Amid the floods and widespread road closures, truck drivers have become some of the most frequent victims of lengthy traffic jams.
Seeing the toll this took on drivers, Betina Wilks decided to step in. Every morning, she placed a box of snacks as a small gesture to support those stuck in long queues.
Not stopping there, she reached out to the local community on Facebook, asking for any donations of items to add to the box.
Teaming up with her neighbour, Christina Mosby-Na'awi, Betina went a step further, making 45 sandwiches and personally delivering them to the drivers passing by.
Individuals on Facebook thanked the pair for their thoughtfulness and generosity:
“From the wife of a truck driver I say THANK YOU for your beautiful gesture to help all truck drivers,” Leonie Curran stated.
“What I love about this community is the people are amazing,” Mark Vane added.
Betina expressed her gratitude to the truck drivers for their tireless efforts:

“Big thank you to all the truckdrivers for all that they do for us.”

“And not forgetting the emergency workers thank you.”

In trying times, sometimes little acts of kindness can go a long way, well done Betina and Christina.

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Betina and Christina handing out items to truckies.
The help yourself box!

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The people of Dawson are no strangers to natural disasters, having endured cyclones, fires and floods, but they are also extremely resilient, coming together in the face of adversity.
 
At the first opportunity when flooding subsided, I jumped in the 4WD and headed north, visiting towns in the Burdekin region including Gumlu, Home Hill, Ayr and Giru, then onto south Townsville at Cungulla and Nome.
 
Some areas were lucky to only have little to no flood water on their property, but some homes and businesses copped the worst, even though they were well prepared. 
 
Speaking with the locals and small business owners, I was blown away by their strength of character, with their efforts now turned towards the clean up process, knowing there could be further rain and flooding to come. I wanted to ensure my constituents, I was there to listen and offer any assistance, federal or otherwise.
 
I met with Mayor Dalle Cort and CEO Matthew Magin, of the Burdekin Shire Council to discuss the impact of possible major flooding at Plantation Creek and other small creeks in the shire, and to understand the plans moving forward.
 
Arriving in Townsville, I attended the Disaster Relief Command Centre where I, along with other leaders and emergency workers, were provided updates on the weather system we were experiencing, before meeting with Queensland Premier, David Crisafulli. It was important that our Premier was made aware on areas of the Dawson electorate that had been affected by this catastrophic event.
 
Since having the second downpour, I stand ready to return to the Burdekin region, to talk to the people and offer what help I can. In the meantime, if there are questions or issues, I invite residents to contact my office Andrew.willcox.mp@aph.gov.au, and myself and my team, who are more than ready to assist.

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Andrew Willcox meets the people affected by the floods to help clean up. Photo credit: Ben Mihan
Andrew Willcox with Burdekin Shire Council Mayor, Pierina Dalle Cort, highlighting flood affected areas and response plans. Photo credit. Ben Mihan
Andrew talking to emergency workers. Photo credit. Ben Mihan

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While the effects of weather are hard to predict, the willingness of the community to assist others is something that, according to Member for Burdekin Dale Last, can be relied upon.  

Mr Last said emergency services, volunteers, businesses, and individuals had gone ‘above and beyond’ to help locals and visitors to the community as they prepared for and dealt with the effects of the weather event.  

“Across the Burdekin district, and beyond, there are everyday people who deserve our thanks,” Mr Last said. “The actions of those people have undoubtedly reduced the pressure on emergency services and helped to restore calm in uncertain times.”  

“The local emergency services have shown that their planning and commitment is another reason that we should be both proud of them and thankful for their efforts. We’ve also had staff coming in from other areas to support local staff and I am extremely proud of the way the community has welcomed them and supported them.”  

“Our SES volunteers have been extremely active responding to calls for help, helping to resupply isolated people and helping residents with sandbags. Especially considering they are leaving their homes and families to help others; you really need to take your hat off to them.”  

“We have also seen locals providing food and drinks to stranded motorists and even a local business providing free hot meals to the locals and emergency services in Giru during the cleanup. That sort of generosity is something you rarely see in many areas and it should be celebrated.”  

Mr Last said he expected volunteers to again come to the fore during the clean-up and recovery and reassured locals that the state government was fully committed to supporting those affected.  

“This is a widespread event, but support will be made available to those that need it. Even before the rain started, we had teams in place so that in the shortest time possible, the recovery could get underway and we have already seen the results of that forward planning.”  

“In addition to financial support for individuals, supporting our key industries is a high priority to ensure that people’s jobs are protected. The Premier has made it very clear that support will continue to be delivered to affected communities until the job is done.”  

“There will also be a review of this event in the same way that all disasters are reviewed. That process is about identifying opportunities to better prepare for future events and to ensure that any issues of concern are properly addressed.”  

Support for eligible residents in impacted areas is available via the Queensland Disaster Recovery website or by calling 1800 173 349. Packages to support eligible primary industry and small businesses are administered by QRIDA, who can be contacted on 1800 623 946.

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OPINION PIECE

Australia’s regional industries are the engine of this country. From sugarcane to prawns, mining, beef and tourism, they keep the lights on and the economy ticking. Where I come from, these industries don’t just generate profits. They sustain families, communities, and our way of life.
But as a new report from the Page Research Centre, A complex, costly web: The regulatory burden on Australia’s regional businesses highlights, every single one of them is up against it. Overregulation is strangling them, and Canberra needs to wake up.
Farmers are more efficient and resourceful than ever. They use million-dollar equipment and modern techniques to grow food for the nation and the world. These people aren’t wasteful. They’re meticulous. Every dollar spent is carefully managed. They don’t damage the land or water. They depend on it. And yet, farmers are treated like they’re the problem. They’re not. They’re the solution. They deserve respect, support, and the right to get on with their job.
In Dawson, we have the largest sugarcane industry in the country. Bowen’s horticultural sector is worth half a billion dollars. It produces the tomatoes, mangoes, and other fresh produce that end up on plates here and overseas. Our aquaculture sector exports live fish to Hong Kong and delivers prawns to Australian dinner tables. Cattle producers in the region supply some of the best beef in the world. In Mackay, the mining and engineering sector drives entire industries. This region is doing the heavy lifting for the national economy.
And what do we get in return? Layers of regulation. Federal, state, and local governments pile rules on top of rules. Compliance costs go up, delays drag on, and businesses suffer.
Environmental, Social, and Governance mandates are out of sync with global trends, making Australian businesses uncompetitive. Taxes and royalties hit industries like coal and mining so hard that investment dries up. Projects that could power entire regional economies are delayed or cancelled because of legal and regulatory roadblocks. It’s madness.
Small businesses are in the same boat. They’re the backbone of regional towns. They create jobs, provide services, and keep communities alive. I’ve been a business owner. I know what it’s like to make payroll, cover the bills, and stay afloat. These people are doing their best, but government interference is making it harder every day.
It’s time for change. Regulations need to be simplified. Federal, state, and local governments must coordinate to reduce duplication and cut costs. ESG mandates must be realistic and aligned with global trends. Taxes and royalties must be reformed.
Queensland’s 2022 coal royalty tiers need to go. Approval times for projects must be capped at 18 months. Public funding for Environmental Defenders Offices, which use legal loopholes to delay projects, must end. Environmental regulations should be straightforward and practical. These aren’t complicated decisions. They’re common sense.
Strong regions mean a strong country. When our industries thrive, we can take care of our seniors, support our veterans, and give young people a future. It’s about making sure everyone, no matter where they live, benefits from Australia’s success.
Australians have always worked hard. Farmers, miners, and business owners don’t need handouts. They need governments to get out of the way. They need Canberra to stop piling on the red tape, green tape, and black tape that make it impossible to get things done. This isn’t about the environment versus the economy. It’s about striking a balance that allows both to succeed.
When regional Australia is strong, the whole country is strong. That’s the bottom line. And it’s about time Canberra understood it.

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MP Andrew Willcox holding one of the many great resources in the region. Photo: Supplied.

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Flood-affected primary producers, small businesses and not-for-profits in seven North Queensland areas can now apply for concessional loans to support recovery. The loans have been activated for the local government areas (LGAs) including the Burdekin, and are provided through the joint Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

Disaster Assistance Loans of up to $250,000, and Essential Working Capital Loans up to $100,000, are available to eligible operators.

Disaster-hit primary producers, small businesses and not-for-profits, can now apply for concessional loans to assist with their recovery from the sustained rains and flooding, and will help re-establish operations by covering costs relating to:

   • Repairing or replacing damaged plant and equipment
   • Repairing or replacing buildings
   • Resupplying stock or livestock

Essential Working Capital Loans up to $100,000 are available to help operators carry on business operations, including paying salaries or wages, creditors, rent or rates.

Primary producers can also access freight subsidies up to $5,000 for the movement of stock, feed, machinery, fuel, water, and building or fencing materials.

“Today, I can announce that we are unlocking the support and the funding needed to assist all those communities that have been impacted by this current wet weather event, which as we know, has caused widespread damage all the way from Yarrabah to down here into the Burdekin,” Dale Last, member for Burdekin stated.

“We are absolutely committed to helping these communities get back on their feet, and we will be on the ground. The Premier has been up in affected areas talking with local governments, talking with impacted residents and businesses, to ensure that we're rolling out the support as fast as we possibly can, and to reaffirm the message, we will be doing everything we can to support our primary producers our small businesses, and our not for profits,” Mr Last said.

“We're here listening. We understand the impact right across the region, but in particular in this region where we're meeting with affected primary industries, be it horticulture, be it cane, be it any other industry that's directly impacted, because we need to be on the ground,” Tony Perret, the Minister of Primary Industries said.

“We understand by listening to those affected primary producers the impact that it's having and how government assistance then needs to flow to be able to make certain that their businesses remain viable in the long term, but particularly in the short term, to get the recovery.” Mr Perret said.

Christian Largo, Chairman of QCAR, (Queensland, Cane Agriculture and Renewables) was hopeful this announcement will give growers the confidence to pick up tools, get out of bed the next day, and start with the cleanup and look forward to their 2025 season.

“We've seen a lot of damage to capital and investments, but probably the main worry at the moment, and the immediate priority, is mental health. It's ensuring that farmers have the support they need to get up out of bed each morning and continue with their livelihoods,” Mr Largo said.

“This will be welcomed by the farming community. It just shows government are out there supporting their constituents and that's what we need from our government at this time,” Mr Largo added.

For loan applications visit the QRIDA website, www.qrida.qld.gov.au, or call 1800 623 946.
Primary producers interested in freight subsidies can contact Queensland’s Department of Primary Industries on 13 25 23 or via www.daf.qld.gov.au.

Dale Last, with Christian Lago, Chair of Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR), and Tony Perrett MP, Minister for Primary Industries. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen

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The Ayr Anzac Memorial Club is inviting local sporting clubs, businesses, charities, not-for-profit organisations, and individuals, to apply for their sponsorships. For the 2025/2026 financial year the Ayr ANZAC Memorial Club would like any of the above who require money in any way, shape or form, to make submissions to the club outlining their requirements.
A popular program, it’s not uncommon for the club to receive anywhere between 50-100 applications in any given year. Elmarie van der Schyff, the club’s Administration Manager, goes into details explaining what’s required, while offering up some good tips & tricks to better help your application.
“We usually get quite a lot of applications every year, which is lovely, but unfortunately we can't help everyone. We only have a certain amount that the club is able to allocate. We always encourage everyone to put in an application every year, even if you’ve previously been unsuccessful, as you never know you might be one of the lucky ones this time.”
“All those applications are forwarded to the April committee meeting, at which time the committee then look at all the applications and make their decision,” Elmarie states.
Applications must be mailed by March 31, and include all contact details for follow-up communication. Provided they make the cutoff date, there is no limit on the amount requested, but detailed proposals with quotes are preferred.
“If you need a big heap of money, we need to know what it's for, what you are planning on doing with it. Quotes are very helpful. The more detail you provide, the better,” she says.
This generous sponsorship program is only available to those within the Burdekin, while decisions are based on need and budget availability.
“This is a once-and-only opportunity to obtain sponsorship for the coming year.”
All applications need to be addressed to: John Robinson, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, PO Box 92, Ayr 4807. (No emails or hand-delivered requests will be accepted, no exceptions).

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Ayr Anzac Memorial Club Administration Manager, Elmarie van der Schyff, ready for many sponsorship applications.

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Burdekin Catholic High School was abuzz with excitement as they welcomed students back to school for the start of a brand-new school year. With a focus on fostering excellence, supporting student success, and living out Catholic values, the school has been ready to provide a nurturing environment for all learners.

Principal, Lorraine Wolffe, shared her enthusiasm for the year ahead, highlighting the school’s commitment to welcoming new students into the BCHS community.

“Starting a new school year is always a special time. We’ve been thrilled to greet our incoming students and their families and are looking forward to guiding them on this exciting journey. Our mission is to ensure every student feels supported and inspired to achieve their personal and academic goals.”

At BCHS, the staff pride themselves on their dedication and expertise. The team of highly experienced educators is prepared to deliver an engaging curriculum, combining academic rigor with a strong foundation in Catholic faith and values. Through individualised support, innovative teaching practices, and a focus on holistic development, the school aims to help each student reach their full potential.

This year, BCHS is placing an emphasis on fostering a sense of belonging, community, and resilience among students. A variety of programs, extracurricular activities, and pastoral care initiatives are in place to ensure all students feel supported, no matter their goals or interests.

As the school community came together for the start of the term, the excitement was palpable. From the energy of new beginnings to the shared commitment to learning and growth, Burdekin Catholic High School is poised to make 2025 a year of inspiration and success for all.

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BCHS classrooms are a hive of activity! Source: BCHS
Students and staff attended a Welcome Mass to officially commence the 2025 school year. Source: BCHS

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The recent tropical low that struck North Queensland, causing widespread flooding, has likely resulted in significant emotional and financial hardship for the local community.
To assist those affected, Community Recovery Hubs and State and Commonwealth grants are available for individuals who have been impacted by the disaster.
Two recovery hubs have been set up in the Burdekin district, offering support to residents facing hardship, those unable to apply online or by phone, or those in need of emotional and wellbeing assistance.
Residents are also encouraged to apply for State and Commonwealth grants, which provide financial aid to help with recovery from eligible disasters.
This version refines the flow and structure while keeping the key details intact.
Grants include:
Emergency Hardship Assistance
$180 per person (up to $900 for a family of five or more) for people who are unable to meet their immediate essential needs for temporary accommodation, food, essential clothing and medication. It can take up to five days for payments to reach your bank account.

Essential Household Contents Grant
One-off payment for households who are uninsured or unable to claim insurance as a contribution towards replacing or repairing essential household contents. Up to $1,765 for single adults and up to $5,300 for couples/families.

Essential Services Safety & Reconnection Scheme
To help owner/occupied households reconnect essential services that were damaged by a disaster. Up to $200 towards a safety inspection for each essential service needing reconnection (electricity, gas, water and sewerage or septic system) and up to $4,200 towards repair work.

Structural Assistance Grant
One-off payment towards the cost of repairs to uninsured, owner- occupied homes to ensure the home is habitable, secure and safe. Up to $80,000.

People are encouraged to apply for financial assistance grants online at www.qld.gov.au/DisasterHelp or by calling the Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349.

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While sugarcane fields define the Burdekin’s landscape, it’s the region’s property market in 2024 that quietly cultivated sweet success across Regional Queensland.

In 2024, Regional Queensland's property market showed notable growth, with property values increasing by 12.1 per cent over the year. This trend was particularly evident in key regional hubs. According to The Australian Financial Review, Rockhampton led the way with a 9.2 per cent quarterly growth in values, followed by Townsville (8.34 per cent), Gladstone (6.74 per cent), and Mackay (6.19 per cent).

Closer to home, the Burdekin region reflected this upward trend. Known for its rich agricultural heritage, the Burdekin saw steady growth in property values, driven by the ongoing demand for regional lifestyle blocks and family homes. Real Estate Investar reported that Ayr, the region’s main centre, experienced an 8.5 per cent annual rise in median house prices, with increasing interest from both local buyers and those relocating from southern cities. The affordability and strong sense of community in towns like Ayr and Home Hill continue to attract buyers looking for a laid-back lifestyle close to vital amenities.

The demand for property in Regional Queensland was fuelled by several factors. The Australian reported that interstate migration from pricier markets played a key role, as did the appeal of a more affordable and relaxed lifestyle. Moreover, the expansion of business operations into regional areas contributed to the surge.

However, not all parts of Queensland experienced the same momentum. For example, The Courier Mail noted a 20.7 per cent drop in building approvals on the Gold Coast, reflecting challenges in the construction sector despite a broader statewide recovery. This decline is a concerning trend, especially given the ongoing housing shortage in the area.

Overall, 2024 marked a significant year for Regional Queensland's property market, with the Burdekin region standing strong amidst the broader boom. Strong demand, limited supply, and economic shifts played key roles in shaping the market’s positive trajectory.

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The Burdekin Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) is pleased to announce that assistance has been secured to help the community cross the Bruce Highway at Plantation Creek.
 
Queensland Rail will be deploying a 10-seater Rail Bus to assist the community after its successful use in Ingham. This service will help residents travel between Ayr and Home Hill while floodwaters impact road access.
 
Passengers will be bused from the Home Hill Comfort Stop to Mirrigan Road, railed across Plantation Creek, and dropped at Ayr Railway Station. From the station, another bus will transport passengers to Graham Street Bus Depot.

Parking is available at both Graham Street Bus Depot, Ayr, and Home Hill Comfort Stop.

Priority seating is given to patients with medical appointments, emergency services staff, healthcare workers (Hospital, Regis Aged Care, pharmacies), school teachers, and other staff required to attend their work place.

The rail cart will be operating until 8pm from Tuesday and Wednesday night, and on Thursday operating until 5pm and Friday as necessary.

Please ensure you meet at the designated departure points in Ayr and Home Hill to be allowed on the rail cart. Do not go to the railway stations, as you will not be permitted to board. 

Please consider limiting travel unless necessary.

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Wow, what a challenging fortnight for North Queensland. The constant rain tested a lot of us to different extents. The Burdekin certainly copped its fair share, to all of you thank you for the spirit you’ve shown, neighbours helping neighbours, strangers assisting strangers and many acts of kindness.
To the emergency services, local and those deployed in, it was reassuring to have you in the shire. To all other agencies who have taken part in the Local Disaster Management Group meetings, your input, practical advice and pertinent suggestions is assisting the Burdekin through the 2025 rain event. Burdekin Shire Council employees in all areas have gone above and beyond in their respective roles. Not wanting to single persons out, I must give a shout out to Eileen Devescovi for steering the Shires response.
With all emergency events there will always be learnings and this one is no different. The learnings will improve and make even more robust our systems in readiness for the next one, not too soon I hope. The important point is not to just build back but to ‘build back better’, to be more resilient in the future.
I want to make a call out to anyone contemplating volunteering. Our SES has stepped up once again, even though small in number they punched well above their weight. If you’re wondering about helping out call their experienced SES leader Warren Francis on 0476 781 902, male/female 18 years ( 16 but need parents permission ) upwards.
Check in on your neighbours/friends and even strangers you may come across. Remember there are agencies to help if you need something more eg Recovery Centres, Burdekin Community Association, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, Burdell, your local church, Salvos, Lifeline, Red Cross to name but a few.
Wishing you health, happiness and personal strength in this current challenge.
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Councillor John

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As we move into the second week of monsoonal rain and flooding, I know many of you are feeling the effects of isolation, low food supplies, and limited movement. It’s understandable that misinformation on social media can be confusing and a bit frightening, especially for our new residents. I encourage everyone to stay safe and stay informed. Please check out the Burdekin Disaster Dashboard for real-time updates and important information: disaster.burdekin.qld.gov.au. Having access to accurate and reliable information is so important during these challenging weather events.
I want to take a moment to recognise our amazing Disaster Management team, Operations crews, Water and Wastewater staff, and all the Council employees who are working tirelessly. They’re doing everything they can to provide information, keep essential services running, update road conditions, and help keep our community safe. I’m so proud of the dedication and hard work they’ve shown during this difficult time.
I would also like to thank the Emergency Services and the many volunteers who have contributed and worked together, whether it be sandbagging, sharing information and resources or just being there when needed.
It’s heartwarming to see communities coming together. Many residents in isolated areas are checking in on each other, ensuring that those who can’t get out have the supplies they need. This is truly what community spirit is all about. My heart goes out to the Giru residents who have already faced flooding not once, but twice, and maybe three times.
We’ve also received reports of road signage being removed—please do not tamper with these signs. They are in place for a reason, to warn of hazards and keep everyone safe. Removing them puts peoples’ lives at risk.
Do NOT enter floodwaters—whether walking, driving, or swimming. Floodwaters are dangerous, unpredictable, and often contaminated. Ignoring safety warnings not only puts your life in danger but also the lives of emergency service personnel who may have to rescue you.
Let’s continue looking out for each other and making safety a priority.
Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone on 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr is committed to supporting local sports in the Burdekin region. Recently, the bank contributed to the Ayr Golf Club, at the time of their celebrations of the club’s milestone 95th anniversary this year.
The Ayr Golf Club is a cornerstone of the Burdekin community, boasting an 18-hole, 5,861-metre championship course. With a dedicated membership of 200, the club thrives on the generosity of volunteers who contribute their time and effort.
Last year the golf club applied for a grant with the Community Bank targeted at improving our community facilities by providing an on-course toilet block.
The Ayr Golf Club was thrilled to be awarded an $8000 grant from the Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr, which will help uphold their shared values while the Club seeks to deliver a more up to date facility, improve player satisfaction and comfort, attract more players, and increase accessibility while providing physical and mental benefits to our community.
With significant distances between some holes and the clubhouse, having a toilet available on the course ensures that players don't have to trek back to the clubhouse if they need to use the facilities.
A spokesperson for the Ayr Golf Club, Angie Baxter, says the welfare of their members and visitors is paramount on the golf course. “Access to an on-course toilet enables players to drink enough fluids from the provided cold water cooler without worrying about being too far from restroom facilities. Provision of restroom facilities on the course enhances the overall experience for golfers by ensuring their comfort and addressing their basic needs.”
She also mentions it promotes good hygiene practices, which are important for the health and wellbeing of players.
“Without on-course toilets, golfers might resort to using natural areas as makeshift restrooms, which can have negative environmental impacts on the course, the surrounding areas, and a player’s self-esteem. Having designated facilities helps minimise this issue and preserves the natural beauty of our course.”, says Angie.
At their recent 95th Anniversary Gala Dinner, the Ayr Golf Club were honoured by the presence of one of their most celebrated players, seven-time Major Championship winner Karrie Webb.
Karrie was awarded an honorary membership as a token of gratitude and admiration for her achievements, including induction into the World Golf Hall of Fame.
Her act of continued support and acknowledging the role a local sporting club had in the formative years of an astonishing career, inspires the Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr in supporting community groups which can play a vital role for future success.

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Karrie Webb (left), with past president Peter Andersen, and club Treasurer Janet Trezise

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With Plantation Park and Bruce Highway affected by flooding most weekend and into Monday, several schools in the Burdekin were forced to take alternative action on account of their teachers and students unable to travel safely to and from school.

Trans North also advised that no school buses would operate in the Ayr, Giru, Woodstock, Rita Island, Airville, Brandon, Alva Beach, Osborne, Gumlu and Inkerman areas on 10 February as a result.

This left some schools with no option but to revert back to covid protocols to run some of their classes.

“With no buses running due to the floods, we’ve all been impacted,” says Sharon O’Neill, the Principal at Home Hill State High School.

“It’s unsettling for our students but we have Q-learn, our online learning portal, while teacher wellbeing is really important. We’ve encouraged anyone not to travel through the floodwaters and asked both our students and teachers to present to their nearest school, whether that’s in Ayr or Home Hill,” she declares.

Thankfully, Ayr State High School and Home Hill State High School, have both worked together to ensure no one misses out on their education or teaching, as Sharon explains.

“It’s been fantastic. All the principals have been in contact with each other and supporting one another. Being partner towns we share staff and support. As a result, we’re able to keep instructions going over all classes,” she adds.

With the constant rains over the weekend that continued Monday morning, many students and teachers were left on opposite sides of the bridge, affecting attendance numbers.

“We have four teachers who live this side in Home Hill, of about our 20 teachers all up. But we also have five Ayr State High School teachers with us and some teacher aides helping out. We then have some of our teachers who live on the north side, working direct out of Ayr State High.”

“It’s great to build a relationship, and keep things going for one another,” Sharon enthuses.

At Burdekin Christian College, Ashlee Butler, Student Services Officer & Marketing, assures it’s business as usual.

“We haven’t been too affected, thanks to our own private bus service and online portal. We’ve currently got students who weren’t able to attend, taking our online safety course, OnGuard. While any teachers unable to come in are conducting their classes in the online space. It’s similar to what we implemented during our covid,” Ashlee states.

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As north Queensland’s cane farmers face a disaster of unprecedented scale, CANEGROWERS is urging the State Government to align with other states by assisting growers with the cost of replanting lost crops.
Widespread flooding from Townsville to Cairns, including Australia’s largest cane growing regions around the Burdekin and Herbert River, is expected to decimate recently planted cane.
CANEGROWERS is working closely with the Queensland Government to ensure affected farmers receive the support they need as quickly as possible.
However, disaster recovery grants currently do not cover replanting costs – a critical gap that could leave many growers drowning in debt or out of business entirely as they face the prospect of being unable to meet production commitments for 2025.
“Sugarcane is a hardy crop, but it’s not indestructible. Multiple days submerged will kill recently planted crops, leaving growers with little choice but to start again from scratch,” CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan said.
"In other states farmers can use disaster recovery grants to help cover the costs of replanting their crops, but successive Queensland governments have failed to implement a similar policy in this state.
"We lead the country in our expertise in disaster resilience and recovery. But for some reason this policy area is sadly lacking.
“Disaster recovery grants are only triggered for growers who can demonstrate significant impact and they are crucial in cleaning up farms. But the objective is to get businesses back up-and-running, and in farming that means getting crops back in the ground.
“We’re urging the government to act now and modify the grant rules to cover replanting so growers can rebuild their livelihoods."
The extent of the flooding has taken many by surprise, with some areas receiving six months' worth of rain in just a few days.
Ingham has been hit particularly hard, with thousands left without power and severe damage expected across the region’s cane farms.
While the rain is easing, floodwaters will take time to recede and the full extent of the damage may not be clear for days or even weeks.
“Growers are no strangers to heavy rain, flooding, and even cyclones, but this is a disaster on another level,” Mr Galligan said.
“In the immediate term we’re urging affected growers to stay safe, be patient, and assess the damage when it is safe to do so.
"CANEGROWERS and our members extend our appreciation to the community, emergency workers and government officials who are deployed across the north of our state working to assist us in assessing damage and recovering from this disaster."

Young cane may not recover after multiple days submerged in flood water

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