Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Home Hill resident Karin Thorburn returned home last week after a month spent travelling the world, though it was not exactly your typical sightseeing expedition. The 59-year-old local runner, recognised last year as the first Australian to complete 500 marathons, set off for Cyprus in March for the XM Limassol Marathon—the first of 15 she would run over the following 30 days. Her itinerary took her through major European cities, including Paris, before culminating in the world-famous Boston Marathon, where her strong performance all but guarantees qualification for next year’s race.Home Hill’s 59-Year-Old Marathon Record-Breaker Continued from cover Home Hill runner Karin Thorburn has returned to the Burdekin after successfully completing 15 marathons in 30 days across four countries. Thorburn, a veteran runner who was this year named Burdekin Senior Sportsperson of the Year for her marathoning exploits, ran 14 marathons across Europe in preparation for the Boston Marathon, which rounded out the trip. At 59 years old, Thorburn is currently the Australian record holder for the highest number of marathons completed, with her tally now reaching 547. Despite having just competed in the Sugar Rush half-marathon only six days after returning from the United States, she shows no signs of slowing down, describing her intense schedule as a “lifestyle choice.” “It’s for my mental health, it’s for my physical health, it’s for keeping me in the best shape I can be, for a lady that’s my age," Thorburn said. “I’m not a spring chicken, and there are so many people out there saying I’m too old. I just tell them, I’m just getting started.” The gruelling 30-day itinerary began in Limassol, Cyprus, followed by the “12 in 12” event—12 marathons in 12 days—in the UK, and the Paris Marathon, before finally tackling Boston. The feat was as much a mental battle as a physical one, says Thorburn. “The mind is stronger than the legs,” she said. “Sometimes it plays tricks and says, 'You’ve done enough. Why don't you just stay in bed?' But I knew I could do it.” She explained that the massive volume of racing was a strategic training block designed specifically to conquer the Boston Marathon, an event she considers "the pinnacle.” “I love a challenge," Thorburn said. “Running the other 14 marathons, they were all fantastic, but it all led me to one thing, and that’s the Boston Marathon. That’s the greatest race in the world.” Her run in Boston was the third time she had competed in the event, finishing with a 15-minute buffer which she says effectively “guarantees” her entry into the 2027 race once applications open in September. “I can't even describe how you feel,” Thorburn said. “Getting to the start is one thing, but doing it, finishing it, conquering it again—especially at my age—you feel things you never felt before.” Thorburn has lived and breathed distance running since she started taking it seriously 26 years ago. Her passion has since taken her across the globe, completing all six of the Abbott World Marathon Majors—Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, and New York—earning her the prestigious official title of “Six Star Finisher.” Her achievements have garnered much local support, but perhaps none greater than from her residents at Ozcare Home Hill. As well as her work with Ozcare, Thorburn helps organise the Magnetic Marathon Series in Townsville, an event that attracts international competitors while also providing a space for athletes looking to kickstart their running careers. Thorburn sees her local events as a platform for others to “have a go”—a mantra that has fuelled her own career for over two decades. “My events are only small events, but they're a stepping stone and people get to run with me and go, ‘Okay, so this is what you do,’” Thorburn said. “I hope I can inspire other women, including those younger than me, to look at what I do and think: ‘If she can do it, I can have a go.’” CAPTIONS: 1— The gruelling 30-day itinerary began in Limassol, Cyprus, followed by the “12 in 12” event—12 marathons in 12 days—in the UK, and the Paris Marathon, before finally tackling Boston. 2—Thorburn successfully completed all six of the Abbott World Marathon Majors—Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, and New York—earning her the prestigious official title of “Six Star Finisher.” Photos supplied
Read the full story
My Vibe Homewares has a growing reputation as your go-to store when searching for that unique, contemporary piece. Since opening its doors in Ayr ten months ago, the store has attracted customers from across North Queensland, building a strong local following in the Burdekin. Boasting a wide range of earthy, textural and timeless homewares, My Vibe offers quality linen, luxury towels and exquisite rugs, all selected to deliver quality at affordable prices right here in the Burdekin. At the heart of the store is a carefully curated range that is hand-picked to provide both functionality and practicality. Every piece is selected with durability and classic design in mind, with owner Sue ensuring that long-lasting quality remains a priority in every decision. Sue’s strong eye for design is supported by her regular attendance at the Sydney and Melbourne gift fairs, where she gains access to the latest seasonal designs and colour updates. This, coupled with her innate ability to coordinate the range to suit most design tastes—from subtle, natural tones through to more textured and statement pieces—ensures the store is continually refreshed with new ideas and inspiration brought back to the Burdekin. The result is a thoughtfully balanced collection that caters to a wide variety of interiors and personal styles, while maintaining a consistent focus on quality and affordability. Supporting the store is a friendly and welcoming team who are always ready to assist and offer advice when required, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable shopping experience. Located on Queen Street, Ayr, My Vibe Homewares is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10am until 4pm daily, offering a local destination for stylish, practical and contemporary homewares in the heart of the Burdekin.
Read the full story
If you’re still scratching your head for something meaningful this Mother’s Day, two local arts groups are offering simple, thoughtful options that keep it close to home—and handmade. At the Burdekin Art Society, a special Mother’s Day art sale will be held on Sunday 3 May 2026 at the Art Shed, 154 MacMillan Street (across from the pool), from 8am to 1pm. A wide selection of paintings will be available, with prices starting from just $20, making it easy to find an affordable, locally made gift. For something a little more tactile, the Burdekin Potters Inc in Plantation Park will be open for anyone looking for a unique, handmade gift. The pottery studio regularly opens on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday mornings, but visitors are also welcome whenever the doors are open or the “OPEN” flag is flying. Gift vouchers are available, and private visits can be arranged by contacting Debbie on 0428 832 355. Both options offer a chance to support local artists while picking up something with a personal touch—far more memorable than a last-minute petrol station bouquet.
Read the full story.jpg)
Australia has everything we need right here at home. We have the resources, the technologies, and the people with the talent. Yet our manufacturing sector and sovereign capability have fallen off a cliff; farmers are being left out in the cold; and Australians across the country, particularly in the regions, are being left behind, while we all pay more for everything. Labor’s Net Zero nonsense is crippling our country, while others not hamstrung by arbitrary targets advance at pace. China, India and the United States are not taking their foot off the pedal, while we send our resources overseas on a dime and buy back the finished product at top dollar. Australian manufacturing has been in decline for decades, but in the last four years under Labor the rate at which manufacturers, smelters, refineries and food processors have closed is truly alarming. We are making far less today and relying more and more on others. We need to turn that trend around before the only thing we are producing is a piece of paper handed out to overseas students. At the heart of this rapid decline in manufacturing? Our weaker and more expensive energy grid. To be blunt, rising electricity costs are forcing manufacturers to close and deterring others from starting up. When I speak to manufacturers, the message is the same: “I don’t know how much longer we can keep going like this.” The simple reality is that weather-dependent power cannot sustain a modern industrial economy on its own. Manufacturers cannot operate on intermittent electricity. Farmers cannot rely on an unstable energy system. And renters and lower-income households, who cannot afford rooftop solar or battery storage, are increasingly left paying the hidden costs of maintaining a complex grid built around intermittent supply. Australia once prided itself on energy independence. Now we are replacing dependable Australian energy with a system dependent on imported wind turbines, solar panels and batteries, many manufactured in China. In doing so, we are hollowing out our own industrial base while increasing our reliance on foreign supply chains. I’ll keep saying it. We need a balanced approach, and all technologies must be part of the energy mix. The other part of the energy story is, of course, fuel. No fuel, no transport, no movement of goods. When faced with the recent fuel supply constraints, Energy Minister Chris Bowen said the solution is to buy an electric car. That may suit city commuters, but for many regional Australians travelling long distances and those needing to tow heavy loads, an EV is nothing but an expensive paperweight. Right now, a very bad government is deploying a very bad energy policy that puts international recognition for fairytale emission targets ahead of affordable electricity and fuel security. We need an urgent course correction on our nation’s energy policy. We need an energy mix that supports manufacturers and farmers. We need to be able to better use the resources we have so that we can stand on our two feet. And, we need a government that believes in putting Australians first.
Read the full story
Queensland experiences more natural disasters than any other state, this is why it is crucial that we Get Ready!
As a community we need to be prepared for extreme weather events and be resilient should such an event occur locally. This means be able to help ourselves and not rely solely on outside help.
Give some thought to what you will do if the worst happens and make a plan today. The online form can be accessed at getready.qld.gov.au/plan.
Check out Get Ready Queensland (www.getready.qld.gov.au/get-ready-queensland-week and you will find many good resources on how you can be prepared.
At 11.20pm on Friday 20 September, a window was damaged at a business in Queen Street. As a result of investigations, a 23yr old Burdekin man was issued a Notice to Appear (NTA) for one count of wilful damage and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 28 October.
At 11.45pm on Friday 20 September, a single vehicle crash occurred on Shirbourne Road, Giru. As a result, a 19yr old Burdekin woman was issued a NTA for drink driving, .105 and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 30 September.
At 11.45pm on Saturday 21 September, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Queen Street, Ayr. As a result, the driver, a 42yr old Tablelands man, was issued a NTA for drink driving .210 and disqualified driving and will appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 14 October.
At 12.10am on Monday 23 September, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Soper Street, Ayr. The driver, a 36yr old Burdekin woman was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in her saliva and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 11 November.
At 9.35pm on Thursday 26 September, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle in a carpark on MacMillan Street, Ayr. As a result a 55yr old Burdekin man, was issued a NTA for drink driving (in charge), .077 and will appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 14 October.
At 12.55am on Tuesday 1 October, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Queen Street, Ayr. The driver, a 26yr old Burdekin man was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in his saliva and unlicenced driving and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 9 December.
On 2 October, Ayr Police were conducting investigations into reported thefts from a department store in Queen Street when they located a 28yr old Burdekin woman. As a result, she was charged with three counts of stealing and released on conditional bail to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 28 October.
At 10.25pm on Thursday 3 October, Police from Ayr Highway Patrol intercepted a vehicle on Gibson Street, Ayr. The driver, an 18yr old Burdekin man, was issued a NTA for drink driving, .099 and will appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 28 October.
Contributed with thanks to Snr Sergeant Steve Barton.
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
.JPG)
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
.jpg)
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
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
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2026 Life Publishing Group Pty Ltd.
