Fills Essential Female Health Care Role  

Residents of Home Hill now have a new female doctor available for appointments thanks to the incoming Dr Pavani Ganapathi who has just joined the team of five other doctors at Home Hill Doctors Surgery. Another female doctor in town retired several months ago and many residents are relieved this essential role has now been filled.

It has been a long journey for Dr Pavani and her husband Dr Sarat Tata who have been waiting for the day they can work alongside each other in the surgery they own. And while Dr Pavani is a familiar face to many, today is the first official day of duties for the young and inspiring local GP.

Medical services in Home Hill have just expanded significantly with Dr Pavani Ganapathi becoming another female practitioner in town to be able to cater to female health issues. She joins her husband, Dr Sarat Tata, in the Home Hill Surgery after several years of dedicated study which has seen her specialise in women’s and children’s health.

The couple bought the practice in 2014, but for the past 10 years Dr Sarat has been working as a GP, alongside other doctors, while his wife studied. During this time, he has worked with four doctors on-staff and, by adding Dr Pavani to the team, this will allow the surgery to open up more appointment times and take additional bookings.

It has been a long road for Dr Pavani who has completed years of tireless study. During this time, she undertook a Diploma in Child Health through the Royal College of Physicians in Ireland and also holds an Advanced Certificate in Women’s Health.

Most recently, Dr Pavani completed a one-year placement at Sarina Clinic where she gained the experience to now take on her own patients at the Home Hill Surgery. During this period, the couple spent a lot of time apart, visiting each other most weekends. This makes the reunion at their shared practice even more special.

“It’s great to be back and finally able to work in the surgery together,” said Dr Pavani.

“I’ve been here since 2014 so I know a lot of the patients well. I am now excited to meet them all again and see them on my own.”

Dr Sarat said it’s been a long few years and that he is grateful to now work alongside his wife.

“I’m looking forward to working with my wife to improve the services we provide to the community! Also, we won’t be as busy and can take more bookings and walk-in patients” he said.

Dr Sarat and Dr Pavani are originally from India and moved to Australia in 2013 where they spent one year in Western Australia. During their time there, they saw an advertisement for a surgery for sale in Home Hill and jumped at the opportunity of moving to regional North Queensland.

“We are originally from South India, so the weather is the same here as it is back home,” said Dr Sarat.

“I liked the previous owner, Dr Griffiths, as soon as I met him, and I liked the way he ran the surgery.

“I also really liked the community here which is why we decided to move here.”

Dr Sarat said he is thrilled to now be working alongside his wife at last.

“This has been a long time coming and we’ve struggled to get here – it is good for us and good for the community!” he said.

“Please call in, we would love to meet you and look after your medical services. We are good at making you better”

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Dr Pavani is the new female doctor working at the Home Hill Surgery. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

Dr Sarat and Dr Pavani own the Home Hill Doctors Surgery. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

On Ken Duncan’s Rita Island farm, hoof marks, pierced plastic mulch and half eaten fruit show signs of unwelcome night-time activity.

Feral deer have long been a problem on the island, but Mr Duncan and his neighbours say the problem is getting worse.

“They’ve been here since I’ve been here, and I’ve always worked with it,” Mr Duncan said.

“This year has just blindsided me; it hasn’t been good at all.”

Mr Duncan has been growing watermelons and pumpkins on the 160-acre property for the last eight years.

He estimates that this year alone, feral deer have caused a minimum of $100,000 worth of damage to his product and infrastructure.

“Because we’re watering the ground, it’s soft on the plastic mulch so when they run, their hooves pierce the plastic and nick the tubing underneath,” Mr Duncan said.

“When we go to water, it’s like a sprinkler, so you lose water efficiency, you lose the ability to distribute the fertiliser to the watermelons.

“Then there’s the eating of the fruit and the squashing of the vine, of course.”

Prime breeding conditions have seen a spike in deer numbers on the island, although the dry weather is driving them to feed on fruit and cane crops.

“Now it’s dry, there’s not enough food to keep them going,” Mr Duncan said.

“They’re getting thinner and thinner, so I feel sorry for the deer.”

While the deer pose one problem to the farmer, they also attract even more unwelcome night-time activity: amateur hunters.

Mr Duncan avoids shooting on his farm due to the proximity of neighbouring houses which have had bullets strike pool fences and kitchen cupboards.

“People come on uninvited and the paddock is surrounded by houses, and they’re all scared, because there’s shooting all night long,” he said.

“I’ve got workers who spray at night-time and sometimes we change irrigation at night-time, so how long until they get hit?”

Mr Duncan and his workers have started conducting nightly patrols of the farm to ward off unwelcome pests and hunters.

He has also installed a gas gun and laser which repel the deer unharmed, and he plans to install fencing around the entire property.

“The last thing I feel like doing is a 1:00am patrol but I do, because this is our farm and we have to protect our crops,” he said.

The Burdekin Shire Council has unveiled a comprehensive Feral Deer Management Plan in response to the recent launch of the Queensland Feral Deer Management Strategy (2022-2027) and the National Feral Deer Action Plan (2023-2028) by the Australian Government.

“The Feral Deer Management Plan reflects Council’s commitment to protect the region's assets and mitigate the damage caused by these invasive animals,” Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughin said.

“The plan, aligned with both strategies, addresses the expanding deer populations in the Burdekin Shire and neighbouring areas and will aid in reducing the impact of feral deer on the environment, agriculture and communities.”

To report a deer sighting or for further information on the Feral Deer Management Plan, contact Burdekin Shire Council at (07) 4783 9800 or visit the website: feralscan.org.au/deerscan.

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Rita Island farmer Ken Duncan. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

Who’s keen for Harvest Festival?

It’s been on my radar since moving to Home Hill, so I sure am.

I can’t remember the last time I saw a street parade; I was lucky enough to get a quick sneak peak at some of the floats this week and they look terrific, so I know it’s going to be a great spectacle.

Growing up on the Darling Downs, I have fond memories of street parades, rides, concerts and gardens at the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers.

Visiting my grandparents in Chinchilla for the Melon Festival was always a good time.

Plus, although there was no parade involved, my hometown of Millmerran throws a great Camp Oven Festival every two years – if you’re down there in October 2024, check it out!

These festivals, carnivals and celebrations encapsulate the spirit and identity of the communities that host them.

So much hard work and so many volunteer hours go into providing exceptional experiences for us attendees, so it’s important to support these events and the businesses that sponsor them.

With the Gala Ball on Friday night and the Grand Parade and Street Party on Saturday afternoon, I’m excited to see what the Home Hill Harvest Festival has in store for 2023!

Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre (BNC) has done what it does best, and that’s bringing people together.

A familiar face at BNC, Malcolm has been coming into the Centre for quite a while where he utilises the services of the CPL team based in the Centre.  

Malcolm will always make a point of coming in and chatting to the rest of the BNC staff and, in doing so, gets an insight into the other activities and services in the Centre.  

Recently, Malcolm expressed his desire to have a special rug created by the talented members of the BNC Crochet Group.

Michelle, a dedicated member of the group, immediately volunteered to take on the project.

Michelle decided not only to create the rug but to donate it to Malcolm as a token of her appreciation for his support and presence in the community.

Malcolm returned to the Centre to pass on a thank you to Michelle on a Monday, which happens to be Crochet Afternoon, creating a serendipitous opportunity for him to meet Michelle in person and express his gratitude.

The community members coming together to support one another exemplifies the true spirit of unity and generosity that the Centre fosters.

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Malcolm and Michelle. Photo supplied: Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

Shirley Gilmore is a dedicated and compassionate individual who has been a pillar of strength for countless women facing the daunting diagnosis of cancer.

With roles at both the Queensland Cancer Council and the Breast Cancer Network in Melbourne, she has made it her life's mission to provide unwavering support to those in need.

Shirley’s cancer support roles follow a career in healthcare and her own breast cancer diagnosis in 1990.

Shirley travelled to Brisbane for treatment, and the support she received from her family and healthcare staff inspired her to extend the same lifeline to others.

“The particular challenges facing rural women in this situation at the time involved lack of information and support,” she said.

In 1994, fit, healthy and back at work, Shirley began her formal commitment to the Queensland Cancer Fund by signing up as an entrant in the Nurse of the Year quest, raising almost $30,000.

“The important thing was that I then had the resources available to hand out to other women,” she said.

In 1995, Queensland Cancer Fund and the community health nurse assisted her to set up a Breast Cancer Support Group, who still meet monthly to this day.

Over the years, Shirley continued to raise funds, again committing to Nurse of the Year in 2002 and later, she became involved in the Breast Cancer Network.

Every month, Shirley and her fellow survivors meet at the Gudjuda Deck Café, creating a sense of companionship and shared experience.

“You meet such wonderful women on that journey; there’s a lot of good people out there,” she said.

“There are a couple of people there who have recently been diagnosed, there are a couple of survivors who have been coming for 25 years.

“There are so many more women diagnosed with breast cancer now but there’s such a big survival rate and that’s all we’ve got to focus on.”

The Breast Cancer Support Group will hold a Christmas breakup at the Gudjuda Deck Café on Thursday, November 30 from 10:00am.

For more information on the group, contact Shirley on 0476 157 571 and to RSVP for the breakup, contact Gudjuda Deck Café on 07 4783 7229.

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Shirley Gilmore fills cancer support roles with both Queensland Cancer Council and Breast Cancer Network. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

Burdekin residents are being urged to seize the opportunity of cost-effective waste disposal year-round with the launch of Clean Up November thanks to Burdekin Shire Council.

The 'Clean Up November’ initiative coincides with preparations for the 2023/24 disaster season, underlining the importance of residents clearing their yards of debris ahead of any impending storms or cyclones.

Sunday, December 3 will see a temporary waiver of waste charges, while the regular rules and operations at the Clare Transfer Station will remain unchanged for the day.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin called upon all residents to contribute to the community's safety and readiness, emphasising the significance of preparedness during the disaster season.

"While we introduce Clean Up November in anticipation of the cyclone season, it's important for residents to remember that trips to Burdekin's Transfer Stations and Landfill are cost-free every day for sorted domestic waste," said Ms McLaughlin.

“Presently, there is no charge for disposing of domestic waste items such as oil, fire extinguishers, white goods, scrap metal, E-waste, fluoro tubes, flares, gas bottles, EPIRBs, cardboard and green waste, provided they are properly sorted.

“Only specific items like tyres will incur a limited per load and disposal fee.

“I want to encourage everyone to play their part in ensuring that their yards are clear of debris, fixtures are securely fastened, and gutters are free from obstructions before the onset of storms.

“Extend a helping hand to elderly neighbours, family members and friends who may require assistance with transporting their waste.”

Residents are reminded to securely cover their loads when transporting waste and it is important to note that green waste, recyclables, scrap metal, tyres, and concrete must be separated before disposal.

Hazardous waste items such as paints, solvents, chemical waste and contaminated soil cannot be accepted at Council Landfill or Transfer Stations.

Standard disposal charges will apply to commercial waste, truckloads and domestic asbestos disposal.

Relaxed charges for waste disposal at the Transfer Stations and Kirknie Road Landfill will be in effect on Sunday, December 3 2023.

For further information on waste disposal and related queries, please visit Council’s website at www.burdekin.qld.gov.au or contact Council’s Customer Service Centre at 4783 9800.

A $46.88 million package has been announced by the Queensland Government to support the Burdekin Shire Council for Stage 1 of a new Water Treatment Plant in Ayr.

The funding package also provides support for costs associated with refurbishing South Ayr bores to supplement current drinking water supplies and is part of an ongoing management plan following detections of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in the groundwater.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin thanked the State Government for their support in providing essential infrastructure to the Burdekin community.

“Council is delighted and welcomes the State Government’s announcement of financial support to deliver Stage 1 of a new water treatment plant,” Ms McLaughlin said.

“This project will ensure a safe, reliable source of drinking water for residents in the Ayr, Brandon and Alva communities.”

Stage 1 of the new water treatment plant includes iron and manganese pre-treatment, dual media filtration (coal on sand), disinfection, solids handling, chemical storage and dosing.

Construction of the water treatment plant is set to begin later this year and be commissioned and supplying drinking water by 2026.

Additional funding for ongoing technical support and groundwater monitoring and modelling of the Ayr aquifer will also be provided.

“The Palaszczuk Labor Government is supporting the Burdekin Shire Council in the delivery of safe and reliable drinking water to the community now and into the future,” said Minister for Water Glenn Butcher.

“Everyone knows the Burdekin is built on liquid gold, and this investment sets the community and council on a path for safe, clean and healthy water for decades to come.”

Burdekin Shire Council took immediate action to establish new bores for the town’s water supply when PFAS was first detected in the local groundwater in 2018.  

The Queensland Government previously provided $12 million funding to Burdekin Shire Council for water supply infrastructure upgrades to support safe and reliable drinking water.

Completed in 2022, these works included a 10 megalitre South Ayr Reservoir, installation of new bores and associated pumps, chlorination and ultraviolet (UV) disinfection equipment and connecting water mains, and the design of the South Ayr Water Treatment Plant.

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New structures to be established on the existing reservoir, shaded dark. Image supplied

Since its inception in 1917, the RSL Home Hill Sub Branch has been an integral part of the town’s ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day services while providing assistance and social connection to local ex-service men and women.

The Sub Branch has had its ups and downs throughout its 106 year history but regular meetings, held on the first Monday of the month at the Crown Hotel from 10:15am, have kept current members and the community engaged.

“Monthly meetings have only recently started which is good because you get other community people here to discuss issues,” said Secretary Allan Petersen.

“We try to do all of our commemorative services the best we can, and I think we do a pretty good job considering we’ve only got a very small number of workers.”

The RSL Home Hill Sub Branch is hosting its Remembrance Day Service this Saturday, November 11 at Burdekin Memorial Hall from 10:30am.

“It’s an opportunity to reflect on World Wars I and II and what the diggers sacrificed for our country’s way of life today,” said President Richard Kelly.

“Everyone should think about the old diggers, especially from here, there was a lot of people from this area who couldn’t get in quick enough to sign up.”

“Remembrance Day is something that I do believe we need to recognise the volunteer commitment that went into whatever was done across the warzones,” added Mr Petersen.

“It’s not only for those who lost their lives and made the ultimate sacrifice through their service, but so many people came home who suffered physically and mentally.”

The service will be another opportunity for the Sub Branch to continue its collaboration with local schools, a point of pride for its members.

“We get out amongst the people and the school kids, and they really enjoy themselves,” said Mr Kelly.

The Sub Branch is dedicated to the support and welfare of local veterans and families and is always looking for new members.

Contact Mr Petersen on 0497 828 983 or Mr Kelly on 0418 984 754 for more information.

WHAT: RSL Home Hill Sub Branch Remembrance Day Service

WHEN: Saturday, November 11 from 10:30am

WHERE: Burdekin Memorial Hall, Home Hill

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WHAT: RSL Ayr Sub Branch Remembrance Day Service

WHEN: Saturday, November 11 from 10:30am

WHERE: Anzac Park, Ayr

A group of up to 25 young people meet at the Burdekin Shire Council Chambers every month to collaborate with Council, provide feedback and discuss opportunities for the youth of the Burdekin.

The Burdekin Shire Youth Council is an initiative inviting young people aged 12 to 21 to immerse themselves in the community.

Meetings are held monthly, and members can be seen volunteering at events throughout the community, including the recent Seniors Luncheon and Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival.

Burdekin Shire Youth Council Mayor Zavier Wood has been involved in Youth Council for six years.

As he approaches the end of year 12 at Ayr State High School, he reflected on his journey that started with an invitation to join Youth Council.

“I wanted to give back to my community and I knew this was one way of doing so,” Zavier said.

“Having this collaboration gives the youth a voice and helps them to work alongside the council to better the community for everyone.”

Zavier said his roles in Youth Council have given him the opportunity to develop his public speaking and teamwork skills while learning about the structure of meetings and council.

The Youth Council have also hosted workshops and first aid courses, and Zavier thoroughly enjoys volunteering at community events.

“There’s a lot to gain from it,” he said.

“I’d definitely recommend the youth council to anyone who is thinking of joining.”

Burdekin Shire Youth Council is looking forward to celebrating its 30th anniversary next year.

“In 1994, the Youth Council was developed to allow youth a voice into Council,” said Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin.

“Council was looking at ways to provide entertainment for teenagers and youth that were not old enough for licensed venues but still wanted to experience the atmosphere.

“For several years, Council successfully ran discos while also promoting youth engagement through evening Council meetings.

“These sessions provided youth with a platform to provide feedback on various community issues.  

“It's truly remarkable to see the Burdekin Shire Youth Council thriving 30 years later as we prepare to celebrate this significant anniversary next year.

“Being part of the Youth Council is a wonderful opportunity for our younger residents to express themselves, make new friends and actively engage in the community.

“It's not just about representing our town's young voices; it's a gateway to personal growth and provides a chance to shape the future.

“It's where they can be themselves, establish meaningful connections, and play an active role in building a stronger, more vibrant community.”

Burdekin Shire Youth Council now look towards their Christmas breakup and last meeting of the year next month before submissions open again in February.

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Back row L-R Jorda Quagliata, Byrin Bojack, Haigan MacDonald, Clodagh Liessmann, Sarah Shepherd, Eddie Jones, Michael Lindley. Front row L-R Breanna Wood, Zavier Wood, William Wiseman, Matilda Wiseman and Brent Dingle

One unfortunate boatie on Groper Creek has come home from a day of fishing following a bingle with a large crocodile.

Reporting that the large croc had repeatedly attacked his boat on Wednesday November 1, while he was fishing on Groper Creek close to Pensioners Bend.

The Queensland Government’s Crocwise resource says that when fishing, camping, or boating near any body of water in the region, it is always best to act as if there is a crocodile near.

Crocodiles can be found in fresh and salt waters, including rivers, creeks, swamps, lagoons, beaches, oceans, and waterholes.

To reduce risk of attracting a crocodile, it is best to remain at least five metres from the waters edge. Crocodiles are apex predators that use ambush techniques to catch their prey, and often hunt in the groves of waters edge.

Be sure to dispose of food waste and scraps in a bin or take it home with you, as crocs are attracted by the promise of an easy meal.

Keep pets on leads and away from water, as they are very attractive prey for crocs.

Avoid kayaks, paddleboards, and small water vessels, as they are easy for crocodiles to snatch people off of.

And stay well away from crocodile traps, which are designed to attract crocodiles.

To report any sightings of crocodiles, ring Crocwatch on 1300 130 372

With endless stories to tell and a new appreciation for adventure, Brad and Kerry Gardner have returned from the trip of a lifetime after taking on the Spring 2023 Shitbox Rally.

The Giru couple embarked on the adventure last month, joining a convoy of 250 ‘shitboxes’ travelling from Port Douglas to Adelaide, all while raising money for the National Health and Medical Research Council.

Brad and Kerry, also known as their team name ‘Gunn Ado’s’, arrived in Port Douglas on Friday, October 13 to assemble with the rest of the group and get briefed on the trip.

It was here they met their buddy group, made up of six other teams of two, and Brad said these people quickly became lifelong friends.

“Even still today, we’re still talking, messaging, catching up, sharing our plans for the weekend,” he said.

“It was just a fantastic group of people we had with us which made it all worthwhile.”

The rally began the following day with stops at Einasleigh, Winton, Windorah, Birdsville, Marree and Rawnsley Park before finishing at Adelaide.

After a week of late nights, busted tyres, fuel dramas and plenty of socialising, Brad said arriving in Adelaide on the last day was an emotional and satisfying experience.

“It was probably one of the most fulfilling things we’ve ever done,” he said.

“Being able to raise over $21,000, being able to give back to people and raise that money for cancer, it was fantastic.

“We were out of our comfort zone, sleeping in a swag every night, sometimes not even having a shower, but no one complained, we just went with it.

“It’s pretty emotional at times so you learn a lot about yourself, who you are and the people you’re with.”

Brad and Kerry have embarked on another fundraising journey as they prepare for the Mystery Box Rally out of Airlie Beach in 2024.

“There are so many people who sponsored us, supported us and are still supporting us to this day, and I can’t thank everyone enough for all the time and money they put in,” Brad concluded.

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Brad and Kerry Gardner dressed in honour of their friend Gary Corradi who passed away from cancer a decade ago. Photo supplied

School leavers, local businesses and representative groups are being encouraged to help frame the future of TAFE by joining the conversation and being vocal about their needs and wants.

Local Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, is calling on these groups to make a stand and get involved so the direction of TAFE reflects local needs rather than those of Brisbane-based decision-makers.

Mr Last says he is concerned young people are choosing to leave the region for study opportunities when they could be receiving them here.

He believes that if more relevant courses were held at the local TAFE more skilled youth would remain in the area.

“When I speak to high school students the vast majority of them tell me they intend to leave the district when they graduate,” Mr Last said.  

“Some want to attend university or just spread their wings but there is also a group that leave to pursue training that could be offered here in the Burdekin.”

“In the last few years, we have seen a dramatic rise in the number of unfilled positions in crucial industries. If we don’t take action to improve local training opportunities, that situation is only going to get worse.”

Disappointed that more local consultation on the matter wasn’t offered by the state government, Mr Last is now appealing for people to come forward with ideas and suggestions, so the community doesn’t miss out.

“My message to local businesses and representative groups is that, if they have identified an area where the current training is inadequate, this is their chance to raise those issues.  And for former students, I would ask that they have their say because their experiences allow us to improve what is on offer now and what will be on offer in the future.”

“By proactively taking part we also send a clear message to the Minister that our community will not accept any reduction in services. Our local businesses, and our community as a whole, need our TAFE to fill a key role and we need to take some responsibility in ensuring it does.”

“The Burdekin has a proud history of standing up for what we need, and on this occasion, that is exactly what we need to do. I have no intention of letting Brisbane-based bureaucrats dictate to us and I know that this community won’t stand for it either.”

Meet Burdekin Life’s new Account Sales Manager, Jake Greenfield, an adventurous soul hailing from South of London who embarked on a life-changing journey leading him to beautiful north Queensland.

Jake and his girlfriend left the UK at the start of the year in search of an adventure, without a specific plan or destination in mind.

Their travels took them through Southeast Asia before they bought a one-way ticket to Australia to discover what the Land Down Under had to offer.

The pair ventured up the east coast, with the coastal hubs of Byron Bay, Noosa and Bowen, where Jake saw his first kangaroo, capturing his attention.

“I didn’t realise the diversity of the country,” he said.

“You’ve got everything from sprawling woodlands and tropical rainforests to stunning beaches, I’m blown away.”

True beach lovers, the pair ultimately fell in love with the mesmerising beauty of Airlie Beach.

Jake joins the Burdekin Life team with sales experience born out of his love for people.

Although based in the Whitsundays, he will be travelling to the Burdekin weekly to catch up with people and businesses, friends new and old.

“I love meeting new people and getting to know new people, so I hope to bring a friendly, smiley face to the region and a name that people hopefully remember!” he said.

With a degree in photography, Jake is also excited by the prospect of contributing his creativity to the business.

“I’m in a job that enables me to get creative again and that excites me, so you might find me out and about with my camera now the dust has been blown off it,” he laughed.

With his camera in hand and a warm smile on his face, Jake is excited to continue his exploration of the Burdekin and meet everyone who makes this region great.

Strategic planning has been high on the agenda for Burdekin Shire Council for numerous reasons. As a councillor it is our role to plan for the future of our community and enhance the vibrancy and liveability for all residents. These master plans allow council a greater likelihood of securing State and Federal funding for major projects when they apply.

We have witnessed the improvements in infrastructure recently due to this forward planning – greater water resilience with the reservoirs in Home Hill and Ayr, the expansion of the Industrial estate to enhance economic development, the macro-algae bioremediation treatment plant for improved environmental sustainability, the development of Plantation Park for residents and visitors alike.

These projects add greatly to our liveability and assist with retaining our population throughout the Shire, which had suffered slight declines in past years but has turned a corner and in the last twelve months we’ve witnessed an increase to our resident numbers which is very pleasing.

A very visible project due to its location in the heart of the Ayr town centre is the development of the Burdekin Aquatic Centre, encompassing the water park and new kiosk which recently opened and has been well received and utilised. These improvements are part of a bigger picture, a master plan for the entire Anzac Park Precinct and council have been busy developing a concept plan for this space.

Most recently consultation has occurred in the community through numerous forums and at the local schools to garner ideas and get feedback from our youth regarding the youth zones earmarked within this development. The comments to date have been very positive with our youth being a very important part of the community we wish to retain here in the Burdekin. Initial plans for this development can be located on the council website and I encourage you to take the time to check them out and understand how strategic planning helps to enhance our community.

Did you know that the Shire maintains an extensive network of urban water mains spanning an impressive 302 kilometres?

This extensive infrastructure plays a crucial role in delivering essential water services to homes and businesses.

Maintaining and expanding this water mains network is a significant undertaking that requires careful planning and investment. Council has committed more than $5.8 million to operate and maintain water services to its 6,669 customers in the 2023/24 Budget.

In June 2022, a new long-term treated water storage facility in Home Hill was completed, marking a substantial enhancement in water security for the community. This achievement was made possible through a collaboration between the Queensland Government and the Burdekin Shire Council, which jointly funded the construction of Home Hill's 5ML Reservoir.

A key project completed during the year was the upgrade of the Ayr/Brandon Water Supply through the construction of a new 10 Megalitre reservoir which provides vastly improved treated water storage capacity and greatly improves the resiliency of the system in the event of disruptions or natural disasters. The project was fully funded by the State Government. This key piece of infrastructure was brought into service in December 2022 and is an integral element in enhancing the security and reliability of the Ayr/Brandon Water Supply network.

Council also revised and updated its Drinking Water Quality Management Plan to recognise significant water treatment upgrades in both the Home Hill and Ayr Water Supply’s with the inclusion of new Ultra Violet and Sodium Hypochlorite disinfection infrastructure which enhance the drinking water quality and safety.

In addition, Council has continued its inspection and maintenance program on all water and sewerage network infrastructure, ensuring its reliability into the future.

The 302 kilometres of water mains in the Burdekin are a vital lifeline that ensures the community's access to one of life's most essential resources – clean, safe and reliable water.