CANEGROWERS is warning that a government plan to establish a second public electricity retailer in regional Queensland risks creating a duopoly without providing the price relief that farmers desperately need.
 
Announced as part of their election platform, the Labor government said the move will increase competition and lower power prices. 
 
However, CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens said that the plan fails to address the core issues and will not deliver meaningful competition in the energy market. 
 
“This proposal would introduce a second government-owned retailer, creating pseudo-competition that offers no real benefit to electricity consumers in regional Queensland,” Mr Menkens said. 
 
“Instead of promoting genuine competition, the plan would result in two government-owned entities controlling the market, effectively maintaining a monopoly under a different name.
 
“This isn’t real competition. Farmers and regional communities need actual competition that lowers prices.”
 
CANEGROWERS is calling for an immediate 40% reduction in electricity prices for agriculture, with tariffs capped at 16c/KWh. 
 
This would provide urgent relief to struggling farmers and bring electricity prices back to sustainable levels.
 
The organisation is also pushing for reforms to the Community Service Obligation (CSO), a subsidy currently paid to Ergon Energy. 
 
Mr Menkens said the CSO should be directed solely to Ergon Networks, not Ergon Retail, to allow other retailers to compete on price. 
 
This, he says, is the key to fostering genuine competition and driving down power costs.
 
“Redirecting the CSO to Ergon Networks would level the playing field and encourage competition,” Mr Menkens said. “This is a far better solution than adding another government-owned retailer.”
 
CANEGROWERS is also urging the government to support the development of micro-grids that would enable sugar mills to sell power directly to sugarcane growers. 
 
This innovative approach could help reduce electricity costs and promote renewable energy through biomass co-generation at sugar mills.
 
Farmers have already shown they are responsive to price signals, with many adjusting usage through Time-of-Use tariffs. 
 
“With support for micro-grids and real competition, we believe regional Queensland could see significant energy cost savings and more innovative power solutions,” Mr Menkens said.
 
“We’re calling on the Queensland Government to rethink its energy policies and focus on delivering real price reductions and competitive energy markets, rather than introducing superficial fixes that won’t solve the underlying issues.”

Labor said that the publicly owned power retailer will operate state-wide and compete with Ergon in regional Queensland.

“A state-wide publicly owned retailer will ensure that the benefits from these lower wholesale prices are passed on to Queensland households and businesses,” Premier Steven Miles said.

Queenslanders in the regions will now have choice when it comes to selecting an energy provider and more options for participating in solar and community battery pricing models.
“We have so much opportunity as the sun and wind capital of the nation, and it’s time that the power we generate is for Queenslanders and owned by Queenslanders,” the Premier added,

‍

Cane crushed
This week
Season to date
Invicta
154,497
1,840,738
Pioneer
63,231
845,842
Kalamia
80,098
1,002,444
Inkerman
89,973
1,116,305
Burdekin
387,799
4,805,329
CCS
Invicta
15.09
14.27
Pioneer
14.55
14.27
Kalamia
14.40
13.88
Inkerman
14.60
14.01
Burdekin
14.75
14.13
Weekly variety performance for region
Variety
%
CCS
Variety
%
CCS
Q240
58%
14.96
WSRA17
5%
14.35
KQ228
17%
14.21
Q208
5%
14.47
Q183
8%
15.29
Q232
5%
14.06
Comments:
The Burdekin mills processed just under 388,000 tonnes of cane for the week. This exceeded the budgeted throughput for the week although there were no stops for wet weather.
Weekly throughput at Inkerman was the highest for the season to date. Throughput at Pioneer was impacted by an extended cleaning intermission to do necessary repairs and a number of unplanned stops.
The season-to-date total is now 4.80M tonnes, which represents 59% of the Burdekin region’s crop forecast of 8.20M tonnes.
The average weekly CCS was 14.71, which is still slightly below budget but improving with the ongoing dry conditions.
The highest CCS, of 17.9, was from a rake of Q240 1R in the Mulgrave (Invicta) productivity district.
Remember to always use your train brain and give way to trains at road crossings.
John Tait
Cane Supply Manager
Burdekin Region

‍

Two Burdekin agribusinesses are expanding operations thanks to the Rural Economic Development (RED) Grants program. Among them, Kenrose Co, based in Ayr, has received $200,000 to invest in citrus grading and packing equipment, a significant boost for the farm, which recently diversified its operations. Initially a pumpkin farm for 35 years, Kenrose now grows 15,000 citrus and avocado trees.
Another Burdekin agribusiness, Deane Farms, is also benefiting from a RED Grant, using the funds to upgrade their mango packing line and diversify into other crops.
The RED Grants program, now in its sixth round, awarded $3.7 million to 20 successful applicants, creating 118 secure jobs in rural Queensland. Each recipient receives up to $200,000 for projects like greenhouses, fruit packing facilities, and seafood processing.
Over the past six years, RED Grants have allocated $20 million to regional projects, creating over 3,000 direct and indirect jobs across Queensland. Round 7 is now open for applications, with a focus on Indigenous-owned agribusinesses and low-emissions agriculture projects.
Applications for Round 7 close on 22 November 2024. For more information, visit www.qrida.qld.gov.au/program/rural-economic-development-grants.

‍

A Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR) member recently sought assistance with a traffic infringement notice at the Herbert River QCAR office resulting in no penalty.
Herbert River District Manager Lawrence Di Bella said Daniel Truffa sought representation and support for his employee Sebastiano Barbagallo who was in a haulout vehicle hauling cane along the Bruce Highway, south of Ingham, when the infringement occurred.
Mr Di Bella said the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) infringement was for spilled billets.
“We engaged AgForce Cane Policy Director Sam Forzisi to review the issue as no billets were spilled on to the road.”
Mr Di Bella said both Daniel Truffa and Sebastiano Barbagallo were conscientious and aware of the NVHR regulations.
“AgForce worked with QCAR on this issue with both forming the view that, after listening to Daniel’s concerns, that Daniel’s employee’s matter did not consider the full complexities of sugarcane harvesting and haulout.”
Based on additional considerations provided in the appeal to the NVHR, the penalty was withdrawn. QCAR and AgForce remind all growers and harvesting operators to ensure they take reasonable steps to be fully compliant when operating on Queensland roads.
Mr Forzisi said the NVHR had agreed to continue to work with industry to inform and educate drivers over enforcement.
“We welcome their continued support of our heavy vehicle drivers,” Mr Forzisi said.
Mr Di Bella said QCAR and AgForce would continue to liaise with the NHVR to continue to educate sugarcane industry drivers and improve their awareness of the NHVR regulations
“Growers seeking information about the NHVR and regulations can contact the QCAR Herbert River office on 0419 673 000,” Mr Di Bella said.

‍

QCAR member Daniel Truffa and his employee Sebastiano Barbagallo

‍

‍

Simon Hood
Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing
The sugar price had a nice rally in the last weeks of September leading up to the expiry of the October ICE #11 futures contract.
A combination of factors contributed to the price rise. Brazilian production continues to dominate sugar traders’ minds and, even though the crush this season is tracking ahead of the record-breaking crop of last year, it is the tail end that focuses analysts’ attention.
A growing consensus of a CS Brazil sugar production under 40M tonnes points to a near flat or balanced world supply and demand net trade position. With Brazil responsible for more than 80% of global raw sugar trade, seemingly small changes in their production variables can have significant impact on the world – and our – sugar price.
Take for example the sugar mix ratio, which is the allocation of sugar juice to crystallisation relative to ethanol production. Analysts had earlier revised up their maximum sugar capacity to around 52%+ based on significant investment in crystallisation capacity stimulated by the massive premium #11 contract had over the equivalent ethanol price over the last 12-18 months (see graphic).
However, with the crop 75% harvested, the output ratio is currently around 48% crystal vs ethanol. This small change in production percentage results in millions of tonnes less sugar produced.
Added to this revision is the ongoing dryness affecting yield and the anticipated early finish of the Brazilian crush. Throw in typhoon Yagi through the cane fields in China and a speculative community short the market - a price kick was in the making. The difference with this rally was that it met with less trade selling. For now, we will need to keep an eye on the fortnightly UNICA reports that update Brazilian production.
The rally in #11 had some of the shine taken off our sugar price by an increase in the AUD to 69c. Nevertheless, there was significant amount of forward pricing done for the 2024 and 2025 season with growers happy to average up their pricing as the crushing season passes 50% in Australia. The outlook suggests we may be in for a period of increased volatility based on macro events buffeting commodity prices and currencies.
For those who are feeling a bit fatigued by the wild swings in the market, keep an ear out for a new product we will be launching soon to assist you with managing your GEI price exposure.
Remember you have a choice of marketers, or you can split your nomination. You are not locked into your current marketer until after 31 October each year. If you’d like to learn more about our pricing and payment options, please contact a member of our Grower Marketing team.

‍

Burdekin residents, your calls have been heard! Matt Killeen, local wildlife carer with NQ Wildlife Care, a registered charity run by volunteers is excited to announce that for the very first time, NQ Wildlife Care is bringing its Introduction to Wildlife Care and Rescue workshop to the Burdekin.
This workshop will take place on Saturday, 19th October, from 10am to 2pm at the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale St, Ayr.
If you’re passionate about protecting wildlife, this is your chance to get involved. The workshop, led by NQ Wildlife Care species coordinators, will teach you the essential skills and knowledge needed to rescue and rehabilitate native animals found in the Burdekin, including birds, flying foxes, macropods, microbats, possums, and small mammals.
In addition to his work with NQ Wildlife Care, Matt also runs a local Facebook group, Burdekin Wildlife Rehab, which has around 800 local followers, and another group, Burdekin Birding.
NQ Wildlife Care has been running similar training sessions regularly in Townsville, but this is the first time they’ll be hosting one right here in the Burdekin.
If they can get a good turnout, it will be a huge step forward for local wildlife care and much-needed relief for current Burdekin carers, who are overloaded with animals needing help.
Seats are limited, so please secure your spot today by visiting trybooking.com.

WHAT: Wildlife Care and Rescue Workshop
WHERE: Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale St
WHEN: Saturday, 19th October, from 10am to 2pm

‍

DOB: 06/12/2023
Sex: Female
Breed: DSH
Kid friendly: Yes
Cat friendly: Yes
Dog friendly: Yes

From the Celtic meaning ‘beautiful fairy’ or ‘fairy of the lake’, Faelynn certainly lives up to her name. This sweet and gentle feline is on the lookout for a new loving family to call her own.

Faelynn’s playful nature shines through during her favourite moments with toys, but she always makes time for some cozy lap surfing and affectionate cuddles.

If you're looking for a new furry companion who can bring both joy and comfort to your home, Faelynn could be the perfect fit.

Included in adoption fee of $195, Faelynn is desexed, micro-chipped, up-to-date on vaccinations and is flea/tick/intestinal worm treated.

Does it sound too good to be true? Come see for yourself! To meet fabulous Faelynn, fill in an inquiry form at https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html.

‍

In today’s world of precision agriculture, true innovation means creating solutions that fit seamlessly into the daily work of farmers. At Aglantis, their latest automated irrigation system does just that, marking a big leap forward in practical, easy-to-use farming technology.
Our journey began in the fields listening closely to local growers. Their feedback was crucial in shaping a system that’s not just packed with technology but built around real-world farming needs. While many systems get bogged down in complexity, Aglantis’ stands out for its simplicity and practicality, making advanced irrigation technology easy for all farmers to adopt.
Proudly developed in the heart of the Burdekin region, their system is a showcase of Australian innovation but designed for use anywhere. It’s built from local expertise and shaped by real-world farming experience, ready to deliver results wherever it’s put to use.
The Aglantis automated irrigation system isn’t just a milestone for the company —it’s a tool to make farming more efficient and profitable.
It’s suitable for any size farm and works with any irrigation setup, offering straightforward control and automation for managing water efficiently.
Stay tuned for the upcoming demo field day. If you’re interested, give Aglantis a call or visit their website to register your interest. With pricing starting from as low as $100 per hectare, Aglantis are here to help you find the right fit for your farm.
Visit us at Aglantis.com.au to learn more and see how they can make irrigation simpler and more effective for your farm.

‍

Registrations are open for the next intake of Burdekin Community Association’s ‘Make it Happen Life Skills’ Program.
 
The program covers the basics of cooking ranging from kitchen hygiene, safety, preparing and cooking basic recipes, meal planning, budgeting and creating grocery lists.
 
Registration is essential.  Please call our Housing and Community Support Team on 4783 3744 or email Rebecca.Grogan@bcaburdekin.org.au
 
Please see our website at www.burdekincommunityassociation.org.au

Contributed with thanks to Debra Cochran, Chief Executive Officer
Burdekin Community Association Inc (BCA).

WHAT: ‘Make it Happen Life Skills’ Program
WHERE: Burdekin Centre for Rural Health, 12a Chippendale Street Ayr
WHEN: Starts 24th October 2024 - Thursdays 1pm to 3pm

‍

It can be really frustrating when someone close to us ignores our advice or information, only to later repeat the same thing as if it's coming from a "reliable source." It feels like our words only matter when someone else says the same thing. This kind of experience can strain relationships and cause a lot of emotional turmoil. It's important to find healthy ways to talk about these feelings and work through the difficulties of these situations.

One approach could be to have an open and honest conversation with the person, expressing how their actions make us feel and how it impacts our relationship. It's important to use "I" statements to express feelings without sounding accusatory for example – “It saddens me when I feel my advice has been ignored”.  Additionally, active listening and seeking to understand the other person's perspective can also be beneficial in resolving conflicts and improving communication.

When a family member is dying, communication becomes incredibly important. Creating a safe and supportive environment where everyone can express their feelings and concerns is essential. Open and honest conversations about the situation, including the person's wishes and any necessary arrangements, can help provide clarity and reduce anxiety.  

It's also important to offer each other emotional support and respect everyone's way of coping with the impending loss. Lastly, seeking professional help, such as a counsellor or therapist, can provide additional support and guidance during this difficult time.

The options mentioned above are effective ways to create a safe and open environment for communication. However, if the timing isn't right or the other person isn't ready for an open discussion, it's important to remain patient and understanding.  

Rather than letting frustration take over, it's crucial to recognise that you provided valuable information. It's important to respect that everyone has the right to accept or reject information, and the ultimate goal is for everyone to reach a positive outcome, even if it means taking a different path to get there.

Until next time,
The Team
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

‍

Brian Carnes began his radio career in 1964, stepping in to take over Henry Carkeet’s rugby league program on 4AY. His Sunday afternoon show covered rugby league news from Burdekin, Townsville, and Herbert River. Soon, he was asked to commentate live games, a role he embraced wholeheartedly.
“I was living in Ayr, travelling to Townsville to call games,” Carnes recalls. “I ended up calling matches from Mossman to Brisbane, even out to Mount Isa.” One memorable trip to Mount Isa almost left him stranded due to a delayed flight and a seat mix-up. “A girl was in my seat, but she ended up driving home, thankfully!”
In addition to rugby commentary, Carnes also read the local news for 4AY twice daily, establishing a deep connection with the community. In 1999, he was invited by Bill Saxby, Chris Heiden, and Kev Benvenuti to join Sweet FM. “I started off with Christmas carols,” he says, broadcasting from a small studio behind the Burdekin Council Chambers using CDs and tapes.
His passion for sports never faded, and he eventually hosted a Saturday morning sports program, playing music and interviewing local athletes. One of his favourite interviews was with 19-year-old Lani Vasta, who coached the U12 girls' basketball team to win a Division 2 state title. He’s also interviewed local legends like shot-putter Heather Mackay and world-class golfer Karrie Webb.
Carnes’ advice for aspiring radio hosts is simple: “Have a go.” He believes the key challenge is keeping content interesting and maintaining a smooth flow, a skill he honed under 4AY’s former manager, Frank Ballot. “It’s about listening to what your guest says—you can pick up so much from that.”
Though he acknowledges that radio’s audience has shifted toward an older generation, Carnes remains passionate about storytelling and hopes to one day interview Paralympian Alyssa Leary. “It would be an incredible conversation,” he says, always eager for the next great story to share.

‍

Brian Carnes Behind The Microphone

‍

In a major push for improved safety infrastructure in Queensland, the LNP has pledged to deliver a new Fire and Rescue Station in Ayr if elected next month. This announcement comes in response to long-standing issues with the current 65-year-old facility, which has been deemed unfit for purpose due to carcinogenic contamination and other structural concerns. The project aims to prioritise the safety of both first responders and the local community.

Dale Last, Member for Burdekin, promises the community a new fire station will be built if the LNP win the upcoming election. Photo credit: Miah Lampard

Old Fire Station A Risk, New Fire Station A Promise

Dale Last, Member for Burdekin, revealed that $2 million had been earmarked to jumpstart construction of a new fire station in Ayr.
He says this emphasises the LNP’s focus on delivering critical projects that he believes have been neglected under Labor’s leadership.
"The LNP will deliver a new Fire and Rescue Station in Ayr as a priority to ensure our first responders have the resources they need to keep our community safe," Last stated.
He also stressed that the station’s current condition poses a significant risk to firefighters and the environment, further highlighting the urgency of the project.
One of the major concerns about the existing station is its exposure to PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), carcinogenic chemicals identified at the site five years ago.
Despite the severity of this issue, the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner confirmed in July that there was no allocated funding for a replacement facility.
The LNP’s commitment aims to change that, with the construction of a new station set as a top priority to address safety and operational concerns for both full-time and auxiliary firefighters.
This announcement is part of the LNP’s broader “Right Plan for Queensland’s Future,” which focuses on supporting essential services and ensuring the state’s first responders are equipped with modern facilities.
"Our commitment means the delays will end, and a new station will be built as a priority," Last said.
He criticised Labor’s handling of infrastructure projects, pointing to over $20 billion in cost overruns and mismanagement of vital initiatives. He also cited an incident where a $6 million fire station in the southeast was opened, only to require demolition soon after due to poor planning.
The LNP's vision for Queensland includes more than just fixing broken systems; it focuses on giving frontline workers the tools they need to serve the public efficiently and safely.
As the election approaches, Dale Last urged voters to back the LNP for a government that delivers essential projects.
"Only the LNP stands ready to deliver a fresh start for Queensland," he concluded.

‍

There are major concerns the old fire station has been exposed to carcinogenic chemicals identified at the site five years ago. Photo credit: Miah Lampard

‍

Hi everyone! I hope you have all been enjoying the warmer weather, I know I have!

It was amazing to see how many people filled Queen Street for the 2024 Burdekin Water Festival Grand Parade last month! The drone footage posted by Burdekin Drones was awesome! I had the pleasure of interviewing Cole, Stella, Demi and Brielle a couple of issues back, and it was so lovely to hear their stories from their time as Ambassadors, and it has been wonderful to see all the great things they have all been doing around the community since!

With the festivities of the Burdekin Water Festival finished for this year, it’s time to get excited for the Home Hill Harvest Festival and all the events to come before the Grand Parade on the 9 November.

With the Home Hill Harvest Festival Students’ Ball tomorrow evening, I have been reminiscing on my own Students’ Ball experiences, and it’s certainly a wonderful night every year 10, 11 and 12 student should attend.

As some of you may know, I attended Ayr State High School, and like other schools, it has become a tradition for the graduating class to arrive to the red carpet in a school bus, and that’s exactly what we did! I’m very excited to see what fun arrivals are in store for the 2024 Students’ Ball, and although I won’t be able to pop down to the Memorial Hall to see for myself, Miah will be there, camera in hand, so make sure to say hi!

There are certainly plenty of events on the calendar for the next few months, and I’m very excited to say that I am down to my very last week of university, and by December I’ll have graduated with a Bachelor of Communications and Journalism! EXCITED IS AN UNDERSTATEMENT!

I hope you all have a great weekend ahead, enjoy the read, and chat soon!

Chelsea

‍

Imagine a Saturday morning where children’s laughter mingles with the sounds of nature, hands dive into soil, and young minds brim with curiosity. At Lower Burdekin Landcare’s Junior Landcare events, this scene comes to life every month as kids of all ages dig into environmental fun, learning about sustainability while planting seeds, building worm farms, and crafting bee houses.
Lower Burdekin Landcare invites children of all ages to join their Junior Landcare events, held on the first Saturday of each month. The sessions are designed to educate young minds about the environment through hands-on, interactive activities like seed planting, learning about growing media, and exploring the benefits of worm farms and composting. Children also get creative with projects like making bee houses and painting rocks.
The event is free of charge, providing a fantastic opportunity for children to connect with nature while gaining practical knowledge in a fun and supportive environment. It concludes with a delicious sausage sizzle, allowing participants to relax and socialise after a morning of learning and creativity.
Running successfully for the past four months, this initiative continues to grow in popularity, welcoming kids who are keen to discover more about environmental conservation. Lower Burdekin Landcare encourages everyone interested to bring their families and join the activities, promoting environmental awareness and stewardship from a young age.
For more details on upcoming sessions, please visit the Lower Burdekin Landcare Facebook page. Whether your child has a budding green thumb or is just beginning to explore the wonders of the environment, Junior Landcare is the perfect place to start!

‍

Prepare to welcome a sustainable treat to your calendar this November with the Burdekin Shire Council’s Garage Sale Trail set to ignite the Ayr Show Grounds Hall!

As part of the national Garage Sale Trail initiative, the Council has excitedly announced the community can expect two weekends of eco-friendly shopping which will take place on the 9 and 10 of November, and the 16 and 17 of November from 9am to 1pm.

Operating with a focus on sustainability, and waste reduction, the event will feature the “Refresh for Less” preloved clothing and accessories sale, as well as the ‘Boot Full of Loot’ car boot sale, with stalls packed with repurposed items.

Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort shared her excitement for the fantastic event, adding the initiative aligns with Council’s commitment to waste reduction and sustainability.

“It's a great way for our community to participate in the circular economy, find quality preloved items, and reduce what we would send to landfill,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.

“I encourage everyone to get involved - whether you're decluttering your home or updating your wardrobe with clothing and accessories.”

Members of the community, and businesses are invited to be a part of this wonderful event, and registrations for both the Refresh for Less sale or the Boot Full of Loot car boot sale are now open.

Those interested in becoming involved with the initiative can do so via the Garage Sale Trail website at https://bit.ly/3ZGooft. Alternatively, by contacting the Council’s Waste Department on (07) 4783 9800 or email waste@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

Both of the weekends will host 40 stalls, and those interested in registering for a space are encouraged to do so quickly to avoid missing out. Registrations can be made for one day or for the full four days, the choice is yours!

“Join us in supporting sustainability and giving preloved items a new home,” shared the Burdekin Shire Council.

What: Burdekin Shire Council’s Garage Sale Trail
When: 9 & 10 of November + 16 & 17 of November from 9am to 1pm.
Where: Ayr Show Grounds Halls.
More Information: Garage Sale Trail website at https://bit.ly/3ZGooftAlternatively, or by contacting the Council’s Waste Department on (07) 4783 9800 or email waste@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

‍

Buy and sell preloved items at the Burdekin Shire Council’s Garage Sale Trail this November. Photo credits to Anastasiya Badun.

‍