Australia’s manufacturing sector is being steadily weakened under the Albanese Labor Government, not through a single bad decision, but through a pattern of failure. What we are seeing now is not economic management. It is crisis containment. Labor is applying band-aids to a bullet wound, and taxpayers are being handed the bill. The Government’s decision to bail out Tomago Aluminium is the latest example. This is the same Tomago Aluminium facility Anthony Albanese has been promising to protect for decades. Rather than delivering on those promises by fixing the underlying problem, affordable and reliable energy, Labor has chosen another bailout to paper over the consequences of its own policies. On 12 December 2025, the Prime Minister announced that Tomago Aluminium would continue operating beyond the end of its current energy contract in 2028. That is welcome news for workers, their families, and the Hunter region. But bailouts are not a solution. They are an admission of failure. This deal follows a disturbing pattern, as 2025 became the year of government bailouts. A $2.4 billion taxpayer rescue of Whyalla Steelworks. Then interventions in Hobart and Port Pirie. In Queensland, a bailout to keep Glencore’s copper smelting operations afloat, and now, Tomago in NSW. A pattern of failure across the country. Labor’s energy policy is now so broken that major manufacturers cannot survive without taxpayer life support. Under the Albanese Labor Government, power prices are up by around 40 per cent. Families are paying roughly $1,300 more on their annual electricity bills. Business investment is stalling. Manufacturing competitiveness is collapsing. And instead of fixing the root causes, high energy prices, punitive regulation, and policy uncertainty, Labor is asking taxpayers to underwrite failure. Corporate bailouts do not address these issues. They merely delay the reckoning. They are hospital passes that disguise Labor’s failure to confront its own terrible trifecta: soaring energy prices, high taxes, and rigid regulation. Labor’s broader economic mismanagement compounds the problem. Reckless federal spending has fuelled inflation, pushing up costs across the economy. For energy-intensive industries like manufacturing, that pressure is relentless. When even global multinationals are struggling to operate in Australia, the question must be asked: what chance do our small and medium-sized manufacturers have? Australia has already reduced emissions at almost double the rate of the developed world since 2005. Yet to meet Labor’s Net Zero 2050 target, emissions reductions would need to double again. Labor is setting targets it cannot realistically meet, at a cost Australia cannot afford. The result is exactly what we are seeing today: electricity prices spiralling upwards, businesses shutting down or moving offshore, and a nation increasingly reliant on taxpayer-funded bailouts delivered through opaque mechanisms like the National Reconstruction Fund and the so-called Future Made in Australia agenda. Australians deserve a cheaper, better and fairer solution. They deserve affordable power, responsible emissions reduction, and an energy policy grounded in reality, not ideology. The Coalition believes we can achieve emissions reduction without sacrificing competitiveness, jobs, or living standards; but affordable energy must come first. Our plan delivers a practical pathway to lower power prices, long-term energy security, and responsible environmental outcomes. Australians have been let down by this Government. What they need now is a circuit breaker on energy costs and leadership that fixes the system instead of subsidising its failure. That is what the Coalition offers, and that is what Australian manufacturing urgently needs.
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2025 now sitting fairly in our tailwinds, this week will see many of us have a chance to come together for the festive season. As the Member for Burdekin I have the privilege of witnessing the best of humanity in this community, especially at Christmas time. Each year we see residents take the time to donate to our local community organisations who provide hampers of non-perishable goods, toys for children or a hot meal to enjoy on Christmas Day. We also see the generosity of this community in the simple acts- the time we take to check in on our neighbours a smile or simple gesture of kindness to a stranger. It is this level of generosity that we must continue to strive for beyond the festive season. A year that started with much of our state facing significant flooding has brought with it challenges and opportunities for the betterment of our community. While our neighbours in the north bared much of the brunt of monsoonal rainfall in February, it is safe to say the Burdekin was not left unscathed. As flood waters receded and our community faced its own clean-up we saw businesses step up to prepare extra meals and provide essential services while our emergency services volunteers showed utmost dedication in our community’s darkest hours. Our ability as a community to advocate for better access to health, improvement of our safety or providing certainty for projects that matter to us has meant that in the Crisafulli Government’s first year the Ayr Hospital is looking forward to a new CT scanner, crime deterring measures are now in place in our CBD and major steps forward have been taken in the delivery of new facilities at Burdekin Netball. Before we turn the chapter to 2026 and begin the rush of a new year I hope you and your family have the chance to enjoy the festive season. Spend time with those you love and celebrate all that 2025 has had to offer while looking towards opportunities for the new year. If you are packing the car and heading off on a road trip please drive safely and remember the fatal five. With the festive season coinciding with the North’s severe weather season, it’s a timely reminder to ensure your home is prepared. My office will be closed from December 22 and will re-open January 5. Above all else, I’d like to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a very happy New Year. Yours Dale
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As we wrap up another big year, I’d like to take a moment to wish everyone in our community a safe and happy Christmas and New Year. This time of year is a wonderful opportunity to connect with family and friends, enjoy the festive season, and reflect on the achievements and challenges of the past twelve months. If you’re travelling over the holidays, please take extra care on the roads. Plan ahead, drive safely, and look out for one another so everyone can arrive home safely. The new year is just around the corner, bringing a fresh start and new opportunities. Whether you’re setting resolutions, starting new projects, or simply looking forward to a positive beginning, I hope 2026 is a year of growth, health, and success for you. Wishing everyone a joyful Christmas and a bright start to the new year. 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.
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The festive season has reached its peak in the Burdekin, with the Community Christmas Carols and the Burdekin Chamber Christmas Street Party lighting up the region as Christmas Day draws near. With carols ringing through the region and locals packing the streets of Ayr CBD, Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort says there's no place that does Christmas quite like the Burdekin. "Christmas in the Burdekin is unique because of its country spirit, [which] truly reflects the heart of our community," said Mayor Dalle Cort. "Our warm weather, strong community spirit and pride in our Burdekin create a festive season that is centred on connection, generosity and spending quality time with family, friends, and neighbours."
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Burdekin Tourism Volunteers were joined by Burdekin Shire Council to celebrate their Christmas party on Saturday, December 2.
Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin congratulated the volunteers on a terrific year.
“They have done an amazing job of promoting our region to over 13,000 visitors who came to the Burdekin Visitor Information Centres in Ayr and Home Hill this year,” she said.
“That's over 3,000 more than last year.
“Council also had the honour of recognising the volunteers who reached special milestones, especially Robin Blundell who has been with us as a volunteer for 26 years.”
Alongside Robin, Diane Oats was recognised for 10 years of service and Barry Hewson and Cally Olditch for five years.
If you are passionate about the Burdekin and want to join the Burdekin Tourism Volunteer team, get in touch with Council's Tourism Officer on (07) 4783 9800 or email tourism@burdekin.qld.gov.au.
Councillor John Furnell, Barry Hewson and Mayor Lyn McLaughlin
Councillor John Furnell, Cally Olditch, Mayor Lyn McLaughlin
Councillor John Furnell, Diane Oats, Mayor Lyn McLaughlin
Councillor John Furnell, Robin Blundell, Mayor Lyn McLaughlin
Photos supplied
The 2023 crushing season has wrapped up! It's definitely something I'm grateful for this holiday season. Having completed the 2022 crushing this year also, I believe I'm not alone in eagerly anticipating a well-deserved break. As the kids enjoy their time off from school and various industries wind down for the annual Christmas shutdown, many of us are gearing up to unwind and savour moments with our loved ones.
I’d like to congratulate everyone who worked hard in the sugar industry this year. From the mill workers to the harvester and haulout operators, to the farmers, you all did an amazing job in producing one of our most important crops. You deserve a round of applause and a well-earned break.
As we celebrate the festive season, let us not forget that not everyone is feeling merry and bright. I urge you to look out for each other this time of year, check in on your loved ones and see how they are doing. Offer a listening ear or a helping hand. Be compassionate and supportive. You never know how much difference you can make in someone's life.
Burdekin Shire Council recently hosted a mental wellness event, Kick Off the Conversation, where Ross Romeo and Wally Lewis spoke about their personal experiences with mental health. They shared their stories of overcoming adversity and finding hope, reminding us that we are not alone and that help is available. They encouraged everyone to seek professional help if needed it and to reach out to support networks.
As the year comes to an end, I want to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Be safe on the roads, water, and in all your adventures. Enjoy the holidays and cherish the moments with your loved ones.
Were you aware that the Burdekin Shire Council boasts a Parks and Gardens team whose responsibilities extend far beyond mowing grass?
This small dedicated team takes great pride in maintaining over 41 hectares of parks, playgrounds, streetscapes and greenspaces across the Burdekin Shire enhancing the beauty and serenity of the region. A combination of seven 5 Star and 1 Four Star destination parks offer residents a range of engaging playgrounds, skate ramps, half courts and barbeques for families with young children and teenagers to enjoy and spend quality family time hosting birthday parties and other special occasions.
Additionally, the team ensures that public conveniences in Giru, Alva, Brandon, Home Hill and Ayr remain tidy and welcoming for both residents and visitors. They also maintain the public conveniences located at various boat ramps across the shire to make a day on the water that little bit easier for boaties. Most recently you may have noticed members of the Parks team erecting the Christmas trees and decorations in both Ayr and Home Hill.
Not only do they manage parks and gardens, but the team also takes on the duty of overseeing operations at the Ayr and Home Hill Cemeteries and the Plantation Park Bush Chapel by watering, mowing and preparing for funeral services with utmost dignity and respect.
The Parks team consists of 24 staff members with a mix of different roles and specialist skills including flora identification and selection skills, herbicide application and irrigation installation and maintenance. They happily lend a hand to other departments when needed, especially Community Development for events such as the Christmas Carols and Harvest Festival whilst responding to customer service requests as quickly as possible.
Proudly dedicated to serving the Burdekin Shire community, the Parks team strives to create a better environment for everyone. Next time you see them working in one of the parks or facilities, be sure to give them a wave for taking great pride in presenting the community in 5 Star condition.
When Rose Papadimitriou was first employed by Campbell’s Jewellery in 1983, she embarked on a lifelong career with the business, developing its reputation for quality, experience and helping the people of the Burdekin celebrate their special memories. Campbell’s Jewellery was established in 1974, with Rose purchasing the business in 2013. 10 years on, she reflects on many wonderful highlights, from half price sales to VIP nights and Jewellery Roadshows.
Rose says one thing hasn’t changed over those years, and that’s the emotion involved in purchasing quality pieces of jewellery. Couples exchange jewellery to symbolise their eternal love and commitment. Significant life moments like a promotion, new job or graduation are celebrated with a watch or a diamond necklace. Campbell’s Jewellery have been providing the Burdekin with special mementos for generations; symbols of powerful stories, milestones, and occasions.
“This is what makes our job so rewarding,” Rose said. “That we can guide our customers to choose the perfect piece to make their lasting memory.”
Rose is backed by a talented and caring team, bringing a combination of decades of experience and new ideas to the business. Jane, Danae, Kate, Natasha, Ella, and Lacey are all equipped with the care and attention to detail to make your purchasing experience a special one, while inhouse jeweller Allan has worked with the business since 1993 and provides professional repairs, remakes, and replacements to local and visiting customers.
“Having such an experienced team makes my job that much easier and the fact that we can laugh between us is truly amazing,” Rose said. “I feel very lucky and privileged to have been able to work amongst absolutely beautiful jewellery with an amazing, dedicated team.”
Campbell’s Jewellery specialises in fine jewellery consisting of argyle pink, chocolate, and white diamonds as well as a new range of large stone lab-grown diamonds. They also offer an extensive range of watches for every occasion as well as jewellery boxes, crystals, clocks, and figurines – the perfect range of gifts for this Christmas.
As trends come and go, Campbell’s Jewellery pride themselves in stocking the latest modern styles while listening to their customers and sourcing the perfect piece for any occasion. Visit the store on Queen Street, Ayr to browse their extensive range and experience the warm customer service that makes Campbell’s Jewellery so special.
Jane Goodchild, Rose Papadimitriou, Natasha O’Shea, and Danae Fabbro of Campbell’s Jewellery
For over five decades, Liessmann & Sons has established itself as a stalwart of the Home Hill community, the distinctive yellow and green building a symbol of a business built on trust and dedication. Founded 53 years ago by the Liessmann family, the business has become a cornerstone of reliability and quality service in the Burdekin area.
With a team of 13 dedicated employees, Liessmann & Sons has left an indelible mark on the structural landscape of the Burdekin, contributing to the construction of vital establishments like the Home Hill Hospital, Memorial Hall, the aged care home and even Coles Supermarket in Ayr.
However, the journey has not been without its challenges. The struggle to secure materials has been a persistent obstacle since the pandemic, one that the company has navigated with resilience and adaptability. Despite the adversity, they've remained steadfast, serving as a testament to their unwavering dedication.
From general hardware to gas and plumbing, Liessmann & Sons’ diverse range of products and services provides Home Hill and the Burdekin with a one stop shop. But what truly sets Liessmann & Sons apart is their unwavering focus on customers. The business boasts customers that have been shopping with them for over 50 years and they believe that without their loyal clientele, from anywhere between Bowen and Giru, and as far away as Georgetown and Richmond, there would be no business at all.
The warmth exuded by their friendly staff and their willingness to go the extra mile for their customers shows their commitment to quality service. A visit to the Fourth Street shop guarantees not just top-notch service but also a dose of laughter thanks to their vibrant work culture.
The mantra “nothing is impossible” echoes through the business’s ethos. Their enduring legacy is not merely in the projects they’ve contributed to but in the relationships fostered and the community they've enriched.
Duncan, Uli and Colin of Liessmann & Sons
In the world of small business, there exist those rooted in heritage and built upon dedication; such is the case with Milburn Painting and Maintenance Services. Founded by Cheyne Milburn, the business carries a legacy from his father’s enterprise, Merv Milburn Painting, and has been flourishing since 2019 under Cheyne’s adept guidance.
Cheyne operates with an unwavering commitment to excellence, evident in the diverse services offered including plastering, sanding, painting walls, ceilings, railings, fixing trims, and skirting.
“I paint different styles of homes and businesses, meet new people in the community, and do repeat work for customers,” he said. “I use the knowledge I have gained over the ten years since working in the painting industry.”
The road to success isn’t without hurdles, as Cheyne candidly acknowledges. Challenges, from fluctuating weather conditions, unexpected price hikes in materials and deadlines, often test the mettle of any painter. Yet, it's in overcoming these challenges that Milburn Painting distinguishes itself. Dedication to deadlines, communication in times of unfortunate weather and a commitment to the quote agreed upon prove Cheyne’s unwavering enthusiasm for customer satisfaction.
“I want to give the best job I can provide to all my customers, he said. “As a sole trader, I work around deadlines and the weather and work to the best of my abilities.”
What truly sets Milburn Painting apart is not just the wealth of experience garnered from a family legacy spanning 50 years but also the unwavering commitment to quality.
“The job's primary focus is preparation, including cleaning, sanding, sweeping, and masking up,” Cheyne said. “The quality services I offer for customers include making sure the paint is of premium quality from Dulux or Taubmans.”
Beyond the brushes and paints, Cheyne’s appreciation for the support he’s received from the Burdekin can be felt in his approach to his work and his business.
“I want to thank the community for choosing Milburn Painting and Maintenance Services to paint their homes and businesses,” he said.
Milburn Painting stands as a testament to tradition, quality, and dedication; a portrait of craftsmanship and commitment painted with the brushes of heritage and passion.
Five years ago, two local brothers joined forces and combined their respective 25 years’ experience in the industry to become one of the Burdekin’s most trusted, professional, and skilled concreters.
Matt and Luke Fallon operate Fallon Constructions and also Fallon Constructions NQ, servicing areas from Ingham to Bowen and everywhere in between.
“We produce high quality concreting work in a range of finishes,” they said.
“From commercial to residential, encompassing all your residential and commercial shed slabs, pathways, driveways, carparks, stairs and more.”
Priding themselves on the perfect pour, the brothers understand how to provide the most appropriate type of concrete for you at your home or workplace.
Their fully licenced and experienced team are local specialists in plain, exposed, decorative stamped and coloured concrete.
“Whether you want to upgrade your driveway, build that shed you’ve always wanted, add pathways around your house/business or add car parking areas to your office, Fallon Constructions NQ is the team for you.”
While they are proud of every job they deliver, the Fallon Brothers said their most recent meaningful project was the Burdekin Aquatic Centre.
This local project stands as a testament to their commitment to the community and their dedication to delivering top-notch construction services.
“We constructed the concrete stairs and slab for the new kiosk - it was awesome to be part of this local project,” they said.
At the heart of the business is community and a love of supporting other local businesses.
Locally owned and operated business here in the Burdekin, Fallon Constructions NQ sources products and materials from other local businesses, locals supporting locals.
What sets Fallon Constructions NQ apart is their unwavering commitment to quality. Their time-efficient approach, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to tailor concreting options to meet clients' specific needs make them stand out in the field.
The work culture at Fallon Constructions NQ reflects their upbringing—professional, friendly, and hardworking. This culture has been cultivated over the years, shaping the business into a reliable and customer-focused enterprise.
L-R: Matt and Luke Fallon from Fallon Constructions NQ. Photo supplied
Over 70 guests joined Brandon State School on Friday, December 1 to celebrate the graduation of the Year 6 students for 2023.
Laughter, tears and memories were shared with families, students, staff and P&C.
“We farewelled our magnificent seven students, whom have achieved in all areas of schooling whilst at Brandon SS,” said Brandon State School Principal Rowan Coffey.
“We wish them the greatest of futures.”
On Wednesday, December 6, the school also hosted its Awards Night and Christmas Concert.
2023 Award Recipients
Contribution Award: Evie Cranston and Charlie McCarthy
Principal’s Award: Koa James
Encouragement Award: Emily Jarvis
All Rounder: Charlie McCarthy
Sportsperson of the Year: Sarina Chinfat
School Dux: Alexis Lindley
Graduating year 6 students Lillie Bradley Cliff, Charlie McCarthy, Sarina Chinfat, Emily Jarvis, Ms Margie O’Rourke, Koa James, Evie Cranston and Alexis Lindley
Evie Cranston , Lillie Bradley Cliff, Charlie McCarthy, Alexis Lindley, Koa James, Emily Jarvis, Sarina Chinfat cutting the cake
Photos supplied
Millaroo State School held a Community Day last Wednesday, December 6 to celebrate the end of the school year with students, special guests and parents.
“We invite everyone from the community, from Millaroo, Dalbeg and Clare, into our school to play games, have fun with the students and have a look at how good our school is,” said Principal Annette Wellington.
Students took part in games and cricket drills all morning thanks to Queensland Cricket before a visit from Santa had them enchanted.
Fruit was donated by Woolworths while the school’s P&C donated drinks, the sausage sizzle and presents.
Millaroo State School ranges from kindergarten to year 6 and offers playgroup every Friday.
The school had eight enrolments in 2023 and is taking nine students into 2024.
“We have lots of facilities here and cater for all students and all needs,” Ms Wellington said.
“We have a very supportive P&C.
“The kids usually get their tuck shop and food paid for, we give each of the students a healthy snack every day from Woolworths, all excursions and camps are paid for, the school supplies stationery so very little has to be paid for by the parents.
“It’s a small town and a small school, so there’s great one-on-one learning.”
Jacob Hoare, Carter Vardy, Member for Burdekin Dale Last, Harris Petersen, Lincoln Hoare , Chace Pyott, Delta Burrell, Myer Wyburg, Darcy, Morgan Burrell, Gillian Harris and Ty Pyott. Sitting L-R: Kim Christensen, Willoe Burrell, Clara, Santa, Chelsea Cavanagh, Remi Naughton, Lewis Naughton and Annette Wellington
Standing L-R: Annette Wellington and Anna Hoare. Sitting L-R: Gillian Harris, Santa and Kim Christensen
Photo credit: Sam Gillespie
Departing year 6 student Chace Pyott has continued a long tradition of Year 6 Projects by painting a mural on the back of the cubbyhouse at Millaroo State School.
“Every year, the year 6 students will leave something behind, and this is Chace’s tribute to the school for this year,” said Millaroo State School Principal Annette Wellington.
The painting depicts Chace and his friends on an adventure on which they went spear hunting, saw and followed wallaby and turkey tracks before retiring to their meeting place to sit around the fire.
“And the one on the top is all the Millaroo kids playing red rover at lunch,” he added.
Chace said he’s sad to be leaving the school, his Year 6 Project displaying his love for the school and the community.
“It’s really good here,” he said.
“Everyone’s friends and we do so much fun stuff like community days and excursions.”
The annual tradition provides year 6 students the opportunity to leave their mark as a tribute to the school.
“There’s lots around our school,” Ms Wellington
“Students can come back in the future and see how the school and the projects are growing, what has happened in our year six projects and who’s left what behind.
“It’s also really good for the new one’s coming in to see what they can do when they leave.”
Other year 6 projects include paintings, sculptures and mosaics, symbols left from students who cherished their time at this small school.
Millaroo State School Departing year 6 student Chace Pyott and Principal Annette Wellington
Jarvisfield State School's presentation day took place on Monday, December 4, incorporating the year 6 graduation, end of year awards and Christmas Concert.
Alfredo Vasta graduated from year 6 after starting prep at the school in 2017, the same year as the current school principal, Lisa Bello.
“Alfredo is a kind, caring and well liked student,” said Ms Bello.
“No matter where he goes, someone always has something nice to say about.
“Even though he will be the only year 6 child going into high school this year, he has many friends joining him at Ayr High.
“Small schools do a great job of ensuring strong friendships are fostered across schools prior to their transition into high school.”
Many awards were also presented to students for attendance, encouragement, sport, improvement and academic efforts.
In addition, the Super J award was awarded to Riley Trindle and Aaliyah Trembath for outstanding behaviour this year.
For the first time ever, the Shiradean George Cultural Award was presented to the most outstanding indigenous student across all areas of school.
Shiradean George was honoured to personally present this year's perpetual award to Kasey Trindle for outstanding academic performance, being a great sportsman, outstanding behaviour and good attendance.
Jarvisfield State School Principal Lisa Bello, Alfredo Vasta and Burdekin Shire Councillor Kayley Boccalatte
Riley Trindle and Aaliyah Trembath
Kasey Trindle and Shiradean George
Encouragement Award recipient Wil Bovenkirk
Academic Award recipient Clayton Crisp
Encouragement Award recipient Remmie Shultz
Academic Award recipients Kailey Rowe and Jorja Vasta
Improvement Award recipient Tane Sollitt
Gold Attendance Award recipients Jorja Vasta, Mika Bello, Holly McIntosh, Lachlan W, Harper Trembath, Logan Norris and Clayton Crisp
Photos supplied
The value of Australian agriculture production is forecast to fall as increasing global supply and drier conditions impact farmers.
Acting Executive Director of Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) David Galeano said the forecast for total agricultural production values in 2023–24 is $78 billion.
This is $16 billion lower than estimated production values for 2022–23 but would still be the third highest result on record.
“The gross value of production is forecast to fall in 2023–24 as drier conditions impact record-high crop production levels seen in 2022–23,” Mr Galeano said.
“In total, Australian crop production values are expected to fall by $12 billion in 2023–24. Livestock production values are also forecast to decline reflecting recent price falls.
“Falling production values and incomes are also linked to declining global prices that are reflective of higher global supply.
“The past 3 years agriculture has seen record-breaking crop production because of higher rainfall.
“As we enter the El Niño period, we expect to see the national crop production fall from these record highs.
“Crop prospects for winter crops over spring have been mixed, and planting of summer crops in 2023–24 is expected to fall, reflecting below-average rainfall and low soil moisture levels during the early planting window.
“Drier conditions and lower prices mean average broadacre farm cash incomes are forecast to fall strongly in 2023–24.
“However, the past 3 years of high incomes have allowed broadacre farms to build up liquid assets, which should help cushion the forecast downturn.”
The Agricultural Commodities Report contains ABARES forecasts for the value, volume and price of Australia's agricultural production and exports. Underpinning the forecasts contained in the Agricultural Commodities Report are ABARES outlook for global commodity prices, demand and supply.
300,000 doses of a vaccine against the serious cattle virus that causes lumpy skin disease (LSD) have been secured in an agreement that will help Australia prepare for potential future outbreaks.
LSD, which also affects buffalo, has been reported in Indonesia but Australia remains free of this devastating disease.
However, if the disease got a foothold here, quick access to and effective rollout of these vaccines will help keep Australian cattle and buffalo safe.
For now, the doses of the vaccine will be kept safe in a secure overseas location. They will also be made available for producers in our closest neighbours, Timor-Leste and Papua New Guinea, if required.
More information on what the government is doing to prepare, and what will happen if there is an outbreak, is available on the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry’s website.
Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry
Farmers and growers of the Burdekin received a visit from Water Minister Glenn Butcher last week, with Queensland Cane Agriculture & Renewables’ (QCAR) water committee securing time with the visiting Minister.
Mr Butcher, the Minister for Regional Development and Manufacturing and Minister for Water, met with the QCAR Burdekin Irrigators last Wednesday, December 6 to discuss the issue of rising groundwater as well as issues surrounding the supply and pricing of water in the region.
“It was a really good meeting,” said QCAR Manager Melissa Boulter.
“We discussed everything to do with Gladys Lagoon, the rising ground water, Sunwater, and basically all things water in the Burdekin River Irrigation Area.
“The Minister was very open and engaged with us.”
Mr Butcher said he is committed to visiting the Burdekin again before the end of the year to meet local irrigators and hear their rising groundwater concerns.
“I’m a big believer in getting out on the ground to see things firsthand and hear from local irrigators on their properties,” he said.
“It was great to talk with local irrigators and hear their concerns; and also their views on solutions moving forward.
“The visit was a good opportunity to see Sunwater’s Lower Burdekin Rising Groundwater Mitigation Project underway, thanks to $12.5 million funding from both the Australian and Queensland Governments.
“This is one of our state’s most important agriculture regions, so we need to work together to tackle this problem.
“Clearly, there needs to be off-farm and on-farm activities in place to tackle this challenge and I’m happy to work with irrigators and other stakeholders to advocate for further support for these works.
“I’m grateful for the generosity of growers who met with me to share their views on this important issue.”
QCAR Burdekin Irrigators is a branch of QCAR’s Board and associated grower support services, advocating for its members throughout Queensland.
The committee is headed by Chair Cy Kovacich alongside members Dean Sgroi and Peter Hall while Ms Boulter supports the committee.
It consists of experienced growers who have, at one point or another, been a Director of an organisation within the sugar and irrigators industries in the local area.
They bring with them a plethora of knowledge and support for our growers.
“We make sure our growers are getting the right services and support,” said Ms Boulter.
A major issue facing the growers of the Burdekin is the rising groundwater in parts of the Burdekin Haughton Water Supply Scheme, threatening the productivity and sustainability of agriculture in the Lower Burdekin region.
Sunwater is delivering the Lower Burdekin Rising Groundwater Mitigation Project alongside government, industry, customers and community to respond to rising groundwater in the Lower Burdekin.
Since 1932, Inkerman Lime & Gypsum has been passionately servicing the agriculture sector of the Burdekin and beyond. The business has always been locally owned and operated, with Robert, Joe and Rosetta Tama of Home Hill currently at the helm. Having lived in the Burdekin for almost half a century, the Tama family are no strangers to the region, its land and its people. With experience and interests in sugar cane, small crops, heavy produce, mangoes, broad acre crops and forestry, the Tama's have been aware of the benefits of lime and gypsum products and have used them extensively over the years. Developing a love for the product, the family took over the business and hope to share this same experience with their customers new and old.
Harvesting is over. The best way to maintain or increase productivity is to ensure your soil is of optimum health for ratooning and planting. Unless your soil is in good health, the full benefits of fertilisers will not be achieved.
Gypsum and lime have been used for more than 200 years as a soil amendment and fertilizer and, for various reasons, can substantially increase crop yields anywhere from 10 to 50 percent. Gypsum is a natural source of calcium sulfate and provides two of the most essential elements of plant life: calcium and sulfur. Regular use of gypsum is essential to the sustainability of most irrigated soils and has numerous advantages and benefits to the soil, the crop and the farmer.
Because of these benefits, it pays, not costs to use Inkerman Lime & Gypsum.
Inkerman Lime & Gypsum are suppliers and spreaders of Natural Earth Lime & Silica, Natural Winton Gypsum, Pulverised Lime, Natural Rock Phosphate and Dolomite. Using their decades of agricultural experience, the team can customise blends to suit your individual needs. They are now sourcing natural gypsum from a different mine site at Winton and, by virtue of it’s physical characteristics, it is much more soluble and readily available to soil and plants.
Inkerman Lime & Gypsum also provide a variety of spreading services with computerised direct drop augers, spinners, orchard spreader applicators and variable rate spreaders, all fitted with GPS navigational systems for a more accurate application. All vehicles have been fitted with the latest state-of-the-art computer technology for a perfect spread every time. They can deliver the product directly to you, frequently delivering to Proserpine, Bowen, Dalbeg, Millaroo, Giru, Townsville, Gumlu, Burdekin, Ayr and Home Hill.
Understanding the unpredictable nature of agriculture, Inkerman Lime & Gypsum has partnered with agPAY Crop Finance and DelayPay to provide its customers with flexible payment plans allowing you to purchase your inputs now and pay for them later or post-harvest.
Building on the varied benefits of natural gypsum, Inkerman Lime & Gypsum is proud to introduce a game-changing synthetic alternative, Top End Gypsum. Available exclusively through Inkerman Lime & Gypsum, Top End Gypsum is gypsum in its purest form and has been proven by leading labs to be much cleaner, faster and more readily available to plant growth than natural gypsum. Because of its very high analysis, less of the product is required for the same response, accelerating your plant growth, increasing productivity, saving you money and increasing your profits. Contact Robert and the team today to learn more about Top End Gypsum, secure your order and unlock your soil’s full potential.
When Home Hill celebrated its centenary in 2013, Inkerman Lime & Gypsum were recognised for their long term commitment to the Burdekin, highlighting the business’s role and positive work in the region. Money spent with Inkerman Lime & Gypsum stays in the Burdekin and, each year, the business injects millions of dollars into the local economy for goods and services and provides employment for many members of the community.
Inkerman Lime & Gypsum would like to wish the Burdekin a merry Christmas and looks forward to continuing this ground-breaking work in 2024!
37 Advantages To Using Gypsum
1. Gypsum improves soil structure
2. Gypsum helps reclaim sodic soils
3. Gypsum prevents crusting of soils and aids seed emergence
4. Gypsum improves low-solute irrigation water
5. Gypsum improves compacted soil
6. Gypsum makes slightly wet soils easier to till
7. Gypsum stops water runoff and erosion
8. Gypsum decreases pH of sodic soils
9. Gypsum increases the pH of acidic soils
10. Gypsum improves swelling clays
11. Gypsum prevents waterlogging of soil
12. Gypsum can help remove excess boron from sodic soil
13. Gypsum increases the stability of soil organic matter
14. Gypsum makes water-soluble polymer soil conditioners more effective
15. Gypsum makes excess magnesium non-toxic
16. Gypsum corrects subsoil acidity
17. Gypsum can enhance the values of liming
18. Gypsum improves water-use efficiency
19. Gypsum creates favourable soil EC
20. Gypsum makes it possible to efficiently use low quality irrigation water
21. Gypsum decreases dust erosion
22. Gypsum helps plants absorb plant nutrients
23. Gypsum decreases heavy-metal toxicity
24. Gypsum increases value of organics
25. Gypsum improves fruit quality & prevents some plant diseases
26. Gypsum is a source of sulfur
27. Gypsum helps prepare soil for no-till management
28. Gypsum decreases bulk density of soil
29. Gypsum decreases the toxic effect of NaCl salinity
30. Gypsum multiplies the value of other inputs
31. Gypsum can decrease pH of rhizosphere
32. Gypsum keeps clay off tuber and root crops
33. Gypsum decreases loss of fertiliser nitrogen in the air
34. Gypsum can be a source of oxygen for plants
35. Gypsum helps earthworms to flourish
36. Gypsum can increase water retention in soil
37. Gypsum can increase crop yields
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