Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
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Gracie Hosie hopes to spark meaningful conversations that lead to lasting improvements in healthcare access for regional and remote Australians. Photo source: LinkedIn
When Gracie Hosie stood before government leaders and decision-makers at this year's Queensland Family and Child Commission (QFCC) Youth Summit, she wasn't simply delivering a speech. She was sharing the reality of growing up in regional Queensland, where accessing healthcare often means travelling hundreds of kilometres, taking time away from work and school, and carrying financial and emotional burdens that many city families never have to consider.
Her speech, Regional Families, Invisible Costs, drew on her family's own experience supporting her younger sister Amelia, who was born prematurely after being diagnosed with human parvovirus at just 25 weeks in the womb.
"Hospitals were part of her [Amelia] everyday story, but because we grew up in regional Queensland, hospitals were never just down the road," Ms Hosie told the summit.
Ms Hosie recalled how for her family, specialist care often meant travelling from Ayr to Townsville or Brisbane, with appointments becoming part of everyday life, and when Amelia underwent major back reconstruction surgery for severe scoliosis, herfamily's life revolved around hospital stays, flights, long drives and difficult decisions about who would stay by her side.
"Airports became normal, and goodbyes became routine. Recovery did not just happen in the children's hospital down the road; it happened in fragments across distance, across phone calls, across exhaustion,” said Ms Hosie.
"It’s the emotional cost of watching your sister in pain and knowing that help is far away. It’s the physical cost of fatigue of parents running on empty of children doing homework in hospital rooms, of bodies sitting in cars for hours because there is no alternative."
While Ms Hosie's family carried the weight of these challenges, they knew countless other regional families were navigating the same reality.
“My family’s story isn’t unique, and I think that’s exactly why it needed to be told.”
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, people living in rural and remote communities experience higher rates of disease, injury and potentially avoidable deaths than those in major cities, while access to specialist healthcare declines significantly with remoteness. The National Rural Health Alliance has also consistently reported rural Australians face higher out-of-pocket healthcare costs while receiving less health funding per capita than metropolitan residents.
"We talk about universal healthcare in Australia, but universality should not dissolve at the city limits," Ms Hosie said.
"This is not about blaming individual doctors or nurses or healthcare workers, as many are doing extraordinary work in under-resourced settings. This is about structural distribution, funding models and political priority."
Since moving from the Burdekin to Brisbane, Ms Hosie has embraced opportunities to amplify her voice, sharing her family's story while advocating for the countless regional families facing similar challenges every day.
“If telling our story helps even one decision-maker better understand what regional families go through, then it’s a story worth telling,” she said.
Set to begin a Master of International Relations, Ms Hosie has long been passionate about politics and public policy, and she saw the QFCC Youth Summit as an opportunity to introduce herself, share the values that drive her, and begin building connections within the sector she hopes to one day work in.
“Being able to speak in that room felt like the beginning of the kind of advocacy I hope to continue throughout my career, [and] most importantly, it was an honour to make sure the Burdekin, and regional Queensland had a voice.”
As regional populations continue to grow, Ms Hosie hopes her speech will encourage decision-makers to recognise that healthcare inequality extends far beyond the walls of hospitals, encompassing the everyday barriers regional families face in accessing essential care and support.
"Rural families should not have to choose between being together and being able to afford care. They should not have to measure recovery in kilometres travelled, in shifts missed or the quiet toll it takes on everyone in the car,” she said.
“I hope we can start looking beyond short-term assistance and towards long-term solutions that improve access to specialist healthcare closer to home, while ensuring support schemes evolve to reflect the true cost of seeking care today. Everyone deserves timely, affordable healthcare, regardless of their postcode.”
Since performing her speech, Ms Hosie has been met with a number of other young advocates from across the state who are also passionate about improving healthcare access in regional and remote communities.
“We’re all seeing many of the same challenges [and] there’s real strength in knowing this isn’t one person’s story, it’s a statewide issue.”
Driven by a passion for creating meaningful change, Ms Hosie has taken the initiative to create further opportunities to advocate for regional healthcare. She has been in contact with Member for Burdekin Dale Last and Queensland Health Minister Tim Nicholls, and is preparing to launch a dedicated website and public petition calling for improved healthcare access for regional and remote communities across Australia.
“It’s important that this conversation isn’t simply “had” it’s prioritised,” said Ms Hosie.
“I don’t want my speech to be the end of the discussion. I want it to be the beginning of sustained advocacy that keeps regional healthcare on the agenda until meaningful change happens.”
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox celebrated the 100th birthday of Burdekin local Domenica, highlighting her journey as a young Italian migrant as a shining example of the dedication and integration that built regional Queensland.
When managed with care and vision, migration does not just grow an economy; it truly enriches our nation.
It weaves new threads into our national fabric, bringing fresh ideas, vital skills, and a rich heritage that communities display proudly across regional Queensland. From the Italian and Maltese pioneers whose grit developed the region’s cane farms to the industrious international workers supporting our local agricultural sector, regional Australia understands the immense value of a targeted, functional immigration system.
However, a successful immigration program has to be matched to the country's capacity. Under the Albanese Labor Government, this delicate balance has collapsed into absolute chaos. Labor’s migration numbers have been far too high, while their entry standards have been far too low. By allowing a record 1.4 million people into the country since being elected, the government has created a massive shortfall of roughly 400,000 homes, an infrastructure deficit the size of Canberra's entire population.
Worse still, by dropping the ball on compliance, Labor has failed to protect our social cohesion. The Coalition is committed to restoring integrity to our borders by enforcing a strict, permanent red light to radicals and ensuring visa overstayers are promptly sent home. Moving forward, compliance with the Australian Values Statement will be a universal visa condition; we will ensure everyone we welcome fully commits to our culture, respects our laws, and integrates into our way of life.
This is not a criticism of migrants; it is a rejection of an out-of-control system running blindly ahead of the homes, roads, hospitals, and schools Australia can realistically provide. Every weekend, young Australian couples face the real-life consequences of this policy failure, turning up to rental inspections with dozens of other people while prices skyrocket.
The Coalition's Migration and Housing Pledge is a common-sense solution to this crisis. Our guiding principle is straightforward: Australia should only bring in as many people as it can house. For the first time, net overseas migration will be legally tied to the number of new homes completed. If Australia builds the homes, we can welcome the people; if we do not, we cannot keep bringing people in at an unsustainable pace.
But ending mass migration is only half the battle; we must also aggressively boost housing supply. The Coalition will tackle the root causes of the supply crisis by establishing a $5 billion Housing Infrastructure Fund to get essential last-mile infrastructure, such as water, sewerage, utilities, and access roads, into the ground. Crucially, 30 per cent of this fund will be locked directly into regional areas, ensuring our local councils can unlock up to 400,000 new homes nationwide without being strangled by bureaucracy.
Furthermore, we will make homes cheaper to build by slashing the over-compliance and regulatory wish lists embedded in the National Construction Code. By making costly, radical 2022 energy and accessibility mandates optional, we will hand choice back to the buyer and strip up to $70,000 from the cost of building a new home, unlocking an estimated 120,000 homes over the next decade.
We will also ensure taxpayer-funded housing support prioritises Australian citizens and we will maintain the strict ban on temporary residents buying existing dwellings.
An immigration system must serve the nation, not strain it.
By restoring integrity to our borders and cutting the bureaucratic red tape that halts construction, the Coalition will put a fair go back at the centre of our housing market and ensure that the Australian dream of home ownership is once again a practical reality for local families.
Andrew Willcox, Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability and Federal Member for Dawson.
Burdekin police are urging motorists to remain vigilant after responding to five crashes during the final week of school holidays, including a truck rollover and fire near Clare last Wednesday that left the driver seriously injured before he was airlifted to Townsville.
The crash marked a confronting day on Burdekin roads, with a second serious collision occurring on the Bruce Highway near Inkerman just hours later.
Emergency services first rushed to Old Clare Road at approximately 7:15 am on 8 July, following reports that a fully loaded cane haul-out truck had crashed.
Police reports indicate the driver, a 49-year-old male, lost control of the vehicle while travelling north. The truck tipped onto its driver's side and slid for roughly 50 metres before slamming into a concrete support on top of a culvert.
A passing motorist attempted to assist the trapped driver before police arrived to find the vehicle had caught fire. Officers used handheld fire extinguishers to suppress the flames until the Queensland Fire Department (QFD) arrived to fully extinguish the blaze.
QAS, QFD and QPS crews worked together to stabilise the driver before removing him from the cabin approximately 15 minutes later.
The driver was transported to Ayr Hospital in a stable condition with serious leg injuries, before being airlifted to Townsville Hospital shortly after for further treatment. An official update on his current condition has not been released.
Old Clare Road was closed for several hours while the Forensic Crash Unit (FCU) and Workplace Health and Safety (WH&S) processed the scene.
While finalising the scene at Clare, police were called away to a second high-speed impact on the Bruce Highway near Inkerman.
Upon arrival, officers found a white Toyota Corolla with significant front-end damage blocking the northbound lane, alongside a Toyota LandCruiser towing a caravan.
According to police, the LandCruiser was travelling north when it slowed down behind a tractor that was travelling in the same direction at approximately 80 km/h. Shortly after, the Corolla crashed into the rear of the caravan.
The driver and single occupant of the Corolla was treated at the scene by paramedics before being taken to Ayr Hospital as a precaution. The Corolla sustained severe damage and had to be towed, while the caravan sustained minimal damage and was able to be driven away. The driver and passenger in the LandCruiser were unharmed.
Police investigations into the highway crash are ongoing, with initial indications suggesting driver inattention may have been a contributing factor.
Following the string of incidents, local police are urging the public to exercise increased caution.
(Left to Right) – Wiliam Weaver – Sunwater General Manager of Operations, Dale and Aaron Elphinstone – Sunwater Operations Manager. Photo supplied.
A new $1.3 million water treatment plant is now fully operational in Clare, replacing the township’s 40-year-old facility and providing increased capacity and reliability for the community’s drinking water supply.
The Sunwater facility was officially commissioned on July 10 following the completion of a multi-year upgrade project, replacing the previous plant after it reached the end of its service life.
The upgraded facility can treat up to 400 kilolitres of water per day and features improved monitoring systems, allowing Sunwater staff to remotely track operations and identify potential issues before failures occur.
Minister for Natural Resources and Member for Burdekin Dale Last said the project would help ensure Clare residents continued to have access to a reliable drinking water supply.
“Every Queenslander deserves access to a safe and secure drinking water, and the new treatment plant ensures locals will continue to receive high-quality water for their families and businesses,” Mr Last said.
“Projects like this strengthen water security and help ensure communities such as Clare have the infrastructure they need to thrive and grow.”
The plant treats raw water drawn from the Burdekin River through a multi-stage process incorporating filtration, ultraviolet disinfection and chlorine dosing before distribution to the township.
Sunwater Burdekin Whitsunday Operations Manager Aaron Elphinstone said the facility will improve operational efficiency and reliability.
“Sunwater partnered with specialised water treatment contractors Protex Water and Jacobs to deliver a modern facility that improves operational efficiency and reliability for our customers,” Mr Elphinstone said.
“The plant can be monitored and operated remotely and includes an innovative electro-chlorination system that produces disinfectant on site, removing the need to transport and store bulk chemicals for safer and more productive operations.”
Construction was carried out alongside the existing plant while it remained operational, ensuring Clare’s water supply continued uninterrupted throughout the works.
The project also provided work opportunities for contractors and suppliers from the Burdekin and Townsville regions, who contributed to civil, electrical, plumbing, concrete and materials supply works.
A Burdekin Catholic Parish fundraiser has shown community spirit can extend well beyond the walls of the church, with more than 130 people, including many non-churchgoers, gathering in support of a local institution.
The bingo night fundraiser at Ayr Parish Hall last Friday raised funds to assist with ongoing maintenance across the parish’s four Burdekin churches, supporting the continuation of the its work in the region.
Parish priest Father Manoj described the turnout as an “absolutely stunning” display of community support, with attendees travelling from as far as Townsville to take part in the evening.
“There was a lot of fun, plenty of food … and a lovely ambiance in the hall,” he said.
The event was organised by a six-person fundraising team comprising Kaylene Rinella, Lisa Sarri, Chrissa Di Bartlo, Mary Pattinson, John Furnell and Robert Tomarchio, with the Country Women’s Association (CWL) assisting with bingo calling duties.
Father Manoj said one of the most encouraging aspects of the night was seeing people from across the community support the parish, regardless of their religious affiliation.
“It was important to me that even people who are not practicing religion came to support people who are,” Father Manoj said.
“People might not [ascribe] to a particular religion, but they can still show the expression of love for the events in the community and support people who are practicing religion.
“It was a good sign of people living together in harmony.”
The evening featured bingo, a sausage sizzle, licensed bar, tea and coffee, with Father Manoj thanking attendees and those who contributed food and support towards making the fundraiser a success.
He said the strong response had encouraged the parish to consider holding similar events more regularly in the future.
“We’re looking forward to having this event in the future a little more often,” he said.
Chris Hudson of Huds Pythons (left), Candace Young of Salted Roots (left-centre) and Neil Machin (right) and partner Patricia Thomas (right-centre) of Scrubby’s Teahouse pose outside the revitalised shopfronts on Eighth Avenue. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Since the turn of the millennium, regional town centres have come face-to-face with a global pandemic, the meteoric rise of online shopping and subsequent commercial volatility. But a cluster of new businesses on Home Hill’s Eighth Avenue has given rise to a renewed sense of confidence about the future of its CBD.
The foundations of a promising new commercial era have been laid on Home Hill’s Eighth Avenue, where three entrepreneurial ventures have given a row of dormant storefronts a new lease on life.
Newly established businesses Salted Roots, Scrubby’s Teahouse, and Huds Pythons and Food recently opened their doors on the town's main street, renovating and occupying commercial spaces that had sat vacant for up to 12 years.
The trio of openings has injected fresh activity along the stretch, prompting questions about whether the investment represents a broader shift in confidence for Home Hill’s town centre.
Candace Young, owner and operator of Salted Roots, said she and her husband Scott saw Home Hill’s supportive community and favourable lease rates as key drivers in their decision to back the town.
“Home Hill has sort of been forgotten about when it comes to shops and new things. Everyone goes to Ayr because they know they're going to have that foot traffic pretty much straight away,” she said.
“When we opened, people were telling us it’s so good that something’s finally coming to Home Hill and bringing something different—bringing the town to life.”
The business officially opened its doors last Saturday, welcoming customers to browse a wide, curated range of homewares, artisan foods and lifestyle goods.
Ms Young said local support would be integral to the future of the business.
“[The business] is not just mine and my husband’s, it belongs to [the community], because they’re the ones that are supporting us,” she said.
Meanwhile, Neil Machin from neighbouring Scrubby’s Teahouse said the roast beef rolls he and partner Patricia Thomas serve have already become a town favourite.
"People are using the word ‘famous' already,” he quipped.
The business officially opened last Saturday after several weeks of limited trading. Alongside its popular beef rolls, the cafe offers mash potato rolls, bacon and scrambled egg rolls, and coffee, while specialising in tea.
Mr Machin described the venture as “something different” after years of work as a builder.
“We were very uncertain at first, but the building industry was in its own turmoil at the time, so it made sense to open when we did,” he said.
“We thought the town needed something. A couple people were playing with the idea, but no one was committed, so we thought, ‘let’s have a crack at it.’”
Christopher Hudson, owner of Huds Pythons and Food, said the arrival of Scrubby's and Salted Roots two doors down had already brought a significant uptick in foot traffic along the strip.
Opened four months ago, Mr Hudson’s business—which he also calls his “hobby”—houses and sells a unique range of reptiles, 90 per cent of which he bred himself.
He said that with the arrival of the neighbouring establishments, his own store had experienced an almost tenfold increase in daily visitors.
“When I was just the only one here, we used to get maybe half a dozen people come through. Now, it’s nothing to get 50 people a day,” Mr Hudson said.
“I’ve been getting all the grey nomads coming through, and have even had a bloke through the other day from Denmark, who’s a keeper over there … You get so many people through, and it's just phenomenal.”
Burdekin Shire Council Deputy Mayor and Home Hill local Max Musumeci said the recent openings were a clear sign of growing business confidence in the area.
"Opening a business requires a significant commitment of time, money and effort, so it's not something people generally do with only the short term in mind,” Mr Musumeci said.
“While every business journey is different, these openings are certainly an encouraging sign that investors and entrepreneurs believe in the future of our community.”
He said their establishment marked a positive step forward for the community.
“I remember when the street was full of thriving businesses, and it was sad to see some shopfronts become vacant over the years,” he said.
“To now see new businesses opening and investing in the town … creates optimism for the future and reinforces what many of us already know—that Home Hill, and the whole of the Burdekin Shire, is a great place to live, work, play, visit and invest.”
Former Burdekin Youth Mayor Nicole Cervoni has added another accolade to an already fruitful year, being named one of three Trainee of the Year finalists in this year’s Queensland Training Awards. Photo supplied.
Former Burdekin Youth Mayor Nicole Cervoni has added another accolade to an already fruitful year, being named one of three Trainee of the Year finalists in this year’s Queensland Training Awards.
The recognition caps an outstanding 12-month period as a Burdekin Library trainee, during which she became an important part of the team on her way to being named as Burdekin’s Young Citizen of the Year in the 2025 Australia Day Awards.
She will now attend the North Queensland Regional Final in Townsville later this month, which will bring together high-achieving individuals within Queensland’s vocational education and training (VET) sector.
The youngest finalist in her division, Ms Cervoni admitted any further success would be a bonus for an already “exciting” achievement.
“I got the phone call, and I was very excited—but very surprised,” she laughed.
“The other finalists in my category are amazing, and they’ve done so much to deserve it … I’m just really excited to put the Burdekin in that mix as a little girl from Millaroo.”
The former Burdekin Catholic High School student joined the Burdekin Library team in 2025, and was the public face of a number of projects from her position at the library issue desk.
Early that year, Burdekin Library became the first library in Queensland to deliver the State Library of Queensland’s Digital Mentors program. The program paired young volunteers with older residents to help build confidence with everyday technology, from smartphones to online services.
Ms Cervoni was a major part of the program’s success, coordinating sessions, communicating with participants and troubleshooting problems. Meanwhile, her Cricut courses had become a community hit, teaching participants new skills while facilitating friendships and connections.
As part of her traineeship, Nicole also studied a Certificate III in Business through TAFE Queensland alongside her work at the library. Despite also juggling Youth Mayor responsibilities, she completed the course two months ahead of schedule.
Ms Cervoni said that while finalist recognition for her efforts was rewarding, the traineeship itself had already proved a dream come true.
"I have wanted to work at the Burdekin Library since I was little. I had been going there since I was a baby, doing Baby Rhyme Time and everything, and I just loved it,” Ms Cervoni said.
“I was doing work experience at the library before I even got the job [last year], and my mum drove me there every day—an hour drive each way.
“I’ve now learned so much as a person through this job … [and] got to give back to those that supported me, that wanted to see me succeed, and those that still always stop my mum in the street asking, ‘what’s Nicole up to nowadays?’”
Ms Cervoni now studies primary education in Townsville, where she balances her studies with work.
She looks ahead to this month's North Queensland Regional Final, where success in her division will earn her entry into the state awards later this year.
Image from Pexels
Honeycombes Sales and Service is proud to announce four Ayr-based team members have been named finalists in the 2026 John Deere Technician Awards which recognises excellence in agricultural service and parts technicians throughout Australia and New Zealand.
The Honeycombes’ finalists are Adam Patane, Apprentice Service Technician of the Year, Mark Cullen, Service Technician of the Year, and Demi Russell and Bradley Sibson Parts Technician of the Year.
The Awards celebrate the talented Service and Parts Technicians who are dedicated to supporting farming communities, keeping the wheels of agriculture turning – farmers, contractors and businesses to be operational when every hour counts.
Adam Patane, Apprentice Service Technician Regional Finalist, felt a career dedicated to servicing and repairing agricultural machinery was a natural fit for him.
Growing up on a third-generation family farm, Adam saw first-hand the impact of machinery downtime on farming operations. Whether helping his father with repairs or spending time tinkering with tractors and equipment, he developed an appreciation for the role skilled technicians play in keeping agriculture moving.
Since joining Honeycombes as an Apprentice in 2023, Adam has embraced every opportunity to learn, building his skills across diagnostics, hydraulics and diesel systems, while earning a reputation for his positive attitude and strong work ethic.
“For me, it’s not just about fixing machines — it’s about making sure customers feel supported and confident,” Adam said.
Customers have praised Adam's attention to detail, commitment to safety and eagerness to learn, describing him as a young technician of the future with impressive technical knowledge and genuine enthusiasm for the industry.
Over the past six years, Mark Cullen, Service Technician Regional Finalist, has become a trusted name among Honeycombes’ customers, known for his technical expertise, reliability and commitment to finding solutions when they're needed most.
Whether in the workshop or out in the field, Mark is recognised for his ability to tackle complex issues and help customers get back to work quickly. Customers regularly highlight his willingness to go the extra mile and his determination to see a job through to completion.
“I’ve always enjoyed figuring out how things work and getting them back up and running,” Mark said.
It is a passion that began at a young age, helping his father with truck servicing and repairs. What started as curiosity soon became a career built around supporting the people who depend on their machinery every day.
“That’s where my interest really started – I liked figuring out why something wasn’t working and getting it back up and running. Over time, that interest has grown into a real passion for agriculture machinery and supporting customers who rely on their equipment to do their job.”
This August marks 13 years with Honeycombes for Parts Technician Regional Finalist, Demi Russell, whose connection to the industry began long before she started her career.
Demi credits her mother, who has a career spanning over 35 years in the automotive industry, with introducing her to parts interpreting and teaching her the importance of hard work and customer relationships.
“After school, I would often help her, which instilled in me the importance of a strong work ethic and building genuine customer relationships,” Demi said.
Today, those lessons continue to shape the way she works. Living in Ayr and raising her own family of four with her husband, Demi understands the important role agriculture plays in supporting local livelihoods and regional economies.
“I take pride in knowing that what I do helps keep machines in the paddock, supporting local businesses, strengthening the local economy, and contributing to a sustainable future for my family and community,” she said.
Known for her reliability, product knowledge and ability to build lasting relationships, Demi has become a trusted advisor for many customers who know they can depend on her to find the right solution when it matters most.
Bradley Sibson, Parts Technician Regional Finalist, is passionate about helping customers minimise downtime and keep their operations running smoothly.
Growing up on a cane and cattle property, Bradley acutely understands the pressure farmers and contractors face when equipment isn't operating as it should. It is this understanding that drives the way he approaches his work each day.
“I understand how critical it is to keep machines running… I take pride in being someone customers can rely on,” Bradley said.
Customers consistently praise Bradley for his communication, responsiveness and determination to find solutions. Whether sourcing hard-to-find parts or exploring alternative options, he is known for going above and beyond to help Honeycombescustomers keep their operations moving.
“For me, it is personal – and I want to be that person that makes a difference just as we had people that made a difference for our farm.’
Mark Barrett, Honeycombes CEO said the achievement reflects the high calibre of people within Honeycombes, and the passion they bring everyday to achieve the right result for customers.
“Being named a finalist is a significant achievement and reflects the commitment, professionalism, technical capability, and customer focus these team members demonstrate every day,” Mr Barrett said.
Honeycombes has a long-standing commitment to developing skilled service technicians and parts professionals through training, mentoring and career development opportunities. By investing in its people, Honeycombes supports regional employment opportunities that strengthen local communities while helping team members build rewarding careers, grow professionally and achieve their career goals. Honeycombes is proud to see its people recognised among the industry's best, earning accolades at regional, national and international levels, and being named among the top technicians and parts professionals across Australia and New Zealand.
Established in 2021, the John Deere Technician Awards recognise and celebrate the important role technicians play in supporting Australia's agriculture, construction and forestry industries. This year, 78 nominations were received from across Australia and New Zealand, making selection as a Regional Finalist a significant accomplishment.
The 2026 John Deere Technician Awards Gala Ceremony will be held in Brisbane on Thursday, 3 September, where winners will be announced.
Honeycombes congratulates Adam, Mark, Demi and Bradley on this outstanding achievement, and thanks them for their passion and commitment to excellence. Honeycombes wishes them every success at the Awards ceremony.
The ‘Frog Hotel’ was expertly designed and constructed by several Junior Landcare members, gathering on Saturday morning to build the apartment block from top to bottom. Photo source: Facebook/Lower Burdekin Landcare Association Inc
Burdekin frogs have been thrown a lifeline amid local housing shortages through rent-free housing courtesy of Lower Burdekin Landcare Association’s youngest green thumbs.
The ‘Frog Hotel’ was expertly designed and constructed by several Junior Landcare members, gathering on Saturday morning to build the pint-sized accommodation from the ground up.
Young builders made use of a pot, stones, and open-ended pipes to bring the project to life, with all works completed on the day.
The Frog Hotel now stands at the Lower Burdekin Landcare nursery on International Drive, awaiting its first amphibian tenants.
The organisation took to Facebook to share its delight with the efforts of all involved.
“The kids did such an amazing job,” it shared.
“[We] can’t wait for our first little visitors to come and sleep over.”
The Junior Landcare program is nurturing the region's next generation of land carers.
The group meets on the first Saturday of every month, giving children aged 6 to 12 hands-on experience through activities including building frog habitats, planting vegetable seeds and tending their own gardens.
Interested parties can find more information on the organisation’s website: https://www.lowerburdekinlandcare.com/contact-us
A $1.2 million funding package aimed at strengthening Queensland’s volunteer sector could help local organisations address declining participation and volunteer hours, with Burdekin groups among those facing ongoing challenges rebuilding their ranks. Photo source: Burdekin Domestic & Family Abuse Prevention Network
A $1.2 million funding package aimed at strengthening Queensland’s volunteer sector could help local organisations address declining participation and volunteer hours, with Burdekin groups among those facing ongoing challenges rebuilding their ranks.
The State Government announced the funding as part of its 2026-27 State Budget, with the investment to support the development of a 10-year volunteering plan, strengthening partnerships across the sector and identifying ways to reduce administrative barriers for volunteers.
The announcement comes as community groups across the Burdekin continue to recover from significant declines in volunteer participation following the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Lions Club of Ayr, which had served the community for 60 years, closed in 2020 after membership fell to just four remaining members.
The Burdekin Community Association (BCA) has also experienced a drop in volunteer numbers, falling from more than 100 members before the pandemic to 64 today.
While BCA’s volunteer numbers have stabilised at around 60 in recent years, the organisation has recorded a decline in the number of hours contributed by volunteers, with a nine per cent reduction between the 2024-25 financial year and the previous year.
The State Government said the new funding would support 18 initiatives developed in response to recommendations from the Parliamentary Inquiry into Volunteering, with the aim of making it easier for Queenslanders to participate.
Queensland Minister for Volunteers Ann Leahy said the investment would help strengthen the sector and support organisations that rely on community contributions.
“Volunteers are the backbone of Queensland communities and we’re backing them with increased funding to the volunteering sector,” Ms Leahy said.
“This year’s Budget support will enhance the ability of volunteer organisations to build resilient, connected communities and encourage more people to get involved and stay involved.”
The funding will also support the creation of a 10-year volunteering plan intended to provide a long-term framework for the sector.
Volunteering Queensland CEO Jane Hedger welcomed the commitment, saying stronger partnerships and reduced barriers would help create a more accessible volunteering environment.
“The renewed commitment to a 10-year volunteering plan, strong sector partnerships and removing government barriers to participation will contribute to a more sustainable and accessible volunteering landscape,” Ms Hedger said.
The State Government’s announcement follows concerns from community organisations across regional Queensland about the challenges of attracting and retaining volunteers.
The Burdekin’s volunteer sector supports a wide range of community services, sporting clubs and not-for-profit organisations, with many groups relying on a small number of dedicated members to continue operating.
The funding package forms part of the Crisafulli Government’s stated commitment to supporting Queensland’s volunteer workforce, which it describes as critical to the strength of local communities.
One of the highlights of my week was receiving a heartfelt thank you card on behalf of the community from those involved in the recent serious crash. It was a touching gesture that reminds us of the strength and compassion that exists throughout the Burdekin. In times of adversity, our community consistently comes together to support one another, and while no recognition is ever expected, it is always appreciated.
We are incredibly fortunate to live in a region renowned for its fresh produce and agricultural excellence. Whether it's roadside stalls operating on honesty boxes or locally grown fruit and vegetables available throughout the district, the Burdekin continues to showcase the best of country living. Fresh really is best, as my grandparents often reminded me.
I recently visited the outstanding Agricultural Department at Home Hill State High School, where students are gaining valuable hands-on experience in horticulture, aquaculture and sustainable farming practices. Programs like these are helping to develop the next generation of farmers and agricultural leaders. Some of the produce raised by students is available through the popular Prawn Shop in Home Hill, providing a great example of practical learning and community connection.
Last week I attended the 2026 State Budget Address in Townsville with Queensland Treasurer Hon David Janetzki MP. It was encouraging to see mayors from across North and North West Queensland gathered together to discuss the priorities and opportunities ahead for our regions. There is a strong sense of optimism about the future of North Queensland, and I look forward to continuing to advocate for outcomes that benefit the Burdekin and the broader region.
Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone at 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.
Clive Williams (left) has taken charge of the Rotary Club of Home Hill, hoping to continue recent momentum following the successful 18-month tenure of lifelong Rotarian Alfio Musumeci (right). Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Burdekin cane farmer Clive Williams has stepped into the top job at the Rotary Club of Home Hill, taking over from longtime Rotarian Alfio Musumeci following the latter's successful two years at the helm.
Mr Williams was officially announced as president at Tuesday’s club changeover event at the Crown Hotel, during which outgoing Mr Musumeci presented him with a presidential badge and frame.
Despite a nationwide decline in volunteering, Mr Musumeci’s term witnessed steady growth for the club, which attracted three new members this year. The Home Hill local also oversaw last October’s Harvest Festival Gala Ball, which raisedroughly $7,000.
Under his leadership, the club distributed significant financial contributions to several community organisations, including CORES, St. Vincent de Paul, Burdekin Chaplains, and the Davenport family.
Addressing the changeover, Mr Musumeci expressed his gratitude toward the executive committee and members alike, before wishing Mr Williams well in his new role.
“Thanks to all of our members who have supported me and the ideals of Rotary, embracing what it means to be a Rotarian. To Clive, congratulations and best wishes to you for a successful year,” he said.
Mr Williams steps into the presidency after roughly a year-and-a-half with the club, carrying on a family tradition of Rotary service that includes his father, a member for 50 years, and his grandfather.
With his presidential role, he assumes the task of helping the club reach its ambitious $40,000 fundraising goal, which was announced earlier this year.
The funds will go towards purchasing an all-terrain vehicle for the Home Hill and Ayr Police stations, giving officers immediate access to remote areas across the region.
Mr Williams said the project, along with the support of the club’s members, would be central to his presidency.
“These past 18 months have seen us go through some up-and-down times, but with our new ATV project onboard, we’re coming home strong,” he said.
“I hope that with [member’s] help and guidance, I can lead this club to maintain its presence in the community and continue to give assistance to the groups and people who need our hope.”
Mr Williams confirmed on the evening that chairman Robert Marshall, secretary Kellie Williams, and treasurer Desley Musumeci would all retain their executive roles.
The new president also formally announced Maddy Gallagher as the club’s new Harvest Festival queen. She follows in the footsteps of last year’s club representative Eden Betteridge, who claimed Personality Queen honours.
The Queensland Government has announced a new phase of its youth crime crackdown, with repeat young offenders who commit serious offences while on bail set to face mandatory sentences under proposed “Breach Bail, Go to Jail” laws. Photo source: Facebook/David Crisafulli MP
The Queensland Government has announced a new phase of its youth crime crackdown, with repeat young offenders who commit serious offences while on bail set to face mandatory sentences under proposed “Breach Bail, Go to Jail” laws.
The reforms will expand the State Government’s Adult Crime, Adult Time legislation, with the new offence applying to young offenders who commit serious crimes while on bail.
The announcement comes amid ongoing community concern about crime across regional Queensland, including in the Burdekin, where a petition calling for additional police resources and funding for private security patrols attracted 3,562 signatures in 2024.
The petition followed a period during which Member for Burdekin Dale Last claimed entry charges in Home Hill had increased twelvefold over a 12-month period, while Ayr recorded a fourfold increase over three months.
Under the proposed “Breach Bail, Go to Jail” reforms, young offenders who commit an Adult Crime, Adult Time offence while on bail would face a new offence carrying a minimum mandatory sentence.
The Queensland Government said the reforms would build on the first three phases of Adult Crime, Adult Time, which cover 45 offences and have contributed to a 7.2 per cent reduction in victim numbers following significant increases in previous years.
Premier David Crisafulli said the next stage of the laws would hold repeat youth offenders accountable.
“Breach Bail, Go to Jail is the next phase of Adult Crime, Adult Time, which is holding youth offenders accountable for the first time in a long time,” Mr Crisafulli said.
“We’ve heard from Queenslanders who are telling us to keep going, and we will with reforms to Labor’s weak bail laws.”
Minister for Youth Justice and Victim Support Laura Gerber said the Government’s focus was on improving community safety through stronger laws, more police, early intervention and rehabilitation.
“Bail is a privilege, not a right and if repeat offenders are breaching it, they should and will go to jail under this next phase of Adult Crime, Adult Time,” Ms Gerber said.
The Government said the legislation would be introduced following further consultation, with the reforms expected to become law by the end of 2026.
Dalbeg residents may now face more than an hour’s drive to dump their waste after the local skip bin service was shut down.
Burdekin Shire Council’s decision to discontinue the Dalbeg disposal service follows a six-month trial period, during which seven customers used it across two collection events held in March and May this year.
The trial, introduced in late 2025, replaced a permanently available skip bin at Dalbeg Hall, which had been removed due to ongoing misuse.
The revised model provided scheduled, supervised waste collection days on a quarterly basis, with a user-pays component for selected waste items.
Mayor Dalle Cort said it had become an “unjustifiable" use of ratepayer funds, citing both “very low” community utilisation and increased operational costs.
“Council has a responsibility to provide services that are fair, efficient and sustainable for the entire community,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
“However, the results of the trial clearly show that the service is not being used at a level that justifies the cost to Council.”
Clare-based Councillor Amanda Hall rebuked the decision, fearing it could leave remote residents behind.
“We can’t continue losing services out here. The population isn’t there for the constant usage, but that doesn’t mean that people don’t use it,” she said.
“[Services] do have to be cost-effective … and I can appreciate managers trying to reduce costs, but people still pay rates, and they pay a lot of rates out here.
“It’s very disheartening for the people that live in the further areas.”
Residents of Dalbeg and Millaroo must now make use of waste facilities in Clare, Ayr, Home Hill and Kirknie.
Cr Hall said this could mean drives up to “an hour and a half” long to facilities in town.
“[People] won’t travel that far. [Rubbish] will be dumped illegally on the side of the road, and then how much is that going to cost council?”
Council acknowledged the risk of illegal dumping following the removal of the service.
Mayor Dalle Cort urged residents to continue to dump waste responsibly.
“We understand this change may be disappointing for some residents, and we encourage the community to make use of the available waste facilities to ensure waste is disposed of responsibly,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR) has welcomed Burdekin Shire Council's decision to reduce the sugarcane rate in the dollar as part of its 2026/27 budget, describing the move as welcome relief for local growers facing ongoing financial pressures.
Earlier this year, Burdekin QCAR members raised concerns about rising land valuations and the impact higher rates would have on cane farming operations across the district.
In response, QCAR submitted a community impact assessment to Burdekin Shire Council on behalf of its members and the wider community, outlining the financial challenges facing the sugar industry following several difficult seasons.
The organisation said the assessment also highlighted the industry's broader economic contribution, noting that every dollar generated through on-farm activity returns an estimated $6.40 to the local economy, while the sugar industry supports almost one in three jobs across the Burdekin.
Under the 2026/27 budget, Burdekin Shire Council reduced the Category D (Sugar Cane) rate from 3.508 cents in the dollar to 2.866 cents, representing an 18.3 per cent decrease.
QCAR said the reduction demonstrated the council had listened to the concerns raised by local growers and recognised the pressures currently being experienced across the agricultural sector. The organisation said the lower rate would help offset the impact of increasing land valuations across the Burdekin, particularly at a time when some neighbouring local government areas, including Townsville, have announced rate increases.
QCAR thanked Burdekin Shire Council for supporting sugarcane farmers and the wider community as the region continues to navigate a challenging year.
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