Happy 2024!

After a busy lead-up to the Christmas and New Year break, I hope you all had an opportunity to sit back, relax and enjoy some downtime over the holiday period.

A new year brings with it a promise of fresh beginnings and renewed hope. Whether it’s personal aspirations or shared community goals, this is a time to set our goals and support each other on the path to success.

As this will be my last column for this term of Council, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you for the honour of serving as one of your elected members over the past four years. Thank you for entrusting me with this responsibility; it has truly been an honour and privilege.

This year will be a big year politically, with the local and state elections scheduled for March and October, respectively. If you are passionate about your community and making a difference, you should consider getting involved or putting your hand up.

In 2024, I wish you the courage to follow your dreams (big and small), learn new things, forgive yourself and become your own best friend. Be an active participant in your life, get involved, work hard and shape your future. May each day bring you reasons to smile and inspire others with your positivity.

Cheers to a year of happiness, success, and endless possibilities.

Kaylee.

P.S. If you would like to keep up to date with what I am up to, please visit my social media pages Kaylee Boccalatte - Burdekin.

Did you know that a community organisation can apply for funding under Burdekin Shire Council’s Environmental Levy?

The Environmental Levy is dedicated to supporting projects that not only enhance the environment but also contribute to the well-being of the local community.

The Environmental Levy welcomes applications that will contribute to the preservation and enhancement of the natural environment. Whether it's restocking fish, managing invasive weeds, safeguarding the coastal ecosystem, or any other environmentally beneficial endeavour, the Council encourages proposals that promise significant environmental and community benefits.

One of the recent projects approved by the Council was to support the Burdekin Landcare in their tree planting. The Burdekin Landcare is a volunteer group that works to restore and enhance the natural environment in the region. They plant native trees and shrubs that provide habitat for wildlife, prevent soil erosion, improve water quality and sequester carbon.

Applications are evaluated by the Council based on a comprehensive set of criteria, encompassing the project's environmental and community impact, its potential to attract external funding, aesthetic qualities, and the crucial aspect of awareness raising.

Visit burdekin.qld.gov.au to access the Environmental Levy funding application form and learn more about the eligibility criteria and submission process.

A rebrand, an evolving team and the continual support of Queensland’s sugar cane growers exemplifies a successful year for Queensland Cane Agriculture & Renewables (QCAR), with the launch of the QCAR brand signifying broader strategic vision and expanded focus for the organisation.

While reflecting on a positive 2023, the QCAR team are quick to look forward, with a variety of industry issues at the forefront of its mission to advocate for members and industry.

Always aligning with evolving industry dynamics, QCAR continue to focus on topical policies to ensure the sustainable development of the industry.

“Being approximately 95 per cent of Australia’s 30 million tonne sugar cane crop, the Queensland sugarcane industry must continually adapt to remain competitive in an environment of rising production costs, climate variability, pests and disease, increasing regulatory burdens and compliance costs,” said QCAR CEO Panikos Spyrou.

“Not to forget the exposure to highly volatile global sugar markets which are subject in international trade distortions, mainly at the hands of countries such as India and Brazil.”

Championing the timely and efficient supply of sugar cane to sugar mills is one such policy as QCAR is actively engaged in collaborative efforts to restore this harmonious supply.

Delays in cane supply and transport can also affect the environmental factors of cane farming and, as the globe takes strides in its mission to decarbonise, QCAR plays its part through its commitment to renewables and sustainable agriculture.

“QCAR and its cane membership base desire the concept of a circular bioeconomy where essentially, ‘We grow it, we process it, and then we recycle any waste product back (through a biorefinery) to produce numerous renewable bioproducts and bioenergy,’” Mr Spyrou said.

“Diversifying sugarcane processing away from solely crystal sugar production both spreads financial risk for growers and industry but also offers the potential for greater industry income and regional economic power.  

“Therefore, we are very keen to fully support and vehemently promote any project of such nature.”

The growth of QCAR’s team proves its adaptability and commitment to address key issues facing members such as cane supply and transport, rising farming costs, the bio-circular economy, rising groundwater, water quality and Net Zero by 2030 targets through collaborative efforts with members, farmers, and industry.

“We are actively looking to engage with and support people and projects which are in direct alignment with our underlying objective to promote and develop concepts that integrates sugarcane diversification with values of sustainability and environmental stewardship,” said Mr Spyrou.

“All the while ensuring the long-term growth, viability, competitiveness, and profitability of the industry for the benefit of our respective farming colleagues and their underlying communities now and into the future.”

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QCAR’s team is constantly evolving to address the needs of its members to include L-R Chief Strategy Officer Michael Kern, Senior Agricultural Technical Officer Lawrence Di Bella, and CEO Panikos Spyrou

Wilmar Sugar and Renewables has launched a virtual tour of Macknade Mill to mark its 150th birthday.

Macknade Mill in the Herbert region notched up 150 years of operation in August, making it the oldest continuously operating sugar mill in Australia.

Manager Operations Trevor Forde said the virtual tour was developed to commemorate the major milestone and create a public record of the site in its 150th year.

“This virtual tour enables anyone, anywhere, to visit Australia’s oldest sugar factory and get a close-up view of every stage of the sugar manufacturing process.

“It’s built as a 360 spin, so it starts as a distant aerial view of the site, then opens up into a flat site map. You can either put the tour on autoplay, complete with an audio narration, or navigate through the factory manually,” Mr Forde said.

The virtual tour is available on the Wilmar Sugar ANZ website, or by searching ‘Wilmar Sugar virtual tour’.

It’s Wilmar’s second virtual mill tour. The first was of Pioneer Mill in the Burdekin, which was launched in March last year.

Mr Forde said the main celebrations for Macknade Mill’s 150th birthday would be held in May next year.

He said the organising committee was planning a golf day, community night and historical display.

It was long thought that Macknade commenced crushing in 1874 – the date featured on a plaque unveiled at the mill in 1964 to mark the Herbert River District centenary.

However, historical records that were previously not readily available show crushing commenced for the first time in 1873.

Macknade Mill has had several different owners since it was established on the banks of the Herbert River, 12km north-east of Ingham.

There have also been several major upgrades. The sugar factory now processes an average of 1.5 million tonnes of sugarcane a year, to manufacture about 191,000 tonnes of raw sugar.

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Macknade Mill150-year celebrations committee members, from left, Trish Gilbey, Paul Britton,Michael Carr, Kevin Beatts and Trevor Forde. Photos supplied: Wilmar

The virtualtour of Macknade Mill was created to mark the site’s 150th birthday

The virtualtour allows anyone, anywhere to take a close up look at Australia’s oldestcontinuously operating sugar mill. It also creates a public record of what themill looked like in its 150th year

Tucked away in the pristine paradise of the Whitsundays, a treasure trove of experiences awaits to be explored. From hidden waterholes to historical remnants and secluded beaches, the Whitsundays offers a diverse array of attractions that cater to every traveller’s desires. Continuing our north Queensland summer holiday, read on to discover the best of the Whitsundays.

Cedar Creek Falls: Nature's Serene Haven

Nestled within the lush embrace of Conway National Park, Cedar Creek Falls stands as a breathtaking oasis. Its allure transcends seasons, beckoning visitors year-round to witness its beauty. The cascading waters, rejuvenated by rainfall, invite guests to immerse themselves in the cool, refreshing rock pools, providing a serene sanctuary to while away the day. For the adventurous souls, the park offers invigorating hikes through forests teeming with diverse flora and fauna, ensuring an awe-inspiring experience.

Cape Gloucester: A Local's Hidden Paradise

A well-kept secret among locals, Cape Gloucester unveils secluded coves and pristine sandy beaches, offering an escape from the bustling Airlie Beach. Located a short distance away, this haven boasts not just natural beauty but also cosy pubs and resorts where one can unwind while relishing the scenic views and gentle ocean breezes. Hydeaway Bay and Dingo Beach, quaint villages nearby, welcome visitors with warmth, offering opportunities for beachcombing, fishing, and unwinding on the sandy shores.

Lake Proserpine: Nature's Playground

A mere half-hour drive from Proserpine, Lake Proserpine emerges as an ideal spot for water sports enthusiasts and avid freshwater anglers. Beyond its aquatic offerings, the lake presents an inviting setting for camping, complete with barbecues and fire pits, inviting friends and families to bask in the traditional Aussie camping experience.

Collinsville’s Coal Face Experience: A Testament to Resilience

Delving into history, the Collinsville’s Coal Face Experience stands as a poignant tribute to the coal miners who toiled amidst adversity. Commemorating the 1954 Collinsville Mine Disaster, this exhibit chronicles the lives lost and the challenges faced by these miners. Through multimedia displays, guests gain insight into the perils and rewards of their profession, underscoring the realities these workers confronted. Moreover, the exhibit underscores the evolution of safety standards, emphasizing the industry's progress while honouring its human cost.

Shute Harbour: Hidden Gem of Tranquillity

Nestled away from the bustling Airlie Beach, Shute Harbour presents itself as a serene enclave within the Whitsundays. Offering unparalleled views of the Coral Sea, this picturesque village boasts a bustling marina, often overlooked by tourists. It serves as a gateway to bareboating and fishing adventures, with charter yachts and sea tours departing from the Shute Harbour Marine Terminal. Beyond maritime escapades, the area hosts scenic drives through breathtaking landscapes, complemented by hiking trails that invite nature enthusiasts to reconnect with the natural world.

Horseshoe Bay: Bowen At Its Best

In Bowen's coastal repertoire, Horseshoe Bay stands as a testament to natural elegance. Though modest in size, spanning a mere 100 meters, this bay boasts an air of mystique and exclusivity. Adorned with captivating views of the Coral Sea, Horseshoe Bay captures the hearts of locals. Its intimate alcoves, formed by granite and rock formations, provide secluded spots for uninterrupted communion with the bay's serene waters. The allure of Horseshoe Bay isn't confined to its modest dimensions. A haven for swimmers and snorkelers alike, this bay shelters fringing reef ecosystems. Within a stone's throw from the shore, visitors can witness the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef in all its vibrant glory.

Whether you’re planning a week away or a day trip, make sure to make the most of your time these holidays and explore everything on your front door. For those taking the opportunity to travel, the Summer Holiday series will continue next edition with suggestions for ways to spend your holidays throughout north Queensland. Grab the January 11 edition of Burdekin Life to discover your next destination.

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Cedar Creek Falls

Cape Gloucester

Lake Proserpine

Collinsville’s Coal Face Experience

Shute Harbour

Horseshoe Bay

From his home studio in Jarvisfield, where guitars adorn the walls, Mick Thompson writes, records, and rehearses his music.

Mick is a musician moving with the times, utilising the technology and resources available to turn his lifelong passion for guitars into a sustainable career, although he says the learning curve is a steep one.

Mick's love affair with guitars started early; his first musical purchase was a copy of ‘Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band’ by The Beatles at age five.

It wasn’t until he was 15, growing up in Penrith, NSW, that he first started playing guitar, and he’s virtually had an instrument in his hands ever since.

A builder by trade, Mick has always played music on the side and has worked and performed all over the country.

In the last 12 months, he’s started to diversify his musical skillset and take his passion on fulltime.

“There is playing live, which I do in Townsville and Ayr, but there’s also a whole world of it online,” he said.

“Nothing’s overnight; you’ve just got to keep working at it and the more you work at it the more you get and eventually you turn and around one day and realise you’re making a decent living out of it.”

While Mick performs most live most weekends in his duo RT Souls, his week also involves writing, recording, and rehearsing, whether that be his own music, vocal work for collaborations or backing tracks for licensing and royalty-free music websites for other musicians to purchase.

“You’ve got to keep churning out product, basically, and the product, at the end of the day, is the recording,” he said.

He’s started to upload his own music online, which he describes as anything from adult-oriented pop to country, southern rock, and folk, and now faces the challenge of marketing.

“There’s a whole lot of learning to market it, because you can get it out there, but you’ve got to get people to listen to it,” he said.

“You can release music worldwide at the click of a button and it doesn’t cost you a fortune anymore.

“You don’t need to go to the studio, you don’t need a label, if you can operate a computer and learn the software, you can be as good a producer as anyone.

“And you can distribute to anyone anywhere, it’s just getting that marketing side of it.”

Despite the challenges, he’s never lost his passion for the music.

“My favourite element is actually being able to play guitar for a living,” he said.

“I’m not so much focused on the singing, although I do a fair bit of vocal work, but it’s mainly about playing guitar for me.”

Visit tjaymicproductions.com to discover Mick’s work.

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Jarvisfield Musician Mick Thomspon

Fast Facts:

Rehoming Fee: $300

DOB: 1/07/2022

Sex: Female

Breed: Domestic Short Hair

Kid Friendly: Over 12

Dog Friendly: No

Other Cats: No

Indoors/Outdoors: Indoors

This gorgeous young lady is looking for a caring, loving home where she can be given the freedom to spread her wings and explore while she becomes comfortable.

While she won’t be cuddly straight away, she will quickly warm up and become her human’s little shadow, following and always prepared to pamper with her love.

Muffin Gem is incredibly sweet and placid and enjoys soft pats and rubs while lounging on the couch with her humans.

Muffin Gem loves playing, with either her humans or with toys, she doesn’t mind!

Muffin Gem does find young children and other pets a bit overwhelming, so a quiet home would best suit her.

Muffin Gem is up to date on her vaccinations, flea, tick and worm treated, has been desexed and microchipped.

To enquire about Muffin Gem, please complete the animal enquiry form: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html.

Hello, readers, and welcome to the last edition of Burdekin Life for 2023.

What a year it’s been! I always enjoy reflecting on the year that was when it comes to December and this year, like the last couple of years, has been one of massive change for me.

From memory, my new year’s resolution at the end of 2022 was to establish a solid social circle around me in my then home of Mackay. I certainly achieved that and found myself surrounded by lots of lovely people. Having moved to the Burdekin, I find myself starting again, but am well on my way.

The move to the Burdekin will be the decision that defines my 2023. It’s certainly one I wasn’t expecting at the start of the year – sometimes when I’m walking down Eighth Avenue, I take a step back and think, ‘How the hell did I get here?’ – but I’m so glad I made the move and opened myself up to this new experience.

In saying that, I am so incredibly keen to take a break from work and spend the holidays on the Darling Downs with my family and friends. First, a few days in Millmerran where I will enjoy sipping on a beer and eating prawns while floating on the family dam. Then I’m off to spend the rest of the week with my girlfriend’s family near Toowoomba where I believe swimming will also be on the cards. And when December 26 is upon us, I’ll be parked up in front of the tele eagerly anticipating the first ball of the Boxing Day test.

Whatever you’re up to this holiday season, I hope you enjoy it, make the most of your time with your loved ones, and look after those who might not be as fortunate. Have a merry Christmas and I’ll see you next year!

A reminder that there will be no newspaper next Thursday, December 28 and our next edition will hit the stands on Thursday, January 4.

In the spirit of giving this festive season, a heart-warming tradition continues as Wilmar Sugar and Renewables' dedicated team spread joy at Ayr and Home Hill Health Services.

A small and thoughtful team of Wilmar employees delivered cupcakes to Home Hill on Thursday, December 14 and Ayr on Tuesday, December 19, brightening the day of the hardworking hospital staff.

This act of kindness isn't new for Wilmar, as it marks six years of their pre-Christmas goodwill gesture.

Originally starting with a sausage sizzle for Ayr Hospital's team and sweet treats for Home Hill Hospital, the initiative has evolved to solely delivering delightful cupcakes in the face of COVID-19 restrictions.

Expressing their gratitude for the exceptional care provided by frontline health workers, the company has expanded their generosity to Ingham, Proserpine, and Sarina hospitals, ensuring that the festive cheer extends across communities where their sugar mills operate.

This heart-warming gesture highlights the company's commitment to recognising and supporting the invaluable efforts of healthcare heroes during these challenging times.

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L-R Wilmar Sugar and Renewables employees John Calligaro and Anthony Bombardieri, Home Hill Hospital employees Sandra Boccalatte, Janelle Black and Cassandra Arboit and Wilmar employees Sarah Harding and Allan Cross. Photo supplied

Future improvements for the Ayr and Home Hill Health Services were put under spotlight last week as members of the Townsville Hospital and Health Board met with locals on Thursday, December 14.

Townsville Hospital and Health Board Chair Tony Mooney and fellow Board member Debra Burden visited Ayr Health Service where they liaised with staff and community to get an understanding of the local issues and assist in future planning.

“I’ve had overwhelming feedback from the community, from consumers, members of the CAN (Community Advisory Network), the mayor and staff; the health service here in Ayr is in good hands,” Mr Mooney said.

“The level of complaints are very, very low, and the standard of care is very, very high.

“The staff here are humming in terms of the service delivery and that’s the message I’m going to be taking back to the Chief Executive and to my board.”

Mr Mooney and Ms Burden also met with the Burdekin CAN where the key priority was the need for a public CT Scanner in the Burdekin.

“I have previously worked with the communities of Charters Towers and Ingham which successfully lobbied the Department of Health and the Government for CT scanners to be funded in those respective communities,” Mr Mooney said.

“I’m now working with the CAN here in the Burdekin to lend whatever support I can to help them in their push for a CT scanner.”

On top of the campaign for a public CT scanner in the Burdekin, Mr Mooney said there are discussions and plans in place for further improvements across the health services including the emergency department, community health, mental health and aged care services.

“It was really pleasing to see the level of positive feedback that I received; that doesn’t mean that we can’t do better,” he said.

Mr Mooney confirmed immediate improvements are in the works for Ayr Health Service, including an increase in staff positions and structural changes to the buildings to improve patient flow.

Meanwhile, Home Hill is subject to consideration for possible refurbishment or rebuild.

“As we look at the strategic expansion here in Ayr and upgrades at Home Hill, there’ll be other challenges coming forward in the future and I’m really excited about the opportunities for new services and improved infrastructure for this community,” Mr Mooney said.

Ayr Health Service Director of Nursing and Facility Manager Tracey Gabiola thanked the Board members for their visit and support.

“I also want to thank the whole of the Burdekin community because I can appreciate the fact that they’re all so supportive,” she added.

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L-R Townsville Hospital and Health Service Board Member Debra Burden, Burdekin CAN Chair Kaylee Boccalatte Townsville Hospital and Health Service Board Chair Tony Mooney, Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin, Ayr Health Service Director of Nursing and Facility Manager Tracey Gabiola

L-R Burdekin CAN Member Rosemarie McLean, Ms Burden, Mr Mooney, Ms Boccalatte, Ms Gabiola, Burdekin CAN Member Joanne Barbagallo, Ms McLaughlin and Burdekin CAN Secretariat Ana Mooney

The Burdekin community has a reputation for supporting people in need and that reputation has been reinforced by the results of Member for Burdekin, Dale Last’s, Christmas Appeal.

Now in its 8th year, this year’s appeal saw generous locals and groups donate an impressive haul of toys, food and clothing in what Mr Last described as the best result to date.

“It may seem ironic that, as more and more people are affected by increases in the cost of living, we see such generosity,” Mr Last said.  

“To me it’s not ironic; it’s proof of the generosity and community spirit of the Burdekin.

“To say it is an honour to represent a community that supports people who are doing it tough is an understatement.  

“This year we have seen quite a few people making a few smaller donations rather than larger donations and that proves that, even though their budget is being stretched, they still see the value in supporting others in our community who are doing it even tougher.”

Mr Last said that long-term success of the Appeal was a credit to the community and especially to community groups who came together to support the cause.

“Since its inception, the appeal has been strongly supported by the Burdekin Men’s Shed and the Burdekin Woodcrafts association and this year we also saw a generous donation from Burdekin Netball,” Mr Last said.  

“The fact that these three great organisations come together to support people doing it tough is a credit to the organisations and to all the members.

“The Salvation Army’s volunteers will now put together hampers based on the needs of the families they are supporting.  

“It’s a great effort by those volunteers as well because it means that families get the support they need, and every single donation is used in a way that it will make a real difference.

“I know that the appeal makes a genuine difference.  

“We have actually had people come in to make a donation who, in the past, have received support from the appeal and it’s definitely motivating to hear that the generosity of the community has helped people when they need it the most.

“I’d like everyone who donated to know that their generosity is appreciated and that they are making a real difference.”

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Salvation Army stalwart Clarence Sutcliffe and Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, were pleasantly surprised by the community’s donations for Mr Last’s Christmas Appeal

In today’s age, your mobile phone is your life. It contacts beloved photos of friends and family, important passwords, and your internet banking. It connects you to loved ones, allows ease of buying and selling, and keeps you safe in times of emergency.

However, for many people, a phone is a means of control and cohesion.

Formed in 2020, DV Safe Phone is an organisation that is actively working to equip victims of domestic and family violence with a safe phone, to help them connect to services that can support their needs and welcome a better life ahead.

“It is an unfortunate reality that some people live in unsafe situations, and as we get closer to Christmas, we have been handing out even more phones to DV and Law Enforcement agencies across Australia,” explained Nikki Firmin, Head of Community and Corporate Partnerships with DV Safe Phone.

“Just last week, we celebrated handing out our 7,000th phone to people in need, an outstanding result for our young charity.”

The Australia-wide organisation, DV Safe Phone has partnered with over 290 local and community organisations, that directly engage with individuals of domestic and family violence, to hand out the necessary devices.

“Every second-hand phone is matched with a brand-new charger cord, a wall plug, a car plug – because we’ve found that many people in this situation are living out of their cars – a sim card, and a starter card. We want every victim-survivor to have a connection to loved ones, no matter what.” Ms Firmin explained.

How does it work?

DV Safe Phone refurbishes donated phones to assist victims of domestic and family violence.

In the Burdekin, you can drop your old phone at DV Phone Boxes in Member for Burdekin Dale Last’s office, and Department of Transport offices in Bowen and Ayr.

Your phone will be collected from local community organisations and sent to DV Safe Phone’s head office, and your phone will be reconfigured to the necessary specifications and repaired (if needed).

It will then be sent out to community organisations and given to individuals in need.

“The phone can be any brand, and we will fix broken screens, or replace batteries. If we can’t use the phone for parts, we will send the phone to Mobile Muster, Australia’s leading recycler, to properly recycle the device,” Ms Firmin explained.

“We’re also finding older phones are particularly helpful for remote communities, when connectivity isn’t as reliable on newer phones. So, it doesn’t matter the age, brand, or condition of the phone.

“We’re proud of the work we’re doing, of the impact we’re having.

“There are thousands of phones sitting in people’s bottom drawers, and they could save a life.”

DV Safe Phones is currently hosting its Christmas appeal and has seen an increase in the demand for safe phones for people experiencing family and domestic violence.

To learn more or donate, visit www.dvsafephone.org.au

To find DV Safe Phone drop box locations, visit https://dvsafephone.org/donate-phones

For any additional information, please contact Nikki at nikki@dvsafephone.org

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Where To Do Off Your Old Phone:

Department of Transport, Bowen

Department of Transport, Ayr

Member for Burdekin Dale Last’s Office

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DV Safe Phones are available at the office of Member for Burdekin Dale Last

Christmas is fast approaching and the new year following closely behind, it seems like 2023 has gone by in flash.

With the holiday season soon to be in full swing, I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

As we celebrate the birth of Christ, we should be reminded that it’s not the number of presents under the Christmas tree that counts, but the time spent, and the love shared with family and friends that makes this time of year so special.

I know that everyone has been doing it tough this year. We have seen the cost of everything go up, from energy prices, groceries, interest rates, mortgages, and rent.

That’s why this year it is more important than ever to help each other out and show everyone as much support as possible.

There are more ways than one to do this, from buying your Christmas presents locally and championing family-owned businesses in your community, to donating to a charity, if you can afford to, items such as essential products, nonperishable food items, clothing or small gifts for families who may be doing it a little tougher than most.

To those of you are working this holiday period, I want to thank you for your tireless contribution and for keeping our region running.

So, no matter what you choose to do over this holiday break, whether it be exploring our beautiful region or even travelling further afield interstate or overseas, have a fantastic time and return home safe.  

Or if you’ve chosen to stay home and enjoy some quiet time or have all the family joining you, I hope that everyone has a wonderful time and I look forward to seeing you all in 2024.

At 15 years of age, Karen Healy started a dance school, ultimately inspiring thousands of local students across the Burdekin.

The dance school, KHDancers, finished up in June this year and, 45 years later, Karen looks back on the experience with a strong sense of love and appreciation.

Karen started dancing at age four in Home Hill with dance teacher Anne Fraser.

She danced under a number of teachers over the years and when she was 15 her then teacher left town so, as one of the senior students and with the support of local parents, Karen stepped up and began teaching out of the old School of Arts hall.

“It just started from there and grew over the years,” she said.

“There were only probably half a dozen kids at the beginning.

“I didn’t start holding concerts until about 18 years ago; we just used to do it for fun.”

Over the years, Karen’s students would perform across north Queensland including at fetes, debutante balls, Harvest and Water Festival balls and sport matches.

Mainly focused on jazz, contemporary and hip hop, KHDancers established itself as a pillar of the local community, instilling confidence and friendship in students from ages three to 18.

“There’s been thousands of kids over the years, and I still keep in touch with a lot of them,” Karen said.

“We’re onto the second or third generation with some of them; a lot of my seniors in the last few years, I taught their mums.

“We used to have a lot of kids who were really shy so we’d never make a big deal of the concert and on the night, they’d be out there waving at everybody, and their parents couldn’t believe it.”

While Karen loved dance, her focus was on fun and community and provided a safe space to all children who came under her care.

“I love the fun and excitement and thinking of new things to do and new themes for concerts,” she reflected.

“I loved the kids’ reactions, especially the babies, they’d come out and they’d be learning these dances all year and they’d get out there that night and it was like they were the biggest stars in the world.

“To watch that, that used to really make it fun for me.”

Not only were lessons made accessible and affordable, but Karen would also donate some of the funds from concerts to charities and organisations including local schools, Autism Camps Australia, Camp Quality and National Breast Cancer Foundation over the years.

Karen’s sister Maree was her first assistant dance teacher and was assisted by her son, Jake, and niece, Elli, who were instrumental in the running of the dance school.

In June this year, however, after 45 years, Karen had to call it a day after caring for her sick father, who passed away in January, and other family and health commitments.

“It was really hard, I would have gone on for years if I could have, but it was time,” she lamented.

She holds her memories from over the decades so close to her heart and the friendships she made with her students and families even closer.

“I just can’t thank them enough from the bottom of my heart,” she said.

“Through everything that’s happened, they’ve always been the biggest source of support, and I really mean that.

“Even when dad was sick, they were brilliant.

“The girls who have come back and given me a hand when I’ve needed it, their level of support has been unbelievable.

“I still keep in touch with them and I appreciate them.

“I’ve been very lucky with students and parents – very lucky.”

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Karen Healy (middle) taught thousands of dance students over four and a half decades across the Burdekin

Photos supplied

Three vehicles were stolen from Council offices on Wickham Street, Ayr on the night of Friday, December 15 after thieves smashed a window to gain entry to the Vector building and took the keys.

One vehicle was found partially burnt out and another fully burnt out on Saturday morning, whilst another was recovered on Monday, December 18 from Bowen also burnt out.  

Council is working closely with the Police to identify and prosecute the culprits, who were caught on CCTV cameras breaking into the Vector building.

Forensic officers and CIB officers have visited the Council offices to collect footage and evidence which will hopefully lead to the perpetrators being identified and charged.

In addition, the Ayr Swimming Pool Kiosk was also broken into on Sunday night, December 17.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughin said that these crimes are a senseless act of destruction that severely affect Council's ability to provide essential services to the community.

“As Mayor, I am shocked and disappointed by what has occurred,” Ms McLaughlin said.

“Those responsible have shown a total disregard for the law and destroyed public property with absolutely no concern about the impact on the community.

“This is a serious breach of privacy and trust for me and the entire community that supports Council.

“These crimes are not excused by age and must be prosecuted and penalised appropriately.

“Everyone I have spoken to about this incident or other crimes believe they should be punished appropriately, regardless of age, as a deterrent for future offences.

“There is little hope of ever recovering the cost of the damages and once again the Burdekin residents just pick up the bill along with Council’s insurers.

Ms McLaughlin said the Home Hill Primary School also suffered extensive damage over the weekend.

“It is time that these criminals face severe punishments for their actions,” she added.

“Is it the responsibility of the Council to secure all the buildings with fences and steel bars on the windows?

“Who will pay for this, the criminals, their relatives... No, the rate payer.

“They know what they are doing is wrong.  

“Historically the values of respect, love, care and lawful behaviour have been taught in the family.

“This incident and others show that the current system is not working in acting as a deterrent against committing offences of this nature and the impacts it has on everyone.

“Until there are greater consequences for the crimes being committed then nothing will change and the cycle will continue, with respect for the people’s safety and property being continually eroded.

“Perhaps we need to look at how other communities around the world deal with this criminal behaviour and restore some respect for our society’s values and the laws that are designed to protect us all, as clearly the current approach is not working.”

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A Burdekin Shire Council vehicle was set alight after three vehicles were stolen from the Wickham Street offices last week. Photos supplied: Burdekin Shire Council