Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Ayr State High School has congratulated its 2026 student leadership team, who have already been carrying out their duties since their induction at last year’s Academic Awards ceremony. The school acknowledged the students’ commitment and leadership, recognising the important role they play in representing their peers and contributing to school life. Leading the 2026 cohort are School Captains Caitlyn Cheyne and Ayden Barnett, supported by School Vice Captains Karina Guglielmi and Charlie Shears. Other leadership positions include Ashlee Colls as Sports Vice Captain, Allegra Tallis as Indigenous Students’ Vice Captain, Sarah as Cultural Vice Captain, and Tiana Cameron as Community Service Vice Captain. The leaders were formally presented to the school community during the 2025 awards night held last October, marking a proud moment for students, staff and families as the team continues its leadership journey throughout the year. CAPTION: Indigenous Students’ Vice Captain Allegra Tallis, Sports Vice Captain Ashlee Colls, School Vice-Captain Karina Guglielmi, School Captain Caitlyn Cheyne, School Captain Ayden Barnett, School Vice-Captain Charlie Shears, Community Service Vice Captain Tiana Cameron and Cultural Vice Captain Sarah. Photo supplied
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For many Burdekin parents, the phrase “stranger danger” brings back memories of warning children not to talk to unfamiliar adults on the walk home from school. Today, those strangers are no longer confined to parks or shopping centres—they can appear instantly on a child’s phone or tablet screen. The eSafety Commissioner has issued a fresh Online Safety Advisory highlighting the risks posed by anonymous “random chat” apps, where users are paired with strangers for live video or text conversations. Platforms such as Omegle, Chatroulette, HOLLA, Monkey and OmeTV are designed for spontaneity and global connection. While Omegle shut down in late 2023, others remain active and accessible in Australia. The advisory warns that for children and young people, these platforms can quickly become gateways to inappropriate content, manipulation and sexual exploitation. Anonymous chat apps allow people to connect instantly, often with minimal registration requirements and limited age verification. Users are randomly paired, live video can expose children to explicit material within seconds, and anonymity enables predators to hide their identity and intentions. Conversations may also be recorded and misused without consent. Omegle became notorious for pairing minors with adults engaging in sexual behaviour. In 2022 alone, the platform reportedly flagged more than 500,000 instances of child sexual abuse material. In a high-profile United States case, an 11-year-old girl was coerced into creating explicit content. Omegle later settled legal action for US$22 million before shutting down. Its founder acknowledged the platform had been misused for “unspeakably heinous crimes”. eSafety said the problem is not new, but is worsening. Children now carry video-enabled devices everywhere, pandemic lockdowns increased unsupervised screen time, and evolving technology—including AI and real-time video—makes harmful interactions harder to moderate. Under the Online Safety Act 2021, eSafety has powers to enforce Basic Online Safety Expectations, require companies to improve moderation systems and order the removal of unlawful content within 24 hours. The regulator recently issued a formal warning to OmeTV’s provider for allegedly failing to meet mandatory requirements under Australian law. Apple and Google have also been notified, as both companies are required to act if apps available in their stores breach Australian legislation. Penalties of up to $49.5 million are available under the Act. eSafety’s guidance to families is practical and direct. Parents and carers are encouraged to use device-level parental controls such as Apple Screen Time or Google Family Link, block high-risk sites, and consider monitoring tools. Just as importantly, they should talk openly with children about online interactions, reinforce rules about sharing personal information, and ensure young people know how to block and report users. The advisory stresses that responsibility should not fall on families alone. Technology companies are being urged to implement stronger age assurance measures, properly resource moderation teams and design platforms with safety at the forefront. For regional communities like the Burdekin, where children are growing up as digitally connected as their city counterparts, online safety begins at home and requires a united effort from parents, schools, industry and regulators alike. CAPTION: The advisory warns that for children and young people, these platforms can quickly become gateways to inappropriate content, manipulation and sexual exploitation. Photo source: iStock
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Residents across the Burdekin and Whitsunday Shires, alongside the Molongle Creek Boat Club Inc. (MCBC) and the wider Cape Upstart community are calling on the State Government to honour its 2021 commitment to provide and maintain all-tide access at Molongle Creek. The Molongle Creek access channel is the only marine gateway to Cape Upstart, home to approximately 240 private properties that are accessible by sea only. Despite decades of volunteer investment and a formal handover to the government, thousands of locals are pushing for action, stressing the integral role the channel plays in connecting Cape Upstart with essential services and access to the mainland. Surveys have exhibited 15,000 to 20,000 vessels annually utilise the channel, which includes locals, visitors, fishers and caravan park users. Despite its importance, locals say the channel no longer provides reliable all-tide access, contrary to commitments made during the 2016 state election and formalised during a 2021 handover. “The lack of all-tide access severely restricts people’s access to their properties at Cape Upstart,” highlighted Molongle Creek Boat Club Commodore, Ken Betteridge. Currently, there’s no alternative all-tide public boating access between Townsville and Bowen, making Molongle Creek critical regional infrastructure. A Facility Built by Volunteers The Molongle Creek Boat Club (MCBC) was formed in 1962, with the aim of improving boating access for both members and the wider public. Over the past several decades, the facility has been developed and maintained almost entirely through volunteer labour, private funding and club-owned machinery. Early attempts to maintain access involved reshaping natural channels, with club members using dozers, excavators and, in some cases, explosives to create viable passage through shifting sands. When those efforts failed due to natural sediment movement, the club established the current channel alignment, again through volunteer work. MCBC volunteers have carried out annual maintenance for years using a Komatsu swamp dozer owned by the club, however, increasing environmental restrictions, permit changes and rising costs eventually made self-maintenance untenable. Election Promise and Handover In the lead-up to the 2016 state election, both major parties committed to delivering an all-tide access channel at Molongle Creek. That commitment culminated in a tri-party Deed of Agreement between the State Government, Whitsunday Regional Council and the Molongle Creek Boat Club. As part of the agreement, the club was required to surrender its lease and gift all sea- and land-based assets to the State and Local Government, allowing public funds to be spent on the facility. A formal valuation placed the value of those assets at $2.84 million. In 2021, the Molongle Boating Facility was officially handed over to State Government control, with the expectation government would develop and maintain the all-tide access channel, boat ramps, pontoon and trailer parking in line with other public boating facilities across Queensland. Design Concerns and Infill Issues According to long-standing club members, concerns were raised during the design phase that the chosen alignment would be vulnerable to flooding and sediment infill from Molongle Creek, particularly during wet seasons. Locals advocated for an alternative alignment further east, or the construction of a protective bund wall to shield the channel from flood flows. Those concerns, they say, were ignored. “Molongle Creek Boat Club’s lobbying secured funding for an all-tide channel, however, due to various government departments, the placement of the channel was restricted to where it is now,” Mr Betteridge said. “The choice presented to us was a channel where it is – or was – or no channel at all. We knew it would be problematic, but MCBC had no choice but to accept. There’s been a lot of money spent, and the result is disappointing to say the least.” Within months of the channel’s completion, wet-season flooding filled the channel with sediment, significantly reducing depth. While bed levelling in 2022 and 2023 temporarily improved access, a major wet season in 2024 again rendered the channel largely unusable. No maintenance funding has been allocated since. As a result, access windows have narrowed dramatically. Club members say the channel was once usable on a 1.7-metre tide; now, small vessels require tides of 2.4 metres or higher, eliminating daylight access on many days. “All-tide access?” one local asked. “It’s anything but.” Safety Concerns Escalate The lack of reliable access has raised serious safety concerns, particularly given the demographics of Cape Upstart and peak holiday periods when usage surges. Over the years, residents have been forced to transport injured or ill people by boat to meet ambulances at Molongle Creek, but only when tides allow. When tides are out, emergency helicopters have been relied upon, though they are not always available. “Over the years, there have been quite a few medical incidences where the access to Molongle Creek was tidally available – if no tide, the emergency helicopter was luckily available,” said Mr Betteridge. In one recent incident, two young boys were stung by Irukandji jellyfish at Kingfish Bay, however, fortunately, the tide allowed access back through Molongle Creek, yet locals say the outcome could have been far worse had the tide been out. After Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji, Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) crews conducting welfare checks were forced to use Wallace’s Creek instead of Molongle due to the channel’s condition, a longer, more exposed and potentially dangerous route. A spokesperson for the State Emergency Service said the agency remained committed to community safety. “The State Emergency Service (SES) is committed to working with the Molongle Creek and Cape Upstart communities to provide essential services to the region and maintaining community safety,” the spokesperson said. “The SES operates within a broader disaster management framework and works closely with partner agencies to deliver safe and effective responses to the community during severe weather events.” Calls for Practical Solutions The Molongle Creek Boat Club maintains that solutions already exist. Chief among them is the construction of a bund or barrier wall, either from rock or geotextile bags filled with dredged sand, a method already proven at the site, where a small geotextile wall has successfully reduced infill for more than 25 years. Club members argue such a barrier would significantly reduce sediment movement, extend the time between dredging cycles and deliver the year-round access originally promised. “There are approximately 240 dwellings at Cape Upstart that use molongle Creek as their main, and only access port – a 365 day all-tide access channel will definitely improve the safety of the whole community,” said Mr Betteridge. “We need a bund wall sooner rather than later, and MCBC along with the bulk of the public community know that a bund wall is the only solution to keep the channel open 365 days a year.” Local State Member for Burdekin, Dale Last, said responsibility for the failed delivery rested with the former government. “The former government went to the 2017 election with a commitment to provide all-tide access at Molongle Creek. The unfortunate reality is that they failed to deliver on their promise,” Mr Last said. “I have supported the campaign for all-tide access since the very beginning, largely based on the need to be able to respond to emergencies quickly, rather than waiting for tides. The assurance that I have given, and stand by, is that I will continue to work with stakeholders for a better outcome for all users of Molongle Creek.” He said concerns raised by the boat club during the design phase were ignored. “Promises were made and expectations were built on those promises. Clearly those expectations were not met and, clearly, the promises made were broken.” Mr Last acknowledged ongoing challenges related to permits and environmental approvals but said Maritime Safety Queensland had committed to working with stakeholders on a long-term management strategy. “There are a range of issues affecting the ability to undertake maintenance at Molongle Creek. If the input from the Molongle Creek Boat Club was given the attention it deserved, many of the issues we face today would not exist,” he said. “Despite the challenges, the Club has been given a direct commitment that Maritime Safety Queensland will work closely with them and key stakeholders to develop and implement a long-term management strategy.” Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, said the Molongle Creek boating facility was a vital piece of infrastructure for the Cape Upstart community and regional boaters, particularly for emergency access. “The Molongle Creek boating facility is a vital piece of infrastructure for the Cape Upstart community and regional boaters; it is especially significant for safety, as Volunteer Marine Rescue and residents rely on this channel for emergency transport.” Mr Willcox said the channel continued to face natural challenges due to its geographic location. “The Molongle Creek Channel currently faces ongoing challenges due to its geographic location: the flow at the mouth of the creek frequently causes sand to accumulate and choke the channel.” He said responsibility for maintaining the facility had shifted to the State Government during his time as Whitsunday Mayor, and that a permanent engineering solution was needed. “During my time as Whitsunday Mayor, the State Government assumed responsibility for the maintenance of this facility to ensure its continued operation.” “In my assessment, a permanent infrastructure solution is required to address the siltation issues: this would involve installing sheet piling or a rock wall to protect the channel and keep it open
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Burdekin Tobacco on Edwards Street, Ayr, has been temporarily closed as part of a state government crackdown on illegal tobacco outlets, with almost 200 shops across Queensland shut down since new laws were introduced in November 2025. The statewide operation saw an extra 51 stores closed during a ten-day blitz from 25 November to 4 December, including Burdekin Tobacco, adding to earlier closures. Experts say this is likely just the tip of the iceberg. Australian Association of Convenience Stores chief executive Theo Fukkare told the Townsville Bulletin that the closures were a positive step but warned that authorities would need to monitor the stores closely as they prepare to reopen. “We think 200 is maybe a quarter of all of the available stores selling illegal products, so there’s still a long way to go,” he said. “I would suggest that potentially, the authorities have gone for the high-profile ones in high-profile areas, though there are a lot more through the state.” The closure of Burdekin Tobacco was issued under the state’s new tobacco laws, aimed at curbing the sale of illicit cigarettes, vapes, and nicotine products. Authorities have seized more than 2.5 million illicit cigarettes, 31,000 vapes, and nearly 39,000 nicotine pouches across Queensland since the crackdown began. Burdekin Tobacco was one of six tobacconists in the region. Located in the Burdekin Plaza, it was a popular option for locals. The closure leaves a gap for residents who regularly purchased legal tobacco products from the Burdekin outlet. Some of the closed stores, including Burdekin Tobacco, could reopen soon, with authorities expected to monitor compliance closely. Authorities say checks will continue to ensure stores operate within the law when they reopen. Mr Fukkare called on the government to ensure there is an authorised officer at the stores on the day or days after they reopen. “Just to make sure that if they do want to run the gauntlet, then they can shut them down again.” CAPTION: Burdekin Tobacco on Edwards Street, Ayr, has been temporarily closed as part of a state government crackdown on illegal tobacco outlets, with almost 200 shops across Queensland shut down since new laws were introduced in November 2025. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
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Home Hill Surgery is dedicated to reinvigorating regional health care by both broadening the services offered at the clinic and also bringing new highly skilled doctors to the Burdekin.
The latest recruit is Dr Mounika Cherabudla who joined the practice last month and brings with her a range of specialties including women’s health and chronic diseases.
“I am very blessed to be part of the Burdekin community,” said Dr Cherabudla.
“Prevention is better than cure and that’s the beauty of a GP Practice, we understand the patients in detail and offer that preventive care.”
Dr Mounika Cherabudla has recently joined the team at Home Hill Surgery. Photo credit: Melanie Napier Memories and Photography
For the past 10 years Dr Sarat Tata has operated a forward-thinking medical practice that has become a hub for all things health in the Burdekin.
His inspiring attitude and connections within the medical industry has attracted a range of medical practitioners who add to the diversity of services offered and provide the local community with the dedicated health care they deserve.
Dr Mounika Cherabudla is the latest professional to join the team which now boasts five doctors, one registered nurse, one enrolled nurse, five medical receptionists and a range of other medical experts who visit the clinic on a regular basis.
Dr Cherabudla has been practicing medicine for the past four years having gained her qualifications in her home-country of India.
In 2021 she moved to the UK where she completed a Masters in Applied Public Health, following which she started the long process of pursuing a career as a GP in Australia, which can take up to 18 months.
Upon moving to Australia, Dr Cherabudla worked as a GP in Townsville for eight months before joining the team at Home Hill Surgery in July.
“I like the small countryside environment of the Burdekin, I am a bit of a nature lover and I really like living here, the people are lovely,” she said.
“As a GP I enjoy practicing holistic healthcare – dealing with ailments but also mental and social factors which give me a good opportunity to understand where the disease arises and learn more about the patients through GP care.”
Specialising in women’s healthcare, Dr Cherabudla also has an interest in helping patients manage chronic diseases, diabetes, hypertension and chronic kidney diseases.
She has also loved the challenge in working with the community’s elderly which has enabled her to have an understanding of ‘complete medicine’.
Dr Cherabudla moved to Home Hill with her husband who is now looking for local work within the IT industry or similar business.
They have a four-year-old son who is currently living with family in India and is due to move over as soon as they are settled.
“I am very grateful for the support of my parents, my sister and my brother,” shared Dr Cherabudla.
“I am also very blessed to be around Dr Tata who is a very inspiring person – supportive and encouraging to be around.”
Dr Tata said he is thrilled to be bringing new doctors to the team and explained it is a long and complicated process due to strict regulations.
The Home Hill Surgery has 5,600 active patients and Dr Tata’s dedicated work has been recognised several times, namely in 2019 when he was named Queensland GP of the year.
Home Hill Surgery offers GP healthcare five days a week, on-site pathology and ultrasound services, Burdekin Hearing, a dentist who visits monthly, a physio coming soon, skin cancer medicine centre and surgery, Allied Health, North and West Remote Health, chronic pain management and nutritional medicine services.
Dr. Dwija Karumanchi, Dr. Pavani Ganapathi, Dr, Sarat Tata, Dr. Mounika Cherabudla and Dr. Priyanka Rapelli. Photo credit: Melanie Napier Memories and Photography
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Hello!
My name is Miah, and I am your new on-the-ground journalist living and working right here in the Burdekin!
I am thrilled to embark on this exciting journey in the world of journalism. My passion for storytelling has been a driving force in my life for as long as I can remember.
My love for journalism began at a young age, with my first article being published in the Cairns Post when I was just 12 years old. That experience ignited a spark in me and solidified my desire to pursue a career in this field. Since then, I have honed my writing skills, delved into various topics, and developed a keen eye for detail and accuracy.
Apart from my journalistic pursuits, I have a deep love for music and cooking. Music has always been a source of inspiration and relaxation for me. Whether it's playing an instrument, attending live concerts, or simply listening to my favourite tunes, music is a significant part of my life. Cooking, on the other hand, allows me to express my creativity differently. I enjoy experimenting with new recipes, trying out different cuisines, and sharing delicious meals with family and friends.
In addition to my love for music and cooking, I am also dedicated to maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle. Going to the gym is something I look forward to regularly. It helps me stay fit, boosts my energy levels, and provides a great way to unwind after a busy day.
As I begin my career with Burdekin Life, I am eager to bring fresh perspectives, engaging stories, and a passion for truth to the community. I look forward to learning from experienced journalists, growing in my role, and making a positive impact through my writing.
If you would like to catch up with me in person I would love to meet you, please call me on 0484 501 662.
Miah
Senior Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador for Campbell’s Jewellery, Demi O’Shea, will host a decadent Cake Stall on Saturday 10 August from 9am.
A nostalgic and classic fundraising activity, the Cake Stall will be run outside Campbell’s Jewellery selling a variety of homemade treats along with raffle tickets for the Burdekin Water Festival’s Diamond Ring Raffle valued at $5000 as donated by Campbell’s Jewellery.
With the celebrated theme of the 2024 Burdekin Water Festival being “Bring it Back”, Demi decided it would be more than fitting to bring back one of the community’s most loved fundraisers.
“Our Cake Stall will bring back so many memories for many people, allowing them to reminisce on the past Water Festivals and the joy they have brought to all,” shared Demi.
“This will be our opportunity to give back to the community in a thoughtful way, as well as getting to see everyone’s wonderful, familiar faces, helping them experience the same joy we feel to ‘Bring it Back’.”
What: Cake Stall Fundraiser.
When: Saturday 10 August from 9am.
Where: Campbell’s Jewellery, 113 Queen Street, Ayr.
Opinion Piece
Ayr firefighters will be left to put up with a substandard fire station at the epicentre of a town’s toxic chemical contamination under Labor, Member for Burdekin Dale Last has revealed this week.
Mr Last said the commissioner’s response to questions during Estimates proceedings around replacing the Ayr Fire and Rescue Station was a slap in the face to firefighters who have been left exposed to carcinogenic compounds and unable to undertake essential training for years.
“The PFAS contamination in this township has been an ongoing issue for years and for at least four years this government has sat on a report into its origins” he said.
“Now we have not only seen a half-baked solution by this state government, we have now heard the commissioner state that there is no funding or intent to replace the Ayr Fire and Rescue Station,” Mr Last said.
“The extent of the PFAS contamination at the fire station could mean that not only are our firefighters left to operate from an excavation site while remediation works occur but infrastructure at the current site may well still need to be replaced following the completion of those works.”
“To add to this, we then have no certainty that once contractors have finished remediation works our firefighters will be able to conduct full training activities on the site.”
Mr Last said the disgust at the idea of leaving Ayr’s firefighters to operate from a construction zone was only compounded by the fact Labor had cut the ribbon on a $6m fire station in the south-east with full knowledge it would need to bulldozed within ten years to allow for roadway upgrades.
“People who sign up to put their lives at risk in front line services deserve to have a facility that actually allows them to operate at full capacity, not a 65-year-old station that is not only deemed an environmental risk but is no longer fit for purpose.”
“Make no mistake that as this mess continues to unfold, it’s becoming clearer to this community that our firefighters and residents can’t rely on Labor to ensure that our frontline services have the support and resources they need to respond to emergencies.”
Contributed by Member for Burdekin Dale Last.
The Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) is actively recruiting part-time auxiliary firefighters to join their dedicated team in the Burdekin Local Government Area, including stations in Ayr, Giru, and Home Hill. This is an excellent opportunity for residents to contribute to their local community whilst balancing other commitments.
QFES is an all-inclusive emergency service agency devoted to ensuring the safety of all individuals and property across Queensland. It comprises of the Fire and Rescue Service, the Rural Fire Service and the State Emergency Service. It also supports volunteer groups and operates with a unique, collaborative approach that integrates fire, rescue, emergency and disaster management services, delivering improved safety outcomes for the community.
QFES offers an inimitable and fulfilling role. The part-time firefighter position is designed to improve community safety through effective prevention, preparation, response, and recovery activities.
Requirements for participation include employer consent to attend incidents and emergencies, to live or work within a reasonable distance of an auxiliary fire station, Australian permanent resident status, and a manual C class driver’s licence.
Commitment requirements include attending 50% of calls a day with a day working routine hour schedule, or 30% of calls as a shift worker with a non-routine hour schedule, 75% attendance of regular drill and training sessions, gaining an MRV licence within 12 months of employment (at personal expense), participation of ongoing skill acquisition and maintenance programs, including first aid/emergency care, compliance with QFES policies and procedures, including code of conduct and safety standards.
Current QFES employees must apply via their internal careers site. Applications from recruitment agencies will not be accepted. Interested candidates can apply through the QFES website, with the process including a fitness assessment, interviews, and background checks.
Becoming a part-time firefighter with QFES is not just a job—it's a commitment to service, excellence, and community. If you have the allegiance to serve and meet the key requirements, QFES invites you to apply and embark on a rewarding path.
For more information on the recruitment process and upcoming information sessions, visit the QFES website.
By Miah Lampard
The Vernon’s have a deep history with the Townsville to Magnetic Island Swim, with three generations of competitors within their family. The Vernon family legacy begins with Hockey Vernon in the early 1960’s, his son then competed in 2011, and, most recently his grandson in July this year.
Hockey Vernon, at just 18 years of age, became the youngest competitor to attempt the swim in 1964 since the race’s commencement in 1954. He trained at the Ayr swimming pool under the guidance of coach Phil McLeod. Protected by a large cage towed by a boat, McLeod would watch on from a rubber dinghy to observe Vernon compete against five other swimmers, primarily from Gold Coast Surf Clubs. Vernon finished third with an extraordinary finishing time of two hours and one minute. Back then, the finish line was the RAAF pontoon, where onlookers, friends and family would eagerly await the emergence of their competitor.
Hockey reattempted the swim in 1968, this time with Ingham-based Kauka Kaurlia, the very first winner of the race in 1954 as his coach. The fierce competition included coach Phil McLeod’s son Rodney, who finished first with a time of one hour and fifty-seven minutes. Hockey came in second, mere moments behind him with a time of two hours and two minutes. The solidarity and contention between the Burdekin swimmers was apparent, as many from the region have attempted the swim, contributing to the significant history of the event.
Come 2011, the Vernon legacy was defended by 40-year-old Trent Vernon. Trent completed the Magnetic Island Swim in two hours and forty-five minutes, under the coaching and observation of John Moloney from the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club. His effort was a testament to the determination and dedication that had come to define the Vernons' involvement in the swim.
This month, Max Vernon, at just 17 years old, demonstrated that the Vernon flair for open-water swimming has certainly not diminished. Max conquered the swim in just two hours and two minutes, finishing fourth overall and second in the under-17 category. Kylie Deeroy from Arcadia Surf Life Saving Club served as his navigator, ensuring a successful and safe crossing. Max's achievement not only honoured his family's tradition but also showcased the emergence of a new generation of talented swimmers from the Vernon lineage.
The Vernons' involvement in the Magnetic Island Swim is part of a larger tapestry of noteworthy performances by Burdekin swimmers. Rodney McLeod's four-time participation, his sister Robyn's record-setting swim in 1966 with a time of two hours and twenty-eight minutes, and Dulce Andrews' courageous swim in 1959, where she overcame the sweeping tides to finish, all showcasing the tenacity and spirit of the region's athletes.
The legacy was further enriched in 1997 by Home Hill's champion swimmer Josh Santacatarina, who won the swim in a spectacular 1 hour and 34 minutes. These stories of endurance and achievement have cemented the Magnetic Island Swim as a cornerstone of the local sporting calendar.
The three-generation-spanning competitors from the Vernon family in the Magnetic Island Swim represent not just a passion but an aptitude for open-water swimming. From Hockey’s 1960 pioneering swims, to Trent’s impressive finish time, as well as Max’s most recent accomplishment, the Vernon family have continuously contributed to the deep history of this challenging event. Their inspiring story is one of dedication, perseverance, and familial pride, encouraging future generations of swimmers from the Burdekin region and beyond.
Trent Vernon, 17-year-old Max Vernon who recently competed in Magnetic Island Swim and Hockey Vernon. Photo supplied
Burdekin Shire Council is proud to announce the launch of its new cemetery management program OpusXenta in an innovative step towards evolving community access and operational proficiency. The leading-edge program promises to transform how cemetery records are managed and services are provided in the community.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort outlined the numerous benefits that OpusXenta will bring to both council staff and local residents.
“This upgrade facilitates long-term planning and extends the life of our cemetery facilities,” Cr Dalle Cort said.
She emphasised that the new system will modernise cemetery administration, offering a more ordered and accessible experience for all involved.
One of the standout features of OpusXenta is its enhanced search functionality on the Council’s website, allowing users to easily locate specific grave sites, and provide precise burial site information at the click of a button.
The integration of interactive maps further supports this functionality, enabling users to view detailed layouts of the cemeteries and locate graves directly from their smartphones. This revolutionary advancement is expected to make visiting and navigating cemeteries a much more convenient experience for community members.
For those seeking more information about the new cemetery management system, the Burdekin Shire Council encourages residents to contact their Customer Service Centre at (07) 4783 9800. Alternatively, details can be found on the Council’s website at burdekin.qld.gov.au.
This initiative underscores the Council’s commitment to leveraging technology to enhance public services and community engagement.
Burdekin Shire Council opts for new cemetery management program OpusXenta. Photo supplied
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As Home Hill prepares to celebrate the 100th anniversary of its Anglican church, it’s a moment to reflect on a century of faith, community, and resilience.
Founded in the early 1910s, Home Hill initially faced water scarcity, unlike its neighbouring Ayr. This challenge led to the formation of an irrigation board and the establishment of a powerhouse near the post office, laying the foundation for irrigation and agricultural prosperity.
Farms were allocated through ballots, and wells were installed, turning the region into a thriving agricultural hub.
By the 1920s, the community’s spiritual needs were met with the construction of its first church, operational by 1924.
Built by Edward Woodward for £1,884, this church became the heart of the community. In 1977, a new church was built and paid off by the year’s end, continuing to serve as a spiritual centre for Home Hill.
In its prime, the church saw vibrant participation. Sunday school attracted around 40 children, and community groups like the Mothers’ Union and a ladies’ school flourished.
Fundraising events, including the sale of up to 800 dozen cupcakes, brought the community together. Volunteers meticulously assembled these cupcakes with frosting and coconut in the church kitchen, reflecting the church’s bustling and dedicated spirit.
Beyond Sunday services, the church offered midweek worship and extensive community support through visitation programs for the sick. The youth group, Comrades of St. George, held weekly meetings and annual gatherings in Townsville, focusing on religion, sports, dancing, and singing, producing several ministers who went on to serve the wider community.
Today, the congregation is smaller, with diminished participation from the younger generation. However, dedicated members like Alf Shand, who has attended the church since 1948, continue to uphold its legacy.
Shand, who served as the church’s secretary and treasurer, remains an active member, as well as continuing to come to service and stays hopeful that the younger generation will carry the torch forward.
On August 18th, Home Hill’s Anglican Church will celebrate its 100th anniversary with a grand event. The celebration will feature a community service at 10am with the bishop and various ministers, followed by a sausage sizzle, performances by the choral society, and Melanesian singing and dancing.
This milestone is a testament to the church's enduring presence and the community's resilience. While no one from the church's inception is around to celebrate, it is up to the current members to honour and uphold this century-old legacy.
WHAT: Home Hill’s Anglican Church 100th anniversary celebrations
WHEN: Sunday 18 August from 10am
Alf Shand has attended the church since 1948. Photo credit: Miah Lampard
Pack your bags, and prepare for take-off because from Sunday 1 September, the Whitsunday Coast Airport will offer a selection of brand-new Jetstar flights directly to Adelaide.
Confirmed earlier this year, the flights will take off on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday each week, with the introduction set to significantly boost local tourism in both the Whitsundays and Adelaide.
In celebration of the February announcement, a one-way sale saw fares available from $99 earlier this year, and Jetstar’s Executive Manager, Jenn Armor explained Jetstar’s excitement in offering the new route to customers.
“For the first time ever from 1 September 2024, flying between these two destinations will take just under three hours, continuing Jetstar’s mission to make travel more accessible with great low fares,” said Jenn.
Craig Turner, Director of Commercial Businesses for Whitsunday regional Council that owns Whitsunday Coast Airport, believes Jetstar’s new flight paths will open the region up to a brand-new market of travellers, and this debut has been a long time coming.
“The importance of developing new destinations is critical to the growth of the Whitsundays,” said Craig.
“We’ve relied on Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne traditionally for our interstate visitors but to be able to get Adelaide, South Australia with 1.3million people on three flights a week to the Whitsundays, conveniently, cost effectively and direct is significant.
“This will be an enormous boost for the region for tourism, mining and agriculture and it really is a strategically important route that has taken a long time to achieve, and we’re very excited for the first of September start and Jetstar has told us the load factors are very strong.”
Direct flights to Adelaide will be running three times a week from September 1. Photos supplied
BCA provides financial and material assistance for adults experiencing personal, family, relationship and/or financial issues.
The service assists adults and children with basic needs in times of financial hardship, through the provision of:
• Food parcels
• Toiletries
• Vouchers (food, clothes, chemist, transport)
• prepaid cards
• payment of third-party accounts
Please note that a Centrelink Income Statement is required unless you are affected by domestic and family violence and not receiving a Centrelink payment.
We wouldn’t be able to offer this Service without funding from the State Government and generous donations from community groups, businesses and individuals.
On Sunday I had the privilege of attending the Home Hill Burdekin Uniting Church Bluey’s Thrift Shop 50th Birthday celebration.
It was wonderful and humbling to spend time with the warm, caring and hardworking members of the Church Auxiliary and other church members, Thrift Shop volunteers and former Blue Nurses.
The church auxiliary has donated some of the funds raised in the Thrift Shop for our Emergency Relief and Domestic and Family Violence Support services for a number of years and we are super grateful.
Contributed with thanks to Debra Cochran
Chief Executive Officer
Burdekin Community Association Inc (BCA)
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I would like to talk about one of the Burdekin’s local not for profit organisations, the Zonta Club Burdekin Inc, that is actively working on a number of local community projects.
In the coming months, Zonta, in partnership with the Red Rose Foundation, Burdekin Shire Council and the Men’s Shed, will place a number of Red Benches in prominent locations in Ayr and Home Hill. Keep an eye out for them - you won’t miss them!!
The presence of a Red Bench in a public location aims to raise awareness of domestic violence and provide an opportunity for this important issue to remain visible.
If you wish to learn more about Zonta and their exciting local community and international work, follow the club activities on Facebook or you can make arrangements to attend a monthly dinner meeting which is held every second Tuesday of the month commencing at 6:00pm at the Ayr Anzac Memorial Club.
Did you know that tenders are now open for an exciting opportunity to secure prime industrial land?
Stage 1 of the Ayr Industrial Estate Expansion features 19 lots available for tender, offering a fantastic chance for businesses and investors to secure valuable industrial land. Most of these lots are generously sized around 2000m², offering plenty of space to build your dream industrial property or expand your business. The flexible configurations mean that buyers have the option to tender for multiple lots, allowing for customised and expansive developments.
For more information and to access the tender package, be sure to visit Council’s website or contact Burdekin Shire Council’s Customer Service Centre on (07) 4783 9800.
This is your chance to explore all the details and find the perfect lot to meet your business needs. Remember, the deadline is approaching fast—tenders close at 5:00pm on Monday 19 August 2024.
If you would like to get in touch with me, please feel free to phone me on 0447 150 582 or email mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au
This year marks a momentous occasion for Burdekin Catholic High School as it proudly commemorates its 50th anniversary - a testament to half a century of nurturing young minds, fostering community spirit, and upholding a tradition of academic excellence in the Burdekin region.
Built on the shoulders of Edmund Campion College (Marist Brothers) BCHS celebrates the vision that became reality in 1974 when it first opened its doors as a co-educational high school, officially named Burdekin Catholic High School.
From its inception, the school has stood as a beacon of knowledge and values, shaping the lives of countless individuals of the Burdekin region who have passed through its doors.
“As we celebrate this milestone, we honour the dedication and vision of those who founded and shaped our school - reflecting on the transformative impact of Burdekin Catholic High School,” Principal, Mrs Lorraine Wolffe said.
"To our alumni who have carried the values of Burdekin Catholic High School into the world, to our current students who embody the spirit of excellence and community, and to the future generations who will continue this legacy, we extend our heartfelt gratitude."
Such an important time in the life of the school should be celebrated, and an Anniversary Weekend will be held on 16, 17, and 18 August. The anniversary celebrations are not just a reflection on the past but also a testament to the ongoing journey of education and growth.
There is a whole weekend of activities planned and BCHS would love to have their past students and teachers come and celebrate.
The festivities planned for this golden jubilee include a series of events and activities designed to celebrate the school's rich history, honour its achievements, and inspire the community to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead.
Beginning the wonderful weekend, Friday 16 August will see a Twilight Event held at the school. Saturday 17 August will host the Anniversary Gala Dinner set to be held at the Memorial Hall, with tickets available for purchase from the Burdekin Theatre. To conclude the celebrations, an Anniversary Mass will be held on Sunday 18 August at the school at 9am.
WHAT: Burdekin Catholic Highschool 50 Year Celebrations
WHEN: 16, 17, 18 August
School Leaders 2024
The first Burdekin Catholic High School Assembly in 1974
The Burdekin Shire Council is thrilled to announce that tenders are now open for the newly expanded Ayr Industrial Estate. This expansion offers additional industrial land and infrastructure, aimed at boosting the growth and diversification of our local economy.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort expressed the Council's enthusiasm about this major development, with Stage 1 offering 19 lots.
"The launch of tenders for the Ayr Industrial Estate expansion is an exciting step forward," Cr Dalle Cort stated.
"This expansion represents prime real estate strategically positioned to foster industrial growth - it aims to attract a diverse range of new industries to the area, enhance economic grown and also encourage innovation and development within the community.
Not only will the new development provide existing businesses with the opportunity to expand, but it will also ensure the availability of future jobs for our young people.
Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to secure your businesses future in this wonderful part of North Queensland.”
Tenders are now open for lots in the Industrial Estate expansion. For more information, visit burdekin.qld.gov.au or contact the Council’s Economic Development Team at (07) 4783 9800 or via email at eliza.lovell@burdekin.qld.gov.au.
Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort on site with the Industrial Estate Expansion Prospectus.
DOB: 01/04/2023
Sex: Male
Breed: Jack Russell Terrier
Kid friendly: Yes
Cat Friendly: Untested
Other dogs: Yes
Fences: 5ft
Spud is a lovable Jack Russell terrier with a heart of gold! He is a bundle of energy and enthusiasm, always ready for a game.
He has adorable ears and wags his tail none stop, he is sure to bring a smile to your face every day.
Despite his small size, Spud has a big personality. He is incredibly loyal and affectionate, always eager to cuddle up on the couch or snuggle in bed.
Spud is also quite smart and he loves to learn new tricks.
If you're looking for a furry companion who will fill your life with joy and laughter, look no further than Spud the lovable Jack Russell terrier!
To meet Spud, fill in an inquiry form at https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html.
Included in adoption fee of $1000 Spud will be desexed, micro-chipped, up to date on vaccinations, flea/tick/intestinal worm treated, and he is on heartworm preventative.
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