Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Home Hill resident Karin Thorburn returned home last week after a month spent travelling the world, though it was not exactly your typical sightseeing expedition. The 59-year-old local runner, recognised last year as the first Australian to complete 500 marathons, set off for Cyprus in March for the XM Limassol Marathon—the first of 15 she would run over the following 30 days. Her itinerary took her through major European cities, including Paris, before culminating in the world-famous Boston Marathon, where her strong performance all but guarantees qualification for next year’s race.Home Hill’s 59-Year-Old Marathon Record-Breaker Continued from cover Home Hill runner Karin Thorburn has returned to the Burdekin after successfully completing 15 marathons in 30 days across four countries. Thorburn, a veteran runner who was this year named Burdekin Senior Sportsperson of the Year for her marathoning exploits, ran 14 marathons across Europe in preparation for the Boston Marathon, which rounded out the trip. At 59 years old, Thorburn is currently the Australian record holder for the highest number of marathons completed, with her tally now reaching 547. Despite having just competed in the Sugar Rush half-marathon only six days after returning from the United States, she shows no signs of slowing down, describing her intense schedule as a “lifestyle choice.” “It’s for my mental health, it’s for my physical health, it’s for keeping me in the best shape I can be, for a lady that’s my age," Thorburn said. “I’m not a spring chicken, and there are so many people out there saying I’m too old. I just tell them, I’m just getting started.” The gruelling 30-day itinerary began in Limassol, Cyprus, followed by the “12 in 12” event—12 marathons in 12 days—in the UK, and the Paris Marathon, before finally tackling Boston. The feat was as much a mental battle as a physical one, says Thorburn. “The mind is stronger than the legs,” she said. “Sometimes it plays tricks and says, 'You’ve done enough. Why don't you just stay in bed?' But I knew I could do it.” She explained that the massive volume of racing was a strategic training block designed specifically to conquer the Boston Marathon, an event she considers "the pinnacle.” “I love a challenge," Thorburn said. “Running the other 14 marathons, they were all fantastic, but it all led me to one thing, and that’s the Boston Marathon. That’s the greatest race in the world.” Her run in Boston was the third time she had competed in the event, finishing with a 15-minute buffer which she says effectively “guarantees” her entry into the 2027 race once applications open in September. “I can't even describe how you feel,” Thorburn said. “Getting to the start is one thing, but doing it, finishing it, conquering it again—especially at my age—you feel things you never felt before.” Thorburn has lived and breathed distance running since she started taking it seriously 26 years ago. Her passion has since taken her across the globe, completing all six of the Abbott World Marathon Majors—Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, and New York—earning her the prestigious official title of “Six Star Finisher.” Her achievements have garnered much local support, but perhaps none greater than from her residents at Ozcare Home Hill. As well as her work with Ozcare, Thorburn helps organise the Magnetic Marathon Series in Townsville, an event that attracts international competitors while also providing a space for athletes looking to kickstart their running careers. Thorburn sees her local events as a platform for others to “have a go”—a mantra that has fuelled her own career for over two decades. “My events are only small events, but they're a stepping stone and people get to run with me and go, ‘Okay, so this is what you do,’” Thorburn said. “I hope I can inspire other women, including those younger than me, to look at what I do and think: ‘If she can do it, I can have a go.’” CAPTIONS: 1— The gruelling 30-day itinerary began in Limassol, Cyprus, followed by the “12 in 12” event—12 marathons in 12 days—in the UK, and the Paris Marathon, before finally tackling Boston. 2—Thorburn successfully completed all six of the Abbott World Marathon Majors—Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, and New York—earning her the prestigious official title of “Six Star Finisher.” Photos supplied
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My Vibe Homewares has a growing reputation as your go-to store when searching for that unique, contemporary piece. Since opening its doors in Ayr ten months ago, the store has attracted customers from across North Queensland, building a strong local following in the Burdekin. Boasting a wide range of earthy, textural and timeless homewares, My Vibe offers quality linen, luxury towels and exquisite rugs, all selected to deliver quality at affordable prices right here in the Burdekin. At the heart of the store is a carefully curated range that is hand-picked to provide both functionality and practicality. Every piece is selected with durability and classic design in mind, with owner Sue ensuring that long-lasting quality remains a priority in every decision. Sue’s strong eye for design is supported by her regular attendance at the Sydney and Melbourne gift fairs, where she gains access to the latest seasonal designs and colour updates. This, coupled with her innate ability to coordinate the range to suit most design tastes—from subtle, natural tones through to more textured and statement pieces—ensures the store is continually refreshed with new ideas and inspiration brought back to the Burdekin. The result is a thoughtfully balanced collection that caters to a wide variety of interiors and personal styles, while maintaining a consistent focus on quality and affordability. Supporting the store is a friendly and welcoming team who are always ready to assist and offer advice when required, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable shopping experience. Located on Queen Street, Ayr, My Vibe Homewares is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10am until 4pm daily, offering a local destination for stylish, practical and contemporary homewares in the heart of the Burdekin.
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If you’re still scratching your head for something meaningful this Mother’s Day, two local arts groups are offering simple, thoughtful options that keep it close to home—and handmade. At the Burdekin Art Society, a special Mother’s Day art sale will be held on Sunday 3 May 2026 at the Art Shed, 154 MacMillan Street (across from the pool), from 8am to 1pm. A wide selection of paintings will be available, with prices starting from just $20, making it easy to find an affordable, locally made gift. For something a little more tactile, the Burdekin Potters Inc in Plantation Park will be open for anyone looking for a unique, handmade gift. The pottery studio regularly opens on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday mornings, but visitors are also welcome whenever the doors are open or the “OPEN” flag is flying. Gift vouchers are available, and private visits can be arranged by contacting Debbie on 0428 832 355. Both options offer a chance to support local artists while picking up something with a personal touch—far more memorable than a last-minute petrol station bouquet.
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Australia has everything we need right here at home. We have the resources, the technologies, and the people with the talent. Yet our manufacturing sector and sovereign capability have fallen off a cliff; farmers are being left out in the cold; and Australians across the country, particularly in the regions, are being left behind, while we all pay more for everything. Labor’s Net Zero nonsense is crippling our country, while others not hamstrung by arbitrary targets advance at pace. China, India and the United States are not taking their foot off the pedal, while we send our resources overseas on a dime and buy back the finished product at top dollar. Australian manufacturing has been in decline for decades, but in the last four years under Labor the rate at which manufacturers, smelters, refineries and food processors have closed is truly alarming. We are making far less today and relying more and more on others. We need to turn that trend around before the only thing we are producing is a piece of paper handed out to overseas students. At the heart of this rapid decline in manufacturing? Our weaker and more expensive energy grid. To be blunt, rising electricity costs are forcing manufacturers to close and deterring others from starting up. When I speak to manufacturers, the message is the same: “I don’t know how much longer we can keep going like this.” The simple reality is that weather-dependent power cannot sustain a modern industrial economy on its own. Manufacturers cannot operate on intermittent electricity. Farmers cannot rely on an unstable energy system. And renters and lower-income households, who cannot afford rooftop solar or battery storage, are increasingly left paying the hidden costs of maintaining a complex grid built around intermittent supply. Australia once prided itself on energy independence. Now we are replacing dependable Australian energy with a system dependent on imported wind turbines, solar panels and batteries, many manufactured in China. In doing so, we are hollowing out our own industrial base while increasing our reliance on foreign supply chains. I’ll keep saying it. We need a balanced approach, and all technologies must be part of the energy mix. The other part of the energy story is, of course, fuel. No fuel, no transport, no movement of goods. When faced with the recent fuel supply constraints, Energy Minister Chris Bowen said the solution is to buy an electric car. That may suit city commuters, but for many regional Australians travelling long distances and those needing to tow heavy loads, an EV is nothing but an expensive paperweight. Right now, a very bad government is deploying a very bad energy policy that puts international recognition for fairytale emission targets ahead of affordable electricity and fuel security. We need an urgent course correction on our nation’s energy policy. We need an energy mix that supports manufacturers and farmers. We need to be able to better use the resources we have so that we can stand on our two feet. And, we need a government that believes in putting Australians first.
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Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, has warned that North Queensland families are being pushed to a financial breaking point following today’s decision by the Reserve Bank of Australia to raise interest rates to 3.85 per cent.
The 25-basis-point hike is the first in over two years and signals a deepening cost-of-living crisis that is being directly fuelled by the Albanese Government’s inability to control its own spending.
Mr Willcox said the rate rise is a devastating blow for mortgage holders who have already seen an extra $21,000 stripped from their pockets since Labor took office. He noted that while the Prime Minister promised Australians that "life would be cheaper" under a Labor government, the reality in Dawson is an unsettling erosion of the family budget.
For many families, the "Australian Dream" is being replaced by an economic nightmare, a daily struggle to balance the books as inflation continues to act as a silent thief. The pressure is particularly acute for those who have young families, navigating the Christmas credit card and "back-to-school" expenses.
Recent data shows that education costs have surged by 5.4 per cent, while childcare fees have exploded by an incredible 11.2 per cent.
“It is a disgrace that in a country as prosperous as ours, a childcare place can now cost as much as a year at an elite private boarding school,” Mr Willcox said.
“These are barriers preventing parents from returning to work, making this cost-of-living nightmare even harder on families.”
Mr Willcox argued that these rising costs, combined with higher mortgage repayments and a saturated rental market, are making it nearly impossible for working parents to get ahead.
“This economic pain is not an accident, but a direct result of Labor’s record-breaking spending,” Mr Willcox said.
New budget data has revealed an unbelievable $50 billion blowout in government spending over just six months; a rate of more than $200 million per day.
“While families are being forced to make hard decisions and cut back on essentials, this Labor Government continues to pour fuel on the inflationary fire with taxpayer money,” he added.
The Member for Dawson has supported Senator Matt Canavan in calling for the immediate resignation of Treasurer Jim Chalmers. Senator Canavan initiated the call in the Senate today, following revelations of a staggering $50 billion blowout in government spending over just six months, a rate of more than $200 million per day.
“I am standing with Senator Canavan in saying enough is enough. “Jim Chalmers has overseen the biggest spending blowout in Australian history, and it is hard-working families who are settling the bill,” Mr Willcox said.
Senator Canavan noted that if a CEO in the private sector presided over a $100 billion blowout, they would be sacked on the spot.
“We should expect the same standard of accountability for the person holding the nation’s chequebook,” Mr Willcox said.
“This crazy level of spending is exactly why interest rates went up today. You cannot pour $200 million of taxpayer money onto the fire every single day and not expect inflation to burn.”
Mr Willcox warned that the rate hike would not only hurt mortgage holders but would also place even more pressure on an already suffocating rental market.
“It’s never easy under Albanese.
“Every time the Treasurer spends, the families in Mackay, the growers in Bowen, the tourism operators in the Whitsundays, the soldiers in Townsville and the workers in the Burdekin pay the price.
“My team and I will continue to fight to hold this Government to account for every dollar they waste and every promise they break.”
Meet Pupperoni
Pupperoni is a beautiful boy with a kind heart and lots of love to share. He loves his toys and wants to share all of the fun with you. He loves to be your little shadow and is 100% invested in everything you do. Pup is very intelligent, already knowing how to sit, shake, drop, roll over, spin and wait. He is great with other dogs and would love a home where he could share it with someone who matches his energetic nature, but would also adjust well to being an only dog (he loves being the centre of attention). Pup is toilet trained, learning to walk nicely on a lead and is not destructive—just make sure he has a toy nearby. He is super affectionate and loyal, come and meet him and it will be love at first sight!
Pupperoni is a male Cane Corso mix, born 14/08/2025, who is kid-friendly, good with other dogs, untested with cats, toilet trained, and learning to walk nicely on a lead; he would thrive in a home with a 6ft fence, and comes desexed, microchipped, up-to-date on vaccinations, treated for fleas, ticks and worms, and protected with ProHeart—all included in his $495 adoption fee.
If you’re interested in meeting Pupperoni, complete an animal enquiry form at: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html.
Hello from Mexico! Much to my family’s concern, and after a very quick visit back to the BDK, I’ve set off overseas again — this time to Latin America!
Over the past few weeks, I’ve been jumping around the country and have now made my way down to Puerto Escondido to continue chasing the sun and surf along the southwest coastline. I’m absolutely loving my travels so far, Mexico’s UNREAL, and I’m eyeing off crossing over into Guatemala within the next few weeks.
Oh, and although proof-of-life photos have been sent and phone calls have been dialled, a quick “she’s fine” for my mum and grandma when you see them would be greatly appreciated!
Recently, I’ve been chatting with several members from the Molongle Creek Boat Club to put together a story covering tidal access issues in the Molongle Creek channel. Although the situation has such a deep and complex history, I’m very pleased with how my piece has come together so far, so keep your eyes peeled for that one in publishments to come!
If you have any information to share regarding the issue, or any story you believe should be told, please feel free to shoot an email over to me at Chelsea@LifePublishingGroup.Com!
With state-of-the-art equipment, outstanding service and a hands-on approach to every project, LiquaForce continue to prove they are shaping the future of fertilising across North Queensland. Servicing the region from Mackay to Mossman, the locally based, family-owned business has built a reputation grounded in reliability, innovation and genuine care for the communities it supports.
For years, LiquaForce has worked alongside local growers, understanding that success in agriculture is not just about products, but about people. Their commitment extends beyond paddocks and production figures, with a strong focus on supporting farming families, regional employment and the long-term sustainability of the agricultural industry. This close connection to the community has helped establish deep trust and lasting partnerships throughout the sugarcane and horticulture sectors.
LiquaForce has consistently delivered results by providing tailored liquid fertilising solutions designed to meet the specific needs of North Queensland soils and conditions. Their proven ability to service the agricultural and liquid fertilising requirements of the region has positioned them as a dependable partner during both challenging and prosperous seasons.
Following the acquisition by listed company RLF AgTech Limited in 2024, LiquaForce now offers an expanded range of advanced products and the capacity to support a broader variety of crop types. This growth strengthens their ability to deliver cutting-edge solutions while maintaining the local knowledge and community focus that define the business.
LiquaForce fertilisers deliver measurable benefits, including increased yields, improved sugar production, reduced labour demands and optimised nutrient efficiency. By minimising leaching and downtime, they help growers maximise outputs while protecting their land for future generations, reinforcing LiquaForce’s ongoing commitment to both productivity and community resilience.
Our newspaper is thrilled to announce two special giveaway competitions, thanks to a generous anonymous donor!
Competition 1: The donor has gifted four tickets to each home game of the Cowboys this season. Tickets will go to different winners for each home round, giving more people the chance to experience the excitement live.
Competition 2: In addition, the donor will be providing a $100 grocery voucher each month for the next 10 months, intended to assist those who could use a little extra help.
To nominate someone for either prize, send an 80-word blurb explaining why your nominee deserves or needs it to jacob@lifepublishinggroup.com. Both competitions aim to reach those who need them most, whether it’s someone who’s never been able to attend a game or a family needing extra help with essentials.
Winners will be contacted directly with further details. Don’t miss the chance to bring a little joy and support to someone who truly deserves it. Start nominating today!
At Burdekin Catholic High School, excellence in learning and teaching is not an aspiration, it is a deliberate and sustained commitment. Each year, our community witnesses the outcomes of that commitment in the achievements of our students, the professionalism of our staff, and the strength of the pathways our graduates pursue.
Our recent academic awards celebrations once again highlighted the depth of talent and dedication within our school. Student success at BCHS extends beyond individual awards; it is reflected in consistently strong senior results, diverse post-school destinations, and the growth demonstrated by students at every stage of their learning journey. Graduates continue to secure university placements, apprenticeships, traineeships, and direct employment, clear evidence that our educational model prepares young people not just for examinations, but for life beyond the school gate.
Central to this success is a relentless focus on high-quality teaching practice. Our staff engage in ongoing professional learning, data-informed instruction, and evidence-based pedagogies that ensure every lesson is purposeful and responsive. Differentiation, explicit instruction, formative assessment, and targeted feedback are embedded across subject areas. This strategic approach ensures that high-achieving students are extended, developing learners are supported, and every student is challenged appropriately.
Principal Lorraine Wolffe emphasised that excellence is intentional and community-driven.
“At Burdekin Catholic High School, excellence in learning is never left to chance. It is built through expert teaching, high expectations, and genuine care for every young person entrusted to us. Our staff are deeply committed to evidence-informed practice and continuous improvement, ensuring that each student is both supported and challenged to achieve their personal best. When our students succeed, whether through academic results, apprenticeships, university offers, or personal growth, it reflects the strength of our partnership with families and the dedication of our educators.”
Equally important is the culture that underpins our classrooms. At BCHS, learning is grounded in high expectations, mutual respect, and strong relationships. Students are known, valued, and encouraged to take ownership of their growth. Academic rigour is balanced with pastoral care, ensuring that wellbeing and performance develop hand in hand.
Our Catholic identity further shapes the distinctive character of teaching and learning at BCHS. Faith, service, and our Marist values are integrated into the educational experience, forming graduates who are not only capable students but compassionate contributors to the wider community.
Excellence is never accidental. It is the product of strategic leadership, dedicated educators, supportive families, and students willing to strive. As we look ahead, Burdekin Catholic High School remains firmly committed to continuous improvement, innovation in pedagogy, and the pursuit of outstanding outcomes for every learner.
In partnership with our local community, we will continue to ensure that BCHS is a place where educational excellence is lived daily — and where young people are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and values to flourish in an ever-changing world.
Contributed with thanks to Burdekin Catholic High School.
Burdekin Shire Council hosted a Stakeholder Engagement Meeting at the Ayr Aerodrome on Wednesday, 11 February, providing an opportunity to engage directly with aerodrome lessees, users and other interested stakeholders.
The meeting enabled Council to share updates on current activities at the aerodrome, gain a clearer understanding of how the facility is being used, and discuss potential opportunities for the future.
The session was intended as an open and constructive forum for information sharing, rather than a decision‑making process.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said Council values the opportunity to meet directly with those who use the aerodrome and to hear firsthand about their experiences.
“The Ayr Aerodrome is an important community asset with a lot of untapped potential, and it’s important that Council takes the time to understand how it’s being used now and where there may be opportunities into the future,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
Council recognises the importance of managing its assets in a practical and business‑minded way, balancing operational needs with long‑term sustainability and community benefit.
The stakeholder meeting was not about making decisions or commitments, but about sharing information, hearing a range of perspectives, and building a clearer picture of the aerodrome’s current role and future potential within the region.
Feedback received during the meeting will help inform Council’s ongoing considerations regarding the Ayr Aerodrome and how it is viewed and used now and into the future.
Contributed with thanks to Burdekin Shire Council
The meeting enabled Council to share updates on current activities at the aerodrome, gain a clearer understanding of how the facility is being used, and discuss potential opportunities for the future. Photo supplied
The Zonta Club of Burdekin Inc is set to celebrate International Women’s Day 2026 with its much-anticipated annual Afternoon Tea, bringing together community members for an inspiring afternoon dedicated to women, leadership and connection.
To be held on Sunday, 8 March at the Burdekin Memorial Hall, the event will feature two outstanding guest speakers whose work and lived experience reflect this year’s message of empowerment, resilience and service; journalist and advocate Kathleen Noonan and educator and agricultural leader Louise Nicholas.
This year’s theme, Cruise with Zonta, promises a relaxed and uplifting afternoon celebrating women, friendship and community spirit. Guests are invited to arrive from 1.30pm for a 2pm start, where they will enjoy a delightful afternoon tea, inspiring presentations and a range of engaging activities, all while supporting Zonta’s ongoing mission to build a better world for women and girls.
Kathleen Noonan’s journey began just south of the Burdekin, growing up on a cattle and sugar cane farm at Glenella near Farleigh in the Pioneer Valley outside Mackay. Her career in journalism has spanned three continents, beginning as a cadet with the Mackay Daily Mercury before progressing to roles as a news reporter, sub-editor, chief-of-staff and senior features writer in Australia, the United Kingdom and South Africa.
During her time in South Africa, Kathleen reported on the final years of apartheid and the release of Nelson Mandela. After relocating to Brisbane, she became a weekly columnist for The Courier-Mail, with her work syndicated nationally for 17 years. Her writing explored topics ranging from music and running to rural life and the quiet beauty of everyday moments.
In 2011, a chance meeting with renowned feminist scholar Dr Dale Spender AM led Kathleen to join the Second Chance Programme; a volunteer-run organisation providing essential support to women and children escaping poverty and domestic violence. For more than 25 years, the group has worked alongside housing services and specialist networks across Queensland to deliver practical assistance that helps women regain safety, dignity and independence.
Joining her is Louise Nicholas, a highly respected Senior Secondary Agricultural Science teacher and Agricultural Coordinator at Home Hill State High School. Louise is recognised for her leadership in strengthening agricultural education and building meaningful school-to-industry pathways for young people in regional Queensland.
Raised on the land and shaped by extensive field experience, Louise currently serves as Vice President of the Queensland Agricultural Teachers Association and is a member of the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award Alumni. She is deeply committed to ensuring students understand the importance of food and fibre production, while opening doors to diverse and rewarding careers within agriculture through innovation, partnerships and community collaboration.
The work of both guest speakers closely aligns with recent Zonta Club Burdekin Inc initiatives, particularly those addressing family and domestic violence, homelessness affecting women and children, and the transformative power of education; all issues of growing importance within the local community.
Tickets for the popular event went on sale at 8am on Monday, 9 February, with organisers encouraging early bookings as the Afternoon Tea traditionally sells out quickly.
The Zonta Club of Burdekin Inc invites community members to mark the date, gather friends and join in celebrating International Women’s Day in a warm and welcoming setting, while gaining valuable insights from two women whose stories embody the power of giving and the impact individuals can have in shaping a better future for women and girls.
What: Zonta Club Burdekin’s International Women’s Day Celebration
When: Sunday, 8 March 2026 from 1:30pm
Where: Burdekin Memorial Hall
Young book lovers in the Burdekin are being invited to turn the page on a new after-school adventure at Ayr Library with the Library Legends Reading Club.
Carefully designed for primary school-aged children, Library Legends runs as a fun and friendly monthly hang-out for kids who love stories, imagination and sharing a good book with others. The club brings young readers together to discover exciting tales, make new friends and build confidence through reading, all in a relaxed library setting.
The reading club runs on the first Monday of each month, from 3.30pm to 4pm, at Ayr Library, making it the perfect stop after school. Whether your child is a confident reader or just starting to find their reading groove, Library Legends encourages kids to explore books at their own pace and enjoy the magic of stories together.
Library staff say the club is all about creating positive reading experiences and helping kids see the library as a welcoming, fun space, not just a quiet place for books, but somewhere adventures begin!
Parents and carers are encouraged to get in touch with Ayr Library via phoning 4783 9970 for more details or to register their child and come along to the next Library Legends Reading Club on Monday, 2 March!
A wave of nostalgia has swept through the community with the return of the iconic vessel Distraction to the Burdekin Shire, rekindling memories of an ambitious backyard build that became part of local maritime history.
The mighty catamaran was originally constructed over nearly four years, with work beginning in 1994 and culminating in a celebratory launch in December of 1997. The project was led by local boatbuilder Chris Cannavan, alongside his sons Lee and Murray Cannavan, with frequent help from friends.
The vessel’s name, Distraction, was chosen with a smile. The build proved to be a constant diversion from farm work, something Chris often joked about. True to its grassroots beginnings, the design process involved no formal plans. As Chris famously said, “It was a very successful boat build for a toe-in-the-dirt idea,” referring to his habit of sketching concepts in dirt or dust to bring them to life.
The story of Distraction is closely tied to an innovative piece of equipment built a year earlier. In 1993, Chris constructed a custom six-metre press in his shed, using concrete, railway tracks and earth-moving rams, after discovering there were no such facilities north of Brisbane. That press went on to shape several Cannavan-built vessels, including some of the largest ever produced locally.
Among them was Ocean Karma, a 13.8 metre catamaran completed by Lee Cannavan in 2011. Still owned and operated by Lee, the vessel gained international attention after featuring as a water taxi in the 2022 film Ticket to Paradise, starring George Clooney and Julia Roberts.
Other notable builds include Popeye, a 14 metre catamaran named after Chris’s father, Arthur. Remarkably, Chris continues work on the vessel at 80 years old. At 15 metres, however, Distraction remains the largest of the Cannavan-built boats.
In December 2004, Distraction was sold to a resident of Bowen, where it was lovingly maintained as a pride-and-joy vessel for many years.
On 1 February, 2026, the story came full circle when Distraction was purchased back by Lee and Jane Cannavan, returning the vessel to the family and the region where it was born.
The homecoming carries deep sentimental value, not only for the Cannavans but also for residents of the Burdekin who remember the boat and the extraordinary effort behind its construction. With a range of modifications and improvements planned, the family hopes to see Distraction back on the water within the next two years; a fitting next chapter for a vessel that has always been more than just a boat.
Photos curtesy of Jess Cannavan.
Clare State School was awash with red last week as students and staff proudly showed their support for HeartKids by participating in Sweethearts Day, a special event focused on raising awareness and funds for children living with congenital heart disease.
Students arrived dressed in red, symbolising care, kindness and compassion, and took part in a range of meaningful classroom activities. One of the highlights of the day was the creation of vibrant, multicoloured foil hearts, which were proudly displayed around the school. The shimmering hearts served as a visual reminder of the importance of healthy hearts and the strength of children supported by the HeartKids Foundation.
Throughout the day, teachers led age-appropriate discussions to help students understand the role of HeartKids and why fundraising efforts like Sweethearts Day matter. Students learned how the foundation supports children and families affected by heart conditions through advocacy, education and care programs.
“This was a wonderful opportunity for our students to not only be creative, but also to develop empathy and an understanding of how they can make a positive difference in the lives of others," said Clare State School Principal, Troy Patti.
The event encouraged a strong sense of community, with students enthusiastic about contributing to a cause greater than themselves. By combining learning, creativity and generosity, Clare State School demonstrated that even small actions—like wearing red and making a heart—can have a big impact.
Funds raised from Sweethearts Day will go towards supporting the vital work of HeartKids, helping ensure that children with heart conditions and their families continue to receive the care and support they need.
Contributed with thanks to Clare State School
Clare State School was awash with red last week as students and staff proudly showed their support for HeartKids by participating in Sweethearts Day. Photo supplied
An established school with a proud 140-year history, Ayr State School is entering an exciting new chapter, with significant infrastructure upgrades underway to support growing enrolments and enhance learning and play for today’s students.
The project includes a new blue basketball court, a senior playground designed in a dynamic ninja-course style, and four fully refurbished classrooms. While construction is well advanced, the full suite of upgrades is expected to be completed in Term 2, marking an important milestone in the school’s continued growth.
The new basketball court, finished in blue to reflect the school’s colours, will provide students with a vibrant, high-quality space for physical education, organised sport and recreational play. The court is designed to encourage teamwork, resilience and healthy lifestyles, creating a hub of activity and connection throughout the school day.
The senior playground has been designed with older students in mind and takes the form of a ninja-course style play space. Featuring climbing, balancing and movement-based challenges, the playground promotes strength, coordination and problem-solving while encouraging confidence, perseverance and positive risk-taking in a safe and engaging environment. The design supports both physical wellbeing and social connection, recognising the importance of active play for students of all ages.
Inside the school, four refurbished classrooms have been transformed into modern, flexible learning spaces. These upgrades support contemporary teaching practices and allow staff to cater for diverse learning needs through differentiated and collaborative approaches. The refreshed classrooms ensure the school can continue to deliver high-quality education while welcoming an increasing number of students.
Principal Nikki Schell said the upgrades balance respect for the school’s long-standing history with a strong focus on the future.
“For 140 years, our school has been at the heart of this community,” she said.
“These improvements honour that legacy while ensuring we are ready to welcome new families and provide learning environments that reflect our commitment to inclusion, wellbeing and excellence.”
As the project moves toward completion in Term 2, the new facilities represent both a celebration of the past and a confident investment in the next generation of learners.
The project includes four fully refurbished classrooms. Photo supplied
Last week, Ayr State High School (ASHS) celebrated Sweethearts Day, the school’s own take on Valentine’s Day, filling the campus with colour, music and plenty of joy.
Students and staff embraced the spirit of the day as gifts were exchanged, donations were made, and serenades echoed throughout the school grounds. From heartfelt messages to musical performances, the ASHS community came together to share a little extra kindness and fun.
A big thank you was extended to all staff and students who supported the Sweethearts Day stall and helped make the event such a success. Special recognition went to Tiana and her dedicated “band of sweethearts” who worked tirelessly behind the scenes, organising deliveries, running the stall and performing serenades.
The school also acknowledged Mr Dunk for capturing the day as official photographer, along with ASHS School Captain, Ayden Barnett and ASHS School Vice Captain, Charlie Shears, who took on the role of serenading troubadours and brought smiles to many faces.
With hearts well and truly full, Sweethearts Day proved to be a joyful celebration of community spirit at Ayr High.
Photos courtesy of Ayr State High School.
Residents of the Burdekin Shire recently took to social media to voice concerns about the lingering stench that coated the streets of Ayr last week, with all signs pointing to mill mud as the source.
A nutrient-rich byproduct of the sugar cane milling process, mill mud consists of residues left over after sugarcane juice has been clarified and filtered. It is commonly used as a soil conditioner and organic fertiliser to improve soil structure and boost plant growth due to its high nutrient content.
Mill mud has a distinct, often pungent odour, largely because it contains high amounts of organic matter such as bagasse and fibre that begin to decompose, producing a swampy or earthy smell. While the smell can be strong, it is generally considered a normal aspect of the product’s composition.
Wilmar Sugar Australia defines mill mud as a compost or fertiliser byproduct of the sugar extraction process and notes that it is not classified as hazardous under Safe Work Australia criteria. In the past, the company has conducted trials to develop best-practice guidelines for the use of mill mud and mill ash, concluding that mill mud maximises sugarcane yields while minimising the loss of nutrients from farms.
The company also stresses that the product is widely used across the region and is an important contributor to sustainable sugarcane production, despite the occasional odour concerns raised by local residents.
As 2026 gets underway, many Burdekin primary producers are looking ahead with cautious optimism. However, for some, the year has begun under difficult circumstances following Tropical Cyclone Koji and the associated flooding event late last year.
Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) Regional Area Manager for North Queensland, Angelo Rigano, said he has spent recent weeks visiting properties across the region to help producers begin their recovery journey.
“Sadly, I know not everyone has had a smooth start to the year,” Mr Rigano said.
“If you’ve been impacted, it’s okay not to be okay, and I strongly encourage anyone who needs support to reach out for help — including mental health services.”
QRIDA is currently administering disaster financial assistance for eligible primary producers affected by the North Queensland Monsoon Trough, Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji and severe weather from 24 December 2025. The assistance is aimed at helping producers cover clean-up and reinstatement costs and get back on their feet as quickly as possible.
Eligible producers can now apply for low-interest loans and other disaster recovery support through QRIDA, with guidelines and application forms available on the QRIDA website.
Mr Rigano encouraged producers to regularly check the site as assessments continue and new information becomes available.
“As the government gains a clearer understanding of what communities need, additional assistance may be announced,” he said.
To help fast-track recovery applications, QRIDA has also shared five practical steps for producers affected by Cyclone Koji or recent flooding:
In further positive news, the application deadline for Exceptional Disaster Assistance Recovery Grants of up to $75,000 has been extended until 14 August 2026.
“This extension gives producers who have faced multiple disaster events more time to complete clean-up and recovery works,” Mr Rigano said.
Early assessments following Cyclone Koji indicate many North Queensland farms — including those in the Burdekin — have avoided significant damage, with encouraging signs emerging across several agricultural sectors heading into 2026.
Mr Rigano said QRIDA remains committed to supporting Burdekin producers, not only through disaster recovery, but also by helping them improve productivity, expand operations and prepare for future droughts.
“I’m looking forward to catching up with more producers across the region in the coming weeks,” he said.
“QRIDA is here to help — whether that’s recovery, growth or planning for what’s ahead.”
For more information or assistance, producers are encouraged to contact QRIDA directly or complete the Department of Primary Industries’ Disaster Impact Survey if they were affected.
Dark storm clouds developing in the Burdekin during property visits over the past month. Photo supplied
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