Having played a major role in the infrastructure development in the Burdekin, Bowen and Whitsundays areas over the last 50 years, BQC Quarries has proven its undeniable commitment to quality decade after decade. With all three arms of the business – BQC Quarries, Burdekin Concrete and BQC Sands – celebrating milestones in 2024, Operations Manager Lawrence Fahey reflects on the last half a century with pride in the product and appreciation of loyal customers.

BQC Quarries commenced in 1974, initially operating out of the Rocks Quarry in Clare as well as a civil contracting service undertaking subdivision work and major projects on the Bruce Highway for the Department of Transport and Main Roads. In 1984, the concrete batch plant was established to diversify the business’s offerings and allow it to move away from civil work, with Burdekin Concrete celebrating 40 years in 2024. To top it all off, BQC Sands was established in late 2022 and recently celebrated one year in business.

“Since the quarry’s inception, we have always had a technical representative with a civil engineering background starting with my father, John Fahey,” Mr Fahey said. “This is unusual for family-owned independent quarries and normally something that only the Tier 1 companies could offer. Our advantage has been that we have always been able to offer that technical advice with a small business mentality that offers a collaborative and tailored service.”

Supplying roadbases, cover aggregates, scour rock, structural concrete, exposed aggregate concrete, decorative pebble, screened sand and much more, BQC Quarries prides itself on designing materials to meet bespoke requirements if and when required. Quality is of utmost importance to the business, and nothing leaves its sites unless it passes preapproved NATA endorsed testing.  

“It shocks most people when I tell them the amount of third party testing we do to meet specification,” Mr Fahey said. “As a result, we have had to upgrade our sites in recent times. For example, our concrete plant has an automated batching system to ensure a consistent product and a chilled water plant to decrease concrete temperatures.

“Like any industry, it is dynamic and ever changing. You have to be thinking ahead or you will be left behind.”

Now with a team of approximately 50 across the three businesses, Mr Fahey highlighted his appreciation and importance of their staff who he emphasised have always held a high work ethic and a family-based approach to work culture and the customer experience. Giving back to the community is also important to the business because, as Mr Fahey puts it, “without the community, there is no need for a quarry or concrete plant to exist.”

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BQC Operations Manager Lawrence Fahey

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In a groundbreaking initiative, Burdekin Funerals, in partnership with its sister company Townsville Funerals, Cremations & Crematorium, has introduced The Gentle Way, an environmentally conscious alternative to traditional burial and cremation practices. This innovative process not only honours departed loved ones but also contributes significantly to reducing carbon footprints.

The Gentle Way has already made a substantial impact, saving between 200 to 270 kilograms of carbon dioxide per process. Townsville Funerals has processed 110 loved ones through The Gentle Way, including several from Burdekin Funerals, resulting in the preservation of approximately 26,400 kilograms of carbon dioxide and the planting of 110 new trees – a symbolic "tree of life" presented to each family.

Setting a precedent as the only Environmental Funeral Home in Townsville, Townsville Funerals, Cremations & Crematorium distinguishes itself by offering eco-friendly alternatives to families seeking sustainable options for their departed loved ones.

Understanding the Three Processes

Burials: Traditional burials contribute to environmental degradation through the release of ions, heavy metals, and harmful chemicals into the soil and water. The use of embalming solutions and non-biodegradable coffins further compounds the ecological impact.

Cremation: While cremation is a common choice, it poses environmental challenges with air and water pollution. The high temperatures involved release toxins into the air, and the ashes, containing remnants of radiation and chemicals, can contaminate waterways and soils.

The Gentle Way: This revolutionary method employs alkaline and water, completely eliminating pollution. Families can opt to hire a casket at a fraction of the cost of a traditional coffin, and the process allows for a gentle breakdown of the body. The unique feature of The Gentle Way is the opportunity to transform a small portion of the remains into a Desert Rose, symbolizing the "Tree of Life."

While The Gentle Way offers an eco-friendly alternative, Burdekin Funerals and Townsville Funerals, Cremations & Crematorium remain committed to providing traditional burials and cremations for families with different preferences. Additionally, for those with existing funeral insurance or bonds with other funeral homes, the option to transfer to Burdekin Funerals for The Gentle Way process is available. As the funeral industry embraces more sustainable practices, The Gentle Way stands out as a compassionate and environmentally friendly choice, offering families a meaningful and responsible farewell option for their loved ones.

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Get ready for the rural event of the year, with Burdekin Boars and Barras back on the calendar for 2024!

Speaking to the hobbies and passions of the region, and with something for everyone, get ready to get behind the rod or behind the pistols, and help fundraising efforts for Clare State School.

Fun for the whole family, the event schedule includes the coveted weigh-in presentations, for all pigs, fish and crabs, the well-stocked licensed bar, Rotary food tent, Lillie’s cubby house, live music by non-other than Tammy Moxon, plus face painting and merch stall selling the very best branded clothing and accessories.

With over $7000 worth of prize money on offer, in both junior, senior and open categories across all classes, this is set to be a weekend of fun and excitement.

Register now: burdekin-boars-barras.spiffystores.com

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WHAT: Burdekin Boars and Barras 2024
WHERE: Claire Sports and Recreation Club
WHEN: Saturday and Sunday, 2nd and 3rd March

TICKETS: $10 Junior, $20 Senior, through

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Initial inspections of sugar cane paddocks across the Herbert and Burdekin indicate approximately 5% of crop to have experienced damage following ex-Tropical Cyclone Kirrily making landfall last week.

Queensland Cane Agriculture & Renewables (QCAR) Chair Charles Quagliata said he and other members of the QCAR team have been active in the field, liaising with growers, members and other agencies to assess the damage.

“The bigger cane varieties seem to have laid over as it usually does in windy weather,” he said.

“A lot of the ratoons that were cut late have copped the most effect.

“There are a few snapped tops as well.”

With reports of lodged and snapped cane, QCAR Senior Technical Officer said the damage “could have been a lot worse” and believes the crop will be okay, but there are still setbacks to be expected.

“As we all know, when a crop lodges before it is fully grown, it takes some time for the crop to resume its maximum growth rates,” Mr Di Bella stated.

“This stress event could have an impact on cane yields, because the crop will need to divert some of energies from producing biomass into reestablishing itself.”

“It has been a while since we’ve been severely impacted by a cyclone so we can think ourselves lucky but there is most definitely some damage and there will be some setback in the 2024 crop,” Mr Quagliata said.

QCAR CEO Panikos Spyrou also pointed out: “When sugar cane is lodged, the plant will use the sugars in the stalk as energy to grow upwards again.”

Mr Di Bella confirmed this stating, “Research findings undertaken over the years has shown that, lodged cane generally has a lower sugar content, when compared to erect crops.

“Also tipped cane stools collected at harvest time can also lower sugar levels when sent to the mill.”

Mr Spyrou continued, stating, “The best thing that can occur is that we have good growing conditions between now and the start of the crush to recover some of the sugars lost.

“Not only has the cane bent over and snapped, but the wind has stripped the leaves and left them in a damaged state.

“Now, all of the chlorophyll has to reform so it’s going to hamper the photosynthesis process of the cane, while having a negative impact on cane yield.”

Mr Quagliata said that while flooding wasn’t an issue, local growers were expecting more rain to come from the cyclone and prepared accordingly.

“It was a very dry cyclone which is a little disappointing in a way,” he said.

“We copped the wind and lodging but didn’t really get the benefit of the rainfall to follow.

“I personally had discussions with some members as the cyclone was approaching and, seeing that a lot of rain was above the system, a lot of growers did pre-water their crop to let it lodge rather than snap.

“The ground was soft, which allowed it to lodge rather than break off at the base.

“Having a cyclone in January rather than April, the cane is at a very brittle stage.

“All you can do is pretty much clean up and hope for the best.”

Additionally, there have been no reports of damage to Wilmar Sugar Mills in the Herbert and Burdekin.

“We’re hoping that they’re still on track with their maintenance schedule and hoping that they’re ready for an early June start and for a really good season crush rate,” Mr Quagliata said.

In reflection, Mr Quagliata identified two elements to the cyclone’s impact.

“One is the lodged and snapped cane, and the second part of it is the cane actually recovering from the blow, which does set the crop back until it’s turned its head and starts growing up again,” he said.

“If the crop is still standing and we have nice rainfall, the crop would be most definitely in a much better position than where it is now.”

QCAR’s Senior Agricultural Technical Officer Lawrence Di Bella is available to answer any questions members may have about the state and health of their crop post-cyclone.

Contact 07 4783 2111 for more information.

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QCAR Chair Charles Quagliata

Sugar cane has lodged and snapped across the Burdekin following ex-Tropical Cyclone Kirrily

Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

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In November of last year, the class of 2023 celebrated the conclusion of their high school careers and began the next chapters of their young-adult lives. For Ayr State High School Valedictorian, Chelsea Scalia, this meant celebrating her outstanding 90s ATAR score achievement, and accepting an offer to enroll in a Bachelors of Speech Pathology at James Cook University.

With the responsibilities of being Ayr State High School’s School Captain, holding a part-time employment position, and maintaining social commitments, Chelsea was grateful she set herself up for success from year 10 in creating a suitable study routine she felt confident in.  

“You need to learn how to manage your time well and have a social life to avoid burning yourself out,” explained Chelsea.

Chelsea’s study routine involved acknowledging and understanding her own abilities to maximize productivity without exertion by prioritizing time spent inside the classroom and following up with daily revision and study at home in the hours before dinner.

In the time leading up to final examinations, Chelsea restructured her study routine to ensure she achieved her desired results, and found the ultimate formular, social study.

“It was good to sit with my friends and have a chat about something completely different in-between my studying because when you’re studying and grinding non-stop, you get over it,” explained Chelsea.

“Then you’re doing the same thing when you get home, and you’re by yourself, so I would always chat to my friends and try to study differently.”

Chelsea believes each student should begin exploring all their potential interests from the beginning of their senior schooling (year 10) to ensure they are able to confidently make the right career choices for themselves when the time comes. Chelsea took advantage of all opportunities presented to her to gain industry experience, and undertook work experience periods in the Burdekin, Townsville, and Brisbane of varying pathways.

Subject selection begins at the conclusion of year 9, and although Chelsea didn’t know at the time what degree she wanted to pursue at university, she chose her senior subjects accordingly to keep all doors open.

“I knew I wanted to go to university, so I chose subjects that led me in that direction, and I made sure I did as well as I could in grades 10 and 11 because that only sets you up for success in year 12.”

In leaving Ayr State High School behind as she embarks on her tertiary education journey, she believes she’ll miss the friendships with classmates and teachers dearly.

“The lunchtime conversations and the silly comments in class will be what I’ll miss the most, and also all the teachers because they’re always there to help you regardless, even if it’s not about school, just supporting you in all aspects of life,” explained Chelsea.

Chelsea will commence her 4-year degree program from 29 January, where she is eager to immerse herself in studies focused on her future career prospects and experience all the independence and personalized learning university entails.

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ASHS 2023 Valedictorian Chelsea Scalia. Photo supplied

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The Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) is monitoring the situation as a tropical low continues to develop off the coast of north Queensland.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin, chair of the LDMG, said the LDMG encourages all organisations and residents to be prepared for the potential impact of the severe weather event which could bring strong winds, heavy rain and flooding to the region.  

"I want to assure residents that the LDMG have been monitoring the weather system and this afternoon (Tuesday) moved to lean forward with the tropical low expected to hit the coast on Thursday," Ms McLaughlin said.

"We have learned from previous weather events that preparation is key to minimising the damage and disruption caused by these events.  

“The Home Hill SES, Ayr SES and Giru SES have free sandbags available now and a copy of the Burdekin Emergency Guide is available to download on Council’s website or pick up a copy at Council offices to help you prepare.  

“It is also a timely reminder to review your emergency kit and emergency plan if you haven’t done so recently.  

“To keep informed about the low system's progress and potential impacts, I encourage residents to check the Burdekin Disaster Dashboard regularly and sign up for notifications at disaster.burdekin.qld.gov.au.

“You can phone Council on 4783 9800 or listen to ABC Townsville or Sweet FM 97.1 for further information.”

Meanwhile, Ms McLaughlin is encouraging families to collect any loose items from their loved ones' graves as soon as possible, as a tropical low is expected to bring strong winds and heavy rain to the coast over the coming days.  

"We are taking every precaution to protect our cemeteries from the weather event, but we cannot guarantee the safety of personal items as Council staff are unable to collect and store them," she said.  

"We ask families to please remove any flowers, photos, ornaments or other items."  

Ms McLaughlin said the LDMG will continue to monitor the weather event closely and will provide updates on Council’s social media channels and the Burdekin Disaster Dashboard.

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Elected representatives of the Burdekin Shire Council were welcomed back to Council for their first meeting of 2024 on Tuesday, January 23.

The meeting was also Council’s last official meeting before it enters a caretaker period in February ahead of the local government election to be held on Saturday, March 16.

During the caretaker period, Council will be limited from publishing election material and making major policy decisions, ensuring there are no significant policy decisions made near the end of a council term that bind future elected councils.

To contact Burdekin Shire Council during this time, phone 07 4783 9800 or email enquiries@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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Councillors Michael Detenon and Kaylee Boccalatte, Deputy Mayor Sue Perry, Mayor Lyn McLaughlin and Councillors John Furnell, John Bonanno and Max Musumeci. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

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Hi readers

I’m writing this on a hot, sunny Monday afternoon knowing the weather could be very different by the time this newspaper gets into your hands.

Kirrily is the name on everybody’s lips this week, a tropical low at the time of writing that is expected to form into a tropical cyclone and cross the north Queensland coast this week.

Of course, it wasn’t too long ago we were preparing for TC Jasper, with its devastating affects still being felt north of here, and I truly hope TC Kirrily takes it a bit easier.

But, it’s vital to be prepared, so flick to page 7 to scrub up on your cyclone preparedness and pay attention to Bureau of Meteorology and Burdekin Shire Council updates for the latest.

On another note, I believe this is the first edition of Burdekin Life that features yours truly.

Yes, my moustache-garnished mug graces page 2 every week, but I’ve also made it onto page 33 this week after a stellar performance from me and Meryl at Home Hill Bowls Club’s Wednesday night bowls.

I’ve been going along since late last year and often impress myself with my abilities on the green.

It’s a fascinating and tactical game and I’ve found myself almost addicted to the thrill of getting a bowl near the jack.

After numerous close losses, last week was my first win since I’ve started going along and, despite the social atmosphere of social bowls, I must admit I enjoyed the victory.

Thanks to Stephen and Trevor for sharing my win with the community and I’ll see you there next week!

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Local photographer Marni Hine admits her new book, ‘Ignited’, has been 12 years in the making.

Filled with photos taken over Ms Hine’s 12 years of working as a haul out driver, the book was published in late 2023 thanks to the Burdekin Shire Council’s Regional Arts Development Fund and in way of thanks, Ms Hine has donated a copy to the Burdekin Library’s history collection.

“The Burdekin Shire Council has been amazing in its support and this library is a fantastic library,” Ms Hine said.

“There is a lot of history here, you can come to the library and have a look around to find out more about the sugar industry at the library, so I think this book suits that aspect.

“It’s kind of a modern history of the sugar industry.”

Ms Hine presented the book to Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin and Burdekin Library Services Manager Kate Wanchap last Thursday, January 18.

“We’ve got a local history collection and we’ve got all sorts of aspects to it, including some photos and things like that, so this book will make another good contribution,” Ms Wanchap said.

The donated copy will remain in the library’s history collection while Ms Wanchap plans to purchase a second copy to make available for lending to the public.

“It’s always exciting, we love seeing this creativity,” she said.

“Local history, bringing it together and compiling it into a product is pretty important because that’s how people need to consume it.”

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Local photographer Marni Hine, Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin and Burdekin Library Services Manager Kate Wanchap. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

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The Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club has recently donated much-needed funds to four charities: three within the Burdekin and the other to the Leukaemia Foundation.  

A cheque for $500 was presented to the organiser of the event ‘Swim for a Cure’, Deni Caspanello, in support of the event run at the Home Hill Swimming Pool. The Lions Club cooked and sold the food for this event (breakfast, lunch and dinner) and the proceeds from this, along with the money that the ‘Swim for a Cure’ raised was donated to the Leukaemia Foundation in Townsville.

Acknowledging that the Christmas period would be difficult for many Burdekin families, the club decided at their final meeting for the year to donate to three charities that support families more than ever at this time. The club donated $1,000 to St Vincent de Paul Home Hill. This money will be used to support less fortunate people in Home Hill, either by providing hampers for Christmas or assisting families with hardships when getting children ready for the school year. Similarly, $1,000.00 was donated to the Burdekin Community Association to assist them on carrying out the important work that they do and hopefully take some pressure of struggling families at this time of year.

The Club also donated $500 to the local “Meals on Wheels”. This money was used to provide treats for their clients over the Christmas period.

The money donated to these organisations was raised by The Home Hill - Ayr Lions Club through fundraising events run throughout the Burdekin district. The club is very grateful to the public for the support they give the club over the many months it took to raise these funds.  

Contributed by Nyree Woods

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Deni Caspanello and the Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club Treasurer, Nyree Woods.

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On the evening of Saturday January 20, one lucky Burdekin gentleman became $708,128.64 richer after winning division one in Saturday Night’s Gold Lotto draw.

Woods News & Lucky Casket Agency was 1 of the 7 winning retailers and owner Anita Comas said the excitement has been felt by each and every customer and staff member since the announcement.

“We are absolutely thrilled and excited for him and also for Ayr, in that the first division prize came to our little town,” expressed Anita.

The $5 million division one prize was equally divided by all 7 winners with Woods News & Lucky Casket Agency being one of two winning Queensland retailers. The remaining winning outlets from Saturday’s draw were in New South Wales (2 winners), Victoria (2 winners), and South Australia (1 winner).

The lucky local man purchased a random, computer-generated quick pick to win his jackpot with the following numbers: 35, 37, 11, 22, 27, and 33 with 8 and 1 as the supplementary numbers.

The gentleman visited the East End Centre Sunday morning to share his exciting news and express deep gratitude to Anita and her staff.

“He was so excited, and he celebrated with every customer who came into the shop,” explained Anita.

“It’s a very exciting time.”

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Ellie-May Stevenson, Therese Aplin and Anita Comas. Photo supplied

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The Home Hill Harvest Festival Ephemera will once again be held in 2024 and the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce is inviting all interested artists, schools, organisations, or groups of fellow artists to be involved.

‘Ephemera’ is defined by something that exists or is enjoyed for only a short time, with the competition inviting local artists to create installations to be temporarily erected in Home Hill’s Lloyd Mann Park.

Once installed, Burdekin residents and visitors alike will be able to experience and enjoy the Burdekin’s Ephemera during the Home Hill Harvest Festival later in the year.

The Home Hill Chamber will be conducting the event this year and is already working on a project to be included in the Ephemera.

Put on your artist cap and be part of this exciting event in September 2024.

The event is open to anyone, only requiring the completion of an entry form and acceptance of the criteria to be part of the Sixth Annual Home Hill Harvest Festival Ephemera 2024.

More information will follow over the next few months with all dates to help artists plan their installations.

For more information, contact Uli Liessmann on 0439 822 064 or Robert Antoniazzi on 0407 637 679.

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Uli Liessmann’s ‘Peace’ won the Judge’s Choice Award at Ephemera 2023

‘It’s a Colourful World’ by Maree McKeough and Lorraine Lynch won the People’s Choice Award

Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

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The impacts of a tropical cyclone are well known amongst most Burdekin locals but Member for Burdekin, Dale Last, wants to ensure complacency doesn’t result in additional damage or injury.

While the Burdekin felt the effects of both Cyclones Debbie and Yasi as well as other severe weather events, the last severe tropical cyclone to directly impact the area was Tropical Cyclone Aivu almost 35 years ago.

“Being prepared is the biggest step in both minimising damage and ensuring a speedy recovery from severe weather events,” Mr Last said.  

“Based on current predictions we will feel the effects of this cyclone either directly or indirectly and now is not the time to be complacent.

“It’s a message that is repeated quite often but the importance of having a cyclone kit cannot be understated.  

“Medications, long-life food, water and important documents need to be stored in a secure place where they can be accessed when needed.

“These types of events place a huge burden on our emergency services, both paid and volunteer, so if people have made the preparations to allow them to be a little self-sufficient, that can make a huge difference.  

“In saying that, it is also vitally important that, if people need help, they seek it sooner rather than later.”

Mr Last urged people to focus on messaging from reputable sources for reliable weather information.

“Social media is a great way to share information but, in situations like these, it is vitally important that you make decisions based on reliable information from groups such as the Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG),” he said.

“The message is be prepared, don’t assume and don’t panic.  

“It’s also important that we check that family and friends are prepared, especially if they are new to the area or may need some assistance due to age or health.

“Our community has faced events like this in the past and, when we have, we band together and look out for each other.  

“I am confident that, whether we are directly or indirectly effected by this event, we will do that again.”

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Buyers of tiny homes and container homes are being urged to be vigilant about the compliance issues that may arise from these alternative housing options.  

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin said that Council have identified several non-compliant installations that pose risks to health, safety, and environment.

“Some of the common problems are related to plumbing and building standards,” Ms McLaughlin said.

“Issues identified are pipe sizing installed are not complaint, the pipework and fixtures don’t meet Australian Standards, pipework is installed without prior inspections and certificate and non-compliant installation methods.

“Council have also had buildings fail to meet the ‘Deemed-to-satisfy’ requirements of the National Construction Code (NCC) for health and amenity, energy efficiency, weatherproofing, and additional concerns for fire safety and structural adequacy for use in Cyclone regions.

“These are not minor issues.”

Ms McLaughlin confirmed that tiny homes and container homes must meet the requirements of the NCC and the relevant Australian Standards.

“The NCC provides a set of minimum standards that ensure the buildings are safe, healthy, accessible and sustainable,” she said.

“There are different ways to achieve compliance, but they must be verified and certified by qualified professionals.

“Don't be misled by false or incomplete information from suppliers or installers.

“Make sure you understand your obligations and responsibilities as a homeowner.  

“If you have any doubts or questions, contact Council’s Planning and Development team for advice and assistance on 4783 9800.”

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Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox is backing calls for an Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) Inquiry into fruit and vegetable prices to make supermarkets pay their fair share.

“While Coles and Woolworths made record profits of more than $1 billion each last year, the individuals and families living in our electorate of Dawson are struggling with rising grocery costs during a cost-of-living crisis,” Mr Willcox said.

“Over the past 18 months we have seen fuel prices increase, energy prices increase, and now we’re all paying more at the checkout while supermarkets are paying farmers less and it’s not good enough.

“Farmers are integral to Australia, they provide food and fibre to the entire nation, and as a third-generation farmer myself I know just how difficult it can be on our farming families.

“If something doesn’t happen soon, we run the risk of seeing farmers walking away entirely and food security in Australia plummet.”

In November last year Mr Willcox urged Treasurer Jim Chalmers and Agriculture Minister Murray Watt to launch an investigation into supermarket meat sale prices and the Dawson MP is now putting the pressure on them to expand that investigation to include fruits and vegetables.

“Something must be done, it’s now a matter of urgency,” Mr Willcox emphasised.

“After 100 days from their announcement for a review of the Food and Grocery Code of Conduct, the Prime Minister has only just appointed someone to lead the review and it’s too little too late.

“A review isn’t going to go far enough.

“The ACCC has the expertise and the ability to do something about this issue, and the last thing we need are more politicians who don’t have the intricate understanding of market and pricing policies just sitting around asking questions.

“This is not only impacting family budgets in Dawson it is now starting to impact the health of families living here.

“We’re seeing reports of families bypass the fresh food section in their local supermarkets altogether and instead opt for cheaper, unhealthy pre-packaged meals.

“We are seeing Queenslanders hospitalised for diet deficiencies so severe that they’re leading to diseases such a scurvy and rickets, and if the cost of fruits and vegetables continue to rise this is only going to get worse.

“The Albanese Labor Government must act before it’s too late.

“We need to ensure there is an ACCC Inquiry into supermarket price gouging.

“The families and farmers in our electorate of Dawson deserve an urgent response and I am going to do everything I can to make sure that happens.”

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