ingest at least 10 fox baits to be lethal, spotted-tailed quoll more than three fox baits, sand goannas more than 70, southern brown bandicoots between two fox baits and five (if they were in the south-west of WA).”

She added that research projects and targeted predator 1080 baiting control programs have demonstrated its advantages, with native wildlife not only surviving but thriving as the bait reduces predation pressure.

“It is also safe for the environment as bacteria and fungi found in water and soil break it down rapidly into harmless compounds.”

For some critically endangered species, even one or two feral cats or foxes can wipe them out.

“The low risk of an individual native animal consuming a lethal dose of 1080 is far outweighed by effectively controlling these predators.”

Nationally threatened mammals that benefit from 1080 baiting for foxes and feral cats include the endangered numbats, southern brown bandicoots, woylies, western and eastern barred-bandicoots and black-flanked rock-wallabies, and the vulnerable long-nosed potoroos, boodies, greater bilbies, greater stick-nest rats, western quolls, yellow-footed rock-wallabies and golden bandicoots.

“We have a choice to make, we either protect our native wildlife or we leave invasive predators like feral cats and foxes unchecked, to eat more precious wildlife into extinction,” said Ms Basnett.

The Centre's CEO, Shauna Chadlowe, endorses the use of 1080, stating it is currently the best control tool available. Along with advocating for best practice invasive species management using current methods, the Centre prioritises humaneness and is committed to collaborating with its partners to develop new and improved control tools.

“Techniques such as gene drive, for example, have great promise but are still in the developmental stage. There are no practical, effective alternatives to 1080 for predator control over large landscapes and rugged terrain,” said Ms Chadlowe.

“Without an ability to effectively manage these invasive predators, more unique Australian wildlife will be lost.”

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Precious native species like goannas and dunnarts are on the menu for feral cats and foxes. Image credit: Gillian Basnett

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The State Government has unveiled a 25-year blueprint to future-proof Queensland’s primary industries, reinforcing agriculture as the backbone of the state’s economy.

With a strong vision for growth, the plan aims to increase Queensland’s agricultural output to $30 billion by 2030.

By working in close partnership with farmers, industry leaders, and regional communities, the government aims to set a strategic direction complemented by five-year operational plans tailored to regional and sector-specific needs.

Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said the initiative aims to ensure Queensland’s producers remain competitive, productive, and resilient in a rapidly evolving industry.

“The landscape of Queensland’s primary industries is changing rapidly, and we must act to ensure our industries and communities remain competitive, productive, and resilient into the future,” Minister Perrett said.

“By working together, we can co-design solutions that reflect local priorities and help Queensland meet its ambitious economic goals to ultimately grow the sector.

“This is a 25-year blueprint for a stronger future, and it’s all about unleashing new and exciting opportunities for Queensland producers in the years to come.”

The blueprint will address critical areas such as global megatrends, advancements in agricultural technology, diversification, advanced manufacturing, and expanding international trade opportunities. It will also integrate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations to ensure long-term sustainability.

A four-month consultation process will commence with a full-day forum on 26th February in Brisbane, bringing together key stakeholders to shape the blueprint's direction. The final strategy is set to be released in the next financial year.

For updates on the 25-year blueprint, visit the Department of Primary Industries website or call 13 25 23.

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Applications are now open for the 2025 Backing the Future program, which offers $50,000 grants to individuals in remote, rural, and regional Queensland. The funding is aimed at supporting people aged 18 and over who are working on innovative projects designed to improve the lives of young people aged 12-30 in these communities.

What sets the Backing the Future program apart is that it funds individuals, not just organisations. This removes one of the common barriers to accessing funding and gives people the freedom to develop new ideas that have the potential to make a lasting impact.

VFFF CEO Jenny Wheatley said the program offers a unique opportunity to back transformative ideas at an early stage.

“We have already supported 17 incredible community changemakers in QLD through previous rounds of this program, and we look forward to backing 10 new ideas that will create lasting impacts for young people in their communities,” she said.

The program focuses on projects that have been in development for fewer than three years, recognising that the hardest part of starting a new initiative is often securing funding for early-stage work, particularly in rural and remote areas. Backing the Future provides the resources needed to test and refine these ideas.

Past grantees have used their funding to launch new events, social enterprises, and even charities that continue to benefit young people in Queensland. One recipient, Jameson Harvey, used his grant to deliver robotics workshops to remote schools, giving students access to STEM education that would otherwise be out of reach.

FRRR CEO Natalie Egleton highlighted the program’s potential to provide new opportunities for youth in rural areas.

“We know that young people are the future of vibrant, resilient and sustainable rural communities. By providing opportunities that strengthen their connection and open doors to new possibilities, we can empower them to create transformative outcomes for themselves and their communities.”

Applications for the 2025 Backing the Future program close on the 17th of March. Those interested in applying can reach out to FRRR’s Youth Futures team for guidance or attend a webinar on the 5th of February to learn more. For further information or to apply, visit www.frrr.org.au/backing-the-future.

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Backing the Future 2022 NSW recipient Jae Brieffies (centre) with her Bright Generation team.

When the shelves at the supermarket run bare after a big storm or supply chain hiccup, there’s one place that never lets you down—your own backyard. Growing your own vegetables isn’t just about saving a few dollars or enjoying fresher produce; it’s about resilience, self-sufficiency, and knowing that when the world throws a curveball, you’ve still got food on the table.

If you’ve ever felt the urge to swap grocery store dependency for a greener, more reliable alternative, it might be time to dig in—literally. Home gardening, even in the smallest of spaces, provides not only a food source but also a sense of security and connection to nature. There’s something deeply satisfying about plucking a sun-ripened tomato from the vine or pulling crisp carrots straight from the soil, knowing they’ve come from your own hard work.

If you can’t find a local seed library, then visit a nursery or market, or reach out on a local community Facebook chat board to see if someone is happy to exchange some seeds or cuttings to get you underway.

Beyond the practical benefits, gardening is an act of sustainability. It reduces reliance on imported goods, ensures access to natural, untreated produce, and strengthens local food networks. Plus, there’s no better way to soak up sunshine and fresh air than tending to your own edible oasis.

So, whether it’s a balcony herb garden or a full-blown veggie patch, now is the perfect time to plant the seeds of resilience—because when life throws challenges your way, at least your backyard won’t let you down.

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Queensland Environment (Facebook)

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A sugar cane advocacy group is working with the Queensland Government's disaster preparedness team, as severe weather threatens cane-farming communities across the state's north.  
 
CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan attended a government briefing last week to ensure the industry’s concerns were heard as authorities ramped up their efforts to prepare for and monitor the unfolding weather event. 
 
Heavy rainfall inundated large parts of the region, with cane-growing communities such as Gordonvale, Hinchinbrook and Burdekin experiencing significant flooding.  
 
At the time of the meeting, the situation was still developing, with several low-pressure systems hitting the coast and the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) warning of the torrential downpours.  
 
“With cane-growing regions directly in the firing line, it is crucial that growers know that their industry organisation is working directly with government to prepare for all eventualities,” Mr Galligan said.  
 
At the time of the meeting, before the worst of the weather had hit, Mr Galligan said that some sugarcane regions had already recorded between 600mm and 700mm of rainfall since the start of the week.
 
“CANEGROWERS is working closely with the government to ensure our members will have access to the resources they need.” 
 
At the time, the BOM’s seven-day forecast indicated that up to three tropical lows could intensify, posing further threats to the region especially on top of high tides in the region.  
 
CANEGROWERS will continue to advocate for assistance measures to support any affected growers. Growers are reminded that if they are affected by this event, it is wise to register the impact with the Qld Department of Primary Industries impact survey at this link:https://bit.ly/3SBca3U.

Photo credit: CANEGROWERS

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By Owen Menkens
CANEGROWERS Chairman

There’s something truly special and iconic about sugarcane. 

Grown along 2000km of Australian coastline, from Grafton in northern New South Wales to the fringes of the Daintree in the tropical far north, it’s been a cornerstone of Queensland’s identity for over 150 years.

In fact, so foundational is this industry that it even features on our state’s Coat of Arms.

Yet, as iconic as it is, sugarcane isn’t just part of our history – it’s a dynamic, future-focused industry that continues to evolve, innovate, and contribute to a more prosperous, sustainable Australia.

That’s why I’m excited about the release of CANEGROWERS’ new educational resources, One Plant, Many Products.

Developed with input from teachers and industry experts, these curriculum-aligned materials will bring the sugarcane story to life in classrooms across Queensland.

They’re packed with lesson plans, assessments, and engaging insights to help students and teachers explore the fascinating journey of sugarcane, from its humble beginnings to its current role as a leader in sustainability and innovation.

Sugarcane is so much more than just sugar. It can be a feedstock for renewable energy, a source of sustainable bioplastics, and even a potential ingredient in aviation biofuels.
The industry already provides green electricity to thousands of Queensland homes, but that’s only the beginning of what we can achieve if we take full advantage of this wonderful resource.

Beyond its environmental benefits, the industry also offers a world of career opportunities. Whether it’s agronomy, chemistry, logistics, or advocacy, sugarcane’s future is rich with possibilities for the next generation of Queenslanders.

And with the sector continuing to innovate, even more roles will emerge over time.
The One Plant, Many Products resources are designed to inspire students to see these opportunities and imagine their place in this remarkable industry.

Home Hill State High School teacher Louise Nicholas put it best, saying “these materials empower educators to showcase the science, sustainability, and career potential of agriculture”.

At CANEGROWERS, we believe that reconnecting young Queenslanders with this foundational industry is vital.

By sparking curiosity and highlighting the potential for innovation, we can ensure the sugarcane industry thrives for another 150 years.

So, here’s my call to action – let’s bring cane back to our classrooms and inspire the next generation to take part in shaping a sustainable future for Queensland and beyond.

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Simon Hood, Wilmar Manager, Grower Marketing

The wash-up of the 2024 season is all but done, with only a portion of growers still to price out the balance of their 2024 crop.

The recent recovery in prices following the dip due to India announcing 1 million tonnes of export quota is welcome. We still see tight trade flow for raw and whites into this quarter which may stretch into the second quarter depending on how quickly Brazil comes back online and the current Indian and Thai crop cut out.

Growers have until 18 April 2025 to finalise their 2024 season Target and GMPRS pricing. We recently released our December quarterly Pool Performance and Comparative Outcomes for the 2024 season. Even with our forecasted pool returns pulling back, due to the fall in the sugar price, the performance of the allocation account is holding firm.

We continue to secure strong physical premiums for the balance of the sugar exported, which will flow back to growers though the net premium in the allocation account. Additionally, we have been able to export more sugar to the US market this season, which increases the percentage of grower’s GEI exposure priced by this lucrative market.

Contact your local Grower Marketing consultant for a copy of the December quarterly report and keep an eye out for our forward pricing analysis – there are some interesting insights for growers who use all mechanisms for GEI pricing. Focusing on the year ahead, we currently have the AUD sugar swap price pushing into the low 600s.

Looking across at our growers who use the Target pricing mechanism, we have a lower percentage of GEI sugar exposure priced than normal for this time of the year. Our current longer-term outlook for prices is not overly optimistic.

While the Indian crop may disappoint this year, we think that next year’s crop will be significantly larger.

Additionally, we have pencilled in another large Brazilian crop for 25/26 as the incentive to maximise sugar over ethanol production increases. If we do see 2025 season prices being dragged up by a rise in nearby prices, growers should have target levels in mind where they would be willing to increase their percentage of price hedging.

With cash flows tight at this time of the year, our Pre-Season Payment is proving useful. Growers who have nominated Wilmar as their GEI marketer for the upcoming 2025 season can take advantage of an advance payment of $5/t of cane. The payment is recouped as cane is delivered to our mills, with interest charged at 6%.

It’s a very easy process and you can nominate online via Wilmar’s GrowerWeb up until 10 May.

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The Lower Burdekin Scouts started 2025 early in January, when two members attended the Jamboree at Maryborough – a 10-day camp packed with fun and activities. This was followed by a night for our Group in Plantation Park, and a walk around Ayr to visit some of the Heritage sites.
A few days later, several of the Scouts and adults attended the Australia Day Awards ceremony at the Burdekin Theatre on Australia Day.
People aged 5 to 85 can come “Try Scouts” for four nights for free and begin to learn valuable Life Skills, explore the outdoors and develop lifelong memories.
People of all ages, even adults, join Scouting and develop such skills as resilience leadership, respect and confidence. It’s a great place to form friendships and share in a love of the outdoors.
Our Scouting program and badge-work is based around four challenge areas:
   • Community
   • Outdoors
   • Creative
   • Personal Development
The month of February program has an Aquatics theme, with three nights at local swimming pools and then a region swimming day in Townsville at the end of the month.
The Lower Burdekin Scouts meet on a Thursday night at 57-59 Twelfth Ave Home Hill (behind the swimming pool). Come join in the fun and be part of something special.
Ages 5-8 years 4-5pm
Ages 8+ Years 5:30-7:30pm

WHAT: Lower Burdekin Scouts
WHEN: Every Thursday
WHERE: 57-59 Twelfth Ave Home Hill

Chris, Harper and Aaliyah, outside the 2025 Australia Day Awards.

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The 109 Squadron Burdekin Air Force Cadets is now recruiting for 2025, offering young individuals an exciting opportunity to grow in confidence, leadership, and teamwork. If your child is turning 13 this year, in at least Grade 7, and under 15 years of age, this program could be the perfect fit for them.

Air Force Cadets is a youth-oriented organisation supported by the Royal Australian Air Force. Cadets engage in an array of activities, including aerospace training, field skills, survival techniques, and firearms safety. They also have the chance to fly, learn navigation, and participate in camps and the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, all within a military-based framework.

Recruitment interviews commence on Friday, 31 January 2025, when the squadron resumes activities at the Tsimba Ridge Training Depot, 46 Little Drysdale Street, Ayr. Interviews will also be held every Friday night until recruiting closes on 31 March 2025.

To access additional details, visit www.airforcecadets.gov.au or contact the Commanding Officer on 0438 107 059.

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Recruitment has begun for the 109 Squadron Burdekin Air Force Cadets

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The Rotary Club of Home Hill is dedicated to making a positive impact in our Home Hill community and beyond. Through service projects, fundraising efforts, and community events, they work together to support local initiatives, assist those in need, and contribute to global humanitarian efforts.
Rotary is more than just a club—it’s a network of individuals who believe in giving back. Whether it’s supporting local schools and clubs, improving community facilities and ways of life, or raising funds for important causes, our members are committed to creating meaningful change.
Joining Rotary offers an opportunity to connect with like-minded people, develop skills, make friends and take part in rewarding service projects. The Rotary Club welcomes people of all ages and backgrounds who are passionate about making a difference. Even if you can’t commit to becoming a member, there are many ways to support their efforts. Attending fundraising events, volunteering for a project, or making a donation can help them continue their vital work.
By supporting the Rotary Club of Home Hill, you are investing in a stronger, more vibrant community. Together, we can tackle local challenges and contribute to a better future for all.
If you’d like to learn more or get involved, we invite you to attend one of our meetings or reach out to us. Phone Alf on 0419-477-084 or Garry on 0408-441-055, or like our Facebook page facebook.com/rotaryclubofhomehill.
Your time and support can help change lives, starting right here in Home Hill. 
Get involved today and be a part of something bigger!
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Contributed with thanks by Rotary Club Home Hill

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The Arch Dunn Memorial Park playground, Home Hill, a Rotary Club Home Hill project. Photo: Supplied

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BCA provides financial and material assistance for adults experiencing personal, family, relationship and/or financial issues.
 
The Service assists adults and children with basic needs in times of financial hardship, through the provision of:
   • Food parcels
   • Toiletries
   • Vouchers (food, clothes, chemist, transport)
   • Prepaid cards
   • Payment of third-party accounts
 
Please note that a Centrelink Income Statement is required unless you are affected by domestic and family violence and not receiving a Centrelink payment.
 
Burdekin Community Pantry
 
We are requesting donations for our Community Pantry. The items most needed are:
   • Fruit
   • Vegetables
   • Non-perishable food (e.g. canned vegetables or fruit, canned spaghetti or baked beans, long life milk, tea/coffee/sugar, pasta)
   • Sanity items
   • Toiletries
If possible, please deliver your donation to the Support Centre, 130 Queen St, Ayr.  Your help is very much appreciated.
 
Burdekin Community Recovery
 
Did you know that the BCA plays a significant role in Burdekin Community Recovery?  The team and I help to provide Human and Social community recovery planning and operations.  We work with council, state government agencies, other service providers and community groups to provide recovery assistance to affected members of the community during and post a disaster event.  This may include emotional, social and physical well-being services.  
 
Both the BCA Support Centre (130 Queen St Ayr) and Burdekin Centre for Rural Health (12a Chippendale St Ayr) are designated Burdekin Community Recovery Hubs.  Community Recovery Hubs are a place where residents who are experiencing hardship can apply for grants and obtain emotional and wellbeing support.
 
During and after the storm season we recommend that you prepare and stay up-to-date by monitoring the Burdekin Shire Council Disaster Management website, Bureau of Meteorology website, 630AM ABC radio and 97.1 SweetFM radio.
http://www.bom.gov.au/
https://disaster.burdekin.qld.gov.au/
 
For Community, Health and Wellbeing Services, information or support please contact our Team:
The Support Centre, 130 Queen St, Ayr. Ph: 4783 3744
Burdekin Centre for Rural Health and Burdekin Community Rehabilitation Centre, 12A Chippendale St, Ayr. Ph: 4783 2711
Email: bca@bcaburdekin.org.au
Website: www.burdekincommunityassociation.org.au
Facebook: www.facebook.com/bca1975

BCA provides financial and material assistance for adults experiencing personal, family, relationship and/or financial issues.
 
The Service assists adults and children with basic needs in times of financial hardship, through the provision of:
   • Food parcels
   • Toiletries
   • Vouchers (food, clothes, chemist, transport)
   • Prepaid cards
   • Payment of third-party accounts
 
Please note that a Centrelink Income Statement is required unless you are affected by domestic and family violence and not receiving a Centrelink payment.
 
Burdekin Community Pantry
 
We are requesting donations for our Community Pantry. The items most needed are:
   • Fruit
   • Vegetables
   • Non-perishable food (e.g. canned vegetables or fruit, canned spaghetti or baked beans, long life milk, tea/coffee/sugar, pasta)
   • Sanity items
   • Toiletries
If possible, please deliver your donation to the Support Centre, 130 Queen St, Ayr.  Your help is very much appreciated.
 
Burdekin Community Recovery
 
Did you know that the BCA plays a significant role in Burdekin Community Recovery?  The team and I help to provide Human and Social community recovery planning and operations.  We work with council, state government agencies, other service providers and community groups to provide recovery assistance to affected members of the community during and post a disaster event.  This may include emotional, social and physical well-being services.  
 
Both the BCA Support Centre (130 Queen St Ayr) and Burdekin Centre for Rural Health (12a Chippendale St Ayr) are designated Burdekin Community Recovery Hubs.  Community Recovery Hubs are a place where residents who are experiencing hardship can apply for grants and obtain emotional and wellbeing support.
 
During and after the storm season we recommend that you prepare and stay up-to-date by monitoring the Burdekin Shire Council Disaster Management website, Bureau of Meteorology website, 630AM ABC radio and 97.1 SweetFM radio.
http://www.bom.gov.au/
https://disaster.burdekin.qld.gov.au/
 
For Community, Health and Wellbeing Services, information or support please contact our Team:
The Support Centre, 130 Queen St, Ayr. Ph: 4783 3744
Burdekin Centre for Rural Health and Burdekin Community Rehabilitation Centre, 12A Chippendale St, Ayr. Ph: 4783 2711
Email: bca@bcaburdekin.org.au
Website: www.burdekincommunityassociation.org.au
Facebook: www.facebook.com/bca1975

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How can we talk about anything else but the weather?  However, we would like to approach it from the perspective of resilience.

We send our thoughts to our regional communities who are baring the brunt of this weather event.

For seasoned Nth Qlder’s, a rainy summer is par for the course, a larger than normal downfall is always on the cards and to be prepared for.  We all have a duty to look out for each other and help where we are able.  

We also have a duty to ourselves to build our resilience.  Building resilience is essential for adapting to challenges and bouncing back from setbacks.

Here are some effective strategies to help develop resilience:

1. Develop a Strong Support Network: Cultivate relationships with family, friends, and community members. A strong support system provides emotional support and practical help when needed.

2. Practice Self-Care: Prioritise your physical and mental health through regular exercise, a balanced diet, sufficient sleep, and mindfulness practices like meditation or yoga.

3. Foster a Positive Mindset: Focus on positive thinking and self-talk. Practice gratitude by acknowledging the good things in your life, even during tough times.

4. Set Realistic Goals: Break down larger goals into manageable tasks. Achieving small milestones can boost confidence and resilience.

5. Embrace Change: Accept that change is a part of life. Being flexible and adaptable can help you cope more effectively with unexpected challenges.

6. Learn Problem-Solving Skills: Improve your ability to approach issues logically and creatively. This will enable you to find solutions more effectively when problems arise.

7. Develop Emotional Awareness: Recognise and accept your emotions. Understanding how you feel can help you manage your reactions and respond more effectively to stress.

8. Seek Professional Help When Needed: Don’t hesitate to reach out to counsellors or therapists. Professional support can be invaluable in building resilience.

9. Engage in Community Activities: Get involved in your community. Volunteering or participating in local events can strengthen your connections and sense of belonging.

10. Reflect on Past Experiences: Learn from previous challenges. Reflecting on how you coped with past difficulties can provide valuable insights and strengthen your resilience for future challenges.

Why are we writing about all of this?  At the Neighbourhood Centre we can help you along your journey to building your resilience – not only for weather events but for life in general!  Come in and chat to our friendly team!

Until Next Time
The Team at Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

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Debra Harwood, a 57-year-old mother of three and grandmother to 14, has lived in Ayr and the Burdekin area for over 30 years. Originally born in Mackay, Debra, who works at the Ayr State Primary School tuck shop by day, and Woolies at night stocking shelves, is surrounded by children almost 24/7.

“I was a volunteer at the tuck shop for a couple of years first before I eventually took it over, but since then it’s just been me. Though, I’ve just handed over tuck shop duties to my youngest daughter, which is great as I also work at Woolies on night fill. That’s going on 18 years. Then I also run around after the grandkids, because I'm raising two,” Debra exclaims.

A woman that works days and nights, has three older kids, 14 grandkids, two of which she looks after, you’d think she must wear a superhero cape under her outfit, but no that’s not the case.

“Ha, no, no cape, I don't know, I just keep going doing what I do. It’s okay but it does tire me out sometimes. But yeah, I keep on keeping on,” Debra smiles.

Even the very best superheroes have off days, wearing their battle scars as badges of honour. In Debra’s case, she’s currently carrying a Plantar fasciitis ailment, but it doesn’t stop her. And just as Batman, the caped crusader is known to do in his comics, Debra’s getting by on minimal sleep.

“I'm suffering with my own little hassles and medical things, like most of us, and while this plantar fasciitis in my heels is killing me, I get by on just three to four hours of sleep each night,” she says plainly.

So, what’s Debra’s secret? How does she do it when so few struggle, and on much more sleep than she gets? Surely she has a secret or hidden superhero power of some kind?

“Na, I get support all over, so it’s not all me. I’ve been doing it for years, so you just get used to it.”

Debra has also not been static either. With four kids and 10 grandkids, how can you be? Just as our favourite superheroes and heroines invariably do, she’s also travelled far and wide.

“I've been to several places, such as Brisbane, Alpha, Jericho, and other places and interstate. I used to live out there in Alpha with foster parents for a time. The other places I’ve lived such as Brisbane, I was with my mum where I grew up for a while.”

Debra enjoys the quiet town life of Ayr and what the Burdekin offers, and despite one her daughter’s suggestion to move up Townsville to be closer to her, she has no plans to do so.

“You always have problems no matter where you go, but I like it here. I quite enjoy it really. I don't think I'll move,” Debra states.

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Debra Harwood, doing great things is a superhero for many. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen

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We all have our stories or adventures that we tell, but for Sweet FM’s historian, Glenis Cislowski, telling stories brings on a whole new level. You see Glenis goes back in time, getting lost among the old stories told from a bygone era and bringing them back into the now. It’s something she thrives on, and has done since she first became interested in the stories of others and their history.

Part of what was formerly called ‘Nostalgia Hour,’ these days you’ll find Glenis regaling listeners with ‘Those Were The Days’ on Mondays at 10am. So popular is her segment, she’s also branched out beyond the radio to share her incredible storytelling among these very pages at times.

She has written for various publications, including the Burdekin Advocate and the BCA newsletter since 2002, covering diverse topics such as cyclones, shipwrecks, and local infrastructure changes, Glenis is a wealth of knowledge, wisdom, and little, fun, unknown facts that enlighten many.

“I present a bit of history of the area. It can be with people, it can be floods, it can be the irrigation that we have here. I do a bit on everything. Might be a ball or something that I've read in the paper, just to create an interest of what went on in the district over the years,” Glenis reveals.

Not only has Glenis been presenting at the station for nearly five years, but she herself, has a great personal history. Her ancestors came to the Burdekin in the 1890s, while she’s lived here all her life.

“I have always enjoyed listening to old people's stories and my grandparents' stories, and I just got interested in family history. It's amazing what history you get from family that you can then get the history of the place. I just like some of the stories around the place, they're really fascinating,” Glenis beams.

Glenis's passion for history, coupled with her personal experiences and community connections, make her a valuable local historian, and much loved Sweet FM radio presenter. At 76, there’s no slowing Glenis down, driven to discover and uncover many more stories and histories, of people, the Burdekin, and more.

“I just observe what is going on around me, and I love reading, particularly about this area. It’s amazing what was going on in this area, and how it’s not that much different today. I was reading in the 1920s in the Home Hill observer, that they were all whinging about the roads and how they were. And while I was reading it I was thinking, they’re still whinging about the same roads,” Glenis laughs.

Check out Glenis’ ‘Those Were The Days’ on Monday mornings from 10am. If you’d like to join the station as a presenter, contact Sweet FM on: (07) 4782-8394 or email: admin@sweetfm.com.au.

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Glenis Cislowski, a woman full of history. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen

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