(From left to right) John Licciardello (Director of ML Partners), Kayleen Grasso (Partner of Fahey and Walsh), Peter McKaig (Director of ML Partners). Photo supplied.

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Three respected North Queensland businesses are coming together, marking an exciting new chapter for clients, team members and communities across the region.

Fahey & Walsh has recently joined ML Partners, strengthening its ability to support clients throughout the Burdekin and surrounding areas while preserving the personalised service and trusted relationships that have been at the heart of the business for more than 100 years.

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In a second milestone, ML Partners and Carey Group have agreed to merge, bringing together three well-established North Queensland businesses with a shared commitment to helping families, businesses and communities thrive.

For Fahey & Walsh Partner Kayleen Grasso, the decision was driven by a desire to ensure the long-term future of the business while maintaining the trusted relationships built with clients over generations.

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"Fahey & Walsh, ML Partners and Carey Group share the same values and commitment to client service," Mrs Grasso said.

"This partnership gives our clients access to broader expertise and resources while retaining the personalised service and trusted relationships they value."

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Importantly, there are no planned changes for Fahey & Walsh clients or team members.

"Most importantly, it's business as usual," Mrs Grasso said.

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"Our clients will continue working with the same team they know and trust, and I'm pleased to be continuing with the business as part of this next chapter to ensure continuity and maintain the longstanding relationships built within the community."

ML Partners Director John Licciardello said the alignment between the organisations became clear throughout discussions about the future.

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"The alignment between our organisations was clear from the outset," Mr Licciardello said.

"Together, we're building a stronger business that expands opportunities for our clients and team members while remaining committed to the communities we serve."

Joe Carey, Chairman and Partner of Carey Group, said the merger reflects a long-standing relationship and shared vision for the future.

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"We've worked alongside the ML Partners team for many years and have enormous respect for their people and values," Mr Carey said.

"Together, we're creating new opportunities for our clients, our people and our communities while preserving the relationships that underpin our businesses."

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The combined business will bring together approximately 180 professionals across accounting, audit, financial planning and business advisory services, strengthening the depth of expertise and resources available throughout North Queensland.

While the businesses are excited about the opportunities ahead, their focus remains firmly on maintaining the personalised service, trusted advice and strong relationships that have defined their success over many years. Clients will continue to receive advice from the people they know and trust, backed by the additional resources and expertise of a larger regional group.

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The merger represents a shared commitment to the future of North Queensland, ensuring individuals, families and businesses continue to have access to high-quality professional advice delivered by local people who understand the communities they serve.

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Burdekin’s footy fans are being encouraged to kit up in their favourite team colours next month and help children and families facing cancer as part of the Fight Cancer Foundation’s Footy Colours Day.

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A national fundraising initiative running throughout September, Footy Colours Day stands as an opportunity for thousands of Australians to come together to show their support for kids with cancer, and getting involved couldn’t be easier.  

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Schools, workplaces, sporting clubs, families and groups can choose a date, register for free via www.footycoloursday.com.au and create their own footy-themed fundraiser! It could be a morning tea, BBQ, pizza night, sausage sizzle or a few footy games; the only requirement is wearing your colours with pride and raising funds for the cause.

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In 2025, 1,362 Footy Colours Day events helped raise almost $548,000 to support children and families affected by cancer, with all funds raised used to support vital cancer research and help keep parents, siblings and children together during an incredibly difficult time through providing accommodation for families who must travel for treatment.  

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So, whether you're backing the Cowboys, Broncos, Storm or something entirely different, get your team together and show your colours for kids with cancer!

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Two local auxiliary firefighters make their stance clear outside Ayr Fire and Rescue’s soon to be replaced Soper Street station. Photo credit: Jacob Casha.

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By Jacob Casha

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When Queensland Fire Department (QFD) officials signed off on 24-hour station designs for Ayr in January, local firefighters thought their years of advocacy and sacrifice had finally paid dividends.

Those plans went up in smoke when the Department instead decided to retain current staffing models in the district, leaving after-hours response on the shoulders of burnt-out permanent officers and an auxiliary workforce that is evaporating by the year.

“It's sickening,” Queensland Professional Fire Fighters Union Townsville Country Branch Secretary Peter Marten said.

“The community is not aware that if a fire happened tonight, or someone was trapped in a car tonight, they might have to wait 40 minutes for the first fire truck to turn up.

“I just don't understand how [the Department] could be willing to take that risk.”

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CHANGE OF PLAN LEAVES BURDEKIN FIRE COVERAGE UNRESOLVED

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Queensland Professional Firefighters Union (QPFU) officials have slammed the Queensland Fire Department’s decision to abandon plans for a long-awaited 24-hour fire station in Ayr.

The decision goes against years of advocacy from the Union, which raised concerns that all-time lows in auxiliary numbers have made the current mixed staffing model in Ayr unsustainable and dangerous.

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Ayr Fire and Rescue (AFR) representatives were informed of the Department's decision just months after then QFD Assistant Commissioner for the Northern Region, Michael O’Neil, signed off on designs for an FS6 station—a 24/7 permanently staffed facility—to replace its current Soper Street facility.

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Union representatives said Mr O’Neil’s signature followed 10 months of consultation between the Department and AFR, during which QFD Deputy Commissioner at the time, Kevin Walsh, also reportedly pledged to submit FS6 station plans with increased staff to upcoming estimates.

At the estimates last month, Mr Walsh and QFR Commissioner Steve Smith instead revealed that while the new station will still be built, it will operate under an FS4 daytime-only staffing model, deeming current arrangements sufficient for service delivery in the region.

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“We look at a whole range of factors such as … demographics, urban sprawl, frequency of responses, types of responses and response times,” said Mr Walsh.

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“Through that process, it was determined that an FS4 station matches the current service delivery … [with the] capacity for future expansion should the operational service change over time.”

Union officials argued the department’s assessment ignored severe operational realities on the ground, pointing to a collapsing auxiliary workforce and dangerous after-hours response delays.

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The station currently pairs rostered daytime permanent staff with on-call auxiliaries for overnight coverage, making it the only emergency service in the Burdekin without a 24/7 operation.

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QPFU Townsville Country Branch Secretary Peter Marten said permanent firefighters had been hiding the system’s blemishes for years, with permanent AFR firefighters forced to go on-call after hours to make up for a depleted auxiliary workforce.

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“For years, a broken system has been propped up by a permanent workforce who have very clearly told [the Department] that it cannot continue,” he said.

“They're not only covering Ayr now; they cover Giru, and they also had to start covering Home Hill … and a large group of them have become burnt out.”

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Mr Marten said the new station in Ayr, funded through the 2025/26 State Budget, was an opportunity for a clean slate.

“There is an opportunity with the new station to fix the problem going forward, but they’ve turned a blind eye to it,” he said.

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“If it's not going to happen now, it's probably not going to happen for quite a few years—and and the auxiliary models are going to be broken for all those years. Sooner or later, someone's going to get seriously hurt because of that.”

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Mr Marten said the permanent staff are now off-call following the Department’s decision, leaving after-hours response solely down to eight active auxiliary firefighters across the entire Burdekin shire.

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Auxiliary Captain Noel Mulcahy said Ayr’s roster alone had plummeted from 14 active members to four over roughly 20 years, three of whom are not qualified to operate pump equipment due to ‘Grade 1’ status.

As a result, Mr Mulcahy said after-hours calls without permanent assistance can face over 30-minute delays waiting for backup from Home Hill, or up to an hour when appliances must be dispatched from Townsville. He called the delay a matter of “life or death.”

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He also said low numbers have halted interior search-and-rescue operations altogether.

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“If we attended a structure fire and there were people reported inside, I wouldn't commit a crew to go in for search-and-rescue—I haven't got the numbers to go in and save them if something happens,” he said.

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“I don't want to stand in front of a coroner and try to explain why I sent them in with no back-up.”

A QFD spokesperson acknowledged the drop in auxiliary numbers, but defended the FS4 decision in a statement, arguing that infrastructure planning is informed by current and future demand.

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The Department did not directly respond to questions about what documents Mr O’Neil signed in January, what authority that sign-off carried, or what occurred between the approval of the FS6 designs and the subsequent decision to proceed with an FS4 station.

The spokesperson did reveal that Queensland Fire and Rescue had “undertaken targeted local auxiliary recruitment activities over the past 18 months to support continued service delivery in the area.”

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However, AFR statistics show a local 18-month drive launched in 2023 yielded nine applicants,  one of whom remains in the role today. Union members cited the ultimately unsuccessful drive as proof that a 24/7 station was the last remaining option.

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Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the region deserves “nothing less.”

“My issue is the fact that it’s been promised, and that 90 per cent of our community would not even realise that, at the present time, we don’t even have a 24/7 manned fire station in the district,” she said.

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“Considering the size of our district and our population, having [a new station] built that is lesser than what we have is unacceptable.”

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OP-ED by Federal Member For Dawson Andrew Willcox

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Every Australian family sitting around the kitchen table knows the reality, our standard of living is under severe pressure. Since the Albanese Labor government took office, Australians have experienced some of the steepest declines in living standards in the developed world. With national debt fast approaching $1 trillion and structural budget deficits locked in for a decade, Labor is spending more and taxing more, while households are forced to get by with less.

The challenge facing our nation is not just identifying these economic headwinds; it is putting forward a clear, constructive alternative. That’s why I’m often asked, what a Coalition government would do differently to steer the country back on track. The answer lies in structural economic reform that rewards hard work, protects aspiration, and respects the money you earn.

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At the heart of our plan is a landmark policy designed to end secret tax hikes, the Tax Back Guarantee.

Under the current system, when your wages rise to keep pace with inflation, you can easily be pushed into a higher tax bracket. This process, known as "bracket creep," allows the government to collect higher tax revenues every year without ever having to pass a law. It penalises workers for simply trying to keep up with the rising cost of groceries, rent, and power bills.

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It equally penalises businesses, too. Employers feel a genuine responsibility to increase wages so their workers can afford to live, yet these rising expenses drive up business overheads at a time when everyone is struggling to swim against a tide of high inflation fuelled by the Albanese Labor Government.

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The Coalition will fix this by permanently indexing income tax thresholds to inflation. Starting in the 2028-29 financial year, we will index the bottom two income tax thresholds, a measure that will protect approximately 85 per cent of Australian income earners.

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By year three, that relief would climb to $1,200 a year: providing a substantial, ongoing boost to household budgets when families need it most. From the 2031-32 financial year, we will extend this indexation to the top two thresholds, ensuring that no Australian is penalised with higher taxes simply because of inflation.

This is a fair, simple, and honest reform. It forces the government to live within its means rather than relying on inflation to balance the budget.

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True economic recovery also requires us to scrap this new suite of toxic taxes that punish success and stifle investment. The Albanese Labor Government's approach is a direct assault on aspiration. It imposes higher taxes on housing, savings, investments, and small businesses.

This includes a 30 per cent tax rate on discretionary trusts, which acts as an inheritance tax by stealth on the family structures everyday Australians use to pass assets to their children.

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This is why a Coalition government will repeal this entire suite of toxic taxes. We will reverse changes to negative gearing that restrict housing supply, undo capital gains tax hikes that discourage investment, and protect small businesses from punitive tax structures.

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Furthermore, we will abolish the Safeguard Mechanism, removing a regulatory burden that inflates building material costs and drives local manufacturing offshore.

It is a basic economic reality that when you tax something, you get less of it.

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If you tax savings, housing, investment, and small business, you get less of all of them. The Coalition wants more aspiration, not less, which is why we will back the hard-working Australians who want to get ahead.

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By cutting these penalties on success, we are offering a positive, practical plan to restore home ownership, lower national debt, and secure Australia's economic future.

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All photos courtesy of Shay Kratzmann Photography.

Burdekin Water Festival Junior and Senior Ambassadors (back) Olivia Pabone (Feed Me Food), Judah Donald (Burdekin Christian College), Blaize Palmer (Burdekin Motors), Zylon Dallecort (Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre & CORES QLD), (middle) Amara Boccalatte (BT Farms), Lillea Levitt (Burdekin Netball Association), Evie Totorica (Ayr Motorcycle Club), Ella Pirrone (Rotary Club of Ayr), (front) Mia Bojack (Burdekin Christian College), Ashlyn Pearce (Lower Burdekin Celtic Dance Association), Edith Innes (East Ayr State School) Jaxsyn Pearce (Ayr State School) and Aria Fiamingo (St Francis Catholic School)

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The 2026 Burdekin Water Festival Junior and Senior Ambassadors traded their usual festival duties for an afternoon of tea, treats and treasured conversations when they visited Ozcare Ayr for a special high tea.

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The Ambassadors played an active role throughout the morning, helping prepare and plate food, greeting residents, serving refreshments and, most importantly, sharing their individual talents and passions with the Ozcare community.

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While the visit is a much-anticipated highlight on the Ambassador calendar, it also forms an important part of the judging process, providing an opportunity for the Ambassadors to demonstrate how they work together, interact with residents and staff, and share their interests with others.

The group brought an impressive variety of talents to the afternoon, with Amara demonstrating how to toss a cast net, Aria and Evie sharing their singing talents, and Ashlyn and Edith showcasing their Highland dancing skills.

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Jaxsyn gave residents a glimpse into his passion for motorbike riding through a video, while Judah shared a video tour of the Burdekin. Lillea got creative by teaching residents how to draw flowers, while Mia shared her love of horses through footage of her riding and jumping.

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Blaize even set himself the ambitious challenge of completing 50 push-ups, with residents eagerly counting along and encouraging him every step of the way. Although he fell just short at 44 push-ups, the enthusiastic support from the room was enough to make the challenge a success.

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Ella spoke about her love of baking and prepared brownies for residents to enjoy, while Olivia brought some extra energy to the morning by teaching the other Ambassadors the ‘Hoedown Showdown’ from Hannah Montana, eventually getting the group up and dancing.

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Zylon rounded out the entertainment by playing guitar and singing for the residents.

The wonderful atmosphere was made even more special thanks to Ozcare’s Kristy, Amanda and Mel, who once again went above and beyond to transform the hall for the occasion.

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This year’s decorations celebrated the Burdekin’s iconic landscape and lifestyle, with photographs of local landmarks including the Burdekin Bridge, sugar cane flowers, blooms collected by Mel from along the Burdekin River and handmade cupcakes crafted by Amanda and decorated with prickly pear, cowboy hats, gum leaves and cowboy boots.

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Kristy welcomed residents, Ambassadors and their invited guests to the morning, highlighting the unique Burdekin lifestyle shaped by the Burdekin River and tying the celebration into this year’s festival theme, ‘River Country’.

The beautifully decorated hall was soon filled with conversation as residents and Ambassadors enjoyed a feast of freshly made sandwiches, sweets, cakes, quiche, sausage rolls, spring rolls and more.

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With the room buzzing with chatter and laughter, the morning once again highlighted the special connection the Water Festival Ambassadors have built with the region’s aged care community.

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The Burdekin Water Festival Committee extended its thanks to Kristy and the Ozcare Ayr team for their ongoing efforts in hosting the Ambassadors, as well as Sunwater for its continued sponsorship of the Ambassador Program.

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See more photos here: www.burdekinlife.com/social-pics/burdekin-water-festival-ambassadors-share-joy-across-generations-at-ozcare

BWF Ambassadors (back) Olivia Pavone (Feed Me Food), Ella Pirrone (Rotary Club of Ayr), Zylon Dallecort (Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre & CORES QLD), Blaize Palmer (Burdekin Motors), (front) Edith Innes (East Ayr State School), Lillea Levitt (Burdekin Netball Association), Amara Boccalatte (BT Farms), Evie Totorica (Ayr Motorcycle Club), Jaxsyn Pearce (Ayr State School), and Judah Donald (Burdekin Christian College). Photo credit: Kari Ravizza

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Over the weekend, Plantation Park became a hub of happiness as the community came together, four-legged members and all, in support of Feed Me Food Burdekin Water Festival (BWF) Senior Ambassador, Olivia Pavone’s Dog Walk Fundraising Event!

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On the morning of Saturday 8th August, approximately 30 to 40 people, and over 20 pups filled the popular park as Olivia’s fundraiser kicked off, all in support of Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue; a cause close to her heart.

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“I have always loved animals and the positive impact they can have on people of all ages,” said Olivia.

“Supporting BCPR with this event meant a lot to me because I was able to combine my love for animals with helping an organisation that does so much to support and care for them. BCPR were such an open, welcoming and loving organisation – it was really special to see everyone come together for the morning.”  

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Mel and Mario Pavone, Owners and Managers of Feed Me Food, could not have been happier with how the day ran, confirming the event raised over $560 to support the valuable work of Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue.

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“We fully supported Olivia’s choice to select Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue, having experienced firsthand the incredible benefits a rescue dog can bring and recognising the importance of the work the organisation does,” Mel said.

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Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Coordinator Kari Ravizza was in awe of the morning, noting that all the pups were well behaved and made for a lovely morning stroll through Plantation Park’s Juru Walk, followed by a delicious brunch catered by Feed Me Food.

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“It was such a beautiful morning in the park and so lovely to see many of the community come out to support Olivia, Feed Me Food and the Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue,” Kari enthused.

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See more photos here: www.burdekinlife.com/social-pics/paws-for-a-cause

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Burdekin Water Festival Junior and Senior Ambassadors (back) Zylon Dallecort (Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre and CORES QLD), Blaize Palmer (Burdekin Motors), Ella Pirrone (Rotary Club of Ayr), (front) Olivia Pavone (Feed Me Food), Lillea Levitt (Burdekin Netball Association), Evie Totorica (Ayr Motorcycle Club), Amara Boccalatte (BT Farms), Edith Innes (East Ayr State School) and Jaxsyn Pearce (Ayr State School). Photo credit: Kari Ravizza

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Ayr’s community spirit was on full display on the evening of Friday 7th August as the Burdekin Junior Soccer Fields Hall came alive with laughter, friendly competition and a few celebratory bubbles in support of Rotary Club of Ayr’s Burdekin Water Festival Senior Ambassador Ella Pirrone.

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Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Coordinator Kari Ravizza said the sold-out event was a wonderful reflection of the community support behind Ella, with local businesses also getting behind the fundraiser by donating prizes for the evening.

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“It was such a fun night, and Ella was overwhelmed with the support she received both from the community for attending and from local businesses supplying prizes for the lucky bingo winners!”

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Over 120 family, friends and community members gathered to attend the Bingo & Bubbles fundraiser, with a packed evening of bingo, raffles, food and drinks to celebrate Ella’s journey to date as a Senior Ambassador and raise over $3,000 to support the fantastic work of the Rotary Club of Ayr.

“I was so overwhelmed and grateful with how many people turned up on the night – it was so nice to see the community come together – and the thought that they were all there to support me felt really special,” said Ella.

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“Throughout my ambassador journey, Rotary Club of Ayr have always been there to help and support me. They are a very supportive community where nothing is ever too big or too small!”

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Rotary Club of Ayr President John McVeigh said the club could not be prouder of its 2026 Senior Ambassador entrant, with Ella making a real effort to remain connected with the club throughout her Ambassador journey.

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“The Rotary Club of Ayr has been incredibly proud to stand behind Ella as our Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador. She has represented our club with enthusiasm, maturity and genuine commitment, all while balancing her Ambassador duties with full-time study in primary education at JCU in Townsville,” John said.

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“Her hard work in organising the Bingo & Bubbles fundraiser was evident on the night, and to see the hall filled with family, friends, bingo players and community supporters was wonderful. It was a real credit to Ella, her extended family and everyone who helped bring the evening together.

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“As President, I felt very proud — not only of Ella, but of the way our club and the wider community came together to support her. For Ayr Rotary, it was deeply rewarding to see the community rally behind her, and we were delighted to be part of such a positive and successful event.”

2026 Burdekin Water Festival Junior Ambassadors (back) Judah Donald (Burdekin Christian College), Lillea Levitt (Burdekin Netball Association), Amara Boccalatte (BT Farms), Jaxsyn Pearce (Ayr State School), (front), Edith Innes (East Ayr State School), Ashlyn Pearce (Lower Burdekin Celtic Dancing Association), Mia Bojack (Burdekin Christian College), Evie Totorica (Ayr Motorcycle Club), Amity Baxter (The Burdekin Academy), Amity Power (Campbell’s Jewellery), and Aria Fiamingo (St Francis Catholic School). Photo credit: Shay Kratzmann Photography 

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By Chelsea Ravizza

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In another exciting instalment in the 2026 Burdekin Water Festival (BWF), this month will see the Junior Ambassadors join forces for the first time in BWF history to create one colourful afternoon of community fun, fundraising and friendly competition!

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The inaugural Junior Ambassador Fun Fair will be held on Saturday 15th August, from 3pm at Silver Screens and Coffee Beans, bringing together all 11 Junior Ambassadors to host a collaborative fundraising event in support of their chosen schools, community organisations and charities.

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Unlike previous years, where each Junior Ambassador organised an individual fundraising event, this year's ambassadors have combined their efforts to create one family-friendly celebration packed with games, treats, crafts and entertainment.

Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Coordinator, Kari says every Junior Ambassador has designed a unique stall, ensuring there’s something to entertain children and adults alike.

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“It's [Junior Ambassador Fun Fair] a great excuse to get the family together, have some fun and support some amazing young people,” Kari said.

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“Every activity has been planned and run by one of our Junior Ambassadors. They've put so much work into it, and it's exciting to finally see all of their ideas come to life.”

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Entry to the cash only Fun Fair is free, with individual activities individually priced to help each ambassador raise funds for their nominated organisation or charity. Visitors can also enjoy mini golf for $5 before settling in for a classic drive-in movie for $12.  

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Families can test their skills with magnetic fishing, Highland Games challenges, paper plane competitions and a gymnastics tumble track, get creative decorating dot cakes, flower pots and hair clips, browse 3D-printed toys and sensory fidgets, enjoy a slime station, photo booth, lucky dips and chocolate toss, or cool off with raspberry slushies, snow cones, fairy floss, popcorn and other sweet treats.

“Preparations are still well underway. It takes a lot of organising to bring a community event like this together, but it's all coming together really well and the ambassadors, their supporting organisations and our committee have all been working hard behind the scenes to make it a great afternoon for everyone," Kari said.

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"We'd love to see people make an afternoon and evening of it while supporting our Junior Ambassadors and the Burdekin Water Festival."

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The Fun Fair also provides the community with an opportunity to meet this year's Junior Ambassadors while supporting the schools, sporting clubs and community organisations they proudly represent, including The Burdekin Academy, Campbell's Jewellery, St Francis Catholic School, Lower Burdekin Celtic Dancing Association, East Ayr State School, Ayr Motorcycle Club, Ayr State School, Burdekin Christian College, Burdekin Netball Association and BT Farms.

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Kari said bringing the ambassadors together for one collaborative event has created an exciting new fundraising opportunity while encouraging teamwork, friendship and community spirit among this year's cohort.

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"With such a large number of Junior Ambassadors this year, it made sense to bring everyone together for one exciting community event," Kari said.

"Bringing everyone together has also created a wonderful sense of teamwork. Instead of competing for crowds, the ambassadors are supporting and encouraging one another while representing their schools, organisations and charities. It's a great example of what the Ambassador Program is all about – building confidence, leadership and community spirit."

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Kari hopes the afternoon will celebrate not only the creativity and enthusiasm of the ambassadors but also the generosity of the local community, with every activity helping support worthy local causes.

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"I'm really looking forward to seeing the ambassadors cheering each other on. They've built some great friendships throughout the program, and it's been wonderful to watch their confidence and skills grow," Kari said.

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"I'd love to see a big crowd come along because they've all worked so hard to make their activities a success, and they deserve to see the community get behind them. If people come along, have a laugh, enjoy the activities, stay for the movie and head home with a smile, we'll know we've achieved exactly what we set out to do."

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With affordable activities, delicious treats, community spirit and a nostalgic drive-in movie rounding out the afternoon, the inaugural Junior Ambassador Fun Fair is shaping up to be one of the highlights of this year's Burdekin Water Festival.Additional details are available via the Burdekin Water Festival’s social media pages and website, burdekinwaterfestival.com.au.

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What: Junior Ambassador Fun Fair

When: Saturday 15th August, 3pm

Where: Silver Screens and Coffee Beans, Ayr

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This week I want to talk about two issues that are important to the future of our community.

Firstly, Burdekin Shire Council joins councils across Queensland in strongly opposing proposed changes to Federal disaster funding arrangements. Disaster recovery is not simply another political debate. These changes could have significant consequences for regional communities like ours.

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Every extra dollar Council is forced to spend on disaster recovery is a dollar that cannot be invested in roads, parks, community facilities and other essential services. In some cases, damaged infrastructure may not be rebuilt at all. Quite simply, it's a no dealfor the Burdekin.

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I am also concerned about the future of the Ayr Fire and Rescue Station. Our community has been promised a new 24/7 staffed station alongside the Ambulance Service on Chippendale Street. Recent discussions suggest we may receive a lesser standard of service than what is currently available.

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For a growing community that covers such a large geographic area, that is simply not good enough. Emergency services save lives, protect property and provide peace of mind to residents. The Burdekin deserves better. This is another no deal for the Burdekin.

On a community note, don't forget to complete your Census. The information collected helps governments make informed decisions about future services and infrastructure.

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By now, rate notices should have been received by all property owners. If you have not received yours, please contact Council's friendly Customer Service Centre on 4783 9800.

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Finally, a little piece of trivia. This year marks 60 years since Australia changed from pounds, shillings and pence to dollars and cents on 14 February 1966. I can still remember the catchy tune that helped Australians learn about the new currency!

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As always, thank you for your continued support of our community. You can also follow me on Facebook to keep up to date with what's happening across the Burdekin.

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Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone at 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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If there is one sound that defines winter in the Burdekin, it’s the whistle of a cane train echoing across the district.

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With the crushing season now in full swing, our region is operating at full steam. Our local growers, harvesting crews, mill workers, and transport teams are putting in massive hours to drive the economy that keeps our towns thriving. It’s a huge effort, and it’s something our entire community takes great pride in.

But with millions of tonnes of cane moving across our district, it also means our local roads and rail networks are busier than ever.

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As locals, we drive past these tracks every single day. It’s easy to get comfortable or impatient when we're running late for school drop off or headed home after a long day at work. But a locomotive pulling loaded bin sets can weigh hundreds of tonnes and it can’t stop on a dime.

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Whether you're driving, riding a bike, or walking the dog, take that extra second to look, listen, and wait. Talk to your kids about staying away from parked cane bins and tracks, and remember to give our heavy haulage and farm machinery plenty of room on the roads.

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Let's look out for one another so everyone makes it home safe at the end of the day.

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"By supporting the investment into new jockey and stewards rooms at the Burdekin Race Club we provide opportunities to host more of our favourite race days right here at Home Hill,” Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP said. Photo supplied.

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Works to bolster two race clubs in the electorate have been given the green light with the Crisafulli Government awarding more than $450,000 in funding for vital infrastructure upgrades under the Racing Queensland’s Country Club Asset Funding program.

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During the funding announcement this week Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP said Burdekin Race Club and Bowen Turf Club’s success had ensured country racing remained at the heart of the Home Hill and Bowen communities.  

“Both the Burdekin Growers Race Day and the Bowen Cup have cemented themselves into the North’s social calendar drawing thousands of visitors to our regions and boosting local economies,” Mr Last said.  

“Racing Queensland’s Country Club Asset Funding program provides support towards infrastructure repairs, maintenance and asset replacement to ensure our country race clubs can continue to host the race days that become calendar highlights each year.”  

"By supporting the investment into new jockey and stewards rooms at the Burdekin Race Club we provide opportunities to host more of our favourite race days right here at Home Hill."  

The Burdekin Race Club will receive $365,000 while the Bowen Turf Club will receive $88,000 with clubs also investing co-contributions to bring the projects to fruition. The commitment forms part of the Government's broader commitment to the industry through The Next Lap: A plan for the future of Queensland racing.  

“The Bowen and Burdekin race clubs are among 33 country race clubs in regional Queensland to receive funding, delivering jobs, infrastructure improvements and community benefits in regional areas," Mr Last said.  

“Recent reports show the racing industry in Queensland has generated more than $2.5billion in value added contribution with more than 50 per cent directly benefitting regional economies. It is why I'm proud to back our local race clubs' initiatives to invest in the infrastructure and maintenance needed to continue to host our favourite local race days well into the future.”

Supplied by the Office of Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP

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WOMAN CHARGED OVER 2023 AYR DEATH

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A 70-year-old woman has been charged with murder following a complex investigation into the death of a 56-year-old man in Ayr almost three years ago.

The Forest Lake woman was arrested by detectives on August 4 and charged with one count of murder (domestic violence).

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She appeared in Townsville Magistrates Court on 5th August following her arrest, where the court heard she would not enter a plea until her defence receives the full brief of evidence, expected to be provided in about a month.

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Emergency services were called to an Alice Street residence at about 9.18pm on August 10, 2023, after the man was found unresponsive.

He was pronounced deceased at the scene, prompting police to establish a crime scene and launch an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.

The man was non-verbal and had Down syndrome.

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Detectives from the Crime Command Homicide Investigation Unit and Ayr Criminal Investigation Branch have since conducted extensive inquiries into the man's health, care and treatment throughout his life.

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Police said the investigation had been complex and involved extensive and thorough inquiries.

A thorough post-mortem examination previously found the man was experiencing serious malnourishment and weighed 29kg at the time of his death.

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The investigation has spanned almost three years.

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APPEAL AFTER ALLEGED INDECENT EXPOSURE AT ALVA BEACH

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Police are appealing for information after a man allegedly exposed himself to a woman at Alva Beach last week.

The incident occurred about 9.15am on 23rd July, when a 25-year-old woman entered the beach via the walking track directly in front of Alva Beach Park and sat on the beach.

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A short time later, an unknown man allegedly entered the beach via a separate walking track to the south.

Police allege the man stood by a tree about 10 metres from the woman before exposing himself.

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He then allegedly began approaching the woman, who ran away via the southern walking track.

The man has been described as Caucasian, aged in his 50s and about 175cm tall, with grey hair.

He was wearing an old grey hoodie and cargo pants.

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Police said no further complaints had been received at this stage and the matter appeared to be an isolated incident.

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Anyone who may have seen anything suspicious, recognises the man depicted in the image, or has relevant video footage is urged to contact police.

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With hundreds of Australians already preparing to host Pink Ribbon Breakfasts this October, local residents are encouraged to help make a difference. Photo supplied  

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Residents are being encouraged to gather around the breakfast table with friends and family and transform a simple morning tea into a meaningful charitable contribution as National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) rolls out its Pink Ribbon Breakfast initiative during October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

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While the official Pink Ribbon Breakfast will be held on Thursday, 22nd October, hosts across the country can choose a date that suits them and organise a breakfast, brunch, morning or afternoon tea, or lunch from the comfort of their own home, workplace, community centre or local hospitality venue all to raise raising funds to support vital research aimed at helping save lives from breast cancer.

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With 56 Australians diagnosed with breast cancer every day, organisers are encouraging communities to come together to spark conversations, and help fund research into prevention, detection and treatment.  

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Getting involved is simple, with prospective hosts able to register for free via fundraise.nbcf.org.au/event/pink-ribbon-breakfast and receive a complimentary host kit containing resources to help get their event underway!

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A seven-year wait for a near million-dollar pump track officially ended last Friday as Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Member for Burdekin Dale Last cut the ribbon on the region's own “city-grade” recreational facility.

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ANZAC PARK PUMP TRACK OFF AND ROLLING

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Scores of Burdekin locals wasted no time in christening their new $770,000-plus pump track, marking both the asphalt and its official opening at Anzac Park last Friday.

Announced as part of the Anzac Park Precinct Master Plan in 2019, its opening ends a seven-year wait for a recreational facility Member for Burdekin Dale Last said rivals those of its city counterparts.

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“This facility is the equivalent of anything in Brisbane, I can assure you,” Mr Last said at the opening ceremony.

“I have absolutely no doubt that it will be a hive of activity over the coming weeks.”

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The facility features a seven-turn looped design with jumps, berms, rollers and platforms, catering for BMX bikes, scooters, skateboards and mountain bikes.

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The project's eventual fruition follows years of advocacy from the community, most notably the Burdekin BMX Club. It was subsequently included in last year’s Council Budget as the centrepiece of a broader $2.8 million investment in parks and recreational facilities across the region.

The design process was heavily influenced by local input; construction works began in April this year after two community consultations.

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Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the final product was an inclusive community facility built for everyone.

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“This facility is a reflection of what happens when community voices guide council planning,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.

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“Consultation and the help of residents shaped a design that is inclusive, acceptable, and built for all skill levels. Whether you ride a bike, scooter or skateboard, this track offers a safe, purpose-built space to be active, have fun, and enjoy the outdoors.”

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The facility was funded primarily by a State Government contribution of $760,000 as part of its Works for Queensland 2024–27 program.

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The pump track is the first stage of broader Anzac Park upgrades outlined in the precinct master plan, including an outdoor stage, basketball court and youth hangout zones.

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August has arrived and the mornings feel a little cooler. I had the opportunity to attend the Future Leaders evening with Councillor Furnell at Ayr High recently and listen to the students speak.

The topics covered taking a digital detox and from small things big things grow. They spoke of how important volunteers are in the community and how taking a break from social media and the perils of what it can do to a person’s mental health.

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One speaker told how simply saying yes to playing a sport she had never played, opened up her world to friends and travel. As a parent, it was hearting to hear that these young future leaders are thinking about these things so deeply. Well done and thanks for the evening.  

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