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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Living the island life stands as a bucket list dream for many, but Brooklyn Ivory has been living this dream, day in, day out for just over a year.
Brooklyn lives, works, and studies on Hayman Island in the Whitsundays as part of The Hotel School where she is enrolled in an Associate Degree of International Hotel and Tourism Management. The Hotel School allows its students to study on the island campus and combines their academia with hands-on experience to foster a unique work, study and living environment.
“We live in The Village on Hayman Island, and with the resort just a road away and being right near the marina, our view is just amazing, its beach and water every morning,” explained Brooklyn.
After graduating from Ayr State High School in 2021, she chose to take a gap year before commencing her tertiary studies on Hayman Island. Brooklyn has always had a love for the hospitality industry, and after learning of the opportunity in Year 10, she believed the 2-year course would provide many opportunities and career pathways across the world.
“I heard about the program at one of the careers nights in Year 10, and from there I did a lot of research into the Sydney and Melbourne schools, as they had just opened The Hotel School on Hayman Island,” explained Brooklyn.
“I applied and explained I wanted to take a gap year in 2021 and The Hotel School was very understanding and they’re a very flexible university, always looking after their students mental, physical and academic health all at the same time.”
Brooklyn carries out her degree on a fast-tracked university schedule, studying for a 6-week period, with a 2-week break, on a continuous cycle for 4 terms before the summer term commences where she will carry out a resort placement.
“There are definitely ups and downs living the island life, but as a whole it’s been an amazing experience,” expressed Brooklyn.
“For me, taking a year off and then going back to a small town that’s even smaller, I had doubts about if I would meet anybody, and as there are only 250 staff members here at the moment, and 350 at maximum, you get to know everybody very quickly because you live with them, work with them, and do extra-curricular activities with them all the time.”
Once Brooklyn began her island lifestyle, she found the whole process of meeting people and making life-long friends a breeze. Many students from around Australia and the world began their studies along with Brooklyn in March of 2022, and with a quick turn over of island residents, Brooklyn finds herself meeting new people often.
“We’re always meeting new people, and that’s become the joy of it because there are lots of people of different cultures, and I love learning about their backgrounds, and hearing their travel stories,” explained Brooklyn.
With 10 months to go before graduating with her Diploma of Hotel and Tourism Management, Brooklyn has left her horizon open to exploring many opportunities, and believes she’ll find herself traveling internationally in the coming years.
“Anyone interested in the opportunity should enroll, whether you’re looking at doing it to study, or looking at just coming to Hayman to work, 100% do it,” she urged.
“The most important thing you’ll take away is just the experience of living here which is something most people will never experience, and you’ll truly never regret it.”
Brooklyn Ivory, originally from Ayr, loves living the island life. Photos supplied
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Rehoming fee: $545
DOB: 10/06/2021
Sex: Male
Breed: Jack Russell Terrier
Kid friendly: Yes
Cat Friendly: Yes
Other dogs: Yes
Fences: 4ft
Archie is a very social dog, both to people and dogs.
He likes to keep busy, whether that’s sniffing, exploring, eating, playing with toys or spending time with you - he does it all at the same time.
He loves the company of other dogs, but he needs to be fed separately or else he will steal their food.
He’s a total goofball with a great personality and will give you company whenever you need.
He adores his toys, especially fluffy ones, he likes to throw them in the air and catch them and he isn’t against you joining in on the fun.
Archie looks forward to seeing you very soon!
If you’re interested in Archie please complete an animal enquiry form at https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.htmm
Archie is available for adoption desexed, micro-chipped, and is up to date on vaccinations, flea/tick/intestinal worm treated and he is on heartworm preventative.
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The Rita Island Progress Association’s (RIPA) Old Time Dance was a fantastic community evening for those who attended on Saturday, May 25.
It kicked off with dinner at 6:00pm cooked by the Jarvisfield P&C committee and staff, then at 6:30pm the FC Caledonia Highland Dancers showcased their talents on the dance floor as they proceeded through their many different dance routines.
At 7:00pm the band Kiradon started playing and they kept the crowd entertained all evening with adults and children joining in the dancing.
The laughter and chatter from the bar area as old and new friends caught up was great to see, as was the scramble by the children for chocolates as they were spread around the floor and the ‘ooohs’ and ‘aaahs’ from the adults and children as smoko was delivered to the tables with a magnificent spread of sandwiches and cakes along with tea and coffee.
The feedback from those present on the night has RIPA seriously thinking about making it a yearly event.
Thank you to all who contributed.
Contributed by Shantelle Ehmann
Rita Island Progress Association recently held a fantastic Old Time Dance. Photos supplied
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The Lower Burdekin Scout Group joined other Cub Scouts aged 8-10 years old at the top of Castle Hill Townsville for an Abseiling adventure.
There were 36 Cub Scouts and 10 Leaders all set for the challenge as some parents looked on.
The weather was near perfect, with a bit of a breeze every now and again.
Many of the Cubs were slow and cautious at the start, but by the end they were Abseiling like professionals.
A great day was had by all and the view from Castle Hill was spectacular.
Contributed by Chris Berkery
Last week, BCHS paused to honour National Sorry Day, gathering for a Flag Ceremony and Prayer.
“This day reminds us of the Stolen Generations and the pain and loss faced by First Nations peoples,” BCHS shared on social media.
“At BCHS we are committed to fostering understanding, respect, and reconciliation.”
BCHS held a National Sorry Day ceremony last week. Photos supplied
St Francis Catholic School in Ayr has proudly announced the completion of newly refurbished Prep classrooms, designed by i4 Architecture and constructed by Simon Bell Construction.
The project, fully funded by the school, aims to create a modern and functional learning environment for the school’s youngest students.
St Francis Catholic School Principal Amanda Jones said the design brief for the project was to create a space that would support the age-appropriate pedagogy of the school, incorporating a range of teaching methods and resources to engage young learners and achieve effective learning outcomes.
“Some features of the new Prep classrooms include a raised stage for interactive learning experiences, a reading nook cut out in the wall for quiet reading time, and open display shelving to showcase the students' work,” Ms Jones said.
“One of the main objectives of the refurbishment was to provide a conducive environment for inside/outside learning and activities.
“This means that students can now access resources such as paint easels, blocks, water troughs, and construction materials at any time throughout the day.
“This not only promotes independent learning but also encourages our students to be creative and engaged in their learning experiences.”
The two prep classrooms have also been given themes to create an even more immersive learning experience: one classroom has a Reef theme, complete with underwater murals and coral reef-inspired soft furnishings, while the other classroom has a Rainforest theme, with lush greenery painted on the walls and flexible seating options to match.
“We believe in developing students' critical and creative thinking skills, including imagination and risk-taking abilities,” Ms Jones said.
“This is a vital part of the Australian Curriculum, and the new Prep classrooms are designed to support this objective.
“By fostering students' curiosity about the world around them, we hope to nurture their love for learning and set them on the path to success.
“The completion of this refurbishment project represents our commitment to providing the best possible learning environment for our students.
“We are excited to see how the new Prep classrooms will benefit our young learners and help them reach their full potential.”
Sometimes I try and think back to five, three, even one year ago and gauge how familiar I was with ‘the Burdekin’. I must admit, while I did know a few people from the region and had driven through, I had no idea what lay beyond the Bruce Highway, and I’m met with a similar sentiment when attempting to explain where I live to out-of-towners – I’m sure you’re all familiar.
Now, after nine months, I can proudly say that the Burdekin and its people will always hold a special place in my heart. When I moved to Mackay at the start of 2022, I knew I wanted a lifestyle change from the corporate work and city life I was living before. Getting a job with Life Publishing allowed this lifestyle change – what better way to get to know a new region than by driving around it, meeting the people and hearing their stories every day? This job has allowed me to do the same right here in the Burdekin and I like to think I know the place pretty well and I’m proud of that fact.
After two and a half years in North Queensland, I am now moving back to Brisbane to move in with my girlfriend, Jakita, and be closer to family and friends. I’m looking forward to taking this exciting step in my personal life, spending weekends on the family property in Millmerran, going to more concerts and Broncos games, and continuing my professional journey in print media down in the big smoke. In saying all of that, there are many, many parts of Burdekin life I will miss.
I want to thank you all again for the huge role you’ve played in my time here and the impact you’ve had on my life, and I want to thank the team at Life Publishing for all of their support and the incredible opportunities they’ve offered me. It’s been a great experience and I look forward to returning to NQ one day soon.
While I’m usually the one with camera in hand, a few people have taken the rare opportunity to capture photos of me in my time here, so I thought I’d share a few of my favourite memories from the past nine months.
Burdekin Life Co-Editors Amanda (left), Rachael (right) and myself with Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, a supporter of our publication and my work across Mackay and the Burdekin for years
My neighbour Pedro took this photo of me and my parents on our way to the Harvest Festival grand parade last year
Although I only managed to play four games, getting involved with the Home Hill Cricket Association and winning the grand final with Guardian Pharmacy was a highlight of my time in the Burdekin
I won my first game of bowls back in January alongside Meryl Smith and the beer never tasted so sweet
Tracey Gabiola and I at the Laurie’s Love Gala Ball – I don’t think I’ve ever been to as many gala balls as I have in the Burdekin!
My girlfriend Jakita and I at the top of Mount Inkerman, probably my favourite and most frequented spot in the area
Runners Up and Best Dressed team ‘Whatever Works’ from BNA’s Trivia Under Stars
In the Sweet FM studio presenting my weekly show, the Home Hill Happy Hour
Moving into a new rental property is an exciting yet challenging venture. Whether it's your first rental or a transition from a previous lease, being well-prepared can save you from potential pitfalls. Here are some crucial aspects to consider when moving into a new rental.
Inspect The Property Thoroughly
Before signing any lease agreement, conduct a comprehensive inspection of the property. Look for signs of wear and tear, such as leaky taps, mould, or faulty electrical points. Check that all appliances are in working order and take note of any damages. Document these issues with photos and share them with your landlord to avoid being held responsible when you move out.
Understand The Lease Agreement
A lease agreement is a legally binding document that outlines the terms and conditions of your tenancy. Ensure you read it thoroughly. Pay attention to clauses related to rent payment dates, late fees, maintenance responsibilities, and termination conditions. If anything is unclear, seek clarification from your landlord or a legal expert to avoid misunderstandings later.
Evaluate The Neighbourhood
The quality of your rental experience is often influenced by its neighbourhood. Spend some time exploring the area. Consider factors such as proximity to public transportation, grocery stores, parks and schools. Check for noise levels and safety conditions. A vibrant community with amenities can significantly enhance your living experience.
Check For Essential Amenities
Ensure that essential amenities like heating, cooling, and plumbing are functioning correctly. Inquire about the availability of internet and cable connections. If the rental includes shared amenities like a gym or laundry facilities, inspect them to ensure they meet your standards.
Plan For Moving Day Logistics
Coordinate your moving day logistics in advance. Reserve a moving truck or professional movers if necessary. Check if the building has any restrictions on move-in times or requires reserving an elevator. Being organised can make your move-in day smoother and less stressful.
Budget For Additional Costs
Rent is not the only cost you’ll incur. Factor in utilities, insurance, and potential maintenance costs. Understanding the full financial picture helps prevent any unwelcome surprises.
By paying attention to these details, you can ensure a smoother transition into your new rental home. A proactive approach will help you avoid common rental pitfalls, allowing you to enjoy your new space with peace of mind.
Burdekin Community Association Inc celebrated their 20th National Volunteers Week celebration on Thursday May 23, recognising the vital work of their volunteers and simply saying “thank you”.
National Volunteer Week is Australia's largest annual celebration of volunteering, held from May 20 to 26.
This special event provides an opportunity to highlight the important role of volunteers in our community and invites people not currently volunteering to give it a go.
The volunteer event was centered as per the NVW theme, ‘Something for Everyone’ and recognises the diverse passions and talents everyone brings to volunteering.
Becoming a volunteer is an opportunity to explore the wealth of opportunities available, emphasising that there’s a place for everyone in our community for volunteering.
BCA came together for National Volunteer Week, embracing this theme to showcase the vast spectrum of possibilities and the impact that emerges when everyone finds their meaningful role in making a difference.
BCA volunteers connect with clients and community, through companionship, outings, arts and crafts, games, spiritually and with other community connections.
BCA Volunteer Manager, Rita Quagliata, expressed her heartfelt thank you to all her volunteers for their time, dedication, and commitment and how they truly make a huge difference.
“In a time-poor world, volunteers bring the most precious gift, the gift of ‘time’,” Rita said.
“Life is short, everyone is busy and the short time that we are here, we should help make a difference.
“Consider making a difference, continue to help others in need with your time.”
Before the formalities were over, the cutting of the cake was drawn and the lucky volunteer to cut the cake was Rosa Torrisi.
Volunteering can help change everyone’s life.
It improves health and well-being, including increased longevity, adoption of healthy lifestyles and reduction in depression and stress.
It allows you to develop and use different skills that lead to establishing a real sense of achievement, develops confidence, builds self esteem and establishes new friendships.
Burdekin Community Association is constantly in need of volunteers.
Don’t hesitate, call in and have a chat with Rita Quagliata about volunteering or give her a call on 47833744.
Contributed by the BCA team
Back L-R: Bev Edwards, Dianne Noack and Rita Quagliata. Front L-R: Madeline Janiola, Jo Rodgers and Brenda Matthews
Stephen Tunbridge, Sam Caltabiano and Debra Cochran
Rosa Torrisi cutting the cake
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Less than one year since its inception, Burdekin Life Newspaper is proud to report that it has been recognised with a gold award for the Best Locally Produced Advertising Campaign at the Queensland Country Press Awards which were held in the Sunshine Coast last Friday night.
Burdekin Life Journalist, Sam Gillespie, attended the awards and was thrilled to represent the team and the region, securing an award that cemented both the newspaper and the successful launch of the publication into the community.
Burdekin Life Journalist Sam Gillespie with Leader of the Opposition David Crisafulli. Photo credit: Samantha Wantling.
Winners are grinners, and this was certainly the case for Life Publishing Group representatives who brought home three awards at the Queensland Country Press Awards over the weekend.
Burdekin Life Journalist, Sam Gillespie stood proudly with Burdekin Life’s award for Best Locally Produced Advertising Campaign for the My Pets Rural ad that graces this very page every week (see below).
Concepted and designed by the team at the central office located in the Whitsundays, these series of ads were a real hit with the judges.
“This series ticks all the boxes!” said the judges report.
“Great pics, great graphics and creative design elements. The message in each advert is clear and humorous. Each advert lists the products and services available at My Pets Rural. The consistency in brand recognition here is outstanding.
“This series is a standout winner.”
Production Manager, Crissy Bottrell was instrumental in designing the award-winning concept, alongside Ruby Gorlick who worked with the client on the initial idea.
“I love anything that makes people smile and shake their head at the same time,” expressed Crissy.
“I came up with my most “dad joke” worthy one-liners and it all rolled on from there.
“This would have to be my most proud achievement. In 30 years of working administration, I’ve had some highlights for sure, but this really tops it.
“Having my terrible sense of humour validated and revered is pretty monumental. My kids will have to think I’m cool now!”
Sam Gillespie said he was thrilled to receive the accolade on behalf of the team.
“Receiving an award of this stature within a year of launching Burdekin Life is a huge achievement and one that I am very proud to be involved in,” he shared.
“It’s not only recognition of the work that I and the team put into this publication every week, but an honour that we share with each and every one of our readers and supporters.
“The support of the community in launching Burdekin Life has been immense and I am very thankful of the assistance, guidance and feedback I receive from you all on a weekly basis.”
Owner and Founder of Life Publishing Group, which also produces Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper, Core Life Magazine and Tripping Magazine, said the award was real validation of the success of the newspaper in its early days.
“We were asked by the community to come and start a newspaper because there was a real need for it,” shared Ms Douthwaite.
“So, for Burdekin Life to grow so quickly in just a few months and be recognised for its design that was put together by our team, is a huge achievement for everyone involved.”
At the same awards presentation, Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper won gold for Best One-off Commercial Feature and gold for Best Free Newspaper in Queensland.
That publication is produced by the same team that produces Burdekin Life Newspaper and is where Sam Gillespie began his career two years ago as a cadet journalist.
“I’m also very proud of Mackay and Whitsunday Life, the publication with which I began my journalism career, being awarded Best Free Newspaper in Queensland and Best One-off Commercial Feature,” Stated Mr Gillespie.
“Contributing to these publications has been an incredible journey and has offered me so many unique opportunities, for which I am extremely grateful.
“Bringing free, fair, and relevant news to these communities is our passion and receiving this industry recognition is a huge feat for us as a team and one that we celebrate alongside you, our valued readers and supporters.”
Life Publishing Group representatives standing with Opposition Leader David Crisafulli at the Queensland Country Press Awards last Friday night. Sam Gillespie from Burdekin Life Newspaper, Rebecca Douthwaite Founder and Owner of Life Publishing Group, David Crisafulli Leader of the Opposition and Rachael Smith Editor in Chief of Life Publishing Group. Photo credit: Samantha Wantling
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Hi readers
Firstly, I want to thank you for all the messages and comments of congratulations for the awards Burdekin Life and Mackay and Whitsunday Life received at the Queensland Country Press Association Excellence Awards on the weekend.
It was a wonderful evening in Mooloolaba and me, Bec and Rachael were very proud to accept the awards.
You can read more information on that just over the page on page 3.
Next week will be my last week in the Burdekin and brings with it lots of other little ‘lasts’.
Monday night will be my last night of tennis in Home Hill; tennis is up there in the top two of my favourite sports to play (alongside netball), so getting involved with the Home Hill Tennis Association was a no-brainer when I first moved to Home Hill.
I’m looking forward to one final hit and a few laughs on Monday.
Tuesday will be my last show of the ‘Home Hill Happy Hour’, the radio show I’ve been presenting on 97.1 Sweet FM since February.
If you’re free from 7:00pm Tuesday evening, I invite you to tune in on the wireless or online to hear some of my favourite tunes as I send off the show.
Wednesday, of course, is social bowls, where I will farewell the friends I’ve made and caught up with every Wednesday throughout my short but very enjoyable bowls career.
If you’re keen on a bowl, a beer, a sausage and a nice night out, come along to Home Hill Community Sports Club!
Lastly, Friday night will be my last night out at the Burdekin Theatre as I look forward to ending my last day on the job with some Fleetwood Mac and Stevie Nicks tunes – maybe I’ll see you there.
I will be sad to farewell the Burdekin, but I look forward to making the most of the time I have left here and hope to see you out and about while I do!
A group of Home Hill crafters have been busy crocheting blankets, beanies and scarves to be donated to patients at the Home Hill Hospital.
Approximately 20 members from the Friends and Neighbours Craft Group have been working on the projects for most of the year so far, some even starting late last year to have the donations ready for winter.
“The idea came many years ago when we were asked if we could do something for the patients,” Friends and Neighbours Craft Group President, Christine Oats said.
“A lot of the wool gets donated, and we’ve just kept doing it every couple of years.
“We thought we’d better get in and make the donation because it turned cold.”
The crafty and generous group also lend their skills, making other donations throughout the community and even the state.
“Some people in our group make little booties for the babies at Ayr Hospital and another makes toys, and they are sent down to a hospital in Brisbane for the children’s ward,” Christine said.
Approximately 25 crafters make up the group which was started about 30 years ago by Christine’s mother, although craft isn’t always the only thing on the agenda.
“We talk gardening, cooking, health, there’s a whole heap of subjects that we go around,” Christine said.
“It’s a social outing, not just a craft group.”
“Because so many new people come to Home Hill, we’d love to meet them, even if they’re not a really crafty person, they can come and have a cuppa and a chat,” added fellow member June Bartlett.
The Friends and Neighbours Craft Group meet at the Home Hill Community Sports Club every Wednesday from 9:00am.
Ann, June, Robyn, Gail, Rosalea and Connie from the Home Hill Friends and Neighbours Craft Group
The men of the Burdekin Men’s Shed have shared their appreciation after receiving funding as part of the 2023-24 Volunteer Grants.
The organisation directed the grant towards the purchase of a new mower which President Rob Ritchie said was an immense help.
“Our mower gets used fairly regularly down here; our groundsman uses it every week and he does a fantastic job on the grounds,” Mr Ritchie said.
The new mower, purchased from Honeycombes and handed over last Friday, May 24, will replace a mower that the organisation owned for up to eight years.
“It’s saving us on maintenance on the old mower and we’ve got a good, reliable and safe machine to work with,” Mr Ritchie said.
The new mower will be primarily used by the Men’s Shed groundsman Chris Payard who Mr Ritchie thanked for his service.
“Chris works and he volunteers his time,” he said.
“He does the mowing and the whipper snipping and we take our hat off to him, it’s greatly appreciated.
“The mower provides a pleasant atmosphere to the members here,” added Secretary Charles Ford.
“There’s nothing like a Men’s Shed that’s well-groomed all the time and provides a good atmosphere for the men to participate in.”
The Burdekin Men’s Shed applied for the grant after Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox highlighted their eligibility.
Projects including painting chairs for the Zonta Club, mentoring students from various schools around the region and making and donating toys to Dale Last’s Christmas appeals exemplify the role the Men’s Shed plays in the community.
“I think one of the main reasons we were recognised with a Volunteers Grant is because we became part of the community immediately when we first formed the shed,” Mr Ford said.
“We do jobs for the community, and we are helping people of the community and we’re only volunteers, so that’s why we have a good name.”
Mr Willcox said the grants are critical in supporting and recognising the role that volunteers play within our community.
“Volunteers play a crucial role in our communities, and their selflessness and dedication to our region deserves recognition and support,” Mr Willcox said.
“This funding is well deserved, keep up the incredible work that you do.”
L-R Burdekin Men’s Shed Groundsman Chris Payard, Grant Writer John Furnell, Steven Caltabiano of Honeycombes, President Rob Ritchie and Secretary Charles Ford
Across the Burdekin region, a lack of suitable transport services has left many elderly residents feeling isolated and struggling to access essential appointments and social activities.
The issue has become particularly pressing for those without family nearby or the ability to drive themselves.
June Bartlett, who cares for her husband aged in his 80s, highlighted the difficulties faced when transport is limited.
“When he became very ill and unable to do much, that’s when we really started to get stuck with transport,” she explained.
“From him needing so many appointments with physios, doctors, at the hospital, I started to meet a lot of older people in the area.”
As an involved community member and regular attendee of the Friends and Neighbours Craft Group, Ms Bartlett has noted firsthand that many in the community, especially older women who have lost their spouses, face similar challenges.
“Lots of people are facing transport problems in the future, not just because they can’t drive, maybe they don’t have a car or it’s broken down,” she said.
“There’s a great need for transport to be available at a lot shorter notice.”
Ms Bartlett acknowledged the “terrific” work of service providers including Burdekin Community Association (BCA), Bur-Del Services and Townsville’s TransitCare.
She also acknowledged the taxi and Uber services available in the Burdekin but cited technological and financial reasons for these not being suitable for everyone.
BCA CEO Debra Cochran said the organisation provides transport services to eligible people under the Home Care Packages Program, Commonwealth Home Support Program, Queensland Community Support Scheme and Burdekin Community Transport Service.
“We also provide transport to people not eligible for the programs, on a one-off basis, if we have a seat available on the bus and we are already transporting a client to the same destination,” she added.
BCA utilises two buses with wheelchair access that can carry eight passengers or, when there is a passenger in a wheelchair, four other passengers.
Bus transport is offered in Ayr, Home Hill and Brandon on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday with the bus doing multiple trips to various locations around the towns for shopping, visiting, medical appointments, participation in events etc.
Bus Transport to and from Townsville is offered on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday, the priority being to assist clients to access medical services that are not available at local public hospitals.
“We have capacity on our buses to provide transport to more people, eligible for the above programs,” Ms Cochran confirmed.
“Our capacity for Support Workers to provide additional Transport depends on the availability of workers.
“We’re not experiencing a demand to increase Transport services and we’d like to see more people from Home Hill, Brandon and Giru accessing services.”
TransitCare also does daily transport Monday to Thursday for over 65 and under 65 in Ayr, Home Hill and surrounding areas, transporting 30 to 40 clients per week mostly to medical appointments.
Despite this coverage of services, Ms Bartlett said an increase in appointments being booked later in the afternoon and on weekends leaves residents with few options.
“There needs to be a much more flexible and spontaneous system,” she said.
“When appointments get suddenly offered to you that day, it’s very difficult to get to things without having a well organised mind.
“Having an extra transport service here in the hours that the other ones don’t operate would be just terrific for all of the people who need to go to the hospital at 5 o’clock in the afternoon or need to get home from the hospital at 5 o’clock in the afternoon.”
Chrysse Theofanes shared her own struggles since losing her husband three years ago.
“When you lose your partner and there’s one person left in the house, you don’t go out, you don’t have friends, so if you’ve got to go to the doctor, I don’t know how you’re going to get there,” she said.
“Sometimes you don’t want to keep on asking for help; some people want to be independent and be able to do things when they’d like to do things.”
Christine Anderson, a nearly 75-year-old widow from Home Hill, relies heavily on her daughter for transportation.
“I can’t get into Ayr on my own and I can’t afford a taxi every time,” she said.
The weekly craft group is Ms Anderson’s only social outing each week.
“I think it’s very important, because otherwise I’d be sitting at home sleeping or watching TV or doing both at the same time.
“Having transport options is vital because otherwise people just don’t go.”
As Ms Bartlett concluded, "We must look after the people who made this country what it is today.
“People really do get stressed and worried about how they’re going to manage to get to things.”
June Bartlett and Christine Anderson
Future funding for the Mobile Black Spot Program has been abolished as per the Federal Government’s recent budget with no ongoing funding to be provided for other key regional communications infrastructure programs.
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, said the axing of the Mobile Black Spot in 2026/27 is a major blow for regional communities, with zero dollars allocated for 2027/28.
“For the people of Dawson, there are whole communities that do not have access to mobile connectivity, and some people have to leave their home just to get reception,” he said.
“In 2024, how is this good enough?
“This isn’t just so people can call friends and family for a chat, we’re talking about real life emergency situations where people are getting stranded.”
The Government has also cut funding for the Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia, which covers funding for a range of programs including on-farm connectivity and the Regional Tech Hub.
“It’s no wonder that people in regional Australian communities are feeling isolated,” Mr Willcox said.
“The Budget papers show Labor is going to ramp up funding for mobile connectivity just in time for the coming election year, before it falls away and then comes to a grinding halt.
Funding for the Better Connectivity Plan will more than double in the lead up to the election from $101.8 million in 2023/24 to $228.4 million in 2024/25.
Funding for the Mobile Black Spot Program will nearly triple ahead of the poll day, from $17.5 million in 2023/24 to $45.9 million in 2024/25.
But all three programs are to receive zero funding in 2027/28.
“Improving connectivity for people in both the bush and those living on the outskirts of major cities is critical and shouldn’t be at the whim of the Albanese Government’s political strategy,” Mr Willcox said.
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox
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