With nearly 47 years of service to the community across Ayr and Home Hill health services, cook Rhonda McBow will be hanging up the apron for the last time.

Getting her start at the Home Hill Hospital in 1977, Mrs McBow had been working at the old Coutts supermarket and was looking for a career change.

“I’d heard the money was better at the hospital, so I went up and spoke to Matron Davies,” Mrs McBow said.

“There were no interviews or resumes required back then, and she offered me a cleaning position.

“Over the next 19 years I saw the development of the new 15 bed hospital which we moved into in 1993.

“It was very exciting; the kitchen had tiles on the floors, stainless steel benches and modern appliances and carpet throughout the hospital.”

It wasn’t until 1997 when Mrs McBow transferred over to the old Ayr Hospital as a kitchen hand that she found her place.

“My job was delivering meals to patients and daily kitchen duties which I enjoyed very much,” she said.

“In 2004 the new 28-bed hospital was built, with a brand-new kitchen with all the modern equipment, combi oven and Bain Marie.

“I was offered an opportunity to take on a cook’s position in 2007 which I loved very much.

“Cooking the daily meals, afternoon tea for patients; it was a very busy job.”

Ayr Health Service director of nursing Tracey Gabiola said Mrs McBow would be sorely missed by staff and patients alike.

“Rhonda has made a significant contribution to the Ayr and Home Hill health services,” she said.

“We have been very fortunate to have her as a cook for many years and patients, staff, and families have been enjoying her five-star catering during her time here.

“I continually receive feedback regarding the quality and variety of meals provided within our services and I appreciate and commend Rhonda for maintaining this exceptional service for our community.”

With her final date looming, Mrs McBow said she planned to do a bit of caravanning and spending time with the grandchildren.

“Our retirement plans are to holiday around in our caravan,” she said. “We have a beautiful new granddaughter at the Sunshine Coast, so we’ll be travelling down a lot.

“I also love my horses and want to do more horse riding and pony clubbing, teaching our 10- year-old granddaughter to ride.”

Health service staff held a retirement party for Mrs McBow last week, attended by past and present colleagues and friends.

Her last day is December 12, nearly one month shy of 47 years on January 10, 2025.

Article contributed by Townsville Hospital and Health Service.

‍

Rhonda McBow will complete her last day on December 12. Photo supplied

‍

When I first started this column I was thinking of the movie Four Weddings and a Funeral with its hit song Love Is All Around because it was performed by the band Wet Wet Wet. How quick things can change because now this weather feels more like the upbeat vibe of Hot Hot Hot! The scorching days have certainly turned up the heat, making us all long for a cool breeze to break the spell.
This isn’t the scorching weather I envisioned while writing my final Councillor column for 2024. The days have flown by in a haze of heat, and meanwhile the crushing is still dragging on and will undoubtedly go past Christmas day and will be lucky to finish this year. My hopes and prayers go out to all involved in the Burdekin’s most important and valuable industry, and that we get all the cane off as soon as possible. It will be tough going.
I found myself participating in the 5km run organised by “the three blokes running”. I’d like to congratulate Austin, Campbell and Brayden for organising such a worthwhile event. These young men ran 180km throughout November to raise money and awareness for men’s mental health. Well done to the lads. Remember “it ain’t weak to speak”.
The lighting of the new trees was held last week and it was great to see families and children getting their photos with Santa. The weather broke just long enough to successfully see Santa stay dry and all the kids getting some time with Santa.  
The Bendigo Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr Christmas Carols had a fantastic turnout. I would have preferred more people and less birds personally. However, there was something for everyone with free face painting, a photo booth, delicious food and drinks, and a wonderful line-up of local entertainment. The highlight of the night was the spectacular fireworks display, and, of course, a special visit from Santa!
With that said I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a Merry Christmas and best wishes for a safe and prosperous new year. Stay safe.

‍

This past month has been a whirlwind of firsts for me, and I’ve loved every moment of it.
I was honoured to celebrate the incredible 100-year anniversary of the Home Hill Race Club. It’s amazing to think about how much history and community spirit has been poured into this club over the last century.
Attending the BCA Seniors Luncheon and the Tourism Volunteers Christmas Party for the first time was such a treat. Meeting so many wonderful people who contribute so much to our community made these events truly special.
Another first for me was attending school graduations across the Shire. Watching students step confidently into the next chapter of their lives with excitement and enthusiasm for the future. I wish them all the best as they embark on this new journey.
The Bendigo Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr Christmas Carols was a fantastic evening and it was amazing to see Watson’s Green packed with Christmas spirit. Santa even paid us a visit, and we were blessed with a rain-free event!
As the temperatures continue to rise, I encourage everyone to stay hydrated and look after themselves. Don’t forget to also prepare for any unexpected weather events - it’s always better to be safe and ready.
Thank you for welcoming me so warmly at these events. It’s been a joy to experience the wonderful traditions and spirit that make the Burdekin such a special place to call home.
Stay safe and take care of yourself. Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone on 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

‍

Last week on Thursday, December 5, Burdekin based company Aglantis, launched their smart irrigation, on-farm Smart Irrigation Demo Field Day with great success.

Led by Luke Malan, Aglantis’ Managing Director, between 40-50 farmers turned up for the demo to witness the future of smart irrigation solutions in operation, today.

Luke ran through what they’ve been able to achieve, how they operate, the ease of installation, and the low-cost entry point for local farmers of the Burdekin, which pleased the many farmers in attendance.

Farmers can take advantage of better, more efficient irrigation practices, which is all run via an app on their smartphone that controls and monitors water management, receives alerts to valve control and remotely opens and closes pumps on their farming properties.

Aglantis has been able to take normally complex structures and make them simpler to use, accessible, and more affordable. Their demonstration was met with interest, with several farmers seeing firsthand the benefits of such a system in practice.

The future of farming looks very bright indeed, thanks to Aglantis’ smart irrigation solutions.

‍

Luke Malan, Managing Director. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen

‍

Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr, a part of the Bendigo Bank, is committed to supporting the local community and there is no better time for giving than the festive season.

As a Community Bank model, the organisation must deliver at least 50 per cent of their profits back to the community in which those profits were generated, we understand the importance of families and friends uniting in times when not everyone wants to celebrate.

We are delighted to be partnering with the Burdekin Shire Council as the major sponsor for the 2024 Christmas Carols. The event was held last Sunday, December 8, 2024, at Home Hill State High School.
“Our bank is dedicated to giving back to the community, and we believe this event is a wonderful way to spread joy and bring people together,” says Senior Branch Manager Chantel Michielin.
Another initiative the local Community Bank is supporting is the Giving Tree, where both branches will be collecting donations for the Burdekin Education Program to give to children for Christmas celebrations.

Local branches are collecting gifts for boys and girls aged 12 to 18 years of age, as well as gift vouchers and non-perishable food donations. Contributions can be dropped off at any branch until Monday, December 13. All donations will be passed on to the Education Program to benefit local children in need.
The Burdekin Education Program is a small campus offering an alternative educational program. The Program seeks to respond to the needs of young people where they are, we work on developing a personal learning plan to empower each young person to achieve their goals.  
Burdekin Education Program aims to foster honest and authentic relationships with young people, their families and our community through supporting and celebrating the uniqueness of each person.
Chantel says it’s a program their community bank feels very proud to be supporting.
“This is an amazing program, and no gift is too big or too small to give.”
The Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr would like to wish their customers, families and the local community a wonderful Christmas and a safe Happy New Year!

‍

Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR) has shared its dismay at the Australian Sugar Milling Council, saying it has lashed out at farmers for their criticism of the performance of mills this crushing season.
QCAR has said that ASMC CEO Ash Salardini accused cane farmers of taking “pot shots” at mill workers and alleged they were “seemingly blaming the mills for not controlling the weather”.
Mr Salardini further said he was “frankly dismayed” at commentary from grower collective groups as he claimed a senior Canegrowers representative had suggested mill breakdowns had cost farmers billions.
QCAR CEO Stephen Ryan said it was ridiculous for the AMSC to claim cane farmers were blaming mills for rain-induced delays.
“ASMC has conveniently glossed over what is at the core of farmers’ concerns, that is the year-after-year poor performances of the mills combined with delayed starts to the season and belligerently extended industrial activity,” Mr Ryan said.
“These factors combined, which are in the miller’s control and not Mother Nature’s or the growers, have significantly contributed to standover crops and a big hit to farmers’ incomes.
“ASMC is using mill workers as a pawn to try and draw a wedge between them and the farmers.
“QCAR members, and cane farmers as a whole, actually value the mill workers and we thank them for their service as many are literally our friends and family members.”
Mr Ryan added mill workers had themselves criticised the millers, demonstrated by the strikes and industrial disputes at Wilmar mills earlier this year.
“Some milling companies are the ones pulling strings in terms of their poor decisions to cut back on investment and not inject the necessary funds to get mills up to par,” he said.
“Mill workers keep telling us management is not listening to the advice of experienced, long-term employees, which is clearly contributing to the embarrassing predicament millers now find themselves in.
“Even when there’s not standover cane, unduly extended crushes have been progressively destroying our industry.”
QCAR said it invited ASMC and millers to attend a public forum in Ayr in July but neither attended.
“Earnest attempts by grower groups to raise legitimate issues in private hasn’t worked and farmers have been forced to go public with concerns,” Mr Ryan said.
“The next generation of farmers are looking on in dismay as the industry they love and want to succeed is being hollowed out before them, dashing their hopes and dreams.”
Mr Ryan said QCAR was not alone in its criticism with Canegrowers Mackay chair Kevin Borg also speaking out on behalf of growers’ frustrations with millers.
He said millers, instead of shaming growers over their legitimate concerns, should focus on performing to Australian expectations and standards.
“They must shape up, now,” he said.
‍

QCAR CEO Stephen Ryan

‍

Paul Schembri's election as grower-director to the Sugar Terminals Limited (STL) board has been met with strong approval from grower advocacy organisations CANEGROWERS and Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR). This milestone highlights the increasing demand for transparency, accountability, and grower-focused decision-making within the sugarcane industry.
CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens hailed Mr Schembri’s election as a victory for growers, emphasising the significance of his leadership.
“Paul Schembri’s election is a win for growers and the industry as a whole,” he said.
“Paul’s decades of experience and dedication make him an invaluable addition to the STL board. His presence signals a renewed focus on ensuring the voices of growers are not just heard but respected.”
QCAR Chairman Christian Lago also acknowledged the overwhelming support for Mr Schembri, describing him as a “bona-fide grower” and expressing optimism about his contributions.
“We congratulate Paul on his election,” Mr Lago said.
“He’s a bona-fide grower who QCAR wholeheartedly endorsed, and we look forward to working with him and fellow G Class director Steve Kirby, who are well-placed to represent the interests of G Class shareholders.”
The election outcome follows a contentious period for STL. Delays in finalising the voting process after the Annual General Meeting (AGM) were compounded by growing frustrations with STL’s leadership and its decision-making approach. CANEGROWERS and QCAR were among those critical of STL’s controversial 2023 move to insource terminal operations, which many growers view as unnecessary and poorly communicated.
“Most farmers do not support the plan—it’s a business model STL has no track record with,” Mr Lago said.
“STL’s claims that it can outperform Queensland Sugar Limited (QSL) are unsubstantiated, and we are yet to see any proof.”
CANEGROWERS also pointed to the rejection of STL’s remuneration report for the second consecutive year at the AGM as evidence of shareholder dissatisfaction. While a motion to spill the board was ultimately defeated, the result underscored the demand for change.
“This election is more than just a win for Paul—it’s a wake-up call for STL,” Mr Menkens said.
“Growers are demanding a change in leadership style and decision-making. They want transparency, accountability, and a commitment to the industry’s long-term interests.”
Both organisations have called for reform to address diminishing grower representation within STL. Mr Lago highlighted the decline in voting power among active G Class shareholders, which has dropped from 64% in 2000 to just 36% in 2024.
“Active growers must make up the majority of shareholders as was intended in STL’s founding charter,” he said.
“STL must focus on fixing the share registers and deal promptly, decisively, and fairly with dry shareholders.”
As Mr Schembri steps into his new role, there is cautious optimism that his leadership will help bridge divides and refocus STL’s priorities.
“These terminals represent generations of growers’ hard work and investment,” Mr Menkens said.
“Unilateral decisions that ignore grower input erode trust and unity. Paul’s election is an opportunity for STL to rebuild trust and honour the legacy of the sugarcane industry while preparing it for a sustainable future.”
The industry now watches closely, expecting STL to address concerns, restore grower representation, and provide clarity on its contentious insourcing model.
“This is a critical moment for STL to prove it can genuinely act in the best interests of the growers who built its foundation,” Mr Lago said.
A full STL update is available online: nsx.com.au/ftp/news/021744120.PDF.

‍

Former CANEGROWERS Chairman Paul Schembri's election to the STL board is a powerful step towards accountability and collaboration say cane growing advocacy groups. Photo supplied
QCAR Chairman Christian Lago

‍

The graduation for Group Four at PCYC, held on December 5, celebrated five participants who completed their 10-week program Get Set For Work Program, each earning certificates for their efforts.

The five participants all graduated, having achieved certificates in skills for work and vocational pathways, first aid certificates, and RSA. The participants range in age from 15 to 19 years old, with three part-time employed and one fully employed.

“The five participants all participated well and achieved some great outcomes for the 10-week program, with each having achieved their Certificate II in skills for work and vocational pathways, first aid certificates and RSA,” proud PCYC Program Coordinator, Rowan Scott says.

“At this stage, we've got three part-time employed, and one will be fully employed in a child minding facility,” he adds.

The program saw a 100% success rate, with all five participants completing the program. Graduations occur at the end of each program, which features presentations and family involvement. Past graduates often return to share their employment successes with the graduates.

“At graduation, families of the participants get to attend and celebrate, as they play a significant role in supporting the participants. The presence of families allows them to see the progress and future prospects of their children,” Rowan says.

Placement strategies include updating resumes, face-to-face resume drops at local businesses, and utilising local job boards, while online job search activities are also conducted to maximise employment opportunities.

The program aims to help participants find entry-level jobs and integrate into the local workforce and relies on local community support and involvement from local businesses. While the program continues to support participants even after the 10-week period, providing ongoing assistance.

Businesses are encouraged to participate in the program and hire entry-level workers, with many seeing success as a result, with PCYC committed to community engagement.

The graduation event included light refreshments, finger food, and individual presentations to award their certificates.

Interested parties in PCYC’s successful program can contact Rowan Scott at the PCYC or Tamara Kemp for more information on: 06 4783-1009 to express interest in the program.

‍

The graduating class, each youngster has completed the Get Set For Work Program. Photo supplied
Rowan Scott (Program Coordinator), Tamara Kemp (Youth Worker). Photo: Supplied by PCYC

‍

Vince Toohey Memorial Bursary for her academic excellence and achievements.
A prestigious award, the Vince Toohey Memorial Bursary is annually awarded to a graduating student who has obtained the highest ATAR across the Burdekin district to assist with university fees as managed by the Home Hill - Ayr Lions Club.
Club members, Patrick and Lydia Toohey tragically lost their son Vince Toohey as he was beginning his tertiary studies, and to honour the Toohey family, the club established the bursary to support Burdekin students looking to attend university.
“I am deeply grateful to the Lions Club and the Toohey family for their ongoing support of Burdekin students,” shared Brigitte.
“It is a huge privilege to receive an award that carries such a significant legacy within the community.”
Brigitte graduated from Burdekin Catholic High School in 2023, and moved to Brisbane to pursue a Bachelor in Engineering and Design at the University of Queensland.
In addition to achieving the highest ATAR score across the region of 99.55, Brigitte has been commended for her commitments to her studies and the wider community on numerous occasions and was also awarded the Tom Kruger Award upon her 2023 graduation.
Brigitte expresses much gratitude to the Lions Club and Patrick and Lydia Toohey.
“This bursary will be invaluable as I begin my second year of studies in Brisbane - thank you for making this opportunity possible.”
Eligible 2024 graduating students are invited to contact the Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club via homehilllions@gmail.com prior to January 1, 2025, to apply for the Vice Toohey Memorial Bursary.

‍

Brigitte Davies with Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club President, Laurie Land. Photo credit: Nyree Woods

‍

At the end of November, the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre held our 37th Annual General Meeting. Our long-term President, Kay Duggan, stood down to Vice-President and Denise Wallace has taken up the mantle. We congratulate all of the incoming Committee and thank them sincerely for supporting the Neighbourhood Centre and our collective goals.  

As the new year approaches, many of us find ourselves reflecting on the past year while looking ahead toward the future. Making plans for the new year can be an exciting and transformative experience, allowing us to set fresh goals and embrace new opportunities.

It is no different for the Neighbourhood Centre; we are in the process of reflecting on the past year and starting to make plans for 2025.  We thought it might be worth sharing ways to make plans.

   • Consider what went well and what could have been improved. Reflecting on both successes and setbacks helps us understand our growth and the areas we want to focus on moving forward.

   • Once you have identified key areas of improvement, it’s time to set realistic and achievable goals. These goals can range from personal development—such as learning a new skill or improving health and fitness—to professional aspirations, like advancing in your career or starting a new project. The SMART criteria (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) can be a helpful guide in formulating these goals.

   • Next, create an action plan. Break your goals down into smaller, manageable steps. This approach not only makes achieving your goals less overwhelming but also allows you to track progress along the way. Regularly reviewing and adjusting your plan as needed can keep you motivated and on course.

   • Moreover, don’t forget the importance of community and support. Share your goals with friends or family who can encourage you and hold you accountable. Engaging in social connections around shared goals can foster motivation and create positive reinforcement, making the journey more enjoyable.  (This is our favourite part!)

   • Lastly, embrace flexibility. While it’s important to have plans, life is unpredictable. Allow yourself the space to adapt and recalibrate your goals as needed.

By taking the time to make thoughtful plans for the new year, you set the stage for personal growth, fulfillment, and positive change. Here’s to a wonderful year ahead!

Until next time
The Team at Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

‍

Thursday afternoon saw 20 players turn up at Rummeny Green.

Rink 4. Margaret Linton and Mick McClosky defeated Tony Caruso and Gary Nosworthy. Rink 5. Des Chapman and Alan C accounted for Maude ? and Hugh Montgomery. Rink 6. Paul Vass, Dino Poli and Glen (Bones) Berryman won over Phil ?, Mick Olsen and Joe Linton.  Rink 7. Bob Pickard, Bruce ? and Wayne Newton proved much too strong for Alex Bojack, Steve Doig  and Henry Hazel. At 11am on Saturday the 7th of December the AGM for the Homehill community sports club was held. The positions have been filled for next year.  President Trevor Elton, Vice President Wayne Newton, Secretary Margaret Linton, Treasurer Lyn Elton and the social spots going to Bob Pickard and Hugh Montgomery.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Dino Poli who has been a loyal member of the club for 33 years was given Life membership. Dino has represented the club on many occasions be it pennants or the Dunn Cup, any working bee he is always there as well as supplying the weekly raffle or even just restocking the BAR. The club is better than ever thanks to you. Those present at the meeting gave a wonderful applause to Dino. Well done. The club is in good shape for next year.

After the meeting a 12 end game was played with 18 players at 3pm the club Xmas party was held and was well attended. Monday morning fitness group and Tuesday Trimmers and Wednesday morning Kraft group are still well attended, Wednesday night Barefoot bowls is proving popular in the summer heat. Thursday morning BINGO and Thursday afternoon bowls are still going as is Saturday afternoon bowls. Until next week, Good Bowling.  

Photos and Story by Stephen Doig

‍

Thursday winning team, Paul Vass, Glen (Bones) Berryman, and Dino Poli. Photo: Stephen Doig.
Trevor Elton (president), Dino Poli (life member), and Wayne Newton (vice president). Photo: Stephen Doig.

‍

Despite heavy rain across the district, Home Hill Golf Club members were fortunate to enjoy a dry day on the course for the highly anticipated Power Family Cup. The annual 4BBB competition drew a strong field of 48 players, all vying for the coveted Christmas hams.

A big thank you goes to the Power family for their ongoing support of the club. Their contributions throughout the year are greatly appreciated and help ensure events like this are a success.

John Ross Dale and Simon Power emerged as the winners with an impressive 48 points. Close behind were Tony and Carrett in second place with 47 points, followed by Bevan MacElroy and Doug McCubben in third. The not-so-coveted “Spam” prize went to Neill Francis and Barry Duchnicz.

Pin shot winners included Greg MacElroy, Pat Lawson, and Beth Prescott on 4/13, with Megan Barbagallo, Simon Power, and Wendy Baker taking honors on 9/18.

Looking ahead, the club’s AGM will take place next Sunday at 11am, followed by the President’s and Captain’s competition. Members are invited to stay afterward for the Christmas break up and are encouraged to bring a plate of food to share.

Contributed with thanks to Megan Barbagallo.

‍

Sunshine and good vibes filled the green for Home Hill Golf Club’s Power Family Cup.

‍

On Sunday, December 1 in Ayr, and Monday December 2 at Home Hill, the lighting of two beautiful Christmas trees took centre stage for the Burdekin community with good sized audiences in attendance, to witness it.

Mayor, Pierina Dalle Cort, had the honour of flicking the switch for each tree after the crowds counted down from ten to one with her.

Both trees lit up the night skies, despite the prospects of rain, with Sunday’s event held at the Burdekin Theatre forecourt in Ayr, and the Comfort Stop, Home Hill respectively.

‍

Council and dignitaries turn on christmas lights. L-R: Cr Musumeci, Cr Oar, Mayor Dalle Cort, Santa, Cr Vasta, Cr Hall, CEO Matthew Magin

‍

Hi Everyone,

You may have noticed a new man around town lately – Mark Rasmussen has joined the team as our journalist and, since he started last week, he has certainly been busy!

As many of you will know by now, Miah has sadly left the company, opting to pursue different career options, and we wish her well with her future endeavours.

In a couple of weeks’ time, we will also be welcoming Chelsea Ravizza back to town. She has been working remotely from Brisbane as our journalist across three of our newspapers for a long time, but as many of you will know, she is originally from the Burdekin.

Now that she has completed her studies she will return to the region for a few months before she departs once again to travel the world.

We look forward to having both Mark and Chelsea, as well as our Sales Manager Trish, working on the ground and attending many events over the next few months and beyond.

In other news, I will be presenting at the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce Meeting next week, I hope to see you there and look forward to chatting with everyone.

If you have any questions about the newspaper, please make sure you come along!

This evening I am on my way to Ingham for the official launch of Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper and we are honoured to have Premier David Crisafulli attending.

David is from Ingham originally and started his career as a cadet journalist for the Herbert River Express.

We have been very lucky with these two details which are undoubtedly the main reasons he accepted the invitation.

This is a big moment for our team, and for all regional newspapers in Queensland as the Premier is shining a spotlight on our industry.

I am very grateful to be part of it all and to serve all regional communities with free local newspapers, it’s a real honour.

Rach

Quote of the Week: “Don’t wait for the right opportunity: create it” (George Bernard Shaw)

‍

On Thursday 21 November, Paula, Henry and the pioneers behind the Jean Morris fundraising efforts were blown away and left with tears of gratitude by not one, but two extraordinarily generous acts of kindness.

A newly illustrated portrait of Jean Morris created by Trevor Neal of Whitsunday Monuments has encouraged plenty of public attention over the past week, not just online. A regular day at Paula’s salon saw two walk-in donations, one of $200 and another $1000, leaving Paula overcome with gratitude.

“The lady stood at my counter, asked how much more money we needed for the headstone, reached inside her pocket and handed me a roll of $50 notes amounting to $1000, and I just started to cry,” explained Paula.

Both Paula and Henry have been fundraising to honour the 1932 Ayr murder victim for just over sixteen months, personally adding to total themselves along with the generosity of the local and surrounding community.

“We have had some wonderful donations from businesses around the town – Torrie Davies, Burdekin Concreting, Mark Hudson Engineering, and Whitsundays Memorials have all been nothing but exceptional with their time, help and pricing towards our project.”

Find our other article in community news to read more about the community fundraiser and the history of Jean Morris.

‍