An episode of ABC’s ‘Back Roads’ filmed in the Burdekin last year will go to air on Tuesday, January 30, showcasing what the region has to offer to the entire country.

Back Roads is an Australian observational documentary series that takes the road less travelled and visits some of the small towns and communities that make Australia special.

Host Heather Ewart travels to these towns to discover remarkable stories and inspiring people, with her and her crew visiting the Burdekin in May 2023 for the Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival.

As well as capturing the festival, cane cutting and cane fires, Heather interviewed many locals to hear their stories, including Gloria Vass and her family and Desley Musumeci who was interviewed as the spokesperson of her cooking group, Pandemonium.

“They rang up and said they wanted to come here to see what we were going to cook,” Desley said.

“We made them homemade ricotta, pasta and ravioli.”

Desley’s husband Alf was also interviewed about his family’s origins in the region.

“When they were here filming Alfie, they had Heather sitting across the table from us and they were filming us, and then they had to come behind us and film her asking the same questions,” Desley explained.

“She said, ‘I’ll ask the same questions, but don’t answer,’ well I had to put my hand over Alfie’s mouth because he kept going to answer!

“They were lovely people, the whole four of them.”

The episode will air on ABC on Tuesday, January 30 at 8:00pm and will be available to stream on ABC iview.

“I’m certainly going to tape it,” Desley said.

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Back Roads host Heather Ewart visited the Burdekin last year to film an episode of the documentary series. Photo supplied: ABC

Neither a new Premier nor a new year have diverted Member for Burdekin Dale Last’s attention away from much-needed medical facilities and services in the Burdekin.

Thousands of signatures and a campaign that ran for several months saw the state’s Health Minister recognise the importance of the equipment which would mean as many as 15 patients a week would no longer need to transferred to Townsville for CT scans outside business hours.

“The response from the Minister was positive but if the Minister thinks we will now sit and wait then she is sadly mistaken,” Mr Last said.  

“This is not the first time we have seen this issue raise its head.  

“We were told that a Business Case was being prepared as the next step and our community deserves an update.

“I said in October that I would keep working on this issue until the machine is in place and patients are receiving their scans in Ayr.  

“I also said I will work cooperatively with the Minister as long as we saw continual progress and I will honour both of those commitments for as long as it takes.”

With forecasts of significant rain in coming days, Mr Last said the wet season brought with it yet another reason for the project to be given the green light.

“While we have seen improvements in some areas of the road network that are closed by flooding it’s almost impossible to flood proof the Bruce Highway,” he said.  

“When the highway is shut the only option to access CT scans for many patients is via a helicopter transfer.

“In addition to ensuring 24-7 access to scans all year round, the installation of a CT Scanner at the Ayr Hospital would mean that, in times of emergency, we are more self-sufficient.  

“It also reduces demand on the rescue helicopter to allow it to focus more on the emergency response.

“Every time I talk to people about this project another reason it needs to happen is identified.  

“I am confident that the business case will support the project and, if it does, the decision to get the project started comes down to political will.

“My preference is that the business case is completed and that funding for the building and equipment is included in the budget in June.  

“Our community deserves access to medical services and facilities that ensure the best outcome and it really shouldn’t take an election to ensure that those services and facilities are on offer.”

Luke O’Brien, formerly of Ayr, has been identified as the victim of a tragic incident that occurred at BHP Mitsubishi Alliance's (BMA) Saraji mine on Monday, January 15.

Mr O’Brien and another worker were working in the fuel-bay area of the open-cut mine around midday when an interaction between two vehicles left the 27-year-old with significant crush injuries.   

He was taken to Dysart Hospital but later died from his injuries. 

Mr O’Brien’s mother, Yvette, shared her heartbreak on social media.

“A piece of my heart has been shattered,” she wrote.

“My baby boy is gone.”

Queensland's regulator for the resources sector, Resources Safety and Health Investigation (RSHQ), has launched an investigation into the incident.

RSHQ CEO Rob Djukic said the death will impact the entire Queensland mining community. 

"We'd like to offer our sincere condolences to the family of the victim, his friends and his co-workers," said Mr Djukic. 

"As soon as we were notified of the incident, we launched an investigation sending multiple investigators and inspectors from our Serious Incident Investigation Unit and Coal Inspectorate to the site.

"We're also working closely with BMA to find out what went wrong and prevent this from happening again."

The Mining and Energy Union released a statement saying the whole mining community is shocked and saddened at news of a fatality.

“We are devastated that a coal miner is not returning home at the end of their shift,” the statement read.

“Our hearts go out to friends and family.

“We offer our deepest thanks to first responders and support to workmates who may be traumatised.”

The union said safety inspectors were also on site to conduct a thorough investigation.  

“We will ensure no stone is left unturned in understanding what has occurred and preventing future fatalities and injuries.”

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Former Ayr man Luke O’Brien was killed in an incident at Saraji mine. Photo supplied: Yvette L O'Brien

PCYC Burdekin’s Get Set For Work Program will assist a new cohort of vulnerable job seekers in 2024 thanks to a renewed funding commitment from the Queensland Government.

The Get Set For Work Program is funded through Skilling Queenslanders for Work, assisting unemployed and underemployed Queenslanders to gain skills, qualifications and experience to either enter or remain in the workforce.

PCYC Burdekin Get Set For Work Program Coordinator Rowan Scott said the funding will allow the Program to build on previous years in assisting the region’s youth.

“It fills that gap for those 15- to 19-year-olds who are disengaged from school and aren’t in work,” he said.

“The three things we chase for an outcome are either getting a job, going back to school or further training.”

The 10-week program provides training for young people in small groups of up to 10 participants, giving them the opportunity to improve their skills and increase their chances of employment.

The program offers practical outcomes and accreditation, assisting participants in attaining skills and qualifications to assist them in the workforce.

Other skills focussed on in the program include team building, work experience, resume and cover letter writing and interview practise.

“We modify it to suit our participants,” Mr Scott said.

“We’re looking at building on what we have got and spending a bit of time looking at what else we can value add to the program in assisting them to get that first job.”

Minister for Training and Skills Development Lance McCallum announced a statewide investment of $51.7 million in targeted and tailored training and employment pathways.

“Queensland businesses need skilled employees across the board, and we are committed to delivering the training needed in areas of demand,” Mr McCallum said.

“The organisations receiving fundings understand their communities and their workforce needs and can make vital connections between job seekers and employers.

“Skilling Queenslanders for Work is helping people overcome the barriers to participation, to acquire new and in-demand skills.”

Enrolments are now open for 2024, with the program due to commence on January 29.

Participants must be 15–19 years of age and able to commit to a 10-week program 5 days a week.

To find out more, contact Mr Scott on 0448 686 648 or email Rowan Scott rowan.scott@pcyc.org.au.

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PCYC Burdekin Get Set For Work Program Coordinator Rowan Scott (left) looks forward to welcoming a new cohort of participants to the program in 2024

Tennis in the Burdekin has received a massive boost this month with local junior Adam Walton starring on the international stage.  

Television sets across the region have been tuned into Channel Nine as Walton, along with plenty of other Australians, took to the court in the Adelaide International and the Australian Open earlier in January.

The 24-year-old recorded two stunning victories to earn his place in the Adelaide International main draw, defeating world No.70 Pedro Cachin before backing it up with a 6-3 6-2 win over world No.77 Bernabe Zapata Miralles in the final qualifying round.

Having never previously defeated a player inside the top 100, the world No.176 defeated two within 48 hours.

Walton came up against 7th seed Jiri Lehecka of Czech Republic in the Round of 32 on Tuesday, January 9, unfortunately going down 6-1 6-3.

Notably, Lehecka went on to win the tournament.

Walton then opened his Australian Open campaign on Sunday, January 14, coming up against Italy’s Matteo Arnaldi on Kia Arena.

The Aussie made an encouraging start and found himself serving for the opening set at 6-5 but was unable to hold.

Walton was then overwhelmed by Arnaldi who took command in the tiebreak and never really let go, winning 7-6 (7-5) 6-2 6-4.

The Italian was recently successful in lifting the Davis Cup alongside world No.4 Jannik Sinner in December 2023 after defeating Australian Alexei Popyrin in the opening match of the final.

He also reached the fourth round of last year's US Open before losing to Carlos Alcaraz.

While being eliminated in the early stages of both tournaments, Walton has successfully proven his skill and potential while inspiring the next generation of young North Queensland tennis players following a similar path to his.

Tennis commentators on the Nine Network have praised his developing game during the tournaments, with Lleyton Hewitt’s former coach Roger Rasheed believing the Burdekinite can continue to make a big impact if he can move forward in the court and attack more.

Ayr Tennis Club coach Patrea Bojack said her squad of talented juniors has been inspired by Walton’s performances on international television.

“They are so proud that a local tennis player has made it to a major and it can only help teach them that if you are willing to put in the hard work, you can make it,” Ms Bojack said.

“He deserves every bit of success because he has done it the hard way by building his game in the professional ranks through the American college system.

“I was so pleased when Tennis Australia granted him a Wildcard into the Australian Open as it can help him access tournaments in other places in the world plus at the very least walk away with $120,000 for being a first round competitor at Melbourne Park.”  

Walton, currently based in Brisbane, started playing tennis in Home Hill aged five alongside his older brother, Jack.

Taking every opportunity to further their young tennis careers, the brothers both received and accepted tennis scholarships to attend Brisbane school Churchie where they completed their final three years of schooling.

After finishing school, Adam pursued the US college pathway, attending the University of Tennessee and playing college tennis in America for five years before graduating and playing professionally since August 2023.

Walton was one of six Australian tennis players to be awarded coveted main-draw singles wildcards for the 2024 Australian Open.

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Adam Walton won his first ATP Challenger Tour title in 2023. Photo supplied: ATP Tour

On the afternoon of Thursday 28 December 2023, Ayr Police received a complaint of damage to an exterior wall at a residence in Munro Street, Ayr. As a result, a 30yr old Burdekin woman was charged with one count of wilful damage and is due to re-appear in Townsville Magistrates Court on 14 March 2024.

At 11.20pm on Thursday 28 December, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Burke Street, Ayr. The driver, an 18yr old Burdekin man, was issued a Notice to Appear (NTA) for drink driving, .027 is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 29 January.

At 1.20am on Sunday 31 December, Ayr Police were called to a local licenced premises on Queen Street, Ayr in relation to damage to a glass door. As a result, a 23yr old Burdekin man was charged with one count of wilful damage and commit a public nuisance in a licence premises and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 29 January. He was also issued with a Police Banning Notice relating to licenced premises in Ayr. When Police arrived at the licenced premises, their attention was further drawn to the behaviour of another patron said to be yelling and screaming. As a result, a 23yr old Burdekin woman was subsequently issued a Public Nuisance ticket and also issued with a Police Banning Notice relating to licenced premises in Ayr.

At 2am on Wednesday 3 January, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Queen Street, Ayr. The driver, a 48yr old Burdekin man, was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in his saliva, possessing a dangerous drug and possessing a drug utensil. He is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 11 March.  

At 8.45pm on Thursday 4 January, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Bruce highway, Ayr. The driver, a 37yr old Cairns man, was issued a NTA for unlicenced driving and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 29 January.

On Friday 5 January, Ayr Police were called to Ayr Hospital in relation to the behaviour of a person at that facility. As a result of investigations, a 51yr old Burdekin man was issued a NTA for one count of public nuisance and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 12 February.

Snr Sgt Steve Barton 

OIC Ayr 

By Chelsea Ravizza

On Friday January 12, Burdekin Brass Band Members Jye Ravizza and Cecillia Cason were a part of the Queensland Band Association’s (QBA) Youth Band’s outstanding performance at Brisbane’s Mt Coot-tha Botanical Gardens.

Just under 50 young students from bands across the East Coast performed 11 pieces of music for a lively audience in the heart of the botanical gardens, with Cecillia leading with her talents by performing a solo in Celtic Dream.

The QBA’s Youth Band took the audience on an international tour of the decades, beginning with Lionel Richie’s the 1984 Olympic Fan Fair and Theme, to featuring pieces of music from the exotic Amazon and Old Blighty England to then conclude with another iconic Lionel Richie piece, Love is in The Air.

Each piece was introduced by a different member of the band and accompanied by comedic anecdotes directed towards accredited musician and the QBA’s Youth Band’s director, David Bremner.

Jye and Cecillia performed all pieces of music exceptionally, with Cecillia introducing the Band’s Wonders of The World section for the audience.

Surrounded by gorgeous greenery, the Botanical Gardens provided the perfect location and scenery to immerse yourself in the talents of these young musicians.

The performance concluded the pairs’ attendance of the highly acclaimed QBA’s Youth Band Development Camp, where they enriched their musical talents under the guidance of professionals like David Bremner.

“It’s an incredible week for everyone, and the band just gets better and better as the week goes on,” said Mr Bremner.

“We had a great week, with lots of fun, and we played lots of great music, we had a very special time.”

The afternoon closed with the presentation of awards, where Cecillia was awarded the Leonie Marshall Scholarship, a prestigious award which recognises a student’s passion for their community band association, and dedication to excelling in their musical talents.

Both Cecillia and Jye conducted themselves as true musicians by exhibiting such focus and professionalism.

The pair, along with the rest of QBA’s Youth Band, were able to execute an outstanding performance which received a standing ovation.

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L-R Jye Ravizza, QBA Youth Band Director David Bremner and Cecillia Cason. Photo credit: Chelsea Ravizza

CORES Queensland invites members of the Burdekin community to learn how to pick up the early warning signs, know what to say, what to do and where to go for help with its Suicide Prevention Training in February.

The training will provide participants with the essential skills to identify and respond to a person at risk of suicide.

It will give participants the tools to recognise the early warning signs of suicide, learn how to support a person at risk to access readily available services, promote health-seeking behaviour before a crisis occurs while teaching each participant to identify their own self-care strategies.

“We give people some basic skills to know what to look out for and, more importantly, what to say, what to do and where to go for help,” said Queensland Coordinator and Counsellor Ross Romeo.

“The rural communities are open to it and want to take ownership, so the training gives them some skills to help them recognise that they can’t fix anything for anyone - in the end change has got to come from the individual - our job as a friend or community member is to create the environment for that and help people unlock the tools.”

CORES (Community Response to Eliminating Suicide) is a community-based program relying on volunteers to educate members of the community on how to intervene when they encounter a person they believe may be suicidal.

Originating in regional Tasmania, the program held its first training session in the Burdekin in 2008 thanks to Peter Shadforth, which is where Mr Romeo became involved.

“I went along and found it quite easy to understand and practical,” he said.

A cane farmer of over 30 years, Mr Romeo trained to become a facilitator which led him to his role as Queensland Coordinator and Counsellor.

He now leads the program that provides suicide prevention training and free counselling to the Burdekin and surrounding regions.

CORES Queensland will host its Suicide Prevention Training on Friday, February 9 from 9:00am to 4:00pm at PCYC Burdekin, 164 MacMillan Street, Ayr.

The session is free, and participants are asked to bring their own lunch.

To RSVP, visit https://bit.ly/3U1Lri5 or to find out more, email adminqld@kentishrc.com.au or phone 0448 894 525.

Did you know that the Burdekin Community Association Inc (BCA) has the Burdekin Centre for Rural Health?  

The Centre was built with the help of government funding and a lot of community support in 2004.  

It’s been going strong ever since, helping thousands of community members to improve their health and wellbeing.

Services currently available at the Centre include:

   • BCA Psychological Therapies Program (Free for eligible people and includes suicide prevention) Ph: 4783 2711

   • Private Psychological Counselling (Deepwaters Healing, Lutkin Psychology, Melanie Usher, Philip Murray) Ph: 4783 2711

   • Bloom Hearing Ph: 1800 027 779

   • Burdekin Hearing Ph: 1800 008 308

   • Centacare NQ (Counselling) Ph: 1300 672 273

   • Clarity Hearing Solutions Ph: 4779 1566

   • NQ Foot & Ankle Centre Ph: 4723 5500

   • Synergy Health Centre (Exercise Physiology, Diabetic Education, Dietician) Ph: 4724 3250

   • Telehealth Hub Services (Free online service to assist with appointments with a health professional) Ph: 4783 2711

   • Consult Room Hire (health & wellbeing services) Ph: 4783 2711

   • Meeting Room Hire (meetings, groups or workshops – capacity 30 people) Ph: 4783 2711

We would love to see you at the Centre, so please call in to 12A Chippendale St, Ayr, phone 4783 2711 or email bca@bcaburdekin.org.au

Debra Cochran

Chief Executive Officer

Keep yourself fit and healthy by joining the "Move It Burdekin" program, offered by the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre in collaboration with Burdekin Shire Council. This program is free and is supported by Move it NQ and Northern Queensland Primary Health Network (NQPHN).

The 15-week program, facilitated by Andrea Piotto, is for people aged 55 years and above and aims to engage the community in physical activity. The sessions will include low-impact movements, Pilates and yoga, and seated exercises and will cater to different levels of fitness and flexibility.

Andrea is a well-known community figure and is passionate about encouraging people to keep active for a healthier lifestyle. She has a lot of experience in health and fitness – she knows how to make movement fun, and you will be in safe hands with her.

As an added bonus, the program provides opportunities to socialise and learn about ways to improve your well-being. After your movement session, you can enjoy refreshments and a chat. We are offering fun challenges along the way and incentives if you complete the full program.

If you are interested in joining the program, please call the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre on 47 834243 or visit our friendly team in person to sign up. Remember, you need to commit to the full 15-week program, and the number of sign-ups received will determine if participants are offered sessions once or twice a week.

The Team

Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

Happy New Year Burdekin! We have seen some New Year Resolutions being spoken about in the last couple of weeks and I think a great resolution for people is to try something different and join a new community club or group in 2024.

The Burdekin has always offered many options when it comes to sporting and community groups. It takes a quick look through the new Burdekin Community Directory website, where it showcases the variety of options available in our region. From artistic pursuits like pottery, woodcrafts and singing, to physical activities like bowling, tennis and clay target shooting, among many others.

If you prefer indoor or outdoor, slow or fast paced you can find something that suits your preferences and interests. You might be surprised by some of the things you didn't know you could do in our region.

There are contact details for all the groups and organisations and I especially encourage anyone who does join something new to help out where you can as they all rely on volunteers and many hands make light work, so even the smallest of contributions goes a long way and keeps these clubs going.

I hope everyone has a great 2024!

Did you know that you can access a wealth of resources, information and advice about water usage on Council’s website?

Whether you want to save money on your water bills, reduce your environmental impact, or simply learn more about this vital resource, you can find helpful tips and tools on the Smart Water Advice webpage.

Council has partnered with The Water Conservancy and other local governments to create this online hub of water efficiency information. You can discover how to use water wisely in your home, garden, laundry, pool, and more and find out how to choose the right mulch for your plants, how to check for leaks, and how to read your water meter.

Water is a precious resource that we often take for granted. By using it more efficiently, we can ensure that we have enough water for our future generations. Visit Burdekin.qld.gov.au for more information.

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Magnetic Island is a north Queensland gem well worth exploring thanks to its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife and captivating activities. Resting off the coast of Townsville, a haven for adventurers, nature enthusiasts and those simply looking to relax on the beach awaits. Whether you're planning a day trip or a multi-day stay, read on to discover some of the top things to do on Magnetic Island.

Take A Hike

Take advantage of Magnetic Island's scenic landscapes by exploring its diverse hiking trails. Trek through the diverse landscapes of the national park, offering various trails suitable for all levels of fitness. Hike to vantage points like Forts Walk to witness breathtaking views of the island and spot native wildlife, including koalas in their natural habitat.

Relax On Magnetic Island’s Stunning Beaches

Enjoy the island’s pristine beaches like Alma Bay, Horseshoe Bay and Picnic Bay. Swim in crystal-clear waters, bask in the sun or indulge in water sports like snorkelling, kayaking and paddleboarding.

Snorkel The Snorkel Trails

Embark on a snorkelling or diving adventure to explore the wonders of the underwater. Witness vibrant coral gardens, marine life and diverse underwater ecosystems at the Nelly and Geoffrey Bay Snorkel Trails. Other places to dive and snorkel include Florence Bay, Arthur Bay, Alma Bay, under the jetty in Picnic Bay and at Bright Point.

Discover The History

Delve into the island’s history by exploring World War II forts on the Forts Walk where you’ll learn about the island’s military past while enjoying panoramic views across the coastline. You can also step into the Island’s colourful past by visiting the Magnetic Museum.

Visit The Magnetic Island Markets

Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the markets held at Horseshoe Bay every Sunday. Jewellery, clothing, art, food and an assortment of treasures are all available at the markets where you’ll meet friendly locals and visitors alike.

Indulge In Local Cuisine

Sample culinary delights at various cafes and restaurants across the island. From fresh seafood to international cuisines, there’s something to suit every palate.

Kayak Through Magnetic Island’s Mangroves

Explore the island’s mangrove ecosystems by kayaking through the peaceful waters. Keep an eye out for unique bird species and marine life in this tranquil environment.

Wonder At Waterfalls

Wet season is the perfect time to get off the beaten track and explore this island’s waterfalls which can be found across Five Beach Bay, Arcadia, West Point and Nelly Bay.

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The Forts Walk

Magnetic Island’s iconic koala

Horseshoe Bay at dusk

Sunday markets

By Owen Menkens, CANEGROWERS Chairman

Happy New Year! I hope readers had a peaceful and relaxing break over the Christmas period and are feeling motivated for all those New Year’s resolutions as we head into 2024.

It’s shaping up to be a big year on the agricultural advocacy front, with local government elections looming in March and the state election just 41 weeks away.

At CANEGROWERS, we remain committed, as we have been for almost one hundred years, to advocating the best outcomes for growers, industry, and the regional communities in which we live, work, and raise our families.

Unfortunately, one of our biggest asks in the upcoming local government elections is, if we’re honest, something you should not have to fight for at all – fair treatment. Sugarcane rates in the Burdekin are the highest in the state on a cents in the dollar basis and whilst we have a good relationship with the Council and have worked collaboratively with them over the years to try and smooth rate increases, we cannot escape that fact that sugarcane farmers in general are often expected to pay much higher rates than other residents and small businesses, while often receiving fewer services.

Council rating practices are established to effectively guarantee an income for our local governments and there is no doubt that our councils need to raise the necessary funds to deliver the local services our communities need, but many of our members experience bill shock whenever a rates notice appears.

Farming can be a perilous business, with significant fluctuations in income as we balance tight margins, unfavorable weather, and the boom-and-bust cycle of the world sugar market and whilst sugar prices have been good, they will not remain so and margins will come under more pressure.  

For many years CANEGROWERS has been working with the Queensland Farmers’ Federation to raise these concerns around equity and fairness.  

As a result, at its state council in October 2023, the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) conceded there was a problem. In fact, a number of councils sought to have the issues of equity and fairness raised at the state government level.

The simple fact is, when it comes to supporting our regional communities, the agricultural sector does some heavy lifting.

Recently, an independent analysis of the sugarcane industry found that for every $1 worth of cane grown in Queensland, the industry generates $6.42 in income for the state economy and supports over 22,000 jobs and 10,000 businesses.

As growers we need local governments to work with the farming sector to expand and increase production, which will in turn boost regional economies.

Growers are part of the community, and as such we are willing to pay our fair share for the services provided by our local governments, but the rate burden borne by growers needs to change.

Councils and rate payers need fairness in the rating practices that local governments use!

In the lead up to council elections in March, CANEGROWERS will continue to fight for fairness and equity in the development of council rate policy.

The extent to which temporary workers from the Pacific Islands and Timor-Leste are supporting essential agricultural and food processing industries has been highlighted by new analysis from the Australia Institute, adding weight to calls for much needed improvements to working conditions for temporary visa holders participating in the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme.

The analysis finds that PALM workers are equivalent to 10% of the agricultural workforce usually resident in Australia, and equivalent to nearly a quarter (23%) of Australia’s meat processing workforce usually resident in Australia.

Exploitation and poor working conditions of many temporary workers has been revealed in the report which recommends that working conditions meet those afforded to domestic workers.

The conditions imposed on PALM workers place them at the mercy of employers in a way that would be illegal for domestic workers.

Employers are allowed to make deductions from their wages, and workers are unable to leave their employers without going through a rigorous bureaucratic process.

If they chose to leave an abusive employer without approval, they face the threat of having their visa cancelled.

“The numbers show that workers from the Pacific Islands and Timor-Leste are keen to take up the opportunity to work in Australia, but being tied down to a specific employer creates problems,” said Dr Alexia Adhikari, Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Australia Institute.

“It leaves workers enormously vulnerable to abuse and coercion and seriously reduces their ability to leave exploitative situations.

“While recent reforms to the program are certainly welcome, Australia can do more to ensure the equitable treatment of PALM Scheme visa holders.

“Overseas workers should be able to participate in temporary migration programs and return home with dignity as well as savings.”

Australia Institute research shows that there is strong support amongst the Australian public to provide better conditions for PALM visa workers with polling stating that over two-thirds of Australians believe PALM visa holders should have access to Medicare while working in Australia.

“Australia wants the Pacific region to think of us as a family and the Australian government wants to lean on our neighbourly relationship to establish partnerships for development, security and COP31 (climate summit),” said Dr Adhikari.

“We are asking for the co-operation and trust of Pacific Island nations, but our policies leave their citizens vulnerable to exploitation as they pick the fruit and vegetables that end up on Australian tables.”

Industries within which PALM visa holders are strongly represented make massive profits for the Australian economy.

Last year, the combined earnings from agricultural production ($90 billion) and agricultural export ($75 billion) were worth in excess of $160 billion.