Every year on August 18th, the Burdekin community comes together to honour the sacrifices and bravery of the soldiers who fought in the Battle of Long Tan. This day, now synonymous with Veterans' Day in the region, has been a significant event for over 30 years.

The ceremony, initially held annually in Ayr, has found a more permanent home at Deep Creek Veteran’s Retreat, for the past two decades, welcoming many visiting veterans from out of town. The ceremony begins at 11 am, and members of the public are encouraged to join.

The Battle of Long Tan, which took place in 1966, holds a special place in the hearts of many, including those who arrived in Vietnam shortly after. "I got there in November 1967, more than a year after the battle. I didn't know much about it at the time, but it has since become very significant," reflects one veteran, Don Bailey.

The ceremony has evolved over the years, incorporating new elements to keep the remembrance alive and engaging. Traditionally featuring a parade and service by the creek, the event occasionally includes a catafalque party from the Townsville military or the local air cadets. This year, attendees can look forward to a performance by the Burdekin Brass Band, echoing the past where up to four buglers have played the Last Post, a tribute steeped in solemnity and respect.

Remembering the soldiers who fought in the Vietnam War, the ceremony is a poignant commemoration held on the anniversary of Long Tan. The involvement of the local veteran group from Deep Creek, though dwindling in numbers, remains steadfast. It is supported by associate veterans from other conflicts. However, engaging younger generations in these ceremonies has proven challenging. "We’ve been invited to schools a few times, but no one wants to take up the offer like the RSLs that have been invited," Don notes.

Despite these challenges, the ceremony's organisation faces minimal financial hurdles. The event, funded through modest means, includes snacks and drinks for attendees, sustaining itself with community support. Looking ahead, the hope is that the torch of remembrance will be passed forward, ensuring that this significant day continues to unite the community in paying respect to its veterans.

The Long Tan ceremony remains a vital tradition, a day for the community to gather, remember, and pay tribute to the courage and sacrifice of those who served. As plans are made for future ceremonies, the commitment to preserving this legacy endures, reflecting the profound respect held for those who have given so much.

WHERE: Deep Creek Veteran’s Retreat
WHAT: Long Tan Ceremony
WHEN: 18th August, 11am

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Don Bailey in Vietnam
Catafalque Party at the Long Tan Ceremony in previous years

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Tourists are flocking to the Big Mango and Bowen Tourist Information Centre, with the iconic gateway to the town proving to be a popular stopping point where motorists are encouraged to venture into Bowen for the day or even longer.

The popularity of the centre has reached new levels this year with record-breaking visitor numbers announced.
 
Bowen Tourism and Business released figures this week confirming they welcomed more visitors than ever before during the 2023/34 financial year.

This included more than 51,000 at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre next to the Big Mango on the Bruce Highway and a further 5000 visitors at the Information Booth at Bowen’s Front Beach.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said the new financial year had also started strongly with 7002 visitors in July.

That is an average of 225 visitors every day.

“We became an official Driver Reviver station in recent months so that has also contributed to our high numbers,” she said.

“People certainly appreciate the free tea, coffee and biscuits and we are proud to be contributing to road safety.”

Leanne said more than half of the people who stopped at the Visitor Information Centre spent a day or more in Bowen.

Chair of Bowen Tourism and Business, Jenn Honnery congratulated the Bowen Tourism and Business team on setting yet another record.

“I’m very proud of the team of staff and volunteers at the Big Mango Visitor Information Centre on achieving record visitor numbers once again.”

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Bowen Tourism and Business volunteer Pete at the Visitor Information Centre with the Moore family visiting from the UK

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After more than a decade working in the power line industry, George Downward took a leap of faith in 2013 by establishing his own vegetation service company.
With a background as an operations manager for a nationwide contracting firm, George had the foresight to anticipate changes in the industry. When his former employer transitioned to a subcontractor model, he recognised the potential risks and decided to forge his own path.
"We started small, contracting for Ergon Energy and Queensland Energy, focusing on remote and isolated areas," George recalls. His company's specialty lies in tree and vegetation management, particularly around power lines—a skill set that sets them apart from competitors. "We’re highly qualified, with a 19 metre telescopic elevated work platform and fully trained climbers capable of working safely around power lines."
The company's expertise in the power line industry allows them to perform jobs more efficiently, safely, and often at a lower cost than less experienced competitors. "Our team is young, enthusiastic, and highly qualified. We don't aim to make millions, just a genuine living by offering superior service to the Burdekin area," George explains.
George's crew has extensive training but is still able to provide the service at a lower cost for clients. "It's a significant investment, but it ensures the job is done efficiently, safely, and correctly," he notes. George emphasises the importance of safety and quality, offering services that are fully insured and backed by comprehensive risk assessments.
Reflecting on his experiences, George shares that his work has taken him across Queensland, from Maryborough to Cape York and the Torres Strait Islands. His company has also completed projects for various councils, showcasing their wide range of expertise. "We constantly update our knowledge, with regular refreshers on first aid, CPR, climbing, chainsaw operation, and more. Staying current is crucial in this industry," George says.
Environmental responsibility is another priority for George’s company. "We’re all inducted into World Heritage Wet Tropics, and our environmental policies are ingrained in our operations. As an arborist and a fauna and flora spotter, I ensure our practices are environmentally friendly," he adds.
George is also committed to supporting the local community. For the past 15 years, he has exclusively used local businesses for mechanical repairs and fabrication. "I believe in contributing to the local economy wherever possible," he affirms.
Looking to the future, George hopes to pass the torch to the younger generation. "I’m getting older, and I want the young guys in the Burdekin to keep going, make a life for themselves, and continue the work we've done for the past 24 years," he says.
His ultimate goal is to build a business that serves the local area, reducing the need for extensive travel and allowing for a better work-life balance.

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Rehoming fee: $450
DOB: 31/10/2023
Sex: Male
Breed: Staffordshire Terrier X
Kid friendly: Yes
Cat Friendly: Yes
Other dogs: Yes
Fences: 6 foot

Alec is a sweet-natured, gentle young boy with long, lanky legs, and he is ready for adoption.

Initially underweight and hungry, he has flourished in foster care, gaining strength and confidence.

He loves playing outside with other dogs and enjoys relaxing on the couch.

Alec is well-behaved, toilet-trained, sleeps through the night, and is great with cats and car rides.

He’s been waiting patiently for a loving home and is now ready for new adventures with a forever family.

Alec is available for adoption desexed, microchipped, up to date on vaccinations, flea/tick/intestinal worm treated & on heartworm preventative.

To arrange a meet please fill in an inquiry form at https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/pets-for-adoption-cats.html

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Alec pawtiently waiting for his forever home!

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Over the weekend Queen Street was treated to a selection of sweet, homemade delights with Senior Water Festival Ambassador for Campbell’s Jewellery, Demi O’Shea’s Cake Stall fundraiser.
Over 25 variations of treats were made including rumballs, muffins, Cherry Ripe and Snickers slice, Biscoff loaded cookies, Oreo and Nutella loaded cookies, rocky road, biscotti, a selection of cakes, pumpkin scones, and creations made by Marina Power’s Sweethaus Artisan Sweets.
Demi and the staff at Campbell’s Jewellery, Rose, Marina, Jane, Danae, Kate, and Natasha, created an array of gorgeous treats which were displayed across two tables outside the store.
“The lovely Campbell’s Jewellery staff all chipped in to bake the sweets – much hard work and time went into this effort, and I thank the ladies for all the support, especially Rose for the organisation,” explained Demi.
Natasha, Demi’s mother, explained her kitchen was certainly put to work last week to prepare for Saturday’s event.
“My kitchen has never, ever seen that much baking take place!” laughed Natasha.
The ladies began the morning at 9am with two full tables, and as 9:45am ticked over, over half of their treats had been sold!
“By 10:30am we had officially sold out!” said Demi.
“We are overwhelmed with the support that the Burdekin community has offered myself as the Campbell’s Jewellery Ambassador, and the business itself.
We saw some lovely familiar faces and met some people passing through – many comments were made about the love that people have for a good old traditional cake stall, and it reminded them of past times when there were cake stalls every Saturday in Queen Street.”
Made possible by the generosity of the Burdekin community, the stall raised an amazing $1668, which will be donated to the Ronald McDonald House to support families and their sick children.
"This is a cause close to my heart, as children truly deserve the world and supporting their family to be able to get them the stability they need,” explained Demi.
Many locals expressed their anticipation and excitement for the Burdekin Water Festival’s celebrated Queen Street return on Saturday 7 September, sharing they cannot wait to see the procession, and attend the additional events scheduled for the coming weeks.

Renee, Rahni and Malyka Cursio were challenged with difficult decisions at the impressive Cake Stall on Saturday
Selling out within 45 minutes, Natasha O’Shea and Danae Fabbro were manning table number two
Senior Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador for Campbell’s Jewellry, Demi O’Shea, treated the community to plenty of delicious home baked goods as part of her Cake Stall fundraiser.
Aurora and Lauretta Wegert were treated to delicious sweets on Saturday
Ruben and Jasmine Vass with their decadent, home baked, loaded Biscoff cookies

Photo credit: Chelsea Ravizza

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Calling all Burdekin businesses! It's time to revive the festival spirit and showcase your creativity by participating in the Burdekin Water Festival's window decorating competition.

Thanks to the generous sponsorship of Bob Gould Fabrications, you have the chance to win while adding a splash of colour and joy to our community.

This year’s competition encourages local businesses to adorn their windows with vibrant and eye-catching displays that reflect the essence of the Burdekin Water Festival.

This year’s Water Festival theme is ‘Bring it Back’ - all your favourites from yesteryear, and of course ‘Water.’ Whether it's a nod to our agricultural heritage, a celebration of our stunning landscapes, or a creative take on the festival's theme, the possibilities are endless!

Participating is simple. Just visit the website and nominate your business to join the fun at no cost. The winner(s) will be published in Burdekin Life Newspaper and announced at the Water Festival Mardi Gras (Queen Street, Ayr) Saturday 7 September 2024.

It’s a fantastic opportunity for businesses to engage with the community, attract more foot traffic, and become a part of the Burdekin Water Festival tradition.

For more details and to register, visit www.burdekinwaterfestival.com.au/window-competition.

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Did you know that it is Loneliness Awareness Week from the 5th to 11th of August?
 
To help combat loneliness and encourage friendships, our team has implemented the “Letterbox Project”.
 
The project is a national pen pal program using beautiful handwritten letters to provide support and connection to people all over Australia.
 
The company BCA has partnered with has assured us that they will screen all letters to ensure complete safety. Participants are asked to complete a Personal Bio form to register which helps the company to pair people up with like-minded individuals (if this is your preference).
 
If you would like more information or to register for the National Pen Pal Program, please contact the BCA Housing and Community Support Team on P: 4783 3744, E: bca@bcaburdekin.org.au or visit the Support Centre at 130 Queen St, Ayr.

Debra Cochran
Chief Executive Officer
Burdekin Community Association Inc (BCA)

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In our fast-paced lives, time seems to rush by, and before we know it, Christmas is just around the corner. As we become increasingly busy, we often overlook the important task of taking care of ourselves.

When we extend support to someone going through tough times, we tend to prioritise their needs over our own. However, this approach can be detrimental to both parties, especially if we are struggling ourselves. To provide effective support, it's essential for us to be in a good state of mental and emotional wellbeing.

To achieve this, it's important to first recognise our limitations and acknowledge when we are not feeling our best. Secondly, we must be willing to say "No" or provide only partial support if that's all we can manage. Lastly, knowing how to replenish our energy and take care of our mental wellbeing is crucial to being able to offer support to others.

The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre and CORES Queensland have been collaborating since the start of the year to offer free workshops to the community focusing on “Self-Care and Mental Wellbeing”, and “Suicide Intervention Training”. These workshops aim to provide attendees with the skills and information to create a self-care and mental wellbeing plan, as well as to recognise and support individuals who may be at risk of suicide.

BNC and CORES are offering the following courses:

   • Self-Care and Mental Wellbeing Monday 19/08/24 17:30 to 19:30
   • Suicide Intervention Training Friday 23/08/24 09:00 to 16:00
   • Self-Care and Mental Wellbeing Thursday 12/09/24 10:00 to 12:00
   • Self-Care and Mental Wellbeing Monday 14/10/24 17:30 to 19:30
   • Self-Care and Mental Wellbeing Tuesday 12/11/24 10:00 to 12:00
   • Self-Care and Mental Wellbeing Thursday 12/11/24 17:30 to 19:30

All Self-Care workshops will be held at the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr, and the Suicide Intervention Training will be held at PCYC, 164 MacMillan Street, Ayr. For further information, please phone CORES on 0448 894 525 or email adminqld@kentishrc.com.au.

Until next time,
The Team
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

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It is crazy to think that we are half-way through August already and are about to say goodbye to winter and enter into spring.
Unfortunately, the weather has not been very kind to our farmers over the weekend. A few mm to settle the dust probably would have been ok, although some areas have received over 100mm and after an already late start to the crushing it will only slow things down. However, there is nothing we can do about the weather so I just hope we see sunny warm days moving forward and the crush back underway as soon as possible.
The rain may have been timely for the Burdekin Landcare as they had just completed National Tree Planting Day a couple of weeks ago. I have to congratulate Keith and his team for coordinating the day not only for the entire community but also a program for the schools where the kids get to help plant over a thousand trees behind the Landcare building which will hopefully now be flourishing after the recent rain. If you are looking for some new plants from flowers to fruit trees make sure you head down to the Burdekin Landcare on International Drive and check out their huge range and see the amazing job the volunteers do there. They are open every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday morning from 8am till 12pm.

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On the 18th of August each year, we come together as a community to commemorate Vietnam Veterans Day, a day of reflection and respect. This day marks the anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan, one of the most significant battles fought by Australian troops during the Vietnam War.
Our local service will be held on Sunday, at the serene Deep Creek Retreat, located on Ayr Delbeg Road at 11am. This location, leased by the Vietnam Veterans Association, provides a fitting backdrop for us to honour the sacrifices made by our brave servicemen and women.
As we gather to pay our respects, let us remember the courage and commitment of those who served during the Vietnam War. Their legacy continues to inspire us, and it's our duty to ensure that their contributions are never forgotten.
I encourage everyone in our community to take a moment on this day to reflect on the sacrifices made by our Vietnam veterans and to express our gratitude for their service to our country.
If you would like to get in touch with me, please feel free to phone me on 0447 150 582 or email mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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Clare State School is gearing up for its 75th Anniversary Celebrations, scheduled for 28 and 29 March 2025. Excitement is building as the school plans a series of events to commemorate this significant milestone.

The celebrations will kick off on Friday, 28 March, with the school open for self-guided tours from midday to 4pm. In the evening, there will be a Meet and Greet at the Clare Sports and Recreation Club, providing an opportunity for past students, staff, and community members to reconnect.

The festivities will continue Saturday, 29 March, with a morning fete at the school grounds. Mid-morning, guided tours of the school will be available, offering a glimpse into the school’s history and evolution. One of the highlights of the day will be the opening of the time capsule from 2000 to 2025, revealing memories and messages from the past 25 years. The day will conclude with a formal dinner at the Clare Sports and Recreation Club, featuring a roll call to honour those who have been part of the school’s journey.

Clare State School principal, Mr. Troy Patti, expressed the school’s enthusiasm for the upcoming celebrations. “We are particularly interested in hearing from any first-day students or their relatives,” he said. The school is eager to connect with past students of all ages who are interested in sharing their memories or attending the event.

Mr. Patti highlighted the community’s anticipation for the event, expressing hope for strong support from past students, staff, families, and the broader community. “We are keen to contact as many past staff and students as possible to create a display showing where they are now and sharing their memories of their time at Clare State School,” he said. Additionally, the school seeks to identify families with three generations of attendees to honour them with a monument.

As the anniversary approaches, Clare State School invites everyone to join in the celebrations and help make this a memorable event.

WHAT: 75th Anniversary Celebrations
WHERE: Clare State School
WHEN: 28 - 29 March 2025

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Where it all began – Clare Stater School in 1952

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The Reef Guardian Council program, launched in 2007, is a voluntary partnership designed to address key threats to the Great Barrier Reef. This initiative, involving 19 local governments across a vast area of 300,000 square kilometres, plays a crucial role in safeguarding the reef, which was heritage-listed in 1981.
The program targets significant challenges such as water runoff, illegal fishing, climate change, and coral bleaching, all of which pose ongoing risks to the reef's delicate ecosystem. By collaborating with councils, the program aims to implement sustainable practices that help mitigate these threats.
Each participating council receives $920,000 in grants, which are allocated to various environmental projects tailored to the needs of their regions. Some councils have used these funds to install solar panels, contributing to renewable energy initiatives. In the Burdekin region, efforts have been focused on managing feral deer populations and controlling invasive pest weeds, which threaten local biodiversity.
The program's success is attributed to the commitment of these local governments to enact positive change. In October, the program's executive committee will convene in Brisbane to discuss ongoing and future initiatives.
Through this collaborative effort, the Reef Guardian Council program continues to be a vital force in the protection and preservation of the Great Barrier Reef.

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Burdekin Shire Council use the Reef Guardian Council program funding to manage feral deer populations and control invasive pest weeds, which threaten local biodiversity. Photo supplied

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CANEGROWERS has welcomed the end of industrial action at Tully Sugar Mill, saying it’s an example of what can be achieved when employers and unions negotiate in good faith and are prepared to compromise.
 
Over the weekend, Tully Sugar Limited announced that mill workers had voted in favour of a pay deal tabled by the mill following recent conciliation talks with unions in Townsville.
 
“This is a good outcome for the local industry,” CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens said. “It shows that a system exists where workers can be fairly represented, and which enables employers and their employees to negotiate an acceptable pay deal.
 
“Tully CANEGROWERS representatives have been working diligently behind the scenes with both sides to encourage a resolution, so it’s pleasing to see an agreement that is acceptable to workers at Tully Sugar.” 
Tully Sugar Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary of Chinese agribusiness company COFCO.
It operates one of the largest sugar mills in Australia based in the regional township of Tully, located on the Bruce Highway in Far North Queensland.
Its principal activity is the milling of sugar cane to produce raw sugar and all of its sugar is exported. The molasses it produces is sold into both the domestic cattle feed and the international markets.

Mr Menkens said the Tully deal should serve as an example to Wilmar Sugar and unions who have been locked in an increasingly bitter pay dispute since last year. 
 
“Wilmar and unions also went through a similar non-binding conciliation process but, unlike Tully, no solution has been found. As a result, half of the industry continues to be impacted by threatened strike action.
 
“We now have widespread rainfall across North Queensland, and it looks like wet weather will delay crushing for the next week or two. 
 
“I’d encourage both sides in the Wilmar-union dispute to use that time wisely, restart negotiations, and find a compromise that can let us get on with the crush when the weather clears up.”
In response, a Wilmar Sugar and Renewables spokesman, “We have been consistent from the outset that we seek a commercially sustainable outcome from enterprise bargaining. That remains our objective and our focus.”
The spokesperson confirmed that Wilmar was meeting with union representatives earlier this week on Tuesday.

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Tully Sugar Mill

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Burdekin region mills
Week 9, ending 10 August 2024
Cane crushed
This week
Season to date
Invicta
145,089
947,701
Pioneer
70,238
426,444
Kalamia
76,043
540,157
Inkerman
86,423
625,836
Burdekin
377,792
2,540,138
CCS
Invicta
14.55
14.06
Pioneer
14.69
14.14
Kalamia
14.24
13.80
Inkerman
14.78
13.83
Burdekin
14.57
13.96
Weekly variety performance for region
Variety
%
CCS
Variety
%
CCS
Q240
54%
14.54
SRA23
7%
14.46
KQ228
20%
14.58
WSRA17
5%
13.86
Q183
8%
15.05
Q208
4%
15.06
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Comments:
The Burdekin mills processed just under 380,000 tonnes of cane for the week, which was above budget and the highest weekly throughput for the season to date.
The four mills have now processed more than 2.5M tonnes of cane, which represents 30% of the forecast 8.47M tonne Burdekin crop.
Production was impacted this week by a number of planned and unplanned stops as well as industrial action. The opportunity was taken during the stoppages to carry out necessary maintenance work.
The average weekly CCS was 14.57, which was above budget.
The highest CCS sample of 18.4 was from a rake of Q240-PL in the Mulgrave (Invicta) productivity district.
As always, please remember to take care as you approach cane rail crossings. Our cane trains operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week during the season.
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John Tait
Cane Supply Manager
Burdekin Region

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Troubling figures released earlier this week show many illnesses among rural, regional and remote Australians could have been prevented or treated better with accessible primary care, thus avoiding the need for hospitalisation.
 
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), many parts of rural Australia have higher rates of potentially preventable hospitalisations, highlighting the need for early interventions and ongoing care, particularly for non-communicable diseases. Unfortunately, Australia’s rural populations, which make up over 7 million people, often lack access to such preventive measures.
 
“We often see rural communities neglecting or putting off their health issues due to limited access to primary care, exacerbated by the tyranny of distance and cost of services. This leads to a cascade of problems, including overwhelming an already strained hospital and emergency system,” said the National Rural Health Alliance Chief Executive Susi Tegen.
 
“This brings us to consider the need to increase strategic and fit-for-purpose investment in rural health care.

“Given Australia’s annual health spending deficit of $6.55 billion in rural Australia, as discovered through independent research last year, we strongly advocate for greater investment in rural health care for communities, which enable multidisciplinary and place-based solutions according to needs.
 
“The Alliance proposes the Primary care Rural Integrated Multidisciplinary Health Services (PRIM-HS) model, which is community-led and co-designed to meet the specific health needs of communities to promote the preventative aspect of health.”
 
Ms Tegen added that the model aims to improve primary healthcare experiences, provide culturally safe, high-quality care which would become a major contributor to reduce the rates of potentially preventable hospitalisations in rural, regional and remote Australia, with federal and state /territory government partnership.
“Government funding to support this model would mean more rural primary care practices could continue to exist or be established in rural areas to provide essential care that many metropolitan communities take for granted,” Ms Tegen said.

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National Rural Health Alliance Chief Executive Susi Tegen

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