By CANEGROWERS Australia Chairman, Owen Menkens

There’s a slow shift happening in the global sugar market – and Queensland cane growers are right in the thick of it.

Around the world, major buyers are no longer just looking at price and quality. Increasingly, they want proof. Proof that the sugar they’re buying has been produced responsibly, with strong environmental practices and credible verification behind it. That pressure is coming from consumers, investors and governments alike, and it’s reshaping how commodities are traded.

We’re seeing that demand clearly in markets like Japan and the UK, where sustainably sourced ingredients are fast becoming the baseline rather than the bonus. For Australian sugar, that means sustainability credentials are no longer a “nice to have” – they’re becoming essential for maintaining and growing market access.

This is where Smartcane BMP comes into its own.

Developed by growers for growers and delivered by CANEGROWERS, Smartcane BMP is a practical, on-farm system that helps growers demonstrate best practice across soil health, nutrient management, water use, biodiversity and more. Importantly, it’s independently verified – giving confidence not just within the industry, but right along the supply chain.

What’s really encouraging is how strongly growers have embraced it. Almost half of Queensland’s cane is now grown under Smartcane BMP accreditation. That represents over 800 farming businesses, covering 175,000 hectares of cane land, who have voluntarily stepped up, invested time and effort, and backed their practices with evidence.

Those efforts are starting to pay off. Recent exports of sustainably verified Queensland sugar to Japan show how farm-level BMP accreditation can translate into real-world outcomes. While growers might not see the full value immediately, these shipments send a powerful signal to global markets that Australian sugar can meet the highest sustainability expectations.

This isn’t about chasing trends. It’s about future-proofing an industry that underpins regional Queensland – and keeping Queensland sugar competitive not just today, but for the next generation of growers.

Markets will keep tightening their requirements, and buyers will keep asking tougher questions. Thanks to Smartcane BMP, Queensland cane growers are in a strong position to answer them – confidently, credibly and on their own terms.

Almost half of Queensland’s cane is now grown under Smartcane BMP accreditation. Photo source: CANEGROWERS

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Burdekin families are being encouraged to help shape the future of local maternity services, with residents invited to attend community forums hosted by the Townsville Hospital and Health Service.

The Pregnancy Care Community Forums will be held at the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre on 9 March, giving parents and families the chance to share their experiences and ideas for improving maternity care in the region.

The sessions aim to capture what the community values most about local pregnancy and postnatal services, as well as identify areas for improvement.

Ayr maternity co-design principal project officer Lauren Lambert said the forums were vital to ensuring services met the needs of rural families.

“We want to hear directly from the people who use or have used these services,” Ms Lambert said.

“The forum will bring together women, families, and maternity staff to engage in open discussion and co-design activities aimed at shaping the future of maternity care in our community.”

Ms Lambert said feedback gathered during the sessions would directly inform the co-design process for maternity services across the district.

“This is about more than just a conversation; it’s about giving our local parents a seat at the table to help us decide what the next chapter of maternity care looks like in the Burdekin,” she said.

For more information or to RSVP, residents can email lauren.lambert@health.qld.gov.au or phone 0413 726 156.

Lauren Lambert is encouraging Burdekin families to share their experiences and help shape the future of local maternity services. Photo supplied

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After a year guiding Burdekin’s youth through a busy calendar of community projects, Burdekin Shire Youth Mayor Nicole Cervoni has officially called her final meeting, stepping down from the role with a string of achievements behind her.

The Burdekin Young Citizen of the Year in 2025, who spent a year on the Youth Council before being elected Mayor in February 2025, oversaw several successful events across the year—achievements she says she is particularly proud of.

“My council and I have achieved so much throughout my term as Youth Mayor,” said Cervoni.

She highlighted helping organise the Fast Track Talent Showcase, supporting the Youth Week Sounds Wave Pool Party, and participating in the Stand Up Sleep Out – Youth Against Homelessness event in the community as key milestones.

Cervoni recently relocated to Townsville to study a Bachelor of Education (Primary) at James Cook University. She said that while her time with the Burdekin Shire Youth Council has ended, she will carry forward valuable lessons.

"I learnt so much as Youth Mayor, made so many connections and made countless memories,” she said.

"As I embark on this new adventure, I will take with me the public speaking skills I have learnt through delivering speeches and chairing meetings," she said.

Her time as Mayor also offered the Millaroo native a deeper perspective on the Burdekin community.

“I was fortunate enough to interact with so many other community organisations and volunteers, which allowed me to see just how much work people are doing in our shire and view how fortunate I am to have grown up in such a kind and giving community,” she said.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort praised Cervoni’s dedication and growth during her term.

“Nicole took on her role as Youth Mayor with such passion and dedication,” Dalle Cort said.

“She is a very passionate young lady and always went above and beyond in her role. She volunteered at almost every event she could, wasn’t shy to have her say and raise ideas, as well as listen to others.”

“She ensured a very inclusive Youth Council during her time as Youth Mayor and although she was working as a trainee, she continued her involvement and dedication to the young people in the Community.”

Cervoni said she hopes her successor will benefit from the role as much as she did.

“Advice I would give to the next youth mayor would be to just enjoy every minute of it and take every opportunity,” she said.

The next Burdekin Shire Youth Council Mayor will be elected at the council’s next meeting on March 16.

After a year guiding Burdekin’s youth through a busy calendar of community projects, Burdekin Shire Youth Mayor Nicole Cervoni has officially called her final meeting, stepping down from the role with a string of achievements behind her. Photo supplied

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A day out on the tranquil sands of Horseshoe Bay turned into a harrowing emergency for an Ayr family, when their nine-year-old granddaughter Olivia was stung by an Irukandji jellyfish.

Chris Richardson, Olivia’s grandmother, is now sharing the family’s story to raise awareness about the dangers of Irukandji stings.

On Monday 2nd February, the family spent their morning teaching Olivia to fish in the shallows – even though, as Chris jokes, the seagulls got 90% of the bait. At lunchtime, Olivia suddenly stated her skin felt really itchy, all over her body.

Thinking it was just sea lice, Chris sent Olivia for a shower, but when she returned feeling worse, she decided to take her home to see a doctor.

But quickly, the symptoms progressed, with Olivia complaining of pain, her skin now hurting all over.

Chris admits she initially wondered if Olivia was exaggerating, joking that her granddaughter has a flair for dramatics and will request a bandage for the lightest scratch.

But then, Chris asked Olivia to pinpoint the pain, and Olivia said, “it feels like it's in my chest and it's going around my back.”

Straight away, alarm bells sounded.

A former nurse, Chris recognised the symptom as an indication of heart distress, which presents this way in women — very different from the crushing chest pressure more commonly described by men.

Instead of driving home to Ayr, Chris and Olivia’s Grandfather, Bob, made a decision that likely saved Olivia’s life, choosing to head straight to Bowen Hospital’s emergency department.

According to the treating doctor, had they attempted the longer drive home, Olivia may have gone into cardiac arrest in the car.

On arrival at the emergency department, Olivia had begun going into cardiac fibrillation. Staff moved quickly, administering antivenom and magnesium — a treatment used to reduce pain and protect the heart from dangerous rhythm disturbances associated with Irukandji syndrome.

Seeing Olivia in such pain was incredibly difficult for Chris and Bob, with Bob also treated for shock.

Chris credits the staff at Bowen Hospital for their exceptional service, keeping calm, and treating her granddaughter with an astounding level of care — from the receptionist at the front desk to the emergency nurses and the attending doctor.

Praising Doctor Luke, she said, “He’s got three daughters himself, which helped him relate to Olivia. He spoke to her very gently and held her arm while she was crying, explaining everything they were going to do and why.”

Later, Chris joked to her husband, “If I ever get sick, you bring me down to Bowen Hospital.”

Olivia was kept in hospital for two days on an intravenous drip before being discharged. While the physical side effects — tingling skin and fatigue — eased within days, the emotional impact has lingered, with Olivia going through occasional bouts of tears as she processes what she experienced.

“She kept crying out, “I’m not going to die. Nanny, don’t let them make me die”,” Chris explained.

Thankfully, Olivia has now made a full recovery. The family hope the experience won’t keep her from enjoying the ocean — now equipped with a new understanding of Irukandji risks and safety precautions.

If you suspect an Irukandji sting, call 000 immediately. When in doubt, treat it as Irukandji and seek urgent medical attention.

1. 9 Year Old Olivia overcame a nasty Irukandji sting. Photo supplied
2. The brave girl spent 2 days in Bowen Hospital, receiving exceptional care. Photo supplied.

A Watch and Act warning for Burdekin Falls Dam remains active after Sunwater confirmed the catchment had begun spilling significant quantities of excess water into the Burdekin River since Sunday, 22 February.

Over the past month, Burdekin Falls Dam capacity levels have continued to rise, and with plenty more heavy rainfall forecast to hit the region in the coming weeks, Sunwater are urging the community to stay informed and alert to the possibility of localised flooding.

Officially known as the largest water storage asset across the state, capacity levels of the Burdekin Falls Dam has been increasing rapidly since Sunday, 15 February, with data indicating the catchment jumped from 107.29 per cent capacity to 145.55 per cent capacity in just seven days.

Sunwater recorded the highest spike in the Burdekin Falls Dam capacity level just a few hours before confirming the catchment had begun spilling excess water, highlighting the catchment increased by 12.19 per cent overnight from Saturday, 21 February to Sunday, 22 February.

As of the morning of Tuesday, 24 February, Burdekin Falls Dam was sitting at 158.73 per cent capacity and still spilling concerning levels of water into the Burdekin River as widespread rainfall continued to impact catchments across the region. Sunwater confirmed current overflows at Burdekin Falls Dam are approximately 655,000 megalitres a day, and it’s expected the dam will continue to spill for a number of weeks.

Several surrounding dams have also begun spilling, including Eungella Dam and Julius Dam, while Kinchant Dam commenced planned releases of excess water last week.

“Sunwater’s thoughts are with any communities in Queensland who may be experiencing flooding due to extreme weather,” said a Sunwater spokesperson.

“Due to recent rainfall across North and Central Queensland, several Sunwater dams are spilling or close to capacity. Sunwater is closely monitoring conditions across dam catchments and liaising with Local Disaster Management Groups as necessary.

“We will continue to provide updates regarding individual dams as per Emergency Action Plan requirements. We would urge the community to remain vigilant near rising water courses and listen to advice from councils and emergency services - and if it’s flooded, forget it.”

In accordance with information released via the Burdekin Shire Council’s Disaster and Emergency Information Dashboard, the Burdekin River at the Burdekin Bridge had reached 7.25 meters, exceeding the minor flood level of 7 meters, and was rising rapidly as of 8am on Tuesday, 24 February.

As of Monday, 23 February, several roads and access points have been impacted, with the Burdekin Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) warning residents of Rita Island to prepare for possible isolation, and to prepare essential supplies like food, drinking water, medications and pet food, to last over five days.

In response to the current river levels, dam releases and forecast conditions, Burdekin LDMG moved to lean forward earlier this week, assuring the community that agencies are continuing to closely monitor conditions.

“We are urging residents to remain alert, monitor conditions closely, and be prepared should conditions change,” advised Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort.

“The Burdekin LDMG is monitoring this closely and will continue to provide updates to the community. Please avoid floodwater, obey road closures, and rely on official sources such as the Bureau of Meteorology and Council’s Disaster Dashboard for the latest updates.”

Multiple unplanned power outages were also confirmed over the past few days, including the loss of supply to three customers in Giru, and the loss of supply to almost 100 customers in Home Hill due to severe damage and fallen power lines. Residents are advised to refer to Ergon Energy’s Outage Finder website via www.ergon.com.au/network/outages/outage-finder for updates.

Authorities warned the increased flows of the Burdekin River and forecast surges may contribute to flooding over the coming weeks and predicted the river would exceed the minor flood level this week. Sunwater urges the community to monitor the levels of the Burdekin Falls Dam via bit.ly/BurdekinFallsStorageLevels, tune into ABC North Queensland 630 AM, and check local updates, road closures and evacuation information via the Burdekin Shire Council’s Disaster and Emergency Information Dashboard via disaster.burdekin.qld.gov.au.

1. Excess water began spilling into the Burdekin River from the Burdekin Falls Dam over the weekend. Photo credit: Rellie May Photography
2. The view of the Burdekin River flowing beneath the Burdekin Bridge as seen from Macrossan Bridge. Photo credit: Di Zee Photography
3. The Burdekin River reached a height of 7.25 meters at the Burdekin Bridge on Tuesday morning. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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The industrial engine room of North Queensland has secured a direct line to the heart of the Opposition’s economic strategy following the re-appointment of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox MP, to the Shadow Ministry.

As part of the new-look Coalition frontbench announced yesterday by Opposition Leader Angus Taylor, Mr Willcox returns to his role as the Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability. He will work in close partnership with the Shadow Minister for Industry and Sovereign Capability, Andrew Hastie, to drive a national agenda focused on domestic production and economic resilience.

The reshuffle follows a historic period of renewal for the Coalition: marked by a newly codified agreement that enshrines the primacy of the Joint Party Room and ensures regional voices are protected in the decision-making process.

Mr Willcox said he is eager to build on his existing work in the portfolio alongside Mr Hastie.

“I am honoured to continue my work in this space as part of the refreshed team led by Angus Taylor,” Mr Willcox said.

“Andrew Hastie and I are a determined duo: he understands the global strategic threats to our nation, and I understand the industrial muscle required here at home to meet them. Together, we are focused on a common goal: ensuring Australia is a nation that makes things again.”

Mr Willcox added that Paget, in the electorate of Dawson, is critical to both manufacturing and sovereign capability in our nation.

“It is where the engineering and maintenance expertise for the Bowen Basin is born; however, our local manufacturers are being pushed to the brink by the 13th interest rate rise under Labor and energy costs that are simply unsustainable.

“My return to this role is about standing up for those workshops and ensuring they have the competitive environment they need to thrive.”

Mr Willcox said he is excited by the new energy within the Coalition.

“The bond between the Liberal and National parties has never been more robust.

“We have moved past a period of internal challenge to emerge with a formal, written agreement that puts regional Australians in the driver’s seat.

“We have a more cohesive structure in place that ensures our policies are formed with common sense and a clear understanding of the challenges facing the people of regional Australia.”

Mr Willcox added that under the leadership of Angus Taylor, the Coalition is unified and ready to lead.

“We are tackling the cost-of-living crisis head-on and developing the practical, evidence-based policies required to move Australia forward.

“We aren’t just an opposition; we are a government-in-waiting that is ready to manufacture a stronger, more secure future for all Australians.”

Mr Willcox confirmed that a key priority for the coming months will be his planned  manufacturing roundtable in Mackay: providing a direct platform for local industry leaders to brief the Shadow Ministry on the challenges of foreign dumping and escalating production costs.

Contributed with thanks to the Office of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP is proud to be re-appointed as Shadow

Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability. Following the announcement of the new-look Coalition shadow ministry by Angus Taylor, Andrew is back in the portfolio and focused on backing the industries that build our nation. Photo supplied

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One of Queensland’s most destructive pest animals are being targeted under a new management action plan and more boots on the ground with Member for Burdekin Dale Last welcoming news that Burdekin farmers and landholders will also benefit.

Mr Last said the release of the draft Queensland Feral Pig Management Action Plan 2026 –2031 was a chance for landholders, stakeholders and industry to have their say on the state’s coordinated approach to tackling feral pigs.

“In the space of one year it was estimated feral pigs caused $95 million of production losses and direct control costs and among those losses is the destruction of sugarcane yields and damage to on-farm irrigation infrastructure,” Mr Last said.

“The damage these animals and risk to human health can cause cannot be understated which is why it is crucial we have a feral pig management plan that recognises the individual needs of each region, including the Burdekin.”

“Feral pigs do not just damage crops, they have been known to degrade waterways, carry infectious diseases and kill lambs and native fauna.”

Mr Last said the draft plan had been developed through regional workshops, consultation and stakeholder input but now was the chance for local landholders and industry groups to also have their say.

“Having a management plan is about delivering real solutions with the funding needed to take meaningful action on the population of feral pigs across Queensland and in the Burdekin,” Mr Last said.

“Already the Crisafulli Government is delivering an additional 100 biosecurity officers added to the front line and investing in innovative techniques and control tools within six priority regions.”

“The better the engagement now, the better the outcome for everyone so it’s important every stakeholder takes the time to have their say. By working with landholders, regional groups and industry we ensure this plan actually works effectively on the ground.”

Contributed with thanks to the Office of Member for Burdekin Dale Last

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Rain, rain, go away…

In my first eight months up here, we had barely enough to fill a mug.

Now I guess the heavens are levelling the scores.

It makes for perfect pink noise at night. By day, though, the region turns into an outdoor sauna.

But as the Burdekin Dam continues to overflow and river levels rise, flood events like the one currently upon us can carry implications far more serious than mere muggy conditions.

Rural roads become unreliable, and local businesses feel the strain. Emergency services and volunteers are stretched thin, responding to call-outs and monitoring conditions all while managing the impacts on their own homes and families.

So if you haven’t already heard it from every authority in North Queensland, try your best to remain safe and vigilant during these times.

One thing I’ve learnt about this community is that when things get tough, so does our bond. So let's continue to stick together as we, in the most literal sense, weather this storm.

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Recently, several residents of the Burdekin Shire have rallied together in support of a GoFundMe campaign for a woman many describe as the definition of community spirit.

The fundraiser has been launched to help Betina, a 60-year-old local on a Disability Support Pension, raise funds for urgent roof repairs to her home after storm damage in December 2024. Despite holding insurance, Betina has been left without cover, and the cost of repairs — quoted at $40,000 — is well beyond her means.

For years, Betina has quietly supported others without asking for anything in return.

During the January–February 2025 floods, when truck drivers were stranded in Ayr, she helped feed them and provided support wherever she could. She has also made Christmas hampers for those experiencing homelessness or loneliness, opened her home to people in need, cared for animals during flood events, and regularly helps neighbours with transport, food and practical support.

Living with chronic pain caused by compressed discs in her neck and back, Betina now finds herself needing the same kindness she has always shown others. A government resilience grant may cover part of the repairs, but a $15,000 funding gap remains.

Locals are now hoping the community can return the favour. Every donation or shared post brings Betina one step closer to a safe, secure home once again. To make a donation or learn more, visit; https://gofund.me/ee9f8128e.

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Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort

February feels as though it has come and gone in a blur — done and dusted. Already, Council has commenced discussions on the 2026/2027 Budget. Every request and every need raised is important, however we must balance those needs with what is achievable and ensure we prioritise responsibly for the benefit of the whole community.

The weather certainly continues to keep us on our toes. While many people are understandably weary of the continued rainfall, our farming community is seeing the benefits. I was jokingly told the other day that Ergon might be heading for liquidation — our farmers would certainly be pleased with their power bills at the moment. It has been quite remarkable to see so much water lying around the district this year.

That said, we are not out of the woods yet, with more rain forecast. I encourage everyone, particularly those in our outer areas, to remain prepared, monitor conditions closely and ensure you have essential supplies on hand in case access is impacted. Please continue to keep up to date through Council’s Disaster Management channels.

This month also marks an important milestone with the Centenary celebrations of Canegrowers Burdekin Ltd. Our community has been built on sugarcane, and it remains at the heart of who we are — the Burdekin truly is the sugar capital of Australia. My grandparents were cane farmers, as was my father, and even today I still feel a sense of excitement watching the cane fires.

When we reflect on how far the industry has come — from the days of manual planting and hand-cutting to the advanced machinery we see now — it is a testament to the strength and innovation of our farming community. I still remember spending school holidays with my family, stripping cane to help with planting — something families don’t do anymore, but memories that speak to the strong connection between our people and the land.

Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone at 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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Councillor Michael Detenon

As your local Councillor, I spend a lot of time talking about roads, rates, and rubbish. But this week, I want to swap the tie for some sun-safe gear and talk about something close to my heart—and the hearts of many fishers in our district.

This Sunday, the Burdekin Fish Restocking Group will be out at the Burdekin Falls Dam for our latest release of barramundi fingerlings.

To some, it might just look like releasing a few thousand tiny fish into a massive body of water. But for the Burdekin, it represents so much more.

I am incredibly proud to serve as the President of the Fish Restocking Group. It is a volunteer-run effort that relies on the passion of locals who want to see our natural assets thrive. It’s a reminder of the "can-do" spirit that defines our Shire—if we want a world-class fishery, we don't wait for someone else to do it; we roll up our sleeves and get the job done ourselves.

There’s also a practical side to this. Healthy populations of native Barra help keep our waterways balanced. They are a natural way to manage pest species and ensure that the Burdekin Dam and River remains a healthy, vibrant environment for generations to come.

If you’re interested, head out to the Dam this Sunday morning (the fish are expected to arrive sometime between 10 and 11am), come throw a few baby barra in the water and grab a snag on bread afterwards. It’s a great day out for the family and a chance to see firsthand how we are working to keep the Burdekin the best place in the North to live, work, and—most importantly—fish.

See you at the Dam!

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Burdekin State Emergency Service volunteers were called into action earlier this month to help Ergon Energy reach a flooded work site at Mt Surround after road access was cut.

Burdekin SES was contacted after floodwaters blocked access to one of Ergon’s transmission towers.

“With all the rain we had earlier, the dam had overflowed and the road they normally use was flooded,” Burdekin SES Local Controller Warren Francis said.

“The only way they could access the tower was by boat.”

Mr Francis visited the site on Friday, February 6, to assess conditions and determine whether assistance was possible. After deeming the area safe, SES flood boat crews were deployed on Tuesday, February 10, and Thursday, February 12, to transport Ergon personnel and their equipment to the tower site.

The team ferried workers to the site, where essential maintenance was carried out over two days with the support of a helicopter.

“It’s critical infrastructure,” Mr Francis said.

“It supplies the mill at Giru and all residents, and goes back up as far as Townsville.

“The community needs to be really grateful for the work Ergon puts in. We’re very grateful that they’re in our community to be able to maintain our lifestyle with electricity.”

Despite challenging conditions, including extreme heat and humidity, the operation was completed successfully.

Mr Francis praised the dedication of his volunteer crew.

“It was extremely hot, extremely humid. It was just reassuring to see the quality of what the SES guys put in. It makes you proud to be part of this community,” he said.

Ergon Energy expressed its sincere gratitude to the SES for their timely support, which enabled the project to be completed efficiently and without unnecessary delay.

Burdekin State Emergency Service volunteers were called into action earlier this month to help Ergon Energy reach a flooded work site at Mt Surround after road access was cut. Photo supplied

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More than 6,200 homes and businesses in Ayr, Home Hill & Brandon are now eligible to upgrade to full fibre via nbn Fibre to the Premises (FTTP).

Upgrading to full fibre can enable access to a faster, more reliable nbn broadband service, delivering a range of benefits, including smoother, higher-resolution video calls, enhanced streaming, faster downloads, and the ability to connect more devices simultaneously.

“Households are consuming more data than ever for the things they love, like streaming 4K on multiple devices, online education, next-level gaming, conference calls, and uploading and downloading large files for work,” said Head of nbn Local Qld, Kylie Lindsay.

“Australians deserve access to fast, effective broadband, regardless of whether they live in a major city or a country town.”

With the recent introduction of speed boosts for higher-tier plans and multi-gigabit speed plans available, there’s never been a better time to consider upgrading to nbn fibre.

In Australia, data demand and usage have doubled in the last five years, with the average household consuming 443 gigabytes per month across 22 internet-connected devices, which is a significant increase from 40 gigabytes of monthly data use across approximately seven internet-connected devices, on average, 10 years ago.

To find out more about the benefits of nbn full fibre and to check your eligibility for other nbn services and preferred retail service providers, visit www.nbn.com.au/CheckRegional.

More than 6,200 homes and businesses in Ayr, Home Hill & Brandon are now eligible to upgrade to full fibre via nbn Fibre to the Premises (FTTP). Photo supplied

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Students at Burdekin Christian College swapped uniforms for pyjamas last week as the school held its annual Pancake and Pyjama Day. From onesies to slippers, the relaxed dress code set the tone for a morning of community and breakfast fun.

Pancakes were served to students of all ages, providing a chance for them to enjoy a meal together in a casual setting. Teachers and the Student Representative Council assisted throughout the morning, helping the event run smoothly.

“Days like this remind us that school is not just about learning—it’s about connection, community and creating memories that make everyone excited to be here,” said a BCC spokesperson.

“An enormous thank you goes out to our incredible SRC members and awesome teachers that helped out all morning.”

The event proved a hit, with students enjoying the chance to relax, share a laugh, and start the day on a sweet note.

A strong turnout of Burdekin business owners marked the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce’s first networking meeting of 2026 last Wednesday night.

The meeting, hosted by the Home Hill Community Sports Club, saw business people from both Home Hill and Ayr congregate for what was an evening of storytelling, local updates, and conversation.

Most notably, the event saw guest speakers Matthew Oar of Leadsafe Plus and Casie Scott of NBN address the crowd. Oar gave a personal insight into the importance of safety in business and everyday life, while Scott announced that homes and businesses in Ayr, Home Hill & Brandon are now eligible to upgrade to faster, more reliable NBN broadband service.

Home Hill Chamber President Uli Liessmann said he was pleased with the turnout for the meeting, hoping it sets the tone for future meetings.

“It always makes it more interesting the more people that are there,” said Liessmann.

“It all revolves around people. If we don’t have enough people, it’s gonna fall flat on its a**.”

Liessmann said guest speakers would become a regular fixture of future meetings, creating a more engaging and insightful experience for members.

“When you’re in business, you always think it’s just you going through certain things. I think we all like to hear what someone else is doing,” he said.

The Chamber looks forward to a year of connection, collaboration, and community growth.

1—Matthew Oar gave a personal insight into the importance of safety in business and everyday life

2—Casie Scott announced that homes and businesses in Ayr, Home Hill & Brandon are now eligible to upgrade to faster, more reliable NBN broadband service.

Photo credit: Jacob Casha

The Lower Burdekin Scout Group has appointed a new Leader, with Shantelle officially making her Scout Promise last Thursday.

Based in Ayr, Shantelle balances her role as a business owner, a mother of five, and a member of the local school P&C. She is now training as a Scout Leader and participating in the group’s adventurous activities.

The Lower Burdekin Scouts welcome volunteers aged 18 to 88, with roles ranging from Youth Leaders to Adult Helpers. Leaders typically commit around three hours a week, plus occasional weekend activities, while Adult Support and Helpers contribute less time.

Volunteering at Scouts provides opportunities to mentor young people, develop skills, and build strong community connections. Adults involved help guide Youth Members in setting goals, learning new skills, and fostering teamwork.

Adults can support the local Scout group in many ways, from maintenance, fundraising and equipment management to roles such as treasurer, secretary and Coffee & Chat coordinator. Volunteers can also help with transport, camping, badgework and activities, or take on a larger role by becoming a Leader and mentoring local youth.

The group meets Thursdays from 5:30 to 7:30 pm at 57–59 Twelfth Avenue, Home Hill, behind the swimming pool. For more information about volunteering, contact Rikki on 0419 104 035.

The Lower Burdekin Scout Group has appointed a new Leader, with Shantelle officially making her Scout Promise last Thursday.

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