Support for a new $2.86 million CT scanner for Ayr Hospital is gaining momentum with continued efforts from the Community Advisory Network (CAN), advocacy from State Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP, and also a recent petition with overwhelming backing from local residents.

A new CT scanner would allow patients experiencing a mixture of ailments such as symptoms of a stroke or a sporting injury to be assessed quickly and easily in their local hospital rather than travelling to Townsville for treatment.

For the past three years, locals have been actively campaigning for this piece of equipment which would prevent a five-hour round trip for an ambulance and paramedics.

“Up to 15 patients are taken to Townsville each week for CT scans,” said Dale Last MP.

“The lack of a CT Scanner at the Ayr Hospital definitely adds to the stress of a medical emergency and it’s quite possible that delays could result in patients not achieving the best outcomes, or even cost lives.”

“In addition, having equipment here in Ayr means hospital staff can be in the hospital helping patients rather than in the back of an Ambulance.”

Councillor Kaylee Boccalatte, who is the Chair of the Community Advisory Network said that no additional employment costs would be required.

“We already have a full-time radiographer and two others trained in how to operate a CT scanner,” she explained.

“Ayr Hospital is the largest level three facility in Queensland without a CT scanner and by being able to provide one for the community we can give everyone equity of access and help overcome barriers to health care.”

Mr Last said he is pleased to see such extensive local support and he believes people power will see the project supported by the Health Minister.

“On behalf of the community, I would like to thank everyone who signed the petition for sending a clear message to the current state government that we deserve the same quality health services as any other area in Queensland,” he said.

“If the Minister’s response is positive, we will welcome it and work cooperatively to get the CT Scanner up and running as soon as possible.  

“But if the Minister says no and thinks we will give up, I think she is in for a rude shock because I have no intention of giving up and neither does the community.”

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A CT scanner at Ayr Hospital will mean that up to 15 people per week can receive a scan locally. Image: Shutterstock

Parents who send their children to one of the smaller local schools can breathe a sigh of relief this week following news that the several schools earmarked for closure, are in fact expected to stay open.

A recent Regional Queensland Summit predicted and named several schools in the state that were expected to close by 2027, one of those was Millaroo.

Access to education was raised as a major issue at the summit and claims were made that some local schools could be temporarily mothballed or closed due to declining enrolments.

Millaroo State School has just seven students, but it is far from the smallest student population in the Burdekin, with Maidavale having just one pupil.

Meanwhile, Airville has just 10 students and Osborne only 13.

Millaroo’s Small Schools Manager Anna Hoare said that despite speculation, enrolments are growing at the school.

“We run a very successful playgroup and already have two kindy enrolments for next year,” she explained.

“Our school has an increase in numbers this year.

“The school is really important in this area and the benefit has a flow-on effect, it is one of the only places where the people socialise and it is a big part of our community.”

Member for Burdekin Dale Last agreed, saying that he believes the local schooling system is working well and he is determined to defend it.

In fact, within the past week, our local member has managed to secure a guarantee that all schools in the region are safe.

“Several schools in the Burdekin were included in a list of ‘at risk’ schools in media reports,” Mr Last said.  

“Those closures would have a huge impact on families whose children attend so, as soon as the rumours came to light, I took the issue up with the Education Minister.

“The Minister has confirmed, via a response to a question in Parliament, that there are no plans to close any schools in the Burdekin. That is reassuring for families and staff.”

Mr Last said that the role of the smaller schools in the district extended further than a ‘standard education’, a factor that staff and the school communities should be extremely proud of.

“As demographics have changed and student numbers have declined, several of those schools have made changes to teaching methods and facilities to cater to students who have struggled in larger schools,” he said.

“It’s a huge credit to the staff at those schools that they have identified ways to ensure that all students are engaged and can reach their full potential.  

“In larger centres, you would have schools assigned to those roles but here in the Burdekin, the staff and school communities have taken it upon themselves to ensure a brighter future for students.

“Like other government services, all we have ever asked for when it comes to education is for the same opportunities as people in cities and larger centres.  Now that we have the assurance from the Minister, those schools can confidently get on with what they do best; educating our future generations.”

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Member for Burdekin, Dale Last, with the Millaroo School Teacher, Sydney Gane and students. Photo supplied

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Since 2008, Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr has injected more than a million dollars back into the community it serves, with $278,000 of this total donated to 27 different local organisations at a special event in June.

Hundreds of people attended the Grants Night which was held at the Burdekin Theatre and the grateful recipients have since used the money to benefit the community in a multitude of ways.

Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr are dedicated to the betterment of the community especially in the areas of youth service, sporting facilities, mental health and wellbeing support, community and cultural facilities, environment, and employment.

The following groups received financial support at the event in June: Ayr Community Kindergarten Assoc, Ayr Golf Club, Ayr Swimming Club, Ayr Tennis Assoc, Bowen Netball, Bowen Seagulls Junior Football Club, Burdekin Amateur Basketball, Burdekin Brass Band, Burdekin Chaplaincy, Burdekin Community Assoc, Burdekin Football, Burdekin Junior Rugby League, Burdekin Men’s Shed, Burdekin Netball Assoc, Burdekin Potters,  CORES, Home Hill Boat Club, Home Hill Choral Society, Home Hill Cricket Assoc, Home Hill Golf Club, Home Hill Tennis Assoc, Lower Burdekin Celtic Dancing Assoc, Lower Burdekin Landcare, NQ Employment, ST Stephens Ladies Guild of Home Hill & Ayr, Volunteer Marine Rescue Burdekin, Zonta Burdekin.  

These groups are a strong representation of the areas the bank is committed to supporting.

“Community is at the heart of our business, with the Community Bank model guiding our philosophy as we strive to fulfil our vision to be Australia’s bank of choice,” said Chris Delaney, Customer Relationship Officer.

“The Community Bank  model was created to provide banking services to our communities, to  generate profits that are then distributed back into those communities, often in the form of sponsorships and grants to provide ongoing support and backing for local projects and initiatives.”

At the Grants Night, board member Darren West said that he appreciated every loyal customer, both new and old, who has helped generate this amazing result.

“We paid our first dividend of five cents in 2010 to those 312 community minded people who provided the capital to help start our banking operations,” he said.

“We would like to thank them all for taking the chance and coming along on this journey with us and for having  belief in the steering committee that we could make this work.

“We have over the years, since those humble beginnings, paid dividends nine times to those shareholders and we have after tonight, injected back into our community a total of $1,005,110.00 in Community Grants, Sponsorships and Dividends since 2008.

“This has only been made possible by the support from our Home Hill, Ayr and Bowen communities and those people and organisations that have decided to do their banking with us.”

The funding for the community grants comes from the profits derived from banking operations.

“The total amount to be granted is $278,052.00 and these funds will be utilised for the betterment of your community and your organisations,” said Darren on the Grants Night.

“I would like to give everyone something to think about. If everyone in this foyer and  your friends and colleagues all banked with our Community Bank, just imagine the volume that it could create and how much extra potential funding we could provide to the community going forward.”

Your banking makes good things happen.

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Board Member, Darren West, speaking on Grants Night

Zonta Club Burdekin received $11,000

Bendigo Banks is at the heart of community

Burdekin Basketball were thrilled to receive funding

Home Hill Tennis Association were ecstatic to receive over $27,500

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Deputy Mayor Sue Perry

Welcome to the Councillor Column for the inaugural Burdekin Life publication.

As Deputy Mayor, I am grateful to be able to pen this piece to congratulate those responsible for the production.

From numerous conversations, I know our community will embrace this free, weekly newspaper and support it through readership, contributions, and advertising.

As one of the largest employers in the community, Burdekin Shire Council is a hive of activity at all times, and this local newspaper is the perfect medium to keep residents informed.

Communication is key to understanding your community, be it major projects, strategic plans, the budget, road maintenance, events, and activities.

There are some exciting projects currently underway – the new Industrial Estate, the Macro-Algae Treatment facility, Jerona Causeway rebuild and further development of the Anzac Park Precinct with the water park and new kiosk already being well utilised and enjoyed.

Future editions of Burdekin Life will update residents about these projects as well as inform you of upcoming events.

Advocating for the Burdekin is easy because we have a vast range of facilities and services available within our rural community.  

In my role as a real estate agent, I speak with many new residents who now call the Burdekin home, and they are always complimentary of the variety of activities, events, cultural and recreational pursuits that are provided locally. Our location, only an hour to a major city, two hours to the Whitsundays and just over an hour’s cruise to the amazing reef, is second to none.

We are blessed with some of the best beaches, estuaries, and reef fishing available and are within easy reach to Cape Upstart.

Our community also welcomes the annual pilgrimage of many southern visitors who enjoy our wonderful winter weather.

This time of the year is delightful to enjoy the amazing sunsets, cane fires and cooler nights.

With the progressive development of Plantation Park welcoming both residents and visitors alike, it is tremendous to see the amount of activity generated in that space.

The recent improvements in Watson’s Green and Memorial Park have also led to increased and more diverse usage as well.

Strategic planning which aligns with Council’s Corporate Plan has been a priority during this term, these plans are all accessible on Council’s website.

Once again, congratulations to Burdekin Life newspaper team and I look forward to reading many future editions.

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With Mayor Lyn McLaughlin

Did you know that Council has partnered with Burdekin Life Newspaper as a Founding Advertising Partner?

Burdekin Life Newspaper is set to deliver important local news and stories, marking a significant milestone for the Burdekin.

Council's collaboration will ensure that the community remains well-informed about local events, services, and initiatives, while fostering unity and support within the region.

The partnership with Burdekin Life Newspaper will be instrumental in supporting and boosting community engagement.

As a founding advertising partner, Council not only provides advertising support but will also share crucial community updates and information.

Looking ahead, Council will provide valuable content each week, including a comprehensive page advertisement, a dedicated ‘Councillor Column’ and a ‘Did You Know?’ column.  

I am confident that Burdekin Life Newspaper will thrive, introducing a fresh and distinctive perspective to the Burdekin community.

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Congratulations Burdekin Life on your first ever issue! It’s fantastic to see there’s still an appetite for local, community driven news.

As a Bowen boy, and your Federal Member for Dawson, I have always enjoyed getting out and about in the Burdekin.

Whenever I’m in town or sometimes passing through, I make sure to stop in at 97.1 Sweet FM to have a chat with Charlie to let everyone know what issues I’m fighting for that affect the people of the Burdekin.

I hold a close working relationship with your Mayor, Lyn McLaughlin, and all the Councillors to ensure we are fighting for the issues affecting your community.

I also enjoy visiting local farmers and the various industry bodies in the area. Farming and agriculture are an essential industry, providing all the food and fibre for the country, and as the biggest cane growing area, the name Bountiful Burdekin rings true!

It is my job to fight for the needs of the Burdekin community, and I take my job very seriously.

I want to see the Labor government reverse their decision on the ban of commercial gillnets, which is going to have some serious negative consequences for our beautiful region.

I want to see a Headspace facility open, and I am working hard to gain 24-hour access to the CT machine in the Burdekin, so no one has to travel to Townsville and lose time for important lifesaving services.

I also want to know what issues are important to you, so please, visit my website and complete Dawson’s Biggest Survey.

Visit my website at www.andrewwillcox.com.au/biggest-survey

Your Federal Member

Andrew Willcox

Opinion Piece

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The Ayr Chamber of Commerce met at Helloworld Travel Ayr last Thursday, September 21, where crime in the community was put in the spotlight.

Officer In Charge of Ayr Police Station, Senior Sergeant Steve Barton, was invited to address the Chamber and spoke about property crime, domestic and family violence and copper theft.

Senior Sergeant Barton shared his tips, advising to always lock your car and house and to report crime to police as opposed to sharing footage on social media.

Afterwards, enthusiastic discussion ensued.

President of the Ayr Chamber of Commerce Leigh Kefford thanked Senior Sergeant Barton for his presentation.

“Every month we have a Chamber Connect event where we go around to different businesses to showcase their business as well as have a guest speaker from different organisations,” Mr Kefford said.

“Crime is one of the major concerns that affects nearly all businesses.”

Burdekin Regional Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin provided an update on Council happenings before Burdekin Life Journalist Sam Gillespie introduced the publication to the group.

Striving to deliver advocacy, networking, education, economic development and community development to the Burdekin, the Ayr Chamber of Commerce is always welcoming new members, meeting on the third Tuesday of each month.

“The Ayr Chamber of Commerce is about advocating for local businesses on different issues and supporting members, either through issues they’re having and providing benefits to the community as a whole,” Mr Kefford said.

“Get involved in your Chamber, because the Chamber is there to benefit the members themselves.”

Visit www.ayrchamber.com.au to find out more.

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Officer In Charge of Ayr Police Station Senior Sergeant Steve Barton and President of the Ayr Chamber of Commerce Leigh Kefford. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

The Queensland Police Service have “Home Security Audit” forms that can be accessed at the QPS website https://www.police.qld.gov.au/programs/cscp/homeSecurity/Homesecurityauditchecklistandfactsheet.htm

Anecdotally, the majority of unlawful entry offences are committed on residences or vehicles that are unlocked and/or have valuables in plain sight.  Locking your house and car and securing valuables including money, keys, wallets and mobile phones will deter opportunistic thieves.  

If you see someone acting suspiciously AT ANY TIME, ring Ayr Police Station on 4790 3555 or after-hours ring 131 444, unless life threatening, then ring 000.

Crime prevention is a community effort.  Police regularly need public assistance and information to help solve criminal offences.  This information can be anonymous to crime stoppers.  If you have any such information, please contact Crime Stoppers or Ayr Police.

Don’t let yourself become a victim of crime – Lock it or Lose it

If you have any information about crime or illicit drugs, phone crime stoppers on 1800 333 000.  The more detailed the information you give, the better it will be for all concerned.

Remember to secure your property – “lock it or lose it”.

You wouldn’t leave a dish containing thousands of dollars sitting on your bench or sitting out in the open, so why do this with your car keys?

Car keys – treat them like cash!

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At Home Hill Chamber Of Commerce Meeting

The loyal attendees of the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce’s September Social and Networking Event were wowed when President David Jackson revealed a historic book of meeting minutes dating back to 1930.

The book, titled ‘Foundation Minutes 1930-1935’, charts the inception of the Home Hill Community Sports Club and was recently discovered at the clubhouse by Trevor Elton.

The Chamber met last Wednesday, September 20 at the clubhouse and invited Executive Committee Member Meg Wilson to speak about her role as Grower Marketing Consultant with Wilmar Sugar.

Lilibeth and Jun Myles, who purchased the Malpass Hotel in April, introduced themselves to the group before Journalist Sam Gillespie was welcomed to explain the new publication Burdekin Life.

The next Home Hill Chamber of Commerce Social and Networking Event will be held at the Home Hill Community Sports Club on Wednesday, October 18 from 5:30pm.

To find out more, visit homehillchamber.com.au.

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Home Hill Chamber of Commerce President David Jackson, Treasurer John Clarke and Secretary Robert Antoniazzi

Lilibeth and Jun Myles of the Malpass Hotel

Jim Ashworth of Ashworths Home Hill and Councillor Max Musumeci

Home Hill Chamber of Commerce Executive Committee Member and Meg Wilson and Vice President Uli Liessmann

Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

Within the local Burdekin region, a remarkable journey of community support began in 2012, led by the Rotary Club of Ayr.

The Community Raffle, fully funded by the Rotary Club, includes prize money exceeding $17,000, has emerged as a potent catalyst for positive change.

Over the past decade, it has empowered more than 40 local organizations to collectively raise over $500,000.

In 2012, the Rotary Club of Ayr after much discussion and planning, conceptualized the Community Raffle as a sustainable way to support the many local organisations in need.

Unlike many other community initiatives, the Community Raffle is unique in that it is entirely funded by the Rotary Club of Ayr.

This includes the prize money, which has consistently exceeded $17,000 each year.

This financial commitment from Rotary has been pivotal in allowing the raffle to thrive and grow.

Money to fund this initiative was raised through the yearly production of the Rotary Phone book.

Local community businesses that advertise in this phone book are in fact achieving much more than having their business profiled each year, they are inadvertently contributing to community organisations through the Community Raffle portal.

The Community Raffle's impact is nothing short of transformative.

Over $500,000 has been distributed among more than 40 local organizations, spanning Home Hill, Brandon, Ayr, Giru, Clare, and Jerona.

These funds have breathed new life into schools, community organisations, church groups, and sporting clubs and many other local groups.

Change is a natural part of any long-running community initiative, and the 2012 Community Raffle is no exception.

While this year may see a smaller number of participating organisations, the raffle's ability to adapt and thrive is a testament to its enduring spirit.

Over 8,000 tickets have been distributed, demonstrating that the community's enthusiasm for this initiative remains as strong as ever.

The drawing of this year’s raffle will take place at a venue to be announced on November 11, all participating organisations and community members will be invited to attend the free event as a celebration of another successful year.

Contributed by Narelle Hibberd

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The Rotary Club of Ayr. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

Member for Burdekin Dale Last and past Rotary Club of Ayr members Jack Slaney and Robert Antoniazzi who were on the original committee that started the raffle. Photo supplied

Steeped in history and engaged with community, Burdekin Motor Group is passionate about giving back to the Burdekin.

The dealership had been established for over 30 years before it joined Pickerings Group of Companies in 2000, becoming Burdekin Motor Group.

Dealer Principal James Jensen has been a part of the business for nearly 30 years and leads a team of long-term locals embedded in their community.

The team is like a family, welcoming everyone who walks through the doors and offering that classic country service that everyone values.

“We talk to people, we’re hands on, we know the community and there’s a familiarity,” James said.

“We have generations of families buying cars off of us who have been dealing with us for nearly 30 years.”

A genuine one-stop-shop, Burdekin Motor Group is the only multi-franchise dealership in the region, the sales staff cross-trained across Nissan, Isuzu Ute, Mitsubishi, Kia, and Suzuki brands.

“We’ve got options to give people,” James said.

“There’s not many places you can talk to the same salesman about five different car brands.”

On top of sales, Burdekin Motor Group offers spare parts and careful and attentive servicing, providing consistency and continuity of care to all customers.

The dealership proudly trains and employs local school-based apprentices, giving the young people of the Burdekin employment opportunities in their hometown.

Giving back to the community is important to James and the team, as they are continually involved in grassroots sport and local charities through sponsorship and fundraising.

It’s this community focus that inspired Burdekin Motor Group to join Burdekin Life as a Founding Partner.

“It’s to do with getting involved in the local community and giving them back their paper, because it is vital in a lot of ways,” James said.

“It’s good to see what’s happening and what people are doing, whether it be kids or sport.

“We want to support the paper and give it an opportunity to grow.”

Visit www.burdekinmotors.com.au to find out more.

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Burdekin Motors Dealer Principal James Jensen and General Manager David Briggs. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

At Tosh’s Convenience Store

Whether you are looking for some fresh fruit and veggies, butcher quality meats or an excuse to sit down and enjoy a delicious coffee or homemade burger, you will find all your needs met at Tosh’s Convenience Store located at 9 Chippendale Street in Ayr.

Renowned for its good old-fashioned service, the quaint and personal grocery store is a local community hub, a place people come to gather, share stories and enjoy good company.

Sit outside on the comfortable café seating, enjoy the sunshine and say hello to fellow residents as they come by.

Sit and relax, sip on a cup of Rounded Coffee, which is reportedly amongst the best in town, or grab a cool drink and refresh.

Choose from a milkshake, thick shake or slushie, or head to the drink fridge and take your pick from the extensive range of ice-cold beverages.

For those looking for a lunchtime meal or a snack, head inside and browse the plentiful hot food display box, plus pies and pasties.

You could also indulge yourself with one of Tosh’s signature burgers, with the lot, perfect for that well-deserved treat.

Alternatively, go light and healthy with their selection of delicious freshly made sandwiches and wraps.

Inside Tosh’s Convenience Store, customers are invited to relax and enjoy a comfortable grocery shop experience where they can browse at their leisure and pick up a bargain along the way.

Freshly baked bread, locally grown fruit and veggies when available, and a range of quality meats with an extensive selection of deli products awaits.

There are also homemade cakes and biscuits and a variety of confectionary and ice-creams – the perfect accompaniment to any meal.

For those looking for a quick and easy dinner time solution, Tosh’s also stock a variety of Frozen Masala Curry or Pasta Dinner Packs.

Owned by local couple, Anne and Neil Williams, for the past 10 years, the convenience store has been well-looked after and has a popular following amongst locals.

“We are happy people and have a welcoming customer service,” said Neil.

“We may be a little bit further for some, but it is worth that extra distance, for that lovely take -away - give us a try - you’ll be glad you did!”

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Neil and Anne Williams outside their convenience store. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

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Burdekin Cane Organisation's Transformation Signals Growth

In a rebranding move that mirrors its exceptional expansion and commitment to its members, the Burdekin Cane & Agriculture Organisation has unveiled its new identity as Queensland Cane Agriculture & Renewables (QCAR). This rebrand isn't just about nomenclature; it underscores the organisation's visionary journey towards a sustainable future for Queensland's sugar industry.

Panikos Spyrou, QCAR's CEO, said the rebrand signifies rapid growth and unification among members, propelled by a proactive collaboration with AgForce and the Australian Cane Farmers Association (ACFA).

“We are more than a mere collective; we epitomise forward-thinking, underpinned by a commercially-driven ethos that generously rewards growers who embrace technology and innovation,” he said.

The statistics bear witness to this transformation. Over the past year, QCAR's tonnage has surged from 1.3 million tonnes to an impressive 4.2 million tonnes. While QCAR's roots remain firmly entrenched in the Burdekin, its membership aims to span from the Daintree in the north to the Gold Coast in the south, encompassing Queensland's entire sugar-growing coastline.

Spyrou elaborated, "Our focus isn't just on our past achievements; we are resolutely oriented towards the future. Renewables are the linchpin of the cane industry's tomorrow, and QCAR desires to be at the forefront of this evolution.

“As the world focuses on decarbonisation, we are delving into the conversion of cane byproducts into commodities, along with exploring renewable energy prospects during the milling process."

What truly sets QCAR apart is its steadfast commitment to maximising grower profits and advancing efficiency without curtailing high achievers. This approach not only augments growers' earnings but also contributes to thriving local communities.

"A flourishing industry is great for the local community, and this ethos has already attracted some of Australia's most substantial producers to QCAR,” Mr Spyrou said.

“QCAR is unique in the sense that it has links to three state bodies and also federal advocacy which allows us to give focus to a superior local service while we expand into other areas with the same ‘hands-on’ member focused issues that bring service back to our growers which effectively transforms their financial levy contribution from a cost to an investment into their families’ and local communities’ future.  

“Direct access to various State based representation plays a great role, not only for Cane specific issues, but also for all Agricultural matters which directly affect our underlying farmer members.”

QCAR collaborates closely with sugar mills, focusing on cooperative solutions to industry hurdles. Rather than casting blame, the organisation works hand in hand with mills and logistics to streamline processes and expedite cane from paddock to mill. Members' concerns receive prompt and efficient attention, nurturing swifter growth and prosperity that reverberates through community development.

The preliminary launch of this rebrand aligns with the introduction of this publication, Burdekin Life newspaper, following comprehensive approvals from the board and members. As QCAR strides resolutely into this new chapter, it remains unwaveringly dedicated to its core tenets of unity, sustainability, and prosperity for all stakeholders.

The future gleams with promise, and QCAR is at the helm, hand in hand with its growers and partners, steering Queensland's sugar industry towards a more vibrant, profitable and sustainable future.

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QCAR CEO Panikos Spyrou

● Applications are open now for the 2024 AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award until 25 October 2023.

● The Rural Women’s Award supports Australian women to use and develop their skills to benefit their industries and communities.

● The AgriFutures Australia Rural Women’s Acceleration Grant is open to provide professional development support to rural women to bring their idea, cause, or vision to life.

Applications are now open for the 2024 AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award, a platform designed to empower women engaged in rural and emerging industries, businesses, and communities. The recent national gala event in Canberra witnessed the representation of Queensland's own Emma-Louise Gibbons, this year's Queensland Rural Woman Award winner.

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said the awards are a fitting tribute to the many women providing leadership and inspiration across our rural communities.

“Our Queensland finalist, Emma-Louise Gibbons, is a fine example of what is being achieved by so many women in the agriculture sector right across our state,” he said.

Nikki Davey, a visionary tech entrepreneur and innovator from Victoria, claimed the national title, epitomizing the award's mission to honour courageous leadership by rural women.

John Harvey, the Managing Director of AgriFutures Australia, emphasised the award's significance, stating, "The AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award provides a platform to inspire and support Australian women to use and develop their skills to benefit their industries and communities, and can open doors to professional development and Alumni networks."

For over 15 years, Westpac has been a dedicated platinum sponsor of the Rural Women’s Awards. The Queensland winner is set to receive a $15,000 grant to advance their work and has the opportunity to vie for an additional $20,000 grant at the national level.

The newly appointed state sponsor, the Queensland Country Women’s Association, will offer a $2,000 grant to Queensland’s finalists, in addition to facilitating access to professional development opportunities and alumni networks.

Alongside the Rural Women’s Awards, AgriFutures Australia extends the Rural Women’s Acceleration Grant as a valuable leadership and development opportunity for rural women who may not yet be ready to apply for the award. This grant provides a bursary of up to $7,000, fostering professional development and spurring innovation within rural industries, businesses, and communities.

Applications for the 2024 AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award will remain open until Wednesday, October 25, 2023.

“I encourage Queensland women in agriculture and other rural industries to have a look at the inspiring stories of our previous winners and consider putting their hands up for next year’s awards,” Minister Furner said.

For comprehensive details regarding the application process and eligibility criteria, please visit the AgriFutures website.

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Victorian rural tech entrepreneur, Nikki Davey, has been named the 2023 AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award National Winner with NSW Artistic Director Michelle Leonard announced as National Runner Up

Simon Hood

Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

We are very pleased to be a foundation member of the Burdekin Life newspaper. It is great to see a new venture in the Burdekin and we wish the business every success.

The launch of this local newspaper ties in well with our own business within the Wilmar Marketing team.

We recently appointed Fiona Villis as a full-time Grower Marketing Consultant, based at Inkerman Mill.

Fiona, with her husband Paul, have owned and operated cane farms in the Burdekin for nearly 20 years, so she is well versed in the day-to-day challenges of managing a busy farm business. Many growers may have spoken to Fiona through her previous role with Lower Burdekin Water where she worked part time for the past four years.

Fiona joins Meghan Wilson who is also launching into a new phase in her career as she completes her internship with Wilmar Grower Marketing.

Meg joined the business as a graduate a year ago and has made her mark in the Burdekin with her boundless enthusiasm and cheerful nature.

She has acquired a tremendous amount of knowledge over the past year and is looking forward to helping growers understand the vagaries of sugar pricing and how best to use Wilmar’s products and services to maximise income.

And what a year it has been for sugar prices and consequent cane returns. Many of you who attended our international trader roadshow at the beginning of the production season heard Senior Sugar Trader Peter Bingham talk about the risk the sugar world faced with a tight trade balance sheet and low stock levels. Add in the prospect of an El Nino, and the case for higher prices was made from a fundamental viewpoint.

Luckily for global trade, the Brazilian harvest has progressed with hardly a glitch and near-term demand can be met. It will be when the Indian and Thai crops are needed that will tell if we are in for an historic price rise or not.

Fortunately, Wilmar’s 2023 pools are well positioned to take advantage of any price spikes while being well protected from significant price falls. Additionally, our advanced physical sales schedule for the current crop has allowed us to confidently advance secured premiums to Target price growers through the Allocation Account, which is well ahead (A$16/T Net Actual) of our competitor’s offering in the Shared Pool.

For more information, please contact our Burdekin Grower Marketing consultants Meghan Wilson on 0437 669 118 or Fiona Villis on 0437 297 978.

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Meghan Wilson (left) and Fiona Villis are Wilmar’s Grower Marketing consultants in the Burdekin