The bi-monthly Burdekin Plantation Park Markets are a popular place for locals to find handmade treasures, homemade baked goods, beautiful plants and yummy food, but last Sunday, May 5, marketgoers also had the opportunity to receive a free blood pressure check thanks to Mater Private Hospital Townsville.
The team from Mater Private Hospital Townsville set up their market stall in celebration of Heart Week 2024, providing free blood pressure checks, fresh fruit thanks to Lamberts Fresh Produce, and other giveaways.
Heart Week is Australia’s national heart health awareness week held in May each year and runs from May 6 to 12 in 2024.
An initiative of the Heart Foundation, the week provides an opportunity for the Australian public and health professionals to start a conversation about heart health and take positive steps to reduce their heart disease risk.
A spokesperson said this was the second year Mater conducted a Heart Week Roadshow to celebrate the launch of Heart Week, with the first road trip to the Burdekin held in early May last year.
“While our cardiologists run on referrals, their dream is to see less people suffering cardiac events so this was all born out of their desire to ensure more North Queenslanders are aware of the signs and symptoms of heart conditions, and to discuss them with their GP sooner rather than later so that they never suffer an event in the first place,” they said.
“The Burdekin has always had a soft spot in the heart of our clinicians, with a range of our doctors holding clinics in Ayr regularly and a large percentage of our patients in Mater across all specialties from the beautiful bountiful Burdekin, so we’ve always started any planning around Heart Week in particular with opportunities to chat to Burdekin residents at front of mind.”

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The team from Mater Private Hospital Townsville celebrated the launch of Heart Week 2024 in Townsville before bringing the party to the Burdekin Plantation Park Markets over the weekend. Photo supplied

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Brendon Carew, known by the community as Paddy Carew, officially retired from the Burdekin Police Force earlier this week after 40 years of exceptional service.

Brendon attended the Brisbane Police Academy following the encouragement of a family member, and after graduation, he moved to the Burdekin where he has served 37 years stationed at the Burdekin Police Station.

Brendon looks back on his career as being a long and fantastic journey, and believes the community will be in safe, capable hands as he re-learns how to be a civilian in today’s society.

“I’ll be off travelling with the wife, catching up on a lot of lost time with her and the young fella, spending time with family, and I suppose re-learning how to be a civilian,” explained Brendon.

The Officer in Charge at the Burdekin Police Station, Chris Cohen, looks back on his past year in the role, and believes Brendon’s standing in the community is second to none.

“On behalf on the whole team here at the station, Brendon’s service has been both long and honourable,” said Chris.

“His service is longer than the ages of most of the officers at the station, and on most jobs, most people only want to speak to Paddy Carew, because of the respect and dignity he has shown in the community for those 37 years.”

Prior to transferring to the Burdekin, Chris was stationed in Townsville, where he often heard much praise of Brendon’s service.

“Everyone enjoys the company of Paddy, and no one else has achieved what he has done for the Burdekin area,” explained Chris.

“It’s been a pleasure serving this community and the state of Queensland, and I wish all the officers that I leave behind all the best,” expressed Brendon.

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Chief Inspector Roger Whyte, retiring Police Officer Paddy Carew and The Officer in Charge at the Burdekin Police Station, Chris Cohen. Photo credit: Melanie Napier Memories and Photography

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Burdekin residents sleeping in tents and farm sheds are being left without the answers they deserve according to Member for Burdekin Dale Last.
Over a month ago, Queensland Premier Steven Miles promised crisis accommodation for every homeless person in the state.
Mr Last, however, said the fact that his Housing Minister was yet to provide answers on what crisis accommodation was available for use in the Burdekin was a slap in the face to everyone sleeping rough in the region.
“Towns like Moranbah, Ayr, Home Hill and Bowen deserve to have a clear indication as to exactly what crisis accommodation is actually available to them and if the answer is none, then those communities deserve to know exactly what this Minister is actually doing to provide that accommodation,” Mr Last said.
“The fact that the Minister has failed to answer a question on notice on time, sends a clear message to the Burdekin that Labor has no interest in fulfilling promises and, as a result, families with newborn babies are left to sleep in a tent.”
Mr Last said while the housing crisis remained state-wide, in small regional towns the impact of that lack of housing is far reaching.
“As we know, we have to fight tooth and nail for the housing resources we do have in our regional towns and with the crushing season about to begin and harvesting in our horticulture sector already underway the pressure on our housing stock is only set to go up,” he said.
“While the spotlight on this issue has largely sat over cities in the south-east, small towns like Ayr, Home Hill, Bowen and Moranbah have been left in the dark and as a result we are seeing widespread impacts on our communities.
“If Labor was serious about ensuring everyone in the Burdekin electorate had a roof over their head and a warm bed to sleep in at night, the least they could do is provide an answer to a question on notice about what crisis accommodation is actually available.”

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Stock Image

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In an act of kindness, a team of compassionate locals are currently raising funds to gift a gravestone to a 93-year-old unmarked grave in the Ayr cemetery. The heroes behind the act have recently reached a significant milestone in their fundraising efforts, achieving Stage 1 of the Jean Morris Gravestone Fundraising target with a total of $2500 raised but are needing ongoing community support to fulfill their goal.

This accomplishment is the climax of their dedicated efforts that began in early April when the funds stood just under $2000. The success of the campaign can be attributed to the innovative "Let's Have Cuppa for Jean" initiative and a personal commitment by co Coordinator, Henry Peterson who donated 10 cents from every avocado he sold in Ayr.

However, the journey to reach this milestone hasn't been easy. With financial constraints tightening across communities, charities are experiencing a staggering 50% drop in donations, reflecting the economic challenges faced nationwide. Even school tuckshops are feeling the pinch, witnessing significant declines in sales, underscoring the widespread impact of financial strain.

Attention now turns to Stage 2 of the fundraising efforts set to commence on May 1st. There are deliberations on the preferred approach for the gravestone project, with options including erecting one in two stages on a cement base with a granite top and headstone for $8000, or opting for a single-stage erection with a full granite finish for $13,000.

The decision on which option to pursue lies with the team as they take a collaborative approach to the project. With the groundwork laid for Stage 2, there's a shared commitment to exploring more creative fundraising ideas to secure the necessary funds. The journey ahead will require continued innovation and dedication from the team to achieve their goals and honour Jean Morris's memory with a fitting gravestone.

Local donations are welcome and can be dropped off at Paula's Place Hair Salon on Queen St, Ayr. Alternatively, arrangements can be made for collection at the end of the month. Bank details are also available for direct transfers if preferred.

For further information, please contact Paula at 0439 333 494 or Henry at 0428 887 114.

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Henry Peterson is helping to raise money to provide a gravestone for Jean Morris and has donated 10 cents from the sale of each avocado. Photo supplied

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An example of gravestone they are looking erect. Photo supplied

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As part of the 2024 Australia Day Award Ceremony, former Burdekin local, Terri Bradon, was honorably presented with a Medal of the Order of Australia. An award of great prestige, the medal stands to recognise outstanding achievement and service, and Terri has been celebrated for her contributions to the arts in regional Queensland.

When Terri began her journey in the world of the performing arts, she never contemplated the possibility of being presented an award as prestigious as an Order of Australia Medal, yet she feels it’s the perfect way to recognise and honor the work of her mentors and all the influential people who have led her to where she is today.

“It’s a big achievement for everyone involved with the whole company, and I suppose I’m representing the work of a lot of people who have made this happen and all the people in my life that I could not live without,” expressed Terri.

Throughout Terri’s secondary education at Ayr State High School, with the encouragement of dedicated staff and her parents, she found joy in participating in school musicals and the annual Interschool Drama Festival. She often spent her spare time developing small plays where she would cast her friends to act them out.

“It’s funny because when I look at my parents I think, here are two people who were not involved in the arts, and one out of all of their kids just decided she was going to follow this path, but they were so trusting, supportive, and happy that I was having a go and I’m so grateful for them, and I love that I have made them proud,” expressed Terri.

Following graduation, Terri enrolled in James Cook University to pursue a degree in drama, and her passion for the stage continued to flourish throughout her studies with the support of her respected mentor, Jean-Pierre Voos. After completing her tertiary studies, Terri moved to pursue her career in Melbourne, however, following the passing of Jean-Pierre Voos in 2008, Terri found herself drawn to return to the region continue his legacy.

“Jean-Pierre Voos started Townsville’s Shakespear Under the Stars, which is where I first truly feel in love with the work of Shakespear and got my start in theatre,” explained Terri.

“At the time of his passing, I was working for the Australian Shakespeare Company in Melbourne, and because of him, that’s where my life had taken me, and I just felt so passionate about the event staying in honor of Jean-Pierre, and for the little Terri Bradons who might be like me, see one show and go that’s what I want to do.”

With drama education facilities closing their doors, Terri took it upon herself to create opportunities to continue fostering the love of theatre. Her love for the arts turned into determination to keep the industry afloat in regional Queensland and further prompted her to co-found various institutions including the Bridge Project, and TheatreiNQ.

“Being awarded with an Order of Australia Medal to me certainly feels that we’re making a difference and that has been our motto at TheatreiNQ; do something in our lifetime to make a difference, and I think that it’s quite remarkable this award is recognising regional arts,” expressed Terri.

“The outpouring of support and love has been really overwhelming, and the people who have been a part of my whole career are so proud and I just feel so grateful and so lucky that this is my life.”

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With 44 teams competing the 43rd Sugar Bowl was destined to be a great weekend of tennis. The Burdekin turned the weather on which was perfect for tennis with cooler mornings and a slight breeze. The new on court shades donated by Bendigo in Home Hill were appreciated by the players.
As usual the results were close with the last round determining the winners. B ladies was won by Cathy Fairburn’s The Odd Bunch with an average of 51.4 games per session followed by Sharon Mc Dermott 48.25 and Sophie Rickards Home Hill Team Ace Ace Baby on 36.25.
A2 Ladies was won by Sugar Bowl stalwart and dedicated supporter Paula Simpson’s Hack the Planet on 258 games followed by Megan and Riley’s Get Under It and in 3rd place Deb Debondi’s Mackay team “Tam” on 198.
A Ladies was won by defending champions Julie Witty’s M & Ms on 180 games, closely followed by Home Hill’s Hannah Casswell’s 171 and Proserpine’s Elspeth Scotford on 162.
The B Men was won by Brett Campman’s Calen Crew with a few ring-ins from Home Hill on 266, 2nd place was West Teas Brett Thompson on 219 and Home Hill’s Justin Vidler on 217 Here for Beer.
A2 Men was won by Mareeba’s Carl Martens Tableland Tennis (Carl was born and raised in Home Hill), as was Brett Wheeler with Col’s Crew who took out 2nd place on 219 and followed up by Brisbane’s Will Fraser The Bad Hatters on 213.
Defending champions Bruce Butler’s Tea Bags retained the A Grade Stockdale trophy with 258.
Home Hill’s Andrew Casswell’s The Wallys came in second on 230 and Will Fraser’s Bad Hatters 1 were in 3rd place on 199.
The Woods Team Spirit Trophy was hotly contested with most teams turning out in fantastic team uniforms, displaying great sportsmanship and camaraderie, and showing great support for the club.
Special mention to Ace Ace Baby who danced their hearts out on Sunday night, The Teaspoons who cooked up a storm all weekend, The Shoeys who just had a great weekend all round after the whole team showed up to help set up on the Friday and the Northern All Stars from Ingham who were even seen helping in the kitchen at one point.
Congratulations to Kylie Newman’s Post Card Lifers who proudly held this trophy high.
The club would really like to thank all the sponsors, volunteers, players, and supporters. The main raffle prize an Air conditioner from Polar Industries was won by Steve Cockfield.
Of special mention is Western Suburbs Tennis Club and Coach Paula Simpson who whole heartedly support the Sugar Bowl. This club bring about 12 teams to the Bowl each year. We love the support of the players, teams, and captains. You are the ones who make this event.
To recognise the contributions of the volunteers this year we had a free volunteers raffle which was won by Carol Rossato. Thanks everyone for helping out. The preparation, delivering the event and cleaning up is huge. Thanks also go to Giru and Ayr Clubs for their support in hosting many matches over the weekend.
Event wrap-up contributed with thanks to Kate Casswell.

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Joel Hanson presenting the B Grade trophy donated by the Hanson Family
The Odd Bunch Cathy Fairburn

Jill Barbagallo Patron and Trophy Donor A 2 Ladies 
Paula Simpson Hack the Planet

Team Spirit winners donated in memory of founding Teaspoon member David Woods
Post Card Lifers Kylie Newman with Josh Woods

B Men winners Brett Campman Calen Crew pictured with Casswell family member Andrew who donated this trophy

Kylie Newman presenting the trophy on behalf of Pat Anderson trophy donor to the A2 Men Carl Martens Tableland Tennis

A1 Ladies Julie Witty M & Ms
pictured with trophy donor Lex Davies

Photos supplied

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On Saturday 14 April, the Queensland Parliament House hosted a ceremony to swear in the newly appointed members of the YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament, and among them was Burdekin’s very own, Brent Dingle.

The YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament (QYP) stands as a highly celebrated and unique opportunity for young people to create real change in Queensland. Open to young people aged 15 – 25 across Queensland, Brent has been eager to join the QYP since he was encouraged by his school principal at the Burdekin Christen College.

“My school principal encouraged me to apply for the Queensland Youth Parliament when I mentioned that I originally wanted to go to university for law, and she believed I would be best suited so she prompted me to apply for the program,” explained Brent.

Brent has been an extremely active member within the Burdekin community for many years. As well as having been appointed as the 2023 Deputy Youth Mayor for the Burdekin Shire Youth Council, Brent continuously volunteers for community service events including CWL, Park Run, and even at an Ambulance Seminar. In 2023, Brent was honourably recoginised for his selfless dedication to community with a Young Citizen of The Year Award, a token he feels perfectly captures what matters to him the most.

“I was awarded the Young Citizen of The Year Award for getting involved, and giving back to my community which is really close to my heart and being a young person with cerebral palsy I have always felt passionate about my community and for giving young people a voice, especially those with a disability.”

The QYP fosters its Youth Members’ desire to make a difference within their electorates in political areas through educational opportunities and firsthand parliamentary experiences. In mid-April, Brent attended the Launch Weekend event where he was officially sworn into parliament alongside his committee members.

“At the 3-day Launch Weekend, I learnt all the ins and outs of parliament through interactive workshops with parliamentary employees, we did a mock debate at Queensland Parliament House, and we started writing our Bill,” explained Brent.

“As part of the parliament, I am in the committee of Health, Mental Health and Emergency Services, Prevention of Family and Domestic Violence and Seniors and Disability Services, and we will develop our Bill over the year long program.”

Brent, alongside his committee members, have begun work to develop a Youth Bill which will be debated and amended throughout the year, and then presented at Parliament House as part of The QYP’s Residential Week in September.

“Over the next 12 months we’ll be split into teams for sponsoring and refuting; sponsoring creates the Bill, and the refuting create amendments to the Bill, and when I go back to Brisbane in September for Residential Week, I’ll go to Parliament House every day to debate my Bill in parliament,” explained Brent.

Once the Youth Bill has been passed, it will be sent to the Officer of Youth, and then passed to the Queensland Government Minister responsible for the corresponding Portfolio.

“It has been really good to work with people close to parliament, learning the ins and outs on how Queensland runs, and it’s definitely opened my eyes to a new career opportunity.”

With high school graduation approaching at the end of 2024, Brent has been planning out his next few years, and after his time with the QYP, his future career aspirations have slightly shifted.

“I plan to go to Griffith University to study a double degree in Business and Political Science, and following that, I’ve been strongly encouraged by many people to become the Queensland Premier, so it’s become a sort of goal of mine.”

With an inspirational past, present and future, Brent hopes to spread his message to others with similar aspirations.

“I am passionate about spreading positive reinforcement and the message that anything is possible with the right mindset and goals.”

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You’re Invited
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS
Candlelight Vigil
followed by exhibition of Artwork "Through her eyes”

Where - Burdekin Community Association
130 Queen Street Ayr
When - Wednesday 15th May 6pm-7:30pm

RSVP Essential
Ph 47833744
rebecca.grogan@bcaburdekin.org.au

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Over the long weekend the Lower Burdekin Scout Group joined other Scout groups for a long weekend of fun activities on Magnetic Island.

The Scouts travelled by ferry on Friday evening and had transport waiting for them which they took to their camp at Rover Hut at Florence Bay.

After setting up tents, dinner and a safety briefing the Scouts got some sleep preparing for an early and busy next day.

After watching sunrise Scout Leader Chris Berkery said the rest of the day was filled with activities.

“We spent the rest of the day playing on the beach, swimming, preparing our meals and having spare time activities and games,” he said.

A trip to Magnetic Island is not complete without a trip to the Forts, and that’s what the Scout’s did on Sunday.

Following the Fort’s Walk the Scouts trekked down to Horsehoe Bay and the Magnetic Island Markets.

A morning full of the sights but the day wasn’t over yet, the Scout’s then hiked to Radical Bay before heading back to camp for a late lunch and some very well-deserved rest.

On Monday morning the group packed up and went to the stunning Alma Bay for lunch and games on the foreshore, then made their way back to the ferry and back home.

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Exploring the beach
The Scouts on a hike

Photos supplied

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The Lower Burdekin Scout Group went above and beyond to get into the ANZAC spirit this year.

Three Scouts slept over in the Den on Wednesday night, the night before ANZAC day and to get in the ANZAC spirit they cooked ANZAC biscuits on an open fire.

The three Scouts, Brianna, Caitlyn and Austin prepared and baked the biscuits.

Some were successful but some were burnt and hard, but nonetheless, the Scouts ate the good ones for supper!

Scout Leader Chris Berkery said next time they may have to make changes to the cooking method.

The Scout group also attended the Ayr Parade and it was the first parade for some of the scouts.

 “They found the day very moving because of the crowds along the walk were clapping, and one of the speakers mentioned that his grandfather and father served in the wars, but died in their early years after returning home,” said Chris.

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Lower Burdekin Scout Group at the Ayr Parade. Photo Credit: Daniel Heggie

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With this being my first Councillor Column, I would like to take the opportunity to thank those who showed faith in me to represent the views of the community in council. The election has given us a new council with a mix of experience and new blood. It excites me to see what we can achieve.
As most know, local government is complex. Figuring out where a councillor can make positive change is the challenge. Once the new councillors all find their feet, I am sure we will do just that.
We have now completed most of our councillor inductions and are working through the 24/25 budget. Unfortunately, some increases are unavoidable in today’s economic climate, so every item needs to be scrutinised. With the short time between the election and budget due date, this is challenging. Hopefully, with everyone at council’s full attention, we can reduce unnecessary expenses while providing the service that the community deserve and expect. 
One of the biggest changes to daily life in the 27 business days since the swearing in, is the 18 days that I have had to wear appropriate clothing (that isn’t high-vis and covered in grease), contributing to extra washing and ironing that my wife takes good care of for me. Thanks Kristy!
Burdekin residents need to know they can reach out to councillors should they have any issues that they feel we could help them with. Don’t be afraid to pick up the phone or send an email. Our contact details can be found on the BSC website, www.burdekin.qld.gov.au.

 

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Have you ever wondered how you can stay informed about what's happening in your local Council?
Burdekin Shire Council holds meetings every second and fourth Tuesday of each month, and the best part is, they're open to the public. This means you have a fantastic opportunity to stay informed within your community.
But that's not all – you can also conveniently access meeting agendas and minutes right from the comfort of your own home through Council's website. This ensures that you're always in the loop about the decisions being made that directly impact your area.
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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Rehoming fee: $450
DOB: 1/10/2022
Sex: Female
Breed: Bullarab x
Kid friendly: Yes
Cat Friendly: Untested
Other dogs: Yes
Fences: 6ft

Mabel is looking for a very special home, one full of love, patience, understanding and dedication to help this girl reach her full potential.

Sadly, Mabel arrived at Angel Paws from a very abusive place and because of this she takes a bit of time to trust humans.

However, once she does, she will give you all the love that she has.

It's taken time for Mabel to understand that her dinner is for her, and she can now eat it without worrying she will get into trouble,

You will need to be someone who has some time to spend with her and to teach her some basic training.

She enjoys sleeping on the couch and snuggling in bed with her carer whilst giving lots of love and kisses.

She loves her toys and other dogs and is very playful.

Mabel would love a home with another younger dog who is playful as well as she is still young and has lots of energy to burn.

It's time to find her the perfect home so she can settle in properly and flourish.

Mabel is available for adoption desexed, micro-chipped, up to date on flea/tick/intestinal vaccinations, worm treated and currently on heartworm preventative.

If you’re interested in meeting Mabel please complete an animal enquiry form at https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html 

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If you are just starting on your plant growing journey or you just don’t have space for a backyard veggie garden, then herbs in a pot are a great way to start growing.

Herbs such as Rosemary and Sage that originated from the Mediterranean regions, enjoy tough growing conditions. Rosemary is a well-known accompaniment for lamb and sage for chicken and peas. These herbs like to dry out between watering and don’t like being over fed (fertilised) as they are used to growing in poor, stony soil. So don’t over water your pot.

Fun fact: Banana Plants, that grow very well here in the Whitsundays (the photo attached is from my garden), are the biggest herbs in the world.

Hint For Growing Herbs In Pots:

Add a couple of teaspoons of lime to your 200mm pot of potting mix before planting.
When planting your Mediterranean herbs, it can help to add coarse sand to your potting mix to improve drainage.

For those gardeners who are growing herbs in your garden, you may have noticed that your Sage and Rosemary are not too happy at the moment. That is due to the cool temperatures and the continual rain we have had of late, not giving the soil time to dry out.  As much as our vegetable seedlings are loving it, these herbs are not. Cut off the dead growth and if you are really concerned you can cover the surrounding soil in a waterproof material to stop the rain from causing more plant die back until our Autumn/Winter starts behaving as it should (clear, blue skies!).

Tropical herbs such as Lemon Grass, Ginger and Turmeric are a completely different kettle of fish. These plants like rich, fertilised soil and like to be kept moist. As the name suggests, they grow very well here in the tropical Whitsundays, in fact once you get these plants established, you’ll be dividing them up, eating them and sharing them for the rest of your gardening life.    

Not only do we enjoy herbs for cooking, but they are also grown and appreciated for medicinal purposes. Native Herbs have been used by Indigenous Australians to assist in all manner of health-related issues, having an intimate relationship with plants for thousands of years. We have so much to learn.

My Pick Of The Month

Wild Rosella (Hibiscus Sabdariifa)
Producing a striking red flower, on a red stem, they grow happily within the veggie garden, reaching between 1.5 – 2m high and up to1m wide.
They are known to assist with blood pressure and to regulate blood sugar levels.  Reported to assist with anxiety and support the nervous system.
They make great jams, syrups, tea and can be added raw to salads.
They grow very happily here. They are a beautiful plant, easy to grow, with great health benefits, a must have.

Hints For Herbs In The Garden

   • Do not pick more than 1/3 of a young herb plant at a time and no ore then ½ a mature plant.

   • The more you pick the bushier they become, so snip away nightly.

   • Don’t over fertilise your herbs, you’ll encourage leaf growth at the expense of their oil production. So, when applying sea sol to your veggies, skip over your herbs regularly.

   • Your herbs need at least 6 hours of sunlight a day, so the carport or under a tree may not be the best position for them

Companion Planting

We cannot talk herbs without talking companion planting, so here are a few ideas to try in your veggie garden now:

Nasturtiums
Great for planting with Kale, Broccoli, radish, cabbage and cauliflower

Basil
A must, to plant with your tomatoes but also with chilli’s, beans and chives

Mint
A good companion for all brassicas repelling cabbage caterpillars

Parsley and Rosemary
Go well with carrots, repelling some flies and attracting beneficial insects

Important Fact To Finish With

The dreaded Cabbage Moth is repelled by Rosemary, Oregano, Thyme, Sage and Dill
Herbs are yours and your veggie gardens best friends!

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In the bustling heart of Queensland's sugar industry, a significant agreement unfolded on April 30, 2024, between QCAR and Mackay Sugar. This milestone marks a pivotal moment for sugarcane growers statewide, as QCAR continues to strengthen its relationships and extend its reach beyond the Burdekin’s borders, staying true to its mission of providing Queensland-wide representation.

As part of this ongoing mission, QCAR has been diligently fostering partnerships and agreements across the state, ensuring that its growing membership benefits from larger-scale collaborations that amplify its collective voice and influence in the sugar industry.

Amidst these efforts, a new Cane Supply and Processing Agreement (CSPA) was forged, shaping the future of cane supplies to Mackay Sugar's mills in Farleigh, Marian, and Racecourse.

The new agreement sets out a course for how the growth and supply of cane is to take place and observes the ever-changing expectations of consumers and the communities in which we operate.

It is increasingly important to be recognised as ‘environmentally sustainable’ by way of accreditation, holding up the standards which Australian sugar is globally recognised for. 

“It has been crucial to us, as a sugar producer and seller of sugar in global markets, that we have a partner who so clearly states their ambition around sustainable practices,” says Brent Casey, Mackay Sugar’s General Manager, Commercial & Agriculture.

QCAR is dedicated to advocating and empowering Queensland agriculture producers by fostering sustainable farming practices for a prosperous future.

QCAR Director and lead negotiator in the Mackay area, Chris Punzell said, “Mackay growers have been eagerly awaiting an alternative cane supply agreement and enhanced grower representation.

“I was confident that this would materialise, and I am delighted that it has become a reality. By listening to the needs of farmers, we have successfully secured this agreement to benefit the farming community.”

QCAR Executive Director, Panikos Spyrou said, “With this agreement, we have provided our growers in the Mackay Region with contractual certainty – however we will, true to our spirit in Securing a Stronger Future, keep looking at ways to amend the CSPA to the benefit of both the growers we represent and the miller with whom we cooperate.

“Joined in this effort with Mackay Sugar we have pinpointed several mutually advantageous improvements to collaborate on for the 2025 crushing season. Interested growers can access these enhancements through QCAR,” Mr Spyrou said.

Also in recent QCAR news, Panikos Spyrou expressed his enthusiasm regarding Stephen Ryan's appointment as CEO, following the QCAR board's approval of his proposal.

The former CEO said, “I'm excited to have the opportunity to focus more intently on strategic initiatives and the specialised work I undertake for QCAR,” Mr Spyrou said.

“This shift allows me the flexibility to engage in additional activities outside the realm of QCAR's operations.”

An interview with QCAR’s new CEO will be in a future edition of Burdekin Life.

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(L-R): QCAR Member Tony Bugeja, Mackay Sugar Limited CEO Jannik Olejas (standing), QCAR Director and Lead negotiator Chris Punzell

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