A warm community spirit permeated the air of the Burdekin Theatre at the Community Morning Tea event, hosted by Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort over the weekend. The event extended a warm welcome to Queensland’s Governor Dr Jeanette Young and her husband and was attended by local leaders, healthcare professionals, and community members, producing an atmosphere thick with camaraderie, optimism and hope despite the recent challenges faced by the Burdekin and its people.

Mayor Dalle Cort hospitably embraced many distinguished guests, including Christy Walsh, the Director of Community and Engagement, Tracy Gabiola, Director of Nursing in Ayr, and Lorraine Dempsey Director of Nursing in Home Hill.

During the event, the Mayor recalled hearing Dr Young's speech at Parliament House and her swearing in pledge to visit every hospital across Queensland, including the hospitals of Ayr and Home Hill.

Mayor Dalle Cort expressed pride and gratitude, stating “We are very honoured to have Dr Young here, particularly following her visit less than a month ago during the recent floods," said the Mayor before presenting Dr Young with a gift symbolising Burdekin's appreciation.

Dr Young reciprocated the warm hospitality, praising Burdekin's resilience and unity during the crises it faced. She underscored the strength and ingenuity demonstrated within the community, drawing particular attention to efforts in sustainable agriculture and youth leadership.

Reflecting on recent flooding and the challenges it presented, Dr Young commended local emergency services and the Burdekin Shire Council’s swift and staunch response.

“Gatherings like this morning tea provide opportunities not only to celebrate achievements, acknowledge the ongoing challenges you face while reaffirming our commitment to the future of this beautiful region” said Dr. Young, accentuating the importance of community collaboration.

Both leaders emphasised Burdekin's core strengths - its people, their resilience and proactive spirit, which promise future growth and prosperity. Attendees left inspired by the community’s ongoing dedication to overcoming challenges through grit, innovation and unity.

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Professor Graeme Nimmo, Governor Dr Jeanette Young, Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort. Photo taken by: Munir Kilic

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Find the social pics here: https://tinyurl.com/2c6cvez2

Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, believes victims of domestic and family violence will be offered more support sooner and Police will be able to respond sooner under Legislation to be introduced to parliament.

The former Police Officer said calls for assistance due to domestic and family violence had more than
tripled in the last decade and changes were needed to better protect victims and to hold perpetrators to account.

“Sadly, we have seen an immense increase in both the number of calls for help and in the complexity that Police face when they respond,” Mr Last said.

“These changes are in response to recommendations made over the past 10 years and, because those recommendations were ignored, the laws have not kept pace with community expectations.”

“We will empower Police to issue Police Protection Directions (PPD’s) on the spot, meaning there are
protections in place more quickly and without the need to go through the court process. That process
puts the onus to comply firmly on the perpetrator and we make no apologies for that.”

“Checks and balances will be put in place to ensure PPD’s are used appropriately including making bodycam footage admissible as evidence. Not only does that mean less trauma for victims, but it also means incidents can be reviewed as necessary to ensure a fair and just system.”

“The current system can see Police Officers spending an entire shift dealing with a domestic and family violence incident and then, potentially, having to appear in court. What these changes mean is that, when suitable, Police can issue a PPD and move on to attending other calls for help and assisting other victims.”

“With data from the Queensland Police Union indicating domestic and family violence represents 90% of
their workload, improvement is essential not only for victims of domestic and family violence but also for victims of other crime and to enable proactive patrols to deter crime and improve road safety.”

Mr Last went on to explain the changes that would apply to how high-risk domestic and family violence
incidents were dealt with, including 24/7 electronic monitoring of repeat offenders.

“It’s a sad indictment on our society but an additional 350 devices will be made available as necessary because we are taking this issue seriously. When we said we wanted to improve safety in Queensland during the election campaign we were serious.”

Contributed with thanks to Member for Burdekin Dale Last.

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Burdekin Shire Council is calling on Federal election candidates to commit to funding the $4.4 million Ayr Industrial Estate – Second Access project. The proposed second access will improve safety, boost connectivity, and support the region's long-term growth, including residential and commercial development.

With only one current access point to the estate, Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort emphasises the need for alternative routes, especially for emergency services and heavy vehicles. The project, which is shovel-ready, is a vital part of the Council's broader vision for a more connected, resilient, and thriving Burdekin community.

Calls To Create Second Access To Ayr Industrial Estate

Burdekin Shire Council is urging all federal election candidates to commit to funding the vital $4.4 million Ayr Industrial Estate – Second Access project, a key initiative designed to drive regional growth, enhance safety, and support the long-term development of the area.

The proposed second access will provide an additional connection to the expanding Ayr Industrial Precinct, ensuring improved connectivity and safety for the region.

The Council’s strategic vision includes extending Craig Street to connect with Chippendale Street, facilitating future residential development and opening opportunities for commercial expansion.

Additionally, it will create an essential alternative route for emergency services, ensuring access to the Bruce Highway.

Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort emphasised the importance of the project as a strategic priority for both the Council and the broader Burdekin community.

“This isn’t just about another road – it’s about planning for the future,” Mayor Dalle Cort stated.

“A second access to the Ayr Industrial Estate is critical to unlocking land for housing, supporting local businesses, and providing safe, alternative routes for emergency services.”

She also expressed concern over the current single access point to the estate, particularly with the increasing use of B-Doubles accessing the precinct.

“We currently have only one way in and out of the estate. That’s a major concern, especially with the increase of B-Doubles accessing the estate.”

The Council is calling on federal candidates to recognise the significance of this project and to include it as a priority in their election platforms.

“We need forward-thinking leadership that supports essential infrastructure. This project represents the start of a larger vision for the Burdekin – better connectivity, more housing, and a stronger, more resilient region,” Mayor Dalle Cort added.

The Ayr Industrial Estate – Second Access project is already shovel-ready and plays a crucial role in the Council’s broader strategy for economic growth and enhanced liveability in the Burdekin Shire.

Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort implores Federal Election Candidates to make a second access to the Ayr Industrial Estate an election promise. Photo supplied

At the moment, there is only one road in and out of the Ayr Industrial Estate, Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort says a second access road is essential for the future of the region. Photo supplied

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Long-time Ayr business owner Kristy Oar, alongside husband Callan, has embarked on an exciting new venture that is sure to bring a fresh approach to workwear and western fashion to the Burdekin.

Earlier this year, Kristy and Callan, who collectively have run local businesses for more than 20 years, purchased and rebranded the well-known Sibby Savers store. Now called Wild East, the retail business specialises in western and workwear apparel, offering a unique blend of fashion and functionality for customers.

Kristy, who has built a solid reputation for customer care and dedication in the hairdressing industry, brings her passion for service to Wild East. Reflecting on the transition, she expressed gratitude to the store’s former owners, Rosemary and Mark Rickards, for their invaluable support during the handover process.

“I’m really appreciative of Rosemary and Mark, not just for helping with the transition, but for the lasting legacy of excellent customer service they and Sibby have created here,” Kristy said. “I’m committed to maintaining that high standard while also expanding the product range and enhancing the store’s overall look.”

There are some exciting plans in place for the future of Wild East. One of Kristy’s main goals is to expand the western wear range, bringing in more options for those who are drawn to and live by the style. There are also future renovation plans to expand the space and accommodate the growing stock range, reflecting the new identity of the store.

“I want customers to feel welcome and excited every time they walk in. We’ll be making some updates, but I’ll always keep the heart of the business - great service, quality products, and a friendly atmosphere.”

Wild East remains a staple for those in need of durable workwear or western-inspired fashion, and under Kristy’s leadership, it’s poised for an exciting new chapter.

The store is now open and Kristy and her team welcome customers to explore what Wild East has to offer.

“At the end of the day, it’s about continuing to provide the friendly, personal service that locals have come to appreciate,” she said.

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Hi Everyone,

By the time you read this, I will have had the opportunity to attend and present at the Burdekin Chamber of Commerce meeting, and I’d like to extend my thanks to Kari and the team for their kind invitation.

We really enjoy attending both the Burdekin and Home Hill Chamber of Commerce meetings. They’re fantastic opportunities to connect and network with our local business community.

I strongly encourage everyone in the area to join their local chamber. If you're unsure which one to choose, I recommend going with the chamber closest to where you live or work. The great thing is that both chambers now work closely together, so as a member of one, you’re always welcome to attend events hosted by the other. It’s a great way to maximize the value of your membership and expand your networking opportunities.

At tonight’s event, I’ll be sharing details about our new Chamber Connections package. This offers members a special opportunity to be featured in our monthly Business Buzz section in the paper, as well as be part of Core Life Magazine’s dedicated annual Burdekin Business Feature.

For those who didn't already know, we also publish Core Life Magazine and Tripping Magazine, bi-monthly publications distributed from Mackay through to Hinchinbrook. Core Life has been serving local community news for almost 14 years, and last year we expanded into the Burdekin region, with Hinchinbrook joining us this year.

By participating in the Chamber Connections feature, Burdekin businesses will have the chance to raise their profile across multiple regions along the coast. And, as always, the more businesses that sign up, the greater the visibility for everyone.

If you weren’t able to attend tonight’s event but would like more information, please feel free to reach out to our Sales Manager Trish at 0499 500 406, and she’ll be happy to assist.

Rach

Quote of the Week: "Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success" (Henry Ford)

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With a wonderful long weekend holding space on our calendars this April, there’s truly no better way to spend the coming, long autumn days than enjoying the smorgasbord of free activities, locations and events on offer within our own backyards!

Burdekin Library’s All Day Drop-In
Ahead of the Easter long weekend mayhem, the Burdekin Library has designed an awesome program to keep your little bunnies busy and entertained these school holidays, from Monday the 7th of April right up until Friday the 18th of April.

In the first week, both the Home Hill and Ayr branches will host an enriching and explorative APT Kids on Tour all-day activity, where children can engage in hands-on digital and creative experiences until the day is done.

As the second week rolls around, both branches will host an all-day Craft Corner activity for all to enjoy until the Good Friday public holiday closure.

Bookings are essential for some of the Burdekin Library’s programs and can be made online at https://bit.ly/burdekinlibraryevents.

Catch the Action at Rugby Park
One of North Queensland’s largest junior rugby league football carnivals will roll into town over the weekend, with hundreds of young athletes set to put it all on the field from the 11th of April. With games scheduled across the weekend from sunrise to sunset, why not pack some snacks and head on down to Wickham Street’s Rugby Park to cheer on the Under-12 Burdekin Junior Roosters?

Create Your Own Easter Egg Hunt
With an abundance of gorgeous local parks to choose from, pop on over to www.visitburdekin.com.au to pick out a space that tickles your fancy and begin planning an egg-citing Easter egg hunt for the whole family to enjoy! From Ayr’s Plantation Park to Home Hill’s Arch Dunn Memorial Park, the Burdekin is truly your oyster.

Searching for something a little sandier? Alva Beach and Wunjunga Beach are calling your name – just be sure to slip, slop, slap!

Walk the Weekend Away
Grab the dog leads and lace up your joggers to explore the walking hotspots of the Burdekin this long weekend. Catch the gorgeous sunrise while you waltz along the shores of Alva Beach, hike your way up mighty Mount Inkerman, or stroll across the Burdekin Bridge Walk to kick off your weekend the right way.

As the afternoon rolls in and the temperatures cool, pop over to www.visitburdekin.com.au to download Burdekin Shire Council’s Burdekin Be Active Trail Map and close out your day with some extra steps.

Reel It In!
It’s no surprise that fishing enthusiasts travel from far and wide to visit the Burdekin’s creek systems and public boat ramps in search of a top catch – so why not try your luck this long weekend?

Pack a picnic and head to Barratta Creek, Ocean Creek, Plantation Creek, Hell Hole Boat Ramp, Groper Creek, Wallace Creek or Cromarty Boat Ramp for a day on or alongside the water, surrounded by friends, family, and of course, sunshine and good vibes.

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Plan an Easter Egg Hunt to remember at one of the Burdekin's wonderful parks or beaches
School holidays are the perfect time to cast a line and reel in some fun!
Anzac Park certainly deserves a visit this long weekend
Catch the sunrise at the top of Mount Inkerman to start your day the right way. Photos Sourced: Visit Burdekin

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Bendigo Bank officially welcomed Rural Bank customers to Australia’s most trusted bank today in a transition that provides a seamless and consistent experience for the Bank’s agribusiness customers. Bendigo Bank Agribusiness offers a bigger, better banking experience, fully backed by Bendigo Bank’s digital capability and services, along with an improved lending and product offering.

Bendigo Bank Agribusiness customers will feel even more at home with Australia-wide coverage from agribusiness specialists who truly understand their business, alongside the familiarity and reach of the nation’s second largest regional network of branches. 

Bendigo Bank Chief Customer Officer, Business Bank and Agribusiness, Adam Rowse said this important alignment means the Bank can now better meet evolving customer expectations to power a more adaptable, sustainable and productive future for Australian farmers. 

“For almost 25 years, Rural Bank has stood side by side with Australian farmers through every season, helping them stay on top of challenges and cultivate opportunities, while investing in the communities in which they live and work,” Mr Rowse said. 

“Bendigo Bank too, has a long, proud history of contributing to a better future for farmers and strengthening rural communities by feeding into prosperity - and it is with this unique blend of heart and heritage that we’re excited to formally introduce Bendigo Bank Agribusiness,” he said. 

Bendigo Bank Agribusiness will continue to share insights, industry-leading information, research and analysis so that farmers can stay up-to-date with the latest developments in agricultural commodity markets, exports, farmland values, business performance and other topical agricultural issues.   

“We know farmers want an agribusiness specialist who understands their business and with the ability and insights needed to meet the evolving needs of modern agriculture,” Mr Rowse said. 

“With more than 150 specialist bankers positioned to provide the personal service our customers have come to expect, we look forward to partnering with Australian farmers in an exciting new era for our Agribusiness division and to cementing our title as Australia’s most trusted agribusiness bank,” Mr Rowse concluded.  

The transition is part of the concluding stage of the Bank’s current six-year transformation program and will, by the end of 2025, see just two primary facing consumer brands, Bendigo Bank and Up, operating on a single, core banking system.

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By Amanda Wright

Calls to list a productive agricultural plant as a Weed of National Significance (WoNS) are "misinformed" and risk undermining a crucial feed source for Australia’s livestock industry, the National Farmers’ Federation has warned.

NFF Sustainable Development and Climate Change Committee Chair, Mr Angus Atkinson, said buffel grass was a key asset for grazing operations—carefully managed by producers for its resilience and value in supporting livestock.

“It is a high-yielding plant renowned for its resilience in arid regions," he said.

"It also provides significant environmental co-benefits, including land rehabilitation and erosion mitigation which is conveniently ignored by environmental groups."

Mr Atkinson said its members would much rather see it listed as a Feed of National Significance.

“WoNS status should only be reserved for where there is consensus for listing, national coordination or assistance for eradication. There is no consensus on buffel grass, farmers do not support this," he added.

“Farmers want to have a process for contentious plants, this needs to be different to a WoNS process which inadequately acknowledges the economic value of plants like buffel.”

Federal Member for Kennedy Bob Katter has also voiced strong opposition to the proposed listing of buffel grass (Cenchrus ciliaris) as a Weed of National Significance (WoNS), highlighting its vital role in Australia's beef industry, urging the government to abandon the proposed listing.

"Buffel grass wasn't brought here by accident – it was introduced because it's one of the best options we've got. It holds the soil together and keeps the cattle fed even during drought," Mr Katter explained.

Mr Katter stressed that a WoNS listing could impose legislative restrictions, mandate removal efforts, and initiate biological control research aimed at eradication. Such measures threaten one of Australia's most vital pasture species, which underpins the livelihoods of countless Aussie farmers and sustains production of beef that is essential for domestic and international food security.

"Buffel grass is essential to the northern cattle industry, and to label it as a weed would be counter-intuitive, turning all of the North into a weed-infested dust bowl," Mr Katter emphasised.

"Talk to any northern cattle farmer and they will tell you it is not just good cattle fed, buffel grass protects soil, cools the ground, sequesters carbon, and supports native fauna. Its deep-rooted resilience has dramatically improved rainwater efficiency and environmental sustainability across Australia.

"Buffel grass is not some noxious weed—it's an improved pasture grass. It holds the soil together, soaks up the rain, and has improved sustainability while reducing erosion," Mr Katter said.

"Meanwhile, terrible invasive species like lantana, prickly acacia, rubber vine, and feral cats and pigs, should be demanding our attention. Why on earth are we wasting our time even talking about this?"

AgForce Queensland Cattle President Lloyd Hick said, "This is not an isolated issue. It is part of a broader pattern of decisions being made without industry input, with disastrous consequences for agriculture and Australia.

"If the beef sector does not push back hard on this, it will be taken as a win and another critical pillar targeted next.

"Producers are increasingly frustrated as time and energy that should go into food production is spent pushing back against agenda-driven ideas and re-educating city-based decision makers who think they understand the land—but don't."

Shadow Minister for Northern Australia, Senator Susan McDonald also agreed, saying “Declaring buffel grass a weed would be catastrophic to graziers across Australia who rely on it for crucial fodder to keep their operations going.

“It also reduces erosion and dust storms.

“There is no justification for this move and I encourage everyone affected to make their thoughts known to the Federal Agriculture Minister, as I will be.”

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MP Bob Katter stands among cattle and buffel grass in North Queensland, backing farmers in the fight to protect the vital feed source from being listed as a Weed of National Significance. Photo supplied: Office of Hon Bob Katter MP

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It’s hard to believe that April is already here. It certainly doesn’t feel like it if you wander anywhere outside of air-conditioning.The council is currently deep in budget discussions. Hopefully, we can all agree on a sensible, customer-first budget.At the end of March, Council’s Economic Development staff organised a round table meeting at the Ayr Industrial Estate that gave manufacturers the chance to sit down with the Honourable Dale Last, Minister for Manufacturing. I was lucky enough to attend this meeting and would like to thank Eliza and the Economic Development staff for putting this together. The event was well attended and while we can’t solve all the industry's problems in a one-hour meeting, I believe some good things will come from it.Over the weekend, Sweet FM held their 25-year reunion dinner at the former Masonic Hall. It was great to hear some of the history of our local station. It’s always a good feeling when you see these volunteer run organisations continuing to provide great service to the community. Congratulations to everyone at Sweet FM.I would like to take this opportunity to inform you all that Pacific Blue’s 2025 Haughton Sustainable Community Fund is now open for applications until 5pm on Friday 9 May. Grants of up to $10,000 are available for eligible groups and organisations from a pool of $80,000. I encourage all eligible community groups to apply.Happy Easter to all!

It’s been a week of community spirit and celebration across the Shire.We were honoured to welcome Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeanette Young, Governor of Queensland, to our region. Her Excellency visited both Ayr and Home Hill hospitals and took the time to engage with local community groups over morning tea - a wonderful opportunity to showcase the passion and care that exists in our community.Our local radio station, Sweet FM 97.1, opened its doors for a fun and informative fête, giving residents a behind-the-scenes look at how radio magic happens. It was fantastic to see so many people curious about the inner workings of this important community voice.The Sweet FM 25th Anniversary Gala Dinner was a standout event - celebrating not just the years gone by but the spirit that continues to drive our region forward. I want to take a moment to recognise the early visionaries behind Sweet FM, former Mayor Beth Honeycombe and former Councillor Chris Hyden. From humble beginnings right here at Council, before relocating to Home Hill, their passion laid the foundation for the beautiful and vibrant service we enjoy today. Without pioneers like them - and the tireless volunteers who keep the station running - we wouldn’t have the joy of hearing our stories told in our own voices. Thank you to each and every one of you.Finally, a quick word of caution: please remember to empty out any containers, buckets, or anything else that can hold water around your home. These can become prime mosquito breeding grounds, and we want to keep our families and neighbours safe from mosquito-borne diseases.Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone on 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

Wonderful crops of happy sugarcane have well and truly begun sprouting across the region as Burdekin’s Sweetest School Competition continues to foster the shire’s next generation of farmers and agricultural enthusiasts.

Sponsored by Canegrowers Burdekin, the unique competition works to highlight the agricultural talents of both students and teachers within the area whilst fostering a strong sense of community spirit and collaboration. The friendly initiative also provides students with the opportunity to learn more about the world of agriculture whilst they nurture their own cane crop and Canegrowers Burdekin are passionate about sharing such valuable education with the next generation.

“The competition encourages schools to engage in hands-on learning experiences, promoting environmental awareness and a deeper understanding of the farming process,” shared Canegrowers Burdekin.

“Students get to witness the growth of sugarcane firsthand, from planting to harvesting, and develop a greater appreciation for the hard work and dedication required in agriculture.”

Industry experts will judge each of the school’s crops in May as part of the infamous Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival, and the triumphant school with the best plantation will be awarded $1,000 and a celebratory trophy.

Which school will come out on top!?

WHAT: Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival
WHERE: Home Hill Showgrounds
WHEN: 30th to the 31st of May
TICKETS: www.sweetdayshotnights.com.au

Canegrowers Burdekin Limited Director, Rian Swindley provided an overview of the Burdekin’s Sweetest School competition as part of February's launch (Photo Source: Burdekin's Sweetest School)

Burdekin Catholic High School have established an additional interschool competition for extra excitement (Photo Source: BCHS)

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Celebrating its 6th anniversary, the Burdekin Artisan Community Association’s Burdekin Rags to Runway event will ignite the region this July to spotlight some of the shire’s most talented seamstresses!

Burdekin Artisan Community Association’s President Sandi Milani and Secretary Desley Jackson cannot wait to launch 2025’s showcase.

“We have six categories this year including an exciting new addition of Budget Evening Wear,” explained Sandi.

“Budget Evening Wear was on the wish list of some of our previous year’s entrants and we feel this category will add to the audience’s enjoyment as well as push the entrants to be more innovative under budget while creating a stunning entry.”

The event debuted in 2019 in conjunction with the annually celebrated Home Hill Harvest Festival and then transformed into a standalone showcase raising valuable funds for the Burdekin Artisan Community Association’s member run Art Space located in Home Hill.

The showcase fosters sustainability and creativity through recycling pre-loved tablecloths, sheets, curtains, clothing, and miscellaneous items to craft something wearable and stylish. Entrants are encouraged to visit local op shops and rummage through their own cupboards to discover discarded gems in desperate need of a new lease on life and spin their internal wheel of creativity to craft something magical.

In runways of the past, fashions have spotlighted at Home Hill’s netball courts and Greek Hall where many members of the community gathered to appreciate the talents of the region, with all enjoying an evening of socialisation and rejuvenation.

Sandi and Desley are also excited to debut printed booklets for 2025’s Rags to Runway event to provide audiences with a glimpse into each entrant’s artistic process and how the “rags” were ultimately transformed into “runway”!

“Attendees will be able to see what each entrant started with plus their description of what their inspiration was and then they’ll have the finished outfit paraded in front of them,” added Sandi.

“We are looking forward to another successful event for 2025!”

All entries are to be finalised by the 30th of May and the pair invite those interested in registering to collect a form from the Art Space (170 Arts on the Avenue, Home Hill) or reach out via email; artipeople99@yahoo.com to learn more about entering the fantastic event.

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Entries are now open for the Burdekin Artisan Community Association’s Burdekin Rags to Runway!

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Burdekin Christian College (BCC) recently hosted a vibrant and engaging Harmony Week event, showcasing the talents and cultural awareness of their students. The celebrations included an impressive series of performances by the college's senior students, who danced in traditional styles from Fiji, Tonga, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. The performances were a highlight of the day, and the students' passion for sharing their heritage was evident in every step.

As part of their commitment to promoting inclusivity, these senior students also visited the early childhood classes, where they led the young learners in activities focused on respect and diversity. Through song, art, and dance, the students fostered an understanding of cultural appreciation among the younger members of the school community. The college is immensely proud of the leadership and role-modeling displayed by these exceptional students.

The celebrations continued with a creative and hands-on experience for the Junior School students, as the senior students dedicated their lunch hour to face painting. The Junior School children embraced the opportunity with enthusiasm, and the pride they felt in celebrating cultural diversity.

The Year 12 students played a key role in the event, taking charge of organising special cultural stalls designed to highlight various traditions from around the world. The stalls were met with great excitement from the younger students, who were eager to explore the displays and learn about different cultures. Special thanks were given to the parents and staff who contributed to the stall displays, further enhancing the learning experience.

A highlight of the day was the ‘Aussie BBQ’ hosted by the Year 12 students and their helpers. The group worked tirelessly to serve hundreds of sausages to the queue of students, accompanied by delicious lamingtons.The sea of orange across the school served as a powerful visual reminder of the college's core values of respect and courtesy for all cultures.

The celebrations also featured a variety of international dishes, thanks to the incredible efforts of BCC’s staff. With a diverse spread that included foods from India, Italy, Asia, Ireland, England, South Africa, and traditional Australian favourites, the ‘Taste of Harmony’ initiative was a true reflection of the college's commitment to embracing cultural diversity.

In every way, Harmony Day at Burdekin Christian College was a resounding success, thanks to the hard work and dedication of the students, staff, and community members. The college stated how they are incredibly proud of the spirit of inclusivity and respect demonstrated throughout the day, and looks forward to continuing to foster these values in the years to come.

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The value of agriculture in 2025-26 is expected to be the third highest on record at $91 billion.

Including fisheries and forestry, The Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) expects the sector to reach $98 billion, according to Executive Director Dr Jared Greenville.

“While this is slightly down on an exceptional 2024-25, particularly strong results are forecast for livestock and livestock products – expected to reach a new record value of $40 billion,” Dr Greenville said.

“Demand for red meat is reflected in both strong export volumes and rising export prices, which has led to the total value of meat exports expected to hit $22 billion this financial year.

“Agricultural exports are also looking healthy next year, with the value forecast to remain relatively steady at $72 billion – or $77 billion if we include fisheries and forestry.

“On the cropping front this year, national winter crop production is estimated to have increased to 59.8 million tonnes in 2024–25, 27% above the 10-year average and the third largest on record."

Dr Greenville said that summer crop production is predicted to fall slightly in 2024–25 but will remain 28 per cent above the 10-year average at 4.7 million tonnes.

“Conditions for winter crops were favourable across most of New South Wales and Queensland with timely rainfall in Western Australia," he said.

“Based on the back of these cropping trends, average farm financial performance is estimated to increase for broadacre farms.

“On average, national broadacre farm cash income is forecast to rise by $89,000 in 2024–25 from $124,000 to $213,000, mostly driven by higher livestock prices and greater crop production.

“Next financial year average farm incomes are expected to increase further, to $262,000 per farm as input costs ease and higher prices support both crop and livestock receipts."

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Sibby Saitta started his clothing business in Queen Street, Ayr 72 years ago in 1952. It commenced trade as a basic tailoring shop of which there were several in town at that time. Sibby tailored made-to-measure men’s suits, trousers and other basic apparel, all made from scratch.

As time passed, ready made clothing and fashions became more readily available, so the shop evolved into a retail outlet selling men’s fashions of the day. Work clothing soon became available from factories in Brisbane and Sydney. Women’s wear was introduced as well and at that point the stock was so vast it had outgrown the Queen Street premises. Put simply, the shop was too small to accommodate all this stock.

Almost 50 years ago, it was decided to purchase a shop in Graham Street to house the growing work clothing business. All the work clothing stock was transferred to this shop and the business was named Sibby’s Savers.

Corporate wear and western wear were added to the stock profile eventually.

The Sibby’s Savers Graham Street building was extended around 1990 to house Sibby’s suit hire business.

Although the suit hire business was closed many years ago, the Sibby’s Savers business continued to operate.

The end of an era has arrived with the sale of the Sibby’s Savers business to Kristy and Callan Oar. Previous owners, Rosemary and Mark Rickards wish them all the best with their new enterprise. The pair state that "Kristy has drive and enthusiasm, and she has a beautiful personality to boot, so the business is definitely in good hands." The store has been renamed to Wild East Western and Workwear.

Rosemary and Mark would like to thank their many valued customers for their patronage over the last 72 years and encourage them to continue supporting the new owners as the business will continue to operate with the same friendly and helpful service.

They would also like to thank their employees for their efforts during 72 years of business. Which they have stated are too many to name, however their efforts are truly appreciated.

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