Local

The 2024 local football season got underway at last on Saturday at International Park. Burdekin Panthers played three home games on Saturday against Brothers but had to play on Field 2 because Field 1 was still unplayable. However, it was a successful Saturday, with the Premiers beating Brothers 5-3, and the Reserves drawing 1-1 however, the young and depleted Ladies side lost 0-12.

The Panthers were up against a Brothers team who were last year's minor premiers and grand final winners. The game started at a fast pace and Brothers settled in to take a 1-0 lead early in the first half. This goal served to energise Burdekin who turned up the intensity. Burdekin were awarded a penalty and Matthew Kolb calmly slotted it home to make it 1-1 after 20 minutes. Burdekin's front three of Elliott Dal Santo, Jay Leckenby and Matthew Kolb were causing all sorts of issues for the Brothers back line and the Panthers Burdekin took the lead with Jay Leckenby curling a nice left foot shot into the top corner to give Burdekin a 2-1 lead at half time.

The second half started as the first ended, with Burdekin giving Brothers no time on the ball. Jay Leckenby floated a ball to the back post which Jack Gimson met with a nice header to make it 3-1 and Matthew Kolb, made it 4-1 with about 25 minutes to play. This kicked Brothers attackers into gear, and they started to get involved in the game. With about 10 minutes left they scored a goal to make it 4-2 and a couple of minutes later they scored another to make it 4-3. After a good run from Elliott Dal Santo, Oscar Licciardello, only having come on the field a few minutes earlier (for his first ever premier league minutes no less) scored a fifth goal for Panthers to win 5-3.

Burdekin FC Reserves kicked off in the heat at 3pm running into a strong breeze. It was a bright start with good energy and enthusiasm. Several debutantes to this grade this season and all played their part in a solid performance. Two early chances to score were saved by the Brothers’s keeper and the match settled into a back and forth arm wrestle for most of the first half. A defensive mistake allowed the Brothers striker was able to get clear and score the opening goal around the 30-minute mark.

In the second half the Panthers had the benefit of the wind began to enjoy good field position with Brothers finding it difficult to make scoring chances. The commitment of the midfield to compete for every possession kept Burdekin on top continuing to trouble the Brothers defence. The Panthers kept their effort going for the entire game and after some good lead-up passing were rewarded with a debut goal to Jhett Jones when he found clear space to push the ball past the keeper in the 90th minute. After a few hectic minutes of injury time the final whistle gave Burdekin a well-deserved point against one of last season’s top sides.

The FQPL Ladies kicked off the season against last year's Grand Finalist Brothers FC and a difficult match was expected. Brothers took advantage of the inexperienced and young Burdekin side early on opening the scoring within the first minutes of the game. This unfortunately was not the only goal, and Brothers dominated the first half to lead 6-0 at half time. Some strategic defensive moves allowed Burdekin to apply a more structured and defensive effort and the Ladies opened the second half with a more composed style of football and made Brothers work hard to gain possession. Special mention goes to midfielders Maddy Dal Santo, Charley Ruskin and Kya Quagliata who helped contain the Brothers attack. However, fatigue and lack of fitness due to the lack of subs allowed Brothers to take the advantage using their speed and experience to make the final score 12-0. A disappointing result for the Ladies, however their sportsmanship and attitude will bring this young and inexperienced team hope for growth and development. The ladies welcomed three Premier League debutants, Chayse Feeney, Ava Heatley and Tahlia Lawson who each held their own and show great promise in what is to come. 

Burdekin Panthers Kappa Cup match against JCU Riverway has now been re-scheduled to Tuesday 12 March, 7.00pm kick off at International Park.

This weekend’s features away fixtures against Warriors at Melrose Park. Reserves kick off at 3.00, the Ladies at 5.00 and the Premiers at 7.00. At the time of writing 1st Division appear to have a bye.

Training, at International Park is on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30 pm for men and Wednesdays at 6.00 pm for women. New to town? Come down to training and have a run.

Juniors

The final pre-season Saturday has been completed!  The weather was looking a little hairy at times, but we got it in! Teams will be e-mailed out this week, and coaches will be in contact with their team to organise training day and anything else.

Looking forward to first games this Saturday! More information on all this and the draw for Saturday will be out during the week.  A big thanks again to all who have put their hands up to coach the kids, it is much appreciated by everyone and you yourselves will get so much out of it.

Masters

Monday Night Masters had another good roll up and in a game of two halves, not to mention two pitches, Liverpool and Manchester City drew 4-4. Liverpool was ahead 2-0 at one stage but City fought back to go 4-3 up before Liverpool grabbed a last minute equaliser. Goal of the Game goes to John Federici. Old and New players welcome, usual time, usual place, 6.30 at International Park. Treat it as an escape…

National and International

The Young Matildas are in Uzbekistan, playing in the Under 20 Asian Cup. In their final group game, they defeated Chinese Taipei 3-0 and have now qualified for the semi-finals. Australia play Japan this Wednesday in Tashkent.

The Socceroos have two matches in March, against Lebanon, in the AFC Asian Qualifiers. The home leg will be played in Sydney on 21 March and then, due to the security aspect in the middle east, the second leg will be played in Canberra on 26 March.

In the A League, only two of the top five teams won. Central Coast beat Macarthur 3-0 to go top of the league as Wellington lost to Melbourne City. Victory moves up to third place two points ahead of Macarthur and Sydney FC stays in fifth spot after a 1-1 draw with Brisbane who drop to eighth place. Western Utd beat Western Sydney but stay bottom of the league.

In the A League Women, leaders Western Utd lost 1-3 to Sydney FC but stay at the top of the ladder two points clear of Melbourne City. Sydney FC stay in third spot and Victory remain in fourth place. Brisbane lost to Central Coast and drops to tenth place.

In the EPL with ten Rounds left it is still very tight at the top of the table with one point separating the top three teams. Liverpool drew 1-1 with Manchester City and with Arsenal winning their match, the Gunners are on top on the goal difference with City a point behind. Aston Villa stay fourth despite being marmelised 0-4 by Spurs. At the foot of the table only Notts Forest won. Burnley and Sheffield Utd are doomed, and Luton Town is in deep trouble.

In Germany, the top six teams all won, Leverkusen still leads Bayern by ten points. Third placed Stuttgart is another four points behind with fourth placed Dortmund a further six points adrift. At the bottom of the league, none of the nine cellar dwellers won and two out of Darmstadt, Mainz and Cologne look due for the drop.

In Italy’s Serie A, only two out of the top nine teams won. Inter and AC Milan were those clubs and Inter leads AC by sixteen points with Juventus a further point behind in third place. Bologna stays fourth and Roma fifth.

In Spain’s, La Liga five of the leading six teams won, only one out of the top ten teams won. Real Madrid leads Girona by seven points and Barcelona by eight. Atletico lost but stays in fourth place six points away. At the foot of the table Almeria is till yet to win a game and has nine points from twenty seven rounds!

Finally, in Ligue1 in France, PSG despite yet another draw is now ten points ahead of Brest. Third placed Monaco is a further point behind, and Lille stays in fourth place. At the foot of the table Clermont look doomed.

The 2nd Leg of the Europe Champions League Quarter finals starts this week, with Arsenal at home to Porto, Barcelona at home to Napoli, Atletico play Inter and Dortmund host PSV.

More importantly Coventry City travel to Wolves in the FA Cup Quarter Finals. I knew you would be interested.

This week’s quote is from Liverpool Manager Bob Paisley "Mind you, I've been here during the bad times too - one year we came second."

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The Ayr Surf Life Saving Club held a Family Fun Day and Sock Disco on Saturday March 2. The day was a great success with locals coming down to enjoy the festivities.

The dunk tank was a huge hit with both the young and old taking a turn to sink one of the Lifesavers braving the swing.

Kids braved the slip and slide, and families enjoyed a wide variety of outdoor games, face painting, fairy floss and popcorn.

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Cover Caption: Gabriel Hatherell, Cole Pontifex, Luca Lawry, Jude Lawry, Hoyt Pontifex & Oscar Hayllor. Photo supplied

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Ayr Surf Club’s Family Fun Day

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The Ayr Surf Club would like to thank all that attended and joined in the day.

For anyone interested in joining the club as a nipper or a Bronze Member, please contact our administrator on ayrslsc@gmail.com or via our Facebook page.

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Contributed by Kellie Lawry

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Caption 1: The Borgonid family

Caption 2: The Gutierrez family

Caption 3: Jax and Katrina Hearn

Caption 4: Zoe Ball, Bentley Favero and Miley Ball

Caption 5: Hoyt Pontifex and Jude Lawry

Caption 6: Front L-R: Laoise, Lillian’s Reilly, Alexander Marshal and Emmett Fraser. Back L-R Jimmy Hayllor, Briella Wassmuth and Alexandra Moloney

Caption 7: Emilee Wassmuth, Julia Rickards, Kristy Wassmuth and Chelsea Crooks

Caption 8: Photos supplied: Kellie Lawry

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Hi readers

I have returned from a wonderful weekend away with Jakita at Paluma Ranges National Park and, I must say, what a beautiful spot.

From swimming in the creeks and waterholes to wandering the tracks and taking in the vistas, it made for a refreshing weekend of exploring a beautiful part of the country that’s essentially right on our doorstep.

We observed a wide variety of bird life with a highlight being sitting on the balcony of a quaint café in the village, eating shepherd’s pie and drinking sarsaparilla after a big hike and watching yellow-faced honeyeaters, new holland honeyeaters and green catbirds flit through the backyard – some of which I had never seen before.

Swimming under the bridge at Little Crystal Creek is a truly unique experience, and, after recent rain, the water was flowing with some mighty force.

The water at all swimming holes felt cool, fresh and clean and was especially refreshing after hiking the trails.

We enjoyed our stay at the Big Crystal Creek camping ground, with the creek a short walk away and the shade of the trees providing a relaxing homebase.

We made a point of taking in the stars each night and, boy, did they put on a show.

We made our way up to the Frosty Mango, those signs just too appealing for us to say no, before heading up to Jourama Falls to find that part of the national park, unfortunately, closed.

There was simply too much to cram into one weekend so I will certainly be returning to Paluma soon.

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With Coles Ayr closing unexpectedly to complete urgent roof repairs, Woolworths has weathered an influx of shoppers to pick up the demand.

Many residents have taken to social media to share their appreciation of the supermarket’s handling of the extra customers.

“I think Woolies in Ayr deserve a big shout out for the amazing job they’ve done dealing with a sudden 100 per cent increase of demand from their store,” one person posted in the Burdekin Community Hub Facebook group.

“Not an easy task logistically and can only imagine the stress involved for all of their staff.”

The post was met with countless comments of support for the supermarket and its staff.

“I’ve been saying the same thing,” read one comment.

“Thank you for Woolworths staff working super hard.”

“The staff in there are so wonderful when you need help, they are so amazing.

“Keep up the good work, good to see people that still respect their jobs,” said another.

“They've been so busy every time I've gone in, but still amazing customer service and friendly smiles,” said another.

Coles, located in Burdekin Plaza in Ayr, suddenly closed in February after heavy rain caused damage to the buildings roof.

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Caption: Woolworths Ayr has seen an influx of customers due to the unexpected closure of Coles in February. Photo supplied

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First Nations organisations are welcome to submit their expression of interest to deliver a new ‘Intensive On Country’ trial program, for young First Nations Queensland engaged with the youth justice system.

Building upon foundations established by the current ‘On Country’ initiative, ‘Intensive On Country’ will include an intensive cultural and residential experience for longer periods of time, education and training opportunities, family support, and in home support.

The ‘On Country’ program boasts early data that young people who participated in the program are less likely to reoffend six months after the program completion, when compared with youth who did not participate.

This trend continued 12 months after the completion of the program, and with notable and significant improvements in behaviour, emotional regulation, effective communication, managing conflict, and family circumstances in youth participants.

Youth Justice Minister Di Farmer explained, “We are firmly committed to helping young people break the cycle of crime by giving them the opportunity to turn their lives around.

“This is why we are investing heavily in intervention and diversionary programs around the state that are proven to be effective in reducing offending.

“Our new initiative will build on from our current On Country program and provide a more intensive service to stop offending by helping young First Nations people to turn their lives.”

Uncle Eddie Smallwood of the Gudjuda Aboriginal Reference Group, based in Home Hill, admits that he had been approached by Governing bodies to facilitate the program in the Burdekin, however he is, “Still considering the implications of taking the program onboard.”

“It’s all well and good to say yes to the program, but you’ve got to consider if you have the right facilities for it,” Uncle Eddie explained.

“This program needs to run properly, or the kids will just reoffend.”

Uncle Eddie also explained that while this program is good, it does lack in some areas.

“We need to look at the parents and understand the home situation of the youth who are offending. A program which brings the parents and youth together would be great, but that can’t always happen,” Uncle Eddie said.

“A program like Earn & Learn is great to teach the youth to respect others, to respect the value of money and of property, but I also believe that such programs need to be delivered through the courts, with youth given the option to complete the program or spend a period of time is prison.”

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Caption: Uncle Eddie Smallwood of the Gudjuda Aboriginal Reference Group

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Coles Ayr reopened yesterday, Wednesday March 6, following its sudden closure over two weeks ago, due to comprised ceiling tiles posing a significant health and safety risk.

The trade of Coles Ayr, in the Burdekin Plaza, was initially suspended due to concerns about the stability of the roof tiles as a result of excess moisture and humidity from the recent heavy rains.

Engaging with the building landlord, a contractor was employed to undertake the necessary works.

Todd Riches, Coles Regional Manager explained that “We’re excited to welcome back the community into our Ayr store from this Wednesday (6 March).

“Our team are busy getting the store ready, after the short two-week closure while the ceiling tiles were replaced.

“To thank our customers for their patience and understanding, we are extending the free delivery offer. Our Ayr community can get free delivery on all orders over $50 until Sunday 10 March 2024.”

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An iron-clad plan must be developed for the local TAFE following a committee report into the services across the state, says Member for Burdekin Dale Last.

Mr Last has called on the Minister to front the Burdekin community to develop the plan after key findings in the report into the delivery of VET in regional, rural, and remote Queensland acknowledged that there was scope for improvement in community involvement in the planning for VET services in regional areas.  

“As we saw with the consultation process into the Infrastructure Strategy, when it comes to community consultation on the delivery of TAFE in their shire, we have to jump through hoops or miss out on a chance to have a say at all,” Mr Last said.

“For years, residents, business owners and chambers of commerce have called for better utilisation of the Burdekin TAFE facility to benefit not just students but the wider community and now this report echoes the need for them to be heard.

“Given the findings, it’s time for the Minister to come to the Burdekin and hear how we want to see our local TAFE facility being used and provide a plan as to how that vision can be brought to fruition.”

Mr Last said having an effective deliverance of TAFE in the Burdekin benefitted the whole region as well as improving the retention of young people from the district.

“Several stakeholders noted in the report the gaps between the training being delivered by TAFE and the skills required by local industries and at a time when the demand for skilled workers is skyrocketing, this should be ringing alarm bells for immediate action,” Mr Last said.

“Right now in the Burdekin we still have a group of young people who are being forced to leave the Burdekin to pursue training options that could be offered here at their local TAFE and at the same time we are seeing a dramatic rise in the number of unfilled positions in vital industries.

“I am calling on the Minister to provide assurances that she isn’t willing to sit on her hands while a rural Queensland community watches its young people leave just to secure the training they need for the career they want to pursue.”

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An Ayr woman has passed away after an incident involving a lawn mower on a private property on Cislowski Road, Ayr.

48-year-old Kylie Walker suffered head and chest injuries after the accident that occurred around 6:00pm on Monday, March 4.

Paramedics were called to the scene where she was assessed in a critical condition before, sadly, passing away.

Police are preparing a report for the coroner.

Ms Walker leaves behind her husband, Darren, and two teenage children who are well-known in the local farming community.

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Caption: Kylie Walker tragically passed away on Monday. Photo: Facebook

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Three joeys, two cubs, one scout, two leaders and one adult helper did Clean Up Australia Day on a day that turned out to be very warm – a job well done.

The day was finished with a BBQ and a swim at the pool.

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Contributed by Chris Berkery

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Stats for the day were:

Walked 6 kms around Home Hill and picked up:

   • 9 plastic bottles

   • 4 glass beer bottles

   • 20 cigarette butts

   • 15 plastic bottle tops

   • 7 plastic straws

   • 1 paper straw

   • 90 lolly wrappers

   • 6 newspaper inserts

   • 1 plastic ice cream cup

   • 2 plastic clothes pegs

   • 1 bike reflector

   • 1 wooden icy pole stick

   • 1 plastic takeaway food container

   • 10 aluminium drink cans

   • 2 pieces of car tyre tread

   • 2 pieces of iron bracket

   • 1 steel bolt

   • 1 biro/pen

   • 30 pieces of plastic

   • 3 pieces of glass

   • 70 pieces of paper

   • 3 small cardboard boxes

   • 1 pair of school shorts

   • 1 roll of masking tape

   • 1 popper box

   • 3 socks

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Caption: The Lower Burdekin Scout Group participated in Clean Up Australia Day on Sunday, March 3. Photo supplied

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Opinion Piece 

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox is calling out the Australian Government following the release of research that suggests its supercharged fuel efficiency standards could cost hard-working Aussies up to $25,000 more by 2029.

Mr Willcox said the Government’s supercharged fuel efficiency standards are another discriminatory blow to rural and regional Australia.

 “According to the FCAI (Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries), the top selling cars in Australia such as the Ford Ranger, Toyota Hilux, and Mitsubishi Outlander could cost up to $25,000 more after Labor’s fuel efficiency standards come into effect on 1 January 2025,” Mr Willcox said.

“The people of Dawson are currently struggling through a Labor created cost-of-living crisis, and this announcement comes at a time when people are worried about how they’re going to put food on the table, let alone how they’re going to be able to afford the extra costs of a practical vehicle."

The new fuel efficiency standards aim to support the growth of electric and battery-operated vehicle sales in Australia, but Mr Willcox suggested they are out of touch with what regional and rural Australia needs right now.

“These policies are tone deaf to the needs of people living in rural and regional areas, especially those living and working in our electorate of Dawson, and it seems that the Prime Minister does not understand what it takes to live in our communities,” he said.

“The reality is that the functionality and reliability of our vehicles can mean the difference between being able to feed your family or not.

“Electric and battery-operated vehicles do not have the capacity to cope with the needs of those living and working in our electorate of Dawson.

“They cannot transport what needs to be transported.

“They cannot carry the weight, they cannot tow the load, and worst of all, they cannot travel the vast distances needed or handle the harsh landscapes.

“This is purely a city orientated policy.

“It’s just not going to work for our tradies, farmers, fishers, and miners in Dawson.

“These vehicles are not up to the task.  

Mr Willcox said regional and rural areas across Australia do not have the infrastructure to support electric vehicles and, util this infrastructure exists, or electric and battery-operated vehicles can cope with the demands of regional communities, hard-working Australian residents cannot be denied the right to drive a vehicle that suits them and their work or lifestyle.

“We’re all committed to ensuring a cleaner, more sustainable future for Australia, but the Albanese Labor Government seems determined to set extreme deadlines to reach these targets, when what we really need are commonsense approaches that will actually work, and right now, this policy isn’t one of them,” he said.

“Australia is a relatively small market for car manufacturers, and with the stoke of a pen, the Labor Government is ensuring that Australian’s will not only have to pay more for a vehicle, they’re also going to be left with less choice if car manufacturers decide to pull out of the Australian market.”

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On Sunday February 25, Police attended a three-vehicle traffic crash on the Bruce Highway, Inkerman.

Investigation revealed a utility traveling southbound veered onto the incorrect side of the road, clipping a 4WD towing a trailer traveling north.

The utility has then struck the 4WD’s trailer causing extensive damage.

The utility has then clipped another vehicle traveling behind the 4WD causing minor damage.

No persons were injured as a result of the incident.

Police provided traffic control at the scene for several hours while the vehicles were towed.

The driver of the utility was issued an $619 infringement notice for careless driving.

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Caption: A utility driver was issued an infringement notice for careless driving after a triple vehicle crash. Photos supplied

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In the effort of protecting local communities and deterring youth offenders engaging in knife crime, new legislations banning the sale of knives and other items to minors have been passed by the Queensland Parliament.

The new laws make the sale of knives, replica firearms, including gel blasters, and edged weapons like machetes, axes, and swords to juveniles an offence, and Police Minister Mark Ryan believes the passing of these legislations stands as another positive advancement in the government’s comprehensive strategy to support community safety.

“The new laws will help to keep dangerous items out of the hands of young criminals,” explained Mr Ryan.  

In reducing accessibility, the legislations have been designed to disrupt and deter violent offences in youth and furthermore criminalise attempts to use false identification to purchase these items.

The new laws follow research conducted by Queensland Police Service (QPS), including an assessment of crime statistics, comparisons to knife crime in other jurisdictions and considerations of comparable legislative responses in Queensland including the sale of spray paint to minors. Commissioner Katarina Carroll believes the legislations will disrupt dangerous behaviour at the source, and work to allow communities to feel safe in their own homes and on the streets.

“Too many times we have seen the devastation which can result from possessing a knife including lifelong trauma for the victims, their families and the community,” explained Ms. Katarina Carroll.

“The Queensland Police Service welcomes the new laws as another tool for police to use in ensuring the best protection for the community.”

The new laws mark a commendable step to ensure the protection of retailers and community members alike and furthermore work to reduce youth offences and deter knife crime in Queensland.

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Unfortunately, incidents of Domestic Violence continue to occur around the Burdekin. As a result, there have been a number of persons charged with contravening Domestic Violence orders and in some instances, further charged with criminal offences such as assault.

Domestic Violence has a substantial impact on those involved, particularly when children are involved and the community as a whole.

Domestic Violence destroys families and relationships and should not be accepted or tolerated in society.

Police have considerable powers for dealing with Domestic Violence including power of entry to investigate such matters and power of detention.

Don’t let crises situations build up or escalate (e.g. Domestic Violence or family or neighbourhood disputes, the pressures of life including financial matters) until someone is assaulted or hurt, property is damaged or destroyed or Police intervention is required.  

There is a way out for those suffering from Domestic Violence. We encourage those who find themselves in any of these distressing or similar situations to seek help from the below agencies who can offer excellent, confidential and on-going assistance:

There are a number of organisations that can provide assistance to various issues a person may have:

   • Parentline - 1300 30 1300 - is open between 8am and 10pm, 7 days a week. If you call outside of these hours, you will hear a recorded message;

   • Lifeline - 24hr help line -13 11 14 – provides Services and information for people experiencing a personal or community crisis;

   • Domestic Violence Help Line on 1800 737 732.

   • Dispute Resolution Centre Townsville – 1800 908 605

   • North Qld Domestic Violence Support, Townsville 4721 2888

   • MensLine Australia- 1300 78 99 78

   • Burdekin Community Association, Ayr – 4783 3744 – business hours only 9am – 4pm

   • Kids Help Line - 1800 551 800

   • National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline 1800 250 015

Police in Ayr regularly see this at first hand and I’m sure many of you reading this column will know of friends, family or perhaps yourself that have been victim or otherwise impacted by this scourge.  

The Queensland Government has provided a website that provides excellent information and advice on this matter and can be accessed at the following address: www.communities.qld.gov.au/communityservices/violence-prevention/trust-your-instinct/domestic-and-family-violence

Don't let your concern become regret. Trust your instinct – call:

   • DVConnect 1800 811 811

   • Womensline 1800 737 732

   • Mensline Australia 1300 78 99 78

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Snr Sgt Steve Barton

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OIC AYR

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Who do you think is your biggest competitor? What do you admire about them and what qualities do you have that will ultimately make you better for the role?

If you could throw your support behind a particular local community organisation what would it be and how would you support them?

What’s your vision of the Burdekin in 10 years’ time?

Warren Francis

Councillor Candidate

 1:

I recently spoke to a reputable citizen of the Burdekin who attended the Chamber of Commerce meetings and he said, “There is not one of them you wouldn’t vote for” and I agree that all Candidates are all high quality. I feel my experience working in varied environments in different jobs has strengthened my ability to converse with people. Coupled with my volunteer works makes me an ideal candidate for working with the community.

 2:

 As the Local Controller of the Burdekin SES, I am committed to raising membership numbers by actively recruiting volunteers. I feel that this is an issue that many community organisations in the Burdekin region are struggling with. I would like to work with other community organisations to increase volunteer numbers and offer local community members the opportunity to gain experience to develop their employable skills. This will help to increase the sustainability and resilience of the Burdekin community.

 3:

I would like to see the Burdekin reverse the declining population and work at attracting families back to the area. The Councillors need to be futuristic and think outside the square to attract industry and population. Also to work with current industry to see if they can expand their current operations. Housing, schools, medical and shopping facilities would need to be developed in proportion to the increasing population along with activities and spaces for families to enjoy together.

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Pierina Dalle Cort

Mayoral Candidate

1:

In the current election, my only competitor is the incumbent Mayor – Lyn McLaughlin. While I acknowledge the role she has played over the years, I do believe there has been a lack of leadership and genuine support for the Burdekin community. Having been a successful business owner for 42 years and working with people from all walks of life, I know the skills that are needed. I know how to listen affectively and deliver accurately on everything I do.

2:

Choosing one local community organisation is challenging as there are so many deserving groups who volunteer towards the welfare of our community. One that stands out, is the School Chaplains which Council commenced contributing to during my time as a councillor. Chaplains go beyond all expectations and provide safe guidance and reassuring support often during times when our youth have no one else. Ongoing funding for this organisation is paramount to ensure this service continues. 

 3:

There is much to do over the next decade to deliver on my vision - a thriving region. Town centres that deliver activations to create a sense of community and to support continued development for local business. The expansion of industrial estate will provide diverse opportunity for growth and as a result retain our next generation and attract new population. I will support the expansion of the defence base in Townsville as this in turn will open our region for future possibilities.

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Callan Oar

Councillor Candidate

 1:

I don’t see any of the candidates as my competitors. What I can say is, most of the nominees, if elected, will bring some great skills and experience that I would like to collectively work with. I believe with my skills and determination; I can be the backbone in council that will help the council stand up and be counted. Not just shoved aside because hands are being tied.

2:

I couldn’t answer this question, as there isn’t just one community organisation that I think needs more council support. There are plenty. Council is sitting on great cash reserves that could be more easily used to support community infrastructure. I know there have been schemes available like interest free loans in the past, but typical of council, these prove very hard to acquire.

 3:

A bigger Burdekin. Growth! We need a growth plan now! The Burdekin population has been slowly shrinking for at least 15 years. Sporting and community clubs are struggling. Volunteers declining. Without growth, less people are left to foot the bill. And that bill doesn’t stop growing.

Lyn McLaughin

Mayoral Candidate

1: 

I love the quote, ‘The only competition worthy of a wise person is with themselves.’ However, with International Women’s Day tomorrow, it is empowering and timely to note that our Shire will elect a female mayor on March 16 and I respect fellow candidates’ passion and commitment to our Shire. Ultimately, I respect democratic process knowing I am just one vote among many and work well collaboratively with all elected members of all parties at local, state and federal levels.  

 2:

 There’s so many fantastic not-for-profits and community groups in our Shire, it’s difficult to select and support only one. All are run and supported by dedicated teams of volunteers and I have supported them wherever I could – from making donations and attending events to providing advice. Every bit of support provided goes such a long way: even if you aren’t in a position to financially support them, sharing their Facebook posts can mean a lot, helping them reach new audiences.

 3:

The Burdekin’s reputation as Sugar Cane Capital of Australia will continue to grow, while also innovating in other agricultural products and industries with the successful continued expansion of the Industrial Estate. It’s important that our roads, drainage, footpaths and parks continue to be maintained and renewed as required, which is done through effective asset management plans. Ongoing strategic planning through community consultation ensures Council will continue to have a range of shovel-ready projects ready for funding, developed by Burdekin residents.

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John Furnell

Councillor Candidate

1.

I don’t see myself as competing. I am putting my name forward for the people of the Burdekin to decide if I am worthy. I admire all candidates just for nominating. I admire them for what they have done for the Burdekin thus far in their various roles and admire newcomers to the community eg Warren Francis SES controller and his background of military and police service.    

2.

I would like to support all volunteer organisations as they contribute to the fabric of the Burdekin. I would support them by being an active participant. Currently I am involved with, outside of Council committees, ‘Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club’ First Aid Officer, ‘Burdekin Men’s Shed’ Grants Officer and ‘Friends of the Burdekin Theatre’ Past President/current volunteer, to name a few.  

 3. 

My vision in 10 years is that the Burdekin is a thriving, safe, inviting and connected community. A place where my children and grandchildren enjoy the community and contribute to its future. Infrastructure wise I want to see booming Industrial Estates in Ayr and Home Hill, ANZAC Park Ayr and Memorial Park Home Hill Masterplans completed, a thriving sugar industry, no empty shops and people shopping locally. Continually improving roads, drainage, cultural and park facilities.

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Michael Backo

Councillor Candidate

1:

I do not see other candidates as my competitor, I see them as people that I may get the opportunity to work with soon. I admire all of them for putting their themselves forward to take on this challenging role. I believe that I will be able to work with anyone as I am a flexible person who can adapt to any situation and I can negotiate to achieve positive outcomes.

2:

I would like to get involved in assisting the PCYC as I see the benefits that their programs can deliver to assist the youth of the community to develop their skills and help them achieve their goals and to assist them to become future leaders of our community, for example I see first-hand how the driver program assists the youth to gain the hours and confidence to obtain their driver’s license. 

 3:

My vision for the Burdekin is to assist community members to start their own businesses so that the community can thrive and in turn this would assist the community to attract tourism opportunities and bring more revenue to the district. I would like to see how this could assist with lowering of the rates and make room for more accessible services such as renewable energy projects in the future that could assist with the price of power bills.

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Amanda Hall

Councillor Candidate

 1:

I don't regard the Council election as a competition and I believe all Councillor candidates have their own strengths and passions to offer. However, as a Sugar Cane Farmer, I do have an understanding of what is necessary to run a successful business - and Council is a business - by doing our budget and books. The need to prioritise spending is paramount so that all areas of the Shire are treated equally and receive necessary and comparable infrastructure, services and facilities.  

 2:

My Dad spent time at the Home Hill Hospital before his passing last year and was treated wonderfully as are all the residents. In 2011, through fundraising efforts of Christie Gist and her mother Sharon, "Christie's Dream Room" was opened. To my knowledge, the Hospital receives no financial support for the maintenance and upkeep of this room. Even though Health Services are a State issue, I would like to see Council offer its assistance financially, as the room was built through local effort for our elderly residents.

 3:

It’s impossible to state the importance of infrastructure, services and facilities in 80 words. All are necessary and vital – to ALL areas of the Shire. We all yearn to see our towns safe and thriving once more with no empty, dilapidated shops and well-maintained roads with adequate drainage; good water quality is a given.  Council needs to work with individuals and developers and not against them to ensure growth, prosperity and the creation of jobs. Our Shire can be amazing again.   

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Did you know that the Burdekin Community Association Inc. (BCA) delivers the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS) and recruits and supports volunteers to visit socially isolated older community members? Through the ACVVS, we support volunteers to provide friendship and companionship to older people in their home and also at Regis aged care.

Visits are available to anyone who:

   • receives government-subsidised residential aged care or a Home Care Package, including care recipients approved or on the National Priority System for residential or a home care package.

   • is socially isolated.

Why it is important?

Some older people can feel alone for various reasons. This Includes:

   • feeling isolated from their culture and heritage

   • little contact with friends or relatives

   • mobility issues that prevent them from taking part in social or leisure activities

   • being different in some way.

Regular visits from volunteers can help to improve quality of life and help older people feel less isolated.

For information about this FREE service or to find out how to become a Volunteer, please contact the BCA Team on Ph 4783 3744, The Support Centre, 130 Queen Street, Ayr, bca@bcaburdekin.org.au

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Debra Cochran

Chief Executive Officer

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