The recent threat of a tropical cyclone has prompted our local Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, to remind everyone that volunteering for the community is very important.

Mr Last said that the Christmas spirit and the motivation behind volunteering were more similar than what many may think.

“What greater gift can you give than to volunteer your time to keep your community safe,” he asked.

“There’s a wide range of roles within volunteer groups that not only cater to people’s skills and abilities but also to their other responsibilities.”

The Christmas period is an ideal time for community members to consider putting themselves forward to assist the community in times of need according to Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP.

Having served as an Auxiliary Firefighter, Mr Last said the value of volunteers in communities like the Burdekin was often only highlighted during the response to a disaster; a trend he was hoping to reverse.

“There is more to responding to major events and disasters than what the public sees,” Mr Last said.  “Last week local volunteers were already preparing for the possible impact of Tropical Cyclone Jasper so there is a considerable amount of work falling on a small group of people.”

“Groups like the SES, VMR, the Rural Fire Service and our Auxiliary Firefighters are called upon throughout the year so, even outside of the larger disaster scenarios, the role volunteers play in the community cannot be understated.”

“Regardless of the impacts from Cyclone Jasper, we know that over the summer period there is usually increased demand on emergency services volunteers so putting your hand up now really could make a huge difference.”

“There is a host of information available online for people who are interested in playing their part and I would encourage people to at least think about whether this is something that they could do to support others. I know that a few extra members would be a great Christmas gift for our emergency services volunteers and our community as a whole.”

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Representatives from Woongaloo Rural Fire Service with Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP. Photo supplied

For NQ Primary Health Network

More than 150 primary health care service contracts have been delivered across north Queensland, valued at more than $63.7 million, as outlined in the recent Northern Queensland Primary Health Network (NQPHN) 2022-23 Annual Report.

Other significant milestones have been highlighted, including more than 4,000 engagements with primary health providers and notable advancements in mental health services.

Board Chair Terry Mehan said NQPHN was committed to strategically advancing health care access and outcomes for North Queenslanders.

“Our focus is to commission primary health care services that cater to the unique health needs of our region, ensuring quality healthcare reaches every corner of North Queensland,” he said.

A significant NQPHN accomplishment in the 2022-23 financial year included collaboration with the Groundswell Project to conduct Compassionate Communities train-the-trainer workshops.

NQPHN Executive Director Health System Integration and Innovation Karin Barron said during the 2022-23 financial year, NQPHN continued to take a leading role in engaging and supporting primary care providers through various capability and capacity-building activities.

“Our teams trained more than 380 health community connectors across North Queensland to play a stronger role in supporting local people and families during end-of-life experiences,” she said.

“One of the face-to-face workshops was held in Ayr, with 20 residents registering to become health community connectors.

“The Burdekin health community connectors are engaged when there’s a referral for informal wraparound support for individuals and families who are affected by life-limiting illnesses.

“When they are not supporting people, they signpost and share information as proactive community members.”

Meanwhile, an ambitious 12-month program to dramatically improve access to culturally safe health assessments and coordinated care for First Nations people was also a highlight of 2022-23 financial year.

With 13.75 per cent of the identified Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population of northern Queensland having a billed 715 Health Assessment in a 12-month period, the First Nations Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) program was developed to improve access.

“The program attracted 75 participating health services, with more than 545 face-to-face and virtual education event participants,” Ms Barron said.

NQPHN’s 2022-23 Annual Report can be viewed at annualreport.nqphn.com.au.

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Healthy End of Life Program (HELP) Impact and Engagement Coordinator Niki Read

Over 900 native seedlings have been planted along the sand dunes of Wunjunga in order to stabilise the dunes and protect access roads from storm surges and future extreme weather events.

The Community Planting Day included the planting of beach bean, goat’s foot and brown cudgerie, and were selected due to their ability to withstand hard coastal conditions.

Event organiser, NQ Dry Tropics Project Officer Darcy Roeger, praised attendees for turning out in numbers to help protect the beautiful natural environment.

“It was great to see so many people from the area getting involved in the planting,” Mr Roeger said.

“The heat didn’t diminish the enthusiasm of this proud community and I’m excited to see this site grow into a more valuable beach scrub.

“I would also like to thank Lower Burdekin Landcare, Coastal Dry Tropics Landcare and Whitsundays Landcare for the plants they supplied.

“It’s comforting to know that between the propagation and the planting, these trees have had the best start they can get.”

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin said she was proud of the community effort.

“It was wonderful to see people from different backgrounds and ages joining forces to protect our precious sand dunes,” Ms McLaughlin said.

“These dunes are vital for our coastal resilience and biodiversity, and they need our care and attention.

“The planting sites were chosen based on the Dune Management Strategy, adopted by Council in December 2021, which identified them as high-risk areas that could be breached by severe storms.

“By restoring the native vegetation, we are strengthening the dunes and ensuring their survival for future generations.

“This is part of an ongoing collaboration between NQ Dry Tropics, Wunjunga Progress Association and Gudjuda Reference Group, who have done a remarkable job in preserving our natural heritage."

Following this event, the total of plants planted at Wunjunga are more than 2,400.

The volunteers on the day also constructed 1.6-kilometres of beachfront fencing and erected signage discouraging vehicles driving on dunes.

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The volunteer effort at the Wunjunga Community Planting Day. Photo credit: Melanie Napier

The Burdekin Mothers Union group held a service at All Saints Anglican Church as part of the 16 Days of Activism for gender-based violence.  

The service was attended by parishioners, members of the Burdekin Community Association, the Ayr police service and our local Zonta group.  

Rebecca Grogan, Housing And Community Support Service Manager from BCA, was the guest speaker and gave us some interesting information about domestic violence in our community.  

We prayed for victims of domestic violence and for those who work hard to support victims and prevent domestic violence in our community.  

The congregations of All Saints, Ayr and St Helens Home Hill collect toiletry products to make hygiene packs that are distributed to victims who need to leave their homes without anything.  

Contributed by Karen Allen

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Rebecca Grogan, Housing And Community Support Service Manager, Burdekin Community Association

Crch Warden Dianne Statham

Judith and Isabel from Zonta NQ and Reverend Karen

Photos supplied

If you are the holder of a current Qld Weapons Licence, I would remind you to check the expiry date of that licence to ensure it is current.  Ayr Police are experiencing an increase in the numbers of people attending the station after their Weapons Licence has expired.  

A brand new licence application then has to be submitted from scratch.  

There are a couple of benefits to renewing your weapons licence rather than it expire and they are (current as of 1 July, 2023):

New weapons licence application fee is $117.61 per year

5yr new licence is $294.20;

10yr renewal is $388.50;

Permit to Acquire is $44.47;

Further, if your weapons licence expires and you have a weapon, you can no longer possess that weapon.  It must be stored with a person who holds a weapons licence for that class of weapon but only for a maximum time of three (3) months.  Otherwise, it should be stored with a local firearm dealer possibly with a fee attached.

Take a moment and check the expiry date of your weapons licence now to make sure it’s current and when you need to renew it by.  Remember, it remains the responsibility of the licence holder to ensure their weapon licence is current.

Merging – who gives way

The situation where a driver merges from two to one lane of traffic, the question of who gives way is confusing for many drivers.  The below examples outline which driver is responsible for giving way and one of the key indicators that will be seen from the two diagrams, is the presence or absence of short broken lines at the end of the terminating lane.

Example 1

A driver in a line of traffic that is merging with another lane of traffic (travelling in the same direction) must give way to a vehicle in another line of traffic if any part of the vehicle is ahead of the driver’s vehicle.

Regulation 149 Transport Infrastructure (Road Use Management-Road Rule) Regulation 2009

While this sounds complicated to many, the below diagram clearly demonstrates what it required.

Vehicle B must give way to vehicle A.

Example 2

A driver on a road with 2 or more lines of traffic (travelling in the same direction) who is moving from one line of traffic to another line of traffic, must give way to any vehicle travelling in the same direction as the driver in the line of traffic to which the driver is moving.

Regulation 148 Transport Infrastructure (Road Use Management-Road Rules) Regulation 2009

Once again, while this sounds complicated to many, the below diagram clearly demonstrates what it required.

Vehicle B must give way to vehicle A.

Vehicle Security

From time to time, vehicles are unlawfully entered with belongings stolen and sometimes vehicles are stolen.  

Some easy steps will help avoid being a victim of these types of offences:

• Lock your car;

• Do not leave the key in the ignition;

• Do not leave valuables in the car.

Thieves don’t care whether you think you should have to lock up, they will just take advantage of any lax security.

Snr Sgt Steve Barton

OIC Ayr

Celebrate Christmas And Decades Of Service

Burdekin Tourism Volunteers were joined by Burdekin Shire Council to celebrate their Christmas party on Saturday, December 2.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin congratulated the volunteers on a terrific year.

“They have done an amazing job of promoting our region to over 13,000 visitors who came to the Burdekin Visitor Information Centres in Ayr and Home Hill this year,” she said.

“That's over 3,000 more than last year.

“Council also had the honour of recognising the volunteers who reached special milestones, especially Robin Blundell who has been with us as a volunteer for 26 years.”

Alongside Robin, Diane Oats was recognised for 10 years of service and Barry Hewson and Cally Olditch for five years.

If you are passionate about the Burdekin and want to join the Burdekin Tourism Volunteer team, get in touch with Council's Tourism Officer on (07) 4783 9800 or email tourism@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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Councillor John Furnell, Barry Hewson and Mayor Lyn McLaughlin

Councillor John Furnell, Cally Olditch, Mayor Lyn McLaughlin

Councillor John Furnell, Diane Oats, Mayor Lyn McLaughlin

Councillor John Furnell, Robin Blundell, Mayor Lyn McLaughlin

Photos supplied

The 2023 crushing season has wrapped up! It's definitely something I'm grateful for this holiday season. Having completed the 2022 crushing this year also, I believe I'm not alone in eagerly anticipating a well-deserved break. As the kids enjoy their time off from school and various industries wind down for the annual Christmas shutdown, many of us are gearing up to unwind and savour moments with our loved ones.

I’d like to congratulate everyone who worked hard in the sugar industry this year. From the mill workers to the harvester and haulout operators, to the farmers, you all did an amazing job in producing one of our most important crops. You deserve a round of applause and a well-earned break.

As we celebrate the festive season, let us not forget that not everyone is feeling merry and bright. I urge you to look out for each other this time of year, check in on your loved ones and see how they are doing. Offer a listening ear or a helping hand. Be compassionate and supportive. You never know how much difference you can make in someone's life.

Burdekin Shire Council recently hosted a mental wellness event, Kick Off the Conversation, where Ross Romeo and Wally Lewis spoke about their personal experiences with mental health. They shared their stories of overcoming adversity and finding hope, reminding us that we are not alone and that help is available. They encouraged everyone to seek professional help if needed it and to reach out to support networks.

As the year comes to an end, I want to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Be safe on the roads, water, and in all your adventures. Enjoy the holidays and cherish the moments with your loved ones.

Were you aware that the Burdekin Shire Council boasts a Parks and Gardens team whose responsibilities extend far beyond mowing grass?

This small dedicated team takes great pride in maintaining over 41 hectares of parks, playgrounds, streetscapes and greenspaces across the Burdekin Shire enhancing the beauty and serenity of the region. A combination of seven 5 Star and 1 Four Star destination parks offer residents a range of engaging playgrounds, skate ramps, half courts and barbeques for families with young children and teenagers to enjoy and spend quality family time hosting birthday parties and other special occasions.

Additionally, the team ensures that public conveniences in Giru, Alva, Brandon, Home Hill and Ayr remain tidy and welcoming for both residents and visitors. They also maintain the public conveniences located at various boat ramps across the shire to make a day on the water that little bit easier for boaties. Most recently you may have noticed members of the Parks team erecting the Christmas trees and decorations in both Ayr and Home Hill.

Not only do they manage parks and gardens, but the team also takes on the duty of overseeing operations at the Ayr and Home Hill Cemeteries and the Plantation Park Bush Chapel by watering, mowing and preparing for funeral services with utmost dignity and respect.

The Parks team consists of 24 staff members with a mix of different roles and specialist skills including flora identification and selection skills, herbicide application and irrigation installation and maintenance. They happily lend a hand to other departments when needed, especially Community Development for events such as the Christmas Carols and Harvest Festival whilst responding to customer service requests as quickly as possible.

Proudly dedicated to serving the Burdekin Shire community, the Parks team strives to create a better environment for everyone. Next time you see them working in one of the parks or facilities, be sure to give them a wave for taking great pride in presenting the community in 5 Star condition.

When Rose Papadimitriou was first employed by Campbell’s Jewellery in 1983, she embarked on a lifelong career with the business, developing its reputation for quality, experience and helping the people of the Burdekin celebrate their special memories. Campbell’s Jewellery was established in 1974, with Rose purchasing the business in 2013. 10 years on, she reflects on many wonderful highlights, from half price sales to VIP nights and Jewellery Roadshows.

Rose says one thing hasn’t changed over those years, and that’s the emotion involved in purchasing quality pieces of jewellery. Couples exchange jewellery to symbolise their eternal love and commitment. Significant life moments like a promotion, new job or graduation are celebrated with a watch or a diamond necklace. Campbell’s Jewellery have been providing the Burdekin with special mementos for generations; symbols of powerful stories, milestones, and occasions.

“This is what makes our job so rewarding,” Rose said. “That we can guide our customers to choose the perfect piece to make their lasting memory.”

Rose is backed by a talented and caring team, bringing a combination of decades of experience and new ideas to the business. Jane, Danae, Kate, Natasha, Ella, and Lacey are all equipped with the care and attention to detail to make your purchasing experience a special one, while inhouse jeweller Allan has worked with the business since 1993 and provides professional repairs, remakes, and replacements to local and visiting customers.

“Having such an experienced team makes my job that much easier and the fact that we can laugh between us is truly amazing,” Rose said. “I feel very lucky and privileged to have been able to work amongst absolutely beautiful jewellery with an amazing, dedicated team.”

Campbell’s Jewellery specialises in fine jewellery consisting of argyle pink, chocolate, and white diamonds as well as a new range of large stone lab-grown diamonds. They also offer an extensive range of watches for every occasion as well as jewellery boxes, crystals, clocks, and figurines – the perfect range of gifts for this Christmas.

As trends come and go, Campbell’s Jewellery pride themselves in stocking the latest modern styles while listening to their customers and sourcing the perfect piece for any occasion. Visit the store on Queen Street, Ayr to browse their extensive range and experience the warm customer service that makes Campbell’s Jewellery so special.

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Jane Goodchild, Rose Papadimitriou, Natasha O’Shea, and Danae Fabbro of Campbell’s Jewellery

For over five decades, Liessmann & Sons has established itself as a stalwart of the Home Hill community, the distinctive yellow and green building a symbol of a business built on trust and dedication. Founded 53 years ago by the Liessmann family, the business has become a cornerstone of reliability and quality service in the Burdekin area.

With a team of 13 dedicated employees, Liessmann & Sons has left an indelible mark on the structural landscape of the Burdekin, contributing to the construction of vital establishments like the Home Hill Hospital, Memorial Hall, the aged care home and even Coles Supermarket in Ayr.

However, the journey has not been without its challenges. The struggle to secure materials has been a persistent obstacle since the pandemic, one that the company has navigated with resilience and adaptability. Despite the adversity, they've remained steadfast, serving as a testament to their unwavering dedication.

From general hardware to gas and plumbing, Liessmann & Sons’ diverse range of products and services provides Home Hill and the Burdekin with a one stop shop. But what truly sets Liessmann & Sons apart is their unwavering focus on customers. The business boasts customers that have been shopping with them for over 50 years and they believe that without their loyal clientele, from anywhere between Bowen and Giru, and as far away as Georgetown and Richmond, there would be no business at all.

The warmth exuded by their friendly staff and their willingness to go the extra mile for their customers shows their commitment to quality service. A visit to the Fourth Street shop guarantees not just top-notch service but also a dose of laughter thanks to their vibrant work culture.

The mantra “nothing is impossible” echoes through the business’s ethos. Their enduring legacy is not merely in the projects they’ve contributed to but in the relationships fostered and the community they've enriched.

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Duncan, Uli and Colin of Liessmann & Sons

In the world of small business, there exist those rooted in heritage and built upon dedication; such is the case with Milburn Painting and Maintenance Services. Founded by Cheyne Milburn, the business carries a legacy from his father’s enterprise, Merv Milburn Painting, and has been flourishing since 2019 under Cheyne’s adept guidance.

Cheyne operates with an unwavering commitment to excellence, evident in the diverse services offered including plastering, sanding, painting walls, ceilings, railings, fixing trims, and skirting.

“I paint different styles of homes and businesses, meet new people in the community, and do repeat work for customers,” he said. “I use the knowledge I have gained over the ten years since working in the painting industry.”

The road to success isn’t without hurdles, as Cheyne candidly acknowledges. Challenges, from fluctuating weather conditions, unexpected price hikes in materials and deadlines, often test the mettle of any painter. Yet, it's in overcoming these challenges that Milburn Painting distinguishes itself. Dedication to deadlines, communication in times of unfortunate weather and a commitment to the quote agreed upon prove Cheyne’s unwavering enthusiasm for customer satisfaction.

“I want to give the best job I can provide to all my customers, he said. “As a sole trader, I work around deadlines and the weather and work to the best of my abilities.”

What truly sets Milburn Painting apart is not just the wealth of experience garnered from a family legacy spanning 50 years but also the unwavering commitment to quality.

“The job's primary focus is preparation, including cleaning, sanding, sweeping, and masking up,” Cheyne said. “The quality services I offer for customers include making sure the paint is of premium quality from Dulux or Taubmans.”

Beyond the brushes and paints, Cheyne’s appreciation for the support he’s received from the Burdekin can be felt in his approach to his work and his business.

“I want to thank the community for choosing Milburn Painting and Maintenance Services to paint their homes and businesses,” he said.

Milburn Painting stands as a testament to tradition, quality, and dedication; a portrait of craftsmanship and commitment painted with the brushes of heritage and passion.

Five years ago, two local brothers joined forces and combined their respective 25 years’ experience in the industry to become one of the Burdekin’s most trusted, professional, and skilled concreters.

Matt and Luke Fallon operate Fallon Constructions and also Fallon Constructions NQ, servicing areas from Ingham to Bowen and everywhere in between.  

“We produce high quality concreting work in a range of finishes,” they said.

“From commercial to residential, encompassing all your residential and commercial shed slabs, pathways, driveways, carparks, stairs and more.”

Priding themselves on the perfect pour, the brothers understand how to provide the most appropriate type of concrete for you at your home or workplace.

Their fully licenced and experienced team are local specialists in plain, exposed, decorative stamped and coloured concrete.

“Whether you want to upgrade your driveway, build that shed you’ve always wanted, add pathways around your house/business or add car parking areas to your office, Fallon Constructions NQ is the team for you.”

While they are proud of every job they deliver, the Fallon Brothers said their most recent meaningful project was the Burdekin Aquatic Centre.

This local project stands as a testament to their commitment to the community and their dedication to delivering top-notch construction services.

“We constructed the concrete stairs and slab for the new kiosk - it was awesome to be part of this local project,” they said.

At the heart of the business is community and a love of supporting other local businesses.

Locally owned and operated business here in the Burdekin, Fallon Constructions NQ sources products and materials from other local businesses, locals supporting locals.  

What sets Fallon Constructions NQ apart is their unwavering commitment to quality. Their time-efficient approach, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to tailor concreting options to meet clients' specific needs make them stand out in the field.

The work culture at Fallon Constructions NQ reflects their upbringing—professional, friendly, and hardworking. This culture has been cultivated over the years, shaping the business into a reliable and customer-focused enterprise.

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L-R: Matt and Luke Fallon from Fallon Constructions NQ. Photo supplied

Over 70 guests joined Brandon State School on Friday, December 1 to celebrate the graduation of the Year 6 students for 2023.

Laughter, tears and memories were shared with families, students, staff and P&C.

“We farewelled our magnificent seven students, whom have achieved in all areas of schooling whilst at Brandon SS,” said Brandon State School Principal Rowan Coffey.

“We wish them the greatest of futures.”

On Wednesday, December 6, the school also hosted its Awards Night and Christmas Concert.

2023 Award Recipients

Contribution Award: Evie Cranston and Charlie McCarthy

Principal’s Award: Koa James

Encouragement Award: Emily Jarvis

All Rounder: Charlie McCarthy

Sportsperson of the Year: Sarina Chinfat

School Dux: Alexis Lindley

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Graduating year 6 students Lillie Bradley Cliff, Charlie McCarthy, Sarina Chinfat, Emily Jarvis, Ms Margie O’Rourke, Koa James, Evie Cranston and Alexis Lindley

Evie Cranston , Lillie Bradley Cliff, Charlie McCarthy, Alexis Lindley, Koa James, Emily Jarvis, Sarina Chinfat cutting the cake

Photos supplied

Millaroo State School held a Community Day last Wednesday, December 6 to celebrate the end of the school year with students, special guests and parents.

“We invite everyone from the community, from Millaroo, Dalbeg and Clare, into our school to play games, have fun with the students and have a look at how good our school is,” said Principal Annette Wellington.

Students took part in games and cricket drills all morning thanks to Queensland Cricket before a visit from Santa had them enchanted.

Fruit was donated by Woolworths while the school’s P&C donated drinks, the sausage sizzle and presents.

Millaroo State School ranges from kindergarten to year 6 and offers playgroup every Friday.

The school had eight enrolments in 2023 and is taking nine students into 2024.

“We have lots of facilities here and cater for all students and all needs,” Ms Wellington said.

“We have a very supportive P&C.

“The kids usually get their tuck shop and food paid for, we give each of the students a healthy snack every day from Woolworths, all excursions and camps are paid for, the school supplies stationery so very little has to be paid for by the parents.

“It’s a small town and a small school, so there’s great one-on-one learning.”

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Jacob Hoare, Carter Vardy, Member for Burdekin Dale Last, Harris Petersen, Lincoln Hoare , Chace Pyott, Delta Burrell, Myer Wyburg, Darcy, Morgan Burrell, Gillian Harris and Ty Pyott. Sitting L-R: Kim Christensen, Willoe Burrell, Clara, Santa, Chelsea Cavanagh, Remi Naughton, Lewis Naughton and Annette Wellington

Standing L-R: Annette Wellington and Anna Hoare. Sitting L-R: Gillian Harris, Santa and Kim Christensen

Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

Departing year 6 student Chace Pyott has continued a long tradition of Year 6 Projects by painting a mural on the back of the cubbyhouse at Millaroo State School.

“Every year, the year 6 students will leave something behind, and this is Chace’s tribute to the school for this year,” said Millaroo State School Principal Annette Wellington.

The painting depicts Chace and his friends on an adventure on which they went spear hunting, saw and followed wallaby and turkey tracks before retiring to their meeting place to sit around the fire.

“And the one on the top is all the Millaroo kids playing red rover at lunch,” he added.

Chace said he’s sad to be leaving the school, his Year 6 Project displaying his love for the school and the community.

“It’s really good here,” he said.

“Everyone’s friends and we do so much fun stuff like community days and excursions.”

The annual tradition provides year 6 students the opportunity to leave their mark as a tribute to the school.

“There’s lots around our school,” Ms Wellington

“Students can come back in the future and see how the school and the projects are growing, what has happened in our year six projects and who’s left what behind.

“It’s also really good for the new one’s coming in to see what they can do when they leave.”

Other year 6 projects include paintings, sculptures and mosaics, symbols left from students who cherished their time at this small school.

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Millaroo State School Departing year 6 student Chace Pyott and Principal Annette Wellington