Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
By Chelsea Ravizza What began as a passion project for Home Hill's Jonathan Caspanello has evolved into a successful fashion and lifestyle brand, with the 23-year-old entrepreneur crediting his regional upbringing for helping shape both the business and the person behind it. “It [Home Hill] was the kind of community where everyone got around each other, supported one another and celebrated each other's successes, and those values have stayed with me throughout my life and continue to influence both who I am and the way I approach business today,” he said. Since launching Caspa Collective at just 21-years-old, Jono has grown the label into a recognised brand with a strong social media presence, loyal customer base and a growing community of supporters. After moving to Brisbane to complete a Bachelor of Education (Primary) at Australian Catholic University, following in the footsteps of his mother, Kavette, Jono discovered a passion for fashion, branding and content creation while working as a teacher aide. “I’ve always enjoyed creating things. Whether it was ideas, projects or content, I liked bringing something from imagination into reality,” he said. His entrepreneurial journey began close to home, inspired by watching his father, Warren, build a successful business from the ground up. Combined with a fascination for social media and the ability of brands to connect with people through storytelling, design and culture, it sparked a desire to create something of his own. While Caspa Collective now operates primarily from Brisbane, the Burdekin remains at the heart of the brand's identity. Even its name carries a personal connection, with "Caspa" derived from Caspanello. “I wanted a name that reflected who I am, where I come from and the journey, I'm on. The word ‘Collective’ was equally important because the brand has never been just about me. It's about the people who support it, wear it, model it and help bring ideas to life.” Over the years, Jono has learned that building a successful clothing brand involves far more than designing apparel. Through a largely self-taught journey into entrepreneurship, he has developed skills across content creation, branding, social media, website development, manufacturer liaison and campaign production. “One of the biggest lessons I've learned is that consistency matters more than perfection,” Jono reflected. “When you're starting out, it's easy to think everything needs to be perfect before you launch something. The reality is that you learn by doing. Every collection, photoshoot, campaign and product release teaches you something new.” Another lesson has been the importance of building genuine connections. “People connect with stories, personalities and communities far more than they connect with products alone,” he said. That support network starts close to home, with his sisters Rylee, Elly and Deni, along with his father and extended family, all playing a role in helping the brand grow. “When you're building something from the ground up, it's often the people closest to you who become your biggest supporters. Their encouragement, willingness to help and belief in what I'm building have been invaluable,” he said. “Every person who wears a Caspa Collective piece, shares a post or recommends the brand to someone else contributes to its growth. That's why community remains at the heart of everything we do.” Looking to the future, Jono believes Caspa Collective is only just getting started. More than a clothing brand, it has become a reflection of his journey, his Burdekin upbringing and the community that helped shape him; a reminder that with hard work, persistence and a willingness to take a chance, even the simplest idea can evolve into something far greater. “If I could offer one piece of advice to other young people from regional communities who have an idea they're passionate about, it would be this: don't let where you come from limit what you believe is possible,” he said. “Growing up in a small town can sometimes make opportunities feel further away, but technology has changed that. Today, you can build a business, launch a brand and connect with people all over the world from almost anywhere. You don't need all the answers before you begin, and you certainly don't need everything to be perfect. “The biggest regret is often not trying at all. Start before you're ready, stay patient, keep learning and trust the process. Small steps taken consistently over time can create opportunities you never imagined possible.” CAPTION: Jono Caspanello and his father, Warren Caspanello. Photo supplied
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It is show season and we should start seeing it all come together over the next week as the party comes to town. The show society has been doing a great job over the years and each year they seem to find a way to keep it fresh and entertaining. Whilst my boys are all grown up and not making me buy show bags anymore. We do still like to go along and check it out. The water festival had its launch last Friday and I’m told it was a great night. Wonderful to see so many entrants participating and getting involved. I look forward to many months of activities and fun things to do. I got myself down to groper creek briefly last week and it was great to see all the nomads in town and set up to enjoy our beautiful weather. The area looked absolutely spectacular and I can see why so many regulars come back every year. Welcome back and thanks for coming to join us again. The crushing is underway and this a timely reminder to use your train brain. I spoke to one farmer this week who got a bit closer to a cane fire than he liked, so I’ll take this opportunity to remind all of us in the industry to where your PPE and take care. It’s very easy to get complacent, especially when everyone is in a rush. Take care everyone.
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Supplied by the Office of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox Tax, the three-letter word Labor loves most, goes hand in hand with the other three-letter word Labor does best—lie. It would be mission impossible to count the number of times the Prime Minister, the Treasurer and senior Labor ministers promised there would be “no changes” to Capital Gains Tax or negative gearing. They said ‘no changes’ before the election, after the election and even earlier this year. Literally hundreds of times, they gave Australians the same assurance. Repeatedly challenged by the media, they doubled down every single time. Then, on Budget night, only a few weeks ago, the government announced that the changes would be brought in. These tax changes are not “intergenerational fairness”. They are nothing more than a tax grab designed to fund Labor’s wasteful spending and economic incompetence. And the people who will pay the highest price are young Australians with aspiration. Under Labor’s changes, existing investments will be grandfathered. Those already in the market keep the current rules, while younger Australians looking to build wealth through investment face higher taxes and fewer opportunities. A young couple hoping to invest in a rental property will no longer receive the same negative gearing benefits. A young worker wanting to build a share portfolio, trade crypto, or invest in a small business will face a higher Capital Gains Tax burden than previous generations. Labor claims to stand for fairness, but there is nothing fair about pulling the ladder up behind you. Taxing aspiration is profoundly un-Australian. The economic consequences will also be severe. Labor itself admits these changes will place upward pressure on rents, although it claims the impact will only be around $2 a week. This is the same government that promised households would be $275 better off on their power bills. So, if the government’s own modelling is pointing to increased costs, the reality will be a disaster for renters. With interest rates again marching north and home ownership becoming harder, more Australians, especially younger Australians, are relying on the rental market. Yet Labor is actively discouraging property investment. The economics are simple. Fewer investors mean fewer rental properties, tighter vacancy rates and higher rents. That hurts every Australian renter. These changes will also discourage people from moving investment capital into more productive opportunities. Investors who remain under the existing rules will be reluctant to sell assets because any new investment will fall under Labor’s new tax regime. Flipping houses will become a thing of the past, meaning less stock returning to the market for prospective homeowners. Instead of encouraging economic activity and investment, Labor is creating uncertainty and stagnation. The Coalition opposes these damaging new taxes and will repeal them in government. Australia should be a country that rewards hard work, encourages investment and supports aspiration, not one that punishes people for trying to get ahead and set up their future. Stop the lies – Reverse the Tax. CAPTION: “It would be mission impossible to count the number of times the Prime Minister, the Treasurer and senior Labor ministers promised there would be “no changes” to Capital Gains Tax or negative gearing.” Photo source: Website/Andrew Willcox MP
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Burdekin Shire Council has handed down a $106.9 million budget for 2026/27, introducing a 1.5 per cent general rate rise to fund major upgrades to roads, drainage, and water infrastructure. The “Sustainable Growth, Security Tomorrow” budget allocates $36.2 million for capital works and $70.7 million for operational activities. While waste services rates will remain steady, residents face a 3 per cent increase in water access charges and a 6 per cent hike in sewerage charges to fund the ongoing delivery of high-quality services. Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the budget adopts a practical, forward-looking approach that balances financial pressures on households with the need to maintain essential services. “Sustainable Growth, Security Tomorrow is about investing in the infrastructure our community needs now while preparing for the future,” Mayor Dalle Cort said. “We understand the financial pressures many households are facing, and this Budget has been carefully planned to balance those pressures with the need to continue delivering essential services.” More than $24.6 million will flow directly into the region's transport and flood mitigation networks. Key projects include a $5 million road and kerb reconstruction at the Ayr Industrial Estate, a $2.8 million upgrade to Upper Haughton Road, and a $1.15 million sealing project on Thompson Road. The drainage network will also receive a major boost in the form of $3.6 million Ayr Town Drain improvements and a $1.6 million drainage upgrade at Wickham Street Anzac Park. Mayor Dalle Cort said strengthening these networks is critical to the local economy and agricultural productivity. “Our road and drainage networks are essential to the functioning of our community and economy,” she said. “This year’s program focuses on strengthening infrastructure, improving flood resilience and supporting future growth across the Shire, while also supporting local industry and agricultural productivity through improved access and freight reliability.” Essential water and sewer services comprise another major pillar of the budget. Council has allocated $1.96 million specifically for sewerage infrastructure upgrades alongside significant drinking water investments. Major water utility projects include the $1.5 million South Ayr Water Treatment upgrade, a $1.2 million pipeline augmentation in Home Hill, and a $1 million sewer relining and manhole rehabilitation project. “While often out of sight, these services play a vital role in our community, from supporting public health to protecting the environment and ensuring everything runs safely and reliably,” Mayor Dalle Cort said. Community liveability and lifestyle projects will progress under the budget, backed by state and federal funding programs. Notable allocations include $1.2 million for the Home Hill Swimming Pool upgrades, $500,000 for the Burdekin Be-Active Trail, and $440,000 for the Plantation Park Nature Based Play Area carpark. CAPTION: Burdekin Shire Councillors John Furnell (back-left), Max Musumeci (back-centre), Callan Oar (back-right), Fina Vasta (front-left) and Michael Detenon (front-right) with Mayor Dalle Cort (front-centre) at the conclusion of the 2026/27 budget meeting. Missing: Councillor Amanda Hall. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
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At 9:30am on Wednesday April 10, at the Ayr Branch of the Burdekin Library, six Burdekin writers got ready to share their words with the public. After a brief introduction and Welcome to Country, the writers presented poems and stories. From tales of troubled teens, to glowing babies, from the torments of green frogs to a Bigfoot in need of a little help, from Antarctica to Alva beach, the stories took us far from the Burdekin and our lives, and then brought us right back home.
The Burdekin Creative Writers Anthology is available to read in the local history section, or there is one copy available to borrow from the Ayr branch of the Burdekin Library. In the future there will be a copy available at the Home Hill Branch.
Both the Burdekin Creative Writers and Night Writers groups would like to thank the Burdekin Library for hosting this event, and we look forward to the planned Showcase at the Home Hill Branch on Wednesday July 12 at 10:30am.
Contributed by Tracy Liotis
Back row L-R: Frank White, Tracy Liotis, Megan Hippler and George Venables. Front row L-R: Anne McCubben, Margaret Giffard and Joanna
Rehoming fee: $545
DOB: 28/12/2023
Sex: Female
Breed: Bullmastiff x Australian Cattle dog
Kid friendly: Yes
Cat Friendly: Yes
Other dogs: Yes
Fences: 6ft
Lolly is a beautiful girl looking for her forever home. She loves to fetch the ball, play and give lots of cuddles. Lolly is great with kids and other dogs, big and small.
Lolly is going to a big girl and she will benefit from lots of walks and playtime. But she also has the potential to be a couch potato if given the chance .
Lolly is available for adoption desexed, micro-chipped, up to date vaccinations, flea/tick/intestinal worm treated and on heartworm preventative.
If you’re interested in meeting Lolly please complete an animal enquiry form at https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html.
There are often typical circumstances which occur prior to a home being unlawfully entered. An offender will usually act on easy or tempting opportunities, especially when it is evident no one is home or the risk of being caught is low.
What you can do:
• Ensure doors are always locked with a key, even when you are home.
• Ensure that all external doors, including your garage, of your home are solid and fitted with quality deadlocks.
• Consider fitting security screen doors, designed and installed to Australian Standards.
• Install a door viewer that allows you to see the person before you open the door.
• Fit secure locks to your windows which meet Australian Standards and never leave the keys in the window lock.
• Ensure security grills and shutters are properly installed and allow an exit in case of an emergency.
• Consider installing an intruder alarm system and security camera system that covers all external doors, windows and garage. Ensure the system is installed to Australian Standards for domestic applications.
• Always ensure car keys and house keys, together with mobile phones, handbags and wallets, are stored out of sight and not on the kitchen table or bench.
• Ensure trees and shrubs are trimmed to allow visibility to your property and your house number is clearly visible.
• Lock away items of value such as bikes, lawn mowers and garden implements such as ladders. Always keep your garage or shed door closed and locked with a key.
• Consider installing perimeter security lighting including sensor lights.
• Have an emergency evacuation plan and review it regularly.
• Don’t keep car keys or cash in cars.
Queensland Police encourage you to conduct regular audits of your home security. Check out the following:
• Security doors in good working order with triple locks and finger guards installed.
• Main doors are solid and patio bolts installed on sliding doors.
• Windows have key operated locks.
• Home is well-lit with sensor lighting installed to deter intruders from entering the home.
• Keep an up to date inventory list recording serial numbers, makes, models and descriptions of your property.
• Wheelie bins secured in a location which prevents an intruder using them to climb into your home.
• Valuable items outside the home secured in a garage or shed.
Don’t let yourself become a victim of crime – Lock it or Lose it.
Snr Sgt Steve Barton
OIC AYR
Bowen Orbital Space Port was officially opened at the start of the month, with dignitaries gathered to mark this significant moment in space industry history.
With final approvals and permits pending, Gilmour Space Technologies are closer than ever to an official launch date which will see this Queensland-based company become the first in Australia to launch a spacecraft.
Bowen is now one of only three dedicated launch sites globally, chosen for its precise location, 20 degrees south of the equator, ideal for quick efficient transport to space.
It’s been an incredible ride for the Gilmour brothers, James and Adam who have, over the last 10 years, propelled their grassroots Gold Coast based company into the largest space tech company in Australia, now valued at $605 million.
“It is a matter of great satisfaction that within a relatively short space of time, starting out with less than a dozen people, we have now become the largest tech company in the country with 194 employees,” said James Gilmour.
“We are on the eve of making Australian history at the Bowen Orbital Space Port!”
Gilmour Space Technologies constructed its 23 metre long, 35 tonnes rocket named Eris in the Gold Coast and it has since been brought up to Bowen where it is being assembled.
From April 29, the Bowen site will be ready for the launch, pending final permits and last-minute testing.
The next significant milestone will be when the rocket is turned into a vertical position which is a symbolically exciting moment for the team.
“We have for so long asked people to imagine what it will look like, now they will actually be able to see it which will bring home the significance and importance if what we’re actually trying to do here,” said James Gilmour.
It is expected that Eris will be launched into low-orbit within the next two months, its ‘payload’ a GS satellite which will fast track enhanced technology road maps.
Gilmour Space Technologies is working with the Australian Defence Force and Space Machines Australia as investors of the initial launch.
Considered to be the Fed-Ex of space transport, the rocket is designed to transport items into space and while it is only a one-way trip for Eris, there is already a second rocket in construction called 002 which is expected to be completed in six to nine months.
Our Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox MP, has been a huge supporter of this project since he first worked with the Gilmour brothers in the planning stages when he was Mayor of the Whitsunday Regional Council.
Since then, he has stayed connected and been a great advocate, eagerly awaiting the big day when Bowen will become the site of the first rocket launch in the country.
“This is good for my electorate and great for Australia!” said Mr Willcox.
“I’ve been down to their head office and witnessed their tech first-hand – it’s incredible! They’ve invented a propulsion system which is world leading and now there is a whole industry being created here that offers technical, higher paid jobs, which is a real boost for the community.”
Investing in both the community and the Whitsunday way of life, James Gilmour is in the process of moving to Bowen and looks forward to continuing to build his team in the region.
“At the moment we have between eight and 10 employees based locally and we are looking to increase that by the end of the year,” he explained.
“We are focussed on the intention to work with the community and want local businesses to grow with us. So far, we have injected $10 million into the community and have worked with many local manufacturers. We’ve also developed supply chains and have ongoing operations within the region.”
Another central part of the Gilmour brothers’ ethos is connecting the country with the sky and since the company’s inception they have worked closely with the local Juru Traditional Landowners.
“The site has its foundation on the land of the Juru people and acknowledging this has been fundamentally important since day one,” said Mr Gilmour.
“We don’t want to be remembered for our words but for our deeds.”
With the launch set to take place within the coming months, community members will be able to witness the moment firsthand from several local vantage points in Bowen.
These include Flagstaff Hill, Queens Beach and Greys Bay.
“Safety is a top priority during a launch campaign,” explained Mr Gilmour.
“We’re going to have safety zones in place during the launch and public information will soon be available on our website with viewing locations and safety guides.”
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor-elect Ry Collins, James and Adam Gilmour Directors of Gilmour Space Technologies, Deputy Premier Cameron Dick and Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP. Photo supplied
By Chelsea Ravizza
Thursday, April 4 saw the 35-year anniversary of cyclone Aivu crossing the North Queensland coast, leaving a devasting trail of destruction in Townsville, the Burdekin, and Bowen.
The 1989 severe, late-season tropical cyclone hit the Burdekin coastline, making landfall in Home Hill around 10:30am on April 4, causing over $150 million in damages, and tragically claiming three lives.
35 years on from the tragic event, the Burdekin still remembers the heartache and the destruction Aivu inflicted on the region. Areas of the Burdekin were left with no electricity, communications, or water for just over a week, and many homes were stripped of their walls, verandahs, roofs, and fences.
Jenny Powell was working her shift at the Home Hill Hospital the day cyclone Aivu made landfall, an event she remembers as extremely unpredictable, and nothing short of daunting.
“We didn’t know how the building would hold up, and we knew we couldn’t leave our patients in their rooms because of the large sliding windows,” explained Jenny.
“Most of them could not walk, so we were wheeling them around on beds and wheelchairs to Outpatient procedure rooms.”
Barely managing under the circumstances, Jenny recalls the worst moments came after the power was lost, and the generators failed.
“We had one of our elderly ladies say to me, ‘sister, I’ve got a hurricane lamp down at home if you want to get it,’ and I was a bit stressed, but I said, ‘you think I’m walking outside in this weather just to get a hurricane lamp?!’”
Locals described witnessing trees falling as if they were matchsticks, and roofs flying like sheets of paper as the sky filled with debris moving at the speed of light, and as the eye finally arrived, the Home Hill Hospital was immediately inundated with casualties.
“Our gutters were hanging off the courtyard buildings, and we were so worried they’d become flying missiles that we hadn’t even been thinking about all the casualties about to come in,” recalls Jenny.
“One man had even fallen off a roof, and he had to be transported to Townsville, it was quite a time.”
As well as the devastation, locals reminisce on the community rallying together, with the aid of the Australian Army forces and the SES to lift spirts through neighborhood barbeques and candle lit card games amidst the cleanup.
Cyclone Aivu still stands as one of the region’s largest, and most devastating natural disasters, with locals reminiscing on the unforgettable loss and heartache each anniversary. Even 35 years on from the tragedy, many locals look back on the event and say they cannot believe it was that long ago.
A sea of yellow will soon be streaming down Plantation Creek as the 2024 Norm Perry Memorial Duck Race approaches.
The annual fundraising event held by the Rotary Club of Ayr will return to Plantation Park on Sunday, May 19 where the community will gather to watch hundreds of ducks race to the finish line.
There are thousands of dollars on the line for the owners of the winning ducks, but the event is all held for a good cause, being one of the club’s top fundraisers every year.
This year, funds raised will go towards Burdekin Combined Chaplaincy (BCC) and Burdekin Community Association (BCA).
“Fundraising is critical for us because times are pretty tough and we have organisations, especially like BCC and BCA, that need as much support as they can get, so we try and spread ourselves as much as possible,” said Rotary Volunteer and Event Organiser John McVeigh.
“For the size of our club, we match any club in Townsville with what we do, and we try as much as possible to put the money back into our community.”
But first, the Rotary Club of Ayr are inviting the community to purchase their lucky ducks and be in it to win it.
Purchasing a duck will ensure that you’re in the running for the thousands of dollars’ worth of prizes up for grabs on the day, with the owner of the first duck to cross the finish line to be rewarded with $1,000 cash, $750 up for grabs for the second, $500 for the third, $300 for the fourth and $200 for the fifth duck across the line.
“We have a crane empty this crate full of ducks into the water and, because it’s not a straightforward creek with nice clean banks, there’s weed and whatever, so what the ducks do is totally random,” said John.
There are five $50 lucky duck draw prizes available as well as prizes for the best decorated duck and the best duck outfit worn on the day.
Ducks are on sale for $50 each and if punters buy three ducks, they’ll get a fourth duck for free.
Raffle tickets are also on sale for $5 each to go into the running for a firepit built by Rotary member Mike Blakey.
The race day will also feature entertainment from the Burdekin Brass Band as well as a colouring in competition, novelty races and presentations.
Ducks are available for purchase from today, Thursday, April 18 from Ayr Rotary members, Burdekin Cleaners and Laundry and market and street stalls across the Burdekin.
To find out more, visit Rotary Club of Ayr on Facebook or contact John McVeigh on 0409 321 418.
Rotarian Narelle Hibberd and Norm Perry, who was known as the most prolific duck salesman of the club and the Duck Race is now named after
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The NQ Fast Track Talent Showcase is known for providing opportunities to regional performers and the 2024 event has done just that for one talented 10-year-old.
Lucas Smith performed at the Showcase held at the Burdekin Theatre on Saturday, March 16 and won the Fast Track to Fame Prize, the biggest and most exclusive prize offered to date.
Sponsored by Yoyo Music, Burdekin Shire Council and Burdekin Shire Youth Council, the prize offered Lucas the opportunity to travel and stay in Melbourne to perform live at the Royal Children's Hospital Good Friday Appeal held on March 29.
As part of the experience, Lucas and his family got to go behind the scenes of NEP Studios, where the Good Friday Appeal was filmed, including seeing the camera operators, TV producers, artists and hosts at work.
Lucas even had the opportunity to meet some of his idols including Australian Idol contestant Ivana Ilic and TikTok and The Voice star Sean Millis.
“It was amazing to watch the artists do their sound checks,” he said.
“My favourite part of the morning was getting to meet some of the celebrity artists, like Sean Millis from The Voice and Ivana Ilic from Australian Idol!
“They were all so nice to me!
“I even got to sing for Ivana!”
Lucas and his family then went to the Melbourne Convention Centre where he had the opportunity to perform three songs on stage at The Kids Day Out in front of thousands of people.
“I was so nervous, but it was lots of fun,” he said.
“I learned that the music industry can be a lot of hard work, but if you give it your best, you can achieve great things and have so much fun.
“It was really cool to see the artists interacting with their managers and all the behind-the-scenes production and camera work in the studio.”
With this once in a lifetime opportunity coming off the back of his incredible Fast Track performance, Lucas said others wanting to participate in the Showcase should “just give it a go”.
“It's a great opportunity to showcase your talent, meet new people and have fun!”
Lucas Smith performed in Melbourne after winning the Fast Track to Fame Prize at the NQ Fast Track Talent Showcase in Ayr. Photo supplied
Did you know that Burdekin Community Association Inc (BCA) can help you with Transport Services locally and to/from Townsville?
You can access shops, cafes, libraries, attend events or medical appointments, visit family and friends etc. Our bus drivers and Support Workers are very friendly and helpful.
Transport services can be provided to people eligible under a government funded program and also if they are not and we have seats available.
We have two buses with wheelchair access as well as other cars. Transport is available Monday to Friday during office hours at very affordable rates. We pick up/drop off door to door in Ayr, Home Hill, Brandon and Giru.
When time allows, passengers can go to up to three stops for the one fare. For passengers living in outlying areas, we pick up at a central point in Ayr, Home Hill, Brandon and Giru or at an otherwise agreed location.
Please call BCA on 4783 3744, visit the Support Centre at 130 Queen Street, Ayr or refer to our website www.burdekincommunityassociation.org.au for details.
At the Neighbourhood Centre, we love providing opportunities for the community to come together to increase their knowledge about various topics and, in turn, inform others about different supports and services available.
We will be offering several community information sessions over the next few weeks. Please call the centre on 47834243 for more information and to register your attendance.
VISITING SERVICE CENTRELINK
Friday, April 19 2024 9am – 11am
Home Care and Aged Care Information Session to help you understand:
• Aged Care Specialist Officer’s Role
• Commonwealth Home Support Program
• Home Care Packages and Fees and Charges
• Aged Care Fees and Charges
DEMENTIA AUSTRALIA
Tuesday, April 23 2024 10am – 12pm (online presentation)
Understanding Changes in Behaviour suitable for Family Carers and family members of people living with dementia.
• Provides an introduction to dementia and changes to the brain, effects on behaviour and the impacts of changed behaviour.
• Introduce problem-solving models, including strategies to minimise and respond to changed behaviour.
Queensland Retirement Village & Parks Advisory Service (QRVPAS)
Thursday, May 16 2024 1.30pm – 3.00pm
Retirement Living Options – This seminar is more general in nature and is designed for people considering where they would like to live in retirement. It canvases a range of different options, including both manufactured home parks and retirement villages, summarising the relevant laws, setting out the benefits of each option and pointing out potential pitfalls or things to consider for each option.
We are excited to let you all know that Self Care & Mental Wellness sessions with CoRES Ross Romeo will be offered monthly from the Centre. Keep your eyes out on our Facebook page for dates!
Anzac Day is nearly upon us, the Centre’s Crochet Group ladies have crocheted poppies available from the Centre or from Selections. The poppies can be worn as badges, used in craft projects i.e. wreaths etc.
The money raised from purchases will be donated to the Burdekin Legacy.
The Team
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre
Did you know that the Burdekin Shire Council offers a variety of opportunities for businesses to work with them?
Whether you want to buy or sell goods and services, lease or develop land, or access smart water advice, Council has a dedicated webpage for doing business with them. The procurement process is the way the Council purchases and sells goods and services in accordance with the Local Government Regulation 2012. You can find information on expressions of interest, quotations, tenders, items for sale, procurement process conditions, standard terms and conditions and more.
You can also register your business through the online marketplace VendorPanel. VendorPanel is an online marketplace that allows you to register your business and receive notifications of relevant opportunities from the Council.
For more information on how you can do business with Council visit Burdekin.qld.gov.au.
In a bid to enhance their impact in the community and further their mission of empowering women and girls, Zonta Club Burdekin Inc applied for the Bendigo Bank Community Grant – and emerged victorious. The $11,000 grant received in 2023 has significantly bolstered the club's ability to carry out various projects and initiatives aimed at uplifting the Burdekin community.
President of Zonta Club Burdekin Inc, Judy Sgarbossa, expressed her gratitude towards Bendigo Bank, stating, “Our club members were 'over the moon' to receive such wonderful support from Bendigo Bank.
“The Grant has allowed our club more resources to do things professionally and provide support in additional areas of community need,” she said.
Zonta International was founded on November 8, 1919 and supports international service projects that seek to improve the legal, political, economic, educational, health and professional status of women around the world. Meanwhile, Zonta Club Burdekin Inc celebrates its 30th Birthday in May this year, with two of the club’s Foundation members, Mary Anne Fraser and Robyn Haller, still active club members today. Most of the organisation’s 22 current members have in excess of ten years of service and come from various career backgrounds.
The grant has facilitated the club's endeavours in numerous ways, allowing them to provide top-quality resources to the community. Notably, funds were allocated towards purchasing materials for breast cushion and drainage bag packages, purchasing birthing kits for developing countries, enhancing the value of STEM and Citizenship Awards for Burdekin school students, providing hygiene packs to disadvantaged groups, and assisting with the costs of their International Women’s Day function.
Reflecting on the role of Bendigo Bank Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr branches in the Burdekin community, Judy noted their vital contribution in providing localised, quality service to customers and supporting community needs without requiring residents to travel to larger cities. She underscored the importance of Community Grants in fostering collaboration and enabling not-for-profit organizations like Zonta Club Burdekin Inc to realise their visions for a better community.
“The Community Grants are distributed to various Not for Profit Organisations within the Burdekin community who make a Grant application, which, if successful, supports their future vision and as a result, benefits the local community,” Judith said. “Our club recognises that the opportunity to secure a Bendigo Bank Community Grant allows us to develop, expand, ‘do sooner’, or more professionally, some of our community planned projects and meet some of our club’s goals. The Zonta Club Burdekin Inc also acknowledges that as part of the Grant application, we are forming a valuable partnership with Bendigo Bank.”
As Zonta Club Burdekin Inc. celebrates its successes, they extend a warm invitation to individuals interested in contributing to their cause. For those interested in joining or learning more about Zonta Club Burdekin Inc, inquiries can be directed to bknzonta@gmail.com.
Zonta Club Burdekin Inc works with other community organisations to support international service projects that seek to improve the legal, political, economic, educational, health and professional status of women around the world
Anne Williams and her family have been the warm, friendly faces behind the counter of Tosh’s Convenience Store for just under a decade. Tosh’s has stood as the Burdekin’s go to for a loaf of bread on Sunday to family burger night for over 50 years, and Anne, her husband Neil and their family are extremely proud of all they have achieved for both the business and the community.
On Monday April 15, Tosh’s Convenience Store officially came under new management and Anne, Neil, their daughter Hayley, and daughter-in-law Shontay look back on their time in the business fondly as they close this chapter.
The family took over the business just under a decade ago when Anne was looking for a career change from her time as midwife at the Ayr Hospital.
“Anne wanted a bit of a change, and then one day she was just walking past Tosh’s and noticed the sign here,” recalled Neil.
“She mentioned it to me, and so I went down to the real estate, and it was ours within three months.”
Hayley and Shontay managed the business for the first two years of operations until Anne left her nursing role after 40 years to take over management. In 2022, Neil officially retired from the building industry and assisted the women of the business in running and managing Tosh’s. Today, the business runs with up to 28 staff members at a time, from full-time employees to school aged casuals learning the ropes of their first ever job.
“We’ve put through over 200 juniors that started here as their first job, and we get a lot of different personalities and most of them tend to enjoy it,” explained Neil.
Tosh’s is infamous for their mouthwatering burgers, attracting attention from both travelers and locals, with many visiting the store regularly to grab a bite.
As the family’s time in the business comes to a close, they feel it’s the people and the regular conversations with both staff and customers they’ll miss the most.
“It’s been lovely to have such really great customers and there’s a lot of people that come here as a meeting place,” Neil recalled.
“There’d be times when people would come out and sit with strangers, and then we’d see them back the next week having a coffee with their new friends,” explained Hayley.
Anne recalled many people expressing they could never find a seat at the ever-full outdoor tables, and especially remembers their regular group of Thursday ladies that prompted the installation of the store’s exterior awnings.
“They actually wrote me a poem which I’ve still got at home about putting shade up,” added Neil.
The Williams family gratefully thanked the community for their support over their time in the business.
“Now is the time for Anne and myself to retire, get in the caravan and head off into the wild blue yonder,” said Neil.
“We wish the new business owners all the best for their future endeavours and thank all of our valued customers over the years for their support.”
L-R Neil Williams, Shontay Williams, Hayley Escriva and Anne Williams
The Burdekin Artisans Community Association is rallying the community for its eco-friendly extravaganza with Burdekin Rags to Runway, transforming ordinary household items into extraordinary fashion statements.
Tickets are now available for the ultimate fashion event as entrants prepare to showcase their creations at the Burdekin Rags to Runway event on Saturday, April 27.
With entries spanning five categories, from junior to racewear, the event challenges participants to think creatively and outside the box.
“It’s about recycling fabric and other materials into a wearable item of clothing," emphasised Association President Sandi Milani.
“We’re really concentrating recycling castoff either from fashion galleries or the op shops, because so much clothing goes to landfill.
“It’s making people think outside the square."
Since its inception in 2019, Burdekin Rags to Runway has not only showcased remarkable creativity but also served as the primary annual fundraiser for the Burdekin Artisans Community Association.
"We’ve got painters, textile artists, potters, jewellery makers; that’s why we’re called artisans," Ms Milani explained, emphasising the diverse talents the association supports.
As entrants prepare their unique and wonderful creations, join the community in a spectacular showcase on Saturday, April 27, at the Greek Hall in Home Hill to witness the transformation of recycled materials into runway-ready fashion.
Judging will commence at 1:00pm with the community to gather at the Greek Hall in Home Hill from 7:00pm where all entries are to be presented and prizes awarded.
Tickets to the event are $35 each and available from 170 Arts on the Avenue in Home Hill or by messaging the Burdekin Artisans Facebook page where tickets can be paid for by bank transfer and picked up on the night.
As the association continues its mission to promote creativity and sustainability, they extend an invitation to volunteers and potential members alike.
“Anyone who’s got something new and different to teach and sell, we’re always interested," affirmed Ms Milani.
Join the Burdekin’s creative community and witness the magic of recycling at Burdekin Rags to Runway.
WHAT: Burdekin Artisans Community Association presents Burdekin Rags to Runway
WHEN: Saturday April 27 from 7:00pm
WHERE: Greek Hall, Home Hill
TICKETS: $35
By Chelsea Ravizza
The Burdekin Craft Spectacular is set to brighten up the Burdekin Memorial Hall for another year with tickets now available. The hall will come alive to showcase the amazing talents of both residents of the Burdekin and surrounding regions from 9am to 2pm on Saturday May 4.
With less than a month to go before the vibrant event returns to the Burdekin, Judy Berryman, along with the rest of the event organizers, have been busily preparing the stalls and additional showcases.
“We’re all very excited, and it’s all come together very well this year,” expressed Judy.
“The hall has been fully booked as far as stalls go and we’re all well on track, well organized, and can’t wait for the community to enjoy this year’s event!”
As well as an extraordinary collection of unique stalls, the day will provide an inclusive children’s treasure hunt, and a handmade Mother’s Day card or gift competition to be submitted on Friday 3 May to raise money for the Burdekin School Chaplains.
Throughout the event, live demonstrations will be on show to further showcase amazing talents and encourage creativity! The community can expect Paula Matthews to host Wire Wrapped Beaded Bracelets, Josephine Edgerton to host Diamond Art Sealing, Janell Rutland to host Fun to Sew and English Paper Piecing, and Shelia Samu-Doig to host Macrame Earrings.
The event will additionally host a decadent cake stall as well as offer beautiful food both in the dining hall and throughout the event using the renowned high tea trolley.
“Our dining room is always set up beautifully and we offer a delicious range of home baked food for morning tea and lunch as well as some special treats available from the High Tea Trolley which roams around the dining room all day,” explained Judy.
With the event running just a week before Mother’s Day, there’s no better time to acquire a gorgeous and unique gift handmade by local and travelling artists.
The event entails a $5 entry fee with discounts and morning tea offered to group bookings of 10 or more attendees, and 2024’s Burdekin Craft Spectacular stands as an unmissable event for the entire family to enjoy as children under 12 are granted free entry.
The community is asked to organize group bookings in advance and to email Judy at burdekincraftspectacular@gmail.com for all ticketing and general enquiries.
WHAT: The Burdekin Uniting Church Craft Spectacular
WHEN: Saturday, May 4 from 9:00am to 2:00pm
WHERE: Burdekin Memorial Hall, Home Hill
TICKETS: $5
The Burdekin Craft Spectacular returns to Memorial Hall in May
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The keys to a new flood water rescue boat were handed over to the Burdekin Shire Council last Friday, April 5 for use by the State Emergency Services (SES) Burdekin Unit.
The boat was replaced as part of the Flood Boat Replacement Program, funded through the SES Major Equipment Grants, and is the third to be replaced in the region in the last 12 months.
The 5.3m Swift Marine Barge has been modified to suit the needs and requirements of local SES volunteers.
“They’re a very capable boat and really have increased our capability compared to the older boats,” said SES Burdekin Local Controller Warren Francis.
“Our lives are made a lot easier with the good gear and we’re very grateful.”
SES Volunteers, Burdekin Shire Council staff and special guests gathered last week as the keys to a new flood water rescue boat were handed over. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie
The keys to a 5.3m Swift Marine Barge have been handed over to the Burdekin Shire Council as part of the SES’s Flood Boat Replacement Program.
SES Regional Director Daryl Camp said it’s the third of five boats to be replaced in the Burdekin as part of the program.
“We’ve pointed out that the Burdekin floods frequently, so they required boats quicker than normal, so we were able to get these three boats in this one year which is normally unheard of,” he said.
“Burdekin Shire Council plays a pivotal role, so we gift the ownership of the boats to Council, Council maintains them, and the SES team are the ones who respond in them.”
Mr Camp said the boats have three key functions being flood water rescue, transport of goods and reconnaissance.
“These boats will handle fast flowing water and they’re just as at home in what we would call Stillwater,” he said.
“They’ll float in about 20cm of water so it can be used in flooded streets as well as in rivers.”
SES Burdekin Local Controller Warren Francis said SES offers volunteers an accredited course to become a flood boat operator.
“We train three or four times a year using these boats and it’s about getting to know the equipment, getting to know the boat’s capabilities,” he said.
“We’re directed in marine and land search by the water police, so if there is need for a vessel to do a search, we’ll be called in.”
Since Christmas day, the SES Burdekin Unit has completed over 1,400 unpaid hours completing 141 jobs across the region.
“The volunteer workforce in Australia is the biggest workforce anywhere and I’d really like to point out all of these people at Burdekin SES are all volunteers,” Mr Camp said.
“The time and effort they give is to make this community safer all year round.”
Another boost to the Unit is the return of John Winn who has been appointed Deputy Local Controller alongside Laurinda George after stepping down from the position of Local Controller last year.
“John was recently appointed as a life member of the SES and part of that is to share their experience, so John has stepped up to the plate once again by accepting the role of Deputy Local Controller so that he can mentor, advise and assist all the other volunteers,” Mr Camp said.
“John has been in SES for 37 years, so he knows most of what goes on and he’s been a wonderful mentor,” added Mr Francis.
To find out more about joining SES, email SESNR.Admin@qfes.qld.gov.au.
L-R Member for Mundingburra Les Walker, SES Ayr Deputy Group Leader John George, Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and SES Burdekin Local Controller Warren Francis
SES Regional Director Daryl Camp, SES Burdekin Deputy Local Controller John Winn and SES Burdekin Local Controller Warren Francis
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