Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
The Burdekin community has rallied to support survivors following last Thursday’s tragic bus rollover near Gumlu. While emergency services managed the confronting crash site, local residents, council staff, and Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort coordinated immediate relief, providing accommodation, meals, and medical aid to the shaken passengers.Tragedy On Bruce Highway As Bus Rolls Near GumluA young overseas tourist has died and dozens of passengers were left shaken after a bus crash near Gumlu last Thursday afternoon. Emergency services were called to the Bruce Highway north of Bowen just before 4pm on 14 May, after a southbound FlixBus travelling from Cairns to Airlie Beach left the roadway and rolled onto its side. The bus was carrying 29 people at the time of the crash. The driver, a 70-year-old Mackay man, was taken to Bowen Hospital with minor injuries. Police confirmed 26-year-old Serena Andreatta, a dual Argentina and Italy national, died at the scene. Several other passengers sustained injuries and were transported to hospitals in Townsville, Ayr and Bowen for treatment. One passenger who survived the crash told Burdekin Life they became concerned about the bus’s movements in the hours before the rollover. “I did not feel so safe,” the passenger said, claiming the bus appeared to be “swerving” at times. The passenger said the concern prompted them to fasten their seatbelt. They then recalled the bus striking a barrier before rolling, describing chaotic scenes inside the vehicle as passengers and belongings were thrown around the cabin. Following the crash, passengers were accommodated in Ayr overnight before being cared for at the Burdekin Theatre loft the following day, where they were provided meals prior to continuing their journey south on another bus. Burdekin Shire Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort attended to check on passengers and assisted in sourcing medication for those affected. Passengers lauded the response efforts of Burdekin Shire Council, Ayr Police, and the wider community. The Queensland Police Forensic Crash Unit is continuing to investigate the incident. The incident occurred on the same stretch of highway where a fatal Greyhound bus crash in 2024 claimed three lives. Superintendent Dean Cavanagh described the crash scene as “very confronting” and praised emergency crews for their rapid response. “This was a very complex incident, it was a very serious incident, and it was in an isolated area,” he said. “Although we tragically lost a life, I believe that effort that we saw absolutely went into saving many [more].” Premier David Crisafulli described the incident as a tragedy, expressing condolences for the woman who died and noting multiple patients were still fighting for life in hospital. He declined to speculate the cause of the crash, but reiterated his commitment to improving safety on the Bruce Highway. “It’s a road that means everything to the state, and it’s a road that’s a long way short of where it should be.” CAPTIONS: 1—A young overseas tourist has died and dozens of passengers were left shaken following a horror bus crash near Gumlu last Thursday afternoon. Photo source: Burdekin SES
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The Bowen Pipeline Company will launch its critical water sales program this week, marking the final major milestone before seeking federal funding for a $750 million generational water infrastructure project. Opening on 20 May and running until 24 June, the program will serve as the commercial validation required to secure a 50 per cent federal government construction grant. The privately funded project would involve the construction of a 182-kilometre underground pipeline from the Burdekin River to Bowen, running primarily along the Bruce Highway corridor. Once operational, the pipeline is anticipated to deliver 100,000 megalitres of water annually, securing a reliable supply for Australia’s largest winter vegetable-growing region. Bowen Pipeline Company director Sean Brown said the water sales program was the culmination of nearly a decade of local advocacy. "This is essentially the final hurdle to be jumped prior to the lodging of our Federal Government construction grant application,” Mr Brown said. "For the Project to be considered by the Federals as a worthy recipient of funding, the region needs to demonstrate both large water demand volumes and significant numbers of water users." The company has set a minimum water volume of 20 megalitres, which can be shared between adjoining properties. "In effect, water users will be paying 2025 prices for water that will be delivered in 2030," Mr Brown said. The project is tracking towards ‘shovel-ready’ status by September 2026, ahead of a federal funding application. The company aims to secure a funding commitment in the May 2027 Federal Budget, with construction slated to begin in September 2027. Boasting a benefit-cost ratio of 1.27, the pipeline is projected to create 200 jobs during construction and 1,200 permanent roles upon completion. It is expected to drive a $300 million annual economic gain for agriculture and unlock up to $1 billion in additional investment through local green energy initiatives, such as sustainable aviation fuel and green ammonia. The infrastructure features several industry firsts, including Indigenous project equity and ownership, and a net-zero footprint supported by 30-megawatt solar farms utilising Australian-made Tindo Solar panels. Mr Brown credited local communities and political leaders, including Premier David Crisafulli, Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie, and local MPs and mayors, for progressing the project. "After 9 years of community effort to get this far, we seek your support for this final push," Mr Brown said. "This project is being built on the shoulders of the people who not only live in the region but all those who came before us." Public information and water sales presentations will commence at 4:30 pm at the DPI in Bowen on 20 and 28 May, and at the Ayr ANZAC Memorial Club on 21 and 27 May. CAPTION: Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, President of BGGA, Carl Walker, BPC Director Sean Brown, and Whitsundays Mayor Ry Collins (WRC). Photo supplied
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Growing up in Ayr, Queensland, Able Seaman Thomas Wiseman was torn between two paths: following in his father’s footsteps or pursuing a passion inspired by his mother. “I was going to join the Army because my dad was Army and my grandfather was Army. But my mum is a pastry chef by trade, and my real love of cooking I got from her,” Able Seaman Wiseman said. Luckily, he not only went to his parents for advice, but actually listened to them. “Dad suggested I join the Navy. He said in the Navy, chefs cook every day at sea and travel the world,” Able Seaman Wiseman said. As chef on board HMAS Toowoomba, over the past five months, he’s visited six of Australia’s regional partners and engaged in multiple exercises, activities and operations with allied nations, all while being trained to become a fully qualified chef. “I went straight from school to enlisting and it was the best decision I have ever made by far. In just two years in the Navy, I’ve visited six countries and done several deployments. I love it,” Able Seaman Wiseman said. While learning his trade through Navy, he doesn’t have to worry about the competitive, seasonal nature of the hospitality industry and the lack of job security that can sometimes go with it. “The pay is so much better. In the civilian world, I would be on an apprentice wage. In the Navy, you get paid more and you learn more skills,” Able Seaman Wiseman said. There’s also the additional duties that allow him to develop the skills and knowledge required to live a well-rounded, adult life. “On top of being a chef, we have all of our external roles as well. I am a member of the ship’s emergency medical team, so if there’s a medical incident, I could be one of the members to go and respond. It is a great responsibility,” Able Seaman Wiseman said. Every day, Toowoomba’s chefs produce four meals for the about 200-strong crew, ensuring all watches on board are fuelled to carry out their duties protecting Australia and its interests. “Without the stokers, the ship doesn’t go anywhere, without the watchkeepers keeping us safe, we can’t do much, so while us chefs are also important in keeping the ship going, the entire crew is one big team,” Able Seaman Wiseman said. His biggest thanks remain for his parents, whose wise words set him up for life. “I reckon if my mum saw this in the paper, she’d absolutely love it, frame it and hang it up on the wall,” Able Seaman Wiseman said. “They’re still up there in Ayr, so Dad, if you’re reading this, I took all the advice you’d given me, I am so glad you convinced me to go Navy, it was the best advice I ever had.” CAPTION: Able Seaman Maritime Logistics Chef Thomas Wiseman stands in the galley of HMAS Toowoomba as the ship sails through the Sulu Sea. Photo supplied
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Internationally recognised leadership consultant and wellness advocate, Robyn Taylor has worked across Australia, Africa, Europe and the United States, combining modern leadership practices with mindfulness and wellbeing strategies developed through her own personal health journey. In March, Burdekin Shire Council Chief Executive Officer Matthew Magin invited Ms Taylor to speak at Council’s Women’s Health Day, reflecting the pair’s longstanding commitment to collaborating on projects across regional Queensland spanning a diverse range of industries and specialisations. “Workplace wellbeing carries more importance in our current times of uncertainty, everyday life seems to present more challenges,” said Ms Taylor. “A supportive workplace culture, recognising the current challenges, is demonstrated by employers who arrange programs such as the Women’s Health Day.” Mr Magin echoed Ms Taylor’s sentiments, highlighting the importance of prioritising staff wellbeing and fostering a positive workplace culture across regional organisations. “I agree that wellness programmes are hugely important for any and all employers to be organising for their staff,” he said. Ms Taylor said she was delighted to return to the region, fondly recalling previous visits to Ayr, including delivering an International Women’s Day presentation initiated by Lyndy McCathie and the Burdekin Zonta Club. Drawing on her own experience overcoming a diagnosis of advanced multiple sclerosis decades ago, Ms Taylor’s presentation at Burdekin Shire Council’s Women’s Health Day focused on resilience, mindset and personal wellbeing. She encouraged participants to take control of unhealthy stress patterns, embrace balance in both work and life, and recognise the value of community connection and regional living, resounding the quote, “it’s not what happens to you, it’s what you do about it” to reframe unbeneficial habits. “We can reprogram our perspective once we change the way we think about life and how we are managing our own situation,” she said. “Today are seeking relief from their daily pressures that can manifest in many ways, like feeling overwhelmed by current events, sometimes resulting in insomnia or deteriorating health. In this big picture, it is important that we find balance in the various aspects of our lives, including our jobs.” Ms Taylor also praised the “Can Do” attitude often found across regional Queensland and encouraged more women to become involved in community organisations such as Burdekin Zonta Club, saying purpose and connection play a vital role in long-term wellbeing. “I believe appreciating the value of regional life can be a major factor in finding the balance,” she added. “Ayr is such an attractive country town where living is without the pressures of sitting for hours in traffic, where one can consciously develop and incorporate an exercise program into the daily routine and where one can seek out like-minded people with whom to spend our very precious time. “Never underestimate the value of the business experience you are gaining in the Burdekin. With today’s expanding and ever- changing technology, regional business and regional careers are just as sophisticated as any to be gained in the crowded, frantic pace of a major city. “Appreciation and gratitude of our situation are major factors in finding balance. We can train our intellect to work with our perceived challenges and train our bodies with our exercise or gym program, but quite often we don’t realise how important it is to train the mind.” Ms Taylor said many of the leadership principles being discussed internationally were just as relevant in regional communities like the Burdekin Shire, particularly when it came to creating workplaces where people feel valued, fulfilled and supported. She also spoke about the importance of values-based leadership, mindfulness and wellbeing practices in helping people manage stress and maintain balance in both their professional and personal lives. Drawing on decades of experience in leadership coaching and wellness, including her internationally recognised Meditating Manager program, Ms Taylor encouraged people to prioritise reflection, self-awareness and personal growth alongside career ambitions. She said regional communities like the Burdekin offer unique opportunities to build meaningful careers while enjoying a healthier and more balanced lifestyle. “Be brave, be fearless, don’t allow anyone or anything to deter you in your pursuit of your career goals and ensure those goals are firm,” Ms Taylor advised. “I am absolutely ga ga about the power of goal setting. Goals will propel you forward to do things you never dreamt you would be able to achieve. Be prepared that the goals may change along the way.” CAPTION: International leadership consultant and wellness advocate Robyn Taylor joined Burdekin Shire Council staff for March’s Women’s Health Day, sharing insights on resilience, wellbeing and values-based leadership. Photo source: Burdekin Shire Council
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Haughton Solar Farm has just been granted approval for a substantial expansion which is set to provide a significant economic boost for the region, with an estimated 405 full-time jobs and 10 permanent roles created.
With the Burdekin Shire Council approval, the project will increase the farm’s capacity to 300 megawatts (MW) of solar power, enough to power an additional 110,000 homes, and the project will also include a 200 MW Battery Energy Storage Solution (BESS).
The expansion will see the addition of 1154 hectares of solar panels to the existing 100 MW Haughton Solar Farm, bringing the total capacity to 400 MW. The new BESS will be capable of storing energy for over two hours, providing a reliable backup that can be deployed to the grid during peak demand times, such as at night.
Mr Capomolla, a representative from Pacific Blue, called the approval a significant milestone for both the company and the renewable energy sector.
"Once this stage is complete, Haughton Solar Farm is expected to have a generating capacity of up to 500 MW, enough to power around 290,000 homes,” he said.
“This project is part of a four-part plan for our Burdekin Renewables Hub.”
The plan for the hub also includes a 500 MW wind farm and a 250 MW pumped hydro energy storage scheme. Together, these projects will make substantial contributions to Queensland’s and Australia’s renewable energy transition, delivering power to over 600,000 homes.
"Importantly, the expansion will provide a significant economic boost, with the creation of 405 full-time jobs and 10 permanent roles," Mr Capomolla added.
"We are grateful for the ongoing support of the Burdekin Shire Council and the local community, and we look forward to continuing to work with local organisations through the Haughton Sustainable Community Fund."
Since the commissioning of the Haughton Solar Farm in 2019, Pacific Blue has supported over 60 local projects through the Fund, contributing more than $400,000 to community initiatives.
In addition to the solar expansion, Pacific Blue has been running an AgriSolar trial at the site, grazing 100 Dorper sheep on the land used for solar energy generation.
"The results have been extremely encouraging," said Mr Capomolla.
"The trial has reduced landscaping costs by $500,000 and improved the wellbeing of the sheep, demonstrating the benefits of combining agriculture with renewable energy."
For more information about the Haughton Solar Farm expansion and the BESS project, visit pacificblue.com.au.
The Haughton Solar Farm has been approved for expansion.
As the festive season approaches, Burdekin residents are preparing to embrace the Christmas spirit. For years, Queen Street in Ayr has been the heart of holiday celebrations, with its iconic Christmas tree as a focal point in the main shopping district.
However, this year, locals will notice a significant change – the tree won’t be in its usual spot and, this bold move by Council, has sparked concern among some community members.
One Burdekin resident believes that Queen Street and the Christmas tree are inseparable parts of the town’s holiday traditions.
“If it’s not broken, don’t fix it,” Treena List expressed. “The business centre relies on the foot traffic and festive spirit the tree brings. Without it, the shopping district will be missing that special Christmas touch.”
Another resident, who previously ran a florist shop in town for 22 years, strongly supports keeping the tree on Queen Street.
“I feel strongly about Queen Street – it’s an iconic part of Ayr, and the Christmas tree has been there for as long as I can remember. It’s a tradition that many of us hold dear,” she said.
“The kids love seeing it when they go on holidays, and it’s a part of the community’s identity.”
In response to the concerns, Burdekin Shire Council has asserts that the decision to relocate the Christmas trees was made in order to give better access to the trees and to prioritise safety.
Two new spots have been announced - one outside the Burdekin Theatre in Ayr and the second at the Home Hill Comfort Stop.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort explained, “The roundabout location has served us well, but Council has identified that relocating the new Christmas trees offers some fantastic benefits.
“The existing Christmas trees are over 30 years old, have structural damage, and are aging, making them ready for a well-deserved retirement.”
The move also addresses safety concerns for families, residents, and council workers.
“This move prioritises safety for both our community members and Council workers and reduces the risks some people take to capture a photo on a busy road,” said Mayor Dalle Cort.
While some residents are nostalgic about the traditional location, Mayor Dalle Cort acknowledges the mixed feelings surrounding the change. “Council recognises that there are mixed feelings around the location changes, and we understand change can be difficult, but we see this as a wonderful opportunity to create a safer, family-friendly environment,” she shared.
The new tree locations will allow families to gather and celebrate in safer spaces.
“Families can now enjoy the Christmas trees up close, in spacious locations that are ideal for gathering, celebrating, and taking holiday photos without the concern of busy traffic,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
Despite this, Treena List says she feels frustrated that Council offered no public consultation on the matter.
“All the decisions are made by council, but I am upset about the fact that there was no consultation and I hope in future decisions there will be more consultation with the community on the decisions made by the council for the district. But we must move on as that’s politics.” Treena List concludes.
This year’s festive season will look different, but the Council hopes that the new locations will become cherished spaces for future celebrations.
Treena List says she is not happy about the Christmas tree being moved. Photo Credit: Miah Lampard
The Burdekin Community Association Inc (BCA) is pleased to tell you that our application to the CommBank Staff Foundation has been successful. Our application would not have been possible without BCA being nominated by local Commonwealth Bank Australia employee, Rebecca Love.
The Foundation will grant BCA $20,000 to help with service operational costs for the Burdekin Centre for Rural Health and Burdekin Community Rehabilitation Centre. Please see our website www.burdekincommunityassociation.org.au for the wide range of vital services offered to Burdekin community members, visit 12a Chippendale St, Ayr. Ph 4783 2711. Monday to Saturday 9.00am to 4.30pm.
I invite you to read an excerpt from the CommBank media release regarding the grants program below.
11 November 2024
Empowering communities:
$3.5 million awarded to Aussie organisations driving positive change
The CommBank Staff Foundation doubles its impact with 175 organisations each receiving $20,000 through the 2024 Community Grants program.
One hundred and seventy-five community organisations will each receive $20,000, totalling $3.5 million, through the CommBank Staff Foundation’s Community Grants program in its most significant funding year yet.
The 2024 Community Grants will enable a diverse array of projects and provide funding to worthy community organisations supporting mental health, regional communities, victim-survivors of domestic violence, First Nations Peoples education, children’s health, migrants and refugees, and more. With the grants doubling from previous years, this funding will fuel important initiatives that reflect the diversity, resilience and needs of the communities in which these organisations operate in.
This year, the CommBank Staff Foundation has raised $3.5 million to fund these grants through regular salary donations from staff which are then matched by CommBank. Over the past 17 years, the Community Grants program has awarded more than $30 million to worth community organisations, building on CommBank’s long-standing workplace giving culture which dates back to 1917.
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Another busy week in the Burdekin, Home Hill Harvest Festival wrapping up, ‘wow’, what a great parade, enjoyable food and lively entertainment. Burdekin’s Biggest Garage Sale Trail was well attended and the Burdekin Machinery Preservationists open day is always a step back in time and an experience to be viewed by all. Solemn Remembrance Day services were held, a chance to pause and remember those who have contributed to our freedoms and lifestyle we enjoy today.
Well done to all organisers of these and other events that happen in our beautiful Burdekin. Every event takes time and people to organise. If you see an opportunity to help out for an event, please get in touch with the organisers, ‘many hands make light work’.
Well done to Dale Last on becoming a Minister in the new State Government.
Trees have been the subject of much comment recently. I too have admired the Christmas tree on the roundabout for many years but looking at the ‘big picture’ in the light of my councillor position it was time for change. From a safety and fiscal position it was due for a re-think. The tree was over twenty-five years old and structurally unsound. It was put up and down at a cost like requiring traffic control, and risk.
Risks were also there for those wanting a Christmas snap with the tree and those attempting to climb the structure (yes, it happened several times). It also presented a distraction for drivers traversing the round-a-bout, research shows distraction one of the main contributing factors to accidents. The baubles and tinsel will still feature above the fountain.
New contemporary trees will be placed at the Comfort Stop in Home Hill and the Burdekin Theatre Forecourt as well as an update of tired decorations. Families and others will be able to take photos in a much safer area for all concerned.
The natural environment of the Burdekin Theatre forecourt has had a vegetation cleanup around the fountain and surrounds due to ongoing maintenance issues and the vision of opening up the Burdekin Theatre Facade. This has been mentioned several times over the years in Council. Moving forward this area will have further enhancements for all to enjoy.
A disappointment experienced at an early morning swim last week was a break-in at the Burdekin Aquatic Centre. It’s a shame that there are those amongst us who would even consider doing damage to public facilities and private businesses. The cost is borne by the ratepayer and business owners. If anyone knows anything please contact the police.
Wishing you all an enjoyable festive lead up
Health and happiness, Councillor John
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Opinion Piece
As the debacle over the impact of toxic chemical compound continues to cause havoc in Ayr, Member for Burdekin Dale Last has called for assurances residents will have the chance to have their say during an upcoming federal inquiry.
Mr Last said given Ayr’s ongoing battle to rid its water supply of PFAS chemical compounds there was no excuse why a full and thorough inquiry would not include a public hearing in the township.
“The announcement of a federal government inquiry into the dangers of PFAS is welcome news but residents in towns like Ayr need assurances that this inquiry will be a boots-on-the-ground approach and that those who want the chance to speak can do so face-to-face,” Mr Last said.
“For years Ayr has been plagued by instances of elevated levels of PFAS which at times has threatened the township’s water security.”
“While council has been proactive in their management of the heightened levels of PFAS in Ayr’s water supply, it’s important that any lessons that can be learned from the township’s experience with the toxic chemical compound are provided during the examination of the issue.”
“What we have seen recently is a clear indication there needs to be a more thorough understanding about the impact this chemical compound can have and that can’t be achieved without knowledge of how townships like Ayr are impacted.”
Mr Last said it was now up to the Federal Labor Government to provide assurances that any recommendations would be accepted and the report would not be left sitting in a top draw to collect dust.
“Everyone who has experienced the impact of PFAS contamination in their water supply should have the opportunity to have their voices heard if they choose to,” Mr Last said.
“Public Submissions to the inquiry have now opened and will examine the extent, regulation and management of PFAS with the final report to be presented by August 5, next year.”
Contributed with thanks to Dale Last, Member for Burdekin.
Member for Burdekin Dale Last has campaigned tirelessly for an inquiry into PFAS contamination at the Ayr Fire Station. Photo credit: Miah Lampard
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This past Monday 11 November, we came together to honour Remembrance Day. It was a solemn moment as I attended the memorial service in Ayr to pay our respects to the brave service men and women who have served our nation. Their sacrifice and dedication will never be forgotten. While attendance at the ceremonies in both Ayr and Home Hill was unfortunately lower than anticipated, I trust that many took a moment to reflect and commemorate in their own private ways.
For those who are unaware, I’d like to provide an update on the ongoing roundabout works on Queen Street. Recently, the kerbs on the roundabout were badly damaged during resurfacing works carried out by a contractor on behalf of TMR. This led to significant cracks and failures in the newly installed kerbs. I want to assure the community that repairs are currently underway, and the contractor is responsible for covering all restitution costs. Whilst we understand that these repair works may cause some inconvenience, they are necessary to ensure the roundabout is restored to its best condition. Your patience and understanding during this time are greatly appreciated.
Stay safe and take care of yourself. Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone on 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.
Burdekin Potters Inc., a longstanding creative fixture in the Burdekin region, has been enriching the community with its pottery programs and initiatives since 1975. With nearly five decades of history, this not-for-profit organisation has seen remarkable growth, expanding from around ten members four years ago to an impressive 62 members today.
“Our youngest member is just 16, while our oldest is in her mid-70s,” shares Debra Ferraris, the current President of Burdekin Potters.
This diverse membership reflects the club’s commitment to fostering community bonds and accessibility through pottery.
Burdekin Potters offers pottery classes for both adults and children throughout the year, aiming to welcome new members into their artistic fold. The club also supports various groups, including Indigenous and special needs communities, and collaborates with local schools by providing materials and firing student pieces. These initiatives are core to their mission of making pottery an accessible and rewarding activity for all.
Recently, Burdekin Potters received a Bendigo Bank Community Grant of $9,450, allocated to repainting the exterior of their clubhouse in Plantation Park.
Debra explains, “We wanted the club to stand out and look refreshed in time to celebrate our 50 years in the community next year.” With a surge of local interest in pottery, the new paintwork not only revitalises the club’s appearance but also strengthens its community presence.
Receiving the grant has had a profound impact on the organisation’s future plans.
“It was awesome to be successful in gaining the funding to achieve this project,” says Debra. By covering the clubhouse’s renovation costs through Bendigo Bank’s support, Burdekin Potters can now allocate its own funds towards maintaining and purchasing essential equipment, as well as handling regular expenses such as rates, electricity, and insurance.
“Having a big-ticket item crossed off our wish list allows us to focus on these ongoing needs,” Debra notes gratefully.
Debra underscores the importance of Bendigo Bank Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr’s role in supporting the Burdekin’s local organisations. “It is invaluable for not-for-profit groups in the Burdekin to have an institution like Bendigo Bank offer these grants,” she says. “The Burdekin Potters is forever grateful for the assistance, as it allows clubs to acquire otherwise unobtainable resources.”
Looking ahead, Burdekin Potters is preparing to celebrate its 50th anniversary in June 2025—a milestone the entire community can anticipate. “We’re working towards organising an event to celebrate 50 years in the community next year,” Debra shares. With a vibrant mix of members from diverse backgrounds, Burdekin Potters is dedicated to making pottery an affordable, inclusive, and enriching experience.
“Our goal is to continually encourage community members to join our club, offering social interaction, mental stimulation, and the joy of a creative activity,” Debra adds.
As Burdekin Potters looks to the future, their gratitude for the Bendigo Bank Community Grant shines as brightly as their freshly painted clubhouse, embodying the transformative impact of community support in the arts.
Burdekin Potters receive their grant! Photo supplied
The Lower Burdekin Scouts embarked on an educational and enriching excursion to the Burdekin Marine Safety complex on Thursday 7 November to learn more about the fantastic work these wonderful volunteers achieve in and around the local community.
Each month, the Lower Burdekin Scouts follow a theme to further their knowledge, skills, and scouting expertise, with November’s theme being “emergencies”.
The Scouts enjoyed listening to the volunteers share rescue stories, and learnt valuable First Aid skills from Paul, Ian, and the rest of the experienced squad.
The cherry on top for the Scouts, however, was having the opportunity to explore the rescue boat and sport the bright red life jackets.
The Lower Burdekin Scouts warmly thank the Burdekin Marine Safety Volunteers for hosting an extremely interesting and educational night, and thanks the group for the amazing job they do for the local community.
Exploring the rescue boat was a highlight for many of the younger Scouts!
Cane crushed
This week
Season to date
Invicta
137,074
2,492,898
Pioneer
65,544
1,179,470
Kalamia
77,229
1,326,338
Inkerman
85,153
1,488,482
Burdekin
365,000
6,487,187
CCS
Invicta
14.82
14.39
Pioneer
14.58
14.36
Kalamia
14.08
13.90
Inkerman
14.56
14.13
Burdekin
14.56
14.22
Weekly variety performance for region
Variety
%
CCS
Variety
%
CCS
Q240
60%
14.78
Q183
7%
15.66
KQ228
12%
13.66
Q232
5%
14.37
Q208
10%
14.38
WSRA17
5%
12.89
Comments:
The Burdekin mills processed 365,000 tonnes of cane for the week which exceeded budget. No time was lost for wet weather.
The season-to-date total is now 6.49M tonnes, which represents almost 80 per cent of the Burdekin region’s crop forecast of 8.20M tonnes.
The average weekly CCS was 14.56, which is in line with budget forecasts.
The highest CCS, of 17.8, was from rakes of Q240 1R and Q240 5R both in the Leichhardt (INK) productivity districts.
A number of near misses were reported involving cars racing trains at level crossings.
Remember to exercise some patience, use your train brain and always give way to trains at road crossings.
John Tait
Cane Supply Manager
Burdekin Region
Wilmar Sugar and Renewables has reached the three-quarter mark of the 2024 crushing season, with its eight North Queensland mills processing a total of 11.78 million tonnes of cane so far. This represents 77% of the estimated 15.34 million tonne crop.
The Burdekin region is performing particularly well this season, with favourable weather conditions aiding in smooth harvesting. Current CCS (Commercial Cane Sugar) levels have returned to budgeted targets, bringing the season-to-date average to a strong 14.2 units. Wilmar anticipates all Burdekin factories will complete their crush before Christmas, contingent on ongoing weather conditions.
Ian Davies, General Manager of Cane Supply and Grower Relations, highlighted the strong performance across all regions. "Our Burdekin mills are on track to finish before Christmas, which is a great outcome considering the challenges we've faced this year," he said.
Meanwhile, the Herbert, Proserpine, and Plane Creek regions are also progressing steadily. The Herbert crop is averaging 75 tonnes per hectare, and the Proserpine crop is cutting at 103.6% of its original estimate. In Plane Creek, yields are sitting at an impressive 86 tonnes per hectare with a weekly CCS of 14.38 units.
As Wilmar begins planning for the 2025 season, growers are encouraged to update their farm maps on GrowerWeb to ensure accurate forecasts for the year ahead.
Local photographer Marni Hine’s journey behind the lens began far from her home in the Burdekin.
Reflecting on her early days in photography, Marni recalls, “I was a fashion model in Asia in the late 1980s and early 90s, and I became interested in the alchemy of photography then. It was such a mystery.”
This initial spark led her to New York City, where she studied photography at Parsons School of Design, diving into the world of “chemistry and dark rooms.” Her experiences shaped her career, eventually taking her around the globe with renowned fashion photographers.
“I loved the interesting and creative people involved in this industry,” she says, but adds with a laugh, “I was an awkward nerd, so being behind the scenes was preferable to me.”
Back in Australia, Marni has turned her focus to the Burdekin region, where she finds endless inspiration.
“Photographing locally after returning to Australia, particularly in the Burdekin, has a unique lean to it,” she shares.
Highlighting the local talent, Marni says, “There are so many wonderful photographers here who know how to use natural light beautifully.
The Australian landscape is varied and interesting, so there’s a lot of available outdoor scenarios to roam amongst.”
Though her love for natural light shines, Marni admits, “I really miss the technical aspects of lighting in a studio.”
She acknowledges the challenge of recreating that precise control outdoors without a budget: “To try to mimic this is the most challenging part.”
One of her favourite subjects is the Burdekin’s agricultural community, as she herself spent 12 years as a haul-out driver.
“It’s the first year I’m not hauling, and I miss the action,” Marni confesses.
“I have planned to continue photographing the paddock people. I love the poetic meaning of outdoor work and the quintessential image of ‘Hard Yakka’ that goes on here year-round.”
When asked about advice for new photographers, Marni encourages embracing mistakes.
“From those, you truly learn,” she says. She also advocates studying the history of photography “to see its evolution,” adding that “the play of creativity has become an anxiety-riddled task” in today’s world. For Marni, the joy of photography is “ultimately freedom…a gentle way to connect with the world around you.”
Marni shares her work on two Facebook pages: Project Raw, dedicated to the Burdekin’s cane farmers, and Marni Hine Photography, hoping to keep her community connected with her unique perspective.
“I hope to keep people interested in these pages so they can see the work when it sporadically arrives,” she says with a smile.
Marni Hine is a stellar photographer right here in the Burdekin. Photo Supplied
DOB: 04/10/2020
Sex: Male
Breed: Ragdoll
Kid friendly: Yes
Cat friendly: Yes
Dog friendly: Untested
Blaze and Arlo are two stunning cats who are as beautiful as they are affectionate. These sweet boys will win your heart the moment they start following you around, always eager for cuddles and pats. They love to be close to you, often curling up next to you.
Not only are they incredibly loving with people, but they share an unbreakable bond with each other. You’ll often find them playing together, grooming one another, and being the best of friends.
Blaze and Arlo’s gentle and sweet personalities make them the perfect addition to a home looking for double the love.
Sound too good to be true? Why not meet Arlo and Blaze by submitting an inquiry form at: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html.
Included in the adoption fee of $250, Blaze and Arlo are both desexed, micro-chipped, up to date on vaccinations and are flea/tick, intestinal worm treated.
Burdekin Shire Council is lighting up the holidays with a new look and new locations for its iconic community Christmas trees. This year, Ayr’s tree will brighten the area outside the Burdekin Theatre, while Home Hill’s tree will shine at the Comfort Stop. The relocation offers safer, more accessible spaces for families and visitors, just in time for the launch of the Mayor’s Christmas Tree Appeal.
Hello everyone, and happy November! Christmas is just around the corner, and I hope everyone has been enjoying the sprinkle of festivities as we get closer and closer to December! The photos from the Halloween House last week look awesome! Jeff and Leon did an amazing job, and I know everyone will be on the edge of their seats to see the debut of the pair’s fantastic, award-winning Christmas display in a few weeks.
I am so excited to share that I have officially completed my university studies and in early December I will graduate with a Bachelor of Communications and Journalism! It’s been an amazing three years, and throughout my degree I have explored so many avenues of journalism from creating podcasts and television shows to broadcasting radio packages and writing breaking news articles.
Griffith University was so supportive in providing me with industry-based experience throughout my studies, and as a result I was able to intern with Nine News Queensland, broadcast a radio show across Brisbane, and of course, carry out my cadetship with the Burdekin Life Newspaper which amazingly resulted in becoming a fulltime journalist with the team all the way from Brisbane!
Although the world of broadcast journalism holds many appealing qualities, I still love and enjoy print (written) journalism the most and cannot wait to pursue a career in this wonderful industry.
Following on from my December graduation, I’m excited to announce that I’ll be back in the Burdekin, working alongside Miah locally in the region as well as the team in Hinchinbrook. I will be helping to kickstart the newest publication under the Life Publishing Group umbrella, Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper – and this all happens before I head internationally in 2025!
There’s certainly a lot going on, and as we head into this time of the year, life will only get busier! I hope you all enjoy the read, and I’ll chat to you soon!
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