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
Read the full story
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
Read the full story
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
Read the full story
"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"
Read the full story
With the threat of cyclone imminent, here are our top tips for farmers to cyclone proof your crops and agricultural business.
Plan: As the saying goes, Failing to Plan is Planning to Fail. Have a detailed lock-down plan, with all staff having specific instructions on their individual tasks. Having each individual on a specific task allows each person to not be overwhelmed in an emergency.
Clear: It is best to clear trees and shrubs away from buildings and sheds, as well as ensure that power lines are well cleared to avoid electrical fires.
Livestock: The Burdekin Shire Council Place of Refuge does have a space to shelter pets in a cyclone, however, all animals must present in a cage and have adequate food and water supplies. However, for livestock and paddock animals, ensure that all animals have a form of identification. If transporting to a secondary secure location, ensure that all handlers and drivers are well experienced and that the mew location has plenty of food and water for all the animals. Where relocation or evacuation is not possible, the farmer must consider either turning the livestock loose, to be rounded up later, or moving them into a secure area.
Crops: To best prepare crops, ensure that drains are well maintained, with contour banks and farm waterways to limit flooding and crop damage. Consider windbreaks, crop layout and support structures that are designed to best support the crops. Clear headlands and paddock access points of all potential debris.
More than $2 million in funding is up for grabs for Queenslanders to help fight feral pigs. In 2021, it was estimated that Queensland had up to 2.3 million feral pigs. They are among Queensland's most widespread and damaging pest animals. Feral pigs spread invasive plants, degrade soil and water, prey on native species, damage crops and livestock, and carry diseases.
Round 8(a) of the Queensland Feral Pest Initiative (QFPI) is now open, with $2.16 million available to build local capacity for biosecurity preparedness through feral pig population suppression.
Applications for the Queensland Government funding, which is overseen by the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF), are open to regional organisations of councils (ROCs), natural resource management (NRM) groups, land and sea ranger groups or Indigenous land councils, state farming organisations, and incorporated industry organisations across Queensland.
Queensland Chief Biosecurity Officer Rachel Chay said feral pigs cause a huge amount of damage to agriculture and the Queensland environment.
“Funding of more than $2 million will be available to employ up to four feral pig management coordinators to support the initiation and delivery of effective feral pig management across the state,” Dr Chay said.
“As with previous rounds, these grants help reduce the impact of feral pests and support more jobs in the regions.
“This is an important investment in a biosecure future for all Queenslanders.”
Applications can be submitted via qldferalpestinit@daf.qld.gov.au until 29 February 2024.
Successful pitches will incorporate lessons from past projects and be at a regional scale with the potential to achieve an enduring legacy.
This latest round of funding through QFPI takes the Queensland Government’s commitment to control invasive plants and animals to more than $27 million over eight years.
This is complemented by a $14 million investment from the Federal Government.
Applicants should outline any in-kind and cash contributions from partners and councils.
For more details, visit Queensland Feral Pest Initiative | Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Queensland (daf.qld.gov.au)
Did You Know?
• In 2021, it was estimated that Queensland had up to 2.3 million feral pigs.
• More than $2 million in funding is up for grabs for Queenslanders to help fight feral pigs.
• Feral pigs spread invasive plants, degrade soil and water, prey on native species, damage crops and livestock, and carry diseases.
• Applications can be submitted via qldferalpestinit@daf.qld.gov.au until 29 February 2024.
• Successful pitches will incorporate lessons from past projects and be at a regional scale with the potential to achieve an enduring legacy.
There are an estimated 2.3 million feral pigs living in Queensland. Photo: Shutterstock
One million doses of lumpy skin disease (LSD) vaccines have now been provided to Indonesia by the Federal Government, as the fight to protect our cattle industry from disease ramps up again in 2024.
The final shipment of the Lumpyvax vaccines arrived in Indonesia late last month.
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Murray Watt said aiding control of LSD in the region was a priority.
“LSD and foot-and-mouth disease remain significant threats to the biosecurity of Australia and our neighbours,” Minister Watt said.
“As a result, it is imperative that we do everything we can to support Indonesia as they work to get this outbreak under control.
“Over the course of this year, we have supplied 1 million vaccines to our neighbours in Indonesia – vaccines that are now finding their way into Indonesia’s cattle population and protecting farmers’ livelihoods.
“Previous shipments have already been supplied to the Indonesian Ministry of Agriculture.”
Minister Watt said LSD is spread by mosquitos, biting flies and ticks, and severely affects cattle and water buffalo.
“It affects milk production and produces sores all over the bodies of infected animals. It can also seriously hamper trade.
“Given that Australia’s beef exports are forecast to be worth over $10 billion and live cattle exports over $1 billion this financial year, it’s vital that we protect our livestock industries.
“I must stress that Australia has never experienced an outbreak of LSD and remains free from this disease.
“It’s important that we work together with our neighbours to get this disease under control, while also taking steps to make sure we keep Australia safe and LSD-free.”
For more information, visit Lumpy skin disease - DAFF (agriculture.gov.au).
What are the signs of LSD?
Affected cattle can develop a fever of up to 41.5oC and may also have watery eyes, nasal discharge and excess salivation (drooling).
Within 1–2 days, raised nodules up to 50mm in diameter commonly appear around the head, neck, limbs and genitals and may cover the entire body. Scabs form on these nodules and may fall off, leaving large holes in the hide that can become infected.
The brisket and legs may appear swollen and cattle may look lame or be very reluctant to move.
Building on his 30 plus years of experience in drilling, bores and pumps, Brian Connolly and his wife Michelle have become stalwarts in the Burdekin, their business B&M Drilling offering top-notch services in water bore drilling, pump installation, equipment hire, and more for the past 19 years.
B&M Drilling's journey has been marked by continued partnerships with key entities like Burdekin Shire Council, Ergon Energy, and local Wilmar sugar mills. However, the heart of their success lies in Brian's unparalleled local knowledge of the water supply in the Burdekin district. This expertise ensures that clients receive tailored and effective solutions for their water needs.
B&M Drilling boasts an extensive inventory, including stainless steel fittings, pumps, motors, poly pipe, PVC pipe, and more. This allows them to provide clients with on-demand access to a wide range of quality products, ensuring the success of each project. B&M Drilling's services go beyond water bore drilling, encompassing a comprehensive array of offerings including water bore drilling and cleaning, pump and motor supply and installation, equipment hire (bobcat, auger, trencher, excavator) and bore camera inspections.
The company prides itself on a work culture centred on experience and safety. The experienced crew of eight, fully trained in safety protocols, ensures that projects are executed with precision. Quality, for B&M Drilling, is not just a standard but a reflection of their extensive experience in the field.
With a commitment to excellence and a customer-centric approach, B&M Drilling stands ready to tackle new challenges. Their dedication to understanding the specialised nature of their work positions them as a trusted partner for water solutions in the region. B&M Drilling's legacy is built on a foundation of local expertise, a diverse range of services, and a commitment to quality. For all water bore drilling needs, B&M Drilling remains the go-to choice in the Burdekin and surrounding areas. To explore tailored solutions for your project, contact Brian Connolly on 0418 197 578.
Burdekin Catholic High School, celebrating 50 years this year as a Catholic co-educational secondary school in the Burdekin District, is delighted to welcome their new Principal, Mrs Lorraine Wolffe.
Lorraine joins the school with more than 38 years’ experience in education, including, 30 years in Senior Leadership positions.
Mrs Wolffe said “I am looking forward to a community that has a strong culture that values learning and places student wellbeing, care and growth at the heart of its vision.
I am very much looking forward to again being part of a College with a Marist charism. I was educated in the Marist way at St Peter Claver College, Riverview and was Assistant Principal of Chanel College, Gladstone for 16 years. Returning to the Marist charism fills my heart with joy. I am inspired by Marcellin Champagnat and his belief ‘to educate children well we must love them, and love them all equally.’
“I am looking forward to working in a co-educational environment where I am committed to supporting our young men and women to take their place in the world with courage and confidence and the ability and will to positively influence their own lives and the world around them.
The high expectations and the academic success of BCHS is to be admired. The Class of 2023 student achievement was exceptional, with a highest ATAR of 99.55 and 47% of the cohort receiving an 80+ ATAR result reflects a school with a focused academic education.
In addition, the number of apprenticeships and traineeships gained by students graduating demonstrates the faith employers of this local region have in the young people of BCHS.
I am very excited to meet the young people of BCHS as we welcome them back to school. I see a very bright future for BCHS with an enrolment growth to start 2024.
“My husband and I are excited to begin our new adventure in Ayr and I look forward to getting to know the BCHS and wider Burdekin community.”
As the temperatures continue to rise and, it becomes more imperative than ever for industries and trade sectors to adapt to the seasonal changes to maintain optimal productivity and employee well-being. Implementing best summer practices is crucial for businesses and their staff to thrive in the warmer months.
1. Flexible Scheduling: Consider introducing flexible work hours or remote work options. This not only helps employees beat the summer heat but also promotes a healthier work-life balance, leading to increased job satisfaction and productivity.
2. Heat Stress Prevention: For industries requiring outdoor work, prioritise employee safety by providing proper training on heat stress prevention. Encourage regular breaks, hydration, and the use of personal protective equipment suitable for warmer conditions.
3. Energy Efficiency Initiatives: Summer often brings higher energy demands. Implement energy-efficient practices, such as optimising air conditioning systems, using natural light, and adopting eco-friendly technologies, to reduce operational costs and environmental impact.
4. Supply Chain Optimisation: Summer can bring disruptions to supply chains due to weather-related issues. Develop contingency plans, diversify suppliers, and maintain open communication to mitigate potential disruptions and ensure a seamless flow of goods and services.
5. Employee Engagement Programs: Boost morale and team spirit by organising summer-themed employee engagement programs. This could include team-building events, outdoor activities, or casual dress codes to create a positive and enjoyable work atmosphere.
6. Inventory Management: Seasonal fluctuations in demand may occur, especially in construction and manufacturing. Optimise inventory management by forecasting demand accurately, adjusting production schedules, and ensuring adequate stock levels to meet customer needs during peak summer periods.
By incorporating these best summer practices, industries and trade sectors can navigate the challenges of the season, enhance employee satisfaction, and maintain efficient operations for sustained success.
Stay safe on the job this summer. Photo supplied
Due to an increase in demand, local hydraulics business Muzdraulics has added a second fully equipped hose truck to its fleet, increasing capabilities and decreasing customer down time.
The new truck, which is in the field already and operated by third-year apprentice Harry, promises reliable service and shows the business’s dedication to getting its loyal customer’s machinery up and running and back in the paddock as soon as possible.
“Previously, if we encountered a few customers who were broken down at the same time, we had to juggle between them to get them going,” said business owner Murray.
“With the additional service truck, it means less down time for the customer and more time for productivity on the farm.”
Including the new addition, the Muzdraulics fleet now features two fully equipped hose repair trucks and one fully equipped field service vehicle.
The father-son duo are available to their customers 24/7.
“At times, we’ll need two trucks and at other times, I’ll need the four-wheel drive to access remote locations,” Murray said.
Murray and his son Harry established Muzdraulics over three years ago when Harry completed high school and embarked on his apprenticeship, and their client base has been steadily growing ever since.
“Harry’s in and amongst it, he’s doing the jobs on his own and he’s still got my full support for technical advice and assistance in the field,” Murray said.
Specialising in the design, manufacture, sales and repair of hydraulic cylinders and all hydraulic components, Murray and Harry are capable and ready to supply a range of hydraulic power units control valves as well as the full range of hydraulic hoses and adapters.
Muzdraulics is built on decades of unique experience, allowing Murray to utilise his skills in areas he’s since realised are incredibly valuable to him and his clients.
A business based in the Burdekin and solely servicing the Burdekin, Murray and Harry are up to the task of supporting the agricultural hub now and into the future.
“The growth of our company has only been possible due to the support of our community and our existing customers,” Murray said.
“We want to say a big thank you to all our customers and all the people of the Burdekin community for a successful year in 2023 and are ready to tackle all your hydraulic and mechanical needs in 2024.”
For more information, visit Muzdraulics on Facebook, email muznq79@yahoo.com.au or phone 0487 487 442
The new truck on the job!
When Karl Vass started his boilermaker apprenticeship in a Home Hill workshop on the corner of Ninth Avenue and Eighth Street, he didn’t realise he would go on to establish his own business in that exact same workshop years later.
Karl grew up in a farming family and started his apprenticeship at age 16, so agricultural engineering was almost destiny.
After relocating to the Gold Coast for 10 years, he moved back to the Burdekin in 2012 and was doing contracting work in the mining industry when his old workplace became vacant.
“I signed a rental contract not really knowing what I was going to do so I just started doing a bit of work for people I knew, and it just got busier and busier,” he said.
10 years later, Vass Engineering has become the pinnacle of agricultural excellence, designing and manufacturing farming equipment for the sugar cane and horticultural industries as well as providing sandblasting and painting services.
With a team of nine, Karl is proud of the progress the business has made.
“I was a really confident tradesman in what I did but I learnt pretty quickly that running a business has nothing to do with that,” he admits.
“I had to work out how to run a business and manage people and timeframes.
“I’m at the stage where I’m quite confident in the way my business is running and I’m pretty proud of that.”
Since establishing the business in 2014, Karl has always strived to utilise technology, from 3D AutoCAD modelling and the latest computer numerical control (CNC) equipment.
“I’m willing to push things in my design and think outside the boundaries,” he said.
“I think everyone who works with me and works in my industry, with the standard that we set, there’s a whole lot of job satisfaction at the end of the job.
“We do everything pretty much start to finish and I believe it’s world class.”
Karl also finds great satisfaction in training the next generation of boilermakers and engineers, with a current staff made up of four apprentices as well as local and international tradespeople.
His journey from a young Home Hill apprentice to the proud owner of Vass Engineering shows his resilience, innovation and commitment to the industry and the region.
The celebrated Burdekin Brass Band’s Learner Classes will resume for its seventh year on the evening of Tuesday February 13 in Home Hill’s Burdekin Brass Band Hall on 10th Avenue.
Burdekin Brass Band President, Larry Hudson, and accredited music instructor, Ms Donna Wall encourage the community to take advantage of this amazing and unique opportunity to explore your interests and acquire new skills.
“When people learn music, they use this skill for the rest of their life,” explained Larry.
The classes are set to run every Tuesday evening from 5pm to 6pm, for those aged 9 through to 199. Community members are able to join the program at any point throughout the year, whereby Ms Donna Wall will support your musical journey at your own pace.
“If you have a love of music, and want to learn an instrument, come along, learn and have some fun,” said Ms Wall.
Each class entails an hour group session, and free instrument hire for a $10 tuition. The Burdekin Brass Band fosters continuous opportunities for growth in each students’ musical journey through the Learner Classes in offering solo classes, advanced tutoring, and to be a part of a supportive band in your local community.
“It’s always more fun to play an instrument with other people, and this is a great little community band,” expressed Ms Wall.
Ms Donna Wall encourages all readers interested in taking up the opportunity of uncovering your new passion to contact her on 0407 780 988.
Alternatively, Larry invites you to come along to the Burdekin Brass Band’s practice night from 7.30pm every Thursday from January 25, or view the Burdekin Brass Band’s Facebook page for updates.
Photo supplied: Burdekin Brass Band
The first turtle nest of the season has hatched on Magnetic Island, with 45 baby Flatback sea turtles scrambling to the ocean earlier in January.
Magnetic Island Network for Turtles confirmed the first flatback sea turtle nest hatched on the beach of Nelly Bay and was a good outcome, with the nest found in a cooler shaded spot.
The Network reported an almost 100% hatchling success rate with volunteers using artificial light to lead the hatchlings safely to the water.
Relive the action from Verve Dance Festival which brought competitors from across the Burdekin, north, central and west Queensland to the Burdekin Theatre for five days of dancing and excellent community spirit.
For full results, visit Verve Dance Festival on Facebook.
Photo credit: KR Photos & Videos - Keeara & Reece
Photos supplied: Verve Dance Festival
Jarvisfield State School
Welcomes Prep Students
Photos supplied: Jarvisfield State School
First Day Back At St Francis Catholic School
Caption: Photos supplied: St Francis Catholic School
Thursday, January 11 saw 18 players arrive ready for an afternoon of bowls.
Game 1: Tony, Des and Trevor 20 drew with Judy, Bob and Clinton 20.
Game 2: Paul, Dino and Henry 19 were too strong for Jim, Joe and Mick 9.
Game 3: Margaret, Lloyd and Hugh 20 defeated Conner, John and Gary 12.
16 players turned up to play barefoot bowls on Wednesday night, January 17.
Winning the night was Meryl and Sam.
Thursday afternoon bowls on January 18 had 19 players turn up to do battle on Rummeny Green.
The winners of the day was the team of Mick McClosky, Jocelyn DeFranciscus and Dino Poli.
Barefoot bowls is on again on Wednesday evening, come along for a feed and a game of bowls in the cool of the evening 6pm for a start at 6:30.
Thursday afternoon bowls names in by 1pm for a start at 1:30.
Afternoon tea approximately 3pm finish at 4:30.
Bingo on Thursday mornings.
See you all there.
Contributed by Stephen Doig
Paul, Dino and Henry
Meryl and Sam
Mick, Jocelyn and Dino
Photo credit: Trevor Elton
Wednesday 17/1/24
1st Prize to Jim Murray, Tony Battaglia and Ray Wall defeated Mick Murison, Arthur Gauvin and Ron Soper.
2nd Prize to George Nixon and Chris Berkery defeated Margaret Chapman and Col Essex.
Saturday 20/1/24 (Bob Murison Memorial Day) was a special day put on by the Murison Family and was very well supported with a full green of bowlers.
1st prize to Bob Pickard/Mick Olsen (shared game), Peter Lejarraga and Lew Stidston defeated Katharina Stuckler, Barry Hewson and Ron Soper.
2nd prize to Mick Murison, Joe Grabbi and Wayne Coonan defeated Ashley Smith, Tony Battaglia and Ray Wall/Happy Horan (shared game).
3rd prize to Margaret Linton, Alan Jones and Arthur Gauvin defeated Paul Vass, Alex Bojack and Ross McLaughlin.
Contributed by Michael Parravicini
Home Hill Tennis is set to host its Annual Open Day set to coincide with the success of this year’s Australian Open this coming Monday January 29. This year there was much for Burdekinites to cheer about with local tennis star Adam Walton making his Australian Open debut. Playing in singles, doubles and mixed Adam played well and gained a lot of valuable experience. His family were there to cheer him on and couldn’t have been prouder. Many locals followed his matches on Nine Now.
At the Open session there will be free tennis and pickleball for all ages and stages from 6 pm onwards. Pickleball is a racquet sport played on a smaller court with a light whiffle ball. “It is very easy to play with an underarm serve,” said pickleball organizer Kate Casswell. “Possibly the hardest thing is keeping track of the score.” Pickleball is regularly played on Tuesday nights at 7 pm. Interested players should contact Kate Casswell on 0447384441. The first night you play is always free. Pickleball begins on January 30.
Besides the tennis and pickleball there will also be a free sausage sizzle and merchandise giveaways. Tennis members will have the opportunity to sign on and pay membership fees which are a bargain at only $60 per adult. Players wishing to join the Monday night competition should message Sheryn on 0417617622 or email homehilltennis@gmail.com. Players paying fees for the whole year in advance will receive a bonus discount and a free drink on the night. This is a great opportunity for all tennis players to get back on the court in preparation for the Annual Sugar Bowl event in May which is always a highlight on the northern calendar.
The Burdekin cheered on Adam Walton this tennis season
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2026 Life Publishing Group Pty Ltd.
