Community News

Jump in with Jacob 11 July

Jump in with Jacob 11 July

Another week, another milestone—my first Core Life deadline. Core Life, if you're not aware, is a bi-monthly business and lifestyle magazine, also published by Life Publishing Group—the same team behind this very newspaper. For almost 15 years, it’s been fondly known as the local business networking and lifestyle publication. One of my favourite parts of writing for the magazine—and, frankly, in general—is having the chance to spotlight the truly remarkable achievements of locally based indivi

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Home Hill’s Winter Angel

Home Hill’s Winter Angel

As chilly mornings return to Home Hill, 92-year-old Hilda Frew is doing more than just staying warm — she’s giving back. Each winter, Hilda sets up a humble table in the heart of town, offering her handmade “Cosy Bed Socks” to passers-by for just $5 a pair. But it’s not about the money — every cent goes directly to support School Chaplaincy Programs at local high schools. Knitted while she enjoys her favourite TV shows, Hilda’s colourful socks are as warm in spirit as they are in wool. So far

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New Wheels & New Hope For Little Ayden Wall

New Wheels & New Hope For Little Ayden Wall

Local Lions & Broader Community Help Raise $50,000 For New Car

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State Budget Funds 30,000 Extra Surgeries & New Hospital Beds

State Budget Funds 30,000 Extra Surgeries & New Hospital Beds

Queenslanders needing elective surgery are set to benefit from a major funding boost in the 2025‑26 State Budget after the Government announced its allocation of $1.8 billion set to roll out over the next four years. The centrepiece is $1.27 billion for the Surgery Connect program, projected to deliver 30,000 additional procedures in 2025‑26 alone, including hip and knee replacements and cataract operations. The program has already shown results: in April the statewide wait‑list fell by 2,750 p

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Easter Hat Fever Takes Over Home Hill Kids

April 4, 2024

On Tuesday, March 26, St Colman's Catholic School held their Easter Hat Parade and were joined by Home Hill Community Kindy.  
There were so many fabulous hats created by the students of all ages and we thank our families for coming along and supporting the children.  
Winners were selected from each class and the judges said it was such a hard task trying to pick a winner.

Contributed by St Colman's Catholic School

Students from St Colman's Catholic School and Home Hill Community Kindy took part in an Easter Hat Parade. Photos supplied

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Elders Named Australia’s Most Trusted Agribusiness Brand

April 4, 2024

Elders has been announced as Australia’s Most Trusted Agribusiness Brand in Roy Morgan’s inaugural Trusted Agribusiness Brand Awards following an exceptional year garnering high levels of trust, and exceedingly low, or negligible, levels of distrust.
50 brands were measured as part of the study involving surveys with over 1,000 Australian farmers, with Elders claiming the top spot in the Agribusiness Products and Services category and the ‘Best of the Best’ Most Trusted Agribusiness Brand for 2023.
Roy Morgan CEO Michele Levine said Elders’ success can be attributed to five factors: strong customer relationships, good customer service, experienced and knowledgeable staff, long-standing presence, and reliable products and services.
“While its historic roots are in agriculture, today Elders’ diverse business operations cover rural services, real estate, insurance and much more,” Mr Levine said.
“For 185 years Elders has been embedded in the fabric of Australian agriculture and played a key role in rural and regional communities by employing local people and servicing local farming families.”
Farmers interviewed in the study, praised Elders, saying, “Any dealings I have had with them were completed efficiently and in a straightforward manner,” and, “Comprehensive insurance and banking services underpinned by local support.”
The Awards recognised the outstanding levels of trust built up by eight brands across a range of different industries and services including Animal Health, Agribusiness Banks, Chemicals and Fertilisers, Farmers Co-op, Grain Companies, Industry Groups, Stock Feed, and Agribusiness Products and Services generalists.
“When customers trust a brand, they continue buying its products or services, they recommend it to others and remain loyal to the brand,” Me Levine said.
“So trust is the underpinning foundation of brand reputation.
“This is especially important in the farming and agribusiness industries where building and maintaining trust is a key pathway to developing business and personal relationships within this competitive sector.”

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Get To Know Graphic Designer Lara Moss

April 4, 2024

While you may not have had the pleasure of meeting her personally, you have most definitely seen her amazing work showcased within the pages of our Burdekin Life and Mackay and Whitsunday Life newspapers.

Lara Moss is one of two graphics designers on our team and while she has only been on board with us since late last September, she is a remarkable asset to the team and is amazing at what she does whilst bringing a cheerful and vibrant personality to the role.

Whilst Lara was born in Townsville, she grew up in the serene surroundings of the Whitsundays her whole life and after spending eighteen years of living in the pristine, laid-back atmosphere of the region, she still admires the beautiful community and unique balance, where it’s not too crowded like a city but not too rural either.

“It’s a happy medium,” as Lara would describe.

Lara attended Proserpine High School and after having a passion for working in the art field, her school recommended her when Mackay and Whitsunday Life were advertising for a designer last year.

Lara expresses gratitude for the way things fell into place, leading her to her current position in graphic design.

“Things just kind of fell into place and I’m very grateful for that,” she said.

She now crafts captivating article layouts as well as eye-catching designs for both advertisements and general publications. With a keen eye for innovation, Lara is always on the lookout for fresh, intricate ideas to elevate our publication to new heights.

Green and purple are her top favourite colours and as an Aquarius, she embodies qualities of creativity and independence, which shine through in both her professional and personal pursuits. She doesn’t necessarily live by a particular quote as she claims that she doesn’t find them to be too sentimental but in her free time, she enjoys doing all things artsy, playing with her adorable and much-loved dog Rosie or listening to alternative, heavy metal rock music.

Lara brings an array of skills to the team and is a valued employee within the walls of Burdekin Life and Mackay and Whitsunday Life.

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Farm Financial Skills Workshops Coming To Ayr

April 4, 2024

Primary producers in the Burdekin have the opportunity to expand their knowledge, free of charge, at a series of Rabo Client Council workshops.
The workshops are designed to help provide the financial skills essential to managing an agricultural enterprise and will provide farmers with an opportunity to both upskill and network.
The initiative has been spearheaded and funded by food and agribusiness banking specialist Rabobank’s Rabo Client Council, a group of the bank’s farming clients who volunteer their time implementing programs that contribute to the sustainability of rural and regional communities.
Offered free of charge to participants, the interactive workshops provide practical, hands-on advice for understanding financial statements and banking requirements and explore topics such as taxation versus management accounting, essential business management ratios and understanding key components of a business’s financial profile.
Northern Queensland & Northern Territory Rabo Client Council member and Mackay-based accountant, Tony Olsen said “financial skills are important for our producers and the next generation of producers.
“Many of our next-generation farmers may be highly educated, or have extensive on-farm experience, but understanding financial reporting and banking requirements is often foreign to them which is why these workshops are so valuable,” he said.
Mr Olsen said the workshop content would consider cash flow implications of a variety of enterprises and there will also be a focus on preparing annual cash flow budgets.
He said the content had been specifically tailored for the workshop locations – focusing on beef and sugar enterprises at Mackay and sugar and horticulture operations for Ayr.
“The workshops have been designed so couples and family members can attend together – it is a really valuable opportunity to get away from the farm for the day to take in the same information and develop an understanding of financial reporting together,” he said.
The workshops, limited to 30 participants each, are not restricted to the bank’s clients and will be presented by director of Hudson Facilitation, Tony Hudson.
The workshop will be held in the Burdekin Theatre Loft, Ayr, on Wednesday, April 10 from 8:30am to 3:30pm.
To register to participate, visit rabobankaunz.eventsair.com/financial-skills-workshops/registration/Site/Register.
Morning tea and lunch catering will be provided.

Northern Queensland & Northern Territory Rabo Client Council member Tony Olsen

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The Evolution Of QCAR Continues Cane Supply Agreements And Other Organisational Activities

April 4, 2024

With cane supply agreements underway across the state, Queensland Cane Agriculture & Renewables (QCAR) continues to fulfil its promises made to the industry and its members.
QCAR CEO Panikos Spyrou said Cane Supply Agreement negotiations are well underway in the Herbert, while in the Mackay region, negotiations are nearing full completion as QCAR strives to achieve innovative outcomes for its members across the state.
“We are satisfied that we have been able to achieve the desires of our membership as specifically requested by them to us,” Mr Spyrou said.
“We’re feeling quite comfortable that we’ve made some very significant progressive steps and that is very indicative of how a commercial negotiation should take place.”
QCAR has also been approached and chartered by individuals to commence cane supply agreement negotiations in the Plane Creek and Proserpine regions.
Mr Spyrou said QCAR ensures to engage in negotiations in accordance with the requirements of the Sugar Industry Act and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC).
“Each grower and miller must engage in a Cane Supply Agreement in order to be compliant with the Sugar Industry Act with regards to the supply of sugar cane to a factory,” he explained.
“The sugarcane industry is quite unique in the regard that the Parties are compelled to have a Cane Supply Agreement in place prior to any supply and receival of sugarcane to avoid contravention of the Sugar Industry Act.
“Our role is to prepare, negotiate, draft, review and provide aftercare services throughout the negotiation and term of the Agreement.”
The ongoing negotiations are yet another example of QCAR’s commitment to advocacy for growers across the state.
Meanwhile, Mr Spyrou said he is impressed with QCAR’s Burdekin members who have embraced the organisation’s growth to include farmers from across Queensland.
“Our Burdekin members have allowed this growth to happen by welcoming others with open arms and allowing us to expand resources and spread our time and efforts across multiple regions,” he said.
“That’s a true testament to the Burdekin farmers in this organisation.
“We are a progressive organisation with a very progressive board who are consciously making positive and continual restructures as the evolution of QCAR continues.”


Examples Of QCAR’s Commitment To Ongoing Growth And Support For Queensland Cane Farmers
   • Establishing representation across the state of Queensland
   • Changing the organisation’s name to Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables to reflect a statewide focus
   • Continual collaboration with likeminded and progressive thinking organisations
   • Establishing an office and personnel in the Herbert with Senior Agricultural Technical Officer Lawrence Di Bella alongside Administration Officer Anna Di Bella driving membership in the region
   • The negotiation of cane supply agreements in the Mackay region
   • Growing in the Mackay region with the establishment of an office and the hiring of a Central Queensland District Manager
   • Assisting members mainly across the Herbert and Burdekin who have been audited by DES (The Department of Environment, Science and Innovation)
   • Developing a harvest/haulout drivers course with HR license compliance across Herbert and Burdekin regions and facilitation of multiple in-house Driver Pilot/Escort Accreditation Courses
   • Supporting and advocating for members with regards to harvest grouping applications, siding access issues and potential capital works for infrastructure upgrades
   • Engaging with incumbent sugarcane millers as well as emerging companies such as JetZero and the like working towards QCAR being the preferred underlying sugarcane provider for the raw feedstock required for Sustainable Aviation Fuel plants and other green energy project initiatives which support  QCAR’s Circular Bio Economy strategy
   • Working with agronomy businesses to assist farmers and members manage their cost of production through input cost procurement programs
   • Writing comprehensive submissions and participation in various government and non-government hearings to a suite of critical matters directly impacting members
   • Developing Nutrient Management Plans and aftercare assistance to QCAR’s entire membership through Senior Agricultural Technical Officer, Mr Lawrence Di Bella
   • And the list goes on!

Pictured is QCAR’s very humble and down to earth CEO hard at work behind the scenes at QCAR Central
QCAR have erected billboards throughout north Queensland

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Things To Do The Charm Of Charters Towers

April 4, 2024

Charters Towers is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Steeped in history and surrounded by stunning landscapes, the charming destination, an hour and a half from Townsville, offers a myriad of activities for visitors. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or adventure seeker, Charters Towers has something for everyone.

Explore The Historic Stock Exchange Arcade
Start your Charters Towers journey by delving into its rich history at the Stock Exchange Arcade. This heritage-listed building showcases the town's prosperous past as a gold mining hub. The arcade is now home to retail shops, offices and a coffee shop. Wander through the charming arcade, marvel at the ornate architecture, and immerse yourself in the tales of the gold rush era. Don't forget to snap some photos of the iconic clock tower.

Step Back In Time At Zara Clark Museum
Dive deeper into Charters Towers' history at the Zara Clark Museum. This treasure trove of artifacts and exhibits provides a comprehensive look into the town's pioneering days. From antique furniture to vintage photographs, the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of those who shaped Charters Towers. It's a must-visit for history enthusiasts and families alike.

Take A Tour Through Venus Gold Battery
Relive the excitement of the gold rush by touring Queensland’s oldest and largest surviving gold Battery. Nestled amidst picturesque surroundings, this site was once a crucial part of Charters Towers' mining operations. Join a guided tour to learn about the gold extraction process, a “must-do” experience for visitors to the Towers. It's an interactive and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

Embark On A Nature Walk At Towers Hill
With its summit 420 metres above sea level, the rocky pinnacle of Towers Hill is the very best spot to catch a sorbet sunset over the town. A short drive from the town centre, this natural reserve offers breathtaking panoramic views of Charters Towers. Explore the walking trails that wind through the rugged landscape, keeping an eye out for local wildlife and diverse bird species. The sunrise and sunset vistas from Towers Hill are particularly spectacular, providing a perfect backdrop for avid photographers.

Cool Off With A Dip
There are plenty of opportunities to take or dip or indulge in some water sports in Charters Towers thanks to its proximity to the mighty Burdekin River. Whether you have a fondness for swimming, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, boating or even bird watching, popular spots on the river include the Macrossan Bridge, Dave Chapman Recreational Park, Burdekin Falls Dam or the Burdekin Weir Park.

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School Holiday Fun In the Burdekin

April 4, 2024

Wink and Blink
Every school holiday our local libraries create two activity booklets for children to take home free of charge. Wink is the booklet for younger children and Blink is for older school aged children. The booklets are available from the weekend that holidays start and can be collected from the desk at either Burdekin Library Ayr or Home Hill Branch Library.


Visit Coutts Park
Coutts Park in Ayr features a playground, picnic shelter and barbecue area, half basketball court, exercise equipment as well as ample parking and public toilet facilities.


Burdekin Art Trail
Following the Burdekin Art Trail will enable you to experience a truly unique collection of murals, sculptures and installations which depict stories of our region’s culture and heritage. In recent years unassuming spaces around our towns have been transformed into vibrant works of art by a number of renowned and emerging artists from across Australia. The trail currently stretches across five towns and can commence from either Giru in the north or Home Hill towards the south. The whole community are invited to spend a couple of hours exploring the Burdekin’s continuously evolving collection of street art.

Visit Arch Dunn Memorial Park
The Arch Dunn Memorial Park in Home Hill features a playground, picnic tables and barbecue area as well as ample parking and public toilet facilities. 
The Arch Dunn Memorial Park was dedicated in the memory of the Dunn family, who were prominent business people in Home Hill and Arch was a foundation member of the Home Hill Rotary Club. The park was upgraded in 2007 as a joint project by the Home Hill Rotary Club and the Burdekin Shire Council.

Ayr Nature Display
The Ayr Nature Display has been a part of the community since 1966 and is one man's incredible collection of Australian Nature. The Ayr Nature Display is Australia's finest, preserved collection of butterflies, moths, beetles, crustaceans, sea shells, reptiles, rocks, timber, Aboriginal stone implements and fossils, especially ammonites, all under one roof.

Bird Viewing - Horseshoe Lagoon Conservation Park
The park's permanent freshwater lagoon is close to major tourist routes and intensive agricultural areas. It's unique freshwater vegetation and abundant birdlife provides an unforgettable experience for bird enthusiasts.
Horseshoe Lagoon is about a 30-minute drive north of Ayr. The Burdekin Shire Council has provided a bird hide on the edge of the lagoon, which allows bird watchers a sheltered environment from which to view the various bird species living at this habit.


Plantation Nature Play
Plantation Nature Play is a state-of-the-art nature-based play area at Plantation Park with all-abilities swings, a fortress-themed lookout, and rock and rope climbs. It also features a variety of activities such as an accessible fortress themed lookout, rock and rope climbing and fossil digging.


Plantation Park
Plantation Park in Ayr is a popular stop offering shady areas for picnics, access to the Juru Walk and the state-of-the-art Plantation Nature Play. Plantation Park is also home to a 60m carpet snake sculpture, Gubulla Munda, which was built by the Gudjuda Reference Group in 2004 to celebrate and promote indigenous culture.
The park follows the flowing creek with a number of lush, shady trees which surround the number of great facilities on offer. The facilities include public toilets, picnic tables, BBQ facilities and caravan parking.


Alva - Playground

Enjoy an afternoon playing at Alva Park! The recently upgraded playground features old favourites such as slides and swings, as well as instrument-inspired installations including slap pipes and a four-note drum. The park also has picnic shelters, BBQ facilities and a new half basketball court as well as ample parking and public toilet facilities.

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Ayr Bowls News

April 4, 2024

Wednesday March 20 winners were Barry Hewson, Col Essex and Mario Milan who defeated Bob Young, Dino Poli and Lew Stidston.
Runners up were Reno Lazarin, Alan Jones and Ron Soper who defeated John Hall, George Nixon and Henry Hazle.
Saturday March 22 winners were Sandra Darwen and Ron Soper who defeated John Pirrone and Rob Garner.
Runners up were Lorraine Wolffe, Vince Beitia and Blake Hyden.
Social Bowls on Tuesday March16: Betty Schultz, Heather Jorgensen and Sandra Stidston defeated Isabel Cislowski, Beryl Cornford and Pam Power.
Competition Thursday 28 Open Singles: Dot Cutting defeated Heather Jorgensen and Beryl Cornford through on a forfeit.
Wednesday Night March 27 winners were Evelyn Wiltshere, David Burt and Sam Caltabiano and in the pairs game, Margaret McLaughlin and Gary Pearce.
Wednesday March 27 winners were Bob Young and Col Essex who defeated Margaret Chapman and Chris Berkery.
Saturday March 30 winners were John Pirrone, Rino Lazzarin and Ron Soper who defeated Alan Jones, Linda Guimelli and Ron Soper.
Competition games Sunday 7/4 - Championship Singles - G. Pearce vs C. Pearce (m) L. Stidston.   V. Beitia vs S. Caltabiano (m) J. Grabbi. Championship Pairs - R. Young/C. Essex vs R. Garner/W. Coonan.

Contributed by Michael Parravicini

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Home Hill Bowls Report

April 4, 2024

Wednesday night barefoot bowls was won by Paul and, for the first time, Nev. Four bowls pairs was the game played.
Thursday’s game had 23 players turn up to do battle.  The winners of the day were Trevor, Alex and John. Thanks to sponsor Blinds 2 U. Tuesday Trimmers is going well and BINGO Thursday mornings is a bit of a hit. Until next week, good bowling.
Contributed by Stephen Doig

Paul and Nev

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Home Hill Junior Open Results

April 4, 2024

The juniors were lucky with the weather, taking to the green on Saturday, March 23 for the Home Hill Junior Open and just finishing their comp and presentations before the rain set in.

Results
3 Holes
Gross winner - Sonny Hutchinson
Nett winner - Ella Church
Nett R/U - Hudson Suficiencia
NTP - Sonny Hutchinson

6 Holes
Gross winner - Rheanna Bain
Gross R/U - Curtis Borellini
Nett winner - Lyla Land
Nett R/Up - Kyle Wilkie
NTP - Curtis Borellini

9 Holes
Gross winner - Cody Webster
Nett winner - Ikie McGrath
Nett R/Up - Reid Martin
NTP - Jordan Manno

18 Hole Girls
Gross winner - Hayley Jenkins
Nett winner - Amaya Mahoney
Nett R/Up - Zoe Brooks
NTP - Hayley Jenkins

18 Hole Boys
Gross winner - Elio Di Bella (won in a playoff)
Gross R/Up - Marcus Yasso
Nett winner - Jim Breen
Nett R/Up - Jack Hayes-Williams
NTP 4 - Dallas Douglas
NTP 9 - Elio Di Bella

The winners of the Home Hill Junior Open. Photo supplied

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Sit Down With Sam

March 27, 2024

Hi readers
I’ve returned from a wonderful weekend of exploring with mum and dad and have bid adieu to them once again.
After a weekend spent in the Burdekin, that included sunrise up the hill, a night of bowls, and a couple of beers with the neighbours, the three of us headed west, spending our first night on the road in Ravenswood.
Although I don’t have any ghost stories to share, the town had a historical eeriness which I loved.
The remaining buildings were just beautiful to look at and I was fascinated by what was left of the town.
The next day we went on to Charters Towers after a quick drive out to Burdekin Falls Dam.
Lunch at the Stock Exchange Arcade was a must do, as was perusing the Arcade’s bookstore.
We went for a wander downtown, taking plenty of photos of the beautiful old buildings.
We also explored the history at the Zara Clark Museum and admired the birdlife at Burdekin Weir before taking in the vastness of the area from Towers Hill.
These were all areas I’d never been before, so I was glad to have been able to make the trip while mum and dad were up.
While at bowls last week, Trevor offered to take a photo of us “for the paper,” so I thought I’d include it here.
With the long weekend approaching, I’m taking the opportunity to do some more exploring, so I’ll report back here next week with tales of my next adventure.
I hope you all have a great weekend and enjoy the read!

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Queensland Pride On Display Dale Last Presents Brandon State School With New Flags

March 27, 2024

The Burdekin likes to fly its flags proudly, but the north Queensland sunshine can certainly take its toll.
That’s where Member for Burdekin Dale Last came in, providing a new set of flags for Brandon State School earlier in the month.
Mr Last presented students and staff with the flags on Monday, March 11.
“Like all schools throughout the electorate, the Brandon State School takes great pride in flying their flags,” he said.
“Thanks to the North Queensland weather, the school’s flags were looking a bit worse for wear but, yesterday, I delivered a full set of new flags.
“The principal and students are looking forward to hosting them up the flagpoles so everyone can see how proud they are to be Queenslanders and Australians.”
Most organisations and not-for-profit community groups are eligible for a free Queensland flag and as Member for Burdekin, Mr Last would be honoured to present the flag at your meeting or event where possible.
Those eligible include schools, tertiary institutions, Scouts, youth organisations, service associations such as Rotary and Lions, welfare and ethnic organisations, sporting clubs, historical societies, museums, show societies and local fire brigades etc.
To find out more, visit www.dalelast.com.au/howdalecanhelp.

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Alva Fisher Receives State Recognition

March 27, 2024

Alva fisher Sienna Green has been awarded the Young Achiever Award at the Queensland Seafood Industry Awards after being nominated for making “a positive difference to the seafood industry.”
26-year-old Sienna is a third-generation fisher who has been operating her own fishing business for the last six years.
When the State and Federal Governments announced a ban on the use of gillnets on the Great Barrier Reef in June last year, Sienna and her father Neil embarked on a nine-month battle for the rights of their industry.
“We’ve obviously had a massive nine months following everything with the gillnet ban, so I was just over the moon to be awarded,” Sienna said.
“I was up against some strong competition, so to come out on top, especially representing wild caught, was just awesome.”
Being a third-generation fisher, Sienna grew up helping on the boats with her dad, Neil, and her mum Leanne.
“I’ve been on the water all my life,” she said.
“It’s something I never thought I could or wanted to do, being a professional fisher, but after school, nothing really stood out to me.”
Sienna took a gap year to work with her parents, taking on more responsibility and growing her skills and experience.
“I thought I might just give it a go myself and see how I go and there was a massive difference from being in the deckhand’s seat to being in the skipper’s seat and I absolutely loved it,” she said.
“I’ve been operating my own fishing business for just over six years, and I haven’t looked back.”
Driven by the needs of the seafood consumer, Sienna is passionate about providing fresh, wild caught seafood, and appreciates the unique nature of the line of work she’s chosen to pursue.
“They’re the ones who rely on us to catch their share of the resource out there, and being a third-generation professional fisher, that’s in my blood,” she said.
“You’re working in the most beautiful environment out there on the water.
“Every day is different, there’s never a roster or a routine, and you’re always learning, and that’s the part that keeps me keen and excited.”
Travelling to Brisbane for the gala dinner on Friday, March 15, Sienna used the opportunity to represent the wild caught inshore net fishery she is a part of.
“We had Fisheries Queensland and some managers in the room as well as the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries, Mark Furner, so I was very honoured to receive the award having them in the room,” she said.
“I wouldn’t have been able to get as far as what I have without our local community’s support.
“The local traditional owners and the council, politicians, we wouldn’t be where we are without them, so we’re very grateful for all of that support that we’ve received over the past nine months.
“I hope by winning the award, I have done our inshore net fishery proud, and that with an award of this significance, I hope it can showcase our industry.”
Sienna and Neil are currently in Canberra where they prepared barramundi on the doorstep of Parliament House, hoping to showcase what will be taken away should gillnet fishing be banned in 2027.

Alva fisher Sienna Green was awarded the Young Achiever Award at the Queensland Seafood Industry Awards. Photo supplied

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Government’s “Unforgiveable Broken Promise” Energy Prices On The Rise

March 27, 2024

The Australian Government has found itself in quite a pickle after breaking its election promise to reduce overall household energy bills by $275. The draft of regulated electricity prices was released on March 20 after the national energy regulator pledged to intensify efforts in safeguarding consumers.

Dale Last, Member for Burdekin, remained reluctant about the proposal, raising major concerns that it wouldn’t be enough to ensure regional customers can afford to keep the lights on in their homes.

Upon the release of the Australian Energy Regulator's draft decision, it appears that Queenslanders who are unable to seek alternative suppliers will face a $53 hike in the coming months.
Mr Last said the draft decision was another kick in the guts for regional customers at the mercy of a monopoly energy market.
“The fact that a report by Energy Queensland found more than 50 per cent of customers were concerned they would not be able to pay their upcoming power bill should be ringing alarm bells not only with regulators but the Minister,” Mr Last said.
“For years we’ve seen promises of rebates and cheaper electricity only to find when the bill arrives that those rebates, concessions and promises are sucked up by the soaring prices we are left to pay.”
“The draft Default Market Offer has confirmed that the Government has fallen short by up to $1,027 of its promised price reduction for everyday households, equivalent to a 37% increase.”

As a sign of the suffering faced by everyday Australian households, startling new numbers from the AER have also revealed 116,753 people have been placed into hardship due to their skyrocketing energy bills and 192,459 people are now in energy debt.

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox said the skyrocketing price of energy was consigning local people to energy poverty.

“Labor was elected on a promise that it would reduce household electricity bills by $275 but instead Australians are now paying among the most expensive bills in the world,” Mr Willcox said.

“This is simply unaffordable for residents in my community who are already suffering.”

The Shadow Minister for Climate Change and Energy Ted O’Brien said Labor’s broken promise on energy prices was “unforgiveable”.

“The Australian people deserve nothing less than a complete and unreserved apology from Prime Minister Albanese for making households and businesses pay for his failures,” he said.

Prior to its election, the Australian Labor Party promised to create jobs, cut power bills and reduce emissions by boosting renewable energy.

“This plan will bring cheaper renewable energy to Australian homes and businesses,” said the Australian Labor Party statement. 

“It will cut power bills for families and businesses by $275 a year for homes by 2025, compared to today.”

The draft DMO, released by the Australian Energy Regulator, sets the ‘reference price’ for electricity bills for the 2024-2025 period and will now be consulted on before the final determination is made in coming months.

The final 2023-24 DMO recorded increase in the overall cost of electricity, throwing into the question the likelihood of any substantial changes before the final determination for the 2024-25 DMO is made.

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Three Decades Of Leadership

March 27, 2024

One of the Burdekin’s longest serving members of Local Government is walking the halls of the Burdekin Shire Council chambers for the last time this week, having been first elected over 30 years ago.

Lyn McLaughlin has risen from local Councillor to Mayor of the region during this time and despite being unsuccessful in her bid for another term in the hot seat, she said she is harnessing the optimism and integrity she is known for, taking the new life direction in her stride.

No stranger to local government, Ms McLaughlin’s father Robert Rossi served as Councillor and Deputy Chairman of the Mulgrave Shire in Far North Queensland for 23 years, something that inspired his daughter to follow in a similar direction.

“In 1976 I first moved to the Burdekin as a teacher at Home Hill State Primary School – and my love for our region has grown every day since then,” Ms McLaughlin said.

“18 years after moving here I was first elected Councillor, as I wanted to turn my passion into action and serve the community that I loved.

“Since then, I have been incredibly privileged to serve as both Councillor and Mayor for 22 years.”

Ms McLaughlin said she is proud of all the positive change she has driven within the region during her tenure and would like to thank all the elected representatives she has been fortunate to work with over this time.

“It is with much sadness that I walk the halls of Burdekin Shire Council for the final time: I’ve been incredibly lucky to work with a dedicated and enthusiastic team of both indoor and outdoor staff over the past three decades,” she said.

“I wish the incoming Council and new Mayor success in supporting our community and continuing to progress the Burdekin Shire.”

Ms McLaughlin is looking forward to more time with family and friends and supporting local organisations, including Burdekin Netball Association and Lower Burdekin Landcare.

“Our son will return home from working for the Australian Antarctica Division at Macquarie Island this May, so my husband Matt and I are looking forward to spending time with him,” she said.

“I’ve always enjoyed my time outdoors, whether it’s on the sidelines of the netball court or in the garden, and I am looking forward to having more time pursuing these passions and volunteering where I can.

“We have recently seen the formation of the Burdekin Catholic Parish – the coming together of the former parishes in Home Hill, Giru, Clare and Ayr – and I look forward to being an active member of their community.

“You will see me across the Shire regularly supporting local events and community organisations, so please don’t be a stranger.

“As I start a new chapter in my life, I want to thank all Burdekin residents for their faith in me: serving you over the past three decades has been the greatest honour, and I will never forget it.”

Lyn McLaughlin will step down as Burdekin Regional Council Mayor this week. Photo credit: Marni Hine

Lyn McLaughlin during her first term as Mayor. Photo supplied

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