A Home Hill cane farmer who was involved in the discovery of one of the Great Barrier Reef’s most horrific shipwrecks has revisited the tale almost 150 years on from her demise.

On the afternoon of Saturday, June 10, 1967, 17-year-old Peter Rubiolo joined two friends for a spot of spearfishing off Cape Upstart.

“They liked to go spearfishing so I went with them with a small dinghy so they could hop in, have a rest, take the fish off and reload the gun before going back over the side again,” Peter said.

“They were fishing along there and when the sharks would come up, they’d jump back in the dinghy until it quietened down again.

“This time around, they both got out, there were a few sharks around, and one of them had a look and spotted the clipper bow of a boat underwater.

“He went down with his spear and tapped steel on steel and heard that ringing sound, and he said, ‘Do you know there’s a wreck down there?’ and I said, ‘Not that we know of.’”

Over 18 months later, the shipwreck was identified as that of the SS Gothenburg, an iron-hulled sail- and steamship that was built in England in 1854.

The ship originally sailed between England and Sweden and then between Australia and New Zealand before she was rebuilt in 1873 and began operating in the Australian coastal trade.

The Gothenburg was chartered by the South Australian Government and regularly sailed between Adelaide and Port Darwin.

She had left Port Darwin on February 17, 1875, with a number of dignitaries and government officials onboard.

On the evening of February 24, 1875, the ship was heading south along Queensland’s east coast when it encountered cyclonic weather conditions.

The captain, Captain Robert George Augustus Pearce, altered the course of the Gothenburg when it struck a reef.

After attempts by the passengers and crew to lighten her load and float free of the reef, the ship eventually went down.

22 people survived the wreck while up to 112 are believed to have been killed.

It wasn’t until Peter and his mates went fishing that fateful day, over 92 years later, that the Gothenburg was rediscovered.

“We discovered the wreck on Saturday afternoon and on Sunday the boys went out spearfishing again, went a bit further north and found an anchor and chain with nothing on the end of it,” Peter said.

“There was no name on the bow – over a period of time, it would’ve come off – so how we identified it was by the government arrows on the porthole.”

The Member for Bowen at the time was Peter Delamothe, a history buff himself, who directed Peter and his friends to Brisbane based shipwreck historian Commander Norman Pixley.

Commander Pixley used markings on the porthole and the coordinates of where the shipwreck was found to identify it as the SS Gothenburg a year and a half after it was discovered.

“He worked it back to that era and that’s how we came up with the Gothenburg,” Peter said.

Since the discovery, Peter dived the Gothenburg himself and even still owns a porthole retrieved from the wreck.

“It was nothing out of the ordinary at the time,” Peter said.

“After that, I went and got some scuba gear and dived it myself a few times.

“We weren’t out looking for a wreck, we were just spearfishing along when we came across it.”

Today, the Gothenburg is a protected wreck and provides food and shelter for a variety of marine life including soft and hard corals, anemones, clownfish, coral trout, cods, sea perch, black tip reef sharks and other reef fish.

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Caption 1: Peter Rubiolo with a porthole retrieved from the wreck of the SS Gothenburg. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

Caption 2: SS Gothenburg docked at Port Adelaide wharf in 1873. Photo supplied: John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland

Caption 3: The stern of the SS Gothenburg shipwreck. Photo supplied: Dive into History – Queensland Shipwrecks, Department of Environment and Science

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Did you know that Burdekin Community Association Inc (BCA) can help you to access community services and get more involved in the Burdekin community? We offer a very wide range of services, under 36 programs, for people of all ages and backgrounds. Most services are FREE.

Our team is very well qualified and experienced and can provide you with information and/or help you to access local and outreach services. For example, aged care, disability care, housing, crisis accommodation, financial coaching, social activities and support, psychological counselling, rehabilitation and exercise programs, domestic and family violence services, essential food and toiletries, telehealth, legal services and much more.

You may also be interested in joining our “Community Connections Group” and/or “Make It Happen Life Skills Group”. Meetings are held at our Burdekin Centre for Rural Health and are a lot of fun! Great off-street parking and disability access.

For information on community and health and wellbeing services and being more involved in our community, please contact Burdekin Community Association Inc. on Ph 4783 3744, visit the Support Centre, 130 Queen Street, Ayr, Email bca@bcaburdekin.org.au or www.burdekincommunityassociation.org.au

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Debra Cochran

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Have you ever been lost for words or not know how to start or conduct a conversation?

You are not alone - it happens to us all at one time or another.

So, what is the Art of Conversation? Good conversation involves being able to connect with others, share thoughts and ideas, actively listen to what they have to say, and being respectful by not interrupting or making everything about yourself.

Conversation is a work of art – there is more than one creator!

We all can communicate or converse; sometimes, we just need to practise. Have you ever heard of Human Libraries, Death Cafes, Conversation Clubs, or Speed Dating? These are all examples of social activities where conversation is a way of getting to know someone or of hearing their stories.

Recently, community members have approached us asking if there is anywhere in the Burdekin where people can practise their English. We would love to get a Conversation Corner happening at the Centre where community members can meet to practise their conversation skills, improve their English, decrease their loneliness, and increase their confidence. Helping each other is an excellent way of improving our well-being.

The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre is happy to offer a place to meet, help, and support groups interested in starting a new project or activity. If you are interested in joining a group or starting one, please let us know. We would love to hear from you and provide you with the necessary support. Please call the office on 07 4783 4243.

The Team at the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre values conversation and welcomes the opportunity to converse with the community. So, come on in and have a yarn with us. Let's start a movement -#letsgettalking.

Wishing you all a great week!

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The Team

Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

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Did you know that the Burdekin Shire Council has a set of local laws that cover various aspects of community and environmental management?

Local laws are rules and regulations that are made by Councils to address specific topics, issues and challenges. Local laws complement the broader laws and regulations of the State and Federal Governments and help Councils to manage their local areas in a way that meets the needs and expectations of their communities. Local laws are made and enforced under the Local Government Act 2009 and are necessary or convenient for the good rule and local government of the area.

The local laws govern areas of interest in the community such as parking, waste management, animal management, and the use of council-controlled areas and facilities.

The local laws also include subordinate local laws, which provide more details and specifications for each topic. You can find the list of current local laws and subordinate local laws on the council's website or inspect them at the Council Chambers at 145 Young Street Ayr. The local laws are specific to the Burdekin Shire Council and reflect its unique characteristics and needs as a thriving agricultural region with abundant resources and opportunities.

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In the heart of the Burdekin, where fishing and boating means so much to the community, Ayr Marine Services ensures local boaties have access to top quality products and dedicated and trustworthy service right here in Ayr.

Founded by Aidan Slatcher, Ayr Marine Services began as a part-time venture back in 2018, and by 2021, Aidan had transitioned to full-time dedication, laying the foundation for what would soon become a local favourite. Aidan brings over 15 years of outboard experience to the business as well as a passion for boats and a vision for exceptional customer service. With a keen eye for quality and a knack for going above and beyond, Aidan has cultivated a loyal customer base that appreciates the personal touch he brings to every interaction.

The last couple of years has brought new partnerships for Ayr Marine Services with renowned brands like Makocraft boats and Suzuki outboards. Since stocking Makocraft boats last year, the business has expanded its offerings to include a diverse range, from compact car toppers to robust 7.5m plate boats. This year, Ayr Marine Services proudly introduced Suzuki Marine to its lineup, featuring a comprehensive selection and providing the Burdekin with a wider range of brands and products to choose from.

Together with full time apprentice Jaycob, the small but mighty team ensures that each customer receives personalised attention and expert guidance, whether they're in the market for a new boat or seeking repairs and maintenance services. From assisting with customisations to facilitating made-to-order boats, Ayr Marine Services are equipped to handle every aspect of the boating experience.

As a locally owned and operated business, Ayr Marine Services takes pride in serving the Burdekin community. With a fully equipped mobile service vehicle and service trailer, Aidan and the team ensure that customers receive prompt and reliable assistance wherever in the Burdekin they may be. Whether you're a seasoned boater or a newcomer to the waterways, Ayr Marine Services is your trusted partner for all your marine needs.

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Caption: Jaycob and Aidan of Ayr Marine Services

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The Burdekin Chamber held its second event of 2024 on the morning of Tuesday, March 19 at Home Hill News and Coffee, inviting guest speaker nbn Local North Queensland Community Ambassador Carly Crompton to address the members.

Ms Crompton provided an update regarding the Regional Connectivity Program, saying Fibre to the Premise will be available to eligible homes and businesses by the end of 2025 in Ayr, Home Hill and Brandon, replacing the copper telephone lines with fibre.

“Having completed the initial build of one of the largest infrastructure projects in Australian history, nbn is now focused on the next stage in the planned evolution of the nbn network,” Ms Crompton said.

“The purpose of the Regional Connectivity Program is to further enhance broadband services for rural and regional households, businesses, and communities to help meet growing and diverse needs of Australians living in regional areas.”

Ms Crompton said benefits of Fibre to the Premise include faster upload and download speeds for homes and businesses with access to over 150 retail service provides; faster streaming making it easier to work from home; No 3pm drop-outs when kids get home from school; and flood resiliency.

Burdekin Chamber President Leigh Kefford said nbn’s recent notification of an upgrade for the Burdekin region is massive for business.

“It allows the ability for an increase in speeds, and it will increase productivity for businesses, so it was a no-brainer to invite them along to give an update,” Mr Kefford said.

“Hopefully it educates a lot of the members on what the future holds, as well as the possibilities that the over 150 retail service providers bring.”

Works should get underway mid-year and completion is expected by the end of 2025.

Residents and business owners can visit nbnco.com.au to check their address and register to receive the latest build information.

The Burdekin Chamber plans to hold a marketing summit for small business owners in May in celebration of Small Business Month.

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Caption: Burdekin Chamber President Leigh Kefford and nbn Local North Queensland Community Ambassador Carly Crompton

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Burdekin Life readers may remember Home Hill State High School teacher, Louise Nicholas, who was nobly nominated for the Queensland AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award.

Her efforts were recognised for her ‘Grow Your Own’ initiative as she advocated for agricultural changes and empowered young students to engaged in the industry.

Louise highlights the importance of encouraging students to pursue a career in agriculture as she showcases the diverse industry opportunities that are available to students, while fostering growth and success in their own communities. 

“There is so much out there,” Louise explained

“There is a lack of trained workforce in industry and agriculture, and to encourage our students to pursue careers in industry, we have partnered with local industry and agricultural businesses and farms to show students what’s on offer.”

“Exposing students to the diverse and various aspect of industry and agriculture is critical and it encourages students to enter a career in industry that they may not have known was an option,” she said.

Although Louise didn’t bring home the prestigious award for 2024, she spoke on her admiration and gratitude from the opportunity. She reflected on the successes of award winner Kate Lamason and acknowledged the dedication showcased by rural business women where they have driven such passion into their businesses.

Louise claimed this year to be a lesson of development both personally and professionally and she will continue to thrive towards change in agriculture as she leads younger generations into the field.

“I am proud that I was able to spread the word about the importance of agriculture education, raising the profile of building school to industry connections and inspiring our young people to consider a career in agriculture,” she said.

“Congratulations Kate Lamason from Little Tuna, Cairns!

“Kate is a dedicated rural business woman who is driven to showcase their Australian product showcasing wild caught tuna.

“I am looking forward to the day that I can purchase Little Tuna from my local supermarket as I have a son that just loves tuna so no doubt your product will be in our house very soon!

“Thank you AgriFutures Australia, Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (Queensland), Westpac and Queensland Country Women's Association (QCWA) for the incredible opportunity.

“Thank you also to my Burdekin Community and the QLD Agricultural Teachers Association for getting behind the "Grow Your Own" networking and engagement initiative.

“It has been a great journey so far with these ladies and such a privilege to be an AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award finalist with Kate, Tash Kocks and Kylie Martin Hollonds.

“We all now join the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Alumni community of over 300 strong and proud women!”

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Photos Supplied

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Caption: Louise Nicholas with Nominees of the Queensland AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award

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Anglers from across the region took to the waterways of the Burdekin for the Burdekin Communications Justin Scott Fishing Classic.

Held from March 15-16, the annual fishing tournament was established in 2020 in honour of Burdekin local Justin Scott who passed away in 2019 after a boat crash.

The event was established as an opportunity for Justin’s friends, family, those who searched for him and the wider community to come together and celebrate his life.

This year’s event was made possible by Naming Rights sponsor Burdekin Communications and Platinum sponsors Burdekin Printers, About Town Bait and Tackle, Next Gen Renewables, Coral Coast Marine, Vactrucks (NQ), Nomad Interior Linings, Piccobooks, Tinting North Queensland and Superior Mine Maintenance.

Cover Caption: Silly Pillies, consisting of Eric Pedersen, Rye Wyper and Joshua Corradi dressed as Scooby Doo, Velma and Fred respectively, won the Best Dressed Award. Photo supplied

Justin Scott Fishing Classic

Results

Champion Team (longest 5 Barramundi caught)

Team: Happy Hookers

Anglers: Brodie Lam & Deon Darr

Lengths: 83cm, 92cm, 98cm, 102 cm and 111cm

Longest Barramundi - Male

Team: Salty Willies

Angler: Kerrod Wilkie

Length: 109cm

Longest Barramundi - Female

Team: Gabiola

Angler: Jessie Gabiola

Length: 96cm

Enzo’s Metre Club

Anglers:

111cm: Brodie Lamb: Happy Hookers

109cm: Kerrod Wilkie: Salty Willies

106cm: Ben Caspanello: Salty Willies

102cm: Brodie Lamb: Happy Hookers

101cm: Rhegan Falco: River Rats

101cm: Adam Krogh: Gabiola

Mystery Length Barramundi

Team: Killing & Grilling

Angler: Chris Griggs

Length: 69cm (8 caught at this size, Chris was first to nominate his at 6:57am on day one)

Longest Mangrove Jack

Team: Bar Runners

Angler: Wayne Grabs

Length: 48cm

Longest Fingermark

Team: McLean Ups

Angler: Scott McLean

Length: 88cm

Longest Grunter

Team: Reel Catch One

Angler: Kris Codega

Length: 62cm

Longest Cod

Team: Compleat Anglers

Angler: Troy Great

Length: 84cm

Longest Bream

Team: Wasted Seaman

Angler: Luke Watson

Length: 34cm

Best Dressed

Team: Silly Pillies

Anglers: Eric Pedersen, Joshua Corradi, Rye Wyper dressed as Scooby Doo, Fred and Velma respectively.

Hope Ya Jokin’ Award

Team: CUPCAKES.INC

Anglers: Krystie & Seth Schultz

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Caption 1: Champion Team: Happy Hookers

Caption 2: Longest Barramundi - Male: Kerrod Wilkie

Caption 3: Longest Barramundi - Female: Jessie Gabiola

Caption 4: Enzo’s Metre Club

Caption 5: Mystery Length: Chris Griggs

Caption 6: Longest Mangrove Jack: Wayne Grabs

Caption 7: Longest Fingermark: Scott McLean

Caption 8: Longest Grunter: Kris Codega

Caption 9: Longest Bream: Luke Watson

Caption 10: Best Dressed: Silly Pillies

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Photos supplied

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Over 50 talented performers took to the stage at the 2024 NQ Fast Track Talent Showcase, some travelling from as far as Sydney and Melbourne.

Performers competed in heats throughout the day on Saturday, March 16 to narrow down the finalists to perform in front of special guest judges Taylor Henderson and Ethan Beckton.

The one-of-a-kind event exclusive to Queensland delivered a diverse lineup of North Queensland’s finest talent showcasing their skills in singing, dancing, music, comedy and more.

The expertise of local judges Cultural Venues Manager Glenn Arboit, Thom Pickersgill from Burdekin Singers & Theatre Co. and Jaye Mustard from The Voice Singing School also contributed to an event that celebrated talent in its most genuine form.

Winners

Best Overall Talent – Riley, Eliza and Lauren (singing trio)

Runner Up Best Talent – Leyla Sabo (singer)

Best Group Performance – Slippery Gypsy (band)

Fast Track to Fame - Lucas Smith (singer)

Best Musical Performance - Sofia Sarri (violinist)

Talent Encouragement Award – Myla Jerkic (singing/dancing)

Rising Star Vocal Performer – Jenny Bonner (singer)

Best Overall Presentation – Madison Crase (singer)

Audience Favourite – Big Joe (singer)

Special Mention – Laney Ahearn (singer)

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Caption 1: NQ Fast Track Talent Showcase finalists with special guests Taylor Henderson and Ethan Beckton

Photo credit: Saskia Photography

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Social Bowls Tuesday March 12 Winners were Deslie Olsen, Betty Schultz and Heather Jorgensen defeating Merle Nixon, Beryl Cornford and Sandra Stidston. Pam Power and Katarina Stuckler defeated Karen Page and Dot Cutting.

Competition Thursday March 14 Open Rinks Winners were Merle Nixon, Karen Page, Thelma Klopper and Sandra Stidston defeating Katharina Stuckler, Elaine Young, Heather Jorgensen and Mary Poli. Ruth Moore, Isabel Cislowski, Joy Comollatti and Irene Wilson defeated Deslie Olsen, Trish Achille, Beryl Cornford and Pam Power.

Wednesday March 13 winners were Rob Garner and Ron Soper who defeated Tony Battaglia and Anthony Bull.

Other game results were John Pirrone, Terry Feakes and Lew Stidston defeating Barry Hewson, George Nixon and Phil Marsden.

Margaret Chapman, Dino Poli and Maurie Power defeated Jim Murray, Joe Papale and Happy Horan.

Alan Jones and Wayne Coonan defeated Vince Beitia and Henry Hazle.

Saturday March 16 winners were Karl Rummeny/Jim Murray, Sandra Darwen and Henry Hazle who defeated Joe Papale/Val Edwards, Beryl Cornford and Thelma Klopper.

Runners up were Paul Vass, Betty Schultz and Anthony Bull who defeated Lorraine Wolffe, Margaret Chapman and Mick Olsen.

Other game results were Merle Nixon, Bob Young and Happy Horan defeated John Pirrone, George Nixon and Lew Stidston.

Rick Kelly, Alan Jones and Pam Power defeated John Hall, Joe Grabbi and Maurie Power.

Results of competition games - Singles - V. Beitia 26 R. Garner19.  Pairs - M. Power/R. Soper 26 J. Pirrone/A. Bull 11.

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Contributed by Michael Parravicini

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Local

Burdekin FC Prems have been playing well for this early part of the season and confidence was high to travel to Warriors and get a winning result. Despite having players missing through injuries and circumstances the team was able to focus and maintain their composure to play a high quality, high tempo game.
The first goal came from a corner late in the first half and was a just reward for continued pressure from good attacks down both sides of the field. The second half started brightly, and it wasn’t long before more goal scoring chances were being made. The second goal was put away well by Matthew Kolb. Burdekin continued to maintain control of the game, with only a handful of occasions for our keeper Jarrod Camer to be called into action.

With 10 minutes to go there were two young players given their Premier League debut, Jhett Jones and Cooper Kross. These two boys were eager to get on the field and contributed immediately to the good performance of the side. They both show great promise with great combinations working together with Cooper putting together a mean cross for Jhett who only narrowly missed scoring a goal on debut. Both had chances to score but the third goal came from a Matthew Walker special, a free kick from inside his own half sent into the top corner as the keeper watched it sail over his head. Two wins from two games is a great start to the season.

Burdekin FC Reserves made the trip to Warriors and put in another strong effort as a young and developing team. Despite the hot and humid conditions both teams played an open and fast game. It was an arm wrestle for most of the match although Warriors had the best chances it was nil all at half time. The second half was much the same as the first and it took an unlucky deflection to give Warriors their winning goal. The Burdekin boys kept trying hard but couldn’t score the goal they deserved for their effort. 

The ladies arrived at Melrose Park with only 9 available to take the park. The ladies battled hard in the heat of the day with Warriors pushing hard to break through the strong defence within the middle of the park. Eventually, Warriors were successful taking a shot from outside the 18- yard box and another soon after. Just after a water break, the game was cut short due to a Burdekin injury. The game was abandoned due to the wait time for the ambulance to arrive on the scene. The game will be rescheduled to be played at a later date.

The Funks had their first hit out for the year on Friday with a new like side away at Rebels. After a frantic start to the game, the Funks found themselves out of legs early and Rebels took advantage scoring 3 goals in 10 minutes. Some fresh legs and positional changes made the difference, and the funks were able to get back into the game with a goal through Alec Contzonis. The second half was an even contest with both sides creating chances, but Rebels would eventually seal the match with a late goal and the game ending 4-1.

Juniors

Juniors first games for the season went off with a bang on Saturday.  It was so great to see so many kids, parents, grandparents and friends down at the grounds! The little under 5's were so cute playing their first games and already can see some talent in those kids!  The all girls teams 8/9, 10/11 and 12/13 all played amazing and they all love playing together and with each other.  Games will be on again this Saturday, then will break for Easter and school holidays. See you down at the grounds Saturday!

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Hi Readers

I finally got back out onto the cricket field on Saturday for the first time this year and only the third time this season.

As is often the case, I’ve found my form at the pointy end of the season, taking a catch and a wicket and, most importantly, I didn’t bowl any wides.

My team got the win on Saturday and have made it into the grand final this weekend, so hopefully I can continue this form and help the boys to a victory.

Flick to page 47 for a recap of last week’s game and come on down to the Home Hill Cricket Association complex on Saturday for some grand final action.

Saturday will also bring the campaigning to a close for 15 Burdekin individuals as we hit the polls for the local government elections.

If you haven’t already voted, make sure to get down on Saturday and have your say.

Flick to pages 8-10 to hear from the candidates one last time ahead of the big day and jump on our Facebook page to watch some interviews I conducted with the mayoral candidates – a special thank you to Lyn and Pierina for their time and to the Burdekin Theatre for providing a fine venue to shoot.

Next in a big day for the Burdekin is the Fast Track Talent Showcase, happening on Saturday at the Burdekin Theatre.

This event, hosted by the Burdekin Shire Youth Council, is the only talent showcase of its kind in Queensland and is open to performers of all ages and talent genres.

I certainly look forward to seeing the vast array of talent on display and you can find out more on page 16.

Lastly, I’ll be welcoming my lovely parents back to the Burdekin next week, so if you see us out and about, make sure to say g’day!

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The Burdekin Men’s Shed was invited to volunteer their time to operate the barbeque at a recent event and have been presented with a donation in recognition of their efforts.

AGnVET Rural Ayr hosted its annual grower barbeque, an event to say thank you to its customers, last Wednesday, March 6, where volunteers from the Burdekin Men’s Shed manned the barbeque and fed the 180 attendees.

A different local not-for-profit organisation is invited each year to operate the barbeque, and this year the Burdekin Men’s Shed were happy to be involved.

“We’re delighted to be able to be here,” said Burdekin Men’s Shed President Rob Ritchie.

“AGnVET is a business in the Burdekin who have recognised us, they’re supporting us, so we’ve come along to support them.”

Six Men’s Shed volunteers were involved in the evening.

“We weren’t short of volunteers to come, they all want to be involved with it, and it’s good to be in the face of the community,” Rob said.

Wayne Squires of AGnVET Rural Ayr said getting not-for-profit organisations involved helps the wider community.

“Money’s hard to come by these days and a lot of these clubs don’t get a hell of a lot, so it frees up our staff, and if we can give them a donation and they come along and enjoy the night, it’s just a nice thing and it spreads a few bucks around the town,” he said.

Rob said the donation was appreciated and will go to a good cause.

“I’d just like to thank the guys here for coming out, giving up their time, helping out and putting the Men’s Shed in the face of the community,” he said.

Caption: Burdekin Men’s Shed President Rob Ritchie and Wayne Squires of AGnVET Rural Ayr

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A recent roadshow through north Queensland invited growers to hear from Rabobank’s experts on what the organisation believes the future holds for the sugarcane industry.

Pia Piggott is an Associate Analyst in the research division of Rabobank, RaboResearch, who presented to growers in Ayr on Thursday, March 7 at the Burdekin Theatre.

Based in Sydney, Pia’s role includes public speaking at events, recording RaboResearch podcasts and publishing various reports, generating widespread media coverage that resonates beyond the agriculture industry.

“I cover sugar and horticulture, so I meet with clients, research the industries and provide insights into the commodities,” Pia said.

Pia presented at events in Mackay, Proserpine, Ayr and Ingham, aiming to provide a knowledge update from the bank on what’s happening in the sugar industry while it’s experiencing a down period for growers.

“It’s a good time to meet with growers and find out about what their interested in, what their looking at, as well as providing Rabobank’s view on the sugar price, the opportunities in the industry and global economics,” she said.

“The rain has been really positive, the humidity has been really positive, so the crop looks good and hopefully there’s no cyclones or extreme weather events in the next few months that could impact that potential.”

Pia spoke to growers about what’s happening in the major markets and major suppliers of sugar worldwide and how this can affect sugar prices.

“We overviewed what’s happening in India with their export ban and what that means for the potential sugar production in India; what’s happening in Thailand and how these prices are affecting area expansion of sugar cane; and most importantly, an update of what’s happening in Brazil, because Brazil is the largest producer and exporter of sugar in the world so we talked about how, last year, they experienced a record sugar crop, and that’s part of what has caused prices to fall to where they fell last year,” she explained.

The recent announcement of a sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production facility in Townsville was also discussed, along with the opportunities if presents to growers in the Burdekin.

“SAF could provide a domestic demand-base, which is really positive as it removes a lot of the volatility of international markets,” she said.

As the world’s leading food and agribusiness bank, Rabobank’s supports the innovative farmers and agribusinesses who put food on our tables every day to do so sustainably.

Members are equipped with exclusive reports, monthly overview and other resources to improve the prosperity of farmers and rural communities across the country.

To find out more, contact Rabobank’s Ayr branch on 07 4790 2200.

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Caption: RaboResearch Associate Analyst Pia Piggott

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Thousands of Burdekin residents have called for their local police to be bolstered and funding for security patrols in an overwhelming response to a petition supported by Member for Burdekin Dale Last.

More than 3,000 business owners and residents fed up with soaring youth crime in the Burdekin put pen to paper over recent weeks with Mr Last now assuring the community that this was not the end of the action.

“This community has sent a clear message to this state Labor government that the current approach to youth crime isn’t working and they aren’t willing to sit on their hands while young offenders run rife through their town,” Mr Last said.

“Now that the petition is closed, it will be tabled in parliament with a response from the Minister and I know that nothing short of what is being called for will be accepted by this community.

“I want to personally offer my thanks to Steve Wagner who has worked tirelessly to ensure that anyone who wanted to sign the petition had the access and ability to easily do so.”

The petition, which began in early February, called for a permanent increase in police officer numbers, including plain clothes officers stationed at both Home Hill and Ayr in a bid to provide increased patrols with fully funded security patrols to occur until the additional police officers were assigned.

Mr Last said with night patrols having already proven to be effective in other North Queensland communities and a huge response to the petition, it was now up to the minister to explain why the Burdekin shouldn’t expect any less than what was being asked.

“Since this petition began, we have already seen the Federal Government stump up funds to continue night patrols in another North Queensland community and there is certainly no reason why the same can’t be done in the Burdekin,” Mr Last said.

“This community deserves to know that their local police have the resources they need to keep the community safe and if that means funding private security patrols to assist police efforts then there’s no excuse why that shouldn’t happen.”

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Caption: Member for Burdekin Dale Last and Steve Wagner. Photo supplied

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