The Burdekin Potters have enhanced the footprint of their Plantation Park Clubhouse, with a permanent roof and part wall structure, through a generous grant from the Haughton Sustainable Communities Fund.

The new all-weather roof has replaced a shade sail, which will now allow club members to carry out glazing of pottery pieces under permanent shade and protection from both the sun and rain.

Until the erection of this cover, members were unable to utilize the space during rain, or early morning sun.

It will also be of great benefit when the club holds its’ annual Raku firing during the cooler months of the year.

It will provide shade over our gas kiln during this firing, making it a lot more bearable, as raku firings are an extremely hot process.  

Obtaining this grant will now see the undercover space used to its full capacity, thus allowing more room for workshops and outside shade for club activities.

A big thank you must go to the Haughton Sustainable Communities Fund for continuing to support local Not-for-profit clubs in their endeavor to offer more creative options to local community members.

Contributed by Debra Ferraris

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L-R Pottery members Debbie, Takemi, Tania and Donna take advantage of the shade to get some glazing done. Photo supplied: Debra Ferraris

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In alignment with the organisation’s growth and vision, Queensland Cane Agriculture & Renewables (QCAR) hosted its first strategic planning workshop last week, inviting directors, future directors, members and other stakeholders to discuss QCAR’s role in the sugarcane industry.

Approximately 25 attendees from the Burdekin, Herbert and Mackay regions gathered in Townsville to talk through the company’s strategic goals and priorities, strategies, organisational structure and governance arrangements, laying a robust foundation for the organisation’s future.

“We aimed to establish the current landscape of the industry and how QCAR intends to capture opportunities within it,” QCAR Chief Strategy Officer Michael Kern said.

“The workshop focused heavily on the evolution of QCAR, highlighting its accomplishments thus far, critically assessing existing arrangement and operations, and clearly articulating our current value proposition to those who have yet to join QCAR.”

During the two-day workshop, participants engaged in sessions covering strategy, renewables, resources and policy.

“We aimed to collaborate with all stakeholders to discern their expectations for desired outcomes from a sugarcane farming representative organisation,” Mr Kern said.

“We aimed to collaborate with all stakeholders to discern their expectations for desired outcomes from a representative organisation in sugarcane farming,” Mr Kern said.

“The discussions delved into the expansion of QCAR’s role into ‘Renewables’, exploring diverse opportunities beyond sugar production, such as bioenergy, biofuels, food, plastics, hydrogen and electricity.”

Mr Kern underscored the need for swift action, saying, “If we don’t move quickly to take on these opportunities and use our base product of sugarcane to develop these energies, we’ll miss the boat.

“It offered a significant opportunity for collective brainstorming, fostering an environment where all participants thoughtfully shared their ideas.

“Following this, detailed discussions delved into the critical aspects of resources and budgets.

“Subsequently, the workshop shifted its focus to explore potential enhancements in QCAR’s organisational structure, the goal to strengthen the organisation’s role in providing on-the-ground support.”

Mr Kern expressed the importance of refining policies and governance to effectively represent members.

Key strategic outcomes from the workshop will be fine-tuned in QCAR’s monthly meetings, paving the way for a comprehensive strategic plan.

Mr Kern acknowledged the challenges ahead stating, “The challenge now is to prepare a strategic plan for the board’s approval, consult with our members, and operationalise it and execute it in a timely manner.”

Mr Kern shared his excitement at the vast potential and opportunities for QCAR and its members in diversifying the sugarcane industry.

“The sugarcane industry has been traditionally used to produce sugar, but there is so much more potential out there,” he said.

“If we don’t move quickly to take on these opportunities and use our base product of sugarcane to develop these energies, we’ll miss the boat.

“QCAR is steadfast in leading innovation and progress within the sugarcane industry.

“With deep insights into the industry’s ever-evolving landscape, QCAR confidently pioneers the way forward, ensuring sustainable growth and success.

“QCAR acknowledges its crucial role in bolstering Australia’s economy, harnessing the rich resources of soil, sunlight and water to cultivate a robust and resilient economic environment.”

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It is officially barramundi season, and avid fishers from around the region are fine-tuning their fishing tackle, filling their eskies with ice, and heading out for some action-packed days on the water.

Kicking off last week on February 1, barra fishing is widely known as one of Australia’s best native fishing sports, great fun both recreationally and competitively.

Top Barra Fishing Tips For Beginners:

   • Dawn and Dusk are the best times to go barra fishing in north Queensland

   •  Barra can grow to large sizes, so its best to have at least a 20 pound line

   • When casting, try your hand at deep diving lures, particularly around existing structures, like timber and rocks in the water

   • Try using large 6 – 8 inch lures of barra

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Find The Best Barra Spots

The Burdekin River

A coastal river stemming from the Seaview Range and leading to Upstart Bay, the Burdekin River is almost 900-kilometres in length and home to thousands of barramundi. Running through Home Hill and Ayr, the Burdekin River can be accessed at many convenient locations.

Groper Creek

Groper Creek is a laid-back area, where visitors can sit back and relax, take their tinnie or boat out on the water and cast a line. Often boasted as the best fishing spot in the Burdekin, Groper Creek’s boat ramp offers access to the Burdekin River, Wallace Creek and many offshore fishing locations. Groper Creek is also great for simple onshore fishing from the jetty, with the creek often well stocked with barramundi.

Lake Proserpine

If you head two hours south, Lake Proserpine provides a unique opportunity for barra fishing.

Renowned across Australia as one of the best places to catch a one-metre-plus bara, the Lake is replenished with over 1 million barramundis annually. Lake Proserpine boasts many facilities, including a newly revitalised campground, waterside bush camping sites, public toilets and showers, designated fire pits and updated picnic facilities. With easy access to the boat ramp and three new fishing pontoons, your lakeside getaway has never been easier!

Other Well-Known Spots:

   • The Haughton River is famous for its barramundi but it also delivers catches of whiting and flathead, grunter, mangrove jack and bream.

   • Barramundi Creek (also known as Morris Creek) is situated 43.6km from Ayr and has access to Bowling Green Bay.

   • Ocean Creek Boat Ramp can be a great spot to chase barramundi, mangrove jack and mud crab and located 13km north of Ayr.

   • Plantation Creek Boat Ramp delivers catches of whiting, bream, and flathead. The boat ramp is located 13km from Ayr.

   • Kierle’s Landing provides direct access to the Burdekin River although it is quite difficult to launch a boat from here. Kierle’s Landing is located 18.6km from Ayr.

   • Wallace Creek is located 20.2km from Home Hill 

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A national commitment to eradicate one of the world’s worst invasive species, the red imported fire ant (RIFA), has been reinforced with further confirmation of funding to the National Fire Ant Eradication Program.

The Australian, Queensland, New South Wales, the Northern Territory, Australian Capital Territory and Victoria governments have now all locked in funding to deliver the four-year response plan, with Western Australia confirming funding for two years.

These commitments maintain important momentum of the national eradication effort, endorsed by all jurisdictions through the Agriculture Ministers’ Meeting.

Since the first detection in 2001 in south-east Queensland, the Australian Government along with all states and territories, have been committed to the eradication of RIFA.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Murray Watt said the national commitment to this biosecurity response was a critical step towards eradication of RIFA.

“The Federal Government has locked in a record funding commitment of $296 million over the next four years as its contribution to the eradication program,” said Minister Watt.

“Eradicating fire ants is not an easy task – many countries have tried and failed, but we have been largely successful in containing their spread.

“Without the 20-plus year eradication program, led by the Queensland Government, RIFA would likely have spread from south-east Queensland north to Bowen, west to Longreach and as far south as Canberra.

“The funding will see the 2023-27 Response Plan, worth a total of $592.8 million, deliver stronger containment and more aggressive treatment, demanding a more rapid scale-up of effort across a broader operational area and eventual eradication.

“The plan uses the best available science, technology, and innovative approaches to deliver efficiencies and maximise resource allocation.”

This important confirmation of funding comes days after another RIFA detection in Ballina in northern New South Wales.

The nest was destroyed immediately and a control order was placed within a 5km radius of the site, restricting the movement of soil in the area.

Minister Watt said the Federal Government, in partnership with the Minns and Miles governments, was committed to halting the southward march of the fire ant.

“After a decade of cuts to biosecurity by the National Party, we had been fighting the fire ant with one hand tied behind our back.

“That’s why locking in this funding from all levels of government is so important.

"The Government believes we should use every weapon at our disposal to keep them at bay.”

RIFA is one of the world’s worst invasive ant pests, because of its harmful effects on people, agriculture, flora and fauna, infrastructure and recreational activities.

For more information, visit: https://www.fireants.org.au/

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In the 50th year of business for McCathies Furniture Plus, third generation owners, Rob and Kari Ravizza, still reflect the 1974 values of Jack and Millie McCathie in their operations.

The Golden Anniversary marks half a century of providing high quality service to the Burdekin region and beyond, with Kari and her team delivering wonderful pieces of furniture all along the East Coast.

“We are passionate about the Burdekin and support the local and wider community in every way we can,” said Kari.

In 1974, Kari’s grandparents, Jack and Millie McCathie established the Ayr Secondhand Dealers. Well-known names in the Burdekin region, the pair had introduced many successful businesses to the town including the Supreme Taxi Service, Mac’s Milk Bar, Mac’s Ayr Toyland, McCathies Real Estate, and McCathie & Jones Travel Agency.

In 1978, Kari’s parents, John and Lyndy McCathie, relocated Ayr Secondhand Dealers from its original location, where Burdekin Motors stands today, to its current space a few blocks down at 262 Queen Street. Operating out of a larger establishment, the business sold unique pieces of furniture crafted by the Endeavour Foundation alongside second-hand items carefully sourced by John.

1998 saw Ayr Secondhand Dealers shift into a retailer of new furniture under numerous variations of business names, all under the McCathie title. In 2013, Kari and Rob relocated back home to the Burdekin and became the new partners in the business, now known as McCathies Furniture Plus.

“The plus means a lot of things, and it’s a running joke having a plus of the day, with it being the occasional goanna wrangling, or dressing up a life-size baby elephant out the front of the shop, but our amazing staff and customers are always my favorite plus,” said Kari.

Withstanding decades of change in the Burdekin region, it’s the support of the community looking local first, and the dedicated work of Kari, Rob and their team that have allowed McCathies Furniture Plus to grow into a business able to source exclusive furniture ranges and stand out from chain-stores.

“While we may have started all those years ago as second-hand dealers, we are proud of the high quality, and great value new furniture ranges we have both in-store and on our website,” said Kari.

“If you haven’t been in for a while, it’s definitely time you checked us out in store or online, as we’d love to help you with your new furniture and bedding needs.”

To reflect this tremendous golden anniversary, Kari and her team warmly invite you to join them at McCathies Furniture Plus on the evening of Thursday, February 8 to enjoy bubbles, memories, and Cheers to 50 Years.

Every customer from Thursday, February 8 to Thursday, February 15 will get $50 in McCathies Money to spend in-store during that week, while there will also be a $500 gift voucher hidden in store for one lucky customer to find.

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Three Generations – Lyndy McCathie holding Murphy the dog, Kari Ravizza and Rob Ravizza holding a photo of Millie and Jack McCathie and John McCathie

The framework going up for the big shed

Aunty Janice Jones-Davies cutting the ribbon at the opening of big shed

McCathies Furniture Plus at 262 Queen Street, Ayr

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1943

William ‘Jack’ McCathie, born in Gympie in 1913, marries Amelia Jane ‘Millie’ Orchard, born in Ayr in 1922, and the couple’s early business ventures include carpentry, wood depot and wood carting, Supreme Taxi Service, Macs Milk Bar & Café, Macs Toyland, T & G Mutual Life Insurance Agency, TAA Travel Centre, and agents for Kern Homes & McCathies Real Estate.

1970

Jack and Millie’s son, John, marries Lyndy Heuir.

1974

While running TAA Travel Agency and McCathies Real Estate, Jack and Millie open Ayr Secondhand Dealers where Burdekin Motors is today. Jack continues to operate the travel agency and real estate businesses while Millie manages the secondhand shop. John and Lyndy are asked to join the family business and take over management of Ayr Secondhand Dealers.

1978

The family purchases 262 Queen Street, Ayr, the business’ current location.

1979

Jack and Millie’s daughter, Janice, along with Lyndy, start Jan and Lyndy’s Sewing World, sharing the building with Ayr Secondhand Dealers. John begins servicing sewing machines as well as running the Secondhand business. McCathies Real Estate also moves into 262 Queen Street alongside Ayr Secondhand Dealers and Jan and Lyndy’s Sewing World. Jan and Lyndy open a second ‘Sewing World’ in Bowen before selling the Bowen business in 1987 and the Ayr business in 1989.

1994

John and Lyndy expand the business and hold regular auctions alongside selling secondhand furniture. Long-time family friends Lyn and Rodney Stenning partner up with John and Lyndy and begin construction of the large shed adjoining the current building.

1998

Ayr Secondhand Dealers shifts into new furniture retail. Lyndy and Lyn took a trip to Brisbane to source new furniture and mattresses with an Australian made focus – many of the suppliers they found on that trip are still suppliers of the business now, some 26 years later.  

2012

With Lyn and Rod looking to retire, John and Lyndy’s youngest daughter Kari and her husband Rob decide to invest in the family business and move from Townsville with their two children, Chelsea and Jye, back to the Burdekin.

2013

Kari takes on the role of Managing Director of McCathies Furniture Plus, a big change from her previous teaching role. Rob would continue to commute to Townsville daily for work for the next four years before commencing work at Pioneer Mill in 2017.

2018

Shay Kratzmann joins the team.

2021

Adam Smith starts with McCathies after completing his cabinetmaking apprenticeship.

2023

George Gamia joins the McCathies crew.

2024

McCathies Furniture Plus celebrates 50 years of quality service and dedication to the Burdekin.

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Millie and Jack McCathie

The McCathies building at 262 Queen Street, Ayr before the addition of the big shed

John and Lyndy McCathie and Lyn and Rodney Stenning

Kari, Jye, Chelsea and Rob Ravizza

The team in 2024 – L-R George Gamia, Kari Ravizza, Shay Kratzmann, Rob Ravizza and Adam Smith. Photo credit: Melanie Napier

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McCathies Furniture Plus was founded by well-known local entrepreneurial couple, William ‘Jack’ McCathie and Amelia Jane ‘Millie’ McCathie in 1974 under the title of Ayr Secondhand Dealers.

Originally from Gympie, Jack relocated to the Burdekin region where he met and married the love of his life, Ayr local, Millie Orchard in 1943. The pair then went on to have two children, Janice Isobel and John William McCathie.

The business was one of many established by the couple in their 47 years of marriage, and many of their successful business ventures are still in operation in the Burdekin today. In their earlier years together, Jack and Millie established businesses in the areas of carpentry, wood depot and wood carting, the Supreme Taxi Service, Macs Milk Bar & Café, Macs Toyland, T & G Mutual Life Insurance Agency, TAA Travel Centre and were agents for Kern Homes & McCathies Real Estate.

Whilst operating TAA Travel Agency and McCathies Real Estate in 1974, the pair established Ayr Secondhand Dealers where Burdekin Motors stands today. Jack remained as the face of the travel agency and real estate, whilst Millie managed the second-hand shop until they invited their son John and his wife of four years, Lyndy, into the business later that year.

After the offer, John left his position as a traffic controller at the Kalamia Mill, and the pair joined the family business. The business’ current location, 262 Queen Street Ayr, harboured a tyre shop until the McCathie family purchased the land in 1978 to relocate the furniture business. The business was not fully enclosed and merely a mesh fence covered the rear of the building. Jack and John removed the fencing and in upholding the standards of 1970s security systems, John slept on the premises with a shotgun until the Aguirre brothers blocked in the wall, securing the building.

After the relocation, the larger premises allowed for the business to expand their range. John introduced new furniture pieces crafted by the Endeavour Foundation to be retailed on consignment along with second-hand items he sourced from auctions.

With opportunities for expansion at their fingertips, John and Lyndy invited long-time family friends, Lyn and Rodney Stenning into the business in 1994. Construction began to establish the large shed adjoining the current building to house regular auctions alongside selling a large assortment of second-hand furniture, and four years later in 1998, the business transformed into a retailer of new furniture.

In 2012, Lyn and Rodney’s retirement presented the perfect opportunity for John and Lyndy’s youngest daughter Kari, her husband Rob, and two children, to relocate from Townsville back to the Burdekin to invest in the family business. In 2013, Kari left behind a full-time career in teaching to take on the role of managing director of McCathies Furniture Plus, and Lyndy believes Jack and Millie would be beyond proud their business is in the capable hands of their own granddaughter.  

“I know how proud Jack and Millie would be to know that the business they started 50 years ago is in good hands with their granddaughter Kari and husband Rob,” expressed Lyndy.

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John, Millie, Jack and Janice McCathie

John McCathie and Rodney Stenning in front of the big shed

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Proud and confident do not begin to describe the likes of Adam Smith, another strong team member of McCathies Furniture Plus.

For Adam, who knows the Burdekin like the back of his hand, having been born and raised right here in the region, McCathies has become his second home for him.

He loves working with a team he can rely upon, and loves seeing customers thrive with his dedicated and knowledgeable service.

Most people, however, will recognise Adam from outside the calm interior of McCathies Furniture Plus, as he is often out and about in the region delivering furniture for the business.

Adam’s professional backyard is extensive, having worked as a mechanic at the bowling alley before undertaking a cabinetmaking trade, until he finally found solace with the team at McCathies.

When not working, Adam can be found hitting the field and enjoying his favourite sports, hanging out with friends, and venturing out, exploring both the region and Australia, and discovering as much as he can.

Star Sign: Aquarius

Fav Movie: Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith

Fav Colour: Blue

Fav Holiday destination: Tasmania

Fav Music: Pop and Rap

Fav Quote: Do. Or do not. There is no try - Yoda.

Tell Us Something most people don't know about you: One day I plan on moving overseas.

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Born in Papua New Guinea, George is a proud Torres Strait Islander who grew up on Yorke Island before moving to Australia, the country he now calls home.

For many years he pursued a variety of professions, gaining invaluable skills and experience in areas such as construction and hospitality.

These are now very useful experiences which he can apply to his role at McCathies Furniture Plus, where he now enjoys working with the team assembling and delivering furniture.

With a varied and diverse background, George has witnessed warfare, having joined the army, and headed on a peace-keeping mission to East Timor where he witnessed many atrocities.

He is now very happy to enjoy the quiet rural life and, as a family man, he loves raising his children in the Burdekin.

In his own time, he plays football, heads out with friends for a day fishing, camping, or bushwalking.

Having seen warzones and travelled to different places, George feels a lot of love and respect for his life, the people he loves and the world around him.

This is evident in the way he handles each item of furniture and inspects all products with great care, ensuring every customer receives the most perfect piece of furniture they had hoped for.

Star Sign: Virgo

Fav Movie: Raging Bull

Fav Colour: Yellow

Fav Holiday Destination: Bali

Fav Music: Country songs

Fav Quote: “Darkness cannot drive out darkness, only light can do that”

Describe your personality in three words: Love and respect

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For high school sweethearts Kari and Rob Ravizza, relocating back to the Burdekin to take over McCathies Furniture Plus was an opportunity to re-immerse themselves in their hometown. Both Rob and Kari grew up in Ayr, where they first met at their casual jobs at Big Rooster (now Red Rooster). Their path has taken many twists and turns and it’s ironic that, after their romance blossomed in the workplace, they have gone on to embark on an incredible journey of business together.

Although Kari would help out at the family business while growing up, she went on to study a Bachelor of Education and work as a teacher for 20 years. Meanwhile, Rob completed his apprenticeship at Pioneer Mill where he continues to work today as an Engineering Superintendent. Kari says all of her past jobs have helped her in the business. Despite the steep learning curve, she says she’s loved every minute of taking on the role of McCathies Furniture Plus Managing Director in 2013.

“Amongst other things, I have learnt how to drive a furniture truck, unload a semi-trailer full of heavy furniture, assemble furniture in record time and drive a forklift,” Kari said. “Being a small business, I get to do everything from the ordering, paying bills, assembling furniture and delivering to our customers.”

McCathies Furniture Plus is an independent furniture store, with a continued focus on sourcing the best products with the best value while providing the best service. With a unique range of products not found in larger retail stores, Kari finds satisfaction in offering exclusive ranges and the business has the power to make decisions on the quality and products sold.  

“If we don’t have what our customers are looking for, we will do our best to find it for them,” Kari said.

Passionate about the Burdekin, McCathies Furniture Plus proudly support local community clubs and organisations through sponsorship, donations of money or products or donating time by assisting at events. It’s the community in which they’ve raised their children Chelsea, 20 and Jye, 16, and where their two dogs, Minus and Holly, rule their home. With ties to the Burdekin running so deep, returning to the region was an opportunity for Kari and Rob to reconnect while they continued to grow the business that Kari’s parents and grandparents had poured so much of themselves into before her.

“It is so very important to me to continue the legacy my Grandparents started,” Kari said. “To uphold their values of honesty and integrity, where giving back to the local community is always at the heart of everything we do.  

“Thank you to our amazing customers over the past 50 years. You are the reason we are here and what drives us to continue to improve and provide the best service and products we possibly can!”

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Kari and Rob Ravizza

L-R Jye Ravizza, John and Lyndy McCathies, Kari, Rob and Chelsea Ravizza

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Shay Kratzmann has evolved to become a steadfast staple of the McCathies Furniture Plus shopping experience, a friendly face and reliable sales assistant at the front line of the business.

Born in Ayr and raised in Brandon, Shay is through and through a Burdekin girl, something she is quick to declare and happy to share, and for over six years, McCathies Furniture Plus has been her home away from home.

“I honestly don’t think I can see myself doing anything else,” Shay shared.

“Every day is different, and I wake up excited to see what the day has in store for us. All these roles involve a lot of customer interactions and I think I am great at communicating and connecting with customers.”

When not working at McCathies, Shay is fine-tuning her own photography skills, perfecting her craft and looking for that award-winning shot.

One of her photos was published in the American photography book, one of the proudest moments in her life so far.

Shay shares her life with her boyfriend of 16 years, and their two “hairy children”, the couple’s dogs Bull and Ryda.

Star Sign: Virgo

Fav Movie: Law Abiding Citizen and Lion King

Fav Colour: Purple and Black

Fav Holiday Destination: Maldives

Fav Music: Country and Old School (Guns N Roses, The Eagles, AC/DC etc.)

Fav Quote: “It is what it is”

Tell Us Something most people don't know about you: I am a Brown Belt, Black Tip in Taekwondo

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Residents of the Burdekin will have the opportunity to experienceAfrican Drumming and Blissful Sound Immersion when Alex Salvadore ofthe Rhythm Connection comes to Ayr on the weekend.

Mr Salvadore isholding two events at the QCWA Hall in Ayr on Sunday, February 11.

“TheIntroduction to African Drumming workshop will have residents playingrhythms on authentic West African djembes,” he said.

“The Bliss OutSound Immersion Experience is an hour of relaxation while I playinstruments from around the world including flutes from Armenia,Native America and Slovakia; Singing Bowls, Handpan, ocean drums,chimes and more.”

Mr Salvadore willhost ‘An Introduction to African Drumming’ on Sunday, February 11from 9:00am to 12:00pm.

‘Bliss Out’,a sound immersion and tone chimes experience, will follow from 2:00pmto 3:30pm.

Contact MrSalvadore on 0414 803 666 or email therhythmconnection@gmail.com formore information.

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Alex Salvadore is holding two events at the QCWA Hall in Ayr on Sunday. Photo supplied

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The Ayr Surf Life Saving Club's Annual Beach Golf Day is gearing up to be a cracker of an event. Being held this Saturday February 10, with Tee-off from 1pm, teams of four will enjoy a fun filled day out with their clubs. Teams are invited to come in their best team themed outfits, to help add to the energetic atmosphere of the day.

Their Top 100 Club event has also been moved to be aligned with Golf Day. The special event of the draw will take place between 12pm-1.30pm on Saturday 10th, with a ticket purchased gaining entry for 2 people for drinks and lunch and the chance to win $3,000 or $1,000. There are still some numbers available, so if you're interested, please head to the Ayr Surf Club's Facebook page, or contact Kellie Lawry.

The club has organised buses to and from Alva Beach to assist with transportation for the event. The bus will be leaving The Kalamia Hotel in town at 11.30am & 12.30pm and heading back in from the beach at both 8.30pm & 9.30pm.

This is sure to be a great day out for all ages, so get your teams together and come and join in the fun.

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Contributed by Kellie Lawry

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The Ayr Surf Life Saving Club's Annual Beach Golf Day is happening this Saturday February 10. Photo supplied

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The Whitsundays Writers Festival is gearing for a grand comeback, with a schedule jampacked full of immersive celebrations of all things literary.

On the cards is esteemed 2023 Miles Franklin Literary Award winner, Shankari Chandran, winner of Australia’s premier literary prize for her debut novel, ‘Chai Time at Cinnamon Gardens’.

Alongside Shankari are several other highly regarded, award-winning Australian authors, who are excited to be in sunny Whitsundays for a weekend of literary prowess.

Karen Jacobsen, the Festival President, expressed her excitement, stating, “It's not often we have the opportunity to meet renowned national and international writers. This will be a landmark event for the Whitsundays and a golden opportunity for regional Queensland to add a substantial literary gem to its arts calendar.”

Alongside the schedule of workshops, talks, and luncheons, the weekend will also include the prestigious Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards. The Heart Awards provide well-deserved recognition and financial rewards to talented writers for best unpublished manuscript, short story, poetry, and book design. Submissions for the Heart Awards open February 14.

“This event will bring together creative minds in the picturesque setting of the Whitsundays. What better place to immerse yourself in the brilliance of Australian literature?” remarked Karen.

“I strongly advise securing your place at the festival and booking accommodation early to fully enjoy the wonders of the Whitsundays while indulging in the myriad of events the festival has to offer.”

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Save The Date!

WHAT: Whitsunday Writers Festival
WHEN: Friday, September 6 to Sunday September 8

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Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards

Submissions Open February 14

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Shankari Chandran confirmed to star in September’s Whitsundays Writers Festival. Photo supplied

Karen Jacobsen, Voice of Siri, is the Whitsunday Writers Festival President. Photo supplied

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Local Ergon Energy crews worked tirelessly to reconnect power to thousands of Burdekin customers. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

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The Burdekin Survives Ex TC Kirrily

Streets, parks and backyards were littered with fallen trees and branches after ex-Tropical Cyclone Kirrily crossed over the Burdekin last Thursday, January 25, and while damage was considered minimal, the event left large parts of the region without power for days.

The cyclone’s damaging winds had a major effect on north Queensland’s power network, with over 9,000 Burdekin customers losing their power from Thursday night, and the last of those regaining power earlier this week.

Ergon Energy Area Manager Matt Oar said local and visiting crews were out in the field repairing the network as soon is it was safe to return to work after the cyclone passed.

“We had crews working 24/7, not just on call, but actually working around the clock to restore power to customers,” Mr Oar said.

“A lot of these staff who were at work were leaving their families without power at home for a couple of days.

“We’ve turned an event that potentially could have lasted a week into three days.”

On top of 48 local staff, 203 workers travelled into the region from across the state.

“I’m just so thankful and proud of what our crews have done and what they’ve been able to achieve in such a short amount of time,” Mr Oar said.

“The community’s been so positive when we’re out and about, they understand that we’ve got challenges but we’re doing our best to get the power on as soon as we can.”

For the SES, regular natural disaster preparations ramped up on Saturday, January 20 when sandbags became a priority as the cyclone approached.

Burdekin SES Local Controller Warren Francis estimated that over 9,500 sandbags were provided by the SES to residents of the Burdekin.

“This is by far the largest number of sandbags consumed on a single operation,” Mr Francis said.

“I’m very impressed with how the community reacted.”

At least 120 jobs have been logged with the SES throughout the event including sandbagging, one tarp job, and vegetation clearing post-event.

“Our role is to cut an access into a house; if a tree’s fallen down and blocked access to a house or driveway, we’ll clear that, but we don’t go around and clean people’s yards,” Mr Francis clarified.

Chair of the Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) Lyn McLaughlin said the event was an opportunity to showcase the community’s resilience and preparedness.

“I want to express my sincere thanks to everyone involved in the recent weather event," Ms McLaughlin said.

“Thank you to all who volunteered and assisted their family, friends and neighbours.

“To the SES Volunteers, Ergon Energy and the Burdekin Shire Council staff for leaving their homes and giving up their time to help the community.

“Their efforts do not go unnoticed and are greatly appreciated.

“The LDMG will continue to monitor the affects from ex-TC Kirrily and will provide regular updates to the public as needed via Council’s website, Disaster Dashboard and the Burdekin Disaster and Emergency Information Facebook page.”

Personal Hardship Assistance Grants are now available to residents in the Burdekin Shire who have been affected by the Tropical Cyclone Kirrily.

To check your eligibility and submit an application, visit www.qld.gov.au/DisasterHelp, phone the Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349 or visit the Community Recovery pop-up hub at Burdekin Community Association, 130 Queen Street, Ayr.

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LDMG Chair Lyn McLaughlin and Local Disaster Coordinator Eileen Devescovi

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