The importance of strong regional natural resource management partnerships was front and centre at the first meeting of the Gudjuda Rangers Country Working Group, held last week on Bindal Country at the Australian Institute of Marine Science.

The meeting brought together Gudjuda Rangers and NQ Dry Tropics team members alongside Traditional Owners, land managers and representatives from Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, the Queensland Rural Fire Service and Firesticks.

All groups will work collaboratively to deliver NQ Dry Tropics’ Fighting Invasive Species Together project, a new three-year, $1.9 million initiative designed to protect biodiversity and agricultural land across North Queensland from the growing threat of invasive weeds and pests.

Planning is well underway, with the project set to build on existing local partnerships while strengthening the capacity of Land and Sea Ranger groups to improve fire regimes and manage invasive species on the ground. Gudjuda Rangers will play a leading role in planning and coordinating works in the Lower Burdekin.

Participants at the meeting acknowledged the value of cultural knowledge in land management and expressed a shared commitment to working across different land tenures to achieve stronger, long-term environmental outcomes.

The Fighting Invasive Species Together project is funded through the Queensland Government’s $117.84 million Natural Resource Management Expansion Program.

CAPTION: Back row, left to right: Rullington Zaro (Gudjuda Ranger), Andrew Blair and Sherry Cullen (AIMS), Karen Vidler (NQ Dry Tropics), Paul Anderson, (Acting Senior Ranger, Lower Burdekin, QPWS), Rosie Kidman, Jaeda Lenoy, Trinity Georgetown (all NQ Dry Tropics), Anita Dwyer (Manager, Bushfire Mitigation, Regional Fire Service, Qld), Holly Zaro (Gudjuda Ranger), Ian Clarke (Bushfire Mitigation Officer Regional Fire Service, Qld), Joe Jess (Ranger in Charge, Townsville, QPWS), Mohit Deolankar Research Manager, QPWS). Front row, from left: Victor Steffensen (Firesticks Co-founder), Russell Butler (Bandjin and Warrgamay Traditional Owner), Eddie Smallwood (CEO, Gudjuda Reference Group Aboriginal Corporation). Photo source: NQ Dry Tropics

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When Ruralquip began searching for the right hands to carry it forward in 2025, it refused to settle for just anyone.

Long-time owner Robert Oar had turned down multiple offers, determined the company’s next chapter would be led by someone local. Someone invested not just in the business, but in the region itself.

Enter, Shannon Musumeci.

Up to that point, she had thrived on familiarity.

She’d spent her entire life in the Burdekin. Over two decades working in the accounting industry.

But when she and her husband Max, as part of a consortium of local investors, purchased the company last year, a sense of duty to her community tugged her into the uncharted waters of leading a business as General Manager.

And she’s gone from strength to strength ever since.

After 21 years of working as a tax accountant, the move wasn't exactly a small pivot for Shannon, trading the structured world of tax returns and financial forecasts for supplier negotiations, stock movement, and the day in, day out unpredictability of running a regional business.

It was a transition from advising companies to carrying the weight of one.

“I’ve embraced the opportunity to grow in new areas such as leadership, operations, and team development,” Shannon says.

“For me, stepping into the role… wasn’t just a career choice—it was a commitment to our family business and the community we live in.”

The shift from professional services into hands-on operations represented a significant shift, albeit one underpinned by similar foundations.

“My career in accounting gave me a strong foundation in financial management, business strategy, and problem-solving, as well as the discipline and attention to detail that come with working in a professional services environment,” she said.

“[The transition] has allowed me to bring those skills into a more hands-on, operational setting.”

As part of her role, Shannon currently oversees all areas of the business, from supplier relationships and product selection to team leadership and long-term planning.

In her short time at the helm, the business has already expanded its product range, strengthened supplier relationships and refined internal systems that have helped maintain the personalised service locals are accustomed to.

She attributes this swift, tangible success to a philosophy made up of three parts; resilience, integrity, and a genuine commitment to community.

“In a regional business, resilience is essential. You have to adapt, stay steady, and keep showing up,” says Shannon.

“Integrity is just as important. Being honest, consistent, and fair builds trust, and trust sustains a business over time.

“I also believe that investing in your community strengthens everyone. When the region thrives, so do the businesses within it.”

But just as importantly for Shannon, it’s about striking a balance between hard work and enjoying the simple things.

Outside of work, she enjoys music and values time spent socialising with friends, often over a cold beer after a busy day. She calls her husband and two sons, Jonas and Dallas, her “greatest motivation.”

“No matter how busy life gets, they’re my priority—and the reason I work hard to build something meaningful for the future.”

Looking ahead, Shannon says she's focused on continuing to strengthen her leadership as she guides the company into its next phase.

“For me, it’s not just about the size of the business in five years, but about building something stable, sustainable, and well-respected.”

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Honouring the legacy of a family business established long before she was born, Kari Ravizza has spent the past 13 years as Managing Director of McCathies Furniture Plus, though in many ways, she has been part of its story her entire life.

Born and raised in Ayr, Kari grew up immersed in the rhythms of small business. After graduating from Ayr State High School, she initially followed a different calling, pursuing a Bachelor of Education at James Cook University in Townsville and embarking on a career as an Early Childhood Teacher.

“I had grown up in the family business, but I followed my passion for teaching straight after high school,” Kari said.

Teaching was a career she loved deeply, shaping her people-first approach to leadership. However, in 2011, an opportunity arose that would bring Kari and her husband Rob back to the Burdekin and into the family business.

The couple had always considered the Burdekin home, regularly returning with their children, Chelsea and Jye, to visit family. When the chance came to buy into McCathies Furniture Plus, the decision felt natural.

“At the start of 2013, we bought into the business, moved our family home, and I took leave from teaching to begin my career as a business owner,” Kari said.

McCathies Furniture Plus was first established in 1974 by Kari’s grandparents, Jack and Milly McCathie, before passing to her parents, John and Lyndy McCathie, in the 1990s. Today, Kari and Rob proudly lead the business as third-generation owners.

Throughout her 13 years managing the business, Kari has experienced many highs and lows, with the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 standing out as both one of her greatest challenges and most unexpectedly rewarding periods.

“We went from fearing the worst to being the busiest we had ever been,” Kari recalled.

“With families spending more time at home, people began investing in their living spaces. Demand skyrocketed. It was exhausting — but incredibly rewarding.”

Yet for Kari, the most meaningful moments of business have never been about growth alone; they have always centred on people.

One moment from her early days in the business remains especially close to her heart.

“I remember helping a woman who had a terminal illness choose a mattress she would spend much of her remaining time on,” Kari said.

“It wasn’t about making a sale. It was about making sure she was comfortable and felt cared for.”

“That’s when I realised I’m not just selling furniture,” she said.

“I’m supporting people through some of the most important — and vulnerable — moments of their lives.”

That philosophy underpins everything Kari does. She believes business can be personal without losing professionalism and values genuine connection with staff, customers and the wider community.

Like many small business owners, Kari wears many hats — from managing staff and ordering stock to delivering furniture and sweeping floors.

Beyond the business, Kari is deeply involved in the local community, and she currently serves as Secretary of the Burdekin Chamber of Commerce and as the Ambassador Co-ordinator for the Burdekin Water Festival.

Outside of work, Kari enjoys audiobooks on her morning runs, playing the piano and singing (mostly in the shower). Yet, family remains at the centre of her world, and she and Rob are proud parents to Chelsea and Jye. The family also adores their beloved fur babies; Minus, a 17-year-old Pomeranian cross Chihuahua, and Holly, a 13-year-old Toy Poodle.

Looking ahead, Kari describes 2026 as a year of growth and change for McCathies Furniture Plus.

“I hope the risks we’re taking now have paid off,” she said, “and the business continues to be successful, well supported, and still supporting others in return.”

Compassionate, determined and genuine, Kari Ravizza’s leadership reflects not only the strength of a family legacy, but a deep commitment to people, community and purpose.

Q: Looking back, what do you wish your younger self understood about building a career or business as a woman?

A:  Looking back, I wish my younger self understood that where you are now is not always where you will be in the future. Things change, you grow, and opportunities come along that you never expected.

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Chantel Michielin leads North Queensland Region 436 as Regional Manager for Bendigo Bank Home Hill & Ayr, guided by a belief that long-term success is built from the inside out. While technical skills have their place, Chantel says true leadership is grounded in three essential qualities: resilience, empathy and authenticity.

“Resilience is the engine that allows you to absorb shocks, learn from failure and persevere. It turns challenges into opportunities for growth,” Chantel said.

Empathy, she explains, can be equally vital, not only for customers, but for teams as well.

“A genuine understanding of your customers’ pain points is the bedrock of any great business,” she said.

“Internally, empathy fosters loyalty and collaboration. It’s something women leaders often bring naturally to the table.”

Authenticity ties it all together.

“In a crowded market, people connect with genuine leaders. Being authentic builds trust — it means leading in a way that’s true to your values, not someone else’s idea of what a leader should be.”

Chantel’s career in banking began with a passion for helping clients navigate their financial journeys. As she stepped into leadership, that focus expanded.

“What I truly love about my role is helping others build confidence, develop their capabilities and take ownership of their career growth,” she said.

“Contributing to someone else’s development is incredibly fulfilling.”

Born and raised in Ayr, Chantel describes herself as local “through and through.” After gaining valuable experience with NAB and spending several years living and working in Mount Isa, she made the heartfelt decision to return home 15 years ago. Today, she lives in Ayr with her husband and their three children, deeply connected to the community she has always called home.

“In 2011, we made the decision to move back home, and it felt like the perfect opportunity to bring the skills and experience I'd gained back to the community I care so much about, and I haven’t looked back since,” she said.

“Being able to contribute to the place I've always called home has been incredibly rewarding.”

In her day-to-day role, Chantel credits one non-negotiable habit as key to her success: protecting her “off switch”.

“In our always-on culture, the ability to disconnect is a superpower,” she said.

“I have a firm end-of-day ritual where I close my laptop and put my phone away for a designated period. Creating that boundary between work and personal life is essential for preventing burnout and fostering creativity. That protected time with family or hobbies is what recharges me for the next day.”

Chantel describes witnessing the growth of the Community Bank in Home Hill and Ayr as “an absolute privilege,” saying the journey has been nothing short of remarkable.

In the beginning, the foundation was built on a powerful idea that a local bank could be more than a provider of financial services; it could be “a cornerstone for community growth and resilience” and establishing trust and demonstrating genuine commitment to the people of Home Hill and Ayr were early priorities.

Over time, that vision has grown into a thriving local institution, yet for Chantel, success isn’t measured purely in financial terms, but in the tangible impact made across the region of local businesses expanding, community groups bringing projects to life, and families achieving their dream of homeownership.

One pivotal milestone was reaching the bank’s first major community investment target.

“Seeing the first significant sum of money go back into a local project was proof that our model was working,” she said.

“It was no longer just a concept; it was a tangible force for good right here in our community.”

Equally meaningful have been the individual success stories; a young farmer growing their operation, a sporting club upgrading its facilities, families building stability for the future. During floods, droughts and periods of economic uncertainty, the community’s unwavering support further reinforced what makes the model special.

“It highlights that we are truly in this together,” Chantel said.

Today, she believes the bank’s greatest achievement is how deeply it has become woven into the fabric of Home Hill and Ayr; “a testament to what can be achieved when a community decides to back itself.”

Looking ahead, Chantel remains focused on her current role, with aspirations to step into a more senior strategic position in the coming years, helping shape long-term direction and mentoring future leaders.

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Carla Healy never expected to be a business owner. She'll even tell you that she was more than happy to remain a sales assistant.

But when things lined up for the Burdekin local to purchase Raine & Horne Ayr in 2024—the company she’d worked at for almost a decade up to that point—she took an uncharacteristic leap into the unknown.

For better, or for worse? Well, it would depend on when you asked her.

The purchase marked a momentous milestone, but where champagne should have flowed, tears did instead.

“I cried for the first week," recalls Carla.

“I thought, ‘what the hell have you done? What were you thinking? You're an agent. You're not a business owner.'”

She had no formal training. No bona fide experience in business ownership.

But she had one asset that overrode every one she lacked.

Sheer determination.

“I’m not a quitter—never have been,” she said.

“There were definitely days I wanted to in those times. A lot of times it crossed my mind…

But pride never let me.”

And with that attitude in her sails, there was nothing that could stand in the way of her subsequent success.

With each passing day, she became increasingly at home in the position.

“I remember one day towards the end of 2024, driving to work, pulling up to the office, looking at it, walking in and going, ‘Yeah. I do love what I do. You do love what you do, Carla—and it's only going to get better from here,” she said.

And that, it did.

In her near two year stint at the helm, Carla has led the office to levels it hadn't previously known. The branch was recognised with four different awards at the 2024 Queensland/Northern Rivers State Awards, and then a further six at this year’s iteration just last month.

Personally, Carla has hit milestones of her own—most notably Top Principal Number of Sales Transactions in the state, as well as becoming Ayr and Home Hill's top-rated real estate agent on RateMyAgent for the second year running and the Top Agent for Ayr, Home Hill and Brandon with RealEstate.Com.

But for all the tangible recognition, she derives the most pleasure from helping people make one of the most important decisions of their lives.

“You're fulfilling people's dreams,” she said.

"You’re matching the right person to the right property. People entrust you to sell or buy their most valuable asset—their home. Seeing them all happy, that’s all the reward needed.”

Although technically the owner and Team Principal, she never truly left her post as a sales agent, still attending to calls, appraisals, and handling clients directly—just as she did in her formative days at Andersen Real Estate before it franchised to Raine & Horne in 2019.

“I didn’t take the boss’s office—I’m one of them [the sales agents], just with a different title underneath me,” she says. “It still doesn’t click to this day—Principal/Owner.”

Behind the scenes, her husband Keith is her anchor, and, in her words, her “biggest fan.” Retired, he manages the home, allowing Carla to tackle the volatility of a real estate day head-on.

“He always believed I could when I didn’t," she said.

"For once, I listened."

As she continues to grow the business, she remains optimistic for the future.

“We've just started. We’ll keep powering on, doing what we're doing,” she said.

"I’m always of the opinion that if it’s working well, you don’t fix it!”

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Competing against some of Queensland’s largest metropolitan agencies, Raine & Horne Ayr proved size isn’t everything, collecting six awards at last month’s Queensland/Northern Rivers State Awards in Brisbane.

Held annually, the ceremony brought branches from across the state to The Star to recognise excellence across a range of performance-based categories in sophisticated fashion.

The Ayr office was one of the night’s standout performers, collecting second place for Top Office Regional Sales GCI, fourth for Top Office Number of Sales Transactions and 10th for Top Office GCI.

Team principal Carla Healy also secured a string of individual honours, including Chairmans Club Salesperson – Platinum (the highest level, awarded to only two principals for 2025), first place for Top Principal Number of Sales Transactions and fourth for Top Principal Sales GCI.

Carla said she was proud of her team’s success, describing the recognition as a bonus rather than the end goal.

“It’s not about winning the race, but when you do win the race, it’s nice to know your hard work has paid off,” she said.

“We just make sure that whatever we do, we do it 150 per cent, and the rest of it falls into place. Anybody in the real estate game knows that every day is a Monday. There’s no stopping—it just continues, and if you want to succeed, you’ve got to be there, every day.”

She said the results meant even more given the size of the office compared to its metropolitan counterparts.

“I knew we were in the running for a couple of awards, but I didn’t think we’d bring home six!” she said.

“We’re a small office. We’re in a small area, and we’re competing with offices with mega, mega commissions. So for our office to come 10th overall is just a fantastic feeling, for sure.”

“It says everything about our team. My team is my family—I love my team to death, and I’d be lost without them. They’re all brilliant at what they do.”

Reflecting on her individual achievements, Carla said she was particularly pleased to claim Top Principal Number of Sales Transactions, edging out friend and mentor Michael Skuse of Raine & Horne Innisfail, who claimed the title last year.

“We have this friendly rivalry. I told him, ‘I’ll knock you off your perch this year,’ and I did. Now I’ve got bragging rights till this time next year,” she said.

“But he’s a great mentor. He’s a man I ask a lot of questions to, because he’s been there, done that—he’s been in real estate for an exceptionally long time. So it was wonderful to celebrate and catch up with him.”

Carla’s performance throughout 2025 also earned her an invitation to Raine & Horne’s International Conference on Hamilton Island in August, though she was quick to credit her team for her individual success.

“Success is only the people around you,” she said.

“It’s not and never is one person.”

Looking ahead, Carla said it would be business as usual for the Ayr office, sticking to the formula that has served the team well since she took the reins in June 2024.

“We’re just going to keep doing what we do and do what we do well,” she said.

“I’m always of the opinion that if it’s working well, you don’t fix it!”

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A 41-year-old Ayr man has been charged with multiple drug offences after police stopped his vehicle for a roadside test in Ayr on Saturday morning.

Officers intercepted a grey Mazda sedan on Lando Street about 11am on February 28 for the purpose of a random breath test.

It will be alleged that, following a search of the vehicle, police located a quantity of drugs and drug utensils, including methylamphetamine and cocaine.

Police will further allege the driver returned a positive roadside drug test before he was taken into custody.

The man has been charged with two counts of possessing dangerous drugs, and one count each of possessing property obtained from supplying dangerous drug, possessing anything used in the commission of a crime, and possess pipe that had been used.

He was refused police bail and is due to appear in Townsville Magistrates Court on March 2.

Detective Sergeant Dave Imhoff, Officer in Charge of Ayr Criminal Investigation Branch, said the seizure was significant for the local community.

“Our officers are acutely aware of the destructive impact ‘ice’ has on families and the community, and we’re committed to removing any quantity of the drug we can,” he said.

“In this case, we’re talking about approximately 1000 individual ‘uses’ of the drug, which is a considerable number for a relatively small community and would have fuelled a high degree of public harm,” he said.

“The arresting officers did a spectacular job detecting and seizing this amount of ice.”

A 41-year-old Ayr man has been charged with multiple drug offences after police stopped his vehicle for a roadside test in Ayr on Saturday morning. Photo source: QPS

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At Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, banking is about more than transactions – it’s about relationships, trust and being part of something bigger. For staff members Jasmine Green and Jade Bywaters, working at the local branches isn’t just a job. It’s a genuine connection to the people and community they call home.

For Jasmine Green, who joined Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr in 2026 as a Customer Service Officer, being part of a welcoming team has made her transition into the Burdekin an easy one. Originally from Port Macquarie, NSW, Jaz comes from a big family – she has four siblings and is the youngest child and granddaughter on both sides. She has also been with her partner Locklan for four years, and values the strong family foundation that has shaped who she is.

Jaz says what she enjoys most about her role is the atmosphere. “It’s such a welcoming and comfortable environment,” she shares. “You feel supported straight away, and that makes it easy to support our customers too.”

Outside of work, Jaz loves to draw, listen to music, try new foods and explore new places. Since moving to the region, she’s been struck by what makes the Burdekin special. “It’s such a diverse community,” she says. “Everyone smiles and says hello, even if you don’t know them.”

Customer Relationship Manager and Home Lending Specialist Jade Bywaters brings a similar passion for people to her role. Born in Portland, Victoria, but moved to Ayr when she was 8, Jade joined the Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr team in 2019 and quickly embraced the Burdekin way of life.

For Jade, the most rewarding part of her role is helping customers achieve their goals – whether that’s purchasing their first home, upgrading to the next, or securing their forever home. “Supporting my customers to achieve their goals while at the same time giving back to the community is what I love most,” she explains.

When she’s not working, Jade enjoys spending time with her partner Shaun and their daughters Kayley and Larah, all born and raised in the Burdekin, along with their animals.

Together, Jaz and Jade represent what makes Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr unique – local people, investing in local futures, and strengthening the community they proudly serve.

The Burdekin Shire is being urged to stay informed as a developing tropical low in the north threatens to intensify into a cyclone later this week, adding to already saturated conditions across Queensland.

After weeks of heavy rain and flooding across the state’s north and east, attention has turned to a system in the Gulf of Carpentaria being closely monitored by the Bureau of Meteorology. Tropical Low 31U, currently moving over Gulf waters, has a low chance of developing into a cyclone in the coming days, though forecasters say conditions could shift quickly.

Another system, Tropical Low 29U, forming in the Coral Sea, is forecast to move west later this week and could track towards the Queensland coast between Lockhart River and Mackay before potentially moving inland. While the exact path remains uncertain, communities across Northern Queensland, including the Burdekin, are being advised to monitor updates closely.

Locally, the Burdekin Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) has transitioned back to ALERT status as a precaution. The Australian Warning System message for the Burdekin Local Government Area currently sits at “Advice – Stay Informed”.

Minor flooding has continued along the Burdekin River, with Sunwater confirming the Burdekin Dam was sitting at 3.75 metres and steady above the minor flood level of 3 metres as of Monday, 2 March. At the Inkerman Bridge gauge, river levels are holding at 7.45 metres, also above minor flood level. Both are expected to remain elevated through Thursday and Friday.

Currently, no communities are isolated, and no major impacts have been reported. However, further showers and thunderstorms forecast across the catchment could trigger additional river rises in the coming days. Residents of low-lying areas, including Rita Island, are being reminded they may become isolated if water levels increase.

“With cyclone season still underway, this is a timely reminder for households across the Burdekin to make sure they are prepared,” Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said.

“While there is still uncertainty around this system, being prepared early makes a real difference. I encourage residents to check their emergency plans, ensure their kits are ready, and stay informed through official sources.

“Council’s Disaster Dashboard and emergency management pages on our website provide reliable, uptodate information, and are the best places to find advice as conditions change. Visit disaster.burdekin.qld.gov.au”

Authorities are urging residents not to be complacent. Roads and access points could quickly become impassable, and drivers are reminded never to enter floodwaters. “If it’s flooded, forget it” remains the standing advice.

Emergency services are encouraging households to take practical steps now while conditions are stable. Preparation starts with understanding your risk, knowing how flooding or cyclonic winds could impact your home, access roads, workplace and children’s schools.

Residents should review or create a household emergency plan, ensuring all family members know evacuation routes, emergency contacts and meeting points. An emergency kit should include at least five days’ worth of drinking water, non-perishable food, medications, pet supplies, torches, batteries and important documents in waterproof packaging.

Now is also the time to secure loose outdoor items, trim overhanging branches and check that gutters and drains are clear. Farmers and business owners should consider contingency plans for livestock, equipment and stock.

Residents are encouraged to monitor the Burdekin Disaster Dashboard, tune into local radio Sweet FM 97.1, and check the Bureau of Meteorology website for the latest warnings. Road closures can be found via QLD Traffic or by calling 13 19 40.

For SES assistance during floods or storms, call 132 500. In life-threatening emergencies, call Triple Zero (000).

With Queensland no stranger to extreme weather, preparation remains the strongest defence. While the cyclone threat is still developing, authorities stress that communities who act early are best placed to weather whatever the coming days may bring.

All information published was current as of Tuesday, 3 March.

BOM predicts systems will continue to form over the weekend. Photo source: BOM

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A new statewide police operation targeting break-ins, robberies and stolen vehicles will begin this week as the government steps up efforts to reduce crime across Queensland.

The operation, known as Operation Forge, will officially commence on Friday, February 27, and will involve high-visibility policing across the state aimed at tackling property crime and high-risk offenders. The initiative is being rolled out in partnership with the Queensland Police Service and follows a reported 7.2 per cent reduction in the number of victims of crime in 2025 compared to the previous year.

Operation Forge will be led by district police, with support from specialist units including the Criminal Investigation Branch, Child Protection and Investigation Unit and tactical crime squads. Resources such as POLAIR, forensic services, surveillance operations and digital intelligence teams will also be deployed.

The government says the operation forms part of its broader commitment to restoring community safety and addressing what it describes as Labor’s “Youth Crime Crisis”. The crackdown will also focus on serious repeat offenders, following a 17 per cent reduction in repeat offending over the past year.

Minister for Police and Emergency Services Dan Purdie said the operation would target the state’s most serious offenders.

“Operation Forge will target the worst of the worst as we continue to turn the tide of Labor’s Youth Crime Crisis and give our police the laws and resources they need to do their jobs,” Minister Purdie said.

QPS’ latest operation forms part of its broader commitment to restoring community safety. Photo source: QPS

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Tec-NQ House in Rosslea, Townsville accommodates up to 40 boys completing Years 10–12 at Tec-NQ. With a deliberately unique approach to high school, students explore vocational pathways aligned with their career goals while completing their Senior School Certificate.

Through work experience programs across north and west Queensland, students get to test out different industries to see what suits them best. Many students go onto secure school-based apprenticeships where they are paid to learn, before transitioning to full time apprenticeships once they graduate.

Caleb’s Tec-NQ House journey took an exciting turn this year through his placement at Dan’s Automotive in Currajong. Quiet by nature, he arrived eager to learn but still building confidence. That quickly changed.

“When Caleb first started, he was quiet… but now his confidence has grown, and he is a valued member of our team,” said Dan, the owner. Dan’s Automotive has long supported Tec-NQ students, including one former school-based apprentice who is now a tradesman.

Caleb began his placement doing the basics: cleaning, sweeping and passing tools. Through commitment and curiosity, he quickly progressed. Today, he’s operating the hoist, changing oil and completing full services under the supervision of the tradespeople. His growth has been impossible to miss.

“Caleb has really shown us what he’s made of—I plan to offer him an apprenticeship very soon,” Dan said.

Head of Boarding Luke Papworth says this is exactly the opportunity Tec-NQ House is designed to support. “Boarding gives young people the structure and independence to step into real work environments with confidence. When students like Caleb take these opportunities seriously, the transformation is remarkable.”

With the steady support of Tec-NQ House and the hands-on guidance of local industry partners, Caleb is building a strong future in automotive. From quiet beginnings to earning the trust of a professional workshop, he’s proving what dedication and the right environment can achieve.

For a unique senior school and boarding solution that delivers a real-world trade start, you can’t look past Tec-NQ.

Contributed with thanks to Tec-NQ

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Nine dedicated members of the Burdekin unit of the State Emergency Service Queensland were recognised on Monday night, as Area Controller John Forde presented Emergency Response Medals at a ceremony held at the Ayr SES depot.

The newly introduced SES medal is awarded in recognition of emergency service deployment of five or more days during declared events since the transition to Queensland Police Service on June 3, 2024.  The medal acknowledges the commitment and endurance demonstrated by SES members during extended operations.

The medals were presented to members who deployed to Brisbane and Ipswich during Tropical Cyclone Alfred in February 2025, where they assisted communities impacted by severe weather and flooding.

Recipients included Local Controller Warren Francis, Deputy Local Controller John Winn, Ayr Group Leader Paul Haller, Ayr Deputy Group Leader John George Jr, Giru Group Leader Matt Tapp, Rita Island Group Leader Ben Barbagallo, Rita Island Deputy Group Leader Deb Calligaro (not pictured), Iane Schwerin and Cheryl Wade. Life Member Donn Thomson, along with Don Baillie, received their five-year citations.

Francis said the awards provided well-deserved recognition for the recipients’ efforts throughout disaster season.

“There's not a lot we can do to reward volunteers—we don’t get paid, we do terrible work, and we do it quite happily,” he said.

“When our members wear these medals, the community will know they’ve done the hard yards.”

Burdekin Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort attended the evening, along with representative of Dale Last, Member for Burdekin, David Cooper, in support of the local volunteers.

Mr Last said the Burdekin SES had continued to provide an invaluable service across the wet season.

“While the majority of us are hunkered down in our homes during times of severe weather, these men and women in our local orange army are out in force,” Mr Last said.

“Whether it's in flood boat operations, tarping roofs, providing sandbags or assisting in the clean-up efforts following an event, our SES volunteers deserve our utmost gratitude for the work they do to keep our community safe.”

The ceremony highlighted the vital role SES volunteers play in supporting communities during times of crisis, with each recipient commended for their service, dedication and willingness to step forward when called upon.

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox MP, is calling for community organisations to lace up their boots and prepare for the 2025-26 Volunteer Grants. With expressions of interest now open, Andrew is looking to support the local legends who keep our region in the winning circle.

These grants, ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, provide the home-ground advantage for

community groups to purchase equipment and support the diverse team of volunteers that make Dawson thrive. The program is designed to strengthen our social fabric by backing the people who give their time for the benefit of others.

Mr Willcox said it is time to give our community champions the support they deserve.

"Volunteers are the absolute MVPs of our region: they are the ones who show up early to set the field and stay late to pack it down. However, even the most legendary team needs the right gear to succeed.

“These grants provide a fantastic opportunity for our local groups to upgrade their equipment and ensure their volunteers have the tools they need to perform at their peak.”

Mr Willcox said he is looking for entries from every corner of the community.

“If your group relies on the power of people to make a difference, you are a star player in my book.”

The 2025-26 Volunteer Grants feature two key categories to help local groups score big:

• Category 1: Communication and Safety. This supports essential IT items such as

mobile phones, laptops, and software to help your group connect better; additionally, it

covers critical safety and operational expenses like insurance premiums and internet

fees.

• Category 2: Community Support and Activity. This category is dedicated to items and

activities that directly benefit specific groups: including children’s development, people

with disabilities, and unemployed locals looking to upskill.

"From language classes to sporting events, these grants ensure everyone has a seat at the table. Whether you are running programs for children or providing vital support for our veterans, these grants are here to help you go the distance.”

Expressions of interest for the Dawson electorate will be accepted until 5.00pm, Friday 20 March 2026. To request an EOI application form and a copy of the guidelines, please contact the Office of Andrew Willcox MP via email at Andrew.Willcox.MP@aph.gov.au or visit www.grants.gov.au for further information.

Contributed with thanks to the Office of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox MP.

Local legends such as Volunteer Marine Rescue Midge Point and the Burdekin

Woodcrafts Association have already demonstrated the value of these grants: proving just how much of a difference this support makes for our regional volunteers. Photos supplied

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After seven years of service, including two and a half as Local Controller, the Burdekin State Emergency Service is farewelling one of its steady hands, with Warren Francis officially stepping down from the role.

Mr Francis and his wife Jenny, also a committed member of the Burdekin SES, are relocating to Warwick after she secured what he described as a “tremendous job opportunity,” with the move meaning both will step away from their local duties.

For Mr Francis, the decision is bittersweet.

“The thing that makes me smile is the support,” he said.

“I've been absolutely blessed to have such wonderful people working in this unit, absolute legends, every last one of them.”

His departure caps off a significant chapter for the Burdekin SES. During his tenure as Local Controller, volunteership doubled to more than 50 members across the Burdekin branches, strengthening the unit’s capacity to respond to the region’s frequent emergencies. On average, the unit now responds to about 160 jobs a year from storm damage and flood response to search and rescue operations.

Before leading the SES locally, Mr Francis brought with him 37 years of experience as a Queensland police officer, much of it spent as a search and rescue specialist in Brisbane and as far north as the Torres Strait. In that time, he worked closely with SES crews and Marine Rescue Queensland volunteers.

“I was probably one of the biggest users of SES and Marine Rescue Queensland in the state in those days… and I just felt I should pay back,” he said.

Beyond his SES leadership, Mr Francis also worked with Burdekin Shire Council as a disaster management officer, further embedding himself in the region’s emergency response framework and strengthening coordination between agencies.

Deputy Group Leader of Rita Island SES, Deb Calligaro, said his impact on the organisation would be lasting.

“Warren Francis has been an amazing leader as the Local Controller for Burdekin SES, and is a great mentor, supporter, and friend,” she said.

“I have been so lucky to have worked with Warren and I have learnt valuable skills and life lessons from our SES training.”

“Warren & Jenny have become lifelong friends of mine and they will both be sadly missed—not just by me, but also the wider Burdekin Community.”

While the Burdekin loses a respected leader, Mr Francis made it clear his commitment to service isn’t ending, but is simply changing postcodes.

After seven years of service, including two and a half as Local Controller, the Burdekin State Emergency Service is farewelling one of its steady hands, with Warren Francis officially stepping down from the role. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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I was under the impression that imposter syndrome was a myth until I sat in Populins Hall on Saturday for Canegrowers’ 100-year birthday celebration.

Dignitaries to my right. Generational cane farmers to my left.

”What am I even doing on the guest list…?" I thought.

Followed quickly by, "Oh, shoot—I’m meant to be taking photos of all this."

When I wasn’t looking through the lens, it was genuinely heartwarming to see so much support for such an important organisation in the region.

Just sitting there, learning its history, hearing the stories, and seeing the role it’s played in shaping the Burdekin was eye-opening, especially for a fella who barely even knew what cane was a year ago.

But it was a momentous night in many ways. Not only did it celebrate an organisation that has served farmers so well for over a century, the evening also shone a light on some of the true trailblazers of the industry, nurtured right here in the Burdekin.

Stay tuned for next week’s multi-page celebratory Canegrowers feature, where we’ll dive deeper into the people, the stories, and the legacy behind the milestone.

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