When I lived in Mackay, I worked closely with Ken Higgins OAM and the team at the Mackay Sub Branch of RSL Queensland.

I learnt a lot of from Ken and gained a new appreciation for Anzac and Remembrance Days.

I thoroughly enjoyed my visits to the Sub Branch, where I would be met with a cuppa and plenty of conversation, the topics often straying far and wide from the original intention of my visit.

I was honoured to be invited to a meeting of the Home Hill Sub Branch last week – you would have read about that in last week’s edition – and attend the Home Hill Remembrance Day Service on Saturday.

It was a self-confessed small service attended by RSL members, Mayor Lyn McLaughlin, school students and members of the community, but it was a meaningful one and from all reports, the Ayr service was much the same – you’ll find more on pages 3-5.

Remembrance Day was one of many events I attended last week, the pages of this newspaper acting as a diary of movements.

I also attended Harvest Festival celebrations, from the Rotary Ball on Friday night to the Grand Parade and Street Party on Saturday, and I must congratulate Mark and the team on bringing our community together for an incredible few months of amazing events.

The Jarvisfield Christmas Fete and Burdekin Machinery Preservationists were two more highlights from the weekend, both taking me back to my childhood of school fetes and Toowoomba and District Old Machinery Society events.

Lastly, I said goodbye to mum and dad on Sunday as they flew home after a week exploring the Burdekin – I want to thank all of you who made them feel welcome.

Just a month ago, Matt Killeen’s love for bird photography led him to the world of wildlife care, a decision that has since blossomed into a heartwarming journey of nurturing and protecting the area's feathered inhabitants.

Becoming involved with NQ Wildlife Care through Facebook Group ‘Burdekin Birding’, Matt received training and lots of support to get started as a wildlife carer.

A few weeks ago, a Tawny Frogmouth, only one or two weeks old, was rescued by a member of the public in Home Hill, reportedly abandoned and covered in ants.

It was taken to a vet who contacted NQ Wildlife to arrange a carer for it and Matt got the call.

He said that since he took it into his care, the bird has nearly doubled in weight, requiring five feeds a day.

“I hope to raise it until it is ready to be released back in to the wild,” he said.

“There is a huge demand for native bird carers and other wildlife carers.

“It’s incredibly rewarding.

“You’re helping the wildlife and you’re also helping members of the community who need assistance with injured or orphaned wildlife.

“If you find a baby bird on the ground the best outcome is to reunite the bird with its parents.”

NQ Wildlife Care are running bird care training on November 25.

For more info contact 0414 717 374 or email info@nqwildlife.org.au.

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Sigourney the scrawny Tawny Frogmouth

Services were held in Ayr and Home Hill last Saturday, November 11 for Remembrance Day, commemorating the end of hostilities in World War I on November 11, 1918.

Special guests, veterans, RSL members and the community gathered in Anzac Park, Ayr and at Burdekin Memorial Hall, Home Hill, with services hosted by Ayr and Home Hill RSL Sub Branches.

“Remembrance Day is for remembering those who paid the supreme sacrifice and those who suffered during the fight for the freedoms that we have become accustomed to today,” said RSL Home Hill Sub Branch President Richard Kelly.

“This year is just as significant, if not more than ever, than it used to be in days gone by.

“Remembrance Day is not a day to condone or glorify war, but a day to remember.”

Mr Kelly said Remembrance Day is an opportunity to recognise the hardships faced by men and women who have returned home wounded from war zones.

“It is also a time to reflect on how their loved ones are affected, all of whom are considered victims of war,” he added.

“This is why we should reflect and pay respect to those brave men and women who have served, sacrificed and suffered for their country.”

People across the country paused at the 11th hour on the 11th day of the 11th month, observing a minute’s silence dedicated to those soldiers who died fighting to protect the nation.

“By the time the guns fell silent on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918, more than 60,000 Australian sailors, soldiers and aviators had died among about 16 million other combatants and civilians in the Great War,” said Chief of the Defence Force General Angus Campbell.

“In the wars and conflicts since, more than 40,000 Australian men and women have given their lives for our nation.

“To this day, 33,000 Australians are commemorated on Memorials to the Missing.

“On Remembrance Day, we remember all Australians who have served our nation.”

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RSL Home Hill Sub Branch President Richard Kelly. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

Councillors John Furnell and Kaylee Boccalatte in Ayr. Photo supplied

The RSL Home Hill Sub Branch collaborated with year five and six students from St Colman’s Catholic School to ‘draw to remember’, an initiative of RSL Queensland to mark Remembrance Day through art.

25 students took to the concrete paths of Home Hill’s Memorial Park with chalk of all colours last Thursday, November 9.

‘Draw to Remember’ invites students to learn about Remembrance Day and prepare their chalk drawings using what they’ve learnt, with over 70 sub branches across the state getting involved.

“We are drawing to remember the people who fought for Australia’s freedom,” said student Eden Godfrey.

“Not just the one’s that died, the one’s that came back as well,” added fellow student Lily Lowis.

RSL Home Hill Sub Branch Secretary Allan Petersen was grateful to St Colman’s Catholic School for getting involved.

“I think it’s a great thing because it shows that you can go to the schools and talk to these kids about this sort of stuff, but when they put it into pictures and they can actually see and touch it, the memory stays even more so,” he said.

“I just love working with kids because they are so honest, good to deal with and respectful; I get a tremendous amount of enjoyment and satisfaction out of working with kids.

“These little ones are the future of this country, so we need to look after them.

“Next year, it’ll probably be bigger again.”

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Bill Lowis and Allan Peterson of RSL Home Hill Sub Branch pictured with students from St Colman’s Catholic School

Students drew their interpretations of Remembrance Day on the paths of Memorial Park last week

Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

Despite the rising cost of living, Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP believes his annual Christmas Appeal may actually see an increase in donations in 2023.

Mr Last said media attention to the cost-of-living crisis meant more families were more aware of the issue which may inspire more generosity, an outcome that would be widely welcomed.

“The appeal has run every year since 2015 and has had a huge impact on literally hundreds of families,” Mr Last said.  

“For some it’s about being able to put food on the table or a Christmas gift for a young child but, for all of them, it shows they aren’t alone and that their community cares.

“One recipient told of how she would be alone for Christmas and that, due to finances, Christmas day would be ‘nothing special’.  

“In the hamper she received a small Christmas pudding that, she said, made it ‘a real Christmas’ for the first time in many years.

“When I hear of things like that it reminds me how important the appeal really is.”

Mr Last said donations of any kind were welcomed and would be put to good use.

“The Salvation Army have been a key partner in the appeal since it started back in 2015,” he said.  

“That allows us to put together hampers for people based on what they need and that ensures we provide the right help, and it also means that nothing is wasted.”

“We have local groups who support the appeal regularly and individuals who make their contributions in a variety of ways.  

“From hand-made toys to staples for the kitchen cupboard, every single donation makes a real difference.”

“Every donation, big or small, makes a huge difference.”

Donations, including non-perishable food, can be made until December 15 at Mr Last’s office in the Centrepoint Arcade, Ayr.

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Geoff Mains’ regular donation of hand-made toys will make Christmas a little brighter for families assisted by Member for Burdekin, Dale Last’s, annual Christmas appeal. Photo supplied

Students from Burdekin Catholic High School’s year 10 Business class have made a donation to the Burdekin Men’s Shed following a term of fundraising.

The class were tasked with establishing business ventures which involved selling food and drinks to the school community.

From sausage sizzles and soft drinks to chocolate covered strawberries and Oreo mousse, the class raised $502 through their businesses.

“As a Business class, we did business ventures, so we sold stuff to the school community and, as a class, we decided that the donations would go to the Men’s Shed,” said business student Drea Piotto.

“We just want to help out the community and we chose the Men’s Shed because we think it’s a good cause,” added fellow student Kevin Trang.

“Along with trying to deal with the business and seeing what works, it was good to give back to the community, because it stays local,” concluded Drea.

Burdekin Men’s Shed President Rob Ritchie, Secretary Charles Ford and Grant Writer John Furnell attended a school assembly on Wednesday, November 8 to accept the donation.

“They came up with a heap of organisations in the community to distribute that money to and the Men’s Shed was unanimously voted on so we won the raffle,” said Mr Ritchie.

Mr Ritchie said members will decide how the funds will be used at future meetings.

“We’ll try to direct it back into the community,” he said.

“Our membership used to cover insurance once upon a time and now it’s nowhere near it.

“Everything we fundraise goes to pay our bills for the year.

“We stay funded through the generosity of the community so thank you very much to the year 10 students for your generosity.”

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L-R Burdekin Men’s Shed Secretary Charles Ford, Burdekin Catholic High School students Drea Piotto and Kevin Trang, Burdekin Men’s Shed President Rob Ritchie and Grant Writer John Furnell

Burdekin Catholic High School students raised money through business ventures throughout the school

Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

It’s been over six months since the last drop of fuel was sold in Home Hill, but the wait is now over with a newly refurbished service station opening on Eighth Avenue.

United Service Station Home Hill has been trading since Friday, October 27 and was officially opened by Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin and Councillors Kaylee Boccalatte, John Furnell and Max Musumeci on Friday, November 10.

The former BP site was purchased in April before undergoing a substantial expansion and refurbishment.

“Seeing a redundant site sitting here, there was an opportunity for us to come in and provide something for the local community again,” said United Petroleum Group Manager Fred Noack.

“It provides an actual place to stop in Home Hill for the travellers as well.

“We had to go through a few things to do the expansion project that we did, especially with doubling the retail space and making sure everything was spot on to deliver what we wanted.”

The new service station will employ around 12 staff, including local staff from the previous station and new hires from the community.

“It also gives an opportunity for some local youngsters to come in and get some part time work without having to rely on travelling over the bridge,” Mr Noack said.

“The local community have been very accepting.

“The numbers are well above what we predicted, and feedback has been sensational.”

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin said it was a pleasure to open the new service station in Home Hill last week.

“It is exciting for the residents and travellers to have a new service station in Home Hill,” she said.

“This will provide a wide variety of goods, more convenience and economic opportunities for residents and visitors.

“The new service station will create jobs and support local businesses.

“I congratulate the owners and staff of the service station for their hard work and dedication.”

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L-R United Petroleum Group Manager Fred Noack, Franchisee Raj Akkeneni and Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin

Locals celebrated the opening of the new Home Hill service station last Friday

Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

In regions like the Burdekin, the smallest communities can have the biggest hearts, and the Kalamia State School community is proving that this Christmas.

The school’s P&C holds an annual Monster Christmas Raffle and, while organising donations from local businesses for the raffle, it became clear that there were families in the community who were in need.

“The people who would benefit from the hamper that we’re raffling off are those who can’t afford to buy the raffle tickets,” said parent Amie Griggs.

“The P&C got together and decided to do up some non-perishable hampers for anyone in need within the Burdekin community.

“Everything donated will go back to the community this year; nothing will be kept for future raffles or hampers.”

The P&C is currently accepting donations of non-perishables food items, gift vouchers, Christmas items, gifts or household items, personal hygiene items, toiletries and cleaning items.

The school is working with a Chaplain, Gwen, who is also involved in the Salvation Army and other community organisations and will direct the hampers where needed, although the school is also asking the community to let them know if they know of a family or persons that are in need this Christmas.

Donations can be taken to Kalamia State School, Burdekin Funerals or dropped to the P&C President Rebekah by texting 0419 040 040.

Rebekah will also pick up click & collect from Coles or Woolworths by prior arrangement.

Monster Christmas Raffle tickets will also be on sale and donations can be made in front of Woolworths on November 15, 16, 18, 22 and 28.

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Payton Stephenson, Claire Griggs and Clayton Griggs. Photo supplied

Queensland schools now have the option to opt for a four-day school week from term 1 2024, with new procedures set in place by the Queensland Department of Education.

The updated policy, effective from January 22, 2024, applies to all Queensland state schools, and outlines the responsibilities and processes for making changes to school hours in state schools.

“The Department of Education has updated its policy to ensure a consistent approach when schools are contemplating changes to school hours,” a spokesperson for the Department of Education said.

“Any changes to school hours must occur in consultation with the school community including parents, staff, students, and other key stakeholders and be approved by a Regional Director.”

Changes that schools can suggest include changes to school hours, such as altering start and end times of the school day, the length of the school day, the number of school days in a week or a fortnight, or a combination of the aforementioned.

Each school must hold a trial period, minimum of one term, to test the feasibility of the changes, before the change is implanted permanently.

The Department of Education will provide approval prior to any school commencing consultation on changes to school hours,” the spokesperson said.

“It will also review the outcome of consultation prior to considering the approval for a trial of modified school hours. Consultation will consider a range of factors with the overwhelming focus of ensuring students are actively engaged in learning for the whole school week. Changes can only occur where the school community determines it provides benefits for students and families.”

Regarding supervision, schools must provide appropriate supervision for students who are at school before the day begins and afterwards.

The spokesperson said, “It is expected that all Queensland state schools continue to operate for five days a week and the new policy does not give schools a green light to implement a four-day week.”

I actively work to shape our community’s future. Whether this be through research and questions or providing ideas and engaging with the community, I am dedicated to making a positive impact.

While the larger projects and initiatives, such as infrastructure improvements (e.g. water reservoirs, Macroalgae Bioremediation facility, and the new industrial estate) are fundamental, it is important to focus on the smaller yet equally important aspects of community life.

Recently, I had the honour of speaking with another young cohort at one of the fantastic programs run by the Burdekin PCYC. I really enjoy engaging with the youth. While I am not convinced I’m any good at it, I’ll show up and do my best with the hope that by telling my story and providing some of the advice and lessons I have learned, I can inspire one person to believe in themselves. The advice – work hard, prepare and don’t be afraid of failure. The Burdekin PCYC runs some pretty incredible programs, and we are lucky to have such a dedicated group in our community.

We have also had some wonderful community events on the calendar recently. From the Outdoor Movie Night, Seniors Luncheon, and the Kickoff the Conversation evening to the host of Home Hill Harvest Festival events as well as a range of Awards nights, openings and various showcases there is always something to do in the Burdekin. These events form part of the fabric of our community and we are incredibly fortunate to have so many locals dedicating their time to making them possible.

As part of my duties, I am the council-nominated director of Lower Burdekin Water (LBW). LBW replenishes groundwater across the Shire. Did you know, the Burdekin groundwater area is considered the largest replenished coastal aquifer in Australia? LBW has commenced construction of a new river pumping station at Warrens Gully Home Hill to upgrade its system capacity. The $11.5 million project is on track for completion by December 2023.

As always, it has been eventful and rewarding serving the Burdekin Community. Thank you for the privilege of being one of your elected members.

Did you know that Burdekin Shire Council is one of 19 Reef Guardian Councils?

The Reef Guardian Council program is a partnership between the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority and local governments that aims to foster a culture of shared responsibility for the reef. The program showcases the achievements and initiatives of councils and their communities in protecting and enhancing the reef.

As a Reef Guardian Council, Council actively takes part in efforts to reduce the impact of human activities on the Great Barrier Reef. Council's Reef Action Plan outlines a range of strategies and initiatives designed to promote sustainability, protect water quality, and conserve the ecosystems of the reef.

Council collaborates with Tangora Blue for reef clean-ups and have augmented renewable energy production through the installation of 30Kw and 100Kw solar systems. Annually, Council provides a comprehensive report detailing our actions and showcasing progress.

Council is committed to working together today for a healthier Reef tomorrow. To download a copy of Council’s Reef Guardian Action Plan, visit Council’s website at burdekin.qld.gov.au.

For over 10 years Burdekin Hearing has been looking after the health of locals, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to hear clearly and easily with a range of devices and a thorough testing system that can identify issues for any patient.

Sarah Logan took over the business in 2019 and later that year when the pandemic took over the world, she had to change her business model, opening an alternative site at the Home Hill Surgery.

This decision was serendipitous, as it opened the door for Burdekin Hearing to ultimately expand its services to both sides of the river.

“COVID made us seek an alternative location whilst community centres were temporarily closed,” she explained.

“We now have clinic locations on either side of the Burdekin River which makes it a lot easier for clients to receive our services.”

They now operate clinics in both Home Hill and Ayr.

Sarah resides in the Whitsundays where she also owns and operates Whitsunday Hearing.

She travels to the Burdekin every fortnight where she looks after her local clients.

On staff, Sarah has one clinician and three support staff working across the sites.

Priding herself on a high level of personal service, Sarah and the rest of her team deeply care about healthy hearing and helping their patients live the most comfortable life.

“Each hearing loss is unique as is each client,” said Sarah.

“We take an individualised approach, rather than one size fits all to help you gain better quality of life through better hearing and communications with loved ones.”

Burdekin Hearing provides hearing tests and hearing devices to both private clients and pensioners/DVA recipients.

Fully or partially subsidised devices can also be provided to eligible people through the Hearing Services Program.

They also offer workplace hearing tests and testing of children from the ages of four and above.

If you are finding it hard to hear clearly in social settings or are constantly turning the television up, then perhaps it is time you got a hearing test – you will be amazed at how good hearing can transform your life.

Call Sarah and her team on 4946 4906 today.

The trusted faces behind NextGen Renewables are here to make your shed, patio, deck, and carport dreams a reality with their unique custom designs that are a popular choice for property owners across the region.

Owned and operated by locals, Duncan Kerr and Mark Vass, the pair are both skilled and experienced builders whose quality techniques are highly sought after.

Launching the business six years ago, they began selling ground mounts for large solar systems on farms, but the company soon diversified to encompass a range of large steel buildings and structures.

“Between us, we have well over 20 years of experience in the steel manufacturing and shed industry, this has allowed us to refine our shed design down to a bit of an art. Our focus is on buildings that are designed and built top last in North Queensland’s harsh conditions. ” explained Duncan.

“We’re not part of any franchise, we work with our own design program which means we have been able to develop our own shed design and can create custom buildings to suit any of our client’s needs.”

Utilising only the best materials, NextGen use Australian Blue Scope Steel as their standard choice for construction works.

They also offer a more premium product called ZAM, which is a Japanese steel that is highly corrosion resistant, perfect for coastal regions.

Being locally owned and independent also means that NextGen work closely with local suppliers and subcontractors.

For example, windows for sheds are sourced and manufactured from Durrants in Brandon.

From the moment you call NextGen you will receive a personal service, beginning with a consultation with Duncan, where they will establish the type of structure you are looking to build, its purpose and its size.

Someone from the NextGen team will then conduct an initial site visit and then oversee everything from the design, engineering, Council application, concrete slab and build.

This year, NextGen has diversified its offering once again, launching a roof insulation arm to the business. They are offering two insulations products which are suitable for both sheds and also housing or commercial projects.

The insulation has their own product branding and is proving very popular.

If you are looking for a trusted, reliable, and experienced company to build your shed, ground mounted solar stand, deck, patio, or carport, look no further than NextGen.

For more information call Duncan on 0409 578 720.

For four decades, Bonato Electrical & Airconditioning (trading as Laser Electrical Ayr) has stood tall as a testament to local and family business success.

Established and still run by Burdekin locals Richard and Karen Bonato, the essence of Bonato Electrical & Airconditioning lies in its deep-rooted commitment to the community.

From supporting numerous local sporting clubs and groups to providing over 100 apprenticeships in electrical and air conditioning, the Bonato family exemplifies the spirit of community engagement.

Over the years, Bonato Electrical & Airconditioning has evolved from its origins in electrical and air conditioning to offer a comprehensive suite of services.

Beyond traditional offerings, the company specialises in solar, data, refrigeration, and even building services.

The business is also the only ignition integrator in north Queensland, using a software platform for creating custom HMI, SCADA and MES database applications.

It’s not only its extensive range of services that sets Bonato Electrical & Airconditioning apart, but also its large employee base.

With experienced technicians boasting over 30 years of service, the company thrives on a wealth of knowledge with a tightknit crew who pride themselves on their workmanship and quality.

Richard and Karen Bonato's hard work and generosity have left an indelible mark, not only on their employees but also on the relationships forged with clients over the years.

As Bonato Electrical & Airconditioning looks back on 40 years, it stands as a shining example of a local family business deeply embedded in its community, evolving with the times and fostering a legacy of excellence.

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Bonato Electrical & Airconditioning’s Elliot Grant

Your local fitness gurus and personal health experts, Get Fit Burdekin, are expanding, and they’re taking you with them!

Since the early days of the business, over three years ago, owners Christian and Yvette Lando have welcomed every opportunity with open arms.

“We’ve been thrilled with the support that the Burdekin community has given us from the moment we opened our doors,” Yvette explained.

“Since taking on the business, our member numbers have more than doubled, but it has been amazing to see a sense of community being developed within the gym.”

And now, Get Fit Burdekin are embarking on a new evolution, an expansion to a brand-new premise.

“Moving to the new location at 96-98 Eighth Avenue has been huge for us and enabled us to triple our floor space and introduce the latest gym equipment available on the market.”

Ensuring the best for their members, Get Fit has 24-hour access, so you can be sure to get your workout in whenever you get the opportunity.

They also have a fantastic personal training schedule available, a large and separate cardio area, and a great range of free weight and pin weight machines.

“We have the best, friendly, and approachable staff and members, the gym is more like the ‘cheers bar’ of gyms. everyone knows your name and greets you when you walk in,” Yvette explained.

Officially opening the new location this Saturday, November 18, from 9am, get behind Christian and Yvette and the Get Fit Burdekin team for a day of excitement, check out the new space and expanded equipment, and get your membership finalised.

WHAT: Get Fit Open Day

WHERE: 96-98 Eighth Avenue

WHEN: Saturday, 18 November from 9am