Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Not every business starts with a blueprint. For some, it begins as a calling… in more ways than one. Burdekin local Robert Hayward had been in the hydraulics industry since he was 18. A diligent worker who loved his job, he quickly built a reputation locally as one of the best in the business. But despite a mutual affinity with the industry that had formed over years, he stepped away in the early 1990s to help his father-in-law maintain a cane property in Clare. Until he received a call. Then another… and another. Rob quickly realised that, despite his brief hiatus, his reputation in hydraulics had not faded. With that, he was pulled back into the game, this time with nothing but a $2,000 ute, a toolbox, and work up to his neck. And the only way to keep himself from drowning in it was, ironically, to go in deeper. “As the Burdekin is, if you do a very good job, word travels quickly between the community. One farmer talked to another, he talked to another, he talked to another… “Until I sat down with my wife one day and said, ‘I think we can make a business out of this.’” His ute would eventually make way for a permanent space—a small sub-shed at Larry Hudson Engineering in the Ayr Industrial Estate that would serve as his headquarters for the following four years. He tackled the first year solo, before demand forced him to put an apprentice on in the second year, and a qualified tradesman in the third. By the end of the fourth, Rob’s work had outgrown its humble base, moving down the road into a new purpose-built shed that would become the home of Hayward Hydraulics. That shed would officially open in 1996, spurring a 30-year legacy sustained by three defining pillars. Growing with the industry “I had no idea how to use computers,” Rob said with a smirk. Admittedly, he hadn’t realised he signed himself up for a three-decade, three-fold evolution between an entire industry, his own business, and himself. What he did know was that he was ready to learn, and eager to grow. It started with the basics. For Rob, that meant wrapping his head around modern computers, attending TAFE courses on emerging welding techniques, and becoming a leader. “I went from being a very good tradesman to having to be an employer,” he said. “You have to be a people's person, you have to treat people the right way, treat your workers the right way. That part I never even thought of until we started getting into it.” Rob treated this evolution as a marathon rather than a sprint, dedicating the business's first decade cementing its reputation as a local leader. After striking up deals with major companies, including Queensland Rail and Wilmar Sugar in the mid-2000s, he decided to take the leap into the mining industry in the early 2010s as a safety net for the unpredictable sugar industry. With that growth, Hayward Hydraulics’ shed would undergo its third structural expansion to accommodate its continuously increasing popularity and modernised technology. He built a habit of gleaning ideas from various online hydraulic magazines, and then building on them to not only keep up with the industry, but to will it into the future himself. “I eventually built a reputation for thinking outside of the square. If somebody's been doing something for 20 years, I'll look at a better way of doing it,” he said. Albeit, he admits he and the business are still evolving today. “I've seen harvesters and planters go from chain and sprocket to hydraulic motors, to hydraulic motors being linked to satellite GPS,” he said. “The industry has changed in leaps and bounds, and you have to keep finding ways to move with it.” Doing it the right way Hayward Hydraulics’ evolution was founded on something Rob didn’t need to be taught. Care. And he makes sure his staff do, too. “I didn't come from a real wealthy family, so we were brought up to work; you work, you do the job right, you get paid,” he said. “So if I'm not happy with something, I'll ask my workers: ‘would you pay for that?’” When the mining industry began to boom in Queensland, Rob admits he had a difficult time retaining workers. To compete, he was forced into paying top-dollar for what he called “good quality workers,” causing financial tension. When asked if compromising staff quality for cost was ever an option, with the conviction of a true-blue purist, he said: “No.” “I've always maintained that a business is only as good as your employees. You can be the best boss in the world, but if you've got workers that people don't like, they don't come through the door,” he said. “My current staff are up there with the best that I've had. I just try to make sure they’re happy to come to work every day.” With quality and care as its engine, Hayward Hydraulics became known not just for technical know-how, but for doing things the right way. As its stature in the industry continued to grow, so did the scope of its customer base. Calls started coming in from as far north as Tully, all the way to Mackay and Western Queensland, all saying the same thing: “We heard you were the guy to talk to about this problem.” Family and community at its heart For the last 10 years especially, the business has made a point of supporting local organisations and sports clubs, most notably the Burdekin Roosters Rugby League Club. Rob described it as a duty to a community that has given so much to him and the company. “The community has been so important to it all. I’ve got some customers that have been with me from day one, and with some, I’m onto the third generation of the same family,” he said. “The’ve given a lot to me. They've helped me grow and supported me, so it's about time I supported them back.” Beneath it all, though, he points to his family as the driving force. “I remember those early days when we were setting up the new workshop, building benches and all that, my two brothers-in-law and my father came out and gave me a hand,” he said. “But my biggest support is my wife. Especially in the early days when I wasn't home, and she solely looked after the kids and everything. “It got to the stage where I was working seven days a week, 12 hour days, and my wife would bring the kids on a Saturday and Sunday, and we'd sit on the shop floor and have lunch. “She's been with me through the lows and the highs, and that I thank her for.” Now, thirty years later, it’s his family pulling him out of the industry. Driven by the desire to make up for lost time with his wife and kids, Rob has loosened his grip on business operations, working four days a week with plans to eventually let his brainchild find its own footing. As for right now, he’s not yet ready to call time on a chapter that was, perhaps, never meant to last this many pages. “I still love what I do,” he said. “The early days come with sacrifices, but when I look back now, it was all worth it. “I remember when it all first started, looking on the ATO website and coming across that statistic that most businesses fail within five years. “When I read it, I said to myself, 'well, I'm gonna make sure I’m not that statistic.’” And that, he did. CAPTION: Rob and his current team. Back L-R: Chase Pearce, Stephan Du Plessis Front L-R: Kade Pearce, Renee Viero, Robert Hayward, Tina Dennis, Bryan Parison Absent: Sam Tomasetig Photo credit: Jacob Casha
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The Burdekin has rallied behind a local family after a sudden medical diagnosis turned their life upside-down. Ryan and Holly Davenport dropped everything when their two-year-old son, Rowen, was diagnosed with a brain tumour last month, temporarily relocating to Brisbane for his ongoing treatment. In response, a GoFundMe fundraiser has since raised over $55,000 in support of the family. Created in late May by Shannon Malone, a close friend of the Davenports, the fundraiser has been shared all over Facebook and Instagram by local organisations, garnering comments of support on top of 271 individual donations. “Words can’t describe how much it means to us to have everyone’s support behind Rowen as he begins his journey,” Ryan said. “They have given us precious time to spend with Rowen without the everyday worries.” The money will help fund hospital stays, travel, time away from work, and ongoing treatment expenses as the Home Hill family navigates a medical journey that began in April. Already on edge after daughter, Ally, underwent brain surgery to have a cavernoma removed just before Easter, Ryan and Holly acted promptly when they noticed a twitch in Rowen’s eye. Following weeks of consultations with Townsville doctors and specialists—which included MRI scans and a Royal Flying Doctors flight—Rowen was eventually diagnosed with pilocytic astrocytoma, a slow-growing brain tumour. He has since been transferred to Queensland Children’s Hospital in Brisbane for chemotherapy, with the couple leaving their two young daughters with their grandparents in the Burdekin to be by his side. In their absence, locals have offered meals, helped on the family’s sugar cane farm, assisted around their home and helped look after their daughters, along with the generous donations. Ryan said the funds raised would not just help relieve the financial burden of Rowen’s treatment, but allow the flexibility to fly their daughters down and spend some time as a family. “(The toughest part has been) the unknown, not having our family together … and watching Rowen go through these traumatic times and … not being able to do anything,” Ryan said. “It has been a very emotional journey so far, and it is hard to believe we are only at the start.” Anyone wanting to support the Davenports is urged to donate using the following link: https://www.gofundme.com/f/supporting-the-davos-and-little-rowen?attribution_id=sl:75c20475-06e5-4752-8e11-d1b7a07c7728&lang=en_AU&ts=1779705595&utm_campaign=fp_sharesheet&utm_content=amp20_t1&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link CAPTION: Funding will allow the family to fly their daughters down and spend more time together during Rowen’s treatment. Photo supplied
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The Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, has slammed the Albanese Government for an unacceptable ambush on regional communities, accusing the Commonwealth of abandoning disaster-prone areas to balance its own budget. The Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Kristy McBain, used a late Friday afternoon media release to quietly flag sweeping alterations to the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA). The proposed changes dismantle the long-standing, scalable framework, which historically provided an average of 64 per cent federal coverage and capped support at 75 per cent for catastrophic events. In its place, Canberra intends to implement a rigid 50-50 funding model. This policy shift arrives at the worst possible time for the state; it follows a volatile severe weather season that caused widespread damage across 71 of Queensland’s 77 local government areas. Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, is warning that the sudden funding shortfall threatens the future viability of essential infrastructure, local water treatment facilities, and emergency evacuation operations. Mr Willcox, drawing on his extensive experience as the former Mayor of the Whitsunday Regional Council, stated that the Federal Government is completely detached from the realities of regional recovery. "This decision is a direct hit to the heart of North Queensland," Mr Willcox said. "Canberra is treating natural disasters like a corporate budgeting exercise; however, out here, it is a matter of community survival. To penalise the very regions that drive the nation’s agricultural wealth and mining export revenues is a profound betrayal. "During my time steering the Whitsunday community through the wreckage of Severe Tropical Cyclone Debbie in 2017, I learned exactly what it takes to rebuild. We relied heavily on scalable federal assistance to restore our shattered rural road networks. Under a flat 50-50 split, local councils across Dawson would be forced to find millions of dollars in matching revenue; that is a financial burden our regional ratepayer base simply cannot sustain." Mr Willcox emphasised that major historical recovery operations would have been completely unviable under the newly proposed guidelines. "The total reconstruction of the Shute Harbour marine terminal and the $5 million federal package required to replace the decimated Proserpine Entertainment Centre occurred because the previous framework allowed for exceptional circumstances," Mr Willcox said. "Small regional councils do not possess the independent asset base to fund multi-million-dollar rebuilds alone. Furthermore, the historical system guaranteed that funding flowed directly into local economies, ensuring that regional earthmoving businesses and contractors were awarded the repair work. By lowering the funding floor, the Commonwealth is forcing cash-strapped councils to delay vital resilience works; this leaves our communities dangerously exposed before successive wet seasons. "It is a coward’s tactic for the Minister to leave this announcement until the day after the parliamentary sitting concluded, ensuring they avoided any real scrutiny or accountability in Question Time. “This is yet another calculated deception from a government that knows exactly how damaging these cuts are; this is absolutely not what the Australian people voted for, and I truly hope this betrayal is remembered at the next election. "This is yet another chapter in the ongoing federal neglect of regional Australia. The government is hiding behind the cover of an independent review to justify cutting essential frontline services. I call on the Emergency Management Minister to reverse this decision immediately; regional Queenslanders refuse to be treated as second-class citizens.” Supplied by the office of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox CAPTION: FIGHTING FOR THE NORTH: Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP outside Parliament House in Canberra, condemning the Albanese Federal Government's plan to slash scalable disaster recovery funding for regional councils. Photo supplied
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"As the final week approaches for public submissions into the Sugar Code of Conduct, Member for Burdekin Dale Last has renewed his calls for growers to unite and make their voices heard. Mr Last said the public submissions for the sunsetting review of the Sugar Code of Conduct should be an opportunity for sugarcane growers from across the Burdekin to outline the benefits of the code for both farmers and the wider community. “Over recent weeks I have taken the liberty of providing a submission on behalf of the community, because ultimately the flow-on impact from changes in our sugar industry stretch beyond the paddock and the mills,” Mr Last said. “I recently met with several grower representatives which provided the opportunity to bring key stakeholders together, reaffirm my support as the Member for Burdekin and emphasise the need to work collaboratively as the review period unfolds.” Mr Last said while it was important stakeholders took the time to make their voices heard during the public submissions there was no better way to understand the impact of the Sugar Code of Conduct than to visit the area and speak directly to representatives. “A decade ago this district played a central role in bringing this code of conduct to fruition so I would expect our stakeholders receive a seat at the table they deserve,” Mr Last said. “If the Federal Labor Government was serious about consulting with the industry, the responsible Assistant Minister would be looking for every opportunity to listen to those who are most impacted by the Sugar Code.” Anyone wishing to have their say in the review can visit https://haveyoursay.agriculture.gov.au/sugar-code-review"
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Charters Towers is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Steeped in history and surrounded by stunning landscapes, the charming destination, an hour and a half from Townsville, offers a myriad of activities for visitors. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or adventure seeker, Charters Towers has something for everyone.
Explore The Historic Stock Exchange Arcade
Start your Charters Towers journey by delving into its rich history at the Stock Exchange Arcade. This heritage-listed building showcases the town's prosperous past as a gold mining hub. The arcade is now home to retail shops, offices and a coffee shop. Wander through the charming arcade, marvel at the ornate architecture, and immerse yourself in the tales of the gold rush era. Don't forget to snap some photos of the iconic clock tower.
Step Back In Time At Zara Clark Museum
Dive deeper into Charters Towers' history at the Zara Clark Museum. This treasure trove of artifacts and exhibits provides a comprehensive look into the town's pioneering days. From antique furniture to vintage photographs, the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of those who shaped Charters Towers. It's a must-visit for history enthusiasts and families alike.
Take A Tour Through Venus Gold Battery
Relive the excitement of the gold rush by touring Queensland’s oldest and largest surviving gold Battery. Nestled amidst picturesque surroundings, this site was once a crucial part of Charters Towers' mining operations. Join a guided tour to learn about the gold extraction process, a “must-do” experience for visitors to the Towers. It's an interactive and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
Embark On A Nature Walk At Towers Hill
With its summit 420 metres above sea level, the rocky pinnacle of Towers Hill is the very best spot to catch a sorbet sunset over the town. A short drive from the town centre, this natural reserve offers breathtaking panoramic views of Charters Towers. Explore the walking trails that wind through the rugged landscape, keeping an eye out for local wildlife and diverse bird species. The sunrise and sunset vistas from Towers Hill are particularly spectacular, providing a perfect backdrop for avid photographers.
Cool Off With A Dip
There are plenty of opportunities to take or dip or indulge in some water sports in Charters Towers thanks to its proximity to the mighty Burdekin River. Whether you have a fondness for swimming, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, boating or even bird watching, popular spots on the river include the Macrossan Bridge, Dave Chapman Recreational Park, Burdekin Falls Dam or the Burdekin Weir Park.
Wink and Blink
Every school holiday our local libraries create two activity booklets for children to take home free of charge. Wink is the booklet for younger children and Blink is for older school aged children. The booklets are available from the weekend that holidays start and can be collected from the desk at either Burdekin Library Ayr or Home Hill Branch Library.
Visit Coutts Park
Coutts Park in Ayr features a playground, picnic shelter and barbecue area, half basketball court, exercise equipment as well as ample parking and public toilet facilities.
Burdekin Art Trail
Following the Burdekin Art Trail will enable you to experience a truly unique collection of murals, sculptures and installations which depict stories of our region’s culture and heritage. In recent years unassuming spaces around our towns have been transformed into vibrant works of art by a number of renowned and emerging artists from across Australia. The trail currently stretches across five towns and can commence from either Giru in the north or Home Hill towards the south. The whole community are invited to spend a couple of hours exploring the Burdekin’s continuously evolving collection of street art.
Visit Arch Dunn Memorial Park
The Arch Dunn Memorial Park in Home Hill features a playground, picnic tables and barbecue area as well as ample parking and public toilet facilities.
The Arch Dunn Memorial Park was dedicated in the memory of the Dunn family, who were prominent business people in Home Hill and Arch was a foundation member of the Home Hill Rotary Club. The park was upgraded in 2007 as a joint project by the Home Hill Rotary Club and the Burdekin Shire Council.
Ayr Nature Display
The Ayr Nature Display has been a part of the community since 1966 and is one man's incredible collection of Australian Nature. The Ayr Nature Display is Australia's finest, preserved collection of butterflies, moths, beetles, crustaceans, sea shells, reptiles, rocks, timber, Aboriginal stone implements and fossils, especially ammonites, all under one roof.
Bird Viewing - Horseshoe Lagoon Conservation Park
The park's permanent freshwater lagoon is close to major tourist routes and intensive agricultural areas. It's unique freshwater vegetation and abundant birdlife provides an unforgettable experience for bird enthusiasts.
Horseshoe Lagoon is about a 30-minute drive north of Ayr. The Burdekin Shire Council has provided a bird hide on the edge of the lagoon, which allows bird watchers a sheltered environment from which to view the various bird species living at this habit.
Plantation Nature Play
Plantation Nature Play is a state-of-the-art nature-based play area at Plantation Park with all-abilities swings, a fortress-themed lookout, and rock and rope climbs. It also features a variety of activities such as an accessible fortress themed lookout, rock and rope climbing and fossil digging.
Plantation Park
Plantation Park in Ayr is a popular stop offering shady areas for picnics, access to the Juru Walk and the state-of-the-art Plantation Nature Play. Plantation Park is also home to a 60m carpet snake sculpture, Gubulla Munda, which was built by the Gudjuda Reference Group in 2004 to celebrate and promote indigenous culture.
The park follows the flowing creek with a number of lush, shady trees which surround the number of great facilities on offer. The facilities include public toilets, picnic tables, BBQ facilities and caravan parking.
Alva - Playground
Enjoy an afternoon playing at Alva Park! The recently upgraded playground features old favourites such as slides and swings, as well as instrument-inspired installations including slap pipes and a four-note drum. The park also has picnic shelters, BBQ facilities and a new half basketball court as well as ample parking and public toilet facilities.
Wednesday March 20 winners were Barry Hewson, Col Essex and Mario Milan who defeated Bob Young, Dino Poli and Lew Stidston.
Runners up were Reno Lazarin, Alan Jones and Ron Soper who defeated John Hall, George Nixon and Henry Hazle.
Saturday March 22 winners were Sandra Darwen and Ron Soper who defeated John Pirrone and Rob Garner.
Runners up were Lorraine Wolffe, Vince Beitia and Blake Hyden.
Social Bowls on Tuesday March16: Betty Schultz, Heather Jorgensen and Sandra Stidston defeated Isabel Cislowski, Beryl Cornford and Pam Power.
Competition Thursday 28 Open Singles: Dot Cutting defeated Heather Jorgensen and Beryl Cornford through on a forfeit.
Wednesday Night March 27 winners were Evelyn Wiltshere, David Burt and Sam Caltabiano and in the pairs game, Margaret McLaughlin and Gary Pearce.
Wednesday March 27 winners were Bob Young and Col Essex who defeated Margaret Chapman and Chris Berkery.
Saturday March 30 winners were John Pirrone, Rino Lazzarin and Ron Soper who defeated Alan Jones, Linda Guimelli and Ron Soper.
Competition games Sunday 7/4 - Championship Singles - G. Pearce vs C. Pearce (m) L. Stidston. V. Beitia vs S. Caltabiano (m) J. Grabbi. Championship Pairs - R. Young/C. Essex vs R. Garner/W. Coonan.
Contributed by Michael Parravicini
Wednesday night barefoot bowls was won by Paul and, for the first time, Nev. Four bowls pairs was the game played.
Thursday’s game had 23 players turn up to do battle. The winners of the day were Trevor, Alex and John. Thanks to sponsor Blinds 2 U. Tuesday Trimmers is going well and BINGO Thursday mornings is a bit of a hit. Until next week, good bowling.
Contributed by Stephen Doig
Paul and Nev
The juniors were lucky with the weather, taking to the green on Saturday, March 23 for the Home Hill Junior Open and just finishing their comp and presentations before the rain set in.
Results
3 Holes
Gross winner - Sonny Hutchinson
Nett winner - Ella Church
Nett R/U - Hudson Suficiencia
NTP - Sonny Hutchinson
6 Holes
Gross winner - Rheanna Bain
Gross R/U - Curtis Borellini
Nett winner - Lyla Land
Nett R/Up - Kyle Wilkie
NTP - Curtis Borellini
9 Holes
Gross winner - Cody Webster
Nett winner - Ikie McGrath
Nett R/Up - Reid Martin
NTP - Jordan Manno
18 Hole Girls
Gross winner - Hayley Jenkins
Nett winner - Amaya Mahoney
Nett R/Up - Zoe Brooks
NTP - Hayley Jenkins
18 Hole Boys
Gross winner - Elio Di Bella (won in a playoff)
Gross R/Up - Marcus Yasso
Nett winner - Jim Breen
Nett R/Up - Jack Hayes-Williams
NTP 4 - Dallas Douglas
NTP 9 - Elio Di Bella
The winners of the Home Hill Junior Open. Photo supplied
Hi readers
I’ve returned from a wonderful weekend of exploring with mum and dad and have bid adieu to them once again.
After a weekend spent in the Burdekin, that included sunrise up the hill, a night of bowls, and a couple of beers with the neighbours, the three of us headed west, spending our first night on the road in Ravenswood.
Although I don’t have any ghost stories to share, the town had a historical eeriness which I loved.
The remaining buildings were just beautiful to look at and I was fascinated by what was left of the town.
The next day we went on to Charters Towers after a quick drive out to Burdekin Falls Dam.
Lunch at the Stock Exchange Arcade was a must do, as was perusing the Arcade’s bookstore.
We went for a wander downtown, taking plenty of photos of the beautiful old buildings.
We also explored the history at the Zara Clark Museum and admired the birdlife at Burdekin Weir before taking in the vastness of the area from Towers Hill.
These were all areas I’d never been before, so I was glad to have been able to make the trip while mum and dad were up.
While at bowls last week, Trevor offered to take a photo of us “for the paper,” so I thought I’d include it here.
With the long weekend approaching, I’m taking the opportunity to do some more exploring, so I’ll report back here next week with tales of my next adventure.
I hope you all have a great weekend and enjoy the read!
The Burdekin likes to fly its flags proudly, but the north Queensland sunshine can certainly take its toll.
That’s where Member for Burdekin Dale Last came in, providing a new set of flags for Brandon State School earlier in the month.
Mr Last presented students and staff with the flags on Monday, March 11.
“Like all schools throughout the electorate, the Brandon State School takes great pride in flying their flags,” he said.
“Thanks to the North Queensland weather, the school’s flags were looking a bit worse for wear but, yesterday, I delivered a full set of new flags.
“The principal and students are looking forward to hosting them up the flagpoles so everyone can see how proud they are to be Queenslanders and Australians.”
Most organisations and not-for-profit community groups are eligible for a free Queensland flag and as Member for Burdekin, Mr Last would be honoured to present the flag at your meeting or event where possible.
Those eligible include schools, tertiary institutions, Scouts, youth organisations, service associations such as Rotary and Lions, welfare and ethnic organisations, sporting clubs, historical societies, museums, show societies and local fire brigades etc.
To find out more, visit www.dalelast.com.au/howdalecanhelp.
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Alva fisher Sienna Green has been awarded the Young Achiever Award at the Queensland Seafood Industry Awards after being nominated for making “a positive difference to the seafood industry.”
26-year-old Sienna is a third-generation fisher who has been operating her own fishing business for the last six years.
When the State and Federal Governments announced a ban on the use of gillnets on the Great Barrier Reef in June last year, Sienna and her father Neil embarked on a nine-month battle for the rights of their industry.
“We’ve obviously had a massive nine months following everything with the gillnet ban, so I was just over the moon to be awarded,” Sienna said.
“I was up against some strong competition, so to come out on top, especially representing wild caught, was just awesome.”
Being a third-generation fisher, Sienna grew up helping on the boats with her dad, Neil, and her mum Leanne.
“I’ve been on the water all my life,” she said.
“It’s something I never thought I could or wanted to do, being a professional fisher, but after school, nothing really stood out to me.”
Sienna took a gap year to work with her parents, taking on more responsibility and growing her skills and experience.
“I thought I might just give it a go myself and see how I go and there was a massive difference from being in the deckhand’s seat to being in the skipper’s seat and I absolutely loved it,” she said.
“I’ve been operating my own fishing business for just over six years, and I haven’t looked back.”
Driven by the needs of the seafood consumer, Sienna is passionate about providing fresh, wild caught seafood, and appreciates the unique nature of the line of work she’s chosen to pursue.
“They’re the ones who rely on us to catch their share of the resource out there, and being a third-generation professional fisher, that’s in my blood,” she said.
“You’re working in the most beautiful environment out there on the water.
“Every day is different, there’s never a roster or a routine, and you’re always learning, and that’s the part that keeps me keen and excited.”
Travelling to Brisbane for the gala dinner on Friday, March 15, Sienna used the opportunity to represent the wild caught inshore net fishery she is a part of.
“We had Fisheries Queensland and some managers in the room as well as the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries, Mark Furner, so I was very honoured to receive the award having them in the room,” she said.
“I wouldn’t have been able to get as far as what I have without our local community’s support.
“The local traditional owners and the council, politicians, we wouldn’t be where we are without them, so we’re very grateful for all of that support that we’ve received over the past nine months.
“I hope by winning the award, I have done our inshore net fishery proud, and that with an award of this significance, I hope it can showcase our industry.”
Sienna and Neil are currently in Canberra where they prepared barramundi on the doorstep of Parliament House, hoping to showcase what will be taken away should gillnet fishing be banned in 2027.
Alva fisher Sienna Green was awarded the Young Achiever Award at the Queensland Seafood Industry Awards. Photo supplied
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The Australian Government has found itself in quite a pickle after breaking its election promise to reduce overall household energy bills by $275. The draft of regulated electricity prices was released on March 20 after the national energy regulator pledged to intensify efforts in safeguarding consumers.
Dale Last, Member for Burdekin, remained reluctant about the proposal, raising major concerns that it wouldn’t be enough to ensure regional customers can afford to keep the lights on in their homes.
Upon the release of the Australian Energy Regulator's draft decision, it appears that Queenslanders who are unable to seek alternative suppliers will face a $53 hike in the coming months.
Mr Last said the draft decision was another kick in the guts for regional customers at the mercy of a monopoly energy market.
“The fact that a report by Energy Queensland found more than 50 per cent of customers were concerned they would not be able to pay their upcoming power bill should be ringing alarm bells not only with regulators but the Minister,” Mr Last said.
“For years we’ve seen promises of rebates and cheaper electricity only to find when the bill arrives that those rebates, concessions and promises are sucked up by the soaring prices we are left to pay.”
“The draft Default Market Offer has confirmed that the Government has fallen short by up to $1,027 of its promised price reduction for everyday households, equivalent to a 37% increase.”
As a sign of the suffering faced by everyday Australian households, startling new numbers from the AER have also revealed 116,753 people have been placed into hardship due to their skyrocketing energy bills and 192,459 people are now in energy debt.
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox said the skyrocketing price of energy was consigning local people to energy poverty.
“Labor was elected on a promise that it would reduce household electricity bills by $275 but instead Australians are now paying among the most expensive bills in the world,” Mr Willcox said.
“This is simply unaffordable for residents in my community who are already suffering.”
The Shadow Minister for Climate Change and Energy Ted O’Brien said Labor’s broken promise on energy prices was “unforgiveable”.
“The Australian people deserve nothing less than a complete and unreserved apology from Prime Minister Albanese for making households and businesses pay for his failures,” he said.
Prior to its election, the Australian Labor Party promised to create jobs, cut power bills and reduce emissions by boosting renewable energy.
“This plan will bring cheaper renewable energy to Australian homes and businesses,” said the Australian Labor Party statement.
“It will cut power bills for families and businesses by $275 a year for homes by 2025, compared to today.”
The draft DMO, released by the Australian Energy Regulator, sets the ‘reference price’ for electricity bills for the 2024-2025 period and will now be consulted on before the final determination is made in coming months.
The final 2023-24 DMO recorded increase in the overall cost of electricity, throwing into the question the likelihood of any substantial changes before the final determination for the 2024-25 DMO is made.
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One of the Burdekin’s longest serving members of Local Government is walking the halls of the Burdekin Shire Council chambers for the last time this week, having been first elected over 30 years ago.
Lyn McLaughlin has risen from local Councillor to Mayor of the region during this time and despite being unsuccessful in her bid for another term in the hot seat, she said she is harnessing the optimism and integrity she is known for, taking the new life direction in her stride.
No stranger to local government, Ms McLaughlin’s father Robert Rossi served as Councillor and Deputy Chairman of the Mulgrave Shire in Far North Queensland for 23 years, something that inspired his daughter to follow in a similar direction.
“In 1976 I first moved to the Burdekin as a teacher at Home Hill State Primary School – and my love for our region has grown every day since then,” Ms McLaughlin said.
“18 years after moving here I was first elected Councillor, as I wanted to turn my passion into action and serve the community that I loved.
“Since then, I have been incredibly privileged to serve as both Councillor and Mayor for 22 years.”
Ms McLaughlin said she is proud of all the positive change she has driven within the region during her tenure and would like to thank all the elected representatives she has been fortunate to work with over this time.
“It is with much sadness that I walk the halls of Burdekin Shire Council for the final time: I’ve been incredibly lucky to work with a dedicated and enthusiastic team of both indoor and outdoor staff over the past three decades,” she said.
“I wish the incoming Council and new Mayor success in supporting our community and continuing to progress the Burdekin Shire.”
Ms McLaughlin is looking forward to more time with family and friends and supporting local organisations, including Burdekin Netball Association and Lower Burdekin Landcare.
“Our son will return home from working for the Australian Antarctica Division at Macquarie Island this May, so my husband Matt and I are looking forward to spending time with him,” she said.
“I’ve always enjoyed my time outdoors, whether it’s on the sidelines of the netball court or in the garden, and I am looking forward to having more time pursuing these passions and volunteering where I can.
“We have recently seen the formation of the Burdekin Catholic Parish – the coming together of the former parishes in Home Hill, Giru, Clare and Ayr – and I look forward to being an active member of their community.
“You will see me across the Shire regularly supporting local events and community organisations, so please don’t be a stranger.
“As I start a new chapter in my life, I want to thank all Burdekin residents for their faith in me: serving you over the past three decades has been the greatest honour, and I will never forget it.”
Lyn McLaughlin will step down as Burdekin Regional Council Mayor this week. Photo credit: Marni Hine
Lyn McLaughlin during her first term as Mayor. Photo supplied
The approval of an underground pipeline corridor connecting Bowen with the Burdekin River is now in the final stages of Federal and State Government assessment and support, as pre-construction activities for the Bowen Pipeline Project continue to advance.
Developed by the Bowen Pipeline Company (BPC), the community led and funded Project is a 182 km underground water pipeline commencing 16km upstream from Home Hill and moving south through to Gumlu, Guthalungra, and on to Bowen.
The development of a secure, high quality and cost-effective water resource, such as the Bowen Pipeline Project, is vital in unlocking the economic potential of these regions.
The project will allow the creation of a reliable, secure water supply to an area that produces one fifth of Australia's vegetables and is Australia’s largest winter vegetable growing area, currently growing some $650 million of fruit and vegetables each year (over 250 million kg).
The Bowen Pipeline Project is a community led and funded project with over 40 grower, individuals and industry investors who have to date invested some $2.5 million.
“We particularly value the commentary of local stakeholders including growers who have noted the need for increased reliable, quality water; First Nations Peoples such as the Bindal and the Juru; transport, logistics and manufacturing entities; and experienced locals who see the merits of innovative technologies developed in Australia being used more in Australia,” Bowen Pipeline Company Director Sean Brown said.
“We are very confident that the Project stacks up economically and environmentally in a sustainable way.
“The company is very proud to be the first project of this kind working towards becoming a Net Zero project in line with the Commonwealth Government’s Climate Change legislation and the State Government carbon reduction goals.
“We continue to have strong bi-partisan support as all sides of government understand how important water is for the economic sustainability and growth in our region, not only for the farming community but for the broader community in general.
“As soon as the funding milestone arrangements are achieved, construction is expected to commence 12 months later, targeting September 2025.”
The Project will provide approximately 200 jobs during construction and up to 1,200 jobs through the growth of existing and future industries when operational.
“As to our employment targets, we are seeking to employ and train as many locals in the Burdekin and Whitsunday Shire as we can,” Mr Brown said.
The $600 million project will generate significant expenditure in North Queensland.
“Townsville, Ayr, Home Hill and Bowen will realise potential opportunities for the supply of materials, consumables and accommodation during the two years of construction, and then into operations,” Mr Brown said.
BPC’s policy will be Locals First, and we will be holding community meetings as soon as the final hurdles are finalised.
Existing available water allocations from the Burdekin Falls Dam will be secured from Sunwater and local water allocation owners.
The pipeline will generally run adjacent to the Bruce Highway, mainly on private land and unformed road reserves.
The pipeline will transport up to 100,000 ML per year with 60,000 ML for horticulture, agriculture and aquaculture.
The pipe has been designed to allow for 40,000 ML to be supplied to the Abbot Point Green Energy Export Hub for the production of green hydrogen, ammonia and fertiliser.
“Pi R squared is amazing,” Mr Brown said.
“The initial design of 60,000 ML required a 1,600 mm pipe diameter but by increasing the pipe diameter by a hand’s width to 1,800 mm, this increased the volume supplied by over 60% to 100,000 ML.
“We have now future proofed the critical water supply to fast track and assist the Green Energy Hub to become a reality for the national and multinational companies looking to develop supply for the fast-growing Asian markets.”
To help to minimise the pipeline’s carbon footprint, the Project will use world class Australian technology for the onsite extrusion of the High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) pipe in 100+ metre lengths, generating a reduction of some 5,000 B double truck movements, and reductions of over 5 million kilometres of road transport.
The longer lengths of HDPE pipe also result in 90% less welding (i.e. potential failure points) compared to steel or concrete piping, creating construction and cost efficiencies.
BPC has consulted with local horticultural and aquaculture producers as well as future green energy companies which fits in with our mandate to achieve our goal of making the project Net Zero.
All groups agree that with additional water they would materially increase production to service emerging local and rapidly growing offshore markets.
Existing cleared Class A & B Good Quality Agricultural land used for cattle grazing could be converted to high value irrigated land, increasing employment.
No flood irrigation will be permitted.
All 15 of the major and high value rivers and creeks will be underbored to ensure the riparian zones and cultural areas are protected.
As the core value of this community led project, BPC is committed to promoting a vibrant economy whilst also maintaining a strong commitment to the local environment.
Bowen Gumlu Growers Association President Carl Walker, Juru Elder and Chair Trevor Prior, Minister for Water Glenn Butcher, and BPC Director Sean Brown
The Bowen Pipeline Project will run from Kirknie, near Home Hill to Merinda Pump Station, near Bowen
Home Hill Chamber of Commerce held its second Social and Networking Event last Wednesday, March 21, inviting Scripture Union School Chaplain John Mackay to address the business community.
John has 17 years of experience as a school chaplain and currently works at both East Ayr State School and Clare State School.
He said the biggest role of the school chaplain is to care for the students within the schools.
“More than that, we also care for the staff and the families there too, so we’re trying to make the schools a good place for the kids to come,” he said.
John’s role is varied and involves sitting in on classes, assisting students with their work, and playing educational games with them, but one of the most significant initiatives he’s implemented at both schools is ‘breaky club’, offering students fruit, toast and cereal before school.
“Lots of kids end up not being fed properly before they come to school and if the tummy’s not happy then the kids can get restless, so the kids love it,” he said.
John is one of six chaplains who work across nine schools in the Burdekin, and he said he was pleased to be invited to speak to the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce members to share the work of the chaplaincy.
“It’s good to find out the things that are happening in the community and I’d like the business community people to know about chaplaincy because it’s their kids, their grandkids, who we’re trying to love,” he said.
Home Hill Chamber of Commerce Secretary Robert Antoniazzi said he invited John to shed light on the work of chaplaincy in the community.
“I know how much he’s done at the schools, and I wanted to share that information with everybody, because he does make a difference to schools and troubled school kids,” Robert said.
If you are interested in learning more about becoming a chaplain, contact Scripture Union District Manager Brooke Sorbello on 0427 291 540.
Home Hill Chamber of Commerce’s next Social and Networking Event will be held at the Home Hill Community Sports Club on April 17 from 5:30pm, where Tony Goddard of the Ayr Rotary Club has been invited as a guest speaker.
School Chaplain John Mackay and Home Hill Chamber of Commerce Vice President Uli Liessmann
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Ian and Justine Baker are two of the Burdekin’s newest residents and when they moved here from Ipswich, they brought with them a rare opportunity for local veterans to experience offroad racing.
Although new to the Burdekin, the Raemus Rover Racing program has been operating in southeast Queensland for over 10 years, a method of adrenaline therapy utilising the highly dynamic genre of racing and combining it with a peer-to-peer counselling and support program.
The program’s origins trace back to 1976 when it first started as a trade training activity using ex-Vietnam war stock out of Puckapunyal, Victoria.
“It was then used as a cross training activity, and they used to compete in the state and national championships,” said Ian.
“It was a good platform at the time to entertain the troops, a lot of them ex-Vietnam, to entertain them while they were basically posted in the middle of nowhere.”
Once the program had served its purpose and the vehicle and team were no longer required, the vehicle went into storage at the Bandiana Army Museum where it remained for 22 years.
“When I was an apprentice at Puckapunyal Workshop, I played with Raemus Rover,” Ian said.
“I’ve gone through a lot of time in service, been deployed multiple times, and the regiment I was in at the time had a permanent, established group rotating through Afghanistan for 11 years straight, and we were starting to really see the effects of continual rotation of deployment and combat.
“My guys needed a distraction, and they came to me and asked about the old Raemus Rover.”
The therapeutic potential of offroad racing became clearer and clearer before Ian, who had been in the Australian Army for 33 years since the age of 15, and Justine, who worked in defence as a public servant for 30 years, built the program into what it is today.
“We found this adrenaline therapy research and that’s the basis of the program,” Ian said.
“We utilise a genre of motorsport that isn’t widely understood; it is the most dynamic and aggressive form of motorsport that looks like you’re going to die, but you’re not.
“It’s extremely safe and it has an enormous amount of suspension.
“At the heightened state of adrenal flow is when people are more likely to open up, accept suggestion and talk about issues, so we purposely put them into a heightened adrenal flow state utilising something that’s sexy to them, race cars, we get them to that point, and we sit down and talk.”
The Raemus Rover Racing program has discharged military counsellors, nurses, trained combat medics, psychologists and padres either on staff or on call, providing a safe and familiar space for other veterans to take part.
“If we weren’t on that tour with you, we know someone who was or we’ve been to the same area and done the same things, so we can automatically build a rapport and we can start to talk about things,” Ian said.
The program involves weekly drop-in sessions, inviting veterans to come in and help work on the vehicles; trackside program days, where veterans and families are able to get in the vehicles and race; as well as racing events, where those looking to further their racing can compete in official offroad racing events.
“It’s all about building that support group that understands and will help them through it, because it’s not going to be a fix, it’s just building up the confidence that they can keep coming back and nobody’s judging them,” said Justine.
“A lot of people, when they leave the military, they don’t realise the transferrable skills they’ve got.”
“We get veterans engaged and valued,” added Ian.
“For a lot of them, the issue is the lack of self-value or self-recognition.
“Once you get out, you don’t know where you fit and you can’t find your tribe.
“By having all of these little avenues of engagement and letting them show what they can do, nine times out of ten, they display how valuable they are within an area that they never would have been exposed to unless they came out.
“I don’t care how broken you are, you can do this.”
The program is sponsored by RSL Queensland and is currently being researched by the Gallipoli Medical Research Foundation, which could lead to the program being grown and adapted further afield.
The team are preparing for their first north Queensland program day at the Burdekin Offroaders track in May.
Ian and Justine are seeking interest from local veterans to get involved in weekly drop-in sessions at their Burdekin workshop.
To find out more, message RSL Raemus Rover Off-Road Racing.
Raemus Rover Racing invites veterans to utilise and develop their skills in offroad racing. Photo credit: Alan McIntosh Sports Photography
The Great Barrier Reef is amidst its fifth widespread coral bleaching event in just eight years, aerial surveys have revealed.
The surveys, conducted by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority and the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS), observed over 300 reefs between Cape Melville north of Cooktown to just north of Bundaberg and confirmed the event.
Reef Authority Chief Scientist Dr Roger Beeden said the results of these surveys are consistent with the patterns of heat stress that have built up over summer.
“The results are consistent with what we have seen with above average sea surface temperatures across the Marine Park for an extended period of time,” Dr Beeden said.
“Aerial surveys of the Reef have revealed prevalent shallow water coral bleaching on most surveyed reefs.
“It is important to note, that the heat stress has not been even across the Reef, and the coral bleaching observed is variable.
“Monitoring the health of the Reef is a year-round effort for the Reef Authority, and it’s critical for us to understand what is happening on the Reef so we can target our management actions to protect the Reef and strengthen its resilience.
“Climate change is the greatest threat to the Great Barrier Reef, and coral reefs globally.”
AIMS Senior Research Scientist Dr Neal Cantin said that the aerial surveys provide a visual indication of the extent of bleaching.
However, assessing the severity to coral colonies requires in-water surveys.
“Aerial surveys are a crucial tool for a reef ecosystem as large as the Great Barrier Reef and show that this coral bleaching event is widespread, or what is commonly called a mass coral bleaching event,” Dr Cantin said.
“We now need to combine the spatial coverage captured from the air with in-water surveys to assess the severity of coral bleaching in deeper reef habitats across the different regions of the Marine Park.
“We will continue to conduct in-water observations with our research teams and management partners.”
The Reef Authority will continue to work closely with research and other science partners, Traditional Owners, and the tourism industry to monitor conditions on the Reef.
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