Having just completed my first term of council, I still believe I have the qualities necessary to carry out the role of Councillor. I have been farming now for 30 years and in that time, I have worn many hats. These include Real Estate, mining, property development and even a lawn mowing business. I have been a member of the local Community bank board for 10 years now. All these experiences have given me the tools I need to make valid inputs in the council.

Having started the expansion of the Ayr industrial estate in 2023, the next project I would like to see is some industrial land in or south of Home Hill opened up. There are some very successful businesses on the south side of the river and finding them somewhere to grow would be fantastic. Such land is hard to find but it would be fantastic. 

I see the cost-of-living crisis impacting everyone at the moment. Trying to minimise any rate rises is something I have been pushing for and voted against in my term. CPI has impacted everyone and everything including Council operations. However, I believe we can help at a Council level and I will continue to push for this.

The first 100 days will see successful Councillors hit the ground running. It's budget time this time of year at Council and it is a lot of information to take in for anyone. I remember my first day four years ago thinking "you are a long way from the farm now mate!"

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I am an Indigenous Juru South Sea Island man. I have lived in the Burdekin all my life and have worked in the local sugar industry for 20 years and am currently a Union Delegate. I negotiate on a regular basis to make sure that my fellow workers have a safe work environment and are given fair work opportunities within the Industry. I want to contribute to the futures of our next generations.  

I would like to be involved in creating activities for the young people of our community to recognise and develop their skills and allow them to be involved in projects such as protecting and maintaining our estuary and river systems and maintaining the wetlands. I would engage with government agencies and local sugar cane farmers. I would like to be involved with renewable projects that would assist the community with the cost of their energy bills such as solar, hydrogen and battery power.  

Right now I believe that people want to be heard about their day to day issues. I want to sit down face to face with people and listen to what they would like me to raise and help them achieve an outcome that is in the best interest for everybody within the community. I am very aware that people are frustrated with not being able to be heard about issues and that desperately needs to change.

In the first 100 days I will be engaging with all aspects of the community such as rate payers, business owners, community organisations, schools, government agencies, Indigenous Elders and farming organisations to listen to their concerns so that I am able to have an understanding of their expectations. I would like to be able to assess what the Council have been working on and achieved in this last term. I want to be able to report back to the community on a regular basis.

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I am proudly a born and raised Burdekin boy. I've never had intentions to leave and want to continue to contribute to make this a great place to live. I am a local business owner who has been actively involved in the community throughout my life and am now vying for my second term in council to continue to do what I can to help the residents of our great shire. 

I am very passionate and excited about the Ayr Industrial Estate expansion and hope to see it through to completion. Attracting new industries is an integral way to grow our shire generating new jobs and in turn bringing new residents to the Burdekin which has so much to offer for families. Local and national companies, both small and large are looking to expand and I think if we have the suitable land ready to go, the Burdekin will be a great pick.

I believe there has been some great new projects completed over the last few terms of Council and the shire is currently in a good state. With the cost of living rising and people feeling this, I think keeping costs as low as possible is the resident’s main concern. I believe we need to look at just maintaining what we’ve got and keeping our costs as low as possible. 

If I am elected again by the Burdekin community as a representative, It would be business as usual for me with the Council currently approaching budget. This is where I will advocate the ideas above, focusing on trying my best to keep costs as low as possible whilst maintaining the great facilities our shire offers. Whilst I can't promise anything as I am only one representative, I will endeavour to keep our shire growing, continuing to advocate for my community.

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I am a born and bred Burdekin resident who wants our strong community to continue to prosper well into the future. As a current business owner and former sugar industry contractor I have a diverse background and understanding of what drives the Burdekin. I’m prepared to listen to our community and share their ideas and insights.

I would be supportive of any project that helps retain our young families here in the Burdekin and encourages new residents to our shire. Projects that provide enhanced liveability to all residents also help to drive our economy, so are beneficial across the wider sector.

Unfortunately, what most people want currently is greater security and less juvenile crime and this is an area that Local Government has little control of. I would however be supportive of any State Government initiatives that may assist to improve the current situation and restore faith in our justice system.

I imagine the first few months will involve numerous training workshops and plenty of information to understand the processes required within Local Government. This time will enable me to absorb much of what Burdekin Shire Council has planned moving forward and how I am able to contribute and add value over the following four years.

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Three Burdekin youth have been arrested and charged for an alleged stolen vehicle incident in Ayr last Friday morning, February 9.

Police officers were called to a fuel state along Edwards Street, just after 9am, following reports of a stolen car sighting.

Upon police arrival, it will be alleged the Holden Commodore attempted to leave the scene before crashing into a nearby concrete curb and fence.

It will be further alleged the driver tried to leave the scene on foot but was arrested after a brief altercation with police.

Two other people, who were allegedly inside the vehicle at the time, were taken into police custody at the scene.

The Commodore was reported stolen from a Kilrie Road property in Jarvisfield at 3pm on February 8.

A 21-year-old Ayr man has been charged with one count each of dangerous operation of a vehicle, unlawful use of motor vehicle, wilful damage, serious assault police officer, driving unlicenced, possess dangerous drugs, possess utensils or pipes, possess property suspected of having been used in drug offence, and stealing.

A 26-year-old Ayr woman has been charged with one count each of unlawful use of motor vehicle, obstruct police, fraud relating to a fuel drive off, and possess dangerous drugs.

A 17-year-old Ayr boy has been charged with 20 offences, including 14 counts of enter premises and commit, three counts of unlawful use of motor vehicle, and one count each of stealing, serious assault police officer, and attempted unlawful use of motor vehicle.

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Screenshots of the Police footage of the arrest of the Ayr man. Video supplied

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I was a Police Officer for 37 years and a Search and Rescue specialist. I am the current Local Controller for the Burdekin SES and a core member of the Local Disaster Management Group. As the Disaster Management Officer with Burdekin Shire Council, I am familiar with the daily operations of Council. I am a long-time Emergency Service volunteer and have a passion for assisting the community through training, boat-safe awareness, and in times of need.

Ex-TC Cyclone Kirrily presented some challenges to the community and showed a great community spirit in the way people prepared themselves and their homes for the severe weather event. I witnessed many people assisting friends, neighbours, and relatives to prepare also. I would like to enhance what I witnessed. I would like to progress some community engagement events in an effort to give people more knowledge, skills and ability to improve their resilience in times of severe weather events.

Most community members want transparency, honesty and hard-work from the Councillors to address their issues and concerns. I will strive to be open and accessible to listen to the community. I won’t use jargon to mislead or confuse and will take the time to ensure people understand me and I understand them. If asked a question I will give a forthright reply within the limitations of my position.

Boots on the ground, I will get out amongst the community and listen to people’s concerns and priorities. I will discuss community concerns and expectations with Council and find common ground to work together. I will Give feedback to community, get to know my fellow councillors, share your goals and listen to their feedback while understanding their goals as well. I aim to work as part of a cohesive team to address community concerns and will review my actions and adjust where necessary to achieve my goals.

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Burdekin Shire residents have first-hand experience of living through natural disasters. They also know all too well the importance of good communication during difficult times.

With yet another cyclone threat earlier this month when Kirrily whirled in from the coast, the memories of devastating Cyclone Debbie remain etched in the minds of many.

That’s why local media are supporting an initiative to improve communication between emergency responders and communities in times of disaster.

Burdekin Aware and Prepared is a new innovative partnership between local media and natural hazards experts, which encourages residents to share their experiences of communication awareness-building about natural hazard events.

There will be a community town hall on Saturday February 24, and residents are being urged to join in.

This research project is funded by Natural Hazards Research Australia and delivered in partnership with a team of researchers at Deakin University.

“Our research team wants to know how community members receive information before, during, and after natural hazards - and what could be improved,” says the project’s lead researcher, Dr Gabi Mocatta.

“People in the Burdekin Shire are generally well prepared, so we want to find out what the rest of Austalia can learn from them.

“We want to know, for example, how good communication can save lives and property, and where it has helped bring people together.

“We also want to know where there are gaps in education, communication and awareness about natural hazard events.”

Cyclone Debbie –  a category 4 cyclone – crossed the north Queensland coast in 2017 and was the most expensive in Queensland’s history, affecting at least 63,000 properties. The storm resulted in high winds (up to 263 km), heavy rain and flooding. In the wake of Debbie, Burdekin Shire has experienced flooding most summers, including a major rain event in January 2020 that closed the Bruce Highway.

Unfortunately, compound natural hazards – where hazards occur in quick sucession or at the same time – are becoming increasingly common in Australia. Communication and awareness initiatives are key to preparation for future events.

“We are hoping that community members will join in the discussion and help us understand what works well for communicating naural hazards in North Queensland, and what the rest of the country might be able to learn,” says Dr Mocatta.

WHAT: Burdekin Aware and Prepared Community Forum

WHERE: PCYC Burdekin

WHEN: Saturday February 24 from 2:30-4:30pm

To participate in the forum, please sign up here: https://bit.ly/4bjnCIQ

Any questions can be sent to: gabi.mocatta@deakin.edu.au

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Caption: Recent Burdekin River flooding. Photo supplied

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Rehoming fee: $450

DOB: 23/07/2022

Sex: Female

Breed: Bull Arab Cross Cattle Dog

Kid Friendly: Yes

Cat Friendly: Yes

Other Dogs: Yes

Fences: 5 feet

This active little puppy is looking for her forever home, is always up for a cuddle and a play with her furry friends.

While Pickles is still a keen learner for basic commands, she's a quick learner and loves being rewarded.

Pickles loves splashing in water and will always chase after her ball. Pickles particularly enjoys going on long walks and going on fun and exciting adventures with her human.

Currently living with a cat in her foster home, Pickles will seamlessly transition into a home with cats.

Pickles is available for adoption, is desexed, microchipped, up to date on her vaccinations, is flea, tick, and intestinal worm treated, and is on heartworm preventative.

To schedule a meet and greet, complete and submit an animal enquiry form: at https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html

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By Chelsea Ravizza

Approaching its 4th year of running in the Burdekin, Deni Caspanello’s 12 Hour Relay Swim for Leukemia continues to inspire, educate, and bring the community together, raising much needed funds for the Leukemia Foundation. The 2023 12 Hour Relay Swim for Leukemia, like previous years, was another amazing event raising over $7,600 to fund cancer research, treatments, and clinical trial access.

The event was established in 2021, following Deni Caspanello’s diagnosis with Stage 4 Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in 2020. Deni’s diagnosis was treated under the provisions of a recent clinical trial, running on a 4 – 21-day cycle, as opposed to an 8 – 21-day cycle, and unlike traditional methods, her treatment did not conclude with radiation. Producing an overwhelmingly positive outcome for Deni and her loved ones, she worked to create a fundraising event to provide other cancer patients with the same opportunities.

“The money people are donating is working and helping cancer patients like me hear the words complete metabolic response so much quicker and eliminate all other symptoms that arise from radiation and prolonged chemo,” Deni explained.

With another swim event coming to the Burdekin in March of 2025, Deni expressed she continues to be blown away with the community’s support and she’s beyond grateful.

“The interest and support of the community has been phenomenal,” expressed Deni.

“Phenomenal is a word my Doctor, Dr Morris used my entire treatment as everything went to plan for me, and I was extremely lucky.”

Deni and her family would like to express immense gratitude to all the event’s sponsors; McCathies Furniture Plus, WA&KT Farming, Wilmar, Burdekin Car Wash, Home Hill News agency, Tamara Michellin Hair Dressing, Liessmann & Sons, Guardian Pharmacy, Burdekin Snap Fitness, Brett Butler PT, The Shed NQ, Complete Health Pharmacy, Burdekin Torpedoes, Burdekin Tiles & Bathroom, Home Hill Swimming Pool, Home Hill Bakery, Blinds 2U, KMF Crafts, Nutrien, Home Hill & Lions Committee, Queens Hotel, Homewares & Styles, FirstIn Physio Pty,  Don West Toyota, Ellen Marie, Bare + Bird Distillery, Northen Energy Electrical Solutions, Laser Electrical, The Prawn Shop Home Hill, The Crown Hotel, and Blissful Baking.

“All local businesses, musicians, schools, and locals have been amazing and have donated so much to help me raise as much as I can for blood cancer research.”

Preparations are underway for the 2025 12 Hour Relay Swim for Leukemia. With a date yet to be announced, the community can expect another amazing, record-breaking fundraising event in the month of March 2025.

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With many competitions throughout the 12-hour event, Deni would like to congratulate the following winners.

Social: Bob Gould’s Tropical Popsicles with a total lap count of 629.

Competitive: Two time champions, GO H2O with a total lap count of 753.

Spirit: Home Hill High Crushers.

Dash for Cash U18: Chloe Hook and Cruz Torkinton.

Dash for Cash 18+: Stephanie Prizeman and Logan Flannagan.

Dash for Cash 35+: Michelle Scott, and Laurie Crooks.

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The winning team GO H2O: Kristy, Briella, Glenn and Emilee Wassmuth, Michelle Scott, Laurie Crooks, Owen and Logan Flanagan and Dylan Carew. Photo supplied

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BCA provides financial and material assistance for adults experiencing personal, family, relationship and/or financial issues. The service assists adults and children with basic needs in times of financial hardship, through the provision of vouchers, prepaid cards/vouchers, chemist or transport vouchers, payment of third-party accounts, or direct material assistance such as food parcels. Please note that a Centrelink Income Statement is required unless you are affected by domestic and family violence and not receiving a Centrelink payment.

Waste Not Want Not – Coles SecondBite Program

BCA partners with Coles Ayr and SecondBite to provide people in need with access to nutritious food free of charge. The service is available from the Support Centre, 130 Queen St, Ayr, Monday to Friday from 9am until stock is gone daily.

Please visit or contact us at The Support Centre, 130 Queen Street, Ayr. Ph: 4783 3744. E: bca@bcaburdekin.org.au W: www.burdekincommunityassociation.org.au

Debra Cochran

Chief Executive Officer

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If you were asked the question, “Who is your priority?” where would you place yourself on your list?  Putting ourselves before our loved ones and other responsibilities is not always easy.  

We often hear about the concept of work-life balance, compassion fatigue, and mental well-being. Although we understand how important it is to take care of ourselves, many of us tend to put it off for another time. We might say things like "I'll do it when I have more time," "after I retire," or "I'll take care of it over the weekend."

What Is Self-Care?

It’s anything you do to care for your physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional health.  

Making small changes to daily routines can support us in challenging times and improve our overall health and well-being.

How Do We Achieve This?

The Burdekin community has masseuses, yoga and meditation practitioners, life coaches, many sporting clubs, arts and crafts, cultural and spiritual groups, libraries, and amazing natural surroundings to enjoy. When we focus on our needs and take care of ourselves, it becomes a normal part of our daily lives. This change can inspire and encourage those around us to practice self-care too. Taking care of ourselves also means taking care of those we love and care about. When children learn to practice self-care early on, they are better prepared to handle the challenges of life.

We are excited to join Ross Romeo from CORES Qld to bring to the community their Self-Care and Mental Wellbeing Workshop. Although normally delivered online, Ross and the BNC Team aim to make this a regular face-to-face opportunity. Contact the Centre on 47834243 if you would be interested.

What does self-care look like to you? Is it curled up with a favourite book? Spending time with mates? A walk on the Beach? We would love to share your ideas on our Facebook page – post a photo and tag the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre.  

The Team

Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

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Did you know that Council is upgrading residential and commercial water meters in the Burdekin to help you save water and money? The new meters harness solid state technology with no moving parts which offers a minimum 15 years lifetime with no need for meter calibration or replacement.

The new smart water meters are more than just devices that measure how much water you use. They use wireless RF technology that enables Council to undertake drive by meter reading whilst providing advanced leakage detection capability to help identify customer-side leaks, backflow and other issues that affect the reliability and efficiency of the water network. By installing smart water meters, Council aims to improve the community's water management and conservation. Customers will also benefit from being able to track and manage water use more easily to avoid wasting water due to undetected leaks.

Smart water meters are part of Council's commitment to provide a high-quality water service to the region where residents can stay informed about their water consumption and adopt water-saving practices. The new meters are made of fully recyclable materials for more sustainability and a lower CO2 footprint.

Council is pairing the roll out of the new meters with the Smart Water Advice educational suite of water conservation tips to save water in the home and at work. Visit Council’s website to explore more water and money saving tips, burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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Core members of the Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) met last week and moved to stand down as Ex-TC Kirrily no longer poses a threat to the region.

The LDMG Chair Lyn McLaughlin thanked the community for their resilience and cooperation during the weather event.

"I am proud of how our residents and businesses have supported each other and followed the advice of the authorities,” Ms McLaughlin said.

“I also want to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of emergency services, Ergon, external agencies, council staff and volunteers who have been on the front line of the response and recovery efforts.

“Council operations have returned to normal, with all facilities and services resuming their regular hours and functions.

“Council staff are also continuing to clean up the affected areas, especially the parks and green spaces after priority areas of roads and footpaths were completed.

“Council asks for your patience and understanding as we work to restore these public spaces to their pre-disaster condition.

“I’d like to remind the community to remain vigilant and prepared for any future weather events as disaster season is not over yet.”

To stay up to date with disaster and weather events sign up for notifications on the Disaster Dashboard and follow the Burdekin Disaster & Emergency Information Facebook page.

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LDMG Chair Lyn McLaughlin and Local Disaster Coordinator Eileen Devescovi 

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With some of the Burdekin Race Club’s biggest race days approaching, where speed and agility take centre stage, there's another race happening alongside the track - the race to showcase the most stylish and innovative ensembles at the Fashions on the Field. As we step into 2024, fashion enthusiasts and racegoers alike are in for a treat, with a blend of classic elegance and cutting-edge trends dominating the scene. Consider the below when planning your outfit.

Light and Airy Dresses: Embrace the north Queensland weather with dresses made of breathable fabrics like linen or silk in pastel or bright hues. These will keep you cool and stylish throughout the race day.

Tailored Suits in Spring Hues: For a sophisticated look, opt for a well-fitted suit in spring-inspired colours. This timeless ensemble ensures you stand out while adhering to the dress code.

Statement Hats: Elevate your outfit with a statement hat that adds flair and personality. From oversized floppy hats to chic fascinators, there's a style for every taste.

Eye-Catching Jewellery: Accentuate your look with bold jewellery pieces that complement your outfit. Think colourful earrings, chunky bracelets, or statement necklaces to add a touch of glamour.

Vibrant Shoes: Step into the races with shoes in vibrant colours or fun patterns. Whether you prefer classic pumps or stylish sandals, make sure your footwear makes a statement.

Layering Pieces: Be prepared for any weather changes by incorporating layering pieces into your outfit. A lightweight cardigan or blazer can easily be added or removed as needed.

Chic Sundresses: Opt for a chic sundress in floral prints or pastel shades for a feminine and elegant look. Pair it with sandals or heels for a versatile ensemble that's perfect for race day.

Fashions on the Field is a celebration of diversity, innovation, and conscious style. As racegoers grace the tracks with their fashion-forward ensembles, it's clear that this year's trends are not just about looking good but making a bold statement about the future of race day fashion.

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Burdekin Growers Race Day Fashions on the Field. Photo supplied

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In the rural heart of the Burdekin, a small but formidable business has thrived for the past three decades, weathering changes in the agricultural landscape and evolving customer demands. Eileen List and Jenny Cook, the dynamic mother-daughter duo behind Burdekin Growers Services, have not just been witnesses to the transformations in the industry; they have been active participants, adapting and growing their business with an unwavering commitment to quality, independence and community while staying true to their old-fashioned, family business roots.

“You have got to laugh,” Eileen smiles as she and Jenny flick through newspaper clippings from 30 years ago; the laughter not just a reflection of their shared experiences but a testament to their resilience and ability to navigate the challenges that have come their way.

The Origins

Eileen's journey in the industry started at the age of 17 when she was offered a position with a small business that distributed fuel and fertiliser. She was given a book about fertilisers and chemicals which she studied enthusiastically, but it’s the hands-on knowledge and experience she gained from the people around her, learning in the field from “the best of the best”, that led her to a position she could see a future in.

“People would take me out on the farms and show me how to identify pests and diseases,” Eileen says. “I learnt to be able to identify without going to uni – unless you have hands on experience, you’ll never learn what I learnt. It takes you a long time to learn all that.”

Meanwhile, Eileen would bring baby Jenny to work from the age of six weeks old, thus beginning a strong mother-daughter bond that the success of Burdekin Growers Services was built upon. Jenny gained more insight into the industry working with Eileen after school and on school holidays. Upon finishing high school, she faced the decision of attending university or going into business with her knowledgeable mother, ultimately deciding on the latter and never turning back.

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The Early Years

PIC 1 CAPTION: Jenny and Eileen in 1994, printed in the Ayr Advocate

PIC 2 CAPTION: Eileen and Jenny celebrating one year in business, printed in the Ayr Advocate

As reported in the Ayr Advocate:

“1994 marks a new beginning in the working life of Eileen List.”

After 35 years of working with growers in a variety of agricultural sectors from sugarcane to tobacco, Eileen joined forces with Jenny to create Burdekin Growers Services, first opening on Edwards Street, Ayr. Eileen brought with her those decades worth of knowledge and experience and a reputation to match.

“You’ve got to accumulate a lot of knowledge to be able to go into this type of business,” Eileen says. “It’s not something you can do light-heartedly because you’ve really got to know the companies and the products.”

Eileen would continually impart this knowledge onto an eager Jenny, who was eager to outgrow her mother’s shadow and prove herself to the growers of the Burdekin.

“Everyone used to walk in and say, ‘Is Eileen here? Is your mum here?’” Jenny laughs. “It takes a little while to build confidence in the customers. We’ve all been through that.”

Burdekin Growers Services established itself in 1994 as a business catering to all industries of the Burdekin, whether it be sugarcane or mangoes, tree crops or ground crops. Jenny also brings livestock experience to the business and is passionate about animal health and stockfeed, while Eileen’s passion for home gardening is also reflected in the store’s gardening supplies. The store became a one stop shop, also stocking cleaning and household items for those travelling from out of town to buy in bulk.

“Back when we started, a rural business was a bit of everything, it was that place to get things in bulk,” says Jenny. “If someone was coming into town, they could get most of their household items in bulk as well as the farm products.”

“We stick to the same brands too,” adds Eileen. “We use possibly the best household products you can get, and I know because I use them. You get to know all of the products, and you strive to satisfy.”

The New Shop And Beyond

PIC 3 CAPTION: Eileen and Jenny opened their current location in 1997, printed in the Ayr Advocate

In 1997, Burdekin Growers Services relocated to Railway Street, Ayr, where their store and shed still stands. A small house was demolished, and a shed was built and slowly expanded upon with an office, additional shed and store spaces being added on over the years. The grand opening was a grand affair, with over 400 people attending to show their support.

The longevity of Burdekin Growers Services can be attributed to the deep-rooted relationships they have cultivated over the years. Eileen emphasises, “The customer is the core of our business.” The same customers for the last 30 years, and crossing generations of families, reflect the trust and reliability that define their business. It's not just transactions; it's about knowing their customers, caring for them, and, as Jenny adds, “Over time, they become friends.” Burdekin Growers Services maintains the personal touch of an old-fashioned, family-owned business. They stick to first-class products, receive compliments for their practical bookkeeping system, and express gratitude to the community for their unwavering support.

The Dynamic Mother-Daughter Duo

PIC 4 CAPTION: Jenny and Eileen celebrate 30 years of Burdekin Growers Services this year

The enduring partnership of Eileen and Jenny epitomises the strength of their bond and the versatile and unique array of skills, talents and knowledge each brings to the business.

“I love my mum,” Jenny shares. “I don’t find it hard to work with mum at all. We do have our disagreements, but they don’t last very long, they’re pretty direct and to the point, we don’t hold a grudge, we just move on.”

“I think Jenny’s so reliable, that I trust her 100%,” adds Eileen. “If I don’t like something, I say it, if she doesn’t like something, she’ll tell me, and that’s how you adjust the business. Even though we’re mother and daughter, we’re just two people running a business that needs to be successful and it can only be successful if those two people think alike and work alike. We’ve got to be able to complement each other.”

Eileen admits that it took her a while to appreciate the significance of Burdekin Growers Services reaching the 30-year milestone. Thanks to frequent reminders from Jenny and her many loyal customers, she’s come to acknowledge the amazing achievement with appreciation for her loving business partner and the community that supported the business over those decades. With no plans to retire, Eileen and Jenny celebrate the last 30 years while continuing to provide the Burdekin with its agricultural necessities with a smile and some good old-fashioned service.

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