The community gathered to remember and honour Queensland police officers who have been killed in the line of duty at a National Police Remembrance Day service in Ayr last Friday, September 29.

The service also honoured retired police officers and those across Pacific jurisdictions whose deaths did not occur as a consequence of their duty.

“The Queensland Police Service acknowledges the contribution of all staff members who have died since National Police Remembrance Day in 2022,” said Senior Sergeant Steve Barton.

“In doing so, we remember them and honour their diligent service.”

Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP, a former police officer himself, said every officer bears the scars of the situations that Police sometimes face.

“Police Remembrance Day is the day that all Queenslanders, regardless of where they live, show their appreciation for the brave men and women who work every day to protect our communities,” he said.

“Whilst today we acknowledge every officer, we especially acknowledge those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice either in the course of their duty or as a result of their service to the community.”

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Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

Former students at Home Hill State School recently gathered at Hotel Brandon for a bi-monthly reunion.

Despite being held every two months for the last two years, the reunion held on Tuesday, October 3 was the largest with over 50 people attending, travelling from Shepparton, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Gordonvale, Mackay, and Townsville.

The regular reunion started in May 2021 when an old school friend of organiser Elizabeth Ann Edwards’ visited from the Gold Coast.

Upon her friend’s arrival, Elizabeth surprised her with a reunion of over 45 people from the Home Hill State School.

“We all found it therapeutic once we caught up,” said Elizabeth.

“It’s interesting how we’ve reconnected through school.”

Elizabeth completed her schooling at Home Hill State School in the early 1960s and said it was a good place to grow up.

“We had dances on the weekends at one of the halls and there was sport, it was a good safe community to grow up,” she said.

“Once you’re a Home Hill-ite, you’re always a Home Hill-ite.”

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Over 50 former Home Hill State School students gathered at Hotel Brandon earlier this week. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

Getting one’s driver’s license is a vital step toward adolescent independence, but some children find it more difficult to complete the required driving hours than others.

Whatever the reason may be, programs like Burdekin PCYC’s Braking the Cycle (BTC) assist those kids to complete their hours and gain that independence.

BTC is a volunteer driver mentor program supporting learner drivers without access to a supervisor or registered vehicle to complete their logbook hours by pairing them with a volunteer driving mentor.

“The target group we work with are 16-25 and people who are in situations where they need urgent support, they don’t have that parental support, the parents might not have a vehicle or a license, they’re the number one category,” said Burdekin PCYC Youth Club Manager Andrew Sherrington.

“It’s not only them getting their hours up and getting support, but the other component is also building on a relationship with their mentors.

“You can see where over time they’ve got to know these people and they become like part of the family to some degree, so building on those relationships are important.”

The BTC program fits into a network of programs at Burdekin PCYC, including Lessons for Learners and Get Set for Work.

BTC Program Coordinator Gavin Neal leads a team of five volunteers but is always looking for more mentors.

He said the program has had seven children go through to get their license on the first occasion since the program’s introduction to the region just over a year ago.

“We’re not a driving school but we’re certainly a notch or two above the average mum or dad,” he said.

“We don’t just want to see kids get their hours up and get their license, we want to see them do that and be safe drivers at the same time.”

The program is also open to learner drivers outside the age bracket who have difficulty achieving their driving hours.

For more information and to volunteer, visit contact Burdekin PCYC on 07 4783 1009 or email burdekin@pcyc.org.au.

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L-R Burdekin PCYC Youth Club Manager Andrew Sherrington and BTC Program Coordinator Gavin Neal. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

Manager of Community Services for Burdekin Shire Council, Tony Blackwell, has introduced the new and improved Burdekin Community Directory, an online hub of information to help you spring into life in the Burdekin!

The Burdekin Community Directory is a website built with the community in mind, originally launched in July 2023.

With some kinks to work out in the beginning, the website struggled to be interactive, making it hard for users to fully engage.

The realisation was that the website needed to be rebuilt and brought back to life.

Tony Blackwell stated, “What we’ve done is developed a more customer-centric piece of software that takes you to a front-page where you can search by topic or area of interest.”

The website features a host of clubs, organisations, community groups and services.

There is also an ability to set a boundary of kilometres, which is helpful for organisations that will periodically provide outreach services, such as medical screenings.

The first month of data indicated that the website began with roughly forty organisations, now with up to around five hundred local organisations being captured.

On top of that, around eight hundred more organisations offering online services have been added to the directory.

Mr. Blackwell commented that, “Let’s say you can’t get to a GP when you need to, there’s now GP’s online, a lot of services are online now so you can get to them, in the region and potentially across the country.”

Around 20 per cent of the Burdekin community do not have internet access, and for this reason, the Burdekin Shire Council have ensured the website is downloadable, so you can get a real-time copy through the library or council office.

Being a new initiative, the Council are kicking off with a whole range of activities during Spring, with an upcoming Health and Wellbeing Luncheon for older people on 23rd October.

Mr. Blackwell stated that, “We want to create a vibrant community in the Burdekin and there’s a whole range of activities going on that are worthy of support.”

Visit mycommunitydirectory.com.au/Queensland/Burdekin to see all that the Burdekin has to offer.

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Burdekin Community Directory is an online hub of information helping you find clubs, organisations, community groups and services

MyPets Rural is your one-stop, Burdekin shop to access a range of quality products for your furry and feathered friends.

MyPets Rural is a complete pet and stockfeed store, selling a massive range of supplies including pet food, health supplies, supplements and stockfeed.

The business also has a complete live fish area and doubles as a pet grooming salon, the only service of its kind offered to the Burdekin region.

As part of a large buying group designed to support independent stores and a local trucking company, this allows MyPets Rural to keep their pricing competitive, stock regular, fresh and up-to-date all while satisfying individual needs of every valued customer.

MyPets Rural have an everchanging array of products, as stockists of Toowoomba saddlery and unique items including raised steel-framed dog kennels and mobile chook feeders.

They also sell and install dog containment fences, barking collars and remote trainers, as well as a huge assortment of flea and tick treatments.

With over twenty years’ experience in business, owner Ross Tapiolas is proud to offer MyPets Rural as a unique service in Ayr.

Ross is excited about further growing his business to stock new lines and services, which is updated and expanded every week.

He comments that his favourite thing about his business is ‘assisting animal owners with their pet and stock requirements’.

Ross is committed to customer service at the highest level, operating the store from 7am until 5:30pm on weekdays and 7am until 12:30pm on Saturdays.

The MyPets Rural store has old-fashioned carry out service, plentiful parking spaces, delivery options and an easy load area on the side of Munro Street.

Get your animals acquainted with the evolving range of pet supplies and services that MyPets Rural has to offer, find them on 119 Railway Street, located in Ayr.

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Councillor Kaylee Boccalatte

The Burdekin is a remarkable community, and I am incredibly proud to be part of it.

Council has made significant progress toward securing a prosperous future characterised by long-term economic growth and social sustainability. Ensuring we have a strong foundation creates a stable platform upon which we can continue to build.

Economy: Development of the new industrial estate is currently underway. This project is anticipated to play a key role in driving economic growth in our Shire.

Water: The construction of new reservoirs in both Home Hill and Ayr, increases storage capacity and enhances water security.

Wastewater: Recently, we have seen construction commence on the ground-breaking Macro-Algae Bioremediation system, a project poised to support our community now and its growth into the future.

Consultation: During this term, Council has established Community Connect Sessions. These sessions are all about listening to you, the community, and fostering partnerships for a better future.

Liveability: Creating a liveable community benefits both existing residents and those considering relocation. A prime example of this progress is the recent upgrades to the Burdekin Aquatic Centre.

Many of the projects are thanks not only to this council but also to the visionary efforts and commitment of previous councils.

As a councillor, my days are often filled with meetings and prep work – not usually front-page news but essential. My commitment to the community, however, extends beyond my role as a councillor. I have the privilege of representing the Burdekin across various platforms, advocating for our Shire, and underscoring the significance of rural communities like ours and our people. Each day, I strive to bring about positive change and progress.

We really have a lot to offer in the Burdekin. This is in part, because we have such a strong community and so many individuals going above and beyond in their respective fields.

Supporting our community and planning for the future allows us to pave the way for a brighter tomorrow for generations to come.

I love my job, thank you for the honour.

For updates and to stay informed, you can follow my public Facebook page, Kaylee Boccalatte – Burdekin.

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Mayor Lyn McLaughlin

Did you know that it is Get Ready Burdekin month?

Burdekin Shire Council is proactively collaborating with State, District, and local agencies to coordinate disaster planning, preparedness, response, and recovery efforts.

This strategic partnership is focused on one primary goal: reducing the impact of disaster events on residents in our community.

The council is actively developing more than 500 new resident packages to ensure the community is adequately prepared. Updated Emergency Action Guides are also available to assist residents in preparing for the disaster season. You are encouraged to view the Action Guide online at bit.ly/emergencyactionguide or a hardcopy can be collected at the Burdekin Shire Council Service Desk. It's essential to be prepared.

The Get Ready Burdekin campaign is in full swing, helping you stay informed and ready.

Together, we're building a safer and more resilient community. Stay tuned for more initiatives that will make a difference in our disaster readiness.

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The vast majority of assaults reported to Ayr Police are between parties known to each other.  Many occur in private residences between family members which may constitute domestic violence or friends and acquaintances.    

Other assaults occur in the street or licenced premises, where, once again, the involved parties are usually known to each other.

It is a not uncommon occurrence to see news reports where people are assaulted, fall back, hit their head and die.  One punch can kill.

“It’s Okay to Walk Away” – that’s the message Ayr police want to send to reduce the number of assaults both when people go out but also in the home.    

A split-second decision could change your life forever and have an impact on many people, including your family and friends.  

Remember - One punch can kill is a shocking reality that simple acts of violence can have tragic consequences.  The consequences of assault don’t stop at injury or death.

▪ A single punch is all it takes to seriously assault someone and in some circumstances may cause death. The consequences of such acts devastate the lives of so many people and leads to a lifetime of regret and unfulfilled dreams.

▪ Assaults can steal your future, and your actions could result in negative impacts on your family; your employment; overseas travel, the guilt of taking another person’s life and could possibly result in a criminal record.

▪ Victims of assault don’t always walk away with just a bruise. Permanent disability, ongoing care by family and friends, employment and future prospects can be jeopardised from one senseless act.

From a perspective of personal safety, be aware of your surroundings and alert to what is going on around you.  Go out with friends and stay with your group.  If you are going to be drinking, just make sure someone in the group is not going to drink and can look after his or her mates and steer them clear of trouble and walk away from violence.  Unfortunately too many “good nights out” end poorly due to being assaulted, losing belongings, etc.

Police would like to remind people that “It’s okay to walk away” and “One punch can kill”.

Snr Sgt Steve Barton

OIC Ayr

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As Queensland enters a potentially volatile season, the importance of disaster preparedness looms large. With the bushfire season already upon us and summer rainfall and cyclones on the horizon, authorities are calling on primary producers to take proactive steps in safeguarding their families, employees, and livestock.

This year's warmer winter weather has heightened the risk of bushfires, underlining the need for comprehensive preparation. Disaster guides are now readily available, offering invaluable information to empower Queenslanders in the face of these impending natural challenges.

By taking steps now, producers can reduce the risk of disaster damage and financial loss.

The Queensland Government has disaster guides to help primary producers get ready for disaster season.

Tips include photographing assets in their pre-disaster condition and ensuring everyone on the property is familiar with the evacuation plan in the event of a natural disaster.

Producers should also ensure livestock have access to higher ground or are moved to safer ground or shelter with access to food and water ahead of an event.

Make sure you’ve got a financial plan including having adequate insurance cover, reviewing how you will manage orders, refunds and cancellations, and keeping financial reserves and emergency cash.

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said the Bureau of Meteorology has indicated that a high fire danger is likely to impact Queensland over the coming months.

“As a primary producer it’s critical you have plans to help support your business during a bushfire, as well as cyclones and floods,” Mr Furner said.

He urged pet owners not to forget about family pets in household or farm emergency plans.

“Keep emergency phone numbers handy for your local council, veterinarian, animal welfare agency and pet and advisory services and make sure your pets can be properly identified if they escape,” he added.

“If moving pets to safety, make sure you take plenty of food and clean water, bowls and toilet litter or old newspapers.

“If they are to be left at home, secure them in an appropriate confined space, preferably inside, elevated and under cover, and provide access to ample food and water.”

For more information on flood and cyclone preparations, such as local evacuation routes and public shelter arrangements, contact your local council.

Information on disasters for small business including primary producers is available at business.qld.gov.au/disaster-hub.

Primary producers who have been impacted by a natural disaster can report the impacts in the Queensland DAF Agriculture Disaster Impact Survey.

The survey helps DAF to contribute quickly to applications for assistance under the Commonwealth-State Disaster Assistance Arrangements.

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A record high of $12.51 billion in exports have been delivered by Queensland’s agriculture sector.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) has announced that this is now the second consecutive year of increased exports, with the $12.51 billion a 16.8 per cent increase when compared to the previous 2021/2022 financial year.

This 16.8 per cent represents an increase of $1.79 billion.

The ABS data highlights the surge from the Queensland agricultural sector, which has growth by 25.16 per cent over the last five years.

This massive increase is underpinned by a surge in export volumes, an increase of 18.26 per cent to reach 7.87 million tonnes.

Over the last financial year, live cattle exports have increased 53.94 per cent, to $147.96 million, as well as an increased 9.83 per cent of export volume.

Beef export increased to 11.05 per cent, to $6.28 billion, with a 7.38 per cent increase in volume, to 598,765 tonnes.

In terms of markets, Chinese imports from Queensland agriculture increased 53.5 per cent in value, with Indonesia shortly behind with an increase of 40.1 per cent in imports.

The Queensland Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said, “Queensland’s global reputation for clean, green and great-tasting produce is serving the state well, and this reputation is backed up by Queensland farmers every single day.”

“In Queensland that means good jobs for more than 360,000 people and a real driving force behind the state’s economic performance,” Mr Furner said.

“The Queensland Government will continue to back our farmers, and I’m certain our agricultural industries will continue to go from strength to strength.”

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A new chapter in local journalism has unfolded with the launch of Burdekin Life newspaper. This publication stands as a testament to the resounding support received from local businesses and the unwavering unity of the community, both within and beyond the Burdekin boundaries.

Locals and businesses alike have extended a warm embrace to the Burdekin Life team from the very outset, underscoring its significant role as a platform for shared stories and local voices. It is more than just a newspaper; it represents a collective commitment to community-driven storytelling, accessible to all.

The inception of Burdekin Life was made possible through the vision and determination of Neil Williams, who took the initiative to contact a nearby Mackay and Whitsundays community newspaper, turning an idea into a tangible reality.

He, along with the Burdekin Economic Development Group’s dedication to providing the Burdekin with a platform to express its unique voice, has been met with appreciation and gratitude throughout the region.

Owner of Core Publishing, Bec Douthwaite, shared insights into the journey behind Burdekin Life's creation.

"When the Burdekin Economic Development Group first approached us with the idea of launching a newspaper in the region, our response was clear: 'We can do this, but it requires wholehearted community support.'”

The launch of Burdekin Life also celebrates the active participation of local businesses, vital contributors to community vitality. These Founding Advertising Partners (pictured on the cover) have come together to commemorate the newspaper's launch, recognising the importance of community involvement and the value of a united voice.

"We can do this, but we need the community to be invested in it, and for them to understand that without their support it just won’t work.

“We need the support of local businesses to advertise and our readers to support those advertisers by spending their money with them,” Ms Douthwaite said.

Her message about community support to turn the newspaper into a reality was met with enthusiasm from Burdekin businesses.

"The response has been fantastic. What an amazing community this is and we are both grateful and humbled to receive such a special welcome," she said.

"We can see how important the local newspaper is and we are excited to bring your paper back, but more than that, we are excited to give the community a FREE voice in print.

"We would like to thank all the businesses who have supported the paper so far, with special mention to the Founding Advertising Partners.  

"We would also like to welcome all our readers and ask that you reinvest in your own community to ensure the longevity of the newspaper - you can do this by supporting our advertisers and mentioning their ads when you make purchase."

Dale Last MP, Member for Burdekin, highlighted the significance of a local newspaper in keeping residents informed and engaged. He stated, “It’s so important for our community that people are afforded the opportunity to be heard. It means that we can learn from each other, help each other, and work together to make our community an even better place to live.

“A local newspaper means that people are informed about the issues that affect them and the events that may be of interest to them.

“The value of a local newspaper to our community is best illustrated by how businesses and groups have united to support Burdekin Life.  On behalf of the community, I would like to thank those businesses and groups for ensuring that our community can share their stories.”

As the pages of Burdekin Life unfold, they carry with them the stories, news, and aspirations of a community eager to share its voice with the world. This newspaper signifies more than print; it is a symbol of community solidarity and the promise of community-driven news.

GET YOUR FREE COPY HERE:

LOCAL STANDS:

Home Hill:

Cornetts IGA

United Service Station

Complete Health Pharmacy

Ayr:

Woolworths

Coles

Tosh’s Convenience Store

Shell Service Station

Ayr Medical Group

Farmhouse Ayr Coffee & Cafe

Dal Santo’s Deli

Woods Newsagencies

Brandon:

Hotel Brandon

JC’s Cafe

There are also an additional 50 distribution points, check your local café, service stations, doctor’s surgeries and other local services. If you wish to stock the newspaper please call Crissy on 0429 035 046.

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Burdekin Life Founding Advertising Partners

Cr Boccalatte, Deputy Mayor Cr Perry, Burdekin Life Journalist Sam, Cr Musumeci, Cr Furnell. Absent Mayor Cr McLaughlin, Cr Bonanno, Cr Detenon

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Hello readers and welcome to the very first edition of Burdekin Life!

My name is Sam and I’m the journalist, the man on the ground, and one of the Burdekin’s newest residents. I recently moved to Home Hill from Mackay and have been warmly welcomed by everyone I’ve come across so far, so I thank you for that.

I grew up in a town not too much bigger than Home Hill - southeast Queensland’s Millmerran – so when I was asked if I’d like to relocate to the Burdekin as the newspaper expanded, I almost immediately said yes. I moved from Millmerran to Brisbane when I finished school for further study and, at the start of 2022, moved from Brisbane to Mackay, a move that was drastic and spontaneous at the time, but one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

I needed to escape the rat race and routine of the big city and my move to tropical north Queensland certainly achieved that. Since then, I’ve fallen back in love with life in the regions, where the spirit of community is clear at every turn. I already sense this in the Burdekin and look forward to immersing myself further over coming months.

Sport and music are my two biggest passions, so as I settle into my new home, you’ll find me having a hit of tennis, rolling the arm over at Home Hill Cricket Association, and maybe even playing some of my favourite tunes on Sweet FM. I love the outdoors and already have a list of things to do while I’m here including climbing Mount Inkerman, watching a cane fire and diving the SS Yongala – let me know what else I should add to the list!

I can’t wait to learn more about the region and would love your help. If you’ve got a story, a recommendation, a suggestion for somewhere new to explore, please reach out – you’ll find my contact details to the left. Enjoy our first edition and make sure to say g’day if you see me out and about!

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Dedicated and passionate, that’s how you would describe the remarkable team behind Meals on Wheels Ayr and Home Hill.

With about 80 clients currently on the books, and with many more consistently being added to the roster, the team are busier than ever.

Business Manager Gail Minehan said that with the 100 volunteers, Meals on Wheels is a hive of activity.

“We’ve seen a growth of clients accessing our meals, which is fantastic to see,” she said.

The 100 volunteers are fantastic, with the kitchen team assembling at 6.15am daily to begin to prepare the meals for the day, before the four teams of two delivery volunteers arrive at 10am to begin their delivery rounds.

Functional and professional, the team works like a well-oiled machine.

“We have a four-week menu, with a massive variety of hot meals to choose from, as well as different sides, salads, and sandwiches, for those who don’t want a hot meal.

“There’s also a different desert daily, and we offer frozen meals for clients that we can’t visit daily or who want to stock up on meals,” Gail explained.

Gail’s 100 volunteers are made up of a wide variety of individuals, each stepping forward to help the seniors in their community.

“We have retirees, community service individuals, people with intellectual disabilities with their carers, and even Ayr State High School hospital students.”

To learn more about Meals on Wheels, or to sign up to volunteer, contact Gail on 4783 2659.

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Pictured L-R: Sue Anderson, volunteer, Robyn Barbagallo, Financial officer, Gail Minehan, Business Manager, Terry Chandler, Chairman and Gillan Stanbrook, volunteer. Photo supplied

Six new contracts have been awarded as works progress to improve and raise Burdekin Falls Dam.

The Burdekin Falls Dam Raising Project, managed by Sunwater, proposes to raise the existing dam by two metres to increase water supply and support future water demand in the Burdekin and surrounding regions.

The project received a commitment of a further $440 million downpayment, on top of the $100 million already committed, from the Queensland Government’s 2023-24 Budget.

The contracts will support 80 jobs, with 50 of these in the local region, and are worth a combined $1.7 million.

These involve geotechnical investigations, quarry material sourcing, cultural heritage and native title work and the establishment of a 17-person temporary camp.

Minister for Water, Glenn Butcher said the Government’s funding commitment is being put to good use, ensuring important planning and investigation activities can get underway.

“Raising Burdekin Falls Dam by two metres will significantly boost the amount of water available for future demand, whether that comes from industry, agriculture or urban water supply,” he said.

Sunwater CEO Glenn Stockton said the works are key to supporting important survey, approval and planning work for Burdekin Falls Dam.

“This work will ensure we can make vital project decisions, including where to source clay, rock and other aggregate materials and will support ongoing engagement with Traditional Owners to ensure Aboriginal cultural heritage is appropriately identified, protected and managed during project activities,” he said.

“Planning is progressing well for the improvement and raising projects and we expect to submit a draft of the EIS (Environmental Impact Statement) to the Queensland Coordinator-General this year.”

Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP isn’t holding his breath, saying he will treat the Government’s announcement with “a grain of salt” until he sees construction underway.

“As far back as 2016 we were told that a business case was the next step,” he said.

“Seven years later this announcement is centred on planning and investigations so, in reality, we have seen very little in terms of progress.

“Time and time again we have been told the Burdekin Falls Dam was being raised but, almost 30 years after it was built, nothing has changed.”

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Burdekin Falls Dam. Photo supplied: Sunwater

A spike in youth crime has driven the community to take action on a scourge a car robberies many believe are the result of unsupervised children who are allowed to roam the street at night.

A local Home Hill business owner had his Ute stolen in July this year and when he discussed the issue with the community he discovered that it was widespread, with many others coming forward to describe similar incidences.

“It’s becoming common, and it seems to be a similar group of young people each time,” said Karl Vass.

“The police found my Ute dumped - they’d burnt the clutch out, so I think perhaps they didn’t know how to drive a manual!”

The crime was reported to the police, but Mr Vass believes that because many young criminals are let off with just a warning, they behave like they are above the law.

He said that he is confident that the crime was committed by four youth aged 13 to 16.

“I know they’ve been involved with stealing cars before,” he explained.

“The system clears the slate for them when they turn 18 so they just don’t care.

“The community are frustrated as there are no consequences.”

A local police spokesperson said that measures are taken to “conduct bail checks on persons on curfew.”

“We also work with PCYC with their youth programs like Blue Edge, Active Mates and we visit schools on request and officers are heavily engaged with youth both at work and through Burdekin Area Youth watch.”

Mr Vass and other interested parties conducted a special meeting where 200 people gathered at the Home Hill Memorial Gardens to discuss how they could help.

“It was a good turnout but not really, as it was a sign of how many people had been effected,” said Mr Vass.

“95 per cent of the population are good, honest hardworking people – it is just a small percentage that are not.”

“I think there needs to be a lot more emphasis on the parents – perhaps they need to get charged – they definitely need to take more responsibility.”

Mr Vass says the community action group have decided to offer a positive response to the issue.

“A lot of these young people have no home life, they have nothing to do, and we are just trying to communicate with them,” he explained.

“We want to reward those that show good behaviour, incentivise them by taking them on water-skiing trips that sort of thing.

“We want to do things that make them feel part of the community.”

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Karl Vass is allegedly a victim of youth crime, but says he wants to help perpetrators become better people. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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