As students return to the classroom this week, the Queensland Police  Service (QPS) are urging all road users to take extra care - particularly around school zones - following a devastating Easter holiday period on the state’s roads.

Operation X-Ray Easter, which ran from the 4th to the 21st April of, saw QPS officers dedicate over 30,000 hours to enforcement, in a bid to reduce risky behaviour behind the wheel.

Across the state, almost 120,000 roadside breath tests and 7,500 roadside drug tests were conducted where nearly 2,000 drivers were found to be over the legal alcohol limit, and more than 750 drivers returned positive drug test results. Police also issued close to 14,000 Traffic Infringement Notices (TINs) for serious road rule breaches during the operation.

Tragically, 21 lives were lost on Queensland roads during the Easter school holidays -pushing the state’s 2025 road toll to 82.

Acting Chief Superintendent Garrath Channells said the figures were heartbreaking.

“The devastating reality is that some families spent their Easter holidays grieving their loved ones, instead of getting to spend time together over the break,” Acting Chief Superintendent Channells said.

“We are doing everything in our power to prevent this from happening, which is why it is disappointing to still see so many people taking risks and making bad decisions on our roads.”

As students return to school, police are also focusing on enforcement and education around school zones to ensure the safety of children and pedestrians.

“It is another busy morning on our roads today as school commences and young children return to the classroom, so please drive slowly in school zones and adhere to the speed limits,” A/Chief Superintendent Channells added.

“I also ask parents to hold their children’s hands around roads and to remind them that roads and carparks are not safe places to play.”

The Queensland Police Service remains committed to reducing the number of lives lost on our roads and continues to raise awareness about the ‘Fatal Five’ - speeding, drink and drug driving, not wearing seatbelts, fatigue, and distraction.

Road safety is everyone’s responsibility. For more information about staying safe on Queensland roads, visit: www.police.qld.gov.au/initiatives/fatal-five-staying-safe-roads.

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21 people lost their lives on Queensland roads over the Easter holiday period, taking the total road roll to 82 in 2025 (Photo Source: QPS)

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Following the successful launch of our Managed Pool Plus for the 2025 season, we’re pleased to announce that we’re opening nominations earlier for the 2026 season.

Nominations for the Managed Pool Plus open on 1 May and close on 30 June 2025.

We’ve seen strong interest from growers who have experienced a couple of volatile seasons with unpredictable target pricing and are now seeking to share some of that pricing responsibility with Wilmar.

The enhanced Managed Pool Plus aligns grower exposure with miller exposure, creating a balanced risk profile.

Wilmar will contribute 30,000 tonnes of MEI sugar to the pool and will accept grower GEI nominations up to the same volume, ensuring a 1:1 exposure ratio in the final price outcome.

Our global marketing team will manage the pricing exposure throughout the life of the pool which, for the 2026 season, will be extended to two years.

This is an actively managed pool, meaning our team will strategically take positions on futures and currency markets, rather than simply following a passive, incremental hedging strategy. For example, the recent drop in the AUD below 60 cents allowed the 2025 pool to secure favourable currency rates.

While this strategy offers the potential for improved returns, it also carries increased risk. If you’re interested in learning how the Managed Pool Plus might support your pricing strategy, please reach out to your local Grower Marketing team representative.

In other news, we are currently looking to expand our team to strengthen the level of service we offer, as more and more growers choose Wilmar Grower Marketing. Our regional consultants deliver a broad range of services to help growers manage their sugar pricing strategies and we have a position open now in the Burdekin region.

Given that most of our growers forward price a significant portion of their GEI sugar, the most common question we hear is: What’s the sugar price going to do?

While we can’t predict the future, we do share timely insights and market assessments from Wilmar’s global team, highlighting the key factors influencing sugar prices.

Feedback from our recent grower survey showed that this in-field support is considered a valuable resource, and we take pride in providing it.

No two days in the role are the same. Some weeks are filled with grower queries about market movements, while others focus on assisting with cash flow planning or explaining the features of our new Managed Pool Plus.

At times, it can be a challenging role, especially during the pressure of harvest or when market expectations don’t play out. But for someone who genuinely wants to help growers navigate the complexities of sugar pricing, it’s an incredibly rewarding position.

If you have the passion, energy, and drive to succeed in this role, we’d love to hear from you.

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Sugarcane growers and industry stakeholders from across Queensland and beyond have converged on Brisbane earlier this week for Sugar Cubed 2025 – a dynamic, future-focused event set to spark fresh ideas and foster new connections across the cane supply chain.

Hosted by CANEGROWERS at the Royal International Convention Centre, Brisbane Show Grounds from 27-29 April, Sugar Cubed brought together growers, manufacturers, researchers, policy makers and innovators for three days of thought-provoking discussion, knowledge-sharing, and hands-on experiences.

With keynote presentations, panel sessions, and field trips exploring everything from cutting-edge on-farm technology to the big global forces shaping agriculture. The event aimed to shine a light on where the sugar industry can go, and how we can work together to get there.

CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens said Sugar Cubed is all about people – listening, learning, and working together for a stronger future.

“Our industry is facing some big challenges, but we’ve also got some incredible opportunities in front of us if we’re willing to think differently, work together, and back ourselves,” Mr Menkens said.

“Sugar Cubed is a space where growers, researchers and industry leaders can come together, share ideas, and be inspired. It’s about creating momentum, not just in terms of innovation, but also in how we think, how we connect, and how we plan for the future.”

Special guests include cricket legend Glenn McGrath, Australia’s renowned “Unbreakable Farmer” Warren Davies, and a suite of industry experts including representatives from the global supply chain group Czarnikow.

The event precedes the Australian Society of Sugar Cane Technologists (ASSCT) Conference, which follows directly after at the same venue and attendees were encouraged to stay around and learn about the best available science from the brightest research minds in the industry.

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The Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) is seeking submissions to inform its review of the Australian chicken meat industry and has released an Issues Paper to assist.

Submissions can be made via 'Have Your Say' online until 30 May 2025, including via written submissions or through a guided portal.

Submissions are open to all interested parties and will not be published. Confidentiality deeds are also available for all submissions.

ABARES was commissioned to conduct an independent review into the relationship between growers and integrated producers in the Australian chicken meat supply chain. The terms of reference for the review are publicly available.

The review will examine whether there is evidence of market failure within the industry, and if so, potential actions that could be introduced, as applicable.

The review will also consider information contained in recent industry inquiries and examine the industry’s evolution over time.

As part of the review, ABARES will conduct stakeholder engagement across all relevant parts of the chicken meat industry.

ABARES will provide a draft report for stakeholder review and comment by mid-2025 with a final report to government due as soon as practicable thereafter.

For more information and to access the online form, visit: www.agriculture.gov.au/about/news/hys-chicken-industry-review

ABARES is the research arm of the Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.

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A few rays of sunshine finally broke through in the Burdekin this week – but earlier visits to the Burdekin Productivity Services (BPS) clean seed plot found it still too damp to open at the time.

Manager of Kalagro Alan Parker, BPS Field Officers Kristie Casalegno and Jack Edwards, and Farm Manager David Paine were among those checking conditions ahead of the expected opening earlier this week.

QCAR Burdekin District Manager Angelo Licciardello said there were “plenty of tonnes of Q240 and Q183 and many others available” for growers eager to secure their clean seed cane. Growers were encouraged to place their orders through BPS, with access to the plot anticipated earlier this week, weather permitting. For more information, call (07) 4783 1101 or visit bps.net.au.

Burdekin Productivity Services plays a vital role in supporting the region’s sugarcane industry, providing agronomy advice, research, crop management support and sustainability initiatives to boost on-farm productivity and future-proof the industry. BPS works closely with sugarcane growers, millers, and other stakeholders to enhance the overall viability and competitiveness of the sugarcane industry in the Burdekin.

Meanwhile, the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) has been active across the Burdekin and broader North Queensland, assisting primary producers following last month’s significant rain events.

QRIDA’s Regional Area Manager Angelo Rigano and Head of Client Engagement Georgia Colley met with the QCAR team, including District Manager Angelo Licciardello, to discuss the ongoing recovery efforts.

Exceptional Disaster Assistance Recovery Grants remain open to eligible primary producers, small businesses and non-profit organisations to help with the costs of clean-up and reinstatement.

For support, contact Angelo Rigano directly on 0408 180 644 or visit qrida.qld.gov.au. For general QCAR enquiries, phone Angelo Licciardello on 0437 401 837.

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Checking conditions at the Burdekin Productivity Services clean seed plot are (from left) Kalagro Manager Alan Parker, BPS Field Officer Kristie Casalegno, Farm Manager David Paine, and BPS Field Officer Jack Edwards. Wet ground delayed the plot’s opening, but growers were keenly awaiting access to fresh clean seed. Photo source: QCAR (Facebook)

2. QRIDA meeting:
On the ground supporting Burdekin growers with disaster recovery are QRIDA’s Regional Area Manager Angelo Rigano and Head of Client Engagement Georgia Colley

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A group of teenage boys were recently recognised on the Burdekin Community Hub on Facebook for their respectful and considerate behaviour while visiting a local water park two weekends ago. Despite clearly being excited to enjoy the slides, the boys demonstrated an admirable level of kindness towards the younger children at the park.

As the younger ones queued for their turn, the teens graciously allowed them to go ahead, ensuring the little ones could enjoy the slides without feeling rushed. They also took extra care, waiting until each child had safely reached the end of the slide and exited before they themselves took their turn. This thoughtful behaviour was a refreshing change and a true display of respect for others, particularly at a busy, bustling venue.

Onlookers were impressed by how the boys prioritised the safety and enjoyment of the younger children, rather than focusing solely on their own fun. It’s a reminder that kindness and patience can make a big difference in any setting, and the actions of these teenagers served as an example for others.

In a time when it can sometimes feel like good deeds go unnoticed, this group of boys stood out for all the right reasons. Their parents should certainly be proud of the positive impact their children made that day. Well done, boys for setting a great example for others to follow!

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Hi Everyone!

Hope you all had a fantastic Easter break :)

With my first week in the Burdekin in the books, I can positively say: I love this place already! You all have made it so easy for me to settle in and find my feet in my new role as your local voice.

I’ve really enjoyed learning and writing about some of your stories this week. After just a couple days on the job, one thing is already unequivocally clear: you guys LOVE your local events—and I’m all for it! It’s refreshing to see a community bound by shared interests and a real sense of pride in where they live.

The Easter break afforded me plenty of time to explore the beautiful Burdekin region and beyond. A key highlight was the beautiful Alva Beach—perfect for a sunset stroll/dip. It’s also been great to take in some of the Burdekin’s hallmarks, like the Burdekin Bridge and the Burdekin River, and to indulge in some of the local pubs and restaurants.

Although I was able to do a bit of exploring over the last week, I’m still very open to any suggestions of what else to do or see. And, as always, if you have a story to tell, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Looking forward to the week ahead!

Cheers!

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With Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox

The ANZAC spirit is alive and well across our region, with attendance at dawn services, marches, and other commemorative events surging in recent years. This ANZAC Day is expected to see even greater numbers, as our community once again comes together to honour those who have served.

Long before I became the Federal Member for Dawson, and my time as Mayor of the Whitsunday Regional Council, my family and I have always made it a priority to honour the sacrifices of our brave servicemen and women.

For me, ANZAC Day is one of the most sacred days on our national calendar. It’s a time to reflect, to remember, and most importantly, to say thank you.

Seeing the younger generation stepping up to embrace our proud national history is incredibly moving. It gives me great hope for the future.

ANZAC Day is for all Australians to come together and pay tribute to the men and women of our armed forces. It’s a day to acknowledge those who fought in the first World War, those who serve today and all those who have been part of military campaigns in between.

Every person who puts on the uniform does so knowing the risks, yet they do it to protect the freedoms and values we hold dear. We are incredibly fortunate to have such dedicated servicemen and women keeping us safe.

As the Federal Member for Dawson, I have the honour of presenting veterans with the Australian flag. This is a small but meaningful gesture of appreciation. I have had countless interactions with some remarkable individuals across our region who have proudly served our country. For me hearing from these exceptional people fills me with pride.

This year, as in years past, I’ll be attending multiple ANZAC Day events throughout the region. I hope to see you there. But if you can’t make it to a service, I encourage you to pause in your own way, to reflect, to remember, and to give thanks.

To all our servicemen and women, past and present, and to the loved ones who are connected to them: thank you. Australia is a better place because of your courage and sacrifice.

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Networking Evening

The Home Hill Chamber of Commerce held its monthly meeting at 5:30pm on Wednesday, 16 April. Guest speakers included Police Officer in Charge Sam Pyke, Labor candidate for Dawson, Neil Wallace and Burdekin Life Newspaper Sales Manager Trish Jandt.

Officer Pyke provided an update on local policing matters, identifying that sdaly domestic violence as the most prevalent crime in the Burdekin Shire. He also addressed questions from attendees about the operations and priorities of the local police force.

Labor candidate Neil Wallace followed with an overview of his campaign policies ahead of the upcoming election. A three-time President of the North Mackay Rotary Club, Mr Wallace shared his commitment to advocating for greater investment in local health services, expanded skills and training to support local employment, and increased housing development to improve access to affordable and reliable accommodation.

Trish Jandt from Burdekin Life newspaper introduced the publication’s new journalist, Jacob Casha, who also took the opportunity to stand and share a little about himself with the community, where he explained his excitement for taking on the new role.

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Fina Vasta, Robert Antoniazzi, Kari Ravizza, Linda Butler

Megan Wilson and Trish Jandt

Fina Vasta, Uli Liessmann and  Bruce McBow.

Sam Pyke—officer in charge, Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Will Stewart

Peter Hall, Amanda Hall and Matthew Magin

Uli Liessmann, Neil Wallace, Pierina Dalle Cort

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Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, is encouraging local chambers of commerce and industry representative groups to apply for funding to improve skills and service delivery in the region.

The Local Skills Solution program is aimed at leveraging ‘on the ground’ knowledge to identify gaps in currently available training and to fill those gaps with suitable training subsidised by the Queensland government.

“This a great opportunity for the retail sector and key industries to access subsidised face-to-face training,” Mr Last said. “And just as importantly, it is training that targets gaps identified locally by people directly affected.”

“In the past, industry groups and employers have been asked what is missing but their responses have never really been acted on. We will always encourage people to obtain qualifications but it’s undeniable that there is far more value in qualifications that are actually relevant.”

“With up to $250,000 available per project I know we can tackle training that usually would be out of reach, especially for a single business. This funding, for example, makes it financially viable to bring in a trainer from a major centre or even interstate where needed.”

“For some industries, highly valued skills can be skills that aren’t taught traditionally like customer service or even sales skills. That’s why we have included mentoring and learning support as options because we know there are skills that require practical hands-on guidance that can’t be learnt effectively from a book or a website.”

Mr Last said the state government had opted to take an individual approach, rather than a ‘cookie cutter’ approach, to ensure the best outcomes and said the additional work would be worth it.

“It’s very easy for government to offer funding for a training course but that investment doesn’t represent value for money if the training isn’t appropriate,” he said.

“The Crisafulli government gave commitments to work with industry and to ensure value for money for the taxpayer and we are doing exactly that with this funding.”

“The individual approach means that stakeholders can nominate training which may not normally be subsidised because they have identified a skill gap or an opportunity. It also means that, except where there are safety requirements, eligibility restrictions may not necessarily apply.”

“There is no doubt that issues like increased regulation and the growth in e-commerce has had a huge impact on a range of businesses. Instead of ignoring those threats, the Crisafulli government is helping businesses and industry to tackle those challenges because it’s the right thing to do for those individual businesses and their employees as well as our community and the state as a whole.”

“In the Burdekin retail and agriculture, for example, are industries that have been challenged but they are also industries that are vital to the economy and our future. Rather than just acknowledging the challenge we are working with industries to identify ways to overcome those challenges and prosper because that is what good governments do and it’s what Queenslanders deserve.”

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Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP at the Burdekin Shire Council Manufacturing Roundtable. Photo supplied

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This week we bring you more information about the historic Marshal Tractor that among other artifacts has been lovingly restored by the multi skilled artisans at the Burdekin Machinery Preservationists (BMP).

This historic Marshall Colonial Tractor Model C2 was purchased by John Drysdale and brought to Pioneer Sugar Mill in 1914. Unfortunately, the machine did not live up to expectations and lacked power – “it wouldn’t pull the skin off a rice pudding”. So, the tractor was parked in Delta Iron Works for decades.

Finally, after a long and convoluted process, it was declared heritage significant, and restored by BMP at the Brandon Heritage Precinct.

A similar 4 cylinder Marshall displayed at Ilfracombe has operational data showing the fuel consumption of 4 gallons per mile (well over 1000l per 100kms). Fortunately, fuel was cheap in those days. Our 2 cylinder Marshall has been running a bit rough of late and Treasurer Lex Kelly is concerned about fuel consumption. Vice President John Hanson has taken up the challenge to tune it up for better fuel economy.

The folks at BMP are proud of their achievements and welcome visitors to the Brandon Heritage Precinct 9am to 3pm on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays. You will get an amusing and informative guided tour introducing you to the collection and share a few interesting stories about their history.

Recently the local and regional Visitor Information Centres were treated to a grand tour of the Brandon Heritage Precinct ensuring that they are fully up to speed and can pass on information about the amazing historically important collection on offer to entertain visitors.

Come and join in the exciting huffing and puffing of the historic steam and diesel engines at our Open Day from 9am to 3pm on Saturday 10th May at the Brandon Heritage Precinct.

There’s something for everyone – the Iron Works Brewery will be open after 1pm - and the old Gardner Engine and furnace will fire up about 3pm!

For more information or to join the Burdekin Machinery Preservationists please call Lex on 0488 366 443 or email us at burdekinmp@outlook.com.

Contributed with thanks to the Burdekin Machinery Preservationists Club.

What: Burdekin Machinery Preservationists Open Day

Where: Brandon Heritage Precinct

When: Saturday 10th May 9am to 3pm

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Marshal Tractor before being lovingly restored

Marshal Tractor after restoration

Vice President John Hanson explaining the history of the Marshal Tractor

Photos supplied

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The sound of swinging knives and the scent of scorched cane will return to Australia’s Sugar Cane Capital on Saturday, 31 May, as the Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships take centre stage at this year’s Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival.

The competition—a true test of strength, technique and endurance—will see men and women from across the region and beyond battle it out in the paddock, vying for thousands in prize money and the coveted title of AHCCC Champion.

Held from 11am to 5pm, with a range of age and skill-based categories, the event is one of the festival’s headline attractions, drawing crowds keen to witness the raw skill behind a trade that shaped generations of the Burdekin’s agricultural workforce.

For veteran competitor John Arrate, it’s a chance to honour the past and the people who built the industry.

“Without those cane-cutters breaking their back and being out in the sun all day, the industry wouldn’t be where it is today,” says Arrate.

“They’re the ones I take my hat off to. We just put on a bit of a display and at the end of the day we go home but those guys pick up the knife again the next day, and the next day, and the next day for six months sometimes.”

A familiar face around the paddock, John Arrate has competed in the championships for several years, even taking out the 55+ title in 2023. But it’s not just on the day that he makes his mark—John helps with cane preparation year-round, and facilitates the symbolic First Fire that kicks off the weekend’s festivities.

“Volunteers are the backbone of everything,” he says. “If you don’t do it, no one else is going to do it.”

This year, the competition takes on extra significance for the Arrate family, as John’s daughter Lily is set to make her debut in the Ladies Novice division.

“Dad’s obviously very passionate about it, so I thought why not give it a try,” she said. “It’s always a fun day… heaps of my family come as well and I think it’s just good to get involved and give it a try.”

The father-daughter duo represent both the heritage and the future of the event—a reminder that while hand cane cutting may belong to a bygone era, its legacy continues to evolve.

The Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival will be held at the Home Hill Showgrounds from 30-31 May. Book your tickets now at: www.sweetdayshotnights.com.au

What: Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships

Where: Home Hill Showgrounds

When: Saturday, 31 May, 11am-5pm

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On Friday, April 25, the Burdekin community will come together to pay their respects to Australia’s past and present Service People, with local ANZAC services and parades to take place across the region.

In Home Hill, the Dawn Service will kick the day off, commencing at 5:25am at the Burdekin Memorial Hall, followed by the laying of wreaths, the sounding of the Last Post, and a minute's silence at the Home Hill Cemetery Cenotaph.

Attendees will then return to the Burdekin Memorial Hall for the Gunfire Breakfast at 7:00am, with the March commencing at 10:45am on Tenth Avenue in front of the Ambulance Station. A solemn ceremony at 11:20am at Burdekin Memorial Hall will round off the morning.

The Dawn Service in Ayr will take place at Anzac Park, beginning at 5:30am, with the Service taking place at the same location at 9:20am.

School students are encouraged to gather along Queen Street, between Edwards Street and Parker Street, in preparation for the march. RSL members, Cadets, and other community groups will assemble on Parker Street, between Queen Street and Graham Street.

In Giru, commemorations will be held at Brolga Park, starting with a Dawn Service at 5:30am, followed by a morning Service at 9:30am.

Brandon residents will gather at the Spiller Street Cenotaph for an 8:00am Service.

Each ceremony across the Burdekin will provide an opportunity for the community to honour the legacy and sacrifices of the ANZACs, and to reflect on the enduring spirit of service that continues to shape Australia today.

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With Deputy Mayor Max Musumeci

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It has been a busy time of year to say the least. I hope everyone had a safe and enjoyable Easter break. From all reports the crabbing was good, and the weather has turned nice, hopefully signalling the end of that humidity and rain.

I recently attended the 75th Anniversary Roll Call at the Clare State School. It was great concept that saw each decade of attendees called up for a class photo and I found it an amazing display of some generational families that have been to the school. Well done to all the organised and attended.

I also attended the 25th Anniversary of Sweet Fm 97.1. The celebration began with markets at the station which were very successful and well attended. Visitors were also treated to a tour of the radio station and the original Home Hill Court house.

The evening saw a dinner and presentation of the history of how and who got the station off the ground. I personally find this history fascinating and I commend and thank all those involved along the way.

This weekend is the Canefield Ashes. I have a soft spot for this event having grown up with the Pagotto Family. This event in memory of Eugene Pagotto continues to be a hugely popular event, with 40 Cricket teams participating and with several more teams on the waiting list every year.

Friday sees the teams warm up at with an Ambrose at the Home Hill Golf club. Saturday and Sunday will see cricket of all skill levels on display, and I dare say that Monday will see many like yours truly, that have overestimated their skill and body limits, lining up at the Physio!

Tomorrow is Anzac Day, a significant if not the most significant days of our year. This is the time for us as Australians to pay respect to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the defence of not just Australia but for the free world. It is a day where we pray for those families who have been affected by a loved one serving in the Australian Armed Forces. When the bugle plays the Last Post tomorrow let us pay respect to the Anzacs that embodied loyalty, selflessness and bravery. Lest we forget.

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Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort

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As we approach ANZAC Day, we pause to remember the sacrifices made by the men and women who have served - and continue to serve - our country. Their bravery, dedication, and resilience have shaped the freedoms we enjoy today, and it is our responsibility to ensure their legacy is never forgotten.

Sadly, as we reflect on the lessons of history, we are reminded that war and conflict still exist across the world. ANZAC Day is not just about remembering the past - it is also about acknowledging the ongoing struggles of those affected by war and striving for a future of peace and unity.

It is also a time to recognise the challenges that many veterans and their families continue to face. Their service does not end when they return home, and as a community, we must do our part to support them.

I encourage everyone to take part in an ANZAC Day service, whether in person or in spirit. Attending a dawn service or commemorative event is a powerful way to honour those who have served and to help pass this tradition on to younger generations.

Lest we forget.

Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone at 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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