Burdekin Shire residents have first-hand experience of living through natural disasters. They also know all too well the importance of good communication during difficult times.

With yet another cyclone threat earlier this month when Kirrily whirled in from the coast, the memories of devastating Cyclone Debbie remain etched in the minds of many.

That’s why local media are supporting an initiative to improve communication between emergency responders and communities in times of disaster.

Burdekin Aware and Prepared is a new innovative partnership between local media and natural hazards experts, which encourages residents to share their experiences of communication awareness-building about natural hazard events.

There will be a community town hall on Saturday February 24, and residents are being urged to join in.

This research project is funded by Natural Hazards Research Australia and delivered in partnership with a team of researchers at Deakin University.

“Our research team wants to know how community members receive information before, during, and after natural hazards - and what could be improved,” says the project’s lead researcher, Dr Gabi Mocatta.

“People in the Burdekin Shire are generally well prepared, so we want to find out what the rest of Austalia can learn from them.

“We want to know, for example, how good communication can save lives and property, and where it has helped bring people together.

“We also want to know where there are gaps in education, communication and awareness about natural hazard events.”

Cyclone Debbie –  a category 4 cyclone – crossed the north Queensland coast in 2017 and was the most expensive in Queensland’s history, affecting at least 63,000 properties. The storm resulted in high winds (up to 263 km), heavy rain and flooding. In the wake of Debbie, Burdekin Shire has experienced flooding most summers, including a major rain event in January 2020 that closed the Bruce Highway.

Unfortunately, compound natural hazards – where hazards occur in quick sucession or at the same time – are becoming increasingly common in Australia. Communication and awareness initiatives are key to preparation for future events.

“We are hoping that community members will join in the discussion and help us understand what works well for communicating naural hazards in North Queensland, and what the rest of the country might be able to learn,” says Dr Mocatta.

WHAT: Burdekin Aware and Prepared Community Forum

WHERE: PCYC Burdekin

WHEN: Saturday February 24 from 2:30-4:30pm

To participate in the forum, please sign up here: https://bit.ly/4bjnCIQ

Any questions can be sent to: gabi.mocatta@deakin.edu.au

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Caption: Recent Burdekin River flooding. Photo supplied

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Rehoming fee: $450

DOB: 23/07/2022

Sex: Female

Breed: Bull Arab Cross Cattle Dog

Kid Friendly: Yes

Cat Friendly: Yes

Other Dogs: Yes

Fences: 5 feet

This active little puppy is looking for her forever home, is always up for a cuddle and a play with her furry friends.

While Pickles is still a keen learner for basic commands, she's a quick learner and loves being rewarded.

Pickles loves splashing in water and will always chase after her ball. Pickles particularly enjoys going on long walks and going on fun and exciting adventures with her human.

Currently living with a cat in her foster home, Pickles will seamlessly transition into a home with cats.

Pickles is available for adoption, is desexed, microchipped, up to date on her vaccinations, is flea, tick, and intestinal worm treated, and is on heartworm preventative.

To schedule a meet and greet, complete and submit an animal enquiry form: at https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html

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By Chelsea Ravizza

Approaching its 4th year of running in the Burdekin, Deni Caspanello’s 12 Hour Relay Swim for Leukemia continues to inspire, educate, and bring the community together, raising much needed funds for the Leukemia Foundation. The 2023 12 Hour Relay Swim for Leukemia, like previous years, was another amazing event raising over $7,600 to fund cancer research, treatments, and clinical trial access.

The event was established in 2021, following Deni Caspanello’s diagnosis with Stage 4 Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in 2020. Deni’s diagnosis was treated under the provisions of a recent clinical trial, running on a 4 – 21-day cycle, as opposed to an 8 – 21-day cycle, and unlike traditional methods, her treatment did not conclude with radiation. Producing an overwhelmingly positive outcome for Deni and her loved ones, she worked to create a fundraising event to provide other cancer patients with the same opportunities.

“The money people are donating is working and helping cancer patients like me hear the words complete metabolic response so much quicker and eliminate all other symptoms that arise from radiation and prolonged chemo,” Deni explained.

With another swim event coming to the Burdekin in March of 2025, Deni expressed she continues to be blown away with the community’s support and she’s beyond grateful.

“The interest and support of the community has been phenomenal,” expressed Deni.

“Phenomenal is a word my Doctor, Dr Morris used my entire treatment as everything went to plan for me, and I was extremely lucky.”

Deni and her family would like to express immense gratitude to all the event’s sponsors; McCathies Furniture Plus, WA&KT Farming, Wilmar, Burdekin Car Wash, Home Hill News agency, Tamara Michellin Hair Dressing, Liessmann & Sons, Guardian Pharmacy, Burdekin Snap Fitness, Brett Butler PT, The Shed NQ, Complete Health Pharmacy, Burdekin Torpedoes, Burdekin Tiles & Bathroom, Home Hill Swimming Pool, Home Hill Bakery, Blinds 2U, KMF Crafts, Nutrien, Home Hill & Lions Committee, Queens Hotel, Homewares & Styles, FirstIn Physio Pty,  Don West Toyota, Ellen Marie, Bare + Bird Distillery, Northen Energy Electrical Solutions, Laser Electrical, The Prawn Shop Home Hill, The Crown Hotel, and Blissful Baking.

“All local businesses, musicians, schools, and locals have been amazing and have donated so much to help me raise as much as I can for blood cancer research.”

Preparations are underway for the 2025 12 Hour Relay Swim for Leukemia. With a date yet to be announced, the community can expect another amazing, record-breaking fundraising event in the month of March 2025.

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With many competitions throughout the 12-hour event, Deni would like to congratulate the following winners.

Social: Bob Gould’s Tropical Popsicles with a total lap count of 629.

Competitive: Two time champions, GO H2O with a total lap count of 753.

Spirit: Home Hill High Crushers.

Dash for Cash U18: Chloe Hook and Cruz Torkinton.

Dash for Cash 18+: Stephanie Prizeman and Logan Flannagan.

Dash for Cash 35+: Michelle Scott, and Laurie Crooks.

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The winning team GO H2O: Kristy, Briella, Glenn and Emilee Wassmuth, Michelle Scott, Laurie Crooks, Owen and Logan Flanagan and Dylan Carew. Photo supplied

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BCA provides financial and material assistance for adults experiencing personal, family, relationship and/or financial issues. The service assists adults and children with basic needs in times of financial hardship, through the provision of vouchers, prepaid cards/vouchers, chemist or transport vouchers, payment of third-party accounts, or direct material assistance such as food parcels. Please note that a Centrelink Income Statement is required unless you are affected by domestic and family violence and not receiving a Centrelink payment.

Waste Not Want Not – Coles SecondBite Program

BCA partners with Coles Ayr and SecondBite to provide people in need with access to nutritious food free of charge. The service is available from the Support Centre, 130 Queen St, Ayr, Monday to Friday from 9am until stock is gone daily.

Please visit or contact us at The Support Centre, 130 Queen Street, Ayr. Ph: 4783 3744. E: bca@bcaburdekin.org.au W: www.burdekincommunityassociation.org.au

Debra Cochran

Chief Executive Officer

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If you were asked the question, “Who is your priority?” where would you place yourself on your list?  Putting ourselves before our loved ones and other responsibilities is not always easy.  

We often hear about the concept of work-life balance, compassion fatigue, and mental well-being. Although we understand how important it is to take care of ourselves, many of us tend to put it off for another time. We might say things like "I'll do it when I have more time," "after I retire," or "I'll take care of it over the weekend."

What Is Self-Care?

It’s anything you do to care for your physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional health.  

Making small changes to daily routines can support us in challenging times and improve our overall health and well-being.

How Do We Achieve This?

The Burdekin community has masseuses, yoga and meditation practitioners, life coaches, many sporting clubs, arts and crafts, cultural and spiritual groups, libraries, and amazing natural surroundings to enjoy. When we focus on our needs and take care of ourselves, it becomes a normal part of our daily lives. This change can inspire and encourage those around us to practice self-care too. Taking care of ourselves also means taking care of those we love and care about. When children learn to practice self-care early on, they are better prepared to handle the challenges of life.

We are excited to join Ross Romeo from CORES Qld to bring to the community their Self-Care and Mental Wellbeing Workshop. Although normally delivered online, Ross and the BNC Team aim to make this a regular face-to-face opportunity. Contact the Centre on 47834243 if you would be interested.

What does self-care look like to you? Is it curled up with a favourite book? Spending time with mates? A walk on the Beach? We would love to share your ideas on our Facebook page – post a photo and tag the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre.  

The Team

Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

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Did you know that Council is upgrading residential and commercial water meters in the Burdekin to help you save water and money? The new meters harness solid state technology with no moving parts which offers a minimum 15 years lifetime with no need for meter calibration or replacement.

The new smart water meters are more than just devices that measure how much water you use. They use wireless RF technology that enables Council to undertake drive by meter reading whilst providing advanced leakage detection capability to help identify customer-side leaks, backflow and other issues that affect the reliability and efficiency of the water network. By installing smart water meters, Council aims to improve the community's water management and conservation. Customers will also benefit from being able to track and manage water use more easily to avoid wasting water due to undetected leaks.

Smart water meters are part of Council's commitment to provide a high-quality water service to the region where residents can stay informed about their water consumption and adopt water-saving practices. The new meters are made of fully recyclable materials for more sustainability and a lower CO2 footprint.

Council is pairing the roll out of the new meters with the Smart Water Advice educational suite of water conservation tips to save water in the home and at work. Visit Council’s website to explore more water and money saving tips, burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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Core members of the Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) met last week and moved to stand down as Ex-TC Kirrily no longer poses a threat to the region.

The LDMG Chair Lyn McLaughlin thanked the community for their resilience and cooperation during the weather event.

"I am proud of how our residents and businesses have supported each other and followed the advice of the authorities,” Ms McLaughlin said.

“I also want to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of emergency services, Ergon, external agencies, council staff and volunteers who have been on the front line of the response and recovery efforts.

“Council operations have returned to normal, with all facilities and services resuming their regular hours and functions.

“Council staff are also continuing to clean up the affected areas, especially the parks and green spaces after priority areas of roads and footpaths were completed.

“Council asks for your patience and understanding as we work to restore these public spaces to their pre-disaster condition.

“I’d like to remind the community to remain vigilant and prepared for any future weather events as disaster season is not over yet.”

To stay up to date with disaster and weather events sign up for notifications on the Disaster Dashboard and follow the Burdekin Disaster & Emergency Information Facebook page.

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LDMG Chair Lyn McLaughlin and Local Disaster Coordinator Eileen Devescovi 

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With some of the Burdekin Race Club’s biggest race days approaching, where speed and agility take centre stage, there's another race happening alongside the track - the race to showcase the most stylish and innovative ensembles at the Fashions on the Field. As we step into 2024, fashion enthusiasts and racegoers alike are in for a treat, with a blend of classic elegance and cutting-edge trends dominating the scene. Consider the below when planning your outfit.

Light and Airy Dresses: Embrace the north Queensland weather with dresses made of breathable fabrics like linen or silk in pastel or bright hues. These will keep you cool and stylish throughout the race day.

Tailored Suits in Spring Hues: For a sophisticated look, opt for a well-fitted suit in spring-inspired colours. This timeless ensemble ensures you stand out while adhering to the dress code.

Statement Hats: Elevate your outfit with a statement hat that adds flair and personality. From oversized floppy hats to chic fascinators, there's a style for every taste.

Eye-Catching Jewellery: Accentuate your look with bold jewellery pieces that complement your outfit. Think colourful earrings, chunky bracelets, or statement necklaces to add a touch of glamour.

Vibrant Shoes: Step into the races with shoes in vibrant colours or fun patterns. Whether you prefer classic pumps or stylish sandals, make sure your footwear makes a statement.

Layering Pieces: Be prepared for any weather changes by incorporating layering pieces into your outfit. A lightweight cardigan or blazer can easily be added or removed as needed.

Chic Sundresses: Opt for a chic sundress in floral prints or pastel shades for a feminine and elegant look. Pair it with sandals or heels for a versatile ensemble that's perfect for race day.

Fashions on the Field is a celebration of diversity, innovation, and conscious style. As racegoers grace the tracks with their fashion-forward ensembles, it's clear that this year's trends are not just about looking good but making a bold statement about the future of race day fashion.

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Burdekin Growers Race Day Fashions on the Field. Photo supplied

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In the rural heart of the Burdekin, a small but formidable business has thrived for the past three decades, weathering changes in the agricultural landscape and evolving customer demands. Eileen List and Jenny Cook, the dynamic mother-daughter duo behind Burdekin Growers Services, have not just been witnesses to the transformations in the industry; they have been active participants, adapting and growing their business with an unwavering commitment to quality, independence and community while staying true to their old-fashioned, family business roots.

“You have got to laugh,” Eileen smiles as she and Jenny flick through newspaper clippings from 30 years ago; the laughter not just a reflection of their shared experiences but a testament to their resilience and ability to navigate the challenges that have come their way.

The Origins

Eileen's journey in the industry started at the age of 17 when she was offered a position with a small business that distributed fuel and fertiliser. She was given a book about fertilisers and chemicals which she studied enthusiastically, but it’s the hands-on knowledge and experience she gained from the people around her, learning in the field from “the best of the best”, that led her to a position she could see a future in.

“People would take me out on the farms and show me how to identify pests and diseases,” Eileen says. “I learnt to be able to identify without going to uni – unless you have hands on experience, you’ll never learn what I learnt. It takes you a long time to learn all that.”

Meanwhile, Eileen would bring baby Jenny to work from the age of six weeks old, thus beginning a strong mother-daughter bond that the success of Burdekin Growers Services was built upon. Jenny gained more insight into the industry working with Eileen after school and on school holidays. Upon finishing high school, she faced the decision of attending university or going into business with her knowledgeable mother, ultimately deciding on the latter and never turning back.

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The Early Years

PIC 1 CAPTION: Jenny and Eileen in 1994, printed in the Ayr Advocate

PIC 2 CAPTION: Eileen and Jenny celebrating one year in business, printed in the Ayr Advocate

As reported in the Ayr Advocate:

“1994 marks a new beginning in the working life of Eileen List.”

After 35 years of working with growers in a variety of agricultural sectors from sugarcane to tobacco, Eileen joined forces with Jenny to create Burdekin Growers Services, first opening on Edwards Street, Ayr. Eileen brought with her those decades worth of knowledge and experience and a reputation to match.

“You’ve got to accumulate a lot of knowledge to be able to go into this type of business,” Eileen says. “It’s not something you can do light-heartedly because you’ve really got to know the companies and the products.”

Eileen would continually impart this knowledge onto an eager Jenny, who was eager to outgrow her mother’s shadow and prove herself to the growers of the Burdekin.

“Everyone used to walk in and say, ‘Is Eileen here? Is your mum here?’” Jenny laughs. “It takes a little while to build confidence in the customers. We’ve all been through that.”

Burdekin Growers Services established itself in 1994 as a business catering to all industries of the Burdekin, whether it be sugarcane or mangoes, tree crops or ground crops. Jenny also brings livestock experience to the business and is passionate about animal health and stockfeed, while Eileen’s passion for home gardening is also reflected in the store’s gardening supplies. The store became a one stop shop, also stocking cleaning and household items for those travelling from out of town to buy in bulk.

“Back when we started, a rural business was a bit of everything, it was that place to get things in bulk,” says Jenny. “If someone was coming into town, they could get most of their household items in bulk as well as the farm products.”

“We stick to the same brands too,” adds Eileen. “We use possibly the best household products you can get, and I know because I use them. You get to know all of the products, and you strive to satisfy.”

The New Shop And Beyond

PIC 3 CAPTION: Eileen and Jenny opened their current location in 1997, printed in the Ayr Advocate

In 1997, Burdekin Growers Services relocated to Railway Street, Ayr, where their store and shed still stands. A small house was demolished, and a shed was built and slowly expanded upon with an office, additional shed and store spaces being added on over the years. The grand opening was a grand affair, with over 400 people attending to show their support.

The longevity of Burdekin Growers Services can be attributed to the deep-rooted relationships they have cultivated over the years. Eileen emphasises, “The customer is the core of our business.” The same customers for the last 30 years, and crossing generations of families, reflect the trust and reliability that define their business. It's not just transactions; it's about knowing their customers, caring for them, and, as Jenny adds, “Over time, they become friends.” Burdekin Growers Services maintains the personal touch of an old-fashioned, family-owned business. They stick to first-class products, receive compliments for their practical bookkeeping system, and express gratitude to the community for their unwavering support.

The Dynamic Mother-Daughter Duo

PIC 4 CAPTION: Jenny and Eileen celebrate 30 years of Burdekin Growers Services this year

The enduring partnership of Eileen and Jenny epitomises the strength of their bond and the versatile and unique array of skills, talents and knowledge each brings to the business.

“I love my mum,” Jenny shares. “I don’t find it hard to work with mum at all. We do have our disagreements, but they don’t last very long, they’re pretty direct and to the point, we don’t hold a grudge, we just move on.”

“I think Jenny’s so reliable, that I trust her 100%,” adds Eileen. “If I don’t like something, I say it, if she doesn’t like something, she’ll tell me, and that’s how you adjust the business. Even though we’re mother and daughter, we’re just two people running a business that needs to be successful and it can only be successful if those two people think alike and work alike. We’ve got to be able to complement each other.”

Eileen admits that it took her a while to appreciate the significance of Burdekin Growers Services reaching the 30-year milestone. Thanks to frequent reminders from Jenny and her many loyal customers, she’s come to acknowledge the amazing achievement with appreciation for her loving business partner and the community that supported the business over those decades. With no plans to retire, Eileen and Jenny celebrate the last 30 years while continuing to provide the Burdekin with its agricultural necessities with a smile and some good old-fashioned service.

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Star Sign: Taurus

Fav Movie: Sister Act

Fav Colour: Green

Fav Holiday destination: Being home

Fav Music: Country

Fav Quote: “Take one day at a time.”

Tell Us Something most people don't know about you: I can sew and decorate cakes.

Describe your personality in three words: Loyal, caring and grateful for the life I have.

For someone who has been so passionately immersed in the agricultural industries since she was 17, Eileen List shows no signs of slowing down. Often faced with the question of retirement, Eileen is quick to reassure that she has no plans to step away from Burdekin Growers, a business she has delicately built with her daughter Jenny over the last 30 years.

“Personally speaking, I think work is about health,” she said. “It keeps you healthy, you’ve got a healthy mind. It keeps you healthy in the mind, it keeps you mobile. I like the fact that if you haven’t seen one of your friends for a while, they can pop in and have a cuppa and a chat.”

The one thing Eileen is more passionate about than Burdekin Growers is her family and community, evident in her everyday dealings with daughter, Jenny, granddaughter, Tash, and the countless customers who walked through the doors of Burdekin Growers for 30 years. She’s surrounded by family and friends whether at work or not.

“Sharing time with the grandchildren and all the family when not at work is a great pleasure,” she said.

One of Eileen’s greatest challenges came 22 years ago when her husband and Jenny’s dad, Joe, passed away. This was a time when her family and community truly stepped up, providing her with invaluable support every step of the way. Eileen is someone who appreciates every day and makes the most of life surrounded by the people she loves.

“My highlight is getting up every day, being able to function every day, and being able to go home at the end of the day still wanting to come to work the next day,” she said. “I think that’s what you call a highlight.”

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Star Sign: Scorpio

Fav Movie: Anything with Hugh Grant

Fav Colour: Green

Fav Holiday destination: Home – there is really no place like it!

Fav Music: Almost any – especially if I can dance to it.

Fav Quote: “Your job is bigger than the box you work in.”

Tell Us Something most people don't know about you: I am a real home body – I like to cook meals, clean and keep house. My focus in life is ‘Contentment’.

Describe your personality in three words: Serious, quirky, loyal.

With a professional career spanning nearly everything from packing mangoes, hospitality and bar work, to working alongside heads of cattle, and fencing on western properties and power stations, Jenny Cook has called Burdekin Growers Services home for 30 years, and she has never looked back.

Fueled by her passions stemming from her experience in a wide variety of industries, Jenny established Burdekin Growers Services alongside her mother, Eileen, in 1994, which continues to flourish under their leadership.

Jenny has always called Ayr home despite stints in Cloncurry and Mount Isa through her lifetime.

In fact, Jenny met her husband, Peter, in Cloncurry nearly 18 years ago, and she was quick to relocate him back to the Burdekin.

A through and through country girl, Jenny had spent over five seasons working in various positions in mango packing sheds, a number of years studying animal health and cattle husbandry and even started a fencing business with Peter in Mount Isa.

Jenny loves spending time outdoors, with her animals and on the land.

“I love horses, cattle and dogs,” she explained. “Most weekends are spent on or around horses. Work permitting, we try and get to as many camp drafts as possible.

“Peter and I spend most of our time together – sometimes relaxing, mostly working on one thing or another.”

Jenny also enjoys spending time with her great niece and nephew, watching them grow up and experience new things.

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Star Sign: Capricorn 

Fav Movie: Hardball 

Fav Colour: Pastel colours 

Fav Holiday destination: Fiji 

Fav Music: 90’s R’n B

Fav Quote: “Little by little, a little becomes a lot”

Tell Us Something most people don't know about you: I love cooking and baking!

Describe your personality in three words: Faith, Gratitude, Respect

For Natasha Vodonaivalu, affectionately known as Tash, the move from Brisbane to Ayr soothed her soul, allowing her to find some peace that she welcomed and continues to encourage in her life.

Moving to Ayr about five years ago, Tash seamlessly fit into the Burdekin lifestyle, and into the communities of Ayr and Home Hill.

With her mother’s side of the family originating from Ayr, and her father’s based in Fiji, Tash welcomed the change of small-town living, where familiar faces greet you at every moment, and there is never a dull moment.

Coming on board with the Burdekin Growers Services team, alongside her aunt, Jenny, and her grandmother, Eileen, Tash primarily works in customer service, helping customers’ needs and getting the best products for them.

“I've always worked in customer service, I really enjoy helping people,” Tash explained.

When she’s not at Burdekin Growers Services, Tash is having quality relaxation time.

“I find peacefulness in the breath-taking beauty of nature, and nothing beats a good sunset. In my alone time I also enjoy shopping, gaming, and going to the gym,” she explained.

Tash also finds immense enjoyment with spending time with her family.

“My two kids are the best thing that's ever happened to me. They are the driving force in my life and at times can be the most challenging.”

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Sugarcane from throughout north Queensland could play an integral role in fuelling the aviation sector as the development of a Townsville Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) project progresses.

Following the execution of a first-of-a-kind Licence and Engineering Agreement for Australia between businesses Jet Zero and LanzaJet, Project Ulysses is poised to revolutionise the aviation industry by converting agricultural by-products into 102 million litres of SAF annually, which Jet Zero said could meet the annual jet fuel demands for Cairns and Townsville Airports.

Jet Zero also claimed the SAF produced at the facility has the potential to reduce CO2 emissions on commercial flights by approximately 70 per cent on a net lifecycle basis, relative to traditional fossil-based jet fuel, and will assist the Australian Government’s commitment to achieving its emissions reduction target of 43 per cent of 2005 CO­2 levels by 2030 and net zero emissions by 2050.

Project Ulysses is also set to make a substantial impact on North Queensland by generating over 100 skilled jobs and creating supply chain opportunities in the region.

Aviation giants Qantas and Airbus have thrown their support behind the project as project partners.

Queensland Premier Steven Miles said Queensland is perfectly primed to service the SAF industry.

“North Queensland is in a unique position to provide feedstock for this project, while also being close to the industry partners that are already investing in our state,” he said.

“This is another big step towards 1,000 construction jobs and 100 refinery jobs, bringing opportunities for agriculture, aviation, defence, and tourism.

“Queensland’s renewable energy advantage means we can protect and grow regional jobs in high tech sectors like sustainable jet fuel.”

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The conclusion of the $25 million capital replacement program of Kalamia Mill is nearing, with the last evaporator being installed at the mill ahead of the 2024 production season.

The Kalamia Mill, owned and operated by Wilmar Sugar and Renewables, is in its final stage of a three-year program to replace the evaporators; the first evaporator was installed in 2022, and the following two installed in 2023.

Utilised at an important early step in the sugar manufacturing process, the evaporators dispel water from the sugar cane juice, which is concentrated in a syrup, before the sugar crystals are formed.

Senior Project Engineer Chris Lammas said the four new vessels replaced older ones that had reached end of life.

“This work represents an almost total renewal of the evaporator station at Wilmar’s Kalamia Mill, which should deliver improvements to rate and reliability,” Mr Lammas said.

“I’ve lived and breathed this project for four years.

“It’s the biggest and most expensive capital program I’ve worked on.

“It’s involved a lot of people with a multitude of skills from across the business, as well as external contractors.”

All four vessels were engineered, fabricated, and installed in-house, with major components fabricated at Wilmar's Burdekin Centralised Workshop, located at Brandon’s Pioneer Mill, before being transported 16km to Kalamia Mill.

Manager Projects David Innes said the capital replacement program had provided an opportunity to standardise and improve Kalamia Mill’s evaporator station.

“The existing evaporators were of different sizes and capacities. The new ones are all seven metres in diameter and have a heating capacity of 3200sqm. This creates greater efficiencies in design and construction,” he said.

“Approximately 100 tonnes of steel went into the fabrication of this evaporator and a further 33 tonnes of stainless steel tubing is installed on-site,” Mr Innes said.

The fabrication and transport of the last vessel took more than 10,000 labour-hours.

The new evaporators are part of a much larger program to replace end-of-life vessels across Wilmar Sugar and Renewables’ eight mills.

More than $200 million is being invested in capital and maintenance work across Wilmar’s sugar factories and cane rail assets this year.

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Senior Project Engineer Chris Lammas has worked on the evaporator replacement program for four years

The bottom cone of the new evaporator is moved through Ayr on its way to Kalamia Mill

The bottom cone of the vessel is set down at Kalamia Mill

Photos supplied

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Are you a local wanting to give back and assist in the medical needs and decisions of the Burdekin region?

Then the Burdekin Community Advisory Network (CAN), hosted by the Townsville Hospital and Health Service is the group for you.

Specifically designed for community members of provide assistance, advocacy and ensure that health services at met, CAN allows the Townsville Hospital and Health Service know the preferences and needs of the region.

Chief Executive Kieran Keyes said community members should consider getting involved to have their say on important health matters.

“We are looking for energetic and interested people to be the voice for their community and help us ensure we provide the health care the community wants and needs,” Mr Keyes said.

“If you are a resident of the Burdekin and want to make a difference to healthcare in your community, then we are looking for you.”

Completely voluntary, representatives will be a part of the Network for at least two years.

Expressions of interest close on February 14 and applications can be submitted here: https://forms.office.com/r/1wPp3PdUhU

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