Radio host Tony Goddard, who began his broadcasting journey on September 5, 2001, has long captivated audiences with his eclectic mix of music and informative content. Initially drawn to radio through his work in policing, Tony launched his career with a segment called "On the Beat," which combined music with valuable police information on topics like property protection, traffic laws, and personal safety. This unique blend resonated with listeners, setting the stage for his future as a popular on-air personality.
In 2005, Tony transitioned to hosting a Saturday morning show, shifting his focus to music from the 1970s and 1980s, peppered with a touch of humour. "I have a fair few listeners from South East Queensland and the Northern Rivers of New South Wales," he shared, adding that his reach even extends internationally, with occasional listeners tuning in from Germany and Sweden. Remarkably, all his shows are broadcast live, adding an authentic, dynamic touch to each episode.
When it comes to musical influences, Tony's tastes are rooted in classic rock. "I love The Eagles, Queen, and Creedence Clearwater Revival," he says, noting that the bands of his youth have left an indelible mark on his career. His shows frequently feature these timeless hits, creating a nostalgic atmosphere that resonates with listeners.
Tony's most memorable on-air moment involves an interview with an opposition minister for police, a non-political conversation that sparked political feedback. He's also had the opportunity to interview sports figures, including rugby league players and referees. These interviews, he reflects, not only entertain but also provide listeners with insights into the sports world.
Preparation for a live show have evolved over the years for Tony, who once relied on a library of CDs but now uses a USB for his hour-long broadcasts. For those considering a career in radio, he encourages volunteering: “It’s good for anyone who wishes to become involved. You might find you enjoy it, working with a reasonable mob of people here.”

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Tony Goddard is on the desk. Photo Credit: Miah Lampard

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Cane crushed
This week
Season to date
Invicta
129,375
2,355,824
Pioneer
71,423
1,113,926
Kalamia
52,900
1,249,109
Inkerman
75,428
1,403,329
Burdekin
329,125
6,122,187
CCS
Invicta
14.86
14.36
Pioneer
14.79
14.34
Kalamia
13.76
13.89
Inkerman
14.54
14.10
Burdekin
14.59
14.20
Weekly variety performance for region
Variety
%
CCS
Variety
%
CCS
Q240
57%
14.82
Q208
9%
14.67
Q183
11%
15.68
WSRA17
5%
13.76
KQ228
9%
13.82
Q232
5%
13.94
Comments:
The Burdekin mills processed just under 330,000 tonnes of cane for the week which is below budget due mainly to cleaning intermissions at Invicta and Inkerman and some extended unplanned stops at Kalamia and Pioneer.
The season-to-date total is now 6.12M tonnes, which represents 75% of the Burdekin region’s crop forecast of 8.20M tonnes.
The average weekly CCS was 14.59, which is increasing with the hot dry conditions.
The highest CCS, of 17.7, was from rakes of Q183 2R in the Jardine (Pioneer) and Mulgrave (Invicta) productivity districts.
Remember to always use your train brain and give way to trains at road crossings.
John Tait
Cane Supply Manager
Burdekin Region

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By Angelo Licciardello, QCAR Burdekin District Manager

It has been an interesting and diverse two weeks to say the least. The last fortnight has seen quite a range of activities being undertaken by the team at QCAR.
Week 19-20 Crush: The first week after the rain event on the 13 October caused some disruptions to harvesting and crushing, and then the quality of cane material caused its own issues.
Reviews are currently being undertaken into:
   • Cut to Crush over 24 hours
   • Delayed bin deliveries
   • Even a missing bin (which our QCAR admin team found)
CCS, Purity, Suspense Cane – these words are now becoming important in my day-to-day work life.
On a personal note, I took the opportunity offered by the Burdekin Cane Audit Service (BCAS) on the 22 October. The presentation and tour demonstrated there is a high level of accuracy required. Many checks are completed by auditors along the way to validate grower results. Thanks to Barb Colls and the BCAS team.
Our touring group also were taken through the mill by Operations Manager, Robert Borg, and we saw the mill in full operation observing how local sugarcane is transformed into raw sugar. The event is a credit to all the staff at Inkerman.

Milling Update: When you consider the age of these factories it is quite remarkable that they do what they do. The concern is:
   • Do we take our sugar industry for granted?
   • How do we improve efficiency at milling and harvesting?
   • Can we improve productivity per hectare?
   • Can we grow more hectares?
Need many collaborators to get a positive change.
P & K Farm Update:
   • has been fully harvested – 2,955 tonnes
   • mother plot - destroyed with rotary hoe
   • ratoons – trash incorporator cultivation
   • irrigation can now begin on plant cane

QCAR Connections:
   • Kelli Dabelstein – Northern Insurance Solutions
   • Clark Grogan – Rabobank
   • Troy Williams & Judy Betteridge – Lowes Petroleum
Upcoming Events:
   • National Agriculture Day, 15 November
   • GRDC Grains Research Update, 26 November, Ayr Showgrounds
   • Embracing Agriculture Digital Workshop, 27 November, Bowen Tafe College

ANGELO’S AGRONOMIC TIP: Late application of nitrogen on our last cut ratoons? With the wet season not far away are nitrogen inhibitors being considered? Enpower and N Protect will ensure we get the most out of our N applications.

QCAR Burdekin District Manager Angelo Licciardello can be contacted on 0437 401 837 or email angelo.licciardello@qcar.org.au or QCAR Head Office 4783 2111.

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Angelo Licciardello, QCAR Burdekin District Manager and David Paine, P & K Farm Manager

Growers observe the BCAS Workplace Coordinator demonstrate a Pol reading for sucrose in the Inkerman Mill laboratory. From left – Sue Wright, Angelo Licciardello, Shaun Betteridge, Dylan Betteridge, Kylie Sibson and Glenda Pola

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October is always a busy month on the grower marketing calendar with the closing off of marketing nominations for the season ahead.
With the dust now settled, we have registered a pleasing increase in the number of growers and GEI tonnes nominated through to Wilmar Grower Marketing across our four milling regions.
A common theme with growers who nominated us is the financial benefits Wilmar has delivered over the last few seasons.
The Production Risk Pool continues to outperform the Harvest Pool, and the Allocation Account is adding a significant premium to the forward price that growers lock in through the Target price mechanism.
We will continue to work hard to maximise that premium as, being a large grower ourselves, it has a direct impact on our financial return.
Other positive commentary from growers relates to the work done by our local Grower Marketing consultants. Most of the team have direct agricultural backgrounds, so have an affinity with the challenges growers face each day. Their willingness to go over and above on a personal level, and their passion to see our growers succeed financially, means very few growers choose to leave Wilmar marketing.
Another pleasing result was the interest shown in our new Managed Pool Plus. The launch of this product for the 2025 season was in direct response to feedback regarding sugar price volatility.
As you know, the last 24 months have seen some big swings in sugar prices. Many growers who like the control of forward pricing are fatigued by the market gyrations. By laying off some of that control into the Managed Pool Plus, they get the benefit of having longer-term price management without the worry of having to watch the market on a day-to-day basis. Additionally, the concept of having access to the pool manager on a quarterly basis through a webinar format, provides further education around price risk management.
In October, we also initiated a comprehensive survey of our grower suppliers. It’s been a while since we’ve reached out to growers seeking direct feedback about our Grower Marketing offering and the broader business. The survey is open until next Friday (15 November). Please contact your local grower marketing consultant if you have not received an email invitation to complete the survey.
Again, thank you to all growers who chose Wilmar to manage their GEI price exposure for the 2025 season. Our team will work hard to ensure your trust is repaid.
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Contributed with thanks to Simon Hood
Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

Wilmar’s Burdekin Grower Marketing consultants, from left, Owen Richards, Meghan Wilson and Fiona Villis.

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Intersport and Compleat Angler continues to be a go-to spot for sports and fishing fans in the region, catering to a wide array of needs and trends. Football, basketball, netball, and soccer remain popular choices, with the "hottest" sport shifting each year and often aligning with school seasons. This seasonal change keeps the store busy as locals gear up for their favourite sports, whether they’re experienced players or new to the game.
Fishing trends are also evolving, with lures taking the spotlight – especially soft plastics like Zerek and Samaki Prawns. These lures have gained popularity for their lifelike appearance and versatility, making them appealing for many anglers. Electric reels are another big seller, especially with reef fishers who appreciate the power and convenience these reels offer when fishing in deeper waters.
Intersport and Compleat Angler plays an active role in the local sports and fishing community, proudly sponsoring many clubs in the area and contributing to fundraising events. With most seasons wrapping up, the team is preparing for the year ahead, ensuring local clubs have the gear they need to succeed.
What makes Intersport and Compleat Angler truly stand out is its exclusive range of brands, including Yeti and Crocs, as well as a range of outdoor essentials like ammunition, shooting accessories, and compound bows. With such a diverse inventory, the store has something for everyone, from avid anglers to sports fans and outdoor enthusiasts.
For those just getting started, the team offers practical advice. For newcomers to sports, a quality pair of shoes is a great investment – they can make a big difference in comfort and performance. Beginners in fishing are encouraged to start simple; there’s no need to overspend at first, as you can get everything you need to start without breaking the bank. And, as they say, “Once you start catching fish, you’ll be hooked!”
The team prides itself on helping customers find the right fit by taking the time to understand their needs. This dedication has made Intersport and Compleat Angler a trusted name in the local sports and fishing scene.

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Shania Nucifora, Brett Eathorne and Bernadette Dal Ponte, some of the team at Intersport. Photo credit: Miah Lampard

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The Burdekin Shire Council is addressing residents’ concerns over the recent surge in mosquito populations impacting most of the region. This spike follows recent rain events and tides exceeding 3.5 metres, conditions that create optimal breeding grounds for mosquitoes as water seeps into salt flats and other normally dry areas.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort highlighted the Council’s proactive approach through its ongoing mosquito monitoring and treatment program. This program focuses on targeting mosquito larvae to reduce adult populations before they spread, ensuring the safety and comfort of residents in public spaces.
“Our teams are working hard to reduce mosquito larvae around public areas using barrier treatments, helping protect residents and families who visit our outdoor facilities,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
“Most of the mosquitoes currently affecting the Burdekin are salt marsh mosquitoes, a species that can travel up to 50 kilometres on prevailing winds. These mosquitoes have a lifespan of around 14 days and rely on saltwater conditions to breed.”
The Council also encourages residents to adopt protective measures at home, including applying insect repellents, wearing long-sleeved clothing, and considering barrier treatments around properties. Local suppliers, such as Nutrien Ag Solutions, Burdekin Growers, and Elders, offer barrier treatment products suitable for home use, while pest control services provide custom solutions for household mosquito management.
For residents seeking additional information about Council’s mosquito control efforts, or advice on dealing with the current infestation, Burdekin Shire Council’s Customer Service Centre is available at (07) 4783 9800 or by visiting burdekin.qld.gov.au.
How To Avoid Mosquito Bites
   • Cover up - wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing and covered footwear.
   • Apply insect repellent - use an effective insect repellent on exposed skin,
   • Stop mosquitoes from getting inside, cover doors and windows with insect screens.
Clean up around your home
Reduce the number of mosquitoes around your home by:
   • regularly emptying and wiping out any items that hold water, such as buckets and old tyres
   • ensuring rainwater tanks are sealed and inlet and outlet pipes are screened
   • draining water from or filling in pools of water in the yard
   • keeping your lawns mowed
   • killing adult mosquitoes with flying insect and surface sprays. Read and follow all directions and precautions on the product label.
Information sourced from Queensland Government website.

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A time to celebrate and a time for action! November is National Rural Health Month and it’s time to spotlight rural communities and health care.
 
Throughout November, the National Rural Health Alliance is excited to share rural healthcare stories and highlight the success stories of rural healthcare champions. We will also draw attention to the myriad of issues faced by rural, regional and remote communities in Australia when trying to access health care.  
 
“We all know that Australia’s rural, regional and remote communities experience poorer health outcomes compared to their urban counterparts,” said the Alliance Chief Executive Susi Tegen.
 
“National Rural Health Month highlights health sector stakeholders who are working towards tangible and sustainable healthcare solutions for rural Australians.”
 
“On average, a person living in rural Australia receives $848 less in healthcare funding each year, which equates to a $6.55 billion underspend across the country. This is despite rural industries generating about 80 per cent of Australia’s exports and providing about 90 per cent of the fresh food in our markets,” she said.
 
Rural people experience a triple health disadvantage: poorer circumstances in terms of social determinants of health, a lack of service availability, and higher costs of access and delivery, all resulting in poor health outcomes.
 
“Rural communities are amazingly resilient and innovative in their solutions to overcome healthcare challenges. As such, National Rural Health Month is also a time to reflect on their achievements that help bring positive changes.
 
Keep your eye on the Alliance’s social media accounts and the hashtag #NationalRuralHealthMonth and #NRHM24 throughout November for day-to-day stories of rural Australians and their healthcare journeys.

The National Rural Health Alliance (the Alliance) comprises 53 national organisations committed to improving the health and wellbeing of the over 7 million people in rural and remote Australia. Our diverse membership includes representation from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health sector, health professional organisations, health service providers, health educators and students.

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National Rural Health Alliance Chief Executive Susi Tegen

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The old Burdekin River Rail Bridge can accurately be referred to as a magnet for disaster and was once a sore spot for Queensland Rail employees due to constant flood instances and deterioration.

Constructed during the period extending from 1896 to 1899, the Burdekin River Rail Bridge, also known as the Macrossan Bridge, connected North Queensland to the rest of the state.

Often described as a “north coast railway nightmare”, the dangerous section of line extending across the Burdekin River was a grievance among train drivers, particularly when the Burdekin River began to rise with trains at risk of being swept off the tracks and into depths below.

When the rail line would disappear into the floodwaters each wet season, communities were completely isolated, and deliveries bound for North Queensland consisting of food, clothing, and newspapers were made to sit on the bank until water levels subsided.

A devastating natural disaster, the Burdekin River flood in 1875 measured just under 22 metres over the old Burdekin River Rail Bridge, however the 1946 /1947 flood stood as a catalyst for change as the tragic event saw a cattle train washed off the tracks of the old bridge and into the floodwaters, resulting in 2 casualties. Plans began to circulate, and construction officially began to build the new Burdekin River Bridge in 1947.

In 1957, the new Burdekin River Bridge as it now stands, officially opened after 10 years of construction and planning. Supported by waterproof concrete caissons sunk 30 meters below the riverbed, the bridge measures just over 1100 meters and continues to serve as a flood-free “Silver Link”, connecting Queensland’s coastal highway.

Due to the uneconomic repercussions removing the structure would impose, the decision was made to leave the bridge where it continues to naturally deteriorate, eroding into the riverbed. A historical and nostalgic structure, what remains of the old Burdekin River Rail Bridge holds a listing on the Queensland Heritage Register, and a place in Burdekin history.

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A Queensland Rail Sunshine Express train traversed in floodwaters over the old Burdekin River Rail Bridge in 1946
The Western line of the old Burdekin River Rail Bridge between Sellheim and Macrossan
Flood damage on the Burdekin River Rail Bridge in 1917
The old Burdekin River Rail Bridge was a destructive and dangerous hazard
An accurate title – the old Burdekin River Bridge was deemed a railway nightmare
The Burdekin River Rail Bridge in flood in 1875 – suspected to be the Western line at Sellheim
Steam trains often crossed the bridge during flood waters
Changing tides. The old and new Burdekin River Bridge side by side

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DOB: 13/04/2024
Sex: Female
Breed: American Staffordshire Terrier x
Kid friendly: Yes
Cat Friendly: Untested
Other dogs: Yes
Fences: 5ft

Daisy is a lively and affectionate girl who’s always full of energy. She adores cuddles—on the couch or even the bed, if you let her!

Daisy is friendly with people and other dogs, making her a great fit for any family.

Smart and well-mannered, she knows to sit politely before meals and when coming indoors.

Daisy would love a home where she can enjoy both indoor and outdoor time with her family.

To meet Daisy, fill in an inquiry form at: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html. 

Included in adoption fee of $450 desexed, microchipped, up to date on vaccinations and is flea/tick/worm treated. Daisy is currently on ProHeart medication.

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At 11.40pm on Saturday 19 October, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Queen Street, Ayr.  The driver, a 42-year-old Burdekin man, was issued a Notice to Appear (NTA) for disqualified driving and is due to front Ayr Magistrates Court on 11 November.
At 2am on Saturday 26 October, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Davenport Street, Ayr.  As a result, a 39 year old Burdekin man was issued a Notice to Appear (NTA) for unlicenced driving and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 25 November.
At 10.25pm on Saturday 26 October, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Sydney Street, Ayr.  As a result a 41 year old Burdekin man was issued a NTA for unlicenced driving and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 11 November.
At 11.25am on Saturday 26 October, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Munro Street, Ayr.  As a result, an 18 year old Burdekin woman was issued a NTA for drink driving, .026 and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 25 November.

WEAPONS LICENCES
If you are the holder of a current Qld Weapons Licence, I would remind you to check the expiry date of that licence to ensure it is current. Ayr Police are experiencing an increase in the numbers of people attending the station after their Weapons Licence has expired. A brand-new licence application then has to be submitted from scratch.  
There are a couple of benefits to renewing your weapons licence rather than letting it expire and they are (amounts sourced from QPS website 04/11/2024):
New weapons licence application fee is $117.61 per year
5yr new licence is $294.20;
10yr renewal is $388.50;
Permit to Acquire is $44.47;
Further, if your weapons licence expires and you have a weapon, you can no longer possess that weapon. It must be stored with a person who holds a weapons licence for that class of weapon but only for a maximum time of six months. Otherwise, it should be stored with a local firearm dealer possibly with a fee attached.  
Take a moment and check the expiry date of your weapons licence now to make sure it’s current and when you need to renew it by. Remember, it remains the responsibility of the licence holder to ensure their weapon licence is current.

Driver’s Licences & Qld Transport Business – Ayr Police NO longer do them

Ayr Police Station do NOT have any involvement in the issue of driver licences or driving tests. The Ayr Court House is where you can do all of your licence and registration matters.  We have not done licence issued duties for many years.  
We still get phone calls regularly inquiring about the issue of driver’s licences and there are still have people walk into the Police Station on a regularly inquiring about driver’s licences even though they have read notices on the front door and at the front counter advising we no longer issue them.
Renewals can be done online.  Also remember the courthouse closes over Christmas/New Year period, so if you require any licencing business to be done around that time, make sure you plan for this.

Home Security Audits
The Queensland Police Service have “ Home Security Audit” forms that can be accessed at the QPS website.
Anecdotally the majority of unlawful entry offences are committed on residences or vehicles that are unlocked and/or have valuables in plain sight.  Locking your house and car and securing valuables including money, keys, wallets and mobile phones will deter opportunistic thieves.  
If you see someone acting suspiciously AT ANY TIME, ring Ayr Police Station on 4790 3555 or after hours ring 131 444, unless life threatening, then ring 000.
Crime prevention is a community effort. Police regularly need public assistance and information to help solve criminal offences. This information can be anonymous to crime stoppers. If you have any such information, please contact Crime Stoppers or Ayr Police.
Don’t let yourself become a victim of crime – Lock it or Lose it
If you have any information about crime or illicit drugs, phone crime stoppers on 1800 333 000.  The more detailed the information you give, the better it will be for all concerned.
Remember to secure your property – “lock it or lose it”.
You wouldn’t leave a dish containing thousands of dollars sitting on your bench or sitting out in the open, so why do this with your car keys
Car keys – treat them like cash

At 11.40pm on Saturday 19 October, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Queen Street, Ayr.  The driver, a 42-year-old Burdekin man, was issued a Notice to Appear (NTA) for disqualified driving and is due to front Ayr Magistrates Court on 11 November.
At 2am on Saturday 26 October, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Davenport Street, Ayr.  As a result, a 39 year old Burdekin man was issued a Notice to Appear (NTA) for unlicenced driving and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 25 November.
At 10.25pm on Saturday 26 October, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Sydney Street, Ayr.  As a result a 41 year old Burdekin man was issued a NTA for unlicenced driving and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 11 November.
At 11.25am on Saturday 26 October, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Munro Street, Ayr.  As a result, an 18 year old Burdekin woman was issued a NTA for drink driving, .026 and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 25 November.

WEAPONS LICENCES
If you are the holder of a current Qld Weapons Licence, I would remind you to check the expiry date of that licence to ensure it is current. Ayr Police are experiencing an increase in the numbers of people attending the station after their Weapons Licence has expired. A brand-new licence application then has to be submitted from scratch.  
There are a couple of benefits to renewing your weapons licence rather than letting it expire and they are (amounts sourced from QPS website 04/11/2024):
New weapons licence application fee is $117.61 per year
5yr new licence is $294.20;
10yr renewal is $388.50;
Permit to Acquire is $44.47;
Further, if your weapons licence expires and you have a weapon, you can no longer possess that weapon. It must be stored with a person who holds a weapons licence for that class of weapon but only for a maximum time of six months. Otherwise, it should be stored with a local firearm dealer possibly with a fee attached.  
Take a moment and check the expiry date of your weapons licence now to make sure it’s current and when you need to renew it by. Remember, it remains the responsibility of the licence holder to ensure their weapon licence is current.

Driver’s Licences & Qld Transport Business – Ayr Police NO longer do them

Ayr Police Station do NOT have any involvement in the issue of driver licences or driving tests. The Ayr Court House is where you can do all of your licence and registration matters.  We have not done licence issued duties for many years.  
We still get phone calls regularly inquiring about the issue of driver’s licences and there are still have people walk into the Police Station on a regularly inquiring about driver’s licences even though they have read notices on the front door and at the front counter advising we no longer issue them.
Renewals can be done online.  Also remember the courthouse closes over Christmas/New Year period, so if you require any licencing business to be done around that time, make sure you plan for this.

Home Security Audits
The Queensland Police Service have “ Home Security Audit” forms that can be accessed at the QPS website.
Anecdotally the majority of unlawful entry offences are committed on residences or vehicles that are unlocked and/or have valuables in plain sight.  Locking your house and car and securing valuables including money, keys, wallets and mobile phones will deter opportunistic thieves.  
If you see someone acting suspiciously AT ANY TIME, ring Ayr Police Station on 4790 3555 or after hours ring 131 444, unless life threatening, then ring 000.
Crime prevention is a community effort. Police regularly need public assistance and information to help solve criminal offences. This information can be anonymous to crime stoppers. If you have any such information, please contact Crime Stoppers or Ayr Police.
Don’t let yourself become a victim of crime – Lock it or Lose it
If you have any information about crime or illicit drugs, phone crime stoppers on 1800 333 000.  The more detailed the information you give, the better it will be for all concerned.
Remember to secure your property – “lock it or lose it”.
You wouldn’t leave a dish containing thousands of dollars sitting on your bench or sitting out in the open, so why do this with your car keys
Car keys – treat them like cash

‍

‍

On Friday, November 8, the Burdekin Memorial Hall will come alive with glamour and community spirit at the highly anticipated Harvest Festival Rotary Gala Ball. This prestigious event offers an evening filled with elegance and generosity, celebrating the dedication and achievements of the seven 2024 Home Hill Harvest Festival Queens.
For the past few months, seven young women have represented their organisations with pride, taking on ambassadorial roles to support and uplift the Burdekin community.
Martina Bojack (Home Hill Community Sports Club), Sophie Brosnan (Get Fit Home Hill), Harmony Fletcher (Home Hill Rotary Club), Tegan Johnson (Burdekin Rugby League Club), Danelle Laubscher (Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club), Marnie Skipper (Home Hill Community Kindergarten), and Madison Mainwaring-Samwell (Burdekin Netball Association) have each worked tirelessly to raise funds and awareness for their causes.
Through events and fundraising efforts, the queens bring essential financial support to their respective clubs and charities, helping them thrive. Beyond the funds they raise, these young women spotlight the invaluable work done by local organisations, from sports clubs to service groups, strengthening the fabric of our community.
As dusk falls, the Burdekin Memorial Hall will transform into an oasis of sophistication.
Guests will enjoy a lavish sit-down dinner, celebrating the crowning of the Harvest Festival Charity Queen and Personality Queen. Music and dancing will fill the night with enchantment, while a licensed bar offers a selection of beverages to complement the evening’s charm.
This event is more than just a gala; it’s a heartfelt tribute to the dedication of the Harvest Festival Queens and a celebration of the harvest season’s spirit. Secure your tickets now and be part of a night to remember by contacting Deslie on 0408 822 029.

What: Home Hill Harvest Festival Rotary Gala Ball
When: Friday 8 November, 6:30pm
Where: Burdekin Memorial Hall
Cost: $70 per person
More Information: Contacting Deslie on 0408 822 029

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The 2024 Home Hill Harvest Festival Queens will be celebrated on Friday evening’s Rotary Gala Ball. L to R: Marnie Skipper, Danelle Laubscher, Sophie Brosnan, Harmony Fletcher, Martina Bojack, Madison Mainwaring-Samwell and Tegan Johnson.

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Although the election results have not been officially declared, Dale Last is sitting comfortably with the win having secured 65.8 per cent of the votes at the time of writing, re-instating himself to the role of Member for the Burdekin.

In addition, for the first time in more than a decade LNP’s Dale Last will be representing the region while not in opposition following the LNP’s landmark victory and subsequent announcement of David Crisafulli as the Premier for Queensland.

Burdekin Regional Council Councillor Amanda Hall, Member for Burdekin Dale Last and local resident Robert Antoniazzi. Photo credit: Miah Lampard

Fire Station, CT Scanner & Netball Courts
Election Promises Set To Become Reality

Significant election promises made by Member for Burdekin Dale Last during his election campaign are one step closer to fruition thanks to his win on Saturday night and that of our new Premier David Crisafulli.

No matter which way each resident voted, with LNP now represented both at a state and local level, the broader Burdekin Shire will benefit with extra funding that is guaranteed to get more projects underway in our region.

Mr Last has pinpointed three key projects he is looking forward to addressing straight away:

“My focus is to continue delivering for this electorate and that starts with keeping my promises to you,” he shared.

“I know how much it will mean to emergency patients at the Ayr Hospital to access potentially life-saving CT scans without needing to be transferred 100km up the road, or for our grassroots netball players to experience a game on new courts, under bright lights and with a new club house.

“I’ve watched this community get behind our firefighters as we called for a new fire station so I know how much it will mean to each of you to see our frontline staff finally have the home they deserve.

“There is certainly plenty of work to be done and the LNP have committed to getting to work with plans to legislate Making Queensland Safer laws including Adult Crime, Adult Time and putting victims first.”

Mr Last thanked all his constituents for their support and remains humble about his re-election.

“I’m so proud and honoured to represent the Burdekin electorate, to have that confidence put in me for the next four years is such a privilege,” he said.

“I want to say a big thank you to all those residents who put their faith in me during the recent election.   

“I would also like to take the time to acknowledge the countless volunteers who took time out of their day to support my campaign during challenging conditions.   

“I’d also like to thank my staff in my electorate office and my family for their support.

“We’ve campaigned for a fresh start for Queensland, and we have a real commitment for rural, regional Queensland and that’s something I am passionate to deliver.

“After 10 long years in opposition, we’re now in government and with a bit of luck I’ll be a minister as well.

“I am incredibly honoured to not only be able to call this great electorate home, but for a fourth time to be elected as your representative in the Queensland Parliament.   

“For years this electorate has given more than its fair share of the pie, from our industries to our communities and you deserve to continue to have a strong voice in your corner.”

‍

Last week, Brighter Lives, North Queensland’s beloved charity, successfully hosted its annual Giving Day, rallying the local community to raise vital funds for the Townsville Hospital and Health Service. Established in 1989 as the Townsville Hospital Foundation, Brighter Lives has evolved into the official partner charity for the region's health services, now supporting not only the Townsville University Hospital but also 18 public hospitals and two residential aged care facilities.
This year’s Giving Day saw dedicated volunteers stationed at Dal Santo's Deli in Ayr and Home Hill News and Coffee in Home Hill, selling raffle tickets from 8am to 2pm.
The event brought together locals eager to give back, reflecting the charity’s core philosophy: “Locals Supporting Locals.” Every dollar raised will directly benefit patients, visitors, and staff at the Home Hill and Ayr hospitals, ensuring that funds remain within the community.
Brighter Lives is committed to funding essential equipment and enhancing hospital projects, ensuring North Queenslanders receive world-class healthcare close to home. With a region spanning Townsville, Magnetic Island, Ingham, Palm Island, Burdekin, Charters Towers, Hughenden, Richmond, and Cardwell, the impact of Giving Day resonates deeply within the community. As we reflect on the success of this year’s event, Brighter Lives extends heartfelt gratitude to all who participated, demonstrating the incredible spirit of giving that defines North Queensland.

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Joanne Barbagallo is brightening lives one ticket at a time.

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In the Burdekin, nurturing the next generation is more than a goal—it’s a shared commitment. Local organisations like the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) play a vital role in instilling values of responsibility, resilience, and teamwork in young members.
Through lifesaving training and beach patrols, the club equips youth with skills that could one day save lives, fostering confidence and a sense of purpose.
Events such as the King and Queen of the Hill race further showcase the Burdekin’s dedication to uplifting young achievers. These activities give local youth a platform to test their limits, set goals, and develop lifelong skills.
Recently, Ayr State High School held its annual Awards Night, celebrating the achievements of students who have excelled academically, athletically, and in community service. The evening recognised the hard work, dedication, and contributions of students across all year levels, highlighting the school’s commitment to fostering well-rounded young leaders who will make a positive impact in the community.
By empowering our youth, the Burdekin community builds strong roots that promise a brighter future. With each challenge overcome and skill learned, young people are prepared not only to serve today but also to lead tomorrow, ensuring the Burdekin’s legacy remains in capable, compassionate hands.

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Ruby Sitton will soon embark on an extraordinary new chapter as she prepares to travel to Norway on a twelve-month Rotary Youth Exchange in January of 2025. Currently in her final year of schooling at Burdekin Catholic High School, Ruby will proudly serve as an ambassador for her school, the Rotary Club of Ayr, and the wider Burdekin community during her time spent abroad.

With her travels on the horizon, Ruby’s wonderful achievement was recently marked by a special presentation from Andrew Willcox, Federal Member for Dawson, who presented her with an Australian flag to carry with pride overseas.

With her final exams underway, the upcoming exchange adds an exciting milestone as she nears graduation this November, a milestone she has the confidence to peruse with thanks to her parents.

“My parents have been my biggest supporters in the process of organising and applying for my exchange year as my mum, Alison, went on exchange to Zimbabwe and my dad to Paraguay – they always talk about how amazing their experiences were,” said Ruby.

The Rotary Club of Ayr, particularly Lex Cox, the club’s Youth Exchange Officer, has been a strong pillar of support throughout Ruby’s application and preparation process. Lex is highly enthusiastic about Ruby’s upcoming role as a cultural ambassador and encourages other students to consider Rotary Youth Exchange for its invaluable experience.

“The Rotary Club of Ayr are long standing supporters of Rotary Youth Exchange, a program to promote world peace through understanding and involvement with other countries and their people,” explained Lex.

“COVID-19 caused a pause, and Ruby is our first student for some years, and she will make an excellent ambassador for Rotary and Australia.

Set to reside in Olso where temperatures drop to just below zero, Ruby cannot wait to immerse herself in the Norwegian culture and has already begun tackling the challenge of learning a foreign language.

“I picked Norway because of its deep history, which is such a flip from Australia where it’s a relatively new country,” shared Ruby.

“I am a little bit nervous and super excited for my year ahead.”

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Youth Exchange Officer, Lex Cox and Andrew Wilcox presenting Ruby Sitton with an Australian Flag to take overseas with her in January 2025 on her Youth Exchange Journey.

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