This week I want to talk about two issues that are important to the future of our community.

Firstly, Burdekin Shire Council joins councils across Queensland in strongly opposing proposed changes to Federal disaster funding arrangements. Disaster recovery is not simply another political debate. These changes could have significant consequences for regional communities like ours.

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Every extra dollar Council is forced to spend on disaster recovery is a dollar that cannot be invested in roads, parks, community facilities and other essential services. In some cases, damaged infrastructure may not be rebuilt at all. Quite simply, it's a no dealfor the Burdekin.

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I am also concerned about the future of the Ayr Fire and Rescue Station. Our community has been promised a new 24/7 staffed station alongside the Ambulance Service on Chippendale Street. Recent discussions suggest we may receive a lesser standard of service than what is currently available.

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For a growing community that covers such a large geographic area, that is simply not good enough. Emergency services save lives, protect property and provide peace of mind to residents. The Burdekin deserves better. This is another no deal for the Burdekin.

On a community note, don't forget to complete your Census. The information collected helps governments make informed decisions about future services and infrastructure.

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By now, rate notices should have been received by all property owners. If you have not received yours, please contact Council's friendly Customer Service Centre on 4783 9800.

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Finally, a little piece of trivia. This year marks 60 years since Australia changed from pounds, shillings and pence to dollars and cents on 14 February 1966. I can still remember the catchy tune that helped Australians learn about the new currency!

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As always, thank you for your continued support of our community. You can also follow me on Facebook to keep up to date with what's happening across the Burdekin.

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Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone at 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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If there is one sound that defines winter in the Burdekin, it’s the whistle of a cane train echoing across the district.

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With the crushing season now in full swing, our region is operating at full steam. Our local growers, harvesting crews, mill workers, and transport teams are putting in massive hours to drive the economy that keeps our towns thriving. It’s a huge effort, and it’s something our entire community takes great pride in.

But with millions of tonnes of cane moving across our district, it also means our local roads and rail networks are busier than ever.

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As locals, we drive past these tracks every single day. It’s easy to get comfortable or impatient when we're running late for school drop off or headed home after a long day at work. But a locomotive pulling loaded bin sets can weigh hundreds of tonnes and it can’t stop on a dime.

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Whether you're driving, riding a bike, or walking the dog, take that extra second to look, listen, and wait. Talk to your kids about staying away from parked cane bins and tracks, and remember to give our heavy haulage and farm machinery plenty of room on the roads.

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Let's look out for one another so everyone makes it home safe at the end of the day.

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"By supporting the investment into new jockey and stewards rooms at the Burdekin Race Club we provide opportunities to host more of our favourite race days right here at Home Hill,” Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP said. Photo supplied.

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Works to bolster two race clubs in the electorate have been given the green light with the Crisafulli Government awarding more than $450,000 in funding for vital infrastructure upgrades under the Racing Queensland’s Country Club Asset Funding program.

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During the funding announcement this week Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP said Burdekin Race Club and Bowen Turf Club’s success had ensured country racing remained at the heart of the Home Hill and Bowen communities.  

“Both the Burdekin Growers Race Day and the Bowen Cup have cemented themselves into the North’s social calendar drawing thousands of visitors to our regions and boosting local economies,” Mr Last said.  

“Racing Queensland’s Country Club Asset Funding program provides support towards infrastructure repairs, maintenance and asset replacement to ensure our country race clubs can continue to host the race days that become calendar highlights each year.”  

"By supporting the investment into new jockey and stewards rooms at the Burdekin Race Club we provide opportunities to host more of our favourite race days right here at Home Hill."  

The Burdekin Race Club will receive $365,000 while the Bowen Turf Club will receive $88,000 with clubs also investing co-contributions to bring the projects to fruition. The commitment forms part of the Government's broader commitment to the industry through The Next Lap: A plan for the future of Queensland racing.  

“The Bowen and Burdekin race clubs are among 33 country race clubs in regional Queensland to receive funding, delivering jobs, infrastructure improvements and community benefits in regional areas," Mr Last said.  

“Recent reports show the racing industry in Queensland has generated more than $2.5billion in value added contribution with more than 50 per cent directly benefitting regional economies. It is why I'm proud to back our local race clubs' initiatives to invest in the infrastructure and maintenance needed to continue to host our favourite local race days well into the future.”

Supplied by the Office of Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP

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WOMAN CHARGED OVER 2023 AYR DEATH

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A 70-year-old woman has been charged with murder following a complex investigation into the death of a 56-year-old man in Ayr almost three years ago.

The Forest Lake woman was arrested by detectives on August 4 and charged with one count of murder (domestic violence).

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She appeared in Townsville Magistrates Court on 5th August following her arrest, where the court heard she would not enter a plea until her defence receives the full brief of evidence, expected to be provided in about a month.

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Emergency services were called to an Alice Street residence at about 9.18pm on August 10, 2023, after the man was found unresponsive.

He was pronounced deceased at the scene, prompting police to establish a crime scene and launch an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.

The man was non-verbal and had Down syndrome.

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Detectives from the Crime Command Homicide Investigation Unit and Ayr Criminal Investigation Branch have since conducted extensive inquiries into the man's health, care and treatment throughout his life.

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Police said the investigation had been complex and involved extensive and thorough inquiries.

A thorough post-mortem examination previously found the man was experiencing serious malnourishment and weighed 29kg at the time of his death.

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The investigation has spanned almost three years.

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APPEAL AFTER ALLEGED INDECENT EXPOSURE AT ALVA BEACH

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Police are appealing for information after a man allegedly exposed himself to a woman at Alva Beach last week.

The incident occurred about 9.15am on 23rd July, when a 25-year-old woman entered the beach via the walking track directly in front of Alva Beach Park and sat on the beach.

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A short time later, an unknown man allegedly entered the beach via a separate walking track to the south.

Police allege the man stood by a tree about 10 metres from the woman before exposing himself.

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He then allegedly began approaching the woman, who ran away via the southern walking track.

The man has been described as Caucasian, aged in his 50s and about 175cm tall, with grey hair.

He was wearing an old grey hoodie and cargo pants.

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Police said no further complaints had been received at this stage and the matter appeared to be an isolated incident.

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Anyone who may have seen anything suspicious, recognises the man depicted in the image, or has relevant video footage is urged to contact police.

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With hundreds of Australians already preparing to host Pink Ribbon Breakfasts this October, local residents are encouraged to help make a difference. Photo supplied  

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Residents are being encouraged to gather around the breakfast table with friends and family and transform a simple morning tea into a meaningful charitable contribution as National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) rolls out its Pink Ribbon Breakfast initiative during October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

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While the official Pink Ribbon Breakfast will be held on Thursday, 22nd October, hosts across the country can choose a date that suits them and organise a breakfast, brunch, morning or afternoon tea, or lunch from the comfort of their own home, workplace, community centre or local hospitality venue all to raise raising funds to support vital research aimed at helping save lives from breast cancer.

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With 56 Australians diagnosed with breast cancer every day, organisers are encouraging communities to come together to spark conversations, and help fund research into prevention, detection and treatment.  

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Getting involved is simple, with prospective hosts able to register for free via fundraise.nbcf.org.au/event/pink-ribbon-breakfast and receive a complimentary host kit containing resources to help get their event underway!

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A seven-year wait for a near million-dollar pump track officially ended last Friday as Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Member for Burdekin Dale Last cut the ribbon on the region's own “city-grade” recreational facility.

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ANZAC PARK PUMP TRACK OFF AND ROLLING

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Scores of Burdekin locals wasted no time in christening their new $770,000-plus pump track, marking both the asphalt and its official opening at Anzac Park last Friday.

Announced as part of the Anzac Park Precinct Master Plan in 2019, its opening ends a seven-year wait for a recreational facility Member for Burdekin Dale Last said rivals those of its city counterparts.

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“This facility is the equivalent of anything in Brisbane, I can assure you,” Mr Last said at the opening ceremony.

“I have absolutely no doubt that it will be a hive of activity over the coming weeks.”

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The facility features a seven-turn looped design with jumps, berms, rollers and platforms, catering for BMX bikes, scooters, skateboards and mountain bikes.

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The project's eventual fruition follows years of advocacy from the community, most notably the Burdekin BMX Club. It was subsequently included in last year’s Council Budget as the centrepiece of a broader $2.8 million investment in parks and recreational facilities across the region.

The design process was heavily influenced by local input; construction works began in April this year after two community consultations.

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Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the final product was an inclusive community facility built for everyone.

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“This facility is a reflection of what happens when community voices guide council planning,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.

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“Consultation and the help of residents shaped a design that is inclusive, acceptable, and built for all skill levels. Whether you ride a bike, scooter or skateboard, this track offers a safe, purpose-built space to be active, have fun, and enjoy the outdoors.”

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The facility was funded primarily by a State Government contribution of $760,000 as part of its Works for Queensland 2024–27 program.

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The pump track is the first stage of broader Anzac Park upgrades outlined in the precinct master plan, including an outdoor stage, basketball court and youth hangout zones.

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August has arrived and the mornings feel a little cooler. I had the opportunity to attend the Future Leaders evening with Councillor Furnell at Ayr High recently and listen to the students speak.

The topics covered taking a digital detox and from small things big things grow. They spoke of how important volunteers are in the community and how taking a break from social media and the perils of what it can do to a person’s mental health.

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One speaker told how simply saying yes to playing a sport she had never played, opened up her world to friends and travel. As a parent, it was hearting to hear that these young future leaders are thinking about these things so deeply. Well done and thanks for the evening.  

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NQ’S FIGHT AGAINST PROPOSED DISASTER FUNDING CUTS CONTINUES

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A Federal Government proposal to slash its share of disaster funding has provoked fierce pushback in North Queensland, where Burdekin Shire Council officials fear the move could spell an “enormous” rate increase and leave disaster-affected communities by the wayside.

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“The Federal Government has just come up with a way to balance their budget, rather than looking at the impacts of their decision. They’re not understanding the human cost in all of this,” said Council CEO Matthew Magin.

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“For a government that prides itself on being fair, this is grossly unfair.”

The Albanese Government announced its intention to split disaster funding costs 50-50 with state and territory governments in June, replacing previous Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) where the Commonwealth covered up to 75 per cent of those costs.

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The Government argued the proposed reforms were designed to shift disaster management towards risk reduction and faster response, with Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain describing the new model as “simpler and fairer for all Australians.”

Burdekin Shire Council officials called claims of faster disaster funding delivery a “misinformation campaign”, arguing existing arrangements already provide councils with upfront funding support during disaster recovery.

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They also argued the proposed cost sharing reforms would only muddy responsibility and increase the financial burden on regional councils in disaster-prone regions.

“No one really knows who's going to pick up the bill,” said Director of Infrastructure, Planning and Environmental Services James Stewart.

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“It's just the Federal Government is saying, ‘well, we're not picking it up’, leaving it down to state or local government to make up the remainder.”

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Based on previous disaster seasons, Mr Magin estimated that funding shortfall to be in the order of hundreds of millions of dollars in Queensland alone.

“Can the state afford to double their contribution? Probably not—so they're going to come knocking on the door of the 77 councils in Queensland, and that could have a massive impact on our ratepayers,” he said.

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Mr Magin said the current arrangements had been instrumental in the Burdekin’s recovery from the 2025 tropical low that shook the region.

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He speculated that, had the proposed reforms been in place at the time, a rate hike of up to 10 per cent was entirely plausible.

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“In the last disaster season, [the proposed arrangements] would have cost [Burdekin Shire Council] an extra $3 million,” Mr Magin said.

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“A 1 per cent rate increase for us is around $300,000. So if we had to pay $3 million, that's a 10 per cent rate increase—and that's without anything else we have to put rates up for.

“It's really quite scary.”

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Council also raised concerns over changes to disaster funding qualification thresholds.

The current arrangements allow individual councils to access federal assistance once eligible disaster costs exceed around $230,000. Under the proposed reforms, costs from all councils affected by a disaster event would instead need to accumulate to $2.7 million before the Commonwealth stepped in.

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Betterment funding would also be capped at 15 per cent per damaged asset, where the current systems allow access to a broader funding pool determined by the scale of each event.

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Mr Magin and Mr Stewart warned the combination of changes could have serious consequences for local infrastructure.

“There will be some councils that simply won't be able to repair the roads. They’ll be sitting there in disrepair, and the public will have to drive over them,” Mr Magin said.

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“If a particular road keeps getting washed out, people will ask: ‘why don't you repair it properly? Why don't you bitumen it? Why don't you put concrete in?’ That’s where councils used to have the ability to apply for that funding, but no longer can,” Mr Stewart added.

Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said towns would also be left looking “shanty.”

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She argued the reforms would leave North Queensland communities behind, stressing the implications extended beyond councils.

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“We're not feeling the love,” she said.

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“They're not just hurting us at council—they’re hurting the whole community, and putting more people in harm’s way.

“There are many pots of money out there that they should be drawing back on instead of disaster management.”

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Mayor Dalle Cort said her letters to the Prime Minister, federal ministers, and senators rebuking the proposals had garnered no response.

She appeared on the panel at July’s Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) Coastal Leaders Forum in the Whitsundays as councils congregated to discuss regional issues, including the DRFA.

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The forum follows months of LGAQ-led pushback, including advocacy efforts at the Australian Local Government Association’s National General Assembly in Canberra, where councils called on the Commonwealth to reconsider the proposed changes.

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The matter remains ongoing, with the LGAQ preparing a statewide sector submission opposing the proposed changes. Feedback from Queensland councils will inform the submission, due to be lodged with the National Emergency Management Authority on the 19th August.

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Critical crime prevention measures have been bolstered as Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP welcomed the proactive support for local small businesses under the second round of the Secure Communities Partnership Program.

Four small businesses across the Burdekin Electorate were among 170 in the state to receive co-funding for vital safety and security infrastructure as part of the $2million state government investment.  

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“Small business owners targeted by crime, are often left at a significant financial loss whether it is repairing physical damage or replacing stolen assets, to the flow on effect of potential job losses,” Mr Last said.

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“We have seen the Burdekin Shire Council receive co-funding towards CCTV infrastructure in critical areas of the Ayr CBD in previous rounds so it’s fantastic to now see small businesses in our industrial estate reap the benefits of this program.

“To have a small business succeed in their application because they were looking to take proactive steps to secure their site to mitigate the risk of becoming a target for criminal activity is exactly what the Secure Communities Partnership Program is all about.”

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“This is a clear example of how the Crisafulli Government is able to support small businesses to take those steps and deter crime and provide a resource to support incident response.”

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Mr Last said with the third round of the Secure Communities Partnership Program opening soon, this announcement highlighted the variety of Burdekin small businesses eligible for the support.

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“We’ve seen local governments as well as tourism, manufacturing and grazing businesses from across the Burdekin electorate benefit from past rounds of this program which is a fantastic demonstration of its success.”

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The Crisafulli Government’s $40 million Secure Communities Partnership Program co-funds critical crime prevention measures such as CCTV, alarm and security systems, lighting and fencing to make small businesses safer.

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Round 3 of the Secure Communities Partnership Program will be released later in 2026-27. For more information please visit https://www.business.qld.gov.au/running-business/supportservices/financial/grants/secure-communities.

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Supplied by the Office of Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP

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For students from regional and remote Queensland, choosing a senior school pathway can often mean looking beyond what is available locally.

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At Tec-NQ in Townsville, students in Years 10 to 12 can complete their senior schooling while building practical trade skills, gaining industry exposure and preparing for apprenticeships, employment, further training or future study.

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For students like Brandon Pope, that pathway has opened the door to new opportunities.

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Brandon moved from Mount Isa to Townsville to attend Tec-NQ and boards at Tec-NQ House while completing his senior studies. Now a Year 12 Automotive student, he has completed work experience in truck repairs and has already been offered work for after school.

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“I found a job, signed up, and I’m good to go when I graduate,” he said.

Tec-NQ House plays an important role for families outside Townsville, providing access to Tec-NQ’s trade-focused senior school while students live in a supervised boarding environment.

Located in Rosslea, Tec-NQ House supports regional and remote students with routine, supervision, daily transport to the Douglas campus and support as they build independence away from home.

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For parents and carers, this means students can access a specialised senior school pathway without losing the structure and care they need during their final years of school.

Tec-NQ is an accredited senior school and Registered Training Organisation. Its model brings senior schooling, practical trade training, work placement and industry connection together, giving students a hands-on way to learn and a clearer view of where their education can lead.

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At the Douglas campus, academic subjects are connected to industry, workshops form part of the everyday learning environment, and students have opportunities to build confidence in practical settings.

Students work toward their Queensland Certificate of Education, learn from registered teachers and trade-qualified facilitators, and are supported by student wellbeing, boarding and industry teams.

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For Charlie Cobb, a Year 12 Automotive student from Chillagoe, the Tec-NQ pathway has also helped create a practical start in industry. After boarding for much of his schooling, Charlie has built experience through casual work and signed into an apprenticeship.

“If you’re thinking of doing a trade, this is your best start,” he said.

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Stories like Brandon’s and Charlie’s show how Tec-NQ can support students who are ready for a senior school environment with a stronger connection to work, industry and future direction.

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Families interested in learning more will have the opportunity to see Tec-NQ in action at Campus Open Day on Saturday 22 August.

The event will give prospective students, parents and community members the chance to tour the workshops, meet staff, speak with industry partners and learn more about Senior School, Tec-NQ House, work placement and Full Time Training pathways.

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For regional families considering boarding and senior school options for 2027, Open Day is a chance to understand how Tec-NQ connects the steps from school to work.

Families who are unable to attend in person can also speak with Tec-NQ’s enrolments team to learn more about senior school options, boarding, entry points and the pathway from learning to work.

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For students ready to learn differently and build a future beyond the classroom, Tec-NQ offers a practical, supported pathway with real direction.

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Supplied by Tec-NQ

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Burdekin SES will receive two replacement operational vehicles through the Queensland Government's accelerated SES vehicle replacement program. Photo source: Queensland State Emergency Service

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Burdekin SES volunteers are set to benefit from two replacement operational vehicles as part of the Queensland Government's latest investment in strengthening disaster preparedness across the state.

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The Burdekin Shire has secured funding of $53,768 and $93,988 for two replacement vehicles through an accelerated vehicle replacement program, which forms part of the Queensland SES Support Grant Program.

Statewide, almost $2.5 million is being invested through the 2026-27 Queensland SES Support Grant Program to deliver 35 projects, including new and upgraded SES facilities, backup generators, storage sheds, command buildings and replacement operational vehicles.

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An additional $875,000 has also been committed to fast-track the replacement of 12 ageing SES vehicles identified as high priority due to safety and age-related concerns, including the two vehicles for the Burdekin.

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Minister for Police and Emergency Services Dan Purdie said the investment would strengthen Queensland's emergency response capability.

"Every Queenslander relies on our SES volunteers when disaster strikes, and we're making sure they have the facilities, vehicles and equipment they need to keep communities safe," Minister Purdie said.

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"This latest round of grants will deliver 35 projects across Queensland while fast-tracking the replacement of 12 priority SES vehicles, strengthening our emergency response capability right across the State.”

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Queensland SES Acting Chief Officer Danny Baade said the funding would help improve volunteer safety and operational capability.

"It's vital that our members are supported in disaster preparedness and response.

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"Whether it's floods, cyclones, or search and rescues, this funding will allow our units to be equipped to help Queenslanders when they need it most."

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The investment forms part of the Queensland Government's broader commitment to strengthening SES capability, with volunteer numbers increasing to 5,555 statewide alongside 216 staff.

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Since joining the branch as a Customer Service Officer, Jaz has quickly become known for her welcoming nature and genuine interest in building relationships with customers. Photo supplied.

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Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr is proud to celebrate the promotion of team member Jaz Green to the role of Personal Banker, recognising her commitment to customer service and her passion for helping people achieve their financial goals.

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Since joining the branch as a Customer Service Officer, Jaz has quickly become known for her welcoming nature and genuine interest in building relationships with customers.

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Originally from Port Macquarie, New South Wales, Jaz has embraced the Burdekin community and says its friendly, diverse spirit is one of the things she enjoys most about living and working in the region.

Her promotion marks an exciting new chapter, allowing her to work more closely with customers as they navigate important financial decisions throughout their lives.

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"The Personal Banker role is a relationship driven role," Jaz said.

"It's not just transactional customer service; it's about partnering with customers to help them understand and secure the financial products they need to achieve their goals."

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Rather than simply assisting with day-to-day banking, Personal Bankers take the time to understand each customer's individual circumstances and provide guidance on the products and services best suited to their needs.

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"The benefit for customers is having someone who understands their financial journey, helps simplify complex decisions and ultimately saves them time," she said.

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Jaz is particularly looking forward to supporting customers through life's important milestones, whether they're purchasing their first home, growing their savings or planning for the future.

"I look forward to mentoring people through their financial milestones and guiding them towards the right products. I'm excited to build genuine relationships and see the positive impact my work can have in their lives."

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For Jaz, working at Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr is about far more than banking.

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"The most satisfying thing about working for a community bank is being part of something bigger than just a company. We help fuel local success and return 80 per cent of our profits back into the communities we serve,” she said.

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Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr Branch Manager Sally Smith said Jaz's promotion reflects both her dedication and the bank's commitment to developing local talent.

"Jaz has embraced every opportunity since joining our team, and this promotion is thoroughly deserved,” the said.

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“Her caring approach, willingness to learn and genuine desire to help others make her an excellent fit for the Personal Banker role. We know our customers will benefit from the relationships she'll continue to build as she supports them through every stage of their financial journey."

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Supplied by Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr

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QRIDA is offering disaster recovery grants of up to $75,000 to help eligible Burdekin primary producers restore their businesses after the 2025–26 severe weather events. Photo source: Pexels

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Eligible primary producers across the Burdekin region can now apply for disaster recovery grants of up to $75,000 to assist with rebuilding and restoring their operations following severe weather and tropical cyclone events earlier this year.

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The Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) is administering the Exceptional Disaster Assistance Recovery Grants for primary producers affected by the Queensland Monsoon Trough, Cyclone Koji, Cyclone Narelle and associated severe weather between December 2025 and April 2026.

The Burdekin is among the Queensland local government areas eligible for assistance under the program whereby eligible producers can access an initial grant of up to $10,000 to support immediate recovery activities, with further applications available up to a combined maximum of $65,000, bringing the total funding available to $75,000.

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Grant funding can be used to support clean-up and recovery costs, including repairing damaged buildings and fencing, replacing crops and livestock, restoring essential machinery and equipment, purchasing fodder, employing additional labour and undertaking other reinstatement works required after the disaster.

The program is designed to help producers recover from direct physical damage and resume normal farming operations as quickly as possible.

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To qualify, applicants must operate an eligible primary production enterprise within the declared disaster area, hold an Australian Business Number (ABN), provide evidence of direct damage caused by the disaster and intend to continue operating their business.

QRIDA staff are available to assist producers through the application process, with personalised support and appointments available for those requiring additional guidance.

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Applications remain open until 6th January 2027. For more information, eligibility guidelines or to apply, visit the QRIDA website, www.qrida.qld.gov.au, or phone 1800 623 946.

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There are times in life when we wish we could turn back the clock, and for me, one of those moments was the recent opening of the Anzac Park Pump Track. Watching the excitement and enthusiasm of so many young riders brought back memories of carefree days spent on a bike. Seeing our community come together to enjoy this fantastic facility was a reminder of the importance of creating spaces where families can connect, be active and make lasting memories.

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Another important date on the horizon is Census Night on Tuesday 11 August. I encourage every household in the Burdekin to take part and ensure their information is recorded accurately. The Census is much more than a statistical exercise. Population data influences how funding is distributed across Australia, helping to support infrastructure, services and community wellbeing. It is important that our region is counted so the Burdekin receives its fair share of future investment.

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I was also honoured to attend the 60th anniversary celebrations of Lavarack Barracks in Townsville. The event included a live combat demonstration and a historical address originally delivered by Prime Minister Harold Holt when he officially opened the barracks on 29 July 1966. Interestingly, Townsville was not the only location considered, with Victoria's Mornington Peninsula also in the running. Today, Lavarack Barracks spans approximately 750 hectares. To put that into perspective, that's roughly the size of more than 1,000 rugby league fields, an impressive reminder of its significance to North Queensland and Australia's defence capability.

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As part of the visit, I also toured James Cook University, where we learned about innovative work being undertaken in civil engineering and robotics. It was fascinating to discover that students from more than 100 countries choose to study at JCU, highlighting the university's strong international reputation and contribution to our region.

Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone at 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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DEFENDING LOCAL RETIREES: Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox listening to community concerns as he rallies support against rising health costs for regional seniors. Photo supplied.

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Opinion piece by Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox

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Seniors who spent decades working hard, paying taxes, and saving to fund their own future have earned the right to stability and security in their retirement. You expect your government to respect that lifetime of contribution. You do not expect it to target your retirement savings the moment you turn 65.

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Yet that is the harsh reality facing tens of thousands of seniors across Dawson under a policy shift by the Albanese Labor Government as part of its latest budget cash grab.

Starting in April 2027, the government will abolish the extra private health insurance rebate built specifically to keep healthcare affordable for retirees on fixed incomes. Right now, older Australians receive a higher rebate tier to offset the loss of a regular wage. Labor is scrapping that support to help cover its own budget deficit.

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The financial penalty is severe. Support drops from 28.1 per cent down to 24.1 per cent for people aged 65 to 69; for anyone 70 or older, it plunges from 32.2 per cent to 24.1 per cent.

In real dollars, this decision forces a massive annual price hike on vulnerable members of our community on fixed incomes. On average, this adds up to around $807 more for singles and $1,614 more for couples on comprehensive cover.  

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Under a Labor-created cost of living crisis where the price of basic necessities are rapidly rising, adding around $1,600 a year to a retiree’s healthcare is not insignificant, it is a heartless and brutal blow to locals who are already struggling under record electricity, grocery, and insurance costs.

Labor ministers can spin this as a routine adjustment, but internal department documents obtained under Freedom of Information expose the ugly truth. Federal health bureaucrats knew exactly what this cut would trigger: pensioners skipping meals and medicines, downgrading their protection, or dropping private cover entirely to join endless public waitlists in severe pain for joint replacements.

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And while this policy directly punishes seniors for self-funding their healthcare, the fallout will be felt by every family in our region.

Nearly half of all Age Pensioners make significant personal sacrifices to maintain private health cover because prompt treatment matters. Forcing them out of private health does not make their medical needs vanish, a failing heart or damaged joint still requires surgery. The only difference is that these patients will be shifted directly into local public hospital queues, piling unsustainable pressure onto doctors, nurses, and beds throughout our hospitals in Dawson.

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The economics behind this decision are completely backwards. Independent analysis confirms that for every single dollar the Federal Government saves by stripping away this rebate, our public hospital system will absorb $1.20 in extra emergency admissions and surgeries.  

It is a short-sighted cost-shift that treats local retirees like cash machines, will push state hospitals to breaking point, and has the real potential to blow out surgical wait times across the region.

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The Coalition firmly believes that if you take responsibility for your own healthcare, your government should support you, not penalise you. Seniors who built our communities deserve dignity and stability in retirement.  

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I want to hear directly from you about how this budget decision will impact your household. I have set up an online petition to gather our community's voice: if you are able, please fill it out at http://lbr.al/89sk. If you cannot access a computer, you can contact my office directly on (07) 4944 0662 or pop in to see us at Level 2, 47 Gordon Street, Mackay.  

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The Coalition will fight this unfair health tax every step of the way in Parliament to protect our retirees and defend our regional health services.

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