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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The Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club held its major fundraising event on Saturday night. With the theme of ‘Roaring 20s’, Take the Floor 2024 took guests back 100 years to a classy evening out in flapper dresses and feathered headdresses.
The crowd were entertained throughout the evening by the four dancing couples of Mick Fraser & Shirley Marshall, Thom Pickersgill & Jane Olsen, Jimmy Hayllor & Rory Jorgensen, and Leigh Ryan & Julia Nosworthy. They absolutely wowed the audience with their fancy fast feet, tapping toes, challenging carries, enthusiastic energy and catching costumes.
After performing two dances each, a 1920s themed number and a freestyle choice, the judges and viewers made their decisions and crowned the victors. Leigh Ryan and Julia Nosworthy were awarded the overall winner of Take the Floor 2024 and the honour of Viewer's Choice went to Jimmy Hayllor and Rory Jorgensen.
The crowd then partied the night away testing out their own dance moves to live band 'Godfathers of Funk'. The Ayr Surf Club would like to thank all who came along and supported this event.
Back row L-R: Jane Olsen and Thom Pickersgill; Judges Mitchell Pearce, Bronwyn Nucifora and Fanny McHairy, Shirley Marshall and Mick Fraser. Front Row L-R: Leigh Ryan, Julia Nosworthy, Rory Jorgensen and Jimmy Hayllor. Photo credit: Kellie Lawry
Judges Fanny McHairy, Bronwyn Nucifora and Mitchell Pearce
Yana Perry and Kaylah Fraser
Chloe Rehbein, Ashley Toll and Kaitlyn Warren
Kate Caley and Jan Hatherell
Sarah and Steven Shears
Danica Archibald, Kari Millar, Anita Penny and Suzette Wallace
Chris Wicks and Danny Horan
Damien Ricketts, Krystel Giehlick and Danny Horan
Melinda Cosgrove, Jonette and Leigh Ryan
Corryn Innes, Maria Lejarraga, Natasha Becke and Stacey Bonato
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Hi readers
This will be my last ‘editor’s note’ for the next couple of weeks because, as of tomorrow (Thursday), I’ll be on holidays!
Firstly, I’m heading down to Brisbane for a couple of days to spend some time with my girlfriend Jakita and do some last-minute shopping and preparing before I head to Norfolk Island for a week with my mum, dad and sister.
I’ve been talking to a few locals who have been to Norfolk before and hearing their stories has me incredibly excited.
I’m excited to soak in the natural beauty of the islands and explore the beaches, walking trails, and national parks.
Mum and Dad love their history, so we’ll be sure to take in the fascinating past.
Plus, I hear the island is a foodie’s delight – not that I consider myself a foodie, but I’ll be sure to sample some of the delicious food on offer.
I’m looking forward to the opportunity to take a break and spend some much-valued time with the family – it’s been many years since the four of us have taken a holiday like this together!
As for the newspaper, never fear – some colleagues of mine from Airlie Beach will be making their way up to the region throughout my absence, so make sure to say g’day if you see them floating around.
As always, email editorial@burdekinlife.com if you’d like to get in touch.
Enjoy the read and I’ll see you all in a couple of weeks!
The Home Hill Chamber of Commerce have thrown their support behind local chaplaincy through a donation made to Scripture Union at last week’s Social and Networking Event.
The donation came after Scripture Union School Chaplain John Mackay passionately and emotionally shared his experience as a school chaplain at last month’s event.
Home Hill Chamber of Commerce President David Jackson and Treasurer John Clarke presented a $500 donation to Home Hill State High School Chaplain Jenny Dowie at the event last Wednesday, April 17.
15kg of honey had also been donated to Mr Mackay following his presentation last month by Home Hill Chamber of Commerce Vice President Uli Liessman to be used at ‘breaky club’.
“His (John Mackay) message went across very well, because at the last executive meeting, it was decided that we would make a donation to the chaplains at the Home Hill State High School to help with the work they’re doing at the school,” said Mr Jackson.
Ms Dowie has worked as a chaplain at Home Hill State High School for 17 years and shared her experiences with the Chamber on the night.
“My role as school chaplain is to provide social, emotional and spiritual sport to students, their parents, their carers, and the school teachers and staff,” Ms Dowie said.
“I believe in supporting our students holistically and I’m passionate about helping our students to obtain healthy self-esteem, strong resilience and skills such as conflict resolution and stress management.
“I’m so very happy that Home Hill High continues to place great emphasis on the holistic wellbeing of our students and staff.
“With the amazing support of my school, I try my best to provide the best care practises and support for our school community.
“Home Hill High is truly a caring school community that I’m so very proud to be a part of.”
Home Hill Chamber of Commerce Treasurer John Clarke, Home Hill State High School Chaplain Jenny Dowie and Home Hill Chamber of Commerce President David Jackson
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The Burdekin Library celebrated its 40th birthday last week, marking four decades of fostering a love for literature and learning within the community.
The Ayr branch of the library officially opened on March 31, 1984 with the Home Hill branch following a week later, opening on April 7, 1984.
Cake-cutting events were held at each of the branches to commemorate the significant milestone, celebrating 40 years of stories at the Ayr Library on Tuesday April 16 and the Home Hill Library on Wednesday April 17
Burdekin Shire Council welcomed the community to revel in the memories, accomplishments and stories that have defined the library’s rich history.
Former staff and loyal patrons were invited to commemorate the remarkable journey of the Burdekin Library over the past four decades.
The Burdekin Libraries serve as dynamic community hub, devoted to fostering lifelong learning, enhancing literacy and nurturing an affection for reading.
Offering an extensive array of resources, programs and services tailored to individuals of all ages and interests, the libraries provide a welcoming space for all to come together.
For more information or to register your interest, phone the Burdekin Library on 4783 9970 or email library@burdekin.qld.gov.au.
Library Officer Carli Kovacich and former Library Officer of 27 years Jocelyn Defranciscis
Current and former staff as well as regular patrons gathered at the Home Hill Library last week to celebrate 40 years
Despite thousands of local residents and business owners putting pen to paper to call for more plain clothes police officers in the Burdekin, Member for Burdekin Dale Last said the Minister has once again left the region with stretched police resources and frustrated residents to fight a surge in youth crime.
More than 3,000 business owners and residents signed the petition for bolstered local police and funding for interim security patrols following soaring crime rates and a community left frustrated by instances of youth crime in the area.
Mr Last said the Minister’s response to the petition was a slap in the face to every victim of crime and front-line police officer in the Burdekin.
“Community safety falls squarely at the feet of this Minister and once again he has demonstrated he’s willing to leave residents and business owners in Ayr and Home Hill to take matters into their own hands,” Mr Last said.
“Over recent months, we’ve seen business owners and residents left to conduct afterhours patrols just to ensure their cars are still in the driveway the next morning and going by the response from the Minister, obviously he considers that acceptable in our small town.
“Not only did the Minister shirk requests for additional security patrols to ensure community safety, he’s ignored calls from within for additional plain clothes officers at Ayr Police Station.”
Mr Last said the Minister’s attempt to side-step the responsibility of providing additional police resources to the Commissioner was a clear sign he wasn’t interested in improving community safety in the Burdekin.
“Queenslanders have seen through the campaign line about increased police numbers in the state and we know that in fact, there were 322 less police officers in Queensland between July 2022 and December last year and that is not good enough,” Mr Last said.
“Despite claiming that allocating resources is a matter for the commissioner, the reality is that the Minister could overrule the commissioner and in fact could have provided the additional plain clothes officers.
“We may not live in a bigger city or regional town, but it doesn’t mean we should be left to feel we need to fend off young offenders on our own because the Minister has ignored calls from within our police and community for more resources.”
Member for Burdekin Dale Last and Steve Wagner. Photo supplied
At 3:15pm on Monday April 8, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Norham Road, Ayr. The driver, a 52yr old Burdekin man, was issued a Notice to Appear (NTA) for driving with a relevant drug in his saliva, disqualified driving and possessing a drug utensil. He is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on June 24.
At 4:50pm on Tuesday April 16, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Bruce Highway, Inkerman. As a result, a 55yr old Bowen woman was issued a NTA for drink driving, .053. She is due to appear in the Ayr Magistrates Court on May 27.
At 7:20pm on Thursday April 18, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Airdmillan Road, Ayr. As a result, a 54yr old Burdekin man was issued a NTA for drink driving, .064. He is due to appear in the Ayr Magistrates Court on May 7.
Snr Sgt Steve Barton
OIC Ayr
The Lower Burdekin Scout Group attended the regional regatta day at the Loam Island Scout Group in Townsville on Sunday April 14. The weather was very good for the water activities. Roughly 100 Scouts aged 5 to 15 years and 30 adults attended the day which involved raft making, canoeing, and land activities. The Lower Burdekin Scouts were members of the crew on the winning raft.
Recently, the Lower Burdekin Scouts were practising their fire lighting and fire safety in preparation for a camp on the coming long weekend on Magnetic Island.
If anybody is interested in trying Scouting for free, they can come along to the Lower Burdekin Scout Den on a Thursday night at Eighth St, Home Hill or ring Rikki on 0419104035 for more detail.
Contributed by Chris Berkery
Lower Burdekin Scout Group attended the regional regatta day in Townsville
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The Burdekin Sugar Rush will have the region moving and cheering on Sunday April 28 when it returns for its 22nd year in the region.
The event stands as a spectacle for the entire community to attend, with participants encouraged to run or walk to complete either 5km, 10km or 21km, and onlookers to support by coming along to Anzac Park from 5am.
Once again, the Burdekin Sugar Rush will host the half marathon distance, doubling as the Athletics North Queensland Championship race as well as including various categories suitable for juniors as young as 11 years old to compete in.
Burdekin Road Runners & Walkers President, Patrick Shannon believes this year will be one of Sugar Rush’s best.
“We are expecting a big field of both local runners, and many athletes from right around the North Queensland region,” expressed Patrick.
The half marathon will kick off the spectacular Sunday, with Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Court on hand to ‘ready set go’ the event at 6:30am.
“I’m looking forward to the event and am ready to have some fun by participating myself,” expressed Mayor Dalle Court.
The 10km will begin at 7:15am, followed by the 5km at 7:30am, and the Burdekin Road Runners & Walkers have been busily preparing for the day ahead.
“The Rotary Club will be providing runners and supporters with a cooked breakfast and McDonalds pancakes to keep competitors and supporters fed and fueled,” explained Patrick.
Registrations are still open for the 2024 Burdekin Sugar Rush until 1pm Saturday April 27.
Patrick Shannon and the Burdekin Road Runners & Walkers Club invite the whole community to run, walk and support this amazing event, and encourages those interested to contact the club for more information.
WHAT: Burdekin Sugar Rush
WHEN: Sunday April 28 from 6:00am
WHERE: Anzac Park, Ayr
REGISTER: burdekinroadrunners.com.au
Burdekin Road Runners & Walkers are hosting the 2024 Burdekin Sugar Rush this Sunday. Photo supplied
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Regional Visitor Information Centres are a hub of local knowledge, making significant economic contribution to tourism by providing information to visitors that encourages them to stay longer, spend more money, experience more attractions and revisit.
The volunteers sharing that local knowledge play a vital role and were recently offered the unique opportunity to network, share knowledge and learn from one another right here in the Burdekin.
Burdekin Shire Council proudly hosted the 2024 North Queensland Regional Visitor Information Centre Volunteers Conference, running at the Burdekin Theatre from Wednesday April 17 to Thursday April 18.
Bringing together 65 dedicated volunteers from across the Burdekin, Townsville, Charters Towers, and Hinchinbrook regions, the conference allowed volunteers to network and explore the diverse experiences and products North Queensland has to offer.
The conference kicked off with a series of presentations from local tourism luminaries such as Fran Rudischhauser from Yongala Dive and Greg Miller from Burdekin Farmstay, followed by a gala dinner at the Burdekin Theatre.
Themed 'Black Snow and Liquid Gold', the evening celebrated the region's status as the Sugarcane Capital of Australia, complete with a performance by Riley Nosworthy and Piper Grogan from Perform Studios and insights from Marni Hine of ProjectRAW.
The second day started in an engaging manner at the Burdekin Aquatic Centre before volunteers set out to explore key local attractions, showcasing the best of what the Burdekin region has to offer.
These attractions included Burdekin Machinery Preservationists, Iron Works Brewery, Burdekin Art Trail, Ayr Nature Display, Ashworths Home Hill, Burdekin Artisans, Home Hill Comfort Stop, Groper Creek Caravan Park, Juru Walk, Stardust Drive-In Theatre and Burdekin Gateway Visitor Information Centre.
The conference was not only a boon for volunteer engagement but also delivered significant economic benefits to the community, with over 45 out-of-town volunteers contributing to the vibrancy of the local accommodation, food and retail sectors.
Burdekin Shire Council thanked sponsors Paronella Park, Wilmar Sugar and Ayr Backpackers who generously supported the event.
Volunteers from across north Queensland visited the Burdekin for the 2024 North Queensland Regional Visitor Information Centre Volunteers Conference. Photo supplied
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By Chelsea Ravizza
The nationally and internationally recognised and celebrated professional actor, Anthony Phelan, has returned home to the Burdekin region to live after travelling to purse an outstanding 42 year acting career.
Anthony has led an impressive and highly commended career garnering him numerous prestigious awards and infamous roles in the entertainment industry. Although the Burdekin in the 1970s did not provide a large concentration of acting and theatre opportunities, Anthony discovered his passion through alternative routes and had his first taste of the stage in end of year productions, and later within his role as a school teacher.
Anthony began his working life as a teacher and made his debut at Home Hill State School in 1977 before he was transferred to Charters Towers Central State School in 1978. He then relocated to Brisbane where he began delving into theatre in education programs, and by working on the curriculum, he found his passion for acting. In 1981, Anthony officially left teaching behind, and began his journey as a professional actor, working with theatre companies like the La Boite Theatre, TN Theatre Company, Queensland Theatre Company in Brisbane, Sydney Theatre Company, Griffin Theatre Company and Belvoir Street Theatre.
“I moved to Sydney to see if I could survive as an actor, and thought if I could survive in Sydney, then I am meant to be in this profession,” explained Anthony.
“Brisbane and Sydney were very important to me and were a very important step of my growth and my exposure as an actor, particularly for learning, but amid all that, there was always this grounding in the Burdekin.
“It has always been home, I was born here and there’s still people here I grew up with.
“I always knew I wanted to come back here to live one day, I just wasn’t sure when that would be,” expressed Anthony.
Anthony’s time spent in Sydney not only garnered him a national standing, but also international recognition as a professional actor.
“Nationally, I have played for every State Theatre company, and internationally I have performed in New York, Washington DC, Vienna, and Amsterdam," expressed Anthony.
“I have also played the Ibsen Festival in Oslo, Norway, in Belvoir Theatre’s critically acclaimed production of 'The Wild Duck’, for which I was awarded a Sydney Theatre Award and Helpmann Award in 2011, for Best Actor in a Supporting Role.
“Apart from this the other great career high for me was walking out on the stage in NYC and I thought to myself, here is the boy from Ayr.”
Anthony has also had many roles in both film and television, and most recently his talents featured in Baz Luhrmann’s biopic, Elvis. He’s played roles in Home & Away, The Kettering Incident, Wellmania, Wanted, to name a few, and for Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones, he voiced Lama Su, one of the animated characters.
As well as creating many stage and screen roles, Anthony also works as a voice over actor and has had his voice featured in many productions, advertisements, and films.
“You have to be resilient in this profession to survive, and you must be ready, and able to work in many different ways,” explained Anthony.
In recognition of his extraordinary career, Anthony has been presented and nominated for many other prestigious awards including the Brisbane Theatre Critics Matilda Award, and nominations for numerous AACTA Awards. However, Anthony feels his career highlights lie in the art of learning.
“My greatest moments have been learning through the different stages of my growth as an actor, like any apprentice as there is a great celebration in learning something new,” he said.
“The greatest lesson being a professional actor is, you don’t stop working until you drop.
“That’s where the classic saying comes in, if you love what you do, you’re never really working.
“Often people disregard acting as an Art, an art form which will take all of your life to endeavour to get right.
“You can never perfect it.
“I don’t believe you can say an actor is perfection.
“I don’t believe that there is such a thing as the perfect actor.
“Someone might be exactly right for a role, the timbre of their voice, the right look, the right age, but no one is perfect, nothing is perfect, as we know, and the same applies to acting.”
Residing in the region, Anthony has had the opportunity to indulge in the talents of the Burdekin, where he has been blown away by fantastic local productions and performances.
“I am really impressed with local talent, and it’s quite extraordinary the differences between now compared to when I was growing up, because really, the talent has always been here, there just hasn’t been as many opportunities, and guidance, as there is now,” explained Anthony.
Anthony will continue working professionally whilst living back in the Burdekin. He will travel to Sydney in the coming weeks to perform in a production of 'Death Of A Salesman' by Arthur Miller at the Theatre Royal alongside Anthony LaPaglia, and directed by Neil Armfield.
Anthony knew he would always return to the region and is content to be surrounded by his very loving and supportive family, and of course the special friends he has known for most of his life.
“It’s just a draw that has always been there, and this is now home.”
Professional actor is happy to back in his hometown. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie
Rehoming fee: $195
DOB: 1/07/2022
Sex: Female
Breed: Domestic shorthair
Kid friendly: Yes
Dog Friendly: No
Other cats: Yes
Indoors/Outdoors: Indoors
Callie is a beautiful mumma cat. She arrived at Angel Paws Rescue heavily pregnant and with injuries after being attacked by a dog. Luckily, she did not sustain critical injuries in her delicate condition.
During her first day in care and she gave birth to seven beautiful kittens.
Callie is super sweet and loves to climb up onto her human and to be cuddled like a baby. She loves her pats so much she will even dribble.
Callie can be a bit shy on first meeting, but it doesn’t take long for her to warm up and become very affectionate and become a part of your wonderful family.
Callie is available for adoption desexed, microchipped, up to date on vaccines and is flea, tick and worm treated.
If you’re interested in meeting the gorgeous Callie please complete an animal enquiry form at https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html
Health experts are urging North Queenslanders to get ahead of the ‘flu season and book their annual vaccination as soon as possible.
Commonly known as the ‘flu’, influenza is a contagious respiratory illness which can spread quickly through the community.
Ayr Hospital Director of Nursing Tracey Gabiola said people should also be aware of other contagious respiratory viruses like COVID-19 and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), which are present in the community.
“You can catch influenza at any time of the year but there are usually more cases during cooler months between May and October,” she said.
“It is not the same as a cough or a cold and the virus can lead to complications like pneumonia - especially for vulnerable demographics.
“Sometimes serious cases of influenza can be deadly.”
Ms Gabiola said immunisation is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your whole family from respiratory viruses.
“Everyone aged six months and older can and should get a ‘flu vaccine this year,” she confirmed.
“The latest Influenza vaccine, which covers the four strains circulating in 2024, is quick and available now through most primary health providers including GPs and pharmacies.
“There are special stronger vaccines for people over 65 years.”
With other contagious respiratory viruses like COVID-19 and RSV present in the community, Ms Gabiola said vaccination remains the best way to protect against serious illness, especially for vulnerable people and those aged over 65 who should continue to remain up to date with booster vaccinations at least every year.
“RSV is particularly dangerous for infants in their first year and is the top cause of hospital admissions for babies,” she said.
“For the first time, all newborns in Queensland will be offered a free Respiratory Syncytial Virus immunisation before they leave hospital.
“Precautions like hand washing, staying home if sick, and not coughing on other people will also reduce the spread of respiratory viruses.”
Higher-risk groups include young children, people aged 65 years and over, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with certain medical conditions and pregnant women.
All Queenslanders aged six months and over can receive a free influenza vaccination until September 30, 2024.
Ayr Hospital Director of Nursing Tracey Gabiola
Wilmar Sugar and Renewables has delivered the first of four new $2 million locomotives to its home base.
Alma is now at Inkerman Mill in the Burdekin region where it will haul cane bins this production season, due to start in June.
A second new locomotive, Kirknie, will arrive at Inkerman Mill in June.
The other two, Leichhardt and Hinchinbrook, are heading to the Herbert region.
The four new locos are modelled on the Brisbane, which Wilmar designed and built from the ground up, and launched last year.
Burdekin Cane Supply Manager John Tait said the Alma was an exciting new addition to Inkerman’s fleet and would have a positive impact on reliability.
“Inkerman Mill has an ageing fleet and although our current locos do maintain reliability, Alma will be pivotal in improving the fleet’s overall cane-hauling capacity,” Mr Tait said.
Senior Project Engineer Chris Weight has managed the final phase of the new builds.
“The works program has included four new locos and two brake wagons, worth about $9M in total,” Mr Weight said.
“It was a big undertaking to complete all of the new builds in a single maintenance season, and I’m really proud of the teams who have worked so hard to deliver this package of work.”
Alma has the honour of being the first locomotive to feature the new Wilmar Sugar and Renewables logo.
The new builds are part of a much larger program to upgrade the extensive loco fleet across Wilmar Sugar and Renewables’ four milling regions.
Wilmar Sugar and Renewables owns and operates 74 locos and more than 1,600km of cane rail network across the Herbert, Burdekin, Proserpine, and Sarina regions.
Senior Project Engineer Chris Weight with the new 26-tonne locomotive, Alma
An inside view of the new Alma
Two cranes were used to lift Alma off the transport, by its front and back toe-ball, to lower it on to the railway line
Photos supplied
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I would like to express my sincere thanks for your vote at the recent local Government elections. The polling results clearly indicated that so many of you showed faith in my ability to represent you in council effectively. As a new councillor, I will do my utmost to honour that faith and I am excited to be working with the new team for the betterment of our entire Shire.
I would also like to thank the outgoing Mayor and councillors for their contribution during their time with council and the many worthwhile projects they have delivered.
Recently I had the pleasure of attending the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce meeting where Tony Goddard gave a presentation on Ayr Rotary. All service clubs are an integral part of our community, continually giving back, so please consider joining one of these wonderful organisations. I also attended the Burdekin show committee’s recent meeting. Such a big event falls on the shoulders of a very capable few who are busily planning this year’s show. It once again, promises to be as big and exciting as ever.
A tourism gem in Brandon is the Burdekin Heritage Precinct. Councillors John Furnell, Fina Vasta and I met with 20 of the volunteers from Burdekin, Hinchinbrook, Charters Towers, and Townsville who were in town for the 2024 Visitor Information Centre Volunteers Conference for a tour of the facility. In short, this place is incredible! It is home to a 1910 Marshall C Class Tractor which is the only one of its class left in the world. Tours can be taken through the complex on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays between 9am and 3pm. Do yourself a favour and go check it out.
The recent incident of a boating accident made the team at the Neighbourhood Centre think about the power of communities coming together. Family, friends, strangers, and people from different areas and backgrounds joined forces to search for the missing men, showing the strength of community connection. The emergency volunteers came from different places, but their shared connection brought them together for a common cause. It was an amazing outcome, showcasing the power of people when they come together.
This week, the Neighbourhood Centre team has been working on our Strategic Plan and reviewing our mission statement and vision for the Centre. We reflected on how communities can come together and help each other when presented with challenges.
Challenges take on different meanings for different people, and what may seem like an inconvenience for some may be an insurmountable task for others. However, sharing these challenges with others can open up doors to finding solutions. At the Centre, we support community members in discovering solutions to their challenges, and we hope that this encourages community members to share what they have discovered with others they encounter along the way.
Engaging in casual conversations is an excellent way to exchange information and energy without getting too personal, deep, or involved. It's important to remember that no one can solve other people's problems for them, but by sharing our experiences and solutions with others, we can create a ripple effect of positive change.
We think this quote by an anonymous author beautifully sums up the impact of a community coming together to support each other: “You think you’re just a drop in the ocean – but look at the ripple effect one drop can make!’
Until next week.
The Team
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre
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