Recent vandalism at Charlie’s Hill has understandably caused concern in our community, particularly given the site’s cultural and historical significance and its proximity to Anzac Day. Charlie’s Hill holds meaning for many residents, and any damage to public spaces that honour our history and shared identity is disappointing.

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What makes this especially frustrating is that the new signage at Charlie’s Hill was only installed recently, following community advocacy and Council efforts to ensure the site is properly recognised and interpreted. Acts of vandalism undermine that work and diminish spaces intended for reflection, respect and learning.

While it is not possible to install security cameras at every public location across the Burdekin, Council relies on the community to help protect shared assets. Vandalism should always be reported so it can be formally recorded and addressed. Just as importantly, we all have a role to play in educating our children and young people about why these places matter and the responsibility we share in caring for them.

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On a brighter note, if you haven’t visited the Ayr or Home Hill Visitor Information Centres recently, I encourage you to drop in and experience the S.S. Yongala Dive Virtual Reality experience. This exciting attraction allows visitors of all ages to explore one of the world’s most famous shipwrecks without getting wet — a fantastic experience right here in our own backyard.

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And finally, a quick update on Coutts Park, Ayr. Construction of the new vehicular entrance from Lando Street to the BBQ shelter and public amenities is nearing completion. Asphalt surfacing was completed last week, with the concrete driveway crossover scheduled to be poured shortly. Once line marking is finalised, the project will be complete. This new entrance will significantly improve access to park facilities, particularly for older residents and community members living with disability.

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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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Burdekin residents will soon have the opportunity to receive hands-on support accessing Queensland Government services online. Photo source: iStock

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Burdekin residents will soon have the opportunity to receive hands-on support accessing Queensland Government services online, with a series of community sessions scheduled across the region in April.

The Department of Customer Services, Open Data and Small and Family Business (CDSB) will visit Giru, Ayr and Home Hill as part of its ongoing commitment to improving access to government services both online and in person within local communities.

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The sessions aim to help residents navigate key digital services, including grant applications, online payments, and the Queensland Digital Licence.

A CDSB customer service team will be available to provide practical guidance and demonstrations on how to access and use a range of government platforms, including the Queensland Government Grant Finder, disaster preparedness information, and the central www.qld.gov.au portal.

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Sessions will be held on Monday, 20 April at the Giru CWA Hall from 3:00pm to 5:00pm; Tuesday, 21 April at the Burdekin Library in Ayr from 9:00am to 4:00pm; and Wednesday, 22 April at the Burdekin Memorial Hall (Tom Jackson Meeting Room) in Home Hill from 9:00am to 1:00pm.

Services available at each session include support with setting up a Queensland Digital Licence, accessing government information online, making payments, and finding available grants and assistance programs. Information on disaster preparedness will also be provided.

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No bookings are required, with all sessions operating on a walk-in basis during advertised times.

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Choosing the right high school is one of the most significant decisions a family can make. It is about more than just a classroom; it is about finding a community where a young person feels known, valued, and challenged to reach their full potential. At Burdekin Catholic High School (BCHS), we take this responsibility to heart, and we are excited to officially announce that enrolments for the 2027 school year are now open.

As a pillar of the Burdekin community, BCHS is proud of our reputation for combining academic excellence with a deep sense of pastoral care. Whether through our diverse vocational pathways, our rigorous ATAR-focused curriculum, or our vibrant sporting and cultural programs, we ensure every student has the opportunity to shine. Following our strong senior results and regional sporting successes last year, we are eager to showcase what makes our school the "warm heart" of regional education.

To help families experience our unique culture firsthand, we invite you to join us for our upcoming discovery events:

• Taster Day (Tuesday, May 19): A chance for future students (Years 5 and 6) to step onto our school, meet our dedicated staff, and get a "hands-on" feel for the exciting subjects and facilities that await them in Year 7.  Please register via the School Website – Events.

• Twilight Open (Monday, May 25): We welcome parents and families to tour our grounds as the sun sets. This is an informal, interactive evening to ask questions, view our modern learning spaces, and speak with our staff about your child’s future.  Please register via the School Website – Events.

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Our community is growing, and interest in 2027 placements is already high. To ensure your child has the best start to their secondary journey, please note that enrolment applications are due by June 22.

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We look forward to meeting the next generation of BCHS students and working in partnership with Burdekin families to shape a bright, successful future. For more information or to download an enrolment pack, please visit our website or contact the school office on (07) 4783 2366.

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The group departed via Townsville Airport ahead of the event, which will be held at Baden-Powell Park and is set to feature a packed program of activities designed to be adventurous, fun, challenging and inclusive. Photo supplied

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Three members of the Lower Burdekin Scout Group are on their way to Samford Village to take part in a major four-day Cuboree camp, joining around 1,200 Cub Scouts from across Queensland.

The group departed via Townsville Airport ahead of the event, which will be held at Baden-Powell Park and is set to feature a packed program of activities designed to be adventurous, fun, challenging and inclusive.

Today marks the start of on-site preparations, with subcamps taking shape as participants arrive. Tents are being set up and bags unpacked, ahead of tonight’s opening ceremony, which will officially launch the four-day program.

Organisers say the Cuboree is an important highlight on the Scouting calendar and a strong way to kick off Queensland Youth Week, which formally begins on April 11. A total of 804 Cub Scouts are expected to take part in the event, which will showcase a range of outdoor and team-based activities.

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For the Lower Burdekin participants, the camp represents an opportunity to connect with Scouts from across the state while taking part in large-scale, structured activities not available at regular weekly meetings.

The Lower Burdekin Scout Group meets each Thursday from 5.30pm to 7.30pm at 12th Avenue, Home Hill, and continues to welcome new members interested in joining the program.

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The Cuboree will run over four days, with organisers promising a busy and memorable experience for all involved as thousands of young Scouts come together at one of Queensland’s premier Scouting events.

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A selection of proud Grade 5 and 6 students displaying their competition certificates, with achievements ranging from Participation through to Distinction.

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Ayr State School is celebrating a standout academic achievement, with its Grade 5 and 6 students placing in the top 100 nationally in a prestigious mathematics competition—an exceptional result that highlights the school’s strong focus on excellence.

In an impressive showing, 54% of participating students achieved a Distinction, demonstrating advanced problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and a deep understanding of mathematics.

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Principal Nikki Schell said the results reflect the high expectations and quality teaching embedded across the school.

“Our students continue to rise to every challenge. Achieving at this level on a national stage is something they should be incredibly proud of,” she said.

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Students tackled complex, multi-step problems as part of the competition, applying persistence and creativity to reach solutions.

“It was challenging, but really exciting. It made us realise how much we’re capable of,” said one Year 6 student.

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Families have also praised the strong academic culture.

“The learning environment is so positive and focused. These results show just how much students are achieving,” a parent shared.

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Alongside academic success, students are also benefiting from high-quality learning and play environments. Newly upgraded facilities, including a modern basketball court, are supporting both wellbeing and engagement across the school.

At Ayr State School, the focus is clear—empowering every student to achieve their personal best while providing opportunities to excel at the highest level.

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With enrolments now open, families are invited to experience a school where achievement, opportunity, and student success go hand in hand.

Contributed with thanks to Ayr State School

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Rosella bushes (foreground) and cassava (background) are featured in the garden. Photo supplied

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The Burdekin Community Garden is set to become more accessible in 2026, thanks to a grant from Burdekin Shire Council.

The funding has enabled the construction of seven new raised garden beds, making it easier for volunteers to tend to crops without needing to bend down to ground level. Council also provided garden loam to fill the beds, along with funding to hire a bobcat to assist with moving the soil into place. Additional funding will go towards upgrading the garden’s sprinkler system.

The Burdekin Community Garden will officially open for the 2026 season on Monday, 20 April, from 9am to 11am. This year marks its fifth year of operation, after being established in 2022 through generous donations from the congregation of the Burdekin Community Church.

The garden continues to grow fresh produce that is shared free of charge with the local community. Over the past four years, it has produced a wide range of crops including corn, carrots, snow peas, tomatoes, lettuce, zucchinis, silverbeet, potatoes, pumpkins, cucumbers, passionfruit, bananas and pawpaw. It also grows cassava and aibika (commonly known as slippery or island cabbage), which are particularly popular among Pacific Island workers in the region.

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Beyond food production, the garden provides an important social space where people can meet, enjoy a cuppa and connect with others in a relaxed outdoor setting. It has also welcomed student groups from Burdekin School, offering hands-on opportunities to learn about gardening while building communication skills through interaction with coordinators and visitors.

Located at the rear of the Burdekin Community Church on International Drive, the garden is open to everyone, with Monday mornings (excluding public holidays) the best time to visit. Garden coordinators Karina Lima, Rhonda and Rodney Williams are on hand each week to welcome visitors, offer a tour and share a free cuppa.

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Community members are invited to come along and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere, with gardening activities always optional.

For more information, visit the Burdekin Community Garden on Facebook or email burdekincommunitygarden@gmail.com.

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Regional Queensland communities, including those in the Burdekin, are set to benefit from a stronger voice in government decision-making following the appointment of the State’s first Special Commissioner for Regional and Rural Queensland.

Townsville-based Andrew Cripps has been appointed to the newly created role, which aims to improve the delivery of government services, better reflect regional priorities, and help unlock economic opportunities across the state.

A North Queensland local, Mr Cripps was born and raised in Tully and brings extensive experience in both state and local government. He previously served as Queensland’s Minister for Natural Resources and Mines and as a Deputy Mayor, and more recently worked as Recovery Coordinator in North Queensland following the 2025 floods.

In his new position, Mr Cripps will work directly with communities across regional and rural Queensland, acting as a link between local areas and government. The role is designed to ensure local concerns and ideas help shape policies, programs and investment decisions.

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For regions like the Burdekin, the appointment is expected to provide greater access to decision-makers and a clearer pathway for raising issues around infrastructure, services and economic development.

Member for Burdekin and Minister for Regional and Rural Development Dale Last said the role would help ensure regional communities are better heard.

“Queensland doesn’t start and end in Brisbane,” Mr Last said.

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“This Special Commissioner will be on the ground across the state, listening and helping deliver what’s needed for Queenslanders.

“As the most decentralised State in mainland Australia with more than half of the population living outside Brisbane, we understand the importance of a direct link between people in regional Queensland and decision-makers in government.”

Mr Last said the position would focus on improving access to essential services and supporting growth in regional areas, including backing local industries, attracting investment and ensuring infrastructure keeps pace with demand.

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He said having a senior government representative based in the regions would help address long-standing concerns around issues such as health services, housing, cost of living and community safety.

Mr Cripps’ appointment comes as part of the State Government’s broader plan to strengthen regional Queensland and ensure communities outside South East Queensland are supported to grow and thrive.

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“Regional Queensland is full of opportunity, and this role is about making sure communities are supported to grow, attract investment and create jobs,” Mr Last said.

“Whether it’s supporting growers, backing local industry or making sure services like hospitals, roads and schools keep pace with growing communities, this role is about turning local voices and knowledge into real results.” 

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Sugarcane could power more than just mills, with a new report highlighting bioenergy opportunities set to benefit growers and regional communities like the Burdekin. Photo source: Wilmar Sugar Australia

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Wilmar Sugar Australia has welcomed the release of a new parliamentary report outlining opportunities to expand bioenergy production within Queensland’s sugar industry.

The findings come from the Queensland Parliament’s Primary Industries and Resources Committee Inquiry into Sugarcane Bioenergy Opportunities, which was released in Mackay earlier this week. The report provides a roadmap for developing bioenergy and biofuels projects, with potential flow-on benefits for regional communities, including those in major cane-growing areas like the Burdekin.

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Wilmar said the committee’s recommendations align with several of its key proposals and could help unlock the industry’s bioenergy potential if supported by appropriate government policy.

Among the recommendations backed in the report are co-funding feasibility and final investment decision studies to help build a pipeline of projects, along with strategic investment to support shovel-ready developments capable of attracting private and federal funding.

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The committee also highlighted the importance of supporting bagasse-based cogeneration — using sugarcane by-products to generate electricity — through offtake agreements with sugar manufacturers, including fixed or floor pricing arrangements.

In addition, the report calls for advocacy toward a national biofuels mandate, including an ethanol mandate with local content provisions, as well as funding for a pre-feasibility study into a sugar-based biofuel supply chain with the Australian Defence Force to strengthen fuel security.

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Wilmar said the next step is for governments to implement the policy settings needed to turn these recommendations into reality, allowing the sugar industry to diversify and play a larger role in Australia’s renewable energy future.

The company also acknowledged industry representatives who contributed to the inquiry, including participants from across Queensland’s sugar manufacturing sector

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The Queensland Government has appointed the State’s first Special Commissioner for Regional and Rural Queensland, a move expected to strengthen the voice of communities like the Burdekin in government decision-making.

Townsville-based Andrew Cripps will take on the role, focusing on improving service delivery and ensuring policies better reflect the needs of regional Queenslanders. A North Queensland local from Tully, Mr Cripps brings experience as a former Minister for Natural Resources and Mines and most recently served as Recovery Coordinator following the 2024 floods.

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The position is designed to act as a direct link between regional communities and government, helping to identify barriers, unlock opportunities and support economic growth across areas like the Burdekin.

Minister for Regional and Rural Development Dale Last said the appointment would ensure regional voices are heard.

“The Government understands that Queensland doesn’t start and end in Brisbane,” Minister Last said.

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“This Special Commissioner for Regional and Rural Queensland will be on-the-ground across this state, listening and helping deliver what’s needed for Queenslanders.

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“Queenslanders deserve timely, effective and accessible government services no matter where they live and Andrew Cripps brings the right mix of experience and community connection to help deliver that.

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“As a former Government Minister for Natural Resources and Mines and having worked in local government, Mr Cripps understands how to navigate the challenges facing our regional and rural communities.

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“As the most decentralised State in mainland Australia with more than half of the population living outside Brisbane, we understand the importance of a direct link between people in regional Queensland and decision-makers in government.

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“Regional Queensland is full of opportunity, and this role is about making sure communities are supported to grow, attract investment and create jobs.

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“Whether it’s supporting growers, backing local industry or making sure services like hospitals, roads and schools keep pace with growing communities, this role is about turning local voices and knowledge into real results.”

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Australia’s sugarcane industry is facing mounting pressure just weeks out from harvest, with growers reporting they have access to only around five per cent of the fuel required to complete the crush.

At the same time, fertiliser supply is becoming increasingly uncertain, raising concerns not only about this year’s harvest, but the viability of next season’s crop.

A new supply chain impact report compiled by CANEGROWERS, with input from industry organisations and farmers across Queensland and New South Wales, paints a stark picture of the challenges facing the sector. The report reveals that uncertainty around fuel and fertiliser is already influencing on-farm decision-making, with growers reassessing plans in response to rising costs and limited availability.

CANEGROWERS surveyed growers across Queensland and worked alongside NSW Cane Growers and sugar manufacturers to develop a national overview. The findings show up to 98 per cent of growers are concerned about shortages and escalating prices, with the cost of key inputs now exceeding the global sugar price many producers are exposed to.

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Fuel has emerged as the most immediate concern, with almost a quarter of growers unable to secure the volumes they require. Meanwhile, nearly 90 per cent say they are already altering or reconsidering farm operations due to ongoing uncertainty.

CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan said the findings confirmed that global supply pressures are now being felt directly on Australian farms.

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“This is not a theoretical risk – it is already changing how growers make decisions on farm,” Mr Galligan said.

"And that shows how astute their risk management practices are, and how fair ahead farmers need to plan. This is about income at risk this season and production at risk next season."

He warned the consequences would extend well beyond the farm gate.

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“When production drops, the impact doesn’t stop at the farm gate – it flows through to harvesting contractors, transport operators, sugar manufacturers and local businesses right across regional Queensland and Northern NSW.

“At a broader level, reduced production means less export income and more pressure flowing through the economy at a time when Australia can least afford it.”

Mr Galligan said CANEGROWERS was working closely with government and industry to minimise disruption and ensure agriculture is prioritised in fuel supply decisions.

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“Our job is to make sure growers are not left at the back of the queue when supply tightens,” he said.

“We’re working directly with State and Federal governments to ensure agriculture is prioritised in fuel supply decisions, provide real-time data on shortages, and coordinate an industry-wide response so there are no gaps in how the sector responds.”

Efforts are underway across multiple levels, including engagement with the Queensland Government’s Emergency Management Response Group, collaboration with the National Farmers’ Federation, and coordination with manufacturers, marketers and terminal operators across the sugar supply chain.

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However, Mr Galligan said the situation had exposed deeper structural issues, prompting frustration among growers.

“Australia is not short of fuel options, but we are not using them effectively,” he said.

“We have domestic capacity – particularly in ethanol – sitting underutilised, and without clear policy settings that will not change.

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“A properly enforced national E10 mandate would help drive investment, increase domestic production and reduce our reliance on imported fuel and a strategy driver for diversification into biodiesel and rebuilding domestic fertiliser production is clearly needed.”

He said without decisive action, similar challenges would continue to threaten the industry.

“If we want to avoid being in this position again, fuel and fertiliser security need to be treated as a national priority, not an afterthought, issues we have known but seen ignored for decades, now we are paying the price.”

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While Lynda Potter’s career in banking is important to her, it’s the impact beyond the branch that resonates most. Photo supplied

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At Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, it’s the people behind the counter who truly bring banking to life — and for Customer Service Officer Lynda Potter, it’s the connection to community that makes her role so meaningful.

Originally from Mackay, Lynda made the move north and has been part of the Community Bank team since 2021. While her career in banking is important to her, it’s the impact beyond the branch that resonates most.

“I’m proud to know that through my work, I’ve helped give back to the community,” Lynda shares.

That sense of purpose is at the heart of the Community Bank model — where profits are reinvested locally, supporting initiatives, groups and projects that strengthen the Burdekin region. For Lynda, knowing she plays even a small part in that bigger picture is what makes each day worthwhile.

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In her role as a Customer Service Officer, Lynda is often the first point of contact for customers, helping with everyday banking needs while building genuine relationships along the way. It’s a role that requires both care and attention — qualities that come naturally to her.

Outside of work, Lynda enjoys a wide range of hobbies from clay target shooting and golf to fishing and reading, she values time spent doing the things she loves — especially when it involves family. With a husband, two sons, a daughter in law and a granddaughter, family time remains a central part of her life.

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Living in the Burdekin has also brought its own rewards. For Lynda, it’s the simplicity and accessibility of small-town living that stands out.

“I enjoy the convenience of living in a small town,” she says — a sentiment shared by many locals who appreciate the close-knit nature of the community.

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It’s this blend of professional purpose and personal connection that defines Lynda’s journey at Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr. Whether she’s assisting a customer at the counter or contributing to the broader community impact, she embodies what local banking is all about — people supporting people.

Contributed with thanks to Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr

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Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Home Hill Police Senior Constable Will Stewart beside one of the damaged interpretive signs at Charlie’s Hill World War II Memorial. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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Two new signs at Charlie’s Hill World War II Memorial have been vandalised just weeks out from ANZAC Day.

The damage was reported on 9 April, with two of six newly erected interpretive signs—installed late last month to recognise the site’s wartime significance—left dented.

Senior Constable Will Stewart said Home Hill Police are “thoroughly investigating” the matter, and described the timing of the damage as unfortunate given the proximity to ANZAC Day.

“It’s disappointing to see the damage to the signage placed at Charlie's Hill, especially so close to ANZAC Day. The site is an important part of WWII history in North Queensland and as such, deserves to be treated with respect and care,” Mr Stewart said.

Two Memorial Signs Damaged At Charlie’s Hill

Police are investigating damage to two interpretive signs at Charlie’s Hill World War II Memorial, reported earlier this month. The incident comes just weeks before ANZAC Day.

The site, officially ‘Charlie’s Hill RAAF 211 Radar Station,’ played a vital role in Australia’s northern defence strategy during World War II. Constructed in 1943 by the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), it was one of twenty radar installations along the North Queensland Coast detecting enemy aircraft and protecting against Japanese attacks.

Defunct since October 1945, the site has since served as a memorial. The new signage, installed by the Burdekin Shire Council with assistance from the Queensland Remembers Grants Program, aimed to solidify its rich history, making the vandalism “especially frustrating,” Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said.

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“The vandalism at Charlie’s Hill is deeply disappointing, particularly given the site’s importance to our local history and the fact that it has recently undergone improvements to better recognise its significance. These places deserve respect—not just from Council, but from the entire community.”

Senior Constable Stewart lauded council efforts to breathe new life into the site, and urged residents with relevant information on the vandalism to come forward.

“The Burdekin Shire Council has done a fantastic job in erecting the signage at the site, providing important historical information to locals and tourists alike about the key role the site played in Australia’s defence,” he said.

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“The community can be assured that Home Hill Police will be thoroughly investigating the matter, and if any person has any information regarding the damage they are encouraged to contact Policelink.”

Information can be reported to Policelink on 131 444, Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or Home Hill Police on 4782 1300, with emergencies to 000.

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The Queensland Government has announced the Taroom Trough Development Plan, a strategic initiative designed to fast-track oil and gas production to bolster the nation’s long-term fuel reserves. Photo credit: David Crisafulli's Office

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Member for Burdekin and Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, Dale Last, says "I’ll sign, you drill" as State moves to unlock first domestic oil field in 50 years.

Fuel security for Burdekin farmers and families has taken a significant step forward with the State Government moving to unlock Australia’s first major oil field in half a century.

The Queensland Government has announced the Taroom Trough Development Plan, a strategic initiative designed to fast-track oil and gas production to bolster the nation’s long-term fuel reserves.

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Member for Burdekin and Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, Dale Last, said the project sends a clear message that Queensland is ready to capitalise on the resources "under our feet.”

“My message to the explorers is simple—I’ll sign, you drill,” Minister Last said.

“This could open up Australia’s first major oil province since the 1970s—we back the potential of the Taroom Trough and we’ll continue supporting it with approvals and certainty.”

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The development is already yielding results, with Shell currently producing 200 barrels of high-quality crude oil a day. The supply is being refined into diesel at iOR’s Eromanga refinery—a critical resource for regional industries.

Premier David Crisafulli said domestic production is vital to ensuring Queenslanders are not left at the mercy of international markets.

“National fuel security is about drilling, refining and storing fuel locally for refuelling family cars, transporting food, and harvesting crops,” the Premier said.

“Never again should we be left without the ability to generate domestic fuel supply, this is a generational opportunity to ensure we’re not left at the end of a global supply chain.”

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To accelerate the project, the State Government has called on the Federal Government to assess the Taroom Trough under the National Interest Fast-Track Assessment Pathway. This move aims to remove duplicated approvals and bring mass production to market sooner.

Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie confirmed he has directed the Queensland Coordinator-General to immediately prepare a Works Regulation to streamline infrastructure delivery, including roads and trunk services.

Deputy Premier Bleijie said that they’re, “Pulling all levers to unlock more domestic energy production.”  

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“Coordinated development in the Taroom Trough will increase domestic energy security, regional investment and job creation while providing certainty for approvals.”

Minister Last emphasized that while the State is moving quickly, federal cooperation is now the missing piece of the puzzle.

“We’ll play our part, but we’re asking the Federal Government to play their part under the National Interest Fast-Track Assessment Pathway,” he said.

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Reliable, high‑speed internet is critical for modern businesses. It helps drive efficiency, productivity, customer service, and employee satisfaction. But business needs can be very different from those of a typical household.

While home internet is often used for streaming, gaming, and browsing, businesses rely on fast, stable connections for cloud‑based tools, online marketing, data backups, video conferencing, and website services. These activities often demand higher upload speeds and more robust support than what some residential plans can provide.

Despite this, many businesses using nbn are still on residential plans that may not meet their performance needs. They are potentially missing out on faster upload speeds, improved reliability, and business‑grade support.

nbn encourages businesses to review their internet plans as they would with other utilities.

Three simple steps to get the most from your nbn connection:

1. Check your address through the QR code below to see the technology and speeds available at your location.

2. Talk to your preferred service provider and ask about nbn plans tailored for business needs.

3. Optimise your internal setup. Your nbn service provider delivers your connection to the internet, but your internal set‑up helps shape your online experience. See how you can get the most from your service by visiting https://www.nbnco.com.au/business/in-office-optimisation

https://www.nbnco.com.au/check-address  

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From The Burdekin To The World

Local PhD researcher moves to Spain for pioneering computing research

Burdekin-raised researcher Dr. Ben Walters is set to take his cutting-edge computing work to Europe this June, investigating spiking neural networks for predictive maintenance in Spain.

The former Home Hill High student is making the move following a successful PhD at James Cook University in Townsville. His new role will focus on spiking neural networks that can be utilised for real-time predictive maintenance of assets, with potential use in medical fields.

“I hope that I can continue to do this research and develop systems that prove to be beneficial such as systems for real-time detection of medical issues," Dr Walters said.

His research focuses on neuromorphic computing: an emerging field aimed at replicating the brain’s energy-efficient processes in computer hardware.

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Dr. Walters’ work spans both hardware and software development; on the hardware side, he investigated graphene-based memristors—devices capable of mimicking neural behaviour—while his software research explores spiking autoencoders designed to reconstruct data using minimal energy.

“One of the key aspects is event-driven computing, where localised events such as voltage or current spikes are used to transmit information between areas of the brain, or in our case, computer architecture,” he said.

“In the absence of these spikes, the computer exists in a low-power state, drastically reducing energy consumption.”

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The move follows growing international recognition for Dr. Walters, including the acceptance of his research into the International Symposium on Circuits and Systems in 2024, which opened the door to global collaborations.

His journey into the field began years earlier during undergraduate studies in Electrical Engineering and Physics, when he was introduced to neuromorphic research through a project supervised by Associate Professor Mostafa Rahimiazghadi.

“I enjoyed doing this research and decided to continue with this topic into my PhD,” he said.

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Supported by a Research Training Program Scholarship, Dr. Walters was able to pursue his doctoral studies while also securing additional grants that allowed him to present his work at international conferences in Melbourne, Singapore, and London.

The process was far from linear, according to Dr. Walters.

“There were a lot of setbacks,” he said.

“Many experiments didn’t yield the results we were looking for, which was incredibly frustrating and required … a lot of persistence.”

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Dr Walters believes neuromorphic computing could redefine how technology operates by reducing reliance on energy-intensive cloud computing platforms. He hopes to eventually deploy these systems locally to contribute to more efficient computing processes.

Despite his global ambitions, Dr. Walters said the Burdekin community he grew up in has played a key role in supporting his path into research.

“I’ve met so many wonderful people in the Burdekin that have allowed me to pursue these studies, and I'm very thankful for their support,” he said.

“The Burdekin is quite a unique place, and offers different perspectives on many issues, and I find that having multiple perspectives is useful for solving complex problems.”

Dr Ben Walters completed his PhD at James Cook University in June last year, with his thesis titled “Advancing Neuromorphic Computing with Novel Memristive Devices, Local Learning Algorithms, and a Hierarchical Dataset.” Photo source: Home Hill State High School/Facebook

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