Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Not every business starts with a blueprint. For some, it begins as a calling… in more ways than one. Burdekin local Robert Hayward had been in the hydraulics industry since he was 18. A diligent worker who loved his job, he quickly built a reputation locally as one of the best in the business. But despite a mutual affinity with the industry that had formed over years, he stepped away in the early 1990s to help his father-in-law maintain a cane property in Clare. Until he received a call. Then another… and another. Rob quickly realised that, despite his brief hiatus, his reputation in hydraulics had not faded. With that, he was pulled back into the game, this time with nothing but a $2,000 ute, a toolbox, and work up to his neck. And the only way to keep himself from drowning in it was, ironically, to go in deeper. “As the Burdekin is, if you do a very good job, word travels quickly between the community. One farmer talked to another, he talked to another, he talked to another… “Until I sat down with my wife one day and said, ‘I think we can make a business out of this.’” His ute would eventually make way for a permanent space—a small sub-shed at Larry Hudson Engineering in the Ayr Industrial Estate that would serve as his headquarters for the following four years. He tackled the first year solo, before demand forced him to put an apprentice on in the second year, and a qualified tradesman in the third. By the end of the fourth, Rob’s work had outgrown its humble base, moving down the road into a new purpose-built shed that would become the home of Hayward Hydraulics. That shed would officially open in 1996, spurring a 30-year legacy sustained by three defining pillars. Growing with the industry “I had no idea how to use computers,” Rob said with a smirk. Admittedly, he hadn’t realised he signed himself up for a three-decade, three-fold evolution between an entire industry, his own business, and himself. What he did know was that he was ready to learn, and eager to grow. It started with the basics. For Rob, that meant wrapping his head around modern computers, attending TAFE courses on emerging welding techniques, and becoming a leader. “I went from being a very good tradesman to having to be an employer,” he said. “You have to be a people's person, you have to treat people the right way, treat your workers the right way. That part I never even thought of until we started getting into it.” Rob treated this evolution as a marathon rather than a sprint, dedicating the business's first decade cementing its reputation as a local leader. After striking up deals with major companies, including Queensland Rail and Wilmar Sugar in the mid-2000s, he decided to take the leap into the mining industry in the early 2010s as a safety net for the unpredictable sugar industry. With that growth, Hayward Hydraulics’ shed would undergo its third structural expansion to accommodate its continuously increasing popularity and modernised technology. He built a habit of gleaning ideas from various online hydraulic magazines, and then building on them to not only keep up with the industry, but to will it into the future himself. “I eventually built a reputation for thinking outside of the square. If somebody's been doing something for 20 years, I'll look at a better way of doing it,” he said. Albeit, he admits he and the business are still evolving today. “I've seen harvesters and planters go from chain and sprocket to hydraulic motors, to hydraulic motors being linked to satellite GPS,” he said. “The industry has changed in leaps and bounds, and you have to keep finding ways to move with it.” Doing it the right way Hayward Hydraulics’ evolution was founded on something Rob didn’t need to be taught. Care. And he makes sure his staff do, too. “I didn't come from a real wealthy family, so we were brought up to work; you work, you do the job right, you get paid,” he said. “So if I'm not happy with something, I'll ask my workers: ‘would you pay for that?’” When the mining industry began to boom in Queensland, Rob admits he had a difficult time retaining workers. To compete, he was forced into paying top-dollar for what he called “good quality workers,” causing financial tension. When asked if compromising staff quality for cost was ever an option, with the conviction of a true-blue purist, he said: “No.” “I've always maintained that a business is only as good as your employees. You can be the best boss in the world, but if you've got workers that people don't like, they don't come through the door,” he said. “My current staff are up there with the best that I've had. I just try to make sure they’re happy to come to work every day.” With quality and care as its engine, Hayward Hydraulics became known not just for technical know-how, but for doing things the right way. As its stature in the industry continued to grow, so did the scope of its customer base. Calls started coming in from as far north as Tully, all the way to Mackay and Western Queensland, all saying the same thing: “We heard you were the guy to talk to about this problem.” Family and community at its heart For the last 10 years especially, the business has made a point of supporting local organisations and sports clubs, most notably the Burdekin Roosters Rugby League Club. Rob described it as a duty to a community that has given so much to him and the company. “The community has been so important to it all. I’ve got some customers that have been with me from day one, and with some, I’m onto the third generation of the same family,” he said. “The’ve given a lot to me. They've helped me grow and supported me, so it's about time I supported them back.” Beneath it all, though, he points to his family as the driving force. “I remember those early days when we were setting up the new workshop, building benches and all that, my two brothers-in-law and my father came out and gave me a hand,” he said. “But my biggest support is my wife. Especially in the early days when I wasn't home, and she solely looked after the kids and everything. “It got to the stage where I was working seven days a week, 12 hour days, and my wife would bring the kids on a Saturday and Sunday, and we'd sit on the shop floor and have lunch. “She's been with me through the lows and the highs, and that I thank her for.” Now, thirty years later, it’s his family pulling him out of the industry. Driven by the desire to make up for lost time with his wife and kids, Rob has loosened his grip on business operations, working four days a week with plans to eventually let his brainchild find its own footing. As for right now, he’s not yet ready to call time on a chapter that was, perhaps, never meant to last this many pages. “I still love what I do,” he said. “The early days come with sacrifices, but when I look back now, it was all worth it. “I remember when it all first started, looking on the ATO website and coming across that statistic that most businesses fail within five years. “When I read it, I said to myself, 'well, I'm gonna make sure I’m not that statistic.’” And that, he did. CAPTION: Rob and his current team. Back L-R: Chase Pearce, Stephan Du Plessis Front L-R: Kade Pearce, Renee Viero, Robert Hayward, Tina Dennis, Bryan Parison Absent: Sam Tomasetig Photo credit: Jacob Casha
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The Burdekin has rallied behind a local family after a sudden medical diagnosis turned their life upside-down. Ryan and Holly Davenport dropped everything when their two-year-old son, Rowen, was diagnosed with a brain tumour last month, temporarily relocating to Brisbane for his ongoing treatment. In response, a GoFundMe fundraiser has since raised over $55,000 in support of the family. Created in late May by Shannon Malone, a close friend of the Davenports, the fundraiser has been shared all over Facebook and Instagram by local organisations, garnering comments of support on top of 271 individual donations. “Words can’t describe how much it means to us to have everyone’s support behind Rowen as he begins his journey,” Ryan said. “They have given us precious time to spend with Rowen without the everyday worries.” The money will help fund hospital stays, travel, time away from work, and ongoing treatment expenses as the Home Hill family navigates a medical journey that began in April. Already on edge after daughter, Ally, underwent brain surgery to have a cavernoma removed just before Easter, Ryan and Holly acted promptly when they noticed a twitch in Rowen’s eye. Following weeks of consultations with Townsville doctors and specialists—which included MRI scans and a Royal Flying Doctors flight—Rowen was eventually diagnosed with pilocytic astrocytoma, a slow-growing brain tumour. He has since been transferred to Queensland Children’s Hospital in Brisbane for chemotherapy, with the couple leaving their two young daughters with their grandparents in the Burdekin to be by his side. In their absence, locals have offered meals, helped on the family’s sugar cane farm, assisted around their home and helped look after their daughters, along with the generous donations. Ryan said the funds raised would not just help relieve the financial burden of Rowen’s treatment, but allow the flexibility to fly their daughters down and spend some time as a family. “(The toughest part has been) the unknown, not having our family together … and watching Rowen go through these traumatic times and … not being able to do anything,” Ryan said. “It has been a very emotional journey so far, and it is hard to believe we are only at the start.” Anyone wanting to support the Davenports is urged to donate using the following link: https://www.gofundme.com/f/supporting-the-davos-and-little-rowen?attribution_id=sl:75c20475-06e5-4752-8e11-d1b7a07c7728&lang=en_AU&ts=1779705595&utm_campaign=fp_sharesheet&utm_content=amp20_t1&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link CAPTION: Funding will allow the family to fly their daughters down and spend more time together during Rowen’s treatment. Photo supplied
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The Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, has slammed the Albanese Government for an unacceptable ambush on regional communities, accusing the Commonwealth of abandoning disaster-prone areas to balance its own budget. The Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Kristy McBain, used a late Friday afternoon media release to quietly flag sweeping alterations to the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA). The proposed changes dismantle the long-standing, scalable framework, which historically provided an average of 64 per cent federal coverage and capped support at 75 per cent for catastrophic events. In its place, Canberra intends to implement a rigid 50-50 funding model. This policy shift arrives at the worst possible time for the state; it follows a volatile severe weather season that caused widespread damage across 71 of Queensland’s 77 local government areas. Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, is warning that the sudden funding shortfall threatens the future viability of essential infrastructure, local water treatment facilities, and emergency evacuation operations. Mr Willcox, drawing on his extensive experience as the former Mayor of the Whitsunday Regional Council, stated that the Federal Government is completely detached from the realities of regional recovery. "This decision is a direct hit to the heart of North Queensland," Mr Willcox said. "Canberra is treating natural disasters like a corporate budgeting exercise; however, out here, it is a matter of community survival. To penalise the very regions that drive the nation’s agricultural wealth and mining export revenues is a profound betrayal. "During my time steering the Whitsunday community through the wreckage of Severe Tropical Cyclone Debbie in 2017, I learned exactly what it takes to rebuild. We relied heavily on scalable federal assistance to restore our shattered rural road networks. Under a flat 50-50 split, local councils across Dawson would be forced to find millions of dollars in matching revenue; that is a financial burden our regional ratepayer base simply cannot sustain." Mr Willcox emphasised that major historical recovery operations would have been completely unviable under the newly proposed guidelines. "The total reconstruction of the Shute Harbour marine terminal and the $5 million federal package required to replace the decimated Proserpine Entertainment Centre occurred because the previous framework allowed for exceptional circumstances," Mr Willcox said. "Small regional councils do not possess the independent asset base to fund multi-million-dollar rebuilds alone. Furthermore, the historical system guaranteed that funding flowed directly into local economies, ensuring that regional earthmoving businesses and contractors were awarded the repair work. By lowering the funding floor, the Commonwealth is forcing cash-strapped councils to delay vital resilience works; this leaves our communities dangerously exposed before successive wet seasons. "It is a coward’s tactic for the Minister to leave this announcement until the day after the parliamentary sitting concluded, ensuring they avoided any real scrutiny or accountability in Question Time. “This is yet another calculated deception from a government that knows exactly how damaging these cuts are; this is absolutely not what the Australian people voted for, and I truly hope this betrayal is remembered at the next election. "This is yet another chapter in the ongoing federal neglect of regional Australia. The government is hiding behind the cover of an independent review to justify cutting essential frontline services. I call on the Emergency Management Minister to reverse this decision immediately; regional Queenslanders refuse to be treated as second-class citizens.” Supplied by the office of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox CAPTION: FIGHTING FOR THE NORTH: Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP outside Parliament House in Canberra, condemning the Albanese Federal Government's plan to slash scalable disaster recovery funding for regional councils. Photo supplied
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"As the final week approaches for public submissions into the Sugar Code of Conduct, Member for Burdekin Dale Last has renewed his calls for growers to unite and make their voices heard. Mr Last said the public submissions for the sunsetting review of the Sugar Code of Conduct should be an opportunity for sugarcane growers from across the Burdekin to outline the benefits of the code for both farmers and the wider community. “Over recent weeks I have taken the liberty of providing a submission on behalf of the community, because ultimately the flow-on impact from changes in our sugar industry stretch beyond the paddock and the mills,” Mr Last said. “I recently met with several grower representatives which provided the opportunity to bring key stakeholders together, reaffirm my support as the Member for Burdekin and emphasise the need to work collaboratively as the review period unfolds.” Mr Last said while it was important stakeholders took the time to make their voices heard during the public submissions there was no better way to understand the impact of the Sugar Code of Conduct than to visit the area and speak directly to representatives. “A decade ago this district played a central role in bringing this code of conduct to fruition so I would expect our stakeholders receive a seat at the table they deserve,” Mr Last said. “If the Federal Labor Government was serious about consulting with the industry, the responsible Assistant Minister would be looking for every opportunity to listen to those who are most impacted by the Sugar Code.” Anyone wishing to have their say in the review can visit https://haveyoursay.agriculture.gov.au/sugar-code-review"
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ItaloWorld Inc. stands as a dedicated not-for-profit organisation committed to the preservation and promotion of Italian culture in all its facets – past, present and future.
The organisation has proposed the publishment of a book like no other, which will encompass 107 recipes sourced from Italian grandmothers (nonne) living in the Northern Territory and Queensland.
“We are excited to announce a project which aims to celebrate and maintain traditional Italian recipes still in use in our corner of the world,” shared Cofounder of ItaloWorld Inc. Armando Cristofori.
“The initiative aims to highlight the rich culinary heritage of Italy and ensure its preservation for future Australian generations.”
Residents of the Burdekin community have been invited to be part of the publishment, with Italian seniors encouraged to contribute their cherished traditional recipes, to celebrate the culinary heritage of the region.
Submissions can be made by emailing Armando at Armando.Cristofori@icloud.com, and the shortlist of the submission finalists will be released in September of this year, with the official publishment date set for 9 April 2025.
The initiative hopes to both honour and sustain Italian cultural traditions in Queensland and the Northern Territory and ultimately create a meaningful and lasting tribute to the region’s shared Italo-Australian heritage.
Rehoming fee: $195
DOB: 9/04/2022
Sex: Female
Breed: Domestic Short Hair
Kid friendly: Yes
Dog Friendly: Slowly introduce
Other cats: No
Indoors/Outdoors: Indoors
Bubbles has mastered the art of being the perfect companion with her
mesmerising black fur and gorgeous amber eyes you won’t be able to resist snuggling up to her.
Her sleek coat and striking features make heads turn wherever she goes, but it's her charming personality that truly steals hearts.
Whether it’s curling up on your lap for a cozy nap or rubbing against your legs to say hello, Bubbles is always ready to shower you with love and purrs.
Bubbles enjoys scaling the tallest cat trees to chasing after feather toys, she embraces life with gusto and curiosity.
Bubbles is available for adoption and is desexed, microchipped, up to date vaccines and flea/tick/worm treated.
To meet Bubbles please fill out an animal inquiry form at: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html.
Join the upcoming free informative morning tea at Gudjura Deck Cafe on Thursday July 25th, at 10am to discover the ins and outs of lymphoedema - a condition affecting individuals, particularly women, navigating breast cancer and its aftermath.
Hosted by The Restore Clinic, this event aims to illuminate the pivotal role of physiotherapy across the spectrum of cancer care:
What is lymphoedema? Lymphoedema is described as the accumulation of excessive amounts of interstitial fluid in the tissues which results in swelling and other associated symptoms in one or more regions of the body. Lymphoedema occurs when the body’s lymphatic system is not working properly, meaning the excess fluid from your limbs is not draining.
Stages and Symptoms: From latent (Stage 0) to advanced (Stage III), lymphoedema presents symptoms like limb heaviness, tightness and skin changes. Physiotherapy treatments encompass compression therapy, manual lymphatic drainage and low-level laser therapy to effectively manage symptoms.
Early Detection and Diagnosis of Lymphoedema: Utilising advanced technology like the SOZO Bioimpedance Spectroscopy (BIS) device, The Restore Clinic pioneers’ early detection of lymphoedema. This non-invasive tool accurately measures fluid volumes, enabling proactive management strategies that prevent progression and improve outcomes.
Recovery from Surgery: Physiotherapists specialise in addressing post-surgical challenges such as cording or axillary web syndrome, scar tissue management, movement restrictions, and fatigue. These interventions are crucial for optimising recovery and restoring mobility.
Exercise and Rehabilitation: Tailored exercise programs designed by physiotherapists enhance movement, strength and endurance while alleviating pain, thereby improving overall quality of life and mitigating cancer-related fatigue.
This morning tea offers a nurturing environment for individuals seeking information on lymphoedema prevention, early symptom recognition and comprehensive treatment options.
For further details or to RSVP, please contact (07) 4722 3880.
What: FREE Lymphoedema Information Morning
When: Thursday 10am, July 25
Where: Gudjura Deck Cafe, Plantation Park, Ayr
The Burdekin PCYC has welcomed their new intake of students for their Get Set for Work 10-week program which commenced on Monday 8 July.
The program allows its students to engage with accredited training in the Certificate II in Skills for Work and Vocational Pathways, resume writing, cover letter preparation, online First Aid training, team building activities and visiting local history sites and businesses around the district.
A successful start, last week saw the students undertake online training through TEAMS meetings with the Aurora Training Institute. The group also travelled to Charlies Hill to learn a history of the World War II site and paid a visit to Wunjunga to gain knowledge on the region’s unique eco system and environment.
These educational activities will continue over the coming weeks, and the students will also complete job applications as part of the program.
All the students have shown great initiative through beginning the program, and are working towards employment opportunities in their chosen fields, or to simply get a start by building confidence, and skills for their working journey.
The students engaged with online training with the Aurora Training Institute.
An educational adventure, the students travelled to Wunjunga last week for the Burdekin PCYC’s Get Set for Work Program.
Selling a home can be a daunting task, but with careful planning and execution, you can navigate the process smoothly and achieve a successful sale. Whether you're a first-time seller or have sold homes before, these tips will help you prepare your home, attract potential buyers, and negotiate the best deal.
1. Prepare your Home for Sale
Before listing your home, invest time and effort in making it look its best:
• Declutter and Depersonalize: Remove personal items and excess clutter to help potential buyers envision themselves in the space.
• Clean Thoroughly: Deep clean every room, including carpets, windows, and appliances. A clean home creates a positive impression.
• Make Repairs: Fix any visible issues like leaky faucets, cracked tiles, or peeling paint. Small repairs can make a big difference in buyer perception.
2. Set the Right Price
Pricing your home correctly is critical for attracting buyers:
• Research Comparable Properties: Look at recent sales of similar homes in your area to gauge the market value.
• Consider Market Conditions: Assess whether it's a buyer's or seller's market, as this can impact pricing strategy.
• Consult with a Real Estate Agent: An experienced agent can provide a comparative market analysis (CMA) to help you set a competitive price.
3. Market Effectively
Effective marketing increases visibility and attracts potential buyers:
• Professional Photography: High-quality photos highlight your home's best features and attract more online views.
• Online Listings: Utilize multiple online platforms and social media to reach a broad audience.
• Open Houses and Showings: Make your home accessible for showings and consider hosting open houses to generate interest.
4. Highlight Key Selling Points
Showcase what makes your home unique and desirable:
• Curb Appeal: Enhance the exterior with landscaping, a fresh coat of paint, or minor repairs.
• Interior Appeal: Highlight features like updated kitchens, spacious closets, or energy-efficient appliances.
• Highlight Neighbourhood Benefits: Mention nearby amenities such as schools, parks, shopping centres, and transportation options.
5. Be Flexible and Responsive
Stay adaptable throughout the selling process:
• Accommodate Showings: Be flexible with showing times to accommodate potential buyers' schedules.
• Respond Promptly: Address inquiries and offers promptly to demonstrate your commitment to selling.
6. Negotiate Wisley
Navigating negotiations requires patience and strategy
• Review Offers Carefully: Consider not only the price but also contingencies and closing timelines.
• Counteroffers: Be prepared to negotiate terms that are favourable to both parties.
• Consider All Offers: Evaluate each offer objectively before making a decision.
7. Prepare for Closing
Once you’ve accepted an offer, prepare for the final steps:
• Coordinate with Professionals: Work closely with your real estate agent, attorney, and lender to ensure a smooth closing process.
• Address Inspection Findings: Address any issues identified during the home inspection promptly.
• Final Walk-Through: Ensure the buyer's final walk-through goes smoothly by having the home in the agreed-upon condition.
Selling your home involves careful planning, preparation, and effective execution. By following these tips, you can maximize your chances of a successful sale while minimizing stress. Remember, each home sale is unique, so adapt these strategies to suit your specific circumstances and market conditions. With the right approach, you can confidently navigate the selling process and achieve your desired outcome.
Hi everyone, I hope you have all had a great week! It’s been lovely hearing from you all, and please feel free to reach out to me to just say hi or share your stories with me – my email is chelsea@lifepublishinggroup.com!
With university resuming for Trimester 2 this week, I’ve been busily working away already on my final few courses before I graduate from my Bachelor of Communications and Journalism degree later this year! It’s all flown by and I’m so excited!
Along with university resuming, this week was origin week! My friends and I watched the game on Caxton Street, like we have the past Brisbane Origin games, as the atmosphere never disappoints no matter the results of the game. My grandparents are actually visiting Brisbane at the moment too and went to the game themselves. It’s always fun to have my family and friends visit me, and to catch up with them here and there while they’re on “holiday” in the city I’ve called home for almost 3 years!
My busy week has not stopped yet as it’s my 21st birthday on Saturday! I’m calling this one my “Brisbane birthday”, and then I’ll be popping back at the start of August for a weekend with my family to have my “Ayr birthday”! I’m excited to visit everyone again, especially to see my 2 dogs, Holly and Minus! My Mum always tries to put them on Facetime to me but it’s not always a successful activity!
I hope you all enjoy the read! Chat soon.
In a heartwarming display of compassion and community spirit, Year 7 students at Burdekin Catholic High School came together to make a significant contribution to childhood cancer support.
Through their dedicated efforts, they raised an impressive $953.50, demonstrating the power of unity and generosity among the school's youngest members.
This fundraising initiative was further bolstered by a generous donation of $1,000 from Queensland Country Bank in 2023, underscoring the local community's commitment to supporting vital causes.
The funds raised, along with the bank's contribution, have been directed towards the 2024 Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride (TCBR). The TCBR will commence on Thursday 25 July with nine Burdekin locals set to ride, raising awareness and funds for childhood cancer research and support services.
The school extends its gratitude to the Year 7 families for their support, Queensland Country Bank for their generous donation, and Burdekin Distributors for their contribution of bags for the lolly fundraising efforts.
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As the spotlight turns to how the state government plans to roll out future funding for services and projects across Queensland, Member for Burdekin Dale Last has called for a commitment of transparency as Budget Estimates approaches.
Mr Last said with allegations already swirling that one state government department had employed and since ceased separate media training ahead of Estimates proceedings, Queenslanders deserved assurances the parliamentary process of Budget Estimates would be held with the utmost integrity.
“The Budget Estimates process is about ensuring that revenue and taxpayer funds paid by Queenslanders funds state government projects efficiently and supports our front-line services according to the needs of the communities they serve,” Mr Last said.
“We know that in rural and regional Queensland we have to fight tooth and nail for every cent of funding we need to keep our roads, health services, schools and emergency services at a standard where they can effectively service their communities and that is why Budget Estimates is so important to me.”
“When we look at the Burdekin we already know we have seen our full-time firefighters on call 24/7 due to a reduction in the number of auxiliary firefighters and we as a community have called for additional plain clothes police officers and a CT scanner at our local hospital to reduce pressure on our local ambulance services.”
“These are the sorts of issues that ministers and their director generals need to answer for during Budget Estimates because when it comes to our front-line services in particular, quite often the price paid is someone’s life.”
Mr Last said the looming state election in October was all the more reason for ministers to be transparent during Estimates hearings.
“People in rural and regional Queensland deserve to know that they aren’t going to go without a full-time doctor at their hospital or that their front-line services aren’t being left understaffed and fatigued because this state government are more focused on sandbagging their jobs ahead of the state election.”
“If this state government is focused on keeping people safe, it will ensure that every one of its Ministers answers Estimates questions to the best of their ability.”
Opinion Piece By Member For Burdekin Dale Last.
Burdekin Shire Council is calling on residents to review and provide feedback on the newly developed Draft Flying-Fox Roost Management Plan.
After extensive collaboration with community members, conservationists, and wildlife experts, the Council has crafted a comprehensive plan aimed at managing flying-fox populations in urban roost areas. This critical document is open for public review until 31 July, 2024.
Acknowledging the impact flying-foxes can have on residents, Cr Dalle Cort assured that the plan adheres to relevant legislation and incorporates feedback gathered through both in-person and online consultations.
“Council is committed to implementing management actions that minimise the impact on the community whilst also encouraging coexistence,” added Cr Dalle Cort.
The Council looks forward to active community participation in ensuring the sustainable coexistence of flying-foxes within the Burdekin community.
A copy of the draft plan is available online at https://bit.ly/Flying-Fox-Management-Plan and printed copies are available at the Ayr Library, Home Hill Library and Council Chambers.
Feedback can be emailed to enquiries@burdekin.qld.gov.au or post to 145 Young Street Ayr Qld 4807 or PO Box 974 by Wednesday 31 July 2024.
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The Vietnam Veterans Australia Burdekin Subbranch have secured a significant boost for their Deep Creek Retreat thanks to a successful Bendigo Bank Community Grant application.
Situated approximately 45km upstream along the Burdekin River, the retreat spans 7 hectares of leased land from the Burdekin Shire Council.
Established to provide a tranquil haven for veterans and their families, the retreat features essential amenities such as caravan and camping facilities, showers, septic toilets, camping and kitchen facilities, sheds, and covered BBQ shelters. However, maintaining the grounds has become increasingly challenging due to invasive weeds like bindi-eyes and nut grass, exacerbated by feral pigs that cause extensive damage, especially around the Cenotaph.
The $5360.75 grant from Bendigo Bank Community Bank Ayr has enabled the veterans to purchase essential spraying equipment and chemicals. This investment is crucial for implementing a comprehensive spraying program aimed at controlling the invasive plants and minimising damage caused by feral pigs. Previously reliant on manual spraying, which proved insufficient given the retreat's size, the veterans can now efficiently cover the entire area with a newly acquired 100-litre trailing spray tank and necessary personal protective equipment.
Since acquiring the leased land in 2011, the Burdekin Subbranch of the Australian Vietnam Veterans Association Inc. has been dedicated to enhancing the welfare and wellbeing of veterans and their families. They host a range of activities and services, including welfare support, pension advocacy, and an annual Memorial Service commemorating the Battle of Long Tan. This service invites community members to honour fallen Australian Defence Force members who have served in conflicts worldwide.
The retreat also serves as a hub for community engagement, hosting monthly meetings and fundraising events like the Plantation Park markets, held every third Sunday. These events not only raise funds but also foster community spirit, offering stallholder sites and a sausage sizzle BBQ for attendees.
The impact of the Bendigo Bank Community Grant extends far beyond financial assistance; it represents a vital partnership in preserving the Deep Creek Retreat as a sanctuary for reflection, community, and support for those who have served our country.
The Vietnam Veterans Australia Burdekin Subbranch have secured a significant boost for their Deep Creek Retreat. Photo supplied
Opinion Piece
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox said Labor’s new mandatory emissions reporting is yet another attack on Australian farmers and will impose costly regulatory burdens.
“In a cost-of-living crisis, this reckless policy making is going to see an added cost of $2.3 billion to farmers, which will ultimately increase the cost of fresh food and produce nationally, and will be passed onto consumers at the checkout,” Mr Willcox said.
Under the new reporting requirements, farmers and businesses will have to report their indirect greenhouse gas emissions right along their supply chain that aren’t being generated by the company directly.
Mr Willcox explained that large reporting entities could pass their risk down through the supply chain, with banks factoring in farmer’s emissions data into lending decisions, or supermarkets could require farmers to report their emissions, even though farmers don’t have the science to do so.
“There are currently no standardised methods for calculating land and livestock emissions in Australia, plus there are no real alternatives available for lines used in their operations, such as fertiliser and diesel that have the same value or impact,” he said.
“This is yet another demonstration of the Government’s contempt for farmers and is punishing these hard-working Aussies, despite our farming industry already having some of the best land management practices in the world.”
Mr Willcox said the reporting requirements are going to impose significant compliance costs with accounting and recording on-farm emissions.
“And with these increase costs, we will see them being passed on at the checkout, making the cost-of-living and cost-of-food crisis worse for our families,” he added.
“Our Aussie farmers are already drowning in green and red tape, and this will add even more complexity to that and unfairly increases the burden on our farming industry.
“This policy has the potential to push some farmers and small businesses out of business altogether, and there are legitimate concerns about how this data will be used, who it will be shared with, or if some industry groups might be discriminated against.
“In Australia, we can support our farmers and fulfill our international climate commitments at the same time, without creating reckless and harmful policies such as this.”
Dear Editor,
Burdekin LNP member, Dale Last, highlights a section of the Bruce Highway in his electorate that has had a-high number of fatalities over a 10-year period.
Dale is quick to point out that the Federal ALP, who have responsibility for Main Roads, have allocated monies to upgrades of the highway but there have has been nothing implemented.
However, Dale, in his 10-year time frame, has failed to say the Federal LNP was responsible for 8 of the 10 years highlighted and for a couple of years prior to that time.
Dale is quite vocal to highlight the failing of the ALP in government but in the years of the LNP in government there was not a sound from Dale, and he has been in the Burdekin seat for an extended period.
We all understand the trauma of a road fatality and the need to have up-grades to ensure safe travelling and the time frame and costs for the required upgrade will require lots of time and different Federal Governments. Hopefully the focus of one is the same as the other. Time will tell.
Dale may even retain the seat so hopefully he keeps up his vocal crusade to fix the “Bruce”.
T.P. Chandler.
Response From Member For Burdekin Dale Last
From the outset it is important to note that responsibility for the Bruce Highway is shared between the federal and state governments. “Main Roads”, as Mr Chandler refers to, is solely a state government department.
Until recently, federal governments were responsible for 80% of the cost of maintenance and upgrades of the Bruce Highway. Well, they were until Albo decided to reduce the amount contributed by the federal government.
Other than for major projects, such as the Haughton Floodplain Project for example, the money is simply handed to the states who are left to make the decisions about where it is spent and when.
The system is far from perfect but to say that a federal government has control over how the funding is spent is simply incorrect.
The perfect example of the current state government’s attitude towards the Bruce Highway is the recent announcement of a second bridge to Bribie Island. Perhaps Mr Chandler would like to justify the fact that the cost of an 800m bridge in the South East will be more than 3 years of funding for the entire length of the Bruce Highway.
I sincerely agree with Mr Chandler that we need upgrades for safety and efficiency and that those upgrades are not cheap and, realistically, won’t happen overnight. At the same time I can assure Mr Chandler, and your readers, that I will continue to fight for those upgrades regardless of who is in power.
Yours sincerely,
Dale Last MP, Member for Burdekin
Burdekin Life has written on Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox’s support for the LNP Opposition Leader Peter Dutton nuclear plan for the Australian nation.
The LNP are also seeking net zero emissions by the year 2050 and their proposal is supposed to support this goal. The most reliable date available at this time suggests that nuclear power is a long-term proposal, and Australians would not see any benefit from nuclear power until at least 2040. It’s too late to save Australia from global warming as the critical date is 2035 when extreme damage will occur.
The present Dutton plan is in direct opposition to the plan LNP Prime Minister John Howard put in place when he and his government introduced the plan to not be a nuclear nation. Even a number of the Opposition Ministers themselves are opposed to the nuclear plan and that is without mentioning State Opposition Leader David Crisafulli’s refusal to lead the State Opposition down that path.
The cost must also be a concern 4 to 6 times that of solar and wind generation. Convincing Australians might be hard. Remember the LNP call during the Voice referendum IF YOU DON’T KNOW VOTE NO.
Yours,
T.P. Chandler
Response by Federal Member For Dawson Andrew Willcox
It is important for Australia to have base load power that is affordable, reliable, and available 24/7.
Renewables simply do not provide this. So, if coal and gas are phased out, no emission nuclear technology is the only option.
Nuclear generators can be fitted in the same locations as existing coal fired power stations. This will alleviate the need for the extra 28,000kms of poles and wires, and stop the massive destruction of good quality agricultural land and virgin native vegetation for solar panels and wind turbines.
Labor’s reckless renewables only plan is forecast to cost between $1.2 and $1.5 trillion. Solar panels only last between 10 & 15 years, wind turbines, 15 to 20 years, not to mention neither are recyclable. Whereas nuclear technology has a lifespan of 80 plus years which I’m confident will be more cost effective in the longer term.
Debbie Searle and a group of dedicated friends orchestrated a delightful event at the Ayr Golf Club on 30 June. Their efforts were to host a Biggest Morning Tea, an annual fundraiser that combines the simple pleasures of tea and treats with the noble cause of supporting Cancer Research.
Approximately 50 enthusiastic ladies gathered at the Ayr Golf Club to partake in a morning filled with camaraderie and goodwill. Among the highlights of the event was a captivating fashion parade featuring the latest collections from Glen Dell Boutique. Attendees enjoyed a delightful array of homemade delicacies, all savoured over warm cups of tea.
The morning proved not only enjoyable but immensely successful as well, with an impressive $2,600 raised for Cancer Research. The success of such an event would not have been possible without the generosity and support of the community. Special thanks and gratitude were extended towards the Ayr Golf Club, Delta Dry Cleaners, Dominique’s, Maria Porters Bakehouse, Shannon Peckham from Eyecare plus Optometrist, Rachael Southern, Kay York, Gudjuda Cafe, Bev Andrew’s and Di Wheadon, whose donations and support were instrumental in making the event a resounding triumph.
"A fabulous morning was had by all,” shared the Ayr Golf Club.
Launched over twelve months ago, the Community Fundraising Campaign to establish a monument to honour Jean Morris will see its completion this Spring.
Sage 1 of the project recently saw the placement of a cement slab on top of Jean’s 93-year-old unmarked grave situated in at the Ayr Cemetery. With the first stage of the construction complete, organisers have been eager to launch the last stages of the project. A dream that has been in the pipeline for those behind the initiative will soon become a reality with money tins now available in multiple Burdekin businesses in a final bid to raise another $3,500.
19-year-old Jean Morris was murdered in Queen Street, Ayr on 3 October 1932. Henery Peterson, along with co-organiser, Paula Dawson, wishes the Jean Morris Monument will stand as a reminder of every murdered woman within Australia’s right to a much better life.
“Stiletto Jean Morris’s murder was one of the most brutal in Australian crime history and still to this day is unsolved,” shared the organisers of the Community Fundraising Campaign.
“Due to this fact alone, we believe Jean Morris’ unmarked grave at the Ayr Cemetery deserves to be acknowledged.
We are fundraising to place a headstone on her grave, so she is not just another unsolved murder statistic.”
Donations towards the Jean Morris Burdekin Community Fundraiser can be made at Paula’s Place Hair Salon on Queen Street, Ayr or online via the “Stiletto Jean Morris Headstone Fundraiser” Go Fund Me page at https://www.gofundme.com/f/stiletto-jean-morris-headstone-fundraiser
On Sunday 7 July, another highly successful and memorable Kali’s Cup was held at the Ayr Golf Course in honour of Kali Totorica.
Kali’s Cup stands as an annual event held to promote skin cancer awareness in memory of Kali who tragically passed away from Melanoma when she was just 21 years old.
The 2024 competition received both outstanding levels of community support and attracted record breaking team registrations.
“We had our largest golf competition to date with 22 teams of 4 people registered and many more people come along to purchase goodies from the bake sale, buy raffle tickets or try Nonna's famous pasta at lunch,” explained one of the event organisers, Kali’s sister, Liana Kennedy.
In a Burdekin first, Kali’s Cup 2024 saw the exciting attendance of the Australian Skin Cancer Foundation’s Skin Check Truck, and members of the community were encouraged to come along for their free skin check from 10am. Having the truck present provided locals with a representation of where their generous donations are being utilised, and the truck’s attendance was well received by the community, with many locals expressing their appreciation and gratitude towards Kali’s family.
“Having the Australian Skin Cancer Foundation's (ASCF) national skin check truck present on the day was so valuable,” expressed Liana.
“They were able to screen 88 people and identified 13 spots that would require biopsy - this is exactly why we do this.”
The 2024 annual Kali’s Cup event raised an amazing total exceeding $10,000, with Kali’s family extending immense gratitude towards the community for their support.
“We continue Kali's legacy to raise awareness for melanoma and to raise funds for organisations such as the ASCF who are doing such amazing work in this field,” shared Liana.
“We cannot thank the local community enough for getting behind this event and support us every year.”
Kali's family would like to once again thank the local community for their ongoing support and generosity. As always, they urge everyone to get a skin check as early detection may be the influential factor that saves your life.
Kali’s Family raise awareness and urge others to get regular skin cancer checks. Photo supplied
Kali’s Cup saw 22 teams take to the green for a spectacular day of golf
The slow-moes team who lived up to their name on the course
The winning team of Kali’s Cup 2024 celebrating their victory!
The best dressed winners nailing the mad hatter theme
Photos supplied
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