Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Home Hill resident Karin Thorburn returned home last week after a month spent travelling the world, though it was not exactly your typical sightseeing expedition. The 59-year-old local runner, recognised last year as the first Australian to complete 500 marathons, set off for Cyprus in March for the XM Limassol Marathon—the first of 15 she would run over the following 30 days. Her itinerary took her through major European cities, including Paris, before culminating in the world-famous Boston Marathon, where her strong performance all but guarantees qualification for next year’s race.Home Hill’s 59-Year-Old Marathon Record-Breaker Continued from cover Home Hill runner Karin Thorburn has returned to the Burdekin after successfully completing 15 marathons in 30 days across four countries. Thorburn, a veteran runner who was this year named Burdekin Senior Sportsperson of the Year for her marathoning exploits, ran 14 marathons across Europe in preparation for the Boston Marathon, which rounded out the trip. At 59 years old, Thorburn is currently the Australian record holder for the highest number of marathons completed, with her tally now reaching 547. Despite having just competed in the Sugar Rush half-marathon only six days after returning from the United States, she shows no signs of slowing down, describing her intense schedule as a “lifestyle choice.” “It’s for my mental health, it’s for my physical health, it’s for keeping me in the best shape I can be, for a lady that’s my age," Thorburn said. “I’m not a spring chicken, and there are so many people out there saying I’m too old. I just tell them, I’m just getting started.” The gruelling 30-day itinerary began in Limassol, Cyprus, followed by the “12 in 12” event—12 marathons in 12 days—in the UK, and the Paris Marathon, before finally tackling Boston. The feat was as much a mental battle as a physical one, says Thorburn. “The mind is stronger than the legs,” she said. “Sometimes it plays tricks and says, 'You’ve done enough. Why don't you just stay in bed?' But I knew I could do it.” She explained that the massive volume of racing was a strategic training block designed specifically to conquer the Boston Marathon, an event she considers "the pinnacle.” “I love a challenge," Thorburn said. “Running the other 14 marathons, they were all fantastic, but it all led me to one thing, and that’s the Boston Marathon. That’s the greatest race in the world.” Her run in Boston was the third time she had competed in the event, finishing with a 15-minute buffer which she says effectively “guarantees” her entry into the 2027 race once applications open in September. “I can't even describe how you feel,” Thorburn said. “Getting to the start is one thing, but doing it, finishing it, conquering it again—especially at my age—you feel things you never felt before.” Thorburn has lived and breathed distance running since she started taking it seriously 26 years ago. Her passion has since taken her across the globe, completing all six of the Abbott World Marathon Majors—Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, and New York—earning her the prestigious official title of “Six Star Finisher.” Her achievements have garnered much local support, but perhaps none greater than from her residents at Ozcare Home Hill. As well as her work with Ozcare, Thorburn helps organise the Magnetic Marathon Series in Townsville, an event that attracts international competitors while also providing a space for athletes looking to kickstart their running careers. Thorburn sees her local events as a platform for others to “have a go”—a mantra that has fuelled her own career for over two decades. “My events are only small events, but they're a stepping stone and people get to run with me and go, ‘Okay, so this is what you do,’” Thorburn said. “I hope I can inspire other women, including those younger than me, to look at what I do and think: ‘If she can do it, I can have a go.’” CAPTIONS: 1— The gruelling 30-day itinerary began in Limassol, Cyprus, followed by the “12 in 12” event—12 marathons in 12 days—in the UK, and the Paris Marathon, before finally tackling Boston. 2—Thorburn successfully completed all six of the Abbott World Marathon Majors—Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, and New York—earning her the prestigious official title of “Six Star Finisher.” Photos supplied
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My Vibe Homewares has a growing reputation as your go-to store when searching for that unique, contemporary piece. Since opening its doors in Ayr ten months ago, the store has attracted customers from across North Queensland, building a strong local following in the Burdekin. Boasting a wide range of earthy, textural and timeless homewares, My Vibe offers quality linen, luxury towels and exquisite rugs, all selected to deliver quality at affordable prices right here in the Burdekin. At the heart of the store is a carefully curated range that is hand-picked to provide both functionality and practicality. Every piece is selected with durability and classic design in mind, with owner Sue ensuring that long-lasting quality remains a priority in every decision. Sue’s strong eye for design is supported by her regular attendance at the Sydney and Melbourne gift fairs, where she gains access to the latest seasonal designs and colour updates. This, coupled with her innate ability to coordinate the range to suit most design tastes—from subtle, natural tones through to more textured and statement pieces—ensures the store is continually refreshed with new ideas and inspiration brought back to the Burdekin. The result is a thoughtfully balanced collection that caters to a wide variety of interiors and personal styles, while maintaining a consistent focus on quality and affordability. Supporting the store is a friendly and welcoming team who are always ready to assist and offer advice when required, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable shopping experience. Located on Queen Street, Ayr, My Vibe Homewares is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10am until 4pm daily, offering a local destination for stylish, practical and contemporary homewares in the heart of the Burdekin.
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If you’re still scratching your head for something meaningful this Mother’s Day, two local arts groups are offering simple, thoughtful options that keep it close to home—and handmade. At the Burdekin Art Society, a special Mother’s Day art sale will be held on Sunday 3 May 2026 at the Art Shed, 154 MacMillan Street (across from the pool), from 8am to 1pm. A wide selection of paintings will be available, with prices starting from just $20, making it easy to find an affordable, locally made gift. For something a little more tactile, the Burdekin Potters Inc in Plantation Park will be open for anyone looking for a unique, handmade gift. The pottery studio regularly opens on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday mornings, but visitors are also welcome whenever the doors are open or the “OPEN” flag is flying. Gift vouchers are available, and private visits can be arranged by contacting Debbie on 0428 832 355. Both options offer a chance to support local artists while picking up something with a personal touch—far more memorable than a last-minute petrol station bouquet.
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Australia has everything we need right here at home. We have the resources, the technologies, and the people with the talent. Yet our manufacturing sector and sovereign capability have fallen off a cliff; farmers are being left out in the cold; and Australians across the country, particularly in the regions, are being left behind, while we all pay more for everything. Labor’s Net Zero nonsense is crippling our country, while others not hamstrung by arbitrary targets advance at pace. China, India and the United States are not taking their foot off the pedal, while we send our resources overseas on a dime and buy back the finished product at top dollar. Australian manufacturing has been in decline for decades, but in the last four years under Labor the rate at which manufacturers, smelters, refineries and food processors have closed is truly alarming. We are making far less today and relying more and more on others. We need to turn that trend around before the only thing we are producing is a piece of paper handed out to overseas students. At the heart of this rapid decline in manufacturing? Our weaker and more expensive energy grid. To be blunt, rising electricity costs are forcing manufacturers to close and deterring others from starting up. When I speak to manufacturers, the message is the same: “I don’t know how much longer we can keep going like this.” The simple reality is that weather-dependent power cannot sustain a modern industrial economy on its own. Manufacturers cannot operate on intermittent electricity. Farmers cannot rely on an unstable energy system. And renters and lower-income households, who cannot afford rooftop solar or battery storage, are increasingly left paying the hidden costs of maintaining a complex grid built around intermittent supply. Australia once prided itself on energy independence. Now we are replacing dependable Australian energy with a system dependent on imported wind turbines, solar panels and batteries, many manufactured in China. In doing so, we are hollowing out our own industrial base while increasing our reliance on foreign supply chains. I’ll keep saying it. We need a balanced approach, and all technologies must be part of the energy mix. The other part of the energy story is, of course, fuel. No fuel, no transport, no movement of goods. When faced with the recent fuel supply constraints, Energy Minister Chris Bowen said the solution is to buy an electric car. That may suit city commuters, but for many regional Australians travelling long distances and those needing to tow heavy loads, an EV is nothing but an expensive paperweight. Right now, a very bad government is deploying a very bad energy policy that puts international recognition for fairytale emission targets ahead of affordable electricity and fuel security. We need an urgent course correction on our nation’s energy policy. We need an energy mix that supports manufacturers and farmers. We need to be able to better use the resources we have so that we can stand on our two feet. And, we need a government that believes in putting Australians first.
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For high school sweethearts Kari and Rob Ravizza, relocating back to the Burdekin to take over McCathies Furniture Plus was an opportunity to re-immerse themselves in their hometown. Both Rob and Kari grew up in Ayr, where they first met at their casual jobs at Big Rooster (now Red Rooster). Their path has taken many twists and turns and it’s ironic that, after their romance blossomed in the workplace, they have gone on to embark on an incredible journey of business together.
Although Kari would help out at the family business while growing up, she went on to study a Bachelor of Education and work as a teacher for 20 years. Meanwhile, Rob completed his apprenticeship at Pioneer Mill where he continues to work today as an Engineering Superintendent. Kari says all of her past jobs have helped her in the business. Despite the steep learning curve, she says she’s loved every minute of taking on the role of McCathies Furniture Plus Managing Director in 2013.
“Amongst other things, I have learnt how to drive a furniture truck, unload a semi-trailer full of heavy furniture, assemble furniture in record time and drive a forklift,” Kari said. “Being a small business, I get to do everything from the ordering, paying bills, assembling furniture and delivering to our customers.”
McCathies Furniture Plus is an independent furniture store, with a continued focus on sourcing the best products with the best value while providing the best service. With a unique range of products not found in larger retail stores, Kari finds satisfaction in offering exclusive ranges and the business has the power to make decisions on the quality and products sold.
“If we don’t have what our customers are looking for, we will do our best to find it for them,” Kari said.
Passionate about the Burdekin, McCathies Furniture Plus proudly support local community clubs and organisations through sponsorship, donations of money or products or donating time by assisting at events. It’s the community in which they’ve raised their children Chelsea, 20 and Jye, 16, and where their two dogs, Minus and Holly, rule their home. With ties to the Burdekin running so deep, returning to the region was an opportunity for Kari and Rob to reconnect while they continued to grow the business that Kari’s parents and grandparents had poured so much of themselves into before her.
“It is so very important to me to continue the legacy my Grandparents started,” Kari said. “To uphold their values of honesty and integrity, where giving back to the local community is always at the heart of everything we do.
“Thank you to our amazing customers over the past 50 years. You are the reason we are here and what drives us to continue to improve and provide the best service and products we possibly can!”
Kari and Rob Ravizza
L-R Jye Ravizza, John and Lyndy McCathies, Kari, Rob and Chelsea Ravizza
Shay Kratzmann has evolved to become a steadfast staple of the McCathies Furniture Plus shopping experience, a friendly face and reliable sales assistant at the front line of the business.
Born in Ayr and raised in Brandon, Shay is through and through a Burdekin girl, something she is quick to declare and happy to share, and for over six years, McCathies Furniture Plus has been her home away from home.
“I honestly don’t think I can see myself doing anything else,” Shay shared.
“Every day is different, and I wake up excited to see what the day has in store for us. All these roles involve a lot of customer interactions and I think I am great at communicating and connecting with customers.”
When not working at McCathies, Shay is fine-tuning her own photography skills, perfecting her craft and looking for that award-winning shot.
One of her photos was published in the American photography book, one of the proudest moments in her life so far.
Shay shares her life with her boyfriend of 16 years, and their two “hairy children”, the couple’s dogs Bull and Ryda.
Star Sign: Virgo
Fav Movie: Law Abiding Citizen and Lion King
Fav Colour: Purple and Black
Fav Holiday Destination: Maldives
Fav Music: Country and Old School (Guns N Roses, The Eagles, AC/DC etc.)
Fav Quote: “It is what it is”
Tell Us Something most people don't know about you: I am a Brown Belt, Black Tip in Taekwondo
Residents of the Burdekin will have the opportunity to experienceAfrican Drumming and Blissful Sound Immersion when Alex Salvadore ofthe Rhythm Connection comes to Ayr on the weekend.
Mr Salvadore isholding two events at the QCWA Hall in Ayr on Sunday, February 11.
“TheIntroduction to African Drumming workshop will have residents playingrhythms on authentic West African djembes,” he said.
“The Bliss OutSound Immersion Experience is an hour of relaxation while I playinstruments from around the world including flutes from Armenia,Native America and Slovakia; Singing Bowls, Handpan, ocean drums,chimes and more.”
Mr Salvadore willhost ‘An Introduction to African Drumming’ on Sunday, February 11from 9:00am to 12:00pm.
‘Bliss Out’,a sound immersion and tone chimes experience, will follow from 2:00pmto 3:30pm.
Contact MrSalvadore on 0414 803 666 or email therhythmconnection@gmail.com formore information.
Alex Salvadore is holding two events at the QCWA Hall in Ayr on Sunday. Photo supplied
The Ayr Surf Life Saving Club's Annual Beach Golf Day is gearing up to be a cracker of an event. Being held this Saturday February 10, with Tee-off from 1pm, teams of four will enjoy a fun filled day out with their clubs. Teams are invited to come in their best team themed outfits, to help add to the energetic atmosphere of the day.
Their Top 100 Club event has also been moved to be aligned with Golf Day. The special event of the draw will take place between 12pm-1.30pm on Saturday 10th, with a ticket purchased gaining entry for 2 people for drinks and lunch and the chance to win $3,000 or $1,000. There are still some numbers available, so if you're interested, please head to the Ayr Surf Club's Facebook page, or contact Kellie Lawry.
The club has organised buses to and from Alva Beach to assist with transportation for the event. The bus will be leaving The Kalamia Hotel in town at 11.30am & 12.30pm and heading back in from the beach at both 8.30pm & 9.30pm.
This is sure to be a great day out for all ages, so get your teams together and come and join in the fun.
Contributed by Kellie Lawry
The Ayr Surf Life Saving Club's Annual Beach Golf Day is happening this Saturday February 10. Photo supplied
The Whitsundays Writers Festival is gearing for a grand comeback, with a schedule jampacked full of immersive celebrations of all things literary.
On the cards is esteemed 2023 Miles Franklin Literary Award winner, Shankari Chandran, winner of Australia’s premier literary prize for her debut novel, ‘Chai Time at Cinnamon Gardens’.
Alongside Shankari are several other highly regarded, award-winning Australian authors, who are excited to be in sunny Whitsundays for a weekend of literary prowess.
Karen Jacobsen, the Festival President, expressed her excitement, stating, “It's not often we have the opportunity to meet renowned national and international writers. This will be a landmark event for the Whitsundays and a golden opportunity for regional Queensland to add a substantial literary gem to its arts calendar.”
Alongside the schedule of workshops, talks, and luncheons, the weekend will also include the prestigious Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards. The Heart Awards provide well-deserved recognition and financial rewards to talented writers for best unpublished manuscript, short story, poetry, and book design. Submissions for the Heart Awards open February 14.
“This event will bring together creative minds in the picturesque setting of the Whitsundays. What better place to immerse yourself in the brilliance of Australian literature?” remarked Karen.
“I strongly advise securing your place at the festival and booking accommodation early to fully enjoy the wonders of the Whitsundays while indulging in the myriad of events the festival has to offer.”
Save The Date!
WHAT: Whitsunday Writers Festival
WHEN: Friday, September 6 to Sunday September 8
Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards
Submissions Open February 14
Shankari Chandran confirmed to star in September’s Whitsundays Writers Festival. Photo supplied
Karen Jacobsen, Voice of Siri, is the Whitsunday Writers Festival President. Photo supplied
Local Ergon Energy crews worked tirelessly to reconnect power to thousands of Burdekin customers. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie
Streets, parks and backyards were littered with fallen trees and branches after ex-Tropical Cyclone Kirrily crossed over the Burdekin last Thursday, January 25, and while damage was considered minimal, the event left large parts of the region without power for days.
The cyclone’s damaging winds had a major effect on north Queensland’s power network, with over 9,000 Burdekin customers losing their power from Thursday night, and the last of those regaining power earlier this week.
Ergon Energy Area Manager Matt Oar said local and visiting crews were out in the field repairing the network as soon is it was safe to return to work after the cyclone passed.
“We had crews working 24/7, not just on call, but actually working around the clock to restore power to customers,” Mr Oar said.
“A lot of these staff who were at work were leaving their families without power at home for a couple of days.
“We’ve turned an event that potentially could have lasted a week into three days.”
On top of 48 local staff, 203 workers travelled into the region from across the state.
“I’m just so thankful and proud of what our crews have done and what they’ve been able to achieve in such a short amount of time,” Mr Oar said.
“The community’s been so positive when we’re out and about, they understand that we’ve got challenges but we’re doing our best to get the power on as soon as we can.”
For the SES, regular natural disaster preparations ramped up on Saturday, January 20 when sandbags became a priority as the cyclone approached.
Burdekin SES Local Controller Warren Francis estimated that over 9,500 sandbags were provided by the SES to residents of the Burdekin.
“This is by far the largest number of sandbags consumed on a single operation,” Mr Francis said.
“I’m very impressed with how the community reacted.”
At least 120 jobs have been logged with the SES throughout the event including sandbagging, one tarp job, and vegetation clearing post-event.
“Our role is to cut an access into a house; if a tree’s fallen down and blocked access to a house or driveway, we’ll clear that, but we don’t go around and clean people’s yards,” Mr Francis clarified.
Chair of the Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) Lyn McLaughlin said the event was an opportunity to showcase the community’s resilience and preparedness.
“I want to express my sincere thanks to everyone involved in the recent weather event," Ms McLaughlin said.
“Thank you to all who volunteered and assisted their family, friends and neighbours.
“To the SES Volunteers, Ergon Energy and the Burdekin Shire Council staff for leaving their homes and giving up their time to help the community.
“Their efforts do not go unnoticed and are greatly appreciated.
“The LDMG will continue to monitor the affects from ex-TC Kirrily and will provide regular updates to the public as needed via Council’s website, Disaster Dashboard and the Burdekin Disaster and Emergency Information Facebook page.”
Personal Hardship Assistance Grants are now available to residents in the Burdekin Shire who have been affected by the Tropical Cyclone Kirrily.
To check your eligibility and submit an application, visit www.qld.gov.au/DisasterHelp, phone the Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349 or visit the Community Recovery pop-up hub at Burdekin Community Association, 130 Queen Street, Ayr.
LDMG Chair Lyn McLaughlin and Local Disaster Coordinator Eileen Devescovi
There’s nothing like a natural disaster to bring a community together and, although ex-Tropical Cyclone Kirrily was considered minor in the end, the Burdekin still turned on its community spirit.
Burdekin Life has received many reports of generous and neighbourly deeds, from locals helping each other fill sandbags before the cyclone to helping clean up backyards afterwards.
“I did see some tremendous examples of good community people helping their neighbours, helping their friends, helping their family,” said Burdekin SES Local Controller Warren Francis.
“There were some really good examples of that, and we wish everyone would take up on that.”
Meanwhile, Burdekin SES shared their gratitude to Woolworths Ayr who generously donated lunch to their hardworking volunteers during the cyclone recovery efforts.
“Your support not only nourished them but also warmed our hearts,” Burdekin Unit State Emergency Service shared on social media.
“Thank you for being an invaluable part of our community.”
Ergon Energy crews were also thanked for their efforts in the field according to Area Manager Matt Oar.
“I’m really happy with the response of the Burdekin residents and how accommodating they’ve been; people just couldn’t do enough for us,” Mr Oar said.
“We’d pull up at certain places and people would walk out and give our workers things to drink and eat just because they’re so appreciative and want to give them something to help them along.”
Congratulations, Burdekin, for navigating ex-Tropical Cyclone Kirrily with preparedness and community spirit.
Woolworths Ayr donated food to Burdekin SES volunteers during cyclone recovery efforts. Photo supplied
In recognition of her academic achievements and commitment, Sophie Robertson of Ayr State High School is one of eight Queensland recipients of the 2024 Premier’s Anzac Prize, awarded by the Queensland Government.
The award recognises the efforts and dedication of young Queenslanders and aims to present students with opportunities to gain an in-depth understanding of the ANZAC legacy. Sophie will embark on a 16-day international adventure touring France, Belgium, and the United Kingdom to explore the ANZAC legacy in April along with seven other Queensland students and two teacher chaperones.
The application process led Sophie to produce a 5-minute video submission on the ANZAC spirit’s interconnectedness, and relevance within today’s society. After being shortlisted, Sophie presented to a large panel of 12 officials, including brigadiers from the Australian Defence Force, where she was successful, and awarded the 2024 Premier’s Anzac Prize.
Dedicated to upholding the values of this award, Sophie has been busily developing official fundraisers, and the Commemorative Crosses Project, where she will visit a school in the local district to educate students on the ANZAC spirit. Prior to travelling abroad, Sophie has begun engaging in Young Historians Workshops whereby she travelled to Brisbane in January to work alongside the Minister for Education, Grace Grace, and the Assistant Minister to the Premier for Veterans’ Affairs, Bart Mellish. The workshops will continue throughout the months leading up to the tour in collaboration with the State Library of Queensland, and Ms Grace believes this opportunity will equip Sophie and the other recipients with valuable knowledge and insights they’ll carry with them for life.
“I want to congratulate the eight students set to represent our state abroad, it is thoroughly deserved and I’m sure they will do a remarkable job,” expressed Ms Grace.
This international opportunity will prove to be an invaluable experience for Sophie where she will deliver two eulogies to fallen ANZAC veterans, with one of which being her Great, Great Uncle.
“I am really grateful for the opportunity to deliver this eulogy for him, and while I am over there, I will be the first in my family to visit his memorial,” explained Sophie.
RSL Queensland State President, Major General Stephen Day believes this award presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to its recipients to pass on valuable stories of the ANZACs, and to further educated youth on the important role veterans had on the establishment of Australia.
“The prize is an opportunity for some of our brightest high school students to get out of the classroom, travel to the Western Front and gain a more profound understanding of the commitment and sacrifices of their veterans,” explained Major General Stephen.
Ayr State High School’s Senior Deputy Principal, Anna D’Ilario recognized Sophie’s potential and presented this opportunity to her in 2022, and the Ayr High Family are beyond proud of what Sophie has achieved.
“We are very proud of Sophie,” expressed Ayr State High School’s principal, Mr Craig Whittred.
“She is a fantastic student who has demonstrated great tenacity in her studies and is a well-deserved recipient of this prestigious prize.
“This will be a life-changing experience for Sophie, and we are excited for her to share her experience with us all at Ayr High and the wider Burdekin community.”
Sophie Robertson is one of eight Queensland recipients of the 2024 Premier’s Anzac Prize. Photo supplied
Home Hill residents have called on the state government to fund private security patrols such is their frustration with the spiralling crime rate.
Member for Burdekin, Dale Last, met with business owners and residents earlier this week and said the fact that they felt there was no alternative but private security to keep them safe was a direct result of the current state government’s many failures.
“People are frustrated and angry due to the actions of a small group of offenders who are running riot in Home Hill,” he said.
“Queenslanders have the right to feel safe no matter where they live and that is a right that this state government has ignored for years now.
“Between July 2022 and December last year we saw Police Officer numbers in Queensland fall by 322.
“Requests for additional Police in Home Hill have fallen on deaf ears and it is the community that is left to pay the price.
“Community safety is a state government responsibility and, just like people throughout the Burdekin, I am sick and tired of this state government’s empty words and broken promises.”
Mr Last said that he has raised business owners and residents’ concerns with senior Police but that additional resources were needed; and needed now.
“We have the situation where a local tradesman no longer takes appointments on a Monday morning because he knows he will spend every Monday morning repairing damage to schools caused by a small group of thugs,” he said.
“That is completely unacceptable anywhere in Queensland, let alone in a community like Home Hill.
“The current Labor government talks about a multi-disciplinary response and working with offenders.
“Ask anyone in the Burdekin and they will tell you that it simply isn’t working.
“These offenders are effectively terrorising our community and they belong in custody.
“We need the Police resources to ensure that offenders are apprehended and taken before a court and, if they are released and offend again, they need to be arrested again.
“It is up to the state government to ensure these offenders are held to account.
“There needs to be consequences for action but, sadly, we are not seeing any action on youth crime from the current government.”
Mr Last posed two options to the state government.
“Either resource our Police adequately to ensure people feel safe or continue to do nothing and stand by as the anger and frustration grows,” he said.
“Repeatedly we have seen this Labor state government forced into taking action following a tragedy such as the loss of a life.
“Our communities shouldn’t have to wait for a tragedy before they can feel safe in their own homes.
“We were promised increased Police resources in response to a recent spike in crime but what we actually saw was young offenders preying on homes and businesses in the middle of a natural disaster.
“We are sick of words, and we are demanding action.
“Responsibility for addressing this issue sits solely with the Labor state government and, if action is not taken soon, I fear that we will have yet another community dealing with a tragedy thanks to Labor’s failure to deal with youth crime.”
Advertising Feature
Lyn McLaughlin will run for a final term as Mayor of the Burdekin Shire at the 2024 Local Government Elections on Saturday, March 16.
The announcement comes on the first week of candidate nominations opening, with the incumbent looking to see some of her Council’s long-term projects through to completion.
“I have been fortunate to be Mayor of the Burdekin Shire for the past eight years and in that time, have seen many significant projects take shape,” Ms McLaughlin said.
“This will be the final time I run for Mayor – I love the Burdekin, I have lived here for 47 years, but I’m not done yet.
“I want to see these projects through to completion to ensure our Shire remains resilient long into the future.
“Recently, Council has implemented a range of long-term strategies to future proof not only our Shire’s infrastructure, but our cultural venues and parks, tourism offerings, and more.
“After seeing these strategies go from community consultation to adoption and seeing ground break on some of the major projects we have been advocating for over the past few years, I am now even more passionate about seeing them through to the end.”
Some of these key projects include the expansion of the Burdekin’s Industrial Estate and full-scale Macroalgal Bioremediation Facility, which both broke ground in 2023.
Other long-term strategic projects Ms McLaughlin has seen over her previous term of Council include securing long-term water security with both the 5ML Home Hill Reservoir and 10ML Ayr/Brandon Reservoir and related filtration systems delivered, supported by Queensland Government funding; the Home Hill Memorial Park and Watson’s Green Master Plan; the ANZAC Park Precinct Master Plan; and upgrades to the Burdekin Aquatic Centre and Water Park.
“The Burdekin is the best place to live, work, play, visit and invest, and I have advocated for projects that will further cement our Shire as a desirable place for residents, businesses, tourists and investors,” Ms McLaughlin said.
Local Government elections will be held on Saturday March 16, with more information available at ecq.qld.gov.au.
Lyn McLaughlin will run for Mayor of Burdekin Shire Council in 2024. Photo credit: Marni Hine Photography
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Ayr Health Service has welcomed four graduate nurses to its staff in 2024, bolstering the service’s nursing workforce and the region’s healthcare capabilities.
Three of the new graduates, Macy Davelstein, Dani McFadyen and Nissa Reid, are local to the Burdekin and had been working at the hospital while completing their degrees while Allanis Melvin recently relocated for her new position.
“Historically, Graduate nurses rotated from the Townsville University Hospital and then on completion of their 12-month program returned to Townsville and then we started all over again recruiting to the Graduate positions and training them for our service,” said Ayr Health Service Director of Nursing and Facility Manager Tracey Gabiola.
“It soon became obvious that our nursing workforce would become impacted unless a more strategic plan was put in place in regard to succession planning.”
Ayr Health Service has been employing local Undergraduate Nursing and Midwifery students in their second and third years as Students in Nursing since 2019.
“Once these students successfully complete their degree, they transition as our Graduates,” Ms Gabiola said.
“This Nursing career pathway has proved invaluable for succession planning and provides me with peace of mind knowing I have nursing staff who are home grown and wanting to continue to live and work within our community.”
Nissa Reid has lived in the Burdekin for most of her life and, despite finishing school 10 years ago, was drawn to the challenge of embarking on a career in nursing.
“I went into the workforce out of school and never wanted to go to uni,” she said.
“It’s funny how it’s all come around 10 years later and it’s worked out really well for me.
“I thought I would fail, and I ended up doing really well, so I’m very proud of myself.”
Ms Reid has purchased a house in the area and has no plans to leave the Burdekin.
“It’s nice to continue with the closeknit community of the area and I think the hospital really reflects that in a lot of ways,” she said.
Fellow graduate Dani McFadyen, originally from Scotland, has lived in Home Hill for 12 years and started her career in aged care 10 years ago, deciding to continue studying nursing externally while working at the hospital.
“The hospital is very welcoming,” she said.
“Nothing’s too much if you ask a question and everyone’s very friendly and helpful and just want the best.”
While living in Townsville for university, Macy Dabelstein would return to her hometown of Ayr to work alongside Ms Reid and Ms McFadyen while studying.
“It worked hand in hand with our degree and helped us out,” she said.
She’s since moved back to her hometown to embark on her career.
“It’s good to be home and have quality time,” Ms Dabelstein said.
“It’s a tightknit community and everything’s very chill down in ED (emergency department).”
Meanwhile, Allanis Melvin grew up in Ingham and, upon graduating, applied to the Townsville Hospital Grad Program with Ayr as a preference.
“I chose Ayr because I’m definitely a small-town girl and it feels more comfortable for me,” she said.
“It was somewhere I hadn’t been before, so it was exciting.”
Ms Melvin is following in the footsteps of her mother and both grandmothers who all worked in nursing.
“I’ve grown up surrounded by excellent nurses and I always knew I wanted to do something to help people in a hospital setting,” she said.
“I’m excited to enhance my skills as a nurse.
“All the staff that I’ve met have been really friendly and really helpful.”
Ms Gabiola said the Graduate program will allow Ayr Health Service to ensure appropriate coverage and delivery of service required for the Burdekin community.
“By the time they commence their Graduate year they are fully orientated and familiar with the hospital, our procedures and their roles,”” she said.
“Having known these women since they commenced their study and work here, I must admit I am always very proud of their achievements and delighted to have them as fully qualified Registered Nurses.”
L-R Ayr Hospital’s newest nursing graduates Allanis Melvin, Dani McFadyen, Macy Dabelstein and Nissa Reid
Two children were injured in a motorcycle crash on a private property on Rita Island Road, Jarvisfield last Wednesday, January 24.
A Queensland Ambulance Service spokesperson confirmed the incident was reported at 4:17pm that afternoon.
“Paramedics treated two males in their pre-teens, one with a head injury and one with arm and leg injuries,” the Spokesperson said.
“One patient was transported to Ayr Hospital, and the second was airlifted to Townsville Hospital; both were stable.”
A Queensland Police Service spokesperson said the two boys are believed to be known to each other.
“The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident, however the initial investigations indicate the crash is non-suspicious.”
With school recommenced for this term, just a timely reminder for parents who drop their children off at local schools.
Drop off zones are exactly that, pull up and drop off your children then leave. If you intend on walking your child into school, park elsewhere. We don’t want to cause any traffic congestion during an already busy time of the day.
Don’t stop in the lane of travel waiting for vehicles that are parked, picking up children, to leave that space, as this back up and congests traffic unnecessarily.
Also be aware of the school zone speed limits and drive cautiously.
Pedestrian crossings
When approaching pedestrian crossings, what is a driver’s obligation?
The Transport Infrastructure (Road Use Management-Road Rules) Regulation explains
i) A driver must give way to a pedestrian (or the rider of a bicycle) on or entering a pedestrian crossing; and
ii) A driver approaching a pedestrian crossing must drive at a speed at which the driver can, if necessary, stop safely before the crossing.
Several offenders committed a series of break and enters in the early hours of January 23, including ram raids using a stolen vehicle.
In the early hours of the January 25, five offenders committed a further series of break and enters and ram raids using other stolen vehicles.
These offences occurred in Ayr, Home Hill and Brandon.
As of Monday, January 29, three of the five offenders had been dealt with by Ayr Criminal Investigation Branch officers with a total of 43 charges between them.
The charges include Enter Premises and Commit Indictable Offence, Burglary, Unlawful Use of Motor Vehicle and Arson.
A 14-year-old Ayr youth was dealt with under the Youth Justices Act.
Two of the offenders – an 18-year-old Ayr male and a 15-year-old Home Hill youth – were charged with police opposing their bail.
They were remanded in custody until March.
A 14-year-old Home Hill youth and 17-year-old Ayr youth remain outstanding.
Additionally, in the midst of the cyclone, police responded to several reports of youths attempting to break into units in Queen Street, Ayr.
Progress on the CopperString 2032 project is rapidly powering ahead, with the Minister for Energy and Clean Economy Jobs announcing Powerlink will recruit Townsville-based apprentices for the first time.
An additional 22-strong contingent in Townsville will also support work on the 840km transmission line which will run from outside Ayr to Mount Isa.
The announcements for the region come as 35 new apprentices and graduates from across Queensland began their careers with Powerlink earlier in January.
“We’re powering ahead to deliver clean economy jobs for Queenslanders, and by making progress on CopperString, it means we can create more skilled jobs for Queenslanders, while protecting and supporting existing jobs and industries,” Minister for Energy and Clean Economy Jobs, Mick de Brenni said.
“Not only does this project benefit workers in industries like engineering and construction, but it also means big benefits to small business.
“Powerlink has already injected more than $400,000 into the North Queensland economy, and from local cleaners to caterers, bakers to baristas, the economic benefit of CopperString and projects that deliver cleaner, cheaper and more secure energy will continue to be significant.
“This is a huge year for CopperString and Townsville and the North Queensland community, with the benefits of the Queensland SuperGrid already starting to show.”
The key infrastructure project connects the largest renewable energy zone on the east coast of Australia with half a billion dollars in critical minerals.
“CopperString 2032 essentially connects the north and northwest, the North West Minerals Province and a whole lot of potential renewable energy development to the national electricity market,” said Powerlink Queensland Manager Community and Stakeholders Nicole Maguire.
“It’s probably a once in a generation project for the north of the state and we’re excited to be delivering it.”
Minister de Brenni toured the proposed CopperString route to learn more about how the mammoth project will benefit the north and north-west regions, create new jobs, and protect existing ones.
With dozens of local businesses already involved in the project, a further 450 businesses, including 250 from regional Queensland, have registered their interest to work on the project.
Minister for Energy and Clean Economy Jobs Mick de Brenni met with Mayors and community leaders from Townsville to Mount Isa to discuss CopperString in January. Photo supplied: Mick de Brenni
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