Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
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When we talk about Council’s budget each year, it’s easy to think of it as just numbers on a page. But in reality, it’s about the everyday things that keep our community running.
It’s the roads we travel on each day, the drainage that protects our homes during the wet season, and the parks, pools and public spaces where families come together. It’s the essential services we often don’t think twice about - until they’re not there.
This year’s budget is guided by the theme “Sustainable Growth, Security Tomorrow,” and that really speaks to what we’re trying to achieve for the Burdekin - making sure what we have today continues to serve us well into the future.
The 2026/27 Budget continues our focus on maintaining what we have while planning carefully for the future. It’s about making sure our infrastructure is reliable, our services are consistent, and our community remains a great place to live, work and raise a family.
Council also recognises that many households and businesses are continuing to feel the pressure of rising living costs. That has been front of mind in shaping this year’s budget, with a strong focus on balancing what our community needs now with what we must plan for into the future.
A lot of Council’s work happens behind the scenes. From water and sewer systems to drainage networks and asset maintenance, these are the foundations that support daily life in the Burdekin. While they may not always be visible, they are critical to our community’s health, safety and long-term sustainability.
Council is continuing to invest in the infrastructure that matters most, while also supporting the community spaces and facilities that contribute to our lifestyle. Because maintaining liveability is just as important as maintaining roads and services.
Importantly, this year’s budget is about balance. It’s about delivering what our community needs today, while planning responsibly for tomorrow.
That’s what sustainable growth looks like - making considered decisions now that will support a strong, connected and resilient Burdekin into the future.
As always, I encourage residents to stay engaged, take an interest in Council’s work, and continue to be part of what makes our community so unique.
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.
For the first time, BT Farms will be represented in the Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Program, with Junior Ambassador Amara Boccalatte proudly stepping into the role.
Amara said she was excited to become an ambassador and embrace the opportunity to meet new people, challenge herself and be part of one of the Burdekin's most cherished community celebrations.
As part of a local family farming business, Amara already has a close connection to the organisation she is representing, and she enjoys helping her dad with jobs around the farm, learning about the sugar industry and seeing firsthand the work that goes into growing one of the region's most important crops.
"My favourite part is getting to see all the people my dad works with and riding on the tractor," Amara shared.
Outside of farm life, Amara keeps busy with dance, piano, singing, art and athletics, while also holding a special love for animals.
Amara has nominated Ronald McDonald House Townsville as her chosen charity for the 2025 Burdekin Water Festival.
Junior Ambassador Jaxsyn Pearce is proud to represent Ayr State School in this year’s Burdekin Water Festival, embracing the opportunity to meet new people and showcase his school within the wider community.
Jaxsyn currently serves as House Captain of Mitchell Kookaburras, a leadership role that allows him to encourage school spirit and represent his fellow students. He is especially proud to be representing Ayr State School during a significant milestone year, as the school celebrates its 140th anniversary.
Home to students from a wide range of backgrounds, Ayr State School has long been an important part of the Burdekin community and continues to provide opportunities for students to learn, grow and achieve.
Outside of school, Jaxsyn enjoys motorbike riding, machinery and gaming. He has a keen interest in aerodynamics and hopes to one day pursue a career as a mechanic or even compete as a MotoGP racer.
Junior Ambassador Amity Baxter is ready to flip into this year's Burdekin Water Festival, proudly representing The Burdekin Academy.
Amity nominated to become an ambassador to meet new friends, get involved in the community and enjoy the exciting experiences the festival has to offer. As a passionate gymnast, she is also proud to represent the club that has been a big part of her life since she was five years old.
A dedicated member of The Burdekin Academy, Amity enjoys competing at gymnastics competitions and meeting athletes from clubs across the region and beyond. The academy has been providing gymnastics opportunities for local children for more than a decade, helping young people develop confidence, skills and friendships in a fun and supportive environment.
When she isn't training in the gym, Amity enjoys staying active through athletics and soccer.
As a 2025 Junior Ambassador, Amity is looking forward to making new connections and celebrating everything that makes the Burdekin community special.
For the first time, Burdekin Motors will be represented in the Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Program, with Senior Ambassador Blaize Palmer proudly taking on the role.
Blaize said he was inspired to nominate by a friend and saw the ambassador program as an opportunity to demonstrate leadership, kindness and respect while becoming more involved in the community.
A Year 1 apprentice light vehicle mechanic, Blaize works as a technician within the Burdekin Motors team and is building a career in the automotive industry. Burdekin Motors Group is a well-known local business, offering vehicle sales, servicing, repairs and detailing to customers across the region.
Away from work, Blaize enjoys staying active through a range of sports, including basketball, touch football and rugby league. He is also passionate about helping young people and regularly participates in community activities through the PCYC.
Blaize has nominated 100% Hope as his chosen charity.
For the first time, Ayr Motorcycle Club will be represented in the Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Program, with Junior Ambassador Evie Totorica proudly taking on the role.
Evie said she was excited to represent both the club and the sport she loves, while becoming more involved in the local community through the ambassador program.
A talented junior rider, Evie competes in the 65cc class and regularly races against boys at club, state and national levels. She proudly represents Ayr Motorcycle Club at events across Queensland and Australia.
Based at Brandon Sports Reserve, Ayr Motorcycle Club is a grassroots dirt-track and speedway club built on local volunteers, community spirit and a shared passion for motorcycle racing.
When she isn't on the track, Evie enjoys singing, netball, camping, boating and fishing. She is looking forward to meeting new people and sharing her passion for motorcycle sport throughout the Water Festival journey.
Junior Ambassador Aria Fiamingo is eager to embrace new opportunities, meet new people and make a positive impact as she proudly represents St Francis Catholic School in the 2025 Burdekin Water Festival.
Aria nominated for the ambassador program because she sees it as a chance to learn, grow and give back to the community. Passionate about fundraising and helping others, she is excited to support worthy causes while sharing new ideas and perspectives throughout her ambassador journey.
A natural leader, Aria serves as both a Grade 6 leader and Sport Captain at St Francis Catholic School. In these roles, she encourages younger students to do their best, participate and enjoy school life while leading by example. She also enjoys representing her school at community events and has proudly taken part in Anzac Day commemorations since Prep.
Outside the classroom, Aria enjoys dancing, singing, playing guitar, sport and art, with a particular love for contemporary dance and country music. Reliable, enthusiastic and community-minded, she is looking forward to making the most of her ambassador experience.
Feed Me Food will make its Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Program debut this year, with Olivia Pavone proudly stepping forward as the business's first-ever Senior Ambassador.
For Olivia, the opportunity is particularly meaningful. Having always dreamed of being involved in the Water Festival, she was thrilled when approached to represent the family-owned business and jumped at the chance to become more involved in the community she loves.
Working alongside her parents, Olivia is part of the team behind Feed Me Food, a familiar sight at local markets, festivals and community events. Known for serving fresh food with a smile, the business has built a reputation for bringing people together while supporting events across the region.
Away from work, Olivia enjoys travelling, singing, attending community events and spending time with family and friends. She is looking forward to meeting new people and embracing every part of the Water Festival journey.
Junior Ambassador Amity Power is excited to represent Campbell’s Jewellery in this year’s Burdekin Water Festival, an opportunity she eagerly accepted when asked by her grandmother, the business owner.
Having grown up watching her grandmother and staff assist customers, Amity has developed a keen interest in the jewellery industry and hopes to one day work at the store herself. In the meantime, she is learning about gemstones and diamonds while gaining a greater understanding of the family business.
Originally owned by Kevin and Meryl Campbell for more than 50 years, Campbell’s Jewellery has remained a trusted part of the Burdekin community since Amity’s grandmother took ownership in 2013.
A soccer player who enjoys baking, shopping and spending time with her younger cousins, Amity is looking forward to meeting new people, attending events and taking part in the Water Festival parade.
Junior Ambassador Judah Donald is looking forward to stepping outside his comfort zone and building his confidence as he represents Burdekin Christian College in the 2025 Burdekin Water Festival.
A Year 6 student and House Captain for Mark House, Judah is proud to represent his school and the values it promotes throughout the community. He sees the ambassador program as an opportunity for personal growth while meeting new people and developing valuable leadership skills.
Burdekin Christian College provides education for students from Prep to Year 12 and has become a well-respected part of the local community, offering a faith-based learning environment that encourages students to reach their full potential.
Outside of school, Judah enjoys spending his free time gaming and swimming. He has nominated Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue as his chosen charity and is eager to support the important work the organisation does throughout the region.
Meet Ella Pirrone - Representing the Rotary Club of Ayr
With fond memories of her time as a Junior Water Festival Ambassador in 2018, Ella Pirrone is excited to return to the program as a Senior Ambassador, proudly representing the Rotary Club of Ayr.
Currently studying Primary Education at university, Ella saw the ambassador role as an opportunity to build confidence, connect with the community and meet new people while revisiting an experience that left a lasting impression on her.
Although not a Rotary member herself, Ella said she is honoured to represent a club that has been serving the Burdekin community for more than 70 years. Through initiatives including the Community Raffle, Rotary Phone Book, Norm Perry Memorial Duck Race and Sugar Rush Breakfast, the Rotary Club of Ayr continues to support important local causes and community projects.
Outside of her studies, Ella enjoys playing and umpiring netball, baking, fishing and spending time with family and friends.
For the first time, the Lower Burdekin Celtic Dancing Association (LBCDA) will be represented in the Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Program, with Junior Ambassador Ashlyn Pearce proudly taking on the role.
Ashlyn was thrilled when she was invited to become an ambassador and is looking forward to meeting new people, making new friends and celebrating one of the Burdekin's most-loved community events.
A dedicated Highland dancer, Ashlyn is actively involved with the association, attending classes, performing at community events and competing throughout the year. Alongside her family, she also volunteers at annual events hosted by the club.
The LBCDA promotes Highland and Irish dancing throughout the Burdekin, providing opportunities for dancers to learn traditional Scottish dances while building strong community connections.
Outside of dancing, Ashlyn enjoys trips to the beach, swimming, knee boarding, riding her quad bike and attending art classes after school.
Junior Ambassador Mia Bojack is looking forward to meeting new people and building her confidence as she represents Burdekin Christian College in this year’s Burdekin Water Festival.
A Year 6 student at the college, Mia is excited to embrace the opportunities that come with the ambassador program while proudly representing her school and the wider community.
Born and raised in the Burdekin, Mia lives on a farm surrounded by animals, including dogs, horses, cats and even a cow. Her greatest passion is horse riding, a hobby she has enjoyed for the past six years. A competitive show jumper, she spends much of her time training and competing, developing skills, discipline and confidence along the way.
Mia is eager to make the most of her ambassador journey and create new friendships throughout the festival.
In a first for the Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Program, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre and CORES Queensland have joined forces to sponsor a Senior Ambassador, with Zylon Dallecort proudly representing both organisations.
While initially hesitant about taking on the role, Zylon said learning more about the opportunities involved quickly changed his mind, and he is now looking forward to becoming more involved in the community through the festival.
The two organisations share a commitment to strengthening community wellbeing. Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre focuses on building connections and supporting local needs, while CORES Queensland delivers suicide prevention education and awareness programs across the state.
Many locals will recognise Zylon from his performances with the Burdekin Singers. When he is not on stage, he enjoys playing guitar, painting and working with people in the community. He is also a passionate fan of superheroes, particularly those from the Marvel universe.
Junior Ambassador Lillea Levitt is excited to represent the Burdekin Netball Association in this year’s Burdekin Water Festival, with the opportunity to meet new people and celebrate her club among the highlights of the experience.
A dedicated netball player since the age of six, Lillea has developed a strong connection to the sport and the association that has supported her throughout her sporting journey. She is proud to represent an organisation that encourages young athletes to develop their skills, build confidence and always strive to do their best.
The Burdekin Netball Association provides opportunities for players of all ages and abilities to learn and enjoy the game in a welcoming and supportive environment, helping foster both teamwork and sportsmanship.
Outside of netball, Lillea enjoys playing touch football and volleyball, as well as fishing, shopping and spending time with her friends.
Junior Ambassador Edith Innes is excited to step outside her comfort zone and represent East Ayr State School in this year’s Burdekin Water Festival.
Having attended East Ayr State School from Prep to Year 6, Edith is proud to showcase the school community that has played such an important role in her life. She said becoming an ambassador has always been something she wanted to do, with the opportunity to meet new people, learn new skills and build confidence making the experience even more special.
Currently serving as East Ayr State School Captain, Edith is passionate about giving back to her school and highlighting the many opportunities available to students, from music and performing arts to sport and leadership programs.
Outside of school, Edith plays soccer and is a Highland dancer with FC Caledonia. She also plays the alto saxophone and has a keen interest in science, with dreams of becoming a biologist or zoologist in the future.
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Unlike large chain pharmacies, every dollar of profit generated by FriendlyCare is reinvested directly back into the organisation. Photo supplied
If you have ever walked past the membership sign at FriendlyCare Pharmacy Ayr and wondered whether it was really worth ten dollars, the answer is a resounding yes. In fact, for most local families it pays for itself within the very first visit.
FriendlyCare Pharmacy is a not-for-profit, community-owned organisation that has been serving the Burdekin region and beyond for over 100 years. Unlike large chain pharmacies, every dollar of profit generated by FriendlyCare is reinvested directly back into the organisation. That means better pricing for members, and community sponsorships and donations that support the groups and events that matter to Ayr residents.
Membership costs just $10, and when you sign up you receive a $10 welcome credit to spend in-store straight away. Effectively, your membership pays for itself on the spot.
From that point forward, you receive member-only pricing on just about everything in the pharmacy. That includes pharmacy medicines, vitamins and supplements, and all your favourite health and beauty brands. The savings quickly add up, especially for families who rely on their pharmacy regularly.
FriendlyCare Membership also includes access to the CarePoints rewards program. Every dollar you spend in-store or online earns you CarePoints, which you can then redeem to get money off future purchases.
It is a simple way to be rewarded for the shopping you are already doing. The more you spend, the more you save over time. CarePoints work alongside your member-only discounts, so you are benefiting in two ways every time you visit.
As a FriendlyCare member you will be the first to hear about promotions, member-only email offers, and exclusive competitions. These are not available to general customers, and they are sent directly to you, so you never miss out.
Members also have access to the FriendlyCare App, which helps you manage your medications, request prescription repeats from home, set medication reminders, and stay connected to your pharmacy team without needing to call or come in.
Perhaps the most meaningful part of FriendlyCare membership is what it represents beyond the savings. As a not-for-profit, community-owned organisation, FriendlyCare does not send profits offshore or to shareholders. When you become a member and shop with FriendlyCare, you are helping to sustain a local business that gives back to the community.
It is the kind of pharmacy model that is rare in Australia today, and Ayr is fortunate to have it.
Signing up takes just a few minutes. Simply visit our friendly team in-store at FriendlyCare Pharmacy Ayr and they will get you set up on the spot. You can also join online at friendlycare.com.au.
As a FriendlyCare member, you’ll receive a $10 welcome credit to spend in-store immediately; exclusive member-only pricing on most products; CarePoints earned on every dollar spent, redeemable for rewards; exclusive member email offers and competitions; and access to the FriendlyCareApp to manage your medications.
Join today and start saving for the rest of your life. Pop in and see the team at FriendlyCare Pharmacy Ayr or visit friendlycare.com.au to sign up online.
Supplied by FriendlyCare Pharmacy Ayr
Tangible cost of living relief will be delivered for north Queenslanders who have borne the brunt of soaring power costs as prices fall for the first time in a decade.
The Queensland Competition Authority’s (QCA) final determination has confirmed electricity costs will drop by up to 6.9 per cent for regional households and 8.1 per cent for small businesses from 1 July.
Having advocated for a better deal for regional power customers as the local Member, Burdekin MP Dale Last has hailed the reduction in electricity prices a win for the region’s families and small businesses.
“I have long called for Queensland’s regional power customers to receive a better deal and I’m proud to see the Crisafulli Government deliver the price cut our families and small businesses need,” Mr Last said.
“Following the Queensland Competition Authority’s final determination, our government took action to direct Ergon Energy to pass on the savings in full to regional households and small businesses.”
“It’s only right that if the cost of energy falls, bills should too and now couldn’t be a better time with the national affordability crisis putting pressure on Queenslanders’ hip pocket.”
The QCA notes higher availability of Queensland coal generators, lower gas prices, and growing investment in batteries and renewables are driving down power bills for Queenslanders.
Mr Last said the concerns from families and small businesses around the increase in power prices under the previous Labor government had been heard loud and clear with the Crisafulli Government now delivering.
“This is real structural cost of living relief that we are delivering to Queenslanders no matter where you live in this state.”
“Under the previous Labor Government households bore the brunt of a 28.7 per cent increase in their power prices, in contrast the Crisafulli Government is bringing down prices with our Energy Roadmap.”
Supplied by the office of Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP
A Facebook post from a concerned daughter has prompted an overwhelming response from the Ayr community, with more than 30 people offering support to her terminally ill father.
The woman shared that her father, who lives in Ayr, is struggling with everyday tasks such as preparing meals and washing dishes due to declining health. She explained that he falls into a “grey area” where he is unable to access certain funded health or aged care services, while his children all live out of town and cannot provide daily assistance.
Describing her family as “desperate, exhausted and heartbroken”, she asked the community for advice after unsuccessful attempts to find private help.
The response was immediate.
Dozens of residents commented on the post, offering practical assistance, recommending local services and sharing their own experiences navigating the health and aged care systems. Some community members even volunteered their time to help with meals, household chores and regular welfare checks.
The outpouring of support highlighted the caring nature of the Burdekin community, with many residents determined to ensure the family did not face the challenge alone.
What began as a desperate plea for help quickly became a powerful reminder of the strength of community spirit and the willingness of locals to rally around those in need during difficult times.
Executive Members Rose Papadimitriou and Jenny Papale, Treasurer Frank Nucifora, President Seb Aguirre, Secretary Kari Ravizza, and Executive Member Paul Benvenuti, elected at last year's AGM. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
The Burdekin Chamber of Commerce is seeking new executive committee members, with leaders urging fresh volunteers to step forward as key positions become vacant.
The call comes after the recent resignation of secretary Kari Ravizza, with president Seb Aguirre also set to step down from his role at the end of his three-year term in September.
Mr Aguirre said the positions must be filled in the coming months to ensure the future of the organisation.
“We need someone to step up,” he said.
“It's too viable, and our membership is amazing. We can’t let all those people down.”
According to Mr Aguirre, the Burdekin Chamber found itself in a similar position three years ago, when a lack of interest in executive roles nearly led to its demise.
Membership has since grown from about 70 to 121, with the organisation’s flagship Christmas Street Party injecting millions of dollars into local businesses over the last two years.
Mr Aguirre said that although membership had seen a steep uptick, interest in the vacant positions had been virtually non-existent.
Despite the concerns, Chamber Vice-President Gary Roser said he remains “optimistic” about the organisation’s future.
“I don’t think we’re at the stage where it’s going to fold. I think people will step up and it will continue to exist, but to what capacity will be the difference,” Mr Roser said.
He said fresh hands at the helm could help to strengthen the organisation moving forward.
“We need a changing of the guard to help solidify what we’ve got, and then help take it to the next step,” he said.
“I’d hate to see it not bigger and better every year. It’d be disappointing for all the hard work that has been done by many people.”
Anyone interested in learning more about vacant executive roles is encouraged to contact either Seb on 0499 197 671 or Gary on 0408 076 064.
Recent Order of Australia awardee Bill Lowis (right) with wife Trish (left) and daughter Kirsten (centre). Photo credit: Jacob Casha
A lifetime spent simply “doing his bit” has seen William “Bill” Lowis awarded an Order of Australia in the King’s Birthday Honours this month. The former mayor says the award, more than 60 years after his first national recognition, brings his journey full circle.
By Jacob Casha
A lifetime of unfaltering dedication to his beloved hometown has culminated in an Order of Australia award for Home Hill local William “Bill” Lowis.
The honour comes almost 60 years after his first Governor-General's Award in the Royal Australian Navy, tying a perfect bow on more than half a century of service to the community he calls home.
“It just felt like a full circle moment,” said Mr Lowis.
The former Burdekin Mayor was listed alongside 141 other Queenslanders on the King’s Birthday Honours List earlier this month, recognised for his “service to local government, and to the community of the Burdekin Shire.”
Mr Lowis said he was “totally surprised” by the recognition, but described it as a proud moment.
He said that while the recognition was satisfying, it was never the motivation.
“It’s just about being part of the community,” Mr Lowis said.
“We’ve raised our family here, and I’ve just taken part in what I can to keep the town itself, Home Hill, and the Burdekin district in a wider sense, going.”
Born in Home Hill Hospital in the 1940s, Mr Lowis has called the Burdekin home for nearly eight decades.
After a 12-year stint in New South Wales with the Navy, Mr Lowis returned to the Burdekin where he built a career as a builder, educator, water and environmental leader, and community volunteer.
He spent 18 years as General Manager of the South Burdekin Water Board, was a foundation member of Burdekin Landcare, and contributed across an array of organisations including Rotary, the SES, Rural Fire Service and the RSL.
Following a period of retirement, Mr Lowis was urged by local residents and community leaders to stand for local government. At age 65 he obliged, and was subsequently elected Mayor of the Burdekin Shire in 2012.
Mr Lowis’s tenure was responsible for the construction of the Burdekin Shire Cyclone Shelter, his flagship initiative during a term that focused on disaster resilience, infrastructure and community development.
He eventually stepped down at the end of his term in 2016.
Mr Lowis now continues to live in Home Hill with his wife, Trish, whom he married at the Home Hill Catholic Church in 1969.
The couple have four kids, all of whom were raised and have remained in North Queensland.
Both daughter Kirsten Lowis and wife Trish said they were proud of Mr Lowis for his recognition, calling it fitting for a man who had spent decades serving others without ever seeking praise for it.
“He’s always been so humble … and I think he was a wonderful Mayor,” said Trish.
“I think when he gets to heaven that they’ll say, ‘Saint William, it’s time to come through!’”
When asked how important his family had been along his journey, Mr Lowis replied: “Everything.”
Daughter Kirsten echoed that sentiment.
“This award is about mum, too, because the two of them are the best team. Dad would not be dad without mum, and mum would not be mum without dad,” she said.
“Dad’s a builder; both by trade and by heart. Mum and dad have been building this community, building their own houses, building our houses, our businesses and our lives.”
Primary producers in the Burdekin are set to benefit from a Queensland Government investment aimed at strengthening biosecurity preparedness and improving responses to potential agricultural outbreaks.
The Government has allocated $75,000 through the Biosecurity Boost Grants Program to support industry-led simulation exercises designed to test emergency responses to real-world threats.
The program will bring together key industry organisations including Cotton Australia, the Australian Lot Feeder’s Association and NRM Regions Queensland to simulate potential biosecurity risks affecting agriculture and livestock industries.
Biosecurity remains a key concern for Queensland’s agriculture sector, with pests and disease outbreaks identified as one of the most significant risks to production, exports and regional economies.
Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said the investment was about ensuring industry and government were prepared to respond quickly and effectively to emerging threats.
“Biosecurity underpins Queensland's ability to grow and produce clean, healthy and nutritious local food,” Mr Perrett said.
“Strong biosecurity is the linchpin of a productive primary industries sector and regional and rural communities.”
He said preparedness exercises were essential to minimising the impact of any future outbreak.
“The simulations conducted by our industry partners are critical investments in prevention and preparedness, to ensure swift, effective responses that significantly limit impact on individuals and entire industries,” he said.
Cotton Australia CEO Adam Kay said the exercises would help industry better understand outbreak response pathways.
“Boll weevil is one of the top threats to the cotton industry, and it has the capability to cause significant damage to crops, so it’s important to understand how to respond should an outbreak occur,” Mr Kay said.
NRM Regions Queensland CEO Chris Norman said the funding would strengthen preparedness across regional sectors.
“These exercises are a great opportunity for the NRM team across the state to simulate real-world scenarios and ensure we’re prepared to assist on any biosecurity threats where we can,” he said.
Farmers across the state are set to benefit from a new land rent cap aimed at easing cost pressures on the agriculture sector. Photo source: Shutterstock
Agricultural producers in the Burdekin are among those set to benefit from a new Queensland Government cap on land rent increases for eligible primary production tenures.
The cap will limit increases to 10 per cent in the 2026–27 financial year and is expected to deliver more than $75 million in rent relief across the state for farmers, graziers and rural producers.
The measure applies to eligible leases, licences and permits and will automatically come into effect, with the government saying it is designed to provide stability in the face of rising land valuations.
Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, Regional and Rural Development Dale Last said the policy would help ease pressure on primary producers dealing with higher costs and global market uncertainty.
“At a time when producers continue to face higher input costs, market volatility and global economic shifts, this measure delivers certainty and will take some pressure off the cost of doing business,” Mr Last said.
He said the government was backing the agricultural sector as a key driver of Queensland’s economy.
“Queensland farmers and graziers are not just the backbone of our regional communities, they are a foundation stone of the wider economy,” he said.
AgForce President Shane McCarthy said the announcement would help producers make longer-term decisions with greater confidence.
“Having certainty around land rent costs helps producers make informed business decisions, invest with confidence and focus on running productive sustainable operations,” he said.
“A strong agricultural industry underpins regional communities, supports jobs, and contributes significantly to Queensland’s economy.”
The rent cap will apply from the 2026–27 financial year.
Opinion of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox MP
There is a moment in life when private health insurance ceases to be an optional expense and becomes an absolute lifeline. For over three million older Australians, that moment is now. Yet, in a cynical act of budget manoeuvring, the Albanese Labor government has chosen this exact point of vulnerability to launch a targeted raid on the health security of our seniors.
Buried within the federal budget is a directive that strips away the long-standing, age-based Private Health Insurance rebate safeguards for citizens aged 65 and over. From 1 April 2027, the vital support seniors rely on to maintain their health cover will be dismantled.
If you are aged 65 to 69, your rebate is being cut from 28.1% to 24.1%. If you are 70 or older, the hit is even heavier, with your rebate slashed from 32.2% all the way down to that same 24.1% baseline.
This is a trap, plain and simple. The government waited until our seniors left the workforce and locked themselves into fixed retirement incomes, before pulling the rug out from under their health security.
Our seniors spent decades working hard, paying their taxes, and making immense personal sacrifices to secure their retirement. They did everything right. To change the rules of the game on them now is a complete insult: it forces older Australians to play a game of economic Monopoly where the rules are rewritten at halftime simply because the banker ran out of money.
Labor is treating the hard-earned health security of older generations like they just stumbled across a giant sack of cash by the river, trying to spend it as fast as they can to plug their own budget deficit before the public finds out.
This betrayal delivers a massive blow to household budgets. Maintaining private health cover is already an expensive struggle, with premiums climbing sharply year after year. Forcing older Australians to bear this extra burden ensures that health security will be priced too far out of reach for many who need it most.
This means ordinary, fixed-income couples holding comprehensive Gold-tier cover will see their out-of-pocket bills surge by more than $1,600 a year. For thousands of seniors in our community who view health insurance as a necessity, this is a financial eviction notice from their own health funds.
This budget raid sends a dangerous message to everyday Australians. If you work hard, save your money, and try to be self-reliant, this government will just punish your success.
To defend this as a sensible budget reform is a total delusion. The government claims they are redirecting these "savings" to fund aged care, but it is a classic false economy.
Independent actuarial modelling shows these changes may reduce rebate expenditure by around $482 million, but they will dump approximately $547 million in additional costs onto our public hospitals.
When escalating costs force older Australians to drop or downgrade their private coverage, their complex health needs do not vanish into thin air. Instead, those chronic conditions and surgical requirements are dumped straight into our public emergency wards, exploding wait times and fracturing a system that is already on its knees.
We all know the empty promise that a Medicare card is all you need, but out here in regional communities like Dawson, finding a bulk-billed doctor or securing a local specialist appointment is already rarer than hen’s teeth.
Pushing thousands of elderly patients onto public waiting lists will choke regional healthcare access and threaten the viability of the local private hospitals our communities rely upon to survive.
Our seniors have paid their dues. They have earned their peace of mind, and they deserve certainty, dignity, and respect; not an overnight raid on their health security.
It is time to say enough is enough and tell the federal government to keep their hands off our health cover.
If you are ready to stand up against this betrayal and protect the health cover our seniors have earned, join me in sending a clear message to Canberra by emailing me at andrew.willcox.mp@aph.gov.au
Burdekin Shire Council CEO Matthew Magin has warned a proposed overhaul of federal disaster funding arrangements could come at an "enormous cost to ratepayers" if passed in its current form.
The new Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), announced by the Albanese Government last week, would split disaster recovery costs 50/50 between the Australian Government and state and territory governments.
Under previous arrangements, Commonwealth funding typically covered about 64 per cent of disaster recovery funding.
Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the change could increase pressure on already stretched council budgets, with concerns some costs may ultimately flow through to ratepayers.
“While we acknowledge the intent to streamline funding and improve response times, there is a real concern that local governments will be left to carry more of the financial burden, which could impact how quickly and effectively we can rebuild after future events,” she said.
“It’s essential that funding arrangements recognise the scale and frequency of events we face, so we can continue to rebuild stronger and support our communities when they need it most.”
North Queensland leaders have slammed the proposal, with Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox calling it a “direct hit to the heart of North Queensland.”
"Canberra is treating natural disasters like a corporate budgeting exercise; however, out here, it is a matter of community survival,” Mr Willcox said.
He said the new arrangement could leave communities “dangerously exposed.”
“Small regional councils do not possess the independent asset base to fund multi-million-dollar rebuilds alone,” Mr Willcox said.
"To penalise the very regions that drive the nation’s agricultural wealth and mining export revenues is a profound betrayal.”
Minister for Emergency Management, Kristy McBain said the proposed arrangements will streamline funding channels to communities in recovery.
"Our reforms will create certainty about the support available to communities and ensure it flows as quickly as possible,” she said.
“I look forward to working constructively with jurisdictions to deliver a system that is simpler and fairer for all Australians.”
The Burdekin has experienced several major floods dating back to 1911, and as recently as 2025, with floodwaters periodically cutting major roads, isolating communities and disrupting key transport infrastructure across the region.
Mayor Dalle Cort said past funding arrangements had been critical in restoring key Burdekin infrastructure like roads, bridges, and other transport links after major weather events.
She confirmed a letter had been sent on Thursday to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Minister McBain, urging the Government not to proceed with its proposal.
Ayr State High School student Jorja Jerkic has returned from a week-long STEM Girl Power Camp in Brisbane, where she was one of just 60 Year 10 girls selected from across Queensland to take part in the hands-on program. Photo supplied
Ayr State High School student Jorja Jerkic has returned from a week-long STEM Girl Power Camp in Brisbane, where she was one of just 60 Year 10 girls selected from across Queensland to take part in the hands-on program.
The camp immersed students in a range of science, technology, engineering and mathematics experiences, including university visits, laboratory work, and interactive exhibitions designed to showcase future study and career pathways.
Jorja said she was “incredibly grateful” for the experience and eager to apply her newfound knowledge.
“The camp was a wonderful opportunity to explore a range of STEM fields as well as meeting like-minded students, build new friendships and creating unforgettable memories," she said in the Ayr State High School newsletter.
"I am incredibly thankful for the chance to be part of such an inspiring and empowering experience, and look forward to applying what I have learnt for National Science week and future STEM activities.”
Ayr High teachers commended the way Jorja represented the school and “embraced the incredible opportunity."
Across the week, Jorja took part in activities ranging from designing a model water dam and visiting a pathology lab where students observed real-life organs, through to exploring QUT and UQ campuses.
The program also included excursions to the planetarium, the Museum of Brisbane and SparkLab, where students engaged with interactive science displays, including Tesla coils.
The program is designed to encourage young women into science, technology, engineering and mathematics pathways.
Jorja was officially selected for the camp last December, continuing the trend of Ayr High student representation after Bella Lawry took part in 2025.
The experience is expected to further support her involvement in school STEM initiatives and future study pathways in science and technology.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort with participants and mentors from the Young Digital Mentors Program. Photo supplied
Young Burdekinites are helping senior residents build confidence with technology through the Young Digital Mentors Program, an initiative aimed at improving digital literacy while strengthening community connections across the Burdekin.
Facilitated by Burdekin Library, the program pairs young mentors with senior participants to provide one-on-one support with everyday technology, including smartphones and tablets.
Burdekin Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the program demonstrated the value of intergenerational learning and community engagement.
“Programs like Young Digital Mentors not only build valuable digital skills, they also bring generations together in a meaningful way,” Cr Dalle Cort said.
“It’s fantastic to see our young people stepping up to support others, while also developing confidence, leadership and communication skills of their own.”
The Young Digital Mentors Program was originally developed by the State Library of Queensland in 2025 and was first piloted in the Burdekin, making the region the first location in Queensland to deliver the initiative.
This year's program continues to be delivered by Burdekin Library with support from the State Library of Queensland and the eSafety Commissioner. Training for the young mentors was provided in partnership with Creative Bytes.
Senior participant Inez Larsen said the experience had improved her confidence in using technology.
“Participating in the Young Digital Mentors Program has been a rewarding experience,” Ms Larsen said.
“I really appreciated the way Andria shared her knowledge in such a supportive, respectful and approachable way.
“As a result of the program, I have come away feeling more confident and using more fully the capabilities of my iPhone. Thank you Burdekin Library staff and young digital mentor, Andria.”
The program aims to improve digital inclusion by helping older residents develop practical technology skills while giving young people the opportunity to build leadership, communication and mentoring experience.
This year's young digital mentors were Thomas Lindley, Alexis Lindley, Andria Reinke, William Wiseman, Addison Bonato and Fletcher Sgroi.
Senior participants included Liz Schmidt, Robert Ritchie, Alvin Thomas, Inez Larsen, Margaret McLucas, Michael Irving, Sheron Gaston and Beverley Matthews.
Burdekin Shire Council has encouraged residents to stay connected with Burdekin Library for information on future programs designed to strengthen digital skills and community connections.
The Burdekin’s 2026 sugarcane crush season has opened with more than 183,000 tonnes processed in the first week, as all four local mills move through commissioning and settle into full production. Photo supplied
The Burdekin’s 2026 sugarcane crush season has opened with more than 183,000 tonnes processed in the first week, as all four local mills move through commissioning and settle into full production.
The week ending 6 June saw Invicta, Pioneer, Inkerman and Kalamia mills collectively crush 183,526 tonnes of cane, marking a solid start to the season after operations began on 2 June, with Kalamia following shortly after.
Invicta led weekly throughput with 72,574 tonnes, followed by Inkerman on 40,989 tonnes, Pioneer on 38,498 tonnes, and Kalamia on 31,465 tonnes.
Sugar content across the region also tracked strongly in the opening week, with the Burdekin average Commercial Cane Sugar (CCS) recorded at 13.59. Individual mill results ranged from 13.24 at Kalamia to a high of 13.92 at Invicta.
Wilmar Cane Supply Manager Chris Scovazzi noted the opening week is typically focused on commissioning plant and equipment, with factories now beginning to stabilise after the seasonal ramp-up.
Dry and cool conditions leading into the crush were also credited for supporting the strong early CCS results, which have come in above budget expectations.
The highest CCS recorded for the week was 16.4, from a rake of KQ228 cane supplied from the Haughton productivity district.
Variety performance data showed Q240 dominating supply at 50 per cent of cane crushed, delivering an average CCS of 13.34. KQ228 accounted for 31 per cent of supply and returned a stronger CCS of 13.90, while Q183 made up 11 per cent at 13.54. Smaller contributing varieties included SRA23 at 4 per cent (13.07), WSRA17 at 1 per cent (12.98), and Q208 at 1 per cent (13.01).
With the crush now underway across the region, mills are expected to move further into steady-state production in the coming weeks.
Motorists are also being reminded that cane trains are operating around the clock, seven days a week, as the harvest intensifies.
Mr Scovazzi urged road users to remain alert around rail crossings and “use your train brain” by always giving way to cane trains.
The Ayr Industrial Precinct is nearing completion, with new development incentives now in place to encourage investment across the region. Photo supplied
Burdekin Shire Council is continuing to support local economic growth, with the Ayr Industrial Precinct nearing completion and new development incentives now in place to encourage investment across the region.
The Ayr Industrial Precinct represents a major milestone in the region’s economic development, offering fully serviced, competitively priced industrial land in a strategic location ideal for manufacturing, logistics, trade services and emerging industries.
Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the time has never been better for businesses to consider establishing or expanding their operations in the Burdekin.
“The Ayr Industrial Precinct provides the kind of well-connected, serviced industrial land that businesses are actively looking for,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
Stage 1 lots are now available from $50 per square metre plus GST, with a range of lot sizes to suit different business needs.
Council has also introduced a new Economic Stimulus Policy for Development Incentives to help reduce barriers to development and support business growth.
“Council understands that development costs can be a challenge, particularly for businesses looking to grow or relocate,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
“This policy provides a clear and streamlined pathway for developers and business owners to seek reductions in fees and infrastructure charges.
“We want businesses to know we’re here to work with them.”
The Economic Stimulus Policy reinforces Council’s strategy to foster innovation, attract investment, and support long-term economic sustainability in line with the Burdekin Shire Council Corporate Plan 2025–2030.
Businesses interested in securing land or learning more about the development incentives available are encouraged to download the Land Sales Prospectus at www.burdekin.qld.gov.au.
Supplied by Burdekin Shire Council
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