Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
The Burdekin community has rallied to support survivors following last Thursday’s tragic bus rollover near Gumlu. While emergency services managed the confronting crash site, local residents, council staff, and Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort coordinated immediate relief, providing accommodation, meals, and medical aid to the shaken passengers.Tragedy On Bruce Highway As Bus Rolls Near GumluA young overseas tourist has died and dozens of passengers were left shaken after a bus crash near Gumlu last Thursday afternoon. Emergency services were called to the Bruce Highway north of Bowen just before 4pm on 14 May, after a southbound FlixBus travelling from Cairns to Airlie Beach left the roadway and rolled onto its side. The bus was carrying 29 people at the time of the crash. The driver, a 70-year-old Mackay man, was taken to Bowen Hospital with minor injuries. Police confirmed 26-year-old Serena Andreatta, a dual Argentina and Italy national, died at the scene. Several other passengers sustained injuries and were transported to hospitals in Townsville, Ayr and Bowen for treatment. One passenger who survived the crash told Burdekin Life they became concerned about the bus’s movements in the hours before the rollover. “I did not feel so safe,” the passenger said, claiming the bus appeared to be “swerving” at times. The passenger said the concern prompted them to fasten their seatbelt. They then recalled the bus striking a barrier before rolling, describing chaotic scenes inside the vehicle as passengers and belongings were thrown around the cabin. Following the crash, passengers were accommodated in Ayr overnight before being cared for at the Burdekin Theatre loft the following day, where they were provided meals prior to continuing their journey south on another bus. Burdekin Shire Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort attended to check on passengers and assisted in sourcing medication for those affected. Passengers lauded the response efforts of Burdekin Shire Council, Ayr Police, and the wider community. The Queensland Police Forensic Crash Unit is continuing to investigate the incident. The incident occurred on the same stretch of highway where a fatal Greyhound bus crash in 2024 claimed three lives. Superintendent Dean Cavanagh described the crash scene as “very confronting” and praised emergency crews for their rapid response. “This was a very complex incident, it was a very serious incident, and it was in an isolated area,” he said. “Although we tragically lost a life, I believe that effort that we saw absolutely went into saving many [more].” Premier David Crisafulli described the incident as a tragedy, expressing condolences for the woman who died and noting multiple patients were still fighting for life in hospital. He declined to speculate the cause of the crash, but reiterated his commitment to improving safety on the Bruce Highway. “It’s a road that means everything to the state, and it’s a road that’s a long way short of where it should be.” CAPTIONS: 1—A young overseas tourist has died and dozens of passengers were left shaken following a horror bus crash near Gumlu last Thursday afternoon. Photo source: Burdekin SES
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The Bowen Pipeline Company will launch its critical water sales program this week, marking the final major milestone before seeking federal funding for a $750 million generational water infrastructure project. Opening on 20 May and running until 24 June, the program will serve as the commercial validation required to secure a 50 per cent federal government construction grant. The privately funded project would involve the construction of a 182-kilometre underground pipeline from the Burdekin River to Bowen, running primarily along the Bruce Highway corridor. Once operational, the pipeline is anticipated to deliver 100,000 megalitres of water annually, securing a reliable supply for Australia’s largest winter vegetable-growing region. Bowen Pipeline Company director Sean Brown said the water sales program was the culmination of nearly a decade of local advocacy. "This is essentially the final hurdle to be jumped prior to the lodging of our Federal Government construction grant application,” Mr Brown said. "For the Project to be considered by the Federals as a worthy recipient of funding, the region needs to demonstrate both large water demand volumes and significant numbers of water users." The company has set a minimum water volume of 20 megalitres, which can be shared between adjoining properties. "In effect, water users will be paying 2025 prices for water that will be delivered in 2030," Mr Brown said. The project is tracking towards ‘shovel-ready’ status by September 2026, ahead of a federal funding application. The company aims to secure a funding commitment in the May 2027 Federal Budget, with construction slated to begin in September 2027. Boasting a benefit-cost ratio of 1.27, the pipeline is projected to create 200 jobs during construction and 1,200 permanent roles upon completion. It is expected to drive a $300 million annual economic gain for agriculture and unlock up to $1 billion in additional investment through local green energy initiatives, such as sustainable aviation fuel and green ammonia. The infrastructure features several industry firsts, including Indigenous project equity and ownership, and a net-zero footprint supported by 30-megawatt solar farms utilising Australian-made Tindo Solar panels. Mr Brown credited local communities and political leaders, including Premier David Crisafulli, Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie, and local MPs and mayors, for progressing the project. "After 9 years of community effort to get this far, we seek your support for this final push," Mr Brown said. "This project is being built on the shoulders of the people who not only live in the region but all those who came before us." Public information and water sales presentations will commence at 4:30 pm at the DPI in Bowen on 20 and 28 May, and at the Ayr ANZAC Memorial Club on 21 and 27 May. CAPTION: Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, President of BGGA, Carl Walker, BPC Director Sean Brown, and Whitsundays Mayor Ry Collins (WRC). Photo supplied
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Growing up in Ayr, Queensland, Able Seaman Thomas Wiseman was torn between two paths: following in his father’s footsteps or pursuing a passion inspired by his mother. “I was going to join the Army because my dad was Army and my grandfather was Army. But my mum is a pastry chef by trade, and my real love of cooking I got from her,” Able Seaman Wiseman said. Luckily, he not only went to his parents for advice, but actually listened to them. “Dad suggested I join the Navy. He said in the Navy, chefs cook every day at sea and travel the world,” Able Seaman Wiseman said. As chef on board HMAS Toowoomba, over the past five months, he’s visited six of Australia’s regional partners and engaged in multiple exercises, activities and operations with allied nations, all while being trained to become a fully qualified chef. “I went straight from school to enlisting and it was the best decision I have ever made by far. In just two years in the Navy, I’ve visited six countries and done several deployments. I love it,” Able Seaman Wiseman said. While learning his trade through Navy, he doesn’t have to worry about the competitive, seasonal nature of the hospitality industry and the lack of job security that can sometimes go with it. “The pay is so much better. In the civilian world, I would be on an apprentice wage. In the Navy, you get paid more and you learn more skills,” Able Seaman Wiseman said. There’s also the additional duties that allow him to develop the skills and knowledge required to live a well-rounded, adult life. “On top of being a chef, we have all of our external roles as well. I am a member of the ship’s emergency medical team, so if there’s a medical incident, I could be one of the members to go and respond. It is a great responsibility,” Able Seaman Wiseman said. Every day, Toowoomba’s chefs produce four meals for the about 200-strong crew, ensuring all watches on board are fuelled to carry out their duties protecting Australia and its interests. “Without the stokers, the ship doesn’t go anywhere, without the watchkeepers keeping us safe, we can’t do much, so while us chefs are also important in keeping the ship going, the entire crew is one big team,” Able Seaman Wiseman said. His biggest thanks remain for his parents, whose wise words set him up for life. “I reckon if my mum saw this in the paper, she’d absolutely love it, frame it and hang it up on the wall,” Able Seaman Wiseman said. “They’re still up there in Ayr, so Dad, if you’re reading this, I took all the advice you’d given me, I am so glad you convinced me to go Navy, it was the best advice I ever had.” CAPTION: Able Seaman Maritime Logistics Chef Thomas Wiseman stands in the galley of HMAS Toowoomba as the ship sails through the Sulu Sea. Photo supplied
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Internationally recognised leadership consultant and wellness advocate, Robyn Taylor has worked across Australia, Africa, Europe and the United States, combining modern leadership practices with mindfulness and wellbeing strategies developed through her own personal health journey. In March, Burdekin Shire Council Chief Executive Officer Matthew Magin invited Ms Taylor to speak at Council’s Women’s Health Day, reflecting the pair’s longstanding commitment to collaborating on projects across regional Queensland spanning a diverse range of industries and specialisations. “Workplace wellbeing carries more importance in our current times of uncertainty, everyday life seems to present more challenges,” said Ms Taylor. “A supportive workplace culture, recognising the current challenges, is demonstrated by employers who arrange programs such as the Women’s Health Day.” Mr Magin echoed Ms Taylor’s sentiments, highlighting the importance of prioritising staff wellbeing and fostering a positive workplace culture across regional organisations. “I agree that wellness programmes are hugely important for any and all employers to be organising for their staff,” he said. Ms Taylor said she was delighted to return to the region, fondly recalling previous visits to Ayr, including delivering an International Women’s Day presentation initiated by Lyndy McCathie and the Burdekin Zonta Club. Drawing on her own experience overcoming a diagnosis of advanced multiple sclerosis decades ago, Ms Taylor’s presentation at Burdekin Shire Council’s Women’s Health Day focused on resilience, mindset and personal wellbeing. She encouraged participants to take control of unhealthy stress patterns, embrace balance in both work and life, and recognise the value of community connection and regional living, resounding the quote, “it’s not what happens to you, it’s what you do about it” to reframe unbeneficial habits. “We can reprogram our perspective once we change the way we think about life and how we are managing our own situation,” she said. “Today are seeking relief from their daily pressures that can manifest in many ways, like feeling overwhelmed by current events, sometimes resulting in insomnia or deteriorating health. In this big picture, it is important that we find balance in the various aspects of our lives, including our jobs.” Ms Taylor also praised the “Can Do” attitude often found across regional Queensland and encouraged more women to become involved in community organisations such as Burdekin Zonta Club, saying purpose and connection play a vital role in long-term wellbeing. “I believe appreciating the value of regional life can be a major factor in finding the balance,” she added. “Ayr is such an attractive country town where living is without the pressures of sitting for hours in traffic, where one can consciously develop and incorporate an exercise program into the daily routine and where one can seek out like-minded people with whom to spend our very precious time. “Never underestimate the value of the business experience you are gaining in the Burdekin. With today’s expanding and ever- changing technology, regional business and regional careers are just as sophisticated as any to be gained in the crowded, frantic pace of a major city. “Appreciation and gratitude of our situation are major factors in finding balance. We can train our intellect to work with our perceived challenges and train our bodies with our exercise or gym program, but quite often we don’t realise how important it is to train the mind.” Ms Taylor said many of the leadership principles being discussed internationally were just as relevant in regional communities like the Burdekin Shire, particularly when it came to creating workplaces where people feel valued, fulfilled and supported. She also spoke about the importance of values-based leadership, mindfulness and wellbeing practices in helping people manage stress and maintain balance in both their professional and personal lives. Drawing on decades of experience in leadership coaching and wellness, including her internationally recognised Meditating Manager program, Ms Taylor encouraged people to prioritise reflection, self-awareness and personal growth alongside career ambitions. She said regional communities like the Burdekin offer unique opportunities to build meaningful careers while enjoying a healthier and more balanced lifestyle. “Be brave, be fearless, don’t allow anyone or anything to deter you in your pursuit of your career goals and ensure those goals are firm,” Ms Taylor advised. “I am absolutely ga ga about the power of goal setting. Goals will propel you forward to do things you never dreamt you would be able to achieve. Be prepared that the goals may change along the way.” CAPTION: International leadership consultant and wellness advocate Robyn Taylor joined Burdekin Shire Council staff for March’s Women’s Health Day, sharing insights on resilience, wellbeing and values-based leadership. Photo source: Burdekin Shire Council
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“When one door closes, another opens; but we often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door that we do not see the one which has opened for us.” - Alexander Graham Bell.
This quote, or a variation, is frequently used to motivate us during difficult times when we need encouragement to keep going. It reminds us not to dwell on the past, but to focus on a potentially brighter future. It may be that the time you were retrenched from your job allowed you to find another job with better pay or more opportunities to progress.
If you've missed out on opportunities, reflecting on the past and using those experiences to open new doors is important. For instance, if you've previously discussed a business idea and someone else took advantage of it, making a substantial profit, you might want to be more cautious about sharing your ideas.
At times, the door remains open, allowing us to revisit the positive aspects of our past and build upon them. If you leave a job on good terms to pursue a better opportunity within the same industry, you can retain access to the valuable network you've established.
“If a door closes, quit banging on it. Whatever was behind it was not meant for you. Consider that perhaps the door was closed because you’re worth so much more than what was on the other side.” – Karen Salmansohn.
The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre has an open-door policy. We have an automatic door that opens as you approach, invites you in, and then closes behind you. But don’t worry; that closed door will stop the negative thoughts from following you into the Centre. When you are ready to leave, the door will open as you approach it again.
Why not come into the Centre and see what opportunities lie within? You may be surprised. Drop on in at 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr and meet the staff. Stay for a cuppa and a chat.
Until next time,
The Team
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre
DOB: 21/01/2024
Sex: Female
Breed: Staffy X
Kid friendly: Yes
Cat Friendly: Untested
Other dogs: Yes
Fences: 6ft
Narvi is a loving 8-month-old Staffy cross searching for a patient, kind family to help her continue exploring the world.
She’s still gaining confidence but is sure to thrive with the right support.
Narvi is currently in a foster home with children, and she enjoys attention from her humans and looks to them for reassurance.
Included in adoption fee of $450 Narvi is desexed, micro-chipped, up to date on vaccinations and is flea/tick/intestinal worm treated. Narvi is also on heartworm preventative.
If you're looking for a loyal and affectionate companion, Narvi could be the perfect fit.
Could you be the one to give her a forever home?
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The annual Harvest Festival Students’ Ball in Home Hill was a night to remember, showcasing local youth dressed to impress. The prestigious titles of Belle and Beau of the Ball were awarded to Zoe Bonanno and Ryan Kennedy, with Blaize Palmer and Emily Leek taking home the Runners Up titles.
Special mentions were given to Ezra Henaway, Rudie Laubscher, Ponhila Finau, Cooper Raitelli, Tianee Bolam, Sophie Parker, Charlie Conway, and Payton Rogers for their standout performances and style.
Centre: The Belle and the Beau of the Ball Zoe Bonanno and Ryan Kennedy. Credit: Hayden Menso Photography
The event was filled with excitement as participants enjoyed a night of elegance and celebration, with the community coming together to honour the students.
The Student Ball continues to be a highlight of the Harvest Festival, bringing the community closer and showcasing the vibrant spirit of Home Hill’s youth.
1 – 14: photos supplied. Credit: Hayley Oats
15-17: Belle and Beau of the ball with judges, Beau Ryan Kennedy, Belle - Zoe Bonanno. Credit: Hayden Menso Photography
18: Belle and Beau Runners Up Blaize Palmer, Emily Leek Credit: Hayden Menso Photography
19-23: Special Mention Boys, Special Mention Girls, Ezra Henaway, Rudie Laubscher, Ponhila Finau, Cooper Raitelli, Tianee Bolam, Sophie Parker, Charlie Conway, Payton Rogers.
Best Dressed Couple - Georgia Tomasetig & Angus McMullen, Sass- Ella Dabelstein, Swagger - Sioeli Mau
24-26: Red Carpet Arrivals. Credit Hayden Menso Photography
27: Belle and Beau arrival. Credit: Hayden Menso Photography
28-29: Harvest Festival Queens with Judges. Photo Credit: Hayden Menso Photography
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This morning I woke to the sound of two distressed Magpies! What was troubling them I could not tell. Until I saw a Baby Magpie on the Ground underneath the Big Old Footpath Tree!
I thought the Baby was dead but mum and dad Magpie did not give up hope as they sat patiently by, squawking at the baby to try to fly away from cars, cats, and other predators!
It’s not easy being a Magpie in today’s world it seems! Sadly, I see so many dead ones flattened by speeding cars. Or having to cope with the loss of their habitat due to chopping down of big old trees and the spread of urbanization!
Fortunately, this little bird was in safe hands once Matt from NQ Wildlife Care arrived within five minutes to rescue the little guy.
With ladder in hand, a new bird’s nest, bravery (I offered him an umbrella lest he be pecked).
But no, mum and dad Magpie were very happy for Matt to carefully lift the baby and place him in his new home sweet home!
Safety at least for now and a mouth to feed after such an ordeal.
So, after a little settling in, the very proud and happy Magpie parents went to get food!
There was also one very happy and relieved resident thanks to Matt at NQ Wildlife!
Thanks again Matt and to you all at NQ Wildlife for all that you do to protect and care for our Wildlife!
Contributed with thanks to Alexandria L.
Matt from NQ Wildlife Care is holding a Wildlife Care & Rescue workshop at the Neighborhood Centre on 19th October
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In this issue, we’re excited to spotlight one of the region’s most treasured traditions—the Home Hill Harvest Festival. This week, the elegant Students’ Ball had students lighting up the evening with their style and excitement, marking the beginning of another wonderful celebration in the Burdekin. This long-standing event continues to be a highlight for our younger generation, showcasing their pride in our community’s rich heritage.
As the festival season unfolds, the anticipation builds for the much-loved Town of Origin, an event that celebrates local pride and brings our community together through friendly competition. It’s always a highlight on the calendar, where sporting talent and community spirit shine.
Derby Day is also on the horizon, promising its usual mix of fashion, fun, and excitement. With its trackside energy and festive atmosphere, it’s no wonder this event has become such a favourite, drawing crowds who love the thrill and camaraderie it offers.
The Home Hill Harvest Festival truly embodies the heart and soul of our community, from the opening celebrations to the upcoming events. Let’s come together to support, celebrate, and enjoy this unique time of year that reflects the spirit, tradition, and shared joy of the Burdekin.
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Earlier this week, almost 30 Council workers participated in industrial strike action outside Burdekin Council Offices.
Jim Wilson from the Australian Workers Union took the decisive step to initiate the stop-work action, which was deliberately timed to coincide with the local government council meeting.
The move aimed to push forward the ongoing negotiations and secure a favourable outcome for council employees who are currently in dispute for better working rights.
The current agreement that covers working conditions expired in June and negotiations are in place to replace that.
The main issue of contention is the rate of pay, with the unions asking for a $1.90 increase per hour.
Jim Wilson said that members attended the council meeting and were polite in requesting more pay to keep their heads above water.
The stop-work action involved several unions, including the Australian Workers’ Union (AWU), the Plumbers and Pipe Trades Employees Union, the Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU), and the Australian Manufacturing Workers Union (AMWU).
These groups have been deeply involved in the bargaining process, advocating for fair wages, working conditions, and employee benefits.
Wilson emphasised that the goal is to reach an agreement that supports fair treatment and proper compensation for all workers. “The goal is a positive outcome that benefits everyone, including council workers across different sectors,” he stated.
Burdekin Shire Council’s Chief Executive Officer, Matthew Magin, acknowledged the frustrations of staff and the negotiating team.
“As we continue EBA negotiations, I understand the frustration felt by many staff, just as it is for our negotiating team. While we haven’t yet reached an agreement, I want to reassure everyone that the Industrial Relations Commission will be involved at the end of the month to help move past this roadblock,” said Magin.
He also encouraged ongoing dialogue, adding, “Some staff have taken industrial action, and I fully respect and support their right to take this step. However, I urge everyone to encourage their industrial advocates to return to the table. The only way we can resolve this is through continued dialogue.”
Magin expressed confidence that an agreement would soon be reached, allowing staff to support and vote for it. "I am more than willing to meet and talk so we can resolve this quickly and return to business as usual—delivering services to the residents and ratepayers of the Burdekin Shire."
Both sides are hopeful that a resolution will be reached soon, ensuring that the needs of workers are met while maintaining essential council operations.
Workers strike out the front of Burdekin Council Chambers
More than 100,000km of driving in the electorate, five state budget replies and 45 sitting weeks have wrapped up Member for Burdekin Dale Last’s third term as a member of parliament with the dissolution of the 57th parliament taking place in the recent week.
Mr Last said with the writ being issued last Tuesday, there was an opportunity to reflect on the advocacy for issues faced in the north and the recognition of the people who called the Burdekin home.
“I have said it plenty of times but the Burdekin electorate is a powerhouse for the state’s economy from our agriculture and tourism industries in the east to our coal mines in the west and that needs to be supported so that it is in the best position to thrive well into the future,” Mr Last said.
“That support means we not only are able to recognise the achievements of people within our community like young Billy Hearn and the Burdekin Theatre or the Burdekin Water Festival committee but we are able to advocate and raise awareness for issues we face here in the north.”
“At the heart of our role as members of parliament is the people who make up our electorates and ensuring everyone is well represented and advocating for projects like a new CT scanner at the Ayr Hospital or a new home for our firefighters has been my priority right across my ten years in parliament.”
Mr Last said the need for the Burdekin to continue to have a strong level of advocacy and support going forward will ensure that small businesses, major industries and communities in the electorate will have a voice for road upgrades, service resourcing and infrastructure investments it needs.
“For me standing in parliament and speaking on your behalf has been just as crucial as meeting you on the street and while at times it has meant I have driven up to 10,000kms a month, having the opportunity to speak with small business owners, our future leaders and celebrate milestone birthdays have been some of the greatest highlights of my job.”
“While the 57th parliament may have dissolved this week, my role as your Member for Burdekin isn’t and I look forward to meeting with you as I travel around the electorate in the coming weeks.”
If you have recently taken a stroll around the community, you might have noticed a few bright red benches in prominent public spots. Thanks to a combined effort by the Burdekin Shire Council, the Burdekin Men’s Shed, and the Zonta Club Burdekin Inc, four Red Benches have been cleaned, painted, and repaired for installation.
The benches can now be found at the Graham Street entrance of the Burdekin Library, outside the Ayr Court House, in front of the Burdekin Community Association building, and at Plantation Park.
But what’s the significance of these Red Benches? They serve as a powerful reminder to raise awareness of domestic violence in our community. By placing these benches in public spaces, the aim is to keep the issue visible and encourage conversations around ending domestic violence.
This initiative is part of the broader Red Bench Project, run in partnership with the Red Rose Foundation, an Australian non-profit focused on domestic violence prevention.
The Zonta Club Burdekin Inc extends heartfelt thanks to Mayor Pierina Della Cort, Councillor Fina Vasta, and Burdekin Shire Council’s Manager of Operations, Wayne Saldumbide, for their unwavering support.
Special appreciation also goes to the members of the Burdekin Men’s Shed, who worked tirelessly to repair, paint, and affix the plaques, and to the Burdekin Shire Council employees who helped transport the benches to their new homes.
This project exemplifies the true spirit of community partnership. Thanks to everyone involved for helping raise awareness and making a difference. Together, we can “Change the Ending”.
Change The Ending – Be Aware Of The Signs
What are the common signs of an abusive partner?
• Telling you that you never do anything right.
• Showing extreme jealousy of your friends or time spent away from them.
• Preventing or discouraging you from spending time with others, particularly friends, family members, or peers.
• Insulting, demeaning, or shaming you, especially in front of other people.
• Preventing you from making your own decisions, including about working or attending school.
• Controlling finances in the household without discussion, such as taking your money or refusing to provide money for necessary expenses.
• Pressuring you to have sex or perform sexual acts you’re not comfortable with.
• Pressuring you to use drugs or alcohol.
• Intimidating you through threatening looks or actions.
• Insulting your parenting or threatening to harm or take away your children or pets.
• Intimidating you with weapons like guns, knives, bats, or mace.
• Destroying your belongings or your home.
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Dr Amanda Nickson, a wife, mother, Social Worker, author, speaker, and Pastor, has been a Burdekin resident for 21 years, living in Nome. With over four decades of experience as a Social Worker in government, non-government, academia, and private practice, she has developed a deep understanding of the challenges facing families and individuals. Currently running her own business, Dr Nickson is known for her advocacy and negotiation skills.
Her priority for the region is addressing what she perceives as a leadership vacuum concerning values that support families and life, from conception to natural death, including the human rights of unborn children. Dr Nickson seeks a return to traditional beliefs about gender and opposes the promotion of gender fluidity. Her platform offers voters a pro-life option and champions family, faith, and freedom.
Dr Nickson is committed to being accessible, travelling regularly throughout the electorate to engage with residents face-to-face, while also offering email and phone communication. She emphasises the need for rural and regional communities to have access to essential resources and services.
Her focus includes reducing the cost of living, especially in electricity and housing, and improving access to timely healthcare and education. Dr Nickson supports faith-based schools hiring teachers who share their faith.
If elected, her first 100 days would involve actively connecting with people, hearing the community’s concerns, and representing these issues with a strong, clear voice. Dr Nickson promises to bring proactive leadership to the Burdekin electorate.
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Andrew Elborne, One Nation Candidate for Burdekin in the upcoming State Election, has a deep-rooted passion for improving regional communities, shaped by his personal experiences and commitment to youth and mental health. His journey into politics is driven by a desire to provide real solutions for communities like the Burdekin. Elborne’s values align closely with One Nation’s mission of reducing unnecessary legislation and supporting regional development.
Having worked with troubled youth and fostered 62 children, Elborne has witnessed first-hand the challenges faced by young people in regional areas.
“There’s not enough work for kids, and idle minds cause trouble,” he says, reflecting on the need for more opportunities and youth programs in towns like Ayr and Home Hill. He believes that government cuts to such initiatives are leading to greater problems, and he is committed to reversing this trend by advocating for more industry and jobs.
A major advocate for the agricultural community, Elborne is passionate about addressing issues such as the red tape that hinders farmers from efficiently running their businesses. He strongly opposes the growing number of regulations placed on farmers, believing that diversity in farming, such as introducing hemp cultivation in the Burdekin, could offer a sustainable alternative to traditional crops like sugar cane.
Elborne also emphasises the importance of being directly involved with the community.
“The easiest way to ensure voices are heard is to be on the streets, talking to people,” he explains. His goal is to remain an active volunteer in local initiatives and stay connected with the concerns of his electorate, ensuring they are represented in Queensland’s Parliament.
Andrew Elborne, for One Nation
Dr Daniel Carroll, a paediatric surgeon with 13 years of experience in both public and private healthcare, is standing to promote health equity in the Burdekin region. His career has exposed him to the challenges disadvantaged communities face, and now, he aims to close the gap by engaging in politics. He has received strong support from the Katter Australian Party, a values-based party that aligns with his stance on justice, anti-crime policies, and infrastructure reform, areas he feels are often neglected by major parties over the last decade.
A key issue for Dr Carroll is tackling crime through policies such as Castle Law, having personally experienced a home invasion. He believes solutions like relocation sentencing, sending offenders to rural areas for rehabilitation, can make a significant difference. Dr Carroll also advocates for infrastructure improvements, particularly for primary producers and the mining industry, vital to the Burdekin economy.
He is focused on unlocking the region’s potential, highlighting the need to divert funds from southeast Queensland’s Olympic plans to support regional infrastructure like roads and aquaculture. Health equity, particularly investing in primary and public healthcare, is central to his platform. Dr Carroll envisions a North Queensland children’s hospital, which he believes will attract world-class talent and create lasting improvements in the healthcare system.
Dr Carroll argues that, for real change, voters need to step away from the major parties and support those committed to the future of rural and regional Queensland.
When travelling around, you may spot a blue tree standing out in the landscape. These trees are part of the Blue Tree Project, a mental health initiative that encourages conversation and awareness. Suzie Jerkic encountered one of these striking blue trees and felt inspired to contribute to the cause.
Suzie decided to paint her own blue tree, initially choosing an old dead tree on her property. However, knowing it might fall over in time, she found a healthier tree right in the driveway and took on the task of painting it blue to symbolise mental health awareness.
Last week, Plus One Services generously helped with the project, donating both a lift to paint the top and a fresh tin of paint. The team chipped in to complete the job for free, showing how a small community can come together for an important cause.
Suzie also reached out to Selectability, an organisation focused on mental health support, and they were eager to join the initiative. Bryn Hicks, the coordinator for Selectability, is also involved with the Blue Tree Foundation, making the collaboration even more meaningful.
Suzie’s tree is not just for Mental Health Week—it’s a permanent symbol of mental health awareness and support. The goal is to remind people to talk openly about their struggles and encourage others to offload their burdens. Anyone who wants to support this initiative is welcome to place a handprint on the blue tree, contributing to its message of solidarity and care.
For those interested in being part of this lasting symbol, you can reach out to Suzie Jerkic at 0450 031 153. The blue tree stands as a reminder that mental health matters, every day of the year.
Suzie Jerkic decided to paint a tree blue to show solidarity and support for mental health
Plus One Services generously helped with the project
The youngsters also got involved
Photos supplied
The Adelaide to Whitsundays flights have been operating since early September and the new route is making it easier for people in the Burdekin region to travel down to South Australia and explore the wonders it has to offer.
CEO of Whitsunday Coast Airport Craig Turner said this new destination makes reaching capital cities more accessible for people here in North Queensland.
“Living in regional North Queensland, distance is a challenge for people. So, to be able to have connectivity to places like Adelaide is great,” said Craig.
“You have cost effective and convenient flights to capital city destinations that make Australia a lot smaller,” said Craig.
“It is about offering a different experience for example going to enjoy a fire and some beautiful red wine from the Barossa in winter.
“Or go and see the seals down at Kangaroo Island!”
Adelaide is known as the City of Churches, but more excitingly, it is known for its wine regions, dining and great events year-round.
In late summer, 21 February – 23 March the Adelaide streets are bustling with excitement as everyone takes advantage of the warm evenings and fantastic shows. International and world-renowned comedians, magicians, cabaret artists, and many more make the Fringe Festival an experience like no other and something all Adelaideans look forward to every year.
For lovers of food Adelaide offers Tasting Australia in early May. It’s a celebration of food and a unique eating and drinking experience that only South Australia can offer.
In cold July many would think Adelaideans are hiding inside trying to stay warm, but this is not true. In July Illuminate Adelaide shines bright across the city, giving locals and travellers a winter festival filled with light, art, music and technology. It is a great activity for all ages and a nice atmosphere, that is similar of the Fringe festival.
South Australia is known globally for its exceptional wine regions. The Adelaide Hills, McLaren Vale and the Barossa, deliver amazing wines. The d’Arenberg cube is a unique cellar door with food, art, wine tastings and experiences that make it a must visit destination.
Cricket and AFL enthusiasts will love Adelaide Oval for its exceptional match day atmosphere that is unrivalled. Take advantage of the amazing RoofClimb where you can see the sparkling city lights or the blue sky, and why not time your RoofClimb whilst a game is on?
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Join the Burdekin Shire community this Saturday, 12 October, for a day full of celebration and connection at the Burdekin Theatre Forecourt. The event will commence from 3pm with a special celebration marking the 30th anniversary of the Burdekin Shire Youth Council.
From 4pm, attendees can explore a variety of craft activities and health and wellness information stalls, with families able to enjoy free face painting for the kids, live music, and a delicious free sausage sizzle starting at 5pm.
The evening wraps up with an Outdoor Family Movie Night at 7pm with attendees encouraged to bring your chairs, blankets, and the whole family to enjoy a screening of Puss in Boots: The Last Wish under the stars, hosted by PCYC and the Burdekin Shire Youth Council.
What: BSYC 30th Anniversary Celebrations
When: Saturday 12 October from 3pm
Where: Burdekin Theatre Forecourt
More Information: Contact the Burdekin Shire Council's Community Development Team on 4783 9800
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An Oktoberfest celebration to remember will ignite Rugby Park on Saturday 26 October in celebration of the Burdekin Rugby League Home Hill Harvest Festival Queen, Tegan Johnson.
With plenty of enjoyable games and competitions scheduled for the afternoon, kids will be granted free entry into the event to enjoy all the family fun day has to offer.
Commencing from 1pm, the first 50 adults to walk through the gates will receive a free beer stein to kick off the Oktoberfest celebrations.
The afternoon will see plenty of games and competitions including tug-of-war, sack races, keg throwing, and a classic hotdog eating competition, along with a jumping castle, fairy floss and even a money board.
The Burdekin Roosters warmly invite the community to come along to support Tegan, and enjoy a spectacular Oktoberfest afternoon.
What: Tegan Johnson Presents Oktoberfest
When: Saturday 26 October 1pm to 7pm
Where: Rugby Park
More Information: Via the Burdekin Roosters Facebook page
Burdekin Rugby League Home Hill Harvest Festival Queen, Tegan Johnson.
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