I’d like to begin this column by acknowledging the tragic events that unfolded at Sydney’s Bondi Beach over the weekend. Such incidents have no place in our world, let alone in our beautiful country, and I encourage everyone to keep the victims and their grieving families in your thoughts and prayers. It’s tragedies like these that put life into perspective. They make us hug our loved ones a little tighter and question whether the minor inconveniences that normally frustrate us really matter at all. But it’s important to come together during times like this—when it’s all too easy to point fingers. That’s the essence of our nation. That’s being Australian. And there’s no place that embodies it better than the Burdekin. On a brighter note, local Christmas festivities are ramping up, with the Carols proving a blast and the highly anticipated Chamber Street Party just around the corner. Before long, the big man himself will be dropping by with all our presents. Is it too late to start being nice, or is his list already finalised? Maybe I’ll start saying please and thank you more often, as a last-ditch effort to get in the ‘good’ column.
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Local Initiative Brews Connection and Conversation for Mental Health Talika Pegoraro recently unveiled a beautifully heartwarming mental health focused initiative, Cuppa & Chat, in partnership with Fuel Me Up Café to start conversations and foster connections within the community. A proud Burdekin local, Talika hopes to combine her Certificate IV in Mental Health with her love for taking care of those around her to host a casual and relaxed meeting accompanied by a free beverage with whomever would like to connect. “If you’d like to connect, simply send me a private message on Facebook, and we’ll arrange a time and choose a place to meet – no agendas, no scripts, just genuine, open conversation over a coffee,” shared Talika. In the past, Talika has hosted a highly successful Women’s Circle focusing on self-care and wellbeing. “Giving people the opportunity to have a one on one, confidential conversation could make all the difference especially at a time of year where people can feel quite isolated, and I want to use what I’ve learned to connect with the wider community and just bring some happiness to any who would like it,” Talika explained. Manager of Fuel Me Up Café, Cindy Poletti, approached Talika earlier this year to offer a generous donation to support her previous and future initiatives, leading Talika to establish Cuppa & Chat, which has already been warmly welcomed by the wider community. “I’m hoping that people will use this as self-care or something just for them as an induvial. The conversation doesn’t have to be about mental wellbeing, it can be about whatever they want to talk about – however, I am more than willing to discuss some of the heavier topics that may be weighing people down.” Talika cannot wait to connect with more members of the local community and encourages anyone interested in having a Cuppa & Chat to send her a message today. Talika Pegoraro encourages anyone interested in a Cuppa & Chat to message her on Facebook. Photo supplied
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Three familiar faces in Burdekin healthcare are being celebrated for a remarkable milestone, with a combined 135 years of service marking a lifetime of service to the Burdekin community. Support Services Officer Bertilla Scodellaro, Clinical Nurse Joanne McBow, and Enrolled Nurse Jocelyn Tuffin all started as teenage trainees, and have seen the evolution of healthcare in the Burdekin first-hand. For Ms Tuffin, who began her career at just 15 years old, the technology may have changed over the last four decades, but the core of the job has remained consistent. "I just love looking after people and being there for them at, often, the worst time in their lives," Ms Tuffin said. "People really just want a caring, compassionate person to look after them; they remember it, and it gives you a good feeling at the end of the day to know you’ve made a difference." Ms McBow, who trained alongside Jocelyn, said working in a rural facility offered a unique "whole-of-life" career that specialised nursing couldn't match. "I can't imagine being specialised in one particular thing; I like that one minute I can be caring for someone who is ill, and the next minute I could be in theatre helping with a caesarean," Ms McBow said. "It is a privilege to have that trust to care for people you know in the community and be that support for them." While the clinical team keeps patients safe, staff like Ms Scodellaro ensure the hospitals operate smoothly. Working across both Ayr and Home Hill facilities, Ms Scodellaro was described by her colleagues as the “instrumental link” that keeps the service ticking, ensuring equipment and supplies are exactly where they need to be. "Every day is different, and that is what I like about it," Ms Scodellaro said. Together, all three embody the community spirit of the Burdekin, celebrating a rare, long-standing commitment to rural healthcare.
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A year after the Crisafulli Government reinstated the Bruce Highway Advisory Council, Member for Burdekin Dale Last is backing calls for new members to add their voice and knowledge to the future of the national artery. Mr Last said the success of the advisory council over the past twelve months was a testament to the combination of industry stakeholder representatives and local knowledge that only comes from those who travel the highway. “The Bruce Highway Advisory Council has played a vital role in shaping priorities for the historic $9 billion Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program and the development of a Fatigue Management Strategy,” Mr Last said. “These voluntary positions are a 12-month role for one representative from each of the six regions that intersect the Bruce Highway to join peak body representatives to have their say on the Bruce Highway.” “Since re-establishing the BHAC, we’ve made huge strides in improving safety and reliability, guided by the voices of those who know this highway best.” Chaired by the Minister for Transport and Main Roads, the Bruce Highway Advisory Committee brings together a group of diverse stakeholders from the Pine River up to Far North Queensland to discuss current problems along the Highway and where investment should be prioritised. Mr Last said the advisory council was not just about providing a platform for information about key concerns on the highway and had already brought about significant action. “After a decade of Labor burying their head in the sand when it came to safety issues and flood immunity on the Bruce Highway the Crisafulli Government has turned the tide with more than 40 projects fast-tracked under the Bruce Highway Target Safety Program.” “We are listening and we know there is more to be done and that is why I am encouraging stakeholders in the Northern Region to ensure those crucial concerns around areas prone to flooding, congestion and safety are given the right platform to be heard.”
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On September 7th, Tennis Townsville hosted the "Double Trouble" pickleball tournament, drawing players from Cairns, Cardwell, the Burdekin, Mackay, and Townsville for a weekend of competitive action. Home Hill pickleball players, along with their Townsville family members, enjoyed challenging matches with high-quality play across the board.
Hannah Casswell and Ryan Schwab, seasoned tennis players but newcomers to pickleball, teamed up to win gold in the A-grade Mixed Doubles. Rylan Pivotto and his partner Nit secured bronze in the B-grade Mixed Doubles.
After the tournament, Kate headed to Western Suburbs Tennis Club, where she partnered with former Home Hill resident Sharon McDermott (Hanson) to claim victory in the Over-50s tennis finals.
Contributed with thanks to Kate at Home Hill Tennis Club
Hannah and Ryan win gold!
Hi everyone, I hope you have all had a great week so far and are enjoying the warmer weather!
I was in Ayr for a weekend last month to visit family, and I had the chance to catch up with Miah over coffee. It was lovely to hear how much she has been enjoying living and working in the Burdekin, and how welcoming the community has been!
With only four more weeks to go until I complete my degree, a Bachelor of Communications and Journalism, I’ve been as busy as a bee, finalising presentations, and assignments left, right and centre! My friends and I find it hard to believe how quickly our degrees have flown by, and we all can’t wait to celebrate our graduation later this year!
With the Burdekin Water Festival Grand Parade set for this Saturday, I am a little jealous that I can’t join you all on Queen Street to catch some lollies!
The QMN Manufacturing Long Lunch last weekend looked absolutely magical - it’s clear how hard the Burdekin Water Festival Committee has worked over the past few months to bring the Water Festival back, and it’s been amazing to hear how supportive the community and local businesses have been of their efforts.
A huge congrats to all Senior Ambassadors, especially to Demi and Brielle (Winner and Runner Up), and also the Junior Ambassadors! I can’t wait to see all the amazing floats line Queen Street from 4:30pm on Saturday, as well as who the Junior Ambassador Winner and Runner Up will be!
I hope you all enjoy the read, and I’ll chat to you soon!
Saturday 7 September will mark the celebratory Queen Street return of the beloved Burdekin Water Festival, with the Queensland Country Bank Grand Parade and Mardi Gras beginning at 4:30pm.
Following on from the beautiful QMN Manufacturing Long Lunch held last weekend at Populins Hall, the Grand Parade and Mardi Gras will see Queen Street come alive with impressive floats, spectacular stalls, and lively entertainment.
Burdekin Water Festival 2024 Winning Senior Ambassador, Demi O’Shea (representing Campbell’s Jewellery), along with Runner Up, Brielle Astorquia (representing Nutrien Harcourts McCathies) were announced and crowned last weekend, with this Saturday’s parade set to host their official debut.
“Being crowned the Winner of the Burdekin Water Festival alongside my beautiful friend and Runner Up, Brielle Astorquia, is the greatest honour and I am so thankful to our judges, committee and shire for all the love and support,” shared Burdekin Water Festival 2024 Winning Senior Ambassador, Demi O’Shea.
“I cannot wait for the weekend with the Mardi Gras, and I would love to see our community out and about and have a chat with everyone!”
Continuing the celebrations, Saturday will also see the announcement and crowning of the Burdekin Water Festival Junior Winner and Runner Up commencing from 6:30pm on the Main Stage near Harvey Norman in Queen Street.
Each of the Senior and Junior Burdekin Water Festival Ambassadors have worked tirelessly over the past few months, attending community events and hosting numerous fundraisers, whilst proudly representing each of their local organisations.
“Crowning our incredible juniors is going to be a major highlight that I am looking forward to as they have worked so incredibly hard and I have seen how much they have not only enjoyed the experience, but grown with it,” added Demi.
Along with the Junior Ambassador crowning, the Main Stage will also host the announcement of the Best “Bring it Back” Themed Float, Best Junior Ambassador Float, Best Senior Ambassador Float, Grand Champion Float, and the Window Display Winner. These official presentations will begin at 6:15pm, and the community is warmly invited, and encouraged to attend in celebration of the 2024 “Bring it Back” Burdekin Water Festival.
With the Mardi Gras set to continue the celebrations into the night, the band “Heart Songs” will treat the community with their talents on the Main Stage from 7pm right though to 10pm. Additionally, in an exciting “Bring it Back” inclusion, 8pm will see an “Ergon Energy” Tug of War Competition held outside the Tavern! More details of this awesome competition can be found on the Burdekin Water Festival Facebook page.
The 2024 Burdekin Water Festival stands as a memorable, and remarkable showcase of the outstanding dedication and community spirit which exists within the region. Following last year’s absence from the community’s calendar for the first time since its inception, numerous devoted locals came together to ensure the continuation of the beloved tradition, forming the 2024 Burdekin Water Festival Committee.
“The Burdekin Water Festival Committee are beyond excited to “Bring it Back” this weekend with our Queensland Country Bank Grand Parade and Mardi Gras,” shared Burdekin Water Festival Committee Member and Ambassador Mentor, Kari Ravizza.
“We thank the amazing Burdekin businesses for their fantastic support of all our Festival Events so far, and I hope that we have been able to generate a bit of excitement in the community, and that everyone comes to support and celebrate with us this Saturday.”
The Burdekin Water Festival Committee would also like to thank all their sponsors.
What: Burdekin Water Festival Queensland Country Bank Grand Parade and Mardi Gras.
When: Saturday 7 September at 4:30pm.
Where: Queen Street, Ayr.
More Information: The Burdekin Water Festival Facebook page.
In respects to the “Bring it Back” theme, the Burdekin Water Festival Committee has shared many nostalgic photos on Facebook over the past few months including Burdekin Singer’s and Theatre Company’s 2018 Water Festival Float. Photo source: Facebook
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The Burdekin Art Show, a vibrant display of local creativity, captivated attendees with its diverse range of artworks, reflecting both seasoned expertise and fresh talent. Held at the Burdekin Theatre, the show featured various sections, each highlighting different mediums and artistic styles. From intricate paintings to bold sculptures, the event offered a rich tapestry of artistic expression.
Maxine Thompson, a New Zealand artist who arrived in town just yesterday, was a prominent figure at the event, serving as one of the judges. Her role allowed her to delve deeply into the array of works on display. As she toured the exhibits, her enthusiasm for the range of art was evident. "It’s thrilling to see such a broad spectrum of work," Thompson remarked. "There are beginners who have hit the mark beautifully and seasoned artists who continue to produce breathtaking pieces."
The art show did not adhere to a single theme but instead celebrated the creativity and individuality of each artist. The top award, chosen from any painting in any section, was particularly notable. Thompson explained that her choice for this prestigious award was based not just on personal appeal but on the overall design, composition, and emotional depth of the piece. "It’s a picture that tells a thousand words," she said. "You can feel the artist’s passion and tradition in their work."
The event also featured encouragement awards, recognising the efforts of emerging artists and celebrating their journey in the art world. Thompson appreciated the opportunity for all artists, from those in their twilight years to eager beginners, to showcase their work. "It’s rewarding to see people of all ages and experience levels sharing their artistic expressions," she noted.
For Thompson, who travels around providing workshops, the Burdekin Art Show was a demonstration of the community’s dedication to fostering creativity. "Experiencing this show and witnessing the range of artistic voices is a special moment," she concluded. "It’s an honour to be part of this vibrant artistic community."
Announcing the winners
Local Winner Uli Liessmann with Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort
Overall Winner Tomas Zarate
Uli and Maxine Thompson
Opinion Piece
As the debacle over the impact of toxic chemical compound continues to cause havoc in Ayr, Member for Burdekin Dale Last has called for assurances residents will have the chance to have their say during a senate inquiry.
Mr Last said given Ayr’s ongoing battle to rid its water supply of PFAS (polyfluoroalkyl substances) chemical compounds there was no excuse why a full and thorough inquiry would not include a public hearing in the township.
“The announcement of a federal government inquiry into the dangers of PFAS is welcome news but residents in towns like Ayr need assurances that this inquiry will be a boots-on-the-ground approach and that those who want the chance to speak can do so face-to-face,” Mr Last said.
“For years Ayr has been plagued by instances of elevated levels of PFAS which at times has threatened the township’s water security and has rendered a fire station obsolete and in need of relocation.”
“What we have seen recently is a clear indication there needs to be a more thorough understanding about the impact this chemical compound can have and that can’t be achieved without knowledge of how townships like Ayr are impacted.”
Mr Last said for six years the community had largely been kept in the dark by Labor over what had caused PFAS chemicals to leach into the town’s water supply with band-aid solutions and half-baked ideas put forward to alleviate the problem.
“This community has seen just how far the state Labor government have been willing to go to sweep the contamination of a drinking water source under the rug when the webpage hosting the link to the detailed site investigation was updated just days before works are committed to in the budget.
“When you examine the 2023 report by the local council which raised concerns that no QFES investigation into the issue had been made public at the time, you have to question the transparency around this issue,” Mr Last said.
“After years of uncertainty around the water security of their township, Ayr residents deserve the opportunity to have their say about how they have been impacted by the contamination of their drinking water supply.”
Contributed with thanks to Member for Burdekin Dale last.
As part of the Burdekin Water Festival Queensland Country Bank Grand Parade and Mardi Gras the community has been advised to note the closure of the following streets on Saturday 7 September.
• Edwards Street including between Queen and MacMillian Street from 6am to 1pm.
• Queen Street including Soper to Mackenzie Street from 12:30pm to 7:30pm.
• Soper Street between Graham and MacMillian Street from 12:30pm to 7:30pm.
• Parker Street between Graham and MacMillian Street from 12:30pm to 7:30pm.
• Edwards Street between Graham and MacMillian Street from 12:30pm to 1am.
• Young Street between Graham and MacMillian Street from 12:30pm to 7:30pm.
• MacKenzie Street between Graham and Wickham Street from 12:30pm to 7:30pm.
• MacMillian Street between Young and Pool Streets from 12:30pm to 7:30pm.
• Park Street from 12:30pm to 7:30pm.
• Queen Street including Parker to Young Street from 7:30pm to 1am.
Both the Burdekin Water Festival Committee and the Queensland Police Service thank the community for their understanding and compliance of these closures and look forward to Bringing it Back this weekend.
The Giru community is reeling after a young girl, who recently moved to the area, was attacked by two dogs while on her way to school.
The incident occurred last Tuesday, leaving the child pinned to the ground as the dogs bit her ankle, ear, and throat. She was rushed to Townsville Hospital, where she is currently undergoing surgery to repair the damage to her ankle and throat.
The severity of the attack has sparked concern among residents, particularly parents, who fear for their children's safety in areas where dogs are not restrained. One concerned parent, whose child is friends with the victim, expressed frustration that despite the seriousness of the situation, the local Council has not yet seized the dogs involved in the attack.
The concerned resident emphasised that the dog owners are not being uncooperative, however, she believes it is crucial to raise awareness about the incident to prevent further attacks and ensure the safety of the community's children.
In response to the incident, Acting Chief Executive Officer Nick O’Connor confirmed that Council is actively investigating a recent dog attack in Giru.
“Staff are working with the owner of the dogs and the family of the young girl who was injured,” said Mr O’Connor.
“Once all the statements have been provided, a decision will be made as to what further steps the Council will take.”
He also conformed that Council staff conducted an inspection of the dog enclosures at the Giru property on Thursday, 29 August.
“Following that inspection, upgrades were undertaken by the dog owner over the weekend to reduce the risk to the community while the Council completes the investigation” he explained.
“The investigation is being conducted in accordance with the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008.”
The community is urged to stay vigilant and report any similar incidents to local authorities.
Here is a Summary of Council’s dog attack procedure:
• Ensure the public is safe and that the animal/s are secure
• Inspect the dog enclosures at the property to ensure animals are secure;
• Conduct interviews with relevant people;
• Request photographs of injuries and medical report/s
• Prepare Internal report recommending actions in accordance with Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008 which may include fines, declaration as a regulated dog and/or prosecution.”
What to do if you encounter an aggressive dog:
• Lower your head and turn your gaze away from the dog.
• Turn your body slowly to the side but do not turn your back to the dog.
• Cross your arms across your chest and remain standing still.
• Do not speak to or yell at the dog.
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A most enjoyable morning was experienced by some residents of Regis, Aged Care, Ayr last week.
Mrs Raelene Grantz, Membership Chair, Zonta Club Burdekin Inc, and Ms Kristy McCoskey, Regis Lifestyle Coordinator spent some time “stuffing” and “stitching” breast care cushions in preparation for delivery to the Mater and University hospitals in Townsville and to patients on request.
Annually, the Zonta Club Burdekin Inc members and the Friends of Zonta sew and donate more than 120 breast care cushions and approximately 80 breast care packs consisting of cushion, drainage and shower bags to cancer patients, both male and female.
The morning’s activities at Regis were not all “work and no play”.
The participants enjoyed a “cuppa”, some laughs and lots of friendly chatter. More importantly, the morning gave the participants a sense of belonging and making a valuable contribution to a local community project. Community connections and a sense of belonging are critical for our health and wellbeing.
Thank you to the Regis ladies for your wonderful assistance, the quality of your work and hospitality. Zonta looks forward to engaging your assistance going forward.
Contributed by Zonta Club Burdekin Inc
120 Breast Care cushions have been donated to hospital patients. Photo supplied
I’m very pleased to let community members know that BCA has appointed a new Journey Coordinator as part of our Mental Health services expansion.
The main aim of the Journey Coordinator is to connect adults and children to the services and supports they require and ensure that they access timely and appropriate mental health services. In the future, we expect that the Journey Coordinator will also be able to deliver free group mental health education sessions, for people needing low intensity mental health support services.
The Burdekin Centre for Rural Health is open from Monday to Saturday, 9.00am to 4.30pm. The Journey Coordinator’s days and hours are Monday to Thursday and Saturday, 9.00am to 4.30pm.
Referrals for the Journey Coordinator Service can be made by visiting or telephoning the Burdekin Centre for Rural Health, 12a Chippendale Street, Ayr. Ph: 4783 2711. E: bca@bcaburdekin.org.au or telephoning the Head to Health Phone Service on 1800 595 212.
Debra Cochran
Chief Executive Officer
Burdekin Community Association Inc (BCA)
We often get asked what happens at the Neighbourhood Centre. The answer is a lot of everything, and more often than not, the programs and activities are born out of our conversations with community members and what they want to see happen at the Centre.
Do you or a group of people you know have concerns or ideas that you would like help raising? We can help! Are you from a local service or group that would like to collaborate on different community projects? We can help!
At the Neighbourhood Centre, we don't work for people; we work with people. We firmly believe that when we come together as a community, we can achieve amazing things.
Some community-led activities are coming up at the Neighbourhood Centre. As you are reading this, we would love if you could share your knowledge with your family and friends that could benefit from coming along.
Self Care and Mental Wellbeing Workshop
Join Ross Romeo (CORES) on Thursday, 12th September from 10am – 12pm
Explore the concept of self-care and mental wellbeing, identify personal signs of stress and simple strategies that can be used to manage individual stress levels on an everyday basis. There are workshops available until the end of the year – both during the day and in the evening.
SHInE (Seniors’ Health and Interactive Exercise Program)
Join Andrea Piotto for the next SHIne program starting September 30th and running for 8 weeks – Monday and Wednesdays. 11.15am – 12.00pm. You can choose to come once or twice a week. Cost is an upfront payment of $80 for 1 day a week or $160 for 2. We ask that interested people register and pay by 13th September. Lot’s of different ways to exercise – learn new skills, make new friends. Great fun!
Our support and social groups have all been initiated by locals who have lived experience or find joy in helping others to live their best lives. If this sounds something you would like to be involved in as well – don’t hesitate to call in and chat to us!
Until next time,
The Team
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre
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Last week, I had the privilege of attending the Australian Local Government Women’s Association Queensland Branch Annual Conference in Brisbane alongside Councillors Amanda Hall and Fina Vasta. This conference was an incredible opportunity to connect with other women leaders in local government and share our experiences.
I was honoured to be part of a mayoral panel with two other mayors, where we discussed the unique role of being a mayor, the challenges we face, and what inspires us to keep going. It was an enriching experience to exchange ideas, reflect on our learning journeys, and offer advice to others who are either in leadership roles or aspire to be.
One of the key takeaways for me was the importance of resilience and adaptability in leadership. The role of a mayor is ever-evolving, with each day bringing new challenges and opportunities. But through it all, it's the community that keeps us inspired and motivated.
Switching gears to our wonderful Burdekin community, this past weekend was one for the books with the Burdekin Water Festival Long Lunch. The Long Lunch was a fantastic celebration with delicious food and the crowning of our Senior Water Festival Ambassadors. Congratulations to all the Ambassadors for all you have achieved and a congratulations to the winner Demi and runner up Brielle.
I am very much looking forward to the Mardi Gras on Saturday kicking off at 4:30pm. It’s events like these that remind me of the incredible sense of community we have here in Burdekin. I encourage everyone to join in the festivities and be part of this cherished Burdekin tradition. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the organisers for bringing it back this year. Your hard work and dedication have made it possible for us to enjoy this cherished tradition once again, and I know the entire community is looking forward to it.
If you would like to get in touch with me, please feel free to phone me on 0447 150 582 or email mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.
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The Burdekin Art Society, a cornerstone of the local creative community, has received a substantial boost thanks to a $9,900 grant from Bendigo Bank’s Community Grants program. Established 53 years ago, this vibrant organisation has long been a hub for art enthusiasts, offering everything from casual Tuesday morning sessions to dynamic children’s art classes and workshops with award-winning artists.
With 43 members who volunteer their time and talents, the Society plays a crucial role in fostering local artistic talent. Their annual Burdekin Art Exhibition, held in the Burdekin Theatre Foyer each August/September, and the November exhibition at the Home Hill Harvest Festival attract a diverse array of entrants from across the state and beyond. These events not only highlight local artistry but also draw hundreds of visitors each year, eager to view and purchase artworks.
The recent grant from Bendigo Bank is set to make a significant difference. Over the past few years, the Society’s art exhibition lighting, now 15 years old, has become outdated and cumbersome. The grant will enable the purchase of new, modern lighting, improving both safety and aesthetics. This upgrade is essential, as it will enhance the exhibition experience for visitors and simplify setup for volunteers, who previously had to manage heavy stands and outdated equipment.
Joanne Barbagallo, Assistant Treasurer and Art Exhibition Coordinator expressed the Society’s excitement and gratitude. “Receiving this grant means we can present a more professional and safer exhibition to the community. It’s an enormous relief to replace our old lighting, which has been a significant challenge for us.”
Bendigo Bank Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr’s commitment to local organisations like the Burdekin Art Society underscores their role as vital supporters of the Burdekin region. By keeping financial support within the community, they help ensure that local initiatives can thrive and continue to benefit residents.
The Burdekin Art Society invites everyone to experience the high standard of their Annual Art Exhibition. Known for its impressive range of entries and quality, this event attracts artists and buyers from far and wide. With the new lighting in place, the Society is poised to showcase local art in the best possible light, thanks to the generous support of Bendigo Bank.
The Burdekin Art Society receives their grant
In a world where the demands of daily life can often overshadow our well-being, a unique self-care workshop put on by CORES has emerged as a beacon of hope and inspiration. Founded on the principle that taking care of oneself is just as important as caring for others, this workshop is making a significant impact in the Burdekin community.
The inspiration behind the workshop comes from a growing body of evidence highlighting the importance of self-care.
Ross Romeo, the Queensland coordinator of CORES, noticed that while people are quick to care for others, they often neglect their own needs. The core mission of the workshop is to change this mindset by encouraging individuals to recognise their own worth and to take deliberate steps towards self-care.
Participants in the workshop are introduced to key practices designed to help them reconnect with themselves. They learn to identify activities that bring them joy and fulfilment—activities that "fill their cup."
By focusing on treating the root causes of stress and burnout rather than just the symptoms, the workshop sets an example that can create a ripple effect throughout the community.
The workshop is tailored to meet the diverse needs of its participants. While everyone’s self-care journey is unique, there are commonalities that bind us together. The sessions are adapted to highlight these shared experiences, emphasising the power of the mind and the importance of giving oneself permission to prioritise self-care.
The impact of the workshop is evident in the feedback from past participants. Over 80% of attendees report incorporating at least one self-care practice into their daily routine, and the feedback is overwhelmingly positive. The workshop’s relevance is maintained by continuously adapting to the changing landscape, such as the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
For those just beginning their self-care journey, the workshop offers a simple yet profound piece of advice: give yourself permission to take that first step. By doing so, you set the foundation for a healthier, more balanced life.
This initiative, supported by the Burdekin community, has already saved lives and continues to be a valuable resource. The workshop started in 2008 without any funding, and today, with the support of NQPHM, it continues to thrive, thanks in large part to the Burdekin community's embrace of the program.
WHAT: Self Care Workshop
WHERE: 40 Chippendale St, Ayr
WHEN: Thursday 12th September 10am-12pm
Australia’s place in the US $20 billion global banana market has been safeguarded, according to the federal government, with a new genetically modified banana being granted approval for commercial release and consumption.
The QCAV-4 variety of the Cavendish banana has been developed by the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) to counteract the effects of Panama Disease or Tropical Race 4 (TR4), a fungal disease that starves bananas of their nutrients eventually killing the plant.
Following 20 years of development and rigorous scientific assessment to ensure it is safe for consumption, QCAV-4 received final regulatory approval from Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) earlier this year.
The approval comes at an important time as the disease impacts banana industries across the world, including here in Australia which consumes around five million bananas per day.
With TR4 estimated to have the potential to impact 80 per cent of global banana production, Australian researchers have made a world-first breakthrough to protect local banana farms and secure our food production systems.
While there is no immediate demand locally to bring QCAV-4 to market due to our biosecurity system successfully keeping Panama Disease from devastating the Australian banana industry, there are a number of countries with an increasing need to find a sustainable, long-term solution to the ravages of TR4.
Genetically modified labelling provisions would apply to food derived from QCAV-4, so consumers can make informed choices should the banana be commercially produced and sold.
The team behind its creation are now turning their attention to developing a non-genetically modified, gene-edited version of the product that can resist TR4 and other diseases, continuing to future-proof one of the world’s favourite fruits.
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins said this is an important milestone for researchers at QUT and a significant development in the fight against potential threats to Australian biosecurity.
“Panama disease has caused havoc in the Philippines and China, spreading quickly in South-East and south Asia, parts of Africa and now South America,” Minister Collins said.
“This has been a long process for the scientists at QUT, and the final approval is vindication of their work, skill and patience.
“This is a major Australian achievement worth celebrating.”
Assistant Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry and Senator for Queensland, Anthony Chisholm added, “If TR4 were to spread extensively here, it would devastate our farming communities. That’s why it’s great to see Queensland researchers leading the way, yet again, to provide our producers with a scientific safety net for their crops.”
QUT Distinguished Professor James Dale said the QUT team has been working on developing and growing GM Cavendish bananas for more than 20 years.
“Apart from providing a genuine protection against Panama Disease TR4 for the world’s export industry, QCAV-4 is a safety net for Australia’s $1.3 billion industry.”
CANEGROWERS is calling on Wilmar Sugar and unions representing mill workers to prove they are serious about resolving their long-running pay dispute by getting out of the way and letting the independent umpire decide a fair and reasonable outcome.
“After many months of fruitless and increasingly bitter negotiations, it’s time for both parties to step aside and let the Fair Work Commission decide,” CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens said.
“It’s clear that the parties involved are either unable or reluctant to reach an agreement, despite the damage it’s doing to farming families, the sugarcane industry, or their own communities,” Mr Menkens said.
“We have said repeatedly that workers deserve to be represented and achieve a fair pay deal and milling companies must be financially viable. But this dispute has become increasingly hostile and there is no sign of a compromise on the horizon.
Mr Menkins said that CANEGROWERS has taken strong action.
“Our representatives have had several meetings with Wilmar officials and union senior officials.
“What we’re saying is, you’ve had your chance to reach a compromise acceptable to both sides and you’ve failed. This can’t continue indefinitely. It’s impacting the harvest, it’s impacting growers and contractors, it’s impacting families, it’s impacting the industry, and it’s impacting communities.
“It’s time to admit you’ve reached an intractable stalemate, step aside and let an independent third party decide the issue.”
Mr Menkins added that the current rolling stoppages at Wilmar mills, which crush about fifty per cent of Queensland’s sugarcane, have already cost growers and contractors dearly, not just financially but also in terms of the stress and anxiety they’re experiencing.
“It’s already a difficult season, and if we’re to have any chance of success we need to start pulling in the same direction, working together to make up ground, not continuing to be hampered by strike action.
“For everyone’s sake, either do a deal now, or engage the Fair Work Commission.
“Let’s get this crop off and try to make the 2024 season a success.”
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