Ayr police have charged several people over a series of incidents in the district this month, including business and home break-ins, drug driving, and an assault on an officer.

A 23-year-old Ayr man has been charged with entering a Queen Street business, while a 16-year-old Ayr youth was cautioned over the same incident. The man was also charged in relation to two separate house break-ins, with the youth again cautioned.

On September 21, a 31-year-old Ayr man was charged with assaulting a police officer stationed at Ayr.

Two Ayr motorists were issued Notices to Appear in Court after testing positive to methamphetamine and cannabis in separate drug driving incidents. A 25-year-old man, intercepted on September 20, also allegedly had methamphetamine and drug utensils located during a police search. A 31-year-old woman was also intercepted on the same date and tested positive to the same substances.

Meanwhile, a 31-year-old Ayr man has been charged with five counts of entering premises between September 11 and 14. Police say a search warrant executed at his home on September 21 uncovered drug utensils. He is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on October 20.

In a separate matter, a 34-year-old Home Hill man was charged with drug driving after returning a positive test for methamphetamine on September 18.

Police are reminding the community to take extra care on the roads during the school holidays. Officers will be conducting additional enforcement as part of Operation Spring Break.

‍

I would like to let everyone know about the great job Meals on Wheels do in our community. I attended the National Meals on Wheels morning Tea in late August. Without them in our community a lot of people would struggle to have wholesome and nourishing food on a daily basis. The quality and variety of the food is amazing. I had the opportunity to have a tour of the kitchen and witness the production line with the cooking, dishing out and packaging the food up for the distribution to the clients. They not only bring their clients food but they are also like a check in service and to some people they are the only company they have. They are always looking for volunteers to help this great cause. If you are interested, please call 47832659 or visit 109 Macmillan Street Ayr.

I attended the BCA 50th Birthday Celebrations both the luncheon and dinner, what an incredible achievement for the Association. We enjoyed a display of BCA Memorabilia and a slideshow that showcased the Associations achievements over the past 5 decades. Ricky Romeo entertained us at the luncheon at the RSL for the BCA Clients volunteers and special guests. I would like to congratulate them on their special milestone

Monday was National Police Remembrance Day. It is held every year to honour Police Officers who have died in the course of their duties. I attended the service at the Burdekin Community Church along with the local Police officers. I had my 2 hats on that day one as a Unsworn member of the Police Station, and as a Councillor. During the Service, the Roll of Honor was read with the names of all Police Officers killed in the course of the duties and wreaths were laid in their honour.

Burdekin Community Association, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, Zonta, Police, Burdekin Shire Council are working together to hold a Candlelight Vigil for the16 Days of Activism. We will unite together for change and commemorate the lives lost to gender-based violence in Australia. Statistics in 2025 (up to this date) 51 women and 18 children have lost their lives to gendered violence in Australia. It is to be held at the Burdekin Theatre Forecourt on the 25th November 2025 at 7pm. Please feel free to come along and help us remember those who have lost their lives. By working together, we can combat inequality, change culture, and save lives.

‍

Christmas will be here before we know it, and I’d like to take a moment to acknowledge the enormous contribution of our volunteers. Until you find yourself needing support, it can be hard to truly appreciate how valuable these services are.

Organisations such as the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, Burdekin Community Association, Meals on Wheels and SES Burdekin rely on volunteers every day. If you are looking for a way to give back to our community, I encourage you to get involved.

I’d also like to remind residents that new smoke alarm laws will come into effect on 1 January 2027. Every Queensland home, townhouse, unit, caravan and motorhome must have:

· In-date interconnected, photoelectric smoke alarms

· Smoke alarms in every bedroom, hallway and on every level

· Alarms compliant with AS3786-2014

· Alarms that are hardwired (240v) or powered by a 10-year lithium battery

These changes are about protecting families and saving lives, and fines will apply for non-compliance. Insurance policies may also be affected. Please don’t leave it to the last minute and be ready for 2027.

Finally, with the King’s Birthday long weekend approaching, I wish everyone a safe and enjoyable break.

If you’d like to reach out, I’d love to hear from you. You can contact me by email at mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

‍

Simon Hood
Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing
Wilmar Grower Marketing’s annual Global Traders Roadshow has wrapped up for another year after a busy week of presentations, starting in Ingham and finishing in Sarina.

‍
The events brought together growers from across our milling regions to hear first-hand insights into the forces shaping the sugar market. Guest speaker Peter Bingham, Wilmar’s London-based Senior Sugar Trader, provided an in- depth look at the global market, with particular focus on the latest developments in Brazil and India.
Brazil’s record sugar mix and India’s higher production outlook were highlighted as key factors influencing supply, pricing, and trade flows in the months ahead.
Peter also delivered a thought-provoking session on consumer demand, exploring how shifting diets, health concerns, and sustainability trends are reshaping global sugar consumption patterns.

‍
Local growers also heard from Bevan Patterson, Wilmar Sugar Australia’s Risk Manager, who explained how global politics and currency markets affect returns. He highlighted the role of the Australian dollar, which continues to be influenced by wider geopolitical factors, including trade policy and the impact of recent Trump tariffs.

His session underlined how changes well beyond Australia’s borders can have a direct effect on the value of local sugar. The roadshow once again proved to be a valuable opportunity for growers to connect, ask questions, and walk away with a clearer picture of the opportunities and risks facing our industry. By bringing our global expertise to local communities, the event hopefully helps growers to make informed decisions about pricing their GEI sugar exposure. The Grower Marketing team and I would like to thank all those who attended across the districts and contributed to the conversations. We look forward to continuing to work alongside you to achieve the best results for your farm. As always, if you have any enquiries regarding your marketing or pricing, please contact a member of the team. We are on hand to assist when and where you need it.

Wilmar’s Senior Sugar Trader Peter Bingham (right) and Risk Manager Bevan Patterson (left)
have just wrapped up our annual Global Traders Roadshow.

‍

Alluvium Consulting has completed an avulsion risk assessment for the Queensland Government as part of the Burdekin Water Plan, shining a light on the natural processes that shape one of the largest deltas on Australia’s east coast.

An avulsion occurs when a river suddenly changes course, carving a new channel and abandoning its former path. Though uncommon on human timescales, avulsions are a natural and inevitable part of how rivers evolve and they can have far-reaching consequences for communities, agriculture, infrastructure, and ecosystems.

To assess the risk in the Lower Burdekin, Alluvium’s team combined historical records, geomorphic analysis, hydraulic modelling, and expert review. By examining past channel movements, sediment dynamics, floodplain interactions, and delta morphology, the study identified potential avulsion pathways and assessed both the likelihood and impacts of such events.

The findings indicate that while the short-term risk is low - largely because the Burdekin River rarely engages with its floodplain - avulsions are inevitable in the long term. In fact, the delta itself holds evidence of several major avulsions within the past 5,000 years, each reshaping the landscape.

The report highlights the importance of understanding these natural processes across coastal river systems. With avulsions certain to occur over time, planning and preparation are essential to mitigate the potential impacts on infrastructure, communities, and the environment.

‍

James Cook University (JCU) researchers are calling for urgent government support to protect the spectacled flying-fox from extinction as new and escalating threats push the species closer to the brink.

Despite their reputation as noisy and messy neighbours, spectacled flying-foxes play a vital role in the survival of Australia’s rainforests, travelling vast distances to pollinate flowers and spread seeds at levels unmatched by any other species.

JCU adjunct associate professor Noel Preece said recent research shows long-term threats such as land clearing and human persecution are now being compounded by climate change and invasive ants, leaving the species increasingly vulnerable.

“The spectacled flying fox is a keystone species,” Prof Preece said.

“It’s one of the great travellers in distributing seeds across the wet tropics and Cape York landscapes, and a major pollinator of the forest.

“They can fly over 100km from their roost to find food and return home, flying over 200 kilometres in a single night. They move fruit around, pollinate trees and prevent tree inbreeding, and they have evolved with the rainforest, so they play a vital role in the Wet Tropics.

“It will be truly catastrophic to our rainforests if they are gone.”

CSIRO monitoring has already highlighted a dramatic decline, with numbers dropping 75 per cent between 2004 and 2017. Preece said the lack of consistent government support for monitoring and conservation programs is alarming.

“There’s no indication that the population decline has turned around. There’s nothing to suggest that, and no reason we can think of that it would just turn around,” he said.

“We do need to get the government to support this as a long-term program.”

While flying-foxes have long struggled with public perception, Preece said many issues can be easily managed.

“The problems they cause can be managed, and their ecological value far outweighs the nuisance.”

‍

JCU-led research researchers calls for urgent government support to protect the spectacled flying-fox from the threat of extinction (Photo Supplied)

‍

Dabelsteins Tackle 135km Trek for NICF

In October, Kelli and Paul Dabelstein will jet off to Western Australia to take part in a mammoth 135km trek to raise invaluable funds and awareness for the Neonatal Intensive Care Foundation (NICF).

Spearheaded by the Community Broker Network (CBN)’s Charity Challenge initiative, the six-day Cape to Cape trek will support the vital work of NICF volunteers to give hundreds of sick and premature babies a fighting chance.

“We first heard about the trek through the Community Broker Network, which we’re proud to be part of. It’s a wonderful network that’s deeply involved in charity work and supporting the community - which really aligns with our own values,” explained Kelli.

“There’s something so fulfilling about giving back - doing something meaningful for others while pushing yourself to achieve something you never thought possible.”

Moved by the life-changing impact the fundraising campaign will make in the lives of countless families across the country, Kelli and Paul cannot wait to explore the beauty of Western Australia this month.

“I’m inspired to take on this 135km trek for several reasons. Firstly, I’ve never been to Western Australia, and the opportunity to experience such beautiful scenery while challenging myself is really exciting but more importantly, the Neonatal Intensive Care Foundation is a cause that’s very close to our hearts,” Kelli explained.

NICF helps to prevent serious complications like brain and lung damage, cerebral palsy, and blindness in newborn babies through research projects, nurse education and through the funding of medical equipment in several institutions in the ACT, Southern NSW, Riverina and Gippsland in Victoria.

“Over the past year, we’ve seen firsthand through family and friends just how incredible their work is, and it has made us deeply aware of the difference they make.”

Meandering across the breathtaking coastline of the Margaret River Region in the Southwest corner of WA, the 135km Cape to Cape trek has been rated as one of Australian Geographic’s top ten multi-day walks in the whole of Australia.

“I’m really looking forward to the scenery along the way - maybe even spotting whales! I’m also excited to connect with other members of the group who will be completing the trek alongside us.”

“I hope this challenge teaches me that I’m capable of more than I thought possible.”

The pair are required to raise $3,000 for NICF prior to commencing the trek and since sharing the news of their journey with family and friends, Kelli and Paul raised over $2,000 in just two days!

‍

Paul and Kelli Dabelstein will embark on a 135km Cape to Cape trek in WA this October for NICF (Photo Supplied)

‍

Home Hill State High School’s Year 11 students kicked off their leadership journey in spectacular fashion at this year’s camp in the Whitsundays. From the very first day, students approached every challenge with enthusiasm, positivity, and a strong desire to grow as emerging leaders.

The camp began with a reflective SWOT analysis, where students explored their strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. A key focus emerged on improving communication skills, which led to activities such as the classic Human Knot challenge, testing teamwork, problem-solving, and patience—while providing plenty of laughs.

Evening festivities included a fun “Letter P” dress-up night, with students impressing local restaurant-goers with their creativity and energy. Guests, including Mrs O’Neill, offered encouragement and inspiration, leaving a lasting impact on the students.

On the second day, students embraced the natural beauty of the Whitsundays, beginning with a scenic boardwalk walk to the marina before boarding Zigzag Whitsundays for snorkelling at Haselwood Island. They explored vibrant reefs and marine life, enjoyed a buffet lunch, hiked through the Whitsundays, and participated in team-building games on the pristine Whitehaven Beach. A thrilling whale sighting on the return journey added a special touch to the adventure.

The evening wrapped with a two-course dinner at Mantra, positive postcards exchanged between students, the creation of a 2026 leadership mantra, and a lively trivia session.

The Year 11 camp proved to be an unforgettable experience of learning, laughter, and connection. With spirits high and bonds strengthened, students returned home inspired and ready to lead with confidence in the year ahead.

‍

East Ayr State School’s (EASS) thriving Environment Club – fondly known as the Enviro Club – has once again proven that hard work and care reap delicious rewards, producing a bumper harvest just in time for the spring school holidays.

Guided by the dedicated Mrs Halliday, students rolled up their sleeves to tend the garden each day, ensuring the school’s vegetable patch flourished with leafy greens, crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and more.

The fresh produce isn’t just admired – it’s enjoyed. The Enviro Club’s harvests are regularly donated to the school tuckshop, where they feature in healthy snacks and meals for students to enjoy.

“Fresh is best! Our tuckshop has so many fresh and healthy options on our menu, and thanks to our very own Enviro Club, another delicious donation of lettuce and tomatoes,” shared East Ayr State School.

Past harvests have seen students participate in hands-on workshops, like peeling and cooking sweet potato chips for lunch, with every scrap composted to enrich the garden’s soil for future crops.

The Enviro Club has grown significantly in recent years, with its vegetable patch now boasting a wide variety of crops including beans, cress, alfalfa, cucumber, lettuce, sandwich sprouts, six types of tomatoes, and sweet potato.

Beyond the schoolyard, Enviro Club members have also had the opportunity to visit local farms, gaining firsthand insight into how food makes its way from paddock to plate.

The program not only fosters a love for gardening but also equips students with lifelong lessons in sustainability, nutrition, and community spirit. Judging by the proud smiles of the young gardeners holding their harvest, the Enviro Club’s future is looking as bright – and green – as ever.

‍

EASS' Enviro Club continues to receive great praise from the local community (Photo Supplied)

‍

The fight against cancer is personal for Raelene Grantz. After her own breast cancer diagnosis last year—and watching her twin sister Maree battle it almost 12 years prior—Raelene knows firsthand the toll the disease takes. Now cancer free, Raelene is ready to give back.

On Sunday, October 19, Home Hill’s Burdekin Memorial Hall will play host to Burdekin Fights Back, a Gala Afternoon Tea aiming to raise funds for the North Queensland Cancer Council and the vital support services at Gluyas Lodge in Townsville. The event has been a year in the making, with local generosity helping shape what promises to be an inspiring afternoon.

Guests will be entertained by Ricky Romeo and guided through the day by Burdekin local MC Emma Halliday. The program will feature special guest speakers, including Dr. Paula Heggarty, a GP and Associate Professor of Rural Medicine at James Cook University. Well known in the region for her 11 years working as a GP in Ayr, Dr. Heggarty is passionate about training the next generation of doctors and advocating for rural health. She brings a wealth of experience and insight into the challenges faced by cancer patients and their families in North Queensland. Tegan Marsden from the North Queensland Cancer Council will also share information on the organisation’s programs and how the community can access support.

The afternoon will include a cent sale, lucky door prizes, and a mega raffle, adding extra excitement to the day. Attendees can enjoy tea, coffee, and a scrumptious afternoon tea buffet, while a licensed bar will be available for those wanting something stronger.

Raelene, who has lost close friends to cancer in the past year, hopes the event will not only raise vital funds, but also rally the Burdekin community to fight back.

"We've just got to keep fighting. I'm a firm believer in the research," said Raelene.

Tickets, priced at $40, include a free cent sale sheet and can be purchased now at [https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1462482].

‍

Cancer is an unwelcome visitor that touches too many lives, and in the Burdekin, the fight against it is personal for Raelene Grantz. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

‍

Sunday 5 October
Plantation Park Markets
Sunday 8am
Join Ayr State Primary School for a picture-perfect morning showcasing the talents and hobbies of both local and travelling stallholders with everything from home baked treats to handmade creations on offer! To become a stallholder yourself contact 4790 3333.
Plantation Park

THURSDAY 9 OCTOBER
Zonta Club Burdekin Inc – Movie Night
Thursday 6pm for 7pm start
Step back in time at Stardust Cinema for the Grand Finale of the Downton Abbey series. Prizes for best dressed Downton Abbey character, raffles, 100 boards, photo opportunities, and a light supper menu styled on the 1920s–30s. Tickets available from 22 September via Zonta’s Facebook page or TryBooking.
Stardust Cinema, Ayr

FRIDAY 10 OCTOBER
Students’ Ball
6pm–11pm
An elegant evening presented by Home Hill High School. Gather for music, dancing and celebration at this year’s Students’ Ball.
Burdekin Memorial Hall

SATURDAY 11 OCTOBER
97.1 Sweet FM Markets
Saturday 8am-1pm
Join Sweet FM for an entertaining morning jammed full of wonderful market stalls from handmade crafts, sausage sizzle, hot coffee & tea, and sweet treats, on the station's front lawns, all to the background of a live outside radio broadcast (request a song as you browse). To become a stallholder contact 0405 151 864.
97.1 Sweet FM front lawn (old Courthouse), Home Hill

Sunday 12 October
BBQ Breakfast
Sunday 8am
The community is invited to attend the Burdekin Aero Club Inc. Monthly BBQ Breakfast at the Ayr Aerodrome from 8am to 11am. Meet the pilots, inspect the aircrafts, and enjoy a morning of socialisation for $15 per person. Call 0429 144 921 for more information.
Ayr Aerodrome, Brandon

Wednesday 15 October
Social and Networking Event
Wednesday 5:30pm
The community is invited to attend the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce Social and Networking Event for an enriching evening of socialisation.
Home Hill Community Sports Club

Friday 17th October
Home Hill Tennis Harvest Fest Trivia Night Event 3
Come along to Home Hill Tennis Association from 6 – 9 pm for a fun evening of trivia. Teams of 6 – 8 players, cost $60 per team when prepaid. BYO platter, Bar open. For more information contact Kate 0447384441 or email homehilltennis@gmail.com.

Sunday 19 October
Burdekin Fights Back
Sunday 2pm
Join the community for a powerful afternoon of fundraising at Memorial Hall, supporting North Queensland Cancer. This gala event features a cent sale, mega raffle, licensed bar, and a special address by guest speaker Dr Paula Heggarty.
For more information, call Raelene on 0407 118 671.
Memorial Hall

SUNDAY 19 OCTOBER
Town of Origin
1pm–6pm
Ayr and Home Hill go head-to-head in cricket, rugby league and netball. Cheer on your town and soak up the atmosphere of community rivalry and pride at this action-packed event.
Home Hill High School

Sunday 19 October
Plantation Park Markets
Sunday 8am
Join the VVAA for an enjoyable morning overflowing with wonderful market stalls from handmade creations to delicious treats! To become a stallholder yourself contact 4783 6627.
Plantation Park

SATURDAY 25 OCTOBER
King & Queen of the Hill
6am–8am
Race to the top of Inkerman Hill and back in this thrilling test of endurance. Multiple age categories, cash prizes, plus food and coffee vans on site. Register on the day.
Mount Inkerman

FRIDAY 31 OCTOBER
Cocktails & Convo with Award-Winning Author
Friday 6pm
Join Burdekin Readers & Writers Association and award-winning author (and former local), Kim Wilkins, for cocktails and conversation at their pop-up book bar. The author of more than twenty-five books, a Professor of Writing at the University of Queensland, Kim is coming to town to share drinks and talk writing, including her brilliant new historical fiction, The Secret Year of Zara Holt. Everyone is invited. Register at: www.burdekinraw.org.au/events to attend this one-off event and hear from a celebrated wordsmith.
148 Queen St, Ayr

SATURDAY 1 NOVEMBER
Derby Day Races
Gates open 11:30am
Burdekin Race Club presents Derby Day—your traditional black and white fashions and quality racing event. Gather your friends for a classic day at the track.
Burdekin Race Club

SATURDAY 1 NOVEMBER
Writing Workshop
Saturday 9am-3pm
Acclaimed author of over 25 books, and UoQ Professor of Writing, Kim Wilkins, will give a hands-on workshop to writers of all levels. Through practical exercises, you’ll learn how to balance Architecture of Story with Artistry of Writing, to take your writing to the next level! To register for this hotly anticipated event, visit www.burdekinraw.org.au/events. Numbers are strictly limited.
Memorial Hall (Green Room), Home Hill

Sunday 2 November
Plantation Park Markets
Sunday 8am
Join Ayr State Primary School for a picture-perfect morning showcasing the talents and hobbies of both local and travelling stallholders with everything from home baked treats to handmade creations on offer! To become a stallholder yourself contact 4790 3333.
Plantation Park

SUNDAY 2 NOVEMBER
Golf Ambrose
Time TBA
Grab your team for a friendly day on the greens. Whether a seasoned golfer or a novice, enjoy laughter, camaraderie and competition in this social Ambrose event.
Home Hill Golf Club

WEDNESDAY 5 NOVEMBER
Pet Show & Bolt for Bucks
6pm–9pm
Bring your pets to compete in fun categories, then watch the kids dash for prizes in the Bolt for Bucks race. A free family evening of laughter, furry friends and community spirit.
Watson’s Green
Cost: Free

FRIDAY 7 NOVEMBER
Rotary Gala Ball
6:30pm–midnight (Dinner 7pm)
Celebrate the Harvest Festival with a sit-down dinner, music and dancing. The evening crowns the Charity and Personality Queens, honouring community spirit and generosity.
Burdekin Memorial Hall
Cost: $70

SATURDAY 8 NOVEMBER
97.1 Sweet FM Markets
Saturday 8am-1pm
Join Sweet FM for an entertaining morning jammed full of wonderful market stalls from handmade crafts, sausage sizzle, hot coffee & tea, and sweet treats, on the station's front lawns, all to the background of a live outside radio broadcast (request a song as you browse). To become a stallholder contact 0405 151 864.
97.1 Sweet FM front lawn (old Courthouse), Home Hill

SATURDAY 8 NOVEMBER
Grand Parade
5pm
Floats, vehicles and marching bands light up Main Street for the festival’s colourful parade, showcasing community pride and creativity with the theme “Hollywood Elegance.”
Home Hill, Main Street

SATURDAY 8 NOVEMBER
Street Party
3pm
Watson’s Green transforms into a lively hub with food stalls, carnival rides and live music. Dance under the lights and celebrate the harvest season with family and friends.
Watson’s Green, Main Street

Sunday 9 November
BBQ Breakfast
Sunday 8am
The community is invited to attend the Burdekin Aero Club Inc. Monthly BBQ Breakfast at the Ayr Aerodrome from 8am to 11am. Meet the pilots, inspect the aircrafts, and enjoy a morning of socialisation for $10 per person. Call 0429 144 921 for more information.
Ayr Aerodrome, Brandon

Sunday 16 November
Plantation Park Markets
Sunday 8am
Join the VVAA for an enjoyable morning overflowing with wonderful market stalls from handmade creations to delicious treats! To become a stallholder yourself contact 4783 6627.
Plantation Park

Wednesday 19 November
Social and Networking Event
Wednesday 5:30pm
The community is invited to attend the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce Social and Networking Event for an enriching evening of socialisation.
Home Hill Community Sports Club

Sunday 7 December
Plantation Park Markets
Sunday 8am
Join Ayr State Primary School for a picture-perfect morning showcasing the talents and hobbies of both local and travelling stallholders with everything from home baked treats to handmade creations on offer! To become a stallholder yourself contact 4790 3333.
Plantation Park

Sunday 14 December
BBQ Breakfast
Sunday 8am
The community is invited to attend the Burdekin Aero Club Inc. Monthly BBQ Breakfast at the Ayr Aerodrome from 8am to 11am. Meet the pilots, inspect the aircrafts, and enjoy a morning of socialisation for $10 per person. Call 0429 144 921 for more information.
Ayr Aerodrome, Brandon

Wednesday 17 December
Social and Networking Event
Wednesday 5:30pm
The community is invited to attend the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce Social and Networking Event for an enriching evening of socialisation.
Home Hill Community Sports Club

Sunday 21 December
Plantation Park Markets
Sunday 8am
Join the VVAA for an enjoyable morning overflowing with wonderful market stalls from handmade creations to delicious treats for the final Plantation Park Markets for 2025! To become a stallholder yourself contact 4783 6627.
Plantation Park

‍

First and foremost, we would like to express our heartfelt thanks to our loyal customers and the wonderful Burdekin community for 59 years of unwavering support. We feel incredibly fortunate to have built our business in such a special place, surrounded by the best people.

We also extend our sincere thanks to our customers and business partners in Townsville, who have supported our growth since 1995. Your loyalty and partnership have been vital to our journey.

To our beloved and valued staff over the years – there are far too many to name, but please know how deeply grateful we are to each and every one of you. To those who dedicated many years of service, you hold a very special place in our hearts. Your commitment and support have meant the world to us.

A very special thank you goes to Maria Bright, who has been an integral part of our business’s success. Maria, your dedication, hard work, and loyalty have never gone unnoticed. We truly would not be where we are today without you. Thank you for everything.

We also wish to acknowledge our parents, Shaun and Gwen Phelan, who founded Phelan’s Pies 59 years ago. It was their courage, determination, and partnership that laid the foundation for everything we’ve achieved. Their legacy lives on in every part of the business.

Lastly, we are absolutely thrilled to hand over the reins to the new owners – Paul and Kristy Hudson, Clinton and Kate Southern, and Maria Bright. We couldn’t be happier to see Phelan’s Pies continue in the hands of young, enthusiastic, and hardworking members of our community. You have our full support, and we’ll be cheering you on every step of the way. We look forward to watching your success in the years ahead.

Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts.

Joy and Peter Phelan

‍

Last Friday, the 19th of September, Sugar Research Australia’s (SRA) Variety Development, Industry Services, and Farm Management teams visited Wilmar’s Pioneer Mill for an educational tour focused on sugar milling processes.

The visit provided valuable insights into the operational aspects of milling while strengthening links between research, on-farm practices, and industry processing. A special thank you was extended to Pioneer Senior Production Technologist, Colin McLean, for hosting the tour.

SRA’s mission is to accelerate the growth and resilience of the Australian sugarcane industry by investing in research and development across five key programs: Varieties, Agronomy and Farming Systems, Crop Protection, Milling and Processing, and Adoption.

Through this integrated approach, SRA partners with growers, millers, and government to enhance productivity, profitability, and sustainability for the future of the industry.

‍
A team from SRA visited Pioneer Mill last week (Photo Supplied)

The resilience, beauty, and spirit of rural Australia have been captured in the winning entries of Rural Aid’s sixth annual Spirit of the Bush Photography Competition.

This year’s competition drew a record-breaking response, with 201 entrants submitting 429 photos – almost double the number received in 2024. The powerful images tell stories of life on the land, from moments of quiet reflection to the vastness and challenges of the Australian landscape.

Ten winners were each awarded a $250 prepaid Visa card for photos that judges said reflected the realities of rural life – its struggles, its triumphs, and the deep connection people share with country and community.

Rural Aid CEO John Warlters said the competition continues to highlight stories that might otherwise go unseen.

“This year’s photos are a moving tribute to life outside the city limits. They tell stories of perseverance, pride and connection,” Mr Warlters said.

“There’s an authenticity to these images that resonates. Whether it’s a family working through drought, or a breathtaking sunrise over a remote property, the spirit of the bush shines through.”

Among the winners was Calliope’s Amy Ahchay, a first-time entrant, whose candid photograph of countrymen Rob and Gordon sharing a laugh over a cuppa in the paddock struck a chord with judges.

“I spotted Rob and Gordon deep in conversation across the paddock and just had to capture the moment. It was the perfect snapshot of bush life, two country larrikins, their horses, a cuppa, and a good laugh,” Amy said.

“To me, this is what the spirit of the bush is all about. It’s raw, it’s real, but it’s also full of heart. Mateship, storytelling, and that unshakable sense of connection that ties rural communities together.”

The winning images will feature across Rural Aid’s campaigns, publications and social media, helping to raise awareness of life in the bush and the people who call it home.

Rural Aid is also encouraging photographers to consider becoming volunteer content creators by donating images to support its fundraising and awareness work.

Since 2015, Rural Aid has provided vital support to farmers and rural communities, from hay and drinking water to mental health counselling and community-building initiatives. Now celebrating its 10th year, the charity continues to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with rural Australians, ensuring their stories – and their resilience – are never forgotten.

2025 Spirit of the Bush Photos (Photo Supplied)

‍

Queensland’s sugarcane industry has welcomed the Federal Government’s $1.1 billion Cleaner Fuels Program, declaring the state is perfectly placed to lead the charge in clean energy and regional job creation.

The ten-year program aims to unlock economic opportunities from low-carbon liquid fuels such as biodiesel and sustainable aviation fuel.

CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan said Queensland already has a head start, with global recognition for sustainable farming practices and an extensive transport network.

“Almost half of the Queensland’s sugarcane is recognised by the world’s three biggest sustainability gatekeepers as a global leader in sustainable farming. This gives immediate confidence to airlines, freight and heavy industry that local feedstocks meet global benchmarks,” Mr Galligan said.

He explained that Queensland’s cane rail system is another advantage.

“Our growing region stretches along the Queensland coastline, alongside major population hubs. We also have a cane rail network stretching thousands of kilometres, linking farms to mills and multiple deep-water ports,” Mr Galligan said.

“This footprint shortens supply chains, cuts costs, and de-risks a rapid scale-up of domestic low-carbon liquid fuels. With sugarcane feedstock alone, Queensland could deliver more than 30% of Australia’s aviation fuel demand.

“This is about positioning Queensland as the nation’s biofuels hub. It means cleaner fuels for airlines and motorists, thousands of new jobs, and billions in regional investment.”

Australian Sugar Manufacturers (ASM) CEO Ash Salardini praised the Federal Government’s leadership.

“The government must be commended for grabbing this once-in-a-generation opportunity with both hands,” Mr Salardini said.

He also stressed the importance of strong supply chain foundations.

“We have to get the foundations right on biofuels. The challenge isn’t technology anymore – it’s standing up a reliable, scalable, and cost-effective supply chain.

“This agenda requires a laser-like focus on targeted support for feedstock logistics and infrastructure. Without it we risk building a biorefining capability that relies on imported feedstock – swapping our reliance on imported liquid fossil fuels with a vulnerability for imported bioethanol from places like Brazil and India,” Mr Salardini said.

Both CANEGROWERS and ASM agree that towns such as Cairns, Mackay, Bundaberg, Townsville, Childers and Tully could become bio-precinct hubs, producing clean fuels, biogas and renewable electricity.

With the sugar industry already supporting 20,000 jobs and contributing $4.4 billion annually to the Queensland economy, the potential for growth is significant.

“If we get it right, we’ll unlock thousands of jobs across regional Queensland and beyond, demonstrating that the net-zero ambition will bring good paying jobs to regional communities across Australia,” Mr Salardini said.

‍